My honest, first-hand review of the Downtown Camper Hotel by Scandic
🏨 What Makes a Hotel More Than Just a Place to Sleep?
Let’s be honest. Most city hotels blur together after a while – standard rooms, beige walls, a breakfast buffet that feels like it’s on loop. They serve a purpose, sure. But every now and then, a hotel does more than just rest your head. It fuels the trip. It nudges you to explore. It becomes one of the reasons you enjoy a location.
That’s exactly what happened when I stayed at Downtown Camper by Scandic in Stockholm as part of our ICON Adventures tour. This hotel didn’t just sit quietly in the background of the experience. It joined in.
🧭 A Bumpy Start… Then the Magic Kicked In
I didn’t exactly get off to a flying start. We arrived well after midnight – nearly six hours later than planned, thanks to flight delays and some rerouting through the Middle East. By the time I finally reached my room door, it was close to 1am… only to find the key didn’t work. Frustrating! So, back down to reception I went, completely exhausted after what had been nearly 40 hours of travel. Definitely not ideal.
But to be fair, the staff were lovely – quick to help, friendly despite the hour – and I was in bed soon after. First impressions? A bit shaky. But the next morning changed everything.
The second ‘first impression’ sparked real intrigue. The hotel is full of earthy textures, industrial touches, leafy corners, moody lighting, and clever little details that make you smile. It’s less ‘chain hotel’, more like your cool friend’s studio apartment – if they happened to have 300 beds and a rooftop sauna.
🚴♀️ A City Hotel That Feels Like an Urban Basecamp
One of the things I loved most about Downtown Camper was how it encouraged its guest to get out and do stuff. Not in a forced way, but in a way that made it feel easy and exciting.
Included in the stay:
- Morning yoga in a bright, plant-filled studio
- Guided walks that felt like hanging out with a local
- Bikes, kayaks, and skateboards you can borrow
- Paint-and-sip sessions, film nights, and creative workshops – just to name a few
I signed up for the ‘Shop and Stroll’ experience and, as it turned out, I was the only one who showed up. Maybe it was because it was a Saturday afternoon – Stockholm’s weekends are packed with distractions. But lucky me: I had local guide Therese all to myself. She took me on the metro out to one of the city’s more bohemian suburbs to explore a flea market.
But honestly? I wasn’t there for the vintage clothes. I was there for the chat. It was a great opportunity to learn so much about what life is like living in Sweden – the good, the bad, and the ugly… although to be fair, there’s really no ‘ugly’ at all.
🌆 Not Just Rooms. Real Spaces to Be
One of my favourite things? How many nooks and crannys there are to just hang out. I found quiet corners for reading, communal lounges for chatting with others in our group, and even a rooftop wellness suite. What more can you ask for? There’s even a net suspended above the reception area where you can climb in, lie back, and listen to a curated sound experience. I mean, honestly – this place is almost too much to take in (in the best possible way). It’s like every corner has been designed to spark curiosity, conversation, or just a moment of calm.
I didn’t stay in one, but I read about the Camper Co-Living rooms – flexible, spacious layouts designed for families, groups of friends, or even team retreats. They sound ideal for sharing space without sacrificing comfort. Perfect for a girls’ weekend away, I’d say – just a tad far to go from Australia!
Oh, and there’s also a podcast studio (yes, really), closed-off meeting rooms, and a rooftop bar that serves sunset with a side of chilled music.
🧖♀️ Wellness That Feels Real
After a day of walking cobblestones and exploring Stockholm’s mix of history and modern life, the rooftop sauna – or the rooftop cocktail bar – posed a very welcome dilemma. Decisions, decisions! It’s not spa-snobby either. It’s quiet, warm, and welcoming. The only tip? Book your spot in advance – it’s popular, especially on weekends.
🤔 So, What’s the Catch?
Here’s what stood out – the good, and the bits to be aware of:
What I loved:
✔️ Built-in activities made every day feel full of possibility ✔️ They’ve created a whole vibe was just fun and open – creative, not pretentious ✔️ Its location meant we could walk almost everywhere, or jump on public transport
✔️ The breakfasts . . . this is a big call, but I’m going to do it, they were the best I have ever experienced, anywhere in the World
✔️ The concierge desk was replaced by an engaging ‘manned’ notice board.
What I’d tweak:
✖️ The mood lighting leaned a little too moody – I caught myself fumbling for a switch to brighten things up, only to realise the lights were already on.
✖️ Their website undersells the experience – it gives off more of a budget vibe than the hotel delivers in real life. First impressions count!
🗣 FAQs (If You’re Wondering…)
Is it good for groups or families?
Yes. The co-living setups looked fantastic for anyone travelling together, and the communal areas are super group-friendly.
Are the activities really free?
They are! Most are included in your stay. Spa treatments or premium experiences might cost extra, but it’s all really transparent.
Is it easy to get around from here?
So easy. We walked most places, and the metro is just around the corner if your feet need a break.
Can you work or host something here?
Definitely. The meeting rooms are creative, not corporate – think plants, wood, soft lighting, and a bit of personality.
🧳 Final Thoughts: Why I’d Go Back
Downtown Camper gave me so much more than a bed for the night. It gave me new conversations, fresh perspectives, and a real sense of connection – to Stockholm, to our group, and to the kind of travel that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Full transparancy – this isn’t a sponsored post. I paid for my stay, received no freebies, and there’s no kickback here. Just a genuine recommendation from one traveller to another.
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