Berlin is a city that perfectly balances its rich history with a dynamic, modern vibe, and this is reflected in its accommodation options. You don’t need to break the bank to stay in a stylish, comfortable hotel in Berlin. During my visit, I was keen to find a hotel that offered a balance of affordability and design, and I’m excited to share my experience along with a few other top picks that caught my eye during my research. If you’re planning a trip to Berlin and want to stay somewhere chic without spending a fortune, this guide is for you.
My Stay at The Circus Hotel
The Circus Hotel, where I stayed during my trip, is located in the heart of Berlin’s vibrant Mitte district, an area known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and historic sites. The hotel is situated on Rosenthaler Platz, a bustling square that serves as a central hub for exploring the city. Getting there from Berlin’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, was a breeze. I took the S-Bahn to Hackescher Markt, followed by a short tram ride that dropped me off right in front of the hotel. The Circus Hotel is also conveniently located near the Rosenthaler Platz U-Bahn station, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
Booking the Room
Booking a room at The Circus Hotel was straightforward. I made my reservation through their official website, where I was able to choose from a variety of room types. I opted for the standard double room, which was reasonably priced at around €90 per night. The website was user-friendly, with detailed descriptions and photos of each room type, which made the decision process easier. I appreciated the transparent pricing, with no hidden fees or surprises at checkout.
First Impressions and Environment
Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere. The Circus Hotel has a unique blend of modern design and cozy, eclectic touches that give it a boutique feel. The lobby area features a mix of vintage furniture, contemporary art, and plenty of plants, creating a warm and inviting space. The staff at the reception were friendly and efficient, offering me a map of the city and tips on nearby attractions and restaurants.
The hotel’s communal areas are just as stylish as the lobby. There’s a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Berlin skyline, a cozy lounge area with books and board games, and a small courtyard garden that’s perfect for a quiet moment of relaxation. The vibe of the hotel is young and lively, with a mix of solo travelers, couples, and small groups, all of whom seemed to appreciate the hotel’s laid-back yet chic ambiance.
The Room and Amenities
My room was on the third floor, and as soon as I stepped inside, I knew I had made the right choice. The decor was simple yet stylish, with a Scandinavian influence – think clean lines, neutral colors, and lots of natural light. The bed was comfortable with crisp white linens, and there was a small desk area that was perfect for catching up on some writing. What I loved most was the attention to detail – from the quirky artwork on the walls to the handmade soaps in the bathroom.
The room wasn’t huge, but it was well-organized and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The bathroom was modern and spotless, with a walk-in shower and high-quality toiletries. The free Wi-Fi was fast and reliable, and the room also had a flat-screen TV, though I spent most of my time exploring the city rather than watching it.
One of the standout features of The Circus Hotel is its focus on sustainability. The hotel is committed to eco-friendly practices, from using solar energy to sourcing local and organic products for the breakfast buffet. I appreciated knowing that my stay was having a minimal impact on the environment.
Dining and Facilities
While The Circus Hotel doesn’t have a full-service restaurant, it does offer a delightful breakfast buffet each morning. For €12, you get a selection of fresh bread, pastries, cheeses, cold cuts, fruit, and yogurt, along with a variety of hot and cold drinks. There’s also an in-house microbrewery and bar, where you can sample locally brewed beers and craft cocktails in the evenings. I found the bar to be a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing, and it was also a good spot to meet fellow travelers.
Experience and Rating
My stay at The Circus Hotel was nothing short of fantastic. The combination of chic design, excellent location, and reasonable pricing made it an ideal base for exploring Berlin. The staff were always friendly and eager to help, the room was comfortable and stylish, and the overall atmosphere of the hotel was vibrant yet relaxing. I would rate my experience at The Circus Hotel a solid 9/10, and I would definitely stay here again on my next trip to Berlin.
Other Top Picks for Chic and Affordable Hotels in Berlin
1. Hotel AMANO
Located just a short walk from The Circus Hotel, Hotel AMANO is another fantastic option in the Mitte district. This hotel is known for its sleek, minimalist design and its popular rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the Berlin skyline. The rooms at Hotel AMANO are well-appointed with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bathrooms. The hotel also offers bike rentals, which is a great way to explore Berlin’s many neighborhoods.
Hotel AMANO is particularly appealing for its central location, close to major attractions like Museum Island and Alexanderplatz. The price per night starts at around €80, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for style and convenience without a hefty price tag.
2. The Student Hotel Berlin
Located in the lively district of Mitte, The Student Hotel Berlin offers a unique blend of hotel and co-living space, catering to both short-term visitors and longer stays. The hotel features a bright, modern design with communal spaces that encourage socializing and collaboration. The rooms are compact but well-designed, offering all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and cozy beds.
One of the standout features of The Student Hotel is its extensive amenities, including a gym, a game room, and multiple co-working spaces. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, serving up delicious meals and cocktails throughout the day. With rooms starting at around €70 per night, The Student Hotel Berlin is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay in a trendy, social environment.
3. Motel One Berlin-Hackescher Markt
Motel One is a popular budget hotel chain in Germany, and the Berlin-Hackescher Markt location is one of the best. Situated just steps from Hackescher Markt, this hotel offers a prime location for exploring Berlin’s shopping, dining, and nightlife scenes. The hotel features a modern, stylish design with a focus on comfort and functionality. The rooms are compact but well-equipped, with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.
Motel One is known for its high standards of cleanliness and service, making it a reliable choice for travelers. The hotel also offers a breakfast buffet each morning for an additional fee, featuring a selection of fresh, locally sourced items. With rates starting at around €75 per night, Motel One Berlin-Hackescher Markt offers excellent value for money.
4. The Michelberger Hotel
The Michelberger Hotel, located in the hip neighborhood of Friedrichshain, is a quirky and creative hotel that offers a truly unique experience. The hotel’s design is eclectic and playful, with each room featuring its own distinct style. From loft-style rooms to cozy single beds, The Michelberger Hotel caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. The hotel also has a lively bar and restaurant, which are popular with both locals and guests.
What sets The Michelberger Hotel apart is its emphasis on community and creativity. The hotel regularly hosts events, from live music to art exhibitions, making it a hub of cultural activity in Berlin. With rooms starting at around €90 per night, The Michelberger Hotel offers a unique and memorable stay in one of Berlin’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
5. Casa Camper Berlin
For travelers looking to splurge a little while still staying within a reasonable budget, Casa Camper Berlin is an excellent option. Located in the trendy Mitte district, this boutique hotel offers spacious, design-forward rooms with panoramic views of the city. Each room is equipped with high-end amenities, including rain showers, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks available 24/7 in the hotel’s rooftop lounge.
Casa Camper Berlin is particularly popular with design enthusiasts and creative professionals, thanks to its sleek, minimalist aesthetic and attention to detail. The hotel also offers free bike rentals, making it easy to explore the city at your own pace. While prices start at around €150 per night, the level of service and quality offered by Casa Camper Berlin makes it worth the extra expense.
Berlin is a city that offers something for every type of traveler, and this extends to its accommodation options as well. Whether you’re looking for a stylish boutique hotel like The Circus Hotel, a social hub like The Student Hotel Berlin, or a unique and creative stay at The Michelberger Hotel, Berlin has plenty of options that won’t break the bank. The key to finding the perfect hotel in Berlin is to know what you want – whether it’s a central location, unique design, or budget-friendly prices – and to book early to secure the best deals.
