PHOTO: Swissôtel Berlin

Fodor's Expert Review Swissôtel Berlin

Name: Swissôtel Berlin
Address: Augsburger Str. 44, Berlin, Berlin, 10789, Germany
Telephone: 030-220–100
Price range: $$

Augsburger Str. 44, Berlin, Berlin, 10789, Germany See on Map

Jennifer Ceaser

At the bustling corner of Kurfürstendamm and Joachimsthaler Strasse, in West Berlin’s dynamic Bahnhof Zoo area, this hotel excels with its reputable Swiss hospitality—from accompanying guests to their floor after check-in to equipping each room with an iron, an umbrella, and a Nespresso coffee machine that preheats the cups. The unusual, rounded building, designed by German architects Gerkhan, Marg and Partner, features a slick interior with original artwork by Markus Lüpertz, while a large central atrium provides plenty of natural light. There are two bars, an upscale restaurant and generous common space with comfy chairs for lounging.

room

The spacious rooms are stylish if a bit spare, with contemporary neutral furnishings and modern artwork. Beds are specially designed to avoid allergens and provide maximum comfort. Other premium touches include a Nespresso machine and a PC tablet to order 24-hour room service and movies. You can store and recharge your laptop or cell in the room safe.

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

bathroom

While not large, the bathrooms feature separate showers and tubs; cushy robes and slippers are also standard.

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

lobby

Glass elevators spirit you to the third-floor lobby, with a dramatic, double-height ceiling topped by skylight. The open floorplan offers a variety of seating areas, from a cozy reading nook with modern, comfortable sofas to long communal wooden tables that are ideal for groups.

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

Photo: Library / Swissôtel Berlin

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

dining

Simple and elegant, with a mix of modern and traditional Swiss cuisine, Restaurant 44 offers stellar views through tall windows of the bustling Ku’damm below. In summer, the breezy terrace is ideal for an al fresco lunch or dinner.

In winter, a real gondola is imported from the Swiss Alps and set on the terrace; inside you can enjoy mulled wine and cheese fondue.

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

drinking

Scandinavian-style wood paneling accented with striking red armchairs and tall crimson lamps, Palermo Bar is a popular spot for enjoying an evening cocktail.

Photo: Swissôtel Berlin

LOCATION

Getting Around

The Kurfürstendamm U-Bahn station is just down the block, and it's a 10-minute walk to the Bahnhof Zoo station, where you’ll find regional train lines, the S-Bahn and multiple U-Bahn lines, making it easy to get around the city and beyond.

Restaurants

Diekmann (6-minute walk) blends German and French cuisine in a cozy, white-tablecloth setting along a quiet street off the Ku’damm. The convivial atmosphere of the Paris Bar (8-minute walk), a traditional brasserie, has been attracting artists, actors and musicians (it was a regular hangout of David Bowie and Iggy Pop) since 1979.

Bars

On the rooftop of the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin, Monkey Bar (8-minute walk) is a buzzy spot serving cocktails with a view of the Berlin Zoo’s monkey enclosure. You’ll need to dress smartly to gain admittance to the miniscule, 25-seat Rum Trader (10-minute walk), which boasts an excellent selection of rum- and gin-based drinks served in vintage tumblers.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Appealing mainly to businesspeople and smartly dressed couples, the five-star hotel scores major points for its plush vibe and impeccable service. Considering its busy location, the soundproofed windows offer a remarkably quiet stay.