Best Hotels in Germany – From the remarkable to the extraordinary

From my experience, these are some of the best hotels in Germany in the luxury category – from the remarkable to the extraordinary .

Germany is well known for its charming villages,  dominating castles & cathedrals, and, outstanding Riesling wine. I have been to Germany several times in the past few years, staying at some incredible hotel properties. As a matter of fact, as a professional travel blogger, I stay at around 40-60 hotels per year, so I have become a bit of a lodging expert. I thought it would be helpful to put together a luxury list for discerning travelers of the best hotels in Germany that I have personal stayed. If you have any questions about any of these properties, please leave a comment below.

BERLIN’S HOTEL DE ROME IS ONE OF THE BEST HOTELS IN GERMANY

Hotel de Rome is the second Rocco Forte property I’ve stayed at, the other is also in Germany and listed below. Rocco Forte is fast becoming a new favorite hotel brand of mine for its stunning style and uncompromising hospitality. Hotel de Rome is in the heart of Berlin, walking distance to many of the most coveted attractions. Situated on historic Bebelplatz (a large public square), Hotel de Rome occupies the space of the former 19th century Dresden Bank, but now its luxurious space is where bold modernity collides with the heritage of the past.

The rooftop terrace provides a relaxing area to sip a cocktail while taking in the impressive Berlin skyline. The former jewel vault of the bank is now an indoor swimming pool with emerald-colored waters. The accommodations are nothing short of a restful retreat with sumptuous bedding, exquisite contemporary furnishings, plenty of space to relax, and, a bathroom fit for nobility. This is a modest sized property with just over 140 rooms and suites providing an exceptional morning breakfast. Click the following link to learn more about Hotel de Rome.

Berlin Hotel Honorable Mentions

• Orania – Is a newer boutique property located in an up-and-coming part of East Berlin. The furniture is modern but not overly contemporary with a flare of Indian influences. Live music is available in the lobby lounge some nights, complete with a grand piano, which takes center stage. This is an absolutely exceptional choice when staying in Berlin.
  Vienna House Andel’s – This is a superb 4-star hotel with modern style and fresh charm. It’s a large high-rise hotel with over 500 rooms, 3 restaurants, a spa, meeting space and more. This Andel’s is located in the melting pot of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, not far from Alexanderplatz, which is a great central location within Berlin.
• Radisson Blu – The highlight of this hotel is the unbelievably large cylindrical aquarium that rises over 80 feet high and nearly 40 feet in diameter. It contains over a quarter million gallons of water, a coral reef, and is home to over 2,500 fish of 50+ different species. The hotel is also centrally location between Alexanderplatz and Museum Island.

WESTIN HAMBURG IS BECOMING ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC BUILDINGS IN ALL OF GERMANY

The glacier-inspired Westin Hamburg hotel is fast becoming one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. This hotel is not just a place to stay, but rather an experience that showcases a sophisticated ensemble of architecture, service, comfort and style, leaving the guest yearning for an encore.

The 244 rooms and suites have an elegant and minimalist design so as not to distract from the extraordinary views of the river and port city skyline. The Westin is known for providing comfort, and this property does not disappoint. Luxurious bedding, quiet rooms and a spa-like bathroom make a stay quite remarkable.

The Westin Hamburg shares its spaces with the Elbphilharmonie (a concert hall/performing arts theater). The Elbphilharmonie is ensconced within the middle of the Westin, which makes it an interesting implementation of private and public space. The Westin Elbphilharmonie looks sort of like a giant iceberg placed upon a pedestal. The base of the hotel and theater is an old square brick warehouse, which creates a dramatic contrast to the upper part of the building. The Westin Hamburg is certainly one of the best hotels in Germany, for more information, click here.

IN FRANKFURT YOU’LL FIND THE AMAZING VILLA KENNEDY

While Villa Kennedy is located in the midst of the cosmopolitan city of Frankfurt, it’s like an inner-city escape. The hotel wraps itself around a beautiful courtyard garden which insulates guests from the hustle and bustle of the city beyond. Impeccable design touches can be found throughout the property and great care has been taken to insure your stay to be a pleasant one. The walls and windows are well insulated from sound, but if you choose to let in a fresh breeze, the windows open wide letting both light and air waft over the space.

The garden is not the only a sanctuary at the Villa Kennedy, so too is the spa, indoor pool and the many nooks/seating areas to have a business conversation, or a cocktail with someone special. The woodwork detail is exquisite, from all of the doors to the banisters of the staircase and beyond. The exterior of the building is crafted in luxurious limestone, while the décor pays homage to the 60s in a very tasteful way. The vibrant colors, the psychedelic patterns and the artwork all support the Kennedy-era and its iconic namesake. Click the following link for more information on the Villa Kennedy in Frankfurt.

OESTRICH-WINKEL IS A SUPERB PART OF GERMANY WHERE NÄGLER’S FINE LOUNGE HOTEL OVERLOOKS THE RHINE

Located along the banks of the Rhine River is Nägler’s Fine Lounge Hotel. The exterior of this hotel is not particularly remarkable, but this boutique property with stunning views of vineyards and the Rhine is an exceptional place to call home for a few days. There are several common areas that beckon visitors to congregate. The spaces are modern with an underling theme of comfort.

The accommodations each have their own spin. My room (#301) was decorated with lots of rough plank wood on the walls combine with something similar to a Venetian smooth plaster.  The feel is a bit rustic, but with an air of modernism. A loveseat and small desk along with a couple of beautiful wood-sliced log tables with metal hardware accompany the furnishings.

The bathroom is decorated in grey tones with slate colored tile on the floors and walls. A gorgeous solid curved rock vessel sink is the focal point, while modern fixtures add highlights. A typical European looking wall-hanging toilet and a bidet finish out the space. While Nägler’s does not have an on-site restaurant, they do provide and exceptional breakfast.

WIESBADEN IS FAMOUS FOR WELLNESS AND SO TOO IS THE HOTEL NASSAUER HOF

With over 200 years of hospitality experience, the Hotel Nassauer Hof offers classical elegance in the heart of wonderful Wiesbaden. This hotel was the very first in all of Germany to become a 5-star property. The entire 5th/top floor of the hotel is dedicated to the sensational spa, which boosts a large roof-top hot spring-fed pool for guests to enjoy along with stupendous views of the city. There are twelve treatments rooms, saunas, a solarium and even an ARTEMIS beauty treatment area for guests.

The rooms at Hotel Nassauer Hof are elegant, maintaining the historical heritage of the property. The central location of the hotel is just steps from outstanding shopping, restaurants, museums and sightseeing. There are three on-site restaurants, Orangerie, Ente Bistro and Ente, which is the only Michelin rated restaurant in Wiesbaden. There is also a piano and cigar bar, which is the only place in Wiesbaden where you are allowed to smoke inside.

BURG SCHWARZENSTEIN IS ENSCONCED WITHIN THE WINE REGION OF GEISENHEIM, RHEINGAU

Burg Schwarzenstein is surrounded by vineyards with sweeping vista views of the Johannisberg/Rheingau wine region, which dates back nearly 1000 years. Part of the hotel grounds is built around the thick walls of an old castle.

Burg Schwarzenstein is a boutique hotel with just 51 rooms and suites and is a Relais & Chateaux property, which epitomizes sophisticated authenticity. The accommodations are spacious and luxurious with textiles in delicate hues that contrast beautifully against the darker solid surfaces. On-site is a two star Michelin restaurant along with a more casual establishment that includes a terrace dining option overlooking the vineyards on those more moderate days.

HOTEL FÜRSTENHOF IS A SYMPHONY OF EXCELLENCE IN LEIPZIG – THE CITY OF MUSIC

Hotel Fürstenhof is a classically elegant property inspired by the many famous classical composers who are from Leipzig. Located directly across from a light rail station, you can go anywhere in town easily and efficiently. The rooms are really well insulated from sound, so there is no sacrificing the convenience of the location. Our room faced the water fountains toward the micro train station, providing a sweeping view of the city and within walking distance to a wide range of shopping, restaurants, events, museums and other sightseeing.

The bed with feather down comforter and down pillows are luxuriously comfortable. The bathroom has a separate toilet and bidet area, along with an independent shower and bathtub. The hardwood furniture accents the room nicely, providing plenty of room to hang and unpack clothing.

The spa area lets guests leave their daily routine behind, while relaxing in the wellness oasis that includes a heated pool, modern gym and Finnish sauna. There is also a poolside bar offering creative cocktails. Morning provides a scrumptious white-tablecloth breakfast in the formal dinning room.

HOTEL JAGDSCHLOSS DRANICHSTEIN IS A RELAXING RETREAT IN THE OUTSKIRTS OF DARMSTADT

Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein is a former 16^th Century hunting lodge (or castle) in the Renaissance style. The hotel shares space with a museum that showcases artifacts from the era. The property is surrounded by forest and a large pond, part of the original hunting grounds. The guestrooms are well appointed and quite comfortable. Breakfast is especially delightful with an abundance of fresh fruit, artisan breads, spreads, cheeses, warm & cold offerings all enjoyed in a lavish setting.

There are two on-site restaurants, Restaurant Kavaliersbau, which is in a separate building and serves traditional game dishes and Hessian-Swabian delicacies, which are combined with ingredients from around the world. Inside the hotel is the more casual bar & bistro which is also a wonderful dining experience, just a bit more informal.

LÜBECKER KRONCHEN IS A LOVELY INN IN LÜBECK

While Lübecker Krönchen is an small inn rather than a full fledged hotel, I thought it worth mentioning for two reasons. For starters, this historic castle/chateau has been beautifully restored with each room being uniquely themed with luxurious comfort in mind. Secondly, Lübeck is an incredibly charming place that everyone should visit if in the northern part of the country. The owners/innkeepers, Annett and Peter, have gone to painstaking effort to restore this property to all her glory, and, they are the most consummate hosts. There are just six lavish rooms to choose from, each completely different from the next. Breakfast each morning is quit impressive with a surprisingly wide range of options to choose from.

Lübecker Krönchen is located just outside the bustle of Lübeck (about a 12-15min. walk) with free parking, which is a great amenity given how difficult it is to find within the city center. Annett and Peter are extremely helpful with everything from shopping, dining and parking tips, to historic information on the area. After a long day of exploring, come back to the inn and relax in the indoor heated pool or in the Finnish sauna.

That’s a look at some of the best hotels in Germany. If you’ve every stayed at any of these properties, or, have questions, please leave a comment below.