At the giddy heights of European cool, Berlin is a cultural experience not soon forgotten. Wander down the formerly gritty East Berlin streets in Friedrichshain or Kreuzberg for achingly hip bars such as Barbie Deinhof's, or simply some tasty Turkish street food. Check out Museum Island for some world-class museums, and if you're into nostalgia then don't forget to take a self-driven tour of the city in a sputtering old Trabi. Alexanderplatz, the heart of former East Berlin, is a living monument to Communist architecture, while historic Mitte is great for shops and bars.
LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTELS BERLIN : ZOO HOTEL
Freshly renovated and reopened, The Zoo Hotel is Charlottenburg has focussed on both design and service, with subtle touches in its animal patterns- check out the zebra-print in the bar! With its own-branded luxury toiletries and fresh flowers, The Zoo Hotel won't disappoint.
Hotel Zoo Berlin
THE SOHO HOUSE BERLIN
If you're looking for luxury and hip in Mitte, opt for Soho House- the Berlin outpost of the popular private members' club and hotel. It's a boutique hotel par excellence, with free Wi-Fi, a cinema, library, and exceptional cocktails. It's also excellently located for the sights, including the legendary Bergheim nightclub (based in a former power station) known all over Europe for its wild nights and parties lasting 24 hours.
Hotel Indigo Berlin Alexanderplatz Budget Boutique hotels For design on a budget, Das Stue in the Tiergarten offers free bike rentals, iPod docking stations, a spa, and a swimming pool. This boutique hotel also offers a view of the city with private terraces and balconies. Set in a functional 50s building in Mitte, 25 Hours Bikini Hotel has done fabulous things with the space, from installing hammocks in the windows to constructing an industrial-style bar. Ipad chargers are provided in the rooms and Mac computers are free for guests' use. Definitely best for chic on a budget. See all boutique hotel in Berlin