checking in: 25hours bikini berlin
Overlooking Berlin Zoo, 25Hours Bikini Berlin is one of Berlin’s hippest hotels, with an urban jungle theme, eccentrically-furnished rooms, comfy beds, and a seriously wow-factor rooftop bar, that’s as much a hit for locals as it is for guests. A great base for exploring the city, you’re in easy walking distance of Charlottenburg, that’s recently blossomed into a hip neighbourhood, with fun bars and a thriving Asian food scene that’s definitely worth checking out. You’re also not far from some of Berlin’s most iconic sites, with the Brandenburg Gate just on the other side of the park.
Rooms come in all different shapes and sizes, all with comfy beds and quirky furnishings, like bikes hanging from walls, colourful wall murals and playful slogans on the pillow. It’s not to everyone’s taste but on the most part, it’s a bit of fun. Nifty touches like USB charging ports and portable Bose speakers give the impression it’s got millennials in mind. Bathrooms are worth writing home about, with matte-black tiles and rainfall showers meaning you’ll take twice as long getting ready for the day. Stop The Water Using Me toiletries not only look and feel good, but support the charitable initiative, Good Water Projects too.
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Monkey Bar, the rooftop cocktail bar is a real destination in itself, and totally comes alive at night with DJs bringing maximum vibes. Guests of the hotel get exclusive any-time access (bonus!) while mere mortals downstairs are more often than not having to queue to come up here most evenings. Breakfast, which is included in room rates, is served up here too. The buffet spread is extensive, and the views of the zoo are pretty special. Muesli with a side of monkey business ain’t bad.
There’s a Jungle Sauna on the 9th floor, which is a sweet spot for relaxing, overlooking the zoo, and the lobby on the third-floor has a coffee bar and bakery, along with an extensive retail selection —everything from Monocle city guides, to indie magazines, plug adapters, and local spirits— perfect for picking up souvenirs and gifts to take home.
One of my top tips is to explore Berlin on wheels, and you can hire bikes here for just €5/3 hours or €10/ whole day.
25HOURS BIKINI BERLIN, rates from €130/ night
