If you want to experience Berlin like the cool folk that live here, base yourself at these trendy-but-luxurious pads in the serene Charlottenburg district. The 21 suites (sleeping 2-4) are on the site of the Wilmina Hotel, a former prison converted into a characterful urban retreat (very Berlin!), so you have access to all its excellent facilities - rooftop pool and sundeck, room service, gyms, restaurant, library and landscaped gardens.
Tucked at the back of the property, the suites range from 80-246 sqm, so space is plentiful (a rarity in a big city). They follow the same calming colour palette as the hotel's rooms, with smart Scandi styling and meticulous attention to detail. The emphasis is on clean lines and minimalism – whitewashed walls, parquet flooring, lofty cement ceilings. Room-height windows flood the airy spaces with light, and each opens onto a wide terrace overlooking a secluded, leafy courtyard. Furniture is simple but elegant, from the Bocci lighting to the Coco-Mat mattresses, the crisp white cottons to the push-open drawers and cupboards (there is storage for days).
Sleek, sophisticated but welcoming, they’re perfect for couples, groups or families who value the independence and space of apartment living but with added hotel luxuries, right here in Europe’s coolest capital.
Highs
- All suites have private terraces and spacious living areas
- Quiet and peaceful despite being next to a busy road, with excellent transport links connecting you to the city's major sights
- Free access to all of Wilmina Hotel's facilities, including a restaurant, rooftop pool and leafy gardens and courtyards
- The service is excellent. Staff are young, friendly, professional and always willing to help
- There’s a day bar/café on the ground floor if you want a coffee or snack in the sunny courtyard, where high walls tumble with greenery
Lows
- Charlottenburg is quiet rather than hip and happening, but this might be welcome after a busy day in the city
- Rooms might feel a little too minimalist; a couple of objets or a splash of art would add a bit more homeliness
- Although you have the option of breakfast at the hotel, it's on the pricey side, but you can opt for something smaller at the on-site bakery (or head to one of many cafes outside)
Best time to go
They say the only thing that gets you through a Berlin winter is the promise of a Berlin summer. But winter can actually be lovely if you’re visiting, especially when the Christmas markets are on - do expect some cold and rain, though. The city really comes alive in April-October when the weather turns and everyone heads outdoors to eat, drink and party. It’s the best time to experience the famous Berlin vibe. High summer can get oppressive - temperatures of 34-35C are not uncommon.
Our top tips
For getting around, check out the Berlin Welcome Card. It's available in 2-6 day passes and includes all public transport (including to/from airport), free entry to many attractions, and discounts on others. At weekends, public transport runs all night.