East Side HotelEditor's Pick

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Occupying a yellow building across the street from a stretch of the Berlin Wall, Friedrichshain’s East Side Hotel serves up Cold War nostalgia with a side of rock ‘n’ roll. Guests will appreciate the 36 clean and straightforward rooms and the easy access to the Ostbahnhof train station, as well as the U-bahn, S-bahn, and tram. Not everyone, however, will like the slightly gritty, graffitied surroundings.

East Germany-themed posters and photographs are the main source of color in the hotel’s compact hallways and plain rooms. (Most pictures depict the rinky-dink East German car, the Trabant.) With gray carpeting and gray-toned, built-in wood furnishings, the rooms are somewhat drab but clean and well-maintained. Some rooms are enlivened by unexpected details, such as pothole-shaped windows, views of the Spree River and the Berlin Wall, and deluxe tiled bathrooms with huge bath tubs.

Service here is laid-back, but very thoughtful. Late sleepers are especially well treated, as room service is delivered 24-hours and breakfast is served until the afternoon in the funky, American-style diner off the lobby.

With 24-hour room service, occasional in-house parties, and close proximity to clubs, bars, and music-venues, the hotel is a great base for history junkies and nightlifers alike.

» Susan Buzzelli

Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.