Michelberger Hotel

"Set the scene: What's it like walking into the Michelberger Hotel?Set in a 19th-century building that was once a factory in the lively, club-filled district of Friedrichshain, no hotel captures the youthful, creative spirit of Berlin quite like this independent hotel. The lobby takes its inspiration from the surrounding East Berlin architecture, with handmade 1960s-style glass chandeliers and comfy low sectional sofas, plus shelves of used books in every language. The overall effect feels like the loft of the hippest kid in town. What’s the crowd like?Laid-back and effortlessly cool. This hotel buzzes with young style- and budget-conscious travelers. What can we expect from the rooms?A handful of the 132 rooms have built-ins and loft beds—think, upscale dorm room—that make smart use of a space meant to be shared by a group. The Cosy category (from 126 euros, or around $138) is just that (though couples will be comfortable in the large beds), while the four Luxus-themed rooms might mean you’re sleeping in a Swiss chalet or a library-like space lined floor to ceiling with books. A more recently added fourth floor takes things up a notch, with industrial-chic rooms outfitted with high-end organic German mattresses, handblown globe lighting, and terrazzo tilework in the chic concrete bathrooms. Any extra luxuries of note, big or small?The Hideout suites, which include an extra mezzanine sleeping area for kids plus a kitchen, also have in-room saunas and extra-large bathtubs that fit two. What do they have for food here?The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (though it's closed on Sunday and Monday nights) and uses organic, locally sourced products on its seasonal menus—including produce from its own farm, located in the Brandenburg countryside. There’s also a café that turns into a wine bar pouring sustainably sourced varieties every day at 5 pm. Anything else we should know before planning a stay?In summer, the courtyard hosts regular concerts—fun for locals, maybe not so much for hotel guests. So is it worth it, and why?This hotel is a must-see if you dig the hipster vibe and want to be within walking distance of some of the city's top nightclubs, including the world-famous Berghain." - Jennifer Ceaser