Ryan A.
Yelp
Stayed here for a few nights earlier this year and was pleasantly surprised. Located near downtown right on the lake, it offers spectacular views as well as top notch German service.
This is not the cheapest hotel in the area, but if you book most SPG hotels, expect to pay more than an average staybridge, embassy suite, motel 6, etc. As many mentioned there are a few downsides, one being indeed the smoking lounge downstairs, which honestly I didn't really pay attention to, but you can smell it time to time. Another is, there are really no restaurants within a comfortable walking distance, so I'd suggest asking for the front desk for a taxi and or hailing an uber.
The positive outweigh the negatives though as with most SPG hotels, luxury is expected. Rooms and most of the interior aesthetics are splendid and very inviting. The room I had was very spacious and I was lucky enough to snag a window with a view of the lake, bad weather and all, it was still a beautiful view. Top floor boasts a great restaurant and bar, but not very euro friendly with its high prices, but the food and drinks are great! Review is coming for the bar/restaurant soon (4/5 easily).
Would definitely consider staying here again if visiting the wonderful town and people of Hamburg.