Hotel Alte Feuerwache - Berlin, Germany     

We went for a very cheap break (flights only ?40 return for 2) so was looking for a very cheap place to stay that wouldn't ruin our stay. This hotel did this and more. Only ?26 per night for a double. Basic spec but very clean, and had TV, double glazed window with view of TV Tower, good heating, and very nice en suite. Didn't have breakfast, which was ?8 extra, but ate at restaurant on last night and was much nicer than other local establishments. If you do stay here, don't eat nearby, eat at the hotel or go into town. Hotel is quite far from town and aiport (Taxi from airport 33 euro) but is on main tram route, only about 15 min to town and quite regular, and runs up to 2am in week. If travelling cheap, get a 2 zone Berlin Welcome card (covers all travel and some museum discounts) get Airport Express train to Alexanderplatz, then get M5 tram from Alexanderplatz toward East Berlin and stop for hotel is FreienWalder Strasse. Hotel is in quiet district, and according to map has park lakes very close (but didn't see). Staff helpfull. Reception manned until about 11pm but room key alows access.

This Hotel is as described on the website. My mother and I visited in November 2007 for a 5 day trip and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The staff are very friendly and their English was very good, however it helped I spoke a little German as some colloquial phrases are not understood. It is not as central as described although there is a great Tram service running along the front of the hotel. This was not useful however when trying to get there from Schoenfeld Airport, taxi cost €40 and driver didn't seem to know where it was after looking at our print out of the address! Got there eventually! Food in the hotel was nice however was slightly overpriced and not a great portion, menu changes with season and there is a menu in English which you have to ask for. Great cocktail list and staff enjoy making them and recommending them!! If the food is not to your liking there is a great "Argentinian/Italian/Mexican" (not joking!) Restaurant 500m down the road, portions are huge and staff are lovely! Breakfast in Hotel was lovely and you could stay as long as you liked and eat as much as you liked also! really set you up for the days sightseeing! Rooms are very nice and clean,although the slanting ceilings could be a nuisance if you are tall! Decor is neutral which is good! Be warned - the lift only goes to third floor and there are stairs to fourth floor which isn't easy with a suitcase each! Area is quiet even though tram runs until 3am you rarely hear it even with the window open. Pillows and bed were super comfy and at times I didn't want to get out of it! Overall, great stay and would go back again without hesitation!