25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin Review
A contemporary West Berlin hotel overlooking Berlin Zoo.
Nestled in a 1950s high-rise structure, the 25hours Hotel Bikini is a sleek and stylish retreat that offers unparalleled access to the heart of Berlin. Dubbed the "Urban Jungle," this trendsetting hotel, designed by the renowned Werner Aisslinger, is a feast for the senses, blending natural elements with cutting-edge style. From the top floor restaurant and bar with its 360Β° rooftop terrace, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the lush Tiergarten park, and the famous Berlin Zoo.
Conveniently located just steps from the Zoologischer Garten S and U-bahn stations, the hotel is a mere stone's throw from popular destinations such as the Helmut Newton Museum and the Bikini Mall. For those looking to explore more of the city, attractions such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag Building are just a leisurely 40-minute walk away. For the adventurous, the hotel even offers bikes for rent, allowing guests to experience the city from the seat of a Schindelhauer Bike, stylishly displayed in select rooms.
Dining
Experience the taste of the Mediterranean and Israel at NENI, the rooftop restaurant located on the tenth floor of the hotel. Savour a mouth-watering array of hot and cold dishes while sipping on a steaming cup of coffee or a revitalising mimosa. With its sun-soaked rooftop and breathtaking views of the city, NENI is the epitome of summer dining. It's the perfect way to begin each day of your stay. For added convenience, you can opt to include breakfast in your room booking at a more favourable rate than if you were to pay on arrival. Don't miss this opportunity to start your day with a memorable culinary experience at NENI.
Perched across from NENI is the iconic Monkey Bar, a bar known for its breathtaking views, stylish decor, and mouth-watering cocktails. It's no surprise that it's a highly sought-after spot, drawing in crowds of people eager to soak in its ambiance both day and night. But for guests staying at the hotel, there's no need to fight the crowds - they have exclusive access to the bar through a dedicated entrance, linking them directly to both Monkey Bar and NENI. We relished the opportunity to enjoy the stunning sunsets while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails and indulging in lively conversations. And as the night progresses, the bar comes alive with the sounds of live music and electrifying DJ sets, making it the perfect place to kick off a night of unforgettable fun.
Adjacent to the hotel lobby lies a bakery, dishing out tasty treats straight from its wood-fired oven. Here, guests can indulge in a wide variety of freshly baked bread and pastries, along with a selection of snacks and beverages. Just steps away from the lobby is the charming Bikini Island, a cosy oasis where guests can lounge on comfortable hammocks while getting lost in a good book. The island also boasts a vintage pinball machine, adding an extra touch of fun. Within the lobby, guests will also discover a well-stocked shop, offering a diverse array of books, gifts, and beverages including ice-cold beer and Prosecco.
Rooms
The hotel boasts a collection of distinctive rooms, divided into two categories, each offering a unique perspective on the city. Half of the rooms offer breathtaking views of the nearby Berlin Zoo, while the other half provide a front-row seat to one of Berlin's most historic landmarks, the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Guests have the choice to immerse themselves in the lush greenery of the jungle rooms, or embrace the urban energy of the city with views of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church and the city skyline beyond.
Walking down the hotel corridors is like stepping into a contemporary art exhibit, with dark walls illuminated by neon lights. Our stay was in one of the medium-sized urban twin rooms, offering a vista of the city skyline. The interior was a perfect blend of industrial chic, with exposed concrete ceilings, unique lighting fixtures, and black-tiled bathrooms accented with an array of greenery. The room was filled with quirky touches, including wall illustrations, playful slogan cushions, and adorable monkey teddy bears. All the essential amenities were provided, including free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, an iPod dock, a mini bar, and a selection of toiletries.
The spacious jungle rooms at the hotel offer an experience unlike any other, complete with a cosy hammock suspended in front of the windows, a stylish Schindelhauer bike fixed to the wall, and a luxurious bathtub positioned beside the bed. For those who need their morning pick-me-up, the larger rooms come equipped with a convenient tea and coffee maker, ensuring that guests can start their day on the right foot. If a premium experience is what you're after, we highly recommend booking one of the hotel's larger rooms for an unforgettable stay.
Price: Rooms from Β£124 in the low season (medium urban room).
Facilities
The jungle sauna at this hotel provides the ultimate escape for those looking to relax. With a tranquil relaxation zone and a dry sauna, guests can unwind and let their worries fade away. While there is no gym on site, the hotel has made arrangements for guests to use the well-equipped McFIT gym located nearby for just 10 EUR per day. This fee includes access to the gym's facilities, fitness classes, and sauna.
For added convenience, there is underground parking available at Bikini Berlin, located just to the right of the hotel on Budapester StraΓe 38. And for those looking to save, discounted day tickets can be purchased at the hotel reception for 16 EUR per day.
#FLODown: 25hours Hotel Bikini is a chic and cozy hotel that offers excellent value for money. Each room is uniquely designed, with some featuring comfortable hammocks, complimentary bikes, a well-stocked mini-bar, and breathtaking views. Our only minor grievance was the open bathroom design, which lacked privacy. However, this was offset by our positive experiences at the NENI restaurant and Monkey Bar, which were both top-notch. As a bonus, hotel guests have the added advantage of avoiding long wait times thanks to the exclusive access provided to these popular venues.
The hotel is a fantastic option for a trip to Berlin whatever the season. With impressive rooftop views in the summer and at Christmas, there is a wonderful festive market on the doorstep of the hotel at the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church.
Location: Budapester Str. 40, Berlin, 10787, Germany. Book now.