Novotel Suites Berlin City Potsdamer Platz

Arrived after midday and found the rooms were not ready. However, the receptionist then changed the rooms that we had booked into ones that were next door to each other (two separate bookings) and we left our luggage there before going out for the afternoon. The rooms were large and comfortable, especially for two. We travelled with a family of four, who were sharing. The rooms were made up with new towels daily (3 night stay). The only thing that was not quite so good was that they didn't have any coffee to replenish the drinks tray in the room.

Hotel is very well situated for access to local sights eg Topography of Terror and the Story of Berlin. Plus very convenient to the tube station to get to the centre and to the Zoo, river cruises, museums etc. We had a family room for four which was roomy enough, but unfortunately became very hot at night. The air conditioning was minimal and because of the building works opposite and the traffic became noisy after 6 am if we opened the windows. We didn't eat at the hotel, but there is a Lidl and various cafes & restaurants close by, so plenty of choice. Berlin Welcome card highly recommended if you plan to use public transport as it gives you "free" transport for Berlin, including to & from airport and discount if you visit attractions. Children under 15 are included on adult cards! We found tubes & trains really efficient & surprisingly quiet.

The hotel and generously sized room were satisfying, and it was a good value. Berlin is a vibrant, modern city with so much to offer. I've previously visited twice briefly, but this week-long stay to visit family revealed a place to which I want to return. Take the city tour bus to get the "lay of the land" and see many examples of new, innovative and beautiful architecture. The Sony Center at Pottsdammer Platz is one terrific example. Don't just look from a distance. Get close and wander into the enclosed area, which is open to the sky, for the real "WOW!" effect.