Located in Berlin's government quarter not far from the historic Potsdamer Platz and Kurfürstendamm Boulevard shopping district, the modern, 14-story InterContinental Berlin is a spacious, centrally located hotel that’s as attractive to business travelers as it is to visitors taking in the oh-so-green city’s sights. Its checkerboard-looking exterior gives way to a bustling lobby and the adjacent hopping Marlene Bar, where live music sets a festive tone. Neutral-toned rooms with nubby wool bedding continue the contemporary theme; blocky, minimalist furniture, checked carpeting, subdued, abstract art on the walls and deep bathtubs outfitted with rain showers lend a hip and luxurious feel. Perks like bathrobes, slippers, in-room safes, mini bars and cable TV make chilling out a comfortable affair, while complimentary wireless Internet access in the lobby, high-speed Internet access in rooms and the 24-hour business center keeps guests connected. Those who want to indulge themselves can opt to book rooms on the hotel’s two club level floors, where a lounge—adorned with low-slung furniture—has its own check-in and spacious public area with wireless Internet access and breakfast/snack bar overlooking the city. Needless to say, it’s the perfect place to score a (complimentary) happy hour cocktail before hitting the town.
Guests also can choose to unwind at the roomy on-site fitness center. In addition to offering plenty of cardio equipment, it also sports a solarium with blue LED-lit indoor pool, oversized whirlpool, juice bar and lemongrass-scented spa with hamam. As a dining destination, the hotel impresses thanks to narrow, contemporary Hugos restaurant, a crown jewel perched on the top floor. Breathtaking city views—gleaned through a wall of windows—are rivaled only by the cuisine artfully prepared by Thomas Kammeier. The ever-changing menu—think Jerusalem artichoke soup with salmon and a whirl of tarragon oil—is capped off with artisanal selections from a rolling cheese cart. More casual dining can be enjoyed at L.A. Café, which serves a buffet breakfast and à la carte dishes before shifting its focus to Szechwan and Cantonese fare in the evening. On chilly nights, there’s always the Library Bar, an English-style pub with a fireplace and stately, wood-paneled walls. Of course, you’ll find no shortage of things to do nearby. Within walking distance from the Zoological Garden, the hotel is just steps from pretty, path-laden Tiergarten Park and just four kilometers from the Brandenburg Gate.
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