Hotel Review of Axel Hotel Berlin: Pros, Cons, and My Personal Experience

Berlin has always been a city that fascinates me. Its history, creativity, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination for any traveller. For my recent trip, I chose to stay at the Axel Hotel Berlin, a property known for its inclusivity and modern design. As someone who enjoys exploring unique places while balancing comfort and budget, I was eager to see how it measured up.

Spoiler alert: my experience was a mixed bag. If you’re considering a stay here, this honest, first-person review will give you the full picture – pros, cons, and everything in between.

What is Axel Hotel Berlin?

The Axel Hotel Berlin is part of the Axel Hotels chain, a brand that prides itself on being LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive, while also welcoming travellers from all walks of life. Often referred to as “hetero-friendly,” the hotel aims to create a safe and stylish space for everyone.

Located in Berlin’s Schöneberg district, the Axel Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of the city’s historic LGBTQ+ hub. The area is teeming with vibrant nightlife, quirky cafes, and unique shops, making it a great choice for travellers who want to immerse themselves in Berlin’s dynamic culture.

While its ethos and location are standout features, my experience at Axel Hotel revealed both highlights and some areas where it could improve.

The Pros of Staying at Axel Hotel Berlin

1. Prime Location in a Vibrant Neighbourhood

One of the best things about Axel Hotel Berlin is its location. Schöneberg is a lively district filled with fantastic cafes, trendy bars, and restaurants serving up everything from German classics to international cuisine. As a solo traveller, I loved how easy it was to find great spots to eat or unwind without venturing far from the hotel.

Public transport is also close by, which made getting around Berlin convenient. I was able to hop on the U-Bahn or buses and explore all the city’s major attractions with minimal effort.

2. Friendly and Accommodating Staff

The staff at Axel Hotel were genuinely friendly and helpful. From the moment I checked in, I felt welcomed. When I encountered an issue with my initial room (more on that later), they quickly resolved it with professionalism and a smile.

3. Unique Atmosphere and Inclusive Ethos

Staying at a hotel that emphasises inclusivity and diversity was a refreshing experience. Axel Hotel has a modern, trendy vibe that sets it apart from more generic chain hotels. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply looking for a unique place to stay, Axel Hotel stands out for its welcoming atmosphere.

The Cons of Staying at Axel Hotel Berlin

While there are plenty of positives, there were also some aspects of my stay that didn’t quite hit the mark:

1. Not Quite Central

Although the neighbourhood itself was fantastic, Axel Hotel is located about a 50-minute walk or a 20-minute ride via public transport from Berlin’s city centre. For those like me who love being in the thick of things, this added a bit of inconvenience. While public transport made up for it, I found myself wishing the hotel was a bit closer to the main sights.

2. Room Issues and Cleanliness Concerns

My first room had a cracked TV, which was disappointing. While the staff handled the situation quickly by moving me to another room, it was an inconvenience I hadn’t anticipated.

The room itself was decent but lacked a polished finish. Dust lingered on surfaces, and the cleaning staff seemed to do the bare minimum during their visits. It wasn’t terrible, but it left me feeling like more attention to detail could elevate the overall experience.

3. Odd Corridor Smells

A recurring annoyance was the strange sewage or wet smell that occasionally wafted through the corridors. It wasn’t overpowering, but it definitely detracted from the hotel’s otherwise stylish vibe.

4. Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

The hotel’s design features a lot of mirrors in the corridors, which can be disorienting at times. While I appreciate a modern aesthetic, there were moments when I caught myself off guard in the reflections – not exactly a relaxing experience after a long day of exploring!

Who Should Stay at Axel Hotel Berlin?

The Axel Hotel Berlin is a great fit for travellers who:

• Want to stay in a vibrant neighbourhood with plenty of nightlife, dining, and shopping options.
• Appreciate inclusive and LGBTQ+-friendly spaces.
• Don’t mind being a little removed from central Berlin as long as public transport is nearby.

However, if cleanliness and proximity to the city centre are your top priorities, you might want to explore other options in Berlin.

My Overall Verdict: A 3/5 Star Experience

Would I stay at Axel Hotel Berlin again? Honestly, I’m on the fence. While I loved the location and the welcoming staff, the room issues and cleanliness concerns left something to be desired. For a mid-range solo traveller like me, it was a decent stay but not without its flaws.

If you’re considering the Axel Hotel, I recommend weighing the pros and cons carefully. It’s a hotel with plenty of potential, but there’s definitely room for improvement.

Have you stayed at the Axel Hotel in Berlin or a similar hotel? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!

This honest review is part of my effort to share authentic travel experiences on Tom Solo Travels – because every trip, like every hotel, has its ups and downs.