Kempinski Hotel Atlantic
Though the 90-year-old Atlantic is said to be among Hamburgs best, after two nights we concluded it doesn't compare in finesse to its rivals. It has the scale and superficial grandeur of a fine luxury hotel, but cannot match the sense of history that permeates the Vier Jahreszeiten or the delicate, contemporary air that defines the Jacob.
Our standard double was adequate but small for a grand hotel. Service was fine, but unremarkable; the fitness center was modest, and the swanky night lounge failed to excite.
Daily Rates: Singles €165-185 doubles €205-225. Breakfast not included.
Contact: An der Alster 72-79, 20099 Hamburg, tel. +49/040/28 88-0, Fax 24 71 29. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Toll-free reservations: 800-426-3135.
Rating: Quality 12/20, Value 5/20
Hafen Hamburg
Moderately-priced hotels in Hamburgs Zentrum can be more than a little rough around the edges. This one, however, is not only genteel but a decent value.
Located on an elevated site directly above the Landungsbrücken, west of the Altstadt, the 239-room Hafen Hamburg has gracious Art Nouveau style public rooms and many guestrooms with fine views of the port and river.
Walk through the park to catch the elevated S-Bahn for the 10-minute ride downtown.
Daily Rates: Singles and doubles €100-200
Contact: Seewartenstrasse 9, D-20459, Hamburg, tel. +49/040 /31113-0, fax 311 13755, www.hotel-hafen-hamburg.de
Rating: Quality 11/20, Value 15/20
