What comes to mind if you think of luxury hotels in Germany? Old-world elegance, opulent rooms fitted with antiques and chandeliers, a lavishly decorated lobby?
In Hamburg, you can have all that - but if you long for something more purist and modern, check out Hamburg's latest addition to its 5-star hotels, SIDE, which prides itself in being the world's only design hotel with 5 stars; spread over 11 floors, the purist building, made of glass, steel, and natural stone, is an ubercool contrast to the old-world chic of other luxury hotels. A dramatic light choreography created by artist Robert Wilson plays out in the soaring atrium and lobby; the rooms, designed by Matteo Thun, are spacious and airy, filled with light furniture and the latest technology. There is a color-coordinated spa in the basement, offering bright yellow treatment rooms, emerald showers, an orange fitness area, and blue pool and saunas. For spectacular views, head to the Sky lounge on SIDE's rooftop.
More: Best 5 Luxury Hotels in Hamburg
(Photo: O.T. Boie)