Berlin: Maritim proArte (4 Star Hotel)

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Address: Friedrichstr. 150-153 , Berlin 10117, Germany
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Lonely Planet review

Thanks to top-to-bottom restyling, progressive management and a stellar art collection, this 1970s hotel has completely shaken its GDR-era vibe and is now solidly rooted in the 21st century. It's right on exclusive Friedrichstrasse, a stone's throw from Unter den Linden, ritzy shopping and Berlin's main theatre district.

Although it is essentially a business hotel famous for its humongous conference facilities, the Maritim manages to avoid a cookie-cutter feel. In fact, it was among the properties that pioneered the 'art hotel' concept back in the mid-1990s. Each floor is dedicated to a different German contemporary artist, including Rainer Fetting, Elvira Bach, Salome and others who've already made a name for themselves internationally. The grand lobby with its soaring ceiling showcases sculpture and bold wall-sized canvases and also sports a conversation corner with edgy Philippe Starck furniture. Rooms are top-notch, even if the decor plays it fairly safe. The Carrara marble in the bathrooms, though, adds a nice luxury touch. The pricier rooms come with fluffy robes, which come in handy when taking the special lift down to the saunas and largish swimming pool.