Motel One Hamburg-Alster

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Motel One Hamburg-Alster? The name’s a bit misleading – this isn’t some roadside motel at all. It’s actually tucked right in the heart of Hamburg, and honestly, the location alone makes it worth considering. I mean, you’re literally a short walk from the Alster lakes, which is something locals will tell you is the real gem of the city (forget the touristy harbor area for a minute).

The whole place has this modern, clean-lined vibe that feels very… well, very German in the best way possible. Everything’s efficient without being cold, if that makes sense. The lobby’s got these deep blue accents and industrial touches that somehow work together, and there’s usually this low hum of international travelers checking in – you’ll hear at least three languages before you even get to the front desk. What I really appreciated was how straightforward the check-in process was. No upselling, no lengthy explanations of amenities you didn’t ask about, just quick and professional. The rooms are compact but smart – think of it like a well-designed puzzle where everything has its place. The bed’s surprisingly comfortable for what you’re paying, and the shower actually has decent water pressure, which honestly can be hit or miss in European hotels. One small thing that caught my attention: the windows are really well soundproofed. Hamburg can get pretty lively, especially on weekends when people are bar-hopping through the nearby streets, but you won’t hear much of it once you’re settled in.

Here’s what locals know that tourists often miss – this area puts you within easy reach of both the business district and the more residential neighborhoods where actual Hamburg life happens. You can walk to Jungfernstieg for shopping, but you’re also close enough to wander into Eppendorf or Winterhude for those tree-lined streets and canal views that don’t show up in guidebooks. The breakfast (if you spring for it) is solid continental fare, nothing fancy but good coffee and fresh bread, which is really all you need before heading out to explore. Parking can be tricky in this part of the city – there’s no hotel garage, so you’ll likely end up using street parking or a nearby public garage, just so you know. At an 8.2 rating, it’s hitting that sweet spot of being reliably good without any major surprises, positive or negative. It’s the kind of place where everything works as it should, the staff knows what they’re doing, and you can focus on actually enjoying Hamburg instead of dealing with hotel drama.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $136. Room with Queen Size Bed with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $136. Room with King Size bed with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $149. Standard Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Marine from Switzerland – 14 April 2025 (9/10)

  Simple rooms, no frills but comfortable and clean. 7min walk to the S1 to the airport and the Hamburg messe U2.

• Udo from Germany – 18 March 2025 (7/10)

  the location, interior design, breakfast
  
  What could be improved: the tap water tastes horrible, to the point that you wonder if it’s even potable. If you want water in the night or on a Sunday you have to buy it at the bar for 6 Euros a bottle. So better come prepared 😉

• Kristine from Germany – 14 March 2025 (9/10)

  Breakfast, easy checkin, the vibe of the hotel, distance to Christmas markets
  
  What could be improved: Room could be bigger

• Béné from Germany – 1 March 2025 (8/10)

  Very good!

• Heidi from Denmark – 13 February 2025 (7/10)

  Very clean
  
  What could be improved: Rooms are tiny and no space for luggage nor luggage stands.

• Suzette from Philippines – 10 February 2025 (8/10)

  The Room was clean and cosy. The soundproofing was perfect. The location was very near the subway station and the staffs were so friendly and helpful, especially the one who helped us find the best room (we forgot his name 😔)

• Mark from United Kingdom – 26 January 2025 (8/10)

  Very clean and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Maybe more breakfast options

• Lorenzo from Italy – 5 January 2025 (8/10)

  Room was very good, not extremely crammed, not huge, but with the right space.
  The location, positioned right in front of the U-Bahn stop, is really great.

• Chi from New Zealand – 25 December 2024 (8/10)

  The complimentary apples, ease of check-in and check-out, room cleaning, and warm room.

• Andrew from United Kingdom – 24 October 2024 (8/10)

  Bar staff very friendly.
  
  What could be improved: receptionist very grumpy on arrival. It's clear the Germans dont like Brits!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities