TORTUE HAMBURG – Schöner als die Fantasie

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first heard the name “TORTUE HAMBURG – Schöner als die Fantasie” (which translates to “more beautiful than fantasy”), I rolled my eyes a bit. I mean, that’s quite the claim, right? But honestly, after spending a few nights there, I get why they went with something so bold.

The place has this whole tortoise theme that could’ve been cheesy, but they actually pulled it off in this sophisticated way. You know what struck me first? The lobby smells like this subtle mix of leather and something woody – not that artificial hotel scent that hits you like a wall. The design feels deliberately slow and thoughtful, which I guess fits the whole tortoise concept. There’s this warmth to the interiors that makes you want to sink into one of their oversized chairs with a drink and just… breathe. The rooms are spacious by Hamburg standards (and if you’ve stayed in German hotels, you know that’s saying something), with these gorgeous high ceilings and windows that actually open – such a simple thing, but you’d be surprised how many places seal you in like a tomb.

What really won me over was how they handle the little things. Check-in was smooth, no hovering or rushing, and the staff genuinely seems to know Hamburg beyond the tourist spots. They pointed me toward this amazing fish market route that I never would’ve found otherwise. The neighborhood itself is pretty fantastic – you’re close enough to the action but far enough that you’re not dealing with drunk tourists stumbling past your window at 3 AM. I stayed during one of those typical Hamburg drizzly weeks in October, and there’s something about watching the rain from their cozy common areas that felt almost meditative. The breakfast spread was solid too – proper German breads, local honey, and they actually had decent coffee, which honestly can be hit or miss in this city. One tiny critique: the WiFi gets a bit spotty on the upper floors, but nothing that ruins the experience. With a 9.1 rating, you’d expect everything to be perfect, and while it’s not quite there (what place is?), it’s damn close. If you’re the type who appreciates thoughtful design and wants to feel like you’re staying somewhere with actual character rather than another cookie-cutter business hotel, this place delivers on that “more beautiful than fantasy” promise – or at least comes close enough that you won’t feel cheated.

Apartments in Hamburg provide travelers with an authentic local experience, allowing them to shop at traditional fish markets and cook with fresh ingredients from the renowned North German culinary traditions.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $280. Double Room “Petite” with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $309. Double Room “Classique” with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $343. Double Room “Grande” with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $447. Petite Suite with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $650. L’Appartement with 1 extra-large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Ajsa from Germany – 20 March 2025 (10/10)

  The property was so relaxing and the staff was so friendly. I had a great nights sleep after a long business trip due to the comfortable bed and ambient of the room. It was truly a lovely experience.

• Gebhardt from Germany – 21 February 2025 (9/10)

  Fresh modern design, great staff, the breakfast was very good, definitely worth it! We got a very nice welcome drink as well which we found pretty generous!
  
  What could be improved: Rooms are small and we had some minor issue with the bath room, but not a big thing and the team helped out right away.

• Bjorn from United Kingdom – 3 February 2025 (9/10)

  We stayed here with the family, both in category "Classique". My parents had a gorgeous room with extra high ceilings, simply beautiful.
  My partner and I stayed on one of the upper floors and sadly the ceilings were quite low but still perfectly fine.
  Room size was ok, just about big enough if you don't have a lot of luggage.
  Rooms were spotless and well designed.
  The highlight is definitely the breakfast – one of the best hotel breakfasts we ever had.
  When you stay here, don't miss it – it's a little more pricey compared to other hotels but SO worth it.
  Service was excellent- friendly, fast and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: we were missing facilities like a spa or gym.

• Jo from South Africa – 12 January 2025 (10/10)

  The location is very close to the Jungfernstieg which is a lovely walking and shopping area. The room is exceptional. Bathrobes and slippers are provided, and the little extras like a shoe polishing cloth. We have to leave early in the morning, before 7am, and we were able to make cappuccinos in the bar area near reception which was a welcome start to the day. The valet parking process was smooth, helpful and immediate. We couldn't have been happier.

• Kopieikina from Germany – 29 December 2024 (10/10)

  Located in central area, extremely nice staff, very welcoming atmosphere, high quality rooms. Definitely recommended.

• Kathy from United States – 19 December 2024 (10/10)

  Very clean and comfortable. Great location.

• Kristian from Albania – 27 October 2024 (10/10)

  Everything but the parfum most😊

• Lucie from United Kingdom – 12 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautifully decorated, welcoming, comfortable
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Thomas from Denmark – 7 September 2024 (9/10)

  Everything was top top.!
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast very busy. If you dont want to do a buffet, please pay more and better attention to the customer. Had to ask 3 different staff before I Could have another cup of Black ciffer. 15-17 min. Waiting, not okay.

• Sir from Ireland – 18 August 2024 (9/10)

  Central and well appointed
  
  What could be improved: Too dark and gloomy lighting: I find the lighting system in the room itself confusing and not intuitive

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities