Michelberger Hotel

Former video-game producer Tom Michelberger used his experience of creating fantasy lands to design this brilliant budget pad.

The style is Manhattan loft – high ceilings, exposed bricks, wooden floors and Anglepoise lamps. Rooms are simple; some are compact and rooms for groups have bunk beds.

The relaxed communal spaces have books, games and lampshades made from old magazines. It’s super-friendly and convivial – like staying at a friend’s place. Packs of hip singles come here to be near the party heat of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, and to enjoy facilities that rival some of the area’s more expensive options.

The in-house restaurant is worth dining in for, and is a popular hangout for locals. It serves up seasonal dishes, using organic, biodynamic and sustainable ingredients sourced from their farm and other local producers.

It’s in a fairly industrial area, not that close to the city’s main attractions, but the U-bahn is a two-minute walk which will whisk you off to sightsee as needed. This is a hotel that’s perfectly located for serious partying. If it’s peace you’re after, rooms at the back are a lot quieter.