Hotel Pension Columbus

Hotel Pension Columbus is on the third floor of a grand building that survived the war with carved eaves and elegant balconies. Guests take a small elevator with old, swing doors to the hotel where they are greeted by a staff member of this family-run hotel. With creaky floors and quaint decor such as the small table acting as a front desk, the hotel has a homey vibe. Breakfast is served in a cheery room with wooden tables and booths, and lots of houseplants lining the big window. Fresh flowers in vases and decorative teacups add a nice touch. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, matching expectations for a family-run bed-and-breakfast.  

This hotel is located in a chic neighborhood a half a block from Kurfurstendamm (Ku'Damm), one of the most famous avenues in Berlin lined with stores, restaurants, and hotels. It’s far from most tourist attractions, except for the Berlin Zoo, which is within walking distance. The U-Bahn is a quick walk away, and the Berlin Wall Memorial can be reached in under 25 minutes by subway. Tegel Airport is less than a 30-minute bus ride.  

Decor varies greatly from room to room, but overall furnishings are homey including doily-covered tables, wooden bureaus, and decorative pillows. One room is light-pink with a floral wallpaper border (the vintage green rotary phone is a lovely touch). Bathroom accommodations vary; some rooms have en suite bathrooms (think pink tile work and matching avocado green tub and toilet), some rooms have showers and sinks only (tucked in a corner, not separated by a door), and some rooms have shared showers and sinks. Rooms have TVs, though some are still tube-style, and all rooms face an inner courtyard. Wi-Fi throughout is free. 

There aren’t a lot of amenities at this bed-and-breakfast, but guests rave about the breakfast, which includes freshly cooked eggs, pastries, fruit, cereal, and tasty coffee served in a cozy breakfast room full of wooden tables and chairs. The hotel has free Wi-Fi and a friendly staff provides personal service. There’s no parking at the hotel, but guests won’t need a car since there’s plenty to do within walking distance and public transportation is nearby.