Hyperion Hotel Dresden am Schloss

Of the many hotels we've visited in Dresden, the Hyperion is one of the more fresh and modern options, though it still manages to blend classic luxury elements with contemporary extras. Set in a historic Saxon building with a handsome beige-and-pink facade (as well as a more contemporary-looking corner building next door), the hotel blends in well with its surroundings in Dresden's Old Town. The interiors are chic and bright, with high-backed sofas, contemporary lamps, interesting patterns created by the monochromatic tiled floors, and textured walls. The lobby area is flooded with natural light thanks to the atrium ceiling, and guests are received at white-marble reception counters. The hotel counts many leisure travelers among its guests, but it's also a popular choice with business travelers.

The Hyperion Dresden Am Schloss is smack in the center of Dresden's Old Town and just a four-minute walk from the Elbe River. It's directly opposite Dresden Castle, and other historical and cultural sites such as the Frauenkirche Cathedral, Residenzschloss Castle, Zwinger, Augustus Bridge, and Dresden Cathedral are within easy walking distance. There are many bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and ice cream parlors in any direction from the hotel, making this location particularly convenient for leisure travelers. The Dresden Airport is a 20-minute drive or 35-minute S-Bahn ride away.

Rooms are spacious and bright, with stark-white walls and crisp bed linens that are contrasted by bold splashes of color. You'll see large floral wall stencils, bright-red headboards, and light-green patterned carpets (though upper category rooms feature hardwood floors). All of these design choices give these rooms and suites more up-to-date personality than many of the older, historic hotels in the area. Suites have separate living areas. Chic designer armchairs complete the look, and the open bathrooms, which are done up in white marble, add conventionally luxurious flair. Sink areas open to the living areas, and there are separate stalls with closing doors for the toilets and walk-in rainfall showers. Hairdryers, toiletries, and magnifying mirrors are provided. Grand Rooms and Suites add soaking tubs. Standard in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, minibars, robes, slippers, kettles, and high-end coffeemakers. Connecting rooms are available for families, and the hotel provides toys and special amenities for kids.

Features here include options for dining, drinking, and wellness facilities, but some guests may be disappointed by the lack of a swimming pool. Wohnstube, the hotel's restaurant, offers a menu of Swiss and local Saxon specialties as well as 24-hour room service. A breakfast buffet includes an extensive spread of hot and cold dishes, though many previous guests find it prohibitively expensive. The Schlossbar has an extensive drink list and a relaxing lounge area with comfy arm chairs.

Located in the hotel's historical stone cellar, Purovel Spa & Sport houses a sleek fitness center with cardio and weight equipment, plus saunas, treatment rooms, vitality showers, and a relaxation lounge with a medieval ambiance thanks to its surrounding exposed-stone walls and archways. Unfortunately, using the sauna costs extra on its own, but it's included when booking a treatment. 

Seven meeting rooms of different sizes are available here, and can hold up to 300 guests. The business center is open around the clock, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Secure on-site parking is available for an expensive daily fee. Pets are welcome (for a fee) and the hotel provides bowls and beds for dogs.