Directors Choice
Hotel de Rome
Berlin
In December 2025 we had the pleasure of taking the family away for a short pre‑Christmas break to Berlin, guided by our passion for uncovering the kind of luxury city‑retreats we at Haslemere Travel love to recommend.
Our chosen haven for this trip was the magnificent Hotel de Rome in central Berlin. We came away utterly charmed by the perfect blend of festive urban spirit, heritage luxury and serene comfort.
The hotel is located at Behrenstraße 37 on historic Bebelplatz, and occupies the former head‑quarters of the Dresden Bank (built in 1889). It has now been beautifully converted into a five‑star gem under the umbrella of the Rocco Forte Hotels.
From the moment we arrived, the contrast of old‑world architecture (think marble, vault‑door detailing, neo‑renaissance shell) with sleek contemporary interiors set a tone that feels both grand and intimately welcoming.
Our suites were elegantly appointed, with plush fabrics, high ceilings, thoughtful lighting and a marble bathrooms. The service was exemplary, the perfect mix of personal, unobtrusive, and very much aligned with the “bespoke luxury” that we seek for our clients. A standout touch was the indoor spa, tucked in what was once a bank vault, with mosaic‑tiling and an inviting pool that felt like a sanctuary after a day of exploring the city.
Travelling just before Christmas was and absolute delight. Berlin was beautifully decked out in its seasonal splendour and the city’s famed Christmas markets were in full swing. Of particular note: the market at WeihnachtsZauber an der Staatsoper, which is directly infant of the hotel and offers an elegant, artisan‑led experience with live music, hand‑crafted decorations and glowing lights in a beautiful historic square.
Wandering through the market stalls, with the sound of choir‑voices drifting overhead and cups of steaming Glühwein (mulled wine) in hand, was simply joyous. The mix of artisan wood‑crafts, warm gingerbread hearts, roasted chestnuts and local delicacies gave the perfect festive palette.
Other Christmas markets we visited included those at the palace of Charlottenburg and the Winter‑World ice rink at Potsdamer Platz both adding variation and charm.
Berlin is a city that rewards the curious traveller. From the hotel’s central location you’re within easy walking distance of Museum Island (and its world‑class galleries), the Brandenburg Gate, Brandenburg’s Unter den Linden boulevard, The Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe and Check Point Charlie. The city also delights with charming boutiques and cafés tucked down side‑streets in Mitte.
On one afternoon we took a gentle stroll through the historical quarter, enjoyed a cosy café stop for some Berlin pastries (Stollen & Lebkuchen) and hot beverages, then returned in the evening to admire the city illuminated for the season. The sandstone façades bathed in golden light, the Rathaus (town hall) clock lit up, and Christmas trees reflected in shop‑windows. The atmosphere is festive without being over‑touristy.
Top tip: bundle up! December in Berlin is crisp (often zero to low single‑digit °C) and the market‑huts and outdoor stands are best enjoyed with warm layers and boots.
Dining in Berlin is a vibrant blend of tradition and modern creativity. The city’s culinary scene celebrates both its Prussian roots and its global flair, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy beer halls.
Traditional dishes still hold a special place on Berlin’s tables and we tried the hearty currywurst (sliced sausage with spicy ketchup), Eisbein (pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and peas), and comforting Kartoffelsalat (potato salad) all of which are local favourites. Food in Berlin truly captures the essence of the city itself - bold, diverse, and delightfully authentic.
What struck us the most was how effortlessly Hotel de Rome managed the balance between luxury and local flavour. It certainly doesn't feel like a corporate chain. It feels bespoke, intimate and deeply connected to its location.
For Haslemere Travel clients looking for a break, where style and substance meet, this is exactly the kind of experience we love to curate.
If you’re considering Berlin for a festive city‑escape (or at any time of the year) we wholeheartedly recommend combining the comfort of an exceptional hotel like this with the rich tapestry of Berlin’s cultural and seasonal offerings. We returned full of the festive spirit and ready to make plans to return again.
