Hotel Goldener Stern - contactless check-in

This hotel is highly regarded for its central location in the heart of the Old Town, offering immediate access to the river and iconic bridges, making it a perfect base for sightseers and couples exploring the city. Its modern, well-decorated rooms and efficient self-check-in process are frequently highlighted. However, a significant point of consideration, especially for summer travelers, is the consistent lack of air conditioning, which can impact comfort during warmer periods. The hotel's unique self-service model appeals to independent travelers who value convenience and privacy. To ensure a smooth experience, guests are advised to have their check-in codes readily available and to consider bringing earplugs if sensitive to street noise, as opening windows for ventilation can introduce external sounds.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel operates primarily on a self-check-in system, which most guests found to be efficient and straightforward, though some experienced initial difficulties with the machine or payment processing. A small but functional elevator is available, proving helpful for transporting luggage to upper floors, despite a few steps leading to its access. Rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge and a kettle, though guests should note that tea, coffee, and cups are generally not provided. A fan is supplied in each room to help mitigate the lack of air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is consistently available, and many rooms feature convenient USB charging ports for electronic devices. Some guests reported issues with the in-room safe, finding it inoperable.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are largely described as spacious, clean, and modernly decorated, with many appreciating the aesthetic and overall tidiness. The beds are generally found to be comfortable, though some guests noted that the pillows were too soft or flat, and some double beds had two mattresses that tended to separate. A common point of feedback is the noise levels, which vary; while some rooms are quiet, others, particularly those facing the street, experience significant disturbance from city cleaners, restaurant activities, mopeds, and late-night revelers. The absence of air conditioning often necessitates opening windows, exacerbating noise issues. Some room layouts feature the sink and shower directly within the main bedroom, with only the toilet in a separate, often glass-enclosed, area, which some found awkward. A few isolated reports mentioned specific cleanliness issues like stained carpets, dirty toilets, or dusty surfaces.

Dining & Food Quality
While the hotel does not offer extensive on-site dining, guest feedback on the breakfast is mixed. Many guests found the continental breakfast to be good, delicious, and sufficient, featuring items like bread, cheese, meat, fruit, and hot beverages, served efficiently at the table. However, some described the variety as limited or the service as unorganized, with occasional waits for items. The hotel's central location means there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars within easy walking distance, providing ample options for other meals and compensating for the hotel's limited dining facilities.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in the Old Town, placing guests within immediate walking distance of major attractions such as the river, the Chapel Bridge, and various historic sites. It is also conveniently close to numerous shopping opportunities and a vibrant selection of dining establishments. The main train station is typically a short 5 to 15-minute walk away, making arrivals and departures straightforward. While there is no on-site parking, the Kesselturm parking garage is a very convenient alternative, located just a few hundred meters from the hotel. However, guests should be aware that the charming cobblestone streets in the area, while picturesque, can make transporting heavy luggage challenging.

Staff & Service
The hotel primarily utilizes a self-check-in system, which many guests found to be smooth and efficient, allowing for quick access to their rooms. However, some encountered initial difficulties with the machine or payment processing, necessitating assistance. When available, the staff, including cleaning personnel and those reachable via a hotline for check-in issues, are frequently praised for being friendly, helpful, and attentive. They are often noted for their willingness to resolve issues promptly, such as providing new room keys or assisting with luggage storage, though experiences with luggage storage varied. The overall service model emphasizes independence, with minimal direct interaction with hotel personnel.

Additional Information
A critical point for potential guests is the consistent lack of air conditioning, which can make rooms uncomfortably warm, particularly during summer months, despite the provision of fans. This often leads to guests needing to keep windows open, which can introduce significant street noise from city activities, nearby restaurants, and late-night revelers. Some rooms feature an unconventional layout where the sink and shower are located directly within the main bedroom area, with only the toilet in a separate, often glass-enclosed, space. Guests should also be aware that while a kettle is provided, they will need to bring their own tea, coffee, and cups. The hotel operates with minimal on-site staff, relying heavily on its self-service model, which means immediate in-person assistance may not always be available.