Radisson Blu Hotel Berlin - A stunning hotel with the world's largest cylindrical aquarium

Set in the vibrant eastern quarter of Berlin, the Radisson Blu Hotel Berlin offers guests a privileged location just steps from Alexanderplatz, the scenic Spree River, and the majestic Berliner Dom. The city’s bustling Hackescher Markt is also within easy reach, making this address ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

The hotel’s most celebrated feature is the spectacular AquaDom—a record-breaking cylindrical aquarium that rises through the heart of the expansive lobby. Originally inaugurated in 2004 and newly reconstructed in 2024 after an extensive restoration, the AquaDom continues to mesmerize visitors with its impressive scale and immersive design. Standing 25 meters tall and 11 meters in diameter, this aquatic masterpiece contains over one million liters of water and showcases more than 1,500 fish from 50 diverse species. A glass elevator ascends through the core, offering a truly unique perspective. Daily maintenance is carried out by a dedicated team of divers, ensuring the health and vibrancy of the marine life. By night, the illuminated aquarium transforms the lobby into a captivating underwater tableau, enhancing the hotel’s dramatic atrium ambiance.

Today’s Radisson Blu occupies a site steeped in history. While the current structure showcases contemporary style and innovation, hospitality has graced this address since the 1970s, when it operated as the Palast Hotel under the Inter Hotel banner, catering primarily to international guests in East Berlin. Following the reunification of Germany, Radisson took over and, in 2000, embarked on a complete rebuild, resulting in the modern, light-filled property you see today.

The soaring atrium, anchored by the AquaDom, is the hotel’s social heart, welcoming guests with a sense of grandeur and tranquility.

The Radisson Blu Berlin features 427 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, including Standard Rooms, Business Class Rooms, Junior Suites, and the exclusive Nicolai Suite.

During my recent stay, I was assigned a Standard Room on the first floor, offering a city-facing view over the entrance and lively street scene. On a previous visit, I enjoyed an upgrade to a Junior Suite on the top floor—a spacious corner retreat boasting panoramic vistas of the Spree and the Berliner Dom, especially enchanting after sunset when the city’s landmarks are illuminated. While the property remains in excellent condition, some furnishings in the standard categories now show the gentle patina of time, though suite-level accommodations maintain a fresh, contemporary feel. As always, your choice of room category and outlook can elevate the overall experience.

Each Standard Room spans a generous 27 square meters, featuring a plush double bed, ergonomic workspace, lounge chair and table, ample wardrobe, flat-screen television, and a well-stocked minibar. The en-suite bathroom includes a bathtub, toilet, and washbasin. In-room amenities also include a kettle with a selection of premium teas and coffees.

The guest floors are arranged in a circular layout around the atrium, offering either serene interior views of the AquaDom or outward-facing rooms with cityscapes. For many, waking up to a view of the Berliner Dom is an unforgettable highlight.

Functional workspaces and comfortable beds ensure a restful and productive stay for business and leisure guests alike.

The hotel’s culinary offerings are anchored by Restaurant HEat, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the vibrant Atrium Bar, both located on the ground floor beneath the soaring glass ceiling. HEat’s menu blends regional specialties with international favorites, while the Atrium Bar is a popular spot for expertly crafted cocktails and light fare.

During our evening visit, we sampled a classic burger and signature cocktails at the Atrium Bar. The setting—enhanced by the glowing AquaDom and gentle background music—provides a soothing retreat from the city’s energy.

The bar’s modern yet inviting atmosphere is a highlight for both guests and locals.

Breakfast at HEat is an indulgent affair, featuring an expansive buffet with a focus on quality and variety. A live cooking station allows guests to customize omelets with fresh ingredients. For those seeking unique options, dishes such as rice pudding and seasonal fruits are available. In the warmer months, the spacious outdoor terrace, which offers more seating than the indoor dining room, invites guests to enjoy their meal al fresco amid Berlin’s vibrant cityscape.

Descending to the lower level, guests discover a serene spa sanctuary featuring three distinct saunas, a tranquil relaxation lounge, multi-sensory rainfall showers, and a heated pool set around a hammam-inspired space with soothing foot baths. Separate locker rooms for men and women, along with plush towels and bathrobes, are provided at reception. A menu of massages and bespoke wellness treatments is available for an additional charge.

Adjacent to the spa, the hotel’s fitness center operates 24/7 and is equipped with a selection of cardio machines and free weights. While the gym is compact considering the hotel’s capacity, it remains popular with guests; during our early morning session, nearly every station was in use.

For added convenience, the lobby houses a boutique kiosk offering newspapers, artisanal chocolates, postcards, and curated souvenirs. Business travelers are well served by 15 flexible meeting and conference rooms, each equipped with the latest technology.

The attentive concierge team and lobby shop enhance the overall guest experience with personalized recommendations and thoughtful amenities.

Complimentary high-speed WiFi is provided throughout the property. Guests can log in easily using their name and room number; during our stay, we experienced robust and reliable connectivity suitable for both business and streaming needs.

Throughout our visit, we encountered consistently warm and attentive service across reception, dining, and wellness areas. Despite the hotel operating near full occupancy due to a major city event, staff maintained professionalism and efficiency, ensuring guests felt valued and cared for at every touchpoint.

While the property’s interiors reflect a decade of vibrant hospitality, the Radisson Blu Hotel Berlin continues to impress with its unrivaled AquaDom centerpiece and thoughtfully designed atrium. The blend of historical legacy, contemporary comfort, and exceptional amenities secures its reputation as one of Berlin’s most distinctive luxury hotels.