The best in Berlin? Check out the Ritz

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  Spa pool at Ritz-Carlton Berlin

Since the Berlin Wall came down just over 20 years ago and the city became the heart of Germany once again, Berlin has become one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in Europe.

Many areas were completely rebuilt and restored, with Potsdamer Platz one of the most remarkable. Formerly a no man's land and divided by the Wall between East and West, it is now the home of modern buildings like the Sony Centre, where the annual Berlin film festival is held, the IMAX cinema and the hotel favoured by visiting celebrities and dignitaries alike, the Ritz-Carlton.

Those familiar with the traditional Ritz-Carltons in the US and around the world will recognise the Berlin hotel's traditional internal design and feel - deep carpets, dark wood, marble gilt-topped pillars and crystal chandeliers. As it was opened just a few years ago, however, it has every modern amenity to complement the luxury rooms and service.

It is worth paying the extra to stay on the Ritz-Carlton Club floor, as the large lounge serves continuous food and refreshments from breakfast right through until your 10.30pm nightcap.

Additional pampering is available in the excellent spa and, in the privacy of your room, a bath menu that goes all the way up to the Romantic Bath complete with champagne, strawberries and rose petals - yours for €100 euros if you want to splash out…

Berlin is a multi-layered city, with ultra-modern developments built atop its varied history. A short walk from the Ritz-Carlton and the surrounding sparkle of the other buildings that comprise The Beisheim Centre Complex, are the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and major museums that emote so much history from one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.

As well as the usual rooms and suites at the hotel, last year The Ritz-Carlton Apartment was opened as the largest suite in Berlin. It can accommodate six people and offers three bedrooms with living room, dining room, study and kitchen – all with wonderful views over the Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park. At over 300 square feet (285 square metres), it will set you back a mere €14,500 euros a night.

One way of putting on the Ritz in Berlin.

By Nick Perry

Location: Berlin