Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten

Founded by Friedrich Haerlin in 1897, the Vier Jahreszeiten occupies a prime run of façades on the Neuer Jungfernstieg, looking straight across the Binnenalster lake in the heart of Hamburg. For well over a century it has been the Hanseatic city's establishment address — the hotel where shipping dynasties, politicians and visiting performers stay — and it is routinely named among the best hotels in Germany.

The interiors carry their history well: wood-panelled halls hung with old masters and tapestries, a working open fire in the lobby, and the celebrated Wohnhalle for afternoon tea with lake views. Rooms range from richly classical to quietly contemporary, and the Alster-facing categories offer one of northern Europe's most pleasing urban views, all sails and swans in summer.

Gastronomy is a genuine strength. Restaurant Haerlin, the hotel's flagship, ranks among Germany's most decorated fine-dining rooms, supported by a Nikkei restaurant, a classic grill and a cigar-friendly bar. A modern spa spreads over the rooftops. With the Jungfernstieg shopping streets, the Rathaus and the Elbphilharmonie all within easy reach, this is Hamburg's definitive base.