Fora Hotel Hannover by Mercure

The room was spacious, but there was a whole family of silverfish in the shower. The parking garage is dark and tight, and costs €1 an hour. We were trapped in the elevator for 15 minutes on the first day, and at night a toilet flushed for hours. Staff tried, but couldn't get the TV working. The hotel is about 9 minutes from the city center.

I've been coming to Hannover for business for years, and at this price, I can find better hotels in better locations once I factor in paid parking. This place is isolated from restaurants, entertainment, event venues, and tourist sights, so it seems more suited to seminars or meetings held at the hotel. I stayed twice for work and picked it because I needed a rental car and the garage used to be free. Now it costs 15 Euro a day. There are 142 rooms, no nearby public parking that comes close to replacing that option, and just four free spaces by the entrance. For its price range, the hotel is average and a mixed bag. It's mostly modern and clean, but the little problems pile up. My room wasn't ready at check-in, even though I've been a chain member for a long time. There were only two hangers, though they brought more when I asked. The safe is old-fashioned, with no programmable number lock. You need to get a physical key at reception, carry it when you leave, and agree in writing to pay 100 Euro if you lose it, which undercuts the convenience of the magnetic room card. There was fungus in several shower areas. The desk lamp wouldn't light, even though its switch was under the desk on the cord. The morning after the first room cleaning, the TV switched itself on at 4:00am. The print inside the framed "painting" had shifted. Breakfast was very good, though an ant crossing my table was a downside. The internet was fast, at 100 Mbps or more.

The room really made the stay for me. I booked a newly refurbished privilege room, and it was huge, spotless, fresh, and stylish. The staff were always friendly and helpful, and you can see how carefully the whole hotel is looked after. I'm sitting on the lovely garden terrace before my flight, watching the staff sweep under the tables while it's quiet and use weed killer. Breakfast came with my stay. I only tried it once because breakfast isn't really my thing. The fruit and yoghurt were lovely, and there was also hot food plus a continental spread of bread, cheese, and meat. One of the best hotels I've stayed in, and I honestly can't recommend it enough. Amazing!

The staff were a highlight, friendly and attentive, and gave me great suggestions for local sights and places to eat. I felt genuinely looked after. I also enjoyed the on-site dining, especially the varied breakfast with fresh local ingredients. The location made it easy to catch a train and get around Hannover to attractions, restaurants, and public transport. My room was modern, spacious, spotless, and had a comfortable bed. I appreciated the complimentary tea and coffee, along with the lovely city view. The lobby was beautifully designed and I got a warm welcome as soon as I arrived. My stay at FORA Hannover by Mercure exceeded every expectation. It's a gem in the heart of the city, with comfort, convenience, and outstanding service for business or leisure. I can't wait to come back!