Meininger Hotel Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof

Cosima from the breakfast team deserves a special mention. She was warm, funny, and kind, and made mornings brighter. The hotel itself feels new and clean, with simple but comfortable rooms. It's well placed for walking to the train station or Weststadt, and there are organic shops and coworking spaces nearby. The shared kitchen could use a bit more equipment, but I had a really pleasant stay overall.

I stayed in a mixed room with four beds. It was clean and laid out efficiently, and the people I met at the hostel were friendly. I've tried buffet breakfasts at five other hotels in Germany, and this one was the best for both choice and taste, compared with places in the same price range. It is expensive, though, at €12.90.

Three of us were given just one card, and when we asked for more, they said they only provide one. That's not ideal when you're travelling with friends. Also, if you want to leave luggage in a locker before check-in at 15:00, it costs €4.50 per bag. Charging hotel guests for luggage storage is really unacceptable.

The 24/7 reception and guest kitchen on the ground floor are handy, and the hostel also has self-service laundry with detergent included. Wi-Fi was free and stable at about 50-75 Mbps. In winter, our mixed dorm was warm and clean, with towels and bedding provided. The en-suite had a shower, hair dryer, and basic toiletries. Heidelberg Hbf is an 11-minute walk, about 800 m away. From HD Hauptbahnhof Süd, bus 33 takes one minute with no stops, then it's a three-minute walk. Dorm lockers are small, roughly 16-inch triangular ones, so bring your own padlock. Secure luggage storage is available before or after your stay for €6.65 per bag per 24 hours. There are no in-room safes. If you plan to cook or make your own meals, bring groceries from near the Hbf, since there isn't an Aldi or Kaufland nearby, about 800 m away. Practical, well located, and good for a short stay or budget travel.