NH Hamburg Horner Rennbahn

With streamlined, almost sterile interiors, the NH Hamburg doesn't offer much in the way of atmosphere. The main draw here is the hotel's location next to the horse track, and the NH's well-rounded selection of amenities such as dining spots and multiple meeting rooms. It's a combination that makes it popular with tourists, especially couples, and business travelers. Its design speaks more to the latter, with a modern, glossy lobby sporting white floors, a wood-fronted desk, gray couches, and functional stairs or hallways leading to other parts of the hotel. The bar just off the lobby, with a sleek espresso-colored bar and couches topped with cheery striped pillows, gives a little more personality. The hotel’s restaurant is also a touch more stylish, with white leathery chairs and illuminated wall panels in bright red. Its floor-to-ceiling windows not only flood the space with natural light but offer views of the outdoor patio and horse track. 

Horse race enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel's location next to the Galopprenbahn Hamburg-Horn horse track. There are a few restaurants within walking distance, and a mini-golf course. It's about a 25-minute drive to the city center and its attractions. There’s a bus stop within a two-minute walk of the hotel and a U-Bahn station within an eight-minute walk. Hamburg Airport is a 25-minute drive away.

Compared with the public spaces, the 176 rooms at NH Hamburg Horner Rennbahn are less sleek and slightly dated thanks to details like 80s chrome-and-leather armchairs. The cookie-cutter blond-wood furniture, gray carpets, white bedding, and abstract art convey a forgettable chain-hotel aesthetic. All rooms are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. Some rooms include kettles. Those with views of the horse track are the most desirable, not just for their views but because they don't pick up traffic noise. The white-tile bathrooms with brown granite counters are uninspired. They have shower/tub combos, and toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

While rooms and interiors can be underwhelming, features at the NH Hamburg are appealing, starting with its restaurant and bar. Breakfast (for a fee) consists of cold items (cold cuts, cheeses, yogurt, and fruit) and hot dishes (such as eggs and pancakes) made to order. Tesoro Restaurant serves German and Spanish dishes in a lovely room with an outdoor patio with views of the race track. Drinks and a basic menu of hamburgers, salads, and cheese plates are available at Rennbar throughout the day. Extensive business facilities include 10 fully equipped function rooms, a public computer and printer, plus free Wi-Fi. The dinky gym, however, is disappointing with just three cardio machines, but it does offer a sauna. Parking is also free.