ibis budget Bern Expo

The hotel's signature feature is its exceptional connectivity to public transport, with a tram stop directly opposite, making it an ideal base for sightseers and event attendees at the nearby expo or stadium. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness and the generally friendly demeanor of the staff, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While offering a budget-friendly stay, the accommodations are noted for being quite basic, with room size and in-room amenities being recurring points of discussion. This hotel is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers and those on short trips who prioritize convenient access to the city over luxurious comforts. For families or couples seeking an economical option to explore the city, the hotel's location and public transport benefits are a significant advantage. To make the most of your stay, guests strongly recommend utilizing the complimentary public transport tickets provided by the hotel, which significantly eases exploration of the city, and to manage expectations regarding in-room facilities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides practical facilities designed for a no-frills stay. Guests appreciate the common area on the first floor, which includes a microwave and access to hot water, offering a convenient space for preparing simple meals or drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available and generally reported to be of good quality, allowing guests to stay connected. However, many reviews frequently mention the absence of several standard in-room amenities. There is no kettle for hot beverages, no mini-fridge to keep items cool, and no safe for valuables. Furthermore, the availability of electrical outlets is often cited as insufficient and inconveniently located, sometimes making it challenging to charge multiple devices. Some guests also note the lack of air conditioning, which can lead to uncomfortable room temperatures, especially during warmer periods.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, which is a consistent positive. However, the room size is a frequent point of discussion, with many describing them as very small, compact, or even "closet-sized," limiting space for movement and luggage. Feedback on bed comfort is mixed; some guests find the beds comfortable, while others report them as too soft or too hard, occasionally leading to discomfort. A significant concern revolves around bathroom privacy: the sink is often located directly in the main room, and the shower area, sometimes featuring clear glass, lacks adequate seclusion. The toilet is frequently described as being in a confined space, akin to a "cupboard," with doors that may not close fully or lack locks, creating an awkward experience. Noise levels can also be an issue, with some guests noting sounds from air circulation, neighboring rooms, or nearby construction.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding the breakfast service is notably mixed, with many guests expressing disappointment. While some find the breakfast to be adequate or good, a significant number describe it as basic, limited in variety, and not offering good value for its cost. Common complaints include a lack of options such as scrambled eggs, pastries, or a wider selection of hot items. Guests have also reported issues with trays getting emptied quickly, leading to long waits for replenishment, and a perceived "policing" attitude from staff regarding breakfast access. The overall quality and selection are often deemed insufficient for the price, with some guests suggesting better alternatives can be found elsewhere. The hotel does not appear to offer extensive in-house restaurant or bar services beyond breakfast, though a restaurant in the adjacent Novotel is mentioned as an option.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major advantage, particularly its direct proximity to a tram stop (Tram 9), which is right opposite the entrance. This provides exceptionally easy and quick access to the city center, typically within 10 to 15 minutes. Guests appreciate the convenience for exploring Bern's attractions and reaching the main train station. The hotel is also well-situated for those attending events at the nearby expo or stadium, and it offers good accessibility from the highway. Parking is available on-site, but it is consistently noted as being expensive, with a daily fee, and spaces can be limited or full, leading to frustration for some guests who expected availability. Despite the parking challenges, the excellent public transport links largely mitigate any concerns about reaching destinations.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests highlight positive interactions, describing employees as welcoming, attentive, and willing to assist with inquiries, such as providing directions or information about local transport. The check-in and check-out processes are often described as quick and efficient. Guests appreciate the staff's efforts to accommodate requests, including late check-out when possible. However, a few isolated negative experiences are mentioned, particularly concerning staff attitudes during breakfast service or unhelpful responses regarding booking changes or cancellations. Despite these infrequent instances, the overall sentiment towards the service team is overwhelmingly positive, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay for most visitors.

Additional Information
A highly valued benefit for guests is the provision of free public transport tickets for use within Bern, which can be activated via an app, making city exploration very convenient from the moment of arrival. While parking is available, guests should be aware that it comes with a significant daily charge and spaces are not always guaranteed, leading to potential inconvenience. The hotel is described as a new modular build, with the budget rooms typically located on the upper floors (10-12), sometimes offering good views. Some guests have noted a strict cancellation policy, which can result in no refunds even for prompt cancellations. The hotel also provides a common area with a microwave and hot water, which is a useful amenity for budget travelers.