Choice of soft or firm pillows? Sounds like a dream come true (literally).

Rooms so sleek, stylish and modern we can almost hear Kraftwerk in the air.

Spot-on location in the heart, near the River Ruhr between the Essen and Dusseldorf Fair buildings (if you happen to be here for an event).

Within walking distance of public transportation for easy access into the centre.

Foosball and pool tables in the lounge are calling. (C’mon. You’ve trained for this.)

Just outside the city centre, with three (yes, three) U-Bahn stops within blocks, and an S-Bahn stop close by, too.

Well-connected to the motorways, so you don’t lose time getting to your destination.

Fitness room and sauna, leaving you with zero excuses for not working out. (Sorry, pal.)

Modern design and fear-no-colour upholstery keep the common areas cheery.

Steps from Friedensplatz with its old & new town halls, and the old market cafes. But don’t overdo it – save room for local fare at the onsite Brasserie.

Hip new redesign rocks a buzzy school-themed 24/7 lobby bar, complete with gym lockers and a backpack-bedazzled check-in desk.

Shopper alert: spot-on location along the main shopping boulevard, Königsallee ('Kö' to those who know it well).

A spiffy spot as a base to explore town, especially the fab Ko (Königsallee), with its shopping, bars, restos and people-watching.

The only 4-star stay in town, it’s an easy suitcase-lug from the main station.