Staying at Raise a Smile was a highlight of a 6 week, 5 country trip for us. The staff here are just so amazing, especially Esther, and very helpful with places to go, things to do and what to eat in Berlin. The rooms have animal themes and the whole hostel has African themed decor which is really cool. It's... More

We were in Berlin for three nights and decided to stay in the Eastern part, as that seems to be younger and hipper part of town. It's also cheaper! We had a great stay at the hostel. The staff were great, friendly and helpful. It's also a great charity, so go on and support them! One thing though, you are... More

The wonderful state of German public transport makes it cheap to get to the hostel (although not super easy if you were lugging a huge suitcase like I was!). The website has a very comprehensive and useful guide (with videos!) on how to get there from the major transportation hubs. The owners and staff were hugely friendly and useful. Wifi... More

Very friendly, courteous, and informative staff who are very eager to help at any time of day. Clean bathrooms and bedrooms with very comfortable beds. Felt more like a friend's apartment than a hostel. And it's for charity to boot! Would recommend again.

Really cool place, easy to meet ppl, clean! And it's for a good cause! I would definatly stay here again!

At first glance, Berlin itself seems to appear so bleak compared to other great European/German cities.  Spent the first two days exploring and then I started to like it.  Changed hostels and checked into Raise a Smile and then I really fell in love with Berlin.  I now understand why this place is always rated #1 in hostelworld.com  Their website... More

Staying at Raise a Smile feels like you're staying with a family. It's a welcome change from many of the more business-like hostels that can come off as quite cold. Nightly activities were planned with everyone in the hostel and it was a great way to all get together and know each other. The staff sits down with you when... More

I visited Raise a Smile as a rather nervous lone single traveller on her first solo trip abroad. From the beginning (and even when unaware of my nerves), Gray and Esther could not do enough to put me at ease. Initial emails were warm, friendly and efficient, making sure that I knew how to reach the hostel and was all... More

I was in Berlin back in September. This is the best hostel I've ever been in and I've been in quite a few. The staff helped me plan my week in and around Berlin. A kitchen with cereal, basic ingredients (bread, milk, etc.) and accessories is provided. The staff organizes night outs if you want to familiarize yourself with the... More