hotel crush – EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog EuroCheapo editors take on the world of budget travel. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 18:54:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.3 Hotel Crush: Hotel Charly Milan review https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/hotel-charly-milan-review.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/hotel-charly-milan-review.html#respond Mon, 05 Jun 2017 21:21:29 +0000 https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=47983 As Italy’s biggest city, Milan is a great destination for budget travelers with hundreds of affordable hotel options. But not all budget hotels are created equal. If you need a place to stay near the main train station (Milano Centrale), we have an easy answer for you: Reserve a room at Hotel Charly Milan. Our Hotel Charly » Read more

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As Italy’s biggest city, Milan is a great destination for budget travelers with hundreds of affordable hotel options. But not all budget hotels are created equal. If you need a place to stay near the main train station (Milano Centrale), we have an easy answer for you: Reserve a room at Hotel Charly Milan.

Our Hotel Charly Milan review

Located a quick walk (less than 10 minutes) from Milano Centrale, Hotel Charly makes a convenient stay whether you are passing through for a night or looking for a comfy home base for a few days.

Vintage streetcars run right to the Duomo di Milano, the most popular attraction in the city. The Metro (Lima stop) is a few blocks away, and you can walk to the Public Gardens (Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli) in about 10 minutes.

My quick tip: Book a room with a private balcony overlooking the lush garden for a snug urban oasis in the heart of Milan.

Related 
11 Easy ways to save on your trip to Italy
Milan hotels under $100 per night
Avoid these common mistakes on your trip to Italy

Wake up and open the doors to the balcony.

A friendly staff available around the clock

Your visit will most likely start off with a warm greeting (aka barking) by the Hotel Charly’s friendly dog in the lobby. The staff is very cordial, and although they speak a little English, they’re very happy when you attempt a few Italian phrases.

My limited Italian skills came in handy. Check-in is easy, and you pay when you leave. You drop the old-school key off at the desk each time you go out, so you won’t have to worry about losing it. Someone is always at the desk 24-7, so you also don’t have to stress out if you stay out a little later than planned.

Looking out from the patio of Room 6 at Hotel Charly.

Ask for a room with a private balcony

When I made my reservation through EuroCheapo, I asked for one of the rooms with a balcony overlooking the garden. (There’s a note field where you can make a comment or special request.)

I stayed in Room 6 which had a calming yellow color scheme and a full-size bed right next to the huge windows that lead out to the patio. I reserved about three months in advance for a trip in late May. The earlier you make a booking the better to ensure you get a balcony room and a lower rate.

The final bill of my stay was €94 per night for a double room, including the local taxes and breakfast.

Hotel Charly Breakfast

Start each morning with a pastry and cappuccino on your private balcony.

Classic Italian breakfast in a lovely garden

A lot of times, I skip the hotel breakfast in Italy. In my book, nothing can beat a cappuccino and cornetto at a local bar. However, Hotel Charly has an espresso machine and will gladly froth you up a fine cappuccino and provide you with a nice selection of pastries, yogurt, meats, and cheeses. Grab a seat in the charming breakfast room with a view of the garden or ask for a tray and enjoy it on the balcony. It’s a lovely way to start your day in Milan.

It will be hard to lose this old-school key!

Climate control comes in handy during the warmer months

If it’s too hot, the rooms have air conditioning units controlled by remote control. This came in handy when the weather turned quite warm during our stay. With one click of the AC and a quick close of the patio doors, we created a comfortable oasis. You won’t even miss the garden view because the patio doors are glass.

Don’t miss the bakery down the block

One of the best perks of staying at Hotel Charly is the bakery just down the street on the corner of Via Vitruvio and Via Lodovico Settala. Panificio Pasticceria Vailati offers sweet and savory treats from poppy seed flatbreads with anchovies and capers to handmade chocolate covered cherries.

I even stopped by for a couple of last-minute bags of treats to enjoy on the flight back to New York!

Read more about Hotel Charly and book a room online.

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Zürich Hotel Crush: Sleeping cheap at Zum Guten Glück https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/zurich-hotel-crush-zum-guten-gluck.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/zurich-hotel-crush-zum-guten-gluck.html#respond Mon, 12 Sep 2016 12:45:36 +0000 https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=46089 European budget hands know well the financial horrors of traveling in Switzerland. There is almost no way to spend time in the country without blowing a huge hole in your wallet. Yet here, in the country’s largest city, you can snag a nice single room at Zum Guten Glück for just 69 CHF ($70; €63) » Read more

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European budget hands know well the financial horrors of traveling in Switzerland. There is almost no way to spend time in the country without blowing a huge hole in your wallet. Yet here, in the country’s largest city, you can snag a nice single room at Zum Guten Glück for just 69 CHF ($70; €63) a night.

Located upstairs from a restaurant-bar of the same name, Zum Guten Glück is that rarest of Swiss birds: a cheap and stylish place in Zurich to bed down for the night.

Related: All budget hotels in Zurich

Rooms: Simple & stylish

My room was spotless, with a single bed with a pillow and duvet – comfortable and austere in its simplicity, a single golden spotlight above the bed for reading.

The floor, painted gray, is offset with a woven black-and-white rug with a diamond pattern. Two stools, a pile of towels, and a vintage bedside table complete the selection. A well-designed white globe of a lamp hangs above, illuminating everything. My window overlooked an internal courtyard displaying a horizon of cars, bikes, and maintenance equipment: utilitarian but not unpleasant.

Zum Guten Glück

The interior of Room 4. Photo: Courtesy of Zum Guten Glück

Amenities

This is not luxury by any definition. There’s no television in the room. (But honestly, does anyone watch television on a television anymore? There is a fast internet connection at Zum Guten Glück for that in any case.)

For this nightly rate, you will also have to share a toilet and a shower. And while in a general way I prefer to have a private toilet and shower, it’s no huge loss to share both from time to time, especially in a guesthouse as aesthetically pleasing and inarguably inexpensive as this one.

A Low price for an expensive city

Part of the magic of Zum Guten Glück is, of course, the thrill of getting away with such a low nightly rate in Zürich. It certainly felt like a steal after my two meals in the city – the first, at the vegetarian restaurant Hiltl, set me back around 30 CHF ($31; €27) for a plate of vegetarian buffet items and a glass of wine; the second, at a mediocre sushi restaurant, cost me about 80 CHF ($82; €73) for two smallish plates of sashimi. Neither of these restaurants, it should be said, would be considered expensive in the context of Zürich.

Zum Guten Glück

Room 9 with a king-sized bed. Photo: Courtesy of Zum Guten Glück

Glancing back at the Zum Guten Glück listing on EuroCheapo, I find a distinctly mediocre review. This forces me to acknowledge, again, that my enthusiasms are sometimes only my own and nobody else’s. Then again, things change. The main criticism in the original review is of the sullen staff, but the people I interacted with at the guesthouse were both friendly and helpful. Perhaps the staff has either turned over or been retrained since the original reviewer’s visit.

The neighborhood

The guesthouse’s hodgepodge of a neighborhood, Wiedikon, houses a synagogue and a handful of interesting shops. It’s adjacent to the southern end of Langstrasse, rather satisfyingly the seediest bit of central Zürich, which heaves with nighttime activity. A few blocks from the guesthouse is the Wiedikon train station. Trains from Wiedikon take all of two minutes to reach Zürich’s main train station.

Learn about booking rooms at Zum Guten Glück.

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Paris Hotel Crush: Hotel Tiquetonne https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-cheap-hotel-tiquetonne.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-cheap-hotel-tiquetonne.html#respond Tue, 16 Aug 2016 20:11:19 +0000 https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=45951 Oh, how I love Paris. And oh, how I love Hotel Tiquetonne. If you’re looking for a charming and cheap hotel smack dab in the heart of the city, it doesn’t get more classic than this Paris budget hotel. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was stepping back to another era. Everything » Read more

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Oh, how I love Paris. And oh, how I love Hotel Tiquetonne. If you’re looking for a charming and cheap hotel smack dab in the heart of the city, it doesn’t get more classic than this Paris budget hotel.

From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was stepping back to another era. Everything feels quintessentially old-school Paris, from the tiny elevator and winding staircase, right down to the chunky metal room keys.

However, most importantly, what really takes you back are the super low prices that are almost unheard of in Paris today. Hotel Tiquetonne won me over with prices as low as €65 for a double room with a shared bathroom.

Tiquetonne Room

Each room keeps it refreshingly simple when it comes to decor. Photo: EuroCheapo

Simple rooms with charming touches

The room decor blends old-world charm with unintentional shabby-chic. The furniture and wallpaper won’t win any design awards, but the homey vibe was right up my alley and made me feel comfortable during my stay. You also won’t find flat-screen TVs (or any TVs, in fact), and the only modern perk that stands out is the Wi-Fi that worked pretty well, even up on the top floor.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can opt for a room with a private shower for €80 like I did. It’s important to note that you have to pop in a few coins to use the shared shower in the corridor, so I upgraded to avoid running out water right when I was lathering my hair.

If you do choose a room with a shared bathroom, note that the floors are small, so it’s never a long walk to the toilet in the middle of the night!

Tiquetonne Stairs

The winding stairs are fun to walk down, especially after a few glasses of wine. Photo: Craig Nelson

An incredible location for the price

And speaking of walking, Hotel Tiquetonne is just a two-minute walk from the Étienne Marcel Metro station (Line 4) and five minutes to the Châtelet – Les Halles RER station that takes you right to Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) in about 45 minutes. However, with so many great neighborhoods to explore nearby, you don’t really need anything other than your two feet to get around.

Tiquetonne Street

The cobblestoned Rue Tiquetonne is as charming as the hotel. Photo: Craig Nelson

Just walk out your door and find yourself wandering down narrow cobblestone streets to make your way to some of the biggest attractions in Paris in no time. The Centre Pompidou, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre are all 15 minutes or less on foot.

You can also easily walk to dozens of bars and restaurants. That’s what I did each morning to find a new cafe to start my day. You can opt for breakfast delivered to your room for €6.50, but if you’re like me, you can’t pass up a chance to spend a morning at a Parisian cafe. There’s nothing like grabbing an outdoor seat at a sidewalk table and watch the city wake up — looking ever so stylish of course.

When I wanted to check out the food scene in Paris, I would make my way down the block to vibrant Rue Montorgueil. Dotted with historic bakeries (check out Stohrer, one of the oldest pastry shops in the city), cafes with plenty of outdoor seating, and small retail shops selling everything from cheese to meat, this is one of the best Paris streets to enjoy a meandering stroll. In fact, Rue Montorgueil is one of the highlights in our “One Day in Paris” guide.

Tiquetonne Desk 2

The desk was just big enough to hold my laptop, and even better, a bottle of wine! Photo: Craig Nelson

Brush up on your French

Knowing a little French can come in handy when dealing with the front desk. When I made my reservation by email, I had asked for a room facing the street. But when I checked in, I was told that I was getting a room in the back.

But as it turns out, I was very happy with that change of plans, because I had an amazing view of Sacre Coeur over the rooftops of the city from my window in room 701. When I had to catch up on a little work, I ran out to get a bottle of wine for a few euros (a no brainer) and set up my laptop on the small desk. Freelancing is so much easier with a view like that — and a few extra glasses of wine!

Booking at Hotel Tiquetonne

You can make reservations online, but only through the Hotel Tiquetonne website. I received an email confirmation, and I paid the full price of my three-night stay when I arrived.

Read our full review (with additional photos) of the Hotel Tiquetonne here.

Want to see more budget hotel picks? Check out this list of our recommended budget hotels in Paris.

View at Night

The evening view of Sacre Couer out my window from Room 701. Photo: Craig Nelson

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Bulgaria Hotel Crush: Guest House Old Plovdiv https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/bulgaria-hotel-crush-guest-house-old-plovdiv.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/bulgaria-hotel-crush-guest-house-old-plovdiv.html#respond Fri, 05 Aug 2016 15:56:30 +0000 https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=45893 It’s always exciting to visit a new city and stay at a new hotel — especially when it surpasses your expectations. I had heard from many people that Plovdiv was one of the gems of Bulgaria, so when I added this ancient city to my itinerary, I started searching for a hotel. You can easily find » Read more

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It’s always exciting to visit a new city and stay at a new hotel — especially when it surpasses your expectations. I had heard from many people that Plovdiv was one of the gems of Bulgaria, so when I added this ancient city to my itinerary, I started searching for a hotel.

You can easily find plenty of nice modern hotels for under $75, but I wanted to stay in the Old Town (Stari Grad) where the hotels and surrounding streets have a little more character. One affordable hotel stuck out when I began looking at reviews on Booking.com and TripAdvisor — Old Plovdiv Guest House. The enchanting neighborhood is also great for exploring Plovdiv with a good location for visiting the ancient Roman theater, the lively Kapana district, and one of the best views in the city.

Related: A budget travel guide to Plovdiv

I was happy when I walked up to the front door and found a handsome historic house. After a quick snapshot of the front entrance, I stepped into the lobby and was greeted by a sweet little cat on the rug. A self-described “boutique hostel”, Old Plovdiv has a friendly staff running the show. The clerk behind the front desk pointed out the handmade sign they had made for me that I totally missed on my way in. As we sat out on the patio to talk about the details of the hotel, she grabbed me a glass of cold lemonade. Later on, I met the very friendly owner and we exchanged tales about New York. He also told me how the hotel was once the home of a wealthy tobacco merchant and dates back to 1838.

Guest House Old Plovdiv offers a charming location in the heart of the city. Photo: Craig Nelson

Guest House Old Plovdiv offers a charming location in the heart of the old city. Photo: Craig Nelson

Spacious rooms with historic touches

The private single room I stayed in cost €30 (including tax) for the night. It was more than spacious with two twin beds on either side of the room, hardwood floors that are over 130 years old, and free Wi-Fi. I was traveling on my own, but if you had two people, there was more than enough room to spread out and enjoy a bit of privacy. The shared bathroom was clean and right outside the door which was very convenient for washing up at night or an early morning shower.

Guest House Old Plovdiv Entrance

The antique furnishings are a very nice touch, and the bed was surprisingly comfortable. Photo: Craig Nelson

True to its name, there were old furnishings and touches everywhere you looked. I loved the antique details such as the old-time radio and period sitting chairs. On the walls, there were framed historic photos and newspaper clippings from years ago.

When I visited Plovdiv in June, there was a big heat wave across the country with temperatures soaring over 100 degrees. Luckily, my room had one amenity that was very modern — efficient air-conditioning! It came in handy as I popped back in and out to cool down throughout the day.

Cheapo tip: If you want to save even more, you can get a bed in a dorm room for around $10.

A personal greeting was a wonderful way to start your visit. Photo: Craig Nelson

A personal greeting was a wonderful way to start my visit. Photo: Craig Nelson

Beautiful common spaces

The 2nd-floor common room felt more like an elegant library in a private club than a space in an budget hotel. Spending a few minutes during the heat of the day reading about Plovdiv was an excellent use of my time. You can also connect to the free Wi-Fi from here.

The elegant common room at Guest House Old Plovdiv. Photo: Booking.com

The elegant common room at Guest House Old Plovdiv. Photo: Booking.com

Free breakfast on the outdoor patio

Your stay comes with a traditional European breakfast that offers a Bulgarian twist. The nice spread of items included your basic meats and breads but also local delicacies like feta cheese and olives. The coffee machine is always on, so you can grab an espresso or latte at any time of day. When I first arrived in the afternoon, it was nice to get a little shot of caffeine before heading out to explore Plovdiv.

Free breakfast on the patio is a perfect way to start your day in Plovdiv. Photo: Craig Nelson

Free breakfast on the patio is a perfect way to start your day in Plovdiv. Photo: Craig Nelson

If you have time, it’s worth ordering a beer or glass of wine at the bar to sip on the leafy patio. It’s just one of the many features that makes this hotel an excellent value for your money. Yes, I have a major crush on Guest House Old Plovdiv!

Guest House Old Plovdiv Patio

The patio is open all day, and you can order a cold beer from the bar for less than $1.

Want to enjoy your own adventure in Plovdiv Old Town? Search for available dates and book a room at Guest House Old Plovdiv.

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Favorite Proprietors Q&A: Rosanna Marazzi of the Celtic Hotel in London https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/favorite-proprietors-qa-rosanna-marazzi-of-the-celtic-hotel-in-london.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/favorite-proprietors-qa-rosanna-marazzi-of-the-celtic-hotel-in-london.html#respond Sat, 04 May 2013 14:10:58 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=28053 The Celtic Hotel in Bloomsbury is a long-standing EuroCheapo favorite and continually gets great visitor reviews, thanks in a huge part due to its welcoming staff. I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with one of its owners, Rosanna Marazzi, to find out more about some of the charms of the hotel. Tell me » Read more

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The Celtic Hotel in Bloomsbury is a long-standing EuroCheapo favorite and continually gets great visitor reviews, thanks in a huge part due to its welcoming staff. I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with one of its owners, Rosanna Marazzi, to find out more about some of the charms of the hotel.

Tell me about how you came to be running the Celtic Hotel.

I came from Italy after the war. I was a trained teacher and I thought that by working in London, I would learn English. Instead I met my husband, fell in love and that was it!

I’ve been here 47 years, and it’s five years since I’ve been managing the Celtic. My husband and his family have always lived in Bloomsbury, Russell Square. And I loved this area too. There’s the British Museum, Charles Dickens House, Sir John Soane Museum. It’s a very interesting, smart area. It’s full of history.

Rosanna Marazzi Celtic Hotel London

Rosanna Marazzi is one of the proprietors of the Celtic Hotel in London.

This building looks like it’s full of history too.

It’s Grade II listed. I would think it dates to the 19th century. It’s different to the standard hotel. The way it looks and the way it’s shaped, it reminds you of the past. Some of the rooms are small – in London space is so precious! We think that the three buildings forming the present hotel were a private residence. Most rooms still have the original fireplaces and the lovely high ceilings.

Whilst doing renovations, we discovered some pretty earthenware chamber pots in a partition. They were probably from the early days when ensuite didn’t exist, even in palaces. There are only 14 of them left now, as people wanted them as historical souvenirs. I use mine as flowerpots.

And I can see from the scaffolding outside, you’re doing further renovations?

We’re re-painting and repairing the front of the building and, at the end, it will be complimented with window flower boxes. The interior is pleasant and homey.

Have you had regular visitors over the last five years?

Yes, I would say that we have had regular visitors for many years as they followed us from St. Margaret’s, our previous hotel. Some have become dear friends. In many cases we have the privilege of welcoming the first and second generation of various families. Many people from all over the world call the Celtic hotel “our home in London” as they did for St. Margaret’s hotel.

Is it that feeling which makes the Celtic Hotel unique, do you think?

Yes, and it is the kind, friendly and respectful service we offer to all visitors because we wish them to go away with happy memories to cherish. We have been and are rewarded with a very positive response.

That must help you enjoy your work.

Yes, I enjoy meeting people and working with good staff who share the same attitude.

And finally what do you advise your guests to do in London?

Visit the superb museums, which are free of charge, the art galleries and historical palaces. I also suggest visiting the financial part of the city which embraces the very antique architecture of Roman walls, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, many old churches and striking modern architecture such as the “Gherkin” and the Lloyds building. I’m not keen on the height, but I think the Shard is unbelievable. It’s a very different side of the city, as is Canary wharf.

Theaterland is within walking distance of the hotel and is also on our list of suggestions. After that I say, go and see the gardens because you see history there. We have so many gardens around us: Russell Square, Queen’s Square, Coram’s Fields, Tavistock Square, Lincoln’s Inn Fields.  You walk for a bit and you find yourself in another one. They’re unique. It’s all part of the London experience.

Thanks for talking with us, Rosanna! We wish you continued success with the Celtic Hotel.

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Amsterdam Hotel Crush: The Nadia Hotel https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-hotel-crush-the-nadia-hotel.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/amsterdam-hotel-crush-the-nadia-hotel.html#respond Thu, 23 Aug 2012 16:23:37 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=24415 Today at EuroCheapo headquarters we’re crushing big time over the Nadia Hotel in Amsterdam. Our Amsterdam correspondent Audrey Sykes recently checked in on this EuroCheapo mainstay, and her new review proves that “service with a smile” can really make the budget hotel experience. The Nadia is a simple spot (with very small rooms and a » Read more

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Today at EuroCheapo headquarters we’re crushing big time over the Nadia Hotel in Amsterdam. Our Amsterdam correspondent Audrey Sykes recently checked in on this EuroCheapo mainstay, and her new review proves that “service with a smile” can really make the budget hotel experience.

The Nadia is a simple spot (with very small rooms and a lot of steep stairs), but it keeps guests coming back for more. Why? First off, the hotel offers well-equipped rooms near Dam Square from €75 a night. And many of these have great views! Here’s the view from one room:

Nadia Hotel Amsterdam view from room

And then there’s the great service. Each guest is welcomed with orientation and refreshments on arrival (and many report helpful greeters to carry their bags up the stairs), and the friendly staff is always on hand to assist with everything from airport shuttles to bike rentals.

Wouldn’t you like a little help with these stairs?

Nadia Hotel stairs

The ornate breakfast room is, in Audrey’s words, “inspirational.” Rooms, meanwhile, have wood-paneled walls that make them feel a bit like ship cabins, but there are some fabulous canal views to be had, and each room is equipped with the standard amenities (including free Wi-Fi, a TV, safe, mini-fridge, telephone and plentiful shelving) plus a private bathroom.

Here’s a typical bathroom:

Nadia Hotel bathroom

 

Did we mention that many of the rooms have small balconies? Here’s one:

Nadia Hotel balcony

 

Last, but certainly not least, the Nadia has not just one, but two “house cats.” They hang out in the lobby, welcoming guests and adding a certain purr-fect touch.

Nadia Hotel cats

Rates start at €75 for a double, a great value for a comfortable room with a view in a super-central location (the Nadia is located within spitting distance of the Anne Frank Huis and Westerkerk).

Bonus? There is a lovely staff-maintained garden in the center of the gorgeous landmarked building. (If you sweet-talk the staff, they’ll likely grant you a tour.)

For more details, read our full review of the Nadia Hotel. Stop by our Amsterdam guide to read more reviews of recommended budget hotels.

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Barcelona Hotels With Style: Three Cheapo Options https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/barcelona-hotels-with-style-three-cheapo-options.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/barcelona-hotels-with-style-three-cheapo-options.html#respond Fri, 27 Jul 2012 14:56:32 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=24275 Many times, “style” and “inexpensive” seem incompatible. While a budget hotel in Barcelona may have the right location and low rate, on many occasions these places leave something to be desired when it comes to color, furnishings, art and decor in general. There are a few hotels and hostals in Barcelona that rise above the » Read more

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Many times, “style” and “inexpensive” seem incompatible. While a budget hotel in Barcelona may have the right location and low rate, on many occasions these places leave something to be desired when it comes to color, furnishings, art and decor in general.

There are a few hotels and hostals in Barcelona that rise above the rest, designer Cheapos that are easy on the eyes. Here are three for those who are decor-sensitive:

Gat Xino
El Raval

Sometimes, as the saying goes, less is more. Minimal and modern, Gat Xino gets points for its chalk white bedspreads and walls, simple closets, flat-screen televisions and abstract artwork. The color palette used throughout the hostal is lime, charcoal and printer-paper white.

We love the Fashion House's outdoor patio.

This first-rate, two-star hostal is hip and comes with a ton of perks, such as a chill-out lounge on the roof and a sun-filled breakfast room. The only drawback is its slightly shabby neighborhood, but the owners have priced rooms accordingly, and the ‘hood may even be a benefit for the right kind of person.

Fashion House
Eixample

One of my long-standing faves, Fashion House’s owners have good taste. While the owners left the B&B’s rooms in soft tones, simply decorated and with wicker furnishings, they went to town in the living room. Here you’ll feel tempted to plop yourself down by the fireplace and read a book in the over-stuffed armchair, or nap on the equally inviting sofa beside large picture windows. Look up as you drift off at the intricate detailing on the ceiling and the glittering chandelier. This B&B is both chic and cozy at the same time.

The best part about the Fashion House is its ample, flower-filled veranda, an oasis in big-city Barcelona. It’s an ideal spot to chill after a busy day of shopping and exploring, and it’s also a lovely setting for breakfast.

The Hotel Banys Orientals is a class act.

Banys Orientals
El Born

This hotel in El Born is a class-act from its lobby, to its rooms, to its restaurant. Rooms are decorated in a crisp black-and-white color scheme and outfitted with slick furnishings and large framed artwork. All are equipped with a flat-screen TV, telephone, safe and air conditioning. I adore the posh, amenity-stuffed bathrooms at Banys Orientals and the useful “communal mini-bar” on each floor.

The hotel was freshened up in 2010 and is generally decorated in a cutting-edge, sleek style. Hotel Banys Orientals offers 43 rooms in a sought-after setting on Carrer Argenteria, in El Born. Is it the cheapest of the cheapo hotels in Barcelona? No. But it is an excellent value for your euro bucks.

More hotel options

But wait, there’s more! To see all of the budget hotels inspected and approved by our editors, visit our Barcelona hotel guide.

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Hotel Museumzicht: Many rooms with a view https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/hotel-museumzicht-many-rooms-with-a-view.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/hotel-museumzicht-many-rooms-with-a-view.html#respond Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:50:52 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=24236 For today’s Hotel Crush, I’ve chosen the Hotel Museumzicht in Amsterdam, an old-time EuroCheapo favorite. Audrey Sykes, our Amsterdam correspondent, visited this month and just submitted her review, along with more than 80 photographs! Apparently, the hotel was rather photogenic! (We only published 37 of the photos due to space constraints and iPhoto fatigue…) The » Read more

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For today’s Hotel Crush, I’ve chosen the Hotel Museumzicht in Amsterdam, an old-time EuroCheapo favorite. Audrey Sykes, our Amsterdam correspondent, visited this month and just submitted her review, along with more than 80 photographs! Apparently, the hotel was rather photogenic! (We only published 37 of the photos due to space constraints and iPhoto fatigue…)

The Museumzicht, which means “museum view” in Dutch, is an old fashioned one-star hotel, offering 14 rooms in a classic Art Nouveau mansion across the street from the Rijks Museum and two blocks from the Vondelpark. Rates start at €65 for a double.

Rooms are rather simply furnished in antique (or simply old) pieces, and decorated “a la grandmother” with floral wallpaper, vintage oil paintings, and some dainty old lamps. As far as amenities go, the list is short (no TV, no telephone), but all rooms have free Wi-Fi access.

Most rooms share (spotless) bathrooms in the hallways, although they are still equipped with their own small sinks.

Many of the bathrooms, meanwhile, sport gorgeous old varicolor ceramic tiling.

Did we mention that many of the rooms have views out to neighboring buildings and gardens, along the (sometimes too busy) tram-lined street, or across the way to the Rijks Museum?

The lounge / breakfast room, meanwhile, is a class act, boasting restored period furniture, a TV, lending library, and plenty of chairs waiting for you to sit and gaze down to the museum sight below.

One downside: As in many hotels in Amsterdam, the stairs are rather steep…

The best part: The rates. The Museumzicht offers doubles, with and without private bath, from €65-115, including breakfast. Is there any question why we have such a crush on the place?

For more details and to see dozens of additional photos, read our full review of the Hotel Museumzicht. (For more hotel picks, see our list of recommended cheap hotels in Amsterdam.)

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Barcelona Crush: Ítaca Hostel in the Gothic Quarter https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/barcelona-crush-itaca-hostel-in-the-gothic-quarter.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/barcelona-crush-itaca-hostel-in-the-gothic-quarter.html#respond Mon, 07 May 2012 16:07:00 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=23413 By Regina W. Bryan in Barcelona— I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan of sleeping in a dorm room unless there’s no other alternative. Those days of communal snoring are pretty much a thing of the past for me, and yet here I am, crushing on Ítaca Hostel in Barcelona. Of all the hostels » Read more

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By Regina W. Bryan in Barcelona—

I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan of sleeping in a dorm room unless there’s no other alternative. Those days of communal snoring are pretty much a thing of the past for me, and yet here I am, crushing on Ítaca Hostel in Barcelona.

Of all the hostels I’ve visited in Barcelona (and I mean hostel like youth hostel, not hostal) Ítaca stands out in my mind as being the most welcoming. Plus, its location is unbeatable.

Cristina and Nuria own the hostel and have created a cool, communal vibe while offering lots of perks to guests. I can see how it would be easy to meet other travelers at Ítaca over free coffee and tea in the downstairs lounge area or upstairs in the ample communal kitchen. I also like the arty flair at Ítaca, its walls adorned with colorful murals.

Finally, a communal bathroom without any ick! factor.

Tidy points

One of the reasons I tend not to like hostels is the grime factor (and the lack of privacy). I’m not into a messy communal bathroom – no gracias! So Ítaca gets points from me for being tidy, plus having separate bathrooms for ladies and gentlemen.

Hang-out room at the Itaca.

If you’re not into hostels in any way, shape or form, Ítaca also has a few apartments for holiday lettings in another building. While these are more expensive, they are of course private and have kitchens, which could save you bucks in the long run.

Location, location

Ítaca is about a block from one of the top tapas bars in all of Barcelona. I kid you not, the patatas bravas at Cala del Vermut are some of the best in town. And I’m not the only one who thinks so – inside you’ll see photos lining the walls of random famous people who have come to drink a beer here and munch a brava or two. Better yet, get a Vermut here, which is a liquor drink served on ice with a orange slice that happens to be all-the-rage and go well with tapas.

As if Cala del Vermut was not a good enough reason to book at Ítaca (and it is), the Cathedral is also right around the corner, as are many Roman ruins, great shopping, the Santa Caterina Market, and El Born neighborhood. Just up the street a bit on Via Laietana you’ll find the impressive Palau de la Música, and going the opposite direction on the same street you’ll get to the Port and beach.

A breakfast room that’s spic-and-span.

Yes, Ítaca is in the middle of it all, and yet removed on a little side-street that few venture down (meaning quiet nights).

Perfect for budget travelers

I’ve recommended this hostel many times over the years to shoe-string travelers. There are tons of hostels in Barcelona but few can check off as many boxes as Ítaca.

The only other hostel that I’ve seen come anywhere close to Ítaca is Hello BCN Hostel, and it’s on the other side of town without Ítaca’s top-notch location. For the time being, I’ve only got eyes for Ítaca.

Also in our guide: Our editors have inspected and reviewed budget hotels all over central Barcelona. Read more in our guide to cheap hotels in Barcelona.

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Paris Hotel Crush: The Hotel du Nord https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-hotel-crush-the-hotel-du-nord.html https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/paris-hotel-crush-the-hotel-du-nord.html#comments Fri, 16 Mar 2012 18:36:04 +0000 http://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/?p=22596 Editor’s Note: The beloved Hotel du Nord unfortunately closed in May 2021. When in Paris last month, we happened upon the Hotel du Nord, a small one-star hotel tucked away on the tiny rue Albert Thomas, just north of Republique. With a style that charms and rates that will woo a Cheapo (€71-84 a night » Read more

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Editor’s Note: The beloved Hotel du Nord unfortunately closed in May 2021.

When in Paris last month, we happened upon the Hotel du Nord, a small one-star hotel tucked away on the tiny rue Albert Thomas, just north of Republique. With a style that charms and rates that will woo a Cheapo (€71-84 a night for a double with private bath), this is one hotel worthy of a crush.

The Hotel du Nord is an enchanting sight from the street, with vines covering the exterior and flower boxes in most windows. Note the bikes: They’re free to use for all guests.

The lobby seems posed for a photo-shoot, with antique tchotchkes, low lights and framed prints. Oh, and an adorable pooch named Pluto who orbits around the reception desk.

Upstairs, the hotel’s 24 rooms have a bright and bold style, and the amenities you’d expect: flat-screen TV, telephone and free Wi-Fi. The only potential downside? The reception closes before midnight, although guests are free to come and go as they please.

To read more (and see more photos), check out our review of the Hotel du Nord. Read more advice on where to stay and see some of our favorite affordable Paris hotels.

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