Chilli Hostel

Whenever I visit Krakow, I book this hostel. It’s close to the Old Town, the Stare Miasto, and lovely churches and buildings outside it in a classic Krakow-typical setting. The area also has lots of nightclubs, some with free entry, good music and room to dance. They’re less fancy-schmancy than the ones in the Stare Miasto. The hostel itself is beautiful and really cute in its design. The toilets and showers are neat and there are enough of them that you never have to wait. There’s a backyard terrace that’s great for breakfast or chatting with other guests, and there’s a fridge and dishes. For the inner city, I recommend a little detour: turn right as you leave the hostel, then cross to the other side at the first chance and go up the stairs lined with beautiful flowers, then turn left. The service is more goodwill than just service. They really want you to get the most out of your stay. When I arrived after check-in time, they left the keys in a little lock-box and sent me the code. I had two bicycles for me and my friend, and it was no problem to park them safely in the backyard and get them whenever we wanted. But after I got home and realized I’d forgotten my shoes there, they showed not the slightest inclination to send them back to me. Way to go!

I left a review in booking and was very disappointed with the customer service and staff. My first experience was better, so maybe this was just bad timing. Still, as it was my second visit, I expected more help, or at least some support. The rooms were messy and dirty because of guests. I think the female rooms and private rooms are okay, though, and the price is very reasonable.

The staff were helpful, and the place was clean and comfortable. Street noise was the downside, and you could feel the trams vibrating as they passed.

The beds were really comfortable, and there’s a patio where you can smoke without leaving the hostel. There’s no kitchen, but eating out in affordable Kraków is easy. The location works well too, with a 15-minute tram ride to Stare Miasto. Such a lovely place!