Antique Hostel

Filip was especially lovely, funny and easygoing, and always ready to help people plan their trips. He wants visitors to love his country as much as he does. Alexandra, whom I met on my first day, was also really nice and helpful. They both seemed to have time for their guests. The location is unusual in how close it is to almost every landmark, and getting around is easy, with about two metro stops and bus stops close by. There’s a washing machine, an iron, and soap ready to use, so you’ve got plenty of options.

For €10, I’d stay again if I just needed somewhere to sleep for one night and get out early, but it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted. I booked it as the cheapest decent central option and was dreading what to expect. The location is excellent, close to the city centre and overlooking the river, and the man at reception was very friendly. I’d read worrying reviews about stolen things and unlocked rooms, but I got a code on a piece of paper to enter my room. The other girls seemed trustworthy, and while I kept my belongings close, I didn’t feel unsafe. I had a top bunk with no plug nearby. There was one free socket in the room, but I wasn’t comfortable leaving my phone, iPad, or Apple Watch charging there while I slept. I was exhausted but stayed up longer than I wanted, charging my camera, iPad, phone, Apple Watch, AirPods, and power bank one at a time so everything would be full for the next day. The tiny toilet was dirty and smelled bad, especially in the morning. I didn’t shower because I was going home the next day, but I’d have felt quite uncomfortable doing that. I slept well in the all-girls room despite everything. The only noise was the occasional snorer, which is pretty normal for a hostel, and earplugs helped.

Just on the edge of the historic centre, this hostel is in a great spot and still very quiet. The staff are friendly, and Alex was a big help when my phone froze and I had a major problem with it. He was also quick to suggest things to see around the city, plus some great bars and restaurants. I’d happily recommend the place to friends.

We enjoyed our stay at this affordable hostel. It’s in the heart of Bucharest, close to almost everything, including the old town, restaurants, tourist spots, and markets. Alex at reception was very welcoming, and the woman on the night shift was polite too. Our room was spacious, with a clean wooden bed. The lobby, rooms, and storage lockers all use digital door locks, which felt very secure. The one small inconvenience was that the locker for the third-floor rooms was downstairs on the ground floor, but that didn’t bother us.