baxpax Hostel Mitte

Back in 1997, long before scores of privately run hostels and pensions had popped up in Berlin, Mitte’s Backpacker Hostel opened its doors to hip travelers who couldn’t afford a hotel but wanted something with more personality than the government-run youth hostels. It may have changed its name to baxpax Mitte Hostel, but the friendly art hostel is still as fun, homey and reliable as ever. And this hat-factory-turned-hostel is conveniently located steps from a bus stop and U-bahn station and within walking distance to Oranienburgerstrasse.

Quick read

Pros: Fun, themed rooms. Friendly, laid-back vibe. Very clean.

Cons: Not enough bathrooms for the amount of guests. No mirrors in the rooms (girls primp in the already crowded bathrooms).

Rooms

Various artists and staff members painted the walls of the baxpax Mitte’s rooms. Guests can “sleep with the fishes” in the funky “Underwater Room,” or among cityscapes of Berlin, Sydney and New York in the "Skyline Room." The "Elements" dorm, with its dark and stormy images of a huge wave, clouds, fire and a mountain, is dramatic and interesting.

Rooms, spread out over two floors, come in a variety of configurations. Dorms have between four and 12 beds, and the baxpax Mitte also offers an array of privates that sleep anywhere from two to six guests. All are furnished with wire bunks, lockers and little else (except, of course, the cool artwork).

Note that bed linen is not included in the room rate but can be rented for a small charge.

Bathrooms

A few double rooms have a private bathroom, and all other rooms share hallway facilities. All bathrooms are a bit worn, but they’re clean. Note, however, that the bathroom-to-backpacker ratio is not the greatest (you may have to wait to use the facilities).

Hostel

Berlin’s three baxpax hostels are all about vibe. The baxpax Kreuzberg, also a EuroCheapo pick, has more of a party feel while the Mitte hostel is a bit quieter but still emphasizes camaraderie. The exuberant staff mixes and mingles with guests, and the lounge-lobby area is a great place for making new friends. There is also a small communal kitchen, and the hostel sometimes organizes group activities, like nights out on the town.

In addition to bike rentals, the baxpax Mitte offers free Berlin walking tours. Breakfast is not offered but Wi-Fi is free throughout.