Hostel Erottajanpuisto

Located just south of the city center's main sights, the Hostel Errotajanpuisto provides 50 beds and a friendly, young atmosphere. This is a hostel that isn't afraid to add some warmth to the standard cheap-sleep setup.

When we visited in October 2009, the lobby was crowded with a throng of students arrived fresh from Sweden. We got the impression this is a common scene in this establishment: Most rooms are dorm-style bunk bed affairs, after all. However, there are a few singles and doubles which offer the same simple, flannel-bedded accommodation as the dorms. Bathrooms are shared and as clean and simple as can be.

Aside from its tongue-twister name, Errotajanpuisto really stands out for its common areas, which are decorated with quirky paintings and stocked with maps, newspapers, and magazines. In addition to the free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel, there's a free Internet station. The charming lounge is decked out in wood paneling, comfy chairs, low lighting, and a Picasso-style painting. It's a great place to hang out, relax, and meet other travelers.