Good Bye Lenin HostelEditor's Pick

EuroCheapo Review email this page print this page

One of Krakow's best theme-driven hostels, the 13-room Good Bye Lenin Hostel takes the aesthetics of pre-1989 Poland as its focus. That the location resides in one of central Krakow's less charming industrial areas is not a serious downside, largely because the Kazimierz 'hood is close by.

Rooms, five of the which are private, are located in an attractive yellow house down an unassuming courtyard. Rooms are a step above hostel accommodations. Hardwood floors and wooden locker cabinets are standard for all room types. Wooden bunk beds, stained a rich dark brown, can be found in dorm rooms, while private rooms have low single beds with plaid duvets. As is typical with hostels, room amenities are limited, but Wi-Fi is free throughout. Shared bathrooms are adequate and very clean.

Goodbye Lenin's gorgeous stylistic details are what set it apart from other hostels. This aesthetic expresses itself in everything from wall stencils to novelty objects and Communist-era signage. The effect is striking. Not only are these artifacts attractive in a lost modernist sort of way, but they're organized delightfully. The lobby is like a kitsch Communist museum, the Internet room is brightly lit, the guest kitchen is beautiful in an austere, plain way and the bar/lounge is dark and moody.

Additionally—even in a city where hotel staff tend to be both multilingual and gregarious—the staff at Goodbye Lenin are uncommonly personable. To add to the friendly, communal bar are weekly events, including barbecue and vodka tastings, plus the rock concerts and parties that occasionally liven up the place (more than it already is).

Breakfast is included.

» Alex Robertson Textor

Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.