Eva

The tiny Hotel Eva is a feisty one-star hotel situated (along with its sister property, the Hotel Arno) in an old apartment building just around the corner from bustling Corso Buenos Aires. While far from fancy, the Eva scores points for kitschy charm, color and budget-friendly rates.

Years ago, Signora Eva occupied this apartment turned hotel, and she lent not only her name but her over-the-top style to the Hotel Eva. Expect marble, mirrored walls, checkerboard tiles, clusters of paintings and tchotchkes galore. Also keep your eyes peeled for Eva’s collectibles, which include tiny ceramic masks on the walls and an elaborate model ship atop a dressing table in the hallway.

The décor in the hotel Eva’s nine guestrooms runs the gamut from cool color combos to vivid reds and blues. A mansard roof lends a romantic touch to the garret rooms at the top of the hotel (up a spiral staircase). All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, soundproof windows and a telephone (no TV).

The bathrooms, some private and others shared, are old but well kept.

What the Hotel Eva lacks in bells and whistles it makes up for in charm and an eager-to-please staff. It shares a simple reception area and a tiny TV lounge with the Hotel Arno.

In addition to a free Internet station, the Hotel Eva offers free Wi-Fi throughout. Note that while the property does have an elevator, the top rooms are accessible by stairs only.