Located in the heart of Budapest city, this hostel is perfect for walking around and exploring the city or catching public transport to other areas. Locating the actual hostel may be a bit difficult at first as it's hidden away and doesn't have any front signage. Here's a few suggestions if you find yourself a bit lost. First one is that it's diagonally opposite the Astoria Hotel. Secondly, you can go underneath the street where the Astoria metro station is and above each flight of stairs, there are signage indicating the names of the street. Look for the "Rakoczi" street, and once you re-enter street level, you're literally there. It's only one flight of stairs down and one up so having a bag shouldn't be too much of a problem, and if you're struggling, the friendly Hungarian folk may even lend you a hand.
It's not obvious still where the hostel is when you alight, however, it's in the inner corner of the "L" shaped part of the building. You'll know you're there only once you reach the intercom. Press "27" only and it should ring for the hostel. There are funny instructions for paging people there which didn't work.
Once in the building take the left lift. There aren't clear signage but the right lift can only be used with a key and won't go up. Otherwise you'll be lugging your bag up three or four flights of stairs.
The hostel itself is clean, relatively small and home-like place, which is ideal for the budget traveller who just wants a nice place to sleep without too much noise and partying. They give clean sheets and towels, your own locker which will fit 2 to 3 back-packs into. The shared rooms are bunk-beds.
They have two computers where you can have access to the internet at any time. The communal TV is located in the lounge/computer/reception area and there is a kitchen for you to use. This area in particular makes it have a welcoming feel to it as it's easy to chat to the receptionists and other guests if you wish to.
Breakfast is minimalist but good enough to fill you up and start the day with (cereal and bread). The showers flood after you use it, however, they provide you with a mop for you to mop it down after you're done. Just ensure you don't have anything on the floor while you shower.
Security wise, the place seems secure as it's essentially a residential apartment block with the bottom front door which needs a key and another for Astoria Hostel itself. The lockers are locked with a padlock and key.
Relatively near to a supermarket (5 to 10 minutes walk) and there are takeaways/restaurants nearby. Should you arrange for a transfer to the airport and need to be picked up. Ensure that you are clear that you are being picked up from the Astoria Hostel and not the Astoria Hotel (perhaps add in the comment when booking) to avoid any misunderstandings/delays.
Overall this hostel is recommended and is excellent in terms of having a friendly and quiet atmosphere, cleanliness and a great location.
— Exklusive Hostelz.com Übersicht
March 2007
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