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If you're planning a trip to Budapest and feeling overwhelmed with choosing a hostel, I'm here to help!
I stayed at eight different hostels in Budapest, including Zen Hostel.
This article presents my review of Zen Hostel Budapest, which I ranked as the seventh-best hostel on mybest hostels listbased on my personal experience.
Summary — Zen Hostel Budapest Review
Who is this hostel for?
- If you are seeking asmall hostelthat gives off ahomely vibe, Zen Hostel is the perfect place for you.
- It iscozy and warm, making you feel right at home.
- Imagine having conversations on the couch with a hot cup of tea while being wrapped in a comfortable blanket.
What was the best part(s) of staying here?
- I enjoyed spending time with other guests, and appreciated theexcellent hospitalityprovided by Julien, the only staff member at the hostel. Thelocationwas also fantastic.
What was the worst part(s) of staying here?
- It's all about personal preference, but I found myselfmissing the convenience, amenities, and overall quality of lifethat bigger hostel chains tend to provide.
- While I did enjoy meeting new people during my stay, I couldn't help but feel like I paid more than I should have for what was ultimately a lesser experience.
Did I enjoy my stay here? Would I return?
- I had a good time here, butI don't think I'll come back.
- I likeMaverick Urban Lodgemore because it'saffordableand offers a betterquality of life.
- If I'm looking for a lively hostel with aparty atmosphere, I preferHostel One.
How much does it cost? Is it good value for money?
- The starting price for bunk beds is13€/night,while private rooms begin at 32€/night.
- Although this hostel may not offer the best value for money, it is the perfect choice if you prefer acozy, intimate atmosphereand aconvenient location.
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Summary & Overall Impression
Zen Hostel is a delightful retreat for those seeking a small, cozy place that feels more like a home than a hostel.
In terms of pricing, Zen Hostel is slightly above average.Bunk beds start at 13€/night, while private rooms begin at 32€/night. While not the best value-for-money, those who cherish a homey vibe and prime location will find Zen Hostel to be a worthwhile choice.
Location
- This hostel is located in the peaceful9th districtof the city center.
- Although it maynot be in the heart of the nightlifearea like some other hostels,it is easily accessibleby public transportation or a pleasant walk.
- Afew minutes walkwill lead you to attractions like theCentral Market Halland the100E airport shuttle busstop.
Noise Levels
- Noise from traffic is practicallynon-existent, though thiscould varyassome rooms face a busy avenue where trams pass by.
Check-in
- Julien(the sole staff member) manages the place alone andshe is the most welcoming personin the world.
- However,check-in took me around 10 minuteswith two people ahead of me.Check-inis only available between2 to 9 pm, which could be inconvenient if you arrive late.
Vibe & People
- For those seeking aquiet, homely retreat, Zen Hostel could be acozy hideawayin the city's heart.
- This hostel is ideal for those who valuemeaningful conversations with fellow guests, allwhile sipping a hot cup of teaon the comfy couch.
- However, Zen Hostel isn't without its shortcomings. The hostellacks the amenities, efficiency, and quality of life that larger hostel chains offer.
- The building alsolacks an elevatorand with the hostel on the first floor,accessibility could pose a problemfor some. The hostel'sentrance is also tricky to spot, as evidenced by guests I saw struggling to find the door inside the building courtyard.
Room
- Zen Hostel's rooms arespacious, accommodating up to8-10 peoplewithample open spaceand ahandy table.
Bed
- The beds areclean and comfy, albeit theylack privacy curtainsand aresqueaky. They are quipped with anight lamp,socket, anditem trayavailable.
Locker
- Secure storage is not available, just a non-lockable wooden closet.
Bathroom
- The hostel hadfour bathrooms, two large and two small, each with unique features. However, the overallcleanliness and showers were only average.
Kitchen
- The kitchen area wassmall and unremarkablebut had all the necessary items, including afridge, pots and pans, cutlery, a stove, and an oven.
クイックファクト
🧑 Perfect for:
- Budget-conscious solo travelers or digital nomads (male or female)
- Families, couples, or small groups
- Perfect if you want to feel like you're at home
🛏️ Rooms offered:
- 10-bed mixed or female-only dormitory rooms
- 1-6 bed private rooms
🏷️ Prices:
- From 13€/night (shared room)
- From 32€/night (private room)
🧖 Most important amenities:
- Check-in is available between 2-9 pm.
- Private bathrooms
- Shared kitchen
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