Live prices for your dates · free cancellation on many rooms

EN

Hostel · Krakow · Lesser Poland

Hostel Retro

A value-focused stay in the heart of Krakow, close to Wawel Castle and the old town, with a distinctive retro atmosphere.

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout
  • On-site parking
  • Shared kitchen and garden
6.5 Nice 1352 reviews Booking.com 6.5 · 1352 reviews

About

Hostel Retro

Hostel Retro is a budget-friendly base in Krakow, set about 1.4 km from Wawel Royal Castle. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout, a shared kitchen, and a garden with furniture. A car park is available, and the property features 24-hour security and key access.

Rooms range from singles to triples and a private bathroom double. The decor leans into a vintage, retro atmosphere that many guests find charming. The hostel also includes a lounge area, parquet flooring, and heating, with no smoking allowed on site.

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

4 reasons to book
  • Consistently praised location — Guests repeatedly mention proximity to Wawel Castle, the old town, and public transport, making it easy to explore Krakow on foot.
  • Friendly and helpful staff — Several reviews highlight the welcoming and accommodating nature of the team, with particular mentions of a receptionist who goes out of her way to help.
  • Retro charm and cozy rooms — The vintage decor and comfortable, clean rooms are a standout, adding character to the stay and making it feel more personal than a standard hostel.
  • Practical amenities — Free Wi-Fi, parking, a shared kitchen, and a garden provide good value for the price, with several guests noting the kitchen is well-equipped.

Worth weighing

4 to weigh
  • Service can be inconsistent — While many guests praise the staff, a few note minor delays or issues, such as room cleaning not being completed on arrival.
  • Room quality is mixed — Rooms are described as basic and comfortable, but not luxurious. Some may find the facilities more dated than expected, even with the retro theme.
  • Value for money is below average — The price-to-quality ratio may not be as strong as some other properties in Krakow, with the value rating at 6.0.
  • No pets allowed — If you're traveling with a pet, this isn't an option — the property explicitly disallows pets.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

Triple Room

  • Sleeping arrangements for 3 persons
  • Garden view
  • Shower
  • Heating

Private Bathroom Double Room

  • 2 Single beds,1 Double bed,1 King-size bed
  • City view
  • Shower
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/out
  • 24-hour security
  • Key access
  • Heating

Kitchen & Dining

  • Shared kitchen
  • Dining table

Outdoor & Activities

  • Garden area
  • Garden furniture
  • Hiking

Room Amenities

  • Parquet floor
  • Shower
  • Heating

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

6.5
Nice 1352 reviews

Guest-rated 6.5/10 from 1,352 reviews

Booking.com · 6.5 · 1352 reviews
6.5Verified guest

“Great spot near the main sights and public transit. The retro vibe with vintage decor was a nice touch. Rooms were spacious and cozy, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The shared kitchen and lounge were a plus.”

6.5Verified guest

“I stayed here and it was a really cool hostel in a perfect location. The room was clean, had a private bathroom, and felt like a hotel room. Check-in was fast, the host was nice, and the kitchen had everything. Loved being close to the center and Wawel Castle. Will definitely come back.”

6.5Verified guest

“My few nights at Retro Hostel were fantastic. The retro atmosphere added to the charm. The room was spacious, cozy, with comfy furniture and clean bedding. Staff were friendly and always ready to help. The shared kitchen and lounge were convenient and pleasant. Location was easy for sights and transit. Highly recommend.”

6.5Verified guest

“The location was excellent, a short walk from the main attractions. The staff were friendly and helpful, always smiling. The common kitchen was big and fully equipped, making meals easy. The room was comfortable and clean, with all the essentials.”

6.5Verified guest

“The retro ambiance was mind-blowing, vintage decor that takes you back in time. Rooms were spacious and cozy, with comfortable furniture and clean bedding. Staff were friendly and responsive. Amenities like the shared kitchen and lounge made for a pleasant stay. Convenient location near sights and transit. Memorable stay.”

6.5Verified guest

“I had an amazing stay at this well-located hostel, just minutes from the heart of Krakow. The room was very comfy and tidy, with a private bathroom, which made my stay more convenient. The kitchen was fully equipped for cooking. The staff, especially the young woman at reception, were friendly and helpful, making me feel welcome. There was a minor delay in cleaning on arrival, but it was quickly resolved. Great value for money, location, and atmosphere.”

04 — Location

Getting around Krakow

The property sits in Krakow.

Wawel Royal Castle: A 1.4 km walk from the hostel, this historic castle and its grounds are a must-see, offering a glimpse into Poland's royal past.

Old Town: Just a short walk away, the old town is filled with restaurants, shops, and historic sites, easy to explore on foot.

Public Transport: Bus stops are just a couple of minutes away, providing easy access to other parts of the city if you don't want to walk.

Ul. Barska 59, Krakow, Lesser Poland, 30-307, Poland

Open in Google Maps

05 — Good to know

Policies & conditions

Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.

Check-in
From 14:00-23:30
Check-out
By 11:00
Cancellation
Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
Payment
Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
Pets
Not allowed
Property
17 rooms

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 14:00 to 23:30, and check-out is by 11:00. VIP check-in and check-out are available as an amenity.

Is parking available at the hostel?

Yes, there is a car park on site, and parking is listed as an amenity. Some guests mention parking nearby as well.

Are pets allowed at Hostel Retro?

No, pets are not allowed at the property.

Does the hostel have Wi-Fi?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available throughout the property at no extra charge.

What room types are available?

You can choose from a Triple Room, a Single Room, or a Private Bathroom Double Room (with 2 single beds, 1 double bed, or 1 king-size bed).

The bottom line

Hostel Retro is a solid budget choice in Krakow, especially if you value location and a cozy, retro atmosphere. The friendly staff and practical amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking add convenience, but you may find the room quality and service slightly below the city's average. It's a good pick for travelers who prioritize price and charm over luxury.

6.5Budget-friendly with retro charm, but set expectations on service and room polish.

Ready to book Hostel Retro?

Tap through and we’ll open our booking partner’s site, with live prices and availability for your exact dates.

No payment on this site — you complete the booking on our partner’s site.