Just returned from a visit to several German Christmas markets and a stay at the very convenient Hotel Tourist. You just walk out the south entrance of the train station, across the street and down half a block, and you are there. I had read some really negative things about this hotel, but the price and location were right so I decided to give it a try and was very pleasantly surprised. First, the location was wonderful for us--we were traveling by train and using local transport like the u-bahn, trams and buses. This hotel was less than 5 minutes from all those. Second, the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, giving us a city map and marking locations for us, giving us transportation information, etc. Third--and perhaps most important, the rooms were clean and comfortable. They were small and basic and the TV left a lot to be desired (small, remote was sporadic, and had only one channel), but the bathroom was so shiny white that it almost hurt your eyes. The room itself was clean and comfortable; I wondered if I were at the same hotel some of the posters had described!

Breakfast buffet was fine: cold meats, cheeses, bread, cereal, both scrambled and boiled eggs, beans, and juices as well as milk, tea and coffee. Everything looked appetizing and was refilled frequently. Tables were clean and invitingly set.

There was a computer for guest use, but it is not hooked to a printer. However, there were two internet cafes in the same block as the hotel.

I was delighted by the low price and good quality of this hotel. I would highly recommend it for anyone wanting a clean, friendly, basic stay convenient to the train and local transportation.

I'm surprised at what other people have written about this hotel. For short term business use it's perfect. It's small and quirky. They have their own wireless network (which is free) and more importantly it's about 3 minutes walk from the Hauptbahnof (Central Station) and all major tram/bus links.

You get what you pay for - this place is EUR 60/night and for me it's ideal. For night time activities you have loads of restaurants/bars close by which is ideal if like me, you travel alone for a couple of evenings.

I wouldn't recommend it for a romantic weekend - stay well clear if that is what you are looking for. Spend some more money!

Michael

Location: Next to the Railway Station (200mts max). Close to shopping centre Zein
Staff: Very cooperative in stay and helpful with road directions and sight seeing tips. Spoke English.
Rooms: Our room was small but good for the price, with attached shower and WC it was no complaints. Rooms were cleaned everyday. Oh yes, the TV did not work!!
Hotel Ambience: Stand alone building and very basic look. OK considering the good price.
Breakfast: Acceptable.
Other Convenience: Next door is an internet and telephone shop that is very cheap and very efficient. Laundry near by.
Overall: Good. Free internet but mouse does not work. Not good for day time stay but fantastic for business or sleep at night sort of trip.

I stayed there for a week while I was attending a conference. I was shocked by how filthy the place was.I did my best to move to another hotel, Unfortunately they were all fully booked and I was trapped there for the entire time. The worst experience I ever had. The room was tiny and dirty from floor to ceiling. The cables in the lamp by the bed side table were peeling off and stuck with sello tape. The toilet was DISGUSTING BEYOD BELIEF. A health and safety hazard. Despite the breakfast was included in my room price, I couldn't pluck up the courage to eat in such a dingy, dirty place and had all my meals outside the hotel. The worst hotel experience ever. DEFINITELY NOT RECOMMENDED (even to your worst enemies!)