Oswiecim: hotel con bar

I booked this hotel mainly for convenience to get to Auschwitz for a 9.30am tour, but I also wanted to treat myself to the superior double room & the spa the evening before. Firstly, there were 2 single beds rather than a double (see photo) and they said sometimes in Poland a ”double” refers to 2 singles. It's misleading and I find it odd they're not more clear, especially as they must've had similar complaints about this before, so beware! Secondly, I went down to the spa to spend time in the sauna and jacuzzi but the area was drafty because the door to a strange patio area was open. I think this is where the outdoor pool normally is but there was nothing there but a couple of chairs and an umbrella, so this was another let down. Thirdly, and the worst thing of all, was the breakfast. Awful all round, I've only ever had as bad a breakfast once before and that was in a Travelodge. The coffee was bland, the choice of food was limited, a lot of the spread was cheaply presented and nothing like the photos, so beware. Worst of all was the fruit which was rancid, literally. See my photo, it's quite unbelievable. Also, rather disappointingly, I was looking forward to having a pint in the cellar bar but I discovered it was only open certain evenings, I was gutted, nothing seemed to be going right here. The only reason I gave this 2 star rather than 1 was because of the dinner. I had purchased it as part of a package with the room and had it in a restaurant attached to the hotel. After reading the menu for a while the waitress told me I needed another menu for the package deal so of course I was suspicious. I've taken a photo of this menu as you should be aware the choice is limited. I ordered the zur, dumplings & tiramisu. For all I know it was all defrosted but to be fair it tasted really good, so this was a saving grace. Anyway, please beware of my points, its not a great hotel but it is just a 5-10 minute taxi ride to Auschwitz (1) so it is convenient, though there will be closer smaller hotels or B&B's that are a closer walking distance I'm sure. I have been totally transparent with this review and often I wish hotels could do the same, please don't be surprised if your stay is not as good as you expected.

If one has adequate time, it is good to break up a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau and stay nearby overnight. I didn't wish to be herded along such a significant site in the space of a day including the 1.5 hours drive each way from Krakow. I had Room 312 on the top floor, with a glimpse of part of the Auschwitz camp and overlooking a supermarket car park. My room was large, quiet and very comfortable and the staff were all very friendly and happy to help. It is about 20 mins walk to the entrance of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum. They have built a new Visitor's Centre quite recently so the entrance location has changed. I asked the hotel to book me a taxi (very reasonable rate) from the hotel to save my legs. Worth it as the sites of both camps are simply vast. One can catch a bus from just opposite the hotel into the little town of Oswiecim but to get back to Auschwitz Museum at a certain time seemed more difficult. The language barrier didn't help. Had dinner at the hotel - all good, not a vast range to choose from but they serve excellent freshly-squeezed orange juice and have a well-stocked bar.

Fantastic hotel located in the very centre of the city. The rooms are large by European standards. The furnishings give the impression of being new and modern. This is because the hotel is only five years old. In a bathroom a full set of cosmetics. But not in small tubes of 20 ml, when the gel runs out. Everywhere is clean and it seems that the highest standards of hygiene are respected. A few steps to the main square, opposite the historic castle, many shops and fast food around. A 24-hour grocery shop with a huge selection at petrol station BP, only 4-5 minutes walk. The hotel is located by a river, where there are walking and relaxation areas. It is known that the atmosphere and quality is created by people. I was extremely warmly welcomed by a lady from reception. She was very friendly, offered all kinds of help and everything seemed very professional, even though I checked in after midnight. I had previously exchanged a few emails with Martyna, the front office manager, who resolved all my concerns regarding the very late check-in and selected a room that I was happy with. In addition, I was given advice on what to visit during my stay. I appreciated the sweet gift and the welcome letter. The rooms do not cost much per night, for such little money a really high quality is offered. I have been to Hiltons on 4 continents, but this Hampton is much better than many Hiltons, which is the flagship of the company.