Hotel Hortus

The Budget Hotel Hortus provides 21 simple guest rooms in a hostel-style, "smoker friendly" and fun environment. Pleasantly placed just next to the Botanical Gardens in the former Jewish District, the Hortus’ newly renovated rooms are bright and clean.

The Hortus has private rooms that sleep two- to six guests. Furnishings are utilitarian, and each room is equipped with a small TV, safe and free Wi-Fi.

Older rooms on the attic floor are still clean, but the slightly tattered wicker furniture and blue carpet might be a turn-off. Still, the top-floor views overlook the Botanical Gardens, which is a bonus, even if the window are smaller than the newer ones.

The cheapest rooms at the Hortus share baths in the hallway, while more expensive rooms have their own private showers (but still share a toilet). Rooms that share bathrooms are still equipped with sinks in the rooms. They’re nothing to rave about, but bathrooms are clean, basic and well maintained. 

Downstairs, the Hortus’ lobby is decorated wall to wall with framed soccer jerseys – the owner’s personal collection dating back to the 1970s. The lobby is a wide open space, with a convenient computer desk in the corner and a communal kitchen for guests to use. There is a small courtyard in the back and a particular stash of smoking accessories that cannabis fans can use.

The vibe is a fun one, made up of international characters and the hotel’s vivacious and friendly staff. Throw in the Hortus’ beer vending machine and you’ve got a party! Sit down, have a nice chat and puff away – rooms are non-smoking, but there is a designated area for smoking.

Breakfast is included in the nightly rate, and the Hotel Hortus provides free coffee and tea throughout the day.

Note: The Hortus does not have an elevator and prefers cash. Credit card payments are non-refundable.