Isaacs Hostel Dublin

From the street, the Isaacs Hostel has an undeniable, ramshackle charm. Bright red trim pops against a well-worn exterior of brick and stone. The reception area is similarly attractive, with wooden beams and stone walls, and the cute exterior courtyard bar is surely the site of many pleasurable nights of innocent debauchery.

Rooms at the Isaacs Hostel, which is operated by the same group that runs EuroCheapo pick, the Jacobs Inn, are absolutely fine, repeating the familiar Dublin template. (There must have been an enormous sale on blue metal bunk beds at some point in the Dublin area, we’ll say that much.) The low ceilings are the only noticeable downside. Dorms hold between four and 16 bunks and privates are available for one to four people.

All bathrooms are shared. Note that while linens are included in the price, there is an additional charge for towels.

The building, a former wine cellar and warehouse, is cavernous. The ground-floor reception area and TV lounge is furnished with wooden benches and reminiscent of a medieval dining hall. The basement lounge is equally atmospheric and outfitted with all the extras that make a hostel fun and convenient: pool table, guest kitchen and laundry facilities.

Additionally, the Isaacs Hostel can lay claim to one very unusual hostel perk: a free sauna. Other fun freebies include live music, walking tours and board games. Breakfast is included in the room rate and Wi-Fi is free.