The genunine friendliness and thoroughness of the staff (it seemed family run) and the hotel's small scale made this otherwise ordinary facility worthwhile.
This hotel's bold colour, prominent location on a plaza, and big sign are misleading. It is in fact a small hotel that occupies only a portion of the building. Fortunately, this is an advantage in a tourist city full of pompous or poor-value accommodation. Across the street from the old city, a 5-minute walk from the train station and waterfront, and a stone's throw from a modern mall, this hotel's location is practical not prestigious. We liked it a lot. In the narrow streets behind we found intriguing restaurants and business, but the real show is in the old city just across the main street.
For 102 Euros in April, our twin room was small but very clean and modern. The bathroom was also small and well-equipped. There was no air conditioning but the windows opened onto an alley that had only occasional foot and vehicle traffic in the night. While the halls are dingy and dark, the stair well is bright and open. The breakfast room was first class, providing a well-tended buffet and excellent coffee.
The staff were friendly, professional, and warm, particularly the main receptionist who was on duty most of the day. She had a ready smile and offered a friendly comment or information at the slightest opportunity. At the same time, she kept an eagle eye on the place, supported by an automatic lock on the front door (if she wasn't present, we had to use our key to enter). The character of the area did not seem to warrant such security but we appreciated it nevertheless.
The only negatives proved to be of little consequence during our two-night stay: no Internet access and poor interior soundproofing. During high season, the latter might be a factor.
- Hirschen Hotel Konstanz
