The hostel is simple but welcoming and clean, nice common areas, a 5-10 mins walk to the Placa de Arma. The rooms are functional but reasonably spacious; nice water pressure which we appreciated after hardly any in the hostel we had before. A special perk is that the breakfast is being served on a terrace with a view on Misty mountain. We had a room close to this terrace but were not disturbed at all by the breakfast arrangements.
We were especially impressed by the exceptionally helpful service of the staff. We arrived very early but were anyway given a room immediately, so we could take a nap after a very bumpy bus ride. They gave us several excellent tips for restaurants (don't miss Chicha, spectacular!) and they stored our luggage safely during our 3-day tour to Colca Canyon. On top of everything, they gave us another room for an hour when we returned, so we could take a long hot shower, change and re-pack before taking the bus again the same night - for free!
The only negative point maybe was a bit patchy internet/wifi in the hostel; there is an internet cafe right next door.
Overall highly recommended.

This hostal is conveniently located 5 min walk from the centre. Its very clean, staff is friendly and helpful. Rooms are spacious and bright and ours had a lovely balcony with chairs. Breakfast has a nice selection and its served on a beautiful roof terrace which overlooks the city. They also have a very efficient laundry service. Good value for money and would definitely reccomend it!!

Three of us stayed in Hostal Solar for 2 nights on our visit to Arequipa.
The hostal is located about 4 blocks or 10 minutes walk away from the city center. Its very close to the St Catalina convent and all sorts of restaurants and shopping area. Although it looks pretty nondescript from the outside, the inside is very clean and spacious with a very cozy courtyard, dining area on the roof and a nice living room with free internet. Our triple room was also very clean and cozy and the staffs all speak excellent English and were very helpful. I would recommend this hotel if you're looking for a budget option in Arequipa. Its a great value at a great location. They also provide free pickup from the Arequipa airport which worked flawlessly.

I had an excellent stay at Hostal Solar. The room was clean, and there was good water pressure and hot water in the shower. Service was one of the best I've experienced at a hostel--everyone was friendly and extremely helpful. It is a very bright and clean place overall. Location is close enough to the plaza, just a short walk away.