Barabas Hotel Luzern

Barabas Hotel Luzern is a budget hotel at Löwengraben 18 in the Altstadt of Luzern, housed in the former city prison, where guests sleep in converted cells. The Löwengraben lies in the old town beside the Reuss, a few minutes' walk from the Kapellbrücke, the Spreuerbrücke and the Kornmarkt, and the railway station is about ten to fifteen minutes away on foot. The building's history as a prison gives the hotel an unusual identity, and the conversion preserves cell-like proportions in some rooms, so they tend to be compact. That makes it popular with curious travellers and groups looking for something memorable at a low price. Rooms are offered as Single Rooms, Double Rooms and Triple Rooms, and indicative double-room rates run from about CHF 90 to CHF 190 per night depending on season, which is inexpensive for the Altstadt. Wifi and a restaurant are listed among the amenities, so breakfast and meals can be taken on site, and the old town's many restaurants are also close by. The rating of about 4.0 reflects a quirky but sometimes basic stay, and visitors should expect small rooms and thin comfort margins in exchange for character and location. No pool or spa is advertised. Service character is informal and budget-oriented, suiting backpackers, students, couples on a tight budget and groups of friends who enjoy the novelty. Visitors should confirm bathroom arrangements and reception hours at booking, as these vary by room type. Because the Altstadt is pedestrianised in many places, arrival is easiest on foot or by taxi to the nearest point. Summer weekends can bring noise from the riverside bars and terraces. Overall the hotel offers an affordable, characterful stay in a former prison in the middle of old Luzern.