The hostel in Manarola seems to be mentioned in many travel books and being a die-hard hostel fan, I was extremely disappointed. Your showers are monitered by time, the meals are expensive and lousy and they are so strict with the hours that you feel imprisoned. You are literally locked in until 7am so stay elsewhere if you need to leave early and upon registering you relinquish your passport so you can't leave. I have stayed in hostels all over and this place is way too strict. This hostel needs to get with the program.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32212 posts
Barbara,
Although the Ostello 5 Terre is clean and well run and the prices are reasonable, I also find the "restrictions" there a bit onerous so always use other accommodations in that area. The very strict afternoon lockout is especially an issue with me, as I often like to take a break in the afternoon.
There are many private rooms in all the villages as well as more traditional lodgings, and I'm willing to pay a bit more for convenience.
I agree, they should probably "get with the program" and follow the same practises as most other Hostels.
Cheers!