Helter Skelter Hostel

Right behind the Friedrichstadtpalast in the historic Kalkscheune ('chalk barn') cultural centre, this centrally located hostel is a wonderful, relaxed place to stay, with amiable and international English-speaking staff. There are apartments for longer stays, and kitchen facilities in the communal room. The rooms are curiously decorated, but fun - one has a pool table on the ceiling. You're close to practically everything, and Friedrichstrasse station is handy to reach anything else.