I’ve been staying in hostels in Europe for over fifteen years. I’ve stayed in hundreds of hostels in over thirty different cities in Europe. Some were exceptional or good and others were not so good. I compiled this guide on the best hostels in Europe so you only stay in the good ones.
General Info on Hostels in Europe
Here are some things that you should consider before booking a hostel in any European city:
Prices: The price of a bed in a dorm room in a hostel in Europe varies a lot. It depends on many factors such as the types of hostels and proximity to the center. Backpacker hostels tend to be cheaper and boutique hostels are the most expensive. Hostels in Western Europe are the most expensive and the more east you go the cheaper it gets. Hostels in Western Europe start at €15 per night. The most expensive hostels are in London, Dublin, Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, and Scandinavian cities. Hostels in Germany, Spain, Portugal and Austria are slightly cheaper. Then when you get to Central and Eastern prices are generally far cheaper. You can still get hostels in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary for as cheap as €10 per night.
Hostel Type: There are many different types of hostels in all major European cities from backpacker hostels to boutique hostels and so on. Also, most large European hostel chains have a presence in all large cities in Europe.
Safety: Hostels are generally very safe, and in most circumstances, they are safer than most other forms of accommodation. Most hostels have 24-hour reception, some even have security guards and may require a personalized key card to enter even dorm rooms. Almost all hostels include large security lockers in the dorm rooms so you can lock away your stuff when you're not there. It is highly recommended that you bring your own padlock.
Staff: In most European cities, the majority of hostels have excellent staff. They are typically quite helpful and will provide excellent recommendations for restaurants, bars, and clubs, among other things. However, my advice is to study reviews to ensure that the hostel you choose has friendly and helpful personnel, as rude or unhelpful staff can ruin your hostel experience.
The 27 Best Hostels in Europe by City
Here’s our comprehensive list of the best hostels in Europe which includes a detailed description and photos of each hostel.
1. The People (Paris)
The People - Paris Belleville is without a doubt the best hostel in Paris. This hostel has been recently renovated and is housed in an Art Deco building. The hostel boasts a rooftop terrace with spectacular panoramic views of some of Paris's most famous sites. They have free WiFi, late check-out (until 12 noon), super cool bunk beds (with privacy curtains, a reading light, your own power outlet, private lockers, and a comfy mattress), and one of the hippest backpacker bars in town.
The People is located in Belleville's arty sector, which has several bars and coffee shops and is close to all of Paris's must-see tourist attractions (50 meters from the Belleville metro hub).
The People is the place to go if you want to splash out on a private room since they have some beautifully designed private rooms.
Price: Dorms from €43.00, Private rooms from €146.00
2. The Circus Hostel (Berlin)
Circus Hostel is one of the best hostels in Berlin for party-goers. It is Berlin's most popular hostel and is located in the city center. The hostel boasts its own Café and Microbrewery, both of which offer special drink deals and home-brewed beer.
Circus Hotel has 5 and 10-bed mixed dorm rooms as well as a large range of individual rooms. Free Wi-Fi, 24-7 reception, luggage storage, safe & personal lockers, bike rentals, secure keycard entry, and free walking tours are among the hostel's amenities/services. Circus Hostel also happens to be one of the best hostels in Europe.
Price: Dorms from €17.00, Privates from €58.00
3. The RoadHouse Hostel (Prague)
The RoadHouse Hostel Prague is in an excellent location because it is situated in Prague's Old Town, approximately 150 meters from the Charles Bridge and 700 meters from the Old Town Square. The majority of the major tourist attractions are walkable, and there are bars, restaurants, and cafes in the surrounding area. Every evening, the hostel's staff serves a "family meal," which is one of its unique features.
The RoadHouse is without a doubt one of the best hostels in Prague since it provides excellent customer service, well-designed dorm rooms, a handy location, and has won multiple accolades.
Each dorm bed has lockable storage underneath, as well as a reading lamp, a shelf, a power outlet, and a privacy curtain. Each of their fantastic bathrooms includes a shower, basin, and toilet. In the kitchen, there are basics such as oils and spices.
Standout Features
- The staff prepares a "family meal" every evening.
- Outstanding staff
Price: Dorms from €29.00, Privates from €107.00
4. ClinkNOORD (Amsterdam)
ClinkNOORD is by far the best hostel in Amsterdam. It's in Amsterdam's Noord district, about a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. To get to the hostel, you must take a short ferry which is free. ClinkNOORD has a relaxed atmosphere and a modern, well-constructed space. The breakfast buffet is offered for an extra fee every morning.
The ClinkNOORD hostel is enormous. Among other features, they have a library (which may be used as an office for Digital Nomads), a sunny and spacious atrium, a café, and an on-site bar. There is also a modern self-catering guest kitchen.
Each dorm (bunk) bed has its own reading light, USB connector, and power outlet for charging various devices. Reception is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and the multilingual staff is exceptionally helpful and knowledgeable about everything in Amsterdam. They provide a free walking tour every day.
Price: Dorms from €21.40, Privates from €48.00
5. Home Lisbon Hostel (Lisbon)
Home Lisbon Hostel is located in the Baixa/Chiado neighborhood, only a 4-minute walk to the metro station, and offers accommodation in the heart of Lisbon. Guests can use the on-site bar, and there is free WiFi throughout the building.
Each of Home Lisbon Hotel's four dorm rooms features air conditioning, a communal bathroom with a shower, and a hairdryer in the female dormitories.
The property has a dining space as well as a fully equipped kitchen where home-cooked meals can be provided. Alternatively, there are a number of eateries and cafés within walking distance of the hostel. A 24-hour front desk, a library, and a living space are available for visitors to unwind or watch a movie. All of this makes Home Lisbon Hostel one of the best hostels in Europe.
Price: Dorms from €21.00, Privates from €107.00
6. Wombats City Hostel Vienna The Naschmarkt (Vienna)
Wombat's Vienna Naschmarkt is the best hostel in Vienna. It is centrally located, making it convenient to see all of Vienna's major tourist attractions. The center is only a few minutes away on foot or through the neighboring U4 station (Kettenbrueckengasse).
This Hostel prides itself on cleanliness and it has paid off as they have won the Hostelworld award for the cleanest Hostel Chain Worldwide twice.
With keycard access to the front door, rooms, and locker, you can be assured of the highest level of security. All of our rooms have comfortable wooden beds, a private shower, and a toilet.
Free Wi-Fi, free bed sheets, free use of our travel guidebooks, free luggage storage, a complimentary welcome drink at the bar, and free lockers are just a few of the perks. Their vibrant womBAR offers low-cost drinks and meals.
Price: Dorms from €20.70, Privates from €60.30
7. 360 Hostel Barcelona Arts and Culture (Barcelona)
360 Hostel Barcelona Arts&Culture is easily one of the best hostels in Barcelona. If you want to immerse yourself in the culture of Barcelona, this is the right spot to stay. Every Thursday, 360 Hostel provides free walking tours, a paella-making workshop, and free tapas to all hostel guests. They also offer a nice outside terrace where you may unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
The hostel is located in the Barcelona neighborhood of El Born. There are many hip taverns, restaurants, and cafes in this area. Urquinaona and Arc de Triomf metro stations are both less than a 5-minute walk from the hostel.
At 360 Hostel, only mixed dorms are available. Each bunk bed has its own night lamp and power outlet, and all rooms require a key card to enter. In the restrooms, hair dryers and straighteners are available.
Price: Dorms from €14.30
8. Safestay (Madrid)
Safestay Madrid is located in a very central location in Madrid city center. The Alonzo Martinez metro station is about 120 meters away, and a convenience shop (Dia) is only three doors down. Only 500 meters away is Malasana, which has the highest concentration of pubs and restaurants in Madrid.
Safestay Madrid is housed in a completely restored nineteenth-century building. However, it retains many of its original attractive traits. This 6-story building features two lifts that will whisk you up and down from your room.
The dorm rooms are bright, immaculately clean, and very spacious. Each bed has a large locker. Don't worry if you forget to bring a padlock as they are sold downstairs at reception. All dorm rooms are heated in the Winter and have air-conditioning in the Summer. Each dorm bed comes with its own shelf where you can put some personal items. The mattress was very comfortable and I slept well every night.
Safeway has one of the best rooftop bars in Madrid and This is one of its unique features. It's open every night from 6 pm to 3 am and is located on the 6th floor of the hostel which can be accessed by one of the lifts. This is clearly signed. Safestay is also one of the best hostels in Madrid for travelers who want to party because of its vibrant rooftop bar.
Price: Dorms from €16.00, Privates from €55.80
9. Maverick City Lodge (Budapest)
Maverick City Lodge is located in Budapest's historic Jewish Quarter, right in the middle of the city. The majority of the best things to do in Budapest can be reached on foot, and our neighborhood's marvelously eclectic streets are lined with eateries serving both local and international cuisine, concert halls, the Opera House, contemporary bars, and of course Budapest's ruin bars.
Every day, the reception is open 24 hours a day. They also offer cable TV in the private rooms and the main kitchen, as well as Wi-Fi throughout the entire building. Additionally, the fully equipped kitchen area offers complimentary tea and coffee all day long.
The room rates include dorm lockers, linen, and towels. Additionally, they enjoy facilitating our guests' socialization with one another at their frequent free community meet-ups.
Price: Dorms from €11.00, Private rooms from €37.00
10. Gardiner House (Dublin)
Gardiner House is the best hostel in Dublin. It is housed in an elegant historical building. It is housed in a beautiful historical building. They have a large kitchen open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with everything you need to create your own meals, including plenty of fridge space and tea/coffee/hot chocolate available at all times. A complimentary breakfast is offered every morning.
There are several common areas, such as the dining and living rooms, where you may unwind, meet other travelers, eat, play pool, football table, and board games, listen to music, and have a few drinks.
In the large TV room, which is furnished with incredibly comfortable sofas and elegant beanbag seats, you may watch a movie or use their computers for free. In the washing area, you can wash, dry, and iron your clothes.
Each room has its own Wi-Fi router to ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout the hostel, and each private room has a flat-screen TV.
Price: Dorms from €23.90, Privates from €107.80
11. Wombats City Hostel (London)
Wombats City Hostel London is one of the best hostels in London. Since its inception in 2014, they have set the standard for hostels in London. It's close to several of London's major tourist attractions.
This hostel features everything you'd expect, including a huge onsite bar, a lovely courtyard, and a cozy common room next to the lobby.
Price: Dorms from €20.90, Privates from €129.00
12. Swanky Mint (Zagreb)
Swanky Mint is by far the best hostel in Zagreb. The hostel is situated in a very central location. When you've finished seeing Zagreb for the day, nothing beats relaxing in their swimming pool or garden.
They feature dorm rooms with 6, 8, 9, and 12 beds, as well as female-only dorm accommodations, which are ideal for solo female travelers. For added security, all dorm rooms include free WiFi, linen, towels, lockers, and key card access only.
Standout Features
- Their swimming pool
- Their guest kitchen
Price: Dorms from €12.50
13. MEININGER Brussels City Center (Brussels)
MEININGER Brussels City Center is by far the most popular and the best hostel in Brussels. Since 2015, it has been chosen as the most popular hostel in Brussels at the Hoscars' Awards. The hostel, as the name suggests, is located in the heart of Brussels, just 15 minutes from the iconic Grand Place (square).
Their beautifully designed dorm rooms are roomy, and each (bunk) bed has its own reading lamp and power outlet. Every morning, a hearty breakfast (for a modest price) is offered, or you can use their fully equipped kitchen.
Standout Feature
- Cooly designed rooms
Price: Dorms from €22.00
14. Wombats City Hostel (Munich)
Do you want to stay in a Munich Hostel surrounded by lush greenery? Then you can book a relaxing stay at the Wombats City Hostel Munich for a great holiday experience. It is a lively spot, with sunlight kissing you through the grass-roofed courtyard and open terrace. There is a courteous staff and first-rate amenities.
There are numerous options available, ranging from dorms to private rooms. The central railway station and the famous Oktoberfest grounds are both within walking distance. So, start your day with a delicious breakfast and unwind at the bar. You've got everything under one roof.
Price: Dorms from €30.00, Privates from €88.00
15. The RomeHello Hostel (Rome)
The RomeHello Hostel is the best hostel in Rome. It is located right in the center of Rome and within walking distance of all the major tourist sites.
Each bed includes its own lamp, USB chargers, power outlet, and personal shelf. There is also a pub and a lovely beer garden. Breakfast is not included and costs €7.00 per person per day.
Amenities: Free WiFi, Reception 24/7, Air Conditioning, Common Room, Reading Light, Security Lockers, Guest Kitchen, Laundry Facilities, Luggage Storage and vending Machines.
Price: Dorms from €27.80, Privates from €131.50
16. Frankfurt Hostel
Frankfurt Hostel is the best, most popular, and cheapest hostel for backpackers in Frankfurt because they go out of their way to make your stay as pleasant as possible. The location is great since it is only a few steps away from Frankfurt's Main Central Train Station and only ten minutes from the city center, a retail center, and the Old Town.
Every morning, they provide a free all-you-can-eat breakfast, every night, a free pasta supper party, and every day, a free walking tour. The female-only dorms are ideal for solo female travelers.
All of this easily makes Frankfurt Hostel one of the best hostels in Frankfurt
Price: Dorms from €17.80, Privates from €46.60
17. Hostel Folks (Bratislava)
Hostel Folks is in the center of the city, immediately across from St. Michael's Gate. This will take you directly to Bratislava's historical center, as well as the core of the city's vibrant nightlife scene.
The hostel contains eight mixed dorm rooms and six female-only dorm rooms. The dorm rooms are large, light, and clean. There are also a large number of private rooms available. The hostel has a huge common area with complimentary coffee and tea-making facilities. In addition, you can prepare your meals in their fully equipped kitchen.
Price: Dorms from €12.00, Privates from €33.00
18. Castle Rock Hostel (Edinburgh)
The staff at Castle Rock Hostel are extremely knowledgeable and friendly, making it easily the best hostel in Edinburgh. The beds are really comfy, and the rooms are large and spotless. The hostel is in a fantastic location, just opposite Edinburgh Castle.
The hostel boasts some distinctive characteristics, including a lovely outside terrace and a fireplace for those long, chilly winter nights. Breakfast is available for an additional cost of £1.50.
Standout Features
- Superb location
- Beautiful outdoor patio
Price: Dorms from €15.10, Privates from €63.00
19. The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel (Riga)
The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel is the best hostel in Riga. The hostel is centrally located, close to all of Riga's major tourist attractions and booming nightlife. The Autoosta (bus station) and Central railway station are both less than ten minutes distant.
They offer well-designed mixed and female-only dorm accommodations. The dorm rooms are spotless and include complimentary bedding, towels, and under-bed lockers. You will be able to participate in complimentary walking tours and utilize their guest kitchen.
Standout Feature
- Their guest kitchen
Price: Dorms from €10.00
20. City Circus (Athens)
City Circus is a recently renovated boutique hostel in the heart of Athens. You will be able to enjoy panoramic views of the Acropolis from here. This cozy hostel also has its own restaurant on-site.
City Circus has dorm rooms for 4 or 6 people. To provide optimal comfort, all beds and mattresses are custom-built. For those hotter-than-average days or nights, they feature air conditioning in all rooms and communal areas.
Standout Features
- Roof terrace with a stunning view of the Acropolis
- Delicious breakfast
- Super friendly staff
Price: Dorms from €14.30, Private Rooms from €52.00
21. Greg & Tom Hostel (Krakow)
Greg & Tom Hostel is a multi-award-winning hostel in Krakow's historic center. Market Square and St Florian's Gate are only a 10-minute walk away. This hostel has three fully equipped kitchens, a fun common room, free wifi throughout, and a delicious free breakfast served every morning. Greg & Tom Hostel is one of the best hostels in Krakow for solo female travelers because they provide stylish female-only dorms.
The hostel provides 4- and 6-bed dorms as well as private rooms at a reasonable price (beginning at €29.00 per night). What distinguishes this hostel is its extremely pleasant and helpful staff.
Price: Dorms from €12.00, Private Rooms from €29.00
22. Oki Doki Old Town (Warsaw)
Oki Doki Old Town is an award-winning hostel located in the center of Warsaw. This hostel is quite friendly, with plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers. The personnel at the hostel are incredibly pleasant and helpful.
Oki Doki takes place in an 18th-century mansion. This is the sole original and entirely preserved structure in Warsaw Old Town following WWII bombardment. It has officially been designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site!
The dorm rooms are spotless, bright, and roomy. The bed's mattress is really comfy. Each bed includes a night lamp, a standard outlet, a USB socket, a shelf for personal goods, and a curtain for more privacy.
They provide free tours, cooking classes, and pub crawls. There's also a Fretka Bar on-site where you can try a few (or several) Polish beers.
Price: Dorms from €24.00
23. Oasis Backpackers Palace Sevilla (Seville)
Oasis Backpackers is an award-winning hostel located close to the city center close to El Corte Ingles and Plaza de Armas. This hostel has a lovely rooftop terrace with a pool where you may drink one of our mojitos or a cold beer. They also give language, dancing, and cooking lessons.
All rooms including their dorm rooms are air-conditioned. The well-designed dorm rooms in this hostel are cozy and spotlessly clean. Each dorm bed comes with its own power point and night lamp.
They have a fully equipped communal kitchen as well as the option of breakfast every morning (for an extra fee).
This hostel also happens to be one of the best hostels in Seville for backpackers who like to party.
Price: Dorms from €17.60, Privates from €81.70
24. City Backpackers Hostel (Stockholm)
City Backpackers Hostel is one of the best Hostels in Stockholm. This location is popular with backpackers. It provides first-rate amenities at an affordable price. You can also select from Dorms or Private rooms as available alternatives. There's a great lawn area where you may sit and rest. You can also rent a bike and tour the city's attractions.
If you reserve a stay at the City Backpackers Hostel, you will receive an extensive range of extras. For example, you'll get complimentary pasta, an evening sauna, and free computer access. Are you going on a winter vacation? You'll also receive the ice skates for free.
Price: Dorms from €18.00, Privates from €58.00
25. El Granado (Granada, Spain)
El Granado Hostel is located in the historical centre of Granada close to the Cathedral and the Moorish area of Albaicin. They offer dorm rooms (3 to 6 beds), Private Double rooms, and small apartments (max 4 people).
Features/Services: Free WiFi is available throughout the property, as is Internet access for guests' computers. Linen is given at no cost, and your bed will be ready when you arrive. Heating and hot water, air conditioning Fully equipped kitchen, flat-screen TV with DVD player, Nordic duvet bed cover (ideal for allergy sufferers), and Laundry services are available. The rooftop sun patio, common TV area, and games room are all available to all guests.
Price: Dorms from €13.60, Privates from €64.50
26. The Lights Hostel (Malaga)
The Lights Hostel is located in the heart of Malaga, in a historic structure. The hostel's standout feature is its lovely rooftop terrace, where you can unwind with a cool drink after a long day of sightseeing.
They have 6-bed female dorms, which are suitable for female lone travelers, as well as 6-bed mixed dorms, 8-bed mixed dorms, and 10-bed mixed dorms. The beds are comfortable, and there is free linen and a towel provided. Air conditioning is available in all rooms.
Price: Dorms from €13.90
27. Combo Milano (Milan)
Combo Milano is a relatively new hostel situated in the Navigli district of Milan and they are setting high standards for hostels in Milan. They cater to all types of guests as they offer private rooms, mixed and female dorms, and family rooms.
Whether you book a dorm bed or a private room, your booking includes access to our common lounge, a communal space where you can cook, eat, read, do your laundry, use Wi-Fi, or simply relax. Each room has air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and large lockers for personal items. The reception is open 24 hours a day, and the young, multinational staff is always ready to greet you and advise you on local activities and events.
Standout features:
- Beautiful outdoor courtyard
- Their well-designed rooms
Prices: Dorms from €64, Privates from €188
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Europe
I hope this guide to the best hostels in Europe helps you pick a hostel that best suits your needs. In general, the overall standard of hostels in Europe is very good but there are still some bad hostels in most European cities. Hopefully, this list will help you avoid bad or mediocre hostels to ensure you enjoy your stay in Europe's best cities.
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