11 Great Hostels in Europe to Stay In

A trip to Europe will always consist of historical attractions, delicious food, and a chance to experience a pace of life different from North America. But a vacation to this fascinating continent is only as good as the accommodations you choose. While the standard hotel and apartment rental is typical, you may be looking for something different.

If you’re a budget-minded backpacker interested in meeting fellow travelers along the way, hostels are an exceptional alternative. Intimate, community-minded, and affordable, hostels have exploded in popularity and really come a long way.

From shared open-concept spaces to private ensuites, it’s easy to find a mix of both communal and secluded accommodations.

St. Christopher’s Inn – Barcelona, Spain

If you like spaces that are brand new, St. Christopher’s Inn is just that. Opening in 2013, this Barcelona hostel is clean with a bright and airy feel. Amenities include laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour reception.

All rooms feature cozy pod beds with privacy curtains, USB sockets, and reading lights. You can choose from female-only rooms or co-ed dorms that hold up to 12 beds.

Rates are as low as $9 per night and include free breakfast if you book direct.

Skanstull – Stockholm, Sweden

Located in central Stockholm, this hostel is much smaller than most in the city — but that’s what makes it so charming. Each room has its own unique style and is decorated with furniture from around the world.

If you’re traveling solo, the intimate single-bed suite will meet all your needs. Group travelers should consider the adjoining rooms, which include private access to a common living area.

Guests are really loving Skanstull’s newly renovated kitchen. It’s the perfect place to meet fellow backpackers while cooking up your own meals.

Goodnight Hostel – Lisbon, Portugal

You can’t go wrong when a hostel offers its guests free dinner and sangria.

Lisbon’s Goodnight Hostel is a vintage gem, located in the heart of the city. For about $56 per night, you and a companion can get a private room with twin bunk beds, bed linens, and fresh towels.

This small hostel offers a nice common area and clean showers with great water pressure. The rooms have been beautifully decorated by a local Portuguese artist.

Its sister location, Goodmorning Hostel, is also in a prime neighborhood and offers a similarly good experience.

Kismet Dao – Brasov, Romania

This popular Romanian hostel recently moved locations and is even better than before. Simple and unpretentious, Kismet Dao offers the basics for a comfortable stay. Particularly, travelers enjoy hanging out in the lush yards and pretty terrace.

A single bed can cost as little as $13 per night. Rates include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, a beer, and unlimited tea/coffee. Kismet Dao offers steep discounts for groups of eight or more or those interested in long-term stays.

The Yellow – Rome, Italy

This whimsical hostel is all about making sure its guests are having a good time. People come here to party, so don’t book a room if you’re looking to catch up on sleep.

Unlike most places, The Yellow has no common area. As such, many travelers end up hanging out at the downstairs bar instead.

The staff really works hard to provide an “experience”. Be entertained by live Italian bands, go on shopping tours with the locals, or do some rooftop yoga before starting your day.

Rates begin at $27 per night.

Euphoria Hostel – Tallinn, Estonia

If you’re looking for a quiet atmosphere, Euphoria is perfect for travelers who just want to unwind. This relaxing hostel is owned by hippies, which probably explains its chill vibe.

Decorated with colorful art and bean bag chairs, Euphoria offers helpful amenities with a no-fuss approach. Catch up on business or connect with family using their free computers and Wi-Fi access.

The bathrooms are always clean and well-stocked with fresh towels and bathmats. Plus, guests have access to laundry facilities and three kitchens in which to prepare meals.

Euphoria offers some of the cheapest rates in the city. A bed in a shared dorm costs as little as $12 per night. Pay a few dollars extra and upgrade to a private room with a double bed.

Central Station – Kiev, Ukraine

Central Station really honors what it means to be a true hostel.

Although the dorm rooms are huge and the showers are small, travelers say it’s the spirit of place that makes this accommodation so memorable. Its tiny kitchen and common area force guests to socialize and really get to know one another. The friendly staff not only organizes sightseeing tours of Chernobyl and World War II bunkers, but also nightly activities for guests to enjoy.

A bed at Central Station costs just under $12 per night. But be warned: this trendy accommodation has an age limit. No one over 40 is allowed.

Hostel Archi Rossi – Florence, Italy

Many Europeans tend to skip breakfast, which is why so many hostels offer measly morning meals. But not Hostel Archi Rossi, located in the heart of Florence. This place is famous for its hearty breakfast buffet, which is included in the standard rate.

Owned by two brothers, Hostel Archi Rossi provides exceptional family-friendly facilities. 24-hour on-site security, a spa, and a lush garden are just some of the amenities you’ll find here.

You’ll get the best rates by booking direct. Prices start at $11 per night for a reservation in a six-bed dorm.

Greg and Tom Party Hostel – Krakow, Poland

True to its name, Greg and Tom Party Hostel really takes advantage of Krakow’s raucous nightlife. If you’re looking for live music, plenty of drinks, and the chance to mingle with like-minded travelers, this is the accommodation for you. But be warned, you won’t be getting much sleep.

This lively hostel is known for its free breakfast, homemade dinners, and nightly parties. Check out local bands, pig out on tasty Polish cuisine, and meet people from all over the world.

For guests wanting a quieter stay, Greg and Tom have a non-party hostel right next door.

Castle Rock – Edinburgh, Scotland

Nestled in the hilly capital of Scotland is the Castle Rock. Set in an old 19th-century building filled with art and antiques, this vibrant hostel is just a three-minute walk from the famous Edinburgh Castle.

While many European hostels aren’t much to look at, Castle Rock will make you feel like royalty with its stunning stone staircases and wood interiors. Draped in majestic floor-to-ceiling curtains, the posh lounge features a beautiful fireplace, grand piano, and free book exchange.

Rooms at the Castle Rock are colorful yet intimate. Prices range from $12 a night in a 10-bed dorm to $51 a night for a private room.

Sophie’s Hostel – Prague, Czech Republic

This upscale hostel is located in a 19th-century art nouveau building in Prague’s New Town district. The clean lines and minimalist decor make Sophie’s feel more like a nice hotel than an earthy hostel.

Choose between private rooms, spacious dorms, and apartment-style suites. Each accommodation features brushed steel beds with comfy pillows and soft duvets. Travelers really love the sleek bathrooms with rain-head showers, which are a luxurious treat after weeks of backpacking.

Rates are on the pricier side, but definitely worth the money.

Dave Long / DaveLongMedia / Getty Images

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