Compete Guide to Hostels in Europe (Updated 2025)

Traveling opens up a world of discovery, adventure, and learning. However, it often comes with a significant cost, particularly regarding accommodation. That's where hostels come into play, offering a budget-friendly alternative to hotels. But what exactly are hostels, and how do they work? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hostels, making your next trip both memorable and affordable.

Understanding Hostels

What is a Hostel?

First off, what is a hostel? A hostel is a type of budget accommodation that emphasizes communal living. Unlike hotels that offer private rooms and extensive services, hostels prioritize shared spaces, such as dormitories, bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges. This setup not only reduces costs but also fosters a social environment where travelers from around the globe can meet, exchange stories, and create friendships.

The Evolution of Hostels

The concept of hostels dates back to the early 20th century, originating in Germany as a way for young people to travel affordably. Since then, hostels have evolved significantly. While they still cater to budget-conscious travellers, modern hostels can rival hotels in terms of design, cleanliness, and amenities, all while maintaining their communal and inclusive ethos.

How Do Hostels Work

Types of Accommodations

1. Dorm Rooms

Guide to Hostels in Europe - Mola Hostel Madrid Dorm — Dorm rooms @ Mola Hostel Madrid

Every hostel will offer a bed in a dorm room. A dorm room is a large room filled with beds (singles or bunks). These normally cost only a fraction of the price of a hotel room in the same city. Generally, there will be one or two large bathrooms per floor but more hostels now have en-suite bathrooms in the dorm rooms. Dorms can be mixed, male-only or female-only.

The general standard of dorm rooms has gotten far better over the last 10 years. Some are very stylish and a lot of beds in dorm rooms have their own reading lamp, power-point, and privacy curtain.

2. Private Rooms

What is a Hostel - Generator Paris Privates — Private Room @ **Generator Hostel Paris**

Many hostels now offer private rooms. Private rooms in hostels can be just as good as a hotel if not better. Obviously, they are more expensive than a bed in a dorm room but generally, they tend to be cheaper than hotels.

Facilities and Amenities

1. Common Rooms

Guide to Hostels in Europe - ClinkNOORD Hostel Amsterdam — Common Area @ **ClinkNOORD Hostel Amsterdam**

Almost all Backpacker hostels have common rooms or multiple common areas. However, some small boutique hostels tend not to have a common area.

Common areas are normally located close to the reception. Some common areas have a dining area or a bar. Some have free or paid activities such as Foosball or a pool table.

2. Events and activities

Many hostels organize events and activities such as city tours, pub crawls, cooking classes, etc. These are normally free and it gives you a chance to socialize with other travelers.

3. Laundry facilities

Guide to Hostels in Europe - Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna Washing Machine — Laundry Room @ **Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna**

Most large hostels have on-site laundry facilities (washers and dryers). Normally the procedure is that you buy a token at the reception. This token is used to turn on the washing machine or dryer.

4. Guest Kitchen

What is a Hostel - Home Lisbon Hostel Kitchen — Guest Kitchen @ Home Lisbon Hostel

Nearly every hostel offers some kind of guest kitchen. These can be partially or fully equipped. Some hostels supply you with free essentials with pasta, spices, tea, and coffee.

5. Swimming pools

Swimming pools are very popular in Spanish cities and southern Mediterranean cities such as Rome or Athens. For instance, many hostels in Barcelona have rooftop pools. Plus Hostel in Prague has an outdoor open all year round and it is free to all guests.

6. Free Wi-Fi

Guide to Hostels in Europe - Wombats City Hostel Vienna The Naschmarkt WiFi — Hostel guest all using Wi-Fi @ Wombat's Vienna Naschmarkt

We all need Wi-Fi while we travel. Every hostel will have WiFi but some won't have it in the rooms, they just have it in common areas or vice versa.

7. Rooftop Terraces

Guide to Hostels in Europe - Safestay Rooftop Bar — Rooftop Bar @ Safestay Madrid

Some large or even small hostels in Europe have a rooftop terrace. Some of these rooftop terraces have a bar or swimming pool or both. These are particularly popular in countries with a warmer climate such as Spain.

8. Hostel Bars

What is a Hostel - Generator Hostel Dublin Bar — Hostel Bar @ Generator Hostel Dublin

Many hostels have an on-site bar. These are normally cheaper and more social than regular city bars. Most run daily happy hours and some hold events or activities such as a music gig or karaoke. Some hostel bars are for guests only and others are also open to the general public as well.

General FAQ For Hostels

1. What do I get when I book a bed in a dorm room?

These really depend on the hostel. At a minimum, you will get a bed, (shared) bathroom facilities, and free WiFi. But most hostels offer various amenities such as a living room-style common room, kitchen facilities, guest computers, board games, a pool table, etc. A lot of hostels will have a bar and some even have a restaurant as well.

2. Do hostels provide bedding?

Hostels normally provide all bedding. On some rare occasions, you will be given your bed linen at the reception when you check in and you will have to make your own bed.

3. Do hostels provide towels?

Hostels generally don't provide towels when staying in a dorm room. Many hostels will give you the option of renting a towel (normally at a cost of €1 to €2 per night), but it's best to bring your own. However, towels are provided when staying in a private room in a hostel.

4. Do hostels have showers?

Yes. Most dorms have large communal bathrooms with rows of showers and sinks. Normally the showers are partitioned for your privacy.

5. How much do hostels cost?

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 type of hostel and proximity to the centre. 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, Paris, Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich and Scandinavian cities. Hostels in Germany, Spain, Portugal and Austria are slightly less. You can still get hostels in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary for as cheap as €5 per night.

Hostel prices in the US and Canada are the most expensive in the Americas. Prices in Central and South America are significantly cheaper Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia have some of the cheapest hostels in South America.

Hostels in South East Asia are very affordable in general with Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam being the cheapest. Hostel prices in Japan and South Korea will be far higher.

6. Do hostels have lockers?

Yes, hostels nearly always have lockers for your bags and valuables. It is best to always bring your own padlock for your locker. These are normally located in your room close to your bed.

A trend that started about 10 years ago is that many hostels are offering a second smaller locker for your important valuables such as your phone, camera, and passport. Some of these small lockers even have a power outlet inside where you can charge a device.

7. Are hostels safe?

What is a Hostel - The RoadHouse Prague Locker — Under-bed Locker @ **The RoadHouse Hostel Prague**

In general, hostels are very safe and in most cases, they're safer than most other forms of accommodation.

Most hostels have 24/7 reception, some even have security staff and in a lot of hostels, a personalized key card is required to enter even dorm rooms. Nearly all hostels come equipped with large security lockers in the dorm rooms for you to lock away your valuables when you’re out. It is advised that you bring your own padlock.

8. Are there age restrictions in hostels?

There are age restrictions for hostels in a lot of cities in Europe. Generally, dorm rooms are usually only available for guests between 18 and 39 years old. Some hostels even have a lower age limit (39 years). The over-40s can always stay in hostels but in a private room.

But this rule changes a lot from city to city in Europe. In Asia, there are fewer age restrictions in general. If you are over 40, you will have no problem finding a bed in a dorm in major cities.

9. Do hostels have curfews?

The quick answer is sometimes there are, but more and more hostels are getting rid of this policy as competition increases. This varies a lot from country to country. For instance, some hostels in Paris have a curfew time of 12 midnight. Some hostels in Germany will also have a curfew or a lockout period. My advice is to always read the hostel description and reviews before booking one.

10. Do hostels accept kids?

More and more hostels are now providing family rooms or apartments where kids can stay in a hostel but under the supervision of their parents. Obviously, party hostels are not suitable for kids.

Different Types of Hostels

The three main types of hostels are Youth hostels, Backpacker hostels and Boutique Hostels. All other types of hostels are a combination of these.

Here are the 9 different types of hostels:

1. Youth Hostels

Guide to Hostels in Europe - Beautiful dorm room @ Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark - Stayokay is a HI Hostel. — Beautiful dorm room @ Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark - Stayokay is a HI Hostel.

These Hostels usually cater to students or young people and are normally supported by charitable organisations schools or universities. Hostelling International, or HI, is the largest such organization. These tend to be used for students on school tours or foreign students who spend a semester abroad.

Youth hostels are a classic option, popular among students and younger travellers, generally between the ages of 18 to 35. They focus on creating a social environment, with shared dormitories, communal kitchens, and common areas that encourage interaction. These hostels are known for their affordable prices, making them accessible to budget-conscious travellers.

They tend to be no-frills, focusing on offering the basics at a low cost. You'll likely find simple bunk beds, shared bathrooms, and minimal services. However, the charm lies in their vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to meet people worldwide. If you're young and adventurous, youth hostels are a great way to travel without breaking the bank.

2. Backpacker/Budget Hostels

Guide to Hostels in Europe - The RoadHouse Kitchen — Common area @ The RoadHouse Hostel, Prague

These are the most common type of hostels and are designed to cater to budget-conscious travellers, particularly backpackers on a tight budget. They typically offer dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms and communal areas, providing an affordable and social environment for travellers to connect and share experiences.

These hostels are run independently, providing a place to sleep for backpackers. Each Backpacker hostel normally has its own niche (such as running tours, events etc.). They normally have far more character and personality. These hostels are my favourite ones. Also staying at one of these hostels, you will be supporting local businesses.

3. Flashpacker/Boutique Hostels

Guide to Hostels in Europe - MeetMe23 Hostel in Prague Dorm Room — Super chic dorm beds @ MeetMe23 Boutique Hostel, Prague

Flashpacker hostels are for travellers who want the social atmosphere of a hostel but with more comfort and style. Sometimes referred to as boutique hostels, these accommodations blend affordability with higher-end amenities. You might find private rooms, stylish décor, en-suite bathrooms, and extras like complimentary breakfast or a rooftop bar.

These hostels often appeal to people who have a little more budget but still want a lively environment. The "flashpacker" is someone who may carry a backpack but also enjoys some of the perks found in mid-range hotels. If you're seeking a more luxurious hostel experience while still maintaining that social vibe, this type of hostel might be for you.

4. Party Hostels

Party Hostels attract young like-minded guests who want to have a good time during their stay. They are not overly concerned if the rooms are noisy at night. These hostels normally have an onsite bar and hold regular events such as Quizzes, Karaoke, and Pub Crawls. Hostels have large bars that will have live music or DJs some nights. A party hostel will either be a Backpacker or a Boutique hostel.

Cities with many party hostels include Prague, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Krakow.

Guide to Hostels in Europe - The exterior of the Circus Hostel in Berlin — The exterior of the Circus Hostel in Berlin

Circus Hostel also happens to be one of the best hostels in Berlin for party-goers. The hostel has its own Café and Microbrewery with special drink offers and home-brewed beer.

5. Eco-Friendly Hostels

Eco-conscious travellers may opt for eco-friendly hostels that prioritize sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices. These hostels may have initiatives such as recycling programs, energy-efficient facilities, and eco-friendly toiletries.

These are for the more environmentally conscious traveller. If they have an onsite restaurant, it's not unusual for these types of hostels to promote vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Guide to Hostels in Europe - The reception area at Sleep Well Hostel — The reception area at Sleep Well Hostel in Brussels.

A good example of an Eco-Friendly hostel is Sleep Well which also happens to be one of the best hostels in Brussels. This hostel is located in the centre of Brussels and well within walking distance of most of the major tourist sites.

6. Themed Hostels

Themed hostels are designed around specific themes or interests, such as art, music, sports, or historical eras. These hostels provide a unique and immersive experience, appealing to travellers with specific passions.

This type of hostel is rare and only appeals to a very small niche of backpackers. If you are looking for a very unique hostel experience, you should try one of these types of hostels.

The Train Lodge is one such hostel that offers a unique themed hostel experience. It's located near the Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station, which has all public transportation connections (bus, tram, metro, and train) that will allow you to visit all of Amsterdam's main tourist sites conveniently.

The Train Lodge Hostel's sleeping carriages used to be the luxury cars of the Zurich to Rome night train until a few years ago. For backpackers seeking a unique experience, this is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam.

7. Activity Hostels

Generally speaking, these are sub-types of the other types of hostels. These are not for everyone and only attract guests within their particular niche.

Examples of these are:

Surfing Hostels
Snowboarding/skiing Hostels
Hiking Hostels
Yoga Hostels
Biking Hostels

8. Digital Nomad Hostels

With the rise of digital nomadism, some hostels cater specifically to remote workers and freelancers. These hostels often provide reliable Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and quiet areas for work.

Coworking Space at Selina Cancun Downtown which is one of the best types of hostels — Coworking Space at Selina Cancun Downtown

Recently I stayed at Selina Cancun Downtown in Cancun. This superb hostel has its own coworking space which is also open to the public. As a hostel guest, you get a 20% Discount. A weekly pass for the coworking space costs just €28.

9. Family-Friendly Hostels

Family-friendly hostels cater to parents traveling with children, offering amenities like private family rooms, child-friendly common areas, and even on-site playgrounds. These hostels normally have a car park for family cars. These hostels tend to be quieter and more relaxed, providing a safe and welcoming environment for families.

Family hostels often have kitchens where parents can prepare meals for picky eaters and may offer kid-focused activities to keep the little ones entertained. If you're traveling with kids, family-friendly hostels provide a more affordable option than hotels, without sacrificing comfort or safety.

Guide to Hostels in Europe - ao Prague Rhea Family Room — A family suite ao Prague Rhea

a&o Prague Rhea has family rooms for 4 to 6 people (2 adults and 2 to 4 kids) split into 2 rooms along with an ensuite bathroom. They also offer car parking.

The Benefits of Staying in a Hostel

1. Cost-Effectiveness

The most apparent advantage of hostels is their affordability. Saving on accommodation means more budget for experiences, dining, and extended travel.

2. Social Opportunities

Hostels provide unique opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. They're hubs of international interaction, ideal for solo travelers looking to make connections.

3. Cultural Exchange

Beyond mere socializing, hostels facilitate a deeper cultural exchange, offering insights into different cultures, languages, and perspectives through the stories and experiences of fellow travelers.

4. Local Insights

Hostel staff and the community often provide valuable local knowledge that you won't find in guidebooks, from hidden gems to advice on local customs and practices.

Navigating the Hostel Experience

1. Choosing the Right Hostel

Not all hostels are created equal. It's crucial to research and choose one that aligns with your preferences. Consider factors like location, reviews, security, amenities, and the type of travelers it attracts.

2. Etiquette and Tips

Respect the communal living setup by being mindful of noise, cleanliness, and the use of shared resources.
Engage with fellow travelers and staff, but also respect privacy and boundaries.
Security is paramount, so use lockers for valuables and be cautious with personal information.

3. Making the Most of Your Stay

Participate in hostel-organized events and outings. They're great for exploring and socializing.
Use the communal kitchen to share meals with new friends, a fantastic way to bond and save money.
Embrace the diversity and openness of the hostel culture. You'll leave with stories and friendships that last a lifetime.

The Future of Hostels

As travel continues to evolve, so too do hostels. They're becoming more sophisticated, offering a wider range of amenities and increasingly catering to niche markets, including eco-conscious travellers, digital nomads, and even families. The essence of hostels, however, remains unchanged: they're about affordable, communal living spaces that enrich the travel experience through shared stories and adventures.

Why Hostelworld is the Best Website to Book a Hostel

When it comes to booking hostels for your travels, there are several platforms available. However, Hostelworld stands out as a leading choice for many travelers. Let's delve into the reasons why Hostelworld is often considered the best website for booking hostels.

1. Comprehensive Selection of Hostels

Hostelworld boasts an extensive global database of hostels. Whether you're looking to stay in a bustling city center, a quiet countryside, or near a sun-soaked beach, Hostelworld offers a diverse range of options. This variety ensures that travelers can find a hostel that perfectly matches their itinerary and preferences.

2. User-Friendly Interface and Experience

The Hostelworld website and mobile app are designed with user experience in mind. The platform is intuitive, making it easy to search, compare, and book hostels. You can filter searches by price, location, room type, and amenities, which helps in making an informed decision.

3. Reliable Reviews and Ratings

One of the strongest points of Hostelworld is its review system. Guests who have booked and stayed at a hostel through the platform can leave reviews. These user-generated reviews and ratings provide honest and transparent insights into what you can expect from each hostel, covering aspects like cleanliness, security, location, staff, and atmosphere.

4. Flexible Booking Options

Hostelworld understands the needs of travelers, especially those who require flexibility. Many hostels on Hostelworld offer free cancellation policies and flexible booking options, which is crucial for travelers whose plans might change.

5. Excellent Customer Support

Should you encounter any issues before, during, or after your booking, Hostelworld provides reliable customer support. Their team is accessible and ready to assist with any queries, giving travelers peace of mind.

6. Special Deals and Discounts

Regularly, Hostelworld provides special deals and discounts that are exclusive to their platform. These offers can make your travel even more budget-friendly, which is a significant advantage for cost-conscious backpackers and travelers.

7. Community and Social Features

Hostelworld is more than just a booking platform; it’s a community. The website offers travel guides, blogs, and tips, contributing to the planning of your trip. Moreover, Hostelworld often highlights hostels known for their social atmospheres, making it easier for solo travelers to find hostels where they can meet fellow travelers.

8. Trust and Credibility

Having been in the business for many years, Hostelworld has built a reputation for trust and reliability. This credibility makes travelers feel more secure in their bookings, knowing they are using a well-established and respected platform.

Hostel Guides from around Europe

Hostel Guides for Asia

Hostel Guides for North America

Hostel Guides for Central & South America

Hostel Guides for Oceania

Hostel Guides for Africa