Here are the top 20 best destinations to explore in 2020
Who amongst you hasn’t used the money you received at Christmas to plan your adventures for the coming year? Here at Hostelworld, we’re starting to know you inside out, and we know you’re just as obsessed with travel as we are. That’s why we’ve put together this little list of dream destinations for backpackers in 2020, based solely on their skyrocketing popularity over the last twelve months. No cosmopolitan capitals or clichéd hotspots here, but rather unspoilt paradise islands, seriously underrated African cities, as well as secluded spots perfect for surfing, and mountain retreats to help you find your centre. In short, all the incredible places not to be missed next year, very, VERY far off the usual beaten track.
So here we go with the 20 best destinations for backpackers in 2020!
20. Sendai – Japan
Unsurprisingly, everyone will be heading to Japan in 2020 for the Tokyo Olympics, but if you’re not the type to follow the crowds, then Sendai is an excellent alternative to make the most of your trip to Japan. It’s one of the best destinations for backpackers next year. The best time to explore this part of the country is during the summer, and in 2020, particularly in July, as the city hosts the Tanabata Matsuri from the 6th to the 8th of the month. This lively festival takes place every year when the stars Altair and Vega – two star-crossed lovers according to Japanese legend – align. To celebrate this unconditional love, the festival features concerts, traditional dance performances, fireworks and, of course, the city is illuminated by hundreds of colourful lanterns. Even if you’re unable to visit Sendai at this time of year, it’s a fabulous place that’s still well worth seeing at least once, with its bustling markets, lively nightlife and long list of temples and shrines, each more impressive than the last.
The Orit Hostel & Café Bar Lounge offers two of our favourite things in a youth hostel: an on-site café-bar and a really welcoming and friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect hostel for all solo backpackers looking for new travelling companions, or for ‘digital nomads’ needing a quiet, state-of-the-art space to relax and work. All the facilities are ultra-modern and there’s even a small terrace where you can enjoy your morning coffee with stunning views over the rest of the city.
19. Portland (Maine) – United States
Portland, Oregon, has been attracting growing interest from travellers for quite some time now, but we’re willing to bet anything you like that you haven’t yet added this little town on the East Coast to your list of must-visit stops on your next road trip through the United States! Of course, New York and Los Angeles will blow you away, but can you really say you know the United States properly until you’ve set foot outside the major cities? Indeed, Portland is the very epitome of a small, close-knit town with a friendly atmosphere, and the best bit is that you won’t have to jostle with the crowds to enjoy all the superb attractions the city has to offer. The cobbled streets of the Old Harbour and the colourful little shops in the old town, with their delightful and quirky restaurants, are sure to delight many a visitor. And you’ll certainly be surprised by the vibrant arts scene that has sprung up in recent years around the oldest public museum in the United States. Add to all this one of the most renowned farmers’ markets and local craft breweries where you can sample some of the country’s finest beers! It’s hard to believe that the crowds aren’t already queuing up at the gates!
So, where should you stay? Look no further than the amazing Black Elephant Hostel. Just like Portland itself, it’s a youth hostel that’s both friendly and vibrant, with a warm, family-like atmosphere and colourful, completely quirky interiors. Situated right next to the Old Harbour, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from the city centre and, once your day’s sightseeing is over, you can head back to the hostel to curl up by the fire in the common room and share your adventures with your fellow travellers.
18. Raglan – New Zealand
The town of Raglan, in the northern part of the country, is a magical place, completely untouched by crowds and surrounded by incredible scenery and beaches perfect for an afternoon’s surfing. Best known worldwide for its stretches of black sand, Raglan offers a whole host of incredible activities, so don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track and venture along the wild trails of the Wainui Nature Reserve, cycle along the trails on a dormant volcano, or take the plunge, head first, into the sparkling turquoise waters of Bridal Veil Falls. Most backpackers come here to surf, as there are all sorts of beaches where both beginners and professionals can try their hand at this fantastic sport. For example, Ngarunui Beach is the ideal spot for those who’ve never been on a board before, as the waves there are gentle and there are several surf schools offering affordable lessons. If, on the other hand, you’re a surfing pro, it’s at Manu Bay and Whale Bay that you’ll find some of the world’s finest waves, set against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.
Make the most of everything Mother Nature has to offer in Raglan by staying at Raglan Backpackers, a fully eco-friendly and sustainability-conscious youth hostel. You can relax in a hammock or the hot tub in the garden, take part in an outdoor yoga class, or hire a kayak or surfboard to make the most of your afternoon. The little extra that really wins us over is that the hostel is right on the beach, so you can wake up every morning to the sound of the waves breaking on the warm sand. A real little paradise!
17. Pisac – Peru
@willianjusten
For a slightly more rural alternative to the cosmopolitan city of Cuzco, many travellers in Peru choose to explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas from Pisac, a picturesque little village with a strong spiritual focus. The enchanting landscapes, the site’s mystical history, the bohemian atmosphere and the peaceful pace of the old town make it the ideal place to enjoy a range of ‘wellness’ activities and take a break away from the crowds of frenzied tourists. After a few yoga sessions with breathtaking views of the valley, you’ll feel as though you’re floating on a little cloud! As well as total zen, you can also visit the big Sunday market to discover local crafts, stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town and climb the Inca ruins at Pisac.
The Wolf Totem Guesthouse truly embodies the spirit of Pisac. This magnificent, eco-friendly hostel with a bohemian feel offers a light-filled communal area overlooking the Sacred Valley and outdoor hammocks with what is probably one of the best views in South America. There’s a café on site, an open-air yoga area and even a sauna to help you unwind after a long day’s hiking.
16. Trapani (Sicily) – Italy
If you’re travelling to Italy in 2020, be sure to make a detour to sunny Sicily. This stunning Mediterranean island is home to sublime beaches, majestic volcanoes and charming towns such as Trapani, one of the top destinations for backpackers next year. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and visit its incredible churches and basilicas, before treating yourself to hearty local specialities such as arancini and cannoli. To enjoy the best views, visit the medieval village of Erice, perched atop a cliff. At 750 metres above sea level, you’ll have breathtaking views of Trapani’s light-coloured stone buildings and the Mediterranean Sea. Trapani is also an ideal starting point for a day trip along Sicily’s roads. The magnificent Egadi Islands are just a 30-minute boat ride away. So you can spend a day of pure bliss exploring the little coves with their fine sandy beaches and snorkelling to enjoy the marine life.
Hostelleria is definitely our favourite spot for budget accommodation in Trapani city centre. With its minimalist and functional design, it has everything you need for an incredible stay in Sicily, with spotless dorms and luxurious private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and a really cool bar, right next to the hostel.
15. Liège – Belgium
Although it was somewhat overlooked by travellers in the past, Liège is Belgium’s fourth-largest city and is once again becoming a favourite among backpackers for 2020, overtaking more touristy cities such as Bruges and Brussels. Despite its incredible architecture, cultural gems and excellent cuisine, it still manages to retain the laid-back atmosphere of a small country town that we love so much. Grab a Liège waffle (renowned for its sugar crystals that burst in your mouth) and take a stroll along the Meuse before setting off to explore the medieval buildings on the main square. The market square, home to all the city’s traditional bars and pubs, is the best place to enjoy a craft beer and get to know the locals.
For a place brimming with life and love in Liège, you won’t find anywhere better than the Liège Youth Hostel. Not only is it a stylish and chic youth hostel, but it also boasts incredible communal areas, such as a bar with pool tables and table football, an outdoor area with table tennis tables, and a colourful café where you can enjoy your free breakfast. In short, it’s the perfect place to make new friends. What’s more, you’ll be just 5 minutes from the heart of Liège’s nightlife, so you can make the most of your stay!
14. Buenaventura – Colombia
Colombia has managed to completely transform its image over the last ten years, and Buenaventura is the perfect example of this. In fact, just a few years ago, this city on the Pacific coast was considered the most dangerous in the country. But today, it’s a stunning place that’s growing in popularity and is sure to become one of the best destinations for backpackers in 2020. Buenaventura is brimming with lively salsa bars, Afro-Colombian seafood restaurants and brilliant activities – so much so that the town itself is now merely a secondary attraction. We’re talking, first and foremost, about the unspoilt beaches, the tropical jungle and the natural pools all around the village. Compared to the rest of the country, this region is still relatively uncrowded. So you can enjoy the waves and cocktails by the water’s edge, far from the tourist crowds. And if there’s one thing you mustn’t miss, it’s a night-time swim in the sea caves where fluorescent plankton lurks – take our word for it, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
For a peaceful stay in Buenaventura, choose the Pacifico Hostel. Surrounded by lush tropical jungle, this hostel has its own private beach and a trendy open-air bar. They grow their own vegetables sustainably, and their bathrooms are supplied with filtered rainwater. They’ll even lend you a kayak to explore the nearby mangroves. We’re really starting to think about settling there for the long term…
13. Hà Giang – Vietnam
Hà Giang is Vietnam’s northernmost province, yet it’s one of the country’s most breathtaking regions. It’s often overlooked by backpackers as it’s a long way from the most popular destinations. This means, amongst other things, that you won’t have groups of tourists ruining your holiday photos! Contrary to appearances, it’s a region that’s very easily accessible by overnight bus (and at a lower cost), and travellers who make the effort to make the journey are rarely disappointed. Start your adventure in the provincial capital of the same name, and follow in the footsteps of intrepid backpackers by hiring a motorbike and criss-crossing the region’s picturesque roads. You can set off to explore the small rural communities in the surrounding villages and discover the age-old traditions that shape their lives, all whilst enjoying the stunning scenery offered by the lush, unforgettable mountains of Hà Giang.
The NoMadders Hostel is the ideal base, situated on the outskirts of the town, from which to enjoy the fresh mountain air of Vietnam. A bed in their magnificent dormitories costs just €4 a night, and if you fancy a bit of privacy, you can treat yourself to a private bungalow for just over €15 a night. They have an outdoor swimming pool and a lush, green patio, a bar and a hot tub to help you make the most of your backpacking adventure!
12. Maputo – Mozambique
Mozambique’s charming capital has recently seen a surge in its annual visitor numbers. This is largely down to the breathtaking beauty of its pastel-coloured streets, its cosy cafés, the architectural masterpieces left behind by the colonists, and its fascinating museums and art galleries. A walking tour, led by a local expert, is probably the best way to learn about Maputo’s turbulent history and discover all the city’s best spots. To treat yourself to some delicious local specialities, pop along to the fish market, where you can choose your freshly caught fish and have it prepared in one of the nearby restaurants! And if you’ve had enough of city life, you can always catch a bus to the peaceful white-sand beaches of Ponto do Ouro, just an hour and a half away.
Maputo has only very recently become a top destination for backpackers and therefore doesn’t yet have a wide choice of hostels. We therefore recommend you make the most of The Base. This small, very welcoming youth hostel has everything you need to unwind after a long day of exploring, including a barbecue you can enjoy on the terrace overlooking Maputo Bay! It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s top attractions, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants.
11. Nassau – Bahamas
When people talk about the Bahamas, budget travellers tend to run a mile. Well, all that is about to change, as the capital (and only major city) of the Bahamas is one of the best destinations for backpackers in 2020, especially if you’re the sort who avoids beach resorts and seeks out authentic experiences (just like us!). The city is steeped in Caribbean culture. And you won’t find anywhere more authentic than the lively ‘Fish Fry’ neighbourhood, where colourful little houses, bustling bars and street vendors line the streets. The atmosphere is electric and music is everywhere, with street DJs and reggae bands at every junction. You can also sip artisanal rum at a local distillery, dive with sharks at Stuart’s Cove and go shopping at the Straw Market. As everyone knows, life is always better under the sun (…of the Bahamas)!
Youth hostels in the Bahamas?! Yes, indeed! BahaSea Backpackers is a little slice of paradise on earth at an affordable price, with its two swimming pools overlooking the turquoise ocean. And they have two pet pigs who love a swim! Situated in a quiet seaside neighbourhood, well served by public transport to the city centre, you can choose between private rooms, mixed-sex dorms or women-only dorms.
10. Gijón – Spain
Once a sleepy fishing port, the city of Gijón, in the northern region of Asturias, Spain, is fast becoming a top destination for surfers, foodies and party-goers. Backpackers from all over the world will feel right at home here, as the atmosphere is always lively and friendly, thanks in particular to the craft drinks and delicious local food you’ll find in the Centro district (and, of course, in the youth hostels). Asturias is renowned for its excellent cider, and there are plenty of bars in the town where you can watch a barman take a leap into the air to serve your order in the traditional way. But before you enjoy (perhaps a little too much) of the local nectar, head to Playa de San Lorenzo for a yoga class on the fine sand and an afternoon of intensive surfing. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist this city’s laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere!
If you want to make the most of the waves, the Gijón Surf Hostel lets you hire surfboards at unbeatable prices, take lessons for all levels of experience and enjoy a prime location close to the beach. This youth hostel is set in a huge house where you’ll find it very easy to get to know other travellers over a beer (or two) in the private garden or around the free breakfast buffet. They even offer free yoga classes every evening to help you channel all the new energy you’ve absorbed during your stay.
9. Siargao Island – Philippines
Siargao is another paradise on earth for surfers. It’s the capital of the Philippines and one of the most beautiful islands on the planet. Brimming with natural treasures such as its waterfalls, lagoons, caves, lush jungle and, of course, its beaches, it is above all one of the best hiking destinations for nature lovers. As with all backpacker hotspots in South-East Asia, you can enjoy a lively nightlife with a host of laid-back bars and cocktail parties – in fact, the Friday night Jungle Party is an absolute must! We’d still recommend heading down to the Cloud 9 beach promenade with a few beers and soaking up the stunning colours of the sunset, as the last surfers make their way back to the beach. A truly magical spectacle!
Mad Monkey hostels are legendary amongst backpackers, and Mad Monkey Siargao is no exception. It boasts a huge communal area around the pool, complete with a tiki bar, a restaurant, beer-pong tables and table football. They’re best known for their incredible events and their absolutely mad bar crawls! Every evening after the bar closes, the hostel staff act as guides for the tribe of travellers, helping them find the best nights out on the island.
8. Nosara – Costa Rica
Nosara is a beautiful coastal town in Costa Rica with a laid-back, hippie vibe. The charming little cafés, friendly surfers and colourful shops give it the feel of a Californian coastal town. And when you happen to stumble upon a graffiti-covered skatepark right in the town centre, you might even forget which country you’re in. It’s also a very popular spot for yogis, with plenty of studios all over town and pristine beaches perfect for practising your lotus pose. Once you’ve recharged your batteries with some positive energy, head out on a river safari (eco-friendly, of course – this is Costa Rica, after all!). You might spot crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys and exotic birds in a myriad of colours.
Get ready to be surprised, because Selina Nosara is a luxury hostel where you can stay for less than €10 a night! They have two swimming pools, a bar (with live music from local bands every week), a cinema, a communal workspace and much more, all set in a completely eco-friendly and sustainable environment. And to unwind after a long day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like a yoga class, followed by a healthy vegan meal prepared on-site using local produce!
7. Isfahan – Iran
Iran absolutely must feature on your 2020 backpacking itinerary, and the city of Isfahan is our top choice because, as an old Persian proverb puts it, it’s ‘half the world’! Google images of Iran’s incredible architecture have probably already piqued your interest, and it’s even better in real life! Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a real treasure, with the iconic Imam Mosque and its royal blue mosaic, the dazzling Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and the Ali Qapu Royal Palace – you won’t know where to look first (or where to point your camera, for that matter). And if that’s not enough, the Grand Bazaar, which is nearly 1,000 years old, has lost none of its former splendour, with its intricately tiled ceilings, lantern-lit passageways and colourful courtyards. Stop for a cup of chai tea and take in the view! It’s simply magnificent!
Iranian hospitality is famous throughout the world, and the Rag Rug Hostel is a perfect example of this. They offer free guided tours every day of the week, during which the hostel staff will explain the city’s history, as well as complimentary Iranian breakfasts. The hostel is simply stunning, decorated throughout with Persian tiles. It has a beautiful, lush garden and a roof terrace with superb views over the city’s streets.
6. Kodaikanal – India
The town of Kodaikanal, situated in the Tamil Nadu region of India on a mist-shrouded hill at an altitude of 2,000 metres, offers a refreshing break from the heat. The town’s main attraction is its huge star-shaped lake, where you can hire a rowing boat and explore the peaceful scenery. The region is teeming with waterfalls and breathtaking valleys. It’s therefore the ideal place to escape the crowds for a few days (as you may already know, India can be a bit intense!). Fancy a hike in Munnar? You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and might even spot wild elephants along the way!
If you want to take your connection with nature to the next level, Zostel Kodaikanal will make you feel as though you’re in another world. With rustic communal areas, outdoor terraces overlooking the hills and magnificent dormitories, it doesn’t get any better than this. You can get to know other travellers around the bonfire in the garden or go for a walk around the hostel accompanied by the owner’s tiny puppies!
5. Trondheim – Norway
@simowilliams
Scandinavia is a really cool place, but if you want to score some hipster points, don’t just stick to visiting the big cities like Oslo and Copenhagen. Trondheim is one of the best destinations for backpackers in 2020. This vibrant, artistic student city boasts a huge selection of craft breweries and plenty of cafés and restaurants in the city centre where you can sample delicious local dishes. What’s more, it’s an ideal spot for all you Instagrammers, with its colourful buildings by the water’s edge… Make sure you’ve got a bit of space left on your camera for the city’s imposing Gothic cathedral! As Norway’s first capital, it was for a very long time the main setting for the country’s most significant historical events and, as such, is a fascinating city to visit for anyone with a passion for history, art and culture in general. You can even witness the fabulous spectacle of the Northern Lights from September to March. So what are you waiting for?
The Trondheim Vandrerhjem is the best place to stay in this city, which is generally quite expensive (as is typical of Scandinavia). It’s a fairly minimalist youth hostel, but it offers everything you need to relax after your travels, with comfortable beds, a fully equipped kitchen and a very welcoming communal area where you can mingle with other guests. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the centre of Trondheim, in a peaceful spot on a hill with a magnificent view over the whole city!
4. Hossegor – France
Hossegor is a bit like the Hawaii of Europe. This charming seaside town in south-west France is another destination on our list that’s best known for surfing (it looks like you’ll be spending a lot of time in the water in 2020!). The atmosphere is electric in October when it hosts professional surfing championships such as the Quiksilver and Roxy Pros. The rest of the year, it’s much more peaceful, with a huge community of travellers who enjoy its wide beaches, its welcoming town centre – entirely reserved for pedestrians and cyclists – and its French-style café culture with outdoor seating. We challenge you not to succumb to the sweet temptation of freshly baked pastries!
Hossegor has a wide range of youth hostels. The JO & JOE, which is very Instagram-worthy, offers unique accommodation that perfectly matches the town’s slightly offbeat spirit. It has its own garden for lounging in the sun, comfortable beds and a partnership with legendary surf brands Quiksilver and Roxy, meaning discounted surf lessons for all guests!
3. Maribor – Slovenia
Whilst the iconic Lake Bled and the pretty capital, Ljubljana, have secured Slovenia a prominent place on most travellers’ itineraries worldwide, let us take you a little further inland for your 2020 plans. The city of Maribor is the ideal place to start your exploration, with its medieval buildings, winding streets and friendly wine bars. If you didn’t already know, Slovenia is renowned for its incredible wine (at a bargain price), and Maribor is one of the best places to sample it. It’s completely surrounded by vineyards and even has a wine museum offering free tastings! For such a small city, Maribor really packs a punch, with a whole host of summer festivals, a lively student scene and a picturesque old town that rivals even the largest and most famous in Europe.
Stay right in the heart of the city by choosing the colourful Uni Youth Hostel. This hostel has huge communal areas with pool tables and comfortable sofas, as well as a bar where you can continue exploring Slovenian wines. Hold on, that’s just as much a cultural activity as any other! Just make sure you wake up in time to enjoy the breakfast buffet, which consists mainly of local treats and pastries.
2. Surat Thani – Thailand
You might be surprised to find that Surat Thani is one of our top destinations for hiking, as it was long considered merely a stopover on the way to Thailand’s eastern islands. Well, all that is about to change, as backpackers who take the time to stop off here quickly realise that Surat Thani offers an authentic Thai experience, far from the tourist crowds. Start your day by exploring the temples in the city centre, such as the majestic Surat Thani Pillar Shrine, before getting to know the locals on Ban Don Pier, with a Chang beer in hand. From there, you can treat yourself to a boat trip along the city’s canals, watch the locals and take in the magnificent scenery of the Thai countryside, and perhaps even spot a huge Komodo dragon. Head to Surat Thani to savour the best Thai cuisine you’ve ever tasted. You’ll find classics such as spicy papaya salad, pad Thai and crispy pork at the city’s night market for just a few euros.
The Boundary Hostel and Café is just a two-minute walk from the main market. It’s a rustic, family-run place full of charm. Expect to be treated like royalty, with a free breakfast and super-comfortable dorms. The staff are always on hand and will be more than happy to advise you on all sorts of amazing activities to do in the area. And when you’re ready to leave, they’ll even help you organise your transport and find accommodation on the neighbouring islands.
1. Nusa Penida – Indonesia
Head north of Bali, because that’s where you’ll find our new favourite destination for backpackers in 2020! Nusa Penida is a small Indonesian island, best known for its impressive cliffs and the stunning Kelingking Beach. This breathtaking sight is Nusa Penida’s main attraction, but there’s no shortage of magical experiences on this incredible island. Whether it’s attending a religious service in a sacred cave halfway up a mountain, hiking to an abandoned treehouse that’s become the best spot for views across the whole island, or swimming with giant manta rays, every moment is an adventure on Nusa Penida. Add to all this the legendary sunsets and the many ‘warungs’ serving delicious local cuisine for just a few cents, and you’ll soon understand why this is our number one choice of destination for backpackers in 2020.
A paradise island simply has to have a youth hostel to match, so let us introduce you to the Nuansa Penida Hostel. It’s a luxury hostel with superb bungalows, a stunning swimming pool worthy of the finest in Bali, and open-air communal areas where you can enjoy your complimentary breakfast. When you’re ready to explore the island, hire a moped from the hostel and hit the roads in style!
So there you have it – that’s the end of our top 20 places to visit in 2020. If you need us, we’ll be in the next room trying to decide which one to visit first… If you’ve already visited any of next year’s top backpacker destinations, do share your experiences and top tips with us. Or perhaps you’re one of those planning a trip as you read this article? Let us know in the comments! In the meantime, cheers! Here’s to another year of discovering the world together!
Get the App.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.