15 of the best hostels in Europe for your next big adventure

Got a Euro-trip on the cards this year? Then it’s time you get to know the best hostels in Europe.

We all know that hostels are the most budget-friendly option in pricey Europe, but the benefits of these gems go way further than your wallet. Whether you’re a solo traveller, headed on a friends trip or one half of a globe-trotting couple, these hostels will elevate your adventure through social connections, authentic experiences and the best local tips.

Get ready to experience the most spectacular European hostels – we’re talking sunny Spanish rooftops, Berlin breweries, artsy Parisian parties and everything in between. Here are 15 of the best hostels in Europe for your next trip!

The best hostels in Europe:

London – Selina Camden

In the heart of iconic Camden Town, this Selina hostel embodies the spirit of its neighbourhood. You can’t come to Camden without seeing some live music, and there’s no better place to start than in the hostel itself, where you can catch a performance by the newest local talent. Or, if you’re heading out to a gig, why not warm up with a local Camden lager in the basement bar, while spinning some records on the vinyl player? There’s also an on-site vegan restaurant and morning yoga classes to fuel your day of vintage shopping in Camden Market. Whoever said self-care wasn’t punk? That’s without mentioning its funky aesthetic and rooftop terrace, perfect for people watching over London’s quirkiest area.

Hostel highlights:

• Live music
• Basement bar
• Veggie/vegan restaurant
• Yoga classes

Address: 89 Chalk Farm Road, London

Neighbourhood: Camden Town

Nearest station: Chalk Farm

Book your stay at Selina Camden

Amsterdam – Flying Pig Downtown

Solo travellers in Amsterdam can’t stop talking about this hostel, that’s known for having the most social vibe in the city. The bar is the place to be during happy hour, when cheap beer, pool tables and Flying Pig’s legendary staff bring everyone together. There’s a smoking room for those interested, but it’s tucked away because FP knows that’s not what everybody comes to Amsterdam for. Choose your vibe!

If it’s your first time in the city, then location is key. Luckily for you, this hostel is just 5 minutes from Centraal Station, and a short walk to the Red-Light District, Anne Frank House and some of Amsterdam’s most famous pubs and coffee shops. If you’re not sure where to begin, just tag along to the hostel’s free daily walking tour!

Hostel highlights:

• Super social atmosphere
• DJ nights
• Perfect location
• Amazing staff

Address: Nieuwendijk 100, Amsterdam

Neighbourhood: Centrum

Nearest station: Centraal

Book your stay at Flying Pig Downtown

Barcelona – Sant Jordi Hostels Gracia

You’ll feel like part of the Sant Jordi family from the moment you check in to this bohemian Barcelona hostel. Located in the artsy Gracia neighbourhood, you’ll get to see a different side to the city while still in easy reach of the main attractions via public transport. Make like a true Gracia hipster by joining the hostel’s rooftop yoga class, before renting some roller-skates from reception to explore the area’s organic eateries, indie galleries and cocktail bars. Sant Jordi’s creative design blends in perfectly to this backdrop. The staff are what make it truly special though, so be sure to join them for the daily communal dinner, a rooftop beer or on a bar crawl – they’ll even sort you out with free club entry!

Hostel highlights:

• Rooftop yoga
• Bike and roller-skate rental
• Amazing staff
• Group dinners and pub crawls

Address: Carrer de Terol 35, Barcelona

Neighbourhood: Gracia

Nearest station: Fontana

Book your stay at Saint Jordi Hostels Gracia

Berlin – Circus Hostel

This hostel has its own on-site microbrewery – does it get any more Berlin? Make sure you sample some of their home-brewed beers before joining one of their many social events. Whether it’s trivia, karaoke or live music you’re into, you’ll find it at Circus Hostel. Our guests rave about their clean, spacious rooms (dorms and private!) and excellent bathroom facilities. You can’t go wrong with this location either, smack-bang in Berlin’s most central district with both a metro and tram stop right on the doorstep. After filling up on the hostel’s big buffet breakfast and coffee from their cute café, you’ll be ready to explore every corner of Berlin!

Hostel highlights:

• Microbrewery and bar
• Adorable café
• Lots of social events
• Amazing location

Address: Weinbergsweg 1A, Berlin

Neighbourhood: Mitte

Nearest station: U Rosenthaler Platz

Book your stay at Circus Hostel

Prague – The RoadHouse

Take a quick browse of The Roadhouse’s reviews and you’ll see several guests calling it ‘the best hostel I’ve ever stayed in’. This is firstly thanks to the welcoming, homely vibe that starts over a nightly family dinner, where guests can meet fellow travellers and make plans for the big Prague night ahead. It’s social without being a crazy party hostel – check out their sister hostel The MadHouse if that’s more your scene. The RoadHouse is quiet after 10pm, but the staff lead those who want to continue on an unforgettable bar crawl around the city. If you opt for a night in, there are plenty of board games and books in the common room to keep you entertained. It’s also just 150 metres from the famous Charles Bridge, so you’ll be able to explore all of the Old Town’s sights on foot.

Hostel highlights:

• Family style dinner
• Nightly bar crawls and events
• Excellent cleanliness
• Old Town location

Address: Náprstkova 275/4, Prague

Neighbourhood: Old Town

Nearest station: Mustek

Book your stay at The Roadhouse

Dublin – Jacobs Inn

Jacobs Inn is waiting to welcome you to Dublin with an expertly poured Guinness at its Instagrammable bar. Come for the booze, but stay for the top-notch facilities, like the private pod-style beds and rooftop terrace that’s perfect for a sunny day pint. It’s within walking distance of Trinity College and the iconic Temple Bar, which happens to be where the hostel pub crawl kicks off too. If you manage to wake up in time the next day, they offer a walking tour to take in Dublin’s highlights, a must for solo travellers wanting some new buddies to explore with. Just be sure to fuel up first on not-your-average hostel breakfast, bottomless vegan porridge with heaps of fancy toppings, juice and coffee.

Hostel highlights:

• Stylish bar and restaurant
• Pod-style beds
• City walking tour
• Temple Bar pub crawl

Address: 21-28 Talbot Place, Dublin

Neighbourhood: Dublin 1

Nearest station: Connolly

Book your stay at Jacobs Inn

Rome – The RomeHello

This hostel is loved by all guests, but especially solo female travellers who highlight its excellent comfort and cleanliness. The colourful courtyard is perfect for gelato and sunbathing, or challenging new friends to a game of ping pong or table footy. Everybody gets a free drink in the evening, which brings people together and usually leads to a night of drinking games and live music. But there are plenty of wholesome daily activities on offer too – you could try your hand at a pasta cooking class or take in the sights on a city walking tour. RomeHello’s prime location makes it easy to visit Rome’s hotspots on foot, and it’s just a short stroll from Termini Station too. La dolce vita!

Hostel highlights:

• Pasta cooking classes
• Yoga classes
• On-site bar and restaurant
• Free welcome drink

Address: Via Torino 45, Rome

Neighbourhood: Esquilino

Nearest station: Repubblica

Book your stay at The RomeHello

Budapest – Hostel One Budapest

If you’ve ever stayed at a Hostel One before, you’ll know it’s a guaranteed good time. The staff at their Budapest location are superstars, who’ll guide you around the city by day and get the party started by night – our guests absolutely love them! The famous Hostel One bar starts to fill up in the early evening, when there’s a home-cooked communal dinner and a chance to connect with other travellers. Next up are the drinking games, so make sure your beer pong and flip cup skills are up to scratch. When the time comes to head out for the ruin bar crawl, you’ll have a whole new squad to experience Budapest’s epic nightlife with.

Don’t be nervous, party hostel doesn’t equal frat house. You’ll be able to get a solid night’s sleep in their clean, comfy and quiet dorms.

Hostel highlights:

• Legendary staff
• Daily and nightly social events
• Family-style dinners
• Excellent location

Address: Rumbach Sebestyén utca 6, Budapest

Neighbourhood: Jewish Quarter

Nearest station: Deák Ferenc tér

Book your stay at Hostel One

Madrid – The Hat Madrid

For a bougie yet budget-friendly stay in Madrid, check out The Hat, a gorgeous boutique hostel in a converted mansion that’s located in the heart of the city. Every inch of this place is beautiful, from the stylish common areas to the luxurious dorms and next-level private rooms. But it’s not just a pretty face! Day or night, head to the stunning rooftop bar, a meeting place that’s popular with locals and travellers alike. They serve amazing tapas, and the banging breakfast is a must before the day’s adventures. Every evening there’s an hour of free sangria, and the staff will even teach you how to make it like a true madrileño. After the rooftop party dies down, join the staff on the hostel night out to discover the best un-touristy nightlife spots.

Hostel highlights:

• Sangria workshops
• Free booze
• Sunny rooftop bar
• Daily social events

Address: Calle Imperial 9, Madrid

Neighbourhood: Plaza Mayor

Nearest station: Sol

Book your stay at The Hat Madrid

Paris – The People – Paris Belleville

It doesn’t get any more Parisian than this romantic art deco building, that was transformed into a charming hostel by 3 friends with a passion for travel. It’s located in Belleville, an alternative district known for its street food market, colourful graffiti and tiny art galleries. By Paris standards, this edgy neighbourhood is pretty budget-friendly, and one of Belleville’s coolest bars is inside The People hostel! It’s got local craft beers to enjoy over live jazz music, while you build up the courage for a late-night karaoke performance. The hostel’s pièce de résistance is its rooftop though, with 360-degree views of Paris’ skyline that’ll take your selfie game up a level.

Hostel highlights:

• Killer rooftop views
• Jazz nights
• Locally loved bar
• Beautiful design

Address: 59 Boulevard de Belleville, Paris

Neighbourhood: Belleville

Closest station: Belleville

Book your stay at The People - Paris Belleville

Istanbul – Wabi Sabi Hostel

The swanky rooftop bar of Wabi Sabi might look more like a 5-star hotel, but once you feel the warm welcome and peep the low prices, you’ll have no doubt that you’ve found one of Istanbul’s best hostels. The views and vibes up here are immaculate, especially if you make it to BBQ night or an open mic session. There’s a cinema screen for sports games and movies, and plenty of communal space throughout the hostel, perfect for co-working or just hanging out. It’s modern and spotlessly clean from top to bottom, and our guests love the bathroom facilities and cosy beds. The location is great too, just minutes from shopping and nightlife hub Istiklal Street. Be sure to take full advantage of the delicious and FREE Turkish buffet breakfast on offer every morning!

Hostel highlights:

• Insane rooftop bar
• Live sports on a cinema screen
• Fun events
• Free breakfast

Address: Papa Roncalli Sokak No.34, Istanbul

Neighbourhood: Taksim

Nearest station: Taksim

Book your stay at Wabi Sabi Hostel

Lisbon – LX Hostel

Inside Lisbon’s LX Factory, a former industrial space turned creative hub, is where you’ll find the immensely cool LX Hostel. Its Scandi-style interior is kitted out with unique vintage furniture, and the buzzing rooftop bar has impressive views and a cocktail menu to match. They offer loads of freebies, from the buffet breakfast complete with homemade pancakes, to free welcome shots and nightly sangria. Its location is awesome too – LX Factory describes itself as an independent city, with over 50 shops, cafes, bars and restaurants loved by local creatives. There’s a beer garden right in front of the hostel where you can hang out with the Factory’s eclectic residents. Added bonus, it’s pet-friendly – sometimes the best new friends are the furry kind!

Hostel highlights:

• Creative hub
• Pod-style beds
• Rooftop bar
• Awesome food

Address: R. Rodrigues de Faria 103, Lisbon

Neighbourhood: Alcantara

Nearest station: Alcantara-Mar

Book your stay at LX Hostel

Porto – The House of Sandeman

When in Porto, the home of port wine, it would be rude not to try the city’s most famous drink. You won’t have to look far if you stay at The House of Sandeman – it’s built on top of a wine cellar, and you can drink your fill in the hostel’s sun-soaked, open-air bar. Try it the classic way, or choose a creative port cocktail. Their unique dorm beds are even modelled after port wine barrels! There’s always a different social event planned in the guest lounge, and the nightly family dinner, a feast of Portuguese food (with free wine, obvs) is a great way for solo travellers to connect. The location is epic too, just 5 minutes from Porto’s historic centre, in an iconic building overlooking the river Douro.

Hostel highlights:

• Wine, wine, wine!
• Outdoor bar
• Free breakfast
• Social events

Address: Largo Miguel Bombarda 67, Porto

Neighbourhood: Vila Nova de Gaia

Nearest station: General Torres

The House of Sandeman

Athens – Athens Backpackers

We all love a hostel with a rooftop bar, but not many places have a view to rival Athens Backpackers. From ‘Sunnies’ you’ll get unbeatable views of the world-famous Acropolis, which is conveniently just three minutes away. In this hostel you’ll find no less than four bars – there’s Sunnies rooftop for cocktails, views and cheap happy hours, The Local for Athens’ signature craft beer and meze, Athens Sports Bar for live games and burgers, and Taste for exclusively Greek wine. How often can you have a bar crawl without leaving the hostel?! Thankfully there’s free breakfast to line your stomach first! Athens Backpackers has a peaceful co-working space too, and daily events like walking tours will help you to discover this historic city.

Hostel highlights:

• Incredible Acropolis views
• FOUR bars
• Pod-style beds
• Free breakfast

Address: 12 Makri Street, Athens

Neighbourhood:  Makrygianni

Nearest station: Acropoli

Athens Backpackers

Venice – Anda Venice

It would be easy to mistake Anda Venice for an art gallery, with its eccentric design, unique furniture and colourful murals in every corner. But step into their ‘Alai Life Bar’ and you’ll feel that familiar hostel welcome – complete with a free glass of prosecco on arrival! The bar is a neighbourhood fave with travellers and locals, and there’s always something going on. The average week at Anda sees live music, DJ sets, sports on the big screen, beer pong and karaoke nights. In the summer, the party continues outside in the urban garden, with drinks from the pop-up bar kiosk. The facilities are incredible too – expect bougie dorms with luxurious bedding, modern bathrooms and a co-working space equipped with Macs, so you don’t even need to pack your laptop. Their reputation as one of the best hostels in Europe is well-earned!

Hostel highlights:

• Nightly social events
• Gorgeous rooms and common areas
• Lively bar
• Co-working space

Address: Via Ortigara 10, Venice

Neighbourhood: Mestre

Nearest station: Venezia Mestre

Anda Venice

Ready to check in to the best hostels in Europe? Let us know where your adventure takes you, and which incredible hostels you discover along the way!

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