Top 20 Best Hostels in Europe for Backpackers
Europe offers a diverse range of hostels that cater to backpackers seeking affordability, comfort, and a vibrant social scene. In 2025, several hostels stand out for their exceptional services, unique atmospheres, and prime locations. Below is a curated list of the top 20 best hostels in Europe for backpackers.
1. City Backpackers Hostel – Stockholm, Sweden
Location: Centrally located in Stockholm, close to major attractions.
Highlights:
- Free pasta, coffee, and tea for guests.
- Cozy common areas with a café and outdoor seating.
- On-site sauna for relaxation.
Why Stay Here: Known for its friendly atmosphere and numerous free amenities, City Backpackers Hostel offers a comfortable stay in the heart of Stockholm.
Booking Link: City Backpackers Hostel
2. St. Christopher’s Inn – Barcelona, Spain
Location: Near La Rambla, Barcelona’s most famous street.
Highlights:
- Dorm beds equipped with privacy curtains.
- Large bar and outdoor area for socializing.
- Modern facilities with a lively atmosphere.
Why Stay Here: Offering a balance between privacy and social interaction, St. Christopher’s Inn is perfect for travelers looking to explore Barcelona’s vibrant culture.
Booking Link: St. Christopher’s Inn
3. The Flying Pig Downtown – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Location: Central Amsterdam, close to major attractions and nightlife.
Highlights:
- Lively bar area, perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
- Cozy dorms and private rooms.
- Knowledgeable staff providing excellent city insights.
Why Stay Here: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and central location, The Flying Pig Downtown is a favorite among backpackers seeking both fun and comfort.
Booking Link: The Flying Pig Downtown
4. Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel – Krakow, Poland
Location: Heart of Krakow, near the main square.
Highlights:
- Free breakfast and dinner for guests.
- Daily pub crawls and social events.
- Friendly staff and a welcoming environment.
Why Stay Here: With its generous meal offerings and lively social events, Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel ensures a memorable stay in Krakow.
Booking Link: Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel
5. Kabul Party Hostel – Barcelona, Spain
Location: Situated in Plaza Real, close to La Rambla.
Highlights:
- Daily free dinners and breakfast.
- Rooftop terrace with a bar offering city views.
- Organized events and parties for guests.
Why Stay Here: Renowned for its party atmosphere, Kabul Party Hostel is ideal for those looking to experience Barcelona’s nightlife.
Booking Link: Kabul Party Hostel
6. Hostel Mostel – Sofia, Bulgaria
Location: Central Sofia, within walking distance to major sites.
Highlights:
- Free breakfast and dinner included.
- Cozy common areas with a friendly vibe.
- Affordable bike rentals for city exploration.
Why Stay Here: Offering exceptional value with included meals and a homely atmosphere, Hostel Mostel is a top choice for budget travelers.
Booking Link: Hostel Mostel
7. Goodnight Hostel – Lisbon, Portugal
Location: Central Lisbon, close to major attractions and nightlife.
Highlights:
- Free sangria and organized social events.
- Cozy dorms and private rooms.
- Friendly staff offering excellent local tips.
Why Stay Here: With its welcoming environment and central location, Goodnight Hostel provides a perfect base for exploring Lisbon.
Booking Link: Goodnight Hostel
8. Wombats City Hostel – Budapest, Hungary
Location: Central Budapest, near public transport and attractions.
Highlights:
- Spacious dorms and private rooms.
- On-site bar with a lively atmosphere.
- Free welcome drink for guests.
Why Stay Here: Known for its cleanliness and social vibe, Wombats City Hostel ensures a comfortable stay in Budapest.
Booking Link: Wombats City Hostel
9. The Generator – Dublin, Ireland
Location: Smithfield area, close to attractions and public transport.
Highlights:
- Stylish design with modern facilities.
- On-site bar and café.
- Regular events and live music.
Why Stay Here: Combining style and social events, The Generator offers a unique hostel experience in Dublin.
Booking Link: The Generator
10. The Yellow – Rome, Italy
Location: Near Termini Station, providing easy access to the city.
Highlights:
- On-site bar and restaurant with live music.
- Organized tours and events.
- Vibrant atmosphere with a focus on socializing.
Why Stay Here: With its energetic vibe and convenient location, The Yellow is perfect for travelers looking to explore Rome.
Booking Link: The Yellow
11. Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace – Barcelona, Spain
Location: Eixample district, close to major attractions.
Highlights:
- Rooftop pool and terrace.
- Music-themed décor with a lively atmosphere.
- Organized events and pub crawls.
Why Stay Here: Offering unique amenities like a rooftop pool, Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace stands out as a top choice in Barcelona.
Booking Link: Sant Jordi Hostel Rock Palace
12. The Loft Boutique Hostel – Paris, France
Location: Belleville district, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Stylish design with colorful interiors.
- Private and dormitory-style rooms.
- Outdoor terrace for relaxation.
Why Stay Here: The Loft Boutique Hostel combines modern design with a friendly atmosphere, making it a great base for exploring Paris.
Booking Link: The Loft Boutique Hostel
13. Gallery Hostel – Porto, Portugal
📍 Location: Art district of Porto, surrounded by galleries and cafés.
Highlights:
✔ Art exhibitions within the hostel
✔ Free breakfast and dinner for guests
✔ Cozy common areas with a relaxed atmosphere
Why Stay Here: If you love art and culture, Gallery Hostel offers a stylish and intimate stay, featuring locally inspired decor and a social environment.
💡 Budget Tip: Book early! This hostel is one of the top-rated accommodations in Porto, and availability fills up quickly.
14. Maverick City Lodge – Budapest, Hungary
📍 Location: In the heart of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter.
Highlights:
✔ Modern, stylish design with spacious dorms and private rooms
✔ Located in Budapest’s nightlife hub
✔ Friendly staff and excellent cleanliness
Why Stay Here: This hostel is perfect for travelers who want a quiet, comfortable sleep but also easy access to bars, ruin pubs, and nightlife.
💡 Budget Tip: Try street food markets near the hostel for authentic, budget-friendly Hungarian dishes.
15. ClinkNOORD – Amsterdam, Netherlands
📍 Location: North Amsterdam, a short ferry ride from Centraal Station.
Highlights:
✔ Industrial-chic design with spacious lounge areas
✔ On-site bar and café with live music events
✔ Quiet neighborhood away from the city’s chaotic tourist areas
Why Stay Here: ClinkNOORD provides a calm escape from Amsterdam’s busy center while still being close to major attractions.
💡 Budget Tip: Take the free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal to reach the hostel in just 5 minutes!
16. Circus Hostel – Berlin, Germany
📍 Location: Mitte, Berlin’s central district.
Highlights:
✔ On-site microbrewery serving craft beers
✔ Walking tours and city events organized for guests
✔ Spacious dorms and private rooms
Why Stay Here: Circus Hostel is known for its great social vibe, central location, and excellent amenities. Perfect for first-time visitors to Berlin.
💡 Budget Tip: Join the hostel’s free walking tours to explore Berlin’s history on a budget.
17. Greg & Tom Party Hostel – Krakow, Poland
📍 Location: Krakow’s Old Town, near main attractions.
Highlights:
✔ Free daily breakfast and dinner
✔ Lively pub crawls and themed events
✔ Excellent location with affordable pricing
Why Stay Here: This is one of Europe’s best party hostels, perfect for backpackers looking to socialize and experience Krakow’s nightlife.
💡 Budget Tip: Poland is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe for backpackers—enjoy local beer for just €2!
18. Sunflower Beach Backpacker Hostel – Rimini, Italy
📍 Location: Rimini Beach, Italy.
Highlights:
✔ Just a few minutes from the beach!
✔ Fun bar, live music, and events
✔ Daily breakfast included
Why Stay Here: Ideal for backpackers wanting to combine beach life with a social hostel experience.
💡 Budget Tip: Enjoy cheap aperitivos and drinks at local beach bars instead of high-end restaurants.
Book Sunflower Beach Backpacker Hostel
19. The Hive Party Hostel – Budapest, Hungary
📍 Location: Budapest city center, close to ruin pubs.
Highlights:
✔ One of the best party hostels in Europe!
✔ On-site bar and massive rooftop terrace
✔ Live DJs and pub crawls every night
Why Stay Here: If you love partying, this is the place to be! Located near Szimpla Kert, Budapest’s most famous ruin bar.
💡 Budget Tip: Avoid taxis—Budapest’s metro is cheap and reliable!
20. Barnacles Temple Bar House – Dublin, Ireland
📍 Location: Temple Bar, Dublin’s most famous nightlife district.
Highlights:
✔ Perfect for solo travelers looking to meet new people
✔ Cozy common areas and social events
✔ Walking distance to Dublin’s best attractions
Why Stay Here: With great energy and a friendly vibe, Barnacles Temple Bar House is one of Dublin’s top-rated hostels for backpackers.
💡 Budget Tip: Enjoy live music at free-entry pubs in Temple Bar instead of overpriced tourist traps.
Book Barnacles Temple Bar House
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Hostel for Your Trip
With so many incredible hostels in Europe, you can easily travel on a budget while making lifelong friends. Whether you’re looking for party hostels, cozy boutique stays, or beachside retreats, Europe has something for everyone.
🚀 Best Overall Hostel: City Backpackers Hostel – Stockholm
🎉 Best Party Hostel: The Hive Party Hostel – Budapest
🏖️ Best Beach Hostel: Sunflower Beach Backpacker Hostel – Rimini
🎭 Best Cultural Experience: Gallery Hostel – Porto
🌍 Best for Solo Travelers: Barnacles Temple Bar House – Dublin
Which hostel will you stay at first? Let us know in the comments!
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➡️ Best European Destinations for Backpackers in 2025
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