Last updated on January 9th, 2024 at 08:27 pm
I’ve been staying in hostels in Europe for over 10 years now. From my early 20’s to my 30’s, the hostel scene in Europe is truly unmatched, but how do you find the best hostels?
Hostels in Europe have grown in recent years. While some still offer the bare minimum in a room with 14 strangers, others have upgraded their services into more of a ‘boutique style.’
At half the price of hotels, and a livelier social scene, hostels around the globe are making waves. Many hostels now are like charming co-living spaces: think full-kitchens, pools, social spaces, and weekly planned events to meet fellow travelers.
If this is your first solo trip to Europe, it’s important to plan ahead and think about priorities when it comes to picking accommodation (because it can really change the vibe of your trip!)
When choosing the best hostels in Europe, I’ve taken into account the holy grail of hostel rating: safety, common spaces, atmosphere, and staff.
You’re on your computer right now looking to book, and want to know the best hostels in Europe? Here’s the quick version below:
Best Hostel for Partying: Flying Pig Uptown, Amsterdam
Ultimate for Solo Travelers: OneFam Old Town, Prague
Best for Digital Nomads: Dream Hostel, Prague
For Female Travelers: Hostel Dvor, Split
Flying Pig Uptown (Amsterdam)
I stayed at the Flying Pig in my early 20’s, and I can safely say they were some of my best travel memories. A party hostel through and through, the Flying Pig makes it easy to make friends with everyone. All of the staff are pretty young too, and like to partake in activities with travelers!
While rooms are pretty basic, the bedding is surprisingly comfy. The hostel has a buzzing bar area with happy hours, and there’s also a dining and ‘chill’ area too.
Why Flying Pig is Good for Solo Travelers
- They have organized events throughout the week
- The happy hours are the best way to meet people
- Lockers in the rooms for safety and storage
OneFam Old Town (Prague)
Wow is all I can say. I actually stayed here in my late 20’s and still had the BEST time. Staying in a mixed room of 8 people, I made tons of friends. Arriving on a bus from another country that evening, I was immediately invited on the pub crawl. It’s safe to say OneFam is a social place!
The only downside in the summers is the lack of AC in rooms, but with wide windows to open, it was manageable. A smaller hostel run by volunteers, it’s so easy to make new travel friends here. OneFam has an open kitchen, living, and dining space to socialize and relax.
(The beds also include curtains which is always a win).
Why OneFam is Good for Solo Travelers
- Daily events morning and night (which include bar crawls and walking tours)
- Social spaces where everyone is welcome to cook, watch tv, or play games
- Lockers in the rooms and laundry service provided
Dream Hostel (Prague)
It’s pretty rare to find a hostel that’s both social and quiet at the same time. Dream Hostel in Prague is the perfect mix, which is why it makes it on the list of best hostels.
When you walk into Dream Hostel you’ll be surprised by how modern and charming it looks: I know I was! Picture hanging plants, light wooden interiors, and quaint reading nooks.
The rooms are incredibly clean, with curtains on each bed for privacy. The room I stayed in had a bathroom and shower just outside the room, which was perfect. There’s also a lot of common spaces ideal for socializing and coworking as well.
Why Dream Hostel is Good for Solo Travelers
- Plenty of common spaces
- Airport shuttle, laundry services, and lockers
- Steps from the main shopping streets
Hostel Dvor (Split)
This charming hostel on the narrow streets of Split, Croatia was a pleasant surprise for me! Somewhat off the beaten path with no bar inside, I had a hard time with how I’d make friends here.
Alas, I was wrong! In the evenings, travelers socialize in the outdoor patio and living room areas. It’s also very easy to make friends in your rooms, as it’s a pretty small hostel. The building gives apartment vibes, and each room is super clean and spacious.
I stayed in a room of 4 with a shared bathroom/shower, and had no issues meeting people. The rooms come with large closet spaces, personal safes, and air conditioning!
Why Hostel Dvor is Good for Solo Travelers
- Incredibly safe and clean
- A short walk to the Old Town, Harbor, and Restaurants/bars
- Small breakfast included and coffee etc.
