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Home » Europe » Best Hostels

Best Hostels in Europe: FULL Hostelling Guide & Review for 2024

Europe has a lot of hostels. Like,  a lot . Even the lesser ventured areas of Europe still offer the intrepid explorer a whole range of accommodations (at cheaper prices) to rest their weary brain.

So that’s why I’ve rounded up this list of the best hostels in Europe and it truly features a bit of everything! From famous European hostels to unique offerings to the cheapest, it’s really got something for everyone.

Even better – and something I’m particularly proud of – is the area covered! This is a post about hostels in Europe that  actually covers Europe . It ain’t just Paris, London, and Amsterdam: east, south, north, and west – I got some of it all! (Except Russia… I skipped Russia.)

But hold the phone: there’s more! (Oh, yes.) Before I even get to the roundup, I wrote a full guide to hostelling in Europe just for the newbies.

If that doesn’t interest you, I’ll give you a convenient link to skip the humdrum, but if you’re new to staying in hostels, there are tips and information in there to make your first youth hostel adventure as smooth as a German man’s shaved chest.

It’s all about that smart-casual.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Skip to the roundup of the  Best Hostels in Europe!

What is a Hostel? The Overview.

Hostel life: like real life but with more shenanigans, what is a hostel in europe like the specifics, how to book hostels in europe, the best hostels in europe from my roundup, the top hostels in europe as per real travellers, the best party hostels in europe for gettin’ down, some unique hostels in europe, some more reading before hostelling in europe, closing the guide to europe’s hostels.

A hostel, at its core, is accommodation built for travellers, by travellers. It doesn’t always work out like that, but that’s still the general premise. Low-budget accommodation that celebrates backpacker life.

Staying in a hostel means staying in a meeting point for travellers. Hostel prices are kept cheaper and emphasis is placed on creating a space for people to gather.

Although the vibe changes, commonly shared features of most hostels around the world include:

• Shared sleeping spaces (dorms)
• Common room
• Tourist information for the local area
• Events or meals to gather people
• Drinks (also food but booze)
• Yoga… there’s always yoga

Who Stays at Hostels?

That’s a tougher question. Rather than saying who stays in hostels, it would be more apt to say that the target audience is backpackers. Solo backpackers in Europe as well as groups and couples of ANY age are the kinda people you’ll find in hostels.

The actual types of people staying in hostels vary wildly on the hostel itself and what part of the world it’s in. Kathmandu brings in a lot of crazy; Jerusalem also brings in a lot of crazy… but in a different way.

The intended audience, however, is backpackers. I even have hostel owners often inform me (on the sly) that they much prefer the crowd brought in from Hostelworld over Booking.com – represent!

You’re going to find a little of all walks of life sleeping in hostels. Different cultural backgrounds, ages, financial nettings… pineapple-pizza-people, GTFO-pineapple-pizza-people, “I don’t care, just get in my mouth.” pizza-people. It’s a wide net.

Of this terrific collection of fine specimens, most will be younger – say under the age of 35 but generally somewhere in their 20s (some hostels even have an age limit; a practice I strongly take issue with) – and most will be on some form of budget-friendly travels , long or short-term. Some will be more experienced than you at travelling, some will not…

You know how in old fantasy games you always go to the inn first. There you can collect information, hear hot rumours, get heathenishly intoxicated on mead, and start tavern brawls with other equal renegade swashbuckling sorts.

Yep, that’s what a hostel is – the inn of the traveller world. You may even come away with a new party member!

What are Hostels Like? The Facilities Offered.

There’s no one-true guide to hostels and their onboard amenities, but since this is a guide to the best hostels in Europe , let’s talk about the facilities you’ll find there. Most of this is pretty standard and if your chosen European hostel lacks it, they were probably just the outlier.

Features common to most good hostels in Europe (and many places elsewhere) include:

• Sleeping quarters – I’ll go over this more in-depth in the next section but this could cover anything from a capsule-style 30-bed dormitory all the way up to private rooms.
• Kitchen – And generally fully-stocked too! (With cookware, not food.) Cooking for yourself is going to be a crucial tool in mitigating the hostel costs in Europe.
• Lockers – Generally standard and included unless the place is super grungy.
• Shared bathroom and shower spaces – Could be inside the dorm or outside. In my experience, they’re usually unisex.
• Bar – If not a bar, then probably some alcohol somewhere on the premises. But probably a bar.
• Laundry room – And nearly always costs extra.
• Free WiFi – Yes, hostels in Europe have WiFi. “Free WiFi” is not an advertisable perk in 2024 anymore.
• Chillout space – Spaces range from meh to top-tier tripper den ambience! Usually, you’ll find at least one of the following: books, games, hippy-philosophical quotes about the freedom of the road , pool tables, hammocks, Tibetan Buddhist flags, instruments.

Sleeping in Hostels

So this is one of the key reasons why hostels can, and do, offer cheaper rates for accommodation – dormitories i.e. shared sleeping spaces ranging from as little as four peeps to an excessive number of peeps. No two hostel dormitories are the same but there are similarities.

The standard is bunk beds and therein lies the number one tip for staying in hostels: nab the bottom bunk. I’ll go into this more in the ‘Pros and Cons of Hostel Life’ section, but if you’re new to the hostel experience, you’ll quickly learn why. They give you a bit more privacy, easier access, and you’ll feel less like you’re in a storm at sea if your bunkmate likes to engage in mortal combat with ninja-pirates in their dreams.

Although much more common in developed Asian countries, capsule-style dorms are making a rise in popularity in newer hostels in Europe. They’re kinda like a room in a room! A small enclosed space with a bed and usually with curtains so you can read a book or phone-veg in relative peace.

Grungier hostels aimed at people who prefer to use their hard-earned travel budget on smokable delights may even eschew the beds altogether in exchange for a simple mattresses-on-the-floor scenario. Honestly, this is infinitely better than bunk beds – simple and effective!

And, for those who prefer their privacy, or have a companion to share with, many hostels do offer private rooms. They won’t be as expensive as a hotel, but they will be more expensive than the dorm. The added perk is that you’ll still get to experience the full vibe of backpacker-centric accommodation.

Other Hostel Facilities

Some extra things that are definitely worth keeping an eye out for when booking hostels. Some will help you save cash in Europe , some are awesome, and some are just my personal faves:

• Free breakfast – Definitely not an “always” but something to keep a lookout for when booking a hostel.
• Free tea and coffee – See above. Free coffee is always a win (even though it’ll be shit coffee).
• Hostel events – Sometimes at an extra charge, sometimes free, hostel events are common and nearly always social. Could be anything from a pub crawl to a walking tour to a games night to a pyjama party. Hell, I stayed at a place in Israel where they ran a hummus workshop
• Dorm bed amenities – A personal light, charging port, and sometimes even a shelf by your bed is absolutely legendary
• Free towels – Sometimes hostels offer a towel for free (as they should) and sometimes they’ll charge you extra. If they charge you, I’d say it’s free game to steal it when you checkout. Better yet, skip the nonsense and just travel with microfibre towel .
• The vibe – Not so much a facility, but it warrants a special mention. Staying in the right hostel can make or break your trip. Know your vibe and seek it. If you prefer your travellers with dreads and tattoos, find where they congregate. If you want to get loose and dance to techno in Berlin , choose a party hostel. If you’re a bit insane, well… probably look for dreads and tattoos again.

Are Hostels Safe?

Yes. Super duper Oompa Loompa safe!

I’d say the only real issue you need to be wary of in hostels is theft. Be mindful of your valuables and the rest will be Willy Wonka.

That’s not to say that hostels are a hotspot for theft; more just that jerks are everywhere. Besides, you’re a traveller now! Mindfulness of your surroundings and perceptivity is gonna become second nature to you: it’s safe travelling 101!

The best part about traveller-centric accommodation is that you’re roommates are travellers! Generally speaking, you’re going to find that the feeling in hostels is chill and people are open-hearted and only looking for good vibes, just the same as you. No one is gonna shank you in your sleep or give you a wedgie when you enter the common room.

BUT (there’s always a but), I’m a dude i.e., I have a penis. The follow-up question really ought to be “Are hostels safe for women?” It’s an unfortunate truth of travel that the experience is not equal among the genders.

Yes, hostels are safe for women. In my years of travelling, I am yet to hear a single account of a woman having that sort of experience in a hostel. However, I guarantee you that isolated incidents have occurred.

Although sleeping in a shared space actually increases safety, many hostels still offer female-only dormitories. There are even female-only hostels! Do only what you’re comfortable with and remember:

Good vibes only.

So now that you know what to expect from hostels themselves, what’s the lifestyle like? You could think of it as a giant sharehouse, but that wouldn’t be quite fair.

In a sharehouse, most people have lives, jobs, and adulting to attend to. In a hostel, people are there primarily with the purpose of travelling. That means that, in a way, hostel life is their life .

Conversations between strangers are sparked on a dime and making friends is easy! Most nights present some sort of opportunity to get messy, even if it’s just drunk ‘Shithead’. (Tip number two for staying in hostels: get used to playing cards.)

It’s a shared space but not even the most communal places in the world that I’ve crashed at don’t compare. Whether you’re in the mood or not, someone is always around.

Of course, however, that means that sharing a space requires a level of shared respect.

Hostel Etiquette

I’m gonna drill this one in because it’s of particular importance to me. Don’t be a douchecanoe.

It’s a shared space. Everybody paid the same to be there and everybody deserves an equal level of respect (and sleep).

The variables are wild, however, and a guide to hostel etiquette is never uniform. A party hostel’s considerations of what is appropriate are going to be very different from one that advertises itself for chilling and gentle night’s sleep. Use your common sense and when in doubt, ask the number one question of yourself (all the way from kindergarten):

If someone else was doing this, would I be ok with it?

Here are some general guidelines on not being that guy:

• Clean up after yourself – Your plates, rubbish, or puke. I once asked a British lass to clean out the remnants of her previous night’s shenanigans from the bathroom sink. If you wipe your ass at home, you wipe it at the hostel.
• Headphones – Always pack decent headphones for hostels, when you’re vegging in the dorm especially.
• Be friendly and smile – Everyone is a long way from home and you never know what’s going on for them. A smile and “Good morning!” can mean the world.
• Be nice to the staff – A smile and a good morning for them too!
• Sharing is caring – It’s a traveller thing. Share your food, joints, invite people on adventures, and leave behind your excess packing.
• Leave the ‘-isms’ and ‘-phobias’ at home – Or better yet, 6 feet under. Hostels are open spaces for all people.

Hostel Etiquette: Dorms

Man, there’s a whole other article in here. I’d call it “Not Being a Knob: Dorm Edition”. Here are some basics on good hostel dormitory etiquette:

• Keep the noise down – Duh.
• DO NOT TURN THE LIGHTS ON WHEN PEOPLE ARE SLEEPING – Use your phone-torch or a backpacking headlamp . There’s a special circle of hell reserved for light-switcher-onnerers where they’re forced to eat wasps while someone shines a torch in their eyes for all eternity.
• Don’t sleep naked – Actually, personally, I couldn’t care less, but some people do.
• Night-owls and early-birds – A French exit (or entry) is the name of the game. If you’re waking up for a sunrise adventure, pack the night before.
• Alarm snoozers… – …should also eat wasps. Why set an alarm if you’re not going to get out of bed?

Hostel Etiquette: Backpacking Sex

This could also merit its own article. Oh, wait: bow-chicka-wow-wow! Sex in hostels (and dorms) is a pretty complicated topic so let’s set one basic rule: except for some party and cheap hostels and grungier locales where it’s accepted, not in the dorm room.

Take one of the private rooms, bang in the shower, go find a nice park… just not in the dorm. Nobody wants to watch you have sex and anybody that does, you probably don’t want to watch you while you have sex.

Getting Called Out and Calling Others Out

You’re well within your rights to call someone out for being a tosser just as someone is well within their rights to call you out. You’re equally within your rights to alert staff if someone is being disrespectful. Still, if you can mediate the situation yourself, that’s better.

Some people will take it too far with their expectations and that, in of itself, is douchey. Don’t spit the dummy – communication is key. Here’s a quick anecdote:

Once I was working on my laptop in a dorm in the early afternoon. A man who was napping (the same one who’d checked in at 3 A.M. the night before, turned the light on, and chatted with his friend before going to bed) asked me to stop working because the sound of the keyboard typing was annoying.

Now, I could have told him to smoke my pole, but I didn’t. I gave him an exasperated look, said “Sure,” and moved to the common room. Later on that night he shared his beer with me and asked me to join him and his friends for some chilling.

Taking the high road is never a wrong choice.

Tips for Staying in Hostels

Bonus tips time!

• Pack earplugs and a sleeping mask – Earplugs especially are a hostel packing essential for a better night’s rest.
• A microfibre towel – One of my personal travel essentials.
• A headlamp – Another travel essential and perfect for dorms.
• And a tough padlock – Hostels that supply these for your locker are a rarity.
• Make that bottom bunk a home – I like to hang up my shawl for a curtain and put a toy tiger on my pillow (his name is Jerry). It makes it feel more like my space.
• Tag your food in the fridge – That way, when the body of the person who ate your leftover burrito is found, the judge will empathise.
• Headphones are excellent – For a different reason though. When you need some downtime or introversion, pop those badboys in. Seriously, they’re like Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak!
• Working in hostels in Europe – If you have the appropriate visa (or passport), this is a fantastic way to mitigate the hostel prices in Europe. Get a paying job, or find somewhere you can volunteer for a bed and feed – many hostels are always looking for helping hands.
• If you’re not enjoying the hostel you’re staying at… – Just leave. Go find somewhere else; that’s the beauty of travel.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

The Pros and Cons: Problems of Hostel Life

The pros are all pretty obvious: cheap accommodation, social vibes, making new friends… that’s all great! But the biggest problem with hostel life is also its biggest draw: sociability. It’s a double-edged sword.

It’s really hard to be solo travellers in a hostel because you’re never alone. People will strike up a conversation over breakfast, even if you just want to drink your coffee and read the news. Strangers are gonna hear you poop. Nearly everyone you meet is going to ask you where you’re from, how long you’ve been travelling, and what your tattoos mean.

The longer you’ve been staying in hostels, the older this gets. If you need space or are just burning out, take it.

Go and book a cheap hotel room , or better yet, an Airbnb. Maybe just go camp in the forest. Either way, respect your need for solace.

Righto! Now you have a pretty damn good idea of what a hostel is like! So now I’m moving on to the really pertinent stuff – the guide to hostels in Europe!

Perhaps it’s your first time backpacking in Europe . Maybe, it’s your first time backpacking altogether…

Fuck. Yes. Good on you, you awesome creature! Ready for an adventure?

Whether you’re new to hostels or a veteran, European hostels will put you up nicely. Fun fact: the world’s first hostel was founded in Germany, so you’re in good hands. Since the early days, hostelling has only gotten easier and more accessible. There are plenty of amazing hostel chains in Europe that have really proven themselves over the years.

All around Europe, you’ll find excellent places to stay and there really is something for everyone. It helps that the competition is so fierce so truly terrible hostels are a rarity in Europe.

That said, some are better than others.

Youth Hostelling in Europe: The Vibe

You’ll be hard-pressed to find something truly crappy. Europe is a good introduction to hostelling before you get to the danker (and more adventurous) parts of the world. Generally speaking, you can expect all the amenities I listed above coupled with a clean environment and probably more.

Hostels in Europe are also safe and filled with young travellers, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. A lot of Europeans earn their traveller stripes on their home continent during a uni break or gap year and a lot of fresh Yanks too. Also, Australians, but only because they’re everywhere – sorry ‘bout that!

Even when not at one of Europe’s many party hostels, you’ll still find a pretty big party emphasis. Europe may be expensive but the drugs sure aren’t!

The last thing of note about European hostels is that Europe is big. Saying “European hostels” is about as meaningless as saying “Asian hostels” . Whether you’re comparing youth hostels in Western to Eastern Europe, Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, or the Baltics to Turkey (na, jokes, Turkey wishes), it changes a lot.

The culture, language, food, and, definitely, the cost of hostels change across Europe. The types of travellers that go to Berlin (and their reasons for doing so) are very different from the travellers that venture to Romania. It’s a real wide net.

European Hostels: It’s a Real Wide Net

I can’t very well break down Europe regionally (I could but that’d result in something more akin to a thesis than a blog post). I can, however, break down the types of hostels in Europe that you can expect to find.

Everyone and their mum tends to break these down differently but here’s how I consider the types of hostels:

• Budget Hostels – I class these differently from standard hostels. They’ll dump a few fineries and perks in exchange for lower prices.
• Standard Hostels – Hostels that represent everything hostel when you hear the word hostel.
• Boutique Hostels – There are plenty of names for these but they’re generally a lot more swanky-dank. Higher class design and some more luxury facilities at a higher price.
• Party Hostels – It’s in the name. These will generally lack a curfew and are much more accepting of rowdy behaviours, delicious substances, and copious amounts of sex.
• Chill Hostels – The yang to party hostel’s yin. The focus is on quiet and homely places to meet folks, read a book, and get a good night’s rest.
• Nature Hostels – Generally, just somewhere outside the urban sprawl of a city; perhaps on a mountain or in a nice town by a forest.
• Hippy Palaces – Dirtbag dens or grunge grottos are also appropriate names. This is where you’ll find the normal people. 😉

The Average Cost of Hostels in Europe

Let’s say, for the sake of numbers, that the average price of hostels in Europe is 15-30 USD . Again though, Europe is big and there is a lot of variation.

The classic destinations in Western Europe are pricey with hostels that can cost upwards of $40-$45 (in places like London, Paris, and Amsterdam). Head east, however, and things level out. You can find some of Europe’s best cheap hostel offerings here with places bottoming out as low as $5-$10 in countries like Romania, Poland, and Hungary.

Of course, you’re going to probably plan your travels in Europe based on your dream itinerary. It’s fair to say though that not all of Europe is crushingly expensive and there are definitely places to travel to if your budget is guiding you more.

Plus, I’d take Budapest over Paris any day.

Ok, so now that I’ve broken down what a hostel in Europe is (and what to expect), I bet you’re wondering about the best way to find one and book that sucker! (Other than this guide, of course.)

Instead of drowning you in sweet, sweet deetz, I’m making it simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to booking a hostel in Europe.

Step 1 – Research Phase: How to Find a GOOD Hostel in Europe

You could head to any hostel booking site and sort by ratings > descending. It’s a good starting point but I don’t recommend it as the best way to find a hostel – Europe or anywhere else.

I have two tried-and-true methods:

• Hit up Google and type in ‘best hostels in X’ (‘X’ being your chosen destination). You’re going to be presented with a range of roundups from TripAdvisor to blogs that have carefully selected their choices. If “thebrokebackpacker.com” is in the URL, you’re on to a winner.
• Dip into your network of trusted travel connections and get some recommendations. Generally, your friends like the same thing as you so that’s a good start and this is always my favourite method.

Step 2 – Research Harder: Revenge of the Research

Now that you’ve narrowed down the selection of the best European hostels, it’s time to get technical: start reading those descriptions!

Suss the vibe… Is there a free breakfast, movie nights, free walking tours, free tea and coffee, or bicycles to hire? Read the reviews and look for anything to tip you off as to whether it’s the right (or wrong) place to stay for you.

In particular, look for reviews from people that may seek the same thing as you or the opposite. For example, if I find a review that complains that the staff is always stoned and playing loud electronic music, I book dat shit!

Step 3 – Compare the Costs Before Booking that Hostel

Before you go hitting any confirm buttons, you want to make sure you’re getting the best price. Prices can vary between the different hostel booking sites for Europe (more on that in a sec) and even saving a few dollaridoos (euroidoos…?) goes a long way for your travel budget.

HostelZ is an excellent source for comparing costs and finding a hostel in Europe. Alternatively, you can check these things manually across the booking platforms.

It’s also definitely worth mentioning that, if there’s a vacancy, ye olde fashioned walk-in will sometimes net you the cheapest price simply by way of a last-minute reservation or by skipping the booking platform’s service charge.

The Best Sites for Booking Hostels in Europe

There are lots of these and they’re all the same but different:

• Directly booking through a hostel’s website – This will often net the cheapest price and is always worth checking out first!
• Hostelworld – The classical choice for backpackers worldwide and my number one choice.
• Booking.com – These guys work in a lot more fields than just hostels so you’re going to need to filter out all that hotel/villa/ ”I have too much disposable income” nonsense. Personally, I’m not a fan of Booking’s UI.
• Hostelling International – These guys focus on not-for-profit organisations and provide a nice range of youth hostels around Europe with the altruistic vibes to compensate.
• Airbnb –  Yup, Airbnb has hostel listings these days too!

Ok, you’re so informed on youth hostelling in Europe by now that you’re practically already practising your cheek kisses! It’s time to unearth that top pick of Europe’s hostel offerings for your adventure.

I’ve broken these down into several categories and the first is simply a lifting of the top hostel pick from some of our European content (namely, the most famous and frequented destinations in Europe). If you’re looking for a hostel in one of the major European cities that are a bit more unique and interesting, they’re coming up later – I promise you.

Don’t worry, boo; I gotchu! Now gimme that sloppy cheek kiss.

Wombat’s City Hostel – Best Hostel in London, England

As you hostel around Europe like a pro, you’re going to quickly discover some repeat offenders… of the crime of offering fucking awesome hostels! Wombat’s Hostels is a chain of the most famous hostels in Europe and they’ve won a bunch of awards too, so they gotta be doing something right!

So, yeah, they offer good hostels in Europe, and Wombats in London is no exception. Super clean, modern amenities (the dorms and lockers even have smart card locks), and private showers in all the rooms. They even got a buffet breakfast (two of my four favourite words in the English language) for an extra charge.

Wombat’s City Hostel, London, is in a dope spot for backpackers exploring The Big Smoke and is an all-round just a solidly awesome hostel. The only real downside I can think of is that you’re in London!

St Christopher’s Inn Gare Du Nord – Best Hostel in Paris, France

A hop across the channel and you’ll find yourself in Europe’s next most quintessential travel destination – The City of Lights. Right by the metro and in a dope spot of its own, St Christopher’s is one of the best places to stay both in Europe and Paris.

The dorms are sweet. Though not quite a capsule, the beds are their own personal space with curtains, reading lamps, and charging ports right next to your head! You’ll also be nabbing a discount on food at Belushi’s downstairs plus that sweet, sweet happy hour

For all help on unpacking the Parisian wonderland, there’s a 24-hour reception, and they can get you set up with both attraction tickets for both backpacking around Paris and onward travel tickets for elsewhere in Europe. Not bad, all in all!

ClinkNOORD – Best Hostel in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Oh, Amsterdam – you knew it’d be on here. Like, it’s Amsterdam. Expect it to be on this list more than once.

This isn’t the most hedonistic place for what can only be described as the ‘ essential Amsterdam experience ’, but it is certainly one of Europe’s nicest boutique hostels. Comfortable beds and chillout areas and the space itself is pretty spectacular in its own right!

It’s close to downtown yet enjoys the vibe of the much more chill but vibrant places to stay in Amsterdam -Noord neighbourhood and ClinkNOORD is also close to some cultural hotspots to admire too (yes, Amsterdam does have culture as well). Other than that, it’s got all the amenities you would expect from one of Europe’s absolute best hostels.

Grand Hostel Berlin Classic – Best Hostel in Berlin, Germany

This is one of Europe’s cheaper hostels and not too shabby at all for budget travelers in Berlin ! And there are no bunk beds… dude, I’m in love!

Honestly, the whole setup is really damn cool; the building is old – dating back to 1874 – which means some real classical architecture but, of course, the amenities have been updated for modern Euro-backpacker standards. And there are no bunk beds – single beds with a nightstand. Just like home.

The free breakfast buffet (there’s my beloved BB again) costs a bit extra but considering the price of the hostel, that’s admissible. Besides, there’s a library bar and this is Berlin so that means you can get piss-drunk on cheap-ass beer while you catch up on some of the classics. Legend has it that Einstein, Kant, Nietzsche, and Marx rather enjoyed their cheap-ass beer too!

Onefam Paralelo – Best Hostel in Barcelona, Spain

Now we’re heading south to Mediterranean Europe. It’s still Europe down this way but the weather is better! Also, the people smile a bit more (I probably wouldn’t smile much either if I was from the country that spawned old Frieddy ‘Abyss’ Nietzsche).

Backpacking in Barcelona is a weird one – some people adore it, some loathe it – but it’s still a classic hit on the Europe itinerary tracklist and Onefam Paralelo is hella dope! Free dinners (I’m frothing), a cinema room with Netflix (for while you eat your free dinner), and free party-pub crawls. As a general rule, the more free stuff you’re getting, the better choice of a place to stay in Europe on a budget it is.

The dorms are good too – those semi-private semi-capsule style beds – and the real thing to write home about is the crazy friendly staff bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. It’s nothin’ but good vibes.

Sunset Destination Hostel – Best Hostel in Lisbon, Portugal

Though perhaps not quite as frequented as Spain, Portugal is excellent. It’s not strictly cheap but it ain’t gonna murder your budget either and it certainly helps that the drugs and festivals are top-notch! There are some dope-ass beaches too!

Sunset Destination is a boutique hostel located inside a train station so which makes travelling around Lisbon mind-numbingly easy. It’s also super close to the party district and, again, Portugal brings the goods in that department (plus those delectable Mediterranean genetics – wink-wink ). Expect free Sangria pre-drinks before you lose yourself on the pub crawl.

Dorm beds are semi-private pods, there’s a whole host of other awesome hostel events, and, overall, I just have a real soft spot for Portugal. So, yup, this is a damn cool hostel in Europe!

The Yellow – Best Hostel in Rome, Italy

So this is advertised pretty firmly as a party hostel and it honestly makes the cut as one of Europe’s best. It’s also the coolest hostel in Rome; the other honourable mentions just didn’t hold up. There’s a lot on offer here.

To start, it is a party hostel so there’ll always be something vibing. The on-site bar and nightclub gets live music, DJ sets, and even goddamn burlesque shows! There are plenty of other low-key events too like gelato making and yoga but considering it’s a party hostel, I’m sure no one will mind if you’d like to pre-drink before the yoga to spice things up.

Breakfast is cheap, the dorms are simple yet effective, and the location is in the city center which makes travelling around Rome and the major things to see a breeze. Overall, with or without the partying, The Yellow is still a kickass place to stay in Rome!

The next batch of sexy European hostels is coming up and these ones come straight from word of mouth. I got in touch with many of my globetrotting, island-hopping, continent-crusading, most-adventurous travel-friends (that have backpacked in Europe), and these are the recommendations that came in.

You’re going to notice a slightly different theme with these hostel picks: a step away from all the cliché ‘top of the charts’ tourist draws in Europe. Generally, I’d say that’s because backpackers of the broke variety steer clear of these places.

It’s accepted that the most adventurous parts of Europe – and the cheapest – are over on the other side (dun-dun-dunnn) . The failure of the Soviet State did wonderful things for the alternative-backpacker trail in Europe!

Plus Budapest. The crazies love Budapest.

Freeborn Hostel – Best Hostel in Timisoara, Romania

Instead of writing this myself, I’m just going to condense my friend’s recommendation because she nails it:

The good part about being located in Romania is that it’s crazy cheap. Freeborn Hostel is super tiny and it’s run by Raul and his mother and it’s Raul’s baby. He’s there every day, he gives out free shots of homemade Pálinka and tells guests about the history of the country which no one really knows about because nobody gives a shit about Romania sadly.

Raul is such a good bloke with a heart of gold. The place is super cosy, maybe 12 beds, and you can sit around and play Mario Kart and chess. It’s a little bit of a hippy vibe, but not really, with more of a total family vibe from being with Raul and his mother.

These are the hostels I travel for. Freeborn is, without a doubt, one of the coolest hostels in Eastern Europe.

Swanky Mint Hostel – Best Hostel in Zagreb, Croatia

That name sounds like something I’d come up with. Ridiculousness aside, my friend pitched this as a perfect first-time experience of staying in hostels in Europe and I totally agree! Everything is swanky mint!

Jokes aside, the facilities and the building itself are super yummy! You get sun terraces, a swimming pool, window gardens for a splash of nature in the city: it’s actually super pretty!

The vibe is social and you’ll catch a bit of a party here but it ain’t nearly as bananas as somewhere like Budapest.

The added bonus is that you’re staying in a hostel in Eastern Europe. Backpacking in Croatia (and the Balkans as a whole) is gorgeous and a nice departure from the usual backpacker stops in Europe. You even get a welcome drink of Rakija . Hospitality shots are true classical European style.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – Best Hostel in Copenhagen, Denmark

As my mate said: it’s a really price for the city it’s in. Yep, so visiting Copenhagen isn’t exactly the great off-beat journey through the Eastern Bloc (not even close), but it’s still a step away from the standard in Europe.

The price of this hostel is good for such an extremely expensive city in Europe and the facilities are equally on-point. The bar runs all night, there’s a fairly priced, all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet (absolute heaven), and there are even iPads to borrow!

Downtown Hostel is centrally located in Copenhagen’s old city which means it’s a perfect spot for anything you want to do from the local goodies to the tourist jazz. On top of all that, the atmosphere (and the staff) is super chill. There’s probably a reason it won ‘Most Popular Hostel in Copenhagen’ five times over.

Flying Pig Beach Hostel – Best Hostel in Noordwijk, The Netherlands

The friend that recommended Flying Pig in Noordwijk only stays at awesome places and she’s never led me wrong yet. If she says that here is dope, then dope is what it is. Being within walking distance to the beach is a nice plus!

They run a regular shuttle to and from Amsterdam so the partying is still on and you’ll find yourself some more low-key party vibes in the hostel itself too. The bar keeps it cheap, the facilities are good, and overall, it’s a very nice alternative for someone hostelling in Europe that still wants to do some things in Amsterdam but doesn’t quite want to dive headfirst into the craziness.

Grandio Party Hostel – Best Hostel in Budapest, Hungary

The friend I got this from is from my hometown and the thing about folks from Byron Bay… they’re wild. If she says this is a place to get loose, then you’re gonna get fucking loose!  Welcome to the Budapest backpacking experience .

Grungy, covered in graffiti, and filled with people looking to drown their brain cells and mortal terror in copious amounts of booze, this is one of the most fun hostels in Europe that you’ll stay at. Let’s be real, there’s little point coming here unless you wanna get messy.

Budapest’s most famous bars and clubs are a walking distance away and they can even organise a cheaper shuttle from the airport for you. That way, you can free up brain space for the throwdown.

Despite the grunginess, Grandio is still a totally safe hostel by European standards: lockers, electronic keys, and people just looking for a good time. The staff is equally onboard with the shenanigans too!

The Ginger Monkey – Best Hostel in High Tatras, Slovakia

A nature hostel in the mountains: yum yum yum. The friend who recommended Ginger Monkey likes long walks in nature without shoes, and I know for a fact that she’s had some pretty top-tier adventures in the wilds of Slovakia!

You get a beautiful outlook of the mountains from a place that feels more like a house than a hostel. Everything is cosy and the cutiepie pooch, Wally, only makes things feel even homier!

Slovakia has got some mind-blowing nature and the best part of this hostel is how close you are to it. There’s a whole range of activities you can do from like hiking, climbing, cycling, and even skiing and snowboarding in the winter! One way or another, it’s mega pretty!

I’ve already got a whole roundup of the most insane party hostels in Europe so I’d highly recommend checking that out if that’s the vibe ye be seeking. I’ve also already mentioned a couple (if you’ve been paying attention) but I hand-selected a few more. There’s a lot of culture and history in Europe but… who cares!

There’s a lot of MDMA and techno too.

Carpe Noctem – Best Party Hostel in Budapest, Hungary

Yep, so it’s Budapest and it’s another friend’s recommendation but I’ll be straight: I received five accommodation recommendations for Budapest and they were all off-the-hook party hostels. This one my friend described as “Anarchy”. I’m seeing a recurring theme with Budapest.

As well as a lively hostel, I’d say this is one of the best hostels in Europe for solo travellers purely for the atmosphere Carpe Noctem creates. It’s not just the sociability or the parties or the tight facilities (this hostel isn’t nearly as grungy): the owners cater themselves to travellers. They understand what it’s like to be a long way from home by yourself in a foreign land and their goal is to create a place that feels like home.

The added bonus on top of all that good stuff? Sweet Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, they know how to lay down. Get ready for the bananas, cause that shit’s coming in hot!

Flying Pig Downtown – Best Party Hostel in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Yup, we’re heading back to the Netherlands again but, I mean, it’s Amsterdam, right? It’s fair to say there’s a lot of beauty to see in Amsterdam outside the hedonistic debauchery, but you’re here for the hedonistic debauchery.

Flying Pig Downtown (sister hostel to the previous Flying Pig) is right in the thick of it; it’s only 10 minutes from the Red Light District! (You do you, man.) They host DJ nights and parties and they’re open 24-hours so you can rock up in any state at any time and, presumably, you’ll make it back to your bed in one piece.

It’s one of the top hostels in the Netherlands for partying and it deserves a mention because… well… Amsterdam. C’mon…

Greg & Tom’s Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Krakow, Poland

With free breakfast and dinner, why ever leave the hostel? Oh yeah… To par-tay down!

Although one of Europe’s finest lively hostels, things are safe and clean and especially warm to solo travellers. And the drinks are cheap too! Actually, the list of freebies is pretty damn exhaustive (breakfast, dinner, earplugs, coffee/tea, computer use, ticket printing…); they really take care of you.

This is good because you’re going to be nursing your addled brain a lot. This is a party hostel in Eastern Europe and Krakow is another place to stay  to forget about all those pesky problems you left waiting at home. Let the good times roll! Among other things…

Get Insured Before Hostelling in Europe

Mmm, yum, drugs, booze, sleepless nights, and unprotected sex with strangers: my favourite!

Is that what you’re saying, hmm? Didn’t yo’ momma teach ya better? Mine did which is why I got travel insurance for Europe! (…Eventually.)

All things said and done, you should always consider travel insurance before travelling and hostelling ANYWHERE.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

In my journey to unearth the best hostels in Europe right around the continent, I found some pretty unique offerings. Choices that are a little bit out of the way or attempting something a little different from the standard backpacker affair.

I like places like that. Places like that deserve a shoutout. Here are a few shoutouts.

Hostel Celica – A Prison in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Wait… a prison? Yep, I’ve never slept in a cave nor have I slept in a prison! (I have slept in the back of a paddywagon though.)

So, it’s a unique prison hotel in Ljubljana – Slovenia’s capital. But it’s not just any accommodation… it’s a funky one! Yeah, so I’m a bit concerned there may be some mild haunting occurring, but I also once slept in a graveyard so it’s probably chill.

Dark and foreboding locations aside, they’ve actually won a crapton of awards and they’ve done a really good job of jazzing up something so morbid. You still get all the hostel goodies – plus a special price on experiencing Ljubljana Castle – except you’re in a prison! And, if you’re not comfortable sleeping in a prison cell, they have standard dorms too, though I do highly question why you headed all the way out to Slovenia to NOT sleep in a prison cell.

Kadir’s Tree House – Best Hostel in Olympos, Turkey

Wait, Turkey? Yeah, well, I felt kinda bad about that off-colour Turkey crack before plus I figured if you levelled up to Eastern Europe and you wanted to go deeper, I would highly recommend travelling to Turkey (and onwards to the Caucasus region) next. Also, sometime in the next decade Turkey is probably gonna be Europe anyway so I’m just future-proofing this post!

Anyway, located in Olympos on the Southern Coast of Turkey, the nature here is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous and you’re right in it! Stay in a treehouse (yes please), or camp or they even have private rooms with ensuites. That said, if you take private ensuite accommodation when there’s a cheap treehouse available, you probably need to rethink your priorities.

So yeah, I’m stretching top cheap hostels in Europe now, but I wanna give Turkey some love too. They seem to get a bad rap in a lot of places in the world and I really don’t know why. The country is phenomenally gorgeous and the Turks are super endearing; bookmark this for when Western Europe gets boring.

Wiki Hostel & Green Village – An Alternative Hostel in Rome, Italy

I wanted to put this down as the city’s best hostel, but it’s a short distance outside all of Rome’s central tourist areas so I relented. It’s a super pretty hostel, however, as well as a great hostel in Europe for families.

It’s sustainable, plastic-free, and this hostel boasts its own farm and cute critter-life. Located in the Roman Hills, there’s a wealth of gorgeous nature around and you can organise to get involved in hiking or just help out on the farm.

The freebies are a nice touch too: free rides to the train station, free breakfast, free sauna (boom)… there’s even a slackline! All these goodies combined with the nature yumminess and the distance from the city center of an admittedly hectic city means it’s a unique hostel in Europe not just for families but also couples seeking a getaway (on a budget).

Caveland – A Uniquely Setup Hostel in Santorini, Greece

I felt like Greece’s backpacking scene was being underrepresented and is oft forgotten by the Europe travellers, so I wanted to show them some love. I haven’t been to Greece, sadly; I did, however, fly through Athens and even the view from the airport terminal was stunning!

So what’s unique about this European hostel? It’s just, like, an escape… plus it’s in a cave!

Located outside the capital of Santorini Island, the whole place has a quiet-retreat vibe going on. They still have all the hostel goodies (free breakfast, events, a swimming pool) but you have the added bonus of being tucked away in a Grecian village with the locals.

Oh yeah, and the cave thing? There are eight traditional cave dwellings inside the historic complex. I have slept in a lot of weird places but I am yet to sleep in a cave!

• Best Hostels in London
• Best Hostels in Paris
• Best Hostels in Amsterdam
• Best Hostels in Berlin
• Best Hostels in Barcelona
• Best Hostels in Lisbon
• Best Hostels in Rome
• Best Hostels in Zagreb
• Best Hostels in Copenhagen
• Best Hostels in Krakow
• Best Hostels in Budapest
• Best Hostels in Ljubljana
• Best Hostels in UK
• Best Hostels in France
• Best Hostels in Germany
• Best Hostels in Spain
• Best Hostels in Portugal
• Best Hostels in Italy

What coverage! If you weren’t feeling the vibe of staying in hostels in Europe before, I bet you are now.

If all you’re seeking is the typical European backpacking hostel experience, that’s easy… Super easy. And you’ll have an awesome time too! Just because a lot of the classical capitals are tourist traps doesn’t mean they aren’t also filled with culture, history, and secrets to unearth from beneath the grime.

But, as I hope I’ve made clear, Europe is big and filled with countries I often even forget are countries. Just check out Eurovision! You wanna talk about bananas, there’re your goddamn bananas!

So go out there and get exploring: it’s a big continent. From the trance of Berlin to the trees of the Balkans, there is a lot to see. And since you’ll be exploring some of Europe’s finest hostel offerings, you’re going to meet a lot of fantastic humans too!

I’d even be so bold as to say that you’re probably going to make some friends. Just gotta head on down to ye olde inn – the backpacker hostel.

Bring a towel.

• Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Europe for a wealth of info!
• Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Europe to avoid any issues. 
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

Ziggy Samuels

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great article, well informed for a newbie, just venturing to Europe from the us…

what is the average size of the lockers? will it fit a full-size suitcase or a 65l back pack?

For the most part, yes. Lockers can generally accommodate your whole backpack.

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The Backpacker Network

23 Amazing Hostels in Europe

As you plan the backpacking trip of your dreams through Europe, accommodation is a crucial factor. Happily, the continent’s diversity extends to accommodation and while the most budget-friendly accommodation choice for backpackers is likely a hostel, not all hostels are created equal! 

Unfortunately, there are some pretty terrible European hostels out there, with thin walls, below-standard cleanliness, and poor security. It’s critical to do your research before booking and to help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of some of Europe’s best hostels. Catering for a variety of different travelers from shoestring to flashpackers, you’ll find a somewhere to inspire here!

Related: (opens in new tab)

• Backpacking Routes Through Europe
• Top European Backpacking Destinations
• Top Places in Europe for Party-Goers!

Hostels in Europe: The Ultimate Guide

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. We always write our articles before checking if affiliate links are available.

🛌 Best Hostels in Europe: Quick Answers!

• Best Hostel in Europe for Families: Ostello Bello, Lake Como
• Best Hostel in Europe for Couples: Little Quarter, Prague
• Best Hostel in Europe for Solo Travelers: The People Hostel, Lille 
• Best Hostel in Europe for Solo Female Travelers: The Passenger, Porto
• Best Hostel in Europe for Digital Nomads: City Backpackers, Stockholm
• Best Hostel in Europe for Party Animals: Kabul, Barcelona
• Best Hostel in Europe for Architecture Fans: Maverick Hostel, Budapest  
• Best Hostel in Europe for History Buffs: Franz Ferdinand Hostel, Sarajevo
• Best Hostel in Europe for Mature Travelers: Skyewalker Hostel, Isle of Skye  

23 Best Hostels in Europe for Backpackers

1. the flying pig downtown hostel.

• Location: Amsterdam , Netherlands
• Price range: €–€€
• Best feature: DJs and themed parties

Compare prices💰: Booking.com | Hostelworld  | Expedia

The Flying Pig is definitely the place to be for party lovers. While their uptown location (overlooking the Vondelpark, near Amsterdam’s best museums) is more relaxed, their downtown location is where the party gets started. 

Featuring free linen, free breakfast, kitchen access, and a book exchange, the in-house bar and the hostel’s location is what draws many guests. They offer themed party nights, DJs, and easy access to hotspots like the Red Light District and Dam Square.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tasch (@taschfish)

2. City Backpackers  

• Location: Stockholm, Sweden
• Best feature: Sauna

Compare prices💰: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Expedia

City Backpackers is located in the hip area of Norrmalm, a stone’s throw from many of Stockholm’s best attractions. Featuring super-comfortable beds and rooms, a cozy café and outdoor seating area with free coffee and tea 24/7, and access to a huge common room, kitchen, and even a sauna, this hostel has so many perks that you may find it difficult to leave! 

Additionally, the staff offers a wide variety of free or cheap events, making this hostel a great place to meet new people and an ideal place for Europe’s digital nomads . 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by City Backpackers Stockholm (@cbpstockholm)

• Location: Barcelona, Spain
• Best feature: Downstairs common area

Compare prices💰: Booking.com | Hostelworld

With a massive common area that takes up a full floor, Kabul is the place to be if you’re in search of a good time. In fact, it often tops the rankings when it comes to the best party hostels in Europe. A word to the wise– this hostel is quite rowdy, so it’s only recommended for those who really want to party. It’s an adults-only hostel, and their own website advertises that not much sleeping goes on there! 

The staff organizes outings pretty much every night, and the hostel is super-conveniently located in Barcelona’s Ciutat Vella, making it a great choice for those seeking to party all night and enjoy (free) breakfast the next morning.     

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kabul Party Hostel (@kabul_party_hostel)

4. Archi Rossi  

• Location: Florence, Italy  
• Price range: €€–€€€
• Best feature: Drool-worthy breakfast

Compare prices💰: Booking.com

The breakfast at Archi Rossi has to be seen to be believed. Featuring a full menu made to order in a traditional Tuscan-style house, you can transition from breakfast right to the included hot tub and sauna facilities to relax. If you’re feeling extra-decadent, there are other wellness add-ons available, like a massage or spa treatment. 

Located within walking distance to most of the city’s top attractions, there’s also a bustling common area to make new friends and a lovely outdoor garden and terrace perfect for a glass of Tuscan wine.  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julia Lozovskaya (@seillina_jul)

5. Ostello Bello  

• Location: Lake Como, Italy
• Best feature: Waterfront access to Lake Como

While ‘waterfront Lake Como’ doesn’t exactly conjure up images of budget-friendly accommodation, allow us to introduce you to a gem: Ostello Bello is located a mere 3-minute walk from the water, and has a host of amenities and perks for guests. 

Among others, there’s an on-site bar with live music, happy hour, and stand-up comedy, a grilling area, and a private bathroom in every room. If you’re seeking a shoestring way to visit the swanky Lake Como, this is a great option, particularly for families.   

View this post on Instagram A post shared by OSTELLO BELLO (@ostellobello)

Also read: Visiting Lake Como in Winter . 

6. Little Quarter Hostel

• Location: Prague, Czech Republic
• Price range: €€
• Best feature: Superb location

Located only a few steps from Prague Castle in the Malá Strana area, Little Quarter is a cozy and quaint hostel that is surprisingly quiet and romantic for its location. 

It offers both dorm rooms and private rooms, both with comfortable beds and space to spread out, as well as a free breakfast. This hostel is also pet-friendly for those traveling with furry friends. Its location makes it particularly popular with couples.    

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hostel Little Quarter (@hostel_little.quarter)

7. Maverick Hostel  

• Location: Budapest, Hungary
• Price range: €
• Best feature: Architecture

If you’ve ever hoped to have the opportunity to stay in a chic, turn-of-the-century royal mansion on a budget, Maverick Hostel is your chance. Originally built by the Habsburgs, the hostel retains its glamor, located right in the middle of Budapest – mere steps from the Danube and the gorgeous city’s main attractions. 

The hostel also has a variety of activities available, including bike rides, bar crawls, and movie nights, making it a great place to meet new friends to explore Budapest together.   

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maverick Hostels & Lodges (@mavericklodges)

8. The People Hostel

• Location: Lille, France
• Best feature: Planned activities

Not just a hostel, The People Hostel is also a community center, focused on building community through concerts, exhibits, workshops, and other events. They have a really impressive calendar, updated to highlight what they have on each month, from painting classes to dance and cooking lessons. 

Located in Gastama, Lille’s ‘old city’, the traditional red-brick building also provides a dose of history. Keep in mind that towels aren’t included in the dorm-style rooms but are available to rent. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The People Hostel (@the_people_hostel)

9. ArkaBarka Floating Hostel  

• Location: Belgrade, Serbia
• Best feature: Boat location

ArkaBarka Floating Hostel is true to its name in that it literally floats on the Danube! While the rooms are understandably a bit small, it’s worth it to experience getting to stay on a boat. 

The hostel is located right in front of a park, near the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Palace of Serbia, and is walkable to most of Belgrade’s other attractions. You can borrow bikes to explore Belgrade for free or take advantage of barbecue facilities or the onboard snack bar. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Reklamne salvete (@reklamne_salvete)

10. Vertigo Vieux-Port  

• Location: Marseilles, France
• Best feature: Local art

Located in the heart of downtown Marseilles in the Old Port area, Vertigo Vieux-Port is a stone’s throw from the city’s best attractions, as well as only about a half-hour drive from the stunning Calanques National Park. 

Each room in the hostel was decorated by a local artist, and the staff have been hired based on their knowledge of the area and their language skills. Here they pride themselves on their ability to communicate and share their tips about their city with guests from all over the world.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vertigo Hostel (@vertigohostel)

11. The Passenger Hostel  

• Location: Porto , Portugal
• Best feature: Iconic architecture

Located inside the iconic São Bento Train Station, The Passenger Hostel doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , showcasing gorgeous architecture and chic, sleek, and comfy rooms. 

There are numerous places to hang out, including a bar in the ‘underroof’ part of the old station, a library, and an art gallery in the clocktower. The hostel is committed to being eco-friendly and is also particularly recommended for solo female travelers. Rooms, lockers, etc. are accessed using a bracelet that you get at check-in. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Passenger Hostel (@thepassengerhostel)

12. The Hat  

• Location: Madrid, Spain
• Best feature: Bang for your buck

Located in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, The Hat styles itself as the city’s first boutique hostel – a “hostel that feels like a hotel” while maintaining a commitment to low costs. 

Formerly a large mansion, the hostel boasts a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the city, free breakfast, free city tours, concerts, and other activities to enjoy. Note that the base breakfast (coffee, tea, toast, yogurt) is included, but other food can be added on for additional cost, and towels and padlocks must be rented when you check-in.    

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Las Rutas de Begoña (@lasrutasdebegona)

13. YellowSquare  

• Location: Rome, Italy
• Best feature: Party in the bar, quiet in the rooms

Unlike some other party hostels, YellowSquare strives for the best of both worlds in terms of throwing great parties but still letting guests sleep at night. 

Located a short walk from Rome’s main train station, Termini, as well as most of the most popular sites in the Eternal City, YellowSquare has a DJ every night, as well as a well-rated restaurant, walking tours, and bar crawls.     

View this post on Instagram A post shared by YellowSquare (@yellowsquarehostel)

14. The Circus  

• Location: Berlin, Germany  
• Best feature: Microbrewery

Located super-centrally in the Mitte section of Berlin, it’s an easy walk to attractions like the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate from The Circus Hostel. The hostel is ultra-charming, decorated in a circus and comic book theme, and features its own microbrewery on the premises. 

The staff organizes walking tours, yoga classes, and other activities. Linens are included, and a variety of other things are available to borrow free of charge (such as hairdryers, locks, and other necessities.) 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hotel | Hostel | Apartments (@thecircus_berlin)

15. Franz Ferdinand Hostel  

• Location: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Best feature: Themed decor

The most-booked accommodation in Sarajevo, the Franz Ferdinand Hostel is located right next to the city’s main thoroughfare, Baščaršija. The rooms are themed, and the hostel tells the story of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the geopolitics of the time, often said to be the catalyst for the First World War. 

Offering a calm, cozy ambiance, this is a great place both for those who prefer to keep to themselves and for those seeking to make friends while traveling. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕱𝖗𝖆𝖓𝖟 𝕱𝖊𝖗𝖉𝖎𝖓𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝕳𝖔𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖑 (@franzferdinandhostel)

16. Les Piaules

• Location: Paris, France
• Best feature: Rooftop terrace and bar areas

Often in the running for best hostel in Paris, Les Piaules is super-chic. Located in an Art Deco building in the trendy Parc de Belleville neighborhood, there’s a rooftop terrace, ‘chimney’ lounge, and a downstairs bar – all of which are popular with guests and locals alike. 

While breakfast isn’t free, it’s quite inexpensive and worth considering given the price of food in Paris. Relatedly, while not a shoestring hostel, it’s reasonably priced for Paris, a city where lodging tends to be very expensive.    

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Epic Vagabond Life (@epicvagabondlife)

17. Split Guesthouse & Hostel

• Location: Split, Croatia
• Best feature: Cleanliness

Compare prices💰: Hostelworld

The Split Guesthouse & Hostel is usually ranked the top hostel in Split. Offering free coffee whenever you want it, a solid, central location in Split’s Old Town, and a good mix between socializing and sleeping well at night, you really can’t go wrong at this hostel. 

Bed linens and towels are included, and guests are particularly wowed by the cleanliness and size of the bathrooms.   

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daniel Alexander (@dan.fran.cisco)

18. Athens Backpackers Hostel  

• Location: Athens, Greece
• Best feature: Rooftop terrace

Climb up to the gorgeous two-level rooftop terrace of the Athens Backpackers Hostel and you will see a splendid, unobstructed view of the Acropolis, with the entrance to the amazing historical monument a mere 100 meters away. 

Located smack-dab in the middle of the city center, this hostel offers bright and spacious rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to cool areas like Monastiraki and other historical and cultural attractions.    

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Athens Backpackers Hostel (@athensbackpackers)

19. MEININGER Brussels City Center

• Location: Brussels, Belgium
• Best feature: Comfort

Located in a former brewery on the Canal Bruxelles-Charleroi, the high ceilings and original accents in the bar area at MEININGER Brussels City Center make this a chic place to hang out between sightseeing jaunts in the European Union capital. 

Billiards and a games room are a great way to meet other people, and free breakfast is available every morning. There is also the option to book single beds in their dorm rooms rather than bunk beds, which is popular with many guests.  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aurelie SERRE (@aurelieserre)

20. Isaacs Hostel

• Location: Dublin, Ireland
• Best feature: Wine store location

Compare prices💰: Hostelworld | Expedia

Following the converted-brewery vibe, Isaacs Hostel is located in a wine store dating back to the 19th century. One of Dublin’s most established and popular hostels, it’s super centrally located, mere meters from the city’s best attractions. 

There’s also plenty to do inside the hostel, with a cozy reading area, a kitchen, sauna, and jacuzzi, and a games room with a pool table and video game consoles. Staff organizes pub crawls and city tours, and there are bikes available for rental. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Giuli Mendoza | Traveler (@missgiulimendoza)

21. KEX Hostel

• Location: Reykjavík, Iceland
• Best feature: Central location

KEX Hostel is a former biscuit factory, now a boutique ‘social hostel’. Located right in Reykjavík’s city center, only 250 meters from the Laugavegur shopping street, staff organize whale-watching tours, live music, and other entertainment from Thursday to Sunday evenings. 

There is a buffet breakfast available (unfortunately not free) as well as an on-site bar and restaurant, and a heated terrace open year-round. Fun fact: “kex” is the Icelandic word for biscuit!  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina Taul (@tinataul)

22. Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel

• Location: Kraków, Poland
• Best feature: Included amenities

While the name of Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel may clue you into the main attraction of this hostel, there’s a bit of a twist. 

While perfect for partiers and lovers of nightlife, karaoke, and bar crawls, there’s also a separate building for those seeking to sleep and relax, complete with video game consoles and loads of movies to borrow. 

There’s free breakfast every morning, and the staff cooks a free dinner every night as well (Polish basics like pierogi and other “meat-and-potatoes” type dishes.) 

Also read: European dishes you should try!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Megan Gilman (@meganwithoutaplan)

23. Skyewalker Hostel

• Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
• Prince range: €€
• Best feature: Geodesic solardome 

Located in a quiet area on the Isle of Skye, the award-winning Skyewalker Hostel is a traveler favorite. You’d be forgiven for thinking this is a themed hostel but it gets its name from the hillwalkers who come to explore the nearby Cuillin Hills. However, for Star Wars fans, there are plenty of nods to Luke and his cronies in the quirky decor.

Featuring private rooms, Skyewalker is a great choice for mature travelers and families (over 18s only). There are also two glamping huts available and a geodesic solar dome for guest use. It’s the perfect place to sample a wee dram before you head outside for some stargazing!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Skyewalker Hostel (@skyewalkerhostel)

Things to Consider When Choosing a Hostel 

There are a few criteria you should consider when booking your hostel stay including checking sites like Hostelworld or Booking.com, as well as Google Maps reviews. Keep an eye out for photos uploaded by previous guests, as these are often a better indicator of what the hostel looks like than the photos on booking sites. 

• Location : A great perk of hostels is that they are often located in city centers, or close to central train stations – making them easily walkable to many attractions. However, this is not always the case. Some of the cheaper hostels may be located quite far outside the center, or even outside city limits!  When you come to book, consider either screening results by “distance from city center” or paying close attention to where the hostel is located on a map. You should also take into account how you are getting from A to B. More remote areas might only be suited to those renting a car or traveling with their own transport.
• Price : Contrary to popular belief, hostels are not universally cheap. In fact, some hostels can get quite pricey, especially if you’d prefer to have your own room or your own bathroom. Many hostels claim you get the best price if booking direct through their website but this isn’t always the case so be sure to shop around. If you’re seeking a more private experience, it’s always a good idea to compare hostel prices with budget hotels, as you may be surprised.  
• Staff : Some hostels are renowned for their staff, who can serve as informal tour guides, bartenders, chefs, and general jacks of all trades. On the other hand, many negative reviews of hostels revolve around inattentive or rude staff. If the social aspect of a hostel stay is important to you, consider reading up on the staff and what sorts of activities they offer.
• Amenities : Amenity provision varies widely among hostels. Some hostels provide breakfast, linens, towels, and even free drinks or snacks to guests, as well as access to kitchens, communal spaces, or free city tours. Other hostels require you to rent a towel or bring your own bed linens or don’t offer basic things like WiFi. Hostels have definitely evolved over the years – while they started as bare-bones accommodation for the youth back in the 1880s, today many have become much more hotel-like, offering more amenities, but at much higher costs.  Ultimately, while basic hostels are still super capable of being clean, comfortable, and safe, it’s important to check prior to booking to avoid any unpleasant surprises hidden in the fine print. For example, if having your own bathroom is important to you, make sure to double-check that.   

• Safety : Especially if you’re staying in a dormitory-style hostel, it’s critical to ensure management has taken appropriate safety precautions, such as under-bed lockers. Unless you want to be carrying around your belongings with you all day (or risk them being stolen), make sure the hostel includes some sort of locker that comes with your bed, as well as a lock. Some hostels rent locks for an additional cost, so you may want to bring your own if that’s the case. 

Hostels are part-and-parcel to the backpacking through Europe experience. They’re a great place to meet new friends, get local recommendations, and are often situated in prime city center locations. 

Hostels in Europe come in all stripes, from the quintessential uber-cheap, 16-person mixed dormitory to ‘flashpacker style’ hostels that are more like hotels. There are hostels ideal for party animals, solo travelers, female travelers, and families – and with a bit of research, you can find the perfect hostel for you and your travel style. 

What are your thoughts on hostels? We’d love to hear about your favorite hostel experiences (or even your hostel horror stories!) in the comments below.  

Tegan George & Alex McKenzie | Why Not Walk

Tegan and Alex are travel, hiking, and biking enthusiasts currently based in Amsterdam. There is nothing they love more than exploring new places by walking, and they have visited over 35 countries together since they met in 2015. Their love for “walking the world” led them to found Why Not Walk, a travel guide site. Follow them on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest to start planning your next adventure.

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Home » Best Hostels in Europe for the 50 Most Popular Cities

Best Hostels in Europe for the 50 Most Popular Cities

We’re exploring the top 50 cities that should be on every backpacker’s radar. From classical capitals to lesser-known charmers, these destinations are primed for adventurous and cost-conscious travelers to experience Europe—these are the 50 best hostels in Europe!

Now, you know we’re firm believers that the best travels connect you intimately with the culture, people, and heart of a place. While saving money is smart, it’s about so much more than just cheap beds. It’s about having unique experiences , becoming temporary locals, and seeing Europe through fresh eyes.

These cities have all that magic and then some. Every lane, cafe, church, and town square holds the promise of an u nforgettable memory . And with a little money savviness, you can truly immerse yourself without breaking the bank. So pack an open mind, and your most comfortable shoes , and get ready to fall in love with Europe’s hospitable spirit!

Best Hostels in Europe

With that spirit of adventure, let’s dive into our list, in alphabetical order, shall we? We’ll give you the inside scoop on what makes each city so special, and then we’ll name the best hostel in that city.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Picturesque canals wind through Amsterdam, leading visitors to attractions such as the Van Gogh Museum and the poignant Anne Frank House.

🛌 Cocomama – Check Availability

2. Antalya, Turkey

Antalya boasts ancient ruins in Perge, a stunning coastline at Konyaaltı Beach, and a charming Old Town for exploration.

🛌 Hostel Vague – Check Availability

3. Athens, Greece

In Athens, majestic views from the Acropolis, ancient ruins in the Agora, and vibrant Plaka for Greek cuisine await visitors.

🛌 Athens Hub Hostel – Check Availability

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona dazzles visitors with Gaudí’s masterpieces, the vibrant atmosphere of Las Ramblas, and the sandy shores of Barceloneta Beach.

🛌 Onefam Ramblas – Check Availability

5. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is rich in history with remnants of the Berlin Wall, world-class museums on Museum Island, and vibrant nightlife scenes.

🛌 EastSeven Berlin Hostel – Check Availability

6. Birmingham, United Kingdom

Cadbury World delights chocolate lovers, while Bullring offers a shopping haven, showcasing the city’s cultural diversity in Birmingham.

🛌 Birmingham Central Backpackers – Check Availability

7. Brussels, Belgium

Grand Place’s architecture shines in Brussels, Belgian chocolates tempt, and Atomium’s futuristic design intrigues visitors.

🛌 Latroupe Grand Place – Check Availability

8. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest invites visitors to soak in thermal baths, marvel at Parliament’s beauty, and explore Buda Castle’s historic charm.

🛌 Onefam Budapest – Check Availability

9. Cologne, Germany

Stunning Cologne Cathedral, a riverside stroll along the Rhine, and the vibrant ambiance of the Old Town define Cologne.

🛌 Die Wohngemeinschaft – Check Availability

10. Copenhagen, Denmark

Nyhavn’s colorful houses, enchanting Tivoli Gardens, and the free-spirited vibes of Christiania characterize Copenhagen.

🛌 Woodah Boutique Hostel – Check Availability

11. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin’s lively pub culture, historic Trinity College , and the Guinness Storehouse brewery beckon visitors to the Irish capital.

🛌 Jacobs Inn – Check Availability

12. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls offer breathtaking views, while Game of Thrones filming locations enchant visitors, and Banje Beach invites relaxation.

🛌 Dubrovnik Backpackers Club – Check Availability

13. Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh boasts a majestic castle, historic charm along the Royal Mile, and panoramic views from Arthur’s Seat.

🛌 Castle Rock Hostel – Check Availability

14. Florence, Italy

In Florence, visitors can marvel at Renaissance art in the Uffizi Gallery, admire the grandeur of Florence Cathedral, and stroll across the charming Ponte Vecchio.

🛌 Ostello Bello Firenze – Check Availability

15. Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt’s modern skyline contrasts with the botanical beauty of Palmengarten and the historic charm of the Old Town.

🛌 Five Elements Hostel Frankfurt – Check Availability

16. Gdańsk, Poland

Gdańsk’s charming Old Town architecture, Solidarity Museum, and nearby Baltic Sea beaches offer a rich cultural experience.

🛌 Hostel Mamas & Papas – Check Availability

17. Glasgow, United Kingdom

Glasgow offers cultural richness at Kelvingrove Art Gallery , scenic strolls along the River Clyde, and vibrant energy in the West End.

🛌 Glasgow Youth Hostel – Check Availability

18. Granada, Spain

Granada captivates with its Moorish architecture in Alhambra, winding streets of Albaicín, and the flavorful tapas.

🛌 Oripandó Hostel – Check Availability

19. Hamburg, Germany

Bustling harbor scenes, the miniature world of Miniatur Wunderland, and trendy districts like Sternschanze define Hamburg.

🛌 CAB20 – Check Availability

20. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki’s neoclassical architecture, relaxation in Esplanadi Park, and exploration of Suomenlinna Sea Fortress offer diverse experiences.

🛌 The Yard Hostel – Check Availability

21. Krakow, Poland

Krakow’s historic Old Town, majestic Wawel Castle , and poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial are must-visit attractions.

🛌 MEININGER Krakow Centrum – Check Availability

22. Leipzig, Germany

Leipzig offers the Bach Museum celebrating musical history, the historic charm of Auerbachs Keller, and the vibrant Karl-Liebknecht-Straße.

🛌 Sleepy Lion Hostel & Apartments – Check Availability

23. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s historic tram 28 winds through Alfama, while Belém Tower stands tall, and São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views.

🛌 Home Lisbon Hostel – Check Availability

24. London, United Kingdom

British Museum treasures, Buckingham Palace, and strolls along the Thames River define London’s allure.

🛌 Urbany Hostel London – Check Availability

25. Málaga, Spain

Málaga showcases Picasso’s legacy, the Moorish beauty of Alcazaba, and the relaxation of Malagueta Beach.

🛌 The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel – Check Availability

Valletta’s history, the ancient Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, and picturesque beaches make Malta a captivating destination.

🛌 Mandera’s Boutique Suites & Dorms – Check Availability

27. Madrid, Spain

Prado Museum’s art treasures, Retiro Park’s tranquility, and Mercado San Miguel’s tapas allure visitors to Madrid.

🛌 Onefam Sungate – Check Availability

28. Milan, Italy

Milan impresses with its Duomo, the opulence of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the masterpiece of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper.

🛌 YellowSquare – Check Availability

29. Munich, Germany

Munich hosts Oktoberfest festivities, Nymphenburg Palace , and leisurely walks in the English Garden.

🛌 Euro Youth Hostel – Check Availability

30. Naples, Italy

Naples tantalizes with Neapolitan pizza, the ruins of Pompeii, and panoramic views from Posillipo Hill.

🛌 Tric Trac Hostel – Check Availability

31. Nice, France

Nice beckons with the Promenade des Anglais, the markets of the Old Town, and the relaxation of pebbled beaches.

🛌 Hostel OZZ – Check Availability

32. Oslo, Norway

Oslo impresses with the Viking Ship Museum, the Vigeland Sculpture Park, and panoramic views from Holmenkollen Ski Jump.

🛌 K7 Hotel Oslo – Check Availability

33. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Palma de Mallorca offers pristine beaches, the historic charm of Bellver Castle, and the enchanting Old Town.

🛌 Hostal Atlanta – Check Availability

34. Paris, France

Paris enchants with views from the Eiffel Tower, art treasures in the Louvre, and romantic strolls along the Seine.

🛌 Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels – Check Availability

35. Porto, Portugal

Porto’s São Bento Railway Station impresses, port wine cellars tempt, and the Ribeira district charms.

🛌 Gallery Hostel Porto – Check Availability

36. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague enchants with the Charles Bridge, the grandeur of Prague Castle , and classical music at Rudolfinum.

🛌 Luma Terra Prague Hostel – Check Availability

37. Riga, Latvia

Riga dazzles with Art Nouveau architecture, cobblestone streets in the Old Town, and lush parks.

🛌 The Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel – Check Availability

38. Rome, Italy

Rome’s Colosseum stands grand, Trevi Fountain beckons wishes, and Vatican City houses treasures.

🛌 The RomeHello Hostel – Check Availability

39. Rotterdam, Netherlands

Rotterdam impresses with innovative architecture, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and the lively Markthal.

🛌 Sparks Hostel – Check Availability

40. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo captivates with its religious diversity, Bosnian cuisine, and the Tunnel of Hope’s historical significance.

🛌 Hostel Kucha – Check Availability

41. Seville, Spain

Seville enchants with the Alcázar, flamenco performances, and leisurely strolls in Maria Luisa Park.

🛌 New Samay Hostel – Check Availability

42. Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm offers medieval charm in Gamla Stan, the impressive Vasa Museum, and the green spaces of Djurgården.

🛌 Castanea Old Town Hostel – Check Availability

43. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn preserves history in its Old Town, impresses with the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and intrigues with the Kalamaja district.

🛌 Fat Margaret’s – Check Availability

44. Valencia, Spain

Valencia impresses with the City of Arts and Sciences, the relaxation of Malvarrosa Beach, and the bustling Central Market.

🛌 Cantagua Hostel – Check Availability

45. Venice, Italy

Venice enchants with gondola rides along the Grand Canal, the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, and labyrinthine streets.

🛌 Anda Venice – Check Availability

46. Vienna, Austria

With grand imperial palaces, elegant cafes serving indulgent Sachertorte, and the musical legacy of composers like Mozart and Strauss, Vienna is a hit!

🛌 Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna – Check Availability

47. Vilnius, Lithuania

In Vilnius, expect to be captivated by its Baroque Old Town, the medieval Gediminas Tower, and the bohemian arts district of Užupis.

🛌 Jimmy Jumps House/Hostel – Check Availability

48. Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw commemorates its resilience at the Warsaw Uprising Museum , showcases grandeur in the Royal Castle, and delights with the lively Nowy Świat street.

🛌 Oki Doki Old Town Hostel – Check Availability

49. Zurich, Switzerland

With the promenade along the Limmat River, the trendy Züri-West district, and panoramic views from Uetliberg Mountain, Zurich is impressive!

🛌 Oldtown Hostel Otter – Check Availability

50. Zadar, Croatia

Zadar mesmerizes with the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installations, its historic Old Town peninsula, and the relaxing Kolovare Beach.

🛌 Downtown Boutique Hostel – Check Availability

Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures

As you embark on your journey through Europe’s most captivating destinations, remember that the best hostels in Europe offer more than just affordable accommodation – they provide a gateway to authentic experiences, cultural immersion, and lifelong memories. From the vibrant energy of cosmopolitan capitals to the charming allure of off-the-beaten-path gems, each of these top-rated hostels promises a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded travelers, engage with locals, and truly embrace the essence of your surroundings. So, whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-time explorer, let this curated list of the best hostels in Europe be your guide to unforgettable adventures that will ignite your wanderlust and leave you yearning for more.

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The 15 Best Hostel Chains in Europe

This is my guide to the best hostel chains in Europe. Europe has many very good hostel chains and the ones below are the best and most popular.

The Best Hostel Chains in Europe

Here's my comprehensive guide to the 15 best hostel chains in Europe.

1. Generator Hostels

Generator Hostels have a presence in various European cities, including London, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Dublin, Paris, Venice, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, among others. They are also located in five major cities in the US.

These are some of their flagship locations:

• Generator Paris
• Generator Berlin Mitte
• Generator Madrid
• Generator Dublin  

They often choose central locations, making it convenient for travellers to explore these cities' attractions.

• Number of Properties : 15
• Number of Beds : 8,100

Book Generator Hostels!

2. Wombats Hostels

Wombat Hostels are an excellent and award-winning hostel chain with everything you could ask for including some wild partying and cold beers aplenty. Currently, there are 6 great hostels within the Wombat brand located in Berlin, Budapest, Vienna 2 Locations: Naschmarkt & The Lounge, Munich and London. The newest hostel of the chain opened in London and is continuing the high standards. A stay at any of their hostels will not disappoint you.

• Number of Properties : 5
• Number of Beds : 2,500

Book Wombats Hostels!

3. Plus Hostels

PLUS Hostels provides independent travellers of all ages with high-quality accommodation in Florence and Prague, providing amazing facilities such as pools, saunas, restaurants, bars, fitness equipment plus much more! They have locations in Rome and Venice but these have since been closed.

• Number of Properties : 2
• Number of Beds : N/A

Book PLUS Hostels!

4. MEININGER Hostels

MEININGER Hostels are a group of 30 Hostels all in various countries across Europe including Germany (12), Austria (4), Italy (3) and the Netherlands (2). They offer upmarket hostel accommodation with stylishly designed private and dorm rooms. Their private rooms are of a 3-star hotel standard and are suitable for couples, business travellers and families. Most of them have a large on-site restaurant and have amenities on par with a high-end 3-star hotel.

Book MEININGER Hostels!

5. St Christopher’s Inns

St Christopher's Inns are a group of hostels located in 10 cities across Europe. You will find them in London, Paris, Berlin, Bruges, Amsterdam, Prague, Edinburgh, Bath, Newquay and Barcelona. At every St Christopher's Inn, you will find a Belushi bar. These bars offer great value for money on food and drinks.

• Number of Properties: 26
• Number of Beds: N/A

Book St Christopher's!

6. Hostel One

Hostel One is a chain of community-led hostels with an emphasis on making sure that guests have a great time while staying with them. Many of their hostels rank among the best in Europe. They have grown rapidly and have now seventeen locations across some of Europe's most popular cities including Barcelona 3 locations ( Sants , Ramblas, & Paralelo), Seville 2 locations ( Cathedral & Centro), Budapest 2 locations ( Hostel One Budapest  & Basilica), Prague 3 locations (Prague, Home & Namesti Muri) and one in Madrid.

• Number of Properties : 17

7. A&O Hostels

While A&O Hostels are not as flashy as most of the hostel chains on this list, they offer consistently high standards over the years. They are located in 39 different cities across 6 different countries in Western and Central Europe. One of their best properties is A&O Prague Rhea in Prague. A lot of their locations are situated on the outskirts of major cities and because of this, they are normally far cheaper than city-centre hostels.

• Number of Properties : 39
• Number of Beds : 28,500

8. Safestay

Safestay Hostel Group was a well-known hostel chain in Europe. Safestay Hostel Group operates a network of hostels in various European cities, providing budget-friendly and comfortable accommodation options for travellers. Safestay Hostel Group had hostels in several European cities, including London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Barcelona, Prague, Lisbon, and many others. They often choose centrally located properties to make it convenient for travellers to explore the city. I recently stayed at Safestay Madrid . This is a superb excellent hostel and definitely one of the best hostels in Madrid .

• Number of Properties : 13
• Number of Beds : 8,500

9. Hiphophostels (Paris)

HipHopHostels is a network of 20 independent Paris hostels and hotels, each with its own unique history, personality, and neighbourhood. They provide a sophisticated blend of comfort, superb hotel services, and conviviality, all while facilitating true human connections with other international travellers. Their most popular hostels are The Village and  3 Ducks .

• Number of Properties : 20

10. Oasis Backpackers (Spain & Portugal)

Oasis Backpackers Hostel Group has hostels in several cities on the Iberian but mainly in Spain. They have properties in Lisbon, Granada, Seville (2 locations), Toledo and others. Each hostel is typically located in a central and vibrant area of the city. Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Seville is one of the best hostels in Seville .

• Number of Properties : 7

11. Astor Hostels (London)

Astor Hostels is a well-known hostel chain with several hostels in London , United Kingdom. These hostels are popular choices for budget travellers and backpackers seeking affordable accommodation in the heart of London.  Astor Hostels has multiple locations in London, each offering a unique atmosphere and catering to different types of travellers. Some of their well-known hostels in London include Astor Museum Inn , and Astor Hyde Park Hostel, among others.

12. Flying Pig (Amsterdam)

The Flying Pig Hostels are a well-known and popular hostel chain in Amsterdam and Noordwijk, the Netherlands. They are renowned for their lively and social atmospheres, making them a favourite among budget travellers and backpackers. Each has its own bar and every guest gets a welcome drink upon arrival.

Flying Pig Hostels have two hostels in Amsterdam :

• Flying Pig Downtown : Located in the city centre, close to Amsterdam Central Station, the Red Light District, and many popular attractions.
• Flying Pig Uptown : Situated in the Vondelpark area, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the famous Vondelpark.

They also have a hostel in Noordwijk called Flying Pig Beach .

• Number of Properties : 3

13. Clink Hostels

Clink Hostel Group has three super-sized hostels located in Amsterdam, London and Dublin. Each hostel is strategically located in the city centre or in proximity to major attractions and transportation hubs. Their best and most popular hostel is ClinkNOORD which is one of the best hostels in Amsterdam .

• Number of Beds : 1,500

14. Bohemian Hostels (BoHo)

Bohemian Hostels or BoHo are a chain of 3 individually branded hostels, all located in Prague in the Czech Republic. Over the years BoHo has grown into a dynamic, upmarket accommodation provider in Prague, offering both independent travellers and groups a wide selection of choices from shared hostel rooms to private rooms to tastefully designed apartments.

BoHo now consists of Sir Tobys  which is a traditional hostel catering to community-spirited backpackers, Czech Inn a design-led "flash-packer" hostel ideal for big groups and Sophie's Hostel with its chic design ideal for the female solo traveller or female groups. They have a hostel in Ghana, Africa called Somewhere Nice and the Miss Sophie's Hotels in the Czech Republic.

• Number of Properties : 4 Hostels
• Number of Beds : 750

15. Gatliff Hostel (Scotland)

Gatliff Hostels, officially known as the Gatliff Hebridean Hostels Trust , is a network of remote and basic hostels located in the beautiful and rugged landscapes of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. These hostels provide affordable accommodation options for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Hebrides.

Gatliff Hostels are situated in various locations throughout the Outer Hebrides, including islands like North Uist, South Uist, Berneray, and Howmore. These hostels are often located in remote and scenic areas, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts, hikers, cyclists, and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

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More Hostel Guides for North America

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More Hostel Guides for Central & South America

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

How To Book A Hostel In Europe

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Amalle Rush

• Budget Travel
• Hotel Reviews
• Hotels & Accommodation
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Booking a hostel in Europe can be an exciting and cost-effective way to explore the continent. Hostels provide budget-friendly accommodation options and a chance to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Whether you are a solo adventurer, a backpacker on a tight budget, or someone seeking a more social travel experience, staying in a hostel can be a fantastic choice.

Europe is home to a plethora of hostels, catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. From bustling cities to quaint countryside locations, you can find a hostel that fits your desired travel destinations. However, with so many options available, it’s essential to plan and research thoroughly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of booking a hostel in Europe. From researching and choosing the right hostel to making a reservation and understanding cancellation policies, we will cover everything you need to know to make the booking process smooth and hassle-free.

So, let’s dive in and learn how to book a hostel in Europe, allowing you to embark on an unforgettable journey while staying within your budget!

Researching Hostels

When it comes to booking a hostel in Europe, thorough research is crucial to finding the perfect fit for your travel needs. Here’s how to go about researching hostels:

1. Determine Your Preferences: Start by identifying what you prioritize in a hostel. Consider factors such as price, location, amenities, atmosphere, and room type. Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your search.

2. Utilize Booking Platforms: Use popular booking platforms like Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Hostelbookers to access a wide range of hostels. These platforms provide detailed information, user reviews, ratings, and photos, allowing you to compare options easily.

3. Read Hostel Reviews: Take the time to read reviews from previous guests. Look for recent reviews that provide insights into the hostel’s cleanliness, staff friendliness, security measures, and overall atmosphere. Be cautious of extremely positive or negative reviews and focus on the general consensus.

4. Consider Location: Pay attention to the hostel’s location in relation to the attractions you plan to visit. Look for proximity to public transportation, city centers, and popular landmarks. Take into account the neighborhood’s safety and accessibility, especially if you’ll be returning to the hostel late at night.

5. Check Amenities: Look for hostels that offer amenities that align with your needs. Some common amenities include free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, laundry facilities, common areas, lockers, and 24/7 reception.

6. Check Room Types and Availability: Consider the available room types, such as dormitories or private rooms, and check their availability on your preferred dates. Be mindful of the number of beds in a dormitory, as you may prefer a smaller or more gender-specific dormitory.

7. Budget Considerations: Evaluate the prices of different hostels and determine whether they fit within your budget. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on factors such as location, time of year, and room type.

By conducting thorough research, you can find a hostel that meets your requirements and ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay during your European adventure. Remember, the more time you invest in researching, the better chances you have of finding a hostel that aligns with your preferences.

Choosing the Right Location

When booking a hostel in Europe, the location plays a significant role in determining the overall experience of your trip. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right location:

1. Proximity to Attractions: Consider the proximity of the hostel to the main attractions you plan to visit. Staying in the heart of a city or close to popular landmarks can save you time and transportation costs. It allows you to easily explore the sights and make the most of your time.

2. Safety: Prioritize safety when choosing a hostel location. Research the neighborhood and check if it is known to be safe, especially if you plan to return to the hostel late at night. Reading reviews and forums can give you insights into the safety of the area.

3. Accessibility: Evaluate the accessibility of the hostel to public transportation. Choose a location that is well-connected to buses, trams, or metro lines, making it convenient to explore the city and reach other destinations quickly. This can save you time and money on transportation costs.

4. Local Vibe: Consider whether you prefer to stay in a bustling city center or in a quieter neighborhood. Each location offers a different atmosphere, and it’s important to choose one that aligns with your travel style and preferences. A central location might provide a lively ambiance, while a residential area may offer a more laid-back experience.

5. Nearby Amenities: Look for hostels that are close to essential amenities such as grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and cafes. Having these amenities within walking distance can make your stay more convenient, especially if you plan to cook your meals or have any specific dietary needs.

6. Budget Considerations: Keep in mind that hostels located in popular tourist areas or city centers tend to be more expensive than those situated on the outskirts. Consider your budget and find a balance between location and affordability. It’s important to ensure that the additional cost of staying in a prime location is worth it for you.

Remember, choosing the right location can greatly enhance your travel experience in Europe. Take into account your preferences and priorities, and carefully evaluate the options available to find a hostel location that meets your needs.

Reading Reviews and Ratings

When booking a hostel in Europe, reading reviews and ratings from previous guests is an essential step to ensure a pleasant stay. Here’s why it’s important and how to make the most of this information:

1. Authentic Insights: Reviews provide valuable insights into the actual experiences of past guests. They offer a firsthand account of the hostel’s overall quality, cleanliness, staff friendliness, and atmosphere. These insights can help you make an informed decision about whether a particular hostel is the right fit for you.

2. Rating Systems: Pay attention to the overall rating of the hostel, usually displayed as a score out of 10 or 5 stars. While individual reviews provide more context, the overall rating can give you a quick overview of the hostel’s quality compared to others in the area.

3. Recent Reviews: Focus on recent reviews to understand the current state of the hostel. Hostels can change over time, so it’s important to read reviews that reflect the most up-to-date experiences. Look for reviews from the past few months or even weeks to get a more accurate idea of the hostel’s current condition.

4. Consider Quantity and Consistency: Take note of the number of reviews a hostel has received. A larger number of reviews indicates more diverse opinions and a more reliable rating. Additionally, look for consistency in the reviews. If multiple guests mention similar positive or negative aspects, it can indicate that those aspects are consistent with the hostel’s overall experience.

5. Detailed Feedback: Look for reviews that provide detailed feedback on specific aspects of the hostel, such as cleanliness, comfort, noise levels, facilities, and security. These detailed reviews can give you a clearer picture of what to expect during your stay.

6. Manage Expectations: While reviews can be extremely helpful, it’s important to manage your expectations. Remember that everyone’s preferences and standards may vary. Some reviews may be overly critical or overly positive, so consider the overall consensus in making your decision.

7. Leave Your Own Review: After your stay, consider leaving a review yourself. This helps future travelers make informed decisions, and it’s a way to provide feedback to the hostel. Sharing your experience contributes to the online community and can assist others in their hostel booking process.

By reading reviews and ratings, you can gain valuable insights into the quality and experience offered by hostels in Europe. This information will help you make an informed decision and choose a hostel that aligns with your expectations and preferences.

Booking Platforms

Booking platforms play a vital role in the process of booking a hostel in Europe. These platforms provide a convenient and efficient way to search for and reserve hostels. Here’s what you need to know about booking platforms:

1. Variety of Options: Booking platforms like Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Hostelbookers offer a wide selection of hostels across Europe. They provide a one-stop-shop for finding and comparing different options based on your preferences and budget.

2. Detailed Information: Booking platforms provide comprehensive information about each hostel, including details about the facilities, room types, amenities, and location. You can also find useful information about nearby attractions, transportation options, and reviews from previous guests.

3. User Reviews and Ratings: One of the greatest advantages of using booking platforms is the availability of user reviews and ratings. These reviews give you real insights into the experiences of other travelers who have stayed at the hostels. Ratings and reviews can help you make an informed decision and select a hostel that meets your requirements.

4. Instant Confirmation: Many booking platforms offer instant confirmation, allowing you to secure your reservation immediately after making the booking. This eliminates the need for back-and-forth communication with the hostel and provides peace of mind, especially during peak travel seasons when availability can be limited.

5. Booking Flexibility: Booking platforms often offer flexible options, including the ability to modify or cancel your reservation if your plans change. However, it’s important to carefully review the cancellation policies of each hostel before making a reservation, as they can vary.

6. Exclusive Deals and Discounts: Some booking platforms offer exclusive deals, promotions, or discounts that can help you save money on your hostel booking. Keep an eye out for special offers and compare prices across different platforms to find the best deal.

7. Mobile Apps: Many booking platforms have mobile apps that allow you to search for hostels and make reservations on the go. This is particularly useful if you’re traveling and don’t have access to a computer or prefer the convenience of using your smartphone.

When using booking platforms, it’s important to read the terms and conditions and understand the booking policies. Pay attention to any additional fees or requirements, such as a deposit or minimum stay, to avoid any surprises during your booking process.

Overall, booking platforms offer a convenient and straightforward way to search for, compare, and reserve hostels in Europe. Make use of these platforms to streamline your hostel booking process and secure the perfect accommodation for your European adventure.

Comparing Prices

When booking a hostel in Europe, comparing prices is crucial to ensure that you get the best deal for your accommodation. Here are some tips for comparing prices:

1. Utilize Booking Platforms: Take advantage of booking platforms that offer a wide range of hostels and provide clear pricing information. Compare prices across different platforms such as Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Hostelbookers to find the most competitive rates.

2. Filter by Price Range: Use the filtering options on booking platforms to narrow down your search based on your budget. Set a price range that aligns with your accommodation budget to help you find hostels within your financial means.

3. Consider Seasonal Rates: Prices for hostels can vary based on the time of year and the popularity of a particular destination. During peak travel seasons, prices tend to be higher. Consider traveling during shoulder seasons or off-peak times to secure better deals.

4. Check for Extra Costs: Pay attention to any additional costs that may not be included in the initial price quoted. Some hostels may charge extra for services like bed linen, towels, breakfast, or city taxes. Factor in these additional costs when comparing prices.

5. Look for Promotions and Discounts: Keep an eye out for promotions, discounts, or special deals offered by booking platforms or directly by the hostels. Some hostels may offer discounted rates for longer stays, group bookings, or last-minute deals. Take advantage of these offers to save money.

6. Consider Location: Keep in mind that hostels located in prime city center locations or popular tourist areas are likely to be more expensive. Balance the location with your budget and consider staying in slightly quieter neighborhoods or on the outskirts of the city to find more affordable options.

7. Read the Fine Print: Before making a booking, carefully review the terms and conditions, including cancellation policies and any penalties for changes or cancellations. This will help you understand the flexibility and potential costs involved in altering your reservation.

Remember, the lowest price may not always guarantee the best value. Take into account factors like reviews, location, and amenities when comparing prices to ensure a well-rounded and enjoyable hostel experience.

By comparing prices across different platforms, considering the seasonality, and being aware of potential additional costs, you can find the best prices for hostels in Europe and make an informed decision that suits your budget and travel needs.

Checking Availability

Once you have narrowed down your hostel options in Europe and compared prices, the next step is to check availability. Here’s how to go about checking the availability of hostels:

1. Use Booking Platforms: Utilize the selected booking platforms to check the availability of your preferred hostels. Enter your desired dates and the number of guests to see if the hostel has vacancies during your intended stay.

2. Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, try searching for alternative dates within a certain timeframe. This allows you to explore the availability of hostels on different days, potentially increasing your chances of finding vacancies.

3. Minimum Stay Requirements: Pay attention to any minimum stay requirements set by the hostels. Some hostels may have a minimum number of nights you must book, especially during busy periods. Make sure your desired stay aligns with any minimum requirements.

4. Contact the Hostel Directly: If you’re unable to find availability through booking platforms, consider contacting the hostel directly. They may have rooms or beds available that are not listed online or have cancellations that haven’t been updated on the platforms. Reach out via email, phone, or through their website to inquire about availability.

5. Plan Ahead: To increase your chances of securing availability, plan and book your hostel well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or visiting highly popular destinations. This will help ensure you have more options to choose from and avoid any last-minute availability issues.

6. Be Flexible: Sometimes, your preferred hostel may not have availability for your desired dates. In such cases, be open to considering alternatives. Look for nearby hostels or explore different neighborhoods to find suitable alternatives that meet your accommodation needs.

7. Consider Shared vs. Private Rooms: If you’re flexible with your room type preference, you may have a better chance of finding availability. Dormitories typically have more beds available than private rooms, making it easier to secure a spot.

Remember to keep a record of the availability status and any conversations or correspondence with the hostel while you continue your search. This will help you stay organized and make informed decisions when booking your hostel.

By checking availability through booking platforms, contacting hostels directly, and being flexible with your dates and room preferences, you can secure the accommodation you desire and ensure a seamless planning process for your European adventure.

Making a Reservation

Once you have found a hostel with availability that meets your preferences and budget, it’s time to make a reservation. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful reservation process:

1. Check Booking Details: Review the hostel’s booking details, including the room type, the number of beds, and the dates of your stay. Double-check all the information to ensure accuracy before proceeding.

2. Fill Out the Reservation Form: On the booking platform, fill out the necessary reservation form. Provide accurate information, including your name, contact details, and any special requests or requirements you may have.

3. Review the Total Cost: Before confirming the reservation, carefully review the total cost. Take note of any additional fees, taxes, or charges that may apply. Ensure that the total cost aligns with your budget and expectations.

4. Read and Accept the Terms and Conditions: It’s crucial to read and understand the terms and conditions of the reservation. Pay attention to cancellation policies, payment methods, and any specific rules or regulations outlined by the hostel. Only proceed with the reservation if you agree to these terms.

5. Secure Your Reservation: Once you have reviewed and accepted the terms and conditions, proceed to secure your reservation. Depending on the booking platform, this may involve providing payment information or paying a deposit to confirm your booking.

6. Keep a Copy of the Reservation Confirmation: After completing the reservation, make sure to receive a confirmation email or booking reference number. Keep a copy of this confirmation for your records. It will serve as proof of your reservation and will be necessary during check-in at the hostel.

7. Contact the Hostel if Needed: If you have any specific requests or requirements, or if you need to inquire about any special arrangements, contact the hostel directly. They will be able to assist you and provide any necessary information or clarification.

By carefully following these steps, you can make a reservation for your chosen hostel in Europe with confidence. Ensure that you provide accurate information, review all the details, and understand the terms and conditions to avoid any misunderstandings or issues during your stay.

Once your reservation is confirmed, you can look forward to an exciting adventure and a comfortable stay at your chosen hostel in Europe!

Understanding Cancellation Policies

When making a reservation for a hostel in Europe, it is crucial to understand the cancellation policies set by the hostel. Cancellation policies outline the rules and procedures for cancelling or modifying your reservation. Here’s what you need to know about understanding cancellation policies:

1. Read the Fine Print: Take the time to carefully read and understand the cancellation policies of the hostel before making a reservation. Cancellation policies can vary between hostels, so it’s important to be aware of the specific terms and conditions.

2. Cancellation Deadlines: Pay attention to the cancellation deadlines specified in the policies. Hostels may have different time frames within which you can cancel your reservation without incurring any penalties. Missing the cancellation deadline may result in a penalty fee or the forfeiture of the deposit.

3. Cancellation Fees: Some hostels may charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your reservation after the specified deadline. The fee may be a percentage of the total reservation cost or a fixed amount. Make sure you understand the amount of the fee and its implications before making a reservation.

4. Flexible Cancellation Policies: Some hostels offer more flexible cancellation policies, allowing you to cancel or modify your reservation closer to the arrival date without incurring significant penalties. These flexible policies may come at an additional cost or have specific requirements, so be sure to assess whether they align with your needs.

5. Non-Refundable Reservations: Be aware that some reservations may be non-refundable, meaning that if you decide to cancel, you will not receive a refund. Non-refundable reservations often have lower prices, but they come with stricter cancellation policies. Ensure you are confident in your travel plans before opting for a non-refundable reservation.

6. Consider Travel Insurance: If you are concerned about potential cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance can provide coverage for trip cancellations due to personal emergencies or unforeseen events and may help mitigate any financial losses.

7. Contact the Hostel if Needed: If you have any questions or need clarification on the cancellation policies, reach out to the hostel directly. They will be able to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding their specific policies.

Understanding the cancellation policies of your chosen hostel is essential to avoid any surprises or financial implications. By being aware of the deadlines, fees, and any non-refundable conditions, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth cancellation process, if necessary.

Remember to keep a record of any cancellation correspondence or confirmation to have documentation in case of any disputes or issues that may arise.

Confirming Your Reservation

Once you have made a reservation for a hostel in Europe, it is important to confirm your booking to ensure a smooth check-in process. Here’s how to confirm your reservation:

1. Check Confirmation Email: After making the reservation, you should receive a confirmation email from the booking platform or the hostel directly. This email will contain important details regarding your reservation, including the dates of your stay, room type, total cost, and any specific instructions or requirements.

2. Review Reservation Details: Take the time to carefully review the reservation details in the confirmation email. Verify that all the information is correct, including the dates, number of guests, and any special requests you made during the booking process. If you spot any discrepancies, contact the hostel immediately to rectify them.

3. Save Confirmation Documents: Keep a copy of the confirmation email or any other documentation provided by the hostel. This will serve as proof of your reservation and will be necessary during check-in. You can either print out a hard copy or save a digital copy on your device for easy access.

4. Contact the Hostel if Needed: If you have any questions or concerns about your reservation, don’t hesitate to contact the hostel directly. They will be able to provide you with any additional information or address any queries you may have. It’s better to clarify any doubts ahead of time to avoid any confusion during your stay.

5. Note Check-In Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the check-in procedures outlined in the confirmation email. Take note of the hostel’s check-in time and any specific instructions on how to collect your key or access the premises. Some hostels may require a valid ID or a deposit upon check-in, so be prepared and comply with their requirements.

6. Set Reminders: Set reminders for your reservation and check-in dates to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines. It’s a good idea to set multiple reminders, especially if you have multiple bookings or if your trip involves several destinations.

7. Keep Communication Open: If you need to make changes or modifications to your reservation, communicate with the hostel promptly. Depending on their policies and availability, they may be able to accommodate your requests, but it’s best to act in a timely manner to secure any changes.

By confirming your reservation and reviewing all the details, you can avoid any confusion or issues during check-in. Having a clear understanding of your reservation will help ensure a smooth start to your stay at the hostel in Europe.

Final Tips for Booking a Hostel in Europe

Booking a hostel in Europe can be an exciting and rewarding experience. To make the most of your booking process and ensure a comfortable stay, here are some final tips to keep in mind:

1. Start Your Search Early: Hostels in popular destinations can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. To secure your preferred hostel and dates, start your search and booking process early. This will give you a better chance of finding availability and securing the best deals.

2. Read Recent Reviews: Pay attention to recent reviews from other travelers. Reviews provide valuable insights into the current state of the hostel, and they can help you make an informed decision. Focus on reviews from the past few months to get an accurate picture of the hostel’s quality and guest experiences.

3. Keep Location in Mind: Consider the location of the hostel in relation to the attractions you plan to visit. Staying in a convenient location can save you time and transportation costs. It’s important to balance the location with your budget and preferences.

4. Pack Essential Items: Hostels typically provide basic amenities, but it’s a good idea to pack some essential items to enhance your stay. Items such as earplugs, a travel towel, a padlock for lockers, and a sleep mask can come in handy and improve your overall experience.

5. Research and Compare Prices: Take the time to research and compare prices across different booking platforms. Prices can vary, and you may find better deals or promotions on certain platforms. Consider the overall value offered by each hostel and factor in the amenities and location when comparing prices.

6. Stay Social: Hostels offer a unique opportunity to connect with fellow travelers from around the world. Take advantage of the communal areas and social events organized by the hostel to meet new people and make lasting memories.

7. Keep an Open Mind: While it’s important to have preferences and expectations, it’s also essential to keep an open mind. Hostel experiences can vary, and embracing the unique ambiance and communal spirit of hostels can make your trip more enjoyable.

8. Plan for Emergencies: It’s wise to have a contingency plan in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of trip cancellations, loss of belongings, or medical emergencies.

9. Follow Check-In and Check-Out Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the check-in and check-out procedures of the hostel. Respect the designated times and rules to ensure a smooth transition during your stay and to avoid any penalties or inconveniences.

10. Enjoy the Experience: Lastly, embrace the experience of staying in a hostel in Europe. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, connect with fellow travelers, and make the most of the budget-friendly accommodations that hostels offer. It’s an opportunity to create lifelong memories and forge unforgettable experiences.

By following these tips, you can make your hostel booking experience in Europe enjoyable and stress-free. Prepare in advance, do thorough research, and keep an open mind to ensure a memorable and fulfilling journey.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Hostel packing list | what to pack when staying in a hostel.

What to pack when you stay in hostels.

If you’re backpacking through Europe (or simply traveling on a budget), then there is a good chance you’ll spend at least a few nights in a hostel. And while many hostels have plenty of amenities, there are still a few things you might want to bring. That’s why I created this Hostel Packing List to help make your hosteling more enjoyable.

Why Trust Me ? I stayed in my first hostel way back in 2006 and since then I’ve stayed in dozens of hostels — so I have a pretty good idea of what to pack. Still Curious About Staying In Hostels: Check out my Hostels 101 Guide and my Hostel Etiquette 101 Guide to get a deeper understading of hostel travel.

A Lock For Your Hostel Locker

Most hostels will have lockers in the dorm room or in a locker room for securing all your stuff while you’re away. However, most hostels don’t provide a lock or they charge you a few euros to rent one.

That’s why I always recommend packing your own padlock. You don’t have to go crazy with a fancy lock — just get something simple for around $7-$12. Personally, I prefer combination padlocks since you don’t have to deal with a key.

Here are three affordable options from Amazon:

• Master Lock 1505D Locker Lock Combination Padlock
• Master Lock 1535DWD Locker Lock Set Your Own Word Combination Padlock
• Master Lock 1500iD Locker Lock Set Your Own Directional Combination Padlock

Cable Locks

I always pack a simple cable lock since sometimes hostel lockers are weirdly sized and standard locks don’t fit. I also like cable locks because they let you secure your backpack or suitcase to immovable objects (your bed frame, luggage racks on the train, benches, to other luggage so it’s hard to snag, etc.). Additionally, small cable locks can also be used to lock the zippers on your backpack/suitcase.

Here are two affordable options from Amazon:

• Luggage Travel Lock, Set-Your-Own Combination Lock
• Lewis N. Clark Retractable Steel Cable Cable Lock

Travel DayPack

You’ll leave your large backpack/suitcase locked up in the hostel during the day but you’ll want a smaller backpack to carry around as you explore during the day. I’ve written about my favorite daypacks if you want more recommendations but here are a few of my top picks:

• Fjallraven : You’ll see this hip Swedish brand’s backpacks everywhere in Europe. Prices start around $70.  See styles and prices on Amazon .
• Herschel Supply Co : Another popular brand that offers multiple styles and colors to choose from. Prices start around $50.  See styles on Amazon .
• Aer Go Pack : An excellent minimalist daypack that I’ve used on multiple trips. The Go Pack costs $85 from Aersf.com .
• Patagonia Sling : If you’re into minimalist travel then you might like the sling bags from Patagonia. They’re priced at $60 at REI .

Packing Cubes

Organization is key when you’re living out of a backpack or suitcase — especially in the cramped quarters of a hostel. I find that packing cubes help keep my life organized and make packing so much easier.

Here are a few my of favorite packing cube options:

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes
• Eagle Creek Spectre Tech Packing Cubes
• eBags Packing Cubes
• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes

Travel Power Strip

Hostels (especially older hostels) are notorious for not having enough outlets, so it’s not uncommon for a room with 12+ beds to only have one or two electrical outlets.

That’s why I always pack a power strip so more people can charge all their gadgets. I recommend packing a power strip that has multiple USB ports since that’s how most people charge modern gadgets.

Here are a few well-rated options from Amazon that cost less than $20:

• K-Century Travel Power Strip Surge Protector with 2 Outlets 4 USB (this is nice because it has two universal outlets and four USB)
• POWERGENCE Portable Travel Adapter Power Strip
• See More Options At Amazon

Electrical Plug Adaptors

Don’t expect your hostel to have plug adaptors for you to use so throw a few into your bag. Just buy whatever is cheap and lightweight — like this 4-pack US to EU Plug Adapter Power Converter from Amazon for less than $10.

Alternatively, the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter will work in any country, but it’s doable the price and bulkier.

Dual Voltage Travel Hair Dryer

Hostels rarely have hairdryers so you’ll want to pack your own. It’s important that you bring a dual voltage hairdryer since a North American hairdryer won’t work in Europe.

Here are a few affordable travel hairdryers that get good reviews on Amazon :

• Conair 1600 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle
• BaBylissPRO BABNT053T Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
• Conair 1875 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle
• BaBylissPRO BABTT053T TT Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I’ve stayed in multiple hostels that have zero counter space in their bathrooms so a toiletry bag with a hook is essential. There are multiple toiletry bags listed on Amazon so just ensure you find one with a hook.

Here are a few affordable (under $20) hanging toiletry bags from Amazon):

• AmazonBasics Hanging Travel Toiletry Kit Bag
• emissary Large Hanging Toiletry Bag
• Relavel Cosmetic Pouch Toiletry Bag
• See More Toiletry Bags at Amazon

Note: Consider buying some suction cup hooks so you can stick your toiletry bag to the mirror/wall.

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Some hostels will rent you a towel for a €3-€5 but a majority don’t. That’s why I pack a quick-dry travel towel.

A travel towel is nice because it’s lighter than a traditional bulky cotton towel and it dries in only a few hours — shoving a wet towel in your bag will make everything smell musty.

Note: Pay attention to the size of the towel as many are tiny — I prefer one that is the size of a normal towel. Additionally. if you have long hair you might want to pack an additional medium-size towel.

Expect to pay around $25 for a large travel towel. Here are some options from Amazon:

• Sea to Summit Drylite Towel
• Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel
• Biospired Footprint Lightweight Microsuede Towel
• See More Travel Towels on Amazon

Sleep Mask & Ear Plugs

I’ve never been a fan of wearing a sleep mask or using earplugs, but even I’ll admit that they’re both very useful when staying in hostels — because there will be loud snorers and people will turn the lights on at 3 am.

Expect to pay $10-$20 sleep masks at Amazon and earplugs will cost $5-$15. Note: you might want to get earplugs that are specially designed for sleeping like the Flents Protechs Sleep Ear Plugs .

Shower Flip Flops

Most hostels have shared showers (and some hostels have questionable cleaning practices), so do yourself a favor and wear sandals when you shower. Anything that’s waterproof will work. Amazon has plenty of options for under $20.

Laundry Items

There are a handful of hostels that have washing machines but if you’re packing light then you might want an easy way to handwash your socks and underwear. Here are a few things that will help you do a small sink wash:

• Sink Stopper:  A  Travel Sink Stopper  will help you plug the hostel sink so you can wash your clothes.
• Travel Laundry Soap :  Woolite Travel Laundry Soap  and  Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets  are two easy ways to pack laundry detergent.
• Flexible Travel Clothesline:  A  rubber braided clothesline  will let you easily hang up your clothes to dry.
• Stain Remover:   Tide To Go Stain Remover Pens  and individually wrapped  Shout Wipes  work really well on stains and take up no space.

Cleaning / Disinfectant / Personal Care Items

• Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash:  The GoToob travel-sized bottles are the best travel bottles as they don’t leak.
• Hand Sanitizer:  Hit your hands with a bit of hand sanitizer from time to time.
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush:  Put a  Steripod toothbrush cover on your toothbrush to keep it away from germs.
• Deodorant:  Deodorant that I buy in Europe never seems to work as well so bring your own.
• Chapstick w/Sunscreen : Keep those lips kissable with lip balm .
• Contact Lenses/Solution/Glasses:  Contact solution is actually a pain to buy because it’s normally only sold in pharmacies. Plus it isn’t cheap. I’d recommend bringing your own if you can.
• Condoms:  You might just meet the love of your night in a hostel so stock up on condoms from  Amazon .
• Travel Fabric Freshener:  Your clothes will probably smell a bit funky after a while so travel-sized  Febreze To Go  is a good way to stay a little fresher.
• Travel Toilet Paper:  Travel toilet paper  will come in handy.
• Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes:  These are a lifesaver when you actually need them.  Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Wipes  are individually wrapped.
• Body Powder:  Stop chafing caused by all that walking — especially if it is really hot.  Anti Monkey Butt  is our favorite.
• Foot Cream:  Pamper your feet with  O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet Cream .
• Pepto Tablets:  Be sure to pack some  Pepto-Bismol tablets  for all that questionable street food.
• Band-Aids:  Heal/prevent those blisters with  Band-Aids for feet .

Other Things You Might Want

• Pillowcase: I always sleep much better with my own pillowcase since most hostels have cheap sheets. Some people also like to pack sleep spray .
• Sleep Sheet: If you’re sensitive to cheap sheets then you might like to pack a sleep sheet — sleep sheets come in cotton and silk .
• Sleep Supplements: Sleep supplements might help knock you out and keep you asleep. Amazon has plenty of options.
• Playing Cards: A set of playing cards can help you make new friends in the hostel. These cards are plastic so they won’t get ruined by liquid.
• Travel Utinsels: Some hostels don’t have a kitchen so a cheap set of travel utensils can come in handy for those makeshift hostel meals.
• Stuff Sack/Dirty Clothes Bag: If you plan on doing laundry you’ll want a small laundry bag. Amazon has plenty of cheap options.

More Packing Lists and Tips

I’m always on the lookout for the best travel gear so here are a few of my favorite gear-related articles:

• The Best Shoes For Travel : Everything you need to know about picking the right footwear for your travels.
• The Best Travel Backpacks : I personally review the most popular travel backpacks on the market to see which is best for your travel style.
• Europe Packing List : The ultimate packing list for traveling through Europe.

The Best Hostels In Europe

I’ve written about some of the best hostels in Europe:

• Best Hostels in  Amsterdam
• Best Hostels in  Barcelona
• Best Hostels in  Berlin
• Best Hostels in  Brussels
• Best Hostels in  Budapest
• Best Hostels in  Copenhagen
• Best Hostels in  Dublin
• Best Hostels in  Edinburgh
• Best Hostels in  Florence
• Best Hostels in  London
• Best Hostels in  Madrid
• Best Hostels in  Milan
• Best Hostels in  Munich
• Best Hostels in  Nice
• Best Hostels in  Paris
• Best Hostels in  Prague
• Best Hostels in  Reykjavik
• Best Hostels in  Rome
• Best Hostels in  Venice
• Best Hostels in  Vienna
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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The best travel backpacks | in-depth buyer’s guide & backpack reviews.

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Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide

A comprehensive packing list and advice for budget backpacking and ultralight travel in Europe — including electronics, clothing, toiletries & accessories.

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Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in London

10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

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How to travel Europe Cheap? 51 Smart and Simple Travel Tips

Want to travel Europe cheap? Have a look at our ultimate guide to hostels in Europe .

Booking a hostel is a great way to save some money (and have a good time, too!). And if you go prepared with some in-the-know advice, you can save even more money while you’re staying at the hostel. More savings = more travel fun!

Here is a list of the…

• best hostel chains in Europe
• 21 best hostels in Europe

to get you started.

That’s why we’re here to help you with our expert tips on how you budget travelers can save money while traveling Europe (and staying at hostels).

Travel Europe Cheap: 51 Tips

Here are all 51 tips in a nutshell. Feel free to skip to ones that catch your eye or continue scrolling through the list.

• Visit during off-season
• Book a hostel with FREE breakfast
• Find free stuff to do (before you go)
• Stay for free/housesit
• Check the tourism board
• Inclusions of a hostel = important!
• Cook meals yourself…
• … Don’t cook meals
• Eat out for lunch, not dinner
• Buddy up with travellers
• Pack snacks
• Book a bigger room
• Grab FREE STUFF
• Use a locker
• Go to less touristy places
• Pick a cheap(er) country
• Join hostel events
• Be careful about souvenirs
• City passes & offers
• Subscribe to airlines
• …and Google flights
• DON’T stay in the city center
• Avoid roaming fees
• Guides for FREE things to do
• Rent a bicycle
• Discount cards for public transport
• Visit free museums
• Local, free concerts
• Picnic in the park
• Avoid pub crawls
• Foursquare discounts
• Shop at local markets
• Book a hostel like a pro
• Read local travel blogs
• Go Couchsurfing
• Book transport in advance
• Share a ride
• Spend your coins wisely
• Take overnight trains/buses
• Get insured!
• Try the Trail Wallet app
• Pack a tent
• Don’t sit for a coffee
• Speak to hostel staff
• Be smart with currency leftovers
• Volunteer (+ $10 discount )

1. Visit Off Season

The prices during off season are significantly cheaper during high season – pretty simple to understand. Let us give you an example:

During August you can easily pay 25€ for a bed at a hostel in Barcelona. During January, the price can drop to 6€-7€. Quite a difference! The same goes for airlines and transport in general.

2. Choose a hostel offering breakfast

Your parents were right – a solid breakfast can help you start the day off right! If you book a hostel that offers breakfast in the price, not only you won’t have to fuss about finding a place that’s open in the morning, but you can also save the money on eating out.

Why? Even though the breakfast might not be included, it is worth it to go for it. Usually it is cheaper than going out, having breakfast at a local café.

Have a look at We Bologna Hostel . Their breakfasts comes only with local, high-quality products. And the coffee? Yes, this is important for us at Hostelgeeks, the coffee is one of the best coffees we had in a Hostel.

The standard (included) hostel breakfast is usually nothing exciting (think toast, juice, coffee, and maybe fruit, yogurt, or cereal if you’re lucky), but some hostels really do go all-out for their morning meal.

Fill up at breakfast and you’ll be ready for a big day of sightseeing!

3. Research free and cheap stuff to do (ahead of time!)

It’s entirely possible to spend a weekend or longer in many major cities and never pay an entrance fee. If you do your reading ahead of time (and by “reading” we mean Googling), chances are you’ll be able to come up with a pretty great itinerary that will cost you next to nothing.

Just walking around a quirky neighborhood can be a fantastic and totally free way to spend an afternoon in a new city!

Look up opening hours and days, too. Often times, museums are free on a certain day of the week or after a certain hour.

Here are a few guides to get you started (they all include free and cheap options):

• 27 fun things to do in Santorini
• 29 FUN things to do in Lisbon
• 7 secret tips for London
• 61 cool things to do in Valencia

Need more ideas? Check out all of our travel guides here.

4. Find a free place to stay

Do you have friends or family in interesting places? Plan a trip to visit them, or ask your friends to put you in contact with their friends living in that city you want to visit.

Don’t know anyone? Try to find a host in advance on the following platforms:

• globalfreeloaders
• hospitalityclub

Even better! Why not try out house & pet sitting? This means zero rent and bills. Check out our full TrustedHousesitters review .

5. Remember the official tourism board

You should also research offers the local tourism board has. You can usually find this by searching for “visit (city name)”.

Many cities offer some sort of visitor’s card to get discounts on sights, restaurants, and transportation.

Depending on what you’re interested in doing, these can go a long way to helping you save. Be careful though – if you hate going museum-hopping, a card like this may only help you to spend money.

6. Carefully read up on what the hostel includes and doesn’t include

Most hostels nowadays give you sheets for free, but not many include towels as well. Or maybe you’re going to need WiFi for working on the road, but this particular hostel has a paid system.

In our opinion: No WiFi is a no-go!

Knowing stuff like this beforehand can help you to pack sensibly to avoid any extra expenditures at reception.

Read : 46 tips to identify fantastic hostels

The hostel website is generally the best place to start looking for this information. Check also major hostel booking sites to read reviews guests have left as well.

7. Find out about potential bank fees

One thing that often comes as an unpleasant surprise to newbie travelers is the fees you can rack up while abroad. Inform yourself about your bank charges in case you use an AT.

Let your bank know where you’re going to be; cards can get blocked for suspicious activity if you haven’t let them know you’ll be on the road.

Boring stuff, we know, but it can save you trouble (and money!) down the line.

8. Cook your meals yourself

A lot of hostels have kitchens you can access – with the basics (oil, salt…) . Cooking at the hostel is a smart way to save money. You can whip up some simple meals at a fraction of the cost it would take you to eat out. Pasta is a staple at many hostels for a reason!

We always love to try the local specialties when we travel, so why not take advantage of the local markets rather than going to a supermarket? You might find some seriously amazing food at rock-bottom prices.

And there is more: Many Hostels offer cooking classes, dinner nights and so on! Join those! They are usually very affordable – or even free. You do not just only save some coins, but also end up making new friends.

Have a look at Hostel Ruthensteiner, one of the top hostels in Vienna , and Ani&Haakien Hostel in Rotterdam . They both offer dinner nights you should join!

9. Don’t cook your own meals!

This sounds paradox, right?! Well, have a look in which destination you are!

In destinations across the East-Europe, and South Europe it can be cheaper to eat out rather than cooking. In Spain you can go for Tapas, in Italy there is the famous Aperitivo.

Get some info at the hostel reception, to get an idea!

Here are some ideas:

• Where to eat in Venice? 22 restuarants & tricks
• 39 ideas for Copenhagen – brunch, cocktails and blonde beer
• Tapas tips for Madrid

10. Eat out for lunch, not dinner

Okay, and now it gets even more confusing. Lunch is often way, way cheaper than dinner, but you get to eat the same delicious food. If you’re going to eat one meal out per day, choosing lunch over dinner is a smart way to get bargain prices without sacrificing any of the taste.

Especially in destinations like Barcelona, Lisbon, all over Italy, Zagreb and many more destinations, the restaurants have their daily menu. Take this into account!

11. Buddy up with other guests

If you’re already planning on buying stuff to make dinner or to wash your clothes, offer to split the costs with other hostels guests. It’s a great way to save some money and make friends in the process, too.

You can also use this strategy if you decide to go out at night and catch a taxi home. In some cities, if you split the cost of a taxi (or an Uber or Lyft) between a small group, it might actually be cheaper than using public transportation.

Some Hostels have their own black board where travelers can put their itineraries or requests. You can find people looking for sharing a cab to the airport, for renting a car for going to some special place, and so on. Keep an eye on that!

12. Pack some snacks with you

Another way you can reduce food costs?

Pack a few days’ worth of snacks with you! It might sound silly, but if you’re visiting countries with notoriously high prices (Norway, anyone?), you might save some serious cash this way.

13. Don’t be afraid to book group rooms

Not surprisingly, these massive rooms are where the cheapest beds in the hostel are. If it’s your first time booking a hostel, a room with 16 people may sound a little intimidating. If you’re a seasoned traveler, it could sound tiresome instead!

But depending on the season, you may book a bed in a 16-person room and find out that it’s nowhere near being full. It’s luck of the draw, but keep in mind that just because a room can hold 16 people doesn’t mean all 16 of those beds will be booked.

Even if all the beds are booked, you might discover that the room is full of interesting people to make friends with. Or perhaps incredibly boring, quiet, and tidy travelers – the ideal roommates!

In any case, don’t write off the idea of a big shared room. It probably won’t be as intimidating (or tiresome) as you expect.

Read: hostel etiquette, the unwritten rules

14. Free stuff that other travelers leave behind

Often times, travelers leave behind bulky bottles of shampoo or leftover food when they leave. Some hostels have a place for this stuff so that current guests can use it.

When in doubt? Ask! Don’t be that hostel guest who sneaks bits of other people’s stuff.

15. Take care of your stuff

You know that saying “ an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure “? When it comes to saving money in hotels, this definitely applies!

Hostels are generally safe, but you never know if you’re going to end up sharing a room with a traveler with sticky fingers.

We dedicated a full article to the topic “ Are Hostels safe? ” including 10 tips.

Prevent unnecessary extra spending on replacing stuff by keeping your belongings safe, and avoid traveling with expensive and irreplaceable items. Have a look for lockers! Those are usually the best way to keep you valuable belongings safe!

16. Stay in smaller, less touristy cities

Touristy cities are normally more expensive than they eclipsed neighbor cities. Thinking about visiting Venice? Consider staying in Mestre, the city next to it, well connected with the train.

Here’s our full guide to the best hostels in Venice , including 5 star Combo Hostel .

If you plan only to stay in the city during the day, consider stay in a nearby and less touristy city. But, if you want to take advantage of the nightlife in the city you are visiting make sure beforehand there is a way to come back to your accommodation with public transport.

If not, this saving trick can actually add up some extra cost.

17. Consider Cheaper Countries

How about Albania, North-Macedonia , Bosnia and Herzegovina, Poland ?

They are incredible countries and have so much to offer! Actually, Montenegro is of my favorite countries in Europe… Good food, plenty of beautiful landscapes with affordable prices and few touristy spots.

18. Special Events going on at the hostel

On the note of making use of the hostel staff, don’t forget to ask them if there are special events going on.

Maybe the hostel will be throwing a barbecue that’s free for guests, or there will be a drinks offer for happy hour that can help you save money instead of going out.

Hostels sometimes also have discounts for certain tours or activities, like bike rentals.

Generally, the stuff that’s going on will be budget-friendly – and a lot of fun, too!

19. Avoid Souvenirs aka. be creative with your souvenirs

Another budget travel tip to save money and space in your backpack/luggage. That does not mean you should not take memories! Maybe you need a new shirt? Buy one in the city you just felt in love with.

We are not talking about a city-themed tourism shirt á la „I love London“.

Even a regular grey shirt bought at a store turns into a souvenir.

20. More slow travel

Moving slower is cheaper!

When traveling Europe, there is no need to jump from one city to the next. Instead, take a deep breath, and plan a few more days in one destination! This will save you especially some travel money on the transport.

Think about it. Your travel expenses are mainly:

• accommodation

Food does not really count fully as an expense. After all, you would need to eat at home as well. Sure, when you eat out and try local dishes and stuff, this is an expense.

However, transport is something you can really save money on by simply not jumping on a bus or train every 3 days instead of each day.

21. Transport: Compare City Passes and offers

Many cities offer a city pass that includes transport, museums, …even some free drinks in certain restaurants! Have a look at these offers carefully because sometimes they are really a good deal.

I remember the first time I visited Amsterdam I bought the Amsterdam card and used it a lot. I can tell you I saved a lot, cause I visited many museums.

Over at GetYourGuide you can buy city cards in advance.

Sometimes it is also worth it if you just visit 2 museums and have unlimited public transport included.

You just have to be clear on what you would like to visit, what do these passes offer and decide if they are worth it for your trip or not.

22. Subscribe to Airlines…

In Europe, many airlines offer incredible great deals! We scored flights to the Canary Islands for only 25€, to London for only 17€, and to Paris even less: 12€!

The fastest and easiest way to find those cheap flights are the newsletter of the cheap airlines across Europe! Sign up for Ryanair, Norwegian, EasyJet and Vueling. You will be surprised.

23. …and Google Flights

Google Flights: This one is one of the best budget travel tips out there – seriously!

Google flights shows you the cheapest flights from your destination. Just pick your airport, budget and dates. And the magic will appear in form of itineraries.

You can also set up alarms when prices go down a certain amount, or just have a watch list of desired destinations.

24. Stay out of the city center

Show us a city center which is NOT more expensive than the suburbs! Having a caña (beer) around Plaza del Sol in Madrid is more expensive than the other parts of town. Makes sense right?! At restaurants, bars, cafés and so on you usually pay for the location as well.

So don’t get a coffee in front of the Eiffel Tower, the Big Ben or the Colosseum.

25. Avoid roaming fees

Cell phone roaming charges is a big cost that can really leave your wallet reeling.

Check in with your cell phone provider so that you can be informed about potential fees.

If you want to save money while traveling on your cell phone, the easiest way is to always use WiFi. Most hostels nowadays offers it with no extra cost.

It is also a good idea to buy a SIM card from a local cellphone service provider when you arrive.

In Europe, there is a free roaming policy, meaning, if you have bought a SIM card in Spain, you will be able to use it in France, Uk,… with no extra charges.

However, things are getting also complicated in some countries, like Germany, where you can only buy a SIM card if you have a permanent address (they will send the SIM Card to you in around 2 weeks).

As for a great pocket WiFi in Europe, we tested the Hippocket WiFi. It is fast, cheap and simple to use! Check out our full review about Hippocket WiFi Europe here .

26. Search for „Free Things to do in …“

Pretty basic, right?!

Head over to Mr.Google and type in „Free Things to do in“ + destination. You will most likely find plenty of websites talking about this.

And even better: Don’t stay only on the first page. Go for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th page on Google. This is where you can find smaller websites talking about slightly different free things to do in that place you want to discover.

Here on Hostelgeeks we have free guides:

• free things to do in Barcelona
• free things to do in London
• how to travel the world for free – top 10 tested ideas

27. Walk more!

A friend of us walks everywhere! It can be quite annoying at one point, but he claims he sees way more of a city when he just keeps walking. Take this into account before paying for…

28. Avoid Cabs

Unnecessary cab rides! Sure, those cab rides can be a unique experience itself. Especially when the taxi drivers decides to hunt down a Iguana for dinner!

So, try to avoid cabs and you can save some money.

29. Rent a bike

More than walking, we love to rent a bike! Especially in bike-friendly cities like Haarlem, Amsterdam, and Barcelona, you can rent a bike for a few coins. You can discover the city in no time.

However, please make sure you make yourself familiar with the local rules and traffic.

30. Have a look for discount cards for public transport

When buying your tickets for public transport, have a look if there are special offers for tourists visiting a couple of days. Also, some cities offer bonus tickets, students discounts…

31. Get to know the days for visiting museums for free

In Europe, the Sunday is usually the day to visit a museum for free. The official tourism board of the destination is here the best place to get a quick answer to this.

32. Check free concerts by local bands

Try to figure out which websites the local use to find local concerts. Facebook is also a great tool to get ideas for events across a city.

33. Have a picnic in the park

Picnic is always a great idea. Buy some food and drinks at the supermarket, sit down at a public park, beach, mountain, … and enjoy your time. You are on holidays!

34. Avoid Pub Crawls

Fair enough, it is a different experiences to go for a pub crawl or join some tours to discover the nightlife. They can be pretty cool.

However, if you really travel on budget, avoid them. If you feel like a drink, go for it with fellow travelers. This is usually cheaper.

35. FourSquare Discounts

We love Foursquare !

It is a good thing the app is not that popular like TripAdvisor or other huge platforms/ Apps. You can search on foursquare for places with special offers e.g. a free drink by checking in, 10% discount on the daily menu and so on.

Another big advantage: People love to rate the locations and create their own lists for food, bars, things to do, .… So, hope over to FourSquare and search for such lists and use the recommendations.

Read: best travel apps

36. Shop at Local Markets (okay okay…not always cheaper!)

BUT: You can really score some big points and sweet deals. Obviously, we are not talking about the popular tourist markets here. The local markets have local prices, and you can sometimes have a free sample before buying.

37. Book your Hostel like a pro

There are many ways to book a hostel in a cheaper way. We created a special article about this including 11 booking hacks for hostels.

Read: how to book a hostel like a pro

38. Check out local travel blogs!

Maybe there is a travel blogger living in your next destination? Check out her/ his blog!

There you can usually get some good ideas on things to do and some local tips for transport, restaurants, and special offers. Really good resource not to underestimate!

39. Free Tours!

Free Tours are tip-based tours by locals or expats showing you around the city. Some of them are basic walking tours, other can have a special theme.

Highly recommended to get a basic idea of the cities infrastructure, and history background.

Popular Free Tours in Europe are for instance  Sandemans Free Tours . Here you can find a huge list of free walking tours across Europe .

40. Use Couchsurfing for Events

Couchsurfing is more than free accommodation.

It is a community of like-minded travelers. In big cities such as Barcelona, Paris, Madrid you can join plenty of couch surfing events. Usually those events are free and hold in places on budget.

Get a drink for a locals price and mingle with expats, locals and other travelers from Couchsurfing.

41. Book transport in advance (or simply online!)

SOME transport companies offer cheaper prices when booking online and/or in advance. Buses, ferries, planes, trains, …

In Croatia we booked our ferries ahead of time, and saved up to 30%. Pretty simple!

A lot of companies offer up to 20% discount when booking online. This is all you need to do: Book online!

Check out Flixbus – a bus company connecting many European cities. We wrote a big review of Flixbus here.

Also, don’t forget about possible onward ticket requirements! Some countries expect to see proof of an onward flight ticket to your next destination before they let you in. No joke.

Onward Ticket is where you can book a $12 flight ticket to use as proof, even though you don’t intend on using it. And yes, it’s completely legal. Here is our full review of Onward Ticket .

42. Share a ride

To get to some places that have fewer connections, try a carsharing service.

BlaBlaCar works quite well in Europe!

We used it from Barcelona to Marseille, from Marseille to Zurich…. and met many interesting people. I recommend you to see the driver reviews and other information. Also important: be easy on your plans so you can find a ride easily.

43. 5€ can be more than 10€ – Spend your money wisely

Traveling on a budget means you have to make choices. No private room, but therefore only a 4-bed dorm. However, there are situations where you should spend more and go for it. It is called investing. Other moments you should give it a pass.

When it comes to a unique tour you really want to take for whatever reasons, you should do it. You can save the extra coins you spend here later on sacrifice a bike rental or going for a drink.

44. Take Overnight Trains/ Buses

Here you save accommodation for a night.

Especially in expensive destinations, this can be a good money-saver.

Have you heard of Omio ? This website is great for booking affordable transport in Europe. From busses, to trains, to planes. Here’s our full review of Omio .

45. Make sure you are insured

Before buying any insurance, make sure you don’t have any.

If you are a European citizen, you are covered while traveling in Europe. kindly check that with your social security system and make sure you have all the papers (or card) you need with you before your trip. When traveling without these papers or card you will have to pay for your medical expenses in the country visited.

Also, if you have a private medical insurance, it might cover you while traveling abroad.

Not covered? Then consider getting a travel insurance. What looks like an extra cost can save your but in case of emergency.

Read: our reviews about  HeyMondo and Safetywings .

46. Trail Wallet App – Keep track of your money

The ultimate budget travel tip: Know your wallet and bank account.

The App Trail Wallet is the best travel app we love to use here at Hostelgeeks. You can easily keep track of your money. You can split your expenses in categories:

• Accommodation,
• entertainment,

It allows you as well to export your export your trip data to an excel file, or you can just see the charts they create to see how much do you spend on each category.

Give it a try, we really like it.

47. Take a Tent!

We asked as well Steph from Big World Small Pockets about her best Europe Travel Tips to save money.

This is what Steph said:

The number 1 item I always advise people to take if they’re looking to save money and travel more frequently, is a tent . This is one of my more unusual travel tips, but it can save you a fortune on accommodation costs. Nowadays, many hostels have camping spaces, which means you still get to enjoy all the amenities they offer, just at a cheaper rate. Tents also allow you more personal space than a dorm room and often you can camp in the hostel garden, which usually means a nicer set of surrounds than a 16 bed shared room!

Besides Europe, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa have lots of hostels with camping.

48. Don’t sit for a coffee

In Italy, there are three prices for coffee.

One is for sitting down (the most expensive option), while the second option is drinking the coffee at the bar – medium-priced. The cheapest option is ordering the coffee for take away. And score: this is the cheapest way to do it!

Note: bring your own reusable (and collapsible) cup to reduce plastic.

49. Make good use of the hostel staff’s resources

One of the best ways to get great insider advice on your destination is to ask the staff at your hostel. Seriously! This way we found so many hidden gems in Rhodes and got fantastic travel tips for Bologna .

Chances are, they’ll be more than happy to help you out with suggestions on what to do, see, eat, and drink (particularly if it’s one of the 5 Star Hostels ).

If you’re on a tight budget, then go ahead and let your hostel staff know that when you’re asking for tips. Maybe they know about a super cheap and super tasty local restaurant, or they might be able to let you in on the secret to getting discounted entry into tourist sights. It never hurts to ask!

50. Pay attention to currency leftovers

Be careful and plan your expenses so you do not have high currency leftovers. When traveling around Europe, you might encounter different currencies:

• Switzerland: Swiss franc
• Croatia: euro
• Albania: lek

If you have currency leftover, bear in mind banks will only accept to change bank notes. So, be smart about your currency leftovers and spend them in snacks -specially if you are traveling from a cheaper country to another with higher prices- or try to change your coins in the hostel with other travelers or in the reception.

51. Volunteering

This is a great way to save money, to meet new people and generally have a lot of fun!

Worldpackers is a fabulous platform for finding a wide range of volunteering opportunities in Europe, and across the world.

It’s a community, too. So not only can you try new things, but you can also learn new skills from their online academy and read many useful blogs.

Since 1st April 2021, new members will receive an extra 3 months added to their plan, meaning 15 months of access to the community for a price of 12 months. Not only that, but we’ve teamed up with Worldpackers to offer you a further $10 discount. You’re welcome.

This special offer on extra months always differs, so check this before making your final purchase of membership.

We wrote a big guide on volunteering at hostels here .

We’ve written a huge review of Worldpackers so that you’re fully in the know before you sign up.

Psst! Make sure you use discount code “Hostelgeeks” when signing up.

Read our indepth article on how to travel the world for free for more information about Worldpackers + comparison of other major volunteer platforms.

Summary of traveling Europe cheap

So here you have more than 50 tips to travel Europe cheap. I am sure there are some other tricks that I might have forgotten to add in my list, so don’t be shy and share them with us all.

Also, some of these tips can be applied internationally, not only in Europe.

Of course, staying in hostels is our number 1 trick. Hostels are a great place to meet other travelers and like-minded people.

Wanna more info about traveling around Europe? We have plenty, such as:

• worst travel tips ever – a FUN read
• long term travel insurance – the pros, cons and websites to use
• how to travel the world for free
• how to book hostels in 2024 – a complete overview and saving tips

We are 100% Independent: Some links on Hostelgeeks are so-called affiliate links. If you decide to book through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support allows us to keep producing high-quality, independent content free of influence from hostels or external advertisers. Learn more here . 🙏

✏️ Read our Editorial Guidelines

It was fascinating to know that a lot of hostels in Europe have a kitchen where you can cook your own meals to save money. My husband wants to tour Europe on our next vacation. I think it’s best for us to book a Europe tour that provides preplanned itineraries accompanied by expert tour guides.

Hi Victoria,

I personally do not think organized tours are the best way to explore Europe. There are a lot of factors coming in.

If time, money, and life allows, exploring Europe on your own is the absolute best experience.

In Europe, really the majority of hostels offer kitchen to their travelers. Cooking your own meals is one way to make your travel budget go a longer way, especially in Central and North Europe.

Safe travels, Matt

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10 European holidays worthy of your 2024 bucket list

From spotting Norway's Northern Lights to a ride on Switzerland's epic Glacier Express train

Our top picks include everything from a one-in-a-lifetime journey on the Glacier Express to a trip to Europe's prettiest Christmas market and a visit to Italy 's renowned foodie city of Bologna . And, all of our top picks feature Good Housekeeping Holidays , tailor-made and expertly curated trips that show you the very best of the region with fuss-free travel.

What's more, some of our organised trips included appearances from some very familiar faces , from top chef James Martin to journalist Michael Portillo . They'll join you on land, sea or rail to share their expertise, give you a tour of the local area and host Q&A sessions, demonstrations, activities and talks.

Take a look at our round-up of the best European bucket list trips to book now for 2024.

Sail the Rhine and visit Mainz, Europe's prettiest Christmas markets

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What's better than a Christmas market trip ? A festive cruise exploring several of Germany's prettiest winter markets. Our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip will have you soaking up the festive fun in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, Cologne, and Rüdesheim as you cruise the Rhine aboard the beautifully-appointed A-ROSA Aqua. There's a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool, plus breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. Our exclusive Christmas cruise is available to book ahead for December 2024.

Explore the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express

A rail journey through the Alps is a bucket list trip you'll remember for a lifetime, and our exclusive Good Housekeeping Holiday will allow you to experience the beauty of this mountain range on the iconic Glacier Express. You'll enjoy unrivalled views as you journey past snow-capped peaks, dramatic ravines and beautiful villages, plus visit Bern, Lucerne and Interlaken. The Glacier Express is a rail journey you'll never forget. It's been in operation since 1930, and has been renovated with comfortable carriages and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered landscapes.

Our exclusive escape includes high-speed trains from London to Interlaken so you don't have to take a flight for this experience. Plus, there's four nights at the Hotel Metropole in Interlaken and a three-course lunch on the train.

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Taste your way around Italy’s gastronomic capital, Bologna

Italy’s gastronomic capital Bologna is a great bucket list destination for the foodies amongst us. Renowned for its homemade pastas, meaty ragùs and myrtle-spiced mortadella sausage, it's known as La Grassa - 'the fat one'.To discover the fascinating gastronomic history and taste some of its world-famous food on a guided tour, join our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip for six-days of tasty experiences. In Bologna, you'll visit a local Parmesan factory, a Balsamic vineyard, and a family-run Parma ham producer.

On this trip, you'll also spend time in Modena where you can discover the city's history at the grand Duomo or the Ferrari and Lamborghini museums. Plus, take part in a cooking class and learn to host like a local. With a variety of 2024 dates available to book now, could Bologna be the European bucket list destination you tick off in the new year?

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Here at Good Housekeeping , we've got you covered with a tailor-made, eight-day tour of the region during the 2025 Flower Festival so you can see the very best horticultural highlights of the island; from the orchids at Palheiro Gardens to the exquisite colours of the Monte. During this guided tour, you'll also have time to explore the Old Town in Funchal and take in the incredible views of the Ribeiro Frio National Park.

Sail along the Danube and explore Vienna

A cruise along the majestic Danube makes a fabulous European holiday for anyone passionate about art, music, and culture. This grand river meanders through Central Europe, where its banks are dotted with charming villages and magnificent cities such as Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, each full to the brim with cultural treasures.

Good Housekeeping's eight-day Danube cruise will take you along the mighty river through the Wachau Valley on board Uniworld 's luxury ship, Maria Theresa. Look forward to stops in Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, discovering the art, architecture and fascinating history of each city with guided tours. As well as these important cities, you'll also stop off in some smaller towns, like pretty Dürnstein, where you can explore the quaint shops and castle ruins.

Hunt for Norway's Northern Lights

For wild natural scenery and jaw-dropping wildlife in Europe, Norway always delivers. Here adventurous travellers will find breathtaking landscapes dotted with tranquil fjords carved by ancient glaciers and towering, snow-capped mountains. Travellers are also drawn to Norway's icy Arctic region by the chance to see the ethereal Northern Lights dancing in the unpolluted skies. In this northernmost region, at the right time of year, the incredible Aurora is nearly certain to make an appearance. Good Housekeeping has a special winter expedition cruise that will take you through Norway’s fjords and up through the Arctic Circle to spot the Northern Lights

For an extra-special Northern Lights experience, why not join our expedition cruise with expert photographer Doug Allen, who has worked on David Attenborough's Blue Planet? Doug will give you tips on how to capture the best of Norway's landscapes and wildlife on camera and will join you on an Arctic Coastal walk.

Cruise the Douro Valley and taste fine wines

Portugal’s Douro Valley is a wonderfully scenic wine-producing region, where rolling, sun-kissed hills are dotted with historic vineyards and wine estates that have been producing flavoursome Port wines for centuries. It makes an ideal European holiday destination for wine enthusiasts who can visit some of these historic Quintas and learn all about the process of wine production in the valley. Good Housekeeping's eight-day cruise will begin in Portugal's second city of Porto, where you'll have some time to explore the historic old town, a UNESCO world heritage site, before setting sail along the river. You'll also stop at Régua, a town that has produced port wine since the 18th Century and continue onwards to the little town of Pinhão.

Travel from Venice to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

When it comes to European rail adventures, it doesn't get better than a trip on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This is an exceptionally luxurious train, with meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, kitted out with plush armchair seating, gleaming polished wood and brass fixtures. seasonal four-course d'hôte menus are served in the dining car, with a sommelier on hand with the perfect pairings.

The train travels several different routes throughout the year, but a favourite is an overnight trip from Venice to Paris. Good Housekeeping is offering a special ride on this route, where you'll be joined by journalist Michael Portillo, who'll give an evening talk and travel with you on the train. Michael is passionate about rail travel, and this will be his first time travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Explore Transylvania and stay at an Ice Hotel

For an unforgettable European trip, explore the gothic region of Transylvania and stay at the iconic Ice Hotel, which is built every year entirely of snow and ice blocks extracted from a glacial lake in the Fagaras Mountains. For an expert-led trip, you can join us on a Good Housekeeping Holidays guided tour through the region as you soak up the history, culture and charm of some of Romania's most picturesque medieval towns.

Tick Bucharest and Brasov off your list, before you head up rugged mountains for a stay at the Ice Hotel where you can go snow rafting or simply enjoy the icy scenery. On your return to Bucharest, you'll also visit Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula's Castle - one for the bucket list.

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Wealth of Geeks

How To Plan a European Vacation Fresh Out of College

Posted: March 18, 2024 | Last updated: March 18, 2024

With a diploma in hand, those endless nights of studying for chemistry labs wash away, along with the countless hours spent drooling over textbooks. To commemorate the last four years of the next part of life, an ambitious traveler decides to partake in the wondrous expedition so many completed: backpacking on a European Vacation. However, four years in a collegiate institution do not prepare for this next round of activities. One may know the capital of France, but do they know how to get there?  

Where To Start? European Vacation Research

Research is the most essential step in planning any kind of excursion. When planning a European getaway, research the areas and hemispheres of Europe that suit needs and beg interest.  Eastern Europe offers a lower price  for accommodations and housing and includes countries like Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Ukraine. Western Europe asks for more daily money from travelers and citizens due to higher minimum wages in Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, and Switzerland. 

European Backpacking Essentials

The next step asks backpackers to plan the items needed to experience a successful trip through Europe. These are a few necessary items, yet everyone’s list differs.

• Few changes of clothes and undergarments
• Power adapter
• Water bottle
• Rain jacket
• Pocket knife
• Packing cubes
• Essential toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant)
• Travel locks

Budgeting for a European Vacation

The best tidbit before journeying on any trip, foreign or domestic, is setting up a probable budget. Assess the amount of money in every account before making any large travel swoop. One must optimize financial goals and safety when traveling on tight finances. Never compromise safety for a budget-friendly lodging option. With that in mind, Couchsurfing and house-sitting are fabulous options when looking for places to stay in Europe.  

A great rule of thumb finds backpackers carrying between 50 and 100 dollars of the country’s currency per day. To stay conservative, allocate 25-50 dollars per day, writing down each daily expenditure—budget for transportation, food, entertainment, and lodging. 

Lodging Safety Tips

Always pay attention to the reviews when gallivanting through any new country. Even in traveler’s home countries, reviews exist for a reason. A one-time vitriolic review pales compared to a multitude of lighthearted, satisfied reviews. Keep in mind the number of bad reviews when booking lodging.

If traveling on a tight budget, don’t turn away the possibility of a hostel. They present fewer risks than unseasoned travelers think. Hostels exist as budget-friendly lodges shared by people with the same vision: to enjoy their time abroad. Since many people share the rooms, the price decreases from a private hotel room inhabited by one person. Enhance security by locking bags, hiding valuables, and befriending those sharing the room. Note the kind of areas surrounding the hostel. Are they packed with boisterous bars and dance clubs? Do selections of restaurants dwell on the street corners? Does the neighborhood measure a favorable safety rating? 

Couchsurfing

Plenty of globetrotters favor couchsurfing to save money and meet new people. Couchsurfing allows interested individuals to find homes with free couches (in some cases, rooms) open for lodging by locals in the destination country. Couchsurfing.com requires a paywall for users to browse the posted couches and openings in over 200,000 cities. 

While Couchsurfing has an established network with legitimate administrators and verified users, it’s an internet platform based around strangers interacting. In other words, users need to verify the integrity and safety of their stays. Read reviews, research the profiles, note which profiles appear fake—not enough information, no pictures, no logged location—and assess comfort levels after communicating with the host through the Couchsurfing website. Never dole out personal information until after meeting the host in person, and always, always, tell at least one person about the stay. That way, someone knows location details in case of a mix-up or an emergency. 

House-Sitting/Pet-Sitting 

House or pet sitting are other revered traveling methods. Like couchsurfing, these jobs allow jet setters a free place to crash in exchange for watching over an unoccupied home or unattended pets. With unperturbed access to houses, travelers indulge in strengthened relationships with locals and a glimpse of local life thanks to the house’s location and the neighbor’s attitude toward temporary guests. For pet sitting, workers experience a whole new side of pet life worldwide. 

Take the same precautions as couchsurfing when searching for a reliable house or pet-sitting gig. Establish a connection through the website or app, give out identification information after meeting the family in person (or after video calling a few times), and assess the neighborhood/surroundings prevalent in the community. 

These subsidized jobs allow visitors to plunge into local life and experience a new country, minus the tint of rose-colored sunglasses tourists in hotels/hostels undergo. Plus, house-sitters and couchsurfers save extra funds on lodging for a larger attraction budget. 

Additional Safety Tips

From carrying adequate medications to staying away from strangers, we uncover safety tips for backpackers. 

1. Medications 

Too many travelers forget to bring a generous supply of prescription and over-the-counter medication on trips. Bring the amount for the desired trip time and an extra supply for emergencies. 

2. Remain Wary of Strangers

Making new friends in a foreign country is part of the traveling experience, but pay attention to motive. If someone approaches with a direct eye line to a backpack or wallet, don’t befriend them. 

3. Don’t Look Touristy

Some locals in different countries treat wide-eyed tourists as their easiest targets. Avoid appearing like an ignorant tourist by reading up on local culture and fashion, fighting the urge to pull out the selfie stick, and keeping the mystified oohs and aahs to a whisper. 

4. Keep a Copy of Important Documents

People steal passports. Travelers lose IDs. Photocopy each essential document and keep it locked in a safe inside the hotel/hostel/lodge/couchsurfing location. 

5. Travel With Others

Traveling with others does not single out solo travelers. Walk alongside other tourists or excursion groups while exploring, if alone. If traveling with others, stick to the buddy system and keep their contact information handy. 

Food for Thought: Backpacking Routes

A mountain of multitudes, a hiker’s heaven, a skier’s serendipity materializes in  Mont Blanc , a mountain range expanding through steep cave hikes, pastures, and waterfalls spread throughout France, Italy, and Switzerland.

An artistic endeavor sees backpackers frolicking through Parisian museums, marveling at great works like T he Mona Lisa and The Venus de Milo before heading off to Florence for a close-up of Michelangelo’s David and other rich  Renaissance movement  installments. The final stop in Madrid houses  Pablo Picadso’s Guernica : a portrait analyzing the effects of war on citizens

Now, Buy That Backpack for Your European Vacation

Whether picking a breeze through the Balkans, a trek through the United Kingdom, a traipse through The Netherlands, or any other assortment of the 44 European countries, now is the time to undertake the backpacking trip that always bordered on out of reach. Budget the European Vacation, buy that backpack, and book those flights. Happy trekking!

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