My Favourite Budget Hostels in Europe

For anybody planning a trip to Europe, finding the right hostel which won’t kill your budget or compromise comfort can certainly be a task.

Fortunately if this is your first time hostelling then Europe is a great place to start.

With so many options and ‘styles’ of hostel accommodation to choose from, you will easily be spoiled for choice.

For me, what makes a great hostel is memorability and atmosphere. Despite even staying in some pretty run down places, the staff and people I met were definitely what made the experience worth while.

There are so many hostels I could include in this, especially over the past 12 years I’ve been staying in Hostels but I thought it would be a fun idea to get you started by putting together a small list of my absolute favorite so far.

So here is a list of my top 8 hostels to date, in no particular order:

😀

1. Ostello Santa Fosca, Venice, Italy

Location – Cannaregio, 2372, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy

About
Ostello Santa Fosca is situated in the Cannaregio District of Central Venice. Looking at the building entrance and courtyard you would think it was once a church and you would be right.

Parts of the building incorporating parts of Chiesa di servi dei Maria, which once served as the 3rd largest Catholic Church in Venice.

Whats nearby
Ostello Santa Fosca is within easy walking distance to popular Venetian sites and landmarks such as:

– 15 minute walk to St Marks Square
– 10 minutes walk to Rialto Bridge
– 8 minute walk to Museo Wagner
– 10 minutes walk to Santa Lucia Train Station
– 5 minutes away from local food shops and markets

Atmosphere
The vibe of the hostel is extremely relaxed, with a large open plan communal kitchen and private courtyard equipped with deck chairs and picnic tables, this makes this the ideal place to mingle with other travelers.
Inside, the building is light and airy with it’s basic decoration, however what gives this hostel its appeal is the spaciousness and simplicity.

The hostel gives off more of a Riposo (Siesta) vibe than a party hostel which is ideal place to unwind when the tiredness of the busy city tires you out.
Ostello Santa Fosca overall is a very pleasant youth* hostel which is open all year round.

Amenities
I will include a link to their website here.

– No curfew
– Bedding/linen and blankets are included
– Free WiFi
– Hot Showers plus hairdryer hire etc.
– Fully equipped kitchen with cooking facilities
– Wheelchair Access
– Free luggage deposit after check out
– TV lounge/seating area
– Lockers available

My experience
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here, I felt safe, comfortable and found the hostel very easy to find. The staff were extremely friendly and I would highly recommend this hostel if you are looking for a more relaxed environment.

Ostello Santa Fosca is a popular hostel which does sell out quickly, I just thought it was worth mentioning.

The only downside is that breakfast isn’t included, however there are local food shops nearby.

2. Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal

Location – Calçada do Carmo 6, 1100-193 Lisboa, Portugal

About
Rossio Hostels wonderfully inviting atmosphere is not to be missed. Located on the very doorstep of Lisbon’s beautifully iconic Rossio Square, Rossio Hostel offers the perfect central location. Just a short walk away from many of the cities sight and attractions.

Rossio Hostel has won many awards such as being voted the 2nd best Hostel Worldwide in 2008 and 2009 as well as 2nd Best Small Hostel Worldwide in 2010. Rossio Hostel was by far my favorite place I stayed in Lisbon.

Here’s a link to their website.

Whats nearby
Rossio Hostel is in super easy reach of many sites and attractions, either by walking or from the nearby metro station and tram systems.

– 1 minute to Rossio Square
– 2 minutes from Metro Station
– 10 minute walk to Praça do Comércio
– 10 minute walk to the beach front
– 20 minute walk to Castelo de S. Jorge

Atmosphere
The hostel inside is very modern and beautifully decorated with cozy seating areas and wooden beams. The kitchen is fully equipped for you to cook meals and is a handy supermarket located just behind the hostel.

The hostel as a whole is very clean and comfortable and gives off a very laid back yet sociable vibe.

I stayed during winter and although a little quieter, I found everybody there to be very chatty.

It was easy to get to know the staff who were very knowledgeable about the area.

Amenities
– Towels, Linen and blankets included
– Breakfast included
– Tea/coffee available all day
– Free and fast Wifi
– Bar and Media Cinema Room
– Hot showers/Towels Included
– Luggage Storage and 24 hour reception
– Book exchange

My Experience
The staff were extremely kind and diverse, speaking many languages between them.

I told them of my previous bad experience at another hostel nearby and they went above and beyond to ensure I had a comfortable stay.
The manager was kind enough to upgrade me to a private room with amazing views over Rossio Square for no additional cost.

3. Avenue Hostel, Budapest, Hungary

Location – Budapest, Oktogon 4, 1067 Hungary

About
Set in the heart of the Oktogon Intersection, Avenue Hostel is a modern and lively hostel which is easily accessible by tram.
The hostel may be tricky to spot at first so look for the corner with Starbucks, from there the hostel entrance is 50 foot to the right. There is a lift available once you get inside so the hostel is wheelchair accessible.

Whats nearby
The beauty of staying in Oktogon means you have direct access to the excellent public transport, trams and buses are the most popular and cheapest way around and only costs roughly €2.00 = 641 HUF in local currency.

– 15 to 20 minute walk to Vajdahunyad Castle, Art Museums and Heroes Square
– 5 minute tram ride to the River Danube
– 5 minutes from Terézváros a popular spot for traditional Hungarian food
– 5 minute tram plus 10 minute walk to the Hungarian Parliament building
– 20 minute bus ride to Fishermans Bastion (Line 105 bus)
– 20 Minutes from Citadella via tram or bus (Line 6)

Atmosphere
Avenue Hostel is one of the larger hostels I’ve stayed at, offering a simple yet industrial design with a casual yet busy buzz about the place. I found this hostel to be very popular with groups and tours.

Upon return to Budapest quite recently I decided to stay here again as I enjoyed it so much.

The staff were very approachable and always happy to help.
The hostel itself is very spacious and clean and the breakfast is one of the best ones I’ve had. Think continental but with added extras.

You can read more about Avenue hostel here.

Keep in mind during check-in you may be queuing for quite some time, this is a large hostel.

Amenities
– 24 hour reception
– Self catering kitchens
– Breakfast included
– Free Wifi
– Fresh linen provided
– Bar and lounge area
– pub crawls and tours available
– Airport transfers available
– Locker provided

My Experience
I have stayed at Avenue hostel on two occasions during my visits to Budapest, I just really like the location which makes getting around so easy.

I loved that I was so close by to Heroes Square and Vajdahunyad Castle and parks.
In winter you can also enjoy a spot of ice skating next to the castle.

4. Whole Wide World Hostel and Bar, Zagreb, Croatia

Location – Kačićeva ul. 3B, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

About
Situated in the Commercial district of central Zagreb, Whole Wide World Hostel was definitely one of the more vibrant and livelier hostels I’ve stayed at and highly recommended by other friends and travelers.
Often referred to as your ‘home away from home’ WWW hostel hosts many themed nights and international holidays taking place.

Be sure to check out the windows of this place which are decorated with flags from around the world. A really cool touch.

Side note: Be sure to book direct with them either on their website or at reception to get the best deal.

…and the link to their website here.

Whats nearby
– 15 minute walk from Dolac Market
– 15 to 20 minute walk from Zagreb Cathedral
– 20 to 25 minutes from the main train station Zapadni
– 15 minute walk from Old Town Zagreb
– 15 to 20 minutes from the Museum of Broken relationships and St Marks Church
– 10 minute walk from Ban Josip Jelačić Square (also the meeting point for free city tours)
– 1 minute from tram services

Atmosphere
This hostel was an absolute blast, there was always something going on from guided tours and day excursions to celebrating holidays and national/Independence days from countries around the world.

The staff (or ninjas as they’re called at the hostel) are an extremely fun bunch who really make an effort to get guests involved with themed nights, parties and other games.

The guests were very sociable and fun to be around, it would be hard not to make friends here.

A very lively place to be.

Amenities
– 24 hour reception desk
– Linen included
– Free Wifi
– Laundry Facilities
– Communal kitchen with cooking facilities
– Breakfast included
– Bar and cozy lounge area with beds
– Airport shuttle if required
– Food shops nearby

My Experience
I stayed for 4 nights but wish I could have stayed longer. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and I’ll definitely be back.

During my stay the manager was ridiculously generous and made it his mission to offer the best Thanksgiving dinner to the American guests.

As I stayed just before Christmas, the hostel team very kindly took all us guests out for a dinner. A very kind gesture and an amazing experience.

I highly HIGHLY recommend this hostel!

5. Hostel Tivoli, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Location – Lepodvorska ulica 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

About
Just across the road from Tivoli Park is the small yet cozy Tivoli Hostel. Located just a 10 minute walk away from the city center of Ljubljana.
This peaceful yet friendly hostel has only 3 rooms which includes 1 Double room, an 8 bed mixed dorm and a slightly larger 12 bed mixed dorm.

From the outside the building almost looks like a converted shipping container which is tucked away at the side of a motor repair garage but inside it is a very modern and bright little space.

Don’t be put off by how this hostel looks on the outside, it truly is a gem.

You can check out the photos here.

Whats nearby
– 2 minute walk to Tivoli City Park
– 10 minutes walk to from Ljubljana train and coach station station
– 15 minutes into Ljuljana City Center where you will find popular sites such as the Prešeren Square, Franciscan Church of the Annunciation and the Dragon
– 45 minute walk to Ljubljana Castle however there are other modes of transport such as the Funicular Railway or buses. I will leave a link here.
– 15 to 20 minute walk to Metelkova

Atmosphere
During my visit in November there were only 5 guests staying so it was very easy to get to know one another and spend in the city together.

The hostel really is quite special.

If you’re one for a peaceful area next to a beautiful park then I highly recommend this place.
Another bonus is that because there were so few people, it meant a great nights sleep with minimal to no disturbance.

Amenities
– Free Parking
– Linen and bedding included
– Breakfast included
– Free Wifi
– Communal kitchenette made up of a kettle, microwave and fridge
– Lounge area with TV
– Laundry Facilities
– Bike rental

My Experience
The moment I entered the hostel I was greeted by extremely courteous staff and given a shot of Viljamovka, a type of Slovenian pear Brandy.

The staff were extremely enthusiastic to share and tell stories about the history of Slovenia and the amazing things to see in Ljubljana.

For me the people of Slovenia were some of the most friendliest people I’ve ever met.

6. Wild Elephants, Bratislava, Slovakia

Location – Františkánske námestie 8, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

About
Ahhh the Wild Elephants Hostel, the clue is in the name. It is a wild place which I think everybody should visit at least once.
Cheap in price and perfectly situated in the heart of the city, Wild Elephants is a vibrant arty hostel which hosts a variety of colorful people to match.

Be sure to check out the artwork around this place, it’s spectacular.

Located in Bratislava’s historic Old Town Hall, be sure to look up as the hostel is sneakily located above a Mexican Restaurant.

Here’s the link if you wish to know more here.

Whats nearby
– A 6-minute walk from the Jesenského tram station
– 10 minute walk from the Slovak National Museum
– 10 minute walk from St. Martin’s Cathedral
– 5 to 10 minute walk for Michaels gate
– 1 minute to the main street and markets
– 20 to 25 minute walk up to Bratislava Castle

Atmosphere
Most of the staff who work/volunteer there are also big time travelers so they’re always keen to get you involved with activities such as live music, drinking games and city tours.

At the back of the hostel is a fully equipped communal kitchen with a large table where guests love to gather.

Keep an eye on the menu as vegetarian/vegan meals can be purchased for a small price.

Overall the atmosphere is lively and busy, particularly in the attic bar, so be sure to check that out.
Wild Elephants attracts folks from all walks of life.

YOU WILL GET DRUNK!

Amenities
– Free Wifi
– Linen included
– TV and lounge area
– Fully equipped kitchen
– Attic bar and smoking area
– Chalkboards and graffiti friendly walls
– Laundry facilities
– Clothes Swapping
– Cheaply priced evening meals

My Experience
The staff certainly know how to throw a crazy party.

Almost every night I was there I ended up on some wild night out around the city.

Tours which take place in and around the city are also offered if you fancy a more relaxing day to nurse your hangover.

Overall Bratislava was a quaint and wrongly overlooked city. I would 10/10 go back.

7. Cosmopole Hostel, Prague, Czech Republic

LocationSpálená 8/3, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia

About
Cosmopole is a fairly new addition to the city and a beautifully renovated build, holding many of its original features which are spread across 6 floors.
Cosmopole Hostel is a centrally located within the city and just minutes away from the Vltava River and popular attractions.

Whats nearby
– 1 minute walk from the bustling main street which is loaded with shops, restaurants and bars
– 14 minute walk to the famous Charles Bridge
– 15 minutes walk to Old Town Square
– 8 minutes walk to the Dancing House
– 30 minute walk to Prague Castle
– 20 Minute walk to the main train and coach station (Praha hlavní nádraží)

Atmosphere
The atmosphere here at Cosmopole even though a hostel didn’t feel like one, it almost felt like a hotel.
Although fairly quiet during my stay I can certainly see this being a popular spot for groups.

Equipped with an amazing roof top terrace with views overlooking the city, a couple of snooker tables and an on site library which I absolutely adored.

The staff were very informative and were happy to answer any questions I had in regards to walking tours and recommended places to eat.

Amenities
– Breakfast included
– Lockers included
– Full kitchen and appliances
– Linen included
– Roof top terrace
– 24 hour reception
– Library
– Games room

My Experience
Having come from another terrible hostel in Prague, I felt completely spoiled once I arrived here, I was sad I hadn’t booked sooner.
The other guests in my dorm were very diverse bunch which just proves that Prague attracts people from the world over.
During my Euro Trip Prague was definitely a major highlight for me.

Here’s a link to the hostel website here.

8. Castle Hostel 1004, Bled, Slovenia

Location – Grajska cesta 22, 4260 Bled, Slovenia

About
Castle 1004 hostel in itself was fairly standard, however what really made this place special was the unbeatable location and absolutely amazing views over the town of Bled.

Located just a 2 minute walk from Bled bus/coach station is the hostel situated to the right. If you reach the convenience store you’ve gone too far.

The hostel is basic in design but does have a great roof top terrace, a computer/communal area.

Upon check in you will be given a special wristband which gives you x% off at selected restaurants and tours.

Whats nearby
– 12 minute walk to Bled Castle
– 5 minute walk to Lake Bled
– 2 minute walk to local shops and grocery store
– 10 to 15 minutes walk to the lake side cafes and restaurants
– 90 to 120 minutes to walk around Lake Bled
– 2 minute walk to the bus and coach station

Atmosphere
The overall atmosphere here was very ‘walking tour’ oriented, I can see why.
Bled itself was everything I had hoped for and then some.
As I mentioned previously for Hostel Tivoli, the people here are so friendly and hospitable, which certainly brought in the right crowd of people.

This place is perfect for anybody who wishes to get back to nature and enjoy a more peaceful trip.

Amenities
Here I will include a link to the hostel here so you can check out more.

– 24 Hour reception
– Daily free walking tours and pub crawls
– Breakfast included
– Rooftop Terrace
– Bed linen included
– Library/Lounge
– Fully equipped kitchen
– Free Wifi
– Free food swap

My Experience
I fell in love with this place, which makes me eager to return. I do hope to come back later in 2019 and explore more of this beautiful country.
I cannot fault anything. 1000% recommend.

So there we have it, just a hand full of my favorite hostels in Europe.
Hopefully these recommendations will inspire you to check out these hostels.
I will be putting together a part two later down the line as fitting them all into one post would go on forever.

I want to know, have any of you folks stayed at any of these hostels or do you have any recommendations for me to check out?

I’d love to connect and hear your thought on what you think about these hostels.

For now though…

Happy travels.

XO
O8