When it comes to exploring European cities on a budget, staying in hostels is often the most popular choice among travelers. Not only are hostels budget-friendly, but they also offer an opportunity to meet fellow adventurers from around the world.
Gone are the days when hostels were associated with safety concerns and unclean environments. During my travels, I discovered some remarkable hostels that provided exceptional experiences, new friends, and cherished memories.
In this blog post, I will share with you the top seven hostels I stayed in across European cities!
1. St. Moritz, Switzerland - St. Moritz Youth Hostel:
During a cross-country marathon, my brother, Hank, and I found ourselves rooming with a 60-year-old German racer at the St. Moritz Youth Hostel. Despite being the youngest guests by at least 20 years, this hostel proved to be the perfect accommodation and offered the chance to develop a special friendship with the hostel manager, who was our age, and doubled as our mountain guide.
2. Lisbon, Portugal - Scenic Hostel with a View:
While exploring Lisbon, I stumbled upon a hostel that was worth every step climbed. The breathtaking view from this hostel, nestled in the city's winding streets, made the steep climb to the building worthwhile.
3. Seville, Spain - The Party Hostel:
For those seeking a vibrant and lively atmosphere, the hostel in Seville was the perfect choice. Renowned as a party hostel, it organized nights out in Seville and gathering at the busy, hostel bar. The rooftop view provided a stunning backdrop, and the hostel was filled with young, social travelers, making it an ideal spot for meeting new people.
4. Berlin, Germany - A Home Away From Home:
During my visit to Berlin with my high school friends, we found a hostel that became our local hub. The hours spent at the hostel bar, dancing on the tables, and even getting to take over as DJ were some of the most memorable moments of our stay in Berlin.
5. Vienna, Austria - Prime Location and Luxurious Comfort: The hostel in Vienna stood out as one of the most luxurious and conveniently located accommodations I experienced. Situated just off the Naschmarkt, the hostel provided easy access to the city's vibrant culinary scene. The combination of comfort and prime location made my stay in Vienna really exceptional.
6. Lagos, Portugal - The Vibrant Banana Beach Hostel: Among all the hostels I visited, the Banana Beach Hostel in Lagos, Portugal, holds a special place in my heart. Traveling solo, I was instantly welcomed into a vibrant group of individuals from all over the world. We bonded over surfing, shared meals, and nights out. The sense of community and genuine connections made this hostel an absolute gem!
7. Stockholm, Sweden - The Ship-Hostel Experience: Stepping onto a hostel that was actually a ship in Stockholm was an adventure in itself. This unique accommodation provided not only a comfortable stay but also an opportunity to interact with fellow travelers in an extraordinary setting. As an added bonus, I had the privilege of being the first American someone my age had ever met, further highlighting the cultural exchange that hostels facilitate.
Parting Notes:
My journey through European cities introduced me to some amazing hostels, shattering any preconceived notions about budget accommodations.
From forging unexpected friendships to immersing myself in vibrant party scenes, these hostels enhanced my travel experiences in ways that exceeded my expectations.
If you're planning to explore European cities on a budget, don't hesitate to embrace the world of hostels, as they are sure to provide you with budget-friendly comfort, enriching interactions, and memorable stories to share.