You can find a good youth hostel just about anywhere you go, but there seems to be a concentration of top-notch hostels in Western Europe. Some of these youth hostels in western Europe are downright legendary, and some are just solid cheap places to crash – either way, there are loads of options, so you’ll probably need a bit of help.
Check out these hot spots from some of the hottest destinations on the European backpacking circuit!
Flying Pig — Downtown Amsterdam
Nieuwendijk 100, 1012 MR
The Flying Pig Hostel is famous, nay infamous for its mellow Amsterdamy vibe. This should be your number one choice if you’re looking for a hostel in Amsterdam. You’ll be able to mellow out with fellow travelers in the pillow-filled common room. They even have a DJ in what they call the “happy room” and a bar that is open until 4am!
The pig is just a 2 minute walk from the central station, right near loads of pubs, clubs, coffee shops and red lights – just where you want to be! Additionally, they have free wifi, free webcams, and bicycles for rent!
The Circus Hostel — Berlin, Germany
Weinbergsweg 1a, 10119
The Cirus Hostel in Berlin is a member of the coveted “Europe’s Famous Hostels” group, has a great location in Berlin. In their basement, they have Goldman’s Bar, where you can often find DJ’s spinning and a rotating schedule of events including Karaoke and sporting events.
They also have a café that serves all you can eat breakfast until 1pm! Great for travelers who have lost their get-up-and-go, or who spent too much time sampling Berlins wild nightlife!
They also have free wifi, their staff will help you book your next stop, and they have one of the highest ratings on HostelWorld.com.
St. Christopher’s — Paris
159, rue de Crimée, Paris
St. Christopher’s Inns are always a good bet. Their newest addition is St. Christopher’s Paris, located just two stops on the Metro from Gare du Nord. The place if huge, with 300 beds, ready to accommodate weary world travelers.
The new St. Chris was build to be a hostel, so you’re not going to be staying in some strangely remodeled old house with bedrooms converted into dorms – as they say, “This is the benchmark for a new generation of hostels – so when you stay with us, be prepared for the time of your life.”
As always, they have an onsite Belushi’s Bar where you can expect boozy backpackers and even live music!
For the ladies, they’ve even implemented “The Oasis” a girls only floor, where you can take your time to get ready and do whatever girly things you need before hitting the Parisian club scene!
Kabul Backpackers Hostel – Barcelona
Plaza Real 17
The bar at Kabul is legendary and the backpackers who frequent this place are some of the friendliest you’ll meet (true, backpackers are generally friendly, no matter where you are!). A member of Europe’s Famous Hostels, Kabul is centrally located in Barcelona, and known as one of the best places to book a bed and make new friends.
You’ll intend to stay for three days, but end up staying for a week or longer! Barcelona seems to have that effect on travelers, and Kabul only adds fuel to the fire!
No curfew, no age limits, no maximum stay at this youth hostel– just show up (book in advance!), be friendly and respectful and have some fun with your new friends!
Don’t forget to check back soon for more youth hostel info!
