8 of the Coolest Hostels Around the World
Between their indoor pools and art installations, these eight cutting-edge hostels are must-visits for travelers on a budget.
Although hostels are often an inexpensive choice for budget-conscious travelers, low-cost doesn’t always mean no frills. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to lay your head or a lively destination to party the night away, here are eight of the coolest hostels across the globe:
1. La Banda Rooftop Hostel in Seville, Spain
Located in the bustling center of vibrant Seville, La Banda Rooftop Hostel is perfectly situated for sightseers and party-goers alike. Between the funky decor and the young, friendly staff, this hostel is easily one of the hippest spots in Andalusia. Take a free walking tour, go to a flamenco show, or partake in one of the hostel’s nightly bar crawls.
2. Mosaic House in Prague, Czech Republic
Home to La Loca Music Bar and Lounge, Mosaic House is a beautifully designed Eco-hostel minutes away from some of Prague’s most famous landmarks. With a nightclub, bar, and restaurant on-site, it’s easy to socialize with other travelers. Featuring beautiful installation art outside, and a sleek and modern interior, Mosaic House is a must-stay for artistically-inclined travelers.
3. Wombat’s City Hostel at the Naschmarkt in Vienna, Austria
Stressed out after a long day of travel? You’ll be greeted with a free drink when you check into this world-class hostel, located adjacent to Vienna’s most famous food market. You’re sure to feel that you and your belongings are safe at Wombat’s, famous for its prime location, pristine facilities, and social atmosphere.
4. Generator Berlin Mitte in Berlin, Germany
One of the jewels in the crown of the Generator hostel chain, Generator Berlin Mitte provides a luxury experience for the low-budget traveler. The comfy rooms are equipped with vanities and magazines, and the bar is well-stocked, as is the cozy in-house library. Featuring singles, doubles, and female-only dorms, Generator Berlin Mitte is built with its guests’ comfort in mind.
5. Ostello Bello Grande in Milan, Italy
Located in one of the fashion capitals of the world, Ostello Bello Grande is a chic space for creative travelers. With complimentary breakfasts, a free drink and dinner, three libraries and three stunning outdoor patios, the hostel’s ambiance is rivaled only by the bustling city around it. For musically inclined guests, the hostel provides access to pianos, guitars, a violin and a bass; and for those unfamiliar with the city, there are free guided tours that leave the hostel at least once a day.
6. Equity Point Marrakech in Marrakech, Morocco
A luxuriously decorated hostel in the heart of the Medina, Equity Point Marrakech immerses its guests in the culture, sights and smells of Marrakech. Its tile floors, open courtyards, and pristine swimming pool will help travelers cool off on even the hottest of days. For those seeking an authentic, less touristy experience, Equity Point is the place to stay.
7. Pink Manila Hostel in Manila, Philippines
Want to see Manila in style? Pink Manila Hostel sits on the penthouse floors of a beautiful mansion and offers breathtaking views of Manila’s favorite skyline. Featuring a gym, a bar, billiards tables, an outdoor pool, and panoramic vistas of the city from every room, few hostels offer better service — or a better view.
8. Home Lisbon Hostel in Lisbon, Portugal
Home Lisbon Hostel fosters a homey feel and tight-knit community for solo travelers and large groups alike. One of Lisbon’s oldest hostels, this historic home’s main attraction is its nightly dinner hosted by Mamma, the hostel owner’s mother. Whether you want to cuddle up for movie night with your fellow travelers, or lounge around the living room reading a good book, Home Lisbon Hostel has you covered.
While staying at any of these hostels would undoubtedly be an amazing experience, any seasoned backpacker knows that it takes more than great lodgings to make a trip truly unforgettable. Luckily, innovative new technologies like Netaround, a location-based social networking app, are making it easier than ever for travelers to make lasting connections on the road. Hostels can set up geo-fenced “zones” that guests can join upon arrival — the zone feed can be used for introductions, coordinating group outings and activities, and sharing photos/videos of hostel-goers’ day-to-day adventures. Most importantly, travelers can friend one another to stay connected long after they’ve moved on to their next destination.
