Budget travel doesn’t have to mean compromising on a slice of luxury. We round up our top boutique hostels within Europe that redefine the traditional notions of stuffy, packed rooms and instead offer contemporary decor and private room options as well as a whole array of added extras from city tours to culinary workshops.
Credit: @WALLYARDhostel
Wall Yard Hostel, Berlin
Boasting a modern urban interior and offering a range of private rooms and dorms as well a lounge and art salon, the rooms at Wall Yard Hostel feature large windows, lockable showers and comfy mattresses. The hostel is situated in the heart of Berlin’s leafy Moabit neighbourhood, offering the opportunity for both a relaxed sightseeing city break and vibrant Neukölln nightlife. Head to the east and you will find the contemporary art gallery Hamburger Bahnhof, while the nearby main shopping street, Turmstrasse, has great street food eateries. Also close is Arminiusmarkthalle, a brick market hall that is lined with hipster food stalls. Take advantage of the convenient added extras at the hostel including a snug coffee shop, well-stocked bar, bicycle rentals and a free city tour. Rooms are priced from as little as €12 for a six-bedroom with a shared bathroom, through to €25 for a twin room with private ensuite.
Credit: @casagraciabcn
Casa Gracia, Barcelona
Casa Gracia in Barcelona is a little more pricey but really delivers in terms of luxury. Dorms are cosy, yet impeccably decorated in a minimalist theme and the deluxe apartment even has its own balcony with picturesque views stretching over the city. If you’re looking to relax, the De Tranquis lounge area is a quiet zone where you can settle down with a good book and a freshly squeezed smoothie, whereas if you’re looking to meet new people the Petit Bis bar is the place to hang out. There are also plenty of places to eat, including a gastrobar and a private function room that can be hired out for special occasions. There’s plenty on the events schedule so make sure to check out the range of morning yoga, DJ nights, foodie workshops and wine tasting. Rooms are priced from €88 for a four bed dorm to €275 for a private suite.
Credit: @ecomamahotel
Ecomama, Amsterdam
With just seven rooms, Ecomama is Amsterdam’s best kept secret. Whether you’re travelling as a group or on a romantic break with your significant other there’s a range of rooms to suit all budgets. For ultimate privacy book the double private superior complete with en-suite bathroom, free WIFI and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities. If same-sex dorms aren’t for you there’s a ladies-only dorm – a perfectly pink haven that houses antique white princess beds, free nail polish, glossy magazines and straighteners. Read one of the vintage books in the lounge area, watch a classic movie in the teepee tent or cook for your new mates at the open kitchen. Rooms are priced from €24 for a 12 bed dorm to €110 for a double superior room.
Credit: @CzechInnPrague
Czech Inn, Prague
Situated just 15 minutes from Prague’s historic Old Town, Czech Inn the ideal hub for exploring the picture-perfect city. Prague is a hotbed of music, art, theatre as well as beautiful architecture in the form of the stunning Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square. Premium dorms at the hostel come with their own kitchen if you fancy trying out your culinary skills. Shared rooms start from as little as €8, while private apartments cost €99.
Credit: @TheYellowRome
The Yellow, Rome
The Yellow Hostel Group has successfully managed to redefine the traditional notions of what a hostel is, entertaining guests with local live bands, shopping tours and rooftop yoga, and the Rome-based hostel is no different. Learn to cook delicious meals, take a photo vintage class or go on a nighttime tour of the city. Budget 10-room dorms are made for backpackers, while private twin rooms offer the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle. Budget rooms are priced from €30, while private twin rooms cost €99.
