Hostels are more than just budget beds and shared kitchens. They’re where travelers trade stories over late-night pasta, sunrise hikes are planned in bunk-bed whispers, and strangers become friends on city rooftops and jungle verandas.
The best hostels in the world offer comfort, character, and connection. A few might even tempt you to extend your stay a little longer than planned. Together, let’s explore some of the world’s most beloved hostels, from mountain towns and seaside cities to artistic capitals and remote rainforests.
The Beehive | Rome, Italy
The Beehive is a peaceful, eco-conscious hostel just steps from Termini Station. It’s a bit of an oasis in the heart of Rome. Run by a friendly American couple, they offer yoga classes, organic breakfasts, and a leafy courtyard for sipping espresso or journaling after a day in the Eternal City.
The minimalist rooms and relaxed common spaces draw solo travelers, creatives, and people craving a quieter, more mindful kind of adventure.
Generator Hostel | Copenhagen, Denmark
Stylish, spacious, and situated in the middle of the city, Generator Copenhagen has the feel of a modern hotel with the soul of a hostel. Picture Nordic designs, communal dining tables, and welcoming social spaces where people gather for quiz nights and happy hours.
The bar serves local craft beers, the beds are comfy, and you can rent bikes from them to cruise around the canals like a local.
Caveland | Santorini, Greece
As dreamy as the island itself, Caveland is built into a former 18th-century winery and features cave-style dorms, bougainvillea-covered terraces, and panoramic views of the sea.
It’s tucked away from the tourist bustle, meaning quiet mornings, yoga in the garden, and evenings filled with group dinners and local wine. With its balance of calm and community, Caveland manages to bottle the magic of the Cyclades beautifully.
Sir Toby’s Hostel | Prague, Czech Republic
Tucked into the leafy district of Holešovice, Sir Toby’s is a cross between a storybook pub and a cozy European inn. Antique furniture and warm brick walls welcome you in, while a unique garden bar and daily events make it easy to meet fellow travelers.
With a mix of private rooms and dorms, a shared kitchen, and free walking tours, Sir Toby’s is an ideal base for exploring Prague’s Gothic lanes and lively beer halls.
KEX Hostel | Reykjavik, Iceland
Housed in an old biscuit factory overlooking the sea, KEX is effortlessly cool without trying too hard. The rooms are industrial chic, the atmosphere is cozy, and the on-site gastropub draws locals and travelers alike.
There’s live music, vintage decor, and views of Mount Esja right from the lounge. It’s the kind of place where you’ll linger over your morning coffee and swap glacier tour tips with someone from the bunk across the hall.
The Freehand | Chicago, USA
More a boutique hotel than a backpacker’s delight, the Freehand is redefining what a hostel can be. With designer interiors, craft cocktails from the award-winning Broken Shaker bar, and a trendy River North location, this spot blends affordability with style.
Their mixed and all-female dorms feel modern and plush, and private rooms are a solid choice for couples or friends. All in all, it’s perfect if you want something social, central, and photogenic.
Selina Medellín | Medellín, Colombia
Selina’s global network of hostels is known for creativity and comfort, and the Medellín location is no exception. It’s sleek, colorful, full of energy, and right in the heart of the El Poblado district.
You can join coworking spaces, wellness workshops, or dance the night away at on-site events. Their dorms are modern, and the private rooms range from affordable to downright luxurious. If you’re working remotely or just want to dive into Medellín’s cultural scene, this is your spot.
Lub d Phuket Patong | Phuket, Thailand
If you’d like beach access and a buzzing nightlife, Lub d Phuket will deliver. It’s just a short walk from Patong Beach, and has a massive pool, coworking lounges, a boxing ring, and sleek dorms with privacy curtains.
It’s clean, bright, and bursting with things to do, from foam parties to Thai cooking classes. Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia or on a digital nomad break, this could be your high-energy home base for a little while.
The Barn | Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Nestled into snowcapped peaks and star-strewn skies, The Barn is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It’s small, rustic, and wildly beautiful, perfect if you’re hiking the Alps2Ocean Trail or stargazing at the nearby observatory.
The atmosphere is simple and communal, with wood-burning stoves, mountain views, and the kind of quiet that makes you take deeper breaths. If you’re looking for solitude, connection, and natural beauty, this one’s worth the journey.
Where Comfort Meets Connection
Hostels are a window into local life, a community of fellow wanderers, and a reminder that some of the best travel stories begin in shared kitchens and bunk-bed conversations.
Whether you’re sipping espresso in Rome or watching the northern lights in Iceland, these hostels offer more than just a place to sleep. They offer a way to feel at home, anywhere in the world.
As you pack your backpack, come take a look at our library of destination guides. We’ll help you round out that trip to Rome or Reykjavik with some of the best sights to see and places to dine. And, if all goes well, we hope to see you in that communal room in Selina Medellín someday!