Where Strangers Become Friends: The Best Hostels on Earth

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.