I admit I can be a travel snob sometimes and absolutely love staying in amazing hotels while I’m away but realistically it doesn’t happen too often as it all starts to add up pretty quickly. You can sort of justify it when you are splitting the bill with your travel buddy but when travelling solo it’s all on you.

Many years ago, my friends and I stayed in a hostel in Uruguay. I was appalled when they handed me a pile of sheets and could not believe I had to make my own bed. Then add to that bed bugs in the mattress and two sleepless nights spent itching which was enough to turn me off hostels for a while. Yet, time heals all wounds, so on my last solo trip in Europe in 2017, I decided to give hostels another chance. And I was presently surprised.

I found hostels have a great vibe, offer great services and all for a cheap as price. If you are not keen to stay in the room with others there are usually twin rooms and even single-sex room options. I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable. And I’m okay with having to make my own bed now.

The social aspect of travelling solo is solved when you stay at hostels. You can usually find a buddy or two to go out with at night or even exploring during the day. There is often common areas with information about the sites and a cooking area if you prefer to prepare your own meals. Sharing your meal is a great way to create conversation.

The European hostels which I can recommend are  

City Circus in Athens – it is in a great location, walking distance from the Monstaki train station, there is a great vibe, close to so many food options, and the main attractions are only a train ride away. Check out is until till 11 am and I found the girls at the front desk to be super helpful in planning my day and how to get about.

Wombats Hostel are in Budapest, London, Munich and Berlin - all have a funky feel to them. Comfortable beds and lockers provided. Washing machines available so you can get on top of your dirty washing, free wifi, rooms have own bathroom, awesome bar with a rooftop terrace and great views (Berlin one). A lot of tour groups use this Hostel chain so be prepared for busy times at breakfast and 2 pm check-in.  

Generator Hostel is in Copenhagen, London, Paris, Barcelona and Amsterdam. They have great stars and reviews. Modern bright hostels with bar and huge socialising area with games. They offer bike hire, luggage storage and a restaurant. You get a wrist band to wear if you are eating there, which I suggest especially if you are staying at the Copenhagen one. Eating out is very expensive! The one in Copenhagen also has an ice bar on the bottom level which is a great experience.

Hostel Little Quarter in Prague. It’s an uphill climb but this place is huge. I stayed in a ten bedder room and it was more than spacious. They provide bed curtain, charging point, bed light and under the bed lockable storage. Everything is so clean. Great location, close to Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.

We_Bologna in Bologna, Italy. A little bit out of town and more of student accommodation but still easy enough to catch the bus to get around town. Choose from two or four person rooms. Cafe downstairs. Strict check in time. Relatively new. Given key card to insert to have electricity in room. Outdoor social area and music at night.

Have you had any good or bad experiences you would like to share about staying in hostels? Are you a fan or hesitant to give them a go? Feel free to leave your comments below and help out a fellow traveller…