Category Archives: Europe

My Top 15 Favorite Hostels in Paris

Paris along the River Seine
Posted: 11/9/2018 | November 9th, 2018

Paris. It’s a city on everyone’s bucket list. I’ve been dozens of times and my love for the city is well known to you all.  I love visiting Paris and can’t imagine a year in which I don’t go even for a bit. To me, Paris has it all – music, history, food, culture, and beautiful architecture. It’s got that special something. I dream of moving to Paris to live out that writer cliche…if just for a bit!

As a visitor to Paris, knowing where to stay in Paris can be difficult. There are lots of arrondissements (neighborhoods). What’s the best place to stay in the city? What’s the best neighboorhood?

For a tourist, there’s really no bad neighboorhood to stay in. No where you stay is going to be too far or unsafe (forget what you hear about in the news). Paris’ metro goes everywhere, stays open late, and has stops throughout the city.

However, that said, Paris has thousands of hotels and hostels. How do you know the best ones to pick? The city is expensive and as someone who has stayed in some less than stellar places for way too much money, I know the price of making the wrong decision.

That’s why I wrote this post on the best hostels in Paris so you know my the best places to say. This short, to the point list will make choosing a hostel in Paris easy. I’ve been visiting Paris for a decade and have stayed in dozens upon dozens of places to stay. This short list will make knowing where to go stay easy.

Before you go: Things to Consider When Picking a Hostel in Paris

I’ve stayed in thousands of hostels in my life. There are a lot of things to consider when selecting a hostel. The top three things you want to consider when picking the best hostel in Paris are:

  1. Location – Paris is huge and, while the metro goes everywhere, it can take some time to get places. Pick a place that is central to the sites and nightlife you want to see! All the hostels listed here are in central locations.
  2. Price – Paris is not an expensive city. Its hostels aren’t either. In Paris, you really get what you pay for so if you go with a really cheap place, you’re probably going to get a hostel that is small, cramped, and doesn’t offer great service.
  3. Amenities – Every hostel in the city offers free wifi and most have a free breakfast but if you want more than that, be sure to do your research to find the best hostel for your needs!
  4. Staff – All the hostels listed here have amazing staff! They are super friendly and knowledgeable. Even if you don’t end up staying at one of the places listed below, be sure to look up reviews to ensure you get a place where the staff is helpful and friendly! They can make or break a hostel!

15 Best hostels in Paris

So where should you stay in Paris? Well, without further ado, here are my favorite hostels in the city:

1. St. Christopher’s Canal

St. Christopher’s Canal
I love the St. Christopher’s chain. They have two hostels in Paris (see below for the other one). This location has Wi-Fi, comfy beds, lockers, clean showers, free breakfast, and a lively bar. It’s very popular among backpackers and is in a relaxing and beautiful part of the city. The view on the canal is incredible and, during the summer months, the terrace is hoping!  This is one of my favorite hostels in Paris.

Beds from 18 EUR/20.50 USD.

—-> Book your stay at St. Christopher’s Canal!

2. The Loft Boutique Hostel & Hotel

The Loft Boutique Hostel & Hotel
The Loft is located in the diverse and historical neighborhood of Belleville. It’s an up and coming immigrant neighborhood that is super fun to hang out in. The area has a lot to offer, including many ethnic food options. The hostel itself has an awesome outdoor patio, bar, and a cute cat, Espiga. It’s small and cozy with friendly staff too!

Beds from 18.95 EUR/22 USD, privates from 74.95 EUR/86 USD.

—-> Book your stay at The Loft Boutique Hostel & Hotel!

3. Les Piaules

Les Piaules
This hostel has a fantastic chimney lounge, cool bar, and a rooftop space. The bar/restaurant on the ground floor is popular with locals too (I saw a paint and drink club here). The rooms are super modern and the beds comfy. It’s my favorite hostel in Paris and one of the best places to meet people! I can’t recommend it enough!

Beds from 19 EUR/22 USD, double rooms from 100 EUR/114 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Les Piaules!

4. Generator Hostel

Generator Hostel, Paris
In this emerging district, the Generator Hostel has a chic array of stylish rooms with comfortable beds, high-speed Wi-Fi, and friendly staff. Its private rooms even have terraces! There is also a lively bar, a common area, and female-only dorms. This is one of my favorite chains in Europe.

Beds from 30 EUR/34 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Generator Hostel!

5. St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord

St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord
This backpacker base opened in 2013 and is close to the Gare du Nord train station, making it easy to get to the airport. It’s the most convenient hostel in the city. It has Wi-Fi, comfy beds, clean showers, free breakfast, and a bar that features live music too. It’s really popular with many of the backpacker tours that come through the city! Try to get a room facing the street, as the interior courtyard rooms are loud from the downstairs bar.

Beds from 24 EUR/27 USD.

—-> Book your stay at St. Christopher’s Gare du Nord!

6. Enjoy Hostel

Enjoy Hostel Paris
This hostel is in the residential/business neighborhood of Montparnasse in the south of the city. There are lots of restaurants, bars, and supermarkets in the area. It’s much more “local” than other neighborhoods in the city. The hostel provides a free basic breakfast. If you get there early, try to get a top bunk, as the bottom ones have very little headspace. This also is a great choice if you have an early or late train as it is close to the Montparnasse station.

Beds from 24 EUR/27 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Enjoy Hostel!

7. Woodstock Montmartre

Woodstock Montmartre
This 1970s themed hostel has been around for more than 20 years. It’s a much more old school hostel experience! The hostel offers free breakfast and an in-house bar. This is a great option for couples and singles as the private rooms are pretty inexpensive when compared to other hostels. You’ll never lack for something to do as it is near Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre, one of the best neighborhoods in the city. It’s action packed and fun! If you’re looking for a good time, come here.

Beds from 24.30 EUR/27.75 USD, privates from 48.60 EUR/55.47 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Woodstock Montmartre!

8. Le Montclair Montmartre

Le Montclair Montmartre
Also located in Montmartre, Montclair is a fun hostel with soft beds, group activities, and a spacious common room. The staff is super friendly and the hostel is pretty big with lots of beds! This is the most popular hostel in the area.

Beds from 25 EUR/28.53 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Le Montclair Montmartre!

9. Yves Robert Hostel (Hostelling International)

Yves Robert Hostel
This eco-friendly hostel is in an old warehouse and boasts a bar, restaurant, and theater. There is a garden, free Wi-Fi, bicycle rentals/storage, a kitchen, and a book swap. Very low-key and quiet, this hostel is perfect for families, groups, and seniors (or those not looking for the noise of the other youth hostels).

Beds from 27 EUR/31 USD, double rooms from 68 EUR/77.60 USD. Discounts for HI members.

—-> Book your stay at the Yves Robert Hostel!

10. Arty Hostel Paris

Arty Hostel Paris
Located in Montparnasse, a historical artists’ area, this out-of-the-way hostel is near many theaters and restaurants. It’s small, but the artistic décor is lovely. The beds are pretty average but the pillows are really great! If you’re looking for a small, queit place to stay, this hostel is it!

Beds from 33 EUR/38 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Arty Hostel Paris!

11. Perfect Hostel

Perfect Hostel Paris
This “old Paris”-themed hostel is in the lively Montmartre neighborhood and has something that is hard to find in hostels – an elevator. If you get a private room, ask for one with a balcony and enjoy the great views of Paris. While the toilets and showers are small, sinks are in your room. There’s free breakfast too!

Beds from 34 EUR/39 USD, privates from 64 EUR/73 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Perfect Hostel!

12. FIAP Jean Monnet

FAIP Paris
This hostel is huge and modern and filled with fun activities. Breakfast is included, and there is a cafeteria where you can get other meals. This is not a party hostel – there are often school groups here. It’s in a quiet neighborhood too. This is another place to stay if you’re looking for something quiet and relaxing. Dorms are available only for 18 to 30 year-olds.

Beds from 36 EUR/41 USD, privates from 77 EUR/88 USD.

—-> Book your stay at FIAP Jean Monnet!

13. Hotel Angleterre Etoile

Hotel Angleterre Etoile
This family-friendly hotel is only a few minutes walk from Place de l’Etoile, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées. There are a couple of great restaurants and bars nearby, as well as museums like Muse d’Art Moderne. All rooms are super quiet and have private bathrooms.

Rooms from 87 EUR/100 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Hotel Angleterre Etoile!

14. 3 Ducks Hostel

3 Ducks Hostel
A 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, 3 Ducks has one of the best locations in town. The staff is friendly, the rooms are small but comfortable, and the showers are clean. It has one of the cheapest bars in Paris (which slightly offsets the expensive dorm prices). This is a more upscale hostel, with a recently revamped decor. It’s my second favorite hostel in the city!

Beds from 31 EUR/35 USD, privates from 109.50 EUR/124 USD (sleeps two).

—-> Book your stay at 3 Ducks Hostel!

 

15. Oops Hostel

Oops Hostel
Oops Hostel is right next to Paris’s Latin Quarter, one of the city’s best hubs for nightlife, dining, and shopping options. It’s actually my favorite part of the city! Dorms are small and cozy but feature great amenities like ensuite bathrooms, free WiFi, and individual reading lamps.

Beds from 27 EUR/31 USD, privates from 70 EUR/80 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Oops Hostel!

***
Whichever one of these hostels you choose, you’re going to meet a lot of people, have a good night’s sleep, friendly staff, and clean room. You just need to pick the hostel that matches your personality! These are all easy to get to using public transportation and several offer airport transportation (for a fee). These are the best places hostels in Paris (remember Les Piaules is my number one pick) and you won’t go wrong with any of them.

Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Paris!

Nomadic Matt's Guide to ParisFor more in-depth information, check out my guidebook to Paris written for budget travelers like yourself! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and much more!! Click here to learn more and get started.

Book Your Trip to Paris: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Get Your Guidebook to Paris!!
Check out my detailed guidebook to planning a visit to Paris with suggested itineraries, places to stay, things to do, where to eat, and how to get around. It has all my secrets to having a fun and inexpensive trip there! Just click here to get the guide and continue planning today!

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Photo credits: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16

The post My Top 15 Favorite Hostels in Paris appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My Top 14 Hostels in Prague

a sunny scene on the Charles Bridge in Prague
Posted: 11/7/2018 | November 7th, 2018

Prague is a beautiful, historic city in central Europe and one of my favorite cities on the continent.

The city and I have a long history.

It was my first stop on my first trip around the world (all the way back in 2006).

Since that oriignal, I’ve visited Pargaue dozens of times, even leading tour groups through the city. I’ve watched the city become increasingly popular with travelers and expats. It becomes more cosmopolitan with each passing year.

Now, this international city is one of the most visited in Europe (go in the spring or fall to avoid the overbearing crowds) – and is home to an outsize number of hostels given its small size.

With so many options to choose from (and with so many terrible hostels in Prague), I wanted to create a list of the best hostels in Prague so you can avoid ending up at a terrible or overpriced place during your visit.

Here are my…

14 Best Hostels in Prague

1. Sophie’s Hostel

Sophie's Hostel in Prague
This is my favorite hostel in Prague. It is an upscale hostel (and a sister property of the awesome hotel, Miss Sophie’s). The rooms have modern finishings, soft beds, clean bathrooms, and showers with incredible water pressure. The downstairs bar is always lively, the hostel run lots of events, and the staff is super helpful and knowledgeable. When booking online, be sure to add the breakfast buffet. It’s well worth the extra 140 CZK/6 USD.

Beds from 174 CZK/8 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Sophie’s Hostel!

2. Little Quarter Hostel

Little Quarter in Prague
Located between Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, this hostel is in one of the nicer neighborhoods of Prague. The rooms are clean and there are privacy curtains for the dorms (always a nice touch) as well as spacious lockers. There’s a roof patio and great views from the top floor rooms. You can sometimes get discounts when you book directly at the hostel’s website. In contrast to most of the hostels in the city, Little Quarter offers a calm, non-partying atmosphere.

Beds from 213 CZK/9.37 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Little Quarter Hostel!

3. Travel & Joy

Travel and Joy in Prague
This new hostel in Prague is close to everything. The hostel is family owned so they know a lot about the city. There’s also a yummy traditional Czech restaurant onsite. If you’re here in the summer, check out the great new terrace. This is also another low key hostel so stay here if you aren’t looking for a party hostel and want something small and intimate.

Beds from 220 CZK/10 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Travel & Joy!

4. Hostel DownTown

Hostel DownTown in Prague
If you’re looking to party and socialize, this is one of the best hostels in Prague to do it. This hostels offers free city and castle tours, talent shows, pub crawls, cooking classes, beer pong, and more. They also do communal dinners a few times a week. Ask for a spot on the fifth or sixth floor, as you’ll have a great view of Prague.

Beds from 243 CZK/11 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel DownTown!

5. Post Hostel Prague

Post Hostel in Prague
Another great social hostel in Prague, here you’ll find game room with a foosball table, PlayStation, and board games. There’s a free breakfast and free coffee and tea. The rooms are large, and the beds are pretty comfy (the pillows are just ok) and all the beds have privacy curtains too! I love all the art they have on the walls here. If you book on the hostel’s website, you can find all kinds of discounts, including some for students, for four-night (or longer) stays, and for birthday stays.

Beds from 297 CZK/13 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Post Hostel Prague!

6. Hostel Santini Prague

Hostel Santini in Prague
This hostel is one of the most beautiful in Prague. It’s in a baroque building that dates back to the 17th century. There’s even a piano (something you don’t usually see in a hostel) in the lobby. Located just below the Prague Castle, the hostel has lots of character, offers a free breakfast, and quiet and spacious and well lit rooms.

Beds from 308 CZK/13.55 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel Santini Prague!

7. Old Prague Hostel

Old Prague Hostel in Prague
Just a three-minute walk to the Old Town Square, this popular hostel’s location is one of the most central in the city. Try to get a bed on an upper floor as the nightclub below is noisy all night. While a loud hostel, it’s central and always full so it’s easy to meet people. The dorms are bit cramped though but the breakfast is free and includes sandwiches, cereals, milk, and coffee. You stay here for the location and the social scene.

Beds from 308 CZK/13.55 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Old Prague Hostel!

8. McSleep Hostel Prague

McSleep Hostel in Prague
A family-run small hostel (just 22 beds) is located in one of the more local parts of town away from the all the tourists. Staying here you get more of a B&B than hostel vibe. The family running this place is really nice, the neighborhood is “real” Prague (local, not touristy), and it’s near one of the best parks in the city. The beds here are super soft, bathrooms are kept clean, and they even give you free slippers. It’s a very homey hostel!

Beds from 388.33 CZK/17 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at McSleep Hostel Prague!

9. Hostel One

Hostel One in Prague
This is one of the poshest hostels in the city with three locations! Guests get a free homemade dinner each night and can join in on organized activities, including drinking games and walking tours. These hostels are clean and have lounges with TVs, Nextflix, and PlayStations or Nintendo 64s. These hostels are on the more expensive side but the are “luxury” and you’re paying for super soft beds, modern ammenities, and all those events! There are age restrictions (typically age 18 to 36), so check before booking a bed. The locations are:

  • Miru – The newest Hostel One in Prague, this place is located in the Nám?stí Míru neighborhood. There are a ton of bars, restaurants, and markets nearby, and the city center is just a 15-minute walk. Beds from 313 CZK/14 USD.
  • Home – Hostel One Home is right in the center of the city. It’s a party place! Beds from 365 CZK/16 USD.
  • Prague – This hostel is in the Zizkov district, with the most nightlife and dining options concentrated in one area than anywhere else in Prague. The Old Town is a 15-minute walk. Beds from 313 CZK/14 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Miru!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Home!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hostel One Prague!

10. The MadHouse Prague

Madhouse Prague in Prague
If you want to meet people and are looking for a party, this is the best hostel in Prague to do that! It’s really a madhouse here! The décor includes very cool murals on the walls. The knowledgeable staff organize events for all guests (every night!), and can also help you find cool daytime activities around town. It’s super popular and one of the best social hostels in the city. Don’t come here if you want to sleep and not party.

Beds from 500 CZK/22 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at MadHouse Prague!

11. Old Prague House

Old Prague in Prague
This hostel is centrally located with the beds and pillows are comfy, and, best of all, you get your own bed (no bunks). There’s a great courtyard terrace to relax in. It is family friendly too. Discounts are often offered when you book direct, but they sometimes require a three-night minimum.

Beds from 517 CZK/23 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Old Prague House!

12. The RoadHouse Prague

RoadHouse in Prague
This property is the newer, quieter sister property of MadHouse Prague. The staff is great, as is the location (close to Charles Bridge). It’s a social, but not wild, place. The beds are large and comfy, and there are privacy curtains and huge drawers for your things. The staff organizes activities each day, which might include tours or festivals. Be sure to join the group for family dinners – they’re incredible.

Beds from 600 CZK/26 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at The RoadHouse Prague!

13. Sir Toby’s Hostel

Sir Toby's in Prague
Sir Toby’s Hostel is friendly place to stay with super fluffy pillows and comfortable beds. This hostel is located in the Holesovivce neighborhood, outside the city center so it’s a more local and chill neighborhood. If you want to experience Prague outside the busy center, this is the place for you. Sir Toby’s also has a free walking tour that’s pretty good too! It’s also one of the cheapest hostels in Prague!

Beds from 171 CZK/7 USD. Single privates from 1,177 CZK/50 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Sir Toby’s Hostel!

14. PLUS Prague

PLUS Hostel in Prague
PLUS Prague is another hostel located in Holesovice, but this one comes with an added bonus of a swimming pool and sauna. I really like this place, especially in the summer since they have a huge outdoor courtyard. There’s a a swimming pool and sauna here, a huge common area / dining hall, a decent restuarant, and spacious rooms. Think of this place as a mini-motel for travelers but nicer and more social. I still talk to the people I met here!

Beds from 104 CZK/5 USD. Twin privates from 1,014 CZK/45 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at PLUS Prague!

***

The city of Prague is filled with countless hostels (Ok, maybe not countless as Hostelworld lists 140). You have a lot of options to choose from when you visit Prague. But, rather than spend hours searching for the perfect place to stay (because who wants to end up in a dump?), this list of best hostels in Prague based on years of experience can set you in the right direction!

Book Your Trip to Prague: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. They have the best inventory. If you want to stay at another type of place, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. They are the best.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Prague
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Prague with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

The post My Top 14 Hostels in Prague appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.