3 Best Hostels in Boston, USA – Simple and Complete Guide for Solo-Travellers

Photo by Alex Iby

Time to explore Boston. And, of course, you need a roof above your head. Let us help you: here are the best hostels Boston offers.

Stay at the coolest Boston hostels – forget hotels. Join tours and be amazed to discover amazing things about Boston that make it one of the best cities in the USA.

Our favorite hostels in Boston are:

  1. Boston Homestel - best for Families
  2. Backpackers Hostel & Pub - best for Backpackers and Friend groups
  3. HI Boston Hostel - best for Solo Travelers and Digital Nomads

Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

Aside from being Massachusetts’ largest city and home of the oldest public park in the United States, also known to be a city of firsts, welcome to Boston.

The hostel world is pretty impressive here!

This guide is perfect for YOU, when …

  • tired of bad and crappy hostels
  • want to avoid the β€œyoung party kids”
  • happy to spend 1-2€ for a better experience

We got a variety of the best hostels in Boston, USA, for you to stay in. From solo travelers and small groups to party travelers, we got it all for you!

Hot off the press: 45 best hostels in the USA

We even found a great place to stay in Boston for families.

What do we cover in this article?

  • Comparison chart of 3 best hostels
  • cheapest hostels in Boston
  • best hostels in Boston for solo travellers
  • fun party hostels in Boston
  • discounts and promo codes
  • How to book?
  • all hostel and sights on a map
  • FAQ
  • Flights
  • You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to β€œBest Hostels In” here.

    Quick Introduction to Boston

    The average price for a bed: Hostels in Boston cost 18€ – 29€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 60€ up to 120€ per night. This is a rough average, just to give you an idea.

    Prices always depend on the season and holidays. Please always check the exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

    Check-In and Check-Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3 pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11 am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

    Hostels in Boston MA vs. Hostel Somerville MA: Whether you’re looking for a youth hostel in Boston or a Boston hostel cheap enough for your budget, we recommend staying in a Boston hostel downtown.

    FYI, Somerville is around 8km from Boston hostels downtown, which is where all of the hostels in this guide are found.

    🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

    The 3 Best Hostels in Boston are …

    Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Boston.

    1. Boston Homestel – best for Families
    2. Backpackers Hostel & Pub – best for Backpackers and Friend groups
    3. HI Boston Hostel – best for Solo Travelers and Digital Nomads

    These are our favorite hostels in Boston. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.

    We put all three accommodations on the map; youΒ will find the map at the end of the article.

    Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

    🦸 Solo Traveler: HI Boston Hostel
    πŸ™Žβ€β™€οΈ best for Female Solo Traveler: HI Boston Hostel
    πŸ₯³ Party Hostel:The Envoy Hotel , Autograph Collection
    πŸ‘©β€β€οΈβ€πŸ‘¨ Couple Hostel: HI Boston Hostel
    πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘¦ Family Hostel: Boston Homestel
    πŸ‘©β€πŸ’» For Digital Nomads: HI Boston Hostel
    πŸ‘―For Groups:Backpackers Hostel &Pub
    πŸŽ’ for Backpacker:Backpackers Hostel &Pub

    1. Boston Homestel

    The Boston HomestelΒ  is nestled in Dorchester and is only three kilometers from some of the city’s main attractions, such as the University of Massachusetts Boston and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

    The hostel has a total of 20 rooms.

    Private rooms have a double bed and sleep up to three people (including up to two children). Shared rooms take the form of co-ed dormitories with bunk beds.

    And if it happens to be that you are traveling with your fur baby, this hostel is just the perfect place to stay since the hostel accepts pets – sweet.

    Amenities you can use during your stay at Boston Homestel:

    • Free Wi-Fi
    • Fully equipped kitchen
    • Garden – perfect for summer
    • Nearby free parking

    Location: Dorchester is one of Boston’s largest and most diverse neighborhoods and a center for LGBTQ life.

    The hostel is 11 km from Logan Airport and 6 km from Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Boston Public Garden, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

    However, there is public transport. Take this as an extra cost into account.

    Within the neighborhood, you can visit locations like the Strand Theater and Franklin Park Zoo. Dorchester has a thriving business district, Fields Corner, with numerous local shops and restaurants.

    This is one of the best hostels in Boston for

    • Families
    • Small Groups
    Book Boston Homestel here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    Get free access to the kitchen and make your own meal Boston Homestel during your stay Excellent room lighting at Boston Homestel

    2. Backpackers Hostel & Pub

    Backpackers Hostel & PubΒ is our top Boston hostel for backpackers and friend groups.

    This Boston hostel has the following facilities:

    • FREE Breakfast
    • Common Lounge
    • Game Room (with Pool tables)
    • Bar
    • The owner drives guests to the train station when needed/available.
    Book Backpackers Hostel & Pub here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

    Backpackers Hostel

    This accommodation has both dorms and private rooms that are pretty spacious and come with ensuite kitchenettes.Β 

    The overall atmosphere is very social and fun, with travelers often spending time at the on-site bar with affordable drinks.Β 

    But don’t worry about noise or too much energy, as the bar closes early to ensure that guests won’t get annoyed by the noise.Β 

    Note that Marijuana is legal in Massachusetts and that there is a local dispensary nearby.Β 

    Location: A 15-minute walk to Wellington Station, where you’ll find the Orange line, which links to most of Boston’s famous attractions. Boston’s craft beer district is a 10-minute walk away, with various distillery options, bars, pubs, food trucks, and live music on the weekends. Restaurants, cafes, and bars surround the area.

    If you’re interested in visiting Salem Ma – the witch capital – the Chelsea commuter train station, which has direct access to this town, is a minute away from the hostel.

    A great choice for

    • Backpackers
    • Friend groups
    Book Backpackers Hostel & Pub here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

    Β  Backpackers Hostel Dorms Backpackers Hostel Lounge Β 

    3. HI Boston Hostel

    Located only a few steps from Boston Common and the Freedom Trail and only a short metro ride from Harvard and M.I.T., HI Boston Hostel puts you right at the heart of the city.

    Private rooms have a double bed and en-suite bathroom. Shared rooms six 6, 7, and 8 people with mixed as well as male/female separate options.

    Amenities:

    • Free Wi-Fi
    • Free Breakfast
    • Washer/ Dryer (laundry)
    • great for bikers – they have bike storage and bike rental

    There is a common area with a pool table where guests can relax and get to know each other.

    There is a cafΓ© on site to grab a bite to eat or something to drink, or you can venture out to one of the many eateries in the Boston Common.

    Location: HI Boston Hostel is only a short walk from the Boston Public Library, Fenway Park, and Faneuil Hall.

    The hostel helps guests to take advantage of its central location by providing free walking tours that will teach about the old and new of what Boston has to offer.

    HI is the best Boston Hostel for:

    • Solo Traveller
    • Backpacker
    Book HI Boston Hostel here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    HI Boston Hostel also offers shared room for men and women

    Stay and relax at HI Boston's lounge area

    Comparing all 3 Top Hostels in Boston

    Here is an overview of our handpicked top hostels in Boston. In this chart, we compare the main facilities and things to expect.

    It will help you to make a decision.

    Β  Boston Homestel Backpackers Hostel & Pub HI Boston Hostel
    Recommended for…
    • Families
    • Friend Groups
    • Backpackers
    • Solo Travellers
    • Backpacker
    Kitchen Yes No Yes
    WiFi Free (Super Fast) Free (Good) Free (Good)
    Breakfast Simple Breakfast (extra) Simple Breakfast (included) Simple Breakfast (included)
    Location Ok (3km to downtown in South Boston) Accessible (near various transportation options) few walks to downtown
    Special Pets AllowedPrivate Parking

    Kitchen Facilities

    Very friendly atmosphere and cool bar!

    Fun, Backpacker Hostel (social hostel!)

    Activities Yes Yes Yes
    Lockers – and safe? Yes Yes Yes
    Facilities for disabled guests No No Yes
    How to book? Hostelworld Hostelworld Hostelworld

    This information can vary by season and availability. Please take this into account.

    What about the cheapest hostels in Boston?

    Looking for a cool cheap hostel Boston has to offer? Of course, there are always cheap hostels and hotels in Boston.

    We think it’s not worth it to go with the cheapest hostel out there.

    Why?

    The difference is usually 1-2€ ($1-2) per night, and a lot of amenities are not included. This can be breakfast or linen.

    However, if you are traveling on a shoestring budget and you wanna save every penny, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Boston.

    1. Open Hostelworld with a full list of budget places to stay in Boston
    2. Order the listing by price

    Simple as that.

    Make sure you use the other filters and rank per price. Also, keep a close eye on the ratings, especially the β€œextreme ratings”. Meaning the best and worst. These ratings can give great insight into what to expect.

    Read here our guide on how to book hostels with Hostelworld.

    We did have a look on your behalf and found two cheap hostels in Boston worth a mention:

    Best Hostels in Boston for Solo Travellers?

    What is the serious, best hostel in Boston for solo travelers?

    Aside from having easy access to public transit, HI Boston Hostel is just a 10-15 minute walk to just about anything you would like to visit in Downtown Boston.

    The hostel offers private rooms that have ensuite baths and television.

    During your extra time, you can also look for a new favorite book and read it at their library, rent a computer or play with other guests and play pool at the hostel’s playroom.

    Book HI Boston Hostel here

    Check prices at:
    Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

    A window view from your own private room at HI Boston Hostel Read your favorite book at HI Boston Hostel library Grab your friend and play billiards in HI Boston Hotel's play room

    Party Hostels in Boston

    Hello, party lovers out there!

    Let’s cut to the chase and introduce you to…

    The Envoy Hotel, Autograph Collection

    First things first: This is a hotel and much more expensive than the backpacker’s bar above.

    If you’re up to a classy style hotel and a great party experience of your life, The Envoy Hotel Autograph Collection fits that description perfectly.

    Only one place in Boston offers a roof deck bar open all year round – even in winter, where you can have an igloo experience.

    Imagine that? An igloo in the city of Boston? Only in The Envoy Hotel.

    The night is young. Grab your drink and have the greatest party experience of your life.

    The hotel is located in the Waterfront District, where party travelers enjoy the party, the harbors, and the seafood. The hostel also has its own restaurant and fitness center.

    What’s more interesting is that Logan Airport is only 3 km away from the hotel and 600 meters away from Washington Monument.

    Book The Envoy Hotel Here

    Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

    Experience igloos in the city of Boston in The Envoy Hotel Busy nights with The Envoy Hotel's roof deck bar The Envoy Hotel with the magnificent view of the Waterfront District Enjoy the waterfront view from the The Envoy Hotel's rook deck

    UNIQUE Hostel in Boston

    How about staying in a Boston boat hostel? It’s totally possible, and people say it’s a unique experience not to be missed!

    Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships offers a Tall Ship Overnights opportunity in downtown Boston.

    You’ll get to stay on a working tall ship in one of their cabins.

    Note: this is available from June through mid-September.

    They book quickly, so what are you waiting for?

    Book Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships here

    Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld

    Liberty Fleet of Tall Ships is one of the best hostels in Boston, USA

    Found Hotel Boston Common

    If you’re going to Boston hoping to see some theater, then Found Hotel Boston Common may be the place for you since it is in the Theater District of Boston.

    Do not let the name fool you; you can sleep in a mixed dorm here!

    Private room configurations can sleep up to four people and have private washrooms, complimentary toiletries, and a television.

    Shared rooms have bunk beds with curtains for privacy, personal outlets, small shelves, and private washrooms but they are not available for Boston residents.

    Found Hotel gives you free access to the following:

    • FREE wifi
    • Washer/Dryer
    • Microwave

    The Found Hotel’s biggest attraction is its centrally located, which puts guests within walking distance of Boston Common.

    The staff will help you arrange tickets to shows and tours at the city’s heart.

    Location: Located in the city’s Theater District, this hostel is easy to reach from the airport and train station and puts you close to many of the city’s landmarks.

    The hostel is within walking distance from Beacon Hill, Copley Square, Fenway Park, the Boston Tea Party Ships, and Harvard Square.

    Book Hotel Boston Common Here

    Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

    The reception area of Found Hotel Β  Shared rooms at Found Hotel

    How to book?

    We recommend using Booking.com or Hostelworld for your reservations.

    Booking.com is the biggest and safest platform for hotel and hostel reservations. Their cancellation policy is one of the best, normally 100% refundable until 24h before the stay.

    Hostelworld is also super safe and the biggest booking platform for hostels.

    On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected, and the booking 100% confirmed.

    We included the handy links to each of the recommended hostels. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

    Here is the overview:

    Any Discounts?

    Currently, we have no special hostel discounts in Boston. I know, it’s a pity. You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive our newest hostel discounts always in your inbox.

    You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here.

    Our Favorite Hostels in Boston put on a map + sights

    Let us have a look at the map. Below we list all three best Boston hostels on a map.

    We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:

        • John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
        • STRAND THEATRE
        • Freedom Trail
        • Faneuil Hall (NRHP)
        • Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

    Any questions about hostels in Boston? πŸ€”

    Join our Facebook Group!

    Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers πŸ”₯

    FAQ

    Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.

    Flights to Boston?

    We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

    Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.

    Our Step-by-Step Guide to Skyscanner

    review of Skyscanner flight searches

    More guides

    Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Boston. Hopefully, you already know which hostel in Boston, USA, to book!

    Here are all our US Hostel Guides:

    Party hostels in the US:

    In nearby Canada, you can discover:

    You can find all our new and updated articles for Best Hostels here.

    We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list, and more.

    Over to you

    Was this useful? Do you have any questions or doubts? Which hostel in Boston, MA, in this collection will you choose?

    Then please, please leave us a comment. This list of awesome Boston hostels should be as informative and useful as possible. We want to make your hostel travel easier!

    Your question will help us to understand what I have missed mentioning.

    Therefore, drop us a comment. We are keen to help you!

    Last note: Our commitment

    This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter and find the best place on a budget! We ONLY recommend places we know you will enjoy, no matter what.

    We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We only share places we recommend to our best friends and family!

    Enjoy this fine hostel selection and all 5 Star Hostels.

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    Best Hostels in Boston, Massachusetts

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