Hello! Bonjour! Welcome to the ultimate collection of the very best hostels in Canada.
Whether you’re set on visiting the popular cities of Montreal and Vancouver, or plan to backpack your way around the entire country, we have you covered.
We’ve searched high and low – from East to West and back again – to find you the very best hostels in the country.
Are these really the top hostels in Canada?!
No doubt!
You can count on us by now, the Hostelgeeks.
This hostel collection will satisfy the avid solo traveller, party animal and budget backpacker. As long as you love hostels and travel, Canada will not let you down!
As usual, we only include hostels that we would recommend to our friends and family. Though we’ve never met, you remain our dear friends, too.
Read: 45 BEST hostels in USA (in case you’re combining destinations)
We are Hostelgeeks and we discover the world’s greatest hostels, including the best hostels in Canada.
At the end of this article you’ll spot a big hostel map which is really helpful for your planning. Maps are super useful!
Any questions about hostels in Canada?
🤔Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
List of Cities/ Towns in Canada with great hostels
Skip to your desired Canadian destination and see what cool hostels are on offer.
- Montreal
- Toronto
- Vancouver
- Whistler
- Banff National Park
- Mont-Tremblant
- Jasper National Park
- Kelowna
- Quebec City
- Ottawa
- Calgary
Here is our handy map which pinpoints all of the hostels mentioned in this guide.
Also we added a list of all the frequently asked questions – FAQ
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
🌆 Best Hostel in Montreal: | M Montreal Hostel |
🗼 Best Hostel in Toronto: | Planet Traveler Hostel |
🏙️ Best Hostel in Vancouver: | HI Vancouver Jericho Beach – Hostel |
🏖️ Best for Beach Lovers in Kelowna: | Samesun Kelowna |
⛷️ Best for Skiing in Jasper National Park: | HI Jasper |
👫 For Socializing in Quebec City: | HI Quebec |
😍 Best Boutique Hostel in Whistler: | Pangea Pod Hotel |
🎒 For Backpackers in Banff National Park: | HI Banff Alpine Centre |
💎 Design Hostels in Mont-Tremblant: | Auberge Manitonga |
Best Hostels in Montreal
If you speak a bit of French you’ll get on great in Montreal, but don’t worry; many people do speak English here! We collected 3 hostels in this city for you to choose from:
Discover more: Best Hostels in Montreal + party hostels
1. M Montreal Hostel
M Montreal Hostel has stood to be our top pick in the city for some time now.
Why? Well that’s easy, look:
- M Cafe and M Bar onsite
- Rooftop swimming spa + 2 jacuzzi!
- Rooftop terrace
- 490 beds to choose from
It’s the little things that count. Things like a free breakfast, female only dorms and privacy curtains – M Montreal has pretty much thought of everything!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Auberge HI Montreal Hostel
For those travelling in a group or as part of a duo, we recommend Auberge HI Montreal Hostel.
The room choices here are insane! Everything from small and large 10-bed dorms to ensuite doubles and family rooms.
We really enjoy the social spaces here, too. Just how many games of pool can you enjoy in one night, we wonder?
Enjoy your favourite drink at the bar in the evening, and then wake up to a delicious free breakfast to cure that hangover.
It’s highly recommend to rent a bicycle and explore the city during your stay!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. The Alternative Hostel
For a more rustic and homely experience, you’ll definitely want to check out The Alternative Hostel which is nestled inside a converted 1875 warehouse.
Rock walls, high ceilings, arched windows – just some of the enjoyable aesthetics of this place!
Friends are easily made here thanks to the frequent hosted activities, yet you can also enjoy some time to yourself in the colourful common area any time of the day or night.
This is what we’d describe as a budget backpacker boutique hostel, full to the brim with eco-friendly artsy vibes!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Toronto
One of the major Canadian cities and most likely on many of your bucket lists for backpacking the country. Let’s jump straight in!
Discover more: Best Hostels in Toronto + party hostels
Planet Traveler Hostel
Planet Traveler Hostel is actually the hostel Matt stayed at on his very first solo-trip to Canada!
From up on the rooftop it’s possible to admire the CN tower whilst enjoying a drink in the evening. This is where most of the travellers hang out, too.
It’s a really cool eco-friendly hostel, using solar panels, geothermal heating and hot water recycling.
A free daily breakfast, central location and strong Wifi are added bonuses!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
All Days Hostel
A homely, quiet and comfortable accommodation sums up All Days Hostel pretty well.
As it isn’t an overly social hostel, we’d recommend this to older travellers and couples. Yet, there is a communal space plus two fully-equipped kitchens to use so it is still possible to meet people.
We won’t lie, the decor is a little on the outdated side, but there’s something quite charming about it!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Vancouver
This ethnically diverse city is surrounded by mountains and is home to the famous Stanley Park – are you ready?!
We collected 3 hostels in this city for you to choose from:
Discover more: Best Hostels in Vancouver + party hostels
HI Vancouver Downtown
Walk a few steps from HI Vancouver Downtown and you’ll reach Sunset Beach!
This really is a super cool hostel with so many luxuries thrown in, including:
- Rooftop terrace
- Breakfast w/ muffins & bagels
- Huge kitchen
- Games room
- Female only dorms
Davie St is just around the corner so you’ll be located close to some great clubs and cafes. Something to suit every mood!
Reception is actually open 24/7 which is always a welcome added bonus.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Whistler
Visiting on the largest ski resorts in North America can be pricey, which is why it’s a great idea to choose a hostel for your accommodation when visiting Whistler.
The following three hostels are both fun and affordable:
Discover more: Best Hostels in Whistler in more detail + party hostels
1. HI Whistler
And so, we kick start with the most budget-friendly option in Whistler; HI Whistler hostel.
Yet in this case, budget does not mean bad – far from it.
This is a custom-built hostel which was part of the 2010 winter Olympic games so you already know this is going to be pretty cool.
There’s a great mix of rooms, from mixed and single gender dorms to a fancy private queen room with private bathroom. Mountain views included.
Hang out at Cheaky’s Cafe any time of the day, and play endless games of pool when you fancy an indoor day.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Pangea Pod Hotel
Pangea Pod Hotel is a boutique hostel with designer pod accommodation that’s affordbale, central and social.
It’s more on the pricier side yet totally worth it for the wonderful balance of private and social aspects here.
Each pod bed comes with a personal lockable cabinet, LED lighting, mirror, hangers, shelves… certainly a place to be enjoyed by the flashpackers out there!
Yet, don’t spend all of your time hiding in your luxurious bed!
Pangea also has an onsite cafe and bar offering up affordable drinks and food. Up on the rooftop you will find another cute little bar and a perfect spot to sit for a gorgeous sunset vista.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Whistler Lodge Hostel
To mix it up a bit we wanted to include Whistler Lodge Hostel which is more of a traditional mountain lodge.
This hostel is set away from the village, nestled in the woods. It has such a warm, cosy vibe that we love, especially when it’s cold outside.
Some of the amazing amenities include:
- Sauna
- Study room
- Spacious lounge w/ pool table
- Privacy curtain on bunks
There are only 42 beds here which keeps the hostel nice and intimate.
Definitely make use of the huge hostel kitchen here which is superb considering the small size of the lodge!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Banff National Park
Fancy spending a few nights within close proximity to the vast unspoiled wilderness of the Rocky Mountains? This park spans 6,641 square kilometres so there’s plenty of exploring to do.
Read: full guide to the best best hostels in Banff.
We’ve handpicked two cool hostels to choose from:
1. Samesun Banff
Located slap bang in the center of Banff town, Samesun Banff offers amazing mountain views, daily activities and an onsite bar.
Spend the day out exploring no matter if you visit during winter or summer. From here it’s possible to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing and many more outdoor activities.
Head back in the evening to warm up in Beaver Bar with a bit and a beer, plus evening entertainment such as karaoke, live music and weekly trivia.
There are mostly dorms here, ranging from 6-14 beds and including a female only option.
Budget and deluxe private rooms are also available.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. HI Banff Alpine Centre
HI Banff Alpine Centre really stands out as an affordable yet impressive hostel option in this part of Canada.
Discounts, anyone?!
Make sure you talk to staff about discounted activities and events at check-in! Everything from bike hire, rafting, tours and ski packages is included.
This is a vibrant hostel that caters for an array of traveller types, including families, backpackers and couples.
Some of the main reason to choose HI Banff:
- The Storm Cellar Pub (karaoke, jam nights, cheap drinks, free pool)
- Two large communal kitchens (walk-in fridge, commercial cooking facilities)
- Free super fast WiFi
- Free bus pass for local transit system
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Mont-Tremblant: Manitonga Hostel
Auberge Manitonga is a gorgeous modern-chic design hostel in the heart of Mont-Tremblant village.
The overall design and super location deserves two thumbs up from us.
It’s actually a mere 5-minute drive from Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort, and offers direct access to Moore Lake.
Important: There are only private rooms here including double, quad and family room.
However, it is still a social accommodation thank to the onsite bar, pool table and garden area with seating. The indoor fireplace encourages cosy conversation in the evening.
It’s certainly a top choice for couples and solo travellers that appreciate their own private room.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada. It is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, including the Columbia Icefield, the Canadian Rockies, and the Athabasca Glacier. It is also a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers, offering plenty of activities such as hiking, camping, skiing, and whitewater rafting.
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Jasper.
- HI Jasper – best for solo travelers
- HI Athabasca Falls Hostel – best for backpackers
- Jasper Downtown Hostel – best for couples
Read more: We have a detailed hostel of the best hostels in Jasper.
HI Jasper
We couldn’t have put it better ourselves:
“Designed for today’s modern backpacker, come and experience HI Canada’s newest, purpose-built hostel minutes from downtown Jasper in beautiful Jasper National Park”
Sleep in absolute comfort in their shared rooms of four, plus private and family rooms with a private ensuite.
Get a taste of chalet living thanks to their fireplace lounge, games rooms, media room and spacious dining area – there is so much space to hang out in here!
There’s also a really hip onsite cafe which serves up yummy food.
Otherwise, sit back and relax on the patio or by the firepit and enjoy timeless views of the Canadian Rockies. Nice.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. HI Athabasca Falls Hostel
Nestled in the south of Jasper, HI Athabasca Falls Hostel has everything that a modern backpacker needs, which reasonably puts it on our list of best hostels in Jasper Canada.
This rustic hostel is surrounded by breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and offers family as well as private dorm rooms. Although the accommodation is pretty basic, it still carries all the essential elements required to make the guests feel comfortable.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Jasper Downtown Hostel
unique text Jasper Downtown Hostel Located right in the middle of downtown, this hostel features exquisite private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. For people travelling on a budget, comfortable dorm rooms are also available with shared facilities.
This one of the best hostels in Jasper Canada is its central location, making it easy for tourists to access restaurants, shops, and bars. All the rooms are equipped with bunk beds, duvets, black shut-out curtains, and poly-cotton sheets for additional comfort and privacy, making this hostel best for couples.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Kelowna: Samesun Kelowna
Another popular Samesun hostel in Canada; this one happens to be super close to the beach of Kelowna!
Samesun Kelowna is perfect for solo travellers that are keen to meet new people. The atmosphere is nothing but sociable from dawn until dusk.
Get chatting no matter where you find yourself in the hostel:
- TV room
- Lounge w/ pool & foosball tables
- Garden patio
- Huge communal kitchen
You’ll be located just 2 blocks from downtown where there is a selection of restaurants, pubs and clubs. The gorgeous town is well worth exploring.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Quebec City
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Quebec City.
- HI-Quebec – best for solo travelers
- LouLou’s Backpacker Hostel – best for female solo travelers
- QBEDS Hostel – best for families
Good To Know: We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Quebec City.
1. HI Quebec – Auberge Internationale de Quebec
Welcome to the largest HI hostel in Canada, boasting 266 beds in total!
HI Quebec is located in the heart of Old Quebec, inside the walls and fortifications. It is within walking distance of the main attractions, shopping area, nightlife and the Château Frontenac.
With so many beds spread across shared and private rooms, there’s no doubt you’ll find a room that suits your tastes.
Some other perks to staying here:
- Cafe-bistro onsite
- Wifi in all areas of the hostel
- Communal kitchen
- Free activities
The ceilings are 10-foot high which adds to the unique character of the place. We also enjoy the simplicity of the overall design.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. LouLou’s Backpacker Hostel
If you are looking for a great time in Quebec, then you should look no further than LouLou’s Backpacker Hostel! This hostel is the perfect place to stay, as it is situated in a wonderful part of the city.
Rooms are mostly private, and you can choose between a private or shared bathroom – or if you stay in a dormitory room, there will be a shared bathroom. All guests will have access to a locker and there is a common kitchen and restaurant on-site.
The food is home-style and absolutely delicious, as it is made from fresh and seasonal produce grown right there! You can also hang out with other travellers in the common area, which is equipped with a dining room where you can all share experiences.
The staff are always on hand to help out if you need any assistance. LouLou’s Backpacker Hostel is truly one of the best hostels in Quebec, and you are guaranteed to have an amazing time here!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. QBEDS Hostel
Explore the wonders of Québec City at Auberge Jeunesse QBEDS Hostel! Built in 1899 and restored to its full glory, this hostel offers a unique charm that travellers from around the world come to experience.
Enjoy the contemporary style that meets the older architecture, as well as all the amenities, restaurants, and cafes the city has to offer. Immerse yourself in the culture and visit the nearby attractions such as Vieux Quebec Old Quebec, Plains of Abraham, and Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport is only 13 km away, so make sure to start and end your days at Auberge Jeunesse QBEDS Hostel!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a great travel destination. It is an attractive city situated on the banks of the Ottawa River, surrounded by stunning scenery and nature.
You can explore the city’s historic buildings and charming neighbourhoods, visit iconic landmarks such as Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, and enjoy a variety of festivals and attractions.
With its easy access to outdoor activities, great attractions, and exciting events, Ottawa is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
- Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel – best for adventure seekers and solo travelers
- Barefoot Hostel – best for female solo travelers
- Ottawa Backpackers – best for budget travelers
Good To Know: We also have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Ottawa.
1. Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel
Situated near the Ottawa Convention Centre, Rideau Centre Mall, University of Ottawa, and Chateau Des Charmes Wines, Saintlo Ottawa Jail Hostel is the perfect spot for an adventurous traveller.
Formerly a jailhouse, this hostel has been refurbished to offer lovely accommodation and an excellent breakfast. It also features a common room with a TV and lockers, towels and linens, as well as a shared bathroom that is extra clean.
Furthermore, rumours of a haunted spirit of Gaol roaming through the hostel add an extra layer of intrigue. Casino du Lac Leamy is only a 10-minute car ride away.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Barefoot Hostel
Barefoot Hostel is a great choice for those looking for a unique stay. It is an adult-only hostel that has many amenities, including a common lounge area, shared kitchen, and BBQ facilities.
There are non-smoking rooms with stunning city views, and the staff are incredibly helpful and can inform you about local attractions and even help you organise biking tours.
The hostel is conveniently located near the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, 13 km away, and the Rideau Locks, which is only a 10-minute walk.
Check prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Ottawa Backpackers
Last but not least, our selection of the best hostels in Ottawa includes Ottawa Backpackers. This property is perfect for budget-conscious backpackers looking for a great place to stay.
It features a convenient location near Rideau Centre and Byward Market, as well as secure lockers, dormitory rooms, a common lounge and kitchen area, and much more.
Ottawa Backpackers is not only the cheapest option, but also one of the friendliest hostels you can find in Ottawa!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Calgary
The city of Calgary is home to a fascinating medley of contrasts. As the beating heart of Canada’s energy scene, Calgary doesn’t shy away from embracing its ‘Cowtown’ nickname, honoring its rich western roots.
Here, you can wander through bustling streets and discover modern galleries mingling with age-old rodeos while towering skyscrapers eagerly rival the majestic mountain ranges gracing the horizon.
Here are the city’s best hostels:
We also have a dedicated guide with more details: best hostels in Calgary.
Wicked Hostels – Calgary
Wicked Hostels – Calgary is an amazing option for people who want to meet fellow travelers and make new friends.
This Calgary hostel has the following facilities: a shared kitchen, free breakfast, two shared lounges, a library, a cinema room, a game area, and business facilities.
They are known as one of the best hostels in Calgary for events as they organize them almost every single day, like Krazy Karaoke Night, Wicked Wings Night, and Pub Crawls.
With them, you’ll also get free entry to some bar and club events in the city!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com
Our Favorite Hostels in Canada put on a map + sights
Time now to have a look at the below map and pinpoint where all of the Canada hostels are located.
To make it more fun we’ve added a different colour to each city/town in Canada. Simply open the side bar and select your desired destination to see where the hostels are located.
We hope this helps with your planning and saves even more time that can be dedicated to getting excited for your trip!
Any questions about hostels in Canada? 🤔
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQ
Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.
Discounts & Promo Codes
Do you fancy a discount? C’mon, who doesn’t?! Here is our up-to-date Hostel Discounts Page with all the goodies.
This list of the best Backpacker and Luxury Hostels, the 5 Star Hostels, will always stay up to date.
We will keep adding all the greatest budget accommodations. Whether it is a Design Hostel, Boutique Hostel, Eco or Green Hostel – we will have a close look on these backpacker accommodations.
More Guides for your North American Trip
Besides the coolest hostels in France, we visited more great backpacker hostels in Europe.
Make sure you read these guides. You will save money and stay in safe, clean and fun hostels.
- 45 BEST hostels in USA – a complete guide
- 40 coolest hostels in Mexico
- 12 best hostels in Hawaii – surf & beach vibes
- best hostels in Washington DC, USA
Find all our hostel guides here.
Other 5 Star Hostels
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 Star Hostel and many more. And we share all of those unique budget accommodations with you.
We unbox the hostels and check all their pros and cons. For each destination, there can be only 1 hostel be chosen to be a 5 Star-Awarded Hostel.
This is your shortcut to your hostel-picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Update: We now cover as well curated 3-best hostels guide to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Oslo, Seoul and Sydney.
Oh and don’t forget to have a look at our hostel packing list.
Any questions?
Please please leave us a comment. We would be thrilled to help you. With your question you also help us to improve this article.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
– – –
pin it now, read it later