29 Best Hostels in Germany – Sleep in a Car, Tiny House or Caravan

29 Best Hostels in Germany, Europe
Photo by Lollis Homestay

Hallo und willkomen to the best hostels in Germany! Are you ready?

This list will help you backpacking Germany like a boss. We found many fantastic hostels from Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg and the black forest.

Are these the best hostels in Germany?



Ja and yes, 100%!

The quality of hostels in Germany varies a lot. In this list we give you a wide range of hostels; from Luxury and Boutique Hostels to backpacker and party hostels. All are great! Just choose the right hostel for your own travel style.

Any questions about hostels in Germany?

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Save time and skip to our individual guides to Germany:

To help you out further, we’ve included a big hostel map to pinpoint your chosen hostel(s).

Also we added a list of all the frequently asked questions – FAQ.

Furthermore, we share with you our ultimate hostel packing list to prepare you before you go.

Cities Covered in this Guide

From North to South, we cover the following destinations with the coolest hostels in Germany:

Here you can find all the best hostels in Europe.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🏰 Best Hostel in Dresden:Lollis Homestay
🧸 Best Hostel in Berlin:The Circus Hostel
🏙️ Best Hostel in Frankfurt:MEININGER Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport
🍻 Best Hostel in Munich:Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich
😍 Best Boutique Hostel in Erfhurt:OPERA Hostel
🎒 Best for Backpackers in Heidelberg:Lotte – The Backpackers
👫 Best for Socializing in Hamburg: Generator Hamburg
🧘 Best Cosy Hostel in Münster: H.ostel Munster

Note: many destinations only include one hostel recommendation. That’s because we couldn’t find any more worth mentioning that we would recommend to our readers, friends and family.

Two more blogs we recommend for tips on German travel are www.Germanyonthebrain.com by our friend Annemarie and www.travelinggerman.com by our friend Edwina.

Best Hostels in Warnemünde: DOCK INN Hostel

To blend in nicely with the Warnemünde shipyard harbour, DOCK INN Hostel has upcycled shipping containers to create fun and unique living spaces.

In fact, these aren’t your everyday spaces. Get ready for:

  • A boulder hall
  • Cinema container
  • Casino area
  • Rooftop sauna
  • Cafe and kitchen containers

Super cool, and suddenly quite obvious why this is our only recommendation in the city.

Book DOCK INN Hostel here

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

DOCK INN Hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe DOCK INN Hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Hamburg

We know Hamburg, we know Hamburg hostels. In this cool city you can expect incredibly cool design, North-German vibes and ideal backpacker places.

Read: 17 cool things to do in Hamburg

Here are our 4 handpicked hostels:

  1. Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel
  2. Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel
  3. Generator Hamburg
  4. Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli

Psst! Head on over to our complete guide to the best hostels in Hamburg for even more cool tips and tricks.

1. Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel

By far the coolest option is Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel. It’s stylish, sparkling clean and relaxed.

You’ll be pleased to know that each dorm bed comes with a blackout curtain. Fresh linen is provided every day, and the plants will have you feeling relaxed in no time.

It’s a perfect option for travellers looking to unwind, away from the tourist traps.

Book Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel here

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

Best Design Hostels in Hamburg? Make it Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel - Design Hostel
Pyjama Hostel

2. Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel

Instant sleep will surely be had after a day/night of filling your soul with a buzzing energy that fills the place.

Get in on the 1€ drinks at happy hour, enjoy colourful graffiti design and have fun at an open mic night. There’s even a cool rooftop to chill during the day.

There are 12-bed dorms and private rooms available.

Book Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel here

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

instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel; the coolest backpackers Hostel in Hamburg

3. Generator Hamburg

If you’re looking for a hotel feel with hostel character and price; Generator Hamburg is a top choice. The size means it’s easier to enjoy more privacy, if you wish.

Each dorm is built with ease and privacy in mind. They’re large and let in plenty of light.

From here you’ll have access to all types of public transport. It’s situated in the heart of the city so we recommend using your feet!

Book Generator Hamburg here

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

Dorms with a view at Generator Hamburg

Generator Hostels in Hamburg
Generator Hamburg

4. Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli

Don’t let the #4 position put you off: Superbude Hamburg only offers private rooms, which is why it’s placed here.

If you’re part of a couple or group, consider this hostel.

It has quirky design and wonderful social spaces. During breakfast you may well be treated to a live concert!

Based in the area of Schanze, you’ll be a short walk from the best bars and clubs in town.

Book Superbude Hotel Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

Superbude St. Pauli

Best Hostels in Bremen: HafenTraum IndoorCampingHostel

HafenTraum delivers very cool sleeping arrangements. From tiny houses and old-timer caravans to wood cabins. Each with its very own seafaring nation theme.

Couples, families and backpackers are all welcome to join the fun.

Beautiful breakfast baskets are prepared, and there is a bistro next door (home to some great events).

Book HafenTraum IndoorCampingHostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

HafenTraum IndoorCampingHostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe HafenTraum IndoorCampingHostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Berlin

Once again, we are very well acquainted with Berlin and we’ve actually visited all of the hostels in this list!

Read: 24 fun things to do in Berlin

Come on then, let’s have a look at:

  1. The Circus Hostel
  2. Grand Hostel Berlin Classic
  3. Wallyard Concept Hostel

We’ve written a full guide to the best hostels in Berlin – check it out!

1. The Circus Hostel

Run away and join the circus and never see a dull moment! It’s a centrally located hostel surrounded by fun bars, restaurants and top sights.

And how cool is that room design? Plenty of privacy can be had in both dorm and private rooms.

When you’re ready to smile at the world, hit the in-house bar & cafe, try a local beer and join a free walking tour of Berlin. Sorted.

Book The Circus Hostel here

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

The Circus Hostel is one of the best hostels in Berlin & one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe The Circus Hostel is one of the best hostels in Berlin & one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

2. Grand Hostel Berlin Classic

Enjoy a guilt-free and majestic stay at Grand Hostel Berlin Classic – there are no bunk beds in sight in their dorm rooms!

Sign up for an all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast, and wind down with a cocktail after a day of exploring in the library bar.

It’s a lively hostel in central Berlin, so getting around is easy.

Book Grand Hostel Berlin Classic here

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

Grand Hostel Berlin Classic one of the best hostels in Berlin, Germany
Grand Hostel Berlin Classic

3. Wallyard Concept Hostel

Quickly then: Wallyard Concept Hostel is the coolest hostel in Berlin. Period.

A round up to give you a reason to hit that book button:

  • Stylish boutique, industrial design
  • Off-the-beaten-path location
  • Wallyard cafe & bar
  • Bike hire (recommended)

It’s quiet, offers female-only dorms and rooms are separated from the social areas.

Book Wallyard Concept Hostel here

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

Wallyard Concept Hostel Berlin, a Lifestyle Hipster Hostel

Wallyard Concept Hostel - 100% Berlin and Mama's breakfast (+5% promo code) Wallyard Concept Hostel Berlin, a Lifestyle Hipster Hostel

Best Hostels in Münster: H.ostel Munster

The modern design and attractive prices of H.ostel Munster is targeting families, groups and young people. A wide range, indeed!

It has that hotel vibe, spread over big spaces on numerous floors.

On the ground floor there is a great seating area and coffee/snack bar to enjoy. Otherwise make use of the surrounding green promenade and access to a train station to explore further.

Book H.ostel Munster here

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

H.ostel Munster is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Quedlinburg: Hostel & Hotel Samocca

Though primarily made up of double rooms, Hostel & Hotel Samocca also accommodates for solo travellers.

There’s a handy kitchen to use, and shared lounge for socialising.

If you fancy a night off, treat yourself at the on-site restaurant.

The best bit? It’s within walking distance to the centre of the city. Great!

Book Hostel & Hotel Samocca here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

Hostel & Hotel Samocca is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Leipzig

For those of you visiting this art and culture city, we worked hard to find great hostel options. Unlike other places, we managed to find two!

They are:

  1. Hostel Multitude
  2. Hostel & Garten Eden

1. Hostel Multitude

Hostel Multitude is a beautiful example of everything a hostel should be – fresh, modern, spacious and relaxed.

The in-house bar and garden really help to kick-start that necessary social vibe about the place.

If it all gets too much, you can easily retreat to your self-contained bunk and slide the curtain across.

Book Hostel Multitude here

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

Hostel Multitude is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe Hostel Multitude is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

2. Hostel & Garten Eden

The rooms at Hostel & Garten Eden are individually styled and created by local artists. One of the double rooms boasts a bed built into an old Fiat Fiorino!

A special highlight is the spacious garden, one of the most cozy spots in Leipzig where you can easily spend hours.

The hostel is located in the central west, one of Leipzig’s most happening and alternative areas. It’s built in a former GDR-building, which had been abandoned for more than 20 years.

Book Hostel & Garten Eden here

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

Best hostel in Leipzig: Hostel & Garten Eden

Best Hostels in Cologne

Cologne is the city of arts and a great party scene, so if you’re into either, you’ll love this city.

And of course it’s home to some great hostels. This selection includes BBQ facilities, affordable rooms and superb facilities.

Let’s jump straight in:

  1. Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft
  2. Pathpoint Cologne

Want more? Have a look at our complete guide to the best hostels in Cologne to find out our 3rd option!

1. Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft

Our #1 hostel is the complete package. It boasts a top location, exciting activities and 16 individually designed rooms that will make you say “wow”.

When you’re not Instagramming your room, explore the play room, theatre and cafe-bar. Free Wi-fi will follow you wherever you go.

Oh and it’s in the centre of almost everything you need/want!

Book Hostel die Wohngemeinschaft here

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

Best hostel in Cologne: die Wohngemeinschaft

2. Pathpoint Cologne

Backpackers rejoice and head on down to Pathpoint Cologne for a peaceful stay.

There’s a kitchen, garden, BBQ area and computer corner.

The dorm rooms are cosy and each come with their own bathroom for that added bit of privacy we know you’ll appreciate.

Book Pathpoint Cologne here

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

Intimate Shared Rooms at Pathpoint Hostel
Pathpoint Cologne – Backpacker Hostel

CLOSED: Cologne Downtown Hostel

Cologne Downtown Hostel is a simple choice for those wishing to be close to all of the major attractions. Cologne chocolate museum and Neumarkt Square are just a few steps away.

Rooms come with 2-8 beds and each have a private bathroom.

Enjoy free Wi-fi and a communal kitchen when you feel like cooking.

Enjoy the view at the Cologne Downtown Hostel terrace
Cologne downtown Hostel

Best Hostels in Erfurt: OPERA Hostel

OPERA Hostel is a boutique-style hostel with nice and simple decoration, dedicated to the glory opera history of Erfurt.

It offers a cosy atmosphere to enjoy your time with your friends and other traveller friends alike. You can choose from dorms to double rooms, and 3-bed or 4-bed private rooms.

It is a family-friendly hostel as well as recommended for solo travellers.

The hostel is located in the city centre, just 7-min walk to the Cathedral. The main train station is a 15-min walk away.

In a nutshell: great location in Erfurt!

Book OPERA Hostel here

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

Best Hostel in Erfurt: Opera Hostel

Best Hostels in Weimar: Labyrinth Hostel

All rooms at Labyrinth Hostel are decorated by different local artists with an interesting, unique theme.

The hostel has a roof top terrace and the special feel-good vibe is one we love! No doubt, this is the place to be in Weimar.

Right amongst the central “Goetheplatz” square, where the car-free downtown begins. All sights are in easy walking distance.

Book Labyrinth Hostel here

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

Best hostel in Weimar: Labyrinth hostel

Best Hostels in Dresden: Lollis Homestay

We also have a full guide to the best hostels in Dresden.

This creative, laid-back hostel is ran by genuine backpackers, for backpackers, and opens a gateway to alternative sleeping arrangements.

Yep; sleep in an old DDR car, or immerse in classic movies such as Honey I Shrunk the Kids.

The ground floor common area is a social hub, where the friendly hostel vibes flow.

Every day of the week there is something fun happening, from free walking tours to family dinners.

Read: 32 cool things to do in Dresden

There’s a lot to say, a lot to see. It’s best you check out our full review – link below.

Book Lollis Homestay here

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

Free dinners you should not miss at Lollis Homestay in Dresden Lollis Homestay Dresden

Best Hostels in Sebnitz: Bergoase Hütte und Hostel Sauna Kamin Lagerfeuer

Ooph, what a mouthful! Whilst you memorise the hostel name, chill out in their beautiful garden and terrace. Heck, you may as well light up the BBQ whilst you’re at it.

This simple yet comfortable accommodation is ran by friendly staff and offers a superb location for hiking and cycling.

Book Bergoase Hutte und Hostel Sauna here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

Bergoase Hutte and Hostel Sauna Kamin is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Frankfurt

In this central German city, you can enjoy the river Main and three wonderful hostel options.

Whilst the first two boast wonderful locations, our #3 choice is a great backpacker option. The choice is yours.

  1. MEININGER Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport
  2. Five Elements Hostel

Here’s a full guide to the best hostels in Frankfurt.

1. MEININGER Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport

Just 800m down the road from Frankfurt Airport is this – you guessed it – airport themed hotel.

It’s a great choice for couples, solo travellers or small families looking for a convenient place to stay if on a layover.

There’s a shared kitchen, a bar selling snacks and a free arport shuttle service.

Rooms are even sound-proofed to prevent disruption from the airplanes. Brilliant!

Book MEININGER Frankfurt Airport here

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

MEININGER Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

2. Five Elements Hostel

Are you ready to flourish in to a social butterfly and fly amongst the freebies? We thought so!

This is a great backpacker hostel.

Five Elements Hostel would like to spoil you with:

  • 24/7 on-site bar
  • FREE dinners
  • Nightly events (movies, trivia, beer tasting)
  • Games room

To avoid shock: it’s located in the middle of the Red Light District. It’s safe and of high standard, but maybe don’t mention it to your mum.

Book Five Elements Hostel here

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

Five Elements Hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Heidelberg: Lotte – The Backpackers

Lotte – The Backpackers is a unique old house and a definite home-from-home.

The living room is all about those family vibes that will have you wanting to extend. The same goes for the grandma-style kitchen. So cute.

There is a female dorm as well as mixed options, 60s-style doubles and one 3-bed dorm.

It’s situated very close to all the main sights, shopping street and bars/restaurants.

Book Lotte – The Backpackers here

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

Lotte - The Backpackers is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Nuremberg: Five Reasons Hostel & Hotel

The design of Five Reasons is remarkable and has set new standards for hostels in the area. But while the hostel comes with a cool design and good facilities, it is the staff that stand out.

Multi-lingual, friendly, easy-going – it is like staying with friends.

This hostel is really in Downtown Nuremberg! And just a 5 min walk to the main train station.

Book Five Reasons Hostel & Hotel here

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

Best Hostel in Nuremberg: Five Reasons

Best Hostels in Munich

Most likely our readers think of one thing when they hear Munich: Oktoberfest! Worth attending, no doubt.

Yet Bavaria’s capital is home to so much more, including century-old buildings, edgy art and gothic architecture.

As for Munich’s selection of best hostels in Germany? They are…

  1. Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich
  2. Euro Youth Hostel

Don’t miss our full guide to the best hostels in Munich for an extra super-FUN hostel recommendation.

Read: Munich budget travel guide

1. Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich

In case Oktoberfest really is your main motivation, choose Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich – it’s a 10-minute walk to the festival!

Walk in and receive a welcome drink and marvel at the bright, spacious areas.

Some rooms come with a terrace, but all have linen, lockers and Wi-fi.

Grab a drink from the bar and relax in a hammock or on a beanbag.

Book Wombat’s CITY Hostel Munich here

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

Wombats City Hostel is one of the best hostels in Munich, Germany
Wombats City Hostel

CLOSED: Gspusi Bar Hostel

Find 3 meter high ceilings, vinyl flooring and wood design at Gspusi Bar Hostel. It’s a stylish, modern stay just a few steps from the bar district.

Shared room have a maximum of 4 beds.

The bar slash lounge is a great hang out whether you want to drink or not. Head to the city and worry not – there is no curfew here.

Gspusi Bar Hostel is one of the best hostels in Munich, Germany
Gspusi Bar Hostel

2. Euro Youth Hostel

Huge hostel alert! With 200 beds spread over 58 rooms you can expect a lively atmosphere most suited to young travellers.

Start the day with an affordable buffet breakfast and sign up to a free walking tour of the city.

There’s free tea and coffee as well as an on-site bar. The happy hour is very generously priced!

Swap your book at the exchange or play a board game with your new friend. There’s plenty to do here.

Book Euro Youth Hostel here

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

Euro Youth Hostel is one of the best hostels in Munich, Germany
Euro Youth Hostel

Best Hostels in Lorrach: Heimathafen Hostel

Located extreme southwest of the Black Forest, near the Swiss border at Basel, you find Lorrach. It is part of the Black Forest. And yes, we also wrote a guide about the best hostels in Black Forest here.

A small cute town with one of the largest fortresses in south Baden, the Rötteln Castle.

Heimathafen Hostel is a boutique design hostel inspired by sailing ships. Cords, sailing lamps, wood decorations, and comfy beds with plenty of space will make your stay memorable. They almost transport you 1.000 km north – to the port of Hamburg – with the deco.

It comes with free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and an in-house bar (the biggest bar in town) to spend time with your newfound travels.

Read: Best Ski Hostels in Europe

It is near the train station (2 minutes) and just 5 minutes walk to the city center.

From Lorrach you can easily reach Basel (Switzerland) in 20 minutes.

Book Heimathafen Hostel here

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

Best hostel in Black Forest: Heimathafen Hostel

Best Hostels in Füssen: Old Kings Fuessen Design Hostel

This is a great hostel choice to be located close by to the wonderful Neuschweinstein Castle.

Old Kings is within a 500 year old building in the cobbled stoned old town of Fuessen.

Choose between shared and private rooms. Couples will love the ‘King of Dreams’ room with wooden beams and cathedral ceiling.

The staff rent bicycles – the best way to explore the mountains and 7(!) lakes within a 5km radius.

Here you find all hostels in Fussen Germany.

Book Old Kings Fuessen Design Hostel here

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

Old Kings Fuessen Design Hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe Old Kings Fuessen Design Hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

Best Hostels in Sonthofen: Arena Hostel Allgäu

No doubt the coolest thing about this hostel is the imaginative design. Each room is an individual hut with ample space – super fun!

The nearest ski lift is 2.5km away, and you can store your skis in the hostel no problem.

A continental breakfast is on offer, plus an on-site restaurant and bar to enjoy after a long day of adventure.

Book Arena Hostel Allgau here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com

Arena Hostel Allgau is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe Arena Hostel Allgau is one of the best hostels in Germany, Europe

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Our Favorite Hostels in Germany put on a map + sights

Below we have put ALL of the greatest hostels in Germany mentioned in this article on a map.

That’s because we want to make your planning as hassle free and straight forward as possible!

We’ve marked them as follows:

  • 5 Star Hostels: Black with a white star
  • Design Hostels: Blue
  • Backpacker-Type Hostel: Orange
  • Party Hostels: Green
  • Other recommendations: Purple

(View full sized map here)

Any questions about hostels in Germany? 🤔

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FAQ

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

More Hostels in Europe

There are many, many awesome hostels in Europe to be discovered and enjoyed, including out-of-this-world 5 star hostels.

Easy: find all of the best hostels in Europe here.

We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations to Germany:

Destination not Listed?

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 these unique budget accommodations with you.

Make sure you check out our guides “best hostels in“. Here we cover many more destinations.

Update: We now cover as well curated ‘3 best hostels’ guides to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Paris, Tokyo and Sydney.

Summary

By now you should have the answer to your question where to stay in Germany. Which of the best hostels in Germany have you fallen in love with? Let us know!

This guide 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.

Any questions?

Then please please leave a comment below. We would be thrilled to hear from you and to help a fellow backpacker.

Have fun & Safe travels!
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The complete guide and overview to the Best Hostels in Germany, Europe for solo travellers and backpackers

 

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