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?β¨β¨
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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Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers π₯
Save time and skip to our individual guides to Germany:
- Best hostels in Hamburg
- Best hostels in Berlin
- Best hostels in Cologne
- Best hostels in Munich
- Best hostels in Frankfurt
- best hostels in Black Forest
To help you out further, weβve included a big hostel map to pinpoint your chosen hostel(s).
Also, we added a list of all the frequently asked questions β 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:
- WarnemΓΌnde
- Hamburg
- Bremen
- Berlin
- MΓΌnster
- Quedlinburg
- Leipzig
- Cologne
- Erfhurt
- Weimar
- Dresden
- Sebnitz
- Frankfurt
- Heidelberg
- Nuremberg
- Munich
- Lorrach
- FΓΌssen
- Sonthofen
Here you can find all the best hostels in Europe.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
π° Best Hostel in Dresden: | Lollis Homestay |
π§Έ Best Hostel in Berlin: | The Circus Hostel |
ποΈ Best Hostel in Frankfurt: | MEININGER Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport |
π» Best Hostel in Munich: | Wombatβs CITY Hostel Munich |
π Best Boutique Hostel in Erfhurt: | OPERA Hostel |
π Best for Backpackers in Heidelberg: | Lotte β The Backpackers |
π« Best for Socializing in Hamburg: | Generator Hamburg |
π§ Best Cosy Hostel in MΓΌnster: | H.ostel Munster |
Note: many destinations only include one hostel recommendation. Thatβs because we couldnβt 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 WarnemΓΌnde: DOCK INN Hostel
To blend in nicely with the WarnemΓΌnde shipyard harbor, DOCK INN Hostel has upcycled shipping containers to create fun and unique living spaces.
In fact, these arenβt 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld |Β Hostelz.com
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:
- Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel
- Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel
- Generator Hamburg
- 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. Itβs stylish, sparkling clean, and relaxed.
Youβll 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.
Itβs a perfect option for travellers looking to unwind, away from the tourist traps.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 1β¬ drinks at happy hour, enjoy colourful graffiti design, and have fun at an open mic night. Thereβs even a cool rooftop to chill during the day.
There are 12-bed dorms and private rooms available.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Generator Hamburg
If youβre looking for a hotel feel with hostel character and price; Generator Hamburg is a top choice. The size means itβs easier to enjoy more privacy if you wish.
Each dorm is built with ease and privacy in mind. Theyβre large and let in plenty of light.
From here youβll have access to all types of public transport. Itβs situated in the heart of the city so we recommend using your feet!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli
Donβt let the #4 position put you off: Superbude Hamburg only offers private rooms, which is why itβs placed here.
If youβre part of a couple or group, consider this hostel.
It has a quirky design and wonderful social spaces. During breakfast, you may well be treated to a live concert!
Based in the area of Schanze, youβll be a short walk from the best bars and clubs in town.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
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).
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Berlin
Once again, we are very well acquainted with Berlin and weβve actually visited all of the hostels in this list!
Read: 24 fun things to do in Berlin
Come on then, letβs have a look at:
Weβve written a full guide to the best hostels in Berlin and a very comprehensive Berlin budget travel guide β check them out!
1. The Circus Hostel
Run away and join the circus and never see a dull moment! Itβs 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 youβre 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Grand Hostel Berlin Classic
Enjoy a guilt-free and majestic stay at Grand Hostel Berlin Classic β 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.
Itβs a lively hostel in central Berlin, so getting around is easy.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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)
Itβs quiet, offers female-only dorms, and rooms are separated from the social areas.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in MΓΌnster: H.ostel Munster
The modern design and attractive prices of H.ostel Munster are 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Quedlinburg: Hostel & Hotel Samocca
Though primarily made up of double rooms, Hostel & Hotel Samocca also accommodates solo travelers.
Thereβs a handy kitchen to use and a shared lounge for socializing.
If you fancy a night off, treat yourself at the on-site restaurant.
The best bit? Itβs within walking distance of the center of the city. Great!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
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
Hostel Multitude is a beautiful example of everything a hostel should be β 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 Leipzigβs most happening and alternative areas. Itβs built in a former GDR building, which had been abandoned for more than 20 years.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Cologne
Cologne is the city of arts and a great party scene, so if youβre into either, youβll love this city.
And of course, itβs home to some great hostels. This selection includes BBQ facilities, affordable rooms, and superb facilities.
Letβs jump straight in:
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 βwowβ.
When youβre not Instagramming your room, explore the playroom, theatre, and cafe-bar. Free Wi-fi will follow you wherever you go.
Oh, and itβs in the center of almost everything you need/want!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Pathpoint Cologne
Backpackers rejoice and head on down to Pathpoint Cologne for a peaceful stay.
Thereβs a kitchen, garden, BBQ area and computer corner.
The dorm rooms are cozy and each comes with its own bathroom for that added bit of privacy we know youβll appreciate.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 has a private bathroom.
Enjoy free Wi-fi and a communal kitchen when you feel like cooking.
Best Hostels in Erfurt: OPERA Hostel
OPERA Hostel is a boutique-style hostel with nice and simple decorations, dedicated to the glorious opera history of Erfurt.
It offers a cozy atmosphere to enjoy your time with your friends and other traveler 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 travelers.
The hostel is located in the city center, just a 7-minute walk from the Cathedral. The main train station is a 15-minute walk away.
In a nutshell: great location in Erfurt!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 rooftop 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 βGoetheplatzβ square, where the car-free downtown begins. All sights are within easy walking distance.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Dresden: Lollis Homestay
We also have a full guide to the best hostels in Dresden.
This creative, laid-back hostel is run 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
Thereβs a lot to say, and a lot to see. Itβs best you check out our full review β link below.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Sebnitz: Bergoase HΓΌtte und Hostel Sauna Kamin Lagerfeuer
Ooph, what a mouthful! Whilst you memorize the hostel name, chill out in their beautiful garden and terrace. Heck, you may as well light up the BBQ whilst youβre at it.
This simple yet comfortable accommodation is run by friendly staff and offers a superb location for hiking and cycling.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
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.
Hereβs 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 β you guessed it β airport-themed hotel.
Itβs a great choice for couples, solo travelers, or small families looking for a convenient place to stay if on a layover.
Thereβs a shared kitchen, a bar selling snacks, and a free airport shuttle service.
Rooms are even sound-proofed to prevent disruption from airplanes. Brilliant!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Five Elements Hostel
Are you ready to flourish into 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: itβs located in the middle of the Red Light District. Itβs safe and of a high standard, but maybe donβt mention it to your mum.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Heidelberg: Lotte β The Backpackers
Lotte β 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.
Itβs situated very close to all the main sights, shopping streets and bars/restaurants.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 β it is like staying with friends.
This hostel is really in Downtown Nuremberg! And just a 5 min walk to the main train station.
Nuremberg itself is a gorgeous city, blending medieval charm with modernity. For budget travelers, itβs an authentic German experience with affordable eateries, charming markets, and plenty of free or low-cost attractions. There are plenty of great things to do in Nuremberg. Wander through the historic Old Town, explore the Nuremberg Castle, and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Munich
Most likely our readers think of one thing when they hear Munich: Oktoberfest! Worth attending, no doubt.
Yet Bavariaβs capital is home to so much more, including century-old buildings, edgy art, and Gothic architecture.
As for Munichβs selection of the best hostels in Germany? They areβ¦
Donβt miss our full guide to the best hostels in Munich for an extra super-FUN hostel recommendation.
Read: Munich budget travel guide
1. Wombatβs CITY Hostel Munich
In case Oktoberfest really is your main motivation, choose Wombatβs CITY Hostel Munich β itβs a 10-minute walk to the festival!
Walk in 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
CLOSED: Gspusi Bar Hostel
Find 3-meter-high ceilings, vinyl flooring, and wood design at Gspusi Bar Hostel. Itβs a stylish, modern stay just a few steps from the bar district.
Shared rooms 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 β there is no curfew here.
2. Euro Youth Hostel
Huge hostel alert! With 200 beds spread over 58 rooms, you can expect a lively atmosphere most suited to young travelers.
Start the day with an affordable buffet breakfast and sign up for a free walking tour of the city.
Thereβs 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. Thereβs plenty to do here.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
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 RΓΆtteln 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 β to the port of Hamburg β 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.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in FΓΌssen: Old Kings Fuessen Design Hostel
This is a great hostel choice to be located close to the wonderful Neuschwanstein 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 βKing of Dreamsβ room with wooden beams and cathedral ceilings.
The staff rent bicycles β the best way to explore the mountains and 7(!) lakes within a 5km radius.
Here you find all hostels in Fussen Germany.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Sonthofen: Arena Hostel AllgΓ€u
No doubt the coolest thing about this hostel is the imaginative design. Each room is an individual hut with ample space β super fun!
The nearest ski lift is 2.5km away, and you can store your skis in the hostel with no problem.
A continental breakfast is on offer, plus an on-site restaurant and bar to enjoy after a long day of adventure.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
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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.
Thatβs because we want to make your planning as hassle-free and straightforward as possible!
Weβve 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? π€
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers π₯
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.
Weβve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations in Germany:
- best hostels in Amsterdam β with 5-star hostels Ecomama & Cocomama
- best hostels in Rotterdam β and why Ani&Haakien is the best
- best hostels in Brussels, Belgium
- best hostels in Prague
- best hostels in Salzburg, Austria
- best hostels in Luxembourg
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 5-star hostel, and many more. And we share all of these unique budget accommodations with you.
Make sure you check out our guides βbest hostels inβ. Here we cover many more destinations.
Update: We now cover well-curated β3 best hostelsβ 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 about 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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