3 Best Hostels in Luang Prabang, Laos – Banana Pancakes & Sunset Views from the Swimming Pool

3 Best Hostels in Luang Prabang, Laos
Photo by Christine Wehrmeier

If you’ve been searching for where to stay in Luang Prabang, look no further. Welcome to the only guide you’ll need to the 3 best hostels in Luang Prabang! It can be hard to choose a great hostel when there are so many choices.

This ancient city in northern Laos happens to have over 35 hostels on offer. From backpacker vibes to a chilled atmosphere. Laos is a great destination for budget travellers, too.

It’s amazing what can be enjoyed for a few coins. Think swimming pools and free breakfast.

I stayed at 6 different hostels in Luang Prabang; and these are my favorites!

Our favorite hostels in Luang Prabang are:

  1. Funny Riverside Backpackers - best for solo travellers
  2. Downtown Backpackers Hostel - best for backpackers
  3. Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel - best for party goers and female solo travellers

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

Planning to visit other parts of Laos? Check out our guide to the best hostels in Laos

I took the famous Mekong River Cruise from Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang. For 2 full days, I was sitting on the slow boat with no internet, 2 books, numerous podcasts and a bunch of awesome people to talk to.

On most backpacking plans for South-East Asia, the country of Laos is absolutely underrated, or not even included. We think, this is mistake and you will miss out. Laos is packed with amazing things to do, great good and culture, and people to meet.

Besides visiting Luang Prabang, the famous Vang Vieng and the capital of Vientiane is worth your time. The easiest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is the new speed train. Ask your hostel for tickets. You cannot buy them online, and you will need help from the locals/ your hostel.

In this guide we share the best hostels in and around Luang Prabang.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…

  • are tired of crappy hostels!
  • want a social Hostel to actually meet people
  • are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience

You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.

Quick Introduction to Laung Prabang, Laos

Average price for a bed: Hostels in Laung Prabang are CHEAP and cost 3€ – 5€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 10€ up to 14€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

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

Location: Bostels and budget accommodation in Luang Prabang are widely quite spread out. Essentially the very city center of Luang Prabang is around the post office – see our map. Here is pretty much anything you are looking for when backpacking Luang Prabang: Night Market, small supermarkets, restaurants, and bars. It is easy to get around by Tuk-Tuk or simply renting a scooter.

Private rooms: Unfortunately, private rooms are not really common in Luang Prabang hostels. As you will see, none of our top 3 hostels have private rooms. However, many of the mixed dorms have great beds including privacy curtains and lockers.

We suggest booking a small 4-6 bed dorm if you like quiet and privacy. Female solo travellers can opt for female-only dorms.

Couples remember:Netflix and Chill – The 10 Do’s and Dont’s. 

Party Hostels in Luang Prabang: There is no big party scene in Luang Prabang, and so no party hostels to be found. Sorry! However, there is a great place called Utopia Bar. Head here for ‘Zen by day, Groovy by night’. Eat, drink, relax and soak up the nightlife.

🎁 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 Luang Prabang are …

Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Luang Prabang.

  1. Funny Riverside Backpackers – best for solo travellers
  2. Downtown Backpackers Hostel – best for backpackers
  3. Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel – best for party goers and female solo travellers

These are our favorite hostels in Luang Prabang. 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.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🦸 Solo Traveler: Funny Riverside Backpackers
🙎‍♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel
🥳 Party Hostel:Funny Riverside Backpackers
👩‍❤️‍👨Couple Hostel: Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel
👨‍👩‍👦 Family Hostel: Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel
🎒 BackpackersDowntown Backpackers Hostel

We put all three accommodation on the map, you will find the map at the end of the article.

1. Funny Riverside Backpackers

Funny Riverside Backpackers is a laid-back hostel in Luang Prabang that effortlessly blends comfort with social vibes. Tucked just 1.4 km from Mount Phousy, it’s the perfect launchpad for your adventure—ever wondered what it’s like to wake up to a mountain view every day?

Each room comes with a private bathroom, air conditioning and a charming patio overlooking the majestic mountains. Imagine sipping your morning coffee with nature as your backdrop—could there be a more perfect start to your day?

Book Funny Riverside Backpackers here

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

Funny Riverside Backpackers Pool Area

Ready to make new friends and share stories?

The hostel’s common areas are designed for connection and relaxation. Chill in the shared lounge, enjoy a breezy afternoon on the terrace, or catch up with friends over a drink at the on-site bar.

Fuel up with a complimentary American breakfast every morning before you set off to explore the cultural treasures of Luang Prabang. With a 24-hour front desk, a tour desk, and currency exchange services, every detail is covered to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Location: You’re within easy reach of Luang Prabang’s top attractions, including the bustling Night Market, the National Museum, and the Chao Anouvong Monument, as well as cultural hotspots like the UXO Laos Visitor Center and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. And for those arriving by air, Luang Prabang International Airport is just 4 km away, with a paid shuttle service available for hassle-free transfers.

This is one of the coolest hostels in Luang Prabang for

  • solo travellers
  • young travellers
Book Funny Riverside Backpackers here

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

Funny Riverside Backpackers Dorm Room

Have fun with friends at Funny Riverside Backpackers

2. Downtown Backpackers Hostel

Who said basic can’t be enjoyable? Downtown Backpackers Hostel  is a nice option for budget travellers that enjoy banana pancakes.

Yep, the free breakfast is very filling thanks to the stack of banana pancakes and fruit salad.

Because when you’re on holiday, you can treat every morning like a weekend. There’s a song there, somewhere.

Those holiday vibes flow easily at our #2 recommendation because of the…

  • Unlimited free tea & coffee
  • Friendly, helpful staff
  • Market on the doorstep
  • Free Wi-Fi
Book Downtown Backpackers Hostel here

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

Downtown Backpackers Hostel

Downtown Backpackers Hostel Dorm Room

As for the social side of things, there is a great shared space that includes a pool table and outside seating.

It’s a lovely area to retreat from the sun and wind down after exploring.

As for the rooms? There are mixed dorms available with 4, 6, 8 and 10-beds.

Hopefully, you’ll agree that although basic, they’re great value for money. Some inclusions:

  • Little locker & shelf above bed
  • Privacy curtain
  • Ready-made bed
  • Lamp & socket
  • Big windows, generous space

Couples looking for a quieter stay should opt for the 4-bed dorm as there are no private options.

Just remember: 18 Unwritten Hostel Rules you’ve to know

Location: This is a top location close to all of the main attractions, including the night market which is only 300m away.

This is one of the greatest hostels in Luang Prabang for

  • Backpackers
  • Budget travellers
Book Downtown Backpackers Hostel here

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

Downtown Backpackers Hostel Outdoor area Dinner with friends at Downtown Backpackers Hostel

3. Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel

Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel has been through extensive renovations in 2018 to create a fantastic space for travellers.

That’s because these guys take feedback seriously. Great, right?

After listening to their guests, Sabai Sabai…

  • Constructed a new rooftop pool
  • Built en-suites for all dorm rooms
  • Private rooms
Book Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel here

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

Sabai Luang Prabang Backpackers Hostel for solo travelers

Hold on a second… rooftop pool?!

Oh yes! Whilst cooling off from the hot Laos temperatures, enjoy a beautiful sunset from here.

As for the rooms, choose between mixed and female-only dorms and private rooms.

We especially love the bunks. They’re super sturdy and have individual lamps that offer a warm light.

Whilst there are no curtains, the walls between beds offer a nice bit of privacy from your roomies.

This is one of the greatest hostels in Luang Prabang for social butterflies.

You’ll see what we mean when you check out the on-site sports bar and bistro.

All seating is outside and there is a great menu and fridge full of cold drinks. Grab a beer and make new friends – simple.

This is also where you can enjoy a free breakfast each morning to kick-start your day.

Location: the city of Luang Prabang is 2km from Sabai Sabai, so you can expect to be in a safe, quiet neighbourhood. It’s just 900m to the night market.

This is one of the coolest hostels in Luang Prabang for

  • Female solo travellers
  • Groups
  • Couples
Book Sabai Sabai Luang Prabang Hostel here

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

Meet new friends at Sabai Sabai Backpackers Hostel

Sabai Sabai Backpackers Hostel Dorm Room

Best Hostels in Luang Prabang for Solo Travelers?

What is seriously the best hostel in Luang Prabang for solo-travellers? Well, that’s easy: all of the hostels we’ve mentioned in this guide are great for solo travellers!

That’s because they all offer purely dorm rooms and wonderful shared spaces that offer great socialising opportunities.

Yet if we had to pick our favourite, we’d go with Funny Riverside Backpackers.

For one thing, the hostel name represents the place perfectly.

  1. Swimming pool? Check
  2. Riverside views? Check
  3. Spot to see the sunrise? And the sunset!
Book Funny Riverside Backpackers here

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

Funny Riverside Backpackers Riverside View

More Hostels worth a mention

While we’ve highlighted some of the best hostels in Luang Prabang, there are still a few hidden gems that deserve your attention. Here are a few more picks to consider!

Fan Dee Hostel

Fan Dee Hostel has a unique Bamboo-inspired decor. However, we recommend checking recent reviews before booking, as some hostels have received mixed feedback lately.

They offer a restaurant serving both traditional Lao and European cuisine, as well as a wonderful lounge where you can unwind, and all of their rooms are decorated with intricate bamboo carvings.

Guests are always welcome here, and they make sure guests have all they need throughout their stay by providing a wide range of hospitality services.

Take a look at some inclusions:

  • Security lockers
  • Bicycle parking
  • Ceiling fan
  • Book Exchange

Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Relax and unwind at Fan Dee Hostel Outdoor Area Fan Dee Hostel Dormitory

Location: Located on the banks of the Nam Khan River, the Fan Dee Hotel provides a modest beginning with its 20 single beds spread among many bungalows. Expansive grounds with a stunning panorama of the Nam Khan River.

This is one of the greatest hostels in Luang Prabang for

  • Party goers
  • Female Solo Travellers

Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com

Have some beer and enjoy the nature at Fan Dee Hostel Fan Dee Hotel

What about the cheapest hostels in Luang Prabang?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Luang Prabang.

  1. Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Luang Prabang
  2. add your dates
  3. Order the listings by price

Simple as that.

Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.

Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.

Any Discounts?

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.

It is completely free to join!

How to book?

The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

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

Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Luang Prabang best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.

Download the Hostelworld App here

QR Code to Download your Hostelworld app with one scan
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!

The best way to find hostels: Hostelgeeks website and Hostelworld App

Need an eSIM Card for Luang Prabang?

Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.

No more searching for mobile shops. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.

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Need an eSIM Card for Luang Prabang?

Our Favorite Hostels in Luang Prabang put on a map + sights

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

Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.

In Luang Prabang we absolutely enjoyed:

  • Phousi Hill
  • Wat Xiengthong
  • Royal Palace Luang Probang
  • Night Market Luang Probang
  • Dara Market Luang Probang
  • Tat Sae Waterfalls

Any questions about hostels in Luang Prabang? 🤔

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FAQs

Here we share with you the most asked question:

Any questions about hostels in Luang Prabang?

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Join our Facebook Group!

Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

Flights to Luang Prabang?

The most common way to get to Luang Prabang is by airplane or Slow Boat from Huay Xai (or Chiang Rai from Thailand).

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

We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:

Over to you

Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

Your question will help us to improve this Luang Prabang guide.

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 will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks

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The complete guide and overview to the 3 Best Hostels in Luang Prabang, Loas for solo travellers

CLOSED: Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel

Update: This hostel is permanently closed. 

It’s really no surprise that many people are saying Funny Riverside Backpackers is the best hostel in Luang Prabang. And we’re inclined to agree. Not only is it clean and affordable, but there is also an outdoor pool and free breakfast included in the price!

You heard it here first: there is no hidden agenda.The super friendly team want to offer a memorable hostel that doesn’t cost the earth. Nothing more, nothing less.

And boy have they managed to pull it off!

The pool is large enough for a proper swim and is covered by the scorching sun. Alongside that, there is plenty of space to sunbathe and relax in the big garden.

For a change of scenery, head up to the roofed terrace to enjoy views over the Nam Khan river. A top spot to relax.

There are only dorms here ranging from 4-bed female to 8-16 bed mixed. Each room has:

  • Ensuite bathroom
  • Air-conditioning & fan
  • Privacy curtain, lamp & socket per bed
  • Lockers
  • Free Wi-fi

You can admit it – you didn’t expect the dorms to be this swanky in Laos, right?

Reception is open 24/7 for all your needs and questions. The staff love to share knowledge and get to know their guests. We love that.

Location: close to the must-see night market and Utopia bar just next door. All major sights are within walking distance.

This is one of the best hostels in Luang Prabang for

  • Solo travellers

Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel Dormitory Hangout with friends at Sunrise Riverside Pool Hostel

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