When someone mentions Sweden, the first thing that comes to mind is IKEA, right? While this is a good thing since the furniture giant has made quite a name for itself, today we would like to expand your horizons on the country much further. Here you’ll find the best hostels in Sweden.
Therefore, we would like to properly introduce you to the wonders of Sweden – the biggest country in the Scandinavian peninsula! The land prides itself on having unforgettably scenic vistas and unmatched nature!
Furthermore, Sweden is known as the “Country of contrasts” – you can find an abundance of cosmopolitan cities in addition to stunning rural villages. From exceptional artistic experiences to witnessing natural spots that will take your breath away, the country has something for everybody! And luckily for you, we’ve prepared a list of some of the best hostels in Sweden!
Sweden is a country located in northern Europe known for its pristine lakes (over 90,000 of them!), majestic nature spots, and serene atmosphere, resulting in the attraction of millions of travellers from across the globe.
You may be surprised to know that over two-thirds of the entire country is completely covered in forests! In addition, Sweden is considered the cleanest country on the planet! This is because only 1% of the waste they produce ends up in a landfill – the rest is recycled and reused. The country gets plenty of sunny days throughout the entire year, but winters can get quite severe.
Discover the most awesome hostels in Stockholm in our comprehensive guide!
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Make sure you read through all our guide to hostels.
Your Shortcut:
- Generator Hostel
- Skanstulls Hostel
- City Backpackers
- Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel
- Backpackers Göteborg
- Slottsskogens Youth Hostel
- Alvaret Hotel and Hostel
- City Stay Upsala
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The capital of Sweden is Stockholm, which is made up of a cluster of islands, 30,000 of them to be precise; however, only 200 are inhabited. The metropolitan is filled with a wide variety of things to experience – head down to Drujgarden to witness fine fart displayed in an array of museums. Speaking of museums, you must visit the world’s oldest open-air museum, the Skansen.
In addition to learning plenty about Sweden’s rich history, you’ll get to see some exotic animals like lynxes and bears. On the other hand, you’re going to love the stunning city of Goteborg! Due to its location nested between an archipelago and forests, Goteborg offers the perfect mix of cosmopolitan metropolis and rural countryside. Lastly, the city is home to many music festivals throughout the summer, like Way Out West!
While on the topic of music, you’ll be pleased to know that Sweden is the country for all things pop culture! From the renowned DJ Avicii to Stieg Larson, the mastermind behind “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo” trilogy, Sweden embraces artistic works of any kind! However, one Swedish band has shaped music as we know it today and is even breaking through the newest generation – ABBA!
Since they won Eurovision in Waterloo, the band has garnered so much popularity in the country, resulting in Sweden becoming the “Kingdom of Pop Music”. To honour ABBA’s groundbreaking success, Stockholm has opened “ABBA: The Museum”, showcasing the work of the iconic band. This is quite the attraction in the capital city as it has attracted over a million visitors since its opening in 2013!
Got travel plans in Germany? We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Germany.
List of Cities in Sweden with great hostels
Let’s waste no more time and jump right into this great Sweden hostel collection.
Here are all the destinations we cover in this guide:
- Backpacking tips for Sweden
- Top 5 tourist attractions in Sweden
- Map with all hostels
- How to book hostels in Sweden
- FAQ
- Flights to Sweden
- Promo codes and Discounts
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
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
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🧘 Boutique Hostel in Stockholm: | Skanstulls Hostel |
| 🤑 Cheapest Hostel in Gothenburg: | Backpackers Göteborg |
| 🦸For Solo Travelers in Gothenburg: | Slottsskogens Youth Hostel |
| 🥳 Party Hostel in Stockholm: | Generator Hostel Stockholm |
| 🐶 Pet-Friendly Hostel in Oland: | Rooster Hostel |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads in Stockholm: | City Backpackers Hostel |
Best Hostels in Sweden
The northern parts of Sweden are not for the faintest of hearts. The geographical positioning contributes to Sweden having extremely cold winters, where some parts only experience a few hours of daylight. However, we highly suggest you consider visiting them for just one reason – the Northern Lights!
There are plenty of tours throughout the entire country that can take you to crystal-clean areas where you can experience the natural phenomenon in its full glory!
Heavenly nature and incredibly diverse culture – this is what Sweden is all about! Continue reading to find out our handy backpacker tips and of course, our recommendations for the best hostels in Sweden!
Best Hostels in Stockholm
Stockholm is the perfect destination for solo travelers! There are plenty of fun and exciting activities to explore, including historical sights, cultural events, and natural wonders. You can wander the cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, explore the vibrant art scene of Södermalm, or take a boat tour around the city’s beautiful canals.
You can also take a day trip to the stunning islands of the Stockholm archipelago. With its vibrant nightlife, amazing cuisine, and unique attractions, Stockholm is the ideal place for a solo traveler to explore and have a great time!
- Generator Hostel – for solo-travelers and groups
- Skanstulls Hostel – for couples
- City Backpackers – for female solo-traveler and backpacker
Good To Know: We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Stockholm.
1. Generator Hostel
Generator Hostel Stockholm is a stylish, Nordic-inspired hostel in the chic neighbourhood of Torsgatan, 5 minutes from Central Station. It offers a variety of rooms, including private and dorms with up to 6-beds and female-only dorms.
Each room is designed with emphasis on colour, light and spacious sleeping areas, and all have attached en-suites. Groups can book twin to 6-bed private dorms and avail of a dedicated booking co-ordinator.
The hostel also has a bar and cafe in the lobby, where guests can meet new people or work. It is within walking distance from the Vasa Museum and Royal Palace and close to unique architecture, vintage stores and alternative fashion.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Skanstulls Hostel
Skanstulls Hostel is a modern and quirky boutique hostel located in the center of Stockholm. It offers a variety of room types, including single, double, triple and dorms with 4-12 beds.
Rooms come with shared bathrooms and the hostel also provides Wi-Fi, computers, games, newspapers, magazines, a book swap, a fully-equipped kitchen with free pasta, and laundry facilities. Breakfast is available for a surcharge.
The common area is spacious with wooden tables and inspiring decor, and the Sofo area nearby offers many restaurants, cafes and vintage shops. It is 5-minutes away from Central Station and is great for couples and Instagram lovers.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
3. City Backpackers Hostel
Travellers from far and wide have said that the City Backpackers Hostel is their first accommodation choice when visiting Stockholm, and the reasoning behind that is crystal clear!
Primarily, the location is simply fantastic since all the main attractions and landmarks are within walking distance. Furthermore, there’s a wide variety of room options, from all-female dorms to studios with private bathrooms.
However, what most travellers find most attractive about City Backpackers is the little amenities that make this hostel stand out from the rest! For instance, free pasta, a sauna that can be used throughout the year and a skate-rental service in the winter – free of charge!
Finally, cold showers are a thing of the past since City Backpackers offers heated floors in its bathrooms – ideal for freezing Swedish winters.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Gothenburg
If you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do in Gothenburg. From hiking and biking trails to kayaking and sailing, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of this city. You can also take a boat ride and explore the numerous canals and islands of the city.
Gothenburg is also home to a number of cultural attractions, such as the Liseberg amusement park, the Museum of World Culture, the Gothenburg Opera, and the Gothenburg City Museum. You can also take a stroll along the cobblestoned streets of the old city center and explore the many shops, restaurants, and galleries.
- Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel – best for Female Solo Travelers
- Backpackers Göteborg – best for Backpackers
- Slottsskogens Youth Hostel – best for Solo Travelers
If you want to know more about these hostels, we have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Gothenburg.
1. Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel
Embrace the beauty of Goteborg by staying at the fantastic Linnéplatsens Hotel and Hostel! It features an excellent location in the quaint Linnestadent neighbourhood, offering divine views of the Slottsskogen. Additionally, there are plenty of fine restaurants, shopping stores and bars in its close vicinity, so your day will be jam-packed with various activities.
The Linnéplatsens Hotel and Hostel provides a handful of room options that are modernly decorated and offer the utmost comfort and cleanliness. The accommodation will provide you with a free breakfast every morning.
However, there is a very well-equipped kitchen for those who prefer to cook alone. As added amenities, the hostel will change your bed linens and towels daily! Finally, the hospitality at Linnéplatsens Hotel and Hostel is simply unmatched – the helpful staff will take care of your every need!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Backpackers Göteborg
Backpackers Göteborg is a hostel located in the attractive Linnéstaden neighbourhood of Gothenburg.
It offers a free sauna from 4 pm to 7 pm every day and is managed in an eco-friendly way. The hostel also organizes a variety of free events such as walking tours, movie screenings, quiz nights, karaoke, and bar hopping tours, as well as more active events such as football matches in Slottsskogen park.
The hostel is conveniently close to the Olivedalsgatan Tram Stop and a range of cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as The Museum of Natural History.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Slottsskogens Youth Hostel
Slottsskogens Youth Hostel is an eco-friendly hostel located on a famous street in Linnéstaden, Gothenburg.
The hostel has soundproofed rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a lounge with board games, a pool, and mini-golf tournaments, and they organize social events almost every day.
Guests from the hostel’s sister property are also welcome to join the social events.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Oland: Alvaret Hotel & Hostel
If you’re looking for relaxed and laid-back accommodation, we’ve got the perfect place for you – the Alvaret Hotel and Hostel! Nested on Sweden’s second-biggest island, Oland, this hostel offers unparalleled tranquillity and serenity, which fits the overall atmosphere perfectly.
There are plenty of beaches around the area, but we suggest renting a bike, allowing you the freedom to explore everything to your heart’s desires.
The Alvaret Hotel and Hostel was renovated in 2016 and heavily focuses on sustainability and protecting its environment. The rooms are decorated in a simplistic yet rustic style, offering a distinctive Swedish appeal.
Moreover, you’ll love the common spaces, especially the fully-glassed living room with a cosy fireplace! Finally, since this is a pretty sociable accommodation, you can start your own campfire. Beware – Swedes are known to have some epically scary ghost stories!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Uppsala: City Stay Uppsala
We’ve chosen City Stay Upsala as the closer for our list of the best hostels in Sweden, and just like the rest, we ensure a remarkable experience staying there. Since Upsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, is pretty chill and laid-back, this hostel provides a fitting vibe.
Furthermore, due to its central location, you’ll have the opportunity to explore plenty of the city’s attractions like the Upsala Cathedral and Upsala Castle!
The City Stay Hostel offers a variety of stylish rooms with floral wallpapers and comfortable beds.
We believe the rooms’ windows will impress you as they offer stellar city views! Lastly, the hostel features an incredibly helpful staff that can help you with all your affairs, including organising tours to Domkyrkan and Gustavianium.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Backpacking Tips for Sweden
Before we start with our usual set of tips, we have to mention a major one that is really important for the country and beneficial for you!
1. As you may know, Sweden is big on Human Rights. Therefore, they have come up with the Allemannsreten or the Right of Public Access. This means that any part of the country is free to explore without private properties. Furthermore, if you’re set on a camping trip, you can easily do so without interruption and can set up your tent anywhere in the countryside! You can also collect plants and swim in any lake of your choice!
2. If you’re heading up north to witness the Northern Lights, you may want to check out the ICE Hotel. Its architecture is impressive since the hotel is completely made of snow and ice! Make sure to dress accordingly.
3. Midsommar is Sweden’s second-biggest celebration after Christmas. As the name suggests, Midsommar celebrates the Summer Solstice on the 23rd of June, and the festivities include singing, dancing, and so many flowers!
4. Swedish cuisine is extremely delicious; however, the meatballs are an absolute must-try! Need we say more?
Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Sweden
1. Stockholm Archipelago: This stunning landscape is made up of over 24,000 islands, islets, and skerries. It is a popular destination for sailing, fishing, and wildlife watching.
2. Vasa Museum: This museum is home to the Vasa, a 17th-century warship that is the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship. It is considered one of the most popular museums in Sweden and is a must-see for all visitors.
3. Drottningholm Palace: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the residence of the Swedish royal family and is located on the island of Lovön. It is an impressive Baroque palace, complete with immaculately kept gardens and a theatre.
4. Swedish Lapland – The northernmost region of Sweden, Lapland offers an enchanting Arctic wilderness with an abundance of outdoor activities and magical natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights.
5. Gotland: This is an island off the coast of Sweden that is home to a mix of historical sites, picturesque beaches and coves, and a variety of outdoor activities. It is also home to several nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
What about the cheapest hostels in Sweden?
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 Sweden.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Sweden
- add your dates
- 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 Sweden 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.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Need an eSIM Card for Sweden?
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 stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.
Our Favorite Hostels in Sweden put on a map + sights
How about we put all hostels that we just mentioned on a map? Of course, we did this for you. Below you find our handmade map with all hostels, our secret tips, and so much more.
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.
We included 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:
- Generator Hostel – Booking.com | Hostelworld
- Skanstulls Hostel – Booking.com | Hostelworld
- City Backpackers – Booking.com | Hostelworld
- Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel – Hostelworld | Booking.com
- Backpackers Göteborg – Hostelworld | Booking.com
- Slottsskogens Youth Hostel – Hostelworld | Booking.com
- Alvaret Hotel & Hostel – Hostelworld | Booking.com
- City Stay Uppsala – Hostelworld | Booking.com
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible!
All of the best Sweden hostels are popular; especially in high season. To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fixed.
Any questions about hostels in Sweden? 🤔
Join our Facebook Group!
Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Flights to Sweden?
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.
More handmade Guides for you
We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:
- best hostels in Norway
- 3 best hostels in Oslo, Norway
- 3 best hostels Bergen, Norway
- 3 Best Hostels in Copenhagen, Denmark
- 3 Best Hostels in Reykjavik – part of the best hostels in Iceland guide
- 3 best hostels in Helsinki, Finland
- 3 best hostels in Tallinn, Estonia + coolest party hostels in Tallinn
- 3 best hostels in Vilnius, Lithuania
- 3 best hostels in Gothenburg
- Best hostels in Stockholm
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 Sweden 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
