Time to have a closer look on the Boutique Hostels around the world.
We are Hostelgeeks and we collect 5 Star Hostels all around the world. For every destination we select the #1 hostel and review it for our community.
Here you can find all 5 Star Hostels worldwide.
Some of the 5-star-rated hostels are as well kept in a boutique-style. Boutique Hostels are one of the 7 types of hostels. It is certainly a quality factor for the traveler in style, yet on a budget.
We want to take this opportunity to go into detail. We curated a list of 28 handpicked boutique hostels. All these accommodations come in a unique theme and design.
This is an excerpt of the +110 DESIGN Hostels you HAVE to give some attention to as well. They are stunning, and some hostels are seriously mind-blowing.
Have a look here.
But before we get started, what is the …
Difference between Design and Boutique Hostel?
A boutique hostel is a term usually describing a more intimate, smaller property in a unique theme.
While a design-hostel describes a well and proper designed hostel in architecture and interior, a boutique-style also focuses on its atmosphere.
As we see it, a design hostel is the preliminary step to a boutique hostel.
Characteristics of a boutique hostel may be
- intimate ambiance
- small property with small number of beds and rooms
- a unique design theme
Please note: NOT all hostels calling themselves “boutique” are actually boutique-style. Some hostels now refer to this term as a marketing-opportunity. Please be aware.
Booking hostels
Just on a quick note. You can score a $35 discount with AirBnb. Read more on our incredible smart and especially simple 14 hostel booking hacks.
We are dedicated to bring you the finest hostels in the world, the 5 Star Hostels.
For all destinations without 5 Star Hostels, we sat down and wrote for you detailed hostels guides. Find all “best hostels in” guides with us.
The destinations include:
28 Boutique Hostels to fall in love with
But enough theory, we are here to get impressed, right?! Let us jump right into the list we created for you.
1. Caveland Santorini
We want to start with a former winery featuring a swimming pool and yoga classes, located on a paradise-island.
Yes, an island retreat. Sounds good? Well, it is even better. Here is our full story and review from Caveland Santorini.
Last but not least, here’s our list of epic activities for 27 fun things to do in Santorini.
2. Maverick Hostel in Budapest
Maverick Hostel is the little brother hostel of Maverick City Lodge, a well-known 5 Star Hostel in Budapest.
The Maverick Hostel is the more intimate, boutique version, catering for the relaxed travelers.
Fancy secret tips? Here are our 5 secrets to Budapest.
3. KEX Hostel, Reykjavik
When traveling to Iceland, you will start your trip in Reykjavik, the capital. It won’t take long for you to stumble over KEX Hostel. Locals love it here, travelers love it, it is well known for being a hip hostel and a cool bar. Kex is the Icelandic word for “biscuit” and a super social hostel in Reykjavik: KEX Hostel.
Basically it is an old biscuit factory down-town Reykjavik and furnished with salvaged materials and found objects from various places.
The 3 best hostels in Reykjavik are:
- KEX Hostel – the top choice
- Bus Hostel – fun for backpackers
- Galaxy Pod Hostel – posh and hip
Check our full guide to the 3 best hostels in Reykjavik here.
4. Be Lounge Hostel in Cartagena
Dear Traveler-Princess, this is for you!
Ever wondered what a 400-year-old-colonial house renovated into a modern, minimalist hostel would look like?
Welcome to Be Lounge Hostel. The clever blend of old and new offers a cosy, unique hostel in the heart of Cartagena.
We wrote up a big guide to the 3 best hostels in Cartagena, including
- Bourbon St Hostel Boutique – best hostel for solo-travellers
- Republica Hostel – best pick for couples
- Be Lounge – best hostel for female solo-travellers
Be Lounge Hostel
5. The NEST Boutique Hostel, Galway
Experience the best of beautiful Galway at The Nest.
The design is funky, industrial and function- al. The environment is cozy, great for hanging out, reading a book and mingling with other guests.
What about the design? Well, let us put it this way: It’s an epic boutique hostel!
6. Captain Coconut in Gili Air, Lombok, Indonesia
Located on a tiny island, near Lombok, you find this paradise. Captain Coconut rocks. On many levels.
The dorms are an open-space area, and the private rooms are basically cute bungalows. Everything points to the big swimming pool in the center.
Read our full review of Captain Coconut Hostel here.
7. Wunderhouse in Madrid
The Wunderhouse in Madrid is a students residence and hostel at the same time.
While the sleeping area is fairly small, the garden and building itself will make you speechless.
Download our secret city guide to Madrid, featuring 5 hidden gems.
Heading to Spain? Make sure you take our guide to the 3 best hostels in Madrid with you.
Quick overview:
8. Caravan BA in Buenos Aires
The newest hostel-player in Buenos Aires instantly received the 5 Star Hostel Award for excellence.
With opening their doors, the Caravan BA lifted the hostel-quality in Buenos Aires, giving it now a fab hostel choice for the Argentinian capital.
If you’re looking for us, we are chilling at the pool or playing football with our hostel-mates.
Read our full review of Caravan BA here.
Find here as well 25 Fun Things to do in Buenos Aires.
9. The Passenger Hostel in Porto
One of the most gorgeous design hostels in the world is located in an actual monumental building. No kidding. The best hostel in Porto is housed inside the Sao Bento Train Station. It is impossible to miss a train here.
The high ceilings and super stylish dorms are just one for the many reasons.
If you ever wondered how to convince your posh friends to stay in hostels, just show them The Passenger. The private rooms are a dream!
Read our review of The Passenger Hostel in Porto.
Download our secret city guide to Porto
10. Wallyard Concept Hostel in Berlin
It is really no secret, the Wallyard Concept Hostel in Berlin is astonishing!
Ever since they opened, the hostel is getting so many compliments and press – for its unique boutique-style.
We call it “100% Hipster-Berlin” and this is what it reflects for us.
Berlin is authentic, cool, heart-warming, stylish
– and so is Wallyard Concept Hostel.
Here is our full review of Wallyard Concept Hostel, including our own photo impressions.
You can also find our short travel story from Wallyard Concept Hostel here.
11. Ostellin Genova Hostel, Genova, Italy
The building = wow!
Ostellin Hostel is located in a marvelous and characteristic building.
Its ceilings are covered with frescos and the apartment is completed with typical mosaic Genoese marble doors.
There is even an original replace in the kitchen and large windows for natural light.
12. Happynest Inspiration Hostel
A treasure of wisdom and neat design! The Happynest Hostel is an inspirational fountain in Chiang Rai, North Thailand.
A perfect city to get to know the real Thailand.
And a perfect hostel to unwind.
Read our full review of Happynest Hostel here, including our own shots.
Download our secret tips to Chiang Rai here.
13. Madama Hostel & Bistrot, Milano, Italy
The motto: “Madama sounds like home“.
The team behind Madama Hostel & Bistrot is well-traveled, and they know what a traveler needs.
Here, Milan meets the traveler community in perfect harmony.
Join the famous “aperitivo“ and the fun Karaoke-event in the hostel, which locals love to join.
Another special feature: the hostel hosts expositions, vintage markets, live concerts and much more!
Find all the 3 best hostels in Milan, Italy.
14. MiniBoxtel Ao Nang, Thailand
The only female-only hostel in this list is MiniBoxtel
Located in AoNang Beach, this girls-only hostel recently received the 5 Star Hostel award.
They opened a new café on the ground floor, serving incredible delicious food and drinks.
All that with a sea view. OH YES!
MiniBoxtel is certainly a passion-project of a design-lover.
No wonder, it is the little sister-hostel of a popular boutique hotel in Ao Nang.
Read here our full review of MiniBoxtel AoNang Beach.
15. Friday Hostel, Odessa, Ukraine
Friday – a hostel service of the new generation.
The team behind Friday Hostel told us “our doors are always open to creative, active and cheerful people“, and it is true.
Friday Hostel is a quality boutique hostel that puts a lot of effort into creating an inspiring, easy-going social atmosphere.
16. The Share Hotel Hatchi in Kanazawa, Japan
Oh yes!!
The very first 5 Star Hostel in Japan cannot be missed.
It is impressive to see how many elements a hostel can combine:
Supporting the local art scene, boutique-style, coffee shop and lifestyle.
The Share Hotel Hatchi started out as a local project.
Today it attracts many tourists from all over the world.
Give it a read. Here is our review of The Share Hotel Hatchi.
17. Hostel Rodamón in Barcelona
Top-notch , super clean rooms and an unbeatable location; this is Rodamón Hostel.
You will be staying on the top of famous Passeig de Gracia, just 15 minutes by walk to downtown and a short walk from bustling Gracia (the perfect neigborhood for bohemians and nightlife).
Hostel Rodamón is great for the traveler in style and couples.
Read: 3 Best Hostels in Barcelona
Hostel Rodamón
18. The Hat Madrid
The Hat Hostel is a popular hostel in Madrid.
It comes with a neat design, catering for the modern traveler in style. And of course, their popular roof top terrace. Come here to have a drink and mingle. Especially a sunset is wonderful to enjoy here, with a sangria in your hand and some Spanish beats in the background.
Read: The 3 best hostels in Madrid including The Hat Hostel
19. Galeria Isla Eco Hostel, Isla Grande, Colombia
20. Hostel 1W, Rijeka, Croatia
Hostel 1W is a mix of upscale hostel and social hostel, providing designer accommodation for budget prices.
It is the perfect spot to explore Rijeka while enjoying a genuine hostel vibe.
Also, check out the Swanky Mint Hostel in Zagreb.
It is the only 5 Star Hostel in the capital.
It features a swimming pool and is located in a former factory.
EPIC!
21. Cocomama Amsterdam
The very first boutique hostel in the city.
Cocomama is your perfect choice to stay in Amsterdam. The reasons for that are simple.
Apart from the beautiful interior decor and design, Cocomama understands what their travelers are looking for:
- an easy-going atmosphere,
- cheap bike rentals,
- free pasta nights, and
- more activities you’ll love.
Here is our full review with photos of Cocomama Amsterdam.
BTW do not miss out the sister-hostel Ecomama Hostel. It is one of our most favorite hostels in the world.
On that note, have some fun in Amsterdam. 29 activities to entertain yourself.
22. Casa Moringa, Santa Marta
23. Oxotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Our home and working space in Chiang Mai. Oxotel is a 5 Star Hostel resort in North Thailand.
We spent here 5 weeks and it always feels like home.
Oxotel is being featured among the finest magazines in the world and receives more and more awards for its excellent design.
Our full article on Oxotel Hostel in Chiang Mai, including location description and where to score the best food.
The Oxotel is also featured by Hostelnerds in an article about Hostel Architecture.
24. La Brisa Tranquila, Santa Marta
25. The Sweet Life, Koh Lanta, Thailand
Cute, small, hearty!
This is the Sweet Life in Koh Lanta, South of Thailand.
The team calls the place a “community guesthouse“, reflecting the quality and the social heart at the same time. It is located right at the beach front and offers on-side one of the most popular cooking classes in Koh Lanta.
The Sweet Life does not offer any booking system on their own website.
You can book them directly with Booking.com or Airbnb.
Make sure you get your $35 discount with AirBnb.
26. Ostello degli Elefanti Hostel, Catania, Italy
Located on the 2nd oor of an iconic palace from the 17th century, boasting high ceilings with frescos, door-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto five balconies that overlook busy Via Etnea and Piazza Università, the design of Ostello degli Elefanti is certainly unique.
It also offers a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the historic center.
Its extremely popular outdoor bar, open from April to November.
A hot spot among locals.
27. The Goose Cafe’&Hostel Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
28. Onas Hostel&Suites, Córdoba, Argentina
WOW is usually the first reaction we get when introducing Onas Hostel& Suites.
And certainly, every time we step foot into ONAS, it feels impressive.
Read our full review about Swimming pool, buddha, cinema and a jungle design:
The Onas Hostel& Suites unrevealed.
29. Hostel Niniroom in Kyoto, Japan
Super cute hostel, located in Kyoto, Japan. It is a great hostel for solo-travelers and couples looking for a tranquil hostel. We love how the travelers all get around the common area to have coffee together.
Read our full guide to the 3 best hostels in Kyoto, Japan.
30. Hobu Hostel, Bogotà, Colombia
This modern co-living space in Colombia’s capital is an oasis for every traveller.
Hobu Hostel is located in a former residential home and has a strong focus in
Co-living and co-working
Read our full review of Hobu Hostel here.
31. Slow City Hostel, Pontevedera, North Spain
Located in an attractive 100 year old family house with a restored interior design in the 20’s original spirit.
Bright and spacious, equipped with light design furniture and nice decór.
Most of all, Slow City Hostel only offers two double rooms and one dorm. It’s tiny, beautiful and intimate.
32. Two Pillows Hostel in Malta
The first boutique hostel in Malta recently got renovated and upgraded to yet another level.
You can now enjoy a SPA in your own private room. That’s just…wow!
The common area is like a lounge, kept in a simple, clean design. We really enjoy this.
Read more about Two Pillows Hostel in our guide to top hostels in Malta.
33. Long Story Short Olomouc
Hostel Packing List
Okay, after finding all these super cool places, it’s time to see what you should pack in your backpack or suitcase. Make sure you always pick a quality hostel, it totally reduces the things you need to pack.
Here is our ultimate hostel packing list. It features 23 items you need to pack.
The main things to pack are:
- earplugs
- eye mask
- key chain flashlight
- the right backpack, the Lowe Alpine Lightflite 40 Pack
- packing cubes
- generic padlock
- quick-dry travel towel
- universal power adapter
- travel-sized toiletries
- The hostel address – written down
Read the full packing list here.
Summary: 28 Boutique Hostels to admire
Be honest, how often did these hostels wow you?
Times of dirty-cheap hostels have gone. Nowadays, you can find wonderful, beautiful hostels all over the world. The only downside is, that the booking portals yet did not find a way to separate these places from the rest. This is why Hostelgeeks is your solution to find quality hostels.
Loved this? Then you will love these 110 DESIGN Hostels as well, promise!
All 5 Star Hostels are high-end hostels, perfect for
- solo-travelers
- the 25-35 years old traveler
- and even families!
Make sure you read through the 7 different type of hostels.
We would love to wow you even more.
Have a look at more than 90 of the 5 Star Hostels and keep scrolling.
Besides the design-part, we also care about your safety and overall experience. This is why we created a full guide to hostels. Here we cover the topics of
- sex in hostels – 4 dos and donts
- 10 tips on how to stay safe and the
- ultimate packing list for staying in hostels
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