Unmissable Hostels Around the World
Gone are the days when the word hostel conjured up images of creaky bunk beds, dodgy showers, and questionably stained carpets. The modern hostel scene has had a major glow-up—think rooftop terraces overlooking city skylines, infinity pools with ocean views, buzzing bars, yoga decks, and even coworking spaces.
Whether you’re a solo backpacker looking to meet fellow travellers, a digital nomad seeking a social but productive base, or a couple craving boutique vibes on a budget, today’s hostels offer way more than just a bed.
And here’s the kicker: you don’t even have to stay in a dorm.
Hostels have stepped up their game with private rooms that rival hotels—not just in comfort, but often in location and price too. So, whether you’re after a bunk to crash in after a night out or a cosy private retreat with all the hostel perks, you’ve got options.
From free city tours and rooftop yoga sessions to pool parties and coworking hubs, these hostels deliver the full experience without blowing your budget. Ready to discover the best of the best?
Here’s our round-up of unmissable hostels around the world—where the views are epic, the vibes are unbeatable, and the value is top-notch.
Casa Elemento.
Generator Hostel – Barcelona, Spain
Nestled in the Gràcia district, just a short stroll from Passeig de Gràcia and Gaudí’s iconic landmarks, Generator Barcelona blends industrial chic design with Mediterranean charm. It’s not your typical hostel—it’s part boutique hotel, part social hub, with a vibrant energy that mirrors the city itself. From its funky interiors to its epic rooftop terrace overlooking Sagrada Familia, this is a place where design lovers, digital nomads, and party seekers collide.
Vibe:
This hostel oozes urban cool. Think raw concrete walls, bold pops of colour, and a spiral staircase centerpiece that could easily belong in a modern art gallery. The vibe is a mix of chill and social—common spaces buzz with travellers, yet there’s plenty of cosy corners to wind down after a day exploring the city.
Why it’s unmissable:
The rooftop terrace steals the show, with panoramic views across Barcelona and straight onto the Sagrada Familia’s spires. Sip a cocktail as the sun dips behind the city skyline—it’s a moment you won’t forget. The hostel also hosts regular events like live music, flamenco shows, and food tastings, so there’s always something going on.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £25 per night (sleek bunks with lockers and individual reading lights).
Private rooms: From £70 per night (stylish en-suites, some with balconies).
Prices vary seasonally—summer months tend to book up fast!
Who it’s for:
Perfect for design lovers, solo travellers, groups of friends, or couples who want to be social but still have a stylish space to retreat to.
Fun fact:
Generator Barcelona’s bar and lounge area is a hotspot even for locals, thanks to its creative cocktails and tapas offerings. It’s a great place to meet both fellow travellers and Barcelonans.
Travel tip:
Make the most of the free walking tours they organise to get your bearings in the city—especially if it’s your first time in Barcelona. And if you’re keen on those rooftop sunset views, head up early—it gets popular fast!
Generator Hostel.
The RomeHello – Rome, Italy
In a city dripping with ancient history, The RomeHello offers a fresh, modern twist on the traditional hostel experience. Perfectly located between Roma Termini station and iconic sights like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain, this hostel is a true urban oasis. With art-covered walls, a sprawling garden courtyard, and community-driven events, it’s a place where you can kick back after pounding the cobblestones of Rome—and maybe even learn how to cook some pasta while you’re at it.
Vibe:
The RomeHello radiates welcoming, laid-back energy. It’s a hostel with a boutique edge—super clean, beautifully designed, and filled with local art installations that give it a creative flair. The vibe strikes a perfect balance between social and peaceful: you can join a group activity or chill with a coffee in the courtyard.
Why it’s unmissable:
It’s the community spirit here that sets The RomeHello apart. There are free activities every day—walking tours, pasta-making classes, and even live music nights. Plus, the garden courtyard is a rare treat in Rome, offering a peaceful green space to relax with a glass of vino. Oh, and they’ve got table football and ping pong, if you’re feeling competitive.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £28 per night (spacious bunks with privacy curtains, USB ports, and lockers).
Private rooms: From £85 per night (hotel-quality en-suites with modern decor).
Prices can fluctuate depending on the season—spring and autumn are prime time in Rome!
Who it’s for:
Ideal for solo travellers, first-timers in Rome, couples, and even small groups. If you’re looking for a social atmosphere without compromising on comfort or location, this is your spot.
Fun fact:
The RomeHello is a socially responsible hostel—for every night you stay, they donate meals to those in need through a local charity. Good vibes all around!
Travel tip:
Take advantage of the pasta-making class—it’s free, super fun, and a great way to meet people. Plus, who doesn’t want to say they made fresh pasta in Italy?
RomeHello.
Wombat’s City Hostel – Vienna, Austria
Vienna—known for its imperial palaces, coffee culture, and world-class music scene—might not scream budget-friendly, but Wombat’s City Hostel flips the script. Sitting right next to the bustling Naschmarkt, this hostel offers modern comforts, a legendary bar scene, and a prime location that lets you soak up Vienna’s old-world charm without breaking the bank.
Vibe:
Wombat’s Vienna is lively but laid-back. The interiors are sleek and modern, with plenty of communal spaces where travellers mingle over beers or plan out their sightseeing. The WomBar downstairs is a local legend—it’s got a buzzing social vibe, perfect for grabbing a drink before heading out into Vienna’s nightlife (or staying put and letting the party come to you).
Why it’s unmissable:
It’s all about the perfect combo of location, comfort, and social energy. Steps away from the Naschmarkt—Vienna’s famous food market—you’ve got easy access to everything from schnitzels to sushi. Inside, the hostel delivers clean, modern spaces with plenty of room to breathe (no crammed dorms here) and a friendly atmosphere that makes meeting fellow travellers a breeze.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £22 per night (spacious, with lockers, reading lights, and clean shared bathrooms).
Private rooms: From £70 per night (modern en-suites with minimalist Austrian flair).
Prices vary—Vienna’s popular year-round, but December (Christmas markets!) and summer are peak.
Who it’s for:
Perfect for solo travellers, groups, and couples who want a social base without compromising on cleanliness or location. It’s especially great if you’re down for a friendly drink or two at the bar but don’t want a full-on party hostel vibe.
Fun fact:
The WomBar is famous for its Happy Hour specials and themed nights—it’s often the jumping-off point for hostel-organised pub crawls around the city.
Travel tip:
Take a stroll through the Naschmarkt (right next door)—grab a cheap lunch from one of the many food stalls or stock up on picnic supplies before heading to Schönbrunn Palace.
Wombats Vienna.
Mad Monkey Hostel – Siem Reap, Cambodia
A stone’s throw from the majestic Angkor Wat, Mad Monkey Siem Reap brings legendary social vibes to the heart of Cambodia. This isn’t just a place to crash after temple hopping—it’s a full-on experience, blending epic parties, rooftop pool hangs, and a touch of Cambodian culture. If you’re after a hostel where friendships are made over beers and sunsets, this is your spot.
Vibe:
Mad Monkey is all about good times and great people. It’s the perfect mix of party and chill—during the day, you can unwind by the rooftop pool, grab a bite at the bar, or plan your next Angkor adventure. But come sunset? Things turn up a notch, with pool parties, pub crawls, and themed nights that’ll have you dancing until the early hours. It’s social without being pushy—you set the pace.
Why it’s unmissable:
The rooftop pool here is a total game-changer—swim with skyline views as the sun sets over Siem Reap. Plus, Mad Monkey is committed to responsible tourism. They run community projects and support local initiatives, so every drink and dorm bed helps give back. And let’s not forget the daily happy hours, games nights, and Angkor Wat sunrise tours.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £8 per night (comfy bunks with privacy curtains, fans or air-con, and lockers).
Private rooms: From £22 per night (simple but stylish en-suites for when you want to recharge solo).
Cambodia stays pretty affordable year-round, but book ahead during peak temple season (Nov–Feb).
Who it’s for:
Perfect for solo travellers, groups of mates, or anyone looking to balance cultural explorations with a bit of a party. It’s also great for travellers who care about giving back while they explore.
Fun fact:
Mad Monkey is part of a chain across Southeast Asia, but each location has its own vibe. Siem Reap’s rooftop pool is one of the standout features of the entire network!
Travel tip:
Book the Angkor Wat sunrise tour through the hostel—it’s hassle-free, and you’ll be back in time for breakfast and a poolside nap. Also, don’t skip the happy hour mojitos—they’re dangerously good.
Mad Monkey Siem Reap.
Tribal Hostel – Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
Welcome to Bali’s first purpose-built coworking hostel. In the heart of Pererenan—just outside Canggu’s surfy chaos—Tribal Hostel is where digital nomads, surfers, and laid-back travellers come together. This isn’t your typical party hostel. Instead, it’s a seriously cool space for those who want to work hard and chill harder—think massive coworking areas, a swimming pool, and Bali’s endless rice paddies just outside.
Vibe:
Tribal is where productivity meets paradise. By day, you’ll find laptops open, coffee flowing, and freelancers grinding out projects in the huge coworking space (which has its own café, naturally). By afternoon? The poolside starts filling up, and the vibe shifts to sunbathing, swimming, and the occasional poolside beer. There’s no loud party scene here—it’s social but relaxed, perfect for people who need to balance work and play.
Why it’s unmissable:
This place is a dream for digital nomads. The coworking space is free for hostel guests and comes with super-fast Wi-Fi, ergonomic chairs, and plenty of breakout spots. But even if you’re not working, the pool, bar, and communal spaces make it a great place to meet travellers. Plus, it’s 500m from Pererenan Beach, so you can catch a surf session before (or after) clocking in.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £14 per night (comfy, custom-built bunks with privacy curtains, reading lights, and lockers).
Private rooms: From £40 per night (minimalist design with air-con and en-suite bathrooms).
Bali stays fairly consistent price-wise, but book ahead during the dry season (May–Sept) for the best deals.
Who it’s for:
Ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and travellers who want to stay social but skip the party scene. Also great for surfers looking for a mellow base.
Fun fact:
Tribal was founded by Will Hatton, also known as The Broke Backpacker—so the hostel’s designed by travellers, for travellers. It’s all about affordable luxury and community vibes.
Travel tip:
If you’re a sunset lover, head down to Echo Beach (just a short scooter ride away) for a drink and to watch the surfers ride the last waves of the day.
Tribal Hostel.
Bodega Bangkok Soi 23 – Bangkok, Thailand
Right in the thick of Bangkok’s Sukhumvit district, Bodega Bangkok Soi 23 is the ultimate party base for travellers who want to explore the city by day and let loose by night. This hostel doesn’t hold back—bar crawls, beer pong tournaments, and wild themed nights are all part of the package. But step outside, and you’re just minutes from Bangkok’s world-class street food, temples, and shopping districts.
Vibe:
Straight up party hostel—this is high-energy, non-stop social action. Expect loud music, boozy games, and a crowd that’s here for a good time, not a long time. But don’t worry—the rooms are well-designed for recovery mode, with comfy beds and air-con to help you bounce back.
Why it’s unmissable:
If you’re in Bangkok to meet people and have fun, this is the spot. Bodega’s bar is the hub for nightly events, including pub crawls through Bangkok’s wild nightlife, boozy bingo, and more. Plus, they offer day trips—like boat parties and temple tours—to help balance out the chaos.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £12 per night (solid bunks with privacy curtains, air-con, and lockers).
Private rooms: From £30 per night (air-conditioned en-suites for when you need some downtime).
Prices are steady most of the year, though Bangkok’s cooler months (Nov–Feb) are busiest.
Who it’s for:
Perfect for solo travellers and groups who want to party hard, meet people fast, and soak up Bangkok’s buzzing nightlife. If you’re looking for quiet? Maybe keep scrolling. 😉
Fun fact:
Bodega is famous across Southeast Asia for its legendary bar crawls—they’re almost guaranteed to sell out nightly. Think beer pong championships, body paint nights, and DJ sets right in the hostel.
Travel tip:
Make sure to book your first bar crawl on arrival—it’s the easiest way to dive into the social scene. And for some recovery food, hit Soi 38 Night Market for the best pad thai and mango sticky rice.
Bodega Bangkok Soi 23.
The Yard Hostel – Bangkok, Thailand
Tucked away in the quieter Ari neighbourhood, The Yard Hostel offers a breath of fresh air in the middle of Bangkok’s hustle and bustle. This place is eco-friendly, laid-back, and built around a spacious courtyard garden where hammocks sway and travellers sip coffee in the shade. If you’re looking for community vibes without the chaos, The Yard is your go-to.
Vibe:
Think urban oasis. The Yard is social but super relaxed, perfect for travellers who want to connect over a quiet beer rather than a wild bar crawl. The central courtyard is the heart of the hostel, filled with trees, hammocks, and communal tables that invite conversation. It’s got a neighbourhood feel—a great place to recharge.
Why it’s unmissable:
This hostel is all about sustainability and community. The buildings are made from upcycled shipping containers, they compost, recycle, and encourage guests to refill water bottles instead of buying plastic. The Ari area is also a huge draw—local cafés, street food stalls, and markets without the overwhelming tourist crowds.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £13 per night (spacious bunks with privacy curtains, reading lights, and air-con).
Private rooms: From £30 per night (cosy en-suites with a minimalist design and garden views).
Bangkok’s weather stays hot year-round, but Ari’s quieter vibe makes it great no matter the season.
Who it’s for:
Perfect for digital nomads, solo travellers, or couples who prefer a peaceful, community-driven space. Also great for anyone wanting to explore a local side of Bangkok without the typical tourist madness.
Fun fact:
The name “Yard” comes from the Thai word for relatives or family—the idea is that everyone who stays becomes part of the family.
Travel tip:
Take time to explore Ari’s café scene—you’ll find some of Bangkok’s best coffee and hipster brunch spots just a short walk from the hostel. And if you need a break from the heat, Chatuchak Park (near the famous market) is a green escape nearby.
The Yard Hostel.
Gilligan’s – Cairns, Australia
If Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Gilligan’s is the gateway to good times. This place is part hostel, part entertainment complex, and 100% iconic. Located smack bang in the centre of Cairns, Gilligan’s is a massive social hub—with a resort-style pool, three bars, nightclub, and even a beer garden. Whether you’re reef-hopping or just here for the party, Gilligan’s brings it all.
Vibe:
Gilligan’s is big, bold, and buzzing. This is party-central meets tropical resort. The pool area feels like something out of a hotel, but step inside and you’re in one of the liveliest hostels in Australia. It’s high-energy, social, and the kind of place where you’ll leave with a crew. But there’s enough space to find a quiet corner, too—if you need to recover from the night before.
Why it’s unmissable:
The resort-style swimming pool is reason enough to stay here, but Gilligan’s goes way beyond that. There’s a huge outdoor bar, poolside parties, live DJs, and even weekly events like wet t-shirt contests and trivia nights. If you’re after the ultimate Cairns experience, this is where it all happens. Plus, they help you book reef trips, skydives, and rainforest tours—right from reception.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £20 per night (spacious, air-conditioned, with en-suites—yes, even the dorms).
Private rooms: From £70 per night (hotel-standard, with balconies overlooking the pool or city).
Best to book ahead during Aussie winter (June–August)—when the weather’s prime and the travellers roll in.
Who it’s for:
Perfect for party lovers, adrenaline junkies, and solo travellers who want to meet people fast. It’s also a good shout for groups keen on diving into Cairns’ nightlife scene.
Fun fact:
Gilligan’s has its own nightclub on-site, with big-name DJs and live acts regularly hitting the stage. You don’t even need to leave the building to have an epic night out!
Travel tip:
Sign up for early morning reef trips (despite the late nights)—the Great Barrier Reef is a bucket list experience, and Gilligan’s crew will help sort your dive or snorkel adventures.
Gilligan’s.
Villa Viva – Cape Town, South Africa
Set in the colourful Bo-Kaap-adjacent suburb of Tamboerskloof, Villa Viva is where vibrant design, epic views, and social impact meet. This guesthouse-meets-hostel hybrid blends artsy interiors with a laid-back social atmosphere, making it one of Cape Town’s most unique places to stay. With its sun-drenched rooftop terrace, courtyard garden, and mountain views, this is the kind of place where you’ll want to linger.
Vibe:
Villa Viva strikes that sweet spot between chill and social. It feels boutique, with thoughtful decor (think local art, colourful tiles, and bright communal spaces), but there’s also plenty of opportunity to meet fellow travellers over a drink on the terrace or around the communal braai (BBQ). The hostel is part of a social business initiative, so you know your stay is supporting local community projects.
Why it’s unmissable:
The rooftop terrace offers unbeatable views of Table Mountain, perfect for sunset beers or morning yoga. There’s also a lush garden courtyard, hammocks, and a plunge pool for those sunny Cape Town days. The hostel organises weekly events like braai nights, live music, and cultural workshops, so you can dive into South African culture while you’re here.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £18 per night (airy, spacious, and well-designed with lockers and charging points).
Private rooms: From £50 per night (stylish en-suites with mountain or garden views).
Prices vary depending on the season—summer (Nov–March) is peak, but Cape Town’s a beauty year-round.
Who it’s for:
Ideal for solo travellers, digital nomads, or couples who want comfort with a conscience. If you’re keen to experience Cape Town beyond the tourist trail, this is your spot.
Fun fact:
Villa Viva supports Viva con Agua, an organisation focused on clean water access projects in South Africa and beyond. So, while you sip that rooftop cocktail, you’re also contributing to a great cause.
Travel tip:
Make the most of the braai nights—they’re the perfect intro to South African cuisine and a great way to meet other travellers. And be sure to ask the staff for local hiking tips—Lion’s Head is just around the corner!
Villa Villa.
Casa Elemento – Minca, Colombia
Perched high in the Sierra Nevada mountains, just above the laid-back town of Minca, Casa Elemento is all about epic views and slow living. Famous for its giant hammocks suspended over the jungle, this hostel offers a one-of-a-kind experience—where clouds drift beneath you and the sunset takes centre stage every evening.
Vibe:
Casa Elemento is rustic, remote, and incredibly peaceful. It’s designed for disconnecting from the digital world (Wi-Fi’s spotty at best) and reconnecting with nature. You’ll find travellers sprawled out in hammocks, soaking up the views, sharing stories around the communal dinner table, or heading out on jungle hikes.
Why it’s unmissable:
The world-famous giant hammock is the star here—stretching out over the jungle canopy, offering 360-degree mountain and valley views. There’s also an infinity pool, sunset yoga decks, and plenty of hiking trails to waterfalls and coffee farms nearby. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £15 per night (basic but comfortable with mountain breezes for air-con).
Private cabins: From £40 per night (rustic wooden cabins with spectacular views).
Casa Elemento books up fast during high season (Dec–March)—especially for those prime hammock spots!
Who it’s for:
Perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and travellers looking to disconnect. Great for solo adventurers or couples who want mountain magic off the beaten path.
Fun fact:
Casa Elemento claims to have the largest hammock in South America—big enough for a dozen travellers to lounge on, high above the jungle floor.
Travel tip:
Getting here is an adventure—you’ll need to catch a moto-taxi or 4x4 up the rugged mountain roads from Minca town. Pack light and prepare for a bumpy ride—but trust me, it’s so worth it.
Casa Elemento.
The Dreamer Hostel – Santa Marta, Colombia
Just a stone’s throw from the Caribbean coast and the gateway to Tayrona National Park, The Dreamer Hostel in Santa Marta is the place to kick back and soak in some tropical vibes. Picture swaying palm trees, a sparkling swimming pool, and hammocks dotted around lush gardens—this place is made for recharging before (or after) an epic adventure. Whether you’ve just trekked the Lost City or you’re gearing up for some beach-hopping, The Dreamer offers a slice of paradise without the hefty price tag.
Vibe:
The Dreamer feels like a resort for backpackers—laid-back and social without ever being over the top. The central pool is the heart of the action, surrounded by chill zones, tropical gardens, and an open-air restaurant and bar. It strikes that perfect balance between social and serene—you can meet fellow travellers over a cocktail or find a quiet hammock and zone out with a book.
Why it’s unmissable:
This is the kind of place where days melt into each other. Between lazy afternoons by the pool, barbecues, and the occasional party night, The Dreamer makes it hard to leave. But it’s not all about relaxing—they also organise tours to Tayrona National Park, the Lost City trek, and nearby surf spots, so you can easily jump from poolside to adventure mode.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £16 per night (spacious, clean, with lockers and fans).
Private rooms: From £45 per night (some with air-con and pool views for that extra luxe feel).
Prices vary by season—book ahead if you’re heading there during Tayrona’s busy months (December to March)!
Who it’s for:
Ideal for beach lovers, trekkers heading to the Lost City, or anyone needing a chilled base between adventures. It’s also great for solo travellers—the vibe is friendly but not overwhelming.
Fun fact:
The Dreamer is one of the only hostels in Santa Marta with a swimming pool, making it a prime spot to cool off in Colombia’s Caribbean heat.
Travel tip:
Use The Dreamer as your basecamp for exploring Tayrona National Park—they offer secure luggage storage for when you head off on treks, so you can leave the big bags behind and travel light.
The Dreamer Hostel.
Socialtel Plaza de Armas – Cusco, Peru
Right in the historic heart of Cusco, just steps from the Plaza de Armas, Socialtel delivers boutique comfort with social vibes in one of the world’s most legendary travel hubs. Whether you’re gearing up for the Inca Trail, winding down from a Machu Picchu trek, or just soaking in Cusco’s rich history, Socialtel offers a stylish stay with plenty of energy.
Vibe:
Socialtel strikes that modern boutique feel, but it’s still got enough of a community buzz to keep it fun. Think sleek, minimalist design—lots of clean lines, earthy tones, and Peruvian touches like traditional textiles. The common areas are made for connecting—whether you’re swapping trek stories or just chilling with a coffee.
Why it’s unmissable:
Location, location, location—right on Plaza de Armas. You’re in the thick of Cusco’s colonial beauty, with cafes, markets, and historic sites right outside the door. The hostel offers organized tours, daily events, and local experiences that help you make the most of your stay. Plus, the on-site bar is the perfect place to relax before or after your trek.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £15 per night (comfy bunks with privacy curtains, lockers, and charging points).
Private rooms: From £45 per night (en-suites with sleek design and cosy touches).
Cusco gets busy during trekking season (May–Sept)—book early if you’re hitting the trails!
Who it’s for:
Perfect for trekkers, culture lovers, and solo travellers who want a central base with a social edge. Also ideal for couples looking for a boutique feel without losing that community vibe.
Fun fact:
Cusco sits at 3,400 metres above sea level—Socialtel offers coca tea on arrival to help with altitude adjustment. Sip slow and acclimatise!
Travel tip:
Spend at least two days acclimatising in Cusco before tackling the Inca Trail or other treks. Explore San Pedro Market for local eats and grab a pisco sour at the hostel’s bar to kick back after a day of sightseeing.
Socialtel Plaza de Armas.
KEX Hostel – Reykjavik, Iceland
Set in a former biscuit factory (yes, really), KEX Hostel blends industrial chic with Scandi soul right in the heart of Reykjavik. Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, this spot is where travellers, locals, and musicians collide—whether for a night of live music, a craft beer, or a cosy bunk after a day of exploring Iceland’s epic landscapes.
Vibe:
KEX oozes that cool Reykjavik energy—think exposed brick, vintage furniture, and shelves stacked with old books and vinyl records. It feels like a hipster loft meets Icelandic living room. The bar and lounge area often buzz with live gigs, poetry readings, and locals hanging out—so it’s social without being rowdy.
Why it’s unmissable:
The hostel’s Seaside Lounge offers sweeping views of Faxaflói Bay, where you can watch the northern lights in winter or enjoy the midnight sun in summer. KEX Bar serves up Icelandic craft beers, hearty breakfasts, and hosts regular live music nights—you might even catch some local indie bands before they blow up. Plus, the central location makes it a breeze to explore Reykjavik’s colourful streets.
Room options (with prices):
Dorm beds: From £35 per night (clean, industrial-style bunks with lockers and shared bathrooms).
Private rooms: From £90 per night (Scandi-minimalist design with cosy touches).
Prices rise in peak summer (June–August) and northern lights season (Nov–Feb)—book early for either!
Who it’s for:
Perfect for urban explorers, music lovers, and solo travellers who want to tap into Reykjavik’s creative scene. Also great for couples who appreciate design-led spaces and a laid-back vibe.
Fun fact:
KEX means biscuit in Icelandic—a nod to the building’s former life as a cookie factory.
Travel tip:
Pop down to Klambratún Park (just a 10-minute walk) for a dose of Icelandic art at the Kjarvalsstaðir Museum. And if you’re chasing the northern lights, ask the staff—they’ll give you the best local tips on when and where to spot them.
KEX Hostel.
From skyline sunsets in Barcelona to pool parties in Cairns and mountain views in Cape Town, the world’s best hostels prove that budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences. Whether you're chasing adventure, community, creativity, or just a killer view, these hostels offer way more than just a bed—they’re places to connect, explore, and make memories.
So, where to next? Whether you're planning your first solo trip or you're a seasoned backpacker, these spots are ready to welcome you with open arms (and maybe a cold drink on a rooftop).
