So, you’re planning your next adventure to Berlin and hoping to find an affordable yet comfortable place to stay? Well, you’ve certainly come to the right place. In this article, we bring you the best hostels in Berlin.
This comprehensive guide has been carefully prepared to represent a diverse range of the finest, most affordable hostels, curated to fit your unique travelling needs. So whether you’re a solo traveller seeking a quiet retreat or a social butterfly hoping for a bustling hub to mingle and meet fellow wanderers, rest assured – there’s something in Berlin for everyone.
You’re just a stroll away from discovering your perfect match. Let’s explore.
Top 5 Cheap Hostels in Berlin
Berlin offers an impressive range of inexpensive hostels. Here are five of the best examples:
Description of each hostel
- The Circus Hostel: This lively hostel features a microbrewery, a café, and a wide variety of room options.
- Wombat’s City Hostel: Its fantastic rooftop terrace offers a spectacular view of the city.
- EastSeven Berlin Hostel: This hostel has a more subdued and quiet atmosphere than most, perfect for a more relaxed stay.
- St Christopher’s Inn Berlin Mitte: Located in the heart of the city, this hostel offers easy access to many of Berlin’s top attractions.
- Generator Berlin Mitte: This stylish modern hostel also doubles as an art gallery.
Price comparison
Prices vary, but generally, the nightly rate for a dorm bed in these hostels ranges from 10 to 30 euros. For those who prefer private rooms, the price increases to about 50 to 80 euros per night.
Amenities
Most of these hostels offer free Wi-Fi, lockers, and kitchen facilities. Some, like The Circus Hostel and Wombat’s City Hostel, feature bars where you can unwind with fellow guests after a busy day of exploring.
Guest testimonials
Past guests often praise these hostels for their helpful and friendly staff, clean facilities, and excellent locations.
Accessibility and location
All five hostels are located in prominent districts like Mitte and Prenzlauer Berg, close to popular attractions and public transportation.
1. The Circus Hostel Review
Background of the Hostel
The Circus Hostel in Mitte has provided quality service to backpackers since 1997.
Room Types
The hostel features a mixture of dorms and private rooms. Dorms can accommodate 4, 5, or 10 people, and private rooms are available for those who need more privacy.
Amenities
This hostel offers several unique amenities, such as a microbrewery and an in-house David Hasselhoff museum. Standard amenities include a shared kitchen, a café, and free Wi-Fi.
Accessibility
The hostel is easily accessible via public transport, with the nearest U-Bahn station just a short walk away.
Value for money
With its impressive array of amenities and its central location, The Circus Hostel offers excellent value for money.
2. Wombat’s City Hostel Review
Background of the Hostel
Located in the heart of Berlin, Wombat’s City Hostel is a favourite among young and budget-conscious travellers.
Room Types
The hostel offers mixed and female-only dormitories and private double rooms for those who prefer more privacy.
Amenities
Its top draw is undoubtedly its rooftop bar, which provides stunning city views. Other amenities include a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage.
Accessibility
Its location, near public transport hubs and popular attractions, makes it an accessible base for exploring the city.
Value for money
Wombat’s City Hostel is worth every penny, considering its strategic location and comfortable facilities.
3. EastSeven Berlin Hostel Review
Background of the Hostel
Situated in the district of Prenzlauer Berg, the EastSeven Berlin Hostel offers a blend of comfort and convenience in a quieter setting.
Room Types
The hostel provides options of four-bed or eight-bed mixed dormitories. Private rooms are also available.
Amenities
The hostel features a garden area and a barbecue pit. A communal kitchen and laundry facilities are also available for guests’ convenience.
Accessibility
Many popular sights are within walking distance, and the hostel is well-served by excellent public transport links.
Value for money
Given its comfort, atmosphere, and location, the EastSeven Berlin Hostel provides good value for money.
Five Reasons to Choose a Hostel in Berlin
Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, receives millions of visitors each year. Hostels are an excellent choice if you’re one of them and you’re looking for accommodation that suits your budget. Here’s why:
1. Cost-effectiveness
Staying in a hostel is significantly cheaper than staying in a hotel. This is especially true in Berlin, where the cost of living is relatively low compared to other global cities. You get to enjoy decent accommodation without burning a hole in your wallet.
2. Location Variety
Berlin boasts a plethora of hostels scattered throughout the city, each one in its unique and exciting district. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil setting or an area bustling with life, there’s a hostel in that location.
3. Opportunity for socialisation
Hostels provide a perfect platform for meeting fellow travellers from around the world. Many offer communal areas to exchange stories and experiences and even plan trips together.
4. Unique amenities
Many hostels in Berlin go beyond the standard offering of beds and lockers. For instance, some have communal kitchens, lounges, and even bars onsite. These amenities can make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
5. Access to local culture
Staying in a hostel allows you to have an authentic local experience. Instead of being a mere observer, you get to live and interact with the daily rhythms and routines of the city.
Understanding the Different Boroughs of Berlin
Berlin is a sprawling city divided into various boroughs with distinct charm and character. Here are a few notable ones:
Mitte
Mitte, which means ‘middle’ in German, is the historical heart of Berlin. It is home to many of the city’s prominent landmarks, including Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz, and Museum Island.
Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg
The borough of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg is a dynamic mix of the old and the new. From its graffiti-coated walls to its vibrant nightlife, it’s a place that exudes an undeniable hip and relaxed vibe.
Prenzlauer Berg
Prenzlauer Berg offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to its counterparts. Its tree-lined streets have cosy cafes, charming boutiques, and scenic parks.
Neukölln
Neukölln is characterised by its diverse population, with many residents hailing from around the globe. This multicultural tapestry is reflected in the area’s vibrant food scene, colourful shops, and unique art establishments.
Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
From its historic landmarks to its upscale shopping district, Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf is a district of elegance and grandeur.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hostel in Berlin
If you’ve decided to stay in a hostel, here are some factors that you should consider:
- Price Range: As with other types of accommodation, hostel price ranges vary. Carefully compare your options and choose one that suits your budget.
- Location: Choose a hostel that is located near the attractions that you plan to visit. The less time and money you spend on transportation, the more you have for exploring.
- Amenities Offered: Consider the amenities you want in a hostel. Would you prefer a hostel with a kitchen, bar, or communal lounge? Not all hostels offer the same amenities, so choose one that caters to your preferences.
- Type of Dormitory Rooms: Hostel dorms can be mixed or same-sex only, and the number of beds per room can also differ. If you prefer more privacy, consider getting a private room.
- Customer Reviews: Finally, consider the importance of reading customer reviews. They can give you insights about the hostel, usually addressed outside official descriptions.
Exploring Berlin on a Budget
Despite being a global city, Berlin is relatively affordable to explore. Here’s how to do it:
- Public Transportation Options: Berlin has an efficient and comprehensive public transport system comprising buses, trams, and trains. A day ticket, which allows unlimited travel, costs around 7 euros.
- Affordable Dining Options: From inexpensive currywurst stands to budget-friendly ethnic eateries, Berlin has a thriving food scene that caters to all budgets.
- Free Tourist Attractions: Many of Berlin’s top attractions are free to the public. This includes the East Side Gallery, the Holocaust Memorial, and the famous Brandenburg Gate.
- Shopping Bargains: Flea markets like the Mauerpark Flea Market and the Boxhagener Platz Flea Market are perfect for snagging unique and cheap finds.
Tips for Staying in Hostels
To ensure you make the most of your hostel stay, consider these handy tips:
- Security Measures: Take advantage of lockers if they are available to secure your valuables. Also, consider bringing a travel lock for extra security.
- Etiquette in Dormitory Rooms: Respect your fellow guests by keeping your noise level down during quiet hours and cleaning up after yourself in shared spaces.
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget to pack sleep essentials like earplugs and a sleep mask. As dormitories are shared spaces, these can come in handy.
- Making the Most out of the Social Aspects: Don’t be shy to interact with fellow guests! Whether sharing travel tips or planning a group excursion, the social aspect is one of the best parts of staying in a hostel.
Final Words: Managing Expectations
Remember that hostels are budget accommodations, so you might receive a different level of service or facilities than you would from a hotel. However, they’re a fantastic place to meet other travellers and explore cities at a fraction of the cost.