“Berlin is poor but sexy.” or “I love Berlin”.
Those are the phrases I’ve seen plastered in souvenir shops in this mesmerising city. Tourists flock from all walks of life to see Brandenburg Gate, Alexanderplatz, and the iconic Berlin Wall and East Side Gallery.
The world is taking notice. With hundreds of hostels in Berlin and an exploding tourism scene, it can be difficult to choose which hostel to stay in in the German capital. As someone who lived there for 3 months, the grass was always greener on the other side.
But. Never judge a Berlin hostel by its cover. Yeah – the outside is crumbly and full of graffiti (you know, that grungy, cool vibe) – but they are gems on the inside. This guide will help to find the top Berlin hostels to suit your travel needs.
So don’t worry amigos, I’ll reveal to you my collection of the best hostels in Berlin. Because solo travellers might want something different than those wanting to get lost in a Berlin techno bunker until morning.
Some want a fancy, smancy boutique hostel while others want BUDGET accommodation.
So I dig deep. I’ve uncovered the best. Buckle up.
Currywurst, let’s go!
Photo: @monteiro.online
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Berlin
- Best Overall Hostel in Berlin – Grand Hostel Berlin
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Berlin – EastSeven Berlin
- Best Cheap Hostel in Berlin – Circus Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Berlin – St. Christopher’s Berlin
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Berlin – Pfefferbett Hostel
The 5 Best Hostels in Berlin
With over 150 choices, picking only 5 was difficult to choose the best place to stay while backpacking in Berlin. So I took all the hostels with the highest reviews and categorised them to meet your personal travel needs. I’ve stayed in a few myself, so you’ll also have a first-hand insight into the best hostels in town 🙂
1. Grand Hostel Berlin – Best Overall Hostel in Berlin
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 24-50€/night
- Private Room: 115-152€/night
- Location: Tempelhofer Ufer 14, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, 10963 Berlin, Germany
This hostel is one of the best hostels in Germany and is ideal for backpackers with a mission – to have a clean place to rest their head and connect with other travellers.
Not only does this hostel continue to win awards for its customer service and cleanliness, but it’s right in the heart of the city – Berlin Mitte. Enjoy many of the events they host and connect with other travellers. It definitely deserves the top spot on my list!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Stunning historical building
- Pub crawls and free walking tours
- On-site bicycle rental
Starting with the building itself, you’ll realize quickly that this place offers some really cool value. The hostel is situated in a building from 1877 with historical heritage, super high ceilings and original ornamental furnishings. I hope you love getting your steps in because there’s no escalator, but hey, health is wealth. The first floor is wheelchair accessible.
There are also quite a few different room options. Dorms range from 4-6 beds, not the best soundproofing so I’d recommend stocking up on earplugs BUT they do a decent breakfast included in the price, every budget traveller’s dream. The Private rooms are a little pricy but if you fancy splashing out, why not?
One thing that really makes this hostel stand out is how many awesome amenities it offers, however, let’s just say that the power shower lacks the power part. From bicycle rent to laundry room, outdoor terrace to pub crawls, free walking tours with the staff and even a happy hour at the library bar – you really do get some serious bang for your buck at the Grand Hostel!
2. EastSeven Berlin – Best Hostel in Berlin for Solo Travellers
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 57-108€/night
- Private Room: 219-244€/night
- Location: Schwedter Straße 7, Prenzlauer Berg, 10119 Berlin, Germany
If you’re travelling solo in Europe and craving some human connection but also some alone time to recharge, EastSevern has it all. This hostel is ideal for meeting new travel buddies because of all their hangout spots and unwinds from the day with a beer in the relaxing garden.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Incredible location near Mitte
- Adults only policy
- Garden with BBQ
One thing that I just HAVE TO mention is the incredible rating of this hostel. With more than 6500 reviews, this place is still going strong with a solid 9.5/10, which is pretty rare! But it is very deserved since the hostel is offering you so much bang for your buck.
You can bag yourself a comfy bed in a dorm room for a bargain of a price, equipped with a reading light, wall socket and a spacious locker that fits even the biggest travel backpack. They also have private rooms available if you want some quiet time, however, they ain’t cheap.
If you’re looking for a party hostel keep strolling. This adults-only hostel, provides a chill, social environment with heaps of organised activities and the opportunity to connect with like-minded globe trotters.
When it comes to socializing, you’ve got plenty of options at East Seven. There is a beautiful green garden with a BBQ and hammocks, perfect for grabbing a cold one and sharing some travel stories. If there is one thing backpackers can’t resist, it’s a chilled hammock spot.
You’re located within walking distance of some of the most famous Berlin sights making it the ideal location to head out and explore the city with your new travel gang.
3. Circus Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Berlin
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 43-60€/night
- Private Room: 115-140€/night
- Location: Weinbergsweg 1a, 10119, Berlin
Cheap home-brewed beer. Good, now that I’ve got your attention, If you’re searching for a cheap place to perch up, and meet some new travel buddies, then look no further. Circus Hostel offers organised events like karaoke, live music, and trivia nights. And they have an on-site microbrewery offering cheap drinks! Well, for Berlin anyway.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Very modern design
- Stunning rooms
- Top location
There’s no shortage of space at Circus Hostel, with 5 different levels and plenty of rooms. You also have the option of a private room with your own ensuite, they aren’t the cheapest but can you put a price on pooping in peace? The dorm rooms are big and spacious, the only downside, they didn’t have a plug socket at the bed which was kinda annoying.
Apart from the tasty beer, you can also enjoy an incredible breakfast every morning, with plenty of options to choose from. If you wake up past breakfast serving times, no worries, there’s also an on-site cafe that offers enough snacks and coffee to cure any hangover.
You’re located just 50 metres from Rosenthalerplatz U Bahn Underground Station and 2.5km from Berlin Central Station, which makes it the perfect hostel for exploring Berlin and visiting famous sights like Museum Island, Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. St. Christopher’s Berlin – Best Party Hostel in Berlin
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 17-52€/night
- Private Room: 50-134€/night
- Location: Rosa-Luxemburg-Str. 39-41, Mitte, 10178 Berlin, Germany
St. Christopher’s is one of the best party hostels in Berlin if you’re looking for a quiet place to read a book keep scrolling. The ground floor is Belushi’s lively bar, serving up some sexy cocktails and a delicious burger, plus live music, what more could you want?
Now let’s be honest, nobody books a party hostel for the cosy rooms and a quiet night’s sleep. However you’ll be pleased to know, that St. Christopher’s has big, spacious dorms, they can get a little noisy but again, PARTY HOSTEL so make sure you bring some earplugs. You can also treat yourself to a private room if you want that extra bit of luxury and privacy.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Private apartments!!!
- Food discounts
- Friendly and helpful staff
Berlin is known to be one of the best party cities in the world and If you want to experience some of the madness, St. Christopher’s is the place to be! Oh, and trust me when I say this, when it goes off, it goes off! Feel free to bring some friends along too.
To boost your recovery, head down to the common area for a super cheap but tasty continental breakfast and piece together the events from the night before. There is no kitchen to prepare your own meals, but the Belushi bar downstairs offers amazing food and cheap drink deals all day long.
If you want to skip the party for the day and explore the area instead, you’ll find yourself in an ideal location, right in the heart of Berlin. You’ve got famous attractions like the TV Tower, Brandenburg Gate, Alexander Platz and Museum Island all within walking distance. You’re across the street from the Rosa Luxemburg Platz U Bahn Train Station, and close to Berlin Central Station.
5. Pfefferbett Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Berlin
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 43-55€/night
- Private Room: 146-191€/night
- Location: Christinenstr. 18-19, Prenzlauer Berg, 10119 Berlin, Germany
Located in the heart of P-Berg (Prenzlauer Berg), Pfefferbett hostel offers the perfect place for digital nomads with fast, FREE WIFI, loads of chill spaces to work or just kick back in a hammock.
The chilled vibes in this hostel provide a peaceful place to relax and get away from the busy city life. If you’re looking for a hostel that’s a bit more upmarket, this is one of the best boutique hostels in Berlin. For you history lovers, the building is a 19th-century brewery so the architecture is pretty cool. You’re also on the doorstep of the party scene in Berlin when it’s high time for a break.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Amazing design
- Daily bicycle rental
- Free city tour
Apart from the incredibly cool style, this hostel has much more to offer. If you’re visiting during the warm summer months, you can make use of the outdoor terrace and the BBQ. Fire up a tasty meal and join the other travellers in the common room and share the best hostel stories.
The dorm rooms have super comfy beds and blackout curtains which I loved as I’m a light sleeper. They also serve up a mean breakfast, for the price you can’t go wrong. Fresh orange juice, iced coffee but the cherry on the cake for me was the Nutella dispenser, I’m a sucker for that chocolatey, nutty goodness.
If you’re craving some movement, rent one of the bicycles and adventure through the streets of Berlin on two wheels. Being centrally located and having good travel connections make the Pfefferbett ideal for exploring Berlin.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Berlin Hostels
So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest of the best! These are some more picks from the top Berlin hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the city.
Are you after more information about all the areas to stay in when visiting Berlin? There are heaps of cool places to visit in Berlin – there’s no way around it. Each city hotspot is unique and definitely worth having a look at.
Kiez Hostel Berlin
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 24€/night
- Private Room: 110€/night
- Location: Marchlewskistr.88, Berlin, Germany
If you’re looking for a chill hostel to meet fellow globe trotters, Kiez Hostel Berlin is a popular choice. The dorms are spacious and the bathrooms are clean and modern (and if you’re a frequent hostel dweller, you’ll know that a good bathroom means a lot).
The beds are kinda basic, they are metal bunks and average mattresses but they are definitely not the worst I’ve crashed on. However, what they lack in cushiony beds they make up for in the epic common areas. Kiez Hostel Berlin is ideal for solo travellers and the shared spaces are perfect for mixing and mingling. There are female-only dorms, private rooms and loft beds. This hostel is great for solo female travellers in particular 🙂
St Christopher’s Berlin Mitte
- Private Room: 60-176€/night
- Location: Ziegelstr. 28, Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany
St Christopher’s Berlin Mitte is great for students and backpackers alike. This laid-back Berlin hostel offers lots of amenities and a steady flow of travellers to meet. Best of all, the rooms are comfortable and cheap!
Enjoy the attached restaurant and lounge, or curl up in your comfy bed in a cheap private room.
Walking distance from Museum Island and a 3-minute train journey to Brandenburg Gate, this modern backpacker hostel is the perfect location for sightseeing. You can also get into all other parts of Berlin quickly thanks to the nearby public transport stations.
Heart of Gold Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 19-46€/night
- Private Room: 48-109€/night
- Location: Johannisstr. 11, Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany
This is a cheap Berlin hostel with an electric and original vibe. Each of the rooms has colourful murals painted by different artists and the staff is crazy friendly. There’s a sheer excess of toilets and showers too meaning no waiting to get fresh and ready!
It’s more of a laid-back place, but that doesn’t mean it lacks entertainment options. There’s a pool table and a computer work corner, as well as a courtyard – the ideal place to hang out with your bunk buddies!
Generator Berlin Mitte
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 20-46€/night
- Private Room: 98-110€/night
- Location: Oranienburger Strasse 65, Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Right in the centre of nightlife, tourist attractions, galleries, and cafes – Generator Berlin in Mitte is hard to beat. You’ll see your fellow hostel-mates, but also locals, which makes this hostel a perfect hangout. Comfy beds, cheap beers and a cool, trendy atmosphere give Generator Berlin two thumbs up from me. Make sure to stop by the Kupfer Bar and try one of their fresh, seasonal cocktails.
You couldn’t get a better location if you tried. The hostel offers everything that is a must-see in Berlin, as well as the pumpin’ nightlife right on your front doorstep. Oranienburger Strasse has become Mitte’s hub for nightlife, galleries, art, cafes and restaurants. The hostel sits in the centre of this grand street and is a terrific hangout for locals.
Amstel House Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 16-38€/night
- Private Room: 56-142€/night
- Location: Waldenserstr. 31, Mitte, 10551 Berlin, Germany
Amstel House Hostel offers a number of clean and comfortable room sizes to fit any party. My favourite aspect is their fully equipped kitchen to prepare your own meals. When I travel, I love to make friends and cook dishes from their homes – it’s a cheap and easy way to connect.
In the summer, they even offer an all-you-can-eat burger BBQ. It’s a homely hostel with friendly and helpful staff.
Once you’re done exploring the city, why not head to the on-site bar for a sneaky drink? If you’re lucky, you even get to experience one of their awesome DJ nights!
Meininger Berlin Central Station
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 19-45€/night
- Private Room: 64-131€/night
- Location: Ella-Trebe-Straße 9, Mitte, 10557 Berlin, Germany
Meininger at Berlin Central Station is ideal for travellers who need a quick place to rest their heads. What it lacks in originality and charm it makes up for with cleanliness and efficiency. Just how the Germans like it!
The proximity to Berlin Central Station is ideal if you’re just passing through or have an early train the next morning. Make sure to enjoy not one but two lively bars, including a rooftop bar with excellent views of the city. It’s the best hostel in Berlin for families.
Sunflower Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 18-54€/night
- Private Room: 121-135€/night
- Location: Helsingforser Str. 17, Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, 10243 Berlin, Germany
Enjoy the wonders of Friedrichshain. There are tons of cool bars, cheap eats, and cultural activities in the area and it’s an awesomely cosy youth hostel. It’s perfect for those backpacking Berlin on a budget and keen to save money, as it offers free walking tours of the city!
Meininger Berlin Mitte Humboldthaus
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 23-37€/night
- Private Room: 105-170€/night
- Location: Oranienburger Straße 67/68, Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany
If you like the convenience of a hotel and want the city at your doorstep, but don’t want to fork out for it – Meininger Berlin in Mitte is perfect for you. The cleanliness of the hostel is superb and they have incredibly friendly staff.
If you’re wondering is Berlin safe? In my experience, this city has a friendly vibe, however like travelling to any place it’s important to keep your wits about you and the staff here are super helpful if you have any concerns. Being near Oranienburger Strasse is what truly makes this hostel special and deserving of a spot on my list.
Eastener Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 23-45€/night
- Private Room: 85-95€/night
- Location: Novalisstr. 14,, 10115, Berlin
Eastener Hostel is a great place to sit back, relax and enjoy the city. The hostel rooms aren’t large but offer everything you need for a comfortable stay. Please note that the Eastener does not have 24-hour reception, so make sure to confirm your check-in time.
Generator Berlin Alexanderplatz
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 18-53€/night
- Private Room: 96-177€/night
- Location: Otto Braun Str. 65, Mitte, 10178 Berlin, Germany
Generator Berlin is another cheap Berlin hostel with a modern flair. Right next to Alexanderplatz – the heart of Berlin – embrace your inner Berliner at Generator. Stylish shared spaces and a funky bar will keep you entertained and satisfied.
Just because you’re paying for cheap accommodation, doesn’t mean it has to look like it! You’ll definitely get great value for your money in this Berlin hostel.
Wallyard Concept Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): Min 2 nights – 25-45€/night
- Private room: Min 2 nights – 112-125€/night
- Location: Lübecker Straße 46, Mitte, 10559 Berlin, Germany
It’s a bit more expensive than others, but Wallyard Concept Hostel is totally worth it. Besides, if you’re travelling as a couple, you can just go halfsies on the private room!
Wallyard is very centrally located and near several public transit lines. The ultra-modern design screams Instagram-worthy but the space is also quite laid back. That may or may not be due to the hostel’s policy of “No groups larger than 6 people and no Stag parties allowed.“
Some people do complain that the amenities are a bit basic – no free breakfast or toiletries – but, all things considered, these can be forgiven. It’s a sexy and smooth place, especially when you’re in Berlin for a romantic weekend!
Singer109 Hostel
- Dorm rooms (mixed): 31-51€/night
- Private Room: 118- 188€night
- Location: Singerstrasse 109, Mitte, 10179 Berlin, Germany
Last but by far not least. If you’re hunting some bang for your buck in the heart of Berlin, look no further my friend, Singer109 is the place for you. This hostel’s location is ideal, just outside the hustle and bustle of the city but a short walk from Jannowitzbrücke Station and the East Side Gallery.
This place might not have all the fancy bells and whistles however Singer109 offers a clean, simple place to rest your head at a bargain of a price, what more could you want?
And what can I say, it’s the vibe and people you meet that makes somewhere unique. Singer109 has no shortage, offering lots of chilled spaces including a pool table where you can relax and meet some new travel buddies to explore the city with.
I like simple. Simple is good. You know where you stand, half the time hostels that have cinema rooms, fairground rides and waterparks included, you end up paying more than needed and let’s be honest, who actually uses it all anyway? Give me a clean, simple hostel in a great location, for a good price and I’m a happy backpacker.
Point is, Singer109 is a budget-friendly place to stay in a bangin’ location.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Berlin
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Berlin.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Berlin
I’ve answered some of the frequently asked questions about Berlin’s hostels so booking will be a breeze for you.
What to Pack for your Berlin Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Berlin?
Depending on the location and room type, the average price of Berlin’s hostels ranges from 12-22€/night sleeping pod, 9-20€/night for a dorm (mixed or female-only), and 35-52€/night for a private room.
What are the best hostels in Berlin for couples?
Wallyard Concept Hostel is an amazing hostel for couples in Berlin. It’s comfy, near several public transit lines, and within walking distance to central Berlin. Get cosy in their private rooms with your lover <3
What’s the best Berlin hostel near the airport?
Wallyard Concept Hostel is 5 km from Tegel Airport. It has a very modern design and an onsite cafe. Ideal for an easy escape (or arrival) to this quirky ass city!
Which are the coolest hostels in Berlin?
Pfefferbett Hostel is one of the coolest hostels in Berlin. And that’s saying a lot, Berlin is one of the coolest (and strangest) cities I’ve ever visited. It has loads of spaces to chill and a super friendly and relaxed vibe. I think you’ll like it 🙂
What is the cheapest hostel in Berlin?
Sunflower Hostel is one of the cheapest hostels in Berlin. They have cheap beds from €18 a night (which, for Berlin, is an absolutely steal) and it’s a great location to explore Berlin, can’t go wrong with this one.
Final Thoughts on Berlin’s Hostels
“Icke bin bereit!” (German for “I’m ready”) Berlin is ready to be explored! With hundreds of hostels and an exploding tourism scene, it can be difficult to choose where to stay, but hopefully, with the help of my guide on the best Berlin hostels, you’ll have a much better idea of choosing. That way you can spend time on what matters most – exploring Berlin! And maybe partying..?
Whether you’re looking for a party hostel or a peaceful, centrally located place to crash there is something for every traveller in this city. If you’re still undecided, I’ve done you a solid and highlighted my top picks for ya.
The overall best hostel in Berlin Grand Hostel Berlin – it is an award-winning hostel and for good reason, you can rent bicycles, they run wicked pub crawls and staying here won’t break the bank… lovely stuff. For my fellow budget travellers, if you’re looking to save money and are hunting for a cheap place to crash in a great location Circus Hostel is my go-to!
Now you’re armed with the best hostels in Berlin, it’s over to you amigo! Go explore, ditch your comfort zone and make some memories you may or may not remember.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Germany for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Berlin covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Berlin before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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