Known for its maritime history and top-notch nightlife, Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany and an absolute blast for backpackers. Situated on the banks of the River Elbe, Hamburg is a historical port city that dates back to the 9th century AD.
It’s a bustling, exciting city with a great bar and club scene (this is Germany after all), trendy restaurants, and organic cafés. It’s also one of the largest greenest cities in Europe and has numerous museums on offer.
But as with most of Germany – it isn’t cheap.
This is the exact reason we wrote this guide to the best hostels in Hamburg.
My goal is to give you an easy and painless list that helps you find an affordable hostel that perfectly suits your particular travel needs. So whether you are looking to party up or wind down, my ultimate list of the best hostels in Hamburg has got you covered.
Hamburg has a wide public transportation network, including buses, subways and trains linking to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof which is the main central station. So whatever you want to see during your time in harbour city, I’ve found the Hamburg hostel for you.
Let’s get into it!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Hamburg
- Best Overall Hostel in Hamburg – Meininger Hamburg City Center
- Best Hostel in Hamburg for Solo Travelers – Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Hamburg – The Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Hamburg – Generator Hamburg
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Hamburg – Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli
The 5 Best Hostels in Hamburg
Hamburg has a variety of hostels to suit different needs and tastes. Split into different groups, I’ve made finding the best hostel in Hamburg on your German backpacking tour stress-free 🙂
1. Meininger Hamburg City Center – Best Overall Hostel in Hamburg
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $135
- Address: Goetheallee 3-11, Hamburg, Germany
Our recommendation for the best overall Hamburg hostel – Meininger Hamburg City Center can be found close to Altona Station. This hostel is in a great location with heaps of shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. Many of the top places to visit in the city are also accessible by foot from the hostel.
The six- and eight-bed dorms are spacious, and private rooms can accommodate from one person to six people. All rooms have a TV and ample storage space, and lockers, as well as key card access, help you to feel safe and at ease. Dorm beds have curtains for privacy.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Clean Rooms and Bathrooms
- Great Breakfast
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
You’ll meet plenty of cool travellers in the onsite bar lounge and the games room is great for having fun with friends both old and new. Cook whatever you fancy in the well-equipped kitchen or treat yourself to the extensive breakfast buffet (for an additional cost). If you do enjoy the breakfast buffet, making something and packing a picnic for the day is a great way to save money in Hamburg.
This Hamburg hostel has friendly staff and a cool, bright industrial feel to the interior. Other benefits include laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, an elevator, paid onsite parking, and luggage storage. There’s 24/7 reception so one of the friendly faces is always on hand to help you with anything you need.
2. Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel – Best Hostel in Hamburg for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $61
- Address: Max-Brauer-Allee 277, Hamburg, Germany
The best hostel for solo travellers in Hamburg is the Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel. This Hamburg hostel is a lively hostel with everything you need for a comfortable stay in the heart of Harbour City. The two bars are perfect for meeting people and bonding over a few drinks and the conversation just keeps flowing in the sociable lounge.
How about a game on the PlayStation at Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel? Free tea and coffee are available for a morning caffeine hit and there’s a well-equipped kitchen that you can use at any time too. Everyone knows everyone hangs out in the kitchen, right?
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Option for late checkout
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- Epic location on Backpackers St, St Pauli
Dorms are mixed and sleep between four and 12 at Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel. The bathrooms are clean and there’s even an all female floor so you can feel safe AF as a solo female traveller. Then there’s the option of booking one of the private rooms at Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel, which has a shared bathroom and is pretty budget-friendly.
The social vibe here is fun to mix and mingle with other travellers and the hostel prices are mellow enough. You’ll have plenty of spare cash for going out with your new friends from Instant Sleep Backpackers Hostel and having a beer or two. OR, you could go all in and hit Hamburg’s notorious nightlife – you won’t regret it!
3. The Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Hamburg
- Private Room: From $56
- Address: Kieler Straße 645, Hamburg, Germany
The Hostel may like imagination when it comes to its name, but it has good facilities and services and low prices to make up for it. The housekeeping team cleans daily, making sure everywhere is spick and span, and somebody is available at reception at all hours.
Grab a cup of tea or coffee whenever you please at one of the best budget hostels in Hamburg. This Hamburg hostel is also in a fabulous location to take your morning coffee on a morning walk. The area is a bit more local vibes than the city centre with beautiful parks within walking distance (I love walking to stay fit on vacay!).
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Self Catering Facilities
- Housekeeping
- Laundry Facilities
All guests have a locker for security and there are twin rooms with the option for private bathrooms ensuite as well as mixed dorms. There’s a small but well-equipped kitchen where you can cook your own meals and a lounge/dining room with a TV.
Located out of the city near the big stadiums, The Hostel is the perfect place to crash if you’re here for a gig. There isn’t free breakfast, but you ARE allowed to come home whenever you like – no curfew in this Hamburg hostel!
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Generator Hamburg – Best Party Hostel in Hamburg
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Private Room: From $94
- Address: Steintorplatz 3,, Hamburg, Germany
Although not strictly a party place – Hamburg is a bit thin on the ground when it comes to epic party hostels. Generator Hamburg is the closest you’ll find to being the best party hostel in Hamburg. Located in trendy St Georg, it’s just a hop skip and jump to the best of Hamburg’s nightlife.
You can join a pub crawl that picks you up right outside the front door too. The onsite bar is lively and well-stocked, so you and your mates can turn up there to get the night started. Then join a free walking tour, available each day, to help clear your head, and order breakfast (for an additional cost) from the café.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Bikes for Hire
- Popular bar onsite
There are plenty of communal spaces where you can chill and socialise at Generator. From the TV area in the lobby to the lounge with a long and inviting sofa, plus, there’s outdoor seating too! Meeting new travel buddies or party buddies is easy in this Hamburg hostel that’s designed to be social.
Hamburg Hauptbahnhof is within walking distance of this Hamburg hostel too so if you want to branch out of the inner city ‘hood, you can. That being said, most of Hamburg’s happening nightlife is within walking distance of Generator so you’re in a great location. But by all means, explore more!
5. Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Hamburg
- Private Room: From $132
- Address: Juliusstraße 1-7, Sternschanze, 22769 Hamburg, Germany
Bright colours and a sense of youthful fun rule supreme at Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Pauli. Free-use computers and free Wi-Fi, in addition to quiet spaces to sit and work, make this the hostel for digital nomads in Hamburg. With the eclectic decor, you won’t be short of inspiration at Superbude Hamburg Hotel Hostel.
Mingle in the onsite bar once all your work is done and experience the vibrant night scene that can be found almost right on the doorstep. You’re in the perfect location to make the most of the city so long as you have some serious discipline to avoid tempting distractions. Hamburg is happening, there are some cool coworking spaces within walking distance if you do feel like getting out and about on the clock.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- 24hour reception
- Walking Distance to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof
There are a variety of comfy rooms where you can rest up well and there’s an assortment of sleeping options to choose from. These include dorm beds and private rooms, all with a bathroom and for a pretty fair average price. Cheap hostels are few and far between in Hamburg but you get what you pay for and the Hamburg hostels are well maintained.
Superbude Hamburg Hotel is a great stay in between the happenings in the inner city (like Hamburg Fair) and Hamburg airport. If you’re not sure about how to get to your Hamburg hostel, reach out to the staff, they’ll have the best transport recommendations. Whether you’re using the local U Bahn Station or making the most of being within walking distance of everything, you’ll feel local in no time.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Hamburg Hostels
Don’t stop reading just yet though – read on for some more top Hamburg hostels. The perfect place for you to stay in Hamburg for you might be just one further down this list.
6. Pyjama Park St. Pauli
- Private Room: From $74
- Address: Reeperbahn 36, St. Pauli, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
Recently given a makeover, each cool room at Pyjama Park St. Pauli has its own enchanting theme. All rooms are private, sleeping up to a maximum of four people. The cute double rooms make this the best hostel for couples travelling in Hamburg; all rooms have a TV and free Wi-Fi.
Close to Hamburg’s pulsating nightlife and Hamburg Hauptbahnhof for adventures out of the city, this Hamburg hostel is epic. The hostel’s rooftop bar is a great spot to pre-game before heading out, or even to have a romantic nightcap before slinking off to your room. Retro tunes rock the joint at weekends. Other shared spaces include a terrace and a spacious lounge.
7. Arcade Hostel
- Private Room: From $80
- Address: Kieler Strasse 385, Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
Arcade Hostel is a top Hamburg hostel for solo travellers who prefer privacy, couples, and small groups of friends. This hostel has private rooms for one, two, and three and some rooms have private bathrooms whereas others share bathrooms. Peaceful and calm, the hostel offers a delicious breakfast buffet each morning for an additional cost.
An ideal base for people who have their own vehicle, car parking is available for free. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own wheels, though—public transport is close to hand. You can also book tours here.
8. Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel
- Dorm (mixed): From $30
- Private Room: From $132
- Address: Bartelsstrasse 12, Hamburg, Germany
A popular youth hostel in Hamburg in the cool and trendy area of Sternschanze, there are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants close by. The vibe at Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel is boho urban chic making it one of the coolest hostels in Hamburg. The clean and casual Hamburg hostel offers a peaceful haven in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle.
There’s a café on the ground floor and an elevator gives your legs a rest when you return after a busy day out. The monochrome dorms ooze minimalist style, and the beds have curtains for complete privacy while you snooze at Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel. There are TVs in the dorms too at Pyjama Park Schanzenviertel, and the modern bathrooms have free toiletries.
9. Backpackers St Pauli
- Dorm (mixed): From $34
- Address: Bernstorffstrasse 98, Hamburg, Germany
Located in the vibrant area of St Pauli, which has plenty of alternative appeal, Backpackers St Pauli has mixed and ladies-only dorms. Each bed has an individual reading light and a small shelf and everyone has their own large locker. Most dorms have their own bathroom and some have a balcony too at Backpackers St Pauli.
The onsite café-bar serves food throughout the day; whether you want an energizing breakfast or tasty evening snacks, you’re all sorted at Backpackers St Pauli. There are also DIY cooking facilities and the BBQ is a big hit in the summertime. You can chill in the lounge or in the yard at Backpackers St Pauli during the warmer months.
10. Jugendherberge Hamburg – Horner Rennbahn
- Dorm (Male/Female): From $35
- Private Room: From $214
- Address: Rennbahnstrasse 100, Hamburg, Germany
Jugendherberge Hamburg-Horner Rennbahn is part of the Hostelling International group; guests who are not already members of HI will need to pay a surcharge. A modern youth hostel in Hamburg near the racecourse, it is in a quiet and peaceful location yet within easy reach of the city centre.
Dorms are single-sex and sleep six for an average price. There’s an onsite café as well as self-catering facilities. Other facilities include a games area with pool table, terrace, common room, laundry facilities, and parking.
11. Jugendherberge Hamburg – Auf dem Stintfang
- Dorm (mixed): From $40
- Address: Alfred-Wegener Weg 5, Hamburg, Germany
Sitting right in the heart of Hamburg city, Jugendherberge Hamburg – Auf dem Stintfang is just a hop skip and a jump from the harbour. Breakfast is included in the price and other meals can be purchased throughout the day.
There’s a common area where you can chat and chill, and bike rentals make it easy to get out and explore. Watch TV while your washing is in the machine or relax on the terrace and admire the views from this recommended Hamburg hostel.
12. Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Georg
- Private Room: From $85
- Address: Spaldingstraße 152, Hammerbrook, 20097 Hamburg, Germany
Casual and relaxed, Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Georg is a top hostel in Hamburg for travellers who love the chilled sociable feels. Close to Hamburg’s main shopping street, it’s a great base for flashpackers who love to indulge in a little retail therapy as well as exploring sights.
Rooms and dorms are spacious and colourful and the common areas are great for bonding with other guests and trading travelling tales. There’s a funky movie room, a sports room, complete with a Wii, basic self-catering facilities, and outdoor space to lounge around on a sunny day.
13. Arena Hostel Hamburg
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $73
- Address: Fangdieckstrasse 20, Hamburg, Germany
Arena Hostel Hamburg is an ideal place to stay in Hamburg for people who prefer to spend their days out and about exploring. If you want to get amongst cheap hostels in Hamburg, this is an affordable base to lay your head on. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a shopaholic.
That’s not to say there are no common spaces – there’s a light and bright TV area and a mini kitchen! But most guests who stay at this top hostel in Hamburg are adventurers who choose to spend their time outside of the hostel. Dorms are spacious with lockers and seating areas, and there are cosy private rooms for two and four as well.
14. Schanzenstern Altona GmbH
- Private Room: From $82
- Address: 24 Kleine Rainstraße, Ottensen, 22765 Hamburg, Germany
Schanzenstern Altona GmbH is a top hostel in Hamburg for solo travellers who want an affordable private room and aren’t too bothered about meeting others. There are rooms in various sizes, all with a private bathroom.
The hostel has some rooms that are wheelchair accessible and there is an elevator in the building. There are no common spaces to speak of so party people, stay somewhere else. This a better base for people who prefer to be out and about during the daytimes and just want a clean and safe space to sleep.
15. Pauli Hostel
Located close to Königstraße station and a stroll away from the River Elbe, Pauli Hostel is a great Hamburg backpackers hostel. Great especially for people who like to be a little out of the hubbub. You can meet other travellers in the lounge, which has a Wii and foosball, and book Hamburg city tours and trips farther afield.
You can either dine in the café or hit the kitchen – with a dishwasher, you don’t even need to worry so much about the dishes! Laundry facilities help you to take care of essential tasks and there’s free Wi-Fi. And with all this free time you can check out St. Nicholas’ Church, an ornate Gothic spire that was built in 1874.
16. Mac City Hostel
Easy to access by public transport, Mac City Hostel is right by a metro station and just a short distance from Hamburg Central Train Station. A Hamburg hostel in the area of St Georg that has rooms and dormitories in a classic style, with wooden flooring and crisp, white bedding.
The modern bathrooms are fitted with hairdryers to keep you looking as stylish as your surroundings. Towels are available to rent if you don’t have your own. There’s a comfy common area and Wi-Fi is free.
17. A&O Hamburg Hammer Kirche
A pet-friendly youth hostel in Hamburg, A&O Hamburg Hammer Kirche has single and double private rooms. All the rooms at this Hamburg hostel are en-suite, making it a better choice for solo travellers, couples, and groups who like their own space. S
ituated in the quiet area of Hamm-Mitte, the city centre is easy to get to via public transport. Reception is open around the clock, and you can grab snacks at any time from the lobby. The lobby bar is a nice place to unwind at the end of the day and breakfast is available to buy each morning.
18. Airport Hostel
As well as being the best cheap hostel in Hamburg, Airport Hostel is, as the name suggests, a Hamburg hostel near the airport. Just one kilometre (0.6 miles) from the Hamburg airport, there’s little fear of missing an early-morning flight. The family-run hostel has mixed female-only dorms for four and six, and private rooms that can also accommodate either four or six people.
There’s a shared lounge where you can chill, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and luggage storage. Although not included in the price, breakfast can be ordered for an additional fee.
19. Homeport Hostel
A quiet Hamburg backpackers hostel, Homeport Hostel can be found in the district of Altona. There’s a train station within easy reach and you can get to St Pauli and Sternschanze by foot.
Stretch your travel funds further by cooking your own meals in the kitchen and enjoy your meal as you unwind in the sunshine on the patio. Then surf the web with the free Wi-Fi. You can park for free on the road outside the property (as long as spaces are available).
20. Boulevard Hostel Hamburg
An intimate, family-run hostel close to Alster City-Lake, all guests can expect a warm welcome at Boulevard Hostel Hamburg. Hamburg’s highlights are just a short trip away by public transport and the helpful members of staff are always ready to offer recommendations and tips. They’re there to help you make the most of your city break.
Offering dormitory accommodation as well as private rooms, the establishment is a cross between a hostel and a hotel. All rooms have a private bathroom and each guest has a locker. Rooms are cleaned daily at this recommended hostel in Hamburg.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Hamburg
Everyone needs good hostel insurance, even in Hamburg hostels – you never know what’s harboured in Harbour City!
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.
FAQ about Hostels in Hamburg
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Hamburg.
What to Pack for Your Hamburg 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 my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Hamburg?
The average price of hostels in Hamburg can range from $24 – $29+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Hamburg for couples?
Pyjama Park St. Pauli is my best hostel for couples in Hamburg. It has cute double rooms, and the hostel’s rooftop bar is a great spot for a romantic nightcap.
What is the best hostel in Hamburg near the airport?
Instant Sleep Backpacker Hostel, the best hostel for solo travellers in Hamburg, is just 17 minutes by car from Hamburg Airport. Get in touch with your accommodation to suss the best way to get there from the airport.
Final Thoughts on Hamburg’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Hamburg has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! Hamburg is a wonderful city to wander about. From winding canals to vibrant markets and historical sights, the city is packed with things to explore.
Whether you’re here for the Hamburg Fair or to pop on and off the Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, the city’s your oyster! If you’re feeling daunted by the many wonderful options I’ve given you, I get it, there are plenty of fabulous Hamburg hostels. My ultimate favourite overall is Meininger Hamburg City Center because of its epic location.
If this is out of your price range, no shade, Hamburg hostels are SPENNY! So for cheap hostels, my top pick is The Hostel but this is about a half-hour walk out of town. That’s just something to be aware of but the public transport in Hamburg is so epic it shouldn’t be a problem.
Wherever you end up staying in Hamburg, hostels are so much fun and worth every penny. I’m sure your stay here will be all time.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments – I love to chat!
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 Hamburg covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Hamburg 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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