Krakow is without a doubt one of the most up and coming backpacker cities in all of Europe.
Krakow’s a city that’s got it all: history, nightlife, pierogi (Google it, you’ll thank me later), and, of course, a slew of hostels that’ll have you wondering if you’ve wandered into a dream or just another bender fuelled by one too many vodkas. And to top it all off it’s super affordable compared to its other European siblings!
But an influx of backpackers has created an influx of hostels, and now Krakow has a TON of them. Which is why I’ve written this ultimate guide to the best hostels in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
From all night parties palaces where you get a bit too merry to oh-so-cool bases that’ll give you some much-needed respite from the chaos, Krakow’s hostel scene is a wild ride waiting to happen.
My mission is to make your hostel hunt as easy as pie (or pierogi). That’s why I’ve sifted through the best-rated hostels and compiled them into one epic list.
I’ve organised this list of hostels in Krakow by YOUR needs. Whether you’re looking to dance till dawn, find a central base for your Krakow adventures, or just a friendly place to call home for a few nights, I’ve got you covered.
So grab your gear, and let’s get this hostel hunt started!
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Krakow
- Best Overall Hostel in Krakow – Greg & Tom Hostel
- Best Hostel in Krakow for Solo Travelers – Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Krakow – Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Krakow – The Little Havana Party Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Krakow – MEININGER Krakow Centrum
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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The 5 Best Hostels in Krakow
There are heaps of good hostels in Krakow, but what if you want more than good? What if you want to stay in one of the absolute best places Krakow has to offer?
That’s where I come in – I’ve curated the top hostels in Krakow for you to choose between and even split them into different categories to make your decision even easier. Don’t say I don’t do anything for ya. But before you head off, make sure to figure out where to stay in Krakow first.
1. Greg & Tom Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Krakow
- Dorm (mixed): From $27-$34/night
- Private Room: From $87-$200/night
- Address: 12 Pawia, Old Town, 31-156 Kraków, Poland
Greg & Tom Hostel is my top pick for solo travellers in Krakow. Why? Well for start offs, it’s snagged a ridiculous number of awards like “Most Secure Hostel,” “Best Small Hostel,” and “best hostel in Poland.” In short, this place is pretty damn epic. Don’t just take my word for it though – the reviews speak for themselves!
With members of staff who quickly become friends, a sociable vibe, and excellent common areas, it’s easy to meet buddies here. There are varied events to join in with too, and if you’re feeling particularly rowdy, their sister hostel is an excellent party hostel and THE place to be for an all-night bender.
Why you’ll love it here:
- Super social vibe
- Incredible staff
- Free dinner
But let’s talk perks because Greg & Tom Hostel is all about those. You get a free breakfast every morning to kick-start your adventures, and here’s the kicker – a free dinner every evening too. Yup, you heard that right. Save your zlotys for something more important, like sampling every beer Krakow has to offer!
Speaking of, all the party animals can gather at night in the common area and then make their way down to the Beer House Hostel as it’s just a five-minute walk away. This guarantees some pretty wild nights out, but also a peaceful and quiet sleep at the original hostel since all of the rowdies are gone. They also organize some of the best pub crawls and community events around Old Town, so you’re guaranteed a good time.
They’ve also got you covered if you’re looking for cool activities. From bike tours to the historic Podgórze District to picnics by the river, bowling nights, paintball, laser tag, and so much more, you’ll never have a dull moment at Greg & Tom Hostel.
2. Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel – Best Hostel in Krakow for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $23-$33/night
- Address: Florianska Street 43, Old Town, 31-019 Kraków, Poland
Located in Old Town is another top hostel in Krakow from Greg & Tom, the Beer House Hostel. It’s lively, fun, clean, secure, and sociable … pretty much everything you’d expect from a top-class hostel. The on-site bar and restaurant whip up some solid dishes and drinks, but why even bother when you can get freebies? Kick off your day with a complimentary breakfast and wrap it up with a free community dinner every evening.
And if you think it couldn’t get any better, they even hold a free beer hour every night! That’s right – free beer, folks. You can also whip up your own meals in the kitchen if you feel like cookin’ up a storm. The common room is spacious, stocked with a TV, PS3, free tea and coffee, a free-to-use PC, and free Wi-Fi. Plus, they’ve got a ton of tours and activities to keep your stay even more exciting.
Why you’ll love it here:
- Amazing social atmosphere
- Free beer hour!!
- Computers/TV/PS3
As mentioned in the overall best hostel, this is the one that the party crowd goes to once the sun goes down. It’s the ideal place to mingle around, have a couple of drinks with your new friends and then head out on one of the epic pub crawls. Honestly, this was one of my favourite hostels in Europe when I was interrailing!
If you’re not in the party mood, just kick back on the comfy common room sofas or snuggle up in bed with your phone and a movie. Each bunk comes with a reading light and a plug socket so you can keep your gadgets juiced up.
3. Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Krakow
- Dorm (mixed): From $18-$25/night
- Private Room: From $44-$49/night
- Address: Ul. P?dzichów 9, Old Town, 31-152 Kraków, Poland
Not only is Krakow one of the cheapest places to backpack in Europe, but Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel takes the crown as the top budget spot in the city. Not only does it boast low prices for comfy beds in the eight and ten-bed dorms, but the hostel also has a great location in a peaceful part of town and is still close walking distance to the Old Town and the main market square.
The common room has guest PCs and free Wi-Fi, and you can make yourself a free brew at any time. The staff are also super helpful and will give you loads of tips and help you book great tours. Bike hire, free luggage storage, a book exchange, and a terrace are just a few more things in its favour.
Why you’ll love it here:
- Free walking tours + city maps
- Cool apartment options
- Modern kitchen
The Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel doesn’t just offer great budget dorms. If your budget allows it and you’re feeling like a bit more privacy, book yourself into one of the cool lift apartments. They come with your own bathroom and even a private kitchen. Cook up some tasty meals at home and save a couple of bucks that way!
And hey, don’t judge a book by its cover. Despite the hostel being located in a pretty old building, the inside has been fully renovated and is super modern. It’s also been designed with a super bright and lively style which makes guests feel incredibly welcome. It looks like a home away from home and really feels like it as well. That’s why Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel is still going strong with a strong 9 rating and over 3000 reviews!
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View on Osprey View on REI4. The Little Havana Party Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Krakow
- Dorm (mixed): From $18-$27/night
- Private Room: From $68/night
- Address: Jagiello?ska 10, Old Town, 31-008 Kraków, Poland
Not only is The Little Havana Party Hostel an excellent party hostel in Krakow, but it’s also one of the coolest places to base yourself in the city as it’s in the heart of the Old Town. And that means tons of cool and interesting people to sink a few drinks with! It’s one of the best party hostels in all of Europe, in my humble opinion.
There are three bars onsite and you can get grub from the hostel’s restaurant. Wanna take the party outside? Join the bar crawls! From beer pong and foosball competitions to karaoke nights and other drinking games, you’ll definitely have a laugh here.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Insanely kind staff
- Free walking tours and maps
- Cool community events
For days and nights off, movie nights, sports shown on projectors, and budget tours that the hostel offers are ideal. There’s a kitchen you can use and if you’re feeling a bit delicate in the mornings the free breakfast will set you right. A free breakfast ALWAYS sets me right.
One thing that makes this amazing hostel really stand out is the staff. They have a mix of amazing locals and like-minded travellers who know the city well and especially its nightlife to help guide you to whatever you might be looking for. If you ever have any issues, don’t hesitate to ask a hostel team member and they will try their best to help solve it.
5. MEININGER Krakow Centrum – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Krakow
- Dorm (mixed): From $24-$42/night
- Private Room: From $64-$146/night
- Address: 10 Grzegórzecka, Grzegórzki, 31-530 Kraków, Poland
MEININGER Krakow Centrum is located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, providing easy access to Krakow’s rich historic sites and dynamic nightlife. You’re only a stone’s throw away from the famed Town Hall Tower and Rynek Glówny (Main Market Square). It’s a place where history and modern life merge in a flurry of street performers, market stalls, and some of the best people-watching sites in Europe.
The rooms here are clean, comfy, and stylish, with a hint of that boutique charm. There’s even space in here to do your work so you can roll out of bed and start working straight away just like you would if you were working from home! Each bed has a personal reading light and USB port, so you can charge your phone while planning your Krakow itinerary or catching up with some work.
Why you’ll love it here:
- Tons of cool spaces to get work done
- Strong and reliable wifi
- Lacks the party atmosphere that most Krakow hostels have
This hostel is perfect for digital nomads as it has all of the boutique charm of a hotel with the price tag of a hostel! There’s a plethora of communal spaces here which is what makes it so great for nomads, whether you want to crack on with some work in the lobby, lounge, on-site bar… the possibilities really are endless. Plus, with most of Krakow’s hostels being known for their party atmosphere, you can rest assured that MEININGER Krakow Centrum is all about the chill vibes, so you can make friends but still be able to get a good night’s kip at the end of it.
If you’re feeling social (or just in need of a drink), head to the lounge or bar area. It’s the perfect spot to make some travel buds and debate whether vodka really does taste better in Poland. There’s even a games room so you can put your newfound friendships to the test over a game of table football.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Krakow 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 Krakow hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the city. Lots of travellers come to Krakow for a weekend – whether it’s for partying, exploring or chilling, the following hostels will be the best digs for your short trip.
6. Let’s Rock Party Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $19-$30/night
- Address: Grodzka 34, Old Town, 31-044 Kraków, Poland
A lively Krakow backpackers hostel where the party mood reigns supreme, it’s tough to feel bored at the energetic Let’s Rock Hostel! Located in Old Town, there’s always something going on, from karaoke nights, sangria tastings, movie evenings, and vodka sessions. Get merry here before heading out to the local clubs and pubs to live it large. The common room and kitchen are open around the clock; it’s ideal for night owls! Free stuff includes breakfast, hot drinks, Wi-Fi, and lockers.
7. Greg & Tom Party Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Address: ul. Zyblikiewicza 9, Old Town, 31-021 Kraków, Poland
If you want a wild time in Krakow, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Greg & Tom Party Hostel. As the name says, it’s a top party hostel in Krakow, with its own funky bar, themed parties every night of the week, pub crawls, and tons of cool activities and events.
When it comes to food you’ll be spoilt at this top hostel in Krakow – the hearty breakfast has hangover-busting foods, and there’s a buffet a bit later on if you just can’t get out of bed first thing. The free dinner in the evening—yes, FREE!—loads you up with carbs for your night ahead. No need to worry about your stuff while you’re living it up, thanks to the security lockers, CCTV, and key card access to each dorm.
With a shared kitchen, lounges with TVs and Wiis, free Wi-Fi, tour booking services, luggage storage, and more, what more could you want?! Just don’t bank on getting much sleep here!
8. Ginger Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $24-$34/night
- Private Room: From $90-$138/night
- Address: Al. Zygmunta Krasi?skiego 10 , Zwierzyniec, 30-101 Kraków, Poland
Another great youth hostel in Krakow, Ginger Hostel sits by the river and is just a short walk from the Old Town. It has a variety of dorm rooms and privates to suit different budgets and expectations. All beds are comfy and everyone in the dorm room has a locker.
The large common room has a kitchen at one end, a dining table, a breakfast bar/work desk, beanbags, and a homey sofa. Flick on the TV or chat with others; it’s your call. There’s plenty of choice at the breakfast buffet, included each morning for free.
9. Atlantis Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Private Room: From $47-$60/night
- Address: Dietla 58, Old Town, 31-039 Kraków, Poland
Atlantis Hostel has a wide choice of private rooms and mixed dorm rooms with lockers, making it a recommended hostel in Krakow for all types of travellers. In the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, you’ll be greeted with a big smile and treated to Polish hospitality throughout your stay.
CCTV adds to your peace of mind and there’s free luggage storage, tea and coffee, maps, Wi-Fi, and computers that you can use. Cook up a storm in the kitchen and chill in the common room.
10. Chilli Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $19/night
- Private Room: From $57-$75/night
- Address: ul. Kalwaryjska 58, Podgórze, 30-504 Kraków, Poland
A cheap and cheerful youth hostel in Krakow, Chilli Hostel may be situated a little out of Old Town, but it’s very well connected by public transport. If you’re feeling energetic you can walk too.
Airport transfers and 24-hour reception make this a great alternative to spending the night at a Krakow hostel near the airport. There are mixed dorm rooms for eight and private rooms for two. The TV room is a top place to mingle or unwind.
11. Bubble Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $19/night
- Private Room: From $76-$110/night
- Address: Basztowa 15 lok. 10, Old Town, 31-143 Kraków, Poland
The chilled Bubble Hostel is a fairly new youth hostel in Krakow. Located in Old Town, it has mixed and female only dorm rooms which are perfect for solo female travellers, as well as private rooms. They have decent common areas, including clean bathrooms with hairdryers, a modern kitchen and dining area, and corridor seating. Dorm rooms are spacious and have lockers and loads of natural light. You’re sure to feel at ease here.
Stay connected with the free Wi-Fi, cook your own meals in the kitted-out kitchen, and book tours with ease.
12. Hostel Centrum Sabot
- Dorm (mixed): From $18/night
- Private Room: From $58/night
- Address: Rynek Kleparski 17 3, Old Town, 31-150 Kraków, Poland
Hostel Centrum Sabot is a centrally located budget Krakow backpackers hostel, found between the main station and the main market square, close to the highlights of the Old Town. There are bargain beds in ten-bed dorm rooms and private rooms for two, three, and four.
Being cheap doesn’t make it dull or shabby, though—there are free walking tours and bar crawls, a shared kitchen, a lounge, free Wi-Fi, a washing machine, and luggage storage. You deffo get heaps of bang for your buck here making it one of the best budget hostels in Krakow.
13. Mosquito Hostel
Don’t be put off by the name—there aren’t any blood-sucking bugs here! Mosquito Hostel is a vibrant and colourful place to stay. The award-winning hostel has dorm rooms and private rooms in various sizes and common areas include a modern and well-equipped kitchen with a dining room, a smokers’ balcony, and a chill-out room.
Wi-Fi is free and you will also get free breakfast (and I’m a sucker for a free brekky). Cheap airport transfers and discounts on tours help you save even more money. And when it comes to socialising and activities, the diverse program of events is a fab way to meet people and make memories, with quizzes, competitions, drinking games, and more. Dorm rooms are spacious and welcoming with plenty of storage space as well as large lockers.
14. Mundo Hostel
A cool place to stay, I also think that Mundo Hostel is one of the best for digital nomads exploring Krakow. The vibe can be as casual, chilled, or sociable as you make it, and it’s possible to combine work, rest, and play here. It might not be the most modern hostel and also not the most stylish one, but if you’re relying on your laptop work income, this is the place to go.
There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel as well as different seating areas both indoors and outside, and there’s also a guest computer in case you have dreaded technical issues. One thing that really makes this hostel perfect for digital nomads is the incredibly calm atmosphere while still being in the centre of the action in Old Town. It’s a more grown-up hostel that gives you the peace and quiet to really get your work done without distractions.
15. The Secret Garden Hostel
Even the name is enchanting: The Secret Garden Hostel. This is one of the best digs for couples in Krakow, this romantic and secluded hideaway can be found in the atmospheric old Jewish quarter. There are only private rooms here, each with its own unique décor and designs. Some rooms are en-suite while others share bathrooms.
You can still meet other travellers; the hostel has a shared kitchen and spacious dining area where you can hang out throughout the day. Free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, airport transfers, and luggage storage also make this place appealing.
16. Pink Panther’s Hostel
Pink Panther’s Hostel is all about social fun and partying. Pre-game in the lively bar before painting the town red on the nightly bar crawls, show off your beer pong skills and feel a bit posh at the wine and champagne evenings—and all with great company.
You won’t be lonely for long in the lounge and kitchen as there’s always a buzz of activity and loads of people around. Lockers, free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and free tea and coffee are other pluses. It’s no wonder that it’s amongst some of the best in the Krakow hostel scene.
17. Luneta Warszawska Hostel
If you and the gang are looking for somewhere that bit different to the norm to stay in Krakow, Luneta Warszawska Hostel could be perfect. Located in an old fortress, it combines original features and modern comforts. This cool youth hostel in Krakow certainly has lots of character!
Book a private room for two or eight and take advantage of the shared cooking facilities, common room, kids’ play area, and free Wi-Fi.
18. Oleandry Hostel
Oleandry Hostel is one of the best budget hostels in Krakow. It’s within a short walking distance of the historic and bustling Market Square. A terrific central base for those backpacking Eastern Europe, it has dorm rooms for four and ten and there are bathrooms on every floor. Sleeping more than 200 people, you can make tons of new mates if you want to.
Hang out in the TV room and get creative at mealtimes in the kitchen to save even more dosh. Wi-Fi is free, there’s parking outside, and you can easily store your luggage here if you have a late departure.
19. Blueberry Hostel
The six-bed dorm rooms at Blueberry Hostel are comfy and stylish with an old-world charm. And, no ladders! You won’t find any bunks here. Most dorms have a table and chairs, and there are small seating areas around the hostel as well. Breakfast is free and you can show off your cooking skills in the kitchen.
It’s a recommended hostel for a weekend in Krakow for people who plan to spend most of their days out and about discovering the city and want a comfortable place to return to each evening. The friendly staff members help to make this place special.
20. Cracow Hostel
Affordable prices, a great location next to the main market square, friendly members of staff, a sociable yet laid-back and low-key vibe, and good facilities make this a popular Krakow backpackers hostel. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are free and handy features include a tour desk, a book exchange, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
The large common area is cheery and has a TV, kitchen corner, and different seating areas, and there’s a further lounge that feels like you’ve visited a friend at home. People who work remotely will like the quiet computer area.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Krakow
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 Krakow.
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 Krakow
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Krakow.
What to Pack for your Krakow 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 Krakow?
A bed in a dorm room (mixed or female only dorms) can cost anything between $9-$18. A private room will set you back a bit more, costing between $32-$47.
What is the best place to stay in Krakow for couples?
MEININGER Krakow Centrum and Ginger Hostel would be my top choices for couples. They have really great amenities and good social vibes so you can kick it back in your private room and still go out and socialise when you’re feeling up for it!
Where is the best place to stay in Krakow for solo travellers?
The award-winning Greg & Tom Hostel is the best place for meeting new people thanks to its nightly events and friendly atmosphere. If you’re looking to find travel buds, you won’t be hard done by here.
Final Thoughts on Krakow’s Hostels
So, there you have it! I’ve spilled the beans on the best hostels in Krakow. Time to pack those bags, grab that passport, and get ready to make some life choices that might be a bit… well, questionable – in one of Europe’s most electric cities.
Whether you’re looking to party till the crack of dawn, soak up the city’s history, or simply find a bed that doesn’t feel like a medieval torture device, Krakow’s got your back. I mean, LITERALLY. No one likes a crappy hostel mattress.
With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to easily pick a hostel that best suits your travel style, so you can focus on what matters – exploring all the best that Krakow has to offer.
Still can’t pick one hostel? I’d recommend MEININGER Krakow Centrum or Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel if you’re looking for a party!
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Krakow has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
And hey, if you find yourself in a hostel where the walls are thin and the snorers are many, just remember: you’re not just sleeping in a room, you’re adding another chapter to your travel adventures. Now get out there and live it up – Krakow style!
Have you been to Krakow? Hit me up in the comments if I’ve missed anything or if you have any hidden gems!
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Krakow covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Krakow before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Eastern Europe backpacking guide.
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