1. Generator Barcelona, Barcelona
Located just 15 minutes from La Playa beach and a short walk from the Catalonian capital’s world famous Passeig de Gràcia, Generator Barcelona is an ultra-trendy boutique promising a social stay with a host of weekly events and resident DJ nights. For ultimate luxury, book into the Penthouse Suite and enjoy stunning panoramic views, Egyptian cotton sheets and a sundowner on your private terrace.
www.generatorhostels.com
2. Gallery Hostel, Porto
Lovingly created from an early 20th century Portuguese house, Gallery Hostel in the coastal city of Porto fuses the luxury hostel concept with its very own art gallery and exhibition space. Works by a broad range of artists are scattered throughout the stylish accommodation and change on a bi-monthly basis, while staff offer free walking tours to some of the city’s most iconic sites. For art-lovers who like their privacy, each “suite double” room comes with a garden view, en suite and custom-made beds.
www.gallery-hostel.com
3. U Hostel, Madrid
Situated in the bustling historic hub of the Spanish capital, mere minutes from the Prado museum and Parque del Buen Retiro, U Hostel has been converted from an impressive 19th century palace. Today, the designer accommodation is surrounded by a host of trendy bars, restaurants and clubs – tempting globetrotters to pull on their dancing shoes and hit the town. When partying gets too much, you can always chill out back at the hostel’s cinema room or retire to your spacious double suite.
4. Kex Hostel, Reykjavik
Priding itself on its retro feel, Kex Hostel in Reykjavik is housed in a renovated biscuit factory, furnished with salvaged materials and vintage antiques. From its ground floor bar (serving up local brews) to its live concert venue, the hostel acts as a social hub at the heart of the Icelandic capital. The city’s diverse nightlife and cultural attractions are all within walking distance, while a classic on-site salon ensures you always look the part. For the most comfortable stay, a night in one of the hostel’s “double room plus” suites comes highly recommended.
www.kexhostel.is
5. Safestay at Elephant & Castle, London
Dubbed the world’s first “poshtel” by London’s elite, Safestay at Elephant & Castle is just minutes from some of the city’s trendiest bars, luxurious shopping destinations and key landmarks. Housed in an 18th century Georgian building, the property has been reinvented with a vibrant array of hot pinks, garish greens and standout artworks by emerging British artists. For added privacy, a private room that sleeps up to three people can be booked for an additional charge.
www.safestay.co.uk
6. The Independente Hostel, Lisbon
Run by three brothers with a passion for travel, The Independente is a stylish boutique at the heart of the Portuguese capital – just across from the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint. For fully private accommodation, four suites are available with stunning views across the city’s beautiful Tagus River. If you’re feeling peckish, dinner at the hostel’s Decadente restaurant promises nothing but the freshest seasonal ingredients and domestic produce.
www.theindependente.pt
7. Stay Inn Hostel, Lisbon
Located at the centre of Lisbon’s thriving party district, Bairro Alto, the Stay Inn Hostel boasts a chic design with innovative interiors, attracting the city’s abundant fashion-savvy visitors. With exposed brickwork, floor-to-ceiling windows and plush leather seating throughout, the property creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere in Portugal’s sprawling capital. When it comes to facilities, each guest has complementary access to a fully equipped farmer-style kitchen, communal relaxation area and laundry service.
8. Dream Hostel, Finland
The family-run Dream Hostel in the Finnish city of Tampere offers guests a taste of tradition in the most populous in-land city of the Nordic region. Set among numerous cafés, restaurants and nightclubs, there is no shortage of sights in close proximity and with the hostel’s bike and kickboard rental services, there’s no excuse to not get out and explore. Ideally suited to globetrotting groups, the hostel offers a stylish alternative for budget travellers who don’t want to go without.
9. Ostello Bello, Milan
Situated just minutes from Milan’s iconic Duomo and the popular Navigli area of the city, Ostello Bello is a social melting pot at the centre of Italy’s fashion capital. Attracting locals and travellers alike, the retro-themed hostel is known for its traditional Italian kitchen, free cultural events and friendly atmosphere – not to mention its great location. Once you have taken time to see the sights, head back to the boutique’s rooftop terrace and relax in one of its hanging hammocks with some freshly cooked BBQ.
10. Plus Berlin, Berlin
If you are looking to travel in style on a strict budget, Plus Berlin could be the perfect hostel for you. With a host of luxurious facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna and conference room, you are guaranteed a comfortable stay in the German capital’s trendy Kreuzberg district. Just yards away stands one of the remaining stretches of the Berlin Wall, while the ultra-hip Watergate Club and Michelin-starred Restaurant Tim Raue are both within walking distance. For extra privacy, book into one of the hostel’s en suite double rooms.
