Fun Hostels for Families in Europe (From Kids to Teens)

In recent years, hostels across Europe have been transforming to welcome families with open arms, offering private family rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and an atmosphere that fosters connection and exploration.

Beyond cost-effectiveness, family hostels in Europe offer unique social opportunities for children and parents alike, as well as prime locations that make sightseeing a breeze.

Finding the Perfect Family Hostel

Choosing the right hostel can make or break a family trip, and the key lies in understanding what matters most to you and your little travelers. Here’s how to find the ideal balance:

Key Factors to Consider

• Location: Proximity is everything when traveling with kids. Look for hostels near major attractions or public transportation hubs to minimize the hassle of getting around. A hostel within walking distance of parks, museums, or family-friendly eateries can save time and keep everyone happy.
• Room Types: Many hostels now offer private family rooms, complete with ensuite bathrooms and multiple bed configurations to suit your needs. Some even provide shared dormitories with privacy curtains for families who don’t mind mingling while maintaining personal space.
• Facilities: The best family hostels go the extra mile with amenities like play areas, family lounges, fully-equipped kitchens, and laundry facilities. These thoughtful additions can make traveling with kids far more manageable and enjoyable.
• Atmosphere: A welcoming and child-friendly vibe is essential. Look for hostels that prioritize quiet hours, have friendly staff, and create a safe space for kids to play and explore.

Use Hostelz to Find Family Hostels in Europe

How: Search for your destination city, like Barcelona or Paris, and use the "Family-Friendly" filter to narrow down the options. This feature highlights hostels that offer family rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and a quieter atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

Hostelz helps you book the cheapest possible accommodation by:

• Comparing prices across multiple booking platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld.
• Providing a transparent view of all available rates for the same hostel and dates.
• Ensuring you don’t overpay by highlighting the lowest price option.
• Helping you save up to 23.7% on your final rate

Booking Tips

• Online Booking Platforms: Platforms like Hostelz.com and Hostelworld offer filters for family-friendly accommodations, making it easy to narrow down your options.
• Hostel Review Websites: Check reviews specifically written by other families to get insights into how well a hostel caters to children and parents. Honest feedback about cleanliness, staff, and amenities can be invaluable.
• Direct Contact: Don’t hesitate to reach out to the hostel directly with any questions. Many hostels are happy to provide details about their facilities, family policies, or even tips for navigating the local area.

Tips for a Successful Family Hostel Stay

Staying in a hostel with your family can be an enriching and budget-friendly experience if you plan ahead. Here are practical tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly and leaves everyone with happy memories:

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable Basics: Pack lightweight clothes suitable for layering, and don’t forget sturdy shoes for city walks or nature hikes.
• Family-Specific Items: Bring essential toiletries, a small first-aid kit, and any medications. For kids, pack comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help them settle in unfamiliar surroundings.
• Hostel-Friendly Gear: Reusable water bottles, a travel laundry kit, and quick-dry towels are lifesavers. A lightweight lock for your room or locker ensures extra security.
• Entertainment: Bring compact games, coloring books, or tablets loaded with offline activities to keep kids entertained during downtime.

Budgeting

• Food: Take advantage of hostel kitchens to prepare your meals and save on eating out. Shop at local markets for fresh, affordable ingredients.
• Transportation: Use public transportation passes or rent bikes if the city is bike-friendly. Many cities offer family discounts on transit.
• Activities: Look for free or discounted activities, like museum days or city walking tours. Hostels often have partnerships with local attractions or offer family-friendly discounts.

Safety First

• Room Security: Choose hostels with private family rooms or secure dormitory options. Use lockers for valuables and ensure the hostel has good reviews for safety.
• Child Safety: Set rules with your kids about staying together and knowing where to find you. Keep a copy of local emergency numbers and hostel details handy.
• Health Precautions: Check if the hostel provides clean drinking water or if you need to bring a filter bottle.

Cultural Immersion

• Local Flavors: Attend a cooking class, try local snacks from street vendors, or visit a family-run café.
• Festivals and Traditions: Research family-friendly events or cultural festivals during your stay.
• Community Engagement: Hostels often host events like language exchanges or local craft workshops, which are great for connecting with the local culture and other travelers.

Dealing with Jet Lag

• Gradual Adjustment: Adjust bedtimes a few days before your trip to align with your destination’s time zone.
• Sunlight and Fresh Air: Spend time outdoors as soon as you arrive to help reset your internal clock.
• Keep it Light: Plan low-energy activities for the first day and have an early night to ease everyone into the new schedule.

Engaging Kids

• Games and Crafts: Carry simple card games or travel-sized board games for evenings in the common area.
• Nature Hunts: If you’re staying near parks or trails, create a scavenger hunt to keep kids exploring and engaged.
• Cultural Activities: Let them try their hand at local crafts or learn a few phrases in the local language—they’ll love feeling like little explorers.

Top Family-Friendly Hostels in Europe

1. Barcelona: Barcelona Central Garden Hostel

Barcelona Central Garden Hostel is perfect for families, offering private rooms, some with en-suite bathrooms, for added comfort. The fully equipped kitchen and terrace make it easy to relax or share meals together. Its central location and helpful staff ensure a convenient and enjoyable stay near Barcelona's top attractions.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Barcelona

2. Rome: The RomeHello Hostel

The RomeHello Hostel caters to families with its range of private rooms, including triple and quadruple options, each featuring en-suite bathrooms, mini-fridges, and LED TVs for added comfort. The hostel's communal kitchen allows families to prepare meals together, and the on-site restaurant offers convenient dining options. Located centrally, it provides easy access to Rome's major attractions, making it an ideal base for family adventures.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Rome

3. Paris: FIAP Paris

FIAP Paris offers a variety of accommodations, including family rooms with private bathrooms. Amenities such as a garden, shared lounge, and terrace offer spaces for relaxation and socializing. The on-site restaurant and bar provide convenient dining options, and the hostel's proximity to public transportation makes exploring Paris's attractions straightforward.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Paris

4. Prague: Plus Prague

PLUS Prague is one of Prague's best family-friendly hostels, offering spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for all ages. Its quiet location ensures a peaceful stay while still being well-connected to the city’s top attractions. Families will love the indoor pool, on-site restaurant, and outdoor garden space, providing plenty of ways to relax after a day of sightseeing.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Prague

5. London: Pax Lodge Hostel

Located in Hampstead, Pax Lodge is not just a hostel but also one of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts’ global centers, offering a safe and welcoming environment. Families can enjoy cozy rooms, a peaceful garden, and proximity to kid-friendly attractions like Hampstead Heath and the ZSL London Zoo.

• Check prices: Booking.com
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Prague

6. Amsterdam: ClinkNOORD Hostel

ClinkNOORD Hostel, situated in the creative Amsterdam Noord district, is a family-friendly accommodation accessible via a free, 5-minute ferry from Centraal Station. The hostel offers a variety of private rooms, including family rooms with en-suite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy. Amenities such as a self-catering kitchen, a café, and a library provide convenient options for dining and relaxation.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Amsterdam

7. Berlin: BackpackerBerlin

BackpackerBerlin in Friedrichshain offers a quiet retreat near the lively Boxhagener Platz, with its weekend farmers' market. The hostel provides family-friendly private rooms and a communal kitchen. Its location near the East Side Gallery and easily accessible public transit makes it a great choice for families exploring Berlin.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Berlin

8. Lisbon: Lisbon Lounge Hostel

Lisbon Lounge Hostel provides a welcoming environment for families visiting the city. Located in the heart of Lisbon, it offers a variety of accommodations, including private rooms. The hostel features a fully equipped kitchen and a cozy lounge area. Its central location places families within walking distance of major attractions.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Lisbon

9. Vienna: HI - Vienna - Palace Hostel Schlossherberge

HI - Vienna - Palace Hostel Schlossherberge provides a welcoming environment for families visiting the city. Located on the Wilhelminenberg hill, it offers panoramic views of Vienna and is surrounded by a large garden, perfect for children to play and families to relax. The hostel features family rooms with private bathrooms, a children's playground, and a games room. A mini-golf course and table tennis facilities are also available on-site.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Vienna

10. Budapest: Casa Nora

Casa Nora offers a variety of accommodations, including private rooms. Guests have access to a well-equipped common kitchen, allowing for convenient meal preparation. Its central location places families within walking distance of major attractions.

• Check prices: Booking.com | Hostelworld
• More options: More Family Friendly Hostels in Budapest

FAQ

Can families stay in hostels?

Yes, families can definitely stay in hostels! Many hostels around the world are designed to be family-friendly and offer amenities and accommodations suitable for travelers with children.