16 of the Fanciest Hostels in the World, Because, Yes, They Do Exist

Hostels aren't simply a shared space to sleep at an affordable price anymore. All around the world, hostels have stepped up their game and are giving hotels a run for their money. The amenities go well above the free WiFi and can now include things like jacuzzis, oceanfront locations, local authentic hospitality, and even rescued swimming pigs to feed in the ocean. Hostels add to your overall experience because they make you feel like a local in a foreign country and let you experience authentic adventure. If you want to meet fellow travelers from around the world, have the time of your life, and save money, check out these fancy hostels that will make you feel like you're in a five-star resort.

01

Banana Bungalows — Los Angeles, California

Banana Bungalows is one of the most popular hostels in Los Angeles, and for good reason. Guests can enjoy complementary breakfast in the Tiki Garden, see the Hollywood Sign from the courtyard, meet other travelers, and get itinerary tips from the friendly staff. It's located in a prime location for nightlife as the hostel is right on the Hollywood Strip. Rooms are funky and include great amenities such as private bathrooms and kitchens.

02

Franceso’s — Ios, Greece

Feel right at home at Franceso's in this family-run hostel for a truly authentic Greek experience. The staff prides themselves on perfecting the small details, which results in the hostel usually being heavily booked. It's set on a picturesque cliffside, is steps from the nightlife of Ios, and is a 20-minute walk to the beach.

03

Generator Paris — Paris, France

Generator Paris, which is usually sold out, boasts a Summer rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower and Sacré Coeur. This location, in Paris' lively 10th arrondissement, is a 5-to-10 minute walk to Canal Saint-Martin — one of the best spots for Paris nightlife. The design is playful and gives nods to trends in the area such as wooden booths and metro tile walls.

04

M Montreal — Montreal, Canada

M is for modern in this stunning hostel located in central Montreal. While the building is historic, M Montreal's space is fresh and inviting with vibrant accents. While rooms are ideal with ensuite bathrooms and big-screen TVs, the main attraction is the wooden rooftop terrace with two jacuzzis to relax in after a long day exploring.

05

ClinkNoord — Amsterdam, Netherlands

ClinkNoord is the rebirth of an old, 1920s laboratory located on the banks of the River IJ. While the design is simple, it lets the building's original features shine with Dutch-inspired interior spaces. With an array of room accommodations, this hostel does the heavy lifting to allow guests to explore this creative city.

06

Rocking J’s — Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Also known as the "Hammock Hotel," this party hostel is a hidden gem on Salsa Brava Beach. With a DJ set almost every night during peak season, accommodations range from hammocks to private rooms. There's a chill surfer vibe and nightly bonfires on the grounds, which are great for making friends if you're a solo travelers.

07

YHA St. Briavels Castle — Lydney, United Kingdom

YHA St. Briavels Castle is in fact an 800-year-old castle where guests can stay in "The Prison," which comes complete with 16th and 17th century graffiti. Guests can marvel and explore the rich history and preservation of the castle while also having a cozy stay. Old rooms have been converted and updated, such as "The Chapel," which is now the main lounge.

08

HI New York City Hostel — New York, NY

HI New York City Hostel accommodates every type of traveler passionate about getting a true taste of the Big Apple. Located Uptown and close to transportation and Central Park, this beautiful brick building quickly becomes a second home to guests. The hostel offers free, volunteer-led tours that are planned around what the guests want to see.

09

Soul Kitchen — St. Petersburg, Russia

Paving the way for upscale hostels, Soul Kitchen boasts ensuite private rooms, custom furniture, and is designed with social interaction as a priority. Ideal for any type of travel, whether you're with your family or flying solo, this hostel is a 150-year-old Neo-Baroque building on Moika River Embankment. The staff has hidden gem must-sees to help guests see the very best of St. Petersburg.

10

We Love F. Tourists — Lisbon, Portugal

The staff at We Love F. Tourists ("F" is for fun) not only wants to provide guests with the best stay, they also want you to fall in love with their beloved city of Lisbon. This 250-year-old building in the heart of the city has been completely renovated to provide a unique stay with everything from interior design to complimentary breakfast made with fresh ingredients. Daily city tours leave each morning and are tailored to guest interests.

11

Anda Venice — Venice, Italy

Geared towards urban explorers and free-spirited travelers, Anda Venice is a one-of-a-kind design hostel. The contemporary shared spaces are designed to inspire infinite human connections and every square foot is an Instagram photo waiting to happen.

12

Stay Hostel — Rhodes, Greece

The way the owners thought about creating Stay Hostel is how they would want to welcome world travelers to their island, and how they would like to be welcomed when traveling themselves. This hostel, which opened in 2015, is located in the heart of Rhodes and is a 10-minute walk to several beaches. Long story short, it boasts a cozy atmosphere with authentic Greek hospitality.

13

The Backpack — Cape Town, South Africa

What looks like a 5-star luxury hotel set amongst a jaw-dropping background of mountains is actually The Backpack hostel. Accommodations can fit up to 100 people across four Victorian houses, courtyards, and gardens. The stunning pool is surrounded by mosaic artwork, and guests can enjoy breakfast outside on the patio while taking in the views of Table Mountain.

14

Ark Hostel — Osaka, Japan

Ark Hostel is inspired by its cultural roots where Japanese woodwork and traditions are hard to miss. Larger groups can stay in a Japanese-style room where there aren't any beds, but linen is provided to sleep on the Tatami (Japanese-style floor).

15

Arts Factory Lodge — Byron Bay, Australia

The Arts Factory Lodge was originally created in the '70s by hippies and artists before it was also recognized as a rock and roll venue in the '80s. It encapsulated the spirit of Byron Bay, which it still has today. With a chill vibe, guests can lay by the pool, relax in hammocks, or attend "funky workshops" including didgeridoo making and yoga.

16

E3C BahaSea Backpackers Hostel — Nassau, Bahamas

Located on the ocean and steps from the beach, the E3C BahaSea Backpackers Hostel is the perfect under-the-radar destination. Guests have full access to large outdoor decks, two swimming pools, kayaks, bicycles, and snorkel gear. It's also home to two rescue swimming pigs, where guests are more than welcome to feed and play with them on the beach.