Romania is SUCH an underrated country but it is slowly getting the recognition it rightfully deserves. It’s becoming one of the most up-and-coming backpacker destinations across Europe! Bucharest, the capital city, is one of its absolute gems – a trip to Romania is not complete without a stop here.
It’s rich with culture, history and epic nightlife – and it comes at a bargain of a cost, compared to the rest of Europe. Ahh, music to our Broke Backpacker ears <3
But with more travellers to Romania – comes lots of options, and Bucharest is no exception. With dozens of hostels in Bucharest (and many poorly reviewed), it can be overwhelming to figure out which hostel you should book.
But don’t worry, I’ve hand-picked the BEST hostels in the city and I tell you, there are some goodies. In this article, I’ve listed the top 18 hostels in Bucharest – whether you’re a solo traveller, a party-lover or just after the cheapest place to crash, I’ve got ya covered.
Let’s jump into the best hostels in Bucharest.
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Bucharest
- Best Overall Hostel in Bucharest – BEDSY
- Best Hostel in Bucharest for Solo Travellers – Nest Boutique Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Bucharest – Sleep Inn Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Bucharest – T5 Social
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Bucharest – First Hostel Bucharest
The 5 Best Hostels in Bucharest
Romania’s capital has hostels to suit all kinds of travellers. But choosing the best place to stay in Bucharest can be tough. There are so many choices! And not all of them are great…
I’ll also show you the best cheap hostel in Bucharest if money is a primary concern, the best hostel for couples, the best hostel for solo travellers, the best hostel for partying, and more!
1. BEDSY – Best Overall Hostel in Bucharest
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Address: Strada Gabroveni 2, 1st floor, Sector 3, Bucharest, Romania
If you’re after the best overall hostel in Bucharest, look no further. BEDSY is without a doubt the most highly rated hostel in the city by every type of traveller.
BEDSY is nestled into the heart of Bucharest, within the old town. If you want to explore the best of what the city has to offer, you’ll be in the perfect location for it. From historical sights, popular attractions, bangin’ nightlife and epic shopping. The hostel is easy to access from the airport, the main train station and the bus terminal too. In other words, you can really beat the location of BEDSY.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Social vibes
- Great bang for your buck
- UNREAL location
- Close to public transport
- FREE city maps and walking tours
If you’re a solo traveller, this is a GREAT hostel for meeting fellow travellers to explore the city with. The communal spaces are fab and the friendly staff offer up bloody good vibes. The hostel also offers FREE walking tours and city maps, so you will have some guidance as you explore, rather than walking around getting lost (which can also be good fun!)
The hostel offers up a kitchen for those of you wanting to make your own meals but it is by no means fully-equipped. You’ll have to get creative with a fridge, microwave and a kettle… but I mean you’re travellers, I’m sure you’ll be able to think of something? But if you are looking for a fully-equipped kitchen, you’ll want to stay elsewhere.
2. Nest Boutique Hostel – Best Hostel in Bucharest for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Address: Bulevardul Regina Maria nr. 34, Bucharest, Romania
Nest Boutique Hostel is another banger of a hostel right in the centre of Bucharest. You’ll be in the centre of the action and a stone’s throw from some of the best things to do in the city.
The hostel is great for solo travellers in Europe looking to make a few mates to explore the city with. The common areas are cosy and welcoming, making it easy for you to get chatting with fellow globetrotters. However, the vibes are very chilled out here, this is NOT the place to stay if you want a party (if that’s the case, I’d head to T5 Social).
The reception team are super friendly and helps to make the vibe of the host what it is. They are also great for sharing the best tips and tricks for making the most of your time in Bucharest.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- FREE breakfast
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Social (but chill) vibes
- 24/7 reception
The dorm beds are comfy and come with a reading light, a plug socket and USB ports so you can make sure you’re all charged up and ready to explore the city. There are also two communal kitchens – yep, you can cook here! Not only can you whip up your culinary works of art, but it’s a great place to mix and mingle too.
Nest Boutique Hostel also offers up a FREE breakfast for guests too – which is always the way to my Broke Backpacker heart. Sharing a coffee and a meal is another great way to meet fellow travellers.
3. Sleep Inn Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Bucharest
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $56
- Address: Mavrogheni Nicolae street, no. 8, Bucharest, Romania
The highly rated Sleep Inn Hostel is a perfect base for people who plan to spend most of their time out and about enjoying Bucharest’s diverse attractions and nightlife. Not only is this hostel GREAT bang for your buck, but you can save money in other ways too.
Due to the ideal location in the centre of Bucharest, you won’t need to pay for transport to get around. Just pop a pair of comfy shoes on and get your steps in by exploring the city on foot! There is also a kitchen which is always a HUGE plus with us budget backpackers so we can save a few bucks on dining out.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great bang for your buck
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Central location
- Laundry facilities
Clean and secure with friendly members of staff, it’s a youth hostel in Bucharest that you’ll be happy to come back to each evening. There are comfortable mixed dorms for four and eight, along with private rooms for two. Lockers are big enough to fit your whole backpack into. A fairly small hostel, so you don’t need to worry about too much noise keeping you awake here.
There is a washing machine available for us, free Wi-Fi, and a (my fav!) book exchange. So, if you haven’t yet converted to a Kindle, are are lugging around a book or two now’s your time to swap them out for new ones!
Romania is one of the cheapest places to travel – so overall, hotels won’t set you back an arm and a leg. But if you’re looking for the best bang for your travel buck in town, this one is a bloody bargain.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. T5 Social – Best Party Hostel in Bucharest
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Address: Strada Olimpului 13b, Bucharest, Romania
The warm and authentic sense of community at T5 Social is what makes it our fav when it comes to the best hostel for solo travellers (who like to partyyyy) in Bucharest. In a quiet and safe neighbourhood, it’s still within easy reach of Bucharest’s major places of interest and happening nightlife.
It’s easy to connect with like-minded travellers here, and the caring members of staff really go out of their way to ensure that each and every guest has a terrific stay. Mellow out in the bar/café, with a huge selection of global teas, cocktails, beers, soft drinks, and comforting snacks. Or, chill in the garden, where you’ll find a cool Arabic tent, a summer bar, hammocks, and cushions.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- SUPER social vibes
- Gorgeous garden
- Bar/Cafe on-site
- Social events and activities.
- There is a hostel cat <3
A kitchen, laundry facilities, tour desk, and luggage storage add to the convenience, while the selection of musical instruments, games, and books add to the fun. Plus, there are heaps of free events and activities too. I have tons of love for this place because, quite simply, it rocks!
This hostel is the best for partyers, and solo travellers and is a TOP contender for the overall best hostel in the city. The community vibes here are HIGH! I have no doubt you’ll love it here (most people do!)
5. First Hostel Bucharest – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Bucharest
- Dorm (mixed): From $12
- Address: Bd. Marasesti nr. 86, Bucharest, Romania
First Hostel Bucharest is one of the best hostels in the Romanian capital for digital nomads. However, this is almost by process of elimination… there are no digital nomad-dedicated hostels in the city (YET). So, the reason I’ve chosen First Hostel is because their private rooms have great desks to perch up in and get some sh*t down. Plus, the wifi is bloody brilliant.
Not only do First Hostel’s private rooms have a decent work set-up. But there are also mixed dorms if you’d rather save a few bucks – all of the beds have a personal reading light, power outlet, and nightstand. Plus, lockers keep your things secure. Yep, these guys do the basics well.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Desks in private rooms
- Great wifi
- Bangin’ location
Bold patterns and colours add life to the hostel. Located in Unirii, you’ll be located just a 5-minute walk from the Old Town, Bucharest and the metro station if you want to explore further afield.
The vibe here is not overly social, however, that’s not all bad when you have a ton of work to get done. But if you are up for a social hostel, this one maaaay not be the best for you. I’d recommend checking out T5 Social or Nest Boutique.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Bucharest Hostels
If you’ve been through the top five and you’re not completely sold on any, don’t you worry! Here are a few more hostels AND budget stays across some of the best areas to stay in Bucharest.
6. Antique Hostel Bucharest
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $45
- Address: Str. Splaiul Independentei no.2A, Sector 3,030099, Bucharest, Romania
There’s something endearingly charming about Antique Hostel Bucharest, so much so that it’s my pick for the best hostel for travelling couples in Bucharest. Some private doubles are en-suite while others share bathrooms.
The vibe is sociable enough that you can mix, mingle, and make new friends if you want, but it’s also casual enough that you won’t feel odd if you want to be lovey-dovey and linger for longer in the privacy of your room. Oh-la-la! There’s a cool basement pub, lobby lounge, sunny terrace, and large kitchen.
7. Hostel Sport Bucharest
- Dorm (Male/Female): From $15
- Address: Strada Oitelor 20, Bucharest, Romania
Hostel Sport is a FANTASTIC place to stay in the city. Located in a central location, you’ll be close to must-see spots like the Patriarchal Cathedral, Bucharest National Theater TNB, and Revolution Square.
The hostel does the basics really well – they have a garden, a shared lounge and a terrace where guests can hang out and get to know each other. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen, luggage storage and free wifi. You can tell there has been a lot of love put into this hostel and the way it is organised – and I like it, a lot.
8. Popcorn
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Address: Str. Pisoni 26, Bucharest, Romania
The main drawcard of Popcorn Hostel is that is it close to the main railway station so it is great if you’ve just arrived or are heading off the next day! The hostel itself is decent, nothing to write home about but more than fine for a night or two. They offer FREE tea and popcorn which is super cute. And they do the basics really well.
It’s not a very social hostel, in fact, it is self-check-in – so you don’t even need to talk to anyone to get to your bed! If you’re all “hostelled out”, this is probably going to be a nice break and place to chill without the pressure to mix and mingle.
9. Alex Villa Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $11
- Address: Avram Iancu Street, no5, Bucharest, Romania
Alex Villa Hostel is the bomb if you’re travelling on a budget, it’s dirt cheap! But not dirt-y… 🙂 The vibe of the hostel is not very social but it is a great place to crash if you are on a budget and after somewhere simple. There is a kitchen for you to whip up your own meals and even more money.
Although it is cheap – you are about 20 minutes from the centre of town and the hostel gets mixed reviews. But if you’re travelling on the cheap, it’s 100% worth checking out.
10. Bread&Breakfast
- Private Room: From $36
- Address: 1 Strada Petru Cercel, Sector 4, 030167 Bucharest, Romania
In terms of bang for your buck, Bread&Breakfast is 10/10. Although it is not technically a hostel, it is a GREAT budget stay in the city. Close to the Palace of the Parliament and Carol Park, you’ll be nestled right into all the good stuff Bucharest has to offer.
There are single, double and twin rooms available all of which have a shared bathroom (no fancy smancy en-suites here, sorry peeps. The rooms are clean, spacious and have decent air conditioning! Although it says breakfast in the name, it’s not included in the price but rather you can add it on for an additional fee.
11. 5 Stars High Hostel
- Private Room: From $37
- Address: Str. Henri Coand?, 25, Sector 1, 010667 Bucharest, Romania
Clean, comfy, spacious and welcoming – 5 Stars High Hostel is another brilliant budget place to stay. Although called a hostel, it offers private single and double rooms (with en-suites!) so is slightly more “up-market” than your usual hostel. But the vibes are hostelly all the same.
The team who run the hostel are amazing. They keep the place running smoothly and looking spic and span. The 24-hour reception makes you feel safe during your stay. You can add breakfast to your booking which is highly recommended!
12. First Hostel Bucur 21
- Dorm (mixed): From $14
- Address: 21 Strada Bucur, Sector 4, 040252 Bucharest, Romania
First Hostel Bucar is another great hostel option in the city (this one really is a hostel!) There are 6, 8, and 10 dorm beds available either in mixed or female rooms. There is air-conditioning and even lovely garden views from some of the rooms! The kitchen and hang-out spaces are modern and comfy.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, clean stay. This is a great option. You’ll be 15 minutes from the metro and about a 20-minute walk from the old town. There is plenty of public transport nearby.
13. Kretan Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $18
- Address: Str. Stirbei Voda Nr 84 sector 1, Sector 1, 010117 Bucharest, Romania
Kretan Hostel is in a great location for exploring the city. The location is one of the top reasons people stay at this hostel. There are loads of tourist attractions to visit on foot!
The staff are very welcoming and are there to help you upon arrival. The host goes above and beyond to help you where possible! There is private parking available at the hostel if you need it too. The price is low and the basics are good – you can’t go wrong with this one.
14. Little Bucharest Bar & Hostel
Little Bucharest Bar & Hostel has a fabulous location right in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town. Access is by keycard, and there are lockers and 24-hour security. A youthful and top hostel in Bucharest, the bohemian lounge is the ideal place to get to know your fellow travellers after a day of sightseeing. Prepare dinner in the kitchen and have a drink in the bar before hitting the town of a nighttime. The diverse events help you to really enjoy hostel life.
15. Book-A-Rest
The name alone makes Book-A-Rest a contender for the coolest hostel in Bucharest, but there’s way more to the coolness … the hostel is located in a renovated mansion right at the heart of local life. There’s an indoor yard as well as a lounge and kitchen; meeting new peeps is a breeze. In the summer, open-air movies are a great way to relax beneath the stars. From luggage storage to bike rentals and from tour booking to free Wi-Fi, you won’t find this pad lacking.
16. Funny Hostel
Found in a historic part of Bucharest, Funny Hostel provides good facilities and comfy beds for a pleasant stay. There are dorms for seven and nine as well as private rooms for two, and everyone can meet and mingle in the courtyard, TV lounge, and kitchen. Why not plan a BBQ feast one evening for something a bit different? Wi-Fi is available throughout this recommended hostel in Bucharest and there are luggage storage and laundry facilities.
17. Pura Vida Sky Bar & Hostel
If you want to feel a bit fancy, head to Pura Vida Sky Bar & Hostel. The onsite sky bar is the perfect place for a nightcap, soaking up the terrific city views as you sip on an ice-cold beer or a fruity cocktail. Everyone gets a free glass of wine each evening too—happy days!
If you drank too much and woke up bleary-eyed, the free morning coffee should give you just the caffeine fix you need to feel a bit more human. The lounge is often filled with fun and interesting people. Other plus points include laundry facilities, a tour desk, free Wi-Fi, self-catering facilities, and luggage storage.
18. Bicycle Hostel Bucharest
One of the closest youth hostels in Bucharest to the main station, Bicycle Hostel Bucharest is a laid-back place to stay at the heart of the action. The dorms are small and peaceful, sleeping just four people, and there are single-gender options as well as mixed dorms.
The property is child and pet-friendly too, meaning that no member of the family needs to be left out of your trip. A well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, indoor lounge, and chilled yard add to your comfort. It’s a top hostel in Bucharest for creative souls who are young or young at heart.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Bucharest
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 Bucharest.
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Bucharest
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Bucharest.
What to Pack for your Bucharest 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 Bucharest?
The average price of hostels in Bucharest can range from $12 – $16+ 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 Bucharest for couples?
Antique Hostel Bucharest is my ideal hostel for couples in Bucharest. It has a great location near the centre and is mellow enough for it not to be weird if you just want to hang out in your room and be all lovey-dovey.
Final Thoughts on Bucharest’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Bucharest has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! There are quite a few hostels to choose from in Bucharest… some A LOT better than others. If you know of any hostels that you love that didn’t make my list, please let me know 🙂
If you’re unsure which hostel to go for, I’d recommend locking in BEDSY. It’s one of those places that you just can’t go wrong with. They do the basics well but they also go above and beyond in literally every other way. They are the top-rated hostel in the city and you’ll soon see why.
Wherever you end up, I hope you have an incredible time exploring the beautiful city of Bucharest. It’s pretty damn amazing place!
- Check out the best places to stay in Bucharest before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Romania backpacking guide.
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