The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Full of art museums, a load of amazing architecture, rich in history and FOOD, and definitely good for a night out (or two), Dresden is the capital city of Saxony in Germany. Dresden is like that mate who’s cultured but still up for a pint and a laugh.
Perched on the Elbe, it’s a mix of jaw-dropping history and buzzing energy. The Altstadt’s Baroque buildings—rebuilt after WWII—are worth visiting in their own right. Neustadt, the rebel sibling of the city, is where street art thrives, bars stay open until the early hours, and sore heads are guaranteed.
If you’re here at Christmas, the Striezelmarkt is a festive wonderland with mulled wine, sparkling lights, and stollen cake that’ll win you over. For some downtime, there are lazy bike rides and river cruises along the Elbe, or you can head out to Saxon Switzerland National Park for absolutely insane views.
But with so many pockets of the city to visit, where are all the hostels hiding out?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you. I’ve done the hard yards to bring you my ultimate guide to the best hostels in Dresden.
Let’s get stuck in.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Dresden
- Best Overall Hostel in Dresden – Lollis Homestay
- Best Hostel in Dresden for Solo Travellers – Gästehaus Mezcalero
- Best Cheap Hostel in Dresden – MEININGER Dresden Zentrum
- Best Party Hostel in Dresden – Hostel Mondpalast
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Dresden – A&O Dresden
The 5 Best Hostels in Dresden
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Dresden’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
1. Lollis Homestay – Best Overall Hostel in Dresden
- Dorm (mixed): From $21
- Private Room: From $54
- Address: Goerlitzer Str. 34, 01099 Dresden, Dresden, Germany
Lollis Homestay is all about cosy furniture, laid-back vibes, and a sense of community that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re playing cards for hours, joining a tour, or belting out karaoke, the hospitality here leaves a lasting impression. With free dinners, games nights, mulled wine evenings, and pub crawls sprinkled throughout the week, it’s impossible to be bored and even harder not to make friends with other backpackers in Germany.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Daily Events Held
- Great Location
- Super Social
The communal kitchen is kitted out with everything you need—tons of fridge space, storage crates, and handy labels to keep things organised. The dorms are spotless, with bunk curtains for privacy, and the tram to the city centre is just a stone’s throw away.
I only meant to stay one night but stretched it to three, thanks to the warm vibes and, let’s be honest, the leftover feast from the family dinner night. Great music, better vibes, and a homely charm that’ll keep you coming back.
2. Gästehaus Mezcalero – Best Hostel in Dresden for Solo Travellers
- Private Room: From $48
- Address: Königsbrücker Straße 64, 1. HH, Neustadt, 01099 Dresden, Germany
If you’re intrigued by the idea of a Mexican-inspired vibe right in the heart of Dresden, Gästehaus Mezcalero might just be your jam. It’s tucked in a lively neighbourhood away from the tourist chaos, but still within walking distance of all the main historic sights and nightlife.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Location
- Historic Building
- Friendly Staff
Housed in a character-filled old building with wooden beams and floors, it’s got charm in spades. The rooms are spacious, thoughtfully designed, and come with all the essentials, including speedy Wi-Fi. Shared bathrooms are spotless and well-maintained, with the kind of attention to detail solo travellers will appreciate.
The vibe is quiet yet sociable, with friendly staff who make everyone feel at home. Conveniently close to tram stops, shops, and eateries, it’s easy to get around. There’s a bar downstairs, it’s Mexican-themed, maybe you could tell from the name, but it’s a nice place to drink and meet other peeps staying here.
3. MEININGER Dresden Zentrum – Best Cheap Hostel in Dresden
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Private Room: From $52
- Address: Wiener Platz 5, Dresden, Germany
If you’ve been hopping from one youth hostel to the next, MEININGER Dresden Zentrum is like stepping into luxury on a backpacker budget. It’s got more of a hotel feel, but without the hefty price tag—and yes, they even make your bed for you. Pure bliss.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Vending Machines
- Foosball Table
- Friendly Staff
The dorms are roomy, modern, and sorted with everything you need, including high-walled bunks for a bit of privacy and slick ensuite bathrooms. There’s also a proper chill lounge downstairs, perfect for kicking back after pounding the pavement all day.
And with iconic sights like Zwinger Palace, Semperoper and Frauenkirche just a stone’s throw away, you’re right in the heart of Dresden. Let’s not forget Striezelmarkt during December too for all your Christmas market fiends. Youth hostel prices, hotel vibes—couldn’t get better.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey4. Hostel Mondpalast – Best Party Hostel in Dresden
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $60
- Address: Louisenstrasse 77, 01099, Dresden, Germany
This hostel in Dresden is parked right in the middle of a buzzing student district, where bar-hopping is practically a sport. It’s above a bar too, which is either a dream for nightlife lovers or a bit of a nightmare if you’re clinging to the idea of an early night.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Close to Tons of Bars
- Great Communal Area
- Clean and Modern Amenities
Inside, it’s clean, cosy, and ready for you to crash into those ridiculously comfy beds after a tipsy stumble home. This isn’t Ibiza-level chaos, but it’s still a prime pick if you’re after a lively vibe. The hostel bar and the surrounding watering holes have got your nights sorted.
There’s a laid-back lounge with board games to break the ice with your new dorm mates, and the staff are absolute stars. Plus, the location puts you in the perfect spot to explore both the historic and hip sides of Dresden, with plenty of tasty food joints nearby to refuel and experience some real German culture. Dresden Hauptbahnhof Station is also super close for travel further afield. Easy peasy.
5. A&O Dresden – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Dresden
- Dorm (mixed): From $10
- Private Room: From $35
- Address: Strehlener Stra’e 10, Dresden, Germany
This A&O branch is a bit of a hostel-hotel hybrid, so the private rooms are modern, clean, and comfy—not exactly dripping with personality, but they get the job done. It’s a great shout if you’re backpacking Europe and have reached your limit on dorm life and need a bit of a reset.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Meeting Rooms
- Pool Table
- Fast and Free Wi-Fi
For the budget-conscious, the dorms are solid. They’re equally modern and comfortable and come with ensuites, TVs, and seating areas. Whether you’re catching up on work or swapping travel tales, they’re a decent base.
There’s plenty of space to work, and you can keep fuelled with coffee or unwind with a drink after. The terrace has cracking views over the city, making it a chilled-out spot for digital nomads or anyone wanting a low-key vibe in Dresden.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Dresden Hostels
There aren’t a whole load of hostel choices in Dresden. But that’s fine. If there isn’t one on my list that takes your fancy, don’t worry—I’ve even sprinkled the rest of the list with a couple of budget options for you. Let’s take a deep dive.
Hostel Louise 20
- Dorm (mixed): From $22
- Private Room: From $42
- Address: Louisenstr. 20, Neustadt, 01099 Dresden, Germany
This centrally located hostel is ideal for exploring Dresden, especially the lively Neustadt scene. The staff are incredibly friendly, always up for helping out—even lending you an umbrella when the rain hits. The rooms are spacious with cosy beds, so you’ll sleep like a baby, despite being smack bang in nightlife central.
The Wi-Fi is solid, and breakfast is a treat. Sitting in the breakfast room with the radio on, watching the world go by, is a dreamy way to kick off the day. When it’s time to socialise, head to the bar downstairs—it’s got a great vibe to match the friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect mix of buzz and chill.
Kangaroo Stop
- Address: Erna-Berger-Str. 8-10, Dresden-Neustadt 01097, Dresden, Germany
The staff at Kangaroo Stop are absolute gems, so lovely and accommodating. They hand out free city maps packed with insider info, like where to find the nearest Edeka or Aldi. They’re deff the highlight of an already cracking youth hostel in Germany.
The common area is cosy and welcoming, with plenty of kitchen and bathroom facilities to handle a full house without a hitch. Tucked away in a quiet part of town, you’ll get a taste of Dresden’s more authentic side, with its parks, bars, and local charm. If you’re feeling lazy, the tram’s close by, but the historic centre and the buzzing bar-and-shop district are within walking distance.
ibis Dresden Zentrum
- Private Room: From $59
- Address: Prager Str. 5, Altstadt, 01069 Dresden, Germany
It’s an Ibis. You know Ibis. They’re quite standard and decent budget hotels. So you know what you’re getting yourself into. Basic, modern rooms, there’s also a nice modern lobby to hang out in, plus the obligatory buffet breakfast zone, which is where you’ll find me every morning.
This budget hotel is super close to Dresden Central Station, nice and convenient, and it’s also a short walk to the old town so it’s in a great location. It’s actually located on a shopping street with transportation links, shops and some incredible restaurants.
IntercityHotel Dresden
- Private Room: From $58
- Address: Wiener Platz 8, Altstadt, 01069 Dresden, Germany
IntercityHotel Dresden is a quiet and clean budget hotel with excellent facilities and a really comfy bed. You can snag a deal here and literally pay the same price as a youth hostel if you split with a pal or partner, which I’m always down for. The free local transport ticket is a game changer. Hop to the train station and go to anywhere in Dresden with ease.
This place literally overlooks Dresden Central Station and it’s also got a bar and restaurant that cater to different dietary requirements if that’s a thing for you. Live like a lord and treat yo’self to room service.
Cityherberge
If you’re travelling to Dresden by car on a lil’ road trip, you’ll be pleased to know there’s plenty of parking available at Cityhergerge. Plus being just 10 mins from the beach really makes this budget hotel in Dresden a great choice for summer.
What really makes us very interested in this place is its big free breakfast, which is great after a sleep in the big comfy beds upstairs. The professional staff are always on hand to help out. There are different room choices available, the most budget has a shared bathroom but if you’re used to hostels anyway that’s FINE.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Dresden
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 Dresden.
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 Dresden
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Dresden.
What to Pack for your Dresden 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 Dresden?
Average prices for a hostel are always changing ESPECIALLY in Europe, but you can generally expect price in Dresden to start from $19 and $20+ per night.
What’s the cheapest hostel in Dresden?
MEININGER Dresden Zentrum is not only the cheapest dorm you can snag in the city, but its location is lowkey unbeatable too. It’s clean, modern and the staff are really helpful. Bang for your buck if you ask me!!
What are the best hostels in Dresden for couples?
Kangaroo Stop is in a quiet area of town, so you and your partner can explore a more authentic side of Dresden with its parks, bars, and local streets. It’s got great private rooms if you’re looking for a little more privacy whilst still keeping things social.
Final Thoughts on Dresden’s Hostels
Whether you’re here for the Baroque beauty, the underground bars, or just an excuse to eat your body weight in stollen, Dresden HAS to be a place on your European bucket list.
Although Dresden isn’t exactly brimming with hostels, securing a decent one isn’t too hard if you know where to look. My favourite is Lollis Homestay. Everyone is super friendly, the events they set up are fab and the location is pretty damn good too.
So book a bed, grab a beer, and get ready to see why Dresden deserves a spot on your travel hit list.
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Germany for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Dresden before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
