The most populous city of Tuscany, Florence is a dream European destination for a lot of travelers.
But with high demand comes high cost – and Florence isn’t cheap! Staying in this Italian gem can really add up, which is exactly why I made this list of the 3 best hostels in Florence.
I’ve gone through and done the research so you don’t have to. I’ve taken the highest reviewed youth hostels Florence has to offer and delivered them into one tasty package for you.
And to take it a step further – I’ve organized the hostels by YOUR needs. So whatever it is you are looking to do in Florence, be it party, make friends, get some work done or just save some money on a cheap bed, our list has got you covered.
With the help of this list of the best hostels in Florence, you’ll be able to pick out exactly where you want to stay so you can book your hostel quickly, and enjoy this majestic European city.
Quick Answer: The Best Youth Hostels in Florence
- Overall Best Hostel in Florence – Plus Florence
- Best Cheap Hostel in Florence – Emerald Palace
What to Expect from the Best Hostel in Florence?
Before I go into detail, let’s talk about why you should be staying at a hostel when travelling to Florence. Obviously, price plays a big role. Hostels are known to be the cheapest accommodation option on the market, so if you have to watch your budget, they are ideal. But what’s even more important is the unique social vibe. You can meet likeminded-travelers, make new friends and share travel tips, without having to leave the building.
Florence’s hostels range from super basic to edgy and luxurious. While you can pretty much always count on either a dorm or a private room, some places even offer private group or family rooms. The Florence hostel vibe is normally a bit laid back and focused on people that want to explore the city, rather than get hammered every night. However, there are always some exceptions.
I’ve mentioned the price above, so let’s have a closer look at it. The general rule for any hostel is the bigger the dorm, the cheaper the nightly rate. Dorms can range from 4 to 10 beds. If you prefer your own four walls, go with a private room, just be prepared to pay a bit more. To give you an overview of prices in Florence, I’ve researched the average price range.
- Private rooms: 30-38€/night
- Dorms (mixed or female-only): 12-18€/night
When looking for a hostel, you’ll find most hostels on HOSTELWORLD. There you can check out photos, detailed information about the place and even reviews from previous guests. Just like other booking platforms, each hostel will have a rating, so you can easily pick out the hidden gems!
The highest reviewed youth hostels Florence are all well located, and many of Florence’s best hostels are located in the city center, helping you to save money on transportation costs. But location always matters, so I’ve listed the best neighborhoods in Florence below.
Duomo – Where to Stay in Florence for First-time Visitors.
San Marco – Best Area to Stay in Florence on a Budget.
San Spirito/San Frediano – Where to stay in Florence for Nightlife.
Once you’ve figured out where you want to stay in Florence, I can have a look at some awesome hostel options.
Top 3 Hostels in Florence
With so many choices, picking only three was difficult. However, the three I have chosen have excellent ratings, a great location, wonderful amenities, and a pretty price tag. There’s a little something for everybody in my list, especially those Italian backpackers!
1. Plus Florence | Overall Best Hostel in Florence
Loaded with cool facilities, including an onsite restaurant/bar, a swimming pool, a gym, and heaps of places to mingle and chill, Plus Florence is my choice for the overall best hostel in Florence in 2020 AND the best party hostel in Florence.
Located close to Santa Maria Novella train station, the friendly hostel is within walking distance of the center of Florence. Prices are low and the hostel has free Wi-Fi, a pool table, and a Wii. In addition to dorms (mixed and ladies only) the hostel has a selection of private rooms too. With a washing machine, luggage storage, round-the-clock security, an ATM, and a tour desk, what more could you wish for?!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Vending machines
- Female dorms with sanitary products
- Incredibly nice staff
While I’ve mentioned quite a few things about this hostel above, let’s dive into the full details. Starting with what this hostel is known for: great hospitality! The staff couldn’t be more helpful and attentive. The second you’ll step into the hostel, you’ll be well taken care of. And you’ve got plenty of reviews guaranteeing a great stay.
Both room types offer a great design, comfy beds and secure locker to store your stuff. The female-only dorms come with treats like a welcome cosmetics pack, hairdryer and a vanity table. Private rooms are equipped with TV’s so you can have a lazy day inside.
If you want to socialize, you’ll have almost too many options to choose from. On a sunny day, chill around the pool. Is it raining? Have a friendly tournament of pool instead. The common rooms offer plenty of entertainment and even some computers in case you need to get some work done.
2. Emerald Palace | Best Cheap Hostel in Florence
A recommended hostel in Florence, close to the train station, Emerald Palace has an onsite café where you can re-energise and chat with new friends, as well as a sunny outside terrace and an indoor common room. As with many youth hostels in Florence, there is a lockout period from 11am until 2pm for cleaning. Lockers are provided for your safety, a tour desk helps you make the most of your stay in Tuscany, and there’s free Wi-Fi.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Sightseeing bus tour
- Family/Group private rooms
- Super kind staff
Sick and tired of having to plan everything by yourself? Then this hostel offers the perfect solution for you. There’s an organized 1-Day Bus tour, which takes you to all of Florence’s famous attractions. You’ll be out all day experiencing the best sights of the city, but don’t worry, lunch and wine is included as well.
If this is not your thing, don’t worry, the hostel is based in a super central location, right in front of Chapel of Medici. You’ll only have a couple of minutes walking distance to get to the next train station that connects you with all other parts of Florence.
Reach out to the staff before you head out to hear about their personal recommendations and hidden gems. Local knowledge is always the best, and the staff at Emerald Palace is known to share the ins and outs of the city.
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View on Osprey View on REI3. Archi Rossi Hostel | Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Florence
The best hostel for solo travellers in Florence, Archi Rossi Hostel is an arty hostel in the centre of Florence. Meet new pals, see the sights, and learn more about Florence on the daily free walking tours, and bond with others in the garden. Don’t forget to fill your water bottle for free before heading out exploring. Breakfast is free and dinners are cheap. Access to a washing machine helps you to stay looking your best. Wi-Fi is free too, and there are dorms and private rooms to suit most preferences at this Florence backpackers hostel.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Morning walking tours
- Incredible location
- Bright and spacious rooms
While some hostels offer gloomy and pretty basic dorms, the Archi Rossi Hostel is the complete opposite. Both private and dorm rooms are incredibly bright and filled with natural sunlight, which gives the whole place a super welcoming and friendly vibe.
If you feel like exploring the city a bit more, but you’re hesitant to do it alone, simply join one of the free morning walking tours. Get to know the details about Florence and make new friends at the same time. The best thing about sightseeing in the morning: having the rest of the day to decide what you want to do next!
I have to admit that the common area, apart from the outside backyard, could be a lot more comfortable. However, you can simply head up to the rooftop and enjoy the afternoon sun with a cup of coffee in your hand. If you’re mainly here for exploring the city and not staying in a lot, this hostel is absolutely ideal for you.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More of the Best Hostels in Florence
Here are 15 more of the best hostels in Florence, including a couple that are close to hand but in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Leonardo House | Best Hostel with a Private Room in Florence
A warm and welcoming youth hostel in Florence, Leonardo House is close to the main train station and just a hop skip and a jump from famous sights such as the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery. Although the hostel only has private rooms it’s a great central base for couples and friends who are down to book a few rooms between the group. Wi-Fi is free and there’s space to park bikes.
Ostello Bello Firenze
Ostello Bello Firenze is in the city centre of Florence, near the glorious Santa Maria Novella train station and five minutes from the Duomo! The hostel offers awesome facilities, including a terrace with a BBQ, a communal lounge where you can kick back and relax in during the day or watch live music at night.
If you want a party hostel in Florence, this would be the place for you. They pride themselves on offering an unforgettable night out, which makes this one of the best party hostels in Florence. As well as being super social and having an awesome communal area, you can also enjoy free wifi, a free welcome drink, 24/7 tea and coffee facilities, luggage storage, lockers to keep your valuables safe, access to some free events provided by the hostel and a free city map. Now you can’t get better than that, can you?
Guests can choose between private rooms, dorm rooms or female-only dorm rooms. They also have an onsite restaurant serving up real Tuscan cuisine (not that tourist stuff!) and a bar. If you’re traveling with pets, the private rooms are pet-friendly too!
Emerald Fields
A comfortable, clean, and sociable place to stay, Emerald Fields is one of the best youth hostels in Florence for 2020. Backpackers can mingle and chillax in the common room and garden, and the tour desk makes planning your adventures in Florence a piece of cake. Give yourself a pick-me-up each morning with free tea and coffee and grab a bite to eat from the onsite café. You can rent a towel if you travel light and didn’t take your own.
New Hostel Florence
Located close to Santa Maria Novella train station, New Hostel Florence has mixed dorms for four and eight, female-only dorms for four, and private double rooms. Common areas include a lounge, with comfy sofas and a TV, and a sunny terrace, complete with outdoor furniture. Warm a snack in the microwave and make use of the free tea and coffee in the kitchenette, and get all your clothes clean with the washing machine. Do note that you will need to rent a towel if you don’t have your own. This Florence backpackers youth hostel is better suited to introverted travellers who appreciate their own space or groups of travelling friends who just want a base to sleep.
Hostel 7 Santi | Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Florence
A huge hostel with heaps of facilities, Hostel 7 Santi is our winner when it comes to the best hostel for digital nomads in Florence. As well as free Wi-Fi and plenty of quiet spots to get your head down and concentrate, the hostel has several computers that guests can use.
There are also meeting rooms, ideal if you’re planning to combine networking and sightseeing. Located a little outside of the centre of Florence, the city is easy to reach by a ten-minute bus ride. An onsite restaurant/bar is perfect for mingling, and other features include a common room, terrace, and a washing machine. Once you’ve booked your stay, plan the rest of your trip using my Florence travel guide!
Noble Art Hostel | Another Budget Hostel in Florence
A peaceful pad in the heart of Florence, and just a short walk from the main train station, Noble Art Hostel Florence, is an attractive central base with private rooms for three or four. Some rooms are en-suite while others share bathrooms. You can easily book a range of Tuscany tours onsite. Round-the-clock security adds to your peace of mind and there are luggage storage facilities.
WoW Florence Hostel | Best Hostel for Couples in Florence
A top hostel for couples in Florence, WoW Florence Hostel has some of the best double rooms and terrific facilities where you can meet other travellers or chill out as a double act. The vibrant lounge has comfy seats, a TV, board games, and a PlayStation, and there’s also a lovely terrace if you prefer to relax outdoors. There are self-catering and a washing machine for complete convenience. Housekeeping services keep the hostel clean and looking neat and tidy.
Hostel Gallo d’Oro
A recommended hostel in Florence, the award-winning Hostel Gallo d’Oro is within walking distance of Florence’s major attractions. The vibe is peaceful and relaxed and the friendly members of staff are always ready to offer tips and tricks to help you have the best time discovering Florence. A filling breakfast and Wi-Fi are free and you can stay fresh with the laundry room.
Dany House Hostel
The colourful dorms and friendly members of staff members at Dany House Hostel are sure to make you smile. The centrally located Florence backpackers youth hostel is within an easy walking distance of major sights and the train station. The common room is the ideal place to kick back and chill at the end of each day, challenging pals old and new to a PlayStation duel, relaxing in front of the TV, or trading travelling tales.
Hostel Santa Monaca
For those heading to Florence’s historic centre, you will love the Santa Monaca Hostel Florence. It is one of the oldest and most historic hostels in Florence. While most hostels in Florence offer something modern and stylish, what makes Santa Monaca unique is that it is built in an ex-convent, meaning you get to stay in a former church!
Its location is in the traditional Santo Spirito quarter, surrounded by Florence cathedrals and historical buildings. If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch one of the music events run in the annexed ex-church. Facilities at the hostel include free wifi, A/C, a full kitchen, free city maps, bed linen, towels, and padlocks for free, an outdoor terrace, and a security guard at night – perfect for solo travellers who are worried about safety.
Tourist House Santa Croce
A recommended youth hostel in Florence for solo travellers and groups, Tourist House Santa Croce has mixed and female-only dorms for four as well as varied private rooms. In a lively location right next to a bar, there are plenty of places to have fun with your new buds. Rent bicycles or book tours to explore Florence and its surroundings with ease. There are self-catering facilities to help keep costs down, and the common room is a great place to mingle and chill.
Backpackers Florence Central
As the name suggests, Backpackers Florence Central is a centrally located Florence backpackers hostel, close to key attractions and activities and within easy reach of public transportation. There are mixed dorms for five as well as private rooms to accommodate between one and five. All rooms have their own bathroom. Bursts of colour help to create a cheerful vibe. Wi-Fi is free and you can enjoy discount in several nearby eateries.
Tasso Hostel
A top hostel in Florence for creative and artistic travellers, Tasso Hostel is situated in a buzzing little area of traditional eateries, bars, and artisan workshops. The large lounge is a top place to socialise with others and relax after a busy day of sightseeing, and the garden lets you soak up the rays and chill outdoors. The weekend parties are pumping and the youth hostel sometimes arranges diverse events. A kitchen, washing machine, lockers, and free Wi-Fi add to the great experience.
Ostello del Chianti
Located 23 kilometres outside of Florence, in the gorgeous Chianti region, Ostello del Chianti is a brilliant youth hostel in Florence for people who prefer to be in the heart of nature rather than in a city. A peaceful place from where you can truly appreciate the beauty of Tuscany, the hostel is also just a bus ride from Florence. There’s a wide choice of dorms and private rooms. Hire a bike to explore the surroundings, relax on the sunny terrace, or play ping pong in the lounge. Do note that small additional charges apply for people who are not already members of HI.
Ostello del Bigallo – Bigallo Hostel
One of the most atmospheric youth hostels in Florence’s surroundings, Ostello del Bigallo – Bigallo Hostel is housed within an old monastery that can trace its history back to the 1400s. Renovated to provide mod-cons like free Wi-Fi and modern bathrooms, there are diverse sleeping options too.
The double rooms are perfect for couples, while the five- and eight-bed dormitories are great for groups of mates and solo travellers. The most enchanting accommodations are however the wooden alcoves in the 20-bed dorm. Inspired by monks’ lives, the basic units provide complete privacy, with walls and curtains. The common areas are filled with rustic charms. All this could make it the coolest hostel in Florence.
What to Pack for your Florence 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 our definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
FAQ’s on Hostels in Florence
Booking a hostel in a big city like Florence is never easy. That’s why I’ve listed the most commonly asked questions and given my answers below
How much does a hostel cost in Florence?
The price of hostels in Florence depends on the type of room the bigger the dorm, the cheaper the nightly rate. The average cost for dorms (mixed or female-only) ranges from 12-18€/night. If you prefer a private room, just be prepared to pay around 30-38€/night.
What are the best hostels in Florence for couples?
Check out these awesome couple hostels in Florence:
– WoW Florence Hostel
– Tasso Hostel
– New Hostel Florence
What are the best hostels in Florence near the airport?
New Hostel Florence, one of the best hostels in Florence, is 5.4 km from Amerigo Vespucci Airport. It has a laundry facility and is close to Santa Maria Novella train station.
Travel Safety Tips for Florence
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.
More Epic Hostels in Italy and Europe
Hopefully, by now, you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Florence.
Planning an epic trip all across Italy or even Europe itself?
Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around Europe, check out:
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Florence
There you have it – the top hostels in Florence, Italy! I know that with the help of this stress-free guide, booking your hostel will be a piece of cake, so you can focus on what matters – exploring Florence.
And remember, if you can’t choose one, go with Plus Florence, which is one of the best hostels in Florence, hands-down. Not only does it have a high-rating and a decent price per night, but it has some fantastic facilities that make any trip to Florence a memorable one.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Italy for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Florence covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Florence if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Florence before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Italy to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
