Bucharest is Romania’s buzzing capital city. Packed full of historical sights and grand buildings, Bucharest is famous for its Old Town – which is where you’ll find the city’s infamous nightlife, too.
With that in mind, where do you stay in this culture-filled capital? Is it ok to stay in the Old Town? Are all the hostels here party hostels for stag and hen parties?
We’ve looked into it and found a whole host of places to stay in Bucharest. And to make life easy for you we’ve split them up into categories so you can find the place that’s right for you.
You may be looking for a true bargain, or you might be traveling in a couple and want to splash out – either way, we’ve got it sorted. So let’s dive into the world of Bucharest’s budget hostels!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Bucharest
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Bucharest – First Hostel Bucharest
#2 Best Party Hostel in Bucharest – Podstel Bucharest
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Bucharest – The Cozyness
#4 Best Hostel in Bucharest Old Town – Antique Hostel Bucharest
#5 Best Hostel near Piata Romana – Podstel Umbrella
#6 Best Hostel near Unirii Square, Bucharest – X Hostel Bucharest
#7 Best Hostel near Gara de Nord Train Station – Friends Hostel
#8 Best High-end Hostel in Bucharest – Omega House
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Bucharest – Sleep Inn Hostel
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Bucharest – Central Guesthouse
#1 – First Hostel Bucharest
Best Overall Hostel in Bucharest
First Hostel Bucharest is highly reviewed for their spacious dorms - and we agree!
First Hostel Bucharest is highly reviewed for their spacious dorms - and we agree!
First Hostel Bucharest is highly reviewed for their spacious dorms - and we agree!- Cost – $$
- Location – Bd. Marasesti nr. 86
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like First Hostel Bucharest…
Bright and funky, this is the sort of place that creates a nice homely atmosphere for its guests – and we love that about this top hostel in Bucharest.
Cool features like wood floors, exposed brick, and nice artwork make this one of the coolest hostels in Bucharest. As a plus, the dorms here are also very spacious.
First Hostel Bucharest is perfect for…
If you want to stay in an all-round great place, then you’d better book yourself in at the best overall hostel in Bucharest. The location here is as great as the decor, with the metro being very close, plus the staff keep this place clean and well organized.
For budget-minded travelers, there’s a free breakfast as well as free bicycle hire on offer.
#2 – Podstel Bucharest
Best Party Hostel in Bucharest
Podstel Bucharest is the best hostel in Bucharest to get your party on!
Podstel Bucharest is the best hostel in Bucharest to get your party on!
Podstel Bucharest is the best hostel in Bucharest to get your party on!- Cost – $
- Location – Olimpului Street No 13,
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Podstel Bucharest…
A social, fun and lively place to stay, you can see why this is the best party hostel in Bucharest. There’s music playing throughout the day, impromptu music sessions in the common room, and a generally warm and welcoming atmosphere for travellers.
Family dinners and daily events keep things fun at this Bucharest backpackers hostel.
Podstel Bucharest is perfect for…
If you’re interested in having fun in Bucharest, here’s the place to do it. This top hostel in Bucharest even comes equipped with its own stage (and PA system) in the garden; here’s where they put on live music events. It’s also a great base from which to explore the best things to do in Bucharest.
Other activities for culturally minded travellers at the Podstel include writing, discussions, yoga and movie nights. And lots of beer, too.
#3 – The Cozyness
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Bucharest
Solo travelers will love the vibes at The Cozyness
Solo travelers will love the vibes at The Cozyness
Solo travelers will love the vibes at The Cozyness- Cost – $$
- Location – Drumea Radulescu, nr 28
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Cozyness…
Just like its name suggests, this youth hostel in Bucharest creates a cosy place for backpackers to lay their heads. We like that on arrival the bed is already made up, plus there’s free tea and coffee on offer.
The staff are friendly and helpful, too. But we also love that there are two cats to make friends with here. More like a home than a hostel.
The Cozyness is perfect for…
Feel like you need somewhere relaxed and friendly to stay? Then this is the place for you.
Since it’s such a good place to meet other people, and feel welcomed and part of the community here, we’d say it’s easily the best hostel for solo travellers in Bucharest.
Staff also make impromptu dinners for everyone.
#4 – Antique Hostel Bucharest
Best Hostel in Bucharest Old Town
- Cost – $$
- Location – Str. Splaiul Independentei no.2A, Sector 3,030099
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Antique Hostel Bucharest…
First of all, we really love that this Bucharest backpackers hostel is set in a heritage house dating back to 1895. We love that a lot.
The Antique Hostel is set on the banks of the river, too. Staying here means being well located – it’s near the Palace of Justice, the Natural History Museum and other interesting sights.
Antique Hostel Bucharest is perfect for…
If staying somewhere with a little bit of historical charm sounds like you, then this is the place to stay.
The renovated interiors feature wood beamed ceilings, huge arched windows, wrought iron balconies and a marble staircase.
The Antique is the best hostel in Bucharest Old Town, so if you want to do some sightseeing this place is a great base for it.
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#5 – Podstel Umbrella
Best Hostel near Piata Romana
- Cost – $
- Location – Christian Tell Str, No 21
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Podstel Umbrella…
You don’t get much better than a hostel that’s run by a group of friends with a good idea of what travellers need when it comes to a hostel.
The Podstel Umbrella Bucharest backpackers hostel is well equipped to cater for people travelling around Europe, which we think is a pretty cool idea.
Podstel Umberella is perfect for…
Being the best hostel near Piata Romana, staying here is perfect for anybody who wants to be within walking distance of bars and hip hangouts.
Flashpackers take note: the building that this hostel is set in is amazing, too: it was once occupied by Romanian royalty and is suitably impressive.
#6 – X Hostel Bucharest
Best Hostel near Unirii Square
- Cost – $$
- Location – Balcesti 9
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like X Hostel Bucharest…
As much as we like the clean and unfussy interiors of this recommended hostel in Bucharest, we also love the location of this one – just a few minutes from the amazing public transport links of Unirii Square.
We also very much appreciate the cool building which dates back to 1917.
X Hostel Bucharest is perfect for…
If you’re all about location, location, location and don’t mind a basic hostel that might not have everything you’d expect of a typical Bucharest backpackers hostel – a kitchen, for instance – then this place is for you.
Backpackers on a budget will also love the affordable price at X Hostel. Coupled with the central setting, it’s a steal.
#7 – Friends Hostel
Best Hostel near Gara de Nord Train Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – Mircea Vulcanescu 114 (former Stefan Furtuna St.),
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Friends Hostel…
When it comes to convenience, we think this one is the best one for getting in and out of Bucharest – by train, that is. It’s just a 10-minute walk from this Bucharest backpackers hostel to Gara de Nord train station.
The Friends Hostel is budget and it may not be central, but we like that nearby bars offer cheap beer and food.
Friends Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re arriving or leaving Bucharest by train and you’re looking for the best hostel near Gara de Nord train station, don’t worry: this is it. Budget travellers should take note, too, since this place comes equipped with a kitchen to cook your own meals.
Cheap food and drink is on the doorstep, the room rates are affordable, and the staff are lovely.
#8 – Omega House
Best High-end Hostel in Bucharest
- Cost – $$
- Location – Strada Aurel Vlaicu nr 20
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Omega House…
Like staying above a cool coffee shop, Omega Hostel boasts a mix of cool cafe design and clean contemporary spaces.
The design of this cool Bucharest hostel is minimal, it’s filled with houseplants, and it’s comfortable, meaning it’s a great place to come to after a busy day exploring the city.
Omega House is perfect for
Digital nomads. Yes, that’s right. If you’re looking to get some work done in the Romanian capital, then you might want to stay at the best high-end hostel in Bucharest.
There’s a co-working space here, which is pretty much perfect for your work needs (complete with good coffee). The owners want to cultivate creative community, so why not get involved?
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#9 – Sleep Inn Hostel
Best Budget Hostel in Bucharest
- Cost – $$
- Location – Mavrogheni Nicolae street, no. 8
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Sleep Inn Hostel…
We like how calm, cute, clean and cheerful this place is. It’s not all about being super stylish or having the best social atmosphere, and what it lacks in these two aspects it certainly makes up for it with its affordability.
The Sleep Inn is easily the best budget hostel in Bucharest.
Sleep Inn Hostel is perfect for…
Are you backpacking around Europe on a shoestring? Then this budget hostel in Bucharest is for you.
There’s a kitchen so you can cook your own meals, plenty of bathrooms (no queues), and the location is great: it’s right next to the Old Town, so you get to explore the historical side to this city quite easily.
#10 – Central Guesthouse
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Bucharest
- Cost – $$
- Location – Street Balcesti 7 – 3
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Central Guesthouse…
We adore the neutral decor and pastel colour schemes of this hostel. Coupled with the general minimalist feel, the quiet atmosphere, the charming garden, this place is like an oasis in the city.
It’s no wonder that the Central Guesthouse the best hostel with a private room in Bucharest – those on offer here are hotel quality.
Central Guesthouse is perfect for…
Travelling in a couple? Or are you a flashpacker looking for some privacy? Then you’ll love this cool hostel in Bucharest.
The linen is crisp, the towels are fluffy and there’s cable TV in the rooms so you can simply kick back on your bed and chill out for a while. If this sounds like you, then this recently refurbished heritage gem is just the ticket.
More Best Hostels in Bucharest
#11 – The Midland Hostel
- Cost – $
- Location – Str Biserica Amzei, nr 22, Apt 3, Sector 1
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Midland Hostel…
It’s always nice when a hostel is created by travellers themselves, and it’s no different at Midlands Hostel.
The Midland is a self-confessed “not a design hostel” but they’ve got fun, quirky features like big blackboards and all set inside a building with period features. We think it’s one of the coolest hostels in Bucharest because of this – and its buzzing atmosphere.
The Midland Hostel is perfect for…
This is the perfect place for you if you’re looking not only for a cheap bed but for somewhere with a whole lot of heart, too. This recommended hostel in Bucharest has both.
The location is perfect for those who want to explore Bucharest as well, with easy public transport links and sights within walking distance.
#12 – Pure Vida Sky Bar & Hostel
- Cost – $
- Location – Smardan no 7
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Pure Vida Sky Bar & Hostel…
One of the best things about this Bucharest backpackers hostel is the rooftop bar (hence the name). This is where this place hosts parties – an ideal location for it, we think, especially in the summer months when the weather’s good and the nights are long.
The views from Pura Vida of old city are cool, too.
Pure Vida Sky Bar & Hostel is perfect for…
Solo travellers! If you’re travelling by yourself and you want to get to know your fellow guests over a few drinks this is the place for you.
It may not be the most attentive place when it comes to cleanliness, but it’s fine if you’re unfussy. It also works as a great base: simply drop your bags and head out!
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#13 – Bucur’s Shelter
Why we like Bucur’s Shelter…
Named after the legendary shepherd who founded Bucharest, Bucur’s Shelter is suitably set in a historical building with modern furnishings and facilities, with colourful decor spread about the place.
We like that this top hostel in Bucharest is a cosy place to get chatting to other travellers and make new friends. It’s cute.
Bucur’s Shelter is perfect for…
If you’re looking for a cosy environment to unwind and socialise in after a busy day exploring Bucharest’s Old Town, this place certainly fits the bill.
The staff here are friendly, helping to create a welcoming environment, and will give you advice on where to go, what to do and where to eat (and drink) around the city. Good for solo travellers.
#14 – Bucharest Bar & Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Smardan Street, Number 15
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Bucharest Bar & Hostel…
We love the location of this Bucharest backpackers hostel. This place is utterly surrounded by the energy of the Old Town, which comes complete with all the exciting nightlife you could wish for.
It’s easy to grab a drink at the bar here, make a few new friends and head out into the night.
Bucharest Bar & Hostel is perfect for…
Like being close to all the action? Bucharest Bar & Hostel is the place for you. There’s plenty of places nearby to eat and drink, which makes staying here the perfect option if you’re somebody who likes to explore the nightlife of a city.
It’s a bit of a party hostel, and rough around the edges, but if you’re looking for fun you won’t mind that.
#15 – Wonderland Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Coltei nr 48, Bucharest
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Wonderland Hostel…
Another fun Bucharest party hostel that’s located in the city’s Old Town, this place also owns a nearby bar and club where you can have a few drinks, watch live music, have fun and meet local people.
The Wonderland is relatively quiet and the room rates are cheap, which we can’t fault.
Wonderland Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re interested in saving money and you’re unfussy about where you stay, then go for this budget hostel in Bucharest.
There’s not a lot of atmosphere, there’s no kitchen, and it’s not the cleanest – but it is cheap, and you can use the money you save on having fun eating and drinking your way around the Old Town!
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Bucharest?
You can usually find dorm rooms for $10 to $15 for a one night stay in Bucharest. For a private room, you'll need to budget for at least $25 and up to $50 depending on the facility.
What are Hostels in Bucharest Like?
Bucharest is most famous for its historic sites, and most hostels are centrally located close to the top attractions. Since a lot of travelers come through Bucharest, you can find hostels for every travel style whether you're hoping to experience the nightlife or you're more interested in the art scene!
How Safe are Hostels in Bucharest?
In general, Bucharest is a very safe place to visit, even for solo travelers and at night! Hostels are usually in secure areas, but you should of course always be cautious when traveling.
How to Find Hostels in Bucharest?
Look at the options on HostelWorld and refine your search based on your travel dates, budget, and preferences. If you're traveling around other places in Romania, you might meet some other travelers who can suggest good spots!
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Best Overall Hostel in Bucharest
First Hostel Bucharest
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Best Party Hostel in Bucharest
Podstel Bucharest
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Bucharest
The Cozyness
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Best Hostel in Bucharest Old Town
Antique Hostel Bucharest
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Best Hostel near Piata Romana
Podstel Umbrella
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Best Hostel near Unirii Square
X Hostel Bucharest
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Best Hostel near Gara de Nord Train Station
Friends Hostel
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Best High-end Hostel in Bucharest
Omega House
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Best Budget Hostel in Bucharest
Sleep Inn Hostel
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Bucharest
Central Guesthouse
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Closing thoughts on the best bargain hostels in Bucharest
There you have it: the best hostels in Bucharest. We’re glad we can help you find the place that’s right for you in this fun and fascinating European city.
You’ll have a blast exploring this place. From marvelling at its grand old buildings, seeing where Vlad the Impaler used to live, seeing what the Old Town’s like in the day (and how lively it gets at night), you’ll want a good base to explore from.
You can actually stay in the Old Town itself, which is good if you’re all about partying, you can also choose to stay in a more strategic location – the cool areas around Piata Romana, for example, still feature good public transport.
Don’t worry if you can’t decide where to stay. Just remember First Hostel Bucharest, the best overall hostel in Bucharest. Have fun, enjoy the culture and history… and don’t drink too much!
***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)
