Huge boulevards, fur hats and onion-domed churches – it must be Moscow! The capital of Russia is famed for its iconic landmarks, which include the Kremlin and the world-famous St Basil’s Cathedral, as well as its ballet, still best viewed at the grand Bolshoi Theatre.
But how can you travel to Moscow affordably? Does it even have hostels? And if there are hostels, are they… ok? And where will you stay, isn’t Moscow too massive to choose? Do Russians speak English?
But cast away your doubts and worries – we’ve searched for the best hostels in Moscow and categorised them to make it easy for you to plan your trip to Russia’s incredible capital.
With hostel offerings that range from cheap and simple, to those set in grand old buildings and oozing with style, you’re guaranteed to find the hostel that’s right for you from our lovely list. Let’s have a look!
Editor’s note – ready to see what else Russia has to offer? Check out our 14 best day trips from Moscow!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Moscow
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Moscow – Vagabond Hostel
#2 Best Party Hostel in Moscow – Fasol Hostel and Bar
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel
#4 Best Hostel near Red Square – Kremlin Lights
#5 Best Hostel near Kitay-gorod – GoodMood Hostel
#6 Best Hostel near Komsomolskaya Square – Good News Hostel
#7 Best Hostel near Sheremetyevo International Airport – Chekhov House Belorusskaya
#8 Best High-end Hostel in Moscow – Sputnik Hostel and Personal Space
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Moscow – Safari Hostel
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow – Netizen Hostel
#1 – Vagabond Hostel
Best Overall Hostel in Moscow
- Cost – $$
- Location – Tverskaja 19
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Vagabond Hostel…
We love that Vagabond Hostel is run by two Russians who travelled the world, returned to Moscow, and then decided to start up a hostel. Naturally this means they know what fellow backpackers want, so this equals a home-away-from-home feeling, a great, social vibe, clean surroundings – all in all, the best overall hostel in Moscow.
Vagabond Hostel is perfect for…
If what you’re looking for is somewhere you can meet fellow travellers in a friendly environment, then this top hostel in Moscow would be a great option for you. Be aware that it’s cosy, but that probably just helps everyone get to know each other that much easier! The location is also great.
#2 – Fasol Hostel and Bar
Best Party Hostel in Moscow
Why we like Fasol Hostel and Bar…
Though Moscow backpackers hostels aren’t necessarily known for their party antics, what we do like about this hostel is that it also features a bar. So, whilst it may not be the best social hostel going, the ability to drink onsite and warm up for an evening on the town is something we can appreciate.
Fasol Hostel and Bar is perfect for…
If you’re looking for a mad party hostel, this isn’t it! But if you’re looking for a place where it’s easy to get a drink, and especially if you’re travelling with a group of friends, this is the best party hostel in Moscow. And then all you have to do is hit the town once you’re done pre-drinking!
#3 – Godzillas Hostel
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow
- Cost – $$
- Location – Bolshoi Karetnyy 6
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Godzillas Hostel…
We love the credentials that come attached to this hostel’s name: Best Hostel in Russia (2013). Best Hostel in Moscow by Moscow Hospitality Award (2017). This tells us that they’re doing something right! What we like most of all is how social this place is – and how friendly the staff are.
Godzillas Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re a fan of good vibes, if you appreciate a good, social common room as much as we do, basically if you’re looking for the best hostel for solo travellers in Moscow, this is it. On top of that the location is great – top sights can be comfortably walked and there’s loads of tasty food options in the vicinity.
#4 – Kremlin Lights
Best Hostel near Red Square
- Cost – $$
- Location – 5/6, Volkhonka st, bldg 4, 119019 Moscow,
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we Kremlin Lights…
One of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks is Red Square. Being the best hostel near Red Square means being near to basically the city’s top sights: the Kremlin, the famous onion domes of St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all situated near to this area. And we love that convenience at this top hostel in Moscow.
Kremlin Lights is perfect for…
Sightseers! Yes, quite simply, if you’re here to see what the Russian capital has to offer in terms of its most globally recognised tourist sights, then staying at Kremlin Lights is a great option for you. The staff are also very friendly at this Moscow backpackers hostel, which always makes a difference.
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#5 – GoodMood Hostel
Best Hostel near Kitay-gorod
- Cost – $$
- Location – Malyy Zlatoustinskiy per. 2.
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like GoodMood Hostel…
We love the cutesy, eclectic decor of this top hostel in Moscow. It’s well designed, with loads of nicely selected ornaments and pale wood making it feel homely but cool at the same time. We also love that it’s the best hostel near Kitay-gorod, a particularly beautiful and historic area of Moscow.
GoodMood Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re looking to be situated in an area that’s completely Instagram-worthy when it comes to building facades and architecture in general, then this cool hostel in Moscow should do the trick. Design-lovers, of course, will enjoy the tasteful interior design at this Moscow backpackers hostel, as well.
#6 – Good News Hostel
Best Hostel near Komsomolskaya Square
- Cost – $$
- Location – Staraya Basmannaya ulitsa, 10с2, Kazakova, 5
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Good News Hostel…
Not only do we like that this top hostel in Moscow is pretty social, and features activities and events so guests can mingle – we also like that it’s the best hostel near Komsomolskaya Square. What does that mean? Easy access to three main Moscow railway stations, and we love that convenience!
Good News Hostel is perfect for…
If being near two metro stations and three main Moscow railway stations sounds good to you, Good News Hostel will be a great choice for you. Those looking to meet people and make friends on their trip to the Russian capital will also do well staying at this youth hostel in Moscow.
#7 – Chekhov House Belorusskaya
Best Hostel near Sheremetyevo International Airport
- Cost – $$
- Location – Leningradsky Prospekt 23
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Chekhov House Belorusskaya…
The location of Chekhov House makes it really easy to get to Moscow’s main international airport; it’s very close to Belorusskaya train station, which features a direct service that goes to Sheremetyevo. Naturally, we love that convenience. We also love how friendly the staff are, who help out with everything from what to do in Moscow to your onward travel.
Chekhov House Belorusskaya is perfect for…
If staying at the best hostel near Sheremetyevo International Airport interests you – since you’re a fan of hassle-free travel or sticking to a budget (or both) – then Chekhov House is it. The homely decor and friendly staff make it feel much more than a matter of convenience, however, which is always a plus!
#8 – Sputnik Hostel and Personal Space
Best High-end Hostel in Moscow
Why we like Sputnik Hostel and Personal Space…
Very cool is how we’d describe the interior design of this top hostel in Moscow: think exposed brick walls, polished floors, minimalist furniture, boutique-esque private rooms. Easily the best high-end hostel in Moscow, we are just in love with how sleek and stylish this place is. The geat staff and a good location are also appreciated.
Sputnik Hostel and Personal Space is perfect for…
If you’re sensitive to a bit of cool design, or if you’re travelling as a couple, then staying at this cool Moscow hostel will be pretty dreamy for you. Equally, if you’re not overly interested in being social or meeting fellow travellers, this somewhat quiet, un-traditional hostel will suit you.
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#9 – Safari Hostel
Best Budget Hostel in Moscow
- Cost – $$
- Location – Petrovka 26, Str. 8
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Safari Hostel…
What do we love about this budget hostel in Moscow apart from its great price? Well, we love that it’s got a good, central location; we love the staff, who also cultivate a very likeable, friendly atmosphere; we also like the free breakfast, since we’re fans of value for money. All in all, the best budget hostel in Moscow.
Safari Hostel is perfect for…
Budgeteers! If what you’re looking for is a place that’s going to help you stick on budget, then Safari Hostel is a good option. Equally if socialising with fellow travellers sounds like you, then this Moscow backpackers hostel will be a great place to stay. It’s a win-win situation!
#10 – Netizen Hostel
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow
- Cost – $$
- Location – 2 Boulevard Entuziastov
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Netizen Hostel…
Easily one of the coolest hostels in Moscow, we love that Netizen Hostel features such minimalist interior design in its dorms alongside a more eclectic industrial feel in its communal areas. But what steals the show are its private rooms: these cool, pastel-tone, boutique-style offerings are just wonderful in our opinion. Helpful staff is the cherry on top.
Netizen Hostel is perfect for…
Couples! Or digital nomads. Yes, just about anybody looking for the best hostel with a private room in Moscow will be very impressed at the private rooms on offer at Netizen Hostel. The large communal area (sort of like a cafe, too) features a lot of space to sit and do some work – or plan the next stage of your travels.
More Best Hostels in Moscow
#11 – Hostel Derevo
- Cost – $$
- Location – Paveletskaya nab. 2
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Derevo…
Featuring a mix of minimalist and bright decor, we very much like the style of this cool hostel in Moscow. And, whilst the location is a little further out from the centre than other Moscow hostels, the staff are very friendly and the facilities are very nicely considered for backpackers.
Hostel Derevo is perfect for…
Those who aren’t fussed about being in the middle of Moscow and its major tourist hotspots will enjoy the location of this place. Backpackers will appreciate the laundry service and dishwasher, and digital nomads will enjoy the high-speed WiFi, of course. All in all a good place for those on the road.
#12 – Star Wars Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Krivokolennyy 4c3
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Star Wars Hostel…
We like how quirky this Moscow backpackers hostel is – the owners seem to have a thing about cartoon and classic movie characters, so the likes of SpongeBob and Darth Vader adorn the white walls here. On top of that we absolutely love the cleanliness; the staff here are all over the cleaning, which is always a good thing.
Star Wars Hostel is perfect for…
If you like your hostels quirky, this is your place. If you like your hostels clean – and we mean possibly the cleanest we’ve ever seen – this could also be your place. Solo travellers will appreciate this place, since the friendly staff and well sized communal areas promote guests meeting and mingling.
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#13 – Hostel 3 Penguins on Pyatnitskaya
- Cost – $$
- Location – Pyatnitskaya Street 20 Bld.2, Zamoskvorechye, 1150
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel 3 Penguins on Pyatnitskaya…
Whilst the dorms aren’t all that in terms of style, the private rooms at Hostel 3 Penguins are really quite lovely – the boutique style, with feature wallpaper and classic furniture, is something we can really get on board with. The communal areas also feel homely and welcoming, helping to create good vibes at this recommended hostel in Moscow.
Hostel 3 Penguins on Pyatnitskaya is perfect for…
Solo travellers! Of course, with friendly staff usually comes a friendly atmosphere, and the kind staff at this Moscow backpackers hostel really help to cultivate that vibe. When it comes to location, too, this place is very good: the Kremlin is within easy walking distance, making it simple to see Moscow’s top sights.
#14 – SubWay Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Degtyarniy pereulok 15/1, 2nd floor, aprt. 4
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like SubWay Hostel…
We really like the perks at this hostel – free laundry and an oatmeal breakfast (especially after so many ‘continentals’) is something that, as backpackers, we can really appreciate. We also love how good the staff are for recommendations on what to do in Moscow, which as a city can feel daunting, especially for first-timers.
SubWay Hostel is perfect for…
We think that backpackers will most probably be best suited to this youth hostel in Moscow. Not only are there some great perks, but the friendly, talkative staff, who speak very good English (sometimes a rarity in Moscow) make you feel very welcome, which those travelling by themselves will appreciate.
#15 – Vinegret Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Arbat 4 Bldg 1
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Vinegret Hostel…
The location of this recommended hostel in Moscow is something we can really shout about. It’s situated on the pedestrianised Arbat Street, which is a bustling area of Moscow often filled with street performers and lined with a wide array of restaurants, cafes and bars – so finding a bite to eat and something to drink is easy!
Vinegret Hostel is perfect for…
If the local area of a hostel is something that’s important to you, then Vinegret Hostel is somewhere you’ll want to stay. Being close to so many dining and drinking options is great for those who get hangry, whilst being able to walk to to the top sights in Moscow on top of that will suit travellers interested in the culture and history of the city.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Moscow?
A dormitory room in Moscow is generally around $10 to $15 for a one night stay. If you prefer more personal space, you can get a private room for $25 on the low end and up to $80.
What are Hostels in Moscow Like?
At most hostels you can enjoy a good central location and modern amenities. Furnishing and decorations are fairly basic, but you can still find cool artsy places too if you're interested in that! There are places for party animals as well as those who prefer some peace and quiet.
How Safe are Hostels in Moscow?
Moscow is fairly safe, though some crime and problems do occur. Most hostels have good security features and are located in better neighborhoods, and if you take normal precautions you should be fine!
How to Find Hostels in Moscow?
Check out HostelWorld to see all the options and refine your search to fit your preferences. If you're traveling around to other places in Russia, you can ask for recommendations at your current hotel or hostel.
Best Overall Hostel in Moscow
Vagabond Hostel
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Best Party Hostel in Moscow
Fasol Hostel and Bar
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow
Godzillas Hostel
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Best Hostel near Red Square
Kremlin Lights
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Best Hostel near Kitay-gorod
GoodMood Hostel
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Best Hostel near Komsomolskaya Square
Good News Hostel
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Best Hostel near Sheremetyevo International
Airport Chekhov House Belorusskaya
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Best High-end Hostel in Moscow
Sputnik Hostel and Personal Space
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Best Budget Hostel in Moscow
Safari Hostel
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow
Netizen Hostel
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Last thoughts on the coolest hostels in Moscow
If you are traveling around Russia you should definitely check out our guide to the best hostels in St. Pete!
So there you have it. Proof that Moscow is not only littered with hostels but good hostels at that, perfect for any sort of traveller looking to snap a few selfies in Red Square!
There’s also a surprising amount of cool hostels in Moscow that will suit those who aren’t backpacking, but looking to travel cheaply to the city.
And contrary to popular opinion, many of these hostels are run by friendly staff who’ll help you out in English. Don’t need to be leafing through that Russian phrasebook at reception every time you need something basic!
Can’t decide? Don’t worry – Vagabond Hostel, our best overall hostel in Moscow, is a great choice for anybody. Now get booking and enjoy your trip to this amazing European capital!
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