Travelling through Europe is one of the world’s greatest adventures — a mix of cultures, landmarks, food, nightlife, languages and unforgettable stories. But the quality of your trip doesn’t depend only on the cities you visit, also finding somewhere to stay. On this occasion, we want to show you the best social hostels in Europe.
It depends on the people you meet.
That’s why social hostels are so important.
And among all social hostel brands in Europe, Onefam stands as the most awarded, warm, friendly and community-driven option — with hostels in 8 of the continent’s most iconic cities.
Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends, Onefam offers more than accommodation.
It gives you a family, a community and a home on the road.
What makes a Social Hostel “Social”? (And why it matters)
A social hostel is not defined by a bar, loud music or big common rooms.
A true social hostel is defined by:
1. Daily activities to help guests connect
City walks, food tours, games, dinners, nightlife plans — all optional, all fun.
2. A friendly and approachable team
Staff who remember your name, introduce you to others, and make everyone feel welcome.
3. Common spaces that encourage connection
Living rooms, kitchens, workspaces — places where people naturally talk and share stories.
4. A warm, inclusive atmosphere
Not a party vibe — a people vibe.
5. Travellers with the same mindset
Curious, open, social and excited to explore.
Onefam checks every one of these boxes — which is why thousands of solo travellers choose the brand every year.
Why Onefam Is Europe’s #1 Social Hostel Chain
Onefam has built a reputation across Europe for creating experiences that feel human, warm and memorable.
Here’s what sets Onefam apart:
1. A real community feeling
Guests instantly connect through:
- Daily free activities
- Family-style dinners
- Group nights out
- Daytime adventures
- Park hangouts
- Hidden-gem explorations
You don’t just stay at a hostel — you belong.
2. Hostels in the best neighbourhoods
Onefam Hostels are positioned in the most desirable areas for travellers:
- Central
- Safe
- Walkable
- Full of culture, food and nightlife
Everything important is always just steps away.
3. Comfortable, modern rooms
All hostels feature:
- High-quality beds
- Privacy curtains
- Individual lights & plugs
- Lockers
- Clean and cosy design
- Air conditioning/heating
Rest well. Explore better.
4. Award-winning guest experience
Onefam hostels have won multiple global awards for:
- Staff
- Atmosphere
- Cleanliness
- Social experience
- Overall rating
This is why travellers trust the brand across Europe.
5. Perfect for solo travellers
More than 60–70% of Onefam guests travel solo.
It’s the easiest place to meet people, make friends and feel safe.
6. A family-style approach to travel
You’re not treated like a client — you’re treated like family.
Kindness, fun and human connection are core to the Onefam culture.
Where you can Find Onefam Hostels in Europe
Onefam is present in 8 iconic European cities, each chosen for its culture, energy and traveller appeal:
🇪🇸 Barcelona
Art, beaches, nightlife, food and a social atmosphere.
🇪🇸 Madrid
Warm, vibrant, delicious food and great nightlife.
🇪🇸 Seville
Sunny, colourful, charming and full of character.
🇵🇹 Oporto
Riverside beauty, wine culture and relaxed vibes.
🇨🇿 Prague
Fairytale city with social energy and great nightlife.
🇬🇧 London
Iconic landmarks, multicultural food and endless activities.
🇭🇺 Budapest
Thermal baths, ruin bars and beautiful historic streets.
🇳🇱 Amsterdam
Canals, bikes, museums and a creative spirit.
Travellers consistently choose Onefam for:
1. Consistency in quality
Every Onefam hostel — regardless of city — offers a familiar comfort:
- Clean spaces
- Welcoming staff
- Daily activities
- Warm atmosphere
Meet people when you want.
Rest comfortably when you need.
3. A safe environment for solo travellers
The community atmosphere makes staying alone feel natural.
Sunset viewpoints in Porto, dinners in Seville, nightlife in Budapest, markets in London, canal walks in Amsterdam…
It all becomes better when shared.
5. Staff that truly care
Not just receptionists, people who are real travelers, just like you.
Every day brings something new:
Daytime activities
- Guided city walks
- Food and café outings
- Cultural visits
- Park meetups
- River walks
- Local markets
- Photography missions
Friendly, relaxed and optional.
Night activities
- Family dinners
- Social games
- Bar evenings
- Nightlife with the group
- Themed events
- Sunset meetups
You’re part of a group, from morning to night.
If you’re travelling across Europe and want the most social, memorable experience possible, here’s what works best:
Location + atmosphere = effortless connection.
2. Join activities even if you’re shy
Everyone else is in the same situation — open to meeting new people.
3. Stay at least 3 nights per city
This allows time for deeper friendships.
Make time for both exploration and connection.
5. Be open, kind and curious
It’s the easiest way to attract great experiences.
A perfect Europe trip using Onefam Hostels
Here’s a sample route many travellers take:
Start in Iberia (Warm, sunny energy)
🇪🇸 Seville → 🇪🇸 Madrid → 🇪🇸 Barcelona
Head west for slow beauty
🇵🇹 Oporto
Move north to Central Europe
🇨🇿 Prague → 🇭🇺 Budapest
Finish in iconic cities
🇳🇱 Amsterdam → 🇬🇧 London
This creates a mix of sunsets, culture, nightlife, food, architecture and connection — all within the Onefam community.
Why travellers love Onefam
Travellers always describe Onefam with the same words:
- “Family”
- “Connection”
- “Warmth”
- “The best people I met on my trip”
- “Unforgettable experience”
- “I arrived alone and left with friends”
That is the essence of social travel.
And Onefam delivers it consistently across Europe.
FAQs About Social Hostels in Europe
A social hostel is a property designed to help travelers meet each other. They usually offer group activities, communal spaces, pub crawls, family dinners, walking tours, and events that make it easy to connect.
Yes. Most social hostels in Europe have 24/7 reception, secure key-card access, lockers, and well-reviewed staff. Safety depends more on the hostel’s management than the “social” concept itself.
Not necessarily. While most guests fall between 18–35, many social hostels welcome anyone with a friendly, open mindset. Age limits vary by hostel.
Dorms (4–20 beds), private rooms, female-only dorms, and sometimes premium dorms with curtains and extra space. The “social” vibe comes more from the common areas and activities than the room type.
Almost always. Typical activities include:
– Walking tours
– Pub crawls
– Family dinners
– Drinking games
– Cultural experiences
– Day trips
Some are. It depends on the property. Many hostels label themselves as “party,” “social,” or “relaxed.” Travelers often look for places where they can meet others without being inside a nightclub all night.
Depends on the city and season:
– Eastern Europe: €12–25
– Central Europe: €18–35
– Western Europe: €25–55
Privates cost more. Prices peak on weekends and in summer.
Most do, but not all. Some social hostels are more “party-focused” and less suited for digital nomads. Travelers often check reviews for Wi-Fi speed and cowork-friendly areas.
Travelers care about:
– Atmosphere (from reviews or TikTok videos)
– Location
– Cleanliness
– Activities
– Staff friendliness
– Dorm comfort
Some do, but it varies. Many provide paid breakfast, or a small free option (toast, cereal, coffee).
Yes — social hostels are designed for solo travelers. It’s the easiest way to make friends fast.
Many social hostels include drinking games, pub crawls, or bar events. But there’s a clear difference between social and party hostels. Travelers ask this a lot to avoid surprises.
Yes, most have 24h reception or flexible arrival times, especially in big European cities.
Are towels and linens included?
Linens: usually yes.
Towels: sometimes no (often €1–€3 rental).
How can I meet people if I’m shy?
People ask this all the time. Hostels usually make it easy through:
– Family dinners
– Group tours
– Game nights
– Common room chats
You don’t need to be outgoing — the environment does most of the work.
Ready to experience the Best Social Hostels in Europe?
If you want:
- A welcoming community
- Modern, clean and central hostels
- Daily activities
- A safe, friendly environment
- Rooms designed for comfort
- An award-winning social atmosphere
Then Onefam is the perfect choice for your European journey.
