How to Choose a Hostel in Copenhagen in 2025 (What to Expect)

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Find your Perfect Hostel in Copenhagen

Copenhagen might be small in size, but it’s big on hostel options—and the price tags prove it. From sleek mega-hostels to cozy indie spots, there’s no shortage of places to crash.

But with so many choices (and high prices), figuring out where to stay can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re backpacking solo for the first time.

Sound daunting? Don’t worry—this guide has you covered. We’ll show you how to choose a hostel in Copenhagen that fits your style and budget.

No fluff—just real talk to help you navigate Copenhagen’s hostel scene and find the perfect base for your adventure. That way, you can spend more time exploring and less time worrying about where you’ll sleep.

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Copenhagen

Best for Hostel Newbies

Next House9.0

from $12.22 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

Capsule Hotel - Copenha...8.5

from $31.05 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Urban Camper Hostel & B...8.6

from $10.27 | More Details

This is not an ad. We help you find the perfect hostel and compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking. You can save up to 23.7%

Types of Hostels in Copenhagen

When I first backpacked through Copenhagen, I was overwhelmed by the different types of hostels available. Whether you're looking for a party vibe, a quiet retreat, or something in between, Copenhagen's hostel scene has something for everyone. Let's break it down:

• Party Hostels: These hostels are perfect if you want to dive into Copenhagen's social scene. Think bars, pub crawls, and social events that make it easy to meet fellow travelers. They're often located near nightlife areas, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. If you're into mingling and late-night fun, this is the place for you.
• Social Hostels Without the Party Scene: These hostels strike a balance. While they still encourage meeting other travelers, they offer quieter common areas and activities like walking tours or movie nights. If you want to socialize but don’t want the intense party vibe, these are the perfect option.
• Quiet and Budget-Friendly Hostels: If you’re just looking for a place to rest your head after a day of sightseeing, this is the way to go. These hostels focus on providing clean, simple, and affordable accommodations with minimal activities. You’ll get a good night’s sleep, but don’t expect much of a social scene.
• Female-Only Dorms: Female-only dorms are a bit more common in Copenhagen than in some other cities. They’re usually priced similarly to mixed dorms, but some places may charge a little extra for the added privacy. If you're traveling solo and feel more comfortable in a female-only space, this could be a great option.

Each type of hostel offers a different experience. It’s all about finding the right fit for your vibe and travel goals!

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Copenhagen

1. Hostel CPH Luftmadrassen
2. Danhostel Copenhagen Amager - best for Digital Nomads, Family-Friendly Hostel, Groups (10+ people)
3. Danhostel Copenhagen City Hostel - best for Digital Nomads, Solo Traveller
4. YMCA Interpoint Hostel - best for Family-Friendly Hostel, Quiet Rest, Solo Traveller
5. Generator Hostel Copenhagen - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller, Youth Hostel

Hostel CPH Luftmadrassen

8.3

K -- Christianshavn

"Not the cleanest, but a lot of fun for young travellers. It is connected to a very nice (if a tad more

Danhostel Copenhagen Amager

8.1

S -- Amager Fælled

"…You won't get to know the people at reception here, but they work really hard. Don't be surprised more

Danhostel Copenhagen City Hostel

8.0

København V

"…There is a bar at the lobby area on the ground floor and TV rooms, table tennis, and common more

from

$12.86

YMCA Interpoint Hostel

8.5

Frederiksberg C

"…Pillows and blankets are available for hire but only a sheet is provided. The rooms have windows more

from

$16.00

Generator Hostel Copenhagen

8.1

Indre By

"…They have lockers but you have to pay, they have breakfast but you have to pay -- the internet is more

from

$14.66

What to Expect from Hostels in Copenhagen

Hostel life in Copenhagen is pretty straightforward, but it’s essential to manage your expectations to avoid any surprises. Here’s what you can expect:

• Atmosphere: Copenhagen hostels generally have a laid-back atmosphere, especially the ones that cater to solo travelers. You’ll find plenty of spaces to relax and chat, but don’t expect the massive social party scenes that some other European cities are known for. Most hostels have a cool, community vibe with a good mix of international travelers.
• Quality: Cleanliness and comfort are a priority in Copenhagen hostels. That being said, space is limited, so don’t expect large dorms or huge common areas. Bathrooms are typically shared, and while most hostels do a decent job of keeping things tidy, the smaller spaces can get cramped during busy times.
• Facilities: Most hostels in Copenhagen have the essentials like free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens (though don’t expect a fully stocked one), and lockers for your valuables. Keep in mind that not all places will provide breakfast, so check before booking if that’s important to you.

What NOT to Expect:

• Dirt-cheap dorms (Copenhagen is expensive, even for backpackers).
• Breafkast included (most hostels prices won't include the breafkast). 

Best Location for Hostels in Copenhagen

Location is key when choosing a hostel in Copenhagen. Here are the best areas to consider—and the ones to avoid:

• Vesterbro: A trendy, vibrant neighborhood near the city center, ideal for young travelers. It’s full of bars, cafes, and cool spots to hang out. There are a lot of hostels here, and it’s easy to get to major sights like Tivoli Gardens.
• Nyhavn: Famous for its picturesque canals, this area is perfect if you want to be close to iconic sights. While the prices might be higher, it’s well worth staying near the action. Expect a more touristy crowd, but it’s easy to find some peaceful spots along the canals.
• Frederiksberg: If you’re looking for a quieter, more residential area that’s still close to the city center, Frederiksberg is a great option. It’s a bit more relaxed and offers a peaceful atmosphere but is still near public transport options and some nice parks.

How much do Hostels Cost in Copenhagen

Like many European capitals, Copenhagen isn’t the cheapest city for hostels. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Prices can fluctuate based on the season, special events, and even weekends. Keep in mind that weekends and peak tourist seasons can drive up prices significantly. Booking early is your best bet if you want to secure a good price, especially in high season.

Still not sure? Pick my Favorite Hostel in Copenhagen

#1 Top Hostel in Copenhagen: Next House

This is the overall best rated hostel in Next House. The overall rating is 9.0. You cannot go wrong here.

It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.

The price for a dorm at Next House starts from $12.22.

Check out Next House here

How to Book a Hostel in Copenhagen Without Overpaying

Finding the best hostel deal in Copenhagen can be tricky, but it’s possible to score some great prices if you know where to look.

• Use Comparison Tools: Websites like Hostelz.com allow you to compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking.com, helping you find the best deal. Don’t just book the first hostel you find!
• Book Early: Booking a few weeks ahead (especially for high season) can save you money. Last-minute deals can be tempting, but they often come with higher prices or fewer options.
• Check for Hidden Fees: Always check the details before you book. Some hostels charge extra for linens, towels, or even Wi-Fi. Don’t get caught off guard.

Hostel Safety and What to Watch Out For

Safety is a big concern for solo travelers, and Copenhagen hostels generally do a good job of making sure you feel secure. Here are some things to look out for:

• Security: Most hostels have lockers for your valuables, and keycard access is common. Make sure to use the lockers to store your belongings when you’re out and about.
• Common Area Theft: Watch out for pickpockets in busy common areas. It’s not common in Copenhagen, but it’s always a good idea to keep your stuff close.
• Read Reviews: Before booking, always check recent reviews for any mention of safety issues. Most reputable hostels in Copenhagen take security seriously, but it’s always good to be cautious.

6 Hidden Gemz in Copenhagen (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Final Thoughts

Choosing a hostel in Copenhagen really comes down to what type of experience you want. Whether you’re looking for a party, a quiet retreat, or something in between, Copenhagen’s hostels cater to a variety of needs. Just be prepared to spend a little more than you might expect in other cities—Copenhagen isn’t the cheapest, but the experience is well worth it.

Whatever you decide, I’m sure you’ll have a blast exploring this beautiful city, and finding the right hostel will make your stay even better.

Backpacking Copenhagen? Here’s What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I’ve been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I’m passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

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About the author: Hostelz

Hostelz.com is your #1 hostel guide to find the best prices for every single hostel worldwide. We show you all prices and hostels at a glance - save money by using the right booking platform.