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

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Find your Perfect Hostel in Prague

From the moment I stepped off the train in Prague during my interrail Europe trip, backpack in tow, I knew I was in for an adventure. My first challenge? Figuring out how to choose a hostel that would fit both my budget and my desire to meet fellow travelers.

I’ve stayed in everything from tiny, family-run spots near the cobblestone center to party-centric hostels with an onsite bar.  I’ve had my fair share of hits and misses in this city.

I’m here to share what I’ve learned—so you can skip the guesswork and focus on soaking up everything Prague has to offer. Real talk about what to expect (and what not to expect), price ranges, and more. 

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Prague

Best for Hostel Newbies

The Roadhouse9.7

from $15.17 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

Women's Only Hostel Pra...9.5

from $14.32 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Onefam Arbes9.4

from $10.58 | More Details

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Types of Hostels in Prague

Prague has a little bit of everything when it comes to hostels, and each style offers a different vibe. Knowing what you’re looking for is half the battle.

• Party hostels: These places are all about socializing, pub crawls, and group events. They often have their own bar or club-like lounge area. If you want to meet people over cheap drinks and you don’t mind getting only a few hours of sleep, this might be your scene. But keep in mind: party hostels can be noisy until the early hours, and privacy is minimal.
• Social hostels without the party scene: These hostels strike a balance. They’re friendly and encourage mingling (maybe a cozy common area or organized walking tour), but they’re not pushing a constant party. If you love the idea of meeting travelers but also need your beauty rest, this could be your sweet spot.

• Quiet and budget-friendly hostels: These are the pared-down options for those who just need a bed and maybe a communal kitchen to brew coffee. There aren’t many planned activities, so don’t expect epic group hangouts or pub crawls. But they’re often more affordable and let you do your own thing.
• Female-only dorms: Some Prague hostels do offer female-only rooms.  Prices are often comparable to mixed dorms, but you might pay a bit more for the added privacy—especially in popular hostels. In my experience, these dorms tend to be on the smaller side (usually four to six beds), which can mean more breathing room for everyone. Keep in mind that availability is limited, so if female-only dorms are a priority, consider booking well in advance. 

Personally, I’ve stayed in all four types during my trips to Prague.

Party hostels are a blast if you’re just passing through and want memories of karaoke at 2 a.m. Social-but-chill spots can be amazing for making new travel buddies, especially if you’re staying in the city for more than a couple of nights. Quiet hostels are best if you need some downtime or just want a cheap crash pad.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Prague

1. Sir Toby's Hostel - best for Couples, Solo Traveller
2. Advantage Hostel - Prague - best for Digital Nomads, Solo Traveller
3. Travellers' Hostel Husova
4. Travellers' Hostel Josefská
5. Travellers' Hostel Island

Sir Toby's Hostel

8.8

Praha 7

"…Great rooms, individual beds (not bunk beds), private bathroom. The rooms were surprisingly really more

from

$8.78

Advantage Hostel - Prague

8.1

Praha 2

"…The nine-bed room feels more like two rooms, with a small sitting area by the door. The beds are more

Travellers' Hostel Husova

9.2

Praha 1

"…Check out the "Club Ujezd," and Bohemian Bagel, both are just across the street! If you want to more

Travellers' Hostel Josefská

8.0

Praha 1

"…Dirty, horrible bunk mattresses, no pillows. It was very loud (I could hear people in the more

Travellers' Hostel Island

8.1

Praha 1

"…The price is great, the staff are friendly and the breakfast is good, but be warned: you're more

What to Expect from Hostels in Prague

Prague hostels vary a lot in atmosphere, but you’ll generally find they’re smaller than in some Western European cities. Many are tucked into historic buildings with winding staircases and thick walls, which can either be cozy or cramped, depending on your perspective.

The city does see a ton of tourists each year, so hostels tend to fill up, especially in peak travel months. Here are a few realities:

• Atmosphere: You can find party-oriented spots in more touristic areas, especially near the Old Town. That said, there are plenty of laid-back hostels with a mix of solo travelers and small groups.
• Quality: Most hostels are decently maintained. Cleanliness standards are often good, but I always recommend checking recent reviews. Safety is generally reliable—keycard systems are common—and the comfort level can be surprisingly high if you pick the right place.
• Facilities: Expect shared bathrooms (often a few for each dorm), a common space or lounge, and sometimes a basic kitchen or kitchenette. “Free breakfast” might just be toast and jam, so temper your expectations.

What NOT to Expect:

• Huge, modern hostels with big common areas (space is tight in Prague).
• Fully equipped kitchens for cooking (most hostels assume you’ll eat out).
• Dirt-cheap dorms (Prague is popular, and hostel prices reflect that demand).

Still not sure? Pick my Favorite Hostel in Prague

#1 Top Hostel in Prague: The Roadhouse

This is the overall best rated hostel in The Roadhouse. The overall rating is 9.7. 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 The Roadhouse starts from $15.17.

Check out The Roadhouse here

Best Location for Hostels in Prague

Location can make or break your Prague experience. You’ll see hostels scattered throughout the city, but here are a few areas that backpackers tend to love, plus one or two you might want to think twice about.

• Old Town (Staré Město): Perfect if you want to be in the heart of everything. Lots of bars, restaurants, and historical sites right outside your door. It can be busy and loud at night, though.
• New Town (Nové Město): A short walk from Old Town but slightly less touristy. Offers budget-friendly hostels and quick access to nightlife around Wenceslas Square.
• Žižkov: Known for its laid-back vibe, cheap beer, and a younger crowd. You’ll find some quirky, social hostels here where it’s easy to meet other travelers.
• Holešovice: An up-and-coming district with cool cafes and art spaces. Hostels here are typically smaller and quieter, so it’s an option if you’re looking for a chill atmosphere. Just factor in some commute time to the main sights.

Areas to avoid? If you stumble on a hostel too far outside the main city zones (like certain parts of the outskirts with no easy transit access), you might save a few bucks but spend forever getting around. Generally, if the price looks too good to be true and the location is way off the map, do your research.

How Much Do Hostels Cost in Prague

Prague is generally cheaper than a city like Paris or London, but it’s still one of the top tourist destinations in Europe. Prices can jump during summer vacations, holiday markets, and major events, so it’s a good idea to book ahead if you can. Prices also vary by room type: dorms are cheaper, but private rooms or smaller dorms will cost more.

Here’s a rough breakdown of what you might expect to pay. Keep in mind that these ranges can shift with demand or special events.

If you’re looking specifically for female-only dorms, many hostels in Prague do offer them. Using price comparison tools like Hostelz.com can help you filter your search so you can see all the female-only options available. Keep an eye on listings to see if linens and towels are included or if there’s an extra charge.

How to Book a Hostel in Prague Without Overpaying

My personal strategy starts with a quick search on a price comparison site like Hostelz.com. That way, I can see what’s available across different booking platforms in one go. A lot of people don’t realize they can find different prices for the same hostel depending on the site.

Once you’ve picked a hostel, read the booking details carefully. Check for any hidden fees like city taxes, bedding charges, or late check-in fees.

Look at the cancellation policy too. Some hostels are flexible; others might keep your deposit if you cancel last-minute.

In a popular city like Prague, it’s more common to miss out on top-rated hostels if you leave it too late. 

6 Hidden Gemz for Prague (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Hostel Safety and What to Watch Out For

Overall, Prague feels safe for solo travelers, but it’s still smart to keep basic precautions in mind. Most hostels will have lockers or a secure storage room where you can stash your passport and valuables. Some places use keycards, others might have traditional keys, but either way, confirm that the front desk is staffed 24/7.

Pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas, especially around Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, or busy trams. Always keep an eye on your phone and wallet in these spots. And in the hostel common areas, just be mindful—don’t leave your stuff lying around unattended, especially electronics.

Before you book, skim recent reviews to see if anyone mentions stolen items or weird vibes. It’s always good to double-check. If you see multiple comments about missing belongings, that’s a red flag.

Final thoughts

I’ve stayed in a handful of Prague hostels over the years, and each experience taught me something new about how to pick the right place. Some folks want a buzzing common room and new party pals every night, while others crave a cozy corner to read their guidebook in peace. Prague offers both extremes and everything in between.

Yes, it might be a bit more expensive than you’d expect if you’re used to other Eastern European cities. And yes, some of those charming, old buildings can feel cramped. But the city’s history, nightlife, and sheer beauty make the hostel life worth it. 

Just be clear on your priorities—location, social vibe, budget—and manage your expectations.

That way, you’ll find a hostel that fits your travel style and leaves you with great memories of Prague.

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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: Anna Kiefer

My travels have taken me from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the tranquil beauty of Spain, each destination adding a new chapter to my journey. For me, travel isn’t about counting countries or ticking off lists; it’s about the freedom it brings and the stories that unfold with each new adventure. At Hostelgeeks, my goal is to infuse our brand with this sense of freedom and discovery.

Whether it’s finding the perfect 5 Star Hostel or sharing a hidden gem in a bustling city, I’m here to ensure that our travelers get more than just a journey – they get an experience that resonates with the joy of exploration and the freedom of the open road.