Prague Hostels

Amid the Gothic spires and cobbled streets of the Czech Republic's immersive capital city, there's a whole host of wallet-friendly stays with dormitory beds and affordable private doubles to pick from. But hostels in Prague aren't just about low rates. They can also be plenty of fun, not to mention a great way to feel the rich, medieval character of the town. You can catch some with smoky basement bars where evening pub quizzes and jazz quartets fill the entertainment's schedule. Others have large kitchens where you can cook your own Czech smorgasbords from local market foods. Some boast fun-loving extras like games rooms – foosball, anyone? – and libraries. A dip into Kafka, perhaps? Of course, location is paramount, which is why hostels in Prague so often nestle into the maze-like Old Town district, or near its outskirts, just a tram ride from the Vltava River.

Who's drawn to hostels in Prague?

All sorts of travellers are likely to feel right at home in hostels in Prague. That's not only because they offer comfort and all the basics for less, but also because they come with plenty of character and charm. Hedonists looking to get stuck into the fabled nightlife of the Czech Republic, with a whirlwind of pub crawls, shot tasting and beer-doused happy hours, can look to the party hostels that pepper the city. Couples might prefer the boutique hostels that have stylish double rooms and shared kitchen spaces – they balance social meets with privacy. For solo folk who simply want to get some sightseeing done without breaking the bank, Prague's low-key hostel stays with dorm rooms of six or 10 beds and shared bathrooms could be perfect.

There's always room for intriguing design trends in hostels in Prague, too. In true Czech style, a beer hall is a regular addition to these stays. Head down to the brick-built basement below the dormitories and you might discover hidden bars with unpasteurized Bohemian lagers on tap. Happy hour deals and a medley of evening entertainments – quizzes, jazz shows, stand-up comedy – can be expected in those. Other places might occupy centuries-old buildings in the heart of the Old Town, where you'll discover high-ceilinged libraries brimming with books. And there are modern hostels in the Nove Mesto. They'll typically have good links with the tram network, along with big kitchens and even garden spaces.

The fun of hostels in Prague

Explorations in the Czech capital can be taken to the next level with a stay in hostels in Prague. If you're keen to find somewhere lively, vibrant and packed with likeminded travellers who could be your sightseeing buddy, the Czech Inn is a fine pick. You can forge friendships over craft beers in the basement there, all before heading out on free walking tours of the Old Town, rollicking after-dark pub crawls, trips through Prague Castle or perhaps even adrenaline-pumping mountain biking and hiking excursions to the sylvan hills of the Bohemian backcountry – reception can help organise the lot. Close to Prague's hipster district is Sir Toby's Hostel. Step out from its library room and into Holesovice to be surrounded by arty cafes, street bazaars and fashion boutiques.