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An efficient and comfortable travel experience stands or falls with the right place to stay, and for train travellers this means smartly selecting hostels along train routes. You can easily match the best hostels to your travel schedule by focusing on locations close to central stations, with facilities such as luggage storage and good reviews. Read on and discover how to plan your train journey through Europe smoothly and on a budget.
Why a hostel near the station is a smart choice
When you organise a holiday yourself, every detail counts. Choosing a hostel within walking distance of a train station offers considerable advantages. You save time and money on local transport and avoid the stress of dragging your luggage through an unfamiliar city, especially if you arrive late or depart early. Hostels near stations are often geared towards the needs of train travellers. They usually offer flexible check-in times, secure luggage storage and a lively, social atmosphere where you can easily meet other travellers. Facilities such as free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and organised events complete your stay and keep it affordable.
‘ Large chains such as Generator and Wombats have strategically opened locations close to major transport hubs. ’
Popular train routes and recommended hostels
Many popular European train routes are excellently served by good hostels. Large chains such as Generator and Wombats have strategically opened locations close to major transport hubs. Below you will find an overview of reliable options along frequently used routes, selected on the basis of location, facilities and reviews.
Western Europe: Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam
The high-speed line between these three capitals makes it easy to visit several cities in a short time. The stations are centrally located, so you arrive right in the heart of the city.
- Paris (Gare du Nord/Gare de l’Est): Generator Paris is a popular choice. This hostel is known for its modern design and social events. Another good option is Jo&Joe Gentilly, which is often praised for its comfort and terrace.
- Brussels (Zuidstation/Midi): Close to the station where the international trains arrive, you will find Meininger City Centre. This hostel offers an affordable and functional base. Jacques Brel Youth Hostel is within walking distance of the Grand Place and is a great place to meet international travellers.
- Amsterdam (Centraal Station): StayOkay Vondelpark is a well-known name and a favourite among Eurail travellers, partly thanks to its location by the famous park. Ecomama is a sustainable option also located a short distance from the station.
Central Europe: Munich, Vienna and Prague
This classic route through the heart of Europe connects three cities with a rich history. The rail links are efficient, and night trains offer a comfortable way to travel between the cities.
- Munich (Hauptbahnhof): Wombats City Hostel is a household name among backpackers. It is just a ten-minute walk from the central station and has a lively bar. Meininger Olympiapark is another reliable alternative.
- Vienna (Hauptbahnhof/Praterstern): Vienna is an important hub for night trains. Around Praterstern and the Hauptbahnhof you will find branches of both Wombats and Generator, both offering a high standard.
- Prague (Hlavní nádraží): In Prague too, Generator has a stylish hostel near the central station, so you can get settled quickly after arrival.
Southern Europe: Rome, Florence and Venice
Travelling by high-speed train through Italy is a comfortable way to discover the country’s cultural treasures. The stations are generally located in the middle of the city, which makes the logistics straightforward.
- Rome (Termini/Trastevere): Near the central station Termini you will find Generator Rome. Choose Hostel Trustever in the atmospheric district of Trastevere, known for its garden and cosy bar.
- Florence (Santa Maria Novella): Archi Rossi Hostel is right next to the station and has a garden and a large kitchen. Plus Florence is another favourite among train travellers, with facilities such as a swimming pool.
- Venice (Santa Lucia): Combo Venezia is housed in a beautifully renovated convent in a convenient location for the train station.
Practical tips for booking your hostel
Good preparation ensures a relaxed trip. Use the following tips to find and book the best hostels for your train adventure.
- Use the right search filters: On booking platforms such as Hostelworld, filter by distance to the city centre or specific train stations. Set a maximum walking distance, for example 1 kilometre, to view relevant options.
- Check reception hours: Not every hostel has a 24-hour reception. Check the opening hours so you do not end up in front of a locked door if your train is delayed or you arrive late in the evening.
- Opt for luggage storage: A hostel with a locked luggage room is worth its weight in gold. On your arrival and departure days, you can explore the city without having to lug around your heavy bag.
- Read recent reviews: Pay attention to what other travellers say about the location, atmosphere, hygiene and safety. Reviews often give a more realistic picture than the official descriptions.
- Consider special rooms: For extra comfort or privacy, many hostels offer private rooms. Female solo travellers often book a bed in a “female-only dorm”.
Planning your trip forms the basis for a successful holiday and goes beyond mapping out a route. On the Traveler Tips website you will find much more practical information about train travel, from choosing the right Interrail Pass to tips for travelling on night trains. Explore our in-depth articles and itineraries and start your next European adventure well prepared. With the right preparation, a smartly chosen hostel near the station and reliable information about train connections, every trip becomes an unforgettable experience.
Frequently asked questions
Use apps such as Hostelworld or Eurail partners and filter for hostels near train stations (within a 10–15 minute walk). Choose accommodation from chains such as Generator and Wombats, which are often strategically located along popular train routes. Also check for facilities such as 24/7 reception and luggage storage, which are essential for travellers with frequent stops. A Eurail Hostel Pass can also offer discounts at partner hostels.
To find comfortable and affordable hostels that suit your travel style, focus on accommodation near train stations and use apps such as Hostelworld and Eurail partners with filters for “near station”. Consider chains such as Generator and Wombats for multiple locations and book smartly with a Eurail Hostel Pass for discounts. Read reviews and pay attention to facilities such as luggage storage and reception opening hours.
You can assess the reliability and quality of hostels by focusing on accommodation near train stations (within a 10–15 minute walk) and choosing well-known chains such as Generator or Wombats. Use apps such as Hostelworld to filter by “near station” and look for high ratings (above 8.5/10) and facilities such as kitchens or luggage storage. Also consult user-generated content on platforms such as Reddit for real-world experiences and tips. Book smartly with discounts via the Eurail Hostel Pass and check for 24/7 reception and luggage storage.
The most efficient search methods for booking hostels close to train stations are to focus on accommodation near central train stations and to use apps such as Hostelworld or Eurail partners with filters for “near station”. Chains such as Generator and Wombats, which have multiple locations, are often a good choice. Eurail Hostel Pass offers discounts, and 24/7 reception and luggage storage are important facilities to look out for.
To choose hostels that offer a unique local experience, look for accommodation within walking distance of train stations, which is essential to avoid luggage stress, especially with late arrivals. Choose hostels with high ratings (above 8.5/10) and useful facilities such as kitchens or luggage storage. Popular options that contribute to a local vibe include, for example, Generator Paris near Canal Saint-Martin, the historic Castle Rock Hostel in Edinburgh, or Hostel Trustever in the lively Trastevere district in Rome. Use apps such as Hostelworld to filter for “near station” and check user reviews on platforms such as Reddit for personal recommendations about the social atmosphere.
