Top Hostels in Europe

Good hostels offer more than just inexpensive accommodation. They allow the traveller to meet new people from all over the world and garner information about other great places to visit. The more unique hostels, in fact, are those located in rail cars, castles, and even lighthouses.

These hostels are scattered all over Europe, but here is a list of the best ones and their features.

The Bulldog Hostel (Amsterdam)
A sense of humour is a fine thing to have, and the Bulldog Hostel has plenty. Along with a bar, a common room, guest kitchens, and luggage storage, this hostel also offers a Ninja Assassin wakeup call and even a Film Making Studio. Dormitories go for $27 a night.

The Cat's Hostel (Madrid)
This is truly backpacker paradise, as this offers more than the usual rooms and lounge areas — it also has 24-hour reception, WiFi (wireless) in the rooms and free Internet access, telephone and fax, and security lockers. Dormitories start at $22.

Finale Ligure Youth Hostel (Italy)
Located in a real castle, this hostel is open to those who want to experience a fairy-tale like holiday. It's based right along the sea and near Finale trails.

Yellow Hostel (Rome)
This popular hostel offers a 24-hour reception desk, travel information desk, free Internet access, telephone and fax, and even a lift. Dormitories (non-smoking) are at $29.

The Globetrotter Inn Hostel (Edinburgh)
This hostel offers a travel information desk, Internet access, a bar, bicycle rental, parking, a BBQ area, and even a gym. Their hostel shuttle goes for just a $1 a day. Dormitories are $19 a night.