Top 5 Hostels to Stay in Vienna and 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Staying in Hostels

6/17/20245 min read

Top 5 Hostels to Stay in Vienna

Vienna, a city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of accommodation options for travelers. For those seeking budget-friendly yet comfortable stays, hostels are an excellent choice. Here, we explore the top 5 hostels in Vienna, as recommended by Hostelworld.com.

1) Wombats City Hostel Vienna - The Lounge

Strategically located near Mariahilfer Straße, Vienna's longest shopping street, Wombats City Hostel Vienna - The Lounge is well-connected by public transport, with the Westbahnhof train station just a short walk away. The hostel offers a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a guest kitchen, and a bar. Guests consistently praise the cleanliness, friendly staff, and vibrant social atmosphere. Prices are moderate, reflecting the quality of the services provided. Unique features include organized city tours and a lively common area perfect for meeting fellow travelers.

2) Meininger Vienna Downtown Sissi

Situated in the Leopoldstadt district, Meininger Vienna Downtown Sissi combines the charm of a boutique hotel with the social aspects of a hostel. It is within walking distance to the historic center and the famous Prater Park. The hostel boasts modern facilities such as a guest kitchen, game zone, and 24-hour reception. Visitors appreciate the comfortable rooms and the communal vibe. The price range is slightly higher but justified by the amenities and prime location. Special events like quiz nights and themed dinners add to its appeal.

3) Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna

A family-owned establishment, Hostel Ruthensteiner Vienna is renowned for its warm hospitality and artistic ambiance. Located close to the Schönbrunn Palace and Westbahnhof, it offers easy access to Vienna's attractions. The hostel features a beautiful garden, musical instruments for guest use, and a cozy bar. Reviews highlight the friendly staff and community feel. Prices are reasonable, making it a popular choice for budget travelers. Unique offerings include art workshops and live music sessions.

4) JO&JOE Vienna

They offer you a cool and caring place, a mixture of hostel, hotel and party spot and for this reason a location that offers something for everyone! Each JO&JOE is directly integrated into the neighborhood and city life, offering various accommodation options, exciting activities like parties, live music, karaoke, gaming events, beer pong and much more, but also super tasty food and drinks for everyone! For this reason, they are the perfect place to get to know a city like Vienna, as we are a place where international travellers and locals meet, party and enjoy time and all this in the middle of the city, above the first inner-city IKEA in the world and all this for a great price!

5) Do Step Inn

Do Step Inn offers a unique blend of private rooms and dormitory accommodations, catering to different types of travelers. Located near the Westbahnhof train station, it provides easy connectivity to Vienna's main attractions. The hostel features a shared kitchen, a games room, and bicycle rentals. Reviews often mention the excellent value for money, clean rooms, and friendly service. The price range is affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. Special events such as movie nights and guided tours enhance the overall experience.

Choosing the right hostel can significantly enhance your travel experience in Vienna. Each of these top-rated hostels offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and community, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful city.

7 Mistakes Not to Make When Staying in Hostels

Staying in hostels can be an enriching experience, but it’s crucial to be aware of common mistakes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. Here are seven mistakes travelers often make and why they should be avoided.

1) Not researching the hostel beforehand: Failing to research a hostel can lead to unpleasant surprises. Look for reviews and ratings to understand the hostel’s cleanliness, safety, and atmosphere. This helps you find a place that matches your expectations and needs.

2) Ignoring hostel rules and etiquette: Each hostel has its own set of rules and regulations. Ignoring them can create friction with staff and fellow travelers. Familiarize yourself with the rules upon arrival to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a harmonious stay.

3) Being careless with personal belongings: Hostels are communal spaces, making it easy for items to be misplaced or stolen. Always use lockers and keep valuables secure. Bringing a padlock can provide additional security for your personal belongings.

4) Not socializing with fellow travelers: One of the joys of hostel life is meeting new people. Isolating yourself can mean missing out on valuable experiences and connections. Engage in common areas and participate in hostel activities to make the most of your stay.

5) Failing to bring essential items: Items like earplugs, eye masks, and a padlock can significantly enhance your hostel experience. These essentials can help you sleep better and keep your belongings safe, contributing to a more comfortable stay.

6) Overpacking or underpacking: Striking the right balance with packing is key. Overpacking can make your stay cumbersome, while underpacking may leave you without necessities. Plan your packing list carefully, considering the hostel’s amenities and the duration of your trip.

7) Not respecting shared spaces and quiet hours: Hostels are social environments, but it’s important to respect shared spaces and quiet hours. Being considerate of others by keeping noise levels down and maintaining cleanliness in communal areas ensures a pleasant environment for everyone.

Avoiding these common mistakes can greatly enhance your hostel experience, making your stay more enjoyable and trouble-free. By being mindful and prepared, you can fully embrace the unique opportunities that hostel living offers.

Why These Mistakes Matter

When staying in a hostel, avoiding common mistakes is essential for ensuring a pleasant experience. These errors can significantly impact your personal safety, the quality of your stay, and your relationships with other guests. For instance, neglecting security measures like using a locker for your valuables can lead to theft, compromising your sense of safety and peace of mind. Similarly, not researching hostel reviews beforehand may result in choosing a place with poor facilities or an inconvenient location, diminishing the overall quality of your trip.

Another critical aspect is the social dynamics within hostels. Failing to adhere to established etiquette can strain relationships with fellow travelers. For example, being excessively noisy in shared dormitories or not cleaning up after yourself in communal areas can cause friction and discomfort. These actions not only affect others but also create a negative atmosphere, making it difficult to enjoy your stay. A real-life anecdote highlights this: a traveler who repeatedly ignored quiet hours found themselves ostracized by other guests, leading to a lonely and unenjoyable experience.

To make the most out of your hostel stay, it is advisable to participate in hostel-organized activities. These events are designed to foster a sense of community and provide opportunities to meet new people, enriching your travel experience. Exploring communal areas, such as lounges or kitchens, can also lead to spontaneous conversations and friendships. Being a respectful and considerate guest by adhering to hostel rules and maintaining cleanliness ensures that everyone, including yourself, has an enjoyable time.

Ultimately, paying attention to these details can profoundly enhance your hostel experience. By avoiding common mistakes and embracing the communal spirit of hostels, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable stay.