Best Hostels In Croatia As Suggested By Locals

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Best hostels in Croatia. These are the Croatian hostels you don’t want to miss while backpacking in Croatia.

A while back, I noticed a trend: bloggers saying they’re “over hostels.” Over hostels? What on earth can they mean? Hostels are GREAT! So many of my travel stories start with “So, I stayed in this great hostel….”

And end with Absinthe-fuelled nights, randomly hiking up a mountain to look over a city, staying in on a Saturday night eating the best paella I’ve ever had, or blagging our way into music festivals.

Or simply by someone saving me money when I realized I’d left my entire shower bag behind in not only another hostel but another country & giving me her shampoo, conditioner & shower gel as she was going home the following day! You wouldn’t get those random nights out, weird trips, or kindness if you stayed in a room alone in a hotel.

Don’t forget that when you’re sharing space with people- especially people you’ve just met – you have to be courteous. Please respect people’s space; don’t dump your things on their beds or by their feet. Don’t leave all your products scattered around the bathroom.

Recently I traveled with my best friend, and I loved sharing space with her, but her biggest pet peeve? My drunken snoring. Yeah… that’s embarrassing, but worse is keeping your whole dorm room awake all night with it.

Before you go out, tell them it’s okay to throw a pillow at you or wake you if you’re keeping them awake! If you are coming in later, then make sure your toothbrush, toothpaste & pajamas (don’t be going naked in a hostel bed, not only does no one want to see it, you never know who else is sharing your bed & I’m not speaking about people, tho’ I’ll come to that!) are out ready at the end of your bed, no rustling, no banging around, and absolutely NO LIGHTS- use your phone!

Lastly, if you meet someone hot on your big night out and want to…. Consummate your new-found love; please do it somewhere other than your dorm room! No one wants to hear that or be in another bunk falling asleep to the gentle (or not so) swaying of the bunk while you’re getting busy.

If you all keep on each other’s right side, your dorm mates will become your family for a few days, your travel advisors, your sisters to have a late-night girly chat about what someone’s boyfriend thinks “Netflix & Chill” mean, and whether “and,” “&,” or “n” have different connotations!

That’s why I love hostels, and I recommend you check out these hostels in Croatia.

Zagreb

Swanky Mint Hostel

In third place last month in Best Hostels in Croatia, Swanky Mint is a gem in the country’s capital city. This hostel is located on Zagreb’s main street and is a factory convert. Back in the 19^th century, 3 Czech brothers moved, as many others did, for work and adventure. With them, they brought their expertise and new technologies. One of the brothers opened a Dry Cleaner’s, as had another Czech, this time, a woman.

The pair met and eventually married; they bought their home on the site of this hostel. With their combined expertise, they opened a dry cleaner and expanded into the steam-operated dying of clothes and textiles.

The hostel is definitely swanky, with the theme being of an old factory, the beds appearing to be made of chipboard, and the exposed walls. You’ve got the choice of dorms or private rooms.

The hostel offers all the usual amenities that backpackers love: WiFi, real towels, lockers, and key cards for the rooms. The hostel boasts a garden, sun terrace, and a bar, reminding me you get a shot of Rakija to welcome you to Zagreb.

 

Hostel Shappy

Right in the heart of Zagreb, in the pedestrian zone, this new, cozy design hostel puts travelers within walking distance of some of the best grub, cold beverages, nightlife, and cultural heritage in the city. Dorm and private rooms are decorated according to unique style and taste, so pick a design that fits your personality.

The hostel offers special packages for large groups, business travelers, and couples and is equipped to accommodate families. Free WiFi and air-conditioning are a few extra perks to look forward to when staying here.

 

Main Square Hostel

Another hostel that puts travelers right in the middle of Zagreb action is Main Square Hostel. The name suggests that it is just 50 feet from Ban Jelačić Square. This modern hostel is loaded with unique and funky art, giving the whole place a chill atmosphere.

Choose between dorm-style rooms or suites and enjoy free WiFi, onsite laundry, and a lounge area decked with flat-screen TVs and a PS4. There are no dining facilities onsite (just vending machines for the in-between meal munchies), so this hostel is perfect for travelers ready to hit the streets to explore the neighborhood cuisine.

 

Mali Mrak Hostel

One of the first hostels in Zagreb, Mali Mrak, is a friendly house; they advertise themselves as an excellent place to stay if you’re a traveler with an easy-going attitude to life (no princesses) & they say it absolutely isn’t a party hostel. It is 20 minutes by tram out of the city center on the foothills of Medvednica and a 15 minutes walk to the Grmošćica nature park.

The hostel will offer you information on the best areas to go for hikes and make the most of the natural beauty it’s surrounded by. You might even get proposed to join the owner on a walk with his dog. The hostel has loads to offer and all the usual amenities, towels, linen, and WiFi. Not just complimentary tea and coffee facilities, but free wine too! There are also free laundry facilities and bikes for guests staying for a more extended period in Zagreb.

Those interested in local culture can find the best secret haunts and other stuff outside the mainstream tourist stuff. They’ll take you out on the market day and arrange a community dinner for those interested. Plus, they offer discounts to lefties and, since I am one, what’s not to love?! The hostel can also arrange for you to do yoga lessons on the terrace (in the summer) and get a massage.

 

Dubrovnik

City Walls Hostel, Dubrovnik

This hostel was renamed recently and renovated and was formerly the Fresh Sheets Hostel. Located centrally in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, this hostel has won awards, making it very popular.

The hostel’s atmosphere is fun and friendly, and many guests enjoy the lively feel on site. Rooms are either 4 or 6 bedded dorm-style and mixed. There is a small double bedroom onsite, which can be booked ahead of time, as it is very popular also. Free WiFi and a shared kitchen and lounge area are available on the property. All guests have access to their locker also.

 

Hostel EuroAdria

Located around 3 km from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, the Hostel EuroAdria is close to Lapad Bay and Pile Gate, so it’s easy to get out and explore the local area from here via the local bus network, which runs past the property. WiFi is excellent throughout the hostel, and all rooms are air-conditioned for comfort.

You can choose between mixed dorms in 6 or 4 bedded formats or book a private room if you prefer. Breakfast is served at a restaurant a few meters from the hostel, offering many different options for different dietary requirements.

Rooms have seating areas, flat-screen TVs, and shared bathrooms. There is a fridge in each room also.

This hostel is located very close to a natural area, so you can hire bikes from the hostel and head off for some exercise or enjoy the gardens and soak up the sun. This isn’t a particularly ‘party central’ hostel, but more of a relaxing place to rest your head.

 

Hostel Angelina Old Town Dubrovnik

This three-star hostel is located in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, so ideal for those who want to get out and sightsee without having to travel too far. There are plenty of bars and restaurants just a stone’s throw from the door, and you’re within the pedestrianized zone, so you don’t have to worry about traffic.

Dorms sleep up to 12 people, or you can book a private room if you want to. There is a fridge, toaster, and oven in the shared kitchen area for snacks, and the hotel is spread over two buildings, with a five-minute walk between the two.

The hostel has free WiFi, good quality, and a terrace for soaking up the morning sun. All rooms are non-smoking, and air conditioning is provided as standard.

 

Hostel 365 For U

One of the best hostels in Dubrovnik is Hostel 365 For U. Housed in a historic building that used to serve as military accommodation in the Austro-Hungarian period, this stylish and modern hostel lies about 1.5 kilometers from the Old Town, which is definitely within easy walking distance. It lies conveniently halfway between the Old Town and the central bus station, a perfect strategic location for any hostel.

Amenities include a 24-hour reception, a shared lounge with satellite TV, lockers, and free WiFi. You can grab some breakfast and coffee at Culto Cafe Bar, while Restaurant Mezzanave serves affordable food near the hostel. A couple of supermarkets are a stone’s throw away, too.

Accommodation is available in various rooms, including single and twin rooms and traditional dorms (4-bed, 6-bed, and 8-bed dorms). The rooms feature a fascinating modern design and have a wardrobe and seating area. Bathrooms are shared.

 

Zadar

Boutique Hostel Forum

In the heart of Zadar, Boutique Hostel Forum defies just being a bed to crash on at the end of a long day. Recently winning Best Hostel in Croatia offers you en-suite rooms with all the usual amenities free of charge.

You can choose between dorms or private rooms- which come with their minibar and TV- this hostel has all the amenities of a hotel for a much cheaper price tag. The building itself was built just after WWII, and the outside looks very serious. The designers decided to combine this with a lively interior, and the size of the property meant some serious space issues.

The building’s dimensions measuring 75 m by 5 m, meant fitting people it was going to take some genius. Luckily they found that, and they took the time to make sure that you’d find your own space in this tiny space and be able to socialize with others all at the same time. Homage has been paid to the Roman Forum, with the room numbers in Roman Numerals and the grandstand in the Common Area.

They’ve made this hostel an architectural and design paradise using geometry, bright colors, patterns, and mirrors. You have to see it to believe it!

 

Windward Hostel Zadar

This hostel is located centrally in Zadar and is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and cafes for your evening’s entertainment. You are also within reach of many attractions too.

The yachting-themed hostel is small but clean and has excellent WiFi and onsite parking. Rooms are all air-conditioned and non-smoking, and a shared outdoor terrace for soaking up the sun and socializing. Rooms are spacious, and you can choose between dorms sleeping up to eight people (mixed) or a private room with a double bed. Shared bathrooms are clean and quite large also. Private rooms book up quickly, so book ahead of time if possible.

This hostel is ideal for exploring the local area as a base and is a quiet and comfortable place to rest your head in the evenings.

 

Drunken Monkey

This hostel is not central in the Arbanasi district of Zadar, but it is incredible. It’s a 20-minute walk along the waterfront to the Old City Gates, but the sea is five minutes away. Being out of the Old Town, the hostel can accommodate you with lots of space. The dorm rooms are said to be spacious and well thought out, with beds against the walls, giving you room to sort your things out in the middle of the floor.

The Drunken Monkey has a bar that is open till midnight, serving hot drinks, smoothies, and alcoholic beverages but no food- you can visit the sister hostel, The Lazy Monkey, if you feel the need for breakfast. The hostel has a garden with lounge chairs, a hammock, a BBQ, and a splash pool! Who doesn’t love when a hostel has a splash pool? If you can drag yourself back out into the world, you could go for a walk down to the beach.

Away from the central areas, this one isn’t overcrowded with tourists, and if you continue from there for 10 minutes, there is a great and affordable beach bar!

 

Sky Hostel – Zadar

Sky Hostel is located within the center of Zadar, close to most major attractions. Zadar Airport is just 11 km away from the property. The local buses also run close by.

Rooms are either mixed dorms with four beds or female-only with four beds. The bathrooms are shared and very clean, and there is free WiFi throughout the property. Each room has a coffee machine, and some rooms have a balcony area for chilling out. There is also a seating area in each room.

Breakfast is served at the hostel daily, and around the property, you’ll find countless bars and restaurants too. This hostel is an excellent choice for those who want to stay somewhere that isn’t too overcrowded but still has plenty of life. There are also many things to see and do around the hostel.

 

Hvar

Earthers Hostel

Started by a group of travelers, this hostel has all the “Backpacker staples” (WiFi, laundry service, breakfast, lockers). They try to provide guests with everything they could need, from pancake- waffles at breakfast to sorting out your day trips and nights out. Their common areas boast hammocks, and a ping pong table, too.

The rooms are spacious and open onto the balconies or gardens and are great for chilling out if you had a heavy night the night before. They can sort you out for scuba diving, hiking, kayaking, island tours, summer festival info, and cooking courses. They also have all the low down on the local festivals going and getting you to Carpe Diem at night.

 

Hostel Shaka, Hvar

Visitors to the Hostel Shaka in Hvar will be treated to a truly authentic experience, as the hostel is located within a residential area. The property is only around ten minutes on foot from the Old town, and there are several cafes and grocery stores around the hostel itself.

The hostel comprises mixed dorm rooms, which sleep 6 or 8 people, and private rooms are available on request. Every room has an en-suite bathroom, as well as a balcony, for some fresh air. There is a shared kitchen and outdoor terrace area, and lockers are on hand to keep belongings safe. Air-conditioning is standard, and WiFi is complimentary. The overall vibe of the Hostel Shaka is also very upbeat and sociable.

 

Dink’s Place

A laid-back but fun atmosphere is to be found at Dink’s Place. Just a seven-minute walk from the town center, this hostel is right in the heart of all the action and is the perfect place to absorb the island’s atmosphere.

While it is close to the town, you’re still far enough to get a decent night’s sleep in a more tranquil neighborhood. Offering comfy beds- with a plug socket for each bed- and lockable drawer’s for your valuables, this hostel is excellent for a good, comfortable night’s sleep.

At Dink’s, you can hire bicycles, scooters, or boats and tell you where all the hidden beaches are on the island, as well as send you to vineyards and wineries- and even fields of lavender during the right season. They also organize nights out at the best bars and clubs on the island.

 

The White Rabbit Hostel

Owned and run by a pair of young travelers, this bright, spacious hostel has a prime location in the middle of Hvar town and is known for its social atmosphere. Sleep in one of the 2, 4, 6, or 8-bed dorms and enjoy the hostel’s goodies.

It boasts a lively rooftop bar (open morning to night), high-speed WiFi, and friendly staff willing to organize tours. A kitchen is available for your cooking needs, air-conditioning, and lockers.

 

For more of our favorite places to stay on Hvar Island, click here.

Split

Split Backpackers

A traditional style backpackers hostel in Split, with a mixture of dorms and private rooms depending on your requirements, and barely a five-minute walk to town, this is an excellent choice of the many hostels in Split. Tea and Coffee are on tap all day, and you can try their homemade Rakija to start your night.

It’s a great place to meet other travelers in Split. The only downside is the lack of a kitchen, but you can get discounted meals and cheap breakfasts at a restaurant nearby. The staff is knowledgeable about the town and surrounding areas. They can organize any number of day trips, including rafting on the Cetina river nearby (tons of fun!) and sea kayaking around Split. Plus, they can organize pub crawls and take you to all the hotspots around Split.

 

Downtown Hostel, Split

Visitors to the Downtown Hostel stay in exceptionally central surroundings, as the hostel is set within the actual Palace of Diocletian. This is a fantastic choice of accommodation for the price, and there are many sights to see just outside the property’s door. There is onsite bike and car hire available and many other social activities to enjoy, such as darts.

Some rooms have seating areas, and all rooms have a private or shared bathroom, depending upon a specific choice at the time of booking. Regardless, there is a shared kitchen space and a 24-hour reception desk for any queries or questions during a stay. WiFi is high quality and free also.

 

Hostel Matejuska, Split

The location of the Hostel Matejuska is fantastic because not only is it central within Split, but it also has beautiful sweeping views over the Adriatic Sea. Of course, as with most hostels, WiFi is complimentary, and the central location also means many sights and amenities within walking distance. The Palace of Diocletian and Republic Square are both just 500 meters away on foot, and there are countless bars, restaurants, and cafes just around the corner.

The rooms have shared bathrooms, and most have that sea view. There is a lounge area for guests to enjoy, ad there are also vending machines onsite for light snacks.

 

Split Hostel Fiesta Siesta

“Good vibes on tap” this hostel is run by Aussie backpackers in the center of Split, in Diocletian’s Palace. It’s conveniently located above Charlie’s Backpackers bar to start your nights out. With all the backpacker staples, including complimentary breakfast, it’s a fantastic choice if you want to party the nights away in Split.

 

Hostel Emanuel

Another option in the heart of Split is the charming Hostel Emanuel. All Lodging is dormitory-style, and one of the best features of these bunks is the power plug and reading lamp available for each bed. No need to worry about charging your electronics!

The beds are adorned with curtains to give travelers a little extra privacy while getting some shut-eye. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate during breakfast before heading out for the day. Keep in mind – WiFi is available for an extra fee.

 

Kamena Lodge

This unique, old stone villa has charm and character – over 200 years old! – Along with an abundance of renovated amenities. It’s the perfect home base for travelers looking to explore Split and the surrounding areas. Just a 10-minute drive from the city, the lodge offers free pick up and drop off in Split twice a day.

All rooms have an en-suite bathroom, and guests can expect traditional backpacker amenities. The best part? After a long day of adventure, relax in the swimming pool, sunbeds and hammocks.

 

Design Hostel Goli & Bosi

Boutique hostel? Yes, please! Ultra-modern, ultra-funky, and ultra-clean. Grab some shut-eye in dorm-style bunks, private suites that come with complimentary breakfast, or a quirky “Ship Cabin” (perfect for the explorer who wants a private room and shower but doesn’t need the luxury of space). Enjoy no-frills food with fresh ingredients at Snack Pizzeria De Belly onsite, serving a fun daily menu of Croatian faves.

 

Šibenik

Hostel Splendido

Hostel Splendido is a comfortable, chic, family-run hostel with guest rooms featuring 2, 3, 4, or 8 beds in the city center. Guests enjoy access to shared bathrooms (complete with hairdryers), a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, free parking (for cars and bicycles), and free WiFi. 

The onsite billiards, garden terrace, cafe, and bar provide additional comforts for backpackers ready to unwind after a day of exploring the local area. For those needing a little extra caffeine, tea and coffee-making facilities are always awaiting guest use!

 

Hostel Scala

What, a hostel with a pool? That’s right! Hostel Scala has an outdoor pool with lounges and a garden in the middle of Šibenik. From this well-rated hostel, it’s an under-10-minute walk to significant landmarks like the imposing St. James Cathedral, the Šibenik City Hall, the Monastery of St. Laurence, Subicevac Fortress, and the iconic Fortress of St. Michael. You’ll be at the waterfront in mere minutes, too.

In addition to that popular pool, Hostel Scala has a bar and double dorm rooms. All rooms come with air-conditioning and a private bathroom, even the dorms. WiFi is available free of charge, and the shared kitchen is a great area to meet other travelers. People consistently praise this hostel’s location and the friendliness of the staff.

 

Brands We Use And Trust

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Lovran

Hostel Link

With bright walls of block colors, bold artwork, a bar terrace overlooking Kvarner Bay, air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, and many funky dorms or private rooms (some with a seaside view), there is much to love about this hostel.

Located right in the heart of Old Town Lovran, travelers can explore the nearby coffee bars and restaurants or grab a beverage or snack at the hostel’s bar and cafe. Other great features? Pets are allowed upon request, WiFi is free, and a convenience store is onsite.

 

Istria

Villa Borgo, Istria

Set in Motovun, a small village in Istria, this particular hostel is ideal for anyone who loves the open countryside, as the views over the valley are stunning. The City Gates are just a few meters from the property, and the terrace overlooks the Mirna River and surrounding countryside. Many outdoor activities, such as paragliding and hiking, are available onsite or just a short distance away.

More of a small B&B than a hostel, this particular property is within the same price range but gives much more quality for guests to enjoy and the beautiful location. The hostel offers rooms and apartments with private bathrooms and fans for the warmer months. Apartments have a satellite TV, as well as kitchen facilities.

 

Joyce, Pula

Located in central Pula, adjacent to the Gate of Sergeii, this hostel offers fantastic value for money and excellent hotel rooms. All rooms are double and have en-suite bathroom facilities, air conditioning, TVs, and complimentary WiFi.

There are either twin beds or a double bed inside. Breakfast is complimentary, although many small cafes and restaurants are just outside the property if guests prefer to eat outside.

This hostel’s price is a little higher than some other hostels in the area, but that is because rooms are private and not dorm-style. There isn’t an elevator onsite, so guests with mobility problems should request a lower-level floor. Breakfast is also included, which bumps the price up a little.

 

Roundabout, Rovinj

This particular hostel is very popular and is also genuine value for money. Located centrally, at the direct entrance to the city, this is a new property, so rooms and facilities are very modern and clean as a result.

Rooms are either four or 8-bed dorm rooms, which are mixed. The rooms are all air-conditioned, and the hostel also provides complimentary linen and towels. Each separate bed in the dorm comes with a locker for keeping items secure and a reading lamp. There is a shared kitchen area, a bar for making new friends, and a 24-hour reception area for any problems or queries.

 

Elsewhere

Hostel Dalmatia

Hostel Dalmatia – where the mountains kiss the sea.   Hostel Dalmatia offers travelers a tranquil getaway in stunning nature. It is located in Marušici on the Omiš Riviera and just a 1/2 hour south of Split on the way to Dubrovnik, between Omiš and Makarska along the scenic Dalmatian coast.

Two beautiful pebbly beaches are within a 5-minute walk from the hostel, each with its unique charm and character. Close enough to Split and other larger towns to enjoy the nightlife, but also in a quieter location for those looking for serenity and a more relaxed pace. With many hidden gems in the nearby towns and villages, the owners love to share their knowledge with all the guests, who become like family.

Enjoy the huge terrace views overlooking the sea while also enjoying the laid-back vibe that all guests enjoy during their stay. There are three private rooms, each with its bathroom and balcony overlooking the Adriatic and the nearby island of Brac and surrounding mountains, and a mixed-bed dorm room with its own bathroom and balcony. All rooms have air-conditioning and heating, and there is strong free WiFi throughout the hostel.

The hostel is open year-round. To inquire in the off-season,  message the hostel directly regarding off-season availability and rates.

 

Hostel Amfora – Fazana

Hostel Amfora is located in the center of Fazana and is a few meters away from a beautiful pebbly beach. This is a laid-back hostel, and most guests all comment on how friendly the staff are. An outdoor terrace overlooks the private gardens, and the hostel is very close to bars and restaurants for some evening fun. The beach also has water sports on offer.

There are various room choices on offer, including dorms that sleep up to eight people or private rooms that sleep up to four guests. All rooms have WiFi, air conditioning, and free parking in the front of the hostel.

There isn’t a restaurant onsite at this hostel, but there are vending machines throughout the property for snacks and, as mentioned, plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants just outside the property.

 

Beach Hostel Eklata

When spending a holiday here with children, Hostel Eklata is the way to go! Miles of sandy and pebble beaches bring families looking for an escape from the bustle of the city to the Makarska Riviera. Loads of sports & recreational activities, children’s entertainment, large family rooms, and the convenience of a mini-mart, kitchen, restaurant, and cafe bar (ice cream here we come!) give this hostel family-friendly bonus points.

 

Hostels rock & these are the cream-of-the-crop. These are the best hostels in Croatia, with so many more to choose from. With all these choices, different hostels for different people, different room options, and the ability to organize day trips and nights out, I can’t see why you’d choose to stay in any other accommodation!

Oh, and lots of hostels in Croatia allow kids, so if you need a travel bed for your toddler, click here. 

What other hostels in Croatia would you add to this list?

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Hostel Rules & Regulations: Tips For Hostel Room Peace

What defines a hostel is the concept of sharing. The space, the room, the kitchen, the bathroom, the meals, the stories. They are all yours but also everybody else’s. You never have breakfast alone at your small corner table. You don’t go to bed without telling a stranger goodnight.

Love it or not, it’s part of the deal! What else can you expect to find in hostels? What expectations should you have when staying in a hostel? What are the hostel rules? Here, let’s explore the answers to keep your hostel rooms peaceful!

Hostel Dorms

The most popular dorm sizes are 4, 6, and 8 people, mixed or gender separated. You will also find larger rooms, around 20 beds, which go for a lower price. You might be surprised when you first come across the triple bunk beds, but it’s a sight you get used to quickly! You will also find private rooms in many places if you need a bit more privacy during the night.

All hostels will have lockers for each guest so that you can store your belongings safely. Bed linen is almost always provided, so there is no need to unpack your sleeping bag; in fact, you might not even be allowed to use it for hygiene purposes in some hostels.

In large cities, you can easily be woken up by guests that check-in during the night due to their flight/bus arrival. In all hostels, the danger can come from snoring guests. Make sure you pack a pair of earplugs if you sleep lightly and get grumpy if somebody wakes you up.

The perfect guest: will keep their area of the room tidy, won’t sleep all day long (as somebody must come in to clean), and won’t arrive late at night with the greatest desire to sing and put on the lights.

Hostel Kitchen

It is almost the norm for hostels to have a kitchen for the guests, equipped with all essentials. Make fair use of that kitchen! Cooking for yourself will help you save good money on eating out all the time and help you meet some of the other guests. There’s no more straightforward ice breaker than telling someone their tortillas smell great.

Don’t forget to label your food with your name and departure date! As a general rule, if there’s no label on that cheese, it is for everyone to share or for the cleaning crew to give it to the cat! And most importantly, remember to clean up after yourself. The kitchen is the place that sees the largest cleaning snowball effect: all it takes is a teaspoon left unwashed in the sink for a pile of dirty dishes to appear in the next five minutes magically.

The perfect guest: will label their food, clean their dishes, and share their dinner if they cook extra!

Kids

Always ask if they are allowed. It’s not always the case. Oh, and if you want good travel beds for kids, try here.

Hostel Bathroom

Generally, hostels have a ratio of 8:1 for how many people per shared toilet and shower. While this might put off some travelers, the system works well if people are respectful of each other’s time. You can also find hostels with private bathrooms if you are not a fan of long corridor walks after your shower.

The perfect guest: will be quick in the shower and will clean after themselves.

How Noisy Will The Hostel Be

There is this misconception that all hostels must be incredibly loud, with all guests interested in partying till the early hours and then stumbling all over your belongings when trying to climb the bed bunk on top of yours. This is not a rule at all. Sure, some hostels and destinations are very much about partying and shouting one’s youth.

But this is their particular market; the hostel industry is so large nowadays that it has something for every niche: the yoga enthusiasts, the festival-goers, the city explorers, the nature lovers, the sporty ones. You just need to find yours!

The perfect guest: will carry a bit of research on the type and location of the hostel before arrival and refrain from practicing their harmonica in the dorm during the night.

Socializing at Your Hostel

Many people decide to stay in a hostel mainly because of this: they want to meet other people, make friends, socialize. (The other reason being, obviously, the price). Whether solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends, they expect to talk, listen and laugh with others.

Now, bear in mind that in a country like Croatia, where there is a big difference between low season and high season, you might find the hostel empty during wintertime. You will always have a friendly host to chat with, though!

The ‘it’ place in every hostel is the common room, outfitted with musical instruments, board games, sometimes a TV or a projector, a karaoke station, books. Depending on the hostel, you will find many organized events for guests to meet, such as potluck dinners, movie nights, workshops, pub crawls; you name it. On alcohol, you should know that most hostels are quite beer-friendly; in fact, many of them have a bar, which helps increase the revenue.

The perfect guest: will interact with the others and the host, will play some games or the guitar, will crack a joke, and plan the next destination after hearing a story from Chile. But the truth is you do not HAVE to be the ultimate sociable person, you can very well enjoy your alone time, and nobody will judge you.

Hostel Facilities

Most hostels will go the extra mile to make their guests feel at home and stay longer. Either free of charge or for a small fee, you are likely to find in your hostel:

• • • Breakfast
    • WiFi
    • Laundry service
    • Storage room
    • Bike rental
    • City tours
    • City maps
    • Book exchange
    • 24hr open reception
    • Outside hang-out areas (a rooftop terrace, or an outdoor bar, or a few hammocks)
    • A pool, if you are fortunate

All in all, keep an open mind. You might have standards when it comes to cleanliness or comfort or proximity to the city center or the beach, but in the end, going to a hostel means more than having a convenient place to sleep. It’s more about the experience, the chance encounters, the new friend from another continent, the new song somebody played on the guitar, the few phrases you learned in the local language.

Let us know of any other hostel rules you like to follow in the comments below.