When you are young and taking your first trip around the world alone or with some friends, hostels will be without a doubt the perfect choice for your stay. After arriving in a new city with just your backpack and the curiosity to explore, you may find that a hostel is the gateway to experiencing a new culture and new atmosphere, making friendships with the locals and with those from around the world. Even if, among young Italians, the hostel culture is less common compared to the rest of Europe, there are countless hostels across the country. Last week the famous website Hostelworld released its rank of the best hostels, according to the guests’ feedback. Here are some of the best in Italy:
Milan – Ostello Bello
While this company offers two hostels in the city of Milan, one in Como, one in Assisi, and even four hostels in Myanmar, Ostello Bello was awarded the prestigious prize of the best hostel chain in the world. It started as a cultural association in 2011 with their first hostel on via Medici and this year it won the prize as the best Italian hostel. During the the last few years it has also turned in a meeting point for the citizens of Milan, with its bar where you can have an Aperitivo just a few steps from the wonderful nightlife area of Colonne di San Lorenzo. In 2014 their second hostel, Ostello Bello Grande, offering 200 beds, opened near the Central Station on via Roberto Lepetit in anticipation of Milan Expo 2015. They offer numerous services free of charge and this year they were ranked the 4th best large hostel and the 10th best hostel for male solo travellers.
Rome – The RomeHello Hostel
Having opened only one year ago, this hostel, in the heart of the capital, won the prize for the best new large hostel and was ranked the 9th best hostel for solo female travellers. Located on Via Torino, only a 7 minute walk from the Roma Termini station, it is just 20 minutes away from all the most majestic architecture of Rome, such as Trevi Fountain, the Spanish steps, the Pantheon, Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum. Decorated with street art paintings, a large outdoor common area, a bar and a restaurant, this hostel will welcome you to discover the great beauty of the Eternal City.
Verona – The Hostello
This cozy and welcoming hostel in the magic city of Romeo and Juliet was ranked the 7th best hostel for solo female travellers. Situated on via Venti Settembre in the University neighborhood of Veronetta, a trendy area full of clubs, pubs, traditional restaurants and art galleries, it is just a 15 minute walk from the city center, where you can visit Juliet’s infamous balcony, the Arena and Castel San Pietro. You can relax in the outdoor garden or in the living room where you will find a foosball table and vintage videogames.
Venice – Anda Venice
This hostel opened in 2018 and already won the prize for the best new extra large hostel this year. It is located on via Ortigara just a 2 minute walk from the Venezia Mestre station where you can catch a bus or a train that will take you to the enchanting canal-crossed Venice. You will immediately recognize this hostel by an extraordinary painting on its facade, designed by the famous artist Peeta. You can make new friends in the wide and comfortable common spaces, the bar, or in the games room. There is also a big screen for the soccer matches!
Corvara di Beverino – 5 Terre Backpackers
Located in the small village of Corvara, this hostel is surrounded by nature and is only a few kilometres from the wonderful Cinque Terre National Park. It offers a shuttle service from the hostel to Monterosso in Cinque Terre, to start your path through the park and also the shuttle goes to La Spezia train station. Years of experience have earned them first place for the best atmosphere, second place for the best small hostel and, above all, 3rd place for the best European hostel. The small capacity of this hostel (12 people) will make you feel right at home, with the opportunity to share a traditional dinner on the patio with an amazing view.
If visiting Italy has been on your bucket list but you have been worried about the cost, we hope that you will take advantage of these top-rated hostels to experience Italian culture and living, while staying under budget, and meeting fellow adventurers along the way!