7 Unusual Hostels for Backpackers Around the World

Are you looking for somewhere a bit different to stay on your next trip … without spending too much?

While there are lots of amazing and unusual hotels out there, these can be well outside a backpacking budget. Instead, we’ve rounded up some of the most unusual hostels around the world. They’re all fantastic and memorable places to stay, but they won’t cost you a fortune.

Gyreum Ecolodge (Ireland)

This hostel aims to be invisible, with a sloping roof that blends into its natural surroundings. It’s also known as the “round wooden fortress” and you can take Irish language workshops there. You’ll love the indoor copper fire circle, the homemade food, and the huge central hall that can accommodate a whole wedding party.

Celica Prison Hostel (Slovenia)

We’ve featured the Celica Prison Hostel before: it’s a converted prison, so the dorm rooms that have prison cell bars. It’s conveniently located close to the train station in Ljubljana, though it’s really more geared toward locals than backpackers.  

Langholmen Hotell (Sweden)

Another prison-themed hostel is Langholm, on an island in the middle of Stockhelm. Again, it’s a converted prison, with a prison layout and heavy bolted cell doors for the rooms. For a themed weekend or just somewhere a bit different to stay, it’s a great choice. There’s a 24 hour cafeteria in the entrance hall, plus a bar and restaurant.

Tip: Find and Contact Friends in Prison (e.g. in Minnesota)

Do you have a family member or friend who’s incarcerated? Perhaps you lost touch a while ago. There are lots of online databases where you can find the contact details of inmates, even if you’re not sure where they’re being held they’re in. For instance, you can locate someone in a Minnesota jail, or you can look up inmates in any US state.

Bayrams Tree Houses (Turkey)

If you had (or wanted!) a tree house as a child, you’ll love this hostel. You can stay in a tree house or in a bungalow in a secluded valley in Olympos, next to the mountain and the beach. There’s a lounge and bar area, and breakfast and dinner are included. Reviewers loved the location, the friendly staff, the great food, and the opportunities to socialize with other travelers. 

Lub D Hostels (Thailand)

These 2 hostels in Bangkok have a cool contemporary design and plenty of different options, depending on whether you want a dorm bed or your own room. The hostels also include bars, free WiFI, and laundry areas. There’s daily housekeeping and the option to pay for a continental breakfast too.

Railway Square YHA (Australia)

This laid-back backpacker hotel in Sydney lets you rent out a railway carriage room – or you can stay in the historic main building if you prefer that, with an option for private rooms. There’s air conditioning, fast, free WiFi, 24 hour access, communal areas, and a self-catering kitchen. 

Jugendherberge Nürnberg (Germany)

Have you ever wanted to live in a castle? Here’s your chance! Jugendherberge Nürnberg is located in a medieval castle in Nuremberg. It’s centrally located, with Nuremberg Castle only 100 yards away. You can opt for a dorm or a private room, and despite it being a castle, there are plenty of modern facilities including free WiFi, a 24 hour front desk, luggage storage, and a vending machine.

Hostels don’t need to be boring. Liven up your backpacking trip – and enjoy getting some great photos – with a stay in one of these unusual hostels. With all the amenities you’d expect, plus some unique selling points, you’re sure to have a great time.