The 5 Best Hostels in Utrecht, the Netherlands

Like many other spots in Utrecht’s city centre, Strowis Hostel is housed inside a monumental building that has stood in the city for well over two centuries. Though it has been renovated to meet modern demands, the building in question still features many historical elements, such as stone chimney breasts and exposed wooden beams, creating a warm, cosy atmosphere that matches perfectly with Utrecht’s general vibe. The rooms available at Strowis Hostel are equipped with everything travellers will need to enjoy their stay in Utrecht and range from private lodgings, ideal for couples or close friends, to large, mixed dormitories that accommodate up to 16 people.

This low-cost hostel looks directly onto Utrecht’s largest theatre, de Stadsschouwburg, and stands right next to a charming urban park that edges onto the inner city’s outermost canal. The hostel is located inside an 18th-century townhouse that blends in seamlessly with its historical surroundings. Aside from basic, affordable rooms, the hostel features several communal spaces and facilities like a large outdoor chess set, a shared kitchen and a barbecue.

Located just outside Utrecht’s historic centre, amid the many stores, restaurants and cafés that line Biltstraat, this low-key hostel offers a wide array of basic rooms that are perfect for travellers or sightseers on a budget. Potential guests at Stone Hostel can choose between several types of lodgings that suit their personal preferences, ranging from peaceful, private rooms with en-suite facilities to mixed-gender dorms equipped with TVs and WiFi. Although it’s slightly further afield than most other hostels in Utrecht, it is still well within walking distance from the city’s historic centre and many other cultural sights, such as the UNESCO-protected Rietveld Schröder House or the Railway Museum.

Stayokay Utrecht Center stands amid the hustle and bustle of Utrecht’s historic city centre, on an old market square named Neude, which is surrounded by restaurants, bars and cafes, with terraces that trail along the plaza. Many of Utrecht’s most popular historic sights are also located nearby, including its gothic Dom Tower and the stunning medieval Oudegracht canal. Like other hostels within its price range, Stayokay Centrum offers simple, comfortable rooms that accommodate between two to nine guests. For a little extra, though, guests can spend the night in themed lodgings inspired by Utrecht’s heritage, including a four-bed room furnished with Miffy memorabilia – an ideal option for families (and one that comes with tickets to the city’s Miffy Museum).

Stayokay’s second location in Utrecht lies roughly five kilometres away from the city centre. The hostel, which is housed inside a stately country manor from the early 18th century, is surrounded by woodlands that run alongside the Kromme Rijn river. This means that guests at Stayokay Utrecht – Bunnik have immediate access to many outdoorsy activities during their stay and can explore the area’s charming landscapes by bike, foot or canoe. As the hostel features many different rooms types, fitted with anywhere between one to eight beds, families, solo travellers and groups are all welcome at Stayokay Utrecht – Bunnik.