If you're planning a budget-friendly break in affordable accommodation this year, you might find something geared towards your interests in Hostelworld's annual 'Hoscars'.
The Hoscars awards list the best hostels in the world based on one million Hostelworld customer reviews with something for everyone from solo travellers to career breakers and gap-year students. Criteria such as overall experience, security, value for money, location, atmosphere, staff, cleanliness and facilities are considered. Then the categories are broken down by continent, top 129 countries and top 100 cities, as well as a number of unique awards that showcase the hostels suited to a wide range of travellers.
Below is a snapshot of hostels that made the cut. If you want to see the full list of award-winners, you can do so here.
Best Hostel in Europe/Best Atmosphere
Hostelworld customers rated the '5 Terre Backpackers' in Italy as their favourite European hostel. Located near the Cinque Terre National Park, it's a great place for relaxing, hiking and dining. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, while mingling with fellow guests in the on-site restaurant and bar. Dorms are from €24.78/£21.14 per night.
Best Hostel in Asia
'Cheerful Hoi An Hostel' in historic Hoi An was voted the best in Asia. It's centrally located but peaceful enough to offer guests a good night's sleep. One reviewer praised it for being "spotlessly clean and really social" without being a party hostel. The owner treats guests like family, teaches them Vietnamese and helps organise any trips. Dorms are from €10.55/£9 per night.
Best for Graduate Gap-Yearers (aged 25-30) / Best Medium Hostel
'Yes! Lisbon Hostel' in Lisbon renowned as a fantastic spot for meeting like-minded travellers, with common areas including a cosy lounge with board games and a PS4, as well as an on-site bar for drinks. The hostel offers free walking tours to explore the famous cobbled streets, and a restaurant for local cuisine and swapping travel stories with new friends. Dorms are from €16.95/£14.46 per night.
Best for Career Breakers (aged 31+)
Sticking with Portuguese capital, the 'Home Lisbon Hostel' was rated the best hostel for travellers aged 31 and over on a career break. Located in the central Baixa district, the hostel offers plenty of events to help guests immerse themselves in the city's history and culture such as nightly dinners, walking tours and live music nights. Dorms from €17.01/£14.56 per night
Best for Female Solo Travellers
Situated in the vibrant district of Žižkov in Prague, overflowing with history, art, culture and nightlife and buzzing with activities all year round, Hostelworld customers say 'Hostel One Prague' is the best hostel for female solo travellers. The hostel's own bar, The Rave Cave is a great spot to mingle and meet new people, while quieter nights can be enjoyed in the communal lounge or in the garden. Dorms from €17.99/£15.35 per night.
