Whether you’re traveling solo or on a budget, these best hostels in Antwerp provide a warm welcome to the Diamond City.
Antwerp is tucked away in northern Belgium, about an hour from Brussels, and is the largest city in the Flanders region. Its close location to the North Sea has made it a historically famous port city and helped contribute to the flourishing of Antwerp’s diamond and printing industry.
And while Antwerp can undoubtedly be classified as a big city, it has this laidback, small-town charm. As you explore the top attractions, you’re sure to be wowed by the pops of Art Nouveau, cobblestone streets, and fabulous eats, both traditional and modern.
If you’re hoping to see Belgium on a budget, here are some of the coolest Antwerp hostels that’ll be easy on your wallet!
Read more: An Ultimate Guide to Hostels: Hostel Tips and Etiquette
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Best Time to Visit Antwerp
Belgium experiences all four seasons to varying degrees, which means the best time to visit Antwerp is May through September or spring into fall. Winter in Antwerp isn’t bad either, but the weather is chillier, and the city experiences occasional light snowfall.
What is Antwerp Known for?
As mentioned, Antwerp is a port city that’s known for its diamond industry, Flemish culture, and numerous exciting things to do. Here are some of the top attractions in Antwerp to get you started on your travel planning.
- Snap a photo at the world’s most beautiful train station: Antwerp Centraal
- Visit the chocolate museum
- Indulge in the fantastic food scene and nightlife
- Learn a bit about the printing press at the Plantain Museum
- Visit MAS for art and great rooftop views
Read More: Best Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium
Where to Stay in Antwerp
Antwerp is one of Belgium’s biggest cities and is a sprawling metropolis that covers an area of nearly 80m². With so much space to cover, choosing where to stay in Antwerp is essential to ensure you’re close to the top attractions!
Thankfully, the city is quite walkable and well connected with various modes of transportation, so nothing is ever too far away. But here are some of the best areas to stay in Antwerp.
Historic City Center/Old Town
In my opinion, Antwerps historic city center is the best place to stay when visiting. It’s here that the cobblestone streets and eye-catching Flemish buildings are what make Antwerp special. This is definitely the heart of the city as far as tourist attractions are concerned.
Antwerp Centraal
Antwerp Centraal is where you’ll find the magnificent Antwerp Central Train Station, a landmark that’s noted for its architectural beauty. This is a convenient place to stay not only for those arriving by train, but also because it’s close to the zoo, the Diamond district, Chocolate Museum, and the city’s best shopping and restaurants.
However, this part of Antwerp feels more like a modern city than a charming small town.
Zuid
If you like to stay somewhere more off the beaten path, Zuid or Antwerp’s southern district should be your top choice. This neck of the woods is known for its more laid-back atmosphere, and a trendy meets artsy vibe. This area also boasts some pretty fabulous bars, restaurants, and museums.
Why stay in an Antwerp hostel?
I’ve long been a fan of staying in hostels for a few reasons. While they definitely do not afford very much privacy, that is sort of the point, and isn’t a bad thing! Hostels are a great a way meet fellow travelers, especially if you’re traveling solo.
They also offer affordable accommodation that won’t break the bank. And hostels are known for friendly and social staff who can share top local tips and recommendations.
Read more: Hostel Essentials: Must-Pack Items when Staying at a Hostel
Best Hostels in Antwerp, Belgium
1. Antwerp City Hostel
Why stay here: A social hostel nestled in the heart of Antwerp’s historic city center.
The Antwerp City Hostel is a colorful hostel that oozes charm. The interior is painted with vibrant and fun murals and features not just a shared lounge, but also a bar where you can chat with fellow travelers. There are various dormitory options to choose from, and even family room dorms perfect for groups traveling together or those who wish to stay in a room with fewer people.
The beds at the Antwerp City Hostel are a bit minimalist and don’t have their own private lights or outlets, which is a con. But there is free WiFi, and free breakfast, and each guest has access to a security locker for use during their stay.
2. YUST Hostel
Why stay here: A highly-rated hostel with a lovely outdoor terrace and private rooms available.
The YUST Hostel offers both standard hotel rooms and dorm beds in a stylish atmosphere. Guests can choose to book with or without breakfast, or there’s a kitchen onsite for travelers who wish to cook their own meals.
This hostel also features a bar lounge and a restaurant, both of which are interior design dreams. The only con of YUST is that its location is a bit outside of the Antwerp city center.
3. The ASH Antwerp
Why stay here: A laid-back hostel near the Antwerp Centraal Station with a game room.
An acronym for Antwerp Student Hostel, The ASH Antwerp is a cozy place to stay for those traveling on a budget. Private rooms start as low as €70, and there are beds in both big and small dorms available. While the rooms are on the simpler side, they don’t skimp on the comfort.
It’s in the lounge spaces you get your dose of color, which are brightly decorated with modern furniture. The ASH also features a bar, public kitchen, and open-air terrace seating. Not to mention the 24/7 check-in kiosk, which makes your arrival a breeze.
4. Antwerp Central Youth Hostel
Why stay here: A modern hostel in the city center a short walk from the Grote Markt and popular restaurants and bars.
The Antwerp Central Youth Hostel, sometimes called Hostel Pulcinella, is a modern and inviting hostel that offers male and female dormitories in Antwerp’s fashion district. Your booking includes a fresh and hot buffet breakfast to help you get your day started right.
The hostel grounds also feature ample indoor seating and outdoor picnic tables where you can work, chat, and chill when you’re not exploring the city. Antwerp Central Youth Hostel also has a 24-hour front desk, so late arrivals don’t need to fret.
5. Boomerang Hostel Antwerp
Why stay here: A basic hostel with middling reviews that gets the job done for cheap accommodation in Antwerp.
The Boomerang Hostel is often considered one of the best hostels in Antwerp, simply because it’s one of the only Antwerp hostels. This simple hostel isn’t a place I recommend unless you’re looking for affordable lodging near Stadspark. But I’m all about options and transparency, so I’ve included it as an option just in case it tickles your fancy!
6. Antwerp Backpackers Hostel
Why stay here: A popular hostel voted the best Belgium hostel in 2019 housed in a beautiful historic building.
Unfortunately, the Antwerp Backpackers Hostel has been temporarily closed since the beginning of the COVID pandemic. However, I wanted to include it on this list because it is often regarded as one of the best hostels in Antwerp thanks to its social reputation, its stunning building that dates back to the 1800s, and its friendly staff. Hopefully, it’ll reopen soon!