[UPDATED 2 Aug 2019]
It’s the time of the year to plan your year-end getaway to Europe! Looking for an accommodation that's Muslim-friendly, near to halal food AND easy on your bank account? Then you’ve come to the right place ? So here are our top picks for the best and Muslim-friendly hostels in some of Europe's top cities so you can start exploring!
P.S. The prices of accommodations listed in this article are based on a search for October 2019. Do note that prices may change based on travel seasons.
Credit: giphy
London, UK
1. YHA London Oxford Street
If you are looking for a hostel right in the heart of all the action, then you will not go wrong with YHA Hostel in Oxford Street! Only minutes away from the famous Oxford Street, this hostel is furnished with bright colours and modern décor.
Credit: YHA London Oxford Street on Facebook
For ladies, good news as you can also pick female-only dorms ? After your busy day exploring the buzzing city of London, kick back and relax in their comfy lounge! Plus, YHA is also unique as every penny made will go to charity, so you know you're contributing to a good cause.
Credit: YHA London Oxford Street on Facebook
From this hostel, you can walk to a majority of London’s top attractions such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds and the Tower of London. Not only that, but you are also minutes away from a range of halal restaurants and eateries, from Chinese takeaways and Korean food at China Express, to halal desserts in Kula Café. Are you sold yet?
After shopping along Oxford Street to your hearts’ content, don’t forget to visit these shopping streets in London as well– and near halal food too.
Address: 14 Noel St, Soho, London W1F 8GJ, UK
Rates: From £13/RM67 on Agoda
2. Wombat’s Hostel London
Where do we begin? This hostel has basically (almost) everything. Award winner? Check. Instagrammable corners inside and outside the hostel? Check. Courtyard area with hammocks to chill? Check!
Credit: Wombat’s Hostel on Facebook
It is also within walking distance to East London Mosque, halal KFC and Subway outlets and a plethora of Indian and Mediterranean restaurants selling halal food!
P.S. If you are out and about in the city, check out these prayer spaces around London too!
Credit: @wombatshostels on Instagram
Before you enter the hostel, you will definitely not miss the large Wombat’s sign, setting the retro-inspired décor of the accommodation. The warm lighting, designer bulbs hanging from exposed brick ceilings, and its spacious rooms make it look oh so cosy. And for ladies, don't worry! Female-only dorms are also available. So, you’ll feel right at home here ☺️
Address: 7 Dock St, Whitechapel, London E1 8LL, UK
Rates: From USD20 on Agoda
BONUS: The Bridge Hotel, London
Nestled in the middle of London city, The Bridge Hotel has easy access to the attractions that you won't want to miss!
Credit: The Bridge Hotel on Facebook
You'll be able to reach places like the London Eye, The Shard and theatres for a perfect day out. After a day of exploring, relax in their comfy rooms will all the facilities that you need, such as a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV and a fridge!
Credit: The Bridge Hotel on Facebook
The best part of the hotel is that it has an exclusive Halal menu! The hotel’s Persian restaurant, Iran Ma has a variety of halal meals guaranteed to satisfy your appetite.
Address: 30 Borough Road, Southwark, London, SE1 0AJ, United Kingdom
Rates: From £55/RM278 on Agoda
Paris, France
3. Le Regent Montmarte
Are you looking for a modern hostel to stay at in the heart of Paris and also Muslim-friendly? We've got your back!
Credit: Le Regent Montmarte on Facebook
Whether you choose a spacious female-dorm or stunning family room, you'll get an ensuite bathroom and free linens. If you have heavy luggage, you will be relieved to know that there is an elevator in this hostel - not a common thing found in hostels. It is also family-friendly and you can request for a baby crib if you stay in the family rooms ?
Credit: Le Regent Montmarte on Facebook
Imagine waking up to the view of the beautiful Parisian buildings and the historic Le Sacré Coeur. Okay sold! Located just a kilometre from Mosquee Philippe de Girard and five minutes from Paris' main train station Gare du Nord, this amazing hostel is near to a variety of halal food. Not only that, you are right in the middle of halal supermarkets, bakeries and even shops selling Muslimah wear. While you are here, the Institute of Islamic Culture situated in the neighbourhood is also worth a visit as they exhibit young Muslim artists!
Address: 37 Boulevard de Rochechouart, 75009 Paris, France
Rates: From €29/RM133 on Agoda
4. St Christopher's Inn
St Christopher's Inn is all about relaxing in a friendly environment. The chain of hostels operates accommodation in the most popular cities across Europe!
Credit: St Christopher's Inn Paris on Facebook
Can you believe that their pod-beds come with little privacy curtains?! Each pod comes with a plug socket and reading light too! There's also a female-only floor.
Credit: St Christopher's Inn Paris on Facebook
Overlooking Canal St Martin, this hostel has five floors, each one featuring Paris-themed decor! Some rooms even have balconies which look out onto the canal. If you want to chill with your friends, rest and relax at their beautiful waterside terrace or their cosy dining area. Et voila!
For halal eateries, grab some tasty food from Pizzeria Cordial or La Medina, just down the street from your accommodation. The nearest mosque that you can visit is Masjid Ali Ibn Abi Talib which is a mere 3km away, and only half an hour from the Grand Mosque of Paris by train!
Address: 159 Rue Crimee, 19th - Buttes-Chaumont, Paris, France, 75019
Rates: From €20/RM96 on Agoda
Amsterdam, Netherlands
5. Ecomama Hostel
The top hostels in this city surely know how to make a statement! An advocate of responsible travelling, Ecomama Hostel is hands-down a unique place to stay while in Europe.
Credit: Ecomama on Facebook
Ever heard of an eco-friendly hostel with indoor swings and a tent with movie nights? Well, you have to stay here to believe it! There's also plenty of space to chill and relax inside and outside of the dormitories.
Credit: @girlswhogo on Instagram
Ladies, you don't have to worry as there are also female-only dorms. Ecomama is within walking distance from iconic attractions in Amsterdam, such as the flower market and various museums! If you prefer taking the train, it is only 400 metres away from the metro station.
Environmental concerns are paramount here, there is even a water-saving system and a natural stone heating system. Al-Kabir Mosque is only 2 km away from the hostel, so you can do your prayers and meet some local Muslims!
Address: Valkenburgerstraat 124, 1011 NA Amsterdam, Netherlands
Rates: From €23/RM104 on Agoda
6. ClinkNOORD
This hipster hostel built in the 1920s is an Instagrammer’s dream come true! Think aesthetically-pleasing backgrounds, Scandinavian sofas and vintage props - there's always a good spot to take a photo here ?
Credit: @adventures_of_kunkun on Instagram
The quality service, spacious mixed and female-only dorms and budget prices also make it a top choice for many backpackers! And if that doesn’t seal the deal, the hostel’s own restaurant has something for all including a vegan menu ?
Credit: Clink Hostels
If you’ve never taken a ferry ride in Amsterdam, then time to tick that off your bucket list. Catch a free 5-minute ferry ride from Amsterdam Central Station to Noord, the city’s culturally vibrant district, where this hostel is situated!
There are also a variety of halal restaurants around Noord and you will be spoilt for choice – from Middle Eastern food to fried chicken. And if you are craving for Malay food, head over to Wau Maleis Sate Restaurant, which is located near the Amsterdam Centraal Station! And while you’re on your food trail, be sure to check out these delicious Muslim-friendly street food in the city.
Address: Badhuiskade 3, 1031 KV Amsterdam, Netherlands
Rates: From €27/RM125 on Agoda
BONUS: Bed and Breakfast Amsterdam Holy Dove
If you’re looking for an accommodation complete with a complimentary halal breakfast, look no further than Bed and Breakfast Amsterdam Holy Dove!
Credit: Bedandbreakfast Amsterdam
Drugs and smoking are also strictly prohibited in the property, which makes it a safe place to stay as the city legalises the sale of certain drugs. This B&B is also conveniently located near Amsterdam’s main railway station, Amsterdam Sloterdijk ☺️
Address: Hendrik Dienskestraat 2, 1063 AP Amsterdam, Netherlands
Rates: From €38/RM175 per person on Agoda
Berlin, Germany
7. Grand Hostel Berlin
Always wanted to stay in a luxurious accommodation but your bank account can’t keep up? We got you covered! The name of this hostel perfectly describes itself. Grand Hostel Berlin is an award-winning hostel that is more stylish and roomy than the average hostel.
Credit: @maximelv on Instagram
Free welcome drink, numerous free tours AND a library inside the hostel itself? Count us in! Another standout feature of this accommodation is the rooms all have flatbeds and no bunks, with female-only rooms.
Credit: Grand Hostel Berlin on Facebook
Situated in the trendy Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg district, the building has the old world Berlin charm! It's also a short walk away from Berlin Şehitlik Camii Mosque. For luxury on a budget, this one definitely makes the cut.
Credit: @dv_orzc on Instagram
And of course not forgetting our food trail! Grand Hostel Berlin is located very close to Mustafa’s Gemuese Kebab, a halal eatery known for its long queues – which means tasty food ?
Address: Tempelhofer Ufer 14, 10963 Berlin, Germany
Rates: From €14/RM67 on Agoda
8. Meininger Hostel Berlin Mitte
Without a doubt, this is one of the best hostels in Berlin if you need a convenient location! Situated in the former home of astronomer and scientist Alexander von Humboldt, this relaxed hostel is the perfect base for those visiting this amazing city for the first time. Many of the top attractions are just in front of the hostel’s door, so it doesn’t get any more central than this ?
Credit: Meininger Hotels
For those considering to bring your kids along, this hostel has family rooms - that's a huge plus point! Your kids will definitely be impressed with the colourful Humboldt murals and comics along the hallways of the hostel. And yes, there are also female-only dorms in this hostel too!
Credit: Meininger Hotels
There is also little to worry about with finding halal food here, as you can find them at almost every street corner, especially in Mitte (directly translated to mean middle). Head to Hasir Mitte Restaurant for Turkish cuisine, and Kasbah Restaurant for delicious Moroccan food!
P.S. If this is your first time to Berlin, check out this guide to explore Berlin like a pro.
Address: Oranienburger Str. 67-68, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Rates: From €18/RM83 on Website
Rome, Italy
9. Hostella Female Only
Ever wanted to travel solo as a Muslimah to Italy? Then you have to stay at this cheerful female-only hostel in a 19thcentury building! Hostella is just a quick five minutes’ walk from Rome’s main train station. Its location is so well situated for exploring this incredible city ?
Credit: Hostella on Facebook
Offering a cosy outdoor terrace, dorms, private rooms, plenty of board games and hairdryers (this is really handy, ladies?), this is definitely the perfect choice for solo Muslimah travellers or groups of ladies.
Credit: Hostella on Facebook
Another interesting feature of this hostel is that there are no bunk beds at all. If you're feeling hungry, you'll be spoilt for choice with the numerous halal food options found around Roma Termini, the city's main station. Head over to Termini Halaal, Himalaya’s Kashmir or Istanbul Doner Kebab!
Address: Via Gaeta, 70, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Rate: From €28/RM129 on Agoda
10. Blue Hostel
Housed in a 17th-century palazzo, Blue Hostel boasts beautifully decorated rooms complete with vintage desks and chairs.
Credit: The BlueHostel on Facebook
There's even a Nespresso coffee machine in the hostel room – for a quick pick-me-up before you start exploring the city of Rome. After your coffee fix, be sure to tick these 7 things off your bucket list when you hit the city!
Credit: The BlueHostel on Facebook
This hostel is located in the heart of the city and is only 800 metres away from Masjeed E Baytur Rahman. All the hostel rooms also face a beautiful private courtyard, and you will be treated to a good night's sleep without noise from the streets ?
Credit: Faizal Rangrez on Facebook
For some tasty food, we recommend Peri-Peri Halal Grill. If you're craving for some spicy food, don’t leave without trying their Peri-Peri chicken and beef briyani – extra spicy! With plenty of halal food around the vicinity of the hostel, a mosque nearby and close to the famous Colosseum, Blue Hostel is an ideal base for your Muslim-friendly Rome trip. You will definitely not feel any blues staying here ?
Address: Carlo Alberto, 13 Rome, Italy 00185
Rates: From €60/RM276 per person on Agoda (for Double Room)
BONUS: Granada, Spain
Granada might not be in your list of top cities to visit in Europe but it's one of Spain's most Muslim-friendly cities, with plenty of halal food and stunning places of interest to add to your travel bucket list!
11. El Granado Hostel
El Granado is the perfect hostel to pamper yourself if you need a luxury holiday in Granada – on a budget! Whether you pick the cozy dorm or a spacious family room, you will not go wrong with a stay here ?
Credit: @yuliaspring on Instagram
This family-run hostel was actually a historical building dating all the way back to the 13th-century during the Nasrid period too! It caters for all - the young and old, families, and solo travellers.
Credit: El Granado on Facebook
In the hostel itself, there are Andalusian patios, hammocks and a rooftop terrace to admire the stunning city skyline. Not to mention that you are in the heart of Granada, just minutes away from top attractions. A true Andalusian holiday on a budget? Sí!
Granada has deep Islamic ties evident throughout the city and there is a range of Muslim-friendly food at almost every turn! Look for Moroccan or kebab stores with halal signs. If you're looking for authentic Spanish food, look no further than the popular La Estrella de Elvira which is only 500 metres away from the hostel.
Do note that it's not halal-certified but there are plenty of seafood and vegetarian options to choose from, so dine at your own discretion!
Address: Calle Conde de Tendillas, 7, 18002 Granada, Spain
Rates: From €14/RM62 on Website
12. Makuto Backpackers Hostel
In the heart of the timeless district of Albaycin, this charming historic mansion offers true hostel goals with a comfortable lounge, a beautiful garden with a treehouse and hammocks and a laid-back atmosphere.
Credit: Makuto Hostel Granada on Facebook
Another selling point of this hostel is that you can join their daily free walking tour through the quaint Albaycin, the old Moorish quarter of the city facing the majestic Alhambra. Oh, and did we mention a FREE Muslim-friendly breakfast as well?
Credit: Makuto Hostel Granada on Facebook
Makuto Backpackers Hostel offers stylish dorm rooms with comfy beds, duvets, storage lockers and free toiletries! It is also 500 metres away from Mayor de Granada Mosque, the first built in the city since the 1400s where you can head over to pray or listen to a Friday sermon.
Credit: Mezquita Mayor de Granada on Facebook
There are ongoing activities here and stunning views of the Alhambra from this mosque, so don’t forget to visit it as well if you stay in this hostel.
Address: Calle de la Tiña 18, Granada, Spain
Rates: From €18/RM83 on Agoda
So what are you waiting for? Now there’s nothing to stop you from exploring Europe. It’s time to book a trip and stay in these stunning hostels. Bon voyage, travellers!