MUNICH |BUDAPEST |VIENNA | AMSTERDAM |KRAKOW | BERLIN | LONDON | MADRID

Where are you headed next, and where are you going to stay when you get there? Scope out accommodations before you arrive in Munich, Budapest, Vienna, Amsterdam, Krakow, Berlin or London. If you’re dialing from outside the country, dial 00 before the country code. If you’re dialing from inside the country, forget the 00, but include the zero in parenthesis.

New Paris Magazine recommends booking your hostel ahead of time in high season to make sure you won’t be sleeping in a métro station. Either search through the hostels below or go to Hostelbookers.com to safely book online.

Munich – in the heart of Bavaria – is where you'll find the sights, sounds and tastes of traditional Germany. Often called the 'Paris of Germany', the stunning architecture of Munich's palaces, royal avenues and churches makes it one of the most regal cities in Europe. But, it is the popular tradition of beer drinking that has tourists flocking to Munich. Enjoy a Weizenbier and a pretzel in one of the many beer gardens and soak up the atmosphere that Munich has to offer.

4 You München
Well located near the city center, free bed sheets, a big breakfast area downstairs and friendly service. If you’re in the mood for Wienerschnitzel, there’s a good German restaurant across the street. Hirtenstr. 18. +49 (0)89 552 1660. www.the4you.de

Easy Palace Station Hotel
Less than a par three from Munich’s central station. The Station Hotel’s small size allows it to offer guests personalized service. Accommodations range from hostel to three-star hotel, and all come with a breakfast buffet. Schützenstr. 7. +49 (0)89 552 5210. www.easypalace.de

Easy Palace City Hostel
Bright colors and comfy beds make this newly-renovated hostel comfortable. The international crowd makes it friendly. And the location – in a non-touristy part of town, but still close to it – makes it authentically Munich. Sponsors free walking tours for its guests. Mozartstr. 4. +49 (0)89 558 7970. www.easypalace.de

Euro-Youth Hotel
Munich’s party hostel, with a big focus on the bar. One of Europe’s Famous Hostels, so it fills up fast with travelers who order beer by the liter and aren’t afraid to have a good time. Senefelderstr. 5. +49 (0)89 5990 8811. www.euro-youth-hotel.de

Frederic´s Serviced Apartments
Tasteful and comfortably-furnished apartments for holidaymakers or business travelers. Two locations:  Hohenzollernplatz 7 and Dantestraße 18. 0 800 466 3669 or +49 (0)89 2118 7040. www.frederics.eu

Haus International
Connected by public transport to the downtown and close to some of the best bars and clubs in Munich. This big, bright, clean hostel boasts a back courtyard and includes breakfast, sheets and a towel. Sponsor of the New Munich Free Walking Tour. Elisabethstr. 87. +49 (0)89 120 060. www.haus-international.de

Jaeger’s Hotel
A good close-to-the-station hostel, within walking distance to the main strip. The staff are some of the most helpful in Munich and the clientele is young and looking to party. Sponsors free walking tours for its guests. Senefelderstr. 3. +49 (0)89 555 282. www.jaegershotel.de

Jugendherberge München – Neuhausen
Guests can expect the traditional standards of German Youth Hostels. Prices are flexible depending on age and possession of a Youth Hostel membership card, which are also available. Wendl-Dietrich-Str. 20. +49 (0)89 131 156. www.jugendherberge.de

MEININGER City Hostels
This great chain of hostels is known for being clean and safe. One of the few places where bed sheets and breakfast are always included. The fantastic beer hall across the street has some of the best food and drink prices in town. Sponsors free walking tours for its guests. Landsberger Str. 20. +49 (0)30 6663 6100. www.meininger-hostels.com

The Tent
Located in a park near the Botanical Garden, the Tent is cheap and friendly. You could probably dig up enough money from your pockets to pay for the most basic sleeping option: a mat in the Main Tent (beds and small tents are available too). Brand new bathroom facilities. Campfire every night. Closed during winter starting Sept 1. In den Kirschen 30. +49 (0)89 141 4300. www.the-tent.com

Wombat’s
Brand new, funky, and flawless – a fine addition to Munich’s hostel market. The bar is fun, and the atrium is a must-see, no matter where you’re sleeping. Sponsors free walking tours for its guests. Senefelderstr. 1. +49 (0)89 5998 9180. www.wombats-hostels.com

Shhh! If you go to Budapest, don’t tell too many people what an amazing city it is, or we’ll never get rooms this summer. The thermal baths are fantastic, as is the typical “Bull’s Blood” red wine, the underground cave network, and the prices! Discover the hidden back-courtyard bar scene (in summer); it’s what Berlin looked like when the Wall came down. Just don’t get taxis off the street! If you need a cab in this great-for-walking city, call one.

The Green Bridge
Easily one of NEW PARIS’ favorite small hostels in Budapest. It’s like staying at a friend’s house…except that your friend makes you coffee….and gives you good advice….and you pay them to sleep there. Molnár utca 22-24. +36 (0)1 266 6922. This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it www.greenbridgehostel.com

The Marco Polo Hostel
This hotel-quality hostel maintains excellent standards and is one of the largest in Budapest. The ingeniously simple use of curtains creates a private feel for dorm beds. The bar downstairs is cheap and fun. Nyár utca 6. +36 (0)1 413 2555. www.marcopolohostel.com

Mellow Mood
It doesn’t get much more central than this. Mellow Mood is within walking distance to the main subway station, which can connect you with everything you want to see in Budapest. New, clean, good water pressure. 2 Besci utca. +36 (0)1 411 1310. www.budapesthotels.hu

The Red Bus
Not a party hostel, but a place to recharge yourself without having loud, drunken fraternity brothers puking on you. Cool little English bookstore attached to hostel. 14 Semmelweis utca. +36 (0)1 266 0136. www.redbusbudapest.hu

Station Guesthouse Budapest
Every city has a party hostel, and the Station is fills that role in Budapest. If you’re looking for like-minded party-people without too many perks, welcome home. 36 Mexikói utca. +36 (0)1 221 8864. www.stationguesthouse.hu

Yellow Submarine Youth Hostel
A real backpackers place near the Nyugati train station. Try to get into the penthouse, as it costs the same as the larger dorm rooms downstairs. 56 Terez Krt. +36 (0)1 269 4354. www.yellowsubmarinehostel.com

Live like royalty in the former capital of the Hapsburg Empire–on just a few Euros a day. For centuries Vienna was the political and cultural center of Europe, and will forever be haunted by the ghosts of its imperial past. But, there’s no need to ignore the present: it’s also a modern city with tons of museums, restaurants and great shopping.

Believe-It-Or-Not
A converted apartment with two dorm rooms and a kitchen. Basic, inexpensive and just a five-minute walk from downtown. Guests must be between the ages of 18 and 30 and stay a minimum of two nights. Myrthengasse 10, apt. 4. +43 (0)1 526 4658. www.believe-it-or-not-vienna.at

Hostel Hutteldorf
Twenty minutes by train to the city center, this large, bright and immaculate hostel offers beautiful and quiet surroundings. Reception open 7 am - 11:45 pm only, but a key-card system (€2 charge) provides easy night-time entry. Schlossberggasse 8. +43 (0)1 877 1501. www.hostel.at

Jugendherberge Wien (Myrthengasse), Jugendgästehaus Wien (Brigittenau)
These two members of Hostelling International (HI) maintain the same high standards that visitors have come to expect from this group of hostels. Both are well connected by public transportation and include breakfast and sheets in their prices. You’ll need a membership card to stay here (as with all HI locations), but it’s available at check-in for a small amount. Brigittenau: Friedrich Engels Platz 24. +43 (0)1 332 8294. Myrthengasse: Myrthengasse 7. +43 (0)1 523 6316. www.oejhv.or.at

Palace Hostel
Near the Vienna Woods and overlooking the city from the Wilhelminenberg, the Palace Hostel is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and city people alike. It has access to transportation downtown and all the comforts to help you relax after a long hike or round of Frisbee on the lawn. Free breakfast, summer café, pool and video games, even a mini-golf course. Savoyenstr. 2. +43 (0)1 485 850 3700. www.hostel.at

Westend City Hostel
Freshly and plainly renovated, but housed in one of Vienna’s oldest hotels, built in 1876. Central for sightseeing (the opera and palace both around the corner) and close to shopping (on the nearby Mariahilferstr.) and transportation. Large dorm rooms with separate sleeping areas offer some privacy. Fügergasse 3. +43 (0)1 597 6729. www.members.aon.at/westend

Wombats City Hostel
Spotless, colorful and contemporary, Wombats is a friendly and huge hostel that makes up for its slightly out of the way (but well-connected by transportation) location. It offers an in-house bar and other perks like free sheets, bike rentals, laundry facilities and breakfast for €3.50. Grangasse 6. +43 (0)1 897 2336. www.wombats.at/vienna-hostel

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best kept secrets, despite the fact that millions of backpackers and weekenders visit it every year. How? Most people never get out of the famous red light district and only have vague memories of the Heineken Brewery, Anne Frank’s House and Van Gogh Museum. For a more authentic experience, visit the outer canals, explore the Jordan area and meet at least one person who doesn’t speak English as a first language.

Amigo Hostel
Located opposite the Artis Zoo in a recently renovated monumental building, this hostel/budget hotel combo is only a few minutes away from the Museum of Tropics, the Botanical Gardens, the Van Gogh Museum, Maritime Museum, Anne Frank House, Heineken Brewery and the Waterloo Square flea market. Plantage Kerklaan 19. +31 (0)20 623 3716. www.amigohotel.nl

Bob’s Youth Hostel
One block away from the debauchery of the red light district. Bob’s is located on a main street and the basement chill-out area is always buzzing with people, but the dorm rooms are quiet. Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 92. +31 (0)20 623 0063. www.bobsyouthhostel.nl

The Bulldog Hotel
Located in the red light district and just eight minutes from the central train station. This is the hostel to go to if you want to party, it even has an in-house coffee shop. Oudezijds Voorburgwal 220. +31 (0)20 620 3822. www.bulldog.nl

Cosmos Hostel
Located in the city center in a completely renovated 17th century building. The friendly staff, clean rooms and great atmosphere have kept guests praising Hostel Cosmos as one of the 10 best in the world. Be sure to keep an eye out for Simba, the resident cat. Nieuwe nieuwstraat 17. +31 (0)20 625 2438. www.hostelcosmos.com

The Flying Pig Downtown/Palace Hostel
Whether you’re looking for a full-on party at the Downtown Pig (in the heart of the red light district) or a more peaceful Pig experience at the Palace, you’re sure to find a good time. Internet is free. Beds fill up early so check-in first thing in the morning. Downton Pig: Nieuwendijk 100. Palace Hostel: Vossiusstraat 46. +31 (0)20 420 6822. www.flyingpig.nl

The Greenhouse Effect
A great hotel and one of Amsterdam's best coffee shops. Each room has its own theme and style. Most rooms are doubles, but there are several three- and four-bed rooms. This place is a well-known secret and therefore full most nights, so book ahead. No matter where you sleep, the coffee shop is a must (discounts for hotel guests). Warmoesstraat 53-55. +31 (0)20 624 4974. www.greenhouse-effect.nl

Hans Brinker Budget Hotel
Away from the seedy red light district, this hostel makes good use of its large upstairs bar and downstairs club space to create its own party atmosphere. You’ll actually meet real Amsterdamers in this neighborhood. Kerkstraat 136. +31 (0)20 622 0687. www.hans-brinker.com

Hostel the Globe Center
Directly on an inner red light district canal; the great location and large sports bar makes for a good stay. Quiet rooms and great breakfast for a few euros. Oudezijds Voorburgwal 3. +31(0)20 421 7424. www.hostel-theglobe.nl

Shelter Jordan/Shelter City
Two Christian hostels that are strictly dry, non-smoking and drug free. Perfect for visitors who plan to remember their visit to Amsterdam. Barndesteeg 21. +31 (0)20 625 3230. www.shelter.nl

Stayok Amsterdam (Vondelpark & Stadtsdoelen)
These two members of the Hostelling International (HI) uphold the high standards of this international group of hostels. Vondelpark is in the park of the same name and the building, a former girls’ school, is bright and clean and has all the perks, including W-LAN. Stadtsdoelen is in an old canal house, centrally located, with some of the best views from a dorm bed anywhere. Zandpad 5. +31 (0)20 589 8996. Kloveniersburgwal 97. +31 (0)20 624 6832. www.stayokay.com

St Christopher's Inn at the Winston
This hostel has the most unique décor of any hostel in Europe. Most of the rooms are designed by artists from around the world; the exotic and fetish room, button room or body fat room are worth a look. Great bar, downstairs club and private outdoor patio overlooking the red light district. Breakfast is included. Warmoesstraat 129. +31 (0)20 623 1380. www.winston.nl

The White Tulip
Directly in the red light district. A strict no-visitors policy helps keep guests and their possessions safe. Instead, take your friends to the downstairs Irish pub that offers guest discounts. Warmoesstraat 87. +31 (0)20 625 5974. www.wittetulp.nl

Youth Hostel Meetingpoint
In the Amsterdam tradition of gezelligheid (coziness), Meetingpoint is just that: a central place to meet and cozy up to fellow travelers. And with a hostel bar open 24 hours a day and dorm rooms with 12-18 beds, you’ll find it hard not to make new friends. Two minute walk from main central station, close to the red light district. Sheets included. Warmoesstraat 14. +31 (0)20 627 7499. www.hostelmeetingpoint.nl

If you only have time to visit one city in Poland, there is no question that Krakow is your first choice. Unlike Prague, it's not spoiled by hordes of tourists and its authenticity has a penetrating effect. The balance between old squares and towering chapels, and the surprisingly hip-coolness of the twenty-something bar and club scene, makes this a city for every young traveler. Oh yeah, and then there's the touristy stuff, in case you're a list maker looking to make ticks: the Salt Mines, the Castle and of course the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.

Any Time Hostel
One of New Europe's favorite hostels in Krakow. Great rooms...check. Great staff...check. Best location in Krakow? Only for people looking to stay in the most up-and-coming part of the city. The restaurant downstairs serves up a great pizza, there’s a club in the basement, beer garden out back and lively market in the square right outside your window. ul. Estery 16. +48 (12) 432 3070. www.anytime.com.pl

Dizzy Daisy
Informative and friendly, the crew here make a good hostel a great place to stay. The cozy common room forces interaction, and it's placement outside of the touristy city center means you actually meet real people on the street. And if you're ready to kill for some hot water and good pressure from your shower head, then this place will make you...wet. Dietla 58. +48 (12) 292 0171. www.hostel.pl

Dodo Hostel
It doesn't feel like a hostel, but more a friend’s place during a party weekend. The entire hostel is set up like you're really in someone's house, complete with pictures of people (who look a lot like the staff) hanging on the walls in neat frames. The student management has created a place they'd be comfortable if they were away from home, and with the comfortable beds, you can't help but feel at home yourself. ul. Szlak 32. +48 (12) 633 7523. www.dodohostel.com  

Sky Hostel
Super-clean, big rooms and a staff looking to please seems to be a pattern in Krakow, but these folks set the bar. You've got to love the quiet (which can be dangerous if you have to wake up for a flight). It's hard to find anything wrong with this place, which even has a washing machine for your stinky damp clothes. Hmmm...maybe that's why it smells so good here. Dunajewskiego 6. +48 (12) 426 1115. www.skyhostel.com.pl

The Stranger Hostel
You'll meet everyone staying there sooner or later in the Ju Ju Lounge, a lair with a wall screen for watching movies and a giant bed which fits seven comfortably (and more if you’re willing to snuggle). It's a quick walk to the city center, although in Krakow everything is a short walk. Big on service, the long list of 'frees' include internet, W-Lan (wireless), bed sheets, breakfast (simple, but until 1pm) and small lockers. ul. Kochanowskiego 1. +48 (12) 634 2516. www.strangerhostel.com

Berlin – forever changing and evolving. From the days of the great Prussian kingdom, to the collapse of the Wall, Berlin has always been at the center of world events. Today it is a mecca for musicians, artists and bohemians and its streets are bustling with a renewed energy that contrasts with the visible scars of its past. Truly one of the most inspiring cities to visit.

Alcatraz Hostel
This hostel is in a quiet and shady courtyard brightened by some of Berlin’s best graffiti art. The staff is friendly, the rooms are comfortable and the location, in popular Prenzlauer Berg, is a definite asset. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Schönhauser Allee 133a, Prenzlauer Berg. +49 (0)30 4849 6815. www.alcatraz-backpacker.de

Aletto Jugendhotel
Two locations, each big and friendly. Free breakfast, free coffee and tea all day, plus a WC and shower in every room. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Grunewaldstr. 33, Schöneberg. Tempelhofer Ufer 8/9, Kreuzberg. +49 (0)30 2100 3680. www.aletto.de

All In Hostel
A brand-new hostel in the heart of Friedrichshain. There is even an “Easy-Dorm” service, which allows for cheap, quick check-ins and -outs. Sponsors free city tours through New Berlin Tours. Grünbergerstr. 54, Mitte. 0 700 2255 46783 www.allinhostel.de

BaxPax Hostel
In Kreuzberg, a cool, edgy part of town and one of Berlin’s most eclectic areas. The hostel is located near Oranienstraße, packed with cool bars and clubs. If you’re feeling nutty, reserve the VW Beetle bed. Sponsors free walking tours for its guests. Skalitzerstr. 104, Kreuzberg. +49 (0)30 6951 8322. www.baxpax.de

Berlin Youth Hostel International
A clean, quality hostel for exploring western Berlin. Bar, internet and breakfast included. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Kluckstr. 3, Tiergarten. +49 (0)30 261 1097. www.jugendherberge.de

The Circus Hostels
Two hostels in central locations. Friendly, relaxed and ideal for meeting other travelers. Internet, bike rentals, buffet breakfast. Weinbergsweg 1a, Mitte. Rosa-Luxemburgstr. 39-41, Mitte. +49 (0)30 2839 1433. www.circus-berlin.de

Corner Hostel
The atmosphere in this Prenzlauer Berg hostel is friendly and relaxed. The rooms are clean and quiet. Free cooking facilities. Sponsors free walking tours. Driesenerstr. 17, Prenzlauer Berg. +49 (0)30 4373 4353. www.corner-hostel.de

Die Fabrik
A bright and spacious hostel in the heart of Kreuzberg. It’s refreshing to find dorm beds that aren’t bunk beds. Surrounded by bars, cafés and parks. Sheets are free. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Schlesischestr. 18, Kreuzberg. +49 (0)30 611 7116. www.diefabrik.de

Eastener Hostel
This intimate hostel has friendly staff, a personal atmosphere and free internet. Centrally located near Oranienburger Strasse. Non-smoking. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Novalisstr. 4, Mitte. 0175 112 3515. www.eastener-hostel.de

The Generator
The largest hostel in Germany. Clean, modern, and friendly. Located between two lively nightlife districts, easy transportation to both. Start location for free daily tours and a pick up point for the NEW BERLIN Pub Crawl. Storkowerstr. 160, Prenzlauer Berg. +49 (0)30 417 2400. www.generatorhostels.com

Heart of Gold Hostel
A hostel around the corner from the nightlife of Oranienburger Strasse and a stroll away from Museum Island. Johannisstr. 11, Mitte. +49 (0)30 2900 3300. www.heartofgold-hostel.de

Helter Skelter
You could see 75 per cent of Berlin’s sites and never have to walk more than ten minutes from Helter Skelter. Twenty-four hour reception and internet. Kalkscheunenstr. 4-5, Mitte. +49 (0)30 2804 4997. www.helterskelter.de

Hostel Adler
This hostel is surrounded by nightlife; you could crawl home from some of our favorite bars. Located above the Oranienburger Tor U-Bahn stop. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Friedrichstr. 124, Mitte. +49 (0)30 282 9352. www.hostel-adler.de

Hotel 4 Youth
This recently renovated hostel is one of the few quiet nooks in trendy Prenzlauer Berg. Each spacious room includes a bathroom, as well as breakfast and bed sheets. Schönhauser Allee 103, Prenzlauer Berg. +49 (0)30 446 7783. www.hotel4youth.de

Jetpak
A family-run hostel outside of the city center. Nestled in the woods, but connected to the downtown through public transport. Free internet, W-LAN and nightly DVD movies make this hostel great for small groups to take a break from exhausting travel schedules. Pücklerstr. 54, Zehlendorf. +49 (0)30 832 5011. www.jetpak.de

Lette’m Sleep
A small hostel that feels more like a big family home. Located across the street from a little park and beside popular bars and cafes. Free internet, free tea and coffee and kitchen facilities. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Lettestr. 7, Prenzlauer Berg. +49 (0)30 4473 3623. www.backpackers.de

MEININGER City Hostels
Three large, clean hostels in West Berlin. Every room comes with WC and shower. Breakfast buffet and bed sheets included. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Meiningerstr. 10, Schöneberg. Hallesches Ufer 30 and Tempelhofer Ufer 10, Kreuzberg. +49 (0)30 6663 6100. www.meininger-hostels.com

Mitte’s Backpacker Hostel
Practically every room comes with its own decorated theme, a perfect excuse to go around and meet other guests staying in this roomy hostel. Located in central Mitte, ripe with nightlife. Sponsors free walking tours for guests. Chausseestr. 102, Mitte. +49 (0)30 2839 0965. www.backpacker.de

Odyssee Globetrotter Hostel
Spitting distance from Simon-Dach Str., famous for its bars and cafes, and an easy walk to some decent clubs. All-you-can-eat breakfast buffet and free bed sheets. Grünbergerstr. 23, Friedrichshain. +49 (0)30 2900 0081. www.globetrotterhostel.de

The Pegasus Hostel
This bright hostel is a converted Jewish girls’ school in the middle of Friedrichshain. The free drink on arrival and free kitchen facilities are good examples of Pegasus’ willingness to please. Sponsors free city tours for guests. Straße der Pariser Kommune 35, Friedrichshain. +49 (0)30 297 7360. www.pegasus.de

Sunflower Hostel
Bright rooms with balconies, within walking distance to both the East Side Gallery (where the Wall still stands) and popular Simon-Dach Str. Internet, bar, laundry and breakfast. Helsingforserstr. 17, Friedrichshain. +49 (0)30 4404 4250. www.sunflower-hostel.de

Llyndin to the Celts and Londinium to the Romans, London is a beautiful city with a rich history. Watch the sun filter through stained glass in Westminster Abbey, take a stroll along the Thames, relax in the majestic lawns of Hyde Park or hit the town and find out why London is famous for its music scene. 

Ace Hotel
Located a few minutes walk from two Tube stations, Ace Hotel stylishly straddles the line between budget hotel and top-notch hostel. If you’re looking for a bit extra, this a good place to start. A stylish and immaculately clean interior, nice bathrooms and a full electronic security card system. Patio garden area with BBQ facilities and hot tub out back. 16-22 Gunterstone Rd. +44 (0)20 7602 6600. www.ace-hotel.co.uk

Adamotel
Adamotel is a clean and quiet budget hotel with hostel prices. If you’re sick of large, rowdy hostels, take a breather here. The hotel features a friendly international staff, nightly movies shown on 32” plasma screens in the lobby and several rooms with beautiful backyard views. Located in a safe, central area a few minutes walk from Gloucester Road Tube station. 25 Collingham Rd. +44 (0)20 7373 9985. www.adamotel.co.uk

Ashlee House
Constructed by a leading Dutch design firm, this stylish, low-budget hostel appeals to a diverse mixture of backpackers and other budget travelers. Just a short walk away from Soho, the British Museum and Convent Gardens, this hostel's central location is hard to beat. Enjoy a free movie on the big screen every night or play X-box in the retro lounge. 26-265 Grays Inn Road. +44 (0)20 7833 9400. www.ashleehouse.co.uk

Astor Hostels
Five locations in London. The Hyde Park location has a renowned club with DJs from around the world. The Astor Quest Hotel is a quieter, family facility in the heart of London. 2-6 Inverness Terrace. +44 (0)20 7229 5101. www.astorhostels.com

Generator Hostel London
Situated in the very center of London, Generator is a huge hostel with great facilities and a warm, friendly atmosphere.  Pints are ₤1 during happy hour, which runs from 6 pm - 9 pm in the hostel bar. Free sheets and towels as well as an all-you-can-eat breakfast. Compton Place. +44 (0)20 7388 7666. www.generatorhostels.com

Globetrotter Inn London
Voted the Best London Hostel 2006 by 'Visit London.' Free parking for guests, close to  Victoria Station and all central London's best attractions. Bar and games room with plenty of nightlife action to relax after a weary day of sightseeing. Ashlar Court, Ravenscourt Gardens, Stamford Brook. +44 (0)20 8746 3112. www.globetrotterinns.com

Hostel 639
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills place to stay in London that won’t break your budget, Hostel 639 and their partner hostels offer great value. Starting at just £10 per night for dorm rooms, you won’t come across beds much cheaper. The atmosphere here is decidedly chilled-out, and the staff is young and friendly. Brazilian food from the kitchen, a Moroccan-themed lounge and special bar nights add up to a funky yet cozy experience. Free pick-up van service from Victoria Station. 639 Harrow Rd. +44 (0)20 8964 4411. www.hostel639.co.uk

Hyde Park Inn
A true backpacker’s hostel with a clean, refurbished feel. Steps away from beautiful, sprawling Hyde Park, with the Central Line on the tube a 2 minute walk away. This hostel group also has a hotel/hostel hybrid nearby and another hostel in the party-friendly Camden neighborhood. 48-50 Inverness Terrace. +44 (0)20 7229 2000.  www.hydeparkinn.com

Journey’s Hostels
With three London hostels, and a new one coming soon, Journey’s are well-represented throughout the capital. You can expect a homey, comfortable simplicity here, with an emphasis on cleanliness. The Waterloo hostel features a large lounge area with pool table, juke box and a roof terrace perfect for whiling away those warm summer evenings. Located only 10 minutes each from Big Ben and the Thames in one direction and the major Waterloo Station in the other. 73 Lambeth Walk. +44 (0)20 7582 3088. www.journeyshostels.com

Meininger City Hostel & Hotel
Meininger is a large, clean and well furnished hostel. Situated near Hyde Park, it is within walking distance of many of London's top museums. Free sheets and all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet every morning. All rooms include shower/WC (except 6th floor), air-conditioning and TV. 65-67 Queen's Gate. +49 (0)30 6663 6100. www.meininger-hostels.com

Palmers Lodge
Possibly the most stylish hostel in the city, this nationally-protected building is the refurbished home of 19^th century biscuit baron Samuel Palmer. The hostel features wood décor, high ceilings and large windows throughout. Free wireless internet and a lounge with digital TV and plasma screens. 40 College Crescent. +44 (0)20 7483 8470.  www.palmerslodge.co.uk

Piccadilly Backpackers
A minute's walk away from Piccadilly tube station. Clean, secure and in an area full of cafes, theaters and bars. The Hostel Art Initiative Project, which allows young artists to design and decorate various rooms, means a look at the interior is worth your while, even if you aren't staying there. 12 Sherwood Street. +44 (0)20 7434 9009. www.piccadillyhotel.net

St. Christopher's London
Six youth hostels in London. Each hostel has its own unique bar where live sports are broadcast on the big screen by day and the latest club anthems at night. Be sure to show your keycard and receive a 10% discount on all your drink and food purchases. With roof-top hot tub, free sheets, complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities and internet, there isn’t much this hostel hasn’t thought of. 161-165 Borough High Street. +44 (0)20 7407 1856. www.st-christophers.co.uk
 

The air of this bustling city is always full of something: passionate music, scintillating aromas, laughter, great conversation, vitality, and life. As the capital city of Spain, the city is never short of things to do- from the Royal Palace to Tapas bars, and excellent museums to stunning parks. You can also enjoy some excellent shopping, and relax while letting your taste buds delight in the delicious, mouthwatering food at one of the many restaurants.