The best hostels in Paris

Paris may be synonymous with luxury, but some of the city’s most memorable stays don’t come with a five-star price tag. Scattered across its vibrant neighborhoods, Parisian hostels have redefined budget travel, blending stylish design, lively social scenes, and unbeatable locations. Whether you’re dreaming of Montmartre’s artistic streets, the trendy cafés of Le Marais, or the bohemian energy of the Latin Quarter, there’s a hostel to match your travel style.

From grand Haussmannian buildings transformed into chic retreats to cozy, design-forward spaces that encourage mingling over café au lait, these hostels offer more than just a place to sleep—they provide a gateway to the city’s culture, food, and nightlife. Some boast rooftop terraces with Eiffel Tower views, while others tuck you into historic districts filled with hidden gems. Wherever you choose to stay, these are the best hostels in Paris, proving that affordable doesn’t have to mean ordinary.

Oops! Hostel

Paris has no shortage of stylish stays, but Oops! Hostel brings a dose of playful design to a classic Haussmannian building. Nestled along Avenue des Gobelins, this vibrant hostel offers a location that puts you within easy reach of the city’s most charming corners. Designed by French architect Philippe Maidenberg and artist Daniela Millas, the interiors burst with color, geometric patterns, and contemporary lighting—creating a space that feels equal parts cozy and artistic. This hostel stands out with its bold design, featuring eye-catching murals, patterned wallpaper, and a mix of ensuite rooms and dorms.

Mornings start with a simple yet satisfying breakfast in the hostel’s dining area, featuring fresh croissants, bread with jam, cereal, juice, and tea. Just a short stroll away, the Latin Quarter unfolds with its historic treasures: the Luxembourg Palace, the Pantheon, and Notre Dame are all within a 15-minute walk.

For a more local experience, Rue Mouffetard—just five minutes from the hostel—buzzes with authentic Parisian charm. Lined with cozy bistros, creperies, and atmospheric bars, it’s the perfect place to linger over a glass of wine or indulge in a late-night crêpe. With its blend of style, convenience, and a touch of whimsy, Oops! Hostel makes a good home base for exploring the City of Light.

Generator Paris

Looking for a stylish yet affordable stay in Paris? Generator Paris is a great choice for travelers who want a design-forward experience without breaking the bank. Situated in the vibrant 10th Arrondissement, just steps from Canal St. Martin and opposite the iconic French Communist Headquarters, this hostel-hotel hybrid is a hotspot for the young and social.

From the moment you step inside, Generator Paris sets the scene with its cinematic interiors—think bold design, neon lights, and a marquee-style reception that feels straight out of a Parisian art-house film. The social vibe kicks off at Café Fabien on the ground floor, a lively spot with a canteen, a leafy conservatory, and game tables for those who want to challenge new friends to a round of ping-pong. As night falls, the energy shifts to the underground nightclub, inspired by the Paris Métro, where DJs spin until the early hours.

The real highlight, though, is the 9th-floor Khayma Rooftop. With sweeping views of Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, cozy hammocks, and a chic bar, it’s the perfect place to sip cocktails while soaking in the city skyline.

Rooms cater to all types of travelers, from dorm-style bunks (some female-only) to sleek private rooms with en-suite baths. Expect Scandinavian-inspired decor, USB charging stations, full-length mirrors, and clever storage solutions. The Premium Terrace rooms even come with complimentary snacks, water, and toiletries.

The 3 Ducks Hostel

Tucked away in the heart of Paris’ vibrant 15th arrondissement, The 3 Ducks Hostel blends 18th-century charm with modern vibrancy. Housed in a former coaching inn—recognized as a historical monument and protected by Les Bâtiments de France—this hostel has welcomed travelers from across the globe since 1987, earning a reputation for its warm atmosphere and social spirit.

Following an extensive two-year renovation completed in 2014, The 3 Ducks effortlessly combines history with contemporary Parisian flair. The façade, carefully restored under the guidance of the Vieux Paris commission, retains its old-world charm, while the interiors—reimagined by a renowned French architect and two creative graphic artists—offer stylish communal spaces, colorful murals, and a lively bar that draws in international travelers.

Its location is equally appealing. A 15-minute walk leads you straight to the Eiffel Tower—no maps or navigation required. Nearby, the riverfront Beaugrenelle Paris Shopping Mall boasts sleek boutiques and cafés, while the Place de la Porte-de-Versailles offers even more retail therapy. For history lovers, the iconic Panthéon Mausoleum sits just over four kilometers away, offering a journey into France’s past.

Le Régent Montmartre

Perched in the heart of Montmartre, Le Régent Montmartre offers travelers a stylish and welcoming stay in one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods. Steps from the Sacré-Cœur, and a short stroll from the neon glow of the Moulin Rouge, this boutique hostel places you at the crossroads of old-world charm and the city’s thriving creative pulse.

Recently renovated, the interiors are warm and inviting, blending contemporary design with a touch of Parisian elegance. Some rooms boast sweeping views of the basilica, perfect for watching the city wake up with a morning espresso in hand. Downstairs, the lively common areas encourage mingling—whether you’re sinking into a bean bag with a book or swapping travel tips over coffee.

Beyond the hostel’s doors, Montmartre’s winding streets beckon with their bohemian energy. Meander past artists sketching in Place du Tertre, pop into tucked-away galleries, or follow the scent of fresh-baked croissants to a neighborhood boulangerie. The surrounding 9th and 18th arrondissements are a playground of culture and nightlife, from the indie cinemas of Barbès to Pigalle’s storied concert venues like La Cigale and L’Élysée Montmartre.

For a taste of the neighborhood’s diverse flavors, explore the area’s rich culinary offerings—spicy North African cuisine on rue Rochechouart, or a classic French bistro along rue des Martyrs. Whether you’re here for the views, the music, or the midnight adventures, Le Régent Montmartre places you in the heart of it all, with Paris unfolding at your doorstep.