5 best hostels Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a region filled with culture, history, architecture and unbelievable scenery. With something for everyone, this region is especially known for the community-minded locals. Get a real feel for what it is like to live in Eastern Europe by staying at one of the best hostels around.

Red Star Hostel, Bratislava, Slovakia

The Red Star Hostel is a top pick in Slovakia. This family-friendly, easy to get to hostel provides guests with endless amenities. Known for its comfort and professional staff, you will enjoy free WiFi, 24-hour reception, washing facilities, and more during your stay. This non-smoking hostel is especially great for children because of a game room, and the shared kitchen that makes it easy for families to quickly cook up meals rather than overspend at extravagant restaurants.

Old House, Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Staying on budget is not a problem when you visit the Old House hostel in Bulgaria. This charming, family-owned hostel dates back to 1895 and makes guests feel right as home for a low price. The dorms are airy, bright and bunk free, something that is hard to find in European hostels. After a great night's sleep, explore the small courtyard, the local downtown area, or walk 400m to the Varna Sea Garden beach. Aside from the incredible location, free WiFi, cable and air conditioning make Old House a winner.

Tirana Backpacker Hostel, Tiranë, Albania

Albania's first ever hostel has relocated to a different street but is still considered one of the greatest values and best-run places to stay in the country. This charmingly decorated hostel has a garden with several small cabins for guests looking for more privacy. The Tirana's large kitchen, bathrooms on each floor, and air conditioning make it one of the top hostels in the region. Enjoy the true Albanian experience here with help from the owners who conveniently provide traditional Albania food, day-tours and bike rentals for guests.

The Drunken Monkey Hostel, Zadar, Croatia

Found in a suburban Croatian neighbourhood, this smaller hostel offers lounge facilities with movie projectors, a guest BBQ, and a very friendly, fun vibe. The Drunken Monkey Hostel is appropriately named; while you lay out by the swimming pool, stop by the bar and enjoy a refreshing smoothie or beverage. A key draw to this waterfront retreat is the quick 20-minute trip to Croatian's old town centre. Additionally, this hostel has a coded entrance so guests can feel safe and secure at all times.

Doors Hostel, Bucharest, Romania

Doors Hostel is found in a quiet, residential area of Romania and has a beautiful garden that is designed to look like a Moroccan tearoom. If you are not spending your weekend nights enjoying an art performance held at here, take a stroll through the old part of town and absorb the stylish architecture, historical centre, local shops and restaurants. The international young and friendly staff who can speak a multitude of languages are incredibly welcoming to all guests. Doors Hostel provides visitors with air conditioning, several recreational games, a currency exchange and laundry facilities to make the stay as pleasant as possible.

Traveling beyond Eastern Europe? We have a few suggestions for where else you should stay on your Euro-trip.

Whether you are staying at a luxurious, five-star hotel or sticking to a tight budget, Cover-More has several affordable travel insurance plans that will fit your needs and keep your covered on your overseas adventures.

Image courtesy of Flickr user Jon Gos; cropped from original