One of the best parts about staying in hostels is not just the affordable price, it’s the free activities that many of them offer. These activities help you meet new people, explore the destination, and save money at the same time. For budget travelers, solo travelers, and anyone who loves community-style travel, hostels can be a perfect choice.
What Free Activities Do Hostels Usually Offer?
Hostels today are more than just a bed in a shared room. Many now focus on creating memorable experiences for guests, and these are some common free activities they often provide:
Free Walking Tours
Probably the most popular activity. Hostel staff or local volunteers guide you around the city, sharing local insights, history, and hidden spots. It’s a great way to know the area without spending anything.
Yoga or Morning Stretch Classes
Many hostels, especially in wellness-focused or beach destinations, they offer free yoga sessions on rooftops, gardens, or beaches. A relaxing way to start your day.
Movie Nights
Some hostels have cozy common areas and run weekly movie sessions with free popcorn or snacks.
Cultural Workshops
This can include:
- Free cooking demos
- Language exchange nights
- Craft workshops
- Traditional music or dance sessions
Community Dinners
Some hostels host free pasta nights, BBQ evenings, or potluck dinners. You only need to show up!
Game Nights
From trivia quizzes to bingo to board game gatherings—these make socializing super easy.
In Which Countries Are Free Hostel Activities Common?
While you can find free hostel activities in many parts of the world, they are especially common in:
- Europe – Particularly in cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, Prague, Budapest, Berlin, and Warsaw. European hostels are known for offering walking tours, community dinners, and social events.
- Southeast Asia – Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia have hostels with yoga, sunset gatherings, jungle walks, or cooking demos.
- Latin America – Countries like Colombia, Peru, and Mexico often include free salsa nights, language exchanges, or guided hikes.
- Australia & New Zealand – Backpacker culture here is strong, and free BBQ nights or beach activities are common.
Where to Book Hostels?
You can find good hostels with transparent reviews on:
- Hostelworld
- Booking.com
- Agoda
- Official hostel Instagram or website
Hostelworld is the most popular because it has accurate ratings specifically based on hostel experiences.
How to Join Hostel Activities?
It’s usually very simple:
- Check the activity board near the reception
- Ask the staff about the schedule
- Join the WhatsApp/Telegram group if provided
- Sign up early (some have limited slots)
Most activities are walk-in and don’t require reservations.
What to Bring?
Depending on the activity:
- Comfortable shoes for walking tours
- Yoga mat or towel for yoga classes (some provide mats)
- Water bottle
- Small cash for tips (optional)
- Jacket or sunscreen depending on the weather
Stay Connected With the Group
Sometimes people suddenly get separated from the walking tour and end up lost. You need to prevent this by making sure you have internet data, just in case you get lost and need maps to find your way back. You can try Eskimo eSIM’s free 500 MB of global data, usable in 140+ countries. 500 MB is more than enough to use internet-based map apps for a full day.
FAQs
Are free hostel activities suitable for introverts or people who prefer quiet stays?
Yes. Many hostels offer optional, low-pressure activities. You can choose quieter options like book swaps, journaling corners, or meditation sessions without needing to socialize too much.
Do hostels offer free activities even if I stay in a private room?
Absolutely. Free activities are usually open to all guests, whether you book a dorm or a private room. Participation isn’t tied to room type.
Can I find hostels with activities that focus on nature or the outdoors?
Yes. Some hostels organize nature-friendly activities like sunrise hikes, beach cleanups, forest walks, or stargazing nights especially in rural or coastal areas.
Do free hostel activities run every day?
Not always. Some hostels have daily programs, while others only schedule activities on certain days of the week. It depends on staff availability and season.
