Hostels are rarely dull. If the common area isn't decorated with an eccentric mix of collectables, usually showcasing the worldly atmosphere of the particular hostel, then the occupants of the hostel provide a vibrant and social attitude. Dive into the hostel life and suddenly your European budget will be able to afford the gastronomic delights France offers, and you can afford the absorbent club prices of the Riviera, that your newfound hostel friends will surely want to party at. Paris hostels, and hostels throughout France are known for friendly staff, and affordable living.

One could think of hostels in France as a bare bones budget hotels. Travelers get a shared, dorm style room, usually a bathroom down the hall, a shower somewhere else, a common room (often with a bookshelf to trade paperbacks at), and if you're lucky, a bar. Some hostels include a communal kitchen for preparing meals. Be sure to ask if they have a curfew if you plan on exploring the club scene.

Hostels in France are not only cheaper, they're also popular for their social value. There's a certain lack of privacy accompanying a stay in a hostel, and typically this deters the type of crowed that isn't in the youthful backpacker sect. However, in general hostel travelers are more friendly, interested in meeting people to see the sights, and to party at night. So no matter your age or experience backpacking, if you have the right attitude, hostels in France will embrace you.

France Map

Hostels in Paris are especially smart as even an inexpensive hotel can ruin the budget of a frugal traveler. With so many museums to tour, and restaurants to check out, hostels in Paris are a smart choice to stretch your budget. The Young and Happy Hostel is clean, friendly, and a great value. The 3 Ducks Hostel is located ten minutes from the Eiffel Tower. It has a cozy bar, picturesque interior courtyard, and a kitchen available for preparing your own meals. Aloha Hostel is a fun and informal hostel. Located in Montmartre, Woodstock Hostel is a one of the more vibrant hostels in Paris. With lots of competition, Paris hostels are traditionally clean, and offer good features like internet, breakfast, and travel advice. The Village hostel is in Montmarte, and features 19th century exposed wood beams. Other fantastic hostels Paris include the independently run Le Maison, the bohemian Caulaincourt Square, and The Régent hostel, near the Moulin Rouge cabaret. There are many youth hostels in Paris, which offer all the standard accompaniments, plus discounts to youth and students. Book ahead of time during summer and peak travel holidays.