Just in time for summer travel, STA Travel customers voted with their dollar to put together a list of the top 10 hostels in Europe from STA Travel – a global travel specialist with 30 years experience helping students, teachers and young professionals travel the world

Previously regarded as cheap accommodations in far-off countries for backpackers and young people, hostels are now seen as an ideal option for people of all ages looking for a cheap trip. The clean accommodations and ideal location in city centers make hostels a perfect option for the budget traveler.

Some features of hostels in the top 10 include swimming pools, saunas, flat screen TVs, free WiFi access and free meals. And these are just some of the features hostels are adding to attract travelers looking for a discounted trip.

The top 10 hostels purchased by STA Travel customers are concentrated in some of the most visited cities in Europe, with London and Paris making multiple appearances. Of the hostels that made the list, prices range from $33 to $46 for one bed per night.

1. Absolute Paris Hotel and Hostel (Paris, France) – A cheap sleep in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Paris – Metro République.

2. Generator Hostel London (London, UK) – One of the largest hostels in the world with 800 beds, the Generator includes free breakfast, free linens and free tours.

3. Caulaincourt Square Hostel (Paris, France) – Located in the artist haven of Montmartre, you’ll be walking the same streets as Picasso and have access to free WiFi in the hostel.

4. Hans Brinker Hostel (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – Inside this hostel is a hip bar and a hot nightclub making it easy to always have some fun.

5. Piccadilly Backpackers (London, UK) – Located less than a minute from Piccadilly Circus, this premium location hostel is on top of the list for many travelers.

6. Plus Florence (Florence, Italy) – Located in the center of Florence, this first class hostel has a swimming pool, sauna and a flat screen TV in every room.

7. Wombats City Hostel Munich (Munich, Germany) – A brand new hostel located across the street from one of the city’s main train stations. It is the place to stay in Munich.

8. Two Ducks Hostel (Rome, Italy) – Located near one of the main public transportation stations, a stay at Two Ducks includes breakfast.

9. Hostel Metropol (Madrid, Spain) – Near the prestigious Gran Via shopping area, this hostel is for the fashionable traveler on a budget.

10. Sea Point Hostel (Barcelona, Spain) – Located in front of Barcelona’s oldest beach – Saint Sebastian – this hostel is ideal for the traveler looking for a relaxing summer trip.

“Hostels are becoming more popular amongst travelers of all ages due to the low price and great location,” said Amanda Gates, product coordinator for STA Travel. “Plus, you’re not likely to spend many hours awake in your hostel, so the trade off of extra amenities for a cheap price makes sense for many who still want to travel despite the economy.”

The list was compiled based on sales of hostels purchased from STA Travel in 2009.

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