The Flying Pig Downtown Youth Hostel

I’ve changed my rating to 5 stars because they took the feedback below in a positive way. The hostel’s right in the centre, making it easy to walk to Central Station and explore the city. Our room and the washrooms were clean, and the place had a really good atmosphere. There’s a smoking area at the entrance, while the rooms stay quiet without any disturbance. Prices are reasonable, and since the other two beds in our room were empty, it felt like we had it to ourselves. Curtains around the beds would add some privacy, but otherwise it was a solid central stay.

The location is handy for the central train station, Chinatown (Zeedijk), and the red-light district. Entry is through a turnstile, using your room key or asking the front desk for access, which helps keep unauthorized people out. I stayed in an 18-person dorm. Each bed has a large locker that fit both a 45-liter hiking backpack and a 25-liter backpack, plus a lamp and charging socket. Towels aren’t free. The toilets and showers are separate and outdoors, and there are two hairdryers in the shower area. Wi-Fi was strong. Downstairs there’s a bar with a pool table at night, as well as a smoking room. The basement has a big shared kitchen that closes before midnight; before 10 pm it serves as the hostel buffet area. Luggage storage before check-in or after check-out costs extra, with prices shown in the pictures.

The stay was pleasant and I didn’t run into any issues. This is a good budget option, especially with tourist spots nearby, and I really enjoyed the light festival even though it rained. Most guests are travelers, so it’s easy to make connections. The hostel is often crowded, but well maintained and very neat. Beds are spacious and there are lockers, though you need to bring your own lock. The washroom and toilet were good, with hot water always available. No blanket or towel is included, but you can rent them. Staff were helpful and check-in was easy. The hostel is within walking distance of the railway and bus stations, and following the map gets you there. My room was far from reception, and the route was a bit confusing with luggage. Neither the route nor the room got sunlight, though the room had a small area and a smoking room for ventilation. After check-out, you can leave luggage at the hostel but must collect it before 8; they don’t allow later pickup. Storage space was small, so I got ready, checked out, and left my bag at the railway station instead. It costs 16 Euros for 24 hours and fits one medium trolley bag. You could also look at options in the

I’ve stayed here a few times and it’s been brilliant every time. The other guests are friendly, and I’ve made lots of new friends. The location is hard to beat, right in the centre and close to the train station. There’s a great secure locker system with plenty of space for a low price, and each bed has its own locker too, so remember to bring a lock. Showers are fantastic, really hot and powerful. The staff are always friendly and helpful. The bar is cheap and well stocked, and the €10 pizzas with a free drink are available 24/7 and taste great. It has everything I want from a hostel, and I’d recommend it to anyone.