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Europe, it seems, is ground zero for hostels. There are scores of hostels everywhere and of every caliber that one could think of. Some hostels are party hostels, some are cheap and very budget-friendly, one in Amsterdam is even the "worst hotel in the world," some are boutique, and some are family-friendly. A&O Hostel is a large network of family-friendly hostels across Europe.
It will surprise one just how many ways hostels can be made into unique and memorable accommodations in Europe. There is a jumbo-jet come hostel in Stockholm, a boutique hostel in Vienna, a hostel with 36 beds in the cellar (without windows) in Prague, and a prison-come luxury hostel/living museum in Ljubljana.
The Largest Hostel Chain In The World
A&O is the largest hostel chain in Europe, and according to their website, they are the largest hostel chain in the whole world with over 28,500 beds.
- Largest: Hostel Chain in The World
- Beds: 28,500
- Where: Across Europe
A&O hostels are always responsibly central - although often not as central as many of the youth and party hostels. They were first founded in 2000 and are an inexpensive option for backpackers - as well as families and groups traveling on a budget.
A Hotel / Hostel Hybrid
"The innovative combination of hotel and hostel under one roof offers our guests a large variety of different room options suitable within everyone's price range."
A&O Hostels
A&O hostels are normally hostel/hotel hybrids with the best of cheaper hotels with some of the opportunities to meet and mix with other travelers as other hostels. Not only do they draw solo travelers and families, but they also attract associations and school classes.
They are also an accommodation chain looking forward with an eye to sustainability. They plan to go carbon-neutral by 2025. Their plan is to be Europe's first zero-emissions chain hotel.
Facilities At A&O Hostels
A&O Hostel facilities may vary considerably from place to place. But in general, one can expect an in-house bar and sometimes a limited restaurant. There is normally a great buffet-style breakfast - breakfast may be included in one's booking or available for an extra fee.
- Breakfast: Buffet-Style Breakfast
- Laundry: A Self Service Laundry Service
- Bar: Generally Have A In-House Bar with A Limited Restaurant
Some A&O Hostels have TV rooms, chill rooms, rooms for working (digital nomads), and even kids' rooms with toys so that the whole family can relax and unwind.
A&O Hostels have a selection of accommodation options including private rooms with private bathrooms, dormitories for solo travelers, dorms for groups, and accommodation suitable for families.
Prices change significantly from season to season and from city to city, but they strive to keep their accommodation affordable for all. Using the A&O Hostel in Edinburgh, Scotland as an example here are some of their prices on Hostelworld.com.
- Dorms: From Approx $25.00 (10 Bed Dorm)
- Standard Twin Room With Private On-suite: From $125.00
- Standard 6 Bed Private Ensuite: From $225.00
A&O Locations In Europe
They are focused on providing affordable accommodation in central locations in Europe's major centers. They can be found in many of Europe's top destinations with a particular focus on Germany and Austria.
Their locations include Aachen, Amsterdam, Berlin, Bremen, Budapest, Dortmund, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Graz, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Cologne, Leipzig, Munich, Nuremberg, Prague, Rotterdam, Salzburg, Stuttgart, Venice, Warsaw, Weimar, and Edinburgh.
- Countries: Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, Hungary, Denmark, Czech Republic, Italy, Scotland
- Greatest Concentration: Germany
Who Should Stay At A&O Hostels
All in all, A&O Hostels are a great accommodation option for backpackers looking for affordable accommodation and who want some peace and quiet away from the sometimes overwhelming beat of party hostels.
They are good for those who don't feel the need to meet and mingle with other travelers all the time. If one is looking for a hostel with an electric hostel vibe - then look for a top-rated party or youth hostel.
Suitable For:
- Families On A Budget
- Backpackers On A Budget Wanting Respite From Party Hostels
- Groups (School Groups Etc.)
If one is on a budget, then it can be rewarding to cross-compare different hostels. One hostel group in Krakow, Poland includes free breakfast, (superb) dinner, beer, and sometimes even a shot or two in its bookings!