30 Best Types of Accommodations Across European Cities
Exploring Europe is like flipping through the pages of a storybook—each city tells a different tale. But let’s be real, where you crash at night can either be part of the adventure or a total buzzkill. After 15 years of solo globetrotting, I’ve stayed in just about every type of accommodation Europe has to offer—from quirky treehouses to luxurious castle hotels. So, if you’re planning your next European escape and need the ultimate Europe accommodation guide, buckle up! I’ve rounded up 30 of the best types of accommodations to suit every budget, travel style, and wanderlust-fueled whim.
1. Boutique Hotels
Forget cookie-cutter rooms—boutique hotels are all about personality. Think artsy décor, cozy vibes, and locally inspired touches. Places like The Hoxton in Paris or 25hours Hotel in Berlin are perfect if you love stylish stays with a personal touch.
2. Hostels
Gone are the days when hostels meant grungy dorms and dodgy bunk beds. Now, they’re hip, social, and budget-friendly. Hostels like Generator in Amsterdam or The Circus in Berlin mix cool design with a fun social scene.
3. Castles
Yes, you can actually sleep in a castle. Ireland and Scotland are brimming with castle hotels where you can live out your royal fantasies.
4. Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs)
B&Bs are like staying at a distant relative’s charming home—only with better breakfasts. Quaint spots in the English countryside or tucked-away villages in Italy are where B&Bs shine.
5. Luxury Hotels
Sometimes, you just need to treat yourself. Europe’s luxury hotels—like The Ritz in London or Hotel de Crillon in Paris—serve up plush rooms, spa treatments, and impeccable service.
6. Budget Hotels
For the practical traveler, budget hotels like Ibis or Motel One offer clean, comfy stays without emptying your wallet. Reliable and efficient.
7. Boutique Hostels
Blending the affordability of a hostel with boutique flair, spots like TOC Hostel in Barcelona give you stylish digs and social vibes.
8. Aparthotels
A cross between a hotel and an apartment, aparthotels give you hotel perks with apartment freedom. Citadines in Paris or Staycity in Dublin are top picks.
9. Pensions
Popular in Central Europe, pensions are small, family-run guesthouses offering a homey, affordable stay—especially in countries like Austria and Germany.
10. Historic Inns
For a stay steeped in history, Europe’s historic inns offer centuries-old charm. Imagine sleeping in a medieval inn in Bruges or a Tudor-style inn in England.
11. Airbnb Apartments
Want to feel like a local? Airbnb apartments are perfect for diving into the daily rhythm of a city. Plus, having your own kitchen to whip up a market-fresh meal? Chef’s kiss.
12. Monastery Stays
Need some peace and quiet? Some monasteries in Italy and Spain open their doors to travelers seeking tranquility.
13. Eco-Lodges
For the eco-conscious traveler, eco-lodges in places like Norway and Portugal offer sustainable stays in stunning natural settings.
14. Glamping Sites
Camping, but make it glam. Glamping in Europe—think yurts in the Alps or safari tents in Spain—lets you connect with nature comfortably.
15. Houseboats
Drift off to sleep on a houseboat in Amsterdam or Stockholm. Waking up to gentle waves? Yes, please.
16. Treehouses
Unleash your inner child by staying in a treehouse in the Black Forest or the French countryside.
17. Cottages
Cozy cottages in the Scottish Highlands or the Irish countryside are perfect for a peaceful retreat.
18. Farm Stays
Experience rural life with a farm stay in Tuscany or Provence—fresh air, fresh food, and a slower pace.
19. Villas
Ideal for groups or families, renting a villa in Greece or Spain means private pools and panoramic views.
20. Paradores
Spain’s paradores are luxury hotels set in historic buildings like castles and monasteries—talk about unique!
21. Capsule Hotels
Perfect for minimalist travelers, capsule hotels in cities like Zurich offer futuristic pods for a restful night.
22. Motels
Great for road trippers, European motels offer convenient stops along scenic routes.
23. University Dorms
During summer, many universities in cities like Edinburgh rent out dorm rooms—budget-friendly and central.
24. Campervans
For ultimate freedom, rent a campervan and hit the open road—ideal for exploring Iceland or Portugal.
25. Mountain Lodges
For hikers and ski lovers, mountain lodges in the Alps or Pyrenees provide cozy shelter after a day outdoors.
26. Floating Hotels
In cities like Copenhagen, floating hotels combine waterfront views with modern comforts.
27. Ice Hotels
Brave the chill in Sweden’s ICEHOTEL—a magical world of ice and snow sculptures.
28. Ryokans (Japanese Inns in Europe)
European cities like London have Japanese-style inns, offering a taste of Japanese hospitality far from Tokyo.
29. Capsule Hostels
Think capsule hotels but with a social twist—perfect for solo travelers wanting privacy and community.
30. Co-Living Spaces
Digital nomads, rejoice! Co-living spaces in Lisbon or Berlin offer work-friendly setups with built-in communities.
Whether you’re seeking luxury, comfort, or something totally out-of-the-box, Europe has an accommodation for every kind of traveler. My advice? Mix it up! Spend a night in a castle, then cozy up in a treehouse. Your accommodation can be just as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself.
