Stockholm's original hostel in prime Gamla Stan location. Clean dorms and private rooms, fully equipped kitchen, and friendly staff. Unbeatable location for sightseeing on foot.
City Backpackers Hostel occupies a building at Upplandsgatan 2A in the Vasastaden district, approximately 800 metres north of Stockholm Central Station. The address puts the hostel within easy walking distance of the T-centralen interchange — the hub of Stockholm's metro network — and 15 minutes on foot from the waterfront at Strömkajen. The immediate neighbourhood is residential and quiet relative to the tourist core, with a good density of local cafes, supermarkets, and convenience stores within two blocks.
Established in the early 2000s, City Backpackers has built a reputation as one of Stockholm's most consistently well-run independent hostels. The building is a converted residential property with the layout and character that distinguish independently operated facilities from chain hostels — common areas have gathered a mix of used furniture, local artwork, and accumulated traveller history over two decades of operation. The vibe is functional and social rather than polished.
Accommodation comprises dormitories ranging from four to twelve beds and a selection of private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms. Dorm beds include individual lockers, reading lights, and power sockets. Private rooms are basic but clean, with good natural light in most. Linen is provided; towels are available to rent. A fully equipped communal kitchen has multiple hob rings, oven access, and sufficient utensils for group meal preparation — one of the hostel's most valued amenities given Stockholm's high restaurant prices.
Common areas include a television lounge, a small book exchange, and outdoor seating in summer. The hostel does not operate a bar or serve food beyond the communal kitchen, which keeps the atmosphere quieter than larger party-oriented hostels. Laundry facilities with machines and a drying room are available for a per-load fee.
Front desk staff work extended hours and are effective at fielding transit questions, day-trip logistics, and Stockholm card advice. The hostel operates year-round and attracts a broadly international mix of long-term backpackers, budget solo travellers, and travelling families.
Amenities
- kitchen
- laundry
- lockers
- common room
- breakfast available
Location
Upplandsgatan 2A, 111 23 Stockholm
59.3398, 18.0588 View on map
Highlights
- Fully equipped communal kitchen with oven, multiple hob rings, and utensils — significant advantage given Stockholm's restaurant prices
- Central Vasastaden location within walking distance of Stockholm Central Station and the T-centralen metro hub
- Independently operated for over two decades with a consistent reputation for cleanliness and helpful staff
- Private rooms and dormitories available, with linen included and laundry facilities on-site
- Quiet residential neighbourhood setting without the noise of hostels in the tourist core
Tips for visiting
- The communal kitchen is genuinely well-equipped — buying groceries at the nearby ICA supermarket on Upplandsgatan and cooking saves significantly versus eating out every meal
- Book at least four to six weeks ahead for summer weekends; City Backpackers is consistently full from June to August
- A Stockholm 72-hour travel card purchased at T-centralen covers all metro, bus, and tram travel and pays for itself quickly compared to single-journey tickets
- The Vasaparken park, five minutes' walk west, is a good local green space with a children's playground and summer outdoor ping-pong tables
- Check-in is from 15:00 but luggage storage is available from morning — useful for arriving early on a long-haul flight
When to visit
May to September for the best Stockholm weather. The hostel operates year-round; winter brings lower prices and fewer crowds but limited outdoor activity.
Accessibility
The building is a converted older residential property with limited accessibility infrastructure. There is no lift, and staircase access to upper floors is required. Not suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations. Contact the hostel directly for specific requirements.