New trend in tourism: Young travelers are no longer looking for a room, but for company in Europe

Young travelers are increasingly less satisfied with finding a cheap bed in a foreign city. For Generation Z and millennials, travel is now as much about people as it is about places. In recent years, so-called “social hostels” have become increasingly popular – accommodations with their own bars, organized social programs, and a concept based on a social experience.

The real value of travel is connection

The change is partly driven by the rapid increase in the number of solo travelers. Solo travel is becoming a conscious lifestyle, not just among young backpackers. According to industry forecasts, the global market for solo travelers could reach $1.07 trillion by 2030, a growth rate of more than 14 percent per year.

According to Hostelworld’s 2025 research, travelers are increasingly looking for a social experience. While previously 43 percent of solo travelers considered it important to meet people while traveling, this proportion has now increased to 58 percent. Guests are no longer looking for just a bed, but for an environment where they can easily connect with other travelers.

“The way young people travel has changed fundamentally over the past decade. It’s no longer just about sightseeing, it’s about people looking for real experiences and connections,” said Phill Burgess, head of marketing at St Christopher’s Inns. “The modern traveler doesn’t want to be isolated in a cheap room, but rather to be part of a community where shared experiences define the mood of the trip.”

Programs that break down barriers

One of the keys to the success of social hostels is their system of organized community programs. These events are often simple, yet effective ways to get to know each other. Guests can meet regularly for pub crawls, quiz nights, beer pong tournaments or shared city walks. Many places also offer communal cooking or other community programs.

These events are especially important for those who are arriving alone in a new city. Organized events create a natural opportunity for conversation and help break down social barriers.

“When we organize a social event for guests, we are actually creating a safe and stress-free environment for them to meet,” Burgess explained. “It makes it much easier for people to connect with each other than if they were to approach someone in a strange bar.”

The bar as the heart of the hostel

One of the most important elements of a social hostel is the on-site bar. These spaces are no longer just an additional service, but are the center of the hostel’s social life. Hostel bars are often open to locals as well, acting as multicultural meeting points. This allows tourists and locals to meet in the same space, which for many travelers means a more authentic experience.

An on-site bar also plays an important role in terms of safety. For solo female travelers in particular, the fact that the entertainment and accommodation are in the same building is a great advantage.

“A hostel bar is much more than just a place to eat. It’s a social hub where travelers from all over the world and locals can naturally mingle,” says Burgess. “For many of our guests, it’s also important to be able to enjoy the nightlife in a safe environment, as your room is just a few steps away.”

The model in action

One of the best-known European examples of the social hostel model is the St Christopher’s Inns chain. The chain operates hostels in several major European cities, with a concept based on a community experience and a bar called Belushi’s. The model is based on a close connection between accommodation and hospitality. Hostel guests receive discounts at the bar, while programs and events create a natural meeting point.

Berlin is a particularly good example of this concept. There are two St Christopher’s Inns in the city, catering to different traveler needs.

Located near Berlin’s Alexanderplatz, the establishment is popular with young travelers looking for a lively social experience. The Belushi’s bar on the ground floor regularly hosts events such as beer pong tournaments, karaoke nights and sports broadcasts, creating a lively atmosphere for guests and other visitors alike. The hostel also offers dormitories and private rooms.

The other hostel in Berlin Mitte, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed atmosphere during the day. The building near Friedrichstraße is more popular with cultural travelers and digital nomads. Social life is also important here, with sightseeing walks, beer tastings and smaller community events, while the bar really comes alive during sports broadcasts and late-night events, where locals and travelers enjoy the atmosphere together.