Snuffel Backpacker Hostel

The Snuffel Backpacker Hostel is an artsy and chill place, located five minutes north of Markt Square. The hostel offers cheap beds, thematic rooms, helpful extras (like bike rental and free walking tours) and an active concert scene downstairs in the bar.

There are nine reasonably priced private rooms at the Snuffel (with and without en suite facilities), although cheaper rates are had in the hostel’s dorms, which fit between four and fourteen (60 beds, in total). Shared rooms provide simple wooden bunk beds next to walls painted by local artists (think graffiti, photographs and colorful abstract painting).

Downstairs in the lobby/bar, the décor is a mix of collage (love the currency mash-up!), fresco and mosaic. A backyard patio lures some, while stacks of board games entertain others. The bar serves 25 Belgian beers, including the hostel's own "Snuffel Beer." It's a smoky, social scene that really starts hopping at night, especially when there’s a concert.

The Snuffel is located along Ezelstraat, across the street from the Kwalito grocery store (and B&B, also reviewed here). The Snuffel provides a guest kitchen.