THE STEEL HOUSE, THE BEST HOSTEL IN COPENHAGEN
When I scour the internet for inspiration and ideas, sometimes I come across things that I know will be of interest further down the line. One of those times was when I was looking at the top 100 hostels in the world. Although I generally take these articles with a pinch of salt, I scanned through them extra quickly to find any golden nuggets. The Steel House in Copenhagen immediately caught my attention, as it was listed as the best hostel in the city, so I took the usual screenshot and saved it in my memory bank for future reference.
WHERE IS THE STEEL HOUSE?
LOCATION
The hostel is located just around the corner from Vesterport Station and within a 2-minute walk from the lakes. From the airport, it takes less than 30 minutes with just 2 trains, and to get to the city centre it’s only 5 minutes by train or bicycle.
Fast forward a number of years, and here I am walking towards the hostel impressed before I even set foot inside. The architecture is pretty striking, which didn’t surprise me – the clue’s in the name. Although it was obvious the hostel was very large, the rustic look of the façade really appealed to me.
FIRST IMPRESSION
Walking inside, it’s clear to see that the hostel has been well-maintained and has made great use of technology. You can avoid the queues and check yourself in, assign your own key card, and off you go. There is very little waiting around with the 8–10 check-in computers available, something that can take up to an hour in other places. There is also a reception if you have trouble.
Lift access around the building isn’t a problem either. I’ve stayed in places where there have been only two lifts for 300 or 400 people. Here, there are 6, all with keycard-only access for better security.
FACILITIES….
- Gym
- Pool
- Movie area
- Cafe
- Bar
- Kitchen
- Games area
ROOMS
Like most hostels, there is a choice of rooms, ranging from private to 4-, 6-, or 8-bed mixed/female dorms, all with en-suite facilities. My room was very clean, didn’t smell of moulded cheese, and had a great view. The use of space in the rooms is something else – no stone has been left unturned in the quest for complete efficiency.
BEDS
The beds are pod-designed, something I like when I want my own space and sleep. Yet they can be a little unsociable if you are keen to meet people. Each bed has its own reading light, power outlet, and storage pocket for your phone, wallet, and any other valuables you wish to keep nearby.
The room also has hangers for coats, something I’ve never looked for until now, as I tend to travel to warmer climates. The lockers are the perfect size to fit hand luggage plus a little more on top.
ENSUITE
A sliding door and automatic light lead you into the ensuite, which is small but by no means inadequate. The sliding door, however, means there is little in the way of noise insulation (if you know what I mean). Not something that bothers me, but the water pressure was great, temperature consistent, and to keep your feet warm a heated floor (that’s a first!). A towel is also provided.
OTHER….
- Wifi – Free throughout, good service
- 24hr reception
- Breakfast – not included
- Laundry available
- Electronic, self check in
FACILTIES HIGHLIGHT
The selling point of this hostel is its facilities. Yes, you can stay in a hostel closer to the city or for less money, but I would be surprised if they had half of the facilities to match, as I know some hotels don’t.
In the basement, there is a movie room, a small pool, and a fully equipped gym with all the mod cons. I have stayed in some hostels which have a gym, but nothing like the one in The Steel House – it was set up with everything. The pool, however, was the real shock. I have seen small plunge pools and jacuzzis outside, but never a proper pool in a hostel!
A games area is located on the ground floor along with an iPad area, café (with a great selection of sandwiches, fruit, and pastries), TV area (with a projector), kitchen, and a bar. All of which are modern and well-stocked.
RATINGS….
- RATINGROOMS – 8/10.
- BATHROOMS – 8/10.
- SOCIAL – 7/10.
- CLEANLINESS – 9/10.
- FACILITIES – 10/10.
- VALUE FOR MONEY – 9/10.
- RECOMMEND – YES.
- STAY AGAIN – Yes.
Facts & Suggestions for Fellow Travelers
- Best Time to Stay: Copenhagen is busiest in summer (June–August), so book early. Prices are usually lower in spring or late autumn.
- Transport Tip: The hostel’s location near Vesterport Station makes it super easy to reach the airport or city center in minutes. A Copenhagen Card can save you money on public transport.
- Budget Suggestion: Breakfast isn’t included, but you can buy affordable food at the hostel café or nearby supermarkets. Using the shared kitchen is a great way to save money.
- Social Atmosphere: While the hostel is modern and spacious, it’s not the most social. If you’re a solo traveler looking to meet new people, try joining the activities in the games or movie room.
- Unique Perk: Few hostels in Europe have an indoor pool definitely worth a dip after a day of exploring.
- Safety Note: Keycard-only access throughout the building adds extra security, especially for solo travelers.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Although I spent little time there during my stay it had everything I needed, I really couldn’t fault it. However if I were staying there for anything length of time I would opt for a smaller hostel to meet people, its just a personal preference. Saying that if I were to return for a short weekend, I would be staying here again.
Prices range from around £40 – £80, to book click here.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
141/229
Question Time
- Do you think The Steel House is the best hostel in Copenhagen?
- What is the best hostel in Copenhagen?
- Have you stayed here?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
