Why choose a hostel in Einsiedeln?
Einsiedeln draws pilgrims, hikers, and curious travellers to one of Central Europe's most significant religious sites. The centuries-old Benedictine abbey at the town's centre is a baroque landmark that has welcomed visitors for over a thousand years. The Sihlsee reservoir nearby adds outdoor appeal, with walking trails and open water drawing those who want to pair heritage with fresh air. Accommodation here leans toward hotels and private rentals, but hostels in Einsiedeln offer a more affordable and social way to base yourself in this compact, walkable town.
Hostels suit solo travellers and small groups who want value without sacrificing comfort. Shared dorms keep costs low compared to hotels, while private rooms give you your own space at rates that still undercut most hotel-style stays. Private rentals can work for longer trips, but hostels deliver communal areas, local tips from staff, and built-in company that no apartment-style stay can match.
How to find the best hostel deals in Einsiedeln
Like how easy it is to compare flights with us? The same smart search engine is a pro at uncovering deals on hostels and rooms too. Use these tips to find the best rates fast.
Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better off you are. You're more likely to land a cheaper price on a hostel in Einsiedeln and have a greater range of choice.
…or bag a last-minute Einsiedeln hostel deal.
Booking late isn't always predictable, but it can pay off. Some stays discount their rates ahead of check-in to attract more bookings, especially during low season.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Cheap hostels can be easier to find if your dates are flexible. Experiment with different seasons or months, or book during the week instead of weekends to keep costs down.
Where to base yourself in Einsiedeln
Einsiedeln centres on its monastery square, and staying near the Klosterplatz puts you close to the Benedictine abbey. This is the town's main draw, and the surrounding streets hold cafes, bakeries, and small shops. The S-Bahn runs regularly from Einsiedeln station, giving you easy access to Zurich for the day. Most budget accommodation clusters in this central area, keeping everything within a short walk. For a more relaxed base, the stretch near Sihlsee offers open countryside just outside the town. The lake draws walkers, cyclists, and swimmers in warmer months. You'll have a quieter setting here, with the monastery and town centre still reachable without much effort. It suits travellers who want a slower pace alongside the cultural side of Einsiedeln.
Top hostels in Einsiedeln
Einsiedeln's famous Benedictine monastery draws pilgrims and curious visitors alike, and Hirschen Backpacker-Hotel & Pub is a comfortable base for exploring the town. The on-site pub is a natural spot to meet fellow guests, and free Wi-Fi keeps you connected throughout your stay. It's an easy town to enjoy at your own pace.
A quieter pace suits Richterswil Youth Hostel well, offering shared dormitory accommodation and a communal atmosphere that rewards a slower kind of trip. The surrounding area carries a distinctly Swiss character, with forested hillsides and lake access drawing those who'd rather explore the outdoors than rush between sights. It's a grounded, unhurried base for your time in the region.
Einsiedeln is defined by its ancient Benedictine abbey, a major pilgrimage site in Central Europe. Rapperswil-Jona Youth Hostel gives you a practical base to take it all in, with Alpine trails and a lakeside setting adding to the appeal. The town moves at a calm, unhurried pace, making it a refreshing stop on any Swiss itinerary.
