Top 9 'Under-€100-Gem' Budget Hotels to explore in Europe's Most Expensive Cities - Goh Ling Yong
Dreaming of wandering through Parisian streets, exploring Roman ruins, or cycling along Amsterdam's canals? Europe’s grand cities call to us with promises of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. But then, reality hits. A quick search for hotels in London, Zurich, or Copenhagen can send your travel budget into a tailspin, making that dream feel disappointingly out of reach.
For many, the high cost of accommodation is the single biggest barrier to exploring these iconic destinations. The fear is that "budget" means sacrificing location, cleanliness, and comfort for a cot in a questionable part of town. But what if I told you that it doesn't have to be that way? What if you could stay in a clean, stylish, and centrally-located hotel without draining your savings?
That’s where the "Under-€100 Gem" comes in. A key principle I follow, something I always tell my readers here at Goh Ling Yong's blog, is that smart planning trumps a big budget every time. After countless hours of research and plenty of first-hand experience, I’ve curated a list of nine fantastic hotels in Europe's priciest cities that consistently offer rooms for under €100 a night. (Disclaimer: Prices are dynamic! To snag these deals, book well in advance, consider traveling in the shoulder season, and be flexible with your dates.)
1. Paris, France: Generator Paris
A stylish 'poshtel' with rooftop views.
Forget everything you think you know about hostels. Generator Paris is part of a new breed of "poshtels" that blend the social atmosphere of a hostel with the design and comfort of a boutique hotel. Located in the vibrant 10th arrondissement, it boasts chic interiors, a buzzing bar, and even a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Sacré-Cœur.
While they offer traditional dorms, the real gems here are the private rooms. These are crisp, clean, and minimalist, offering a comfortable sanctuary after a day of sightseeing. You get the privacy of a hotel room with the added bonus of fantastic common areas where you can meet other travelers, grab a reasonably priced drink, or just relax. The location is excellent, right next to the Colonel Fabien Métro station, putting all of Paris within easy reach.
Pro Tip: Look for their "Private Twin Room" or "Premium Private Double Room" deals. Sometimes, booking a twin room (with two separate beds) can be slightly cheaper than a standard double. Also, check their events calendar; they often host DJ nights and social gatherings that are a great, low-cost way to spend an evening.
2. London, United Kingdom: Point A Hotel, Shoreditch
Compact, clever, and in the heart of cool.
London is notoriously expensive, but the Point A hotel chain has cracked the code for affordable city-center stays. Their philosophy is simple: provide a super-comfortable bed, a great power shower, and a spotless room in a fantastic location, without charging you for extras you don’t need. The rooms are compact, there’s no doubt about it, but they are cleverly designed to maximize space.
The Shoreditch location is a major win for travelers who want to experience London's creative and trendy side. You’re surrounded by world-class street art, independent boutiques, incredible food markets (like Spitalfields and Brick Lane), and some of the city's best nightlife. With Liverpool Street Station just a short walk away, you have unparalleled access to the rest of the city via the Tube.
Pro Tip: Sign up for the free "A-List" on their website before booking. It often gives you a 10% discount on your stay. Also, take advantage of their partnerships with local cafes and restaurants for discounts on breakfast and other meals, saving you even more money.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Motel One Amsterdam-Waterlooplein
Budget design that punches way above its price tag.
Motel One is a German chain that has perfected the art of "budget design." Their hotels feel luxurious and thoughtfully designed, yet the prices remain firmly in the budget category. The Amsterdam-Waterlooplein location is a perfect example. The lobby and lounge area are stunning, decked out in the brand’s signature turquoise and filled with designer furniture—a great place to plan your day over a coffee.
The rooms are not huge, but they are impeccably clean, modern, and feature high-quality bedding and sleek bathrooms. The location is fantastic, just a short walk from the Rembrandt House Museum, the Dutch National Opera, and the famous Waterlooplein flea market. You can easily walk to the heart of the canal ring or hop on a nearby tram to explore further afield.
Pro Tip: The breakfast at Motel One is excellent value for the quality and variety offered. It’s often cheaper and more convenient than finding a comparable breakfast at a nearby cafe. Consider adding it to your booking to start your day right without breaking the bank.
4. Zurich, Switzerland: Ibis Budget Zurich City West
Clean, efficient, and your ticket to an affordable Swiss stay.
Switzerland can be a shock to the system for budget travelers, but brands like Ibis Budget make it possible. The Zurich City West property is a shining example of Swiss efficiency. It’s a no-frills hotel, but what it does, it does exceptionally well. The rooms are clean, the beds are comfortable, and the check-in process is seamless.
"City West" is a former industrial area that has been transformed into Zurich's trendiest district, filled with art galleries, designer shops, and unique restaurants. You get a taste of modern Zurich life, away from the tourist-heavy Old Town, but you're only a 10-minute tram ride away from the main train station and Lake Zurich. This combination of affordability and excellent public transport is the key to conquering Zurich on a budget.
Pro Tip: When you stay at any hotel in Zurich, you’re entitled to a free public transport ticket for the duration of your stay—ask for it at check-in. This is a massive money-saver and makes the Ibis Budget's location even more convenient.
5. Rome, Italy: The Beehive
A community-focused haven near Termini Station.
More than just a place to sleep, The Beehive is a beloved institution in Rome's budget travel scene. Run by an American couple, it offers a warm, welcoming, and community-focused atmosphere that sets it apart. While it operates as a hostel, its private rooms are simple, spotless, and feel more like staying in a friendly guesthouse.
Located just a couple of blocks from the main Termini Station, its location is incredibly practical for arriving by plane or train and for getting around the city. Unlike some of the grittier areas around the station, The Beehive is on a quiet and safe side street. They also have a lovely courtyard garden and an on-site organic, vegetarian cafe that is a local favorite.
Pro Tip: Book directly through their website. Not only do you support the owners, but they often have the best rates and availability for their popular private rooms. Also, make sure to try one of their communal dinners if they are hosting one during your stay; it’s a wonderful way to meet people and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal.
6. Copenhagen, Denmark: Wakeup Copenhagen, Borgergade
Scandinavian minimalism at a minimal price.
Copenhagen is a design lover's paradise, but the price tags often match the high-end aesthetic. The Wakeup Copenhagen chain offers a slice of that cool, minimalist Scandinavian design without the hefty cost. The Borgergade location is particularly great, situated right in the city center, a stone's throw from the King's Garden and the iconic Nyhavn harbor.
The rooms are very compact, inspired by Japanese capsule hotels, but they are incredibly functional. Every inch of space is used wisely, and they feature good beds, a small private bathroom, and a TV. It’s everything you need for a comfortable night's sleep after a day of exploring. The lobby and breakfast area are bright, airy, and stylish, making the hotel feel much more expensive than it is.
Pro Tip: The hotel has several room categories based on size and view. The cheapest "Wakeup Sky" or "Wakeup Heaven" rooms are on the upper floors. For a few extra euros, booking one of these can give you incredible panoramic views over the rooftops of Copenhagen, adding a "wow" factor to your budget stay.
7. Dublin, Ireland: Jacobs Inn
Modern hostel living with hotel-quality private rooms.
Dublin's hotel prices have skyrocketed in recent years, making it one of Europe's toughest cities for budget accommodation. Jacobs Inn, another prime example of a modern "poshtel," is a fantastic solution. Located right next to the city's main bus station (Busáras) and a short walk from the River Liffey and O'Connell Street, the convenience is unbeatable.
The entire building was recently renovated and feels fresh, modern, and vibrant. Their private ensuite rooms are a highlight. They are stylishly decorated, surprisingly spacious, and feature comfortable beds and modern bathrooms. You get the security and privacy of a hotel room, plus access to a huge, well-equipped guest kitchen (a massive money-saver in pricey Dublin) and fun social events like free walking tours.
Pro Tip: Pack a padlock for the in-room lockers, even in a private room, for extra peace of mind. And definitely make use of the self-catering kitchen. A quick trip to a local Lidl or Tesco to grab breakfast items and packed lunch supplies can save you upwards of €20-€30 per day.
8. Geneva, Switzerland: Ibis Budget Genève Petit-Lancy
Smart, simple, and connected.
Like Zurich, Geneva is a major challenge for budget travelers. The solution is often to stay just outside the absolute center and rely on the city’s phenomenal public transport system. The Ibis Budget at Petit-Lancy is perfectly positioned for this strategy. It’s a clean, modern, and reliable hotel that offers everything you need for a comfortable base.
Petit-Lancy is a quiet residential and business area, but a tram stop right outside the hotel will whisk you to the main Cornavin train station and the shores of Lake Geneva in just 15 minutes. This is where I, Goh Ling Yong, find the real travel hacks – trading a 15-minute scenic tram ride for a hotel bill that's a fraction of the city-center cost is a win-win.
Pro Tip: Just like in Zurich, your hotel stay in Geneva includes a free public transport card for the entire duration. This card is your golden ticket, giving you unlimited travel on trams, buses, and even the "Mouettes" yellow water taxis on the lake. Don't forget to ask for it at check-in!
9. Oslo, Norway: Cochs Pensjonat
Old-world charm on a budget, in a prime location.
Oslo is another Scandinavian capital where accommodation costs can be eye-watering. Cochs Pensjonat is a treasured local gem that has been offering affordable lodging for decades. It’s not a shiny, modern chain hotel; instead, it's a traditional "pensjonat" (guesthouse) located in a beautiful historic building.
Its location is absolutely incredible for the price—it’s situated right behind the Royal Palace and Park, on one of Oslo's main shopping streets. You can walk to most major sights, including the National Gallery and the Aker Brygge waterfront. The rooms vary in standard, from simple rooms with shared bathrooms to refurbished studios with private kitchenettes and bathrooms.
Pro Tip: For the best value, book one of the rooms with a kitchenette. The ability to prepare your own breakfast and a few simple meals is the single most effective way to save money in Norway. A quick trip to a REMA 1000 or Kiwi supermarket will cut your food costs dramatically, allowing you to splurge on other experiences.
Exploring Europe's most magnificent—and most expensive—cities doesn't have to be a fantasy reserved for lottery winners. By being a savvy traveler and knowing where to look, you can find incredible value that allows you to spend your hard-earned money on what truly matters: making memories.
These nine hotels are proof that "budget" and "great experience" can go hand in hand. They offer comfort, style, and prime locations, freeing up your budget for that extra museum visit, a delicious local meal, or a well-deserved gelato.
Now it's your turn. What are your favorite budget-friendly European hotels? Have you discovered an "Under-€100 Gem" that you're willing to share? Leave your tips and recommendations in the comments below—let's help each other travel smarter!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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