How a Castle in Germany Sparked the Global Hostel Revolution

Every year millions of young people travel around the World on a budget. Gap years became popular as a way to explore the World while you are young and adventurous. A big reason why this is possible is because of the thousands of youth hostels that exist around the World that make travel affordable on a budget. And it all started in 1912, thanks to a German teacher who decided to start a youth hostel in a castle.

It was schoolteacher Richard Schirrmann who first dreamed up the idea. After getting caught in a sudden thunderstorm with his students on a hiking trip in 1909, he realized young travelers needed more than barns and taverns to rest. Schirrmann set about transforming the unused rooms of the historic Altena Castle into the world’s very first youth hostel. By 1912, the castle officially opened its doors to students, charging a modest fee for a bed, clean sheets, and a hearty breakfast: everything a weary young traveler needed.

The idea quickly took hold, spreading across Germany and beyond. By the 1930s, there were hundreds of hostels across Europe, each designed with Schirrmann’s vision of simplicity, affordability, and community in mind. These early hostels encouraged students to see the world beyond their hometowns, sparking a travel boom among the younger generation. Eventually, the concept evolved: hostels became vibrant hubs where diverse cultures met, exchanged stories, and forged lifelong friendships.

During the 20th century, Schirrmann’s humble idea has grown into a global movement. Every year, millions of young travelers crisscross continents, discovering new cultures and creating lasting memoriesall made possible by the simple concept of affordable, communal lodging. Altena Castle, now a museum, will always a powerful symbol of youth travel.

Craving more? Check out the source behind this Brain Snack!