Bom Dia and welcome to the best hostels in Portugal. This list will help you backpacking Portugal in the easiest way. We created this huge guide on where to stay in Portugal + itinerary. So you can focus on trying Portuguese food, meet people, surf and soak in the culture.
We found many fantastic, even EPIC hostels in Portugal; all the way from Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Peniche, Lagos, Evora, Sintra, Leiria, Aveiro and more.
We included surf hostels, boutique hostels, party and backpacker hostels. And of course; 5 star hostels!
For some destinations we can give you a few choices; hurray. For smaller destinations we simply give you the only top hostel option you need.
Are these seriously the best Hostels in Portugal?
Oh YES, 100%
We handpicked every single budget accommodation on this list. We stayed in every single one; and loved it.
The quality of hostels in Portugal is amazing.
Excited to go surfing? Check out our ultimate guide to the best surf hostels in Portugal. You can sleep inside a monument in Porto, enjoy a roof-top swimming pool, learn surfing at cool beach hostels and more.
We organized this list from the North to South. This is also the regular itinerary for backpacking Portugal.
On the menu we have for you the following destinations:
- Porto
- Braga
- Guimaraes
- Aveiro
- Coimbra
- Leiria
- Thomar
- Peniche/ Ferrel
- Lisbon
- Cascais
- Evora
- Sintra
- Lagos
- Loule
- Faro
- Albufeira
Backpacking Europe? Read our best hostels in Europe guide.
We put all best hostels in Portugal on a map.
In this map we show all 5 Star Hostels, beach hostels, surfer hostels as well as the recommended itinerary. Keep scrolling to see my recommendations on the Portugal itinerary in 7 days.
Hostels are cheap in the Atlantic-bordering country. Meaning, you can spend your money on the tasty food!
What else do we cover in this guide:
- Map with all hostels
- FAQ
- Itinerary for backpacking Portugal
- How to get around Portugal?
- How to book hostels in Portugal
- Smart and Simple Hostel Packing List
- Promo Codes and Discounts
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| ⛵ Best Hostel in Lisbon: | Sunset Destination |
| 🍷 Best Hostel in Porto : | The Passenger Hostel |
| 🏰 Best Hostel in Leiria: | Most Art Boutique Hostel |
| 🌊 Best Hostel in Ferrel: | Castaway Guesthouse |
| 👫 Best for Socializing in Lisbon: | Lisbon Destination Hostel |
| 🥳 Best Party Hostel in Lagos: | Rising Cock Party Hostel |
| 🎒 Best Hostel for Backpackers in Porto: | Porto Wine Hostel |
| 👩💻 Best for Digital Nomads in Lisbon: | Selina Secret Garden |
| 😍 Best Boutique Hostel in Coimbra: | Penedo da Saudade Suites & Hostel |
List of the Best hostels in Portugal
Enough of that Mambo-Jambo, you are here to read about where to stay in Portugal on a budget. Let’s jump right into the cool Portuguese hostels.
Best Hostels in Porto: The Passenger Hostel
Porto is AWESOME!
We have been here 5 times by now. And we will always go back. The city is well connected and you can find really cheap flights here with Skyscanner. Porto is also quite cheap. You can eat like a king and queen for 4€ – 6€. Seriously, the Portuguese cuisine is worth to spend your money on.
We think 3 days is a perfect time to spend in Porto. 2 days are too short, and if you plan to stay 4-5 days, even better. There is many cool things to do.
Here are the best hostels in Porto:
- The Passenger Hostel (the only 5 Star Hostel)
- Porto Wine Hostel – coolest hostel in Porto for backpackers
- Gallery Hostel Porto
Read our complete guide to best hostels in Porto.
1. The Passenger Hostel (incredible 5 Star Hostel)
If you’re still doubting whether the whole hostel thing is for you, make The Passenger your first hostel experience. You will be staying inside the Sao Bento Train Station, how epic is that?!
The Passenger Hostel ticks all the boxes of an outstanding hostel, no, STUNNING Hostel.
Seriously, one of the best hostels in the world!
It stands out from all the great hostels in Porto for lots of reasons. It starts with eye-popping design that the photos don’t even do justice, and continues with the great team that gives this place its soul.
It ends with the “good vibes only” feeling.
We love the bar on the ground floor, it’s the place to mingle, play board games, have a delicious cold drink, you name it. And if you are looking to splurge, then please go with the Suite.
The suite also has 2 additional private rooms complete with ensuite facilities. The other rooms have a shared bathroom.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Porto Wine Hostel (small, fun + themed)
Choose to stay at Porto Wine Hostel and you wll be welcomed with a complimentary glass of port. Nice, right?
Now that is how a good hostel experience starts for sure!
As you’ve probably guessed, this is a port wine themed hostel, with each floor representing a different wine category, and each room with its own wine type.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Gallery Hostel Porto
Another famous hostel, yet a bit out of the city center itself. Gallery Hostel is a cute, little, stunning hostel, located right in the area of the artists in Porto.
Gallery Hostel is really known for their arts side, obviously, and their nightly Portuguese dinners. Join them, it’s fun!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Braga: Collector’s Hostel
Here’s two gorgeous hostels waiting for you in Braga.
1. inBraga Hostel
Discover the charm of inBraga Hostel, nestled in a beautifully remodeled 19th-century building in the heart of Braga, Portugal. This eco-hostel boasts a cozy 6-bed dorm and two twin rooms, each with lockers for convenience. The friendly atmosphere and helpful staff ensure a memorable stay.
Located in the city’s historical center, the hostel offers easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and top sightseeing spots. A shared kitchen and dining area, along with a charming garden, encourage communal interactions.
As a stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, inBraga Hostel welcomes diverse travelers. Enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the building and a 24-hour front desk. Nearby, you’ll find Braga Train Station, buses to Porto Airport, and attractions like Braga Sé Cathedral and museums.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Braga, visiting museums, or attending events at the Braga Municipal Stadium, the inBraga Hostel offers a comfortable and welcoming home base for your adventures. Come and experience the charm of this vibrant city while enjoying the hospitality of inBraga Hostel.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Collector’s Hostel
Do you love hostels with a welcoming, open personality? Of course you do. You will love Collector’s Hostel.
The roof top terrace might be the highlight here, but actually we loved more the vibe.
It’s friendly, easy-going, simple, with a warm heart. Seriously, a great choice for staying in Braga.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Guimaraes: Santiago 31 Hostel
We always went only for day trips to Guimaraes. It is really easy from Porto since you have a direct train.
When planning to stay in Guimaraes, have a look at Santiago 31 Hostel.
You will be staying in an old house, completely renovated for all the guests. You will be staying literally in the heart of town. So many bars and restaurants around, it might be even hard to choose form.
Just ask the receptionists. They really know their city. Take advantage of the black board since guests leave comments here and activities they plan to do.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Aveiro: Aveiro Rossio Hostel
Called the “Portuguese Venice”, Aveiro is a cute, little city you will come across when leaving Porto towards Lisbon. We especially loved their flea market on Weekends.
Good to know: Hop as well over to the tiny beach town called “Costa Nova Beach“. There is no hostels in Costa Nova, but you can ride a bike over.
Here you find the instagrammy buildings with lines on them. Do you love seafood and fish? While in Costa Nova, have your lunch or dinner at “Restaurante Clube De Vela da Costa Nova“.
Write down the name, thank me later! You will LOVE THIS FOOD!
Stay in Aveiro for one night, it is beautiful. The best hostel Aveiro is Rossio Hostel.
You will be super centrally located, inside a former families home. The house has lots of character, a spacious kitchen, speedy free WiFi and lots of social events.
My favorite room was the dorm under the roof top.
Compare prices for Rossio Hostel at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Coimbra
We have arrived in Coimbra on our journey. Here’s two more gorgeous hostels waiting for you.
1. Penedo da Saudade Suites & Hostel, Coimbra
Ready to get your mind blown once again?
The Penedo da Saudade Suites and Hostels is absolutely incredible. For its design you would actually rate it as a top-notch Boutique hotel.
They do offer beautiful double rooms and suites, and also 4-bed dorms and 6-bed dorms. Do not let the gorgeous design confuse you, it’s really a hostel too.
Penedo da Saudade offers a shared kitchen, a roof top terrace with panoramic views and a huge lounge.
There’s not a lot we need to add, except you might find us on the roof top terrace enjoying a Mojito…
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Five Senses Hostel, Coimbra
The ones looking for a beautiful hostel, yet not as high-end as Penedo Da Saudade, here you go.
Five Senses Hostel is another fantastic hostel here in Coimbra. The house is a bit smaller, and the garden along with the interior design is our personal highlight.
Compare prices at: Booking.com
Best Hostels in Leiria: Most Art Boutique Hostel
A cute little students city with a rich art scene and really local cuisine; Leiria is worth a visit for 1 day and night.
The Most Art Boutique Hostel is a brand new space for accommodation, art and culture in the city of Leiria.
It’s also a 5 star hostel in Portugal!
Located in a privileged area, the concept of Most Art Hostel is to present their guests with the opportunity of living cultural and social experiences, as well as sharing their adventures and stories.
During your stay you can also get involved in workshops such as cooking, foot reflexology, yoga and/or photography.
Do not be surprised if you arrive and hear drums and guitars, as this fun accommodation also holds live concerts from time to time.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostel in Thomar: Hostel 2300
The city of Tomar is a Templar city with history and interesting monuments in every corner, from Unesco heritage sites, to the unique Matches Museum.
It is just a 1.5 hours drive from Lisbon, and you can get here by bus or train as well.
A comfy, cool hostel with simple decor, inspired by popular Portuguese culture.
All rooms feature different, unique design, big windows and balconies with views of the castle. You can also and many facilities such as free WiFi and computers, an outdoor terrace to chill out, and a fully-equipped kitchen.
All year around you have the opportunity to meet interesting people with different interests that come to Tomar to enjoy a local experience, away from the tourist crowds.
Hostel 2300 Thomar is located close to both the bus and train stations, on a pedestrian street near the main square. It is a great home base from which to enjoy Tomar, as all the main attractions are within easy reach.
- Dorm beds start from 18€/ night
- Private rooms start from 30€/ night
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostel in Ferrel/ Peniche: Castaway Hostel
A narrow house with blue windows and a dark-red front door in the Peniche Coast.
Read our full guide to best Peniche hostels.
The Castaway Guesthouse is a cute hostel, located near Baleal Island, Portugal. Your wooden coast shelter.
All the social spaces of the house were thought out so that all the guests can be comfortably together at the same time.
As Peniche, Baleal and the surrounding area are surfer destinations, the guesthouse has teamed up with local surf schools.
You can learn to surf here as well as rent equipment. The accommodation also partnered up with a diving school and a handpicked tour agency for guided visits to the Island of Berlenga.
Berlenga is a beautiful, popular nature reserve next door.
Ferrel is a small town and a hot spot for surfers in search of the challenge of the Atlantic waves.
From here you can access excellent beaches and surf spots that are part of the WSL – World Surf League (Supertubos and Pico da Mota), the Berlengas nature reserve, beach bars, restaurants and local businesses to dive into Portuguese culture.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Lisbon
We made it all the way to the capital of Portugal, Lisbon. You’re already excited, right?!
Oh and the hostel game continues here. Or does it even get better?
- Sunset Destination (best hostel for solo-travelers)
- Selina Secret Garden – more pricey
- Lisbon Calling (awesome for couples)
- The Independente Hostel & Suites
- Lisbon Destination Hostel
We also have a dedicated guide to the best surf hostels in Lisbon.
Read: full guide to the best hostels in Lisbon
1. Sunset Destination Hostel (5 Star Hostel in Lisbon)
Lisbon’s 5 Star Hostel! And here is why:
- Roof Top Terrace
- Swimming Pool ON the roof top terrace
- bar
- social fun events
- top location on top of the train station; literally
You know, Sunset Destination is famous for being one of the best hostels on this planet.
Reasons are numerous. At Sunset Destination you can find an on-site bike rental service, a 24-hour self-service bar, a yummy breakfast, and a staff who loves the job and can recommend the coolest local things.
The rooftop terrace with its swimming pool at Sunset Destination Hostel is just the tip of the iceberg. Just chill out on the rooftop terrace at the stylish Zebra Bar. Enjoy your cocktail with your new hostel friends. From the hostel you can enjoy a, well, beautiful sunset over the bridge of Lisbon.
The name is no coincidence!
What about the location?
You will be staying inside an architectural heritage building of the train station, a place full of history. Centuries ago, many of the Portuguese explorers’ ships were built here.
Now, remember, you can stay inside the train station in Lisbon and in Porto.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Selina Secret Garden Lisbon
Backpackers, digital nomads, couples and locals come together in Selina Secret Garden Lisbon.
This place offers a super fun roof top terrace to drink, meet and greet other solo-travelers. In fact, it is so easy to get to know other backpackers. Therefore, it is one of our top recommendations for hostels in Lisbon for Solo-Traveller!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Lisbon Calling (awesome for couples)
On offer a bit out of the heart of Old Lisbon is a 250 year old building housing the beautiful Lisbon Calling hostel.
Have a quick look at the pictures to really get a feel for how cool the design is here.
Expect to find raised sleeping platforms, warm colors and themed rooms.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. The Independente Hostel & Suites
One of Lisbon’s most stylish hostels, The Independente Hostel & Suites set in the liveliest neighborhood in the city.
The shared dorms come in size small, medium and large; it depends how sociable you’re feeling.
A bar, restaurant, exclusive guest lounge and garden are all part of the Independent experience.
It’s a top choice for solo-travellers looking for a quiet, yet sociable stay.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
5. Lisbon Destination Hostel (5 star hostel)
You’re going to be pretty impressed when you learn that Lisbon Destination Hostel is situated in a beautiful building; Rossio Railway Station.
The highlights of this 5 star hostel in Lisbon include:
- Indoor winter garden
- Glass roof letting in lots of natural light
- Comfy privacy bunks
- Orgnaised activities
It’s a super sociable space, with plenty of shared areas and lot of fun things to do.
Why not join a free walking tour, or simply sip your free sangria at that bar.
Breakfast is free, too! This hostel is highly recommended for solo travellers, couples and families.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Evora: Heaven Inn Hostel
Ever heard of Evora? Probably not. On my first Backpacking Portugal trip, I took a bus from Lisbon to the tiny village of Evora.
What a gorgeous village! If you are in the area, visit it. You can see everything in 1 day. So stay 1 night here and move on.
Good to know: Since it is in the country, it gets super hot here during summer, meaning August. Guess who went there during August…ME!! I was regretting it, but hey, that’s how travels sometimes go.
My favorite hostel in Evora was Heaven Inn Évora Hostel. It is a very stylish place, supe comfy.
The location is perfect since you are literally in the heart of the city. Any more central and you’d sleep in the mayors house.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Sintra
Traveling to Sintra? We have found two beautiful places. All unique and great in their own way. Let us have a look:
1. Casa Azul Hostel (Sintra)
One of the most popular and top hostels in Sintra, The Casa Azul; the Blue House.
Casa Azul Hostel is a classic but young and functional spirit building itself.
In this hostel you will be greeted by a friend: Antonio!
He runs this place, he makes it the home for hundreds of travelers. A wonderful place with a special soul and feeling. If you fancy these easy-going, warm hostel vibes, come here!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. The Five House, Sintra
Here’s the best Bed and Breakfast in Sintra you will enjoy for sure: The Five House!
The Five House is a rustic and charming house, traditionally and simplistically decorated. The property is located in a XVIII Century Villa, 5-minute walk from the train station and 15-minute walk from Sintra’s National Palace.
This is your answer on where to stay in Sintra!
Furthermore, the house has a large living room, a terrace, a fully equipped kitchen, two double rooms with a shared bathroom located on the ground floor and, two dorms with four beds and a common bathroom located in the attic.
You see, this accommodation is marketed more like a B&B, yet also offers dorms and private rooms. It is a great option for couples and small groups.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostel in Lagos
Welcome to the Algarve. Gorgeous beaches, amazing cliffs, epic surfing. Lagos is a lively, small beach town.
You can chose basically between two types of hostels: CRAZY PARTY Hostel or a chill out hostel.
For Lagos we give you four options:
Check here a complete guide to the best hostels in Lagos – backpackers hostels + map included.
1. Bura Surfhouse
Bura Surfhouse is a great accommodation choice for those looking for a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere.
It offers private rooms and dormitories, as well as a wide range of surf lessons, board rentals, yoga sessions, and other activities.
It is also conveniently located close to restaurants, bars, and shopping areas, as well as the stunning beaches of the Algarve region.
They even have an outdoor pool for you to chill out and just enjoy the sun. Staff also organize family dinners so you can meet your fellow travelers. How perfect!
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Boutique Taghostel
How about hanging out all day in the sun from a peaceful rooftop with beach views?
Totally possible at Boutique Taghostel!
The gorgeous hostel design really reflects the Portuguese feel, we love it.
Each dorm bed includes a privacy curtain, and everyone is welcome to the free breakfast each morning.
Enjoy big spaces, homely vibes and super friendly staff.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Olive Hostel Lagos
Olive Hostel Lagos wants to welcome you to good music and vibes that will instantly make you feel at home.
Let’s have a quick glance of what to expect:
- yoga sessions
- free coffee & spices
- cosy lounge w/ guitars, books
- family meal times
Couples, pets, children – everyone is welcome and the rooms suit all traveller types.
The building holds so much character, so make sure you get your camera ready.
We have this hostel in our Yoga Hostels in the World too.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
4. Rising Cock Party Hostel (Lagos)
Just guess for second what this hostel could be about?!
The Rising Cock Party Hostel is one of the coolest party hostels in Portugal and Europe.
When planning to stay here, make sure you are ready for a few epic nights with more guys and girls. They also run party boats.
Things you can expect here at Rising Cock Party Hostel is booze and fun. One night you maybe should not expect is a perfect rest at night.
Super cool: They also host epic Booze Cruises on a boat. Join ’em!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostel in Loule, near Faro: Loule Coreto
Family-friendly, relaxing environment! Loule Coreto is a simple backpacker hostel in Loule, near Faro, South Portugal.
It comes with a lovely interior design, comfortable furniture, and design.
The highlight we really enjoy is the “zen” rooftop terrace.
What about the location? It is in the city center, on the main avenue of Loule.
- Dorm beds start from 13€/ night
- Private rooms start from 15€/ night
We also created a dedicated guide on the best hostels in Faro that will be helpful if you’re planning on traveling there!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Faro
Our trip ends in Faro.
Truth be told, we didn’t enjoy Faro as much. It seems like a nice, bigger city, yet compared with all the other amazing spots, Faro is not a highlight; sorry.
You will stop by Faro most likely to take your outbound flight to the rest of Europe.
Beforehand, there are 3 great hostel options:
- Baixa Terrace Hostel
- Hostel Casa d’Alagoa
- Sunlight House
- Casa da Madalena Backpackers Hostel
- Tilia Hostel
- Hostellicious
For the top ones, check out our best hostels in Faro guide.
You can also continue your trip and hop over to Spain. After all, you are only roughly 200km from Sevilla, Spain.
Read: 27 best Hostels in Spain
1. Baixa Terrace Hostel
For spending your night in Faro, we recommend Baixa Terrace. Awesome roof top terrace to enjoy a beautiful sunset and obviously summer parties.
Situated in a building from the 1940s, the hostel impresses with modern, simple design combined with a tranquil, feel-good vibe.
It is in downtown Faro! That means, you’ll have endless options for restaurants, bars and markets nearby.
Again, although not super pretty, Faro is a fun spot for a night out, especially in summer times. The nightlife was great here.
- Dorm beds start from 14€ per night
- Private rooms start from 21€ per night
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel Casa d’Alagoa
Guests that choose to stay at Hostel Casa d’Alagoa are rewarded with some of the best food in Portugal!
Legendary Sangria and BBQ nights are to be enjoyed, plus beautiful custom beds and wonderfu hospitality 24 hours a day.
Rent a bike and explore nearby landmarks in the Old Town. But only after you’ve filled up on a free breakfast!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Sunlight House
Sunlight House is a wonderful option for couples and small families. It’s more like a Bed and Breakfast, ran by two friendly locals.
There’s room for a max of 17 guests. Rooms include twin, double and triple rooms.
Great social spaces such as the kitchen, living room and terrace are also available.
The terrace is where you can enjoy your free breakfast and sea views. Nice!
Bonus: It’s just a few minutes walk from the main avenue, galleries, restaurants and bars.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Albufeira
Albufeira is a popular travel destination located in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning cliffs, and vibrant nightlife. The city also has plenty of historical attractions, including old churches, fortresses, and cobblestone streets.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, sailing, and other water sports, as well as exploring the nearby caves. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping districts to explore, as well as a wide selection of hotels and resorts. Albufeira is also a great base for exploring the rest of the Algarve, with regular buses and boats connecting the city to other towns and cities.
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Albufeira.
- Musical Hostel – best for social butterflies
- Rich & Poor Hostel Albufeira – best for backpackers
- Orange Terrace Hostel – best for solo travelers
- Extra: Sunfield Guest House – best for couples
Good To Know: We have a detailed guide to the best hostels in Albufeira.
Musical Hostel
Musical Hostel is a newly renovated boutique hostel situated in Downtown Albufeira, offering a relaxed and youthful vibe. It provides air-conditioned rooms, a garden, and a jacuzzi. It also has a 24-hour front desk, free WiFi, and a well-equipped kitchen.
The hostel is conveniently close to attractions like Praia do Perenco, Peneco Beach, and Albufeira Old Town Square. There are 12 rooms to choose from with shared bathrooms and showers. Guests can enjoy various activities including fishing, kayaking, horse riding, and swimming. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring guests have a comfortable stay.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Rich & Poor Hostel Albufeira
Rich & Poor Hostel Albufeira is a top-notch accommodation located in the heart of the old town. It offers superior comfort, as well as a terrace, snack bar, shared lounge, bar and a reception desk. The building is composed of three floors, and each room has access to various amenities.
Guests can also take advantage of the hostel’s proximity to the beach, city center, shopping areas, popular attractions, and lively nightlife. From the rooms, guests can admire breathtaking views of the city.
Read: Best Beach Hostels in Europe
The staff are friendly and welcoming, and are always willing to assist guests with any queries. With a wide range of activities available, such as hiking, swimming, and surf sessions, Rich & Poor Hostel Albufeira is the perfect destination for all travelers.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Orange Terrace Hostel
Orange Terrace Hostel offers a vibrant environment with its huge rooftop patio featuring a shaded lounge area, mini-bar, and long table for socializing and dining.
Tour packages are also provided to take visitors to some of the region’s most scenic beaches. The property is situated in the center of Albufeira’s old town, within a 5-minute walk of the beach, restaurants, and stores.
Just a 5-minute stroll away is the bar street of the old town, and for those seeking more nightlife, ‘The Strip’ or New Town is a 5-minute taxi drive or half-hour walk away. Guests can also explore the quaint streets of Albufeira to witness its transformation from a small fishing village.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Sunfield Guest House
Sunfield Guest House is an ideal destination for couples seeking a cozy and comfortable stay in Albufeira. It boasts ten well-appointed rooms, all equipped with amenities such as a room safe, coffee-making facilities and a hospitality tray with freshly laundered towels.
Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool area and enjoy the heated swimming pool and sun loungers. Other features include a terrace, free parking, a fitness centre, and a games room.
An open-air poolside bar also serves a wide range of drinks and snacks. Sunfield Guest House is conveniently located just 2.7 km from The Strip, 3 km from Oura Beach, 5 km from Fisherman’s Beach, and 23 km from Faro Airport.
Check prices at: Booking.com
What about the cheapest hostels in Portugal?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Portugal.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Portugal
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
From time to time, I receive special promo codes for booking platforms, hotels, or hostels. I will be sharing these here once received. Bookmark this page to get an update.
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
I included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
I recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Portugal best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
My Best Hostels in Portugal for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
As promised, here is the map with the coolest places to stay in Portugal on a budget.
In this list we included all the best and coolest Portugal hostels.
We always find maps very helpful to get an idea of a country. Hopefully you find it useful too.
The cities we encourage you to put on your bucket-list for Portugal are:
- Porto
- Aveiro
- Costa Nova Beach
- Lisbon
- Evora
- Lagos
FAQ
Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.
Itinerary for Portugal
For our recommended backpacking itinerary for Portugal we want to start in Porto.
There is a fairly big airport with cheap flights to get to. I love to use Skyscanner.com to find different airlines and compare rates.
Okay, let’s hit the road.
Starting in Porto, you will enjoy amazing food, culture and architecture.
Of course you cannot miss the wine here. Join a wine tasting for the world famous Port Wine.
After that, head North to the city of Braga and Guimaraes. Braga is a students city with rich history. The city of Guimaraes is known as the birth place of Portugal. Wander the small city center and climb up the castle.
How to get around Portugal?
Portugal is fairly easy to get around.
Train
Our favorite way to get around Portugal, the train. Although you will need to take buses too, we just love the train. It is fast and takes you along amazing routes.
The great website for train schedules and tickets is Omio.com.
At least take a train from Porto to Lisbon (or a town we recommend in this list!) When you take a train from Porto to Lisbon, you can literally walk from one hostel to the other.
The Passenger Hostel in Porto and the Sunset Destination Hostel in Lisbon are both located inside the train station.
Bus
Personally, I love more trains than buses. Yet, obviously the bus is one of the best transport options to get around Portugal. In all cities you will find a main bus station.
The whole country is very well connected by bus, and is much better connected than the trains.
The website to check buses in again is Omio.com. This is a fantastic website to actually check public transport and flights. You can buy tickets directly online and on the train stations. We did not see any differences in prices here.
Van Life
Portugal is a huge hub for van life.
You will for sure see a lot of vans from all over Europe here, especially Germany, France and the Netherlands.
The good news is, you can also rent your very own caravan and get around.
The van makes this list of best hostels in Portugal almost useless, since you will be bringing your own van and bed with you.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is actually really easy in Portugal and can be quite cheap. We like to check discovercars.com to rent a car.
We paid just 18€ for a day renting. Make sure you check all conditions when renting a car. We always play it safe and get the full over insurance. It is always more expensive obviously, but in case you have any damage, you won’t pay a Dollar for it. You are fully covered!
Good to know: The highways in Portugal come with tolls. It is not expensive, but you have to know about it.
For planning your route, check out www.viamichelin.com.
This website lets you plan your route around the country, and gives you the average gas price and tolls to expect. A super useful website!
Planes
There is really no need to take a flight inside of Portugal.
It is a fairly small country. It is only 700km long from North to South and 200km wide from West to East. Better take one of the transport option above.
Our recommendation would be to get a flight to either Porto in the North of Faro in the South. This way you can just go in one direction.
Starting in Lisbon makes this a bit more complicated if you plan backpacking Portugal all over.
Good to know: All cheap flights I took and found were all the time to Porto. Check out Skyscanner.
How to book Hostels in Portugal?
In every destination guide and review we give you the options to book. We are not a booking platform, and we will help you to book in a smart and safe way.
The most popular booking platforms, and ways to get better prices, are:
- Booking.com
- Hostelworld.com
- Hostelz.com
Read our guide on how to book hostels (with websites to use). Here’s our guide on how to book with Hostelworld.
Hostel Packing List
Okay, after finding all these super cool places, it’s time to see what you should pack in your backpack or suitcase. Make sure you always pick a quality hostel, it totally reduces the things you need to pack.
Make sure you check as well the weather. Portugal in summer is hot, and in winter you will need a good jacket. The north has more rain, so you really should bring a rain jacket. Most hostels offer umbrellas too.
The main things to pack are:
- earplugs
- eye mask
- key chain flashlight
- the right backpack like Lowe Alpine Lightflite 45 Pack
- packing cubes
- generic padlock (fitting all locker types)
- quick-dry travel towel
- universal power adapter
- travel-sized toiletries
Other 5 Star Hostels
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 Star Hostel and many more. And we share all of those unique budget accommodations with you.
Still need help? Destination not listed?
Now, we would love to help.
Obviously we tried to make this hostel guide for Portugal as useful as possible. Yet, we are humans and yet you may have questions we did not think about.
So, help us to help you!
Just drop us a line and we will get back to you asap!
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CLOSED: Best Hostels in Costa da Caparica: Sea for Yourself Hostel
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
Okay, you want to do some surfing? Or should we say even more surfing?
Then hop over to Costa Da Caparica.
This is one of the many places along the coast to take a surfing lesson.
Costa da Caparica has over 13 km of sandy beach with top surf conditions. A great spot for learning surf.
The best hostel in Costa Caparica is Sea For Yourself. Pun intended!
Swimming pool, cozy garden and the beach in walking distance. Borrow a beach cruiser, do some yoga, chill out in the hammocks or simply soak up the sun! Awesome Hostel indeed!
Near the beach and surf spot, in a quiet neighborhood.
- Dorm beds start from 18€ per night
- Private rooms start from 50€ per night
Best Hostels in Cascais and Estoril: Blue Boutique Hostel&Suite
Update: Sorry, this hostel permanently closed its doors.
Estoril, the most exquisite and charming town next to Lisbon. Come here for Kite Surfing and beach time. It is located right next to Cascais.
Literally, both villages Cascais and Estoril are just 5km apart.
Leaning over the Atlantic, Blue Boutique Hostel & Suites is a beautiful century Villa.
This is not just a hostel, it is a unique experience where you will feel at home, with all the comfort and coziness you could dream of.
Here you can take
- surfing,
- paddle boarding,
- and kitesurfing lessons,
followed by a cultural tour in Sintra and all its astonishing palaces, or Cascais and its typical lighthouse.
If you ask us, go for kitesurfing. We love it and always recommended it.
Just 2 steps away from the wonderful beach of Cascais and just 20 minutes away from the trendy city centre of Lisbon. A perfect spot for the slow traveler and surf lovers.
- Dorm beds start from 14€/ night
- Private rooms start from 25€/ night
