The captivating city of Porto, Portugal, beckons travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking architecture. But finding the right hostel can make or break your adventure. Whether you’re a solo backpacker seeking social connections, a party animal ready to explore Porto’s nightlife, or a budget-conscious couple on a romantic getaway, this guide unveils the best hostels in Porto, meticulously categorized by travel style and key features.
I visited Porto the first time back in 2008. It was an entirely different city; there are mere 5 hostels in town and you could say, this was the start of the hostel movement in Porto and Portugal overall. Since then I have visited 7 times and I am still counting. I absolutely love the scenery, the food scene, the architecture, and so much more. Here is a full guide comparing all the best hostels in Porto for all different types of travelers. My goal is to help you choose the perfect hostel in Porto for your own needs.
Best Hostels in Porto for the Solo Traveler:
The House of Sandeman
Steeped in history, this former winery boasts a social atmosphere and free walking tours. Its central location makes exploring Porto’s sights a breeze. Mingle with fellow travelers in the common areas and embark on adventures together.
Insider tip: Dorm rooms facing the courtyard tend to be quieter, while those facing the street might be livelier due to the on-site bar.
In a nutshell:
- Budget-friendly
- Social scene
- Walking tour included
Gallery Hostel
Embrace the trendy vibe! This hostel features stylish dorms and a lively common area, perfect for meeting fellow adventurers. Social events and pub crawls are a great way to connect with others and create lasting memories.
In a nutshell:
- Mid-range
- Stylish decor
- Social events
The House of Sandeman offers free walking tours, while Gallery Hostel has a livelier common area for mingling with fellow travelers.
Best Hostels in Porto for the Party Animal:
Onefam Ribeira
This hostel offers a perfect blend of historic charm and radiant energy. The hostel provides stunning views of the Douro River, placing you right in the heart of one of Porto’s most picturesque areas. The atmosphere here is lively, with a touch of party vibes that make it ideal for social travelers looking to mingle and have a good time.
In a nutshell:
- Historic Charm
- Social Community
- Party Vibes
Cat’s Hostel Porto
Get ready for a fun and funky stay! This hostel offers themed nights, pub crawls, and a rooftop bar with stunning city views. Embrace the social scene, let loose, and make new friends during your Porto adventure.
In a nutshell:
- Mid-range
- Themed events
- Rooftop bar
Best Hostels in Porto for the Budget Traveler:
Invictus Hostel
This friendly hostel offers comfortable dorms at an unbeatable price. Save money while exploring the city with free walking tours and a communal kitchen, perfect for whipping up budget-friendly meals.
In a nutshell:
- Budget-friendly
- Free walking tours
- Kitchen facilities
The Passenger Hostel
Location is key! This centrally located hostel provides clean and basic accommodation at an affordable price. The social common area and helpful staff create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. (Budget-friendly, Central location, Social common area)
Invictus Hostel offers unbeatable prices, but it’s located further from the main attractions compared to The Passenger Hostel.
Best Hostels in Porto for Couples Seeking Comfort:
The Central House Porto Ribeira
Escape the dorm life and enjoy privacy at this charming hostel. Private rooms offer a touch of sophistication, while the rooftop terrace provides breathtaking views of the city. The on-site restaurant sets the scene for a romantic evening.
In a nutshell:
- Mid-range
- Private rooms
- Rooftop terrace
- Restaurant
Being Porto Hostel
This is a charming and friendly hostel located in the historic Ribeira district. It’s nestled among the narrow, winding streets that lead to the Douro River, offering guests a genuine taste of Porto’s rich history and culture. The hostel’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s famous landmarks, vibrant markets, and bustling cafes.
In a nutshell:
- Cozy Accommodations
- Private rooms
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Affordable Prices
Unveiling the Extras
This guide provides a starting point, but consider these additional factors when choosing your Porto hostel:
Amenities: Does the hostel offer breakfast, laundry facilities, or luggage storage? Prioritize features that enhance your comfort and convenience.
Location: Do you want to be in the heart of the action (Ribeira district) or a quieter area (like Baixa)? Consider your preferred atmosphere.
Atmosphere: Are you looking for a social party scene or a more relaxed vibe? Choose a hostel that complements your travel style.
Unlocking User Reviews:
Don’t stop here! Dive deeper by reading user reviews on hostel booking platforms. Look for reviews that mention specific features like cleanliness, noise levels, and staff helpfulness. These insights from fellow travelers can provide valuable perspectives and help you make the perfect choice.
Final Thoughts
This guide provides a comprehensive starting point for finding your perfect Porto hostel. But to truly get a feel for the atmosphere and vibe, consider these additional resources:
- User Reviews: Dive deeper into the hostel experience by exploring user reviews on reputable hostel booking platforms. Look for reviews that mention specific details like cleanliness, noise levels, staff helpfulness, and the social scene. These insights from fellow travelers can offer valuable perspectives and help you make the perfect choice.
- Hostel Websites and Social Media: Visit the official websites and social media pages of the hostels you’re considering. This can offer a glimpse into the hostel’s personality, upcoming events, and the kind of traveler they attract. Useful websites to find hostels are:
- Hostelz.com
- Hostelworld.com
- Booking.com
- Travel Blogs and Forums: Search for travel blogs and forums dedicated to Porto or budget travel in Europe. These resources often feature first-hand experiences and recommendations from other travelers who may have stayed at the hostels on your shortlist.
Remember, the “perfect” hostel is subjective. Utilize this guide and the additional resources to prioritize features that cater to your travel style and budget. With a little research and exploration, you’re sure to find the ideal place to call home during your unforgettable Porto adventure!