Porto is Portugal’s second biggest city and makes a great starting off point if you’re backpacking through Portugal.
Benefits of Staying in a Hostel
Hostels are an excellent choice for travelers who want to save money and meet other like-minded people. Unlike hotels or resorts, hostels offer shared accommodation, making them much more affordable. Furthermore, most hostels have communal areas where travelers can socialize, cook, and relax. This creates a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to make new friends and create unforgettable memories.
Overview of Hostels in Porto
Like everywhere in Portugal, the hostels in Porto are of amazing quality. You’ll get great bang for your buck, with enjoyable atmosphere and added amenities. The people in Porto are also super friendly and welcoming, so you’ll be sure to experience some amazing hospitality.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy and intimate hostel or a lively and energetic one, you’ll find it all in Porto. The city has several hostels located in the historic center, close to popular tourist attractions, and within walking distance of restaurants, cafes, and bars. The amenities and services provided by each hostel vary, but most hostels offer free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and shared bathrooms.
How I choose the best hostels
When choosing the hostels on this list, I look at the location, price, overall atmosphere and previous guest reviews. I’ve tried to find places that are well located, give you good value for money, and are modern. Every hostel on this list has mainly positive guest reviews and appears to be of an overall good quality.
Top Hostels in Porto
CATS Porto Hostel
This award-winning hostel is located in the heart of Porto, just a stone’s throw away from major landmarks like the Clérigos Tower and the Lello Bookstore. The hostel’s modern design and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the most popular choices among travelers. It offers both private and shared rooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. The staff is friendly and always ready to help.
The Poets Inn
This boutique hostel is located in a charming 19th-century building, just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic Ribeira square. The hostel’s elegant decor, comfortable rooms, and picturesque courtyard make it a favorite among couples and solo travelers alike. The hostel offers private and shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and free breakfast.
Rivoli Cinema Hostel
This quirky and unique hostel is located in the heart of Porto, just a few steps away from the iconic Rivoli Theatre. The hostel’s design is inspired by cinema and features posters, movie props, and vintage cameras. The hostel offers private and shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. It also has a cinema room where guests can watch movies for free.
Gallery Hostel Porto
This award-winning hostel is located in a renovated 19th-century building in the trendy Miguel Bombarda district. The hostel’s elegant decor, friendly staff, and art exhibitions make it a top choice for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. It offers private and shared rooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a library. The hostel also organizes cultural events, workshops, and concerts.
All six hostels mentioned in this article offer excellent accommodation options for travelers visiting Porto. Each hostel has its own unique features, amenities, and price range. We recommend doing further research on each hostel to determine which one best suits your budget, preferences, and travel style.
How to Choose the Right Hostel
When choosing a hostel in Porto, there are several factors to consider, such as location, price, amenities, and reviews. It’s essential to choose a hostel that is located close to the main tourist attractions or public transport to save time and money. It’s also important to consider the hostel’s amenities, such as a fully-equipped kitchen or a common area. Reading customer reviews can give you an idea of the hostel’s cleanliness, safety, and overall atmosphere.
Here are the most important factors to consider:
Tourist Taxes
All hostels in Porto will charge a Municipal Tourist tax of €2 per person, per night. Some hostels will include this in the price but others will charge it at check in, so check this before you book.
Book in Advance
All the best hostels get booked well in advance, especially during summer. Book as early as you can.
Check the location
Porto is a small city, and most hostels in in the center. Double check this before you book so you’re near the action.
Check in and cleaning times
A lot of hostels in Porto have late check in times, but most will let you store your bags there before you check in. Bring your own padlock for a locker just in case.
Age restrictions
Some hostels might cater to families or school trips, so book an 18+ hostel if you want to be in an adults only environment.
Porto is a city full of life, charm, and endless possibilities. Choosing the right hostel can make all the difference in your experience of the city. We hope this guide has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your stay in Porto. Don’t hesitate to explore the city’s hidden gems, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. Happy travels!
