The Best Hostels In Porto – A Local Guide

Portugal’s second-biggest city and de facto ‘capital’ of the north is a certainly underrated destination. Even though it’s a relatively small city compared to Lisbon, there are many things to do in Porto, so it’s worth staying for at least 2 or 3 nights.

If you are on a backpacking trip through Portugal then Porto can even make for a perfect starting point.

Like anywhere else in Portugal, the hostels in Porto are absolutely amazing! I have travelled in nearly 70 countries around the world and I have to say the standard of quality of Portuguese hostels is up there with the best. In terms of price vs. atmosphere vs. amenities, you’ll definitely get some great value.

Best of all, the people in Porto (and generally the north of Portugal) are known to be especially down to Earth and welcoming, so you’ll no doubt get to experience some of their amazing hospitality.

If you’re wondering where it’s best to stay in Porto, choosing one of the following hostels will ensure you’ll have a great experience.

(Pssst, you can also find top Lisbon hostels here.)

The Central House – Ribeira

Located in Riberia, Porto’s charming dock area
Modern and clean
Dorms and private rooms for families or couples

This fresh and modern hostel is located a few hundred meters from the D. Luis I Bridge, the Clerigos Tower, and the Douro River. You can walk around the city center, enjoy the old town of Porto, and in the evening come back to the hostel where you can join entertainment and activities in a lounge.

Apart from the dorms, this hostel also has luxuriously looking private rooms ideal for couples or groups of friends that want to have privacy. The rooms and dormitories are fully furnished and have everything you need.

If you require a lot of space to sleep, The Central House has premium dormitories with bigger beds than typical for more comfort. Thanks to the modern amenities and quiet atmosphere, The Central House is a perfect choice for many types of travellers.

Happy Porto Hostel

River views
Central location right besides Porto’s old tram line
Friendly and welcoming staff

Happy Porto Hostel is a safe and clean accommodation in the city center, with great views of the river and surroundings. On the ground floor, you will see a beautiful lounge where you want to spend your mornings drinking coffee and planning your day or evening with your friends.

Plenty of excursions, activities, and entertainment are already offered by the hostel, making it easier to plan your days in Porto. As nice as it is for all travelers it is an especially good place to stay for solo travelers.

The hostel is near the riverwalk, next to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ribeira and across the street from the Alfândega International Congress Center, the Museum of Transport and Communications, and the Museum of Discoveries.

Hostel One Ribeira

Extremely central location
Top pick for solo travelers

This is one of the best hostels for solo travelers in Porto if you’re planning to make friends, party, and explore. Except for a very helpful and friendly staff here you can also enjoy group dinners, sign up for various activities, or simply chill on your laptop in the common area.

I think hostels with group dinners are often among the best and Hostel One Ribeira is no exception! Sharing a meal at the same table is simply amazing for instantly getting introduced to all the other guests and creating a communal atmosphere.

The hostel is located in the center of the old town, and amazing views can be seen even from many rooms. Porto Cathedral is within walking distance of the property. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a small castle when you stay in our medieval building. Other attractions nearby are the So Joo Theater, the Clerigos Tower, and the main shopping areas, pubs, and restaurants.

Canvas Atelier Hostel

Located a bit outside the tourist zone in a charming neighborhood
Kitchen facilities make it easy to cook your own meals
Best for budget backpackers

When staying in this small and cozy hostel in Porto’s central Bonfim neighborhood, you will be close to landmarks, restaurants, and pubs. However, you’ll be about a 20-minute walk from the most touristy area of Porto, making this a local and strategic place to stay.

Individual lighting, a modest shelf space, an individual locker, and easy access to outlets are included in all beds. Key code access and free WiFi are also provided.

There is a shared kitchen where you may cook your own meals, letting you save money by not having to eat out. The affordable price and friendly staff are the best features of this art-inspired hostel.

Best Guest Porto Hostel

Sunny rooms
Located in the Old Town

This adorable and extra clean hostel offers a great opportunity for travelers to experience what hostels are all about. In the rooms, there is a lot of sun, comfy beds, free WiFi, and more. Some rooms have private bathrooms as well.

The lovely district of Ribeira, Palácio da Bolsa, Clerigos Tower, S Cathedral, So Joao Theatre, and D. Luis I bridge are all within a few minutes walk of the hostel, which is located in Oldtown and just around the metro station.

The accommodation is across the street from the Mouzinho da Silveira fountain, in the area that is classified as a World Heritage Site. in the rooms you will find individual lockers, huge orthopedic beds, and key card access. If you are a female traveler this is the place where you will feel the safest in the city.