A decade ago Lisbon seemed a slightly leftfield, quirky destination. Today it is perhaps one of Europe’s biggest destinations for backpackers and creatives. People come from all over to witness the magnificent tiles, wander the labyrinthine alleyways of Alfama and gaze out over the Atlantic Ocean with a pastel de nata and an espresso.
Thanks to the upsurge in popularity, there are now more than one hundred hostels in Lisbon. The number seems to grow every year. More remarkably, so many of them are of an excellent quality. Lisbon really is one of the best cities in the world to be a budget traveller. Here are some of the very finest hostels in Lisbon based on considerations such as price, cleanliness, amenities and location.
WE LOVE F TOURISTS
Dorms from €30/ night. Privates from €80/ night
It’s not entirely clear what the ‘F’ stands for, and perhaps it’s better not to ask, but there are plenty of reasons why this is one of Lisbon’s most popular hostels. Besides the great ambience and a staff that is ever-popular with guests, there are plenty of enticing amenities like the shared kitchen, communal living area and on-site bar. Some of the rooms have excellent views of São Jorge Castle and a buffet breakfast is included in the price.
YES LISBON HOSTEL
Dorms from €26/ night
Perfect for those who wish to explore all the different sides of the city, Yes Lisbon Hostel is located in the historic downtown area, minutes from the seafront. Alfama is close by too, putting many of the main sights of Lisbon in easy reach. The classy décor, with polished wooden floors and modern shared bathrooms only add to this hostel’s allure. Dorms are kept smaller, between four and six people, either mixed or female only, and there’s a good-sized lounge for guests to share. Breakfast is available for a small additional fee.
ALFAMA PATIO HOSTEL
Dorms from €23/ night
Such is Alfama’s popularity and inaccessibility that hostels located in this remarkable neighbourhood are few and far between, and often expensive. Alfama Patio Hostel is a good-value exception. Although space is at a bit of a premium here, there are some pleasant common areas, such as the outdoor seating and hammock area and a rooftop terrace with barbecue facilities. Some of the dorm rooms have bunk beds that look like they were designed by Gaudi. During busier months the hostel runs regular themed parties, making this a good hostel to mingle and meet fellow travellers.
GOODMORNING HOSTEL
Dorms from €22/ night. Privates from €73/ night
Especially well located for anybody taking an onwards train to or from Lisbon, Goodmorning Hostel is close to Praça Dom Pedro IV, a popular area with locals for bars and restaurants in the city, and downhill from the excellent viewpoint of São Pedro de Alcântara. Amenities include air conditioning, laundry (for an additional fee), free wifi and a free breakfast that consistently proves popular with guests, perhaps thanks to the delicious, freshly-prepared waffles.
HOSTEL SURF IN CHIADO
Dorms from €14/ night. Privates from €45/ night
Surf in Chiado offers exceptional value, both for dorm beds and private rooms. On the edge of the Barrio Alto, some of the surrounding streets can be a little steep but Lisbon’s excellent tram service runs a line to the centre that stops one street over from the hostel. Having said that, Surf in Chiado is still very much in the thick of things, with plenty to do and see in the immediate vicinity of the hostel, such as Santa Catarina viewpoint; perhaps one of the city’s best. Furnishings feel fresh and the clean hostel has a pleasant ambience.