Surrounded by the peaks of the Andes, Santiago is home to an explorable historic colonial core, vibrant nightlife and great hiking opportunities that offer up views of the city below.
The Chilean capital is renowned for backpacking, but how far has the scene come along? Are there acceptable places to stay amongst the offerings to be found here?
Don’t worry! We’ve looked into it and found a whole host of great places to stay in Santiago. These are easily the best hostels in Santiago, set in many different barrios, some of them super cool, too!
Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or if you want to splash out on something high-end, if you want to be set in a certain area or you’re looking for privacy – we’ve got you covered. So let’s have a look at the coolest hostels in Santiago!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Santiago
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Santiago – Hostal Forestal
#2 Best Party Hostel in Santiago – Hostel Providencia
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Santiago – La Chimba Hostel
#4 Best Hostel in Barrio Bellavista, Santiago – The Bellavista Hostel
#5 Best Hostel near La Moneda, Santiago – Happy House Hostel
#6 Best Hostel in Barrio Providencia, Santiago – Ventana Sur Hostel
#7 Best Hostel Near Santiago International Airport – Hostal Yungary
#8 Best Hostel near Santiago Bus Station – The Princesa Insolenta
#9 Best High End Hostel in Santiago – Merced 88
#10 Best Budget Hostel in Santiago – Santiago Backpackers
#11 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Santiago – Rado Boutique Hostel
#1 – Hostal Forestal
Best Overall Hostel in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Coronel Santiago Bueras 122, Barrio Lastarria
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostal Forestal…
Clean, cool contemporary surroundings, a fun, social atmosphere, and an absolutely incredible location – we’re finding it hard to find anything wrong with this place.
It goes without saying that this is quite easily the best overall hostel in Santiago. The decor (and setting) make it one of the coolest hostels in Santiago, too.
Hostal Forestal is perfect for…
If you’re simply looking for a great all-round Santiago backpackers hostel, this place actually exceeds expectations.
This cool hostel in Santiago features laid back, colourful decor that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine. And if you’re all about location? It’s just a two-minute walk to the historic Lastarria district.
Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Santiago!
#2 – Hostel Providencia
Best Party Hostel in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Vicuña Mackena 92-A
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Providencia…
This is a fun, vibrant hostel complete with its own bar. That’s a great point about this best party hostel in Santiago, but the fact that the staff arrange events here most nights is something we really like, too.
Another great point is that they offer up free club entry to some cool spots around the city.
Hostel Providencia is perfect for…
Want to be close to all the nightlife action that Santiago has to offer? Well, then this party hostel in Santiago is definitely going to be the place for you. It’s situated Bellavista area, which is crawling with places to drink and dance.
There’s often drinks flowing and family meals at this social hostel in Santiago. The complimentary breakfast is a plus, too!
Not traveling 4-star? These cheap hostels in Santiago won’t disappoint you!
#3 – La Chimba Hostel
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – E. Pinto Lagarrigue 262, Barrio Bellavista
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like La Chima Hostel…
This top hostel in Santiago serves up a whole lot of character, which is partly why we like it so much.
The atmosphere here is perfect to get chatting to fellow travellers, and the ease of meeting people and making friends easily makes it the best hostel for solo travellers in Santiago.
La Chima Hostel is perfect for…
Another hostel that’s set in the lively Bellavista barrio, this place is perfect if you’re a solo traveller and you’re looking to meet people along the way.
There’s a specific ‘activity manager’ here who organises BBQs, poker nights, salsa lessons, movie nights and walking tours amongst a whole host of other things.
Don’t like getting bored? Book here!
#4 – The Bellavista Hostel
Best Hostel in Bellavista, Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – PurÃsima 261, Barrio Bellavista
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Bellavista Hostel…
We like that this top hostel in Santiago is a mainstay of the Bellavista hostel scene. It’s small and friendly and comes packed with a whole lot of heart.
The location in the heart of this vibrant barrio, as well as the friendly atmosphere, definitely earns it the title of the best hostel in Bellavista, we’d say.
The Bellavista Hostel is perfect for…
Those looking to stay in a lively district, but who also want to be able to come back to an oasis of calm, should look into staying at this Santiago backpackers hostel.
Sometimes when a hostel is located in a party area, it tends to be all about the parties itself. But at The Bellavista Hostel, you can chill out – and get a good night’s sleep – very easily.
#5 – Happy House Hostel
Best Hostel in La Moneda, Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Moneda 1829, Barrio Brasil
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Happy House Hostel…
We like this place a lot mainly due to the fact that it’s set inside a beautiful old building that’s been wonderfully renovated. It reflects the traditions of the historical part of the city and creates a great space to hang out in.
The location is something we appreciate too, being within easy reach of some top landmarks.
Happy House Hostel is perfect for…
Being the best hostel in La Moneda, Santiago, this place is perfect for anybody who’s interested in being located close to the centre of town in a safe area.
People of all ages stay here, so if you’re worried about being ‘too old’ it’s ok! However, there’s still a pub crawl organised on weekends for backpackers. And there’s a pool!
MUST READ – Heading to Valparaiso next? Check out our post about some of the most awesome hostels to stay in Valparaiso!
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#6 – Ventana Sur Hostel
Best Hostel in Providencia, Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Claudio Arrau 0340, Providencia
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Ventana Sur Hostel…
Right next to Bustamante Park this hostel is set close to a metro station, which is just fine for us since you’ll be able to explore the city very easily.
It’s also within walking distance to many attractions, which is also a plus since the neighbourhood of Providencia is really lovely to stroll around.
Ventana Sur Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re looking for the best hostel in Providencia, Santiago, this is it! The location of this particular hostel is actually quite close to Barrio Italia, which is a foodie’s paradise being packed full of bars and eateries.
If you like exploring the city and walking around on your own time, you’ll love it at this Santiago backpackers hostel.
#7 – Hostal Yungary
Best Hostel near Santiago International Airport
- Cost – $$
- Location – Almirante Barroso 547, Barrio Brasil, Santiago Centro
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostal Yungary…
We can’t help but like that this recommended hostel in Santiago is open-minded and welcomes all kinds of guests through its doors. Moreover, this place is a great place to kick back and relax.
But we also can’t fault the location: it’s close to lots of interesting landmarks and museums in the barrio of Brasil.
Hostal Yungary is perfect for…
Fans of convenience will love this place since it’s very easy to get to the airport from here – it’s just a simple, direct bus ride away (the hostel even puts on a shuttle service).
Aside from being the best hostel near Santiago International Airport, the staff here are friendly and helpful – great if you’re travelling by yourself.
#8 – The Princesa Insolenta
Best Hostel near Santiago Bus Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – Moneda #2350
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Princesa Insolenta…
This Santiago backpackers hostel oozes a chilled atmosphere that we can’t help but like.
We also really enjoy that this hostel is a great place to meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, being a proper hub for travellers from all over the world; there are plenty of areas to relax and socialise.
The Princesa Insolenta is perfect for…
Being the best hostel near Santiago Bus Station (it’s a 20-minute walk away), this place is a great idea if you want to be able to get into, or out of, the city hassle-free.
The proximity to two metro stations also means you’ll be able to get out and explore the Chilean capital with ease.
#9 – Merced 88
Best High-end Hostel in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Merced 88,, Santiago
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Merced 88…
Housed inside a historical old building, Merced 88 has got to be one of the coolest hostels in Santiago. We love that staying here automatically means staying directly in a part of the city’s history.
The rooms here are high quality, the decor is modern and tastefully done with traditional, classic touches. What’s not to like?
Merced 88 is perfect for…
Are you a flashpacker with an eye for design? Then opting to stay at this chic hostel is a great option.
This best high-end hostel in Santiago is located in Plaza Italia and is also just moments away from a metro station.
Anybody who loves a bit of upmarket, but affordable luxury will love the stunning interiors at Merced 88.
#10 – Santiago Backpackers
Best Budget Hostel in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Mac Iver 661
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Santiago Backpackers…
We like that this is a cheap and fun backpackers hostel in Santiago that also happens to be located inside a 100-year-old building.
Value for money is the name of the game here: you get free breakfast, free wine nights, plus day trips and nights out organised for you. Love it.
Santiago Backpackers is perfect for…
If you’re a backpacker on a budget and you’re looking for the best budget hostel in Santiago, then you’ll love Santiago Backpackers.
The laundry service is inexpensive, the lockers are big (good for huge rucksacks), the showers are hot and – unlike some places – they really don’t skimp out on the free breakfast here.
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#11 – Rado Boutique Hostel
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Santiago
- Cost – $$
- Location – Pio Nono 5, Providencia, Barrio Bellavista
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Rado Boutique Hostel…
Super chic and boasting incredible private rooms, this place really does fit the title of a boutique hostel. We love the plush, comfortable beds, the spotless bathrooms, and moreover the great value for money.
Little touches like being provided with sleeping masks are always a plus, too. There’s a rooftop terrace so you can get to know fellow travellers over a few drinks.
Rado Boutique Hostel is perfect for…
Looking for the best hostel with a private room in Santiago? This is it!
This is perfect for couples who want to stay in a hotel quality room but still want to the social side of a Santiago backpackers hostel. It’s also close to nightlife, public transport and top sights.
More Best Hostels in Santiago
#12 – La Cosona
- Cost – $$
- Location – Almirante Montt, 465, Barrio Bellas Artes
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like La Cosona…
This place is clean (the rooms are cleaned daily) and comes equipped with good facilities. We like that it’s a calm, quiet place to stay, but that there are very lively streets to explore just a few moments from this top hostel in Santiago.
The location, in the heart of Bellas Artes, helps contribute to the peaceful nature of this hostel.
La Cosona is perfect for…
If you simply want a lovely place to stay and you’re not very interested in partying, or even socialising, then you won’t mind the lack of atmosphere at this Santiago backpackers hostel.
If you’re not a ‘young’ backpacker, don’t worry: this place frequently sees a range of ages pass through its doors. The decor is also mature, tasteful and laid back.
#13 – Casa Roble Boutique Hostal
- Cost – $$
- Location – Viña del Mar #045
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Casa Roble Boutique Hostal…
Spotlessly clean and comfortable and boasting a complimentary breakfast, we also like the location of this cool hostel in Santiago on bustling Providencia Street.
The bright, contemporary interiors inside a historic building, complete with large windows and parquet floors, is something we always appreciate. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen to keep costs low.
Casa Roble Boutique Hostal is perfect for…
If you’ve come to Santiago after a long bus journey and you just feel like chilling out, then this place is a good idea.
It’s not a loud and noisy party hostel, so you’ll be able to nap or get a good night’s sleep – but bars and nightlife are just around the corner. The staff here are also very friendly and helpful – good if you’re on your own.
#14 – Salvador Hostal y Cafe
- Cost – $$
- Location – Ricardo Matte Perez 0597
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Salvador Hostal y CaféWhy we like Salvador Hostal y Cafe…
We love that staying at this Santiago backpackers hostel is like staying at a big friendly house. The location, close to the historical centre of the city, is also something we appreciate.
This cool Santiago hostel is a stylish place to stay too: period features, white walls and a stately lounge makes it feel very upmarket.
Salvador Hostal y Cafe is perfect for…
If you like your surroundings to be a bit of a cut above when it comes to a backpackers hostel, then this place is going to suit you very well.
If you’re not the usual backpacking age, don’t worry: this top Santiago hostel caters to different age ranges. There’s also a good free breakfast, which is always a great way to start the day.
#15 – Plaza de Armas Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Compaia 960 Dp. 607
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Plaza de Armas Hostel…
We love the amazing location of this top hostel in Santiago – it directly overlooks the Plaza de Armas itself, which makes for an interesting view of the city at any time of the day.
The vista across the city from the rooftop is lovely. The communal rooms here are large and there’s a good atmosphere.
Plaza de Armas Hostel is perfect for…
If you want to be near all the action of the city, then this Santiago backpackers hostel is the one for you.
There might not be a bar here, but if you’re partial to a drink you’ll be pleased to know that they serve up cocktails here at the weekend.
If you like your sleep? Don’t worry, you’ll be able to get plenty of that at this quiet hostel.
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#16 – Poker Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Padre Luis de Valdivia 361
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Poker Hostel…
The friendly staff at this place are very attentive and care about their guests – what’s not to like about that?
We also appreciate the community-minded feel of this hostel, which makes it a really homely place to return to after a busy day of exploring what the Chilean capital has to offer.
Poker Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re a solo traveller and you’re backpacking around Chile and you feel like staying somewhere that’s got a lot of heart, then you’ll like it here.
If you don’t mind a bit of quirky artwork, and you’re not fussed about ‘design hostels’, then you’ll love the friendly and sociable atmosphere at this Santiago backpackers hostel.
Editor’s note – If you are going to stay in Santiago, you should check out our article about Where to stay in Santiago.
#17 – Che Legarto Hostel Santiago
Why we like Che Legarto Hostel Santiago…
We like this top hostel in Santiago because of its clean, modern and spacious rooms, its minimalist feel with a fun colour scheme, and its great location.
Being just a few minutes away from the metro, and pretty much in the heart of the city, getting around and exploring the city doesn’t get much easier than basing yourself here.
Che Legarto Hostel Santiago is perfect for…
You’ll definitely appreciate this place if you’re all about a great location. But if you’re travelling solo, you’ll like that this place features some friendly staff who’ll be up late waiting for you if you check in late.
If you don’t mind about a lack of atmosphere and prefer a quieter vibe, then you’ll like it here. There’s a chilled rooftop to kick back on, for example.
#18 – Kombi Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Ernesto Pinto Lagarrigue 160
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Kombi Hostel…
We like the social vibe of this place. It’s hard not to enjoy the atmosphere going on here, which is very conducive to meeting new people, making friends and then heading out to hit up the nearby nightlife: bars and big nightclubs are located just a mere stone’s throw from this Santiago backpackers hostel.
Kombi Hostel is perfect for…
If you like the idea if partying, having fun, and meeting new people – and you don’t really mind about not getting your 8 hours of sleep every night – then you’ll have a blast here.
Don’t expect any quiet nights: this party hostel in Santiago is located quite literally opposite a nightclub!
#19 – Hostal Casa Aborigen
- Cost – $$
- Location – Alfredo Rioseco 238, Providencia
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostal Casa Aborigen…
With a focus on the native people of Chile, so you can learn a little more about the indigenous culture of the country, we like that this Santiago backpackers hostel has an educational leaning.
We also like the neighbourhood: it’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, shops and cultural institutions like museums.
Hostal Casa Aborigen is perfect for…
If you’re interested in getting to know about the local life of the city (as much as the indigenous culture of Chile), then you’ll love staying here.
Staff are packed with information about what to do and where to eat nearby, plus you’ll learn about Chile’s native culture through activities put on by the staff, too. There’s also a free breakfast!
#20 – Aji Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Triana 863
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Aji Hostel…
Simple and good value for money, we really like the fact that staying at this Santiago backpackers hostel means you get free dinner every day.
On Fridays, it’s a little different since they fire up a BBQ instead. There’s also free breakfast and daily cleaning done at this excellent budget hostel in Santiago, too.
Aji Hostel is perfect for…
Are you a backpacker on a budget? Or do you just want to save a bit of money?
Then you’ll love staying here. Not only is it great value for money, with plenty of free perks (including free entrance to nightclubs), but the affordable rate here doesn’t mean that the hostel skimps out on safety or cleanliness.
#21 – Landay Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location –Erasmo Escala #2012
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Landay Hostel…
Located inside a big house dating all the way back to 1924, we absolutely love the setting of this recommended hostel in Santiago. It’s got huge stone archway doors and a sun terrace, which is a good place for meeting fellow travellers. But yes, the historical feel of this place is truly great.
Landay Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re interested in history, you may want to consider booking a few nights at this palatial hostel.
It may not be luxury inside – it’s a little basic, actually – but if you don’t mind that and if you’re looking for a little bit of peace and quiet too, then you’ll love this Santiago backpackers hostel. It’s not too far from restaurants and bars, either.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Santiago?
For a dorm room the price is usually between $10 and $20 per night in Santiago. If you prefer a private room, you're probably going to pay around $20 on the low end and higher than $50 on the high end.
What are Hostels in Santiago Like?
In general, a great place to meet travelers and often centrally located and close to cultural activities! Depending on the neighborhood, there are hostels with a more historic vibe, a modern atmosphere, or cool quirky theme. Both party hostels and spots for a quiet stay can be found.
How Safe are Hostels in Santiago?
In comparison to other destinations in South America, Santiago is a fairly safe city. Of course, you should always be cautious when traveling, but incidents aren't too common and most hostels have good security features.
How to Find Hostels in Santiago?
Search on HostelWorld to compare the prices, location, and facilities of reviewed hostels in Santiago! If you're traveling to other places in Chile and South America, other travelers might also be able to give you recommendations.
Best Overall Hostel in Santiago
Hostal Forestal
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Best Party Hostel in Santiago
Hostel Providencia
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Santiago
La Chima Hostel
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Best Hostel in Bellavista, Santiago
The Bellavista Hostel
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Best Hostel in La Moneda, Santiago
Happy House Hostel
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Best Hostel in Providencia, Santiago
Ventana Sur Hostel
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Best Hostel near Santiago International
Airport Hostal Yungary
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Best Hostel near Santiago Bus Station
The Princesa Insolenta
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Best High-end Hostel in Santiago
Merced 88
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Best Budget Hostel in Santiago
Santiago Backpackers
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Santiago
Rado Boutique Hostel
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Closing thoughts on the best bargain hostels in Santiago
There you have it, the top hostels in Santiago. So many of them are super cool and housed inside historic buildings, adding to the fun of staying in this vibrant city.
Away from the buzz of the bars and nightlife, there’s plenty of parks to explore and a whole world of amazing restaurants and cafes so you can spend your time eating your way around Santiago.
There’s a whole range of hostels to fit in with your travel plans. If you want to party, there’re hostels with nightclubs and bars right on the doorstep. If you’re looking for somewhere a little more upmarket, there’s some incredible high-end hostels, too.
Having a hard time trying to work out which hostel is best for your trip? Just remember our best overall hostel in Santiago Hostal Forestal and get ready to have the time of your life in the Chilean capital.
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