Medellin is an amazing metropolis sat in the middle of a steep valley, on the backdrop of lush mountains. The Colombian city might have had a chequered past, but in recent times its a city that has flourished into a fun, vibrant and exciting place.
When it comes to Medellin, the first thing travellers might worry about is safety and security. The area has a long history entwined with cartels, drugs and crime, but things have changed.
With the city’s reinvention come many tourists keen to explore and a whole load of cool, safe hostels to stay in – and we’ve categorised the best hostels in Medellin to make it easy for you to choose!
The fun of Medellin nightlife and its cool climate are ready and waiting…
Editor’s note – Want to see what else Medellin has to offer? Check out our 16 best day trips from Medellin!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Medellin
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Medellin – Los Patios Hostal Boutique
#2 Best Party Hostel in Medellin – Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Medellin – Casa Articulada Hostel and Artistic Residencies
#4 Best Hostel near La Candelaria, Medellin – Raiz Hostel
#5 Best Hostel in El Poblado – Saman Hostel
#6 Best Hostel near Medellin International Airport – Happy Buddha Boutique Hostel
#7 Best Hostel near Olaya Herrera Airport – International House Medellin Hostel
#8 Best Hostel near North Bus Terminal – Medellin BackPacker Hostel
#9 Best Hostel near South Bus Terminal – Noah boutique hostel Medellín
#10 Best High-end Hostel in Medellin – Hostel Rango Boutique
#11 Best budget Hostel in Medellin – Hostel Casa Paraiso
#12 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Medellin – Maloka Hostel
#1 – Los Patios Hostal Boutique
Best Overall Hostel in Medellin
Los Patios Hostal Boutique is the best overall hostel in Medellin
Los Patios Hostal Boutique is the best overall hostel in Medellin
Los Patios Hostal Boutique is the best overall hostel in Medellin- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 43 e # 11 – 40 Barrio Manila
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Los Patios Hostal Boutique…
Forget about the best overall hostel in Medellin – this place has the potential to be the best hostel in Colombia! The social atmosphere, the incredible staff, the cleanliness, the spaces and style of the place. It’s very easy to like because of its all-round goodness. The location, in a more quiet area of touristed El Poblado, also helps with that.
Los Patios Hostal Boutique is perfect for…
If being in the best hostel in Medellin is more important to you than saving a few paltry pennies on accommodation, then splashing out just a little bit more cash on this awesome place will seriously be worth your time. Not only is the atmosphere great, but the chic, stylish interiors will suit any hipster or design-lover very well indeed.
Need more specifics? Here are the best neighborhoods in Medellin to stay!
#2 – Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia
Best Party Hostel in Medellin
Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia is the best party hostel in Medellin
Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia is the best party hostel in Medellin
Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia is the best party hostel in Medellin- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 47d #72-37
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia…
PlayStation 4, X-box 360, pool table, and most importantly a 24-hour bar – it’s impossible to get bored at this Medellin backpackers hostel. But what we love the most about this place is that it’s unashamedly the best party hostel in Medellin; it’s loud, it’s drunken, but it’s also a great place to meet new friends. Win-win!
Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia is perfect for…
If what you’re looking for is a place to party – that’s great, you’ll find it here. But at the same time if you’re a solo traveller looking to meet somelike-minded, fun-loving backpackers to spend a few days (and maybe some onward travel) with then you’ll find this to be a top hostel in Medellin for that purpose.
Like something more boutique? Save some money with our guide to the best boutique hotels in Medellin!
#3 – Casa Articulada Hostel and Artistic Residencies
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Medellin
Why we like Casa Articulada Hostel and Artistic Residencies…
When it comes to the amazing, friendly staff, the welcoming and open atmosphere of the hostel itself, and the like-minded guests that this awesome hostel tends to attract, this place is easily the best hostel for solo travellers in Medellin. The interesting events and comfortable, relaxed vibes here are conducive to making friends and socialising – how could you not like that?
Casa Articulada Hostel and Artistic Residencies is perfect for…
Sometimes it can be difficult to find a social hostel that doesn’t also double up as a party place, but with this recommended hostel in Medellin it’s thankfully not the case. If being around a more intelligent sort of backpacking crowd than those that populate the more touristed areas of Medellin, this is 100% the place for you.
Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Medellin!
#4 – Raiz Hostel
Best Hostel near La Candelaria, Medellin
Why we like Raiz Hostel…
Located just outside of the historic district of La Candelaria, we love the extremely helpful and accommodating staff at this Medellin backpackers hostel. Plus this hostel is very clean. We especially like that it’s outside of more touristed areas and offers a chance for you to see the real Medellin, too.
Raiz Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re the type of person that’s more interested in wandering around, watching what the locals do and checking out some prime architecture – without being wrapped up too much in tourist sights – this is the place for you. This is the best hostel near La Candelaria, Medellin, which is the city’s ‘downtown’ heritage district.
Colombia is amazing! And the best hostels in Colombia will blow you away!
#5 – Saman Hostel
Best Hostel in El Poblado
- Cost – $$
- Location – Cl 10 N 36-24
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Saman Hostel…
We love the fact that this top hostel in Medellin is located in Zona Rosa, one of the most bustling, foreigner-friendly areas of the city known for its vibrant nightlife, but remains a relative oasis of calm in its lively El Poblado location. But partying is close-by; it’s the best of both worlds.
Saman Hostel is perfect for…
If you want to be near party central of Zona Rosa but don’t really want to stay at party hostel, you’ll love the relaxed atmosphere of this top hostel in Medellin. Because of the location, and the way it retains a chilled-out vibe with friendly, helpful staff, it’s our top choice for the best hostel in El Poblado.
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#6 – Happy Buddha Boutique Hostel
Best Hostel near Medellin International Airport
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 35 7 – 108, Parque Lleras, El Poblado
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Happy Buddha Boutique Hostel…
Known for its chic interiors, great location just outside El Poblado’s lively Zona Rosa, but most famously for its party atmosphere, this top hostel also offers secure airport drop-offs and pick-ups; although it’s not actually close to the airport, this place takes top spot for the best hostel near Medellin International Airport for that convenient offering.
Happy Buddha Boutique Hostel is perfect for…
Looking for a completely hassle-free route to or from the airport? Here’s a good place because these guys think about it for you. Happy Buddha will also suit those who are looking to party and make friends because that is the number one activity at this top hostel in Medellin.
Cartagena is Big! Don’t be overwhelmed though, check out our no-stress guide to where to stay in Cartagena!
#7 – International House Medellin Hostel
Best Hostel near Olaya Herrera Airport
Why we like International House Medellin Hostel…
A consistently highly rated hostel in Medellin, this place features great views of the city from its rooftop – and by great, we mean spectacular, especially at night when it’s all illuminated. Our choice for the best hostel near Olaya Herrera Airport, its proximity means a hassle-free (as well as less costly) journey to catch your flight, which we like a lot.
International House Medellin Hostel is perfect for…
This top hostel in Medellin will suit those looking for a convenient location if they’re catching an early (or late!) flight as much as it would suit people who aren’t particularly interested in being located in the most touristed area of the city. Instead it’s a quiet area that’s easy to explore – plus it’s easy to get to the top sights if you feel like it. Good atmosphere, too.
#8 – Medellin BackPacker Hostel
Best Hostel near North Bus Terminal
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 51b 69 12
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Medellin BackPacker Hostel…
Whilst we love that this is the best hostel near North Bus Terminal in Medellin, we also really enjoy the fact that – rather than staying right in the heart of the city’s touristic centre – this hostel is located far enough out to be able to experience local Medellin life. What more could you ask for when you’re backpacking?
Medellin BackPacker Hostel is perfect for…
Convenience fans will very much like being able to walk a few blocks to one of Medellin’s main bus terminals, with onward travel to various other Colombian cities. People who like the road less trodden will also enjoy the out-of-centre, more authentic location. The showers are also some of the best you’re likely to encounter in Medellin!
#9 – Noah boutique hostel Medellín
Best Hostel near South Bus Terminal
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 43e, 12-11
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Noah boutique hostel Medellín…
Medellin’s South Bus Terminal is well positioned for the foreigner-friendly El Poblado district, which can be Uber-ed to and from cheaply and with ease. Naturally, this recommended hostel in Medellin is well located both in a quiet area of this lively district and near to the bus terminal, making it a chilled, convenient place – which we appreciate, of course.
Noah boutique hostel Medellín is perfect for…
If you’re looking for the best hostel near South Bus Terminal, this place will be great for you. Having to pay more for an Uber or taxi, or navigate the metro, after a long journey isn’t a very fun prospect, so close proximity makes all the difference. Those looking for a good, laid-back vibe rather than a party one will also enjoy this top hostel in Medellin.
#10 – Hostel Rango Boutique
Best High-end Hostel in Medellin
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 8 N° 42 – 25
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Rango Boutique…
High-end doesn’t necessarily always mean high-end prices, which is something that we really like about this cool hostel in Medellin, but what we like the most is how much more this looks gloriously like a posh boutique hotel rather than a Medellin backpackers hostel – the private rooms are posh and the decor in general is cool and cutting-edge.
Hostel Rango Boutique is perfect for
Style-lovers! Or maybe even couples. But basically, if you’re a fan of on-point interior design then you’re really going to love this place. There’s polished concrete, angular wood, exposed lightbulbs and all sorts of tasteful touches around that – in addition to being the best high-end hostel in Medellin – it may also be the coolest hostel in Medellin.
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#11 – Hostel Casa Paraiso
Best Budget Hostel in Medellin
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 44B 68A 26
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Casa Paraiso…
It’s far from the tourist area – but we like that because the value for money here is a wholly tangible thing. The chic interiors feel like they should be costing more to stay in, but thankfully they don’t – that, and the affordable onsite cafe serving up coffee and local specialities, make it the best budget hostel in Medellin.
Hostel Casa Paraiso is perfect for…
Anybody on a tight budget. Sure, it’s far away from the tourist areas, but if you are indeed on a tight budget, then you’ll be wanting to steer clear of these places as they can be more expensive anyway. The peaceful local area surrounding this budget hostel in Medellin is also great for anyone looking for a more local experience, too!
#12 – Maloka Hostel
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Medellin
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 35 # 7 – 86, Vía Provenza, El poblado
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Maloka Hostel…
We have to say that we adore the private rooms at this Medellin backpackers hostel – they’re clean, the beds are big and comfortable, and they’re rather stylish and tastefully designed, too. Because of this quality this place is our top choice for the best hostel with a private room in Medellin.
Maloka Hostel is perfect for…
Couples! The chilled-out, non-party vibe that this recommended hostel in Medellin effuses is something that couples looking for a well located hostel in a happening part of town will very much enjoy. Fans of value for money will very much appreciate the free breakfast that gets served up every morning at this cool hostel in Medellin, too.
More Best Hostels in Medellin
#13 – Samarian Hostel Coffee and Coworking
Why we like Samarian Hostel Coffee and Coworking…
There’s something really great about being able to use the hostel you’re staying at to do some remote working, so we really love that this Medellin backpackers hostel is dedicated to providing travellers with a space to do a spot of work in the chilled surroundings. It’s a genuinely great idea (plus there’s coffee)!
Samarian Hostel Coffee and Coworking is perfect for…
Digital nomads, of course. If you’re someone who wants a quiet place to work for a few days, or longer, in Medellin then here’s your ideal spot. The fact that it feels more like a shared coworking space than an actual hostel really puts you in the mood for work, albeit in a laid-back way, making it conducive to getting stuff done.
#14 – The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 44 A No. 68 A 76 Laureles.
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel…
The private rooms here are clean, themed and stylish; the karaoke nights are good fun; but most of all what we love about this budget hostel in Medellin is its location in a more local area than the more touristed areas in the south of the city, which means a more authentic experience right on your doorstep.
The Wandering Paisa Backpackers Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re the sort of person for whom being able to experience the ‘real’ side of a city is an important factor of where you choose to stay, then this Medellin backpackers hostel is a very good option. And not only is the surrounding area brimming with local life, the hostel itself is run by a great team who can help you experience Medellin to its fullest.
MUST READ – Take a look at our guide Where to stay in Bogotá.
#15 – Hostel Cattleya Medellin
- Cost – $
- Location – Carrera 69 #44b 78
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Cattleya Medellin…
When it comes to cool hostels in Medellin this one is definitely up there as one of the best. We love the chic, super-modern interior design that appears to be hard at work at Hostal Cattleya. Added to that the facilities are amazing, the staff are incredibly friendly and the location is great. We like it all!
Hostel Cattleya Medellin is perfect for…
Looking to stay in possibly the coolest hostel in Medellin? Then this place is for you. It’s filled with cutting edge furnishings, decor and little features like TVs with Netflix. It’s also very clean and very relaxed – not a party hostel in the slightest. This place would also be perfect for couples looking for something outside the run-of-the-mill hostel experience.
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#16 – The Sugar Cane Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 12 # 43 E-17, Manila-Poblado
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like The Sugar Cane Hostel…
With a convenient location near Poblado metro stop, this top hostel in Medellin is a place we really enjoy for its amazing help-yourself breakfast, with plenty of eggs on offer. We also like the fact that this Medellin backpackers hostel is a sociable place, making it a great place to meet people.
The Sugar Cane Hostel is perfect for…
Looking for a great value-for-money breakfast included in a hostel price? With a friendly, funny owner? And a great location in the foreigner-frequented district of El Poblado? Want to make friends? If it’s a ‘yes’ to all of these, we’d definitely suggest you take a look at this recommended hostel in Medellin.
#17 – Geo Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 35 No 8A-58
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Geo Hostel…
We can’t help but be impressed by cleanliness and immaculately tailored interior design, so this cool hostel in Medellin really does endear itself to us effortlessly. But not only does it look the part – it’s also got a great location near to a whole host of restaurants and bars, which makes having fun easy.
Geo Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re looking for somewhere that’s got a lot to eat and drink just on its doorstep then Geo Hostel sounds like it could be perfect for you. And if cleanliness and design go a long way in your eyes, then you’ll also enjoy the tasteful decor of this top hostel in Medellin. However, it can get a little noisy – so bring earplugs!
#18 – Hostal Ondas Medellin
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 81 45G 52
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Ondas Medellin…
High ceilings, natural timber, the smell of freshly ground coffee – these are things about Hostel Ondas that we really like. The location of this cool hostel in Medellin, close to the historic centre of town and away from touristy El Poblado, means a more local experience is almost a certainty.
Hostel Ondas Medellin is perfect for…
If aesthetics are your thing, you’ll love the little design details that dot this top hostel in Medellin. Those who enjoy languages will enjoy their Friday event when local Colombians come to speak to the guests. What’s more, if being close to tasty food and a good breakfast is important to you, their on-site cafe will fulfil your needs.
#19 – Bambu Glamping City House
Why we like Bambu Glamping City House…
We like the unique selling point of this cool hostel in Medellin, which involves tents in a lush tropical garden as their private rooms. Otherwise, the natural setting of this place whilst remaining close enough to the bustle of El Poblado makes this a great place to stay in Medellin.
Bambu Glamping City House is perfect for…
If you like the idea of staying in a tent in the middle of a city, or if the thought of feeling far from the city whilst still being able to roll into it very easily is appealing to you, then Bambu Glamping City House would be a great choice for you. Bear in mind that tents can get quite humid, so we hope you don’t mind the heat!
#20 – Macondo Guest House
- Cost – $$
- Location – Tv. 5a ## 45 – 104, Medellin, Antioquía, Medellin
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Macondo Guest House…
Located just outside of Medellin’s foreigner-friendly party district of Zona Rosa – close, but not too close for comfort – this top hostel in Medellin is a great choice: the WiFi works very well, the showers are good, there’s a lovely little garden out the back and has one of the most friendly staff members ever. We’re fans.
Macondo Guest House is perfect for…
If you want an all-round great hostel experience without having to stay in a ‘typical’ Medellin backpackers hostel, Macondo Guest House is a fantastic choice. Not only will you be rewarded by the great location, but the facilities are good, it’s clean – plus its relaxed atmosphere at this recommended hostel in Medellin suits anyone not looking to party all the time.
#21 – Ivy Hostel
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carrera 44 # 10 Sur – 4, Barrio la Aguacatala, El Poblado
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Ivy Hostel…
Though it’s located quite far south of the El Poblado area – which itself is south of Medellin’s centre – this place is a great place to hang out for the weekend (or however long you choose). The beers are cheap, the atmosphere is friendly, and the owners are Western travellers themselves, so understand what their guests want; it certainly pays off!
Ivy Hostel is perfect for…
If you don’t really mind not being in a central or touristed area of Medellin, and instead would prefer something a little more chilled and community-feeling, Ivy Hostel would be a great choice for you. Solo travellers wishing to meet some new people to hang out with will also love this place.
#22 – Garden of Blues Hostal
- Cost – $$
- Location – cr 34 nro 7-46 poblado
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Garden of blues Hostal…
We love it when a hostel has a nice outdoors area so that your socialising isn’t just confined to what the hostel interior can offer, and this top hostel in Medellin does it very well indeed. Garden of Blues features a charming garden area filled with tropical plants, places to sit and an all-round cosy oasis in the city.
Garden of blues Hostal is perfect for…
Nature-lovers will simply love the lush tropical garden area of this top hostel in Medellin. With a free breakfast on offer, too, this place will suit backpackers on a budget looking to get what they can out of a hostel in terms of value for money. But that garden really does make this place one of the coolest hostels in Medellin!
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Medellin?
For a standard dorm room you'll probably pay around $10 or less per night, or higher than $10 for better facilities. Private rooms can go as low as $15 per night, but on average you'll need to spend at least $25 to $50 for a night.
What are Hostels in Medellin Like?
Medellin has come through a difficult history to become a popular tourist destination! Thanks to extensive modern development, you can expect nice facilities, good public transportation options, and a variety of party hostels and quiet locations depending on your preference.
How Safe are Hostels in Medellin?
Due to its history, Medellin still gets a bad rap, but it's actually become one of the safer cities in Colombia for travelers. Make sure your hostel has security features and check to see which areas you should avoid going to stay safe.
How to Find Hostels in Medellin?
Look on HostelWorld for a list of hostels and reviews from other travelers to give you a better idea about where to stay. If you're traveling to other places in Colombia, definitely check for recommendations from other travelers or at your current accommodation.
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Best Overall Hostel in Medellin
Los Patios Hostal Boutique
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Best Party Hostel in Medellin
Paisa City Hostel Medellin Colombia
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Medellin
Casa Articulada Hostel and Artistic Residencies
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Best Hostel near La Candelaria, Medellin
Raiz Hostel
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Best Hostel in El Poblado
Saman Hostel
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Best Hostel near Medellin International
Airport Happy Buddha Boutique Hostel
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Best Hostel near Olaya Herrera Airport
International House Medellin Hostel
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Best Hostel near North Bus Terminal
Medellin BackPacker Hostel
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Best Hostel near South Bus Terminal
Noah boutique hostel Medellín
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Best High-end Hostel in Medellin
Hostel Rango Boutique
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Best Budget Hostel in Medellin
Hostel Casa Paraiso
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Medellin
Maloka Hostel
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Conclusion to the Best Hostels in Medellin
PS – Traveling around Colombia? Check out our coolest hostels in Bogota,or the best hostels in Cartagena!
Now you know all about the coolest hostels in Medellin, it’s time to start getting your dancing shoes and let your hair down – because you are in for a good time in the City of Eternal Spring.
Hopefully you will feel safe in the welcoming environments of the best hostels in Medellin and you will able to see the top sights without stress.
The staff at the best hostels in Medellin are forever helpful and will make sure you know the right places to go and – all importantly – the best local restaurants to eat in.
And, there is our best overall hostel in Medellin Los Patios Hostal Boutique for those of you who can’t decide on which hostel is best for you.
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