25 [CHEAP!] and BEST Hostels in Rio de Janeiro (2023)

Best Hostels in Rio de JaneiroOne of the most famous cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro is a privilege to explore. Boasting two ultra famous beaches – Ipanema and Copacabana – amazing natural scenery, vibrant nightlife, cool barrios to discover as well as its fascinating favelas.

However, it’s a sprawling city, so finding the place that’s right for you might be a little tricky. Rio hostels are notoriously jam-packed and air-con-less, too…

But don’t worry. We’ve researched and found a whole bunch of places to stay in Rio de Janeiro. We’re talking some of the best hostels in Rio in the best, most exciting areas.

If you’re looking for something on a shoestring, prefer to chill out in a calm environment, or even if you want to be near to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s check out the coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro!

Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

#1 Best Overall Hostel in Rio de Janeiro – Discovery Hostel
#2 Best Party Hostel in Rio de Janeiro – Books Hostel
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Rio de Janeiro – El Misti Hostel Rio
#4 Best Hostel near Ipanema Beach – Lemon Spirit House
#5 Best Hostel in Botofogo – Bota Hostel
#6 Best Hostel in Copacabana Beach – 021 Hostel
#7 Best Hostel near Rio de Janeiro International Airport – Hangar Rio Hostel

#8 Best High-end Hostel in Rio de Janeiro – Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Rio de Janeiro – Solar Hostel
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Rio de Janeiro – Terra Brasilis Hostel

 

#1 – Discovery Hostel

 Best Overall Hostel in Rio de Janeiro

  • Cost – $$
  • Location – Rua Benjamin Constant 26, Glória, Rio de Janeiro
  • Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Discovery Hostel…
With its great location, in walking distance to Lapa, as well as close to loads of restaurants, supermarkets and bars, this top hostel in Rio de Janeiro is also a fun place to hang out on top of all that. The patio area here is a good place to meet and mingle with fellow travellers.

Discovery Hostel is perfect for…
Looking for the best overall hostel in Rio de Janeiro? Then this place, with its combination of a party atmosphere and chill out vibes, provides an all-round great option for a safe and cosy Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel. It’s open minded and sociable, so you’ll be making a few friends here!

Check for Best Price

 #2 –  Books Hostel

Best Party Hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Books Hostel…
Don’t be fooled by the name: Books Hostel is actually the best party hostel in Rio de Janeiro! It’s truly all about the partying here and it features a super buzzy atmosphere, partly thanks to the downtown location, partly down to the staff who are always up for a good time.

Books Hostel is perfect for…
Party animals! Yes, not only is this place a lively Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel, but the surrounding area is littered with bars, clubs and cheap places to drink. In the day time, this hostel boasts a lovely chill area to doze off the hangover, complete with bean bags and Netflix.

Check for Best Price

 

#3 –  El Misti Hostel Rio

Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Rio de Janeiro

Why we like El Misti Hostel Rio…
It’s warm and welcoming at this place, which is mainly the reason we say it’s the best hostel for solo travellers in Rio de Janeiro. There’s a great social atmosphere in the evenings especially, thanks to the bar and the nightly events, which makes it a pretty fun youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro.

El Misti Hostel Rio is perfect for…
Solo backpackers, of course. But not only is it welcoming if you’re on your own – this recommended hostel in Rio de Janeiro is also convenient, since it’s close to the Siqueria Campos subway station, plus it’s a mere five minute walk to the ever famous Copacabana. It’s great for female travellers, since there’s female only dorms here, too.

Check for Best Price

 

#4 – Lemon Spirit House

 Best Hostel near Inpenema Beach

Lemon Spirit House
Lemon Spirit House is the best hostel near Inpenema Beach

Why we like Lemon Spirit House…
Quite literally just off the famous stretch of sun, sea and sand itself, we can’t help but love the location of this one; in fact, that alone makes it easily the best hostel near Ipenema Beach. Not only that, but we love the fact that it’s an old heritage building that’s been restored.

Lemon Spirit House is perfect for…
Beach bums! Yes, that’s right. If that’s you, then this is a recommended hostel in Rio de Janeiro for you. Not only is it close to the world renowned beach itself, but it’s set in one of the safest neighbourhoods of the city, too. This spacious hostel also features a breezy terrace with hammocks.

Check for Best Price

 

#5 –  Bota Hostel

 Best Hostel in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro

Bota Hostel
Bota Hostel is the best hostel in Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Bota Hostel…
The location of this top hostel in Rio de Janeiro couldn’t get much better. Being the best hostel in Botafogo, you’ll be completely swept up in the vibrant atmosphere of this neighbourhood. All the nightlife, theatres, bars and restaurants of Botafogo are on the doorstep of this cool Rio de Janeiro hostel.

Bota Hostel is perfect for…
Hipsters will love this place, it’s one of the coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro. It’s also comfortable, with beds conducive to a good night’s sleep, plus a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for drinks and mingling with fellow guests. And when it comes to exploring an alternative Rio, Bota Hostel is the perfect base.

Check for Best Price

Check this out – The 17 coolest hostels in Sao Paulo, Brazil

#6 – 021 Hostel

 Best Hostel near Copacabana Beach 

021 Hostel
021 Hostel is the best hostel near Copacabana Beach

Why we like 021 Hostel…
The location! Right next to Copacabana Beach in the south side of town, and set down a small quiet street, we love that staying here means being close to the action of the beach but still far away enough that it’s not too crazy. There are bus stops nearby, plus the famous Sugarloaf is close, too.

021 Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re interested in being near the beach, or near to some of the most iconically ‘Rio’ places in town, staying at the best hostel near Copacabana Beach is a great choice. The staff are also very friendly and helpful, and will take you to see cool spots dotted around town.

Check for Best Price

 

The Best Travel Backpack EVER MADE!?!

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack. This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

 

#7 –  Hangar Rio Hostel 

 Best Hostel near Rio de Janeiro Airport

Hangar Rio Hostel
Hangar Rio Hostel is the best hostel near Rio de Janeiro Airport

Why we like Rio de Janeiro Airport…
Not only is this recommended hostel in Rio de Janeiro conveniently located, no. It’s also clean, features comfortable beds, air-con, and there’s even a bar complete with outdoor terrace (perfect for jetlag recovery). It’s much more than just a typical airport hostel, it’s a simple little slice of tropical Rio.

Rio de Janeiro Airport is perfect for…
Looking for a place that’s quick and easy to get to that’s close to the airport? Well, look no further than this recommended hostel in Rio de Janeiro. Perfect for early flights, this best hostel near Rio de Janeiro airport also features free bicycle hire so you can do a spot of sightseeing before you take off!

Check for Best Price

 

#8 –  Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara

 Best High-end Hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara
Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara is the best high-end hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara…
Neat, clean and crisp interiors, white washed walls, parquet floors – yes, this must be the best high-end hostel in Rio de Janeiro. We love this place for its historical building as well as its tasteful decor. We also like the attention to detail when it comes to security at this place, too.

Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara is perfect for
Are in you in this Brazilian city and looking for an extra bit of comfort? Then you should book yourself in for a nights at this top Rio de Janeiro hostel. It’s clean, well maintained, the staff are lovely, and it’s in a chilled neighbourhood just a short walk to Copacabana.

Check for Best Price

 

 #9 –  Solar Hostel

 Best Budget Hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Solar Hostel
Solar Hostel is the best budget hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Solar Hostel…
Providing basic but clean and well looked after accommodation for a very affordable price, this has got to be the best budget hostel in Rio de Janeiro. Located inside a charming house with Latin themed interiors the staff are friendly, there’s a small kitchen to use (to keep to your budget) and the air-con is good here.

Solar Hostel is perfect for…
Are you a backpacker on a shoestring budget? Then staying here is the perfect place if you’re watching your pennies. The location of this budget hostel in Rio de Janeiro is also just a five minute stroll from Copacabana, but there’s also a metro station very close by, too. The atmosphere is a little lacking, but it still makes for a great base.

Check for Best Price

 

 #10 – Terra Brasilis Hostel

 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Rio de Janeiro

Terra Brasilis Hostel
Terra Brasilis Hostel is the best hostel with a private room in Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Terra Brasilis Hostel…
An excellent place to stay, this is a very well thought out hostel. For one thing, there’s an amazing wood deck balcony, which is a prime spot for breakfast – which is complimentary here. Brightly coloured, with charming traditional features, this is definitely one of the coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro.

Terra Brasilis Hostel is perfect for…
Looking for a little more privacy? The selection of rooms here, some with ensuites some with shared bathrooms, as well as the peace and quiet of this place – complete with amazing views – makes it the best hostel with a private room in Rio de Janeiro. Combine that with a location close to bars and restaurants and you have yourself a great place to stay in Rio.

Check for Best Price

 

More Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

#11 – Bamboo Hostel Rio

Bamboo Hostel Rio
Private rooms plus a swimming pool is all we needed to hear!

Why we like Bamboo Hostel Rio…
We really like the tropical interiors here, funky design touches and decorated throughout with bamboo (as you might have been able to tell from the name). This top hostel in Rio de Janeiro also features private rooms as well as a swimming pool, a bar and a fun barbecue area.

Bamboo Hostel Rio is perfect for…
Surrounded by mountainous forest (great for wildlife), the noisiest neighbours here, say the hostel, are the monkeys. So you won’t have to worry about people stumbling in at all hours. However, they’ll also set you up with tickets to venues in town for a slice of nightlife. It’s perfect if you want a peaceful base in the city.

Check for Best Price

 

#12 – The Lighthouse

The Lighthouse
The Lighthouse

Why we like The Lighthouse…
In a city that’s often pretty lively and bustling, this youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro is a capsule of calm – we love that you can return to this little oasis after a day exploring the city streets. It’s clean, it’s cheap, the staff are friendly. It’s all round a great option.

The Lighthouse is perfect for…
Looking for some serenity in this city? Then you’ll find it at this lovely budget hostel in Rio de Janeiro. There’s a chilled lounge where you can sleep off a hangover, or plan your next steps, or chat to fellow travellers, but there are plenty of bars and restaurants in walking distance, too.

Check for Best Price

 

Editor’s Note – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!).  Fill out this form to get a quote for your trip to Rio de Janeiro!

 

 

#13 – Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema

Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema
Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema

Why we like Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema…
For a start, the 1930s architecture of this building, tastefully restored with a popping colour palette, makes this a very cool Rio de Janeiro hostel. We like that a lot. We also like the comfy mattress, fluffy towels and delicious breakfasts that get served up at this wonderful little spot.

Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema is perfect for…
A good place for drinking and making friends without having to get completely drunk, this is a great option for those who want the social atmosphere without the party-party vibe that often goes with it. There’s a chilled terrace where you enjoy a couple of drinks, surrounded by mango trees and hammocks.

Check for Best Price

 

#14 –  Walk On The Beach

Walk On The Beach
Walk On The Beach

Why we like Walk On The Beach…
As the name might have already suggested, this top hostel in Rio de Janeiro is very close to the beach – Copacabana, to be exact. We like that it’s a buzzing sort of place, full of the life of the city, complete with staff who make it a fun place to hang out.

Walk On The Beach is perfect for…
Bored easily? Like to have fun? Then this place is for you. Not only is it close to some of Rio’s best nightlife, as well as cafes and restaurants (plus public transport), the hostel itself isn’t exactly high-end but it’s a fun hostel in Rio de Janeiro that’ll keep you on your toes. A slice of Rio life.

Check for Best Price

 

#15 – Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema

Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema
Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema

Why we like Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema…
Set in a modern building with contemporary decor, just a block away from Ipanema Beach, we like this place for its vibrant terrace area – it’s often busy with guests having drinks or enjoying a meal together. We like that this hostel is part of a well established chain, so you can expect the quality to be high.

Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema is perfect for…
Want to be surrounded by lots of different, interesting people? This Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel is a great choice for you. The staff themselves are interesting and good to chat to, with lots of information on stuff to do in the city. There’s a fun sociable atmosphere, but after midnight it’s quiet enough to get a good night’s sleep.

Check for Best Price

 

#16 – Tupiniquim Hostel

Tupiniquim Hostel
Tupiniquim Hostel

Why we like Tupiniquim Hostel…
This top hostel in Rio de Janeiro simply oozes Brazilian character – in fact, it aims to promote all that is good and delicious about the country itself. The in-house cook serves up amazing regional Brazilian food (which is one of the main reasons we like this place). They show cult Brazilian films and play the best Brazilian beats. Love it.

Tupiniquim Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re interested in soaking up the culture of Brazil in a Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel, then this is the place to stay for you. The music, the food, the culture, the people, everything here is aimed at making this an authentic experience as possible. So if you’re tired of the same-old hostel experiences, this is a good remedy.

Check for Best Price

 

#17 – Green Culture Eco Hostel

Green Culture Eco Hostel
Green Culture Eco Hostel

Why we like Green Culture Eco Hostel…
It’s all about wildlife, beaches and Brazilian culture at this recommended hostel in Rio de Janeiro. Samba tunes are always playing over the speakers here, and you’ll be able to sit on the balconies and soak up the views as you watch exotic birds and monkeys playing around. Sounds great to us!

Green Culture Eco Hostel is perfect for…
Perfect for people who want to stay somewhere just a little bit different, this place is located in Favela Chapeu Mangueria, which is a one of the first ‘pacified favelas‘ in the city. So for a truly and utterly alternative slice of Rio, staying here will definitely fit the bill.

Check for Best Price

 

#18 – Mambembe Hostel

Mambembe Hostel
Mambembe Hostel

Why we like Mambembe Hostel…
Surrounded by the culture of the Santa Teresa neighbourhood, and close to the bohemian hangout of Lapa, this Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel is a calm, cute place to meet other travellers. Staff here are super friendly and will welcome you into this hostel with open arms.

Mambembe Hostel is perfect for…
Solo travellers. Yes, with its non party atmosphere, friendly staff and calm vibe, this is a great place to stay if you’re visiting Rio de Janeiro by yourself. It’s close to all the bars and winding lanes of the nearby cool slice of the city that is Lapa, so you won’t have to travel too far to explore.

Check for Best Price

If you are traveling you should ALWAYS have emergency cash hidden on you! Security belts are great because they are affordable and can fit a ton of stuff in them (great for peace of mind!). Check out our favorite travel belt!

#19 –  The Backpacker Cat Hostel

The Backpacker Cat Hostel
The Backpacker Cat Hostel

Why we like The Backpacker Cat Hostel…
We like that this place is geared up as a place for different cultures and nationalities to share experiences. It may be a little bit basic, but with its ethos as a backpacking meeting place and its clean environment, it’s up there as one of the top hostels in Rio de Janeiro.

The Backpacker Cat Hostel is perfect for…
Feel like staying in a quiet neighbourhood that’s also got good public transport links, as well as being within walking distance bars and restaurants? Well, staying at this Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel is a great idea. There’s a free breakfast on offer, plus a big bar area where you can get to know fellow travellers.

Check for Best Price

 

 

#20 – Copacabana Hostel

Copacabana Hostel
Copacabana Hostel

Why we like Copacabana Hostel…
We like this top Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel for its great location: it’s situated right next to the nature and wildlife of Morro de Sao Joao Park as well as being just a few minutes’ walk from Copacabana. We also can’t fault that it’s a warm and friendly place.

Copacabana Hostel is perfect for…
Looking to be in a quiet, peaceful area but that’s also close to the action of the city? Then staying at this top hostel in Rio de Janeiro is a good option for you. We’d also recommend this to female travellers since this place comes equipped with female only dorms, too. There are also great hiking routes nearby.

Check for Best Price

 

 

#21 – Mojito Hostel Ipanema Rio de Janeiro

Mojito Hostel Ipanema Rio de Janeiro
Mojito Hostel Ipanema Rio de Janeiro

Why we like Mojito Hostel Ipanema Rio de Janeiro…
A funky design led hostel, with surprisingly sleek decor featuring throughout, we like that this cool hostel in Rio de Janeiro is set in an old renovated building. It makes for the perfect fusion between modern style and Caricoa tradition. Everything about this place, from the chic shutters to the parquet floors, makes it very Instagrammable.

Mojito Hostel Ipanema Rio de Janeiro is perfect for…
Like a bit of design? Like your surroundings to be cool? Then staying at this place, one of the coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro, will be just the ticket for you. Many Brazilian travellers stay here too, which makes a change from the usual suspects at hostels throughout South America.

Check for Best Price

 

 

#22 –  Aquarela do Leme

Aquarela do Leme
Aquarela do Leme

Why we like Aquarela do Leme…
This is a colour popping bonanza! And because of that this youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro really reflects the vibrancy of the city itself. What’s not to like about that? It’s located in the Babilonia Favela, which means there will be a different part of Rio to explore than usual.

Aquarela do Leme is perfect for…
If you’re interested in exploring a different slice of Rio than usual, then staying at this place will be a good choice for you. Not only is the surrounding area vibrant and decidedly local, but the staff are super helpful, it’s clean, comfy and cool. Definitely one of the best hostels in Rio de Janeiro.

Check for Best Price

 

#23 – Pousada Favelinha

Pousada Favelinha
Pousada Favelinha
  • Cost – $$
  • Location – Rua Antonio Joaquim Batista, casa 13, Entrada: Rua Almirante Alexandrino 2023
  • Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Pousada Favelinha…
Set on a small mountain overlooking the city, this hostel is another Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel that’s set inside a small favela. Overflowing with culture and local life, the surrounding area of this place is something that we can really get on board with. A fantastic place to stay to learn more about the city.

Pousada Favelinha is perfect for…
Perfect if you want to chill out in Rio, there’s a bar and restaurant connected to this cool Rio de Janeiro hostel. Not only that, but the hosts at this place are amazingly friendly, meaning if you arrive as a solo traveller you’ll be treated well. Don’t worry: security isn’t an issue. Fan of free breakfasts? The one here’s amazing.

Check for Best Price

 

#24 – Le House Hostel

Le House Hostel
Le House Hostel

Why we like Le House Hostel…
Just a few blocks from the beach (Copacabana), but located on a hill with fantastic sea views from its cool rooftop space, we like that this Rio de Janeiro backpackers hostel also features a vibrant bar – and a large social area – which helps when it comes to meeting new people.

Le House Hostel is perfect for…
Sociable? Not too fussy about where you stay? Don’t mind too much about cleanliness? Then this lively Rio de Janeiro hostel will suit you. This place is a big, heaped helping of Brazilian fun. There are lots of people, it’s not the cleanest place, but it will really suit anybody looking to make friends and have a good time.

Check for Best Price

 

#25 – Ipanema Beach Hostel

Ipanema Beach Hostel
Ipanema Beach Hostel

Why we like Ipanema Beach Hostel…
We like that this place was a combination of being located right near to Ipanema Beach, whilst also being a pretty lively party hostel in Rio de Janeiro. They have bicycles for hire, lots of information to give you, plus there are some good day trips on offer here, too.

Ipanema Beach Hostel is perfect for…
Modern, contemporary and moreover a cool Rio de Janeiro hostel, this is a perfect place for people who like a little bit of comfort – but who also want to party! The bar downstairs is very buzzy and there’s free drinks every night for half an hour. You’ll also find nightly events here, helping to keep things fresh and lively.

Check for Best Price

FAQ’s

How Much are Hostels in Rio de Janeiro?

Around $10 per night on the cheap end for dorms, closer to $20 for dorms in more expensive places. If you want a private room, prices start around $30 per night and can go up to $100 for fancier spots.

What are Hostels in Rio de Janeiro Like?

Expect lots of color and fun vibes! Rio is famous for its parties, and there are plenty of party hostels, but also spots in quieter areas if you're not into the nightlife scene. Rio has many distinct neighborhoods, so check the area before booking your room.

How Safe are Hostels in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio has been on the radar as an area of high crime for a while, so you should definitely exercise caution. Hostels in general are safe, but sometimes the neighborhoods can be a bit dangerous especially at night, so it helps to look up some information in advance.

How to Find Hostels in Rio de Janeiro?

Begin your search using HostelWorld where you can easily compare price, location, and facilities. If you're traveling around Brazil, you can get recommendations from other travelers or from your current hostel or hotel!

 

tbbn-table__image

Discovery Hostel

  • Bar, free breakfast, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Books Hostel

  • Bar, free breakfast, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

El Misti Hostel Rio

  • Bar, free internet access, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Lemon Spirit House

  • Bar, free internet access, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Bota Hostel

  • Bar, free internet access, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

021 Hostel

  • Bar, free breakfast, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Hangar Rio Hostel

  • Breakfast not included
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Che Lagarto Suites Copacabana Santa Clara

  • Free internet access, free wifi, towels included
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Solar Hostel

  • Free internet access, free wifi
Check Best Price
tbbn-table__image

Terra Brasilis Hostel

  • Bar, free breakfast, free wifi
Check Best Price

 

Closing thoughts on the best bargain hostels in Rio de Janeiro

And that was our handy guide to the best hostels in Rio de Janeiro. It’s not all typical backpacker hostels. Some of them are eco friendly, others are set in natural surroundings – and you can even find some in the favelas.

Rio de Janeiro is just begging to be explored. How can you not be bursting at the seams at the prospect of exploring this city of eternal vibrancy.

Some areas of the city aren’t as safe as others, and still, more can be a bit too upmarket for backpackers, but don’t worry: there are plenty of places in Rio, like Lapa, where you’ll have a blast exploring and trying out the best food and drink around.

If you’re determined to party, why not check out our guide to the 13 best party hostels in Rio de Janeiro. And if you’re travelling around Brazil, our list of the 24 best hostels in Florianopolis is here to help you on your travels!

If you can’t decide on a hostel, we recommend that you keep Discovery Hostel in mind – the best overall hostel in Rio de Janeiro. So… we’ll see you on Ipenema Beach, then!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)