Written by Undercover Phoenician | Last update: Apr 17, 2024
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Heading to Rio de Janeiro and ready to samba your way through the city? Dive into our guide to the best youth hostels in Rio, where the parties last until the sun comes up and the friendships last even longer. These aren’t just places to crash—they’re your backstage passes to the city’s legendary beaches, pulsating street parades, and jaw-dropping mountaintop views.
Whether you’re volleying on Copacabana or hiking up to Christ the Redeemer, our top hostel picks are where young travelers gather to celebrate the Carioca spirit. Pack your most colorful outfit—Rio awaits!
Short and crisp: Hostels in Rio de Janeiro
#1 Top Rated Hostel in Rio de Janeiro! Rating: 9.2
Located right where the colorful Babilonia favela meets Copacabana beach, Aquarela do Leme offers easy access to Rio’s main attractions. This hilltop hostel may challenge some taxis, but it’s a hotspot for young, international travelers, ensuring a lively, safe environment. Owners Marielle and Thibaut create a homey vibe with top-notch amenities like a gym, rooftop bar, and fast WiFi. What sets it apart as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro is its engaging daily activities and proximity to the beach and nightlife. Rooms are clean, equipped with essentials, and feature stunning city and ocean views. Whether revisiting or exploring Rio for the first time, Aquarela do Leme guarantees a vibrant, community-focused stay.
Prices start from $23.96 for a dorm and $77.58 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Breakfast
City Tours
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Walking Tours
Rating: 9.2
Located on the vibrant Praia do Pontal, Surf Club Longboard Paradise Hostel captures the essence of beach life and surfing spirit. Just steps from the surf, guests enjoy easy access to water sports, serene beach yoga at sunrise, and scenic trails. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surfer, there’s a wave for everyone.
The setup at Surf Club Longboard Paradise Hostel includes two comfy, fully-equipped beach houses, making it a perfect retreat for both relaxation and remote work. The vibe is laid-back, with ample spaces to chill or catch up on work, complemented by upgraded Starlink internet for a smooth online experience.
Dining here means beachfront restaurants and a rooftop bar serving fresh, local flavors. This spot is more than just a stay; it’s the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility, with friendly staff and a community feel that keeps guests coming back.
Prices start from $15.25 for a dorm and $65.24 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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Rating: 9.1
Tucked away on a quiet hill between Laranjeiras and Santa Teresa, Pousada Favelinha offers an authentic peek into Rio's favela life. Known as Brazil's original favela hostel, it blends stunning city views with a vibrant local culture in a secure environment. Each room features a balcony with a hammock—perfect for enjoying peaceful mornings accompanied by the sounds of nature.
A short walk from the hostel, you can hop on the metro at 'Largo do Machado' or catch the scenic 'bondinho' cable car through the artistic Santa Teresa district. Despite its serene location, you're never far from the hustle and bustle of Rio, making it an ideal spot for adventurous youth.
From the hearty tropical breakfast to the tranquil rooftop terrace, Pousada Favelinha captures the essence of a laid-back, community-oriented stay. It’s a quiet haven with easy access to the city’s hotspots, earning its reputation as possibly the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro.
Prices start from $11.49 for a dorm and $21.55 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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City Tours
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Rating: 9.2
Nestled just a block from Ipanema beach, More Ipanema Hostel boasts one of the best youth hostel locations in Rio de Janeiro. It’s perfect for watching Brazil's famous sunsets and diving into the local scene. The hostel offers both private suites and shared rooms, all with in-room bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for every guest.
Life at More Ipanema Hostel is vibrant, with activities like weekly boat parties, favela tours, and day trips to Ilha Grande. There’s something for every adventurer looking to experience Rio’s diverse offerings. The hostel’s social atmosphere is enhanced by nightly events, including free caipirinhas and language exchanges, ideal for making new friends.
With its friendly staff, strong WiFi, and fun bar scene, More Ipanema Hostel provides a safe, engaging, and clean environment. It’s quickly becoming the go-to spot for solo travelers and groups alike, promising a memorable stay in the heart of Rio
Prices start from $27.41 for a dorm and $112.43 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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Rating: 9.1
DS Hostel, nestled in Rio's Zona Norte, offers a cozy home away from home with its welcoming vibe and comprehensive facilities. The hostel boasts 12 air-conditioned rooms, each fitted with cable TV, free WiFi, and personal balconies for a private retreat. Additionally, guests have access to a shared kitchen, a lounge area, and an outdoor smoking zone.
Strategically located, the hostel is just a stone's throw from iconic sites like Maracanã Stadium and the vibrant Escadaria Selarón, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Santos Dumont Airport is also conveniently close, only 6 km away.
At DS Hostel, you can expect a friendly atmosphere, practical amenities like a coffee machine in each room, and a space that encourages both relaxation and social interaction, perfect for young travelers looking to dive into Rio's urban adventures.
Prices start from $13.55 for a dorm and $28.54 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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Rating: 8.8
Nestled between Rio's famed Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Pura Vida Hostel offers a quirky retreat in a castle-like mansion built by a Polish ambassador. This spot is less than a minute’s stroll to the waves and packs a punch with its historic charm and seaside vibes.
The place offers a range of sleeping options, from air-conditioned mixed dorms to private family rooms and chalets, all decked out with modern comforts and a dash of old-world elegance. Whether you're crashing in a bunk bed or chilling on your private balcony, you’ve got all the essentials covered.
What really makes Pura Vida Hostel stand out is its crew. Shout outs to Pedro and Amanda for their top-notch local tips and friendly help. With such a prime location and stellar team, it's easily one of the best youth hostels in Rio de Janeiro for soaking up the city’s beachy, laid-back lifestyle.
Prices start from $23.67 for a dorm and $52.90 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Breakfast
Bike Rental
City Tours
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Darts
Karaoke
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Nightclub
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.8
Perched in Rio's Leme area, Mar da Babilônia Hostel combines stunning sea views with easy access to both Leme and Copacabana beaches. It's a welcoming spot where hosts Alessandro and Cristina go above and beyond to make everyone feel at home, infusing every day with their personal touch—from brewing exquisite morning coffee to serving hearty evening burgers.
The hostel itself offers airy, air-conditioned rooms, some boasting balconies. Facilities include a 24-hour front desk, a communal kitchen, and free WiFi throughout. It's not just about comfort here; the lively communal areas are perfect for socializing and soaking up the jovial atmosphere.
Ideal for any traveler seeking a slice of Rio life, Mar da Babilônia Hostel delivers an authentic, laughter-filled experience just steps from iconic beaches.
Prices start from $14.02 for a dorm and $43.88 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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Rating: 0.0
Rio World Connection Hostel is your gateway to the vibrant pulse of Rio. Just 2 km from Flamengo Beach and a stone's throw from top attractions like the Museum of Tomorrow, this hostel blends relaxation with adventure. Dive into the outdoor pool or lounge on the terrace to catch some Brazilian sun.
Inside, you'll find a welcoming bar and a restaurant ready to dish up local flavors. Rooms come with essential comforts like air conditioning and wardrobes; some even boast balconies with city views. The staff, fluent in multiple languages, are always on hand to ensure your stay is smooth.
Prices start from $12.51 for a dorm and $83.25 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
City Tours
Bar
Bike Tours
Evening Entertainment
Kitchen
Live Music/Performance
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.9
Nestled in Santa Teresa next to the lively Lapa, Mambembe Hostel offers a slice of cultural Rio with its vibrant street parties just a stroll away. The hostel is well-equipped for a comfortable stay, featuring bespoke mattresses, personal power outlets, and free WiFi across various room options, from dorms to private suites.
Accessibility is a breeze with nearby bus and metro links, and Uber provides a cost-effective way to explore Rio's scenic beaches and iconic landmarks. The 24-hour reception ensures that assistance is always available, whether day or night.
Visitors rave about the warm, helpful staff and clean, cozy environment, making Mambembe Hostel a top contender for the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro. It’s not just a place to stay; it's a hub of camaraderie and local experiences.
Prices start from $15.25 for a dorm and $46.02 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Breakfast
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Gameroom
Kitchen
Lounge Area
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.8
Nestled in the lively Ipanema district, Vidigal360º is just a short walk from the beach, surrounded by bustling restaurants and bars. This hostel stands out for its cozy, family-like atmosphere, where guests quickly turn into friends. The staff, Maria and Jose, are known for their warm hospitality and for organizing fun local tours, adding a personal touch to each guest’s experience.
The rooms at Vidigal360º offer comfort with good ventilation and essential amenities, complemented by shared kitchens and community bathrooms on each floor. Whether whipping up a meal or heading out for a beach day, you're set up for a convenient stay.
Ideal for those looking to dive into Rio's vibrant culture, Vidigal360º is often celebrated as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro, where the spirit of community and location blend perfectly to enhance your travel adventure.
Prices start from $18.06 for a dorm and $63.68 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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Bike Rental
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Rating: 8.7
Hostel Recanto de Alegrias is a gem tucked away near Maracanã Stadium in Rio, offering a real feel of home with its caring host, Iara. Each room features air conditioning, free WiFi, and TVs, with some boasting balconies that showcase mountain views. Guests appreciate the clean, simple accommodations equipped with essential comforts.
The hostel stands out for its exceptional service and home-like atmosphere, where guests are treated to a breakfast ranging from buffet to vegetarian options, and even supper on occasion. Its proximity to key attractions like Sugarloaf Mountain and Escadaria Selarón, along with easy access to public transport, makes it a strategic spot for explorers.
Prices start from $13.75 for a dorm and $26.95 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Walking Tours
Rating: 8.7
Located in the vibrant Lapa district, near the heart of Rio, Books Hostel is the go-to spot for travelers eager to dive into the city's cultural scene and nightlife. Just steps from two metro lines and close to popular bars and street parties, this hostel offers a unique blend of laid-back charm and social vibes. You can even grab one of their bikes for a day trip to the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
The staff, led by the affable Felipe, is known for creating a family-like atmosphere that's ideal for meeting new friends and experiencing the real Rio. Guests enjoy the hostel's nightly caipirinhas and the variety of social activities that make it easy to connect with others.
With its welcoming environment and strategic location, Books Hostel is often celebrated as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro, providing a perfect balance of fun and relaxation for an unforgettable stay.
Prices start from $18.07 for a dorm and $55.89 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Breakfast
City Tours
Bar
Gameroom
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Table Tennis
Videogames
Rating: 8.6
Nestled between the bustling streets of Leme and Copacabana, Hostel Maresias do Leme offers a vibrant slice of Rio life from the safety of a colorful favela. A short walk brings you to stunning beaches, while back at the hostel, a terrace provides sweeping sea views. The atmosphere is alive with daily events, making it easy to mingle and enjoy the local vibe.
Rooms are simple but comfortable, each sharing essentials like bathrooms and storage space. What really brings the place to life, though, are the resident pets—a dog, cat, and parrot—that instantly make the space feel more like a home than a hostel.
For those wanting to dive deep into Rio's culture while catching waves and rays, Hostel Maresias do Leme stands out as a cozy, friendly base.
Prices start from $15.83 for a dorm and $45.49 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
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City Tours
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Rating: 8.6
Just steps from Ipanema Beach, Ipanema Beach Hostel is right in the heart of Rio's bustling beach scene. Here, you’re a short walk from not only the sands that inspired the world-famous song but also a vibrant array of shops, bars, and the metro. The hostel itself offers a variety of accommodations, from snug dorms with personal lockers and lights to private suites with balconies, making it easy to find a space that fits your style.
The place buzzes with an upbeat atmosphere, thanks to the dedicated staff like Tay, who goes above and beyond to assist guests, whether it’s helping activate a SIM card or just sharing a local tip. Free drinks and daily social events make it easy to meet fellow travelers.
With its prime location and genuinely friendly staff, Ipanema Beach Hostel stands out as a lively spot to explore Rio and experience its renowned beach culture firsthand.
Prices start from $25.06 for a dorm and $127.59 for a private room.
Beyond the Basics - Rio de Janeiro
Bike Rental
City Tours
Bar
Board Games
Evening Entertainment
Laundry
Lounge Area
Nightclub
Swimming Pool
Walking Tours
We've got your back when it comes to finding a great hostel location in Rio de Janeiro. We've gone ahead and mapped out all the hostels for you so you can get a good idea of where they're all at. This map will make your life so much easier!
Hostel Haven: Choose Your Character
👨👩 Youth Hostel: | |
🏆 Overall Best Hostel: | |
🙋♀️ Female Solo-Traveler: | |
🤹 Solo-Traveler: | |
👨👩👦 Family Hostel with Kids: | |
🎉 Party Hostel: |
Let us talk about prices. Here is a graph showing you average prices for a bed in a dorm and for a private room. Simply mouse-over to see rates for each month.
Prices can vary a lot, especially on high-season, weekends, and special holidays such as New Years Eve.
Still not sure? Pick this!
This is the overall best rated hostel in Aquarela do Leme. The overall rating is 9.2. You cannot go wrong here.
It is your safest bet in case you are not sure which hostel to pick.
The price for a dorm at Aquarela do Leme starts from $11.98.
FAQ about Rio de Janeiro Hostels
We've collected the most common questions for hostels in Rio de Janeiro. The more you know, the better you can plan with confidence and ease, right?
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