Rumor has it that you are heading to Rio. Let us help you with the 3 best hostels in Rio de Janeiro to add more fun to your Brazil trip.
This is an honest guide which tells first-hand experience by staying at these top Rio de Janeiro Hostels. Stop worrying about where to stay in Rio De Janeiro, we got that covered.
It is also a developing city which is ideal place for curious backpackers and digital nomads looking for fun, awesome beaches, and new friends.
Planning to visit Ilha Grande? We got you! We have a detailed guide on the best hostels in Ilha Grande.
Our favorite hostels in Rio de Janeiro are:
- Villa 25 - best for Female Solo Travelers
- Aquarela do Leme - best for Couples
- Hostel Estação Maracanã - best for Party Travelers
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
Fancy more a party place? Check out our handwritten guide to coolest party hostels in Rio.
We condensed it all to the 3 coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro. May we also suggest a trip to Sao Paulo to enjoy our guide to top hostels in Sao Paulo. Or if you’re trying to go in the opposite direction, we also have a guide on the best hostels in Salvador, Brazil.
We have included much more useful information for your trip.
You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.
Quick Introduction to Rio de Janeiro
The average price for a bed: Hostels in Rio de Janeiro cost from $9$ to $14 per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from $30 per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.
Prices always depend on season and on holidays. Always remember to check the exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.
Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3 pm) while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11 am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Rio de Janeiro.
- Villa 25 – best for Female Solo Travelers
- Aquarela do Leme – best for Couples
- Hostel Estação Maracanã – best for Party Travelers
These are our favorite hostels in Rio de Janeiro. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
🦸 Solo Traveler: | Aquarela do Leme |
🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Villa 25 |
🥳 Party Hostel: | Hostel Estação Maracanã |
👩❤️👨Couple Hostel: | Aquarela do Leme |
👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | Villa 25 |
👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | Villa 25 |
🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Discovery Hostel |
1. Villa 25
Villa 25 hostel is found in a retrofitted historic villa that combines luxury with the warmth of Carioca.
Located in the traditional and quiet Laranjeiras neighborhood in the south of Rio, the hostel gives guests a break from the hectic cosmopolitan.
The famous Flamengo Beach is also near the boutique hostel. A perfect time for you to walk around with an amazing view of the Sugarloaf Mountain.
The hostel has rooms in their new building, cabin, and the historic villa itself. In the new building are private rooms that accommodate up to four guests with a private bathroom.
Furthermore, in the cabins are shared rooms with pod bunks that can accommodate 6-12 guests with specific male/female rooms for guests who desire them. In the historic villa are more private rooms that can accommodate up to three guests with private bathrooms.
Some rooms come with balconies.
Amenities you can enjoy at Villa 25:
- Free WiFi
- Sun Terrace
- Outdoor pool
- Laundry Service
- Breakfast buffet
Villa 25 has a social lounge with a TV, co-working space, and a swimming pool for guests to enjoy when they are not exploring the city.
There is a gastro bar on site where you can get a drink or something to eat.
There is no curfew and the reception is open 24-hours so you can enjoy the city at all hours of the day, as well as ask staff for recommendations of the best places to go.
You can also join the hostel activities to keep your time running. They have walking tours as well as bike tours.
And if you wish to take your tour to the next level, they also organize snorkeling, diving, hiking, and windsurfing. Activities worth to try and experience especially when you are in town.
Location: The hostel is only a short walk from the Largo do Machado subway station, and only three stops from the beaches at Copacabana and Ipanema stations, as well as downtown. A great location!
Villa 25 is a great choice for:
- Female Solo travelers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Aquarela do Leme
Between the favela of Babilonia and the beach at Copacabana is Aquarela do Leme hostel.
The hostel is owned and ran by travelers like us so they know what the guests are looking for in a hostel.
Private suites accommodate 2-4 people with a private bathroom. They also have a two-person private suites that are wheelchair accessible.
Mixed shared dormitories sleep up to eight people with separate male and female washrooms. Female only dormitories sleep up to 10 people.
All rooms have a balcony with a view of the ocean, jungle, or city. You get to choose what view you wish to wake up in the morning and a view to take a glimpse of before going to bed.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the buffet breakfast everyday. Selection includes very nice hot coffee, homemade bread, cake, yogurt, and fresh tropical fruits.
Perks you can expect at Aquarela do Leme:
- Free WiFi
- Beach Front
- Sun Terrace
- Spa Lounge / Relaxation Area
- Laundry and Dry Cleaning
The front desk is staffed 24-hours so there will always be someone there to answer your questions or give you a recommendation.
Aquarela do Leme has no curfew so you can take advantage of Rio’s vibrant nightlife.
In the evening, you can take advantage of the lounge or watch the sunset from the terrace on the roof.
Location: The hostel is located in a safe neighbourhood that leaves you walking distance from some of Rio’s top tourist destinations.
Nearest popular landmarks you can visit are Sugarloaf Cable Car, Duque de Caxias Fort, Pista Cláudio Coutinho, Trilha do morro da Babilonia and Sugarloaf Mountain.
A great budget accommodation to stay for:
- Solo travellers
- Couples
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Hostel Estação Maracanã
Hostel Estação Maracanã is an adults-only haven, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and social interaction. This hostel stands out with its outdoor swimming pool, offering a refreshing escape from Rio’s buzz. The property boasts a vibrant bar and a shared lounge, ideal for meeting fellow backpackers.
The hostel’s barbecue area adds a unique touch, perfect for social evenings under the stars. Accommodation options are diverse, featuring both private and shared rooms, all equipped with essential amenities like air conditioning, wardrobes, and comfortable bed linen and towels. The shared rooms foster a sense of community, while private rooms provide a retreat for those seeking more solitude.
A fully equipped kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, adding to the hostel’s homey feel. Free Wi-Fi is a boon for those who wish to stay connected or plan their next adventure.
Hostel Estação Maracanã merges comfort, convenience, and a lively atmosphere, making it a top pick for those exploring the vibrant city of Rio.
Location: Strategically located near the iconic Maracanã Stadium, it’s an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts. The proximity to the Santos Dumont Airport, just 6.5 km away, makes it highly accessible for international travelers.
This is one of the best hostels in Rio de Janeiro for
- Party Lovers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Comparing all 3 Top Hostels in Rio de Janeiro
Here is an overview of our handpicked top hostels in Rio de Janeiro. In this chart we compare the main facilities and things to expect.
It will help you to take a decision.
Villa 25 | Hostel Estação Maracanã | Aquarela do Leme | |
Recommended for… |
|
|
|
Kitchen | No | Yes | Yes |
WiFi | Free (Good) | Free (Good) | Free (Very Fast) |
Breakfast | Continental Breakfast (included) | No | Big Buffet Breakfast (included) |
Location | Near nature, sandy beaches and scenery | Located near the iconic Maracanã Stadium | Very close to Leme Beach (golden sand) and Trilha do morro da Babilonia (mountain) |
Special | Outdoor pool, Retrofitted antique building | Outdoor pool |
Rooms feature own patio with sea view
|
Activities | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Lockers – and safe? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Facilities for disabled guests | Lift available | No | Yes |
How to book? | Hostelworld | Hostelworld | Hostelworld |
This information can vary by season and availability. Please take this into account.
What about the cheapest hostels in Rio de Janeiro?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Rio de Janeiro.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Rio de Janeiro
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro for Solo Travellers?
What is the serious, best hostel in Rio de Janeiro for solo-travellers?
As a solo-traveller you need a safe, clean and fun place. Isn’t that right?
We had a closer look on the exact demands for a solo-traveller and backpacker. Aquarela do Leme is an awesome place for those traveling solo. Being near the beach, it’s pretty much a beach hostel when you see the view from the rooftop.
Clean and air conditioned rooms with hot showers, helpful staff, amazing breakfast buffet and a rooftop bar.
It also has great WiFi and it is located in a safe neighborhood.
All the basics a solo travelers needs, right? Backpacking Rio de Janeiro has never been this easy!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Party Hostels in Rio de Janeiro
Alright alright, we know you want to have fun in Rio. So here are the best party hostels in Rio de Janeiro.
Looking for a good time with new found friends? You’re in for a treat!
Books Hostel derives its name from the fact it is the optimal place to write your perfect Rio travel story.
The staff is a high point for Books for sure. They’re always there to help and provide top-notch service. They’re super chill and one of the most helpful options when you need anything or have a question about the area.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More Rio de Janeiro Hostels worth to mention
Being Rio de Janeiro has so much to offer, we also want to offer you more.
We have added three more hostels for you to choose from. And guarantee all are the best hostels in the city.
You deserve the best so we give you what you deserve. Here are more hostels that are worth to mention.
- Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema
- Blaues Haus Rio
- Discovery Hostel
1. Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema (Party Hostel)
If you’re still looking for a place to party, we give you Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema. The hostel where the party never stops.
In the hostel bar, don’t forget to grab your FREE Caipirinhas (Brazil’s national cocktail) every day for half an hour. Oh yeah, you got that right! FREE every day for 30 minutes! All that you can drink to kick start your night.
And to keep the party rolling, the bar offers a great variety of drinks you can try. Win new acquaintances and meet amazing people the same as you from all over the world.
But if still, you want to bring the party elsewhere, other bars and cafes are just a block away from the hostel. Bar hopping made easy for you.
Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema is designed with bright summer colors that will surely make you feel the warm vibes in Rio. And we are sure you will love the panoramic views of the sea on the top floor of the hostel.
All beds are equipped with lockers and sockets for your own personal use. Safety deposit boxes are available in private rooms.
You can even prepare your own preferred meals at the shared kitchen if you’re not in the mood to step out from the hostel. You can also catch your favorite movie in the TV lounge with your friends or with other hostel guests.
As for the location, just like the bars and cafes that are just a block away from the hostel. You are also in great access to restaurants, malls, banks, and art galleries.
The hostel places you near all the convenient establishments that may be essential during your travel. So you don’t have to worry about going too far. There’s a lot of Ipanema beach hostel but we must say, this is one of the stellar ones.
If you plan to travel around the city, public bus transportation can be reached within a few minute walks from the hostel. And just a block away, you can also take the Jardim de Alah Subway. Either of the two will take you to the popular destinations you wish to visit in Rio.
The hostel also offers walking tours that will take you around parts of Rio that is not much seen in travel guides.
And to give you a tip, the hostel is very near to some of the popular destinations like Spain Square, H. Stern Museum, and Rodrigo de Freitas Lake.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Blaues Haus Rio (Unbelievable View)
Aside from being located just across Parque das Ruinas Park, Blaues Haus Rio offers a breathtaking view of Guanabara Bay.
You will surely find it unbelievable.
We are sure you will love the big wooden deck balcony in rooms that give you the wonderful Guanabara Bay view. Just the perfect spot for a quick Instagram post.
Just imagine yourself waking up, walking through the balcony and be greeted with the stunning view of the city. You will surely smile and say “Good Morning, Rio!”
Rooms are well lit with natural lightings from the window. And the beds are comfortable and cozy.
Even the huge lounge and catering has a perfect view of the Centro Teresa. Killing time and having your meals is just so relaxing with the amazing ambiance of the outdoors.
Beverages and snacks are available at the hostel so you don’t need to worry about going hungry. Blaues Haus Rio also has a complimentary continental breakfast, simple yet delicious. Fresh fruit juices are also available during the morning.
The staff is very warm and welcoming. They surely know how to take care of their guests. Very accommodating and helpful.
For your security and safety, security camera surveillance is installed in the hostel so you and your belongings are safe and sound.
And to give you better access to the parts of the city, Gloria Subway Station is just a few minutes walk from the hostel. Rio de Janeiro City Center is also near. That is why you can also easily get to Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, Santa Teresa neighborhood, Passeio Publico and Cinelandia Square.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com
4. Discovery Hostel
We keep this in the list because it’s voted as the Top Hostel in Latin America and Brazil in Hostelworld. It won’t be justified if we just forget about Discovery Hostel Rio de Janeiro.
This hostel has a fully equipped kitchen, a computer’s lounge, TV area, bar, and chill out patio. The entire building also has a rich history that you can dive into the moment you check in.
The hostel has several events and tours you can register and join to fully maximize your stay in Rio de Janeiro and enjoy the holiday or vacation.
Breakfast here is amazing and the vibe is so homey. Just a note, always bring cash here because Discover Hostel don’t accept credit cards.
They also have an in house dalmatian that you can pet and get to know. Once the dog recognize your scent, he becomes the sweetest!
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Rio de Janeiro best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Our Favorite Hostels in Rio de Janeiro put on a map + sights
Let us have a look on the map. Below we list all three best Rio de Janeiro hostels on a map.
We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:
- Ipanema Beach
- Christ the Redemeer
- Corcovado
- Sugarloaf Mountain
- Copacabana beach
- Tijuca National Park
Any questions about hostels in Rio de Janeiro? 🤔
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Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥
FAQ
Before you book that flight and check out the hostel reservation, see this list of frequently asked questions we’ve collected.
What are the best hostels in Rio de Janeiro Brazil?
The absolute best hostels in Rio de Janeiro are:
- Villa 25 - Best Hostel for Female Solo Travelers
- Aquarela do Leme - Best Hostel for Couples
- Hostel Estação Maracanã - Best Hostel for Party Travelers
You are very much safe with any of the hostels you pick from this list.
Where can I find the best party hostels in Rio de Janeiro?
Da Lapa Design Hostel is a great choice if you're looking for a party hostel. It is in the middle of the party hub neighbourhood.
What neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro should I stay in when visiting?
There are three areas that you can choose to stay when you are in Rio de Janeiro. There's:
- Copacabana,
- Ipanema, and
- Leblon.
Copacabana is the most touristy spot in Rio and has the most hostels, restaurants, bars, and tourist booking agencies. Just be careful of the cheap hostel offers here because they really aren't as comfortable compared to the photos they have on their sites.
Ipanema and Leblon are the wealthier areas. There beaches have fewer people at night but still there are plenty of bars by the beach that you can chill enjoy.
What are the best place to visit in Rio de Janeiro?
There are many things that you can do here. We'll give you just 5 top suggestions:
- Visit Cristo Redentor, the huge statue of Christ overlooking the city.
- Climb the best known landmark of the city called Sugarloaf.
- Stroll in the beautiful Jardim Botanico, the city's famous botanical garden.
- Check out the work of the most famous architect in Brazil, the Contemporary Art Museum in Niteroi.
- Visit the Tijuca National Park.
Why should Rio de Janeiro be my next travel destination?
Strolling by the beach with a drink Caipirinhas in hand, what could be more amazing than that?
Rio de Janeiro is a perfect tropical paradise. You can also try some cultural activities in the city by visiting some of the world's best museums.
Flights to Rio de Janeiro?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More guides
Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:
- best hostels in Sao Paulo, Brazil
- 3 best hostels in Buzios
- best hostels in Salvador, Brazil
- 3 best hostels in Buenos Aires
- best hostels in Florianopolis
- best hostels in Lima, Perú
- best hostels in Cusco and party hostels in Cusco, Peru – a full guides
- best hostels in La Paz, Bolivia
- best hostels in Sucre
- best hostels in Montevideo, Uruguay
- best hostels in Asuncion, Paraguay
You can find all our new and updates articles for Best Hostels in here.
We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Rio de Janeiro guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
– – –
pin it for later
CLOSED: Da Lapa Design Hotel (Party and Design)
Update: This hostel has permanently closed. We’ve kept this content here for your information.
The brightly coloured Da Lapa Design Hotel is at the center of the Lapa neighbourhood, Rio’s central district.
Everything at Da Lapa breathes art.
A local artist painted the walls, and there are rehearsal, studio, and cinema rooms that guests can take advantage of to get their creative juices flowing while in the city.
Private rooms sleep up to two people and have private washrooms.
There are accessible private rooms for persons with disabilities available.
Shared rooms have 6, 8, 10, and 12 beds, and are mixed as well exclusively male or female so you can choose the experience that makes you the most comfortable.
Shared dormitory rooms have a shared bathroom.
Perks you can get at Da Lapa Design Hostel:
- Free WiFi
- Wheelchair friendly
- Discount in selected bars, restaurants & nightclubs
- Free breakfast
On the weekend you can enjoy the hotel bar with DJs or live music and a party that doesn’t end until the morning. So prepare your party clothes because you are about to have the best party experience in Rio.
Location: The hostel is located near the traditional concert halls and a subway station so you can easily get to the historic parts of the city.
Only a few steps way from the hostel are restaurants and bars which the Da Lapa Design Hostel gives discount to guests in selected establishments.
A great place for:
- Social butterflies
- Solo party travelers