The 12 Best Hostels in Spain

The football-mad Catalan capital of Barcelona is an absolute show-off. Think wild Antoni Gaudí architecture, the buzz of La Rambla, unreal food everywhere, and history that casually dates back to the Romans. Let’s take a look at the best…

1. Onefam Sants – Best Overall Hostel

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• Price: $$
• Best for: Best for social travellers who want an easy, friendly vibe where it’s simple to meet people, but still relaxed enough to switch off when you need it.
• Highlights: Free dinner, games room and an outdoor terrace.
• Dorms from: $45
• Private rooms from: N/A
• Location: Close to Barcelona Sants railway station, Camp Nou, and Montjuïc.

You settle in here pretty quickly. From the first night, there’s usually something going on, whether that’s a group dinner, a few drinks on the terrace or plans to head out, and the staff are right in the middle of it, making it all happen. It feels organised without being over the top, so you’re never stuck wondering what to do, but you’re not being dragged into anything either.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• The Social (Done Right): Daily activities and family dinners make it ridiculously easy to meet people, but it never feels forced or too full-on.
• Thoughtful Dorms: Custom pod beds give you a bit of privacy (yes, even in a dorm), with lockers, lights and sockets all sorted.
• Run By Travellers: The staff aren’t just ticking boxes, they’re genuinely involved… cooking, hosting, and helping you get the most out of Barcelona.

Honestly, it’s hands down one of the best overall hostels, especially if you’re travelling solo in Barcelona and want to meet people. It’s super social without trying too hard, and the staff are the kind of legends who’ll sort you out with club tickets and make sure you’re having a good time from the second you arrive. It’s about a 10-minute walk to Barcelona Sants railway station, which makes getting around easy, and it also manages to be spotless with seriously comfy beds… options don’t get much better than this in Barcelona.

2. 360 Hostel Borne – Best for Groups of Friends

• Price: $$
• Best for: Best for culture-loving travellers who want a social hostel with organised activities and a central base right in the heart of Barcelona.
• Highlights: Free dinners, beach volleyball, security lockers & luggage storage.
• Dorms from: $46
• Private rooms from: 8-bed mixed dorm available, perfect for travelling groups, or 6-bed female dorm available.
• Location: Steps from Plaça de Catalunya and El Born, with Arc de Triomf and nearby metro links all within a 5-minute walk.

It’s got that lively, slightly chaotic energy… but in a way that actually works. You’re right by Plaça de Catalunya and El Born, so you’re straight into the action, and the dinners and nights out make it easy to stick with your group or end up making new mates without really trying. It’s not fancy, but it runs well, feels friendly, and just makes getting into Barcelona very straightforward.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Well-Connected Base: Under 5 minutes to Urquinaona metro station and Arc de Triomf station, making it easy to get anywhere.
• Easy Social Vibe: Daily family dinners, beach volleyball and nights out make it effortless to meet people or stick with your group.
• Helpful, Local Staff: Always on hand with solid recommendations, from hidden gems to the spots actually worth your time.

Having stayed here, it’s a really practical, no-fuss base that works well for groups. You’ve got all the essentials covered, like a proper kitchen, laundry, common areas and a terrace, so it’s easy to settle in without feeling cramped. It also felt secure throughout, with key card access, lockers and a 24-hour reception. It can get a bit lively when the hostel’s full, so don’t expect total peace and quiet, but if you’re after a social, well-located stay that does the basics right, this one delivers.

Madrid hits you straight away. It’s big, buzzing, and doesn’t really slow down… think grand boulevards, world-class museums, and a mix of fancy spots and no-frills tapas bars. Head into the centre, get a bit lost, and just go with it.

3. Way Hostel – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $$
• Best for: Social backpackers who want a central, no-frills stay with an easygoing vibe and plenty of chances to meet people in Madrid.
• Highlights: Rastro Market Location, Free Churros & Coffee, Social Common Room.
• Dorms from: $40
• Private rooms from: N/A, but female dorm available ($56)
• Location: On Calle Relatores, just steps from El Rastro and a short walk to Puerta del Sol in central Madrid.

You’re right in the thick of it here. Step outside and you’ve got the buzz of El Rastro on your doorstep (perfect if you’re around on a Sunday), plus bars, cafés and late-night spots in every direction. It’s one of those areas where something’s always going on, which fits the energy of Madrid perfectly.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Social, Backpacker Vibe: Easy to meet people, with shared spaces that actually get used.
• Laid-Back Common Areas: Kitchen and lounge make it easy to hang out, cook and chat.
• Market on Your Doorstep: Wake up to the buzz of El Rastro, with vintage stalls, street food and proper local energy every Sunday.

They run things like flamenco shows and family dinners, where everyone (staff included) actually sits down, eats, drinks and chats, so it’s pretty easy to meet people without forcing it. You’re also within easy reach of Madrid’s main sights, so it’s simple to get out and explore everything. The vibe inside keeps up with the energy outside… just with slightly more chance of a seat and a drink in hand.

4. Cats Hostel – Best Party Hostel

• Price: $$
• Best for: Party-loving travellers who want a social hostel right in the heart of the action.
• Highlights: Bar (with their own craft beer!), laundry facilities, multiple common areas to relax.
• Dorms from: $39
• Private rooms from: $226
• Location: Right in central Madrid, walking distance to Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the Prado Museum.

If you’re coming to Madrid for the nightlife, this place goes all in. Between paella nights, pub crawls, themed parties and whatever else they’ve got going on, you’re basically never short of plans or people to join you. It’s the kind of place where you say “just one drink”, and suddenly it’s 3 am, and you’ve got a whole new group of mates. If your goal is to go out, meet people fast and properly get involved, this is exactly where you want to be.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Non-Stop Party Energy: Pub crawls, paella nights, and themed parties mean there’s always something going on.
• Meet People Fast: Super social setup makes it easy to find your crew from night one.
• Right in the Action: Step outside and you’re straight into central Madrid nightlife and buzzing streets.

And when you do finally make it back, the setup actually helps you survive it all. The place is set in a converted 17th-century palace, but in a cool, slightly gritty way that just adds to the vibe rather than feeling fancy. There’s a proper bar on-site (dangerous), big social areas to regroup or keep things going, and comfy enough dorms with lockers and charging points so you can crash before round two. It’s all geared towards keeping the night going without things falling apart on you.

5. Bastardo Hostel – Best Hostel for Couples

• Price: $
• Best for: Anyone wanting a stylish, social stay with a creative edge… part boutique, part cultural hub, all right in the heart of Madrid.
• Highlights: Trendy, Bar with a view, Coworking Space.
• Dorms from: $32
• Private rooms from: $123
• Location: On Calle de San Mateo, right between Malasaña and Chueca in central Madrid.

This one’s a bit of a sweet spot for couples. It’s got that cool, creative vibe going on, but it’s not full-on party chaos, so you can actually enjoy it without needing a recovery day. There’s always something happening, a mix of locals and travellers, drinks, music, events… but you can dip in when you fancy it and then disappear back to your own space.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Creative Social Scene: Live music, film screenings and exhibitions mean there’s always something going on without it turning into a full-on party hostel.
• Perfect for Couples: Private rooms with proper design touches give you your own space, with plenty happening downstairs when you want it.
• Local Feel: A mix of locals and travellers makes it feel more like part of Madrid than a typical hostel setup

And when you’re not out exploring, the setup makes it really easy to settle in as a couple. You’ve got the option of affordable private rooms, so you can have your own space when you need it, while everything downstairs keeps things interesting… bar, restaurant, coworking areas and a rooftop for a drink. There’s also a proper kitchen, laundry, and plenty of shared spaces for slower days. Plus, being right between Malasaña and Chueca, you’re surrounded by some of the best food and bars in Madrid.

Seville’s got a bit of everything… flamenco, stunning Moorish architecture, and that warm, slightly chaotic energy that pulls you in straight away. As the capital of Andalusia, it feels lively without trying too hard. Get lost in the winding streets of the Old Town, stumble across hidden squares and tiny cafés, then somehow end up in a packed tapas bar long after you meant to leave. There’s always something going on, and it doesn’t take much for a quick wander to turn into a full evening out.

6. Onefam Centro – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $$
• Best for: Solo travellers who want a social, activity-packed hostel where it’s easy to meet people and explore Seville together.
• Highlights: Award-Winning Social Vibe, Free Activities, Central Plaza Location.
• Dorms from: $56
• Private rooms from: $84 (2-bed female dorm)
• Location: On Plaza Fernando de Herrera, right in central Seville, within walking distance of Seville Cathedral, Royal Alcázar of Seville and Metropol Parasol.

You’re right in the middle of it here, set on a lively little plaza with music, food and people around pretty much all day. It’s got that classic Onefam energy… really social, easy to settle into, and you’ll probably recognise a few faces by day two. There’s always something going on if you fancy it, but no pressure if you don’t. Everything’s within walking distance, too, so it’s a solid base for exploring Seville.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Instant Social Circle: Daily activities and shared meals make it easy to meet people quickly.
• Perfect Central Base: Everything worth seeing is within walking distance in Seville.
• Run By Travellers: Friendly, involved staff who actually help shape your experience.
  

When you’re not out exploring some of Seville’s must-see sights, this is a comfortable place to come back to. You’ve got a kitchen, rooftop terrace and common areas that people actually use, plus all the practical bits like lockers, air con and luggage storage sorted. The team here are all travellers, which shows…It’s not just about the nights out; they’ll get you involved in daytime stuff or point you towards places you’d probably miss otherwise. It’s well set up for a smooth stay in Seville.

7. JOY Plaza de Armas – Best Party Hostel

• Price: $
• Best for: Party-focused travellers who want a lively, social base right in the heart of Seville.
• Highlights: Rooftop Pool & Bar, Daily Social Activities, Central Party Location.
• Dorms from: $28
• Private rooms from: $119
• Location: Just a short walk from Seville Cathedral, Royal Alcázar of Seville and the buzzing areas of Alfalfa and Alameda de Hércules.

This place doesn’t pretend to be anything other than a party hostel… and honestly, that’s the whole point. It’s loud, it’s social, and there’s always something going on, whether that’s pub crawls, group dinners or people already halfway into their night before you’ve even started. Days are basically for recovering by the pool or on the rooftop with a drink, then gearing up to go again. And the best part? It’s actually a bit of a bargain for what you get, which makes saying “one more night” dangerously easy.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Rooftop Pre-Game Spot: Pool, drinks and sunset views make it very easy to start your night without leaving.
• Built-In Social Plans: Pub crawls, tastings, and group activities mean you’re never short of people to head out with.
• Comfort Where It Counts: Spacious rooms, en suite bathrooms, and air con help you recover properly.

When you do eventually make it back, everything’s set up to keep things ticking over. There’s a bar on-site (always a risk), a proper kitchen if you need a reset, plus laundry and luggage storage so you’re not dealing with chaos mid-trip. The rooftop and common areas keep the social side going, and being this central means getting home late or heading back out again is never a mission. It’s not quiet, and it’s not trying to be, but if you want a party base that actually makes life easy, this one delivers.

Notorious for its party reputation, beach crowds and rows of sunburnt tourists, Málaga actually has a lot more going on than it lets on. So is it worth visiting? Honestly, yeah. Sure, if you’re after late nights and questionable decisions, you’ll find them. But there’s also proper history, a buzzing food scene (yes, Michelin stars included), and a creative side that feels genuinely cool. Oh, and it’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso… so yeah, there’s more to this place than cheap cocktails and a tan.

8. The Urban Jungle Rooftop Hostel – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $$
• Best for: Eco-conscious travellers who want a social, laid-back stay right in the centre of Málaga.
• Highlights: Jungle Design Vibe, Rooftop Hangout Space, Daily Social Activities.
• Dorms from: $57
• Private rooms from: $436
• Location: Right in central Málaga, just a couple of minutes from the main sights and around 15 minutes from the beach.

This place is cool without trying too hard. It’s got that leafy, minimal, slightly “I should probably redecorate my house like this” vibe going on, but it’s still relaxed and actually comfortable to hang out in. It’s social, but not chaotic… more chats on the terrace, group dinners and low-key drinks than full-on party madness. You can dip in, meet people, then chill out properly, which is a nice balance in a city like Málaga.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Design That Actually Works: Clean, modern spaces with plants, light and privacy where it matters.
• Easy Social Setup: Daily activities, dinners and chill areas make meeting people feel natural.
• Rooftop All Day: Space to relax, cool off and hang out without needing to leave.
  

When you’re not out exploring, everything’s set up to make your stay smooth. There’s a proper kitchen, coworking space if you need it, strong WiFi, and loads of spots to sit without feeling cramped. Security’s solid, the beds are genuinely comfy, and the whole place feels well thought out rather than thrown together. Add in the central location, and it ends up being a really easy, well-rounded base for Málaga… whether you’re out all day or taking it slow.

9. Feel Hostels City Center – Best Hostel for Couples

• Price: $
• Best for: Couples who want a central, relaxed stay without blowing the budget in Málaga.
• Highlights: Old Town Location, Chill Atmosphere, On-Site Cocktail Bar.
• Dorms from: $31
• Private rooms from: N/A; option of female dorms available (from $32).
• Location: Between Plaza de la Merced and Alameda Principal, right in the heart of the old town and about 10 minutes from the train station.

This one’s a bit more low-key, which actually works really well if you’re travelling as a couple. It’s not trying to be trendy or over the top, just a relaxed, slightly old-school spot where you can come back and switch off. You’re right in the old town too, so most of your time ends up being spent wandering, stopping for food, then wandering again… not a bad way to do Málaga.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Right in the Action: Step outside and you’re straight into Málaga’s old town streets.
• Laid-Back Atmosphere: No pressure to party, just an easy place to stay.
• Good Value Stay: Hard to beat for the location and price.

Back at the hostel, it’s all pretty straightforward in a good way. There’s a kitchen if you want to keep things cheap, a bar for a casual drink without going far, and enough shared space to relax without it feeling busy. You’ve got lockers, air con and 24-hour reception, so everything feels sorted. If you just want somewhere central, easy and not chaotic, this does the job really well for couples in Málaga.

Valencia doesn’t shout for attention like Madrid or Barcelona… it just quietly gets everything right. It’s more laid-back, less hectic, and somehow easier to actually enjoy. You’ve got the sci-fi madness of the City of Arts and Sciences, a proper stretch of beach, and an Old Town that’s made for wandering… and where you stay can completely shape the vibe of your trip. Oh, and this is where paella was born, so expectations are high, and somehow still exceeded.

10. Home Youth Hostel Valencia by Feetup Hostels – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $
• Best for: Travellers who want a social, welcoming stay right in the heart of Valencia.
• Highlights: No Bunk Beds, Central Old Town, Social Atmosphere.
• Dorms from: $54
• Private rooms from: $146
• Location: In Barrio del Carmen, right by the Central Market of Valencia and La Lonja de la Seda in the old town.

This place has a bit of personality, in a good way. It’s colourful, slightly chaotic on the eyes, but really welcoming, and you settle in pretty much straight away. You’re right in the old town too, so everything you want to see is on your doorstep, and there’s usually something going on… tours, games, people just hanging out. It’s social, but not in an in-your-face way, which makes it a really easy place to base yourself in Valencia.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• No Bunk Beds: Actual beds… small detail, big upgrade.
• Homey, Social Vibe: People chat, hang out, and it feels natural.
• Right in the Old Town: Step outside and you’re straight into the action.

When you’re not out, it’s just a really comfortable place to come back to. I found myself actually hanging out in the common areas rather than hiding in a room, and the kitchen’s there if you’re trying (and probably failing) to save money. Everything’s set up so you’re not thinking about the boring stuff, and being this central means you’re not dealing with transport or over-planning your day. It’s not fancy, but it’s friendly, runs well, and just works in Valencia.

Granada’s known for its Moorish roots, and you’ll notice it straight away. The Alhambra gets all the attention, but it’s the smaller details, tiled walls, narrow streets, and little viewpoints that stick with you more. There’s a subtle Arabic influence running through parts of the city, especially in the old areas, which gives it a slightly different feel to the rest of Spain.

Most of your time ends up being spent hopping between bars, getting free tapas with your drink, then wandering through the old streets at night when everything feels a bit more alive.

11. ECO Hostel – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $$
• Best for: Travellers who want a stylish, social stay with a bit of comfort and space in Granada.
• Highlights: Industrial Design Vibe, Huge Common Areas, Social, Not Party.
• Dorms from: $54
• Private rooms from: FYI – There is the option of female dorms available.
• Location: Right on Granada’s main street, within walking distance of Granada Cathedral, Albaicín and views of the Alhambra.

This place looks cool, like actually cool, not “trying too hard” cool. Think concrete floors, big open spaces, loads of light, and that slightly industrial feel that somehow still manages to be comfortable. It’s social too, but more chilled than chaotic… people hanging out in the bar or common areas, chatting, working, or just taking it slow. You can dip in when you want, then disappear and do your own thing, which makes it a really easy all-around stay.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Design You’ll Notice: Upcycled materials and high ceilings give it real character.
• Space To Actually Hang Out: Kitchen, lounge, cinema room and coworking areas.
• Social Without The Madness: Daily activities and a bar, minus the all-night noise.

Step outside and you’re within easy reach of Granada Cathedral, the streets of the Albaicín and those classic viewpoints looking over the Alhambra. I barely used transport at all when I stayed here. If you’re backpacking in Granada, this kind of setup makes life really easy. Back at the hostel, the kitchen’s solid, there’s loads of space, and things like the cinema room and coworking area are a nice bonus. It feels set up for a proper stay, not just a quick stop.

12. El Granado – Best Hostel for Couples in Granada

• Price: $$
• Best for: Couples who want a cosy, social stay with private room options in the heart of Granada.
• Highlights: Private Double Rooms, Rooftop Terraces, Social Atmosphere.
• Dorms From: $66
• Private rooms from: N/A
• Location: Right in central Granada, within walking distance of Granada Cathedral, Albaicín and the Alhambra.

This hostel hits a really nice balance for couples. It’s social enough that you won’t feel cut off, but still calm and easy to come back to at the end of the day. The private rooms are genuinely comfortable, and even the dorms are well set up with things like privacy curtains and proper beds. You’ve got two rooftop terraces for drinks or yoga, plus plenty of space downstairs to cook, work or just hang out. It all feels friendly and relaxed, and you can get involved with what’s going on or just do your own thing without it feeling awkward either way.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Private Rooms That Feel Worth It: A proper double room option with comfort and privacy.
• Rooftop Chill Spots: Two terraces for drinks, views and slower evenings.
• Easy Social Vibe: Dinners, activities and shared spaces that make meeting people simple.

When you’re not out exploring, it’s a really easy place to just hang out together. There’s usually something going on if you fancy it… dinners, rooftop drinks, maybe a bit of flamenco or even a hike if you’re feeling surprisingly active. It’s got that proper community feel without being over the top, and you can tell they actually care about what they’re doing. It just feels like an awesome place to spend a few days in Granada.

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Situated on the Bay of Biscay, picturesque San Sebastián is packed with seriously good food and beautiful beaches, and where you stay can really shape your trip here. This Basque city, also known as Donostia, holds tight to its heritage, with its own take on small bites (pintxos, and yes, they’re a big deal here) and a calendar full of cultural events. Pintxos bars are everywhere, and honestly, that’s half the fun.

13. Surfing Etxea – Best Overall Hostel

• Price: $$$
• Best for: Surfers and beach lovers who want a laid-back, social stay right by the water in San Sebastián.
• Highlights: Beachfront Location, Surf Lessons & Rentals, Relaxed Social Vibe.
• Dorms From: $85
• Private rooms from: N/A
• Location: Right by Zurriola Beach in Gros, about 15 minutes’ walk to the Old Town and La Concha Beach.

If you’re here to surf (or at least pretend you know what you’re doing), this place makes it very easy. You’re basically on the doorstep of the beach, and everything revolves around that laid-back surf lifestyle… early mornings, salty hair, and deciding whether to go back out or just lie in the sun. It’s social, but more chilled hangouts than big nights out, which actually suits the whole setup pretty well.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Steps From The Waves: You’re a couple of minutes from Zurriola Beach
• Surf Setup Sorted: Boards, wetsuits, lessons and storage all handled
• Easygoing Atmosphere: Social without the party chaos (and yes, no alcohol)

When you’re not in the water, it’s a pretty easy place to land. There’s a terrace for drying off and doing very little, a bar for refuelling, and enough space to sort your gear without it taking over your life. The rooms are comfy, the little details are covered, and everything’s set up around that surf–sleep–repeat routine. It’s not about big nights out here, it’s early mornings and salty hair… and honestly, it works perfectly in San Sebastián.

14. Koba Hostel – Best Hostel for Couples

• Price: $
• Best for: Couples who want a stylish, laid-back stay near the beach but still close to everything in San Sebastián.
• Highlights: Industrial Design, Private Rooms, Near Beach.
• Dorms From: $42
• Private rooms from: N/A. FYI – There is the option of female dorms.
• Location: In Gros, just a few minutes from Zurriola Beach and within walking distance of the Old Town and harbour.

This one’s got a bit of an edge to it. Set in a converted garage, it leans into that industrial look without feeling cold, and it actually works really well for couples. The private rooms are a great option if you can get one… they tend to get snapped up pretty quickly, so it’s worth booking ahead. Gros is a great area too, slightly less polished than the centre but way more fun to wander, especially in the evenings.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Gros Neighbourhood Vibe: Great mix of surf, food and local spots right on your doorstep.
• Space To Slow Down: Terrace, kitchen and chill areas make it easy to actually relax together.
• Well Set-Up Rooms: Clean, comfortable and with everything you need (no faff).
  

When you’re not out, you’ve got a solid setup to come back to. You’re in Gros, so it’s all surf spots, good food and a slightly more local feel than the centre, with Zurriola Beach just down the road. Back at the hostel, there’s a terrace for a coffee or a drink, a proper kitchen if you want to keep things simple, and plenty of space to sit without feeling crammed in. The added bonus of surfboard and bike storage makes it even easier to make the most of the area.

There you have it… the best hostels in Spain, all in one place. Not a bad problem to have, right?!

Spain’s got way more going on than just beach holidays… buzzing cities, incredible food, and hostels that actually make the trip. If you want high energy and an instant social scene, start in Barcelona and base yourself at Onefam Sants. If you’re after something a bit more laid-back, Granada is a great shout, especially if you check into El Granado for that relaxed, community feel.

Either way, you’ve got a solid starting point. From there, it’s just about seeing where the trip takes you.

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