The capital of Sardinia in Italy, Cagliari, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It may be known as a summer favorite, but it’s amazing no matter the time of year. Think – artisanal ice cream, long stretches of beaches lined with restaurants and cafes, gluten-free pizza, and stunning sights.
Sardinia is cheaper than many other destinations in Europe. However, during peak summer season, prices inevitably skyrocket.
May and September are the best times to travel there, and enjoy your vacation with less crowded beaches and piazzas. You still get to enjoy days soaking in the sun, all the while saving money on accommodation and travel. Of course, our favorite places to stay are hostels when watching the pennies.
These are some of the best hostels in Cagliari that will help you stay on budget.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Cagliari
- Most Affordable Hostel in Cagliari – Hostel Sardinia
- Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Cagliari – Kaliè Rooms Guest House
- Great Dorm for Couples in Cagliari – La Peonia Boutique B&B
- Epic Hostel for Digital Nomads in Cagliari – Bed & Breakfast Fior Di Loto
What to Expect from Hostels in Cagliari
Hostels in Cagliari cater to all types of travelers – solo explorers, venturing couples, or families with children, there is always something for all of you! It is a laid-back Italian town, and staying in a hostel will help you meet other travelers to explore the town together. It’s a great place to stay in Sardinia if you’re on a budget.
The hostels have both private and shared dorm rooms. If you’re pinching pennies, your safest bet is to book a shared room, either mixed or same-sex. They don’t cost as much as private rooms, but they are just as comfortable. If you’re after privacy, you can pay a little more for private rooms that often come with ensuite bathrooms.
Aside from the staggering difference in price, hostels have a distinct communal atmosphere which you won’t find in hotels or rentals. Solo backpackers can enjoy the company of other travelers, and the many common and social areas in hostels provide the best setting for it.
The majority of hostels in Cagliari come with full-furnished kitchens where guests can prepare food to their liking. It also helps save money as you don’t have to eat out all the time, something that you wouldn’t be able to do staying in a hotel.
Many hostels organize group activities, such as free walking tours, dinners, or pub crawls. For travelers who don’t have time to plan their itinerary before they arrive, these organized activities are a great way to explore and to meet new people.
Hostel prices vary, depending on the amenities they offer and their location. The ones that are in, or near, the city center are obviously going to cost more compared to hostels that are a little farther out. The historical center of Cagliari is the best place to stay as it’s within arm’s reach of everything! Getting around is quick and convenient, but you can expect to pay more.
- Dorm room – from $20 to $40
- Private room – from $50 to $120
HOSTELWORLD is the best place to find hostels in Cagliari. Check the descriptions diligently, take a look at the photos, and read the reviews carefully before booking. Avoid any nasty surprises with this trusted site.
Best Hostels in Cagliari
Itching to pack your bags and board the plane? Hold your horses! Let’s take a look at the best hostels in Cagliari.
Hostel Sardinia – Most Affordable Hostel in Cagliari
Catering to the young and hip crowd, Hostel Sardinia is geared more towards travelers who love the outdoors. They organise a bunch of daily activities and excursions, so make sure you check with the tours and travel desk! It’s the hostel’s mission to ensure that you have the best time possible.
Meals are available in the onsite cafe and bar, for those who would like to grab a few drinks after filling their stomach. However, if you would rather try the local restaurants and bars, there are so many within walking distance you can tuck into authentic pasta and pizza all day long!
The hostel has a large garden and terrace where guests can hang out with each other and relax. It is the perfect place to meet other like-minded travelers, and share tips about the town, and other destinations.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Gaming area
- Security lockers
- Airport transfers
Wi-Fi is free throughout the premises, to keep in touch with your loved ones. There is even a gaming area equipped with a PlayStation, pool table, board games, and even some DVDs.
The dorm rooms have security lockers to stash your things when you’re out and about, and airport transfers are available, just let the staff know in advance.
With a BBQ and bike parking, you have everything you need for a magnificent stay.
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View on Osprey View on REIKaliè Rooms Guest House – Best Hostel with Private Rooms
More of a bed and breakfast than a hostel, Kayliè’s Guest House has a central location that makes it convenient and sought-after.
Located at the foot of the great Basilica of Bonaria, it is only a 5 minute walk away from the city center, but remains peaceful. You can even hop on a bike or bus to make the journey quicker.
Train and bus stations are nearby, about a 7 minute walk from the hostel. It is easy to travel from Cagliari for day trips to nearby spots for sightseeing, such as Serdiana, Barumini, the ancient city of Nora, and the beaches of Costa Rei. Prepare yourself, as there is a myriad of adventures to be had!
The hostel is so close to the beach you will be able to hear the seagulls!
Why you’ll love this bed and breakfast:
- Mini-bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Airport transfers
- Luggage storage
There are mini-bars in each room that you can stock up with your own snacks and treats for those late night munchies.
You can keep in touch with your loved ones and read reviews on the best nearby restaurants with the free Wi-Fi available throughout the property.
For a comfortable and memorable stay,Kayliè’s Guest House is an epic Cagliari hostel.
La Peonia Boutique B&B – Great Dorm for Couples in Cagliari
Named after Sardinia’s beloved flower – the pink peony – La Peonia Boutique B&B is located in a house built in 1921. Restored and equipped with modern amenities, the hostel still retains a lot of its original features. There are flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and Wi-Fi throughout the property.
The B&B is lovingly run by a local family, can offers you genuine Sardinian hospitality. One of its winning features is its central location. It is the ideal base for taking day trips and tours to explore all that Sardinia has to offer.
A huge Mediterranean breakfast spread is by the owners every morning in the garden, or the lounge. They use nothing but fresh local products, and it is the perfect opportunity to fill up before a day of adventures.
Why you’ll love this bed and breakfast:
- Mini-bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safety box
- Dedicated fitness studio
Only a few steps away from the bus station, you can visit the city’s historic center to immerse in architecture and history, or head to the beach if you would rather take a dip in the blue waters.
Spend days hanging out in the garden, and admiring the mandarin, orange, lemon, and myrtle trees for a moment of relaxation. It’s the best spot for a drink or for reading a good book! The B&Bs fitness studio is exclusive for those staying, as is ideal for keeping on top of your routine while traveling.
Just a 15 minute drive from the airport, and with a pick-up service available, La Peonia Boutique B&B is a convenient Cagliari hostel.
Bed & Breakfast Fior Di Loto – Epic Hostel for Digital Nomads
If you’re traveling but don’t have the luxury to forget all about work, you’ll need a place that has a dedicated workspace and reliable Wi-Fi. Enter – Bed & Breakfast Fior Di Loto.
Centrally located in Cagliari, it is a stone’s throw away from the port, as well as train and bus stations. With easy access to public transport, day trips to Barumini are a breeze.
Of course, before you head out for a day of exploration, don’t forget to devour the free breakfast. Made from fresh, local produce, it’s guaranteed to keep you energised.
All the rooms in the B&B overlook Via Roma, one of the main streets of Cagliari. The street runs along the seafront and it is full of cafes, restaurants, shops, arcades, as well as high-end department stores. Shop to your heart’s content, and sample delicious Sardinian delicacies.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Airport transfers
- Bicycle hire
- Safety deposit box
- Free Wi-Fi
Airport transfers can be arranged for your convenience, but be sure to let them know in advance. There is also bicycle hire available, if you want to explore from 2 wheels.
You can use the safety deposit box in the rooms to stash away your valuables – such as laptops while you are out and about.
Hostel Marina – Best Overall Hostel in Cagliari
Hostel Marina is our favourite Cagliari hostel! It’s located in a building that used to be the city’s first hospital built in the 16th century. The hostel has been renovated and equipped with the amenities needed to make your stay comfortable and convenient – though it still retains its unique character, and long history.
Located next door are various restaurants and cafes, it’s normal for the delicious smell of traditional Italian food to be wafting through the air. You can head down and sample local dishes just steps from the hostel. The beach is not too far away, too! In a short walk you can be lounging on the sand.
There is plenty of public transportation nearby for the further afield trips.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Bar
- Café
- Book exchange
- Key card access
When you are too tired to head out for dinner, you can order their meals from the on-site café. Drinks are available in the bar, too. Travelers of all ages are welcome, including children and those who are handicapped. There is a comfortable spot for everyone between the meeting hall, garden, bar, and TV lounge.
Stay out as late as you like! The hostel doesn’t have a curfew messing with your nights out.
A traveling bookworm? The book exchange invites you to leave books you have already read, and take new ones.
The hostel has 24-hour security, and key card access for guests’ safety.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Other Hostels in Cagliari
Villa Beach City
Villa Beach City, is another excellent option for couples traveling to Cagliari. As you can guess from the name, the property is within walking distance to the beach, only 50m! Perfect for those who can’t get enough of the sea, sand, sun, and water sports. You can sunbathe, swim, and relax to your heart’s content.
Aside from its proximity to the beach, the property is close by to restaurants, bars, lounge cafes, and supermarkets. You can easily get everything you need, find an excellent place to eat, and a cozy spot to enjoy a cocktail, or two. Fancy showing off your dance moves? You’ll find clubs nearby, too.
Although it is close to lots of amenities, it is still a peaceful and relaxing spot to unwind after a long day.
Gentarrubia
This small and cozy bed and breakfast is just a 10-minute drive away from the Cagliari Elmas International Airport, and the city center. It is a super convenient place to stay.
The indoor and outdoor swimming pools are perfect for relaxation after a long day spent exploring the area. Each of the comfortable rooms are air-conditioned, and come with a minibar, safe, LCD TV and Wi-Fi.
Breakfast and parking are both free, and currency exchange is available on the premises, too. There are lots of additional services that will make your stay more enjoyable!
Cagliari Affittacamere Castello
Fancy staying in a place that was built in the 17th century? Cagliari Affittacamere Castello is perched in the highest part of the city with majestic views of the city down below. Located in the historical center, it is in proximity to some of the most famous tourist attractions.
Surrounding the bed and breakfast are various bars and restaurants, which eliminates the hassle of walking far when you need to grab a quick meal, or if you want to indulge in a few drinks. You can shop for a few souvenirs for yourself, or friends and family back home.
Airport transfers can be arranged for guests at a small price, just let the staff know.
Wi-Fi is available throughout for a small fee of €1 per night. The luggage deposit service costs €5 each. The B&B has double bedrooms and 3-bed types with ensuites, or shared bathrooms.
What to Pack for your Cagliari Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Cagliari Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Cagliari cost?
Hostels in Cagliari cost less than most other major European cities. The prices of private rooms range from $50 to $120 per room, while the prices of dorm rooms range from $20 to $40 per bed.
What are the best hostels in Cagliari for couples?
Conveniently located at the center of the city, La Peonia Boutique B&B is my top hostel for couples in Cagliari.
What is the best hostel in Cagliari near the airport?
The only way to fly into Cagliari is to the Cagliari Elmas International Airport. Gentarrubia is only a 10-minute drive from the airport for early morning flights or late night arrivals.
Travel Safety Tips for Cagliari
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts
Hostel Marina is our favorite hostel in Cagliari. Set in a historical building and just a short walk from local restaurants and hotspots, you have everything you need at your fingertips.
A stay in this Sardinian dream doesn’t need to be expensive, with these affordable accommodations you can bask in the magic of the city without breaking the bank.
Oh and if you are interested in a seeing a bit more of the Sardinia region, then there are some great hostels in Barumini too.
- Our ultimate Backpacking in Italy guide is an essential read before you travel.
- You’ll want to make sure to visit the best islands in Italy.
- We’ve also got where to stay in Italy covered with our epic guide.
- Get planning your Italy itinerary to maximise your experience.
- Sort your international sim card for Italy out to avoid unnecessary hassle.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
