With its historic city centre riddled with ancient alleyways, lively bar and restaurant scene, as well as a decent beach thing going on, Faro is a stunner of an all-round authentically Portuguese city.
It’s got Moorish city walls, medieval churches, a marina that’s packed with all the nightlife you could ever need, and a nearby national park (Rio Formosa) that shouldn’t be missed if you love getting out into the great outdoors. There’s a lot going for this place.
But… it’s the capital of the popular Algarve resort region, and people often just use Faro for its airport as a result, but not many people get to stop off and explore…
So, with the help our handy list of the best hostels in Faro, let us show you what you’re missing out on! We’ve even put the hostels into handy categories so you can choose the one that’s right for you.
Let’s check out what’s going on with the Faro hostel scene!
What to Expect from Hostels in Faro?
Hostels are generally known to be one of the cheapest forms of accommodation on the market. That doesn’t just go for Faro, but pretty much every place in the world.
However, that’s not the only good reason for staying at a hostel. The unique vibe and social aspect is what makes hostels TRULY special. Head down to the common room, make new friends, share travel stories and tips, or just have a great time with like-minded travellers from all over the world – you won’t get that opportunity in any other accommodation.
Unlike the famous city Lisbon, Portugal’s Faro doesn’t have that much of a massive hostel scene. There are plenty of hotels, homes and villas in Faro but not so many hostels. However, the ones that you can find are incredibly welcoming, highly ranked and offer some real value.
It’s kind of a no-brainer in these times, but it’s always good to mention – ALL hostels in Faro have free Wifi and in most cases, it’s pretty fast as well. When it comes to other freebies, you can normally expect free linen and sometimes even free towels. Free breakfast is occasionally on offer as well.
Make sure to check the guest reviews before you book the hostel so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
But let’s talk more about the important stuff – money and rooms! Faro’s hostels normally have three options: dorms, pods and private rooms (although pods are rare). Some hostels even offer large private rooms for a group of friends.
The general rule here is: the more beds in a room, the cheaper the price. Obviously, you won’t have to pay as much for an 8-bed dorm as you would for a single bed private bedroom. To give you a rough overview of Prague’s prices, we’ve listed the average numbers below:
- Dorm room (mixed or female-only): $20-22 USD/night
- Private room: $52-61 USD/night
When looking for hostels, you’ll find the best options on HOSTELWORLD. This platform offers you a super safe and efficient booking process. All hostels are displayed with a rating and previous guest reviews. You can also filter your personal travel needs easily and find the perfect place for you.
Faro is absolutely beautiful, but it definitely pays off to know where to stay in Faro before you actually start your trip. You don’t want to end up miles away from the hotspots you want to explore. To help you find the ideal palace for your trip, check out our favorite neighborhoods below:
- Marina de Faro – If you’re curious as to where to stay in Faro for your first time, our answer is definitely Marina de Faro! It is the part of town that is home to Faro’s Marina that faces the beautiful Ria Formosa.
- Cidade Velha – Cidade Velha translates simply to Old Town in English. The Cidade Velha is the historical center of Faro. It is surrounded by 9th century walls from the Moorish occupation. It’s the ideal place for budget backpackers that want to explore the cultural side of Faro.
- Downtown Faro – For some epic nightlife and great parties, Downtown Faro is the ideal place to stay. Faro’s downtown is the most popular place for tourists to visit and stay in Faro so you can expect loads of other travellers.
Now that you know what to expect from hostels in Faro, let’s have a look at the best options…
5. Best Hostels in Faro
No matter what kind of traveller you are, we’ve got the right hostel for you. Keep on reading and find the perfect match for your trip!
Casa d’Alagoa – Best Overall Hostel in Faro
This cool hostel in Faro is set in a crumbling old historic building – well, the front looks like that anyway. Inside it’s a different story. Casa d’Alagoa is all modern and communal, with a pretty much amazing social vibe going on: think sangria nights, BBQ nights and a whole heap of hospitality.
The custom-made beds were built for COMFORT rather than sticking as many bunks as you can in a room. The sort of place you want to come back to, there are literally so many reasons why this is easily the best overall hostel in Faro.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- BBQ and Sangria nights
- Incredibly social atmosphere
- Bike rental
Previous guests keep mentioning in the reviews how incredibly social and welcoming the hostel staff is. They really turn a normal hostel into a proper home away from home.
Loads of travellers come back especially for the social nights, the incredible food and amazing hospitality. If this is your first time travelling as a solo traveller or just in general, Casa d’Alagoa is the perfect place for you.
If you want to explore the things to do in Faro a bit more, head to the reception and ask for the bike rental. Instead of relying on your own feet or public transport, get your hands on a bike and spend the day admiring the stunning landscape. Before you leave, grab a free city map, just so you won’t get lost. The staff will be able to direct you to the best paths and hotspots in Faro as well – local knowledge always goes a long way!
Le Penguin Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Faro
Anything to do with penguins? Nope. But this is a bustling social hostel that’s just perfect for meeting new people and having a good time, and we can’t fault that. It’s quite small though – only 30 peeps can stay here – but it means that with all the ping pong tournaments, themed parties and quiz nights you’ll get to know each other pretty well.
The vibe here is distinctly fun. There’s a swimming pool and the all-important bar. Basically, if you’re looking for the best party hostel in Faro, this is IT. Don’t expect mad ones though: it’s just about FUN.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Netflix and Playstation
- Daily dinners
- Free Wifi
What’s better than curing your hangover by playing playstation, chilling in comfy bean bags while watching Netflix or sleeping the day away in a super comfy bed? I think we made our point here… Le Penguin isn’t just great for partying and socializing, it’s also a super chill place where you can recharge before your next adventure.
The hostel also offers all the facilities that a backpacker needs, including WiFi, hair dryer, a great breakfast, tea and coffee, lockers, luggage storage, movies, games, flexible check-out and much more. All free of charge, because they also hate hidden costs! The friendly staff, formed by a team of passionate and laid back travellers, will do everything they can to make sure that you have an amazing time in Faro.
Casa da Madalena Backpackers Algarve – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Faro
Here you might wanna get your work done in the morning: this is a classically Portuguese place where they ‘respect siesta time’ – so you might as well join ’em and catch a few Z’s too. Oh, and it looks dang cool as well.
The best hostel with a private room in Faro, you’ll be able to find a loada different spots to set up your own lil’ workstation here, inside AND outside. The staff are also genuinely warm and friendly, which really makes all the difference. Bonus: free breakfast on the sick rooftop terrace.
Wax Hostel – Best Hostel for Couples in Faro
This recommended hostel in Faro sits right on the beach, so it definitely strikes us as the best hostel for couples in Faro. You can get that beach holiday getaway kinda vibe here – though it doesn’t exactly come at the budget prices.
Wax Hostel is all about soakin’ up those stunning views. Sunsets from here are pretty dang spectacular, we gotta say; sit up on the terrace and admire a sundowner every evening with your partner. The rooms are simple and stylish and are the perfect place to unwind as a couple. Yep, sounds good to us.
Hostel 33 – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Faro
Run by a Portuguese family, and set inside a renovated old building, this top hostel in Faro features big, spacious rooms and an outdoor terrace bathed in sunlight. As you might expect, it’s a very social place – even the staff like to have a chat (over a glass of Portuguese wine or two).
The best hostel for solo travelers in Faro is also located in a pretty central spot, meaning you can get around easily by yourself – it’s also near public transport, which helps, and the beach is nearby, too.
More Epic Hostels in Faro
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, we’ve listed more epic hostels in Faro below.
Tilia Hostel
Tilia Hostel (formerly Hub 1878 Faro) is stylishly designed with a load of historical features and mismatched tiles going on. It’s not one of the coolest hostels in Faro, but it’s definitely got a laid-back vibe that means chilling out here is as easy as just pulling up a chair.
Air con is everywhere, which is a godsend when this city gets hot hot hot. It’s also pretty big: this Faro backpackers hostel boasts two communal kitchens, two lounges and a very nice terrace. The room rates alone make this the best cheap hostel in Faro, and the free breakfast is definitely a plus, too.
Sunlight House – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Faro
Sunlight House has a sorta B&B slash hostel comb thing going on, which is a good thing if you’re after the best hostel with a private room in Faro. Yep, the rooms here are NICE – soft colours, wooden floors, minimal decor. Lots of attention to detail. It’s a pretty cool Faro hostel tbh.
The outdoor terrace, complete with sea views, is a very decent place to chill (this is also where they serve up the supremely tasty free breakfast). And as the cherry on top, the staff here have a lotta local knowledge to help you discover the city. Top dollar though.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Best Hostels In Faro
Stay in the middle of the action (or in an off the beaten path location) using our comprehensive neighborhood guide for Faro!
Baixa Portugal Terrace
Set in the bustling downtown area of Faro, this Faro backpackers hostel has its own rooftop terrace and bar, which is great for a few sunset drinkies. The staff here are keen surfers and bikers, so if you are too you’ll be happy to know they got plenty of storage for all that.
This is a good place to base yourself for enjoying the bars and restaurants of downtown and makes for a recommended hostel in Faro for anyone wanting to explore the city. The staff are very laid-back, so don’t expect ’em to be overly attentive.
HI Hostel Faro
This Faro branch of Hostelling International is a pretty big place with 60 beds and a loada different choices when it comes to rooms. It’s a decent option if you want to chill near the beach. Plus it’s cheap!
The staff at this place are friendly and welcoming and somehow they tend to attract guests who are pretty much the same, making for a good hostel for solo travellers in Faro. Luxurious this ain’t: it’s unfussy and definitely suited to those who’d rather be out and about.
Guest House Sao Filipe
A guesthouse hostel combo, this place is modern and colourful, which we guess makes for a cheery aesthetic at least. Though the atmosphere here isn’t what we’d call buzzing, it’s a nice enough place to stay. Especially if you like peace and quiet.
One of the most attractive things about this budget hostel in Faro is its room rates. Very affordable. Elsewhere in Guest House Sao Filipe you’ll find a sun terrace where you can bake in the sun or read a book in the shade. Calm place.
Hostellicious
Hostellicious. It’s sort of a pun and we like it. We also like that this top hostel in Faro is well located near to the nightlife of the city, but it’s still a place where you can actually get some sleep, too.
This Faro backpackers hostel also features comfy, modern beds, a well equipped communal kitchen, a sun terrace, common room – all of it decorated in simple industrial chic-esque sorta style. Not eye-poppingly amazing, but cool enough.
Faro Beach Life Hostel
As you might be able to guess from the name of this budget hostel in Faro, this one’s on the beach. That makes it great for catching rays, splashing around, surfing and generally just walking along the sand. Oh and don’t forget the sunsets.
Some rooms have views of the beautiful Rio Formosa lagoon, which is always nice. The family atmosphere at this Faro backpackers hostel gives it a low-key, unfussy vibe. Basically, it’s a solid place to stay. Especially if you like the beach.
Hostel do Largo
You’ll find Hostel do Largo in central Faro, close to the market and all the other delights this town has to offer. It’s pretty stylish actually, and may well be one of the coolest hostels in Faro. Rejoice, for the dorm beds here are NOT bunk beds.
Clean and quiet (I mean, sometimes the staff aren’t always there), it’s not exactly a party hostel but you can easily explore the town from this place. The rooms are also large, which makes a change from cramped dorms. Plus there’s a rooftop terrace to chill on. Nice.
Well’Come! to Algarve
This Faro hostel is a place that’s run with love and enthusiasm. Set in downtown Faro, this place is pretty close to the marina and all of its bars, cafes and restaurants, so there’s plenty to explore for backpackers with itchy feet.
The bus and train stations are also quite nearby, meaning you can get out and about to explore the local area as well as just the streets surrounding the hostel. It’s small and cosy, a pretty solid option for a few nights. Ain’t poppin’ but it’s close to places that are.
New Charme Guest House
In the New Charme Guest House (though it’s a hostel really) you’ll find comfy beds and helpful staff who’ll equip you with maps and plenty of local knowledge. Set in a historic building, the rooms here are also refreshingly spacious.
This youth hostel in Faro is near the central station, so you don’t have to lug your backpack halfway across town sticking out like a sore thumb. That’s a plus for us. Though it’s a great stop off on the way to the airport, there’s more to it than that. They arrange all sorts of activities for ya here – kayaking, scooter hire, tours – you name it.
What to Pack for your Faro 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 our definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
This cool city is waiting for you!
FAQ about Hostels in Faro
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Faro.
How much does a hostel cost in Faro?
Depending on whether you’re browsing for a bed in a shared dorm or a private room with an ensuite bathroom, costs can vary drastically. A bed in a shared dorm will cost between $20 – $22, while a private room could set you back as much as $52 – $61.
What are the best hostels in Faro for couples?
Cozy up on the terrace and admire a sundowner every evening with your partner at the best hostel for couples in Faro, Wax Hostel.
What are the best hostels in Lagos near the Faro?
Check out these hostels near the beach and just a 7-minute drive from the airport:
Wax Hostel
Faro Beach Life Hostel
Travel Safety Tips for Faro
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.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
The Algarve can be overrun with parties and backpackers sometimes. Avoid drinking too much and follow these Portuguese safety tips to ensure your trip is a good one!
More Epic Hostels in Portugal and Europe
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Faro.
Planning an epic trip all across Portugal or even Europe itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around Europe, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Faro has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Portugal for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Faro before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Azores backpacking guide.
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!
