Endless beaches, sheer cliffs and mountains, steady winds ideal for water sports, picturesque towns, wonderful scenery, and the perfect Mediterranean weather – just a few of the things Lake Garda is best known for. If you are ready to pack your bags right now, you’re not alone. You won’t regret making Lake Garda your next holiday destination!
If you are seeking tranquility, culture, history, culinary delights, and a lot of fun, it is the perfect spot. Contrary to popular belief, a vacation there doesn’t cost much. Lake Garda enjoys being close to Venice without the expensive price tag.
Even if you don’t have a large budget, there is still a way to keep your expenses in check, one of which is to choose cheaper lodgings, such as hostels. Hostels are economical and yet they still let you enjoy a few amenities.
Keep reading to check out our favorite hostels in Lake Garda!
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What to Expect from Hostels in Lake Garda
Most hostels in Lake Garda are family-friendly and quiet. People go there to relax, enjoy the beach, participate in activities, and be at one with nature. If you’re looking to have a night out there are several bars and clubs in the area to party the nights away.
The Mediterranean climate makes it the perfect place for travellers and is one of the many reasons why it attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. Try and visit during the offseason to avoid crowded beaches and busy hotels – unless you like that! Don’t just come for a day trip from Milan, instead stay a while and fully embrace all Lake Garda has to offer, including budget accommodation.
HostelWorld is the best place to look for accommodations that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Hostels offer private rooms, as well as dorm rooms if you really want to pinch the pennies. The prices of each type of hostel room vary from spot to spot, but in general, are –
- Private rooms – $70 to $100
- Dorm rooms – $30 to $60
Best Hostels in Lake Garda
There are a few hostels to choose from in Lake Garda. Let’s take a look!
Best Overall Hostel in Lake Garda – Lake Garda Hostel
- $
- Free breakfast
- Snack bar
- Rooftop terrace
Lake Garda Hostel is the best-known hostel in the area. Just a few minutes from the beach, you can get up in the morning, have your fill of coffee at the free buffet-style breakfast, and head down to the beach for some sun and a morning splash.
The property is only a few steps away from the centre of Salò where you will find the Museo di Salò and Santa Maria Annunziata. You can take pictures on the longest lakeside promenade on Lake Garda. Located between the cities of Verona and Brescia, the hostel is only 200 meters away from the centre of town where you can sample the best Italian dishes, have fun in local bars, and enjoy sightseeing.
Guests who want to relax can head to the rooftop terrace which boasts stunning lake views, as well as incredible mountain vistas. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink or have a chat with other travellers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Near the beach
- Free Wi-Fi
- Security lockers
- A few steps from the center of Salò
A safety deposit box and security lockers are on the premises for your valuables when you’re out and about exploring the local area. You can relish your time in Lake Garda with complete peace of mind.
Free parking is offered for those who are driving, and free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hostel, perfect for getting in touch with friends and families and uploading those enviable pictures on Instagram.
Board games and a pool table are available in the common areas for fun times with fellow guests.
Lake Garda Hostel is one of our favourites in Lake Garda but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Lake Garda – Meet Gardalake Hostel
- $
- Free breakfast
- Garden with BBQ
- Rooftop terrace with solarium
There are so many good things to say about Meet Gardalake Hostel. Its location is one of its best features! Only 15 minutes by train to Verona, you can see Castle Vecchio, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, Giardino Giusti, Torre dei Lamberti, Verona Cathedral, and Piazza Bra – it’s the perfect day trip from the hostel.
The property is just two hours from Milan, and about an hour and 30 minutes from Venice. It’s the ideal base to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful places and take in the wonderful culture and history of the area.
However, before you head out the door and do a bit of exploration, you should take advantage of the free flow breakfast that includes bread, fruit jams, cereals, biscuits, and of course, coffee. Just thinking about the breakfast spread is making our mouths water – it will definitely fill your stomach.
There are a number of common spaces where you can mingle with other guests and have a good time. The lounge has a TV, board games, billiard, and ping pong. Musical instruments such as guitar, ukulele, and piano are up for grabs for anyone who wants to flex their musical talents. Things only get better from here..
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Library
- Musical instruments
- Free lockers with locks
Free W-Fi is available throughout the hostel, whether you need to catch up on work or want to chat with friends and loved ones. Printing services only cost €0.10 per page, ideal for those last-minute boarding passes.
Meals can be prepared in the common kitchen if you’re looking to save some money. The hostel boasts a rooftop terrace with solarium, as well as a garden with BBQ. Bookworms will be delighted that there are two libraries and a book exchange.
Laundry facilities, bicycle hire, and airports transfers can be provided so don’t be afraid to ask the staff!
Meet Gardalake Hostel is one of our favourites in Lake Garda but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Hostel with a Pool/Jacuzzi in Lake Garda – Lake Garda Beach Hostel
- $
- Free breakfast
- Excellent location
- Few steps from the beach
Located on the shores of Lake Garda, from Lake Garda Beach Hostel you will find yourself on a private beach in just a few minutes. Lounging on the sunbeds, as well as sunning and tanning is easy and pleasant.
An excellent location is just one of the things this hostel can boast about. Padenghe Sul Garda is just five minutes away. Make sure you visit some of the most famous attractions such as Azienda Agricola Pratello, Castello di Padenghe, and Chiesa di S. Emiliano.
The resort town of Desenzano del Garda is a few minutes away, too, and it has plenty to offer to travellers when it comes to history and art. You’ll have a good time with the wine tasting tours, walking and biking excursions, and a variety of cultural tours. Be sure to check out the tours and travel desk who can point you in the right direction.
Before you head out to take in the sights and immerse yourself in the culture and history of the area, be sure to get your fill of the free breakfast. You’ll need it, especially if you intend to do a lot during the day!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Luggage storage
- Tours/Travel desk
You can choose from private or shared rooms. They are all modern, and dorms have lockers where you can store your valuables for peace of mind while out and about. Connect to the free Wi-Fi, whether in common areas or rooms.
A restaurant is right beside the hostel and has a great selection of food at affordable prices. Those who’d like to cycle their way to nearby areas can also inquire about the bicycle hire.
Lake Garda Beach Hostel is one of our favourites in Lake Garda but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Aside from Lake Gard hostels, there are other types of lodgings in the area, such as Airbnb properties and hotels. They may not exactly be dorms, but they cost approximately the same and have extra amenities thrown in too.
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers – Small Studio with Shared Beach Access
- $
- Nice location
- Near the lake
- Private terrace
This small studio is ideal for solo travellers. It’s spacious enough for one with everything you need to feel at home.
Located just a few minutes from the beach, you can spend your days lounging on the sand. The kitchen is small but well equipped with basic appliances for simple meals.
No need to worry though, there are restaurants nearby where you can grab your share of the most delicious dishes. After all, you’re in Italy, it’s only right that you get your fill of food prepared lovingly by locals.
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Great Airbnb for Couples – Private Room Close to Lake Garda
- $
- Free breakfast
- Close to everything
- Private bathroom
This private room is aptly called Four Roots because of its earthly tones and decorations. The shared property is within a few minutes walk of Lake Garda, close to everything. There is a multitude of fun activities nearby to make your stay unforgettable.
Guests who like the outdoors can try climbing La Rocca di Garda. We’ve heard it has some of the most spectacular sunset views. Try cycling through Cisano, Bardolino, Lazise, and the many areas with vineyards, and of course, wake up early to witness the sunrise over Lake Garda. It’s a picture-perfect moment!
A free vegetarian breakfast is served daily and raved about it! The kitchen is available to use if you would like to prepare your own meals. However, only vegetarian meals are permitted.
Private Room Close to Lake Garda is one of our favourites in Lake Garda but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Lake Garda Hostels FAQ
Travel Safety Tips for Lake Garda
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Final Thoughts
Lake views with adventurous pursuits, long sandy beaches with lakeside cafés and promenades, as well as marinas that look like they belong on a postcard. What more can you ask for?
These are just some of the best affordable accommodations in the area. If you are still at a loss as to which hostel to choose, you should go with Lake Garda Hostel! Not only do they offer free breakfast, but it is near the beach and attractions.
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!
