Puebla is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos. If you’re lucky enough to take your tour around Mexico through this colourful mini-city, you won’t be disappointed. The location to Mexico City makes Puebla a perfect detour – just 2 hours away (which is not much in Mexico terms).
The hostel I stayed at in Puebla made my trip. Okay, yes, the best mole, amazing markets, and world-class artwork made my trip too. But the hostels are where I met those life-changing people, slept like a dream, and lived temporarily surrounded by some of the best Mexican city life that could be thrown at me.
Though the city of Puebla is a little cheaper than Mexico City, that can sometimes come at the cost of comfort. Of course, people’s idea of “comfort” isn’t the same. But hostels in Puebla differ drastically – and in many ways – location can be the most important thing to consider.
So I crafted this list of the BEST hostels in Puebla City to choose from – so others can see this magic town in all its glory
Vamos güey. The mariachi band’s coming on in the Zócalo.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
Best Hostels in Puebla
Right, now you’re all clued up on what goes down in hostels, keep scrolling to find out which hostels in Puebla made the cut.
As I mentioned, just find the identifier that best suits you and click the link to book.
Best Overall Hostel in Puebla – Casa Pepe Hostal Boutique
- $$
- Free daily walking tour
- Fast & Free Wi-Fi
- 24-hour reception
This hostel sits inside one of Puebla’s beautiful 18th-century buildings. This either means a lot of charm and character or paranormal experiences… Now converted into a hostel that houses travellers from all over the world, this hostel’s vibrant atmosphere stands out.
Upon arrival, you’re handed a drink to welcome you home. Then, you’re escorted to your room of choice: affordable mixed dorms with premium beds or luxury private rooms and even apartment suites. The luxurious rooms have large king-size beds and convenient USA-type plug sockets.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Welcome drinks
- Private rooms
- Great location
Alongside the great amenities, you’ll also be in one of the best locations in Puebla close to all the main attractions. Basically, everything is a five-minute walk away. Stroll along the bohemian alleys or join the hostel’s free daily walking tour to get to know your surroundings.
Best Cheap Hostel in Puebla – Hostal Azul Puebla
- $
- Free Wi-Fi in each room
- Spacious bathrooms
- Shared kitchen
Puebla is Hostal Azul, located in the main historical area is one of the best cheap hostels in Mexico. It’s centrally located and perfect to plan your day out exploring.
Puebla Cathedral is a 10-minute walk away and you’re surrounded by artisan crafts markets. There are also plenty of murals around this area displaying iconic Mexican street art.
In comparison with some of the other hostels in the area this hostel is, let’s say… it’s minimalistic. But the staff are fantastic and super friendly. There are also coworking areas, a living room, a shared kitchen, and a scenic rooftop garden.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- CHEAP!
- Rooftop Garden
- Pet friendly 🙂
There is a wide selection of rooms to choose from. Group dorms are very cheap and the private rooms are affordable compared to some of the other hostels in Puebla.
One thing to keep in mind is that children and pets are welcome at this hostel. If that’s not your vibe, this isn’t the place for you.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIHostel for Solo Travelers in Puebla – Rhodas
- $$
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Private rooms available
- Centrally located
This six-year-old hostel defines itself as “a home away from home for solo travelers.” This hostel is working to get rid of the stigma around hostel living and that is something I can always get behind.
The hosts really try to create an experience that brings together people from all over the world. Expect to hear wild stories and go on even wilder adventures. Almost like a big school trip!
Located in downtown Mexico, you will also be enriched by the local community. This is one of those atmospheres where you’ll truly feel a part of the family.
While here we got to experience authentic Mexican living and take part in traditions. From family dinners to authentic Mexican cooking classes and rooftop fiestas, this is what it really means to live life in Mexico.
The hostel itself is a well-preserved ancient building with incredible colonial architecture. If you care about learning more about the history of buildings (I do), be sure to ask the host, Manual.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Family vibe
- Private rooms
- Home away from home atmosphere
The entire hostel caters for all kinds of solo travelers in Mexico. Private rooms are available for first-timers. Group rooms are available for seasoned pros who love a good hostel. Plus, there is a strong Wi-Fi connection for digital nomads.
I am a book lover so I just had to mention their cool library system. Getting to trade my favorite books with people from across the world was so much fun.
As for evening entertainment, head to the rooftop to enjoy the Mexican sunset. While up there, you’ll be tucking into a Mexican-style dinner while looking at the views of the PoPo volcano. You don’t want to miss that.
Hostel for Large Groups in Puebla – The Dear
- $$
- Family rooms available
- Air-conditioning in each room
- Comfortable common area
Finding a hostel that the whole friend group is satisfied with is never easy. I actually try to avoid traveling in groups larger than three because it feels like a recipe for disaster.
That being said, if you are braving a group trip, you’ll want to stay at The Deer.
Admittedly, the rooms in this hostel are much more pricey than other rooms in the area. Although, if it means that everyone is happy, it’s probably worth paying extra for. Plus, these rooms are way more premium than just your regular hostel room.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Premium rooms
- Great location
- Air-con that works!
As I alluded to, the rooms are where this hostel really excels. There’s a selection of family rooms that welcome up to four people at a time. Somebody will have to take one for the team and sleep on the sofa bed, though.
As for that one friend who always loves to split off from the group (I see you), private rooms are available too. I told you, all your friends will love this hostel!
This hostel is also located in the lively downtown area which means you and your friends won’t have to coordinate transport (hallelujah) to popular attractions.
Great Dorms for Couples in Puebla – Hostal Casa De Arcos
- $$
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Nearby historical monuments
- Hot water 24 hours a day 😉
When looking for hostels in Puebla, this one is one of the best if you’re traveling as a couple. By staying here, you’ll be right in the historic center of Puebla.
Each day you can take a sunrise walk together. Then, you can visit the cathedral and some of the most gorgeous parks you will ever come across.
The hostel itself is a family-run business, so the atmosphere is calm and welcoming. Additionally, you’ll be conveniently located near the best restaurants and bars in town.
While this hostel does have areas for you to speak to other travelers and sunbathe, for the most part, you are left to your own devices. Which I think is the best kind of atmosphere when planning a couples getaway.
Why you’ll love this hotel:
- Nearby to beautiful gardens
- Comfortable private rooms available
- Friendly family-run atmosphere
The rooms are pretty basic but comfortable enough for you to get by. Most importantly, they have double-bed private rooms with ensuites. Hot water also runs throughout the hostel for the entire day, so you can always feel fresh.
Honestly, the location is what you’re really paying for with this hostel.
Even just walking through the streets in this area is an experience within itself. The charm is truly vibrant here and there will always be something new to discover.
Fun fact: Puebla has the most churches out of all the Mexican states – specifically in Cholula (a close neighbour town to Puebla that you should also visit!) These churches and cathedrals are historical monuments and ready for you to explore as well as top museums. Though prepare that – like most history – it can get dark pretty quick.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More of the Top Hostels in Puebla
Not found your dream hostel yet? Don’t you worry; I’ve got a few more brilliant hostels up my sleeve.
Hostal Azul Puebla Centro Historico
- $
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Nearby historical monuments
- Private and group rooms available
Stay in one of the best hostels in Puebla and get ready for non-stop action. Some activities nearby include the Poblana Cathedral, Santa Ines Garden, and even a local brewery. Make sure to also take advantage of their food tours!
As for the hostel, Hostel Azul has a safe and calm vibe. The rooms feature a high-speed internet connection, closet space, and shared bathrooms with hot water. There’s also a backyard area where you can share stories with other travelers.
One thing to keep in mind is this is certainly a quiet hostel. There’s not much going on in terms of socializing and the house rules are no noise after 10 pm. This is definitely one for those looking for a more relaxing trip.
Casa Vee Yuu
- $$
- Authentic architecture
- Historical atmostphere
- Co-working spaces available
Surrounded by the colourful streets of Puebla, this list wouldn’t be complete without Casa Vee Yuu.
This hostel’s architecture is impressive. From open brick walls to authentic Mexican tiling, this hostel has worked hard to keep the natural features of this building intact – which I love. I always enjoy staying within buildings that have had so many, many memories made there.
This hostel is particularly great for digital nomads in Mexico. The Wi-Fi is strong and there are coworking spaces dotted all around. They also have unlimited coffee, so if I were you, I would use that morning buzz to power through your work. Then, you have the entire day to explore!
La crème De la crème
- $
- Free & fast Wi-Fi
- Scenic rooftop restaurant
- Calm atmosphere
With a whole host of private rooms to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice at this hostel.
Situated just outside of the historic center, this is a welcome escape from the noise of the city. But don’t fret, you’ll still be within walking or biking distance of popular attractions.
Overall, this hostel seems to have a warm and friendly atmosphere. Although they do not organize any specific socializing events they are more than happy to sit and chat so you can learn more about the city.
If you’re an introvert or simply craving some alone time, this is the hostel you’ll want to pick.
What to Pack for Your Puebla Hostel
Packing for Mexico is an art form. When you get it just right, you realise why people love Mexico so much.
Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always straightforward. Working out what to bring and what to leave is a craft 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!
FAQs About Hostels in Puebla
What are the best hostels in Puebla for couples?
I would recommend Hostal Casa De Arcos. Although the surrounding area can be a little noisy, the private rooms are pretty lush – and they aren’t expensive either. Easily doable for 2 people.
What is the best hostel in Puebla near the airport?
Honestly, none of the true best hostels in Puebla are near the airport. But I love La crème De la crème for that reason because they have their own airport shuttle that works great.
Travel Safety Tips for Puebla
Travelling through Mexico can throw all kinds of curve balls at you. I can tell you from experience, having good travel insurance for Mexico is really, really worth it IF you need it.
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.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Puebla
That concludes this list of the best hostels in Puebla!
No matter which hostel you choose, you won’t be far away from all the action. Casa Pepe Hostal Boutique, however, is one of the best hostels I have seen in a very long time.
This is basically a hotel with more affordable rooms. They also welcome solo travelers, so you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
While I am more of a self-confessed island escape type of girl, a city getaway can be fun to switch up the pace. After reviewing these hostels, it’s easy for me to say that Puebla is a top contender when it comes to city break locations.
Photo: @Lauramcblonde
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Mexico for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Mexico City covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Mexico if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Mexico before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international SIM card for Mexico to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America 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!
