Despite being the second-largest island in the Mediterranean sea, Sardinia is still one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Known for its crystal clear waters, exquisite natural beauty, and classic Italian charm (with a rustic Spanish feel too), things run at a slower pace compared with mainland Italy. It offers a much more laid-back feel.
Unlike Greece and Croatia that thrive on social media publicity and overpriced bottle service, Sardinia is a tranquil retreat where people come to escape all of that BS. There is a more low-key atmosphere and quiet accommodations, though you’ll still be able to find a fun party hostel in Sardinia.
We’ve put together all the top hostels and budget accommodations across the island to make your search for the perfect place to stay as easy as possible.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Sardinia
- Best Overall Hostel in Sardinia – Villa Beach City Guesthouse
- Biggest Party Hostel in Sardinia – Hostel Sardinia
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What to Expect from Hostels in Sardinia
A trip from the north to south of Sardinia could take you five hours – it ain’t small! As a result, there are loads of places to stay, from cheap and cheerful to luxe and glamorous. If you’re arriving by flight or ferry, Cagliari and the Costa Sud are where you’ll likely begin your trip.
With azure blue waters, Costa Smeralda (the Emerald Coast) is the spot for the rich and the famous. Capo Testa is also an exquisite beach area in Northern Sardinia, while Alghero is an ancient town with a Spanish history and some seriously worthwhile restaurants.
There aren’t a ton of hostels in Sardinia, likely because the island breeds a very relaxed atmosphere and doesn’t have a huge party scene. They make up for it with a bunch of great budget spots.
Booking a hostel or affordable guest house is a great way to experience the local charm and ambiance that Sardinia has to offer, while sticking to budget. These accommodations are often locally owned, and run by residents who have called the island home for generations. The locals are so friendly and welcoming, they will always be happy to share insider advice and guidance on the best beaches to visit, restaurants to eat at, and outdoor adventures to try.
The best site to browse for hostels and budget accommodation is Hostelworld.com. If you run into a dead end there, Airbnb and Booking.com offer a bunch of low-cost options, too, as well as the option to filter your search according to price!
The Best Hostels in Sardinia
Enough small talk; let’s dive right in and take a look at some of the best hostels in Sardinia. We’ve got everything from family-friendly budget bed and breakfasts, to party hostels with in-house bars.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Villa Beach City Guesthouse – Best Overall Hostel in Sardinia
When visiting Sardinia during the summertime, you’re likely going for the relaxing beach vibe, warm ocean, and pristine beaches. Villa Beach City Guesthouse offers all of this, and more, complemented by its perfect location on the beach and close proximity to the city center.
Just steps from the Mediterranean ocean, and only a 20-minute bus ride from Cagliari City Center, it is ideal for anyone interested in the local history and culture, as well as foodies after a traditional pizza or pasta dish. Conveniently, the bus stop to get to town is only a few meters away.
Although this property is technically a guesthouse, the spot has affordable private rooms in a sociable beach setting, much like any good Sardinian hostel would. The neighborhood is safe and quiet, yet has a bunch of local eateries, nightclubs, and bars to explore. There are even a few surf schools on the beach out front!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Near a bus stop
- Safe neighborhood
- Free Wi-Fi, coffee, and tea
Villa Beach City Guesthouse is pretty small, and only has two rooms – each is private and has its own bathroom. While you might not get a super social party hostel experience, you’re guaranteed a quality accommodation that is clean and has great service.
Both rooms have fresh linens and air conditioning for those sweltering hot days. If you need to get a bit of work done during your trip, there is free Wi-Fi and a bunch of indoor and outdoor working spaces. There is also 24-hour security and a safe deposit box to keep your electronics safe while you explore.
Breakfast isn’t included in the rate, but there are facilities available for those who want to make their own meals in the kitchen. And let’s not forget the incredible restaurants around the guesthouse.
Hostel Sardinia – Best Party Hostel in Sardinia
Party hostels aren’t easy to come by on this mostly local, beachy island. However, if you’re after a social vibe, Hostel Sardinia will give it to you! Not only is this the best hostel on the island for a good vibe, but it is one of the only spots that offer dorm accommodation, making it great for solo travelers.
The hostel has clean rooms, with vintage interiors and recycled furniture. There are loads of common spaces to socialize with other guests, or to just hang about and relax. The hostel even offers weekend excursions and activities for guests.
Hostel Sardinia is located in the heart of Cagliari, the perfect spot to stay if its your first time. It’s the biggest town and has a bunch of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to explore.
This Cagliari hostel is spread out across three stories, overlooking a spacious garden and on-site hostel bar – arguably the biggest pull to the property. It’s also pet friendly if you happen to be traveling with your furry friends!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Outdoor terrace with BBQ
- Late check-out
- Housekeeping services
Not only does it have its own bar, it offers access to a shared kitchen where you can store and cook food at your leisure.
Because of the party nature, guests under the age of 18 are not permitted to stay. However, if you’re traveling with young kids (or pets), you will be allowed to stay as long as your kids are supervised.
Free Wi-Fi is included, and there are a bunch of shared spaces where digital nomads can set up and get some work done. There are even meeting room!
Try out the bicycle hire service as cycling is a great way to explore the island! You can also store your own bikes at the hostel free of charge.
Hostel Marina – Best Private Rooms in Sardinia
Hostel Marina is located in a historic building in the center of Cagliari. Fun fact – this hostel was the first hospital in the city! Today, it has been beautifully remodeled with modern amenities and furnishings, all while still holding onto its historical heritage.
Thanks to its super central location and close proximity to public transportation, within a quick five-minute walk you can hop on transport to many of South Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches. Eateries, supermarkets, and major city attractions are also within a short walk.
The hostel’s rooms are comfortable with clean linens, and include a private bathroom with a shower. The privacy makes it perfect for families traveling with kids.
There are a range of room sizes including twin rooms, three-bed rooms, or four-bed family rooms, depending on the number of people in your party. Each of them are spacious, and face onto a picturesque piazza. Unlike a lot of hostels in Sardinia, there are also dorm rooms – one of which is all-female!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Wheelchair friendly
- Common room for socializing
- Bicycle parking
Hostel Marina has an in-house bar which is open from 7pm until midnight. Pre-drink before a night out on the town or get to know your hostel neighbors.
On top of your private room space and the common areas and lounges, this hostel has meeting rooms, which can be booked out depending on availability. Naturally, you’ll also have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
And let’s not forget, it is also wheelchair accessible with an elevator to get to higher floors.
B&B Su Cantaru – Top Hostel for Large Groups in Sardinia
Sardinia a beautiful place to visit with a big group of friends. For a family reunion, a bachelor/bachelorette event, or any ol’ special occasion, B&B Su Cantaru is the perfect spot to stay.
The hostel is located in Villanova Monteleone, only a short drive from Alghero, with a bunch of different rooms to choose from – most with a private ensuite bathroom. The bathrooms are equipped with hotel-like amenities including complimentary toiletries! Each room can sleep between two to three guests, at a super low price per night.
Decorated using antique furnishings in traditional Sardinian interior style, you will get a vibe of the island even when you aren’t out exploring.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Laundry facilities
- Breakfast available for an extra cost
- Terrace BBQ
B&B Su Cantaru is run by a local couple who have put tons of effort into making their bed and breakfast homey and inviting for guests. As a courtesy, free city maps, cable TV, and on-site parking are included in your stay.
Depending on availability, they would be happy to arrange a late check-out for you. If you’re leaving the island late in the day and a late check out isn’t possible, luggage storage is available.
As an added bonus, when you stay for a week or more, your rate will include an airport transfer from Alghero Airport. Even housekeeping is included in the nightly rate – every day, your room will be cleaned and bed made, and your linen will be changed every three days (unless otherwise specified). It really offers a hotel-like atmosphere!
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Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations in Sardinia
Hostels aren’t everyone’s style, check out these budget accommodations that offer a little more for an equally as affordable price!
Hotel Meridiana
Hotel Meridiana is a three-star rated hotel located in the relaxing town of Arbus. There is a beautiful rooftop deck with ocean views, as well as a huge swimming pool – a steal for the budget price!
The rooms are simply furnished including air conditioning, a private workspace, and ensuite bathroom. Depending on the type of room you book, you could even find yourself with your own private balcony overlooking the city.
Not only does this spot have a sparkling swimming pool with beautiful views, but it is also super well located in the heart of town. You’ll be a quick ten-minute walk from the city center, with local food hubs and a mineral mining museum.
The Cagliari Elmas Airport and Cagliari Harbor are only a short drive away. The hotel is happy to organize transport to and from upon request.
A Casa Di Sara
A Casa Di Sara is a cozy private room set in a local home near Costa Smeralda. Aside from it being in one of the most sought-after locations, this charming room has a private entrance and terrace with 180-degree views of the surrounding city.
The room has two single beds, which can be pushed together to make one big bed, and is equipped with fresh linen, towels, and complimentary toiletries. While the room is part of someone’s home, you will have total privacy.
The home is a short fifteen-minute bus ride from all major parts of Olbia and Costa Smeralda, including some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you’ll find supermarkets, restaurants, and bars within walking distance from the house. What better place to enjoy a traditional Italian takeout than on your own private balcony overlooking an ancient Sardinian city?
Bisos
Bisos might just be the most luxurious budget accommodation on the island of Sardinia. For a fraction of the price of a lavish hotel, this small B&B offers exquisitely decorated rooms and shared spaces. The rooms feature boho island-inspired interiors with high wooden vaulted ceilings and thoughtful decor.
Located in Paulilatino, a short drive from Oristano, the B&B has its own restaurant and shared lounge where you can mingle with other guests. Every morning, a freshly prepared Italian breakfast is served, which you can choose to eat on the sunny terrace.
Pick from king bedrooms with private terraces, double rooms with private bathrooms, or rooms with balconies overlooking the quaint city. I highly recommend this property to those looking for a romantic getaway for a reasonable price. However, the property also offers discounted rates for solo travelers.
What to Pack for your Sardinia 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!
Sardinia Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Sardinia cost?
This all depends on if you’re booking a bed in a shared dorm or a private room. Generally speaking, a bed in a shared dorm will cost you between $20 and $30 per night, while a private bedroom (often with an ensuite bathroom) will set you back around $60 to $100
What are the best hostels in Sardinia for couples?
Popular for it’s cycling and bike for hire, MuMA Hostel is our top hostel for couples who is looking for some adventurous trip!
What is the best hostel in Sardinia near the airport?
You’ll need to be within Europe to get a direct flight to Sardinia. Which is why I recommend Piccolo Catalunya Hostel which is just a few minutes away from Alghero Airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Sardinia
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 Sardinia
Even though there might not be tons of options for hostels on the island of Sardinia, there is no shortage of high-quality, budget accommodation. Depending on the holiday vibe you’re looking for, you could stay in a buzzing party hostel in Sardinia or choose the more relaxing route in a quiet self-catering vacation rental. Hostel Sardinia will quench your thirst for a lively vacation, while a room in A Casa Di Sara will be sure to relax and rejuvenate you.
There are a few spots where you can stay in a shared dorm to keep costs down. Female travelers can rent a bed in an all-female dorm at Hostel Marina to be extra safe while sticking to budget.
Staying in a hostel or locally-run guesthouse is a great way to make new friends and interact with local residents in Sardinia. Remember, if you’re traveling from overseas, set yourself up with some decent travel insurance to ensure you don’t get stuck in a sticky situation abroad!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Italy for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Italy covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Italy if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Sardinia before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Italy to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
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