Lisbon is one of the capitals of cool – but that doesn’t mean it has to be budget-busting. Choosing a hostel with private rooms makes a lot of financial sense.
With gloriously decaying architecture, graffiti-strewn streets and a laid-back attitude, it’s no wonder Lisbon has quickly been dubbed one of the coolest cities in Europe in recent years. But there is more to Lisbon than being just Berlin-on-Sea for digital nomads, with old Portuguese arts, customs and cultures everywhere, as well as museums and independent local galleries, and tiny cafes and coffee shops that don’t seem to have changed in decades, all with the sound of Fado drifting through the air. Then throw in high-tech innovation and contemporary, forward-thinking workspaces and you have a place that you’ll not want to leave. Savvy searching for hostels means you can also get accommodation in a private room for less than you might think too.
This Is Lisbon Hostel
A wonderful hostel in many respects but the highlight has to be the roof terrace with sweeping, panormaic views over Lisbon’s rooftops. This is Lisbon Hostel is set in a renovated 19th century building on a hillside in the city centre and has a lot of charm, rather than being made to look like an upmarket hotel. The rooms have wooden floors and are all tastefully decorated. There is free Wi-Fi access throughout the property and deposit boxes for peace of mind. Everyone has access to a shared living room where a daily continental breakfast is served and there is also a fully-equipped communal kitchen for anyone wanting to cook. Rossio Metro Station is just 5 minutes walk from the hostel. From €65.
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room00 Lisboa Hostel
room00 Lisboa Hostel has a great location in the Santo Antonio district, just 200 metres from Liberty Avenue. It’s a comfortable and classy place, with plenty of upmarket facilities you wouldn’t expect from a hostel. The plush roof bar, decked out with stylish furniture and ovelooking the tops of the surrounding buildings, wouldn’t look out of place in a four-star hotel for example. To complete the quality package is a life, a 24-hour front desk, a bar and air conditioned rooms. Each morning a tasty continental breakfast is also served at the hostel. From €41.
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Lisb’on Hostel
It’s hard to avoid the gorgeous grandeur of Lisb’on hotel. Taking up a renovated baroque palace, this hostel is a world away from a grotty backpacker haunt, with ceiling cornices, grand arches and chandeliers decking out the interiors. There is a rooftop panoramic terrace, with sweeping river and Lisbon views, and even daily complimentary walking tours for all guests of the property. The rooms are soundproofed to ensure a good night’s sleep and there is Wi-Fi throughout. Guests also have access to a well-equipped communal kitchen and dining area. An in-house bar has a great selection of Portuguese wine and spirits too for when you are going out (or coming home). From €72.
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Lisbon Top Hostel
Lisbon Top Hostel is a charming establishment near Parque Eduardo VII. The interiors have a white, light and airy appeal, with nice attention to details such as a coffee machine in each room. You also get a seating area in each room and the emphasis is on making them a comfy place to relax rather than just somewhere to get your head down. Bed linen is included too and some rooms have a city view. There is also a terrace and a lift at Lisbon Top Hostel, plus the staff are very polite and friendly, and can help you with whatever you need during your stay. From €64.
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Independente Príncipe Real
For some serious wow factor how about an Art Deco hostel located within a renovated palace? The Independente Príncipe Real is the real-deal, capturing Lisbon’s (at times) faded historical glamour and its affordable, contemporary side in one highly recommended hostel. Found on the border of Lisbon’s trendy Bairro Alto district, it has plenty of niceties, such as free Wi-Fi, a restaurant with a secluded beer garden. Alongside dormitory accommodation there are also private rooms with classical Portuguese architecture and high ceilings – some even offer balconies with river views. Alongside all this upmarket wonder is that hostel essential – the communal kitchen facilities and shared lounge area. From € 84.
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