Whether you flew into the local airport or if it’s your final destination at the end of a protracted pilgrimage, one thing is certain, hostels in Santiago de Compostela are excellent. Pilgrims have been coming here for more than 1100 years. While the footpaths may be well-worn, the welcome one receives in Santiago de Compostela certainly isn’t. There is a surprising amount of comfort and friendliness to be found throughout the city. And often at excellent value.
There is only really one type of hostel in Santiago de Compostela: The pilgrim hostel. They are usually simple, cheap and cater to those who have been on the road for some time. However that does not mean that there is any sacrifice of comfort and repose. Here is a selection of the very best hostels based on key considerations such as comfort, price and location.
Dorms from €13/ night. Privates from €16/ night
Housed in a theological college, this is perhaps one of the most impressive hostels in all of Spain. Seminario Menor is in a lovely park, next to the final leg of the camino, and is only ten minutes away from Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. The hostel is designed with simplicity in mind, therefore the dorm rooms are large. Private rooms get booked up well in advance, but the price is excellent for the Spartan solitude. There are lockers for safe storage of your belongings and breakfast is available for an additional fee.
Dorms from €16/ night
Situated in the southern part of the city centre, minutes from the train station, Albergue Compostela is a great choice for anybody arriving or leaving via train. Like most hostels in Santiago, the dorms can feel a little cramped, especially during peak season, but there is sufficient privacy for the individual beds and there are only eight beds to a room here. There is a special single room available to anybody who requires disabled access, and at no additional cost. There is also a small kitchen on site, although with lots of hikers accustomed to cooking for themselves, it can get crowded.
Dorms from €22/ night
Linares has slightly higher prices, but the fee gets you smaller dorm rooms and more modern, cleaner settings. One of the most popular hostels in the city, it is located in a pleasant neighbourhood close to the art and Galician People museums. There is a pleasant open seating area in the hostel, which makes it easier to meet other travellers. A small kitchenette has a coffee maker and microwave, although there is no refrigerator.
Dorms from €15/ night
Offering a better range of facilities than most hostels in Santiago means Albergue Turistico la Credencial is a great choice for anybody looking for a little more comfort. Although located roughly 20 minutes from the cathedral, a little further from the city centre, the large shared kitchen, with a refrigerator, microwave, hobs and a toaster are perfect for anybody hoping to save a little by eating in. There are also good sized lockers and decent bathrooms at this hostel.
Dorms from €18/ night
Many travellers to Santiago de Compostela arrive on foot. All along the Camino trail they receive stamps in a book to prove they have visited each major checkpoint along the way. The last stamp signifies their completion of the trail in Santiago de Compostela. This hostel is situated close to where that final stamp is obtained in the old town, just minutes from the cathedral. There are great facilities here too, including a shared kitchen and computer, bicycle storage and a 24 hour reception.
