14 Youth Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Located right where the colorful Babilonia favela meets Copacabana beach, Aquarela do Leme offers easy access to Rio’s main attractions. This hilltop hostel may challenge some taxis, but it’s a hotspot for young, international travelers, ensuring a lively, safe environment. Owners Marielle and Thibaut create a homey vibe with top-notch amenities like a gym, rooftop bar, and fast WiFi. What sets it apart as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro is its engaging daily activities and proximity to the beach and nightlife. Rooms are clean, equipped with essentials, and feature stunning city and ocean views. Whether revisiting or exploring Rio for the first time, Aquarela do Leme guarantees a vibrant, community-focused stay.

Located on the vibrant Praia do Pontal, Surf Club Longboard Paradise Hostel captures the essence of beach life and surfing spirit. Just steps from the surf, guests enjoy easy access to water sports, serene beach yoga at sunrise, and scenic trails. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surfer, there’s a wave for everyone.

The setup at Surf Club Longboard Paradise Hostel includes two comfy, fully-equipped beach houses, making it a perfect retreat for both relaxation and remote work. The vibe is laid-back, with ample spaces to chill or catch up on work, complemented by upgraded Starlink internet for a smooth online experience.

Dining here means beachfront restaurants and a rooftop bar serving fresh, local flavors. This spot is more than just a stay; it’s the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro for those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility, with friendly staff and a community feel that keeps guests coming back.

Tucked away on a quiet hill between Laranjeiras and Santa Teresa, Pousada Favelinha offers an authentic peek into Rio's favela life. Known as Brazil's original favela hostel, it blends stunning city views with a vibrant local culture in a secure environment. Each room features a balcony with a hammock—perfect for enjoying peaceful mornings accompanied by the sounds of nature.

A short walk from the hostel, you can hop on the metro at 'Largo do Machado' or catch the scenic 'bondinho' cable car through the artistic Santa Teresa district. Despite its serene location, you're never far from the hustle and bustle of Rio, making it an ideal spot for adventurous youth.

From the hearty tropical breakfast to the tranquil rooftop terrace, Pousada Favelinha captures the essence of a laid-back, community-oriented stay. It’s a quiet haven with easy access to the city’s hotspots, earning its reputation as possibly the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro.

Nestled just a block from Ipanema beach, More Ipanema Hostel boasts one of the best youth hostel locations in Rio de Janeiro. It’s perfect for watching Brazil's famous sunsets and diving into the local scene. The hostel offers both private suites and shared rooms, all with in-room bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for every guest.

Life at More Ipanema Hostel is vibrant, with activities like weekly boat parties, favela tours, and day trips to Ilha Grande. There’s something for every adventurer looking to experience Rio’s diverse offerings. The hostel’s social atmosphere is enhanced by nightly events, including free caipirinhas and language exchanges, ideal for making new friends.

With its friendly staff, strong WiFi, and fun bar scene, More Ipanema Hostel provides a safe, engaging, and clean environment. It’s quickly becoming the go-to spot for solo travelers and groups alike, promising a memorable stay in the heart of Rio

Nestled between Rio's famed Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Pura Vida Hostel offers a quirky retreat in a castle-like mansion built by a Polish ambassador. This spot is less than a minute’s stroll to the waves and packs a punch with its historic charm and seaside vibes.

The place offers a range of sleeping options, from air-conditioned mixed dorms to private family rooms and chalets, all decked out with modern comforts and a dash of old-world elegance. Whether you're crashing in a bunk bed or chilling on your private balcony, you’ve got all the essentials covered.

What really makes Pura Vida Hostel stand out is its crew. Shout outs to Pedro and Amanda for their top-notch local tips and friendly help. With such a prime location and stellar team, it's easily one of the best youth hostels in Rio de Janeiro for soaking up the city’s beachy, laid-back lifestyle.

Perched in Rio's Leme area, Mar da Babilônia Hostel combines stunning sea views with easy access to both Leme and Copacabana beaches. It's a welcoming spot where hosts Alessandro and Cristina go above and beyond to make everyone feel at home, infusing every day with their personal touch—from brewing exquisite morning coffee to serving hearty evening burgers.

The hostel itself offers airy, air-conditioned rooms, some boasting balconies. Facilities include a 24-hour front desk, a communal kitchen, and free WiFi throughout. It's not just about comfort here; the lively communal areas are perfect for socializing and soaking up the jovial atmosphere.

Ideal for any traveler seeking a slice of Rio life, Mar da Babilônia Hostel delivers an authentic, laughter-filled experience just steps from iconic beaches.

Rio World Connection Hostel is your gateway to the vibrant pulse of Rio. Just 2 km from Flamengo Beach and a stone's throw from top attractions like the Museum of Tomorrow, this hostel blends relaxation with adventure. Dive into the outdoor pool or lounge on the terrace to catch some Brazilian sun.

Inside, you'll find a welcoming bar and a restaurant ready to dish up local flavors. Rooms come with essential comforts like air conditioning and wardrobes; some even boast balconies with city views. The staff, fluent in multiple languages, are always on hand to ensure your stay is smooth.

Nestled in Santa Teresa next to the lively Lapa, Mambembe Hostel offers a slice of cultural Rio with its vibrant street parties just a stroll away. The hostel is well-equipped for a comfortable stay, featuring bespoke mattresses, personal power outlets, and free WiFi across various room options, from dorms to private suites.

Accessibility is a breeze with nearby bus and metro links, and Uber provides a cost-effective way to explore Rio's scenic beaches and iconic landmarks. The 24-hour reception ensures that assistance is always available, whether day or night.

Visitors rave about the warm, helpful staff and clean, cozy environment, making Mambembe Hostel a top contender for the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro. It’s not just a place to stay; it's a hub of camaraderie and local experiences.

Nestled in the lively Ipanema district, Vidigal360º is just a short walk from the beach, surrounded by bustling restaurants and bars. This hostel stands out for its cozy, family-like atmosphere, where guests quickly turn into friends. The staff, Maria and Jose, are known for their warm hospitality and for organizing fun local tours, adding a personal touch to each guest’s experience.

The rooms at Vidigal360º offer comfort with good ventilation and essential amenities, complemented by shared kitchens and community bathrooms on each floor. Whether whipping up a meal or heading out for a beach day, you're set up for a convenient stay.

Ideal for those looking to dive into Rio's vibrant culture, Vidigal360º is often celebrated as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro, where the spirit of community and location blend perfectly to enhance your travel adventure.

Located in the vibrant Lapa district, near the heart of Rio, Books Hostel is the go-to spot for travelers eager to dive into the city's cultural scene and nightlife. Just steps from two metro lines and close to popular bars and street parties, this hostel offers a unique blend of laid-back charm and social vibes. You can even grab one of their bikes for a day trip to the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.

The staff, led by the affable Felipe, is known for creating a family-like atmosphere that's ideal for meeting new friends and experiencing the real Rio. Guests enjoy the hostel's nightly caipirinhas and the variety of social activities that make it easy to connect with others.

With its welcoming environment and strategic location, Books Hostel is often celebrated as the best youth hostel in Rio de Janeiro, providing a perfect balance of fun and relaxation for an unforgettable stay.

Just steps from Ipanema Beach, Ipanema Beach Hostel is right in the heart of Rio's bustling beach scene. Here, you’re a short walk from not only the sands that inspired the world-famous song but also a vibrant array of shops, bars, and the metro. The hostel itself offers a variety of accommodations, from snug dorms with personal lockers and lights to private suites with balconies, making it easy to find a space that fits your style.

The place buzzes with an upbeat atmosphere, thanks to the dedicated staff like Tay, who goes above and beyond to assist guests, whether it’s helping activate a SIM card or just sharing a local tip. Free drinks and daily social events make it easy to meet fellow travelers.

With its prime location and genuinely friendly staff, Ipanema Beach Hostel stands out as a lively spot to explore Rio and experience its renowned beach culture firsthand.