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When you hear "Hostel" you might have a few images in mind: backpackers and students sharing closed quarters together, having (loud) fun with the smell and charme of military barracks! Now, don't get me wrong—I have nothing against backpacking and hitting the road with a spirit of freedom and minimal showers (I've done it across California, and well, it was...fun). But sometimes, just sometimes, you want the best of both worlds: the freedom, the adventure, and a touch of luxury! I know, I'm asking for three wishes here, but you catch my drift.
Imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon true hostel gems in Portugal. Okay, maybe it's not that surprising given the country's abundance of ancient buildings, historic landmarks, and even abandoned palaces that have been lovingly restored and transformed into polished jewels of the hospitality world. We've come to expect 5-star hotels moving into such places, but hostels? Really? Yes, my friend, let me introduce you to a few of these incredible hostels that are living a parallel life as 5-star hotels!
Some of these hostels are housed in stunning architectural wonders, while others boast incredible services and amenities. And then there are those that are just plain cool, creative dens that defy the very notion of what a hostel should be, taking your travel experience to a whole new level. Let's dive right in, shall we? 1. Lisbon Destination Hostel
This one is a bit hard to put into words. Firstly, the hostel is smack dab in the heart of Lisbon, situated inside a train station! The building itself looks like it stepped right out of a Harry Potter movie (and trust me, countless visitors can't help but mention that). Step inside, and you're greeted by a lush jungle-like atmosphere (no, there aren't any roaming tigers here!). In the midst of trees and plants, you'll find bean bags, sofas, a pool table, a cinema-sized screen, and a cozy dining room table. A friend of mine said it feels more like his dream college dorm. The decor, the staff—everything here makes you feel welcome, like part of a family, and makes you forget that you're actually sleeping inside a train station (you won't hear the trains, just a distant rumble in certain rooms, but nothing that'll rob you of your beauty sleep).
Check out the best rates and availability for the Lisbon Destination Hostel: Book here
One of the rooms at Lisbon Destination Hostel with a fun Comic book wallpaper.
This one is very simple - well it is actually not simple, because you are living in a former Palace. You get that feeling of grandeur, of wealth from a bygone area, without breaking the bank, because this is still a very affordable hostel (Prices ranging from 25 € per night for a single bed, in a 10 bed shared bedroom to 80 € for a double bed in a private room). The amenities, the cleanliness the service are just on another level. Surrounded by lush gardens, tranquillity and in a close distance to everything you want to visit in Lisbon, this is among one of my favourites.
Lush gardens surround the Sant Jordi Hostel in Lisbon. Check out here for best rates and availability: Book here
You are staying at one of the most sunny, beachy and lovely places in the Algarve. This is also a location that attracts many of the uber-wealthy in Europe. The Algarve is one of the hot spots for high level tourism, yacht owners and boasts over 30 Golf courses. This means: prices tend to be higher than other locations in Portugal. The Sun Lovers Hostel is a welcome change. It offers the same views as the "next-door-millionaire" but for an affordable price. Close to the beach, the high life of Albufeira, what is there not to Love?
Albufeira is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal:
Check prices and availability for Sun Lovers Hostel Albufeira: Book here
These are only 3 of many more amazing locations in Portugal. Besides Hostels, there are also incredible private rentals and of course fabulous Hotels. You can check these out through our search engine, that has daily smashing deals for Hotels, Car Rentals and Flights.
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