Mexico is a marvellous country to explore. Rich in culture, steeped in history and offering a stunning combination of coast, cities, and jungles, Mexico is an all-round winner for adventure travelers.
With so much to see, do and explore in Mexico you should spend time planning your itinerary not trawling for accommodation. That is why we have created this epic insiders guide to the 35 best hostels in Mexico. So you can get booked up and concentrate on the fun stuff.
You will have the most incredible time in Mexico. Whether you’re partying hard in Cancun, city slicking in Ciudad de México or taking a chill pill in Tulum; you’re in for a wild ride.
Let’s jump straight into the action. Here are your 35 best hostels in Mexico.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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Quick Answer – The Best Hostels in Mexico
- Overall Best Hostel in Mexico – Hostel Home – Mexico City
- Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Mexico – Moloch Hostel – Cancun
- Best Hostel for Couples in Mexico – Hostel La Candelaria – Valladolid
- Best Hostel in Mexico for Digital Nomads – Lum – Tulum
- Best Hostel in Mexico with Private Room – Nomadas – Merida
The 35 Best Hostels in Mexico
Before you book your accommodation, make sure you know where you want to stay in Mexico. The country is big and there is so much to see – you don’t want to end up miles from the hotspots you want to explore just because you haven’t done your research!
If you stick with our recommended hostels, your backpacking Mexico adventure is going to be a full blast. We’ve reviewed every single one of them and added our personal (and brutally honest) opinion into the sections, so it’s easier for you to choose!
And as a side note: If you want to find even more epic hostels, have a look at HOSTELWORLD. You can also filter all of your personal travel needs and find the perfect place for you.
Hostel Home – Mexico City | Overall Best Hostel in Mexico
Hostel Home is the overall best hostel in Mexico. This diamond of a hotel offers everything the 2024 backpacker could need and is probably the best-located hostel in Mexico City too.
The free breakfast is a total bonus, and the free WiFi too. There is a communal kitchen for you to enjoy, in addition to a laid-back common room area.
The hostel is safe and secure. All guests have access to their own security locker if they want to be extra safe; which is advisable. Easily the best hostel in Mexico in 2024, Hostel Home is a real winner.
If you want to spend more time in the city, make sure you check out the numerous epic hostels in Mexico City too.
Mayan Monkey Hostel – Cancun
Just steps from restaurants and bars, Mayan Monkey is in the heart of the action and a perfect spot to base some Cancun adventures. With lots of amenities for a comfortable stay, when you aren’t out exploring you can enjoy lagoon views, lounging with other guests and having a moment of relaxation.
The dorms are comfortable and modern with huge windows looking out to the lagoon and the natural surroundings. Perfect for solo backpackers or those in a group, Mayan Monkey is a top hostel in Cancun for a central stay.
Moloch Hostel – Cancun | Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Mexico
Moloch Hostel is the best hostel in Mexico for solo travelers. As far as solo friendly backpacking destinations go, Cancun is up there with the best.
The laid-back party vibes flow freely and everyone knows everyone – at least everyone parties with everyone. There is a super welcoming vibe to Moloch Hostel and solo travelers will fit right in.
Set 20-minutes away from the main party strip, Moloch Hostel offers solo traveler the best of both worlds. No booming bass keeping you awake here. The staff can help with everything from directions to VIP party passes.
Suited DF Hostel – Mexico City
Suited DF Hostel is a top hostel in Mexico for solo travelers. This chilled AF hostel is perfect for go with the flow solo nomads who are down for a good time.
This is definitely the kind of place where you end up extending your stay time after time. Why not book an extra few nights anyway? Mexico City is so huge and there is so much to discover.
The free breakfast is basic but it does offer you the excuse to get chatting with other guests if you find introductions awkward that is. Everyone is a friend here, just be yourself.
Mama’s Home – Tulum
Mama’s Home in Tulum is a fantastic youth hostel in Mexico for solo travelers. Reasonably low-key, Mama’s Home will remind you why you jumped on the plane in the first place.
For real experiences and authentic connections. The dorms are simple but with so much to see and explore in Tulum you’re only really looking for a place to crash.
Although it is set on a quiet street, Mama’s Home is only a stone’s throw away from Tulum’s famous bars and cafes. There are a few great markers nearby too. Ask the staff for the deets.
Sayab Hostel – Playa del Carmen
Sayab Hostel is not only the best hostel in Mexico for solo travelers but is also one of the most popular accommodation options in Playa del Carmen.
This chic and stylish hostel really does have the Instagram appeal. So much more than looks, Sayab Hostel delivers in reality too. The rad team of staff keeps Sayab Hostel in tip-top shape, always clean and tidy.
The dorms are just the right size and there are security lockers available for all guests too. Solo travelers can find their ‘Carmen crew by the pool or propping up the bar.
Kaban 44 Hostel – Playa del Carmen
Kaban 44 Hostel is an ideal Mexico backpackers hostel for budget-conscious travelers heading to Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen can get pretty expensive but Kaban 44 Hostel makes it really easy to stay on budget.
You can prepare your own meals in the communal kitchen, that will save some pesos. You don’t have to worry about buying something just to use the WiFi in a cafe as Kaban 44 Hostel offers free WiFi to all guests too.
The dorms are simple but clean and comfortable. For the price and the location you really can’t find fault.
Massiosare El Hostel – Mexico City
Massiosare El Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in Mexico. This place gets nothing but rave reviews and they are hard earned. The place is always sparkling clean and tidy and the room rates are super cheap.
The free breakfast is the icing on the cake. That and the free WiFi and in-house cafe too. For hustling digital nomads in Mexico that are just starting out, Massiosare El Hostel is a top pick too.
Set within the historic district of Mexico City, Massiosare El Hostel makes it super easy to explore this gigantic city and stay well within budget.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIHostel La Candelaria – Valladolid | Best Hostel for Couples in Mexico
The best hostel in Mexico for couples is Hostel La Candelaria. Set in the gorgeous town of Valladolid, if you and your lover are ready to escape the busy cities, Hostel La Candelaria is ready and waiting for you with open arms.
The private rooms are not only very affordable but all kinds of cute too. The free breakfast is simple but a great way to keep costs down. Be sure to hire bicycles and explore on two wheels too.
This Valladolid hostel offers a sense of authenticity and a splash of Mexican colorful charm, you will just love your time.
Hostel Che Tulum – Tulum
Hostel Che Tulum is one of the best hostels in Mexico in 2024. This gem of a hostel is the perfect place for couples. Offering the ideal mix of social vibes and opportunities to sneak a romantic retreat into the mix too, Hostel Che Tulum is a real winner.
The whole place is kept in great order and the staff are some of the best around. All the mattresses are new and all the rooms have air-conditioning. The swimming pool is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon.
If you love this hostel, they also have a few other branches across the country to, my favourite being their Bacalar hostel.
Metro Hostal Boutique – Mexico City
Metro Hostal Boutique is a brilliant Mexico backpackers hostel that is ideal for couples. The private rooms have a boutique feel and offer guests access to the hostel’s shared bathrooms. All the rooms have air conditioning and the free WiFi reaches to all corners of the building.
The rooftop terrace is super cute and the ideal place for you and your lover to get connecting with your fellow hostel guests. If it’s quiet up there why not take the opportunity to catch up on your journal with a view of Mexico City. Not something you can do every day!
La Catrina Hostel and Breakfast – San Miguel
La Catrina Hostel and Breakfast in San Miguel is certainly one of the best hostels in Mexico for couples. There is a real homely feel to La Catrina Hostel and Breakfast.
Simple and humble, this low-key hostel is perfect for couples who are seeking a comfortable bed for the night and a room cooled by decent air conditioning.
Proudly offering hotel services for hostel prices, the La Catrina team go above and beyond for their guests time after time. You’ll both love it here. San Miguel doesn’t have all that many hostels and this is a top pick – book ASAP!
Oasis Hostel – Puerto Vallarta
This hostel in Puerto Vallarta is a top hostel in Mexico for party animals. Hosting family nights in every night, there is a real backpackers party vibe here. Authentic and wholesome, Oasis Hostel offers you the chance to kick back with good beer, good tunes and most importantly good company.
The rooms are basic but comfortable and most importantly cool, thanks to the air conditioning. The free breakfast is the perfect cure for a hangover and is served at the reasonable hours of 8 am until 10 am.
Hostel Amigo Suites Downtown – Mexico City
Hostel Amigo Suites Downtown in Mexico City is an ideal youth hostel in Mexico for travelers who love the nightlife. There is a hostel in-house at Hostel Amigo Suites Downtown but most guests choose to explore the party scene of Downtown Mexico City for themselves.
The staff will let you know what events are on during your stay and you can schedule your sleep accordingly!
The late check-out service ideal for travelers who creep into bed in the early hours after a night on the tiles. There is no curfew either – winning!
Lum – Tulum | Best Hostel in Mexico for Digital Nomads
Lum is the best hostel in Mexico for digital nomads. Offering a cool, modern environment and reliable WiFi, Lum has the digital nomad basics covered and then some. Guests have access to homely luxuries like a guest kitchen and cable TV.
There are plenty of spaces to work in at Lum, and the WiFi reaches to all corners of the building. The place is immaculately clean and the staff take exceptionally good care of their guests. Lum is super safe, you’ll have access to your own security locker and there is 24-hour security across the whole property.
Explore the top things to do in Tulum in the morning, then laze your way into the evening.
Selina Cancun Downtown – Cancun
Not only a top hostel in Mexico for digital nomads, but Selina Cancun Downton is also one of the cheapest hostels in the country too.
The hostel is perfect for digital nomads who are counting every last peso as it leaves the purse. You can make the most of free and unlimited WiFi, access to the guest kitchen and laundry facilities too.
Nomads are welcome to work by the poolside, in the common room or even in their bunk. The WiFi stretches across the building. There is an awesome chilled feel to Selina Cancun Downton that will help you stay focused and powering through the workload.
Hostal Catedral Merida – Merida
Who’d have thought that little ole Merida would be home to one of the best youth hostels in Mexico for digital nomads?
If you’re a newbie digital nomad still hustling to make ends meet, Hostal Catedral Merida is an easy choice for you. The dorms here are super cheap, the WiFi super reliable and there is even a free breakfast thrown in for good measure.
The whole place is super safe so you can explore safely in the knowledge that your kit is securely stored at Hostal Catedral Merida. The hostel runs nightly pub crawls in town. The idea reward at the end of the working day.
Casa Angel Youth Hostel – Oaxaca
Casa Angel Youth Hostel in Oaxaca is a top hostel in Mexico for digital nomads. Offering everything digital nomads consider essentials and some homely luxuries too, Casa Angel Youth Hostel ticks all the right boxes.
The hostel team run daily events for guests to join for free. Be sure to schedule your workload around these activities to make sure you get the most out of your time in Oaxaca. There is a walking tour on a Monday for example and a salsa class on a Thursday evening. The yoga is not to be missed either.
Nomadas – Merida | Best Hostel in Mexico with Private Room
The best hostel in Mexico with private rooms is Nomadas in Merida. This gem of a hostel is actually of one of the most popular Mexico backpackers hostels around.
The private rooms on offer at Nomadas in Merida don’t break the bank. In fact, they offer outstanding value for money. A free breakfast comes as standard and access to free WiFi too.
There are 10 museums and over 50 galleries to explore in Merida. The staff will be more than happy to help curate and itinerary that suits you if you drop by the tours and travel desk.
Mezcal Hostel – Cancun | Best Party Hostel in Mexico
The best party hostel in Mexico is Mezcal Hostel in Cancun. This badass party hostel is the OG and the only hostel for you if you are a hardcore party animal heading to Cancun. Mezcal Hostel will really look after you, both your breakfast and dinner are included in the room rate.
The in-house Mezcalito Bar is the place to be. Offering epic drinks deals, an awesome playlist and fun times on tap, Mezcal Hostel is worthy of the high praise it receives. The team have partnered with Party Rockers Cancun to offer guests the best day trips in the country.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Mexico 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 our definitive hostel packing list for our top packing tips!
Travel Safety Tips for Mexico
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.
More Epic Hostels in Mexico and North America
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Mexico. Planning an epic trip all across Mexico or even North America itself?
Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around North America, check out:
- Best hostels in Cancun
- Best hostels in Oaxaca
- Best hostels in Puerto Escondido
- Best hostels in Sayulita
If you’re looking for somewhere different, you should also check out where to stay in Bacalar too.
Over to you
Wow! Give yourself a pat on the back, you made it! What an incredible selection of hostels there are on offer in Mexico. The hostel scene in Mexico has evolved so much, you’re spoiled for choice.
If you’re unsure where to start, let’s keep things easy. Remember that our best hostel in Mexico is Hostel Home. This is a great choice to start with.
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Mexico has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
Let us know your thoughts. Which of these 35 best hostels in Mexico tickles your fancy? Have we missed a hidden gem? Comment before and let us know, we’d hate to miss out.
Photo: @sebagvivas
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Mexico for a wealth of info!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Mexico if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Mexico before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international SIM card for Mexico to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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