Antigua, Guatemala is one of the MOST BEAUTIFUL cities in all of the Americas. Its eclectic mix of pristine colonial architecture and trendy neighbourhoods make it a great place to explore. When you’re not chilling in the city, there is plenty of nature to explore around the city as well.
But as more people travel to Antigua, it’s getting more expensive every day. By Guatemalan standards, this town ain’t cheap so you’ll have to look a bit harder for the right deals. Plus, there is an absolute smorgasbord of hostel options so it can be daunting and a big time suck.
This is exactly why I wrote this epic guide to the best hostels in Antigua. Organized by your needs, I’ve taken the best hostels in Antigua and put them together in one list. I wanted to provide up-to-date, to-the-point information about this amazing city, so you can find an awesome hostel and easily book it!
Antigua’s got you on the cafes and epic volcanoes, the colonial architecture and the tropical colours and vibes. I’ve got you the hostel reviews so you can put that admin to bed and enjoy this marvellous city.
Let’s dive deep into Antigua.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Antigua, Guatemala
- Best Overall Hostel in Antigua – Barbara’s Boutique Hostel
- Best Hostel in Antigua for Solo Travelers – Adra Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Antigua – Taura
- Best Party Hostel in Antigua – Tropicana Hostel
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Antigua – Yellow House Hostel
The 5 Best Hostels in Antigua
If you’re backpacking in Guatemala, chances are pretty high that you’ll end up in Antigua sooner or later. It’s a beautiful city with a lot of unique hotspots. Whether you’re looking for stunning nature, a chill atmosphere are a bit of adventure, you’ve found the right spot!
Before you start your travels, do some research so you know where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala. The city offers loads of backpacker accommodations in different neighbourhoods, you just need to find out which one’s the right for you.
1. Barbara’s Boutique Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $32
- Private Room: From $189
- Address: 3ra avenida sur 10, Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua is amidst a hostel revolution! There is a small handful of boutique hostels that have arrived on the scene and they are simply wonderful. A prime example of this is Barbara’s Boutique Hostel – let me take you through why it’s my overall favourite of the Antigua hostels.
Set in an old colonial house there is a homeliness to Barbara’s Boutique that is seldom found in a budget hostel in Antigua. The free breakfast just helps to give even greater value for money, as does the free WiFi and the discounts offered at their tour desk. When you check in, make a beeline for the rooftop terrace to take in the incredible views of the Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes!
So many things to do in Guatemala!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Wonderful Location
- Friendly and Helpful Staff
If you’re wandering the world as a broke backpacker, walking is going to be your main mode of transport in most places. This Antigua hostel is no exception, when you do eventually feel the need to leave Barbara’s Boutique Hostel, the city is on your doorstep. The staff are friendly and helpful too so if you want any tips or guidance on where to venture, chat with them.
The beds in all of the rooms at Barbara’s Boutique Hostel are elite, sure to deliver the ultimate night’s sleep. There are curtains for privacy, two pillows, your own power outlet and even a personal fan! And when you wake up, there’s a simple but delicious breakfast waiting for you.
There are private double rooms with ensuite private bathrooms that sleep up to four. So if you’re travelling with a crew and want that sweet spot mix of privacy and hostel vibes, Barbara’s Boutique Hostel is the joint for you, no doubt. With comfy beds in the dorm rooms, solo travellers will also enjoy the vibes.
2. Adra Hostel – Best Hostel in Antigua for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Address: 4ta Calle Oriente #15, Antigua Guatemala, Antigua, Guatemala
Situated on Calle Real, you couldn’t get a better location for mixing and mingling and meeting new crew. If you’re travelling solo to have your own space and time, Adra Hostel has sumptuous ethics which in my experience attracts a good crowd.
The community atmosphere is one that people not only want to be a part of but want to contribute to too. From a big shared cooking space to the indoor and outdoor chill zones, there are engaging spaces throughout this hostel to encourage connection.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Airport Transfers
- Onsite Restaurant
- 24 Hour Reception
When I’m travelling solo, I really appreciate little things like airport transfers and security which you don’t necessarily look for or think about… But they make the world of difference to my peace of mind which flows onto my sleep which flows onto my confidence and making friends… Ya feel me?
Speaking of sleep, there are options for everyone here. As I mentioned, the rooms here are huge but they’re designed for rest. The dorm rooms sleep eight to 24 people and the bunk beds have heavy private curtains so lights out means lights out!
3. Taura – Best Cheap Hostel in Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $6
- Address: El Calvario frente al rastro #3, Antigua Guatemala, Antigua, Guatemala
Taura Hostel is great value for money, just a 20-minute walk from downtown Antigua. Walking your way around a city is a great way to save money and stay fit while travelling – a win-win if you ask me! This Antigua hostel has a fabulous aesthetic, elegant bunk beds and plenty of grassy room outdoors.
It might just be me but sometimes when you’re travelling, it’s really hard to find a good patch of grass to hang out on. They’ve got it dialled here and you can find people lounging in the sun, practising yoga or getting around a bonfire on a night.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Rooftop Bar
- Airport Transfers
- Tour Desk
There’s the option to include breakfast for a minimal cost and it’s delicious. Taura are aware of being a bit of a walk from town so they’ve catered brilliantly to provide everything you could need. If you’re on that budget backpacking self-catering buzz, you’ll enjoy the spacious, clean kitchen to use at your leisure.
In terms of dorm rooms, there is one big 14-bed dorm which is a designated quiet zone and an easy place to get a good night’s sleep. Then there are private double rooms (or a twin option!) where you’ll have your own bathroom and the ultimate night’s sleep in your own space.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Tropicana Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $11
- Private Room: From $45
- Address: 6ta. Calle Poniente, Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez, Antigua, Guatemala
Party people where you at?! You need to get yourself to Tropicana Hoste, easily the best party hostel in Antigua. The swimming pool is the focal point of Tropicana and chances are the spot where you will spend 99% of your time.
From the moment you check-in, you know you’re travelling in Guatemala, Tropicana Hostel has a super chilled-out vibe. This paired with just the right amount of passion for a party makes this the best of the Antigua hostels for my party people. Fiercely competitive beer pong competitions are not unheard of at Tropicana so you better bring your game face!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Friendly and Helpful Staff
- Close to Central Park
- Tour Desk
Tropicana has another fabulous draw card – they have their own Acatenango Volcano trek, definitely get on it if you’re not too hungover! If you’re curious about exploring any of the other natural wonders of Antigua, get to the tour desk and chat with the friendly and helpful staff. Book your trip and try to get a good night’s sleep – easy to do in the comfy beds, hard to do with the party vibes.
But hey, as a wise man once said, sleep when you’re dead, right?! The dorm rooms at Tropicana Hostel are set up well though, they’re big ones (14 and 15 beds) but are designated sleeping areas. The pool, on the other hand, that’s where the party’s at, with a bar and daily activities you’ll be plenty entertained.
There’s a garden and panoramic views too so you can find some sanctuary… But if you’re this deep into my recommendation for a party hostel in Antigua, I doubt that’s on your mind! If you’re thinking of food, there isn’t much in the way of a kitchen for self-catering but who feels like cooking anyway? There’s a restaurant onsite at Tropicana Hostel with fabulous food so don’t sweat it.
5. Yellow House Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Antigua
- Private Room: From $56
- Address: 1a. Calle Poniente # 24, 1 and 1/2 blocks west from La Merced Church (250 m from centre), 03002 Antigua Guatemala
Digital Nomads rejoice! Yellow House Hostel has plenty of room to spread out and get down to business – what’s more, it’s on the terrace so you won’t miss any of the stunning weather. Top tip from a sun lover, a sarong over your head and a laptop like a fort makes for a wonderful makeshift office!
Yellow House Hostel is in an epic location for exploring Antigua when you’re done with your work day which is always a win. Plus, the staff are beautiful and generous with their local knowledge so spark up a conversation and make the most of it. Another perk I’ll mention right off the bat is that this Antigua hostel has a (paid) airport shuttle service so getting here is low admin.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Plenty of Room to Work From
- Adult Only Property
- Private Double Rooms
This Antigua hostel is exceptionally clean which is ideal for working from as a digital nomad. You know they say “a clean “clean your space, clear your mind”, there’s nothing worse than trying to get work done in a mess. Admittedly, Yellow House Hostel is not your typical hostel with bunk beds, but you can always visit other hostels to get that vibe.
The friendly staff are super accommodating with check-in times and have even been known to pack you a breakfast if you’ve gotta run! This sort of welcoming atmosphere is notable and especially when the breakfast is this good, it’ll have you coming back.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Antigua Hostels
Still haven’t found the perfect hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, I’ve got more coming your way! Also, make sure to check out the best things to do in Guatemala so that you won’t miss out on anything in this amazing country.
Hostal Morenos Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $18
- Private Room: From $40
- Address: 2a. Avenida sur casa 45 Antigua Guatemala, Antigua, Guatemala
This place is elite, it’s aesthetically pleasing, it’s practical with the self-catering facilities, and it’s down to earth, too. Hot showers and laundry facilities, I love – if you’re out here doing activities, there’s nothing like a hot shower to refresh and reset. There’s a cafe here too so if you get home from being out and about and don’t have the gumption to cook, don’t sweat it.
There’s a book exchange, board games and a TV if you need to chill TF out after all the activities. The common room here is super loungey and a breeding ground for new friendships so get out there.
Amura
- Dorm (mixed): From $9
- Private Room: From $48
- Address: 6ta avenida norte 57, Sacatepequez, Antigua, Guatemala
This is a classic cheap and cheerful (by the cost of Antigua standards) and is only five blocks from Parque Central. Other hostels are easily more glamorous, but Amura is a salt-of-the-earth type of Antiguan hostel. There is still a beautiful rooftop terrace to hang out at and enjoy the wonderful scenes.
Despite the proximity and accessibility to the town centre, Amura is in a quiet block that has a local vibe to it. The staff are friendly and helpful with anything you need. Cruise down the road for a croissant in the morning to set you up for a fabulous day.
Flore Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $18
- Address: 1 avenida sur numero 24, 1 avenida sur numero 24, Antigua, Guatemala
This cosy boutique hostel is chic, elegant and one of those hostels where you have the hostel vibe, but less grungy. Some love it, some don’t, but laying on a new sun lounger on a rooftop terrace can never be a bad thing for me! There’s a coffee shop onsite so you’ll never be without snacks of coffee and sometimes that’s all I need.
On a larger, more practical level, the rooms are more spacious and full of natural light than your average hostel. The bunk beds have their own blackout (!!) privacy curtains, electrical plugs and lockers in a minimalistic decorated room. This Antigua hostel is epic for everyone, with super wifi for digital nomads, friendly staff and an epic location, topped off with a tasty brekkie!
Hostal De La Fuente
- Dorm (mixed): From $20
- Private Room: From $52
- Address: Calle 9na Oriente Casa 9, Antigua, Guatemala
Did my plug on the onsite cafe put you off Flore Hostel and keen to move on to the next? Well, hello, I’ve got you! Hostal De La Fuente is pretty rootsy, OG vibes, genuine hospitality, and a kitchen where you can cook your own ting and make friends. There’s nothing like food to bring people together and then also, another rooftop terrace to chill on after.
What’s more, there’s a complimentary dinner on offer too on occasion… This is one of those hostels you book a night at and stay as long as you can. If you need help getting to the hostel from the airport, Hostal De La Fuente will be there in a heartbeat, just get in touch.
Socialtel Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $70
- Address: 6ta avenida norte # 43-A, Antigua, Antigua, Guatemala
The simply dreamy Socialtel Antigua is the best hostel for couples in Antigua. Their private rooms are stylish, cosy and ever so romantic. The Socialtel Antigua team have a great eye for detail, making this probably the coolest hostel in Antigua.
If you and bae work on the road, check in to this Antigua hostel as they have their own co-working space with decent WiFi. Being one of the larger youth hostels in Antigua means that there is always a buzziness to Socialtel. You and your travelling bae can hang out with the crew in the bar, or on the rooftop terrace, or retreat to your gorgeous room.
Maya Papaya
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Private Room: From $63
- Address: 1ra Calle Poniente #20, Antigua, Guatemala
Maya Papaya is the best hostel in Antigua for travellers looking for an outstanding hostel vibe and epic value for money. Maya Papaya offers a free breakfast for all its guests and is the perfect way to start the day. Once you have had your fill you’re free to head out and explore.
Be sure to swing by the Maya Papaya Tours and travel desk to see if you can snap up any sweet deals on tickets and tours. In the evening time, the Maya Papaya bar is the place to be! Their happy hour is next level and there is a bowl of free popcorn for all.
Ojala
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $98
- Address: 7ma Avenida Norte #1, Antigua, Guatemala
Ojala is a sister hostel to Maya Papaya, so you can expect the same hospitality, value for money and similar vibe. Bunk beds in the dorm rooms have privacy curtains, fluffy duvets and a shelf for personal bits so it’s easy to feel at home here. If you want a private room, you can get that too, with eight private rooms to choose from, each with stunning views, they got you.
This Antigua hostel has wonderful food and is a great place to stay if you want tours to be within easy access. With the main plaza about 15-minute walk away, it’s a great place to base yourself for accessibility and a good night’s sleep. And I mean, look at it!!
Somos
- Dorm (mixed): From $16
- Address: 2a Avenue Sur No. 26, Antigua, Guatemala
Somos is an ideal Antigua backpackers hostel for digital nomads. Spacious and bright, Somos provides a great space to work in and all the home comforts digital nomads often crave. You are free to work wherever you like as the WiFi reaches all corners of the hostel!
If you don’t fancy exploring and need a day to chill you can lounge around in the common room and have a Netflix binge. Yes, Netflix! Somos is a real home-from-home for travellers of all kinds but digital nomads will totally appreciate the little touches!
The Purpose Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $17
- Private Room: From $57
- Address: 9 Calle Oriente #6, Sacatepéquez, Antigua, Guatemala
Bright and airy, and made using mostly upcycled shipping pallets The Purpose is one of the best hostels in Antigua. The Purpose is, well, fit for purpose! Located right at the heart of Antigua they’re just two blocks from Tanque la Union and five blocks from Central Park. Perfect!
The free coffee in the morning only serves to sweeten the deal and get you caffeinated and keen to explore. Relatively new to the scene we can expect to see The Purpose Hostel gain in popularity throughout the year. FYI, the beds are uber comfy!
Hostal Antigua
- Dorm (mixed): From $13
- Private Room: From $44
- Address: 5a Ave Sur #22, Antigua, Guatemala
Homely and affordable, Hostal Antigua is a top hostel in Antigua. They offer free WiFi throughout the building but if you need the super-fast stuff you can upgrade for $0.90/hr… Definitely worth it if you are a digital nomad who needs that extra boost. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything to complain about at Hostal Antigua.
The staff are really lovely and will go out of their way to ensure that you have a great stay. They are happy to translate for you and will give you a Spanish lesson or two if you wish! Hostal Antigua is a solid all-rounder with something for every style of traveller.
Matiox
The overall best hostel in Antigua is Matiox. Their hostel bar is one of the best you will find in all of Guatemala and has super affordable drinks night and day. Matiox is in a great central location in Antigua, within walking distance of the city’s architectural gems.
Matiox has something for everyone, it’s true. You can lock yourself away in a private room or put yourself out there and get mingling. The garden at Matiox is the best place to hang out and there are enough hammocks and loungers to go around.
El Hostal
Another great hostel in Antigua for solo travellers is El Hostal. This place is always busy! Attracting an adventurous yet chilled-out crowd, El Hostal is the perfect youth hostel in Antigua for solo travellers.
The sun-trapped courtyard, complete with water fountains, is not only crazy cute but the ideal place to find your fellow travellers. El Hostal is 100% locally owned and managed so be sure to chat with the wonderful staff to get their insider tips on where to visit and when. For solo travellers keen to have a chilled-out time in Antigua and perhaps make a friend or two, El Hostal is spot on.
Hostel Capitan Tom
Cheap and cheerful, the best cheap hostel in Antigua is Hostel Captain Tom. You would be inclined to think that cheap hostels lack cleanliness and facilities, not Captain Tom! The dorms themselves are admittedly nothing to write home about design-wise but are spacious and comfortable.
There is a guest kitchen which you are free to use, just leave it tidy! The washing machine is another great way Captain Tom’s helps backpackers to keep on top of costs. FYI the rooftop terrace offers an incredible view of Fuego volcano that money really cannot buy.
Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel
Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel is a new arrival on the hostel scene in Antigua and is totally smashing it. Modern, bright, chic and stylish Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel is on to a winner. Offering free WiFi, a calming environment from which to work and plenty of spaces to adopt as your office Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel is the digital nomad’s dream!
Set right in the heart of Antigua, just 500m from Santa Catalina Arch. So staying at Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel means that once the working day is done you can head out and explore with ease. Home comforts like a guest kitchen and laundry facilities are a total bonus.
Three Monkeys Hostel
Three Monkeys is a top hostel in Antigua that is ideal for solo travellers keen to meet and mingle. There is always something going on at Three Monkeys Hostel, there is never a dull moment. With just the right balance of party vibes and chilled-out feels at Three Monkeys a good night’s sleep is guaranteed.
Set up by an Aussie and two Guatemalans Three Monkeys has been created with the sociable backpacker in mind. Suffice to say, you won’t feel like a solo traveller when you come to check out… New buddies ahoy! The dorms are clean, cosy and comfortable. Nothing but love for this place.
Villa Esthela
Villa Esthela is the best budget hostel in Antigua for sure. Offering super cheap dorms throughout the year Villa Esthela is a little gem. The rooftop terrace at Villa Esthela offers spectacular views of Antigua’s cityscape and the broody mountains that provide a picture-perfect backdrop to this amazing city.
The lack of bunk beds in the dorms helps to make Villa Esthela that little bit homier. If you are near broke in Antigua, Villa Esthela may just be your saving grace. Go visit Casa Popenoe while you’re here!
Bigfoot Hostel
Bigfoot Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in Antigua ideal for couples who want a private room but don’t wanna splurge. Bigfoot has super spacious, modern, private rooms that are really quite affordable. Everything about Bigfoot Hostel is just cute and homely; from the wooden floors, ceilings and furniture, to the sun-trapped courtyard and the incredibly helpful staff.
You and bae will find the Bigfoot-fam hanging out in the said courtyard throughout the day… Heck, you should consider taking a day just to chill at Bigfoot. We all need a hostel day sometimes!
Hostel El Vagamundo
A little under the radar nowadays, Hostel El Vagamundo is a top hostel in Antigua for a party. Their fully stocked hostel bar has some epic drinks deals every night and can get pretty pumping when it wants to. The free breakfast is a real treat and an ideal way to soak up all that budget booze the morning after!
The food at Hostel El Vagamundo’s cafe is pretty good TBF. You won’t go hungry here, that’s for sure. If you’re moving on and need a hand making plans swing by the CA-travelers desk, the in-house agency. They’ll hook you up. Speaking of hook ups, check this young couple out if you have any film needs while here in Central America.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Antigua
Anything can happen wherever you are. Get good travel insurance before your trip to ease that worry from your mind and enjoy where you are!
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.
FAQs About Hostels in Antigua
What to Pack for your Antigua 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 my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much do hostels in Antigua cost?
Dorm rooms in Antigua cost for as low as $10/night. For a private room, the average cost starts from $40/night.
What are the best hostels in Antigua for couples?
Socialtel Antigua is an ideal hostel for couples in Antigua. It has comfortable and stylish private rooms.
What is the best hostel in Antigua near the airport?
The nearest airport to Antigua is in Guatemala City, which is roughly an hour drive away. I recommend Maya Papaya for its great airport shuttle service.
Final Thoughts on Antigua’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Antigua has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure. The outdoor activities and nature scenes are seemingly limitless here as are the rooftops to enjoy them from. With so much to see and experience here, anticipate wanting to extend your holiday!
I’ve included a varied selection of hostels in this list and I’m sure there’s something for everyone. In saying that, the choice can be overwhelming and if you’re on the fence, book a couple of nights at Barbara’s Boutique Hostel. It’s my overall favourite hostel in Antigua and I’m sure you’ll feel at home.
Notably, hostels in Antigua are significantly more expensive than other cities in this part of the world. So if you’re looking for something cheaper, lock into Taura. This Antigua hostel is slightly further out of town but my fellow broke backpackers aren’t afraid of a few extra steps.
Wherever you stay in Antigua, I’m sure you’ll love it, hang out in Parque Centrale and linger under the Santa Catalina Arch, soak it up! There are dorm rooms aplenty in this funky city and I’m sure you’ll find a corner that speaks to you.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Guatemala for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Guatemala covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Antigua before you arrive.
- 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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