Simply put, Mexico City is awesome. Some media outlets would have you believe that it’s a dangerous place and you will surely be kidnapped if you merely step foot in the city. However, that’s just not true. Over the last few years, Mexico City has really cleaned up its act and cracked down on the drug wars.
Mexico City has become a cultural hub and it’s a great place to start your backpacking trip through Mexico. From concerts to museums to beautiful parks and a delectable culinary scene, there are plenty of things to do in Mexico City.
For nightlife, Zona Roma and La Condesa bring the buzz, while the Zocalo is the place to be for sightseers (just know it turns into a ghost town after dark). Like any big city, though, you’ll want to keep an eye out in the city center after sundown.
Finding a spot that’s safe, social, and suits your vibe can be a mission, so I’ve done the hard graft—online and in person—to bring you the ultimate guide to Mexico City’s best hostels. Whether you’re here to party, chill, save some pesos, or snag the ideal workspace, it’s all right here.
Let’s dive in, amigos.
Photo: @amandaadraper
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Mexico City
- Best Overall Hostel in Mexico City – Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel
- Best Hostel in Mexico City for Solo Travelers – Massiosare El Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Mexico City – Suites DF Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Mexico City – Apapacho
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Mexico City – Hostal Juarez
The 5 Best Hostels in Mexico City
Here it is—the ultimate roundup of Mexico City’s hostels, tailored to fit every travel style. Choosing your spot just got way simpler, so you can dive into city adventures without wasting time.
1. Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Mexico City
- Dorm (mixed): 15$/night
- Private room: 75$/night
- Location: San Ildefonso 38, Mexico City, Mexico
This hostel’s all about good vibes and even better company. With daily events, tours, and happy hours, there’s always something happening, and the staff go out of their way to make sure you’re having a blast. It’s got that perfect mix of cozy and social, and after a few days here, you’re bound to leave with a whole new crew of mates backpacking Mexico City.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great Tours Everyday
- Happy Hours
- Clean and Modern Amenities
If Mexican culture, history, and art are your jam, Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel nails it. Located right in front of the old Colegio de San Ildefonso, you’re a short stroll from all the top spots in your Mexico City itinerary: Palacio de Bellas Artes, Zócalo, the Cathedral, Templo Mayor, and La Alameda Park.
After a day of exploring, the hostel bar’s there to welcome you with a well-deserved cocktail, and the on-site restaurant has surprisingly solid plant-based options – a rarity in Mexico City hostels and perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers over a good meal. Get involved with the events they hold every night, there’s always something going on and it’s a great way to dive into the social scene.
The dorms come well-equipped, with comfy beds, plenty of space, towel hooks, and tables to help you settle in. From tours to events, they’ve got everything lined up to make sure your stay is epic – take full advantage!
2. Massiosare El Hostel – Best Hostel in Mexico City for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): 14$/night
- Private room: 34$/night
- Location: 47 Revillagigedo PH, 06000 Mexico City, Mexico
If you’re a solo traveler in Mexico looking for a laid-back, low-key vibe, Massiosare El Hostel’s got you covered. Right near Alameda Central, the metro, and the Zocalo, the location couldn’t be better. With plenty of chill communal spaces and a crowd that’s more “relaxed traveler” than “party animal,” it’s a spot to unwind and feel at home in a more local part of the city.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill but Social
- Central Location
- Great Free Breakfast
The hostel’s got not one but two kitchens, with one totally dedicated to veggie-only cooking – ideal for saving cash on meals so you can splurge on exploring. Plus, loads of metro and bus stops are nearby, making it easy to get around to the best places to visit in the city.
Heads up: it’s on the fourth floor with no elevator, so get ready for a bit of a workout with your backpack. But the rooftop’s got some killer views that make the climb worth it!
3. Suites DF Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Mexico City
- Dorm (mixed): 17$/night
- Private room: 51$/night
- Location: Jesus Teran 38, Colonia Tabacalera, Mexico City
Sure, you could go rock-bottom cheap with a hostel in Mexico City, but trust me—you don’t want to. The bargain-basement spots here can be downright bleak. Suites DF Hostel, on the other hand, strikes that sweet balance of budget-friendly with solid amenities. It’s clean, cheap and cheerful, and social. You’ll actually get a decent night’s sleep without those itchy sheets and that nagging “maybe I went too cheap” feeling.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Lucha Libre Tours
- Lots of Freebies
- Social Vibe
This place brings the fun, too, with activities like Lucha Libre tours every Tuesday and Friday. Plus, breakfast, towels, and a locker are included, so you’re getting serious value here. When you’re flying solo and in the mood to make friends, a social setup like this is golden—no hiding behind screens needed.
While the Wi-Fi’s nothing to write home about, the location makes up for it. Right in the heart of CDMX, it’s the perfect base to start exploring the city as most things are within walking distance.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Apapacho – Best Party Hostel in Mexico City
- Dorm (mixed): 19$/night
- Private room: 79$/night
- Location: Calle 5 de Febrero 41, Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, Mexico
This spot is an absolute blast. Think karaoke nights, beer pong tournaments, $2 beers, lucha libre outings, and enough social events to keep the good times rolling. Everything here runs like clockwork—super helpful staff, great facilities, and a prime location smack bang in the heart of the historic district. It’s got a buzzing, social vibe with a crowd that’s just as fun as the activities on offer. The staff and volunteers are all legends, making sure you’re in for a top stay.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Daily Events Held
- Cheap Beer
- Rooftop Bar
The building’s got style in spades, and the rooftop terrace and bar is a total standout. Expect killer sunsets, cocktails that don’t break the bank, and a social vibe that gets everyone talking. The crew here really go all out to make sure you have a great time, and their events are not to be missed.
When you’re ready to kick back, this place has it all—a fully kitted-out kitchen, coworking space, and a chill zone to unwind and catch a show. Dorms are decked out with pod-style beds, personal outlets, and privacy curtains, plus lockers that actually fit all your gear, so you can relax knowing your stuff’s secure while you’re living it up. This was one of my favorite hostels in Mexico during my trip, and it’s not hard to see why.
5. Hostal Juarez – Best Hostel for Digital Nomad in Mexico City
- Dorm (mixed): 27$/night
- Location: liverpool 28, Mexico City, Mexico
Hostal Juarez is all about art, creativity, and good vibes. Their terrace doubles as an open-air gallery, decked out with vibrant murals and artwork from local and international artists—a perfect spot to chill, soak up the inspiration, and meet other artsy souls.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill Vibes
- Central Location
- Daily Events Held
By day, the terrace can double as a co-working haven with fast Wi-Fi, ideal for digital nomads in Mexico. The location is bang-on, with tons of cafes, restaurants, and co-working spots nearby, and a 7-11 right on the corner for any last-minute snack runs. There’s even an in-house laundry service, perfect if you’re sticking around for a bit.
The guest kitchen setup here might just be the best you’ll find in a Mexican hostel, and the spacious beds and cozy dorms are a bonus. The common area is a prime hangout spot, and the staff are legends, especially Daniel, who’s always down to make your stay a blast with his famous Lucha Libre nights.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More of the Best Hostels in Mexico City
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Mexico City below.
Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral
- Dorm (mixed): 29$/night
- Private room: 43$/night
- Location: República de Guatemala No 4 Colonia Centro, 06020 Mexico City, Mexico
Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral nails it for location—right near the city’s top historic sites, so you’re within walking distance of the city’s most iconic spots. The rooftop bar here is a serious vibe check, with views of the Cathedral and Zocalo that are worth the stay alone. Security is tight, so you’ll feel safe stashing your bags for a last round of sightseeing post-checkout.
There’s a solid complimentary breakfast every morning, and the daily activities make it easy to jump in and meet fellow travelers. Plus, a fully-equipped kitchen lets you DIY meals when you’re feeling thrifty. Perfect if you’re short on time and want quick access to all the culture-packed stops in the city.
Hostel Home
- Dorm (mixed): 28$/night
- Private room: 59$/night
- Location: Tabasco 303, 06700 Mexico City, Mexico
With a great location, staff, and overall welcoming and friendly vibe, it’s no wonder Hostel Home is a favorite amongst backpackers in Mexico. I mean, what more could you want from a hostel? It has a great atmosphere for socializing and making new friends and you’re still able to get a good night’s sleep thanks to the noise rules the hostel has in place.
Hostel Home is in an old house so you truly feel like you’re staying in someone’s home. It’s also located in Zona Roma, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Mexico City, so there are plenty of awesome bars and restaurants around the corner. This hostel simply can’t be beaten!
Metro Hostal Boutique
- Dorm (mixed): 13$/night
- Private room: 44$/night
- Location: 84 Guanajuato Col. Roma norte, 06700 Mexico City, Mexico
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Mexico? Mexico City’s got to be at the top of your list, and Zona Rosa is where the action’s at. Right in the heart of it, this boutique hostel has nailed the vibe of a hip Mexico City hideout. With a stylish rooftop terrace, sleek decor, and little extras like free towels, it feels more like a trendy hotel than your average hostel. The staff here are rockstars, always ready with a local tip or two to help you explore like a pro.
While the Wi-Fi doesn’t stretch into the rooms, the vibrant common areas make the perfect spot to check your messages and meet other travelers. And this location is absolute gold—right in the heart of Roma, surrounded by bars, restaurants, and all the buzz of the city. The volunteers often set up yoga and dance classes, along with tours to Teotihuacan and other must-sees. Plus, the rooftop terrace offers epic sunset views that make this hostel a seriously sweet spot to call home.
Hostel St Llorenc Inn
- Dorm (mixed): 21$/night
- Private room: 27$/night
- Location: Manuel Villalongin No. 90 Col. Cuauhtemoc, 06500 Mexico City, Mexico
Hostel St Llorenc is all about the good vibes, thanks to the staff dedicated to ensuring an unforgettable stay. Nestled conveniently between Chapultepec Park and the Zocalo, this spot makes it a breeze to check out all the must-see sites in the city. The owner is super attentive, making sure guests feel right at home. Plus, there are loads of freebies to help you stretch that budget, making this hostel a smart choice for savvy travelers looking to explore without breaking the bank.
Capsule Hostel Mexico City
- Dorm (mixed): 12$/night
- Private room: 35$/night
- Location: Hamburgo 41, 06600 Mexico City, Mexico
Although there isn’t a great area for socializing at Capsule Hostel Mexico City, the dorm beds are very private thanks to the solid wall between them. They offer a simple breakfast and the wifi has been reported as decent, a step up from many hostels. The location is very central and they have a pizza restaurant on site. If you’ve been feeling a lil burnt out after a whirlwind Central America trip, this might just be the perfect spot for you to unwind.
Mexico City Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): 16$/night
- Private room: 48$/night
- Location: Republica de Brasil, 11, 06010 Mexico City, Mexico
One of the most budget-friendly hostels near the Zocalo, this youth hostel packs in a lot of character. Free breakfast and towels are part of the deal, and the building’s got that classic charm, with beautiful murals all over the walls. Rooms come with a bit of a bonus: snag a balcony, and you’ll get a front-row seat to the lively sounds of the street and main square vendors below. It’s noisy, sure, but it’s all part of the Mexico City experience—chaotic, charming, and endlessly vibrant.
Hostel Amigo
- Dorm (mixed): 16$/night
- Private room: 48$/night
- Location: Isabel la Catolica 61-A, 06000 Mexico City, Mexico
Hostel Amigo is one of the oldest Mexico City hostels. There’s a nice bar and sitting area where you can socialize with other guests. They can also arrange tours to different locations around the city. It’s also a gay-friendly location. There are mixed reviews on the cleanliness and staff but overall the location and price are quite good.
Gael Condesa
Gael Condesa is the best hostel for digital nomads in Mexico City. Located in La Condesa, lots of creative types come to work here thanks to the fast wifi and big table in the common area. The dorm beds have curtains creating more privacy for a better night’s sleep and the outdoor terrace is a great place to chat with other guests. There is also a desk in every room. Guests can use the small kitchen, helping you save some cash. Some of the private rooms even have a balcony! You’ll be getting work done in style.
Punto DF
Located less than 700 meters from the International Airport, this is the best place near the airport in Mexico City. Not only that, it’s also an Artistic Residency hosting travelers from all over the world. All four of their common areas were decorated by their first resident artists. The surrounding neighborhood has restaurants with food from all over the world. They’ll even lend you a towel and a padlock for your stay. For a long layover or the traveler needing to catch an early flight out, this youth hostel can’t be beaten!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Mexico City
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Mexico City.
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 Mexico City
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Mexico City.
What to Pack for your Mexico City 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!
What is the best Mexico City hostel for solo travelers?
If you’re flying solo you should seriously consider Massiosare El Hostel. It’s not got a raging party scene which I actually think makes it easier to talk to people and make new pals. Super social, super chill, and tons of opportunities to build your backpacking crew in Mexico.
How much does a hostel cost in Mexico City?
Mexico City hostel’s average price range is around $8-$14 for a dorm bed, while private rooms start at $21 per night.
What is the best hostel in Mexico City with a private room?
Metro Hostal Boutique is your best bet if you’re traveling with your partner and want a swanky private room. It has a rooftop terrace, is in an excellent location, and is a sweet ‘ol spot for couples or if you just want your own space.
Final Thoughts on Mexico City’s Hostels
Mexico City serves up way more than just the basics, from buzzing streets packed with history to those midnight taco runs you never knew you needed.
Whether you’re diving into the art, the food, the nightlife, or just people-watching in one of the city’s countless plazas, there’s a hostel here to fit your vibe. Staying somewhere social puts you in the heart of the action, right where you can soak up all that character and chaos Mexico City does best.
My favorite? Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel. It ticks all the boxes I look for in a hostel in the city: social, central, and that all-important rooftop bar. A city this vibrant just DEMANDS a cocktail and city views in the evening—duh.
This city is intense, addictive, and, frankly, hard to leave once you’re in its rhythm. Enjoy every minute amigos!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Mexico for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Mexico City covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Mexico City 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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