Despite being the second-largest island in the Mediterranean sea, Sardinia is still one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Known for its crystal clear waters, exquisite natural beauty, and classic Italian charm (with a rustic Spanish feel too), things run at a slower pace compared with mainland Italy. It offers a much more laid-back feel.
Unlike Greece and Croatia that thrive on social media publicity and overpriced bottle service, Sardinia is a tranquil retreat where people come to escape all of that BS. There is a more low-key atmosphere and quiet accommodations, though you’ll still be able to find a fun party hostel in Sardinia.
We’ve put together all the top hostels and budget accommodations across the island to make your search for the perfect place to stay as easy as possible.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Sardinia
What to Expect from Hostels in Sardinia
A trip from the north to south of Sardinia could take you five hours – it ain’t small! As a result, there are loads of places to stay, from cheap and cheerful to luxe and glamorous. If you’re arriving by flight or ferry, Cagliari and the Costa Sud are where you’ll likely begin your trip.
With azure blue waters, Costa Smeralda (the Emerald Coast) is the spot for the rich and the famous. Capo Testa is also an exquisite beach area in Northern Sardinia, while Alghero is an ancient town with a Spanish history and some seriously worthwhile restaurants.
There aren’t a ton of hostels in Sardinia, likely because the island breeds a very relaxed atmosphere and doesn’t have a huge party scene. They make up for it with a bunch of great budget spots.
Booking a hostel or affordable guest house is a great way to experience the local charm and ambiance that Sardinia has to offer, while sticking to budget. These accommodations are often locally owned, and run by residents who have called the island home for generations. The locals are so friendly and welcoming, they will always be happy to share insider advice and guidance on the best beaches to visit, restaurants to eat at, and outdoor adventures to try.
The best site to browse for hostels and budget accommodation is Hostelworld.com. If you run into a dead end there, Airbnb and Booking.com offer a bunch of low-cost options, too, as well as the option to filter your search according to price!
The Best Hostels & Budget Stays in Sardinia
Enough small talk; let’s dive right in and take a look at some of the best hostels in Sardinia. We’ve got everything from family-friendly budget bed and breakfasts, to hostels with in-house bars.
Want to save money on accommodation?
Enjoy 15% OFF on stays ALL around the world.
Villa Beach City Guesthouse
When visiting Sardinia during the summertime, you’re likely going for the relaxing beach vibe, warm ocean, and pristine beaches. Villa Beach City Guesthouse offers all of this, and more, complemented by its perfect location on the beach and close proximity to the city center.
Just steps from the Mediterranean ocean, and only a 20-minute bus ride from Cagliari City Center, it is ideal for anyone interested in the local history and culture, as well as foodies after a traditional pizza or pasta dish. Conveniently, the bus stop to get to town is only a few meters away.
Although this property is technically a guesthouse, the spot has affordable private rooms in a sociable beach setting, much like any good Sardinian hostel would. The neighborhood is safe and quiet, yet has a bunch of local eateries, nightclubs, and bars to explore. There are even a few surf schools on the beach out front!
Why you’ll love this budget stay:
- Near a bus stop
- Safe neighborhood
- Free Wi-Fi, coffee, and tea
Villa Beach City Guesthouse is pretty small, and only has two rooms – each is private and has its own bathroom. While you might not get a super social party hostel experience, you’re guaranteed a quality accommodation that is clean and has great service.
Both rooms have fresh linens and air conditioning for those sweltering hot days. If you need to get a bit of work done during your trip, there is free Wi-Fi and a bunch of indoor and outdoor working spaces. There is also 24-hour security and a safe deposit box to keep your electronics safe while you explore.
Breakfast isn’t included in the rate, but there are facilities available for those who want to make their own meals in the kitchen. And let’s not forget the incredible restaurants around the guesthouse.
OSTELLO HENRY
Hostels aren’t easy to come by on this mostly local, beachy island. However, if you’re after a social vibe, Ostello Henry will give it to you! Not only is this the best hostel on the island, but it is one of the only spots that offer dorm accommodation, making it great for solo travelers.
The hostel has clean, modern rooms. There is a common space to socialize with other guests or to just hang out and relax. The hostel offers delicious fresh croissants with pistachio cream for breakfast!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Bikes for rent
- Terrace with bar
- FREE coffee and breakfast
Not only does it have its own bar, but it is beachfront baby! So you’ll be a stones throw from the sea 🙂 Free Wi-Fi is included, and there is a shared space where digital nomads can set up and get some work done.
Try out the bicycle hire service as cycling is a great way to explore the island! You can also store your own bikes at the hostel free of charge.
B&B Casa Devoto
B&B Casa Devoto is located near the center of Cagliari and the train station which smacks it right in the middle of the best place to stay on the island.
Thanks to its super central location and close proximity to public transportation, within a quick five-minute walk you can hop on transport to many of South Sardinia’s most beautiful beaches. Eateries, supermarkets, and major city attractions are also within a short walk.
Why you’ll love this stay:
- FREE breakfast
- Close to the train station
- Super kind host
- Cozy vibes
Their double rooms are clean and comfortable with fresh linens. The owner of the B&B is SUPER hospitable and makes every guest who walks through her door feel welcome. You’ll leave feeling full of happiness and food! The breakfasts are delicious, homemade and copious – you might just end up rolling yourself out of there.
B&B Su Cantaru
Sardinia a beautiful place to visit with a big group of friends. For a family reunion, a bachelor/bachelorette event, or any ol’ special occasion, B&B Su Cantaru is the perfect spot to stay.
The hostel is located in Villanova Monteleone, only a short drive from Alghero, with a bunch of different rooms to choose from – most with a private ensuite bathroom. The bathrooms are equipped with hotel-like amenities including complimentary toiletries! Each room can sleep between two to three guests, at a super low price per night.
Decorated using antique furnishings in traditional Sardinian interior style, you will get a vibe of the island even when you aren’t out exploring.
Why you’ll love this stay:
- Laundry facilities
- Breakfast available for an extra cost
- Terrace BBQ
B&B Su Cantaru is run by a local couple who have put tons of effort into making their bed and breakfast homey and inviting for guests. As a courtesy, free city maps, cable TV, and on-site parking are included in your stay.
Depending on availability, they would be happy to arrange a late check-out for you. If you’re leaving the island late in the day and a late check out isn’t possible, luggage storage is available.
As an added bonus, when you stay for a week or more, your rate will include an airport transfer from Alghero Airport. Even housekeeping is included in the nightly rate – every day, your room will be cleaned and bed made, and your linen will be changed every three days (unless otherwise specified). It really offers a hotel-like atmosphere!
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!Other Budget Accommodations in Sardinia
Hostels aren’t everyone’s style, check out these budget accommodations that offer a little more for an equally as affordable price!
Hotel Meridiana
Hotel Meridiana is a three-star rated hotel located in the relaxing town of Arbus. There is a beautiful rooftop deck with ocean views, as well as a huge swimming pool – a steal for the budget price!
The rooms are simply furnished including air conditioning, a private workspace, and ensuite bathroom. Depending on the type of room you book, you could even find yourself with your own private balcony overlooking the city.
Not only does this spot have a sparkling swimming pool with beautiful views, but it is also super well located in the heart of town. You’ll be a quick ten-minute walk from the city center, with local food hubs and a mineral mining museum.
The Cagliari Elmas Airport and Cagliari Harbor are only a short drive away. The hotel is happy to organize transport to and from upon request.
A Casa Di Sara
A Casa Di Sara is a cozy private room set in a local home near Costa Smeralda. Aside from it being in one of the most sought-after locations, this charming room has a private entrance and terrace with 180-degree views of the surrounding city.
The room has two single beds, which can be pushed together to make one big bed, and is equipped with fresh linen, towels, and complimentary toiletries. While the room is part of someone’s home, you will have total privacy.
The home is a short fifteen-minute bus ride from all major parts of Olbia and Costa Smeralda, including some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you’ll find supermarkets, restaurants, and bars within walking distance from the house. What better place to enjoy a traditional Italian takeout than on your own private balcony overlooking an ancient Sardinian city?
Bisos
Bisos might just be the most luxurious budget accommodation on the island of Sardinia. For a fraction of the price of a lavish hotel, this small B&B offers exquisitely decorated rooms and shared spaces. The rooms feature boho island-inspired interiors with high wooden vaulted ceilings and thoughtful decor.
Located in Paulilatino, a short drive from Oristano, the B&B has its own restaurant and shared lounge where you can mingle with other guests. Every morning, a freshly prepared Italian breakfast is served, which you can choose to eat on the sunny terrace.
Pick from king bedrooms with private terraces, double rooms with private bathrooms, or rooms with balconies overlooking the quaint city. I highly recommend this property to those looking for a romantic getaway for a reasonable price. However, the property also offers discounted rates for solo travelers.
What to Pack for your Sardinia 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!
Sardinia Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Sardinia cost?
This all depends on if you’re booking a bed in a shared dorm or a private room. Generally speaking, a bed in a shared dorm will cost you between $20 and $30 per night, while a private bedroom (often with an ensuite bathroom) will set you back around $60 to $100
What are the best hostels in Sardinia for couples?
Popular for it’s cycling and bike for hire, MuMA Hostel is our top hostel for couples who is looking for some adventurous trip!
What is the best hostel in Sardinia near the airport?
You’ll need to be within Europe to get a direct flight to Sardinia. Which is why I recommend Piccolo Catalunya Hostel which is just a few minutes away from Alghero Airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Sardinia
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.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Sardinia
Even though there might not be tons of options for hostels on the island of Sardinia, there is no shortage of high-quality, budget accommodation. Depending on the holiday vibe you’re looking for, you could stay in a buzzing party hostel in Sardinia or choose the more relaxing route in a quiet self-catering vacation rental. Ostello Henry will quench your thirst for a lively vacation, while a room in A Casa Di Sara will be sure to relax and rejuvenate you.
There are a few spots where you can stay in a shared dorm to keep costs down. Female travelers can rent a bed in an all-female dorm at Hostel Marina to be extra safe while sticking to budget.
Staying in a hostel or locally-run guesthouse is a great way to make new friends and interact with local residents in Sardinia. Remember, if you’re traveling from overseas, set yourself up with some decent travel insurance to ensure you don’t get stuck in a sticky situation abroad!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Italy for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Italy covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Italy if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Sardinia before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Italy to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
