Are you looking for the best hostels in Malaga? While there are a bunch to pick from not all Malaga hostels are created equal.
Situated on the sparkling yellow shores of the Costa del Sol, Malaga is a city brimming with history, art and culture. Malaga’s fascinating and multi-layered history is apparent through the remnants of Roman, Moorish, and Renaissance influence. Nowadays, Malaga is a hub of modern culture and one of the best cities in Spain to visit to get a taste of the true Spanish lifestyle. Its location means that it’s a fantastic base to explore the surrounding region of Andalusia.
It’s true, Malaga is a great beach holiday destination, but there’s much more to this city than meets the eye! Thousands of tourists flock to the shores of the Costa del Sol each year to bask in the sun’s rays, often ending up looking more like a lobster than a human being, and who can blame them! Of course you’ll want to spend some time on the beach while you’re here, but we highly recommend getting out into the city and seeing everything else Malaga has to offer.
Malaga has two gigantic hilltop citadels, the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro, which offer breathtaking views of the city and are definitely a must-do on your to-do list! The cathedral is well worth taking a look at too, and there are numerous museums, art galleries and a stunning old town waiting to be explored.
For a list of the best things to do in Malaga check out our guide here!
In order to keep costs down and save you money on accommodations in Malaga we have put together this list based on what we personally expect out of the best hostels in Malaga.
Clean rooms, comfortable dorm beds with power outlets, secure luggage storage, friendly atmosphere that encourages interaction (but doesn’t force it), and a communal kitchen are all super important aspects in our eyes, and we prioritize them when suggesting a place to stay. The Malaga hostels below meet all of this criteria.
Keep reading for our selection of the best hostels in Malaga, Spain.
Table of Contents
The Best Hostels in Malaga
Please note – Some of our selections contain affiliate links. These allow us to earn a small percentage every time you make a booking. Using our links enables us to provide all the information found on this site free of charge.
Malaga Hostels – Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel
- Address: Calle San Juan de Letrán, 9, 29012 Málaga, Spain
- Independent Reviews: Booking.com
Located just half a block from lively Plaza de la Merced, the Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel is undoubtedly one of the best hostels in Malaga.
This boutique hostel isn’t the cheapest of all the Malaga hostels but has a variety of lovely vibrant private and shared rooms to chose from, some of which come with a little balcony. Rooms are decorated with light and fresh colors, natural materials, and adorable up-cycled items. Every rooms has air conditioning and heating, so you’ll feel comfortable no matter what season you’re visiting Malaga during.
Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel also has a fantastic vegetarian and vegan restaurant on-site. It’s open all day and evening from 8:00 am to Midnight so an excellent breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack is always an option – even during siesta!
For more info, independent reviews, or to find the best prices for the Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel click here.
Best Hotels in Malaga – Casa Babylon Backpackers
- Address: C/Pedro de Quejana, 3, Malaga
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld
Casa Babylon Backpackers is a great Malaga hostel for travelers who value a social, lively atmosphere without compromising on comfort (or sleep!). The hostel embodies the true Andalusian spirit with its homey setting and relaxed atmosphere that comes alive at night!
The hostel offers dorm rooms of various sizes, as well as private rooms if you’d prefer some peace and solitude during your time in Malaga. Rooms are clean, cosy and provide you with everything you need for a comfortable night. One of the best things about this hostel is its unique rooftop terrace and bar which exemplifies the true Spanish lifestyle! Relax while you listen to carefully selected music from all around the world, enjoy a refreshing cocktail and swap stories with fellow travelers and roommates.
This alaga hostel is a hub of liveliness, art and culture. There are endless activities to join in on, such as live music, exhibitions from local artists, juggling workshops, paella nights, jam sessions and nightly excursions to the best spots according to the locals. The hostel prides itself on being like a “big family”, where everyone is welcomed and encouraged to join in by the friendly and hardworking staff.
Lively atmosphere, affordable prices and comfortable rooms make Casa Babylon Backpackers one of the best party hostels in Malaga for travelers who enjoy good conversation and want to embrace Spanish lifestyle.
Best Hostels in Malaga – The Lights Garden
- Address: Molinillo del Aceite, 5, Malaga Centro, 29008 Málaga, Spain
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld, Booking.com
Set in a 100 year old typical Andalusian house in the historic center of Malaga, The Lights Garden one of the most charming and best hostels in Malaga. Tucked away down a quiet side street in the center, the hostel was created by travelers for travelers. Their aim is to provide travelers with comfortable and affordable accommodation with a social and relaxed atmosphere.
Conveniently situated within walking distance to many of Malaga’s top attractions, you don’t have to worry about dealing with tricky public transport or getting lost in the (sometimes) unbearable summer heat. Museo Picasso, Museo Thyssen, Calle Larios, Malagueta beach, la Alcazaba and the Cathedral can all be reached on foot in hardly any time at all! There’s plenty to keep you entertained at night as well, as the hostel is in an area filled with lively bars, theaters, restaurants, and clubs.
The Lights Garden offers various accommodation options, including private and shared rooms. Some rooms come with a balcony, and all are modern, spacious and fully equipped with everything you might expect from a great hostel. There’s a rooftop terrace where you can relax in the sun, as well as a lounge area and communal kitchen if you prefer cooking your own food (although, we highly recommend sampling some of Spain’s fantastic gastronomy!).
The chilled out atmosphere and friendly staff are two of the greatest things about this centrally located Malaga hostel. The staff organize free dinners (including sangria!), and a free breakfast for guests too. All of this make The Lights Garden one of the best hostels in Malaga.
For more information, independent reviews, or the best prices on The Lights Garden Hostel click here!
Best Hostels in Malaga – Republica Malaga
- Address: Calle Antonio Baena Gómez, 2, 29005 Málaga
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld
Republica Malaga’s central location, welcoming staff and comfortable dormitories make it one of the best hostels in Malaga for travelers seeking a relaxed atmosphere and affordability. Just 350 meters from the central metro station, this hostel is located at the beginning of the famous De Larios street, which puts you in the perfect spot to enjoy the daily light and music show.
A short ten minute walk will bring you to the sandy shores of Malagueta beach, and in under 10 minutes you can reach the Cathedral, Alcazaba and the Picasso museum. There are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants in the surrounding area – so you won’t have to venture far from home for anything you need!
Smaller sized dorm rooms means that you won’t have to compromise on a good night sleep at Republica. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and come equipped with everything you might need such as locker facilities, free linen and a reading light. Free breakfast is included in your stay, so make the most of it!
Bike rental is available from the Malaga hostel, as well as a book exchange and tourist information desk so you can inquire about the best things to do in and around the city. Its chilled out atmosphere and friendly staff make this cozy little hostel one of the best budget hostels in Malaga.
For more information, independent reviews, or the best prices on Republica Malaga Hostel click here!
Best Hostels in Malaga – Feel Hostels City Centre
- Address: Calle Concejal Agustín Moreno, 1, 29015 Málaga
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld, Booking.com
Feel Hostels City Centre is in the perfect location to explore Malaga’s history, culture and nightlife. Its central location is one of the best things about this hostel. It’s just a short walk from the Cathedral, Picasso Museum, and El Palmeral Park, and not too far from Malaga’s beach bar area.
This charming Malaga hostel has an onsite cocktail bar, an outdoor terrace and a communal kitchen. Every morning they offer a delicious breakfast buffet where you can help yourself to cereal, toast, coffee, tea, cookies and much more for just €2.00 extra a night! They offer daily social dinners and activities for guests to take part in, and they’re a great way to meet fellow travelers!
Accommodation options include dorm rooms for 4-12 people, as well as private rooms. Rooms are brightly painted and spacious, with comfortable beds and air conditioning to keep you cool on those sticky Spanish summer nights. All dorms have secure locker facilities to keep your valuables safe, and curtains on the beds so you don’t have to worry about being woken up when your roommates come back in the early hours of the morning!
The great social atmosphere and peaceful vibe of Feel Hostels City Centre make it one of the best hostels in Malaga for travelers seeking affordable and central accommodation.
For more information, independent reviews, or the best prices on Feel Hostels City Centre click here!
Best Hostels in Malaga – Feel Hostels Soho
- Address: Vendeja, 25, Malaga Centro, 29001 Málaga, Spain
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld, Booking.com
Located in the heart of historical Malaga, Feel Hostels Soho is in the ideal location for exploring this beautiful city on your own two feet. A short 12 minute walk from the glistening shores of the Costa del Sol, and just 10 minutes from Malaga train station, the Picasso Museum, El Palmeral Park, and Malaga Cathedral.
Free Hostels Soho is one of the best Malaga hostels offering affordable female and mixed dorms, as well as private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. All rooms are spacious, airy and feature secure locker facilities.
At Feel Hostels Soho there’s a fully equipped, modern and well maintained communal kitchen for guests to use, as well as a TV lounge for relaxing and socializing. There’s also a sun terrace for soaking up some rays, as well as BBQ facilities and a restaurant/bar area. The staff host a free paella night, where you can try this traditional Spanish dish and meet fellow travelers from all over the world! You can also join in on organized pub crawls and enquire about city tours and tickets at the front desk.
The friendly staff and fantastic facilities give Feel Hostels Soho a social, chilled out atmosphere, and is the perfect spot to base yourself during your visit to Malaga! Great atmosphere, ideal location and accommodating staff are just some of the reasons why this is one of the best hostels in Malaga!
For more information, independent reviews, or the best prices on Feel Hostels Soho click here!
Malaga Hostels – Bellavista Playa
- Address: Av. del Pintor Joaquín Sorolla, 30, 29016 Málaga
- Independent Reviews: HostelWorld, Booking.com
Just a 15 minute bus ride to Malaga city centre, Bellavista Playa Hostel is located 20 metres from the sun, sand and surf of La Malagueta beach. Its ideal location and relaxed atmosphere make this hostel one of the best hostels in Malaga.
The hostel offers a variety of dorm rooms, each equipped with a safe and private bathrooms.
Bellavista Playa is the perfect Malaga hostel if you want to chill out and improve your tan. There’s an onsite bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious tapas and international cuisine while you watch the sunset. The bar hosts cocktail hour, so you can soak up the Andalusian atmosphere with a cool concoction in your hand.
The hostel isn’t far from all the amenities you might need, like pharmacies and supermarkets. It’s clean and cozy, and its international staff are more than welcoming. They also offer a bicycle rental service.
For more information, independent reviews, or the best prices on Bellavista Playa Hostel click here!
There you have it guys, our list of the best hostels in Malaga. We put this together while living in this great city for two months, and we stand by our choices. We hope you enjoy your time in Malaga and Andalusia. As Always travel well and we’ll see you on the road!
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