Hostel Review: Hostelling International Cidade Maravilhosa in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Hostelling International is a very reputable name in the world of hostels, so when I found out that Hostelling International Cidade Maravilhosa was in Rio de Janeiro, I knew I had to try it out during my Brazil solo travel adventure.

The hostel is located in the Gloria neighborhood, which is about a 10-minute walk to Lapa. If you’re into checking out historical sites, Lapa is excellent as there is Arcos da Lapa, a beautiful old aqueduct, and colorful colonial buildings.

As a nature lover, I really enjoyed the Passeio Publico, which is the oldest public park in Brazil from 1779, and is really peaceful and seems to capture a few different cities in one place with palm trees, moats, and granite pyramids. If you’re into art, there is some great street graffiti art, as well.

Of course, you’re going to want to explore the famous Copacabana and its beautiful beaches, as well as the numerous great mountains for hiking, which is no problem as the metro is less than a five-minute walk from the hostel.

Socialize and Party

An on-site bar, a fridge filled with beer, an outdoor terrace, and a lounge with a television make for excellent spaces to meet fellow travelers.

At night I would relax and watch TV, mingling with other backpackers while laying on comfy couches and plush pillows.

What’s really great is that after you pre-game you can take a quick cab to Lapa, where the neighborhood is literally buzzing with nightlife activity, loud samba music, and people just having a great time.

Also, Hostelling International Cidade Maravilhosa doesn’t impose a curfew on its guests, so you can stay out as late as you want.

Rooms

There are no mixed dorms here, only 6-person female and 6-person male rooms, which I actually enjoyed. Expect to pay about $25 per night. Rooms give adequate space with en-suite bathrooms. Nothing luxurious, but certainly adequate and private.

Free Perks

The free perks offered at a hostel can make or break it in my book, especially because the majority of people staying there are travelers backpacking on a budget.

Hostelling International Cidade Maravilhosa has a bunch, including free use of computers, free WiFi, linens, luggage storage, towel, and, best of all, breakfast. Each morning, they serve a buffet of meats, cheese, fruits, cereals, breads, cakes, cookies, juice, and hot beverages.

They also offer airport pickup for about $25, which can be nice especially since the buses in Rio de Janeiro tend to be confusing for newcomers.

This post was made possible by Hostelling International Cidade Maravilhosa.