The Best Budget Hostels and Apartments to Book in Cádiz, Spain

Run by experienced travellers, Casa Caracol comprises two funkily restored townhouses in the centre of Cádiz. The main building offers colourful shared and group dorms with private bathrooms, along with a lounge and guest computer, a kitchen with a wood-burning stove and a tropical-style roof terrace with hammocks. A five-minute walk away is the Casa del Pirata, in which there are elegant double rooms with shared bathrooms. Meet other travellers during the BBQ, popcorn-and-movie or mojito nights – or at daytime yoga classes on the beach.

This family-run establishment offers airy ensuite doubles and apartments around a tranquil courtyard filled with aloe vera – the perfect space to unwind with a book. Alternatively, book yourself a discounted pampering session at the spa next door, or catch some rays on Playa de la Victoria – Cádiz’s largest beach – just steps away. It’s a 45-minute stroll to the historic centre or a 15-minute ride on the number 1 or 7 buses, both of which stop on the Paseo Maritimo.

Decorated with wall art portraying everything from jungle foliage to giant octopuses, Casa Morada’s shared dorms and private rooms occupy a classic Andalusian townhouse, a block back from Genoves Park. Up top, there’s a secluded terrace with bar service and palette sofas, where boisterous parties are held for guests. Rental bikes are available from reception and cold breakfast is served in the kitchen – you’ll also find all the necessary self-catering gear here if you need it.

This simple and modern two-star hotel offers street-facing, ensuite double and triple rooms – some of which have Juliet balconies. There aren’t many on-site amenities, but with a location this good you don’t need them. The Old Town, harbour, beaches and major architectural attractions are all easily accessible on foot. Stress-free arrivals are guaranteed by a 24-hour reception and nearby public parking; bus and train stations are also within a 10-minute walk.

Occupying an 1888 manor house, this sporty hostel’s activity offering wouldn’t be out of place in a luxury hotel, ranging from whale watching and horse riding to biking and Morocco day trips. All dormitories showcase the building’s original windows and balconies, many of which look over the residential street below – and breakfast is included. There’s also an on-site surf academy and store – where gear is for sale or hire – plus a roof terrace and a big internal patio with designer sofas.

Luxury and budget accommodation occupy opposite ends of the price scale, right? Not at Planeta Cádiz: a classy hostel that’s introduced the concept of “low-cost deluxe” to the city. Occupying a pristine 19th-century mansion, dorms and private doubles feature an urban-chic design, private bathrooms and wall art depicting Cádiz from local painter, Jonatan Alcina Segura. Unwind in the jacuzzi or on the roof terrace, shoot table football in the games room, or curl up with popcorn in the cinema.