The hype
Travelers love the rooftop and the price but consistently complain about the grime and noise.
Ria Terrace
$33-78/ night
Book this if You're a solo backpacker or budget warrior who prioritizes a rooftop social scene over spotless corners.
Why People Love It
- Dirt-cheap rates in the absolute center of Faro
- Rooftop terrace with views of the Ria Formosa
- Social, hostel-style vibe with a shared kitchen and honesty bar
Quick Take: A glorified hostel that trades hygiene and soundproofing for a killer location and a cheap bed.
Reviewed by @HollyLlewellyn2733795: I found this adorable budget spot in Faro! It’s not fancy, but the hand-painted murals and vintage tiles give it so much character. It feels like a real Portuguese home. Perfect if you're solo traveling and want to save cash for experiences.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'terrace' is the highlight, but it's often described as dirty or neglected, much like the shared bathrooms.
- You're under 25 and just need a crash pad
- You want to meet other travelers in the shared kitchen
- You plan to spend 90% of your time exploring Faro
Cleanliness & Maintenance
4
- Housekeeping: Sporadic. Reviews mention 'missed spots,' 'dust,' and 'cobwebs' frequently.
- Bathroom hygiene: Shared bathrooms are a gamble—often wet, sometimes moldy, and heavily used.
- Maintenance: Tired. Expect peeling paint, creaky doors, and worn fixtures.
- Linens & towels: Basic. Some reports of 'towels with holes' or stains.
- Odors & scents: Can be musty, especially in the windowless interior rooms.
Sleepability™
4MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street noise from Rua Conselheiro Bivar
- Hallway traffic and creaky floorboards
- Late-night chatter from the rooftop terrace
Before you book
Good to know
- There is no on-site parking; you'll need to find public parking nearby.
- Check-in is often self-service or via a code—check your email before arrival.
- Luggage storage is not officially secure; use a service like Stasher if you arrive early.
What to pack
- Flip-flops for the shared showers (non-negotiable)
- Earplugs and an eye mask
- A padlock for your bag if you're in a shared setup
Room Genie
Best picks
- Double Room with Private Bathroom (worth the extra cash to avoid the shared grimness)
- Terrace rooms (for the light and air, despite the noise)
Rooms to avoid
- Interior rooms (often windowless, stuffy, and claustrophobic)
- Rooms near the shared kitchen (noise and cooking smells)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room with an external window for ventilation. Please avoid interior/windowless units. If available, a room on a higher floor away from the street would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
No, but there is a shared kitchen where you can make your own, and a 'coffee shop' bar on-site.
Is there an elevator?
No, this is a traditional building with stairs only.
Does it have air conditioning?
Some rooms do, but many rely on fans. Verify your specific room type if visiting in summer.
Is it safe?
Generally yes, but the 'relaxed' security (front door often open) and central location mean you should keep valuables locked up.
How far is the airport?
About a 15-minute drive or taxi ride (approx. €10-15).
Are bathrooms private?
Only if you specifically book a 'Suite' or 'Private Bathroom' room. Most are shared.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Honesty Bar' on the terrace is a cheap way to grab a beer without leaving the building.
- ✨
Don't trust the 'soundproof' filter on booking sites; the walls are paper-thin.
- ✨
The rooftop is the best place to eat takeout if the shared kitchen is crowded.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'homeless' rumor: A persistent review claims the hotel has been used to house homeless individuals who clean in exchange for stay—unverified but speaks to the vibe.
💡The windowless rooms are basically closets with beds; avoid at all costs.
💡The 'artistic murals' are cool but can't hide the peeling paint in the corners.
💡You might find ants or cobwebs as permanent roommates.
💡The 'terrace' furniture is often neglected and dusty, so bring a towel to sit on.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Ria Terrace is located and what's nearby.