Traveling to Chongqing on a budget? Discover the top 12 best hostels and cheap hotels near major CRT subway lines, hot pot streets, and Hongya Cave.Navigating the magical, multi-level cyberpunk landscape of Chongqing is an unforgettable experience. Famous for its incredibly spicy hot pot, futuristic architecture, and neon-lit riverfronts, this megacity is an absolute paradise for urban explorers. Fortunately, you do not need to spend a fortune to stay right in the heart of the action. Whether you want to be steps away from the iconic Hongya Cave or nestled in the bustling alleys of Jiefangbei, the city offers phenomenal budget accommodations.To help you get the most out of your travel budget, this comprehensive guide reviews the top 12 budget hotels and hostels in Chongqing. These properties are highly rated for their prime locations, modern facilities, proximity to the CRT (Chongqing Rail Transit), and unbeatable prices.1. Smiley's Long Time No See HostelAddress: Yuzhong District, Chongqing (Near Jiefangbei CBD)Approximate Price: $12 – $30 USD per nightThis highly rated hostel is a favorite among international backpackers for its incredibly welcoming atmosphere and pristine cleanliness. The property features comfortable dorm beds with privacy curtains, private rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a fantastic communal lounge where you can meet fellow travelers.The hostel is located just a few minutes on foot from the Linjiangmen CRT Station (Line 2). A FamilyMart and a local supermarket are just down the street for your daily essentials. You are entirely surrounded by authentic Chongqing noodle shops and budget hot pot restaurants. It is the absolute best budget location because it places you right at the edge of the central business district, making it easy to walk to the People's Liberation Monument without the premium price tag.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Smiley's Long Time No See Hostel on Agoda.2. Desti Youth Park Hostel (Liberation Monument)Address: Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street Area, Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $9 – $25 USD per nightDesti Youth Park Hostel boasts a modern, industrial-chic design that appeals heavily to digital nomads and young travelers. Facilities include an energetic social bar, a shared kitchen, secure electronic lockers, and a dedicated workspace.Public transport is effortless, as it is situated right next to the Jiaochangkou CRT Station (Line 1 and Line 2). You will find a 24-hour 7-Eleven directly adjacent to the building, alongside the famous Bayi Food Street, which is packed with cheap local snacks like spicy skewered meats and sour and spicy noodles. It is an unbeatable budget location because it gives you direct access to the city's primary late-night food and entertainment hub.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Desti Youth Park Hostel on Agoda.3. Chongqing Riverside Youth HostelAddress: Nanbin Road Area, Nan'an District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $6 – $20 USD per nightIf you want breathtaking views of the city skyline without emptying your wallet, this is the place to be. This hostel offers a laid-back vibe with mixed dorms, comfortable seating areas facing the Yangtze River, washing machines, and free luggage storage.While a bit quieter than Yuzhong, it is well-connected via local bus routes that feed directly into the Haitangxi CRT Station. A large local grocery store and plenty of convenience stores are within walking distance. The riverside is lined with highly affordable, traditional tea houses and family-run diners. It is the best budget location for travelers who want to escape the claustrophobic city center and enjoy world-class night views of the glittering skyline across the water.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Chongqing Riverside Youth Hostel on Agoda.4. Only Cafe And BackpackerAddress: Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $8 – $22 USD per nightOnly Cafe And Backpacker perfectly blends a trendy coffee shop aesthetic with a highly functional youth hostel. Guests rave about the premium coffee served downstairs, the thick dorm mattresses, excellent hot showers, and the quiet reading areas.The hostel is a short walk from the Xiaoshizi CRT Station (Line 1 and Line 6). A Lawson convenience store sits right across the road, and the immediate area is full of cheap bakeries and street food vendors selling pan-fried dumplings. This spot is a phenomenal budget base because it offers a quiet, relaxed cafe environment where you can unwind, while still keeping you within walking distance of the bustling Arhat Temple (Luohan Si).Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Only Cafe And Backpacker on Agoda.5. YummyHill Youth HostelAddress: Core Area of Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $8 – $25 USD per nightYummyHill is known for its spacious layout and excellent amenities. It features both capsule-style dorms and private rooms, a well-stocked communal library, an outdoor terrace, and highly efficient express check-in services.Situated just 850 meters from the Linjiangmen CRT Station, navigating the city is a breeze. There are massive underground shopping malls nearby featuring cheap food courts, as well as several local mini-marts for basic groceries. It is the perfect budget location for travelers who want premium amenities—like a terrace and reading rooms—at a standard hostel price point in the absolute center of town.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for YummyHill Youth Hostel on Agoda.6. Zhi Shuo Youth Hostel (Jiefangbei Hongya Cave Branch)Address: No. 89 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $10 – $28 USD per nightThis extremely popular hostel is literally steps away from one of China's most famous landmarks. It offers a 24-hour front desk, ultra-clean gender-separated dorms, blackout curtains for a perfect night's sleep, and an on-site laundromat.The Grand Theater CRT Station is easily accessible via the nearby bridge, but the main draw is the walking distance to Hongya Cave. A 7-Eleven and a massive local fruit market are situated right outside. This is hands down the best budget location if your primary goal is to photograph and explore the stunning, Spirited Away-style architecture of Hongyadong at night without paying for expensive river-view hotels.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Zhi Shuo Youth Hostel on Agoda.7. Sweet Heart Youth HostelAddress: 6th Floor, No. 45 Datong Road, Jiefangbei Subdistrict, ChongqingApproximate Price: $9 – $20 USD per nightSweet Heart Youth Hostel is a cozy, no-frills accommodation that gets all the basics right. The hostel provides reliable Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, individual reading lights, and friendly, helpful staff who can recommend local non-touristy attractions.It is incredibly well-positioned, located only 130 meters from major public transportation bus stops and a quick walk to the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street. Convenience stores like FamilyMart are right downstairs. Surrounded by cheap local canteens, it serves as the ultimate budget location for travelers who plan to spend all day exploring and just need a highly affordable, centrally located bed to crash in.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Sweet Heart Youth Hostel on Agoda.8. Sanshan Capsule Youth Hostel (Jiefangbei Branch)Address: Near Jiefangbei Square, Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $10 – $22 USD per nightFor travelers who prioritize privacy within a dorm setting, this capsule hostel is a dream. Each bed is enclosed in a futuristic pod equipped with power outlets, ventilation, and a secure locking mechanism. The shared bathrooms are spotless and provide excellent hot water pressure.The hostel is wonderfully close to the Xiaoshizi CRT Station. You will find a large local supermarket in the adjacent shopping complex, perfect for buying cheap bottled water and snacks. The streets below are packed with budget-friendly Chongqing hot pot establishments. It is an amazing budget location because you get the absolute privacy of a hotel room within the financial footprint of a hostel dorm.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Sanshan Capsule Youth Hostel on Agoda.9. Walling Hotel (Hongyadong Jialingjiang Binjianglu)Address: Jialingjiang Riverside Road, Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $30 – $55 USD per nightIf you want a private room rather than a hostel bed, Walling Hotel is an exceptional budget-friendly boutique option. It offers stylish, air-conditioned private suites, free private parking, impeccable room service, and stunning views over the Jialing River.The hotel sits a brief walk from the Huangnibang CRT Station. You are surrounded by high-quality yet surprisingly affordable riverside dining options, and a 7-Eleven is located on the corner of the block. It is the best budget hotel location because it provides a quiet, romantic riverside atmosphere that usually costs triple the price in this specific district.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Walling Hotel on Agoda.10. Zou Qu Ye Travel HotelAddress: Central Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $25 – $45 USD per nightZou Qu Ye Travel Hotel offers a brilliant blend of affordability and comfort. It boasts excellent communal amenities including a garden space, a shared lounge area, barbecue facilities, and an on-site bar where guests can unwind after a day of climbing Chongqing's endless stairs.The hotel is located directly behind a major subway line, making navigation completely stress-free. A large basement food court and local supermarket are attached to the nearby transit hub. This makes it an ideal budget location for couples or solo travelers who want private, clean hotel amenities while remaining plugged into the city's robust public transit grid.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Zou Qu Ye Travel Hotel on Agoda.11. Next Stop: CQ Youth Hostel (Jiefangbei Shibatidi Branch)Address: Near Eighteen Stairs (Shibatidi), Yuzhong District, ChongqingApproximate Price: $8 – $20 USD per nightLocated right by the newly renovated Eighteen Stairs historical area, this hostel offers a deep dive into Chongqing's old-world charm. It features a lively communal dining space, highly secure luggage storage, and comfortable bunk beds with thick winter blankets.You are a mere 5-minute walk from the Jiaochangkou CRT Station. Because of its proximity to the Eighteen Stairs, the area is bursting with traditional tea houses, cheap street vendors selling spicy tofu, and local mini-marts. It earns its spot as a top budget location by placing you right in a massive cultural heritage zone while maintaining rock-bottom backpacker rates.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Next Stop: CQ Youth Hostel on Agoda.12. Mehood Lestie Hotel Chongqing YuzhongAddress: Yuzhong District CBD, ChongqingApproximate Price: $35 – $65 USD per nightFor travelers who prefer the reliability of an established domestic hotel chain, Mehood Lestie delivers incredible value. The property includes a full fitness center, beautifully landscaped garden areas, exceptionally trained staff, and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the building.The hotel is centrally located, offering a very short walk to the Daping CRT Station (Line 1 and Line 2). You will find massive shopping complexes like the Paradise Walk mall nearby, which host huge supermarkets and countless budget dining options. This is the ultimate budget hotel location because it provides a genuine 4-star experience, complete with gym facilities and premium service, at a mid-range budget price.Click here to view the latest prices and availability for Mehood Lestie Hotel on Agoda.