hostels in Cannes and Cinque terre

Claudette, There are a couple of Hostels in the Cinque Terre that you could look at. The "official" Hostel is the Ostello 5 Terre in Manarola. It's at the top of hill, close to the start of the trail to Corniglia. It's clean, well run and "safe", however they have a STRICT Lockout in the afternoon, which would be a problem for me. There were rumors they would shut down this year, but I understand they ARE operating normally. There's a newer Hostel in Corniglia. I haven't had chance to have a look at it yet, but have heard good reports. Corniglia is perhaps the least popular of the five towns, as it's located high on a rock bluff. However, it does have it's "charms". You could also contact Mar-Mar Rooms in Riomaggiore. In addition to renting a number of private rooms, they also operate somewhat of a Hostel with Dorm Rooms. Also in Riomaggiore, there's the famous (infamous?) Mama Rosa Hostel, which is located right at the rail station. I've heard "mixed" reviews, so you'll have to decide whether it might work for you. You'll likely encounter Mama Rosa in the station plaza, trying to "encourage" travellers to bunk at her establishment. She seems to only be able to speak enough English to "get by". There's are also cheaper rooms in Monterosso. Have a look at This Website for details. For your stay in Cannes, have a look at www.hihostels.com/dba/list.php?lang=E. I've found HI properties to be well run and "safe", and not party Hostels (although everyone has a good time). Having a membership will provide cheaper rates and preferred booking. Most Hostels provide breakfast, but I'm not sure about "free food" other than that? Happy travels!

Thanks for the help!

Well Cinque Terre is actually 5 small cities/towns so you would have to look at what is available in each one, have you looked on hostellingworld.com ? Cannes obviuosly will have more choices,and if on a tight budget then sticking to Cannes may be easier in terms of getting there as part of continueous trip( and not doubling back)..remember, travel itself adds up.
I also suggest you check out Lonely Planets Thorntree Forums, they are going to have a lot more posters who are expereinced at staying in hostels. We do have several posters here with that experience and knowledge but they are in the miniority here as RS types are more likely to try for budget -moderate hotels or b@bs.

There are no listings for hostels in Cannes on hostelworld.com. There are two listings on hostelz.com. If I were going to stay in a hostel on the Cote d'Azur, I'd pick one in Nice. There are several listed on hostelz.com that get very good reviews. There is a lot to do in Nice and you can easily take day trips by train or bus from there. Antibes has a sandy beach and a walled old town to explore. Outside of Paris, Nice and the surrounding area have the best art museums in France. Both the Chagall and Matisse museums in Nice are wonderful. There is a Picasso museum in Antibes. Wander through Vieux Nice (the old town) on foot. IMO, Cannes is mostly "famous for being famous." It's very expensive. If you wish to say you've been there, make it a day trip from Nice. After you've walked along the Boulevard de la Croissette and stared at the glitzy beachfront apartments and private beaches, get out of town.

Claudette, One point to add..... I definitely agree with Tim that Cannes is more "famous for being famous" rather than offering much for tourists. Walking along the waterfront dock area with the huge number of expensive Yachts moored there provides some idea on the price range of some of the local establishments (although it is possible to get a reasonably priced meal at the restaurants in that area). Nice is a much nicer destination and also a great home base for exploring that area. In addition to the Museums mentioned, the "old town" area is always lots of fun to wander around, and some of the street entertainers are fantastic. As I recall, the Bus fare to Monaco / Monte Carlo is only €1 each way. There's an awesome Oceanographic Museum in Monaco and of course the Changing of the Guard is impressive to watch. If you're planning to have a look in the famous Casino, there IS a dress code. There's also Villefranche sur Mer, Eze and other locations in that immediate area. If you decide to switch your visit to Nice, the HI Hostels website above will indicate which properties they have in that area. Cheers!