Sydney is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but luckily you don’t need to break the bank to find decent accommodation right in the heart of the city. The harbour city has a vibrant hostel scene, with a variety of hostels that cater for everyone from budget conscious travellers to backpackers looking for a social atmosphere.
What makes the hostel scene in Sydney so good is that you can stay in central districts such as the Rocks and Kings Cross, which means you can walk to many of the main attractions in Sydney. There’s also several affordable options for those wanting to experience the beach life of Bondi and Manly.
In this article, we’re going to take you through the 15 best hostels in Sydney.
1. YHA Sydney Harbour
The YHA in Sydney Harbour is pretty hard to beat, with jaw-dropping views and an incredible location. Situated in the historic Rocks area, YHA Sydney Harbour offers stunning rooftop views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. This hostel provides spacious rooms, each equipped with personal reading lights, and features a large kitchen and several communal areas.
Its prime location allows easy access to Sydney’s iconic landmarks, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to stay in a cool area away from the bustling Kings Cross. The rooftop terrace is perfect for socialising and enjoying panoramic city views.
2. Wake Up! Sydney Central
Located right next to Central Station, Wake Up! Sydney Central is a hotspot for travelers seeking convenience and a lively social scene. This modern hostel is known for its vibrant decor and energetic atmosphere, appealing to young travelers and backpackers.
The on-site café and bar serve as a popular social hub, hosting events like trivia nights and live music. With a variety of room options, from shared dormitories to private rooms, and amenities like free Wi-Fi and a fitness center, this hostel ensures a comfortable stay.
Its central location makes it easy to explore Sydney’s attractions, and the friendly staff are always ready to offer local tips and assistance.
3. Mad Monkey East Side
Formerly known as Hump Backpackers, Mad Monkey East Side is a social hub located in the vibrant neighborhood of Kings Cross. The hostel hosts numerous activities, such as beer pong nights and BBQs, fostering a friendly and interactive atmosphere. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, all-day coffee, and tea, making it easy to meet fellow travelers. The hostel’s central location provides easy access to Sydney’s nightlife and cultural attractions.
4. The Village Bondi Beach
For those looking to stay near the famous Bondi Beach, The Village Bondi Beach offers a relaxed and beachy vibe. This hostel is perfect for surfers and beach lovers, providing easy access to the sand and surf. The hostel features bright and airy rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy lounge area. Its location allows guests to enjoy the local cafes, shops, and the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.
5. Big Hostel
Located in Surry Hills, Big Hostel offers a budget-friendly “boutique” experience with its rooftop terrace and beautiful garden. The hostel provides a large kitchen, free coffee and tea, and spacious rooms with lockers for security. Its central location makes it easy to explore Sydney’s attractions, and the rooftop terrace offers stunning city views, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
6. Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross
Mad Monkey Backpackers Kings Cross is known for its lively atmosphere and social events, making it a favorite among party-goers. The hostel offers a range of activities, including pub crawls and themed nights, ensuring a fun and engaging stay. Guests can enjoy free breakfast and access to a communal kitchen. Its location in Kings Cross provides easy access to Sydney’s nightlife and entertainment options.
7. Nomads Sydney
Nomads Sydney is located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to Darling Harbour and other major attractions. This hostel features a lively bar, communal kitchen, and spacious dormitories. It is known for its social events and activities, creating a vibrant atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers. The central location makes it a convenient base for exploring Sydney.
8. Sydney Central YHA
Sydney Central YHA is a large, modern hostel situated in the city center, close to Central Station. It offers a range of accommodation options, from dormitories to private rooms, and features a rooftop pool, sauna, and cinema. The hostel organizes regular events and tours, providing guests with opportunities to explore Sydney and meet new people. Its central location makes it easy to access public transport and city attractions.
9. The Pod Sydney
Located in Haymarket, The Pod Sydney offers a unique capsule-style accommodation experience. This hostel provides privacy and comfort in its modern pods, each equipped with personal lighting and power outlets. The Pod Sydney features a communal kitchen and lounge area, perfect for socializing and meeting other travelers. Its location near Chinatown and public transport makes it an ideal choice for exploring Sydney.
10. Glebe Point YHA
Glebe Point YHA is situated in the charming suburb of Glebe, offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This hostel features a rooftop terrace with city views, a communal kitchen, and cozy lounge areas. Guests can enjoy the local cafes, markets, and parks, and the hostel organizes regular social events and activities. Its location provides easy access to Sydney’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat from the city center.
11. Railway Square YHA
Railway Square YHA offers a unique accommodation experience with its train carriage dormitories, located right next to Central Station. This hostel features a communal kitchen, lounge areas, and a travel desk for booking tours and activities. Its central location provides easy access to Sydney’s attractions and public transport, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
12. Summer House Backpackers
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Woolloomooloo, Summer House Backpackers is known for its social atmosphere and friendly staff. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from dormitories to private rooms, and features a communal kitchen and lounge area. Guests can enjoy free breakfast and participate in social events and activities. Its location provides easy access to Sydney’s nightlife and cultural attractions.
13. The Village Glebe
The Village Glebe offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere in the charming suburb of Glebe. This hostel features a communal kitchen, lounge areas, and a courtyard garden. Guests can enjoy the local cafes, markets, and parks, and the hostel organizes regular social events and activities. Its location provides easy access to Sydney’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat from the city center.
14. Bondi Beach Backpackers
Bondi Beach Backpackers offers a laid-back atmosphere just steps away from the famous Bondi Beach. This hostel provides a range of accommodation options, from dormitories to private rooms, and features a communal kitchen and lounge area. Guests can enjoy the local cafes, shops, and the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. Its location is perfect for surfers and beach lovers looking to enjoy the sun and surf.
15. Secret Garden Backpackers
Secret Garden Backpackers, located in the lively neighborhood of Kings Cross, offers a vibrant social scene and a range of accommodation options. The hostel features a communal kitchen, lounge areas, and a garden courtyard. Guests can enjoy free breakfast and participate in social events and activities. Its location provides easy access to Sydney’s nightlife and entertainment options, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the city’s vibrant culture.
