Looking for the best hostels in Sydney, Australia!? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Sydney will always hold a special place in my heart! It’s hands down my favorite city in Australia, and I honestly think it’s one of the most jaw-dropping destinations in the world. I moved down under to do my working holiday visa in Sydney, and it was one of the most incredible and most life-changing experiences in my entire life. It’s where I started to take photography more seriously, it’s the first place I fell in love, and the place where my career as a travel blogger actually kind of began! But enough about me…
Whether you’re only spending a few days, weeks, or months in Sydney – finding a quality and affordable hostel doesn’t have to be that complicated. I think it really just depends on where in the city you want to stay, and what your budget allows for. If you want to be near a beach, you’ve gotta decide between Bondi, Coogee, or Manly? If you want to party, you’ve got some awesome cheap backpacker accommodation options in Kings Cross. If you want to be close to Central Station, there’s some of the best award winning hostels in the entire country!
Be sure to read about my full Sydney Itinerary if this is your first time in the city!!
No matter you decide to book, I can guarantee you will love your experience at all of these hostels on this list! While it certainly was hard, I’ve narrowed it down to my top 12 Sydney hostels for backpackers and budget travelers.
Sydney Hostels Table of Contents:
In a hurry? Here’s a quick overview about what this post will discuss! As you can see, there’s lots of good options to choose from for youth hostels in Sydney! I’m
- Best Overall Hostel in Sydney – Sydney Harbour YHA, The Rocks
- Best Hostel in Bondi Beach, Sydney – Bondi Backpackers
- Best Hostel in Coogee Beach, Sydney – Mad Monkey Coogee Beach
- Best Hostel in Potts Point, Sydney – Blue Parrot Backpackers
- Best Modern & Comfortable Hostel in Sydney CBD – The Pod Sydney
- Tourism Award Winner – Best Backpacker Accommodation – Railway Square YHA
- Best Budget Youth Hostel in Kings Cross – Asylum Sydney Backpackers
- Best Party Hostel in Sydney – Kings Cross Backpackers
- Friendliest Hostel Staff – Jolly Swagman Backpackers
- Best Hostel in Manly Beach, Sydney – The Manly Bunkhouse
- Best Award-Winning Hostel in Sydney – Wake Up! Hostel
- Sydney Central YHA was voted the best in Australia – Sydney Central YHA
The 12 Best Hostels in Sydney, Australi!
1) Sydney Harbour YHA, The Rocks
Best Overall Sydney Hostel!!
Picture this – it’s your first day in the city, you get checked into your room, and then you make your way up to the rooftop deck. Then BAM – you lay your eyes on the iconic Sydney Opera House for the first time, and it all hits you that you’re in SYDNEY! A dream come true, or at least it was for me!
If I had a pick my absolute favorite hostel in all of Sydney (and quite possibly Australia), it would 100% be the Sydney Harbour YHA in The Rocks! You simply can’t beat the scenic views overlooking the Harbour Bridge and Opera House from this hostel.
It’s a beautiful hostel, centrally located in Circular Quay (where you want to be for sight seeing in the city), and has a really fantastic backpacker atmosphere. While although most views from this hostel are incredible, they come with a price tag. Don’t be scared because you can get budget friendly accommodation. Other notable features and things to enjoy are game (pool table and football), fast Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace.
Hostelworld Rating: 9.1 from 1,024 Reviews
Prices from $51.00 AUD per night.
Read Reviews & Check Availability
2) Bondi Backpackers
Best Hostel in Bondi Beach, Sydney
Bondi Beach is one of the hippest and most beautiful places in the city, and I’ve always loved my extended stays down there in various hostels. While some people just come to Bondi for a day-trip, to surf, or to begin the famous coastal tracks – I’d definitely recommend spending a few days exploring the area, and Bondi Backpackers never disappoints.
Perfectly located just sit opposite of the world famous Bondi Beach, it creates a wonderful atmosphere for visitors. Once again, there’s an incredible stunning rooftop view which is perfect for socializing, sunsets, and getting that perfect Instagram shot.
This hostel has so much to offer including hipster cafes and night bars. If you’re not into dorm style accommodation, then don’t worry because Bondi Backpackers has modern private rooms available. You can also go surfing or join rooftop yoga classes if you want to make the experience unforgettable. Other facilities include free Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and an outdoor terrace. This hostel is a perfect choice for an individual looking for a modern, fun, friendly, sociable hostel.
Hostelworld Rating: 8.5 from 1,071 Reviews
Prices from $45.00 AUD per night.
Read Reviews & Check Availability
3) Mad Monkey Coogee Beach
Best Hostel in Coogee Beach, Sydney
If you are looking for a vibrant hostel with a modern vibe in the Eastern Suburbs, Mad Monkey Coogee Beach is the place to be. “We’re located right on Coogee Beach, so you’re just moments away from the sand and the surf, as well as tons of great restaurants and bars including FNKY MNKY FNB HSE located below the hostel. Coogee Beach marks one end of the famous Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk, a must-do when you’re in Sydney
Kick back like a local in the hip neighborhood of Coogee to escape the bustle of downtown and have a true Aussie experience. Mad Monkey has recently taken over this beachfront hostel. Our friendly staff is happy to help with anything you need to make sure you have the best stay possible. The hostel is sparkly clean and super friendly, and you can expect to find our normal Mad Monkey social and party atmosphere that we are famous for.”
Hostelworld Rating: 8.1 from 193 Reviews
Prices from $33.00 AUD per night
Read Reviews & Check Availability
4) Blue Parrot Backpackers
Best Hostel in Potts Point
This small yet homely style hosel is just a short walk from Kings Cross, the Opera House, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. If you want to relax outside the Center of Sydney, Blue Parrot Backpackers is awesome!
You will have access to a wide range of excellent restaurants, cafes, and 24-7 bars on your doorstep. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a sociable hostel. The hostel only accommodates a small number of visitors which encourages guests to know each other
Hostelworld Rating – 8.5 from 1,298 Reviews
Prices from: $35.00 AUD per night
“Solo travellers particularly like the location. This property is also rated for the best value in Sydney! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city”
Read Reviews & Check Availability
5) The Pod Sydney
Best Modern & Comfortable Hostel in Sydney CBD
This is one of Sydney’s newest accommodation options for backpackers and budget travelers, and it will surely leave a fantastic impression! Located right in the heart of the CBD, this is perfect for those looking for just a bit more privacy, as with the help of curtains, all beds can convert into private pods!
The Pod Sydney mixes the features of modern and industrial inspired architecture and is definitely one of the more elegantly designed hostels in the city center. Complete with security lockers, Free Wi-Fi, shuttle bus, and late checkouts, I’m sure you’ll love staying at the The Pod!!
Hostelworld Rating: 9.1 from 147 Reviews
Prices from $48.00 AUD per night
Read Reviews & Check Availability
6) Railway Square YHA
Winner of Australia National Tourism Award – Best Backpacker Accommodation 2014
This award-winning and unique hostel will give you a completely different vibe from other hostels in Sydney. Imagine staying inside in an old railway station!! It’s super well connected to everywhere in the city, as it’s just a minute’s walk from Central station (ideal for day-trips to nearby destinations).
Railway Square YHA is equipped with features such as a spa, pool, and a common area, as well as this hostel,includes airport transfers, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
Hostelworld Rating: 8.5 from 543 Total Reviews
Read Reviews & Check Availability
7) Asylum Sydney Backpackers hostel
Best Budget Hostel in Kings Cross
If you’re looking for an affordable, fun, and funky hostel in the city’s main party district, then I’d recommend checking out Asylum Sydney Backpackers! The staff is super friendly, they’ve got fast hi-speed internet, and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It’s not a massive party hostel, but also a great place to meet people and head out for a night of wild backpacker fun. There’s also some decent prices for private rooms if you’re traveling with a friend/ partner.
Hostelworld Rating: 8.6 from 1,365 Reviews
Prices from: $33.00 AUD per night
Read Reviews & Check Availability
8) Kings Cross Backpackers
Best Party Hostel in Sydney
For all the backpackers seeking a guaranteed good time, then this is exactly where I would stay. Kings Cross Backpackers pretty much has everything you’d want, in an amazing location, in the heart of city’s nightlife neighborhood.
“Set in a beautiful townhouse property, our family atmosphere means guests meet new friends, whom become great friends. An awesome Rooftop with BBQ Facilities, Ultrafast WiFi, Hot Breakfast, Local Gym Access, Surf Board Hire, Yoga Mat Usage & Yoga Class (Every Monday), Large Security Lockers (BYO padlocks), Tea & Coffee, Organised Events & Nights Out, PS4 + Fifa 19 Gaming Area, Pool Table , TV Lounge ”
Hostelworld Rating: 8.0 from 7,308 Reviews
Prices from: $33.00 AUD per night.
Read Reviews & Check Availability
9) Jolly Swagman Backpackers
Friendliest Hostel Staff in Sydney
While everyone may have different experiences, I’ve always heard amazing things about the different people working at Jolly Swagman Backpackers! This is another hostel located in the backpacker mecca area of Potts Point / Kings Cross, and this is a great option for budget travelers just getting to Sydney. They offer free airport shuttle (with minimum 3-days booking), have amazing package deal options, and of course located right by all the best party spots in Sydney.
Hostelworld Rating: 8.2 from 1,113 Reviews
Prices from: $35.00 per night
Read Reviews & Check Availability
10) Manly Bankhouse
Best Hostel in Manly Beach, Sydney
Honestly, I’m completely obsessed with Manly Beach! I think it’s such an amazing suburb, and I could easily see myself living up there in the future. Read my article about How to Spend Two Days Exploring Manly Beach, Sydney and I think you’ll completely understand what I mean!
For those backpackers making their way to this gorgeous suburb, The Manly Bunkhouse is definitely your best option! It’s equipped with modern rooms, just seconds away from the beach, and is one of the
Hostelworld Rating: 8.3 from 137 Reviews
Prices from: $44.00 AUD per night
Read Reviews & Check Availability
11) Wake Up! Sydney Central
Best Award-Winning Hostel in Sydney
I’m not quite sure how I made it to #11 before mentioning Wake Up! Hostel! , because it’s truly one of the most epic and most popular hostels in Sydney! Why listen to me though, because the thousands of reviews of WakeUp Sydney Central say it all themselves! It’s located right by Central Station, has super clean and elegant rooms, and amazingly helpful staff that can assist you with anything you need. It’s pretty much the perfect hostel, and I know you’ll love staying here.
Hostelworld Rating: 9.3 from 7,308 Reviews
Prices from: $44.00 AUD per night.
Read Reviews & Check Availability
12) Sydney Central YHA
Sydney Central YHA was voted the best in Australia
Last, but certainly not least, the Sydney Central YHA is guaranteed to provide everything you’ll need and so much more!! “This is backpacker accommodation at its finest, boasting a rooftop pool, sauna, and sunny outdoor area with panoramic views of the city”! The YHA chain of hostels in Sydney really does impress, because all of their locations in the city are nothing short of amazing. While they aren’t the cheapest hostel options in the city, it’s welll worth forking out the extra dosh to have a more memorable and comfortable experience in Sydney!
Hostelworld Rating: 8.3 from 1,290 Reviews
Read Reviews & Check Availability
Am I Missing Any Epic Backpacker Hostels in Sydney…?
There are literally dozens of amazing Sydney hostels to choose from, and I’m sure I missed one or two that just didn’t quite make the cut! If you think I should consider adding one to the list, feel free to shoot me an email and I’ll take a look!
Which of these Sydney Hostels do you think is the best…?
Planning a trip to Australia?
My website is filled with amazing articles that can help plan your travels in this gorgeous country! Check out a few of my favorite and most popular blog posts below:
30 MUSIC FESTIVALS IN AUSTRALIA TO EXPERIENCE BEFORE YOU DIE
GREYHOUND BUS PASS HOP-ON / HOP OFF: CAIRNS TO SYDNEY ROUTE BUS ITINERARY
THE PERFECT WEEKEND GETAWAY EXPLORING THE NEW SOUTH WALES COAST
TWO DAYS ON MAGNETIC ISLAND: THE BUNGALOW BAY EXPERIENCE
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR MOVING TO SYDNEY ON A WORKING HOLIDAY VISA
THE 20 BEST MUSIC FESTIVALS IN BRISBANE
14 WORDS YOU’LL START SAYING WHEN YOU MOVE TO AUSTRALIA
THE 14 BEST MUSIC FESTIVALS IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
THE TOP 10 MUSIC FESTIVALS IN MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Don’t Travel Without Insurance
Haven’t you heard of all the evil Australian critters that want to kill you…?
Please don’t be one of those reckless travelers who go abroad without proper coverage! You never know what’s going to happen while you’re traveling, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. I never go on any trip anymore without booking a policy through HeyMondo Travel Insurance, and I would recommend them entirely. I got really sick on a trip to Barcelona last year, and having insurance to cover all my hospital bills saved me some crazy four figures I’d have not wanted to shell out from my savings!
Thanks for reading about the best Sydney hostels!!
SHARE THIS ARTICLE!!
