
Best Hostels in Sydney CBD
The Downing Hostel is a social, budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, just minutes from Museum and Town Hall stations. Surrounded by top attractions like Hyde Park, Chinatown, and Darling Harbour, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city. The hostel offers a welcoming vibe, a rooftop terrace, and free amenities such as Wi-Fi, tea and coffee, and luggage storage, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a central location.
Best Hostels in Sydney CBD
⭐ Rating: 9.1 over more than 1,500 reviews
💲 Prices: from €35
What do guests say?
Guests love YHA Sydney Harbour for its incredible location near the Opera House, with stunning views from the rooftop terrace. The hostel is praised for its cleanliness, friendly staff, and spacious facilities, including a large kitchen. It's ideal for exploring Sydney’s CBD and nearby transport links.
YHA Sydney Harbour is one of the best hostels in Sydney’s CBD, offering budget-friendly accommodation with unbeatable views and a prime location in the historic Rocks precinct. Situated just steps away from iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Circular Quay, this hostel is the perfect base for exploring the city’s top attractions. Its proximity to public transport ensures easy access to the wider city, making it ideal for both leisure and sightseeing.
The hostel’s facilities are top-notch, with en suite rooms that include air conditioning and free, fast Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay. The large communal kitchen and spacious common areas provide a great space to relax and socialise, while the rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, making it an exceptional spot for taking in the city’s skyline.
Built above archaeological remnants of colonial Sydney, YHA Sydney Harbour adds a unique heritage experience to your stay, combining history with modern amenities. Daily activities and an on-site tour desk ensure you make the most of your time in the city, while nearby pubs and cafés give you a taste of local culture. This hostel is a perfect blend of location, comfort, and history, ideal for budget-conscious travellers in Sydney’s CBD.
Pros:
- Stunning rooftop views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Prime location in the heart of Sydney’s CBD
- Clean and spacious rooms with en suite bathrooms
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Large, well-equipped communal kitchen
- Close to public transport (trains, trams, buses, ferries)
- Modern facilities with a heritage charm
Cons:
- Many stairs to access the hostel
- Noise from music in hallways during the day
⭐ Rating: 8.8 over more than 700 reviews
💲 Prices: from €19
What do guests say?
Guests love Sydney Backpackers for its excellent location in the heart of the city, friendly staff, and clean facilities. The rooftop terrace, well-equipped kitchen, and vibrant social events create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for travellers.
Sydney Backpackers is one of the best hostels in Sydney’s CBD, offering budget-friendly accommodation with an unbeatable central location. Situated just a short walk from major attractions like Westfield Tower, Darling Harbour, and Hyde Park, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city’s highlights. The hostel is also well-connected to public transport, ensuring easy access to all corners of Sydney, and is just a 30-minute drive from the airport, adding to its convenience for travellers.
The hostel offers both private and dormitory rooms, catering to all types of travellers. Each room is clean and comfortable, with free sanitised linen and secure lockers for peace of mind. The rooftop terrace, complete with barbecue facilities, provides a relaxing space to unwind while enjoying views of the city.
Sydney Backpackers also boasts a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and save on dining costs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel, ensuring guests can stay connected during their stay. With its combination of comfort, affordability, and prime location, Sydney Backpackers is an ideal choice for those looking to explore Sydney’s CBD without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Central location, close to major attractions and transport
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Clean rooms and facilities
- Rooftop terrace with city views
- Well-equipped kitchen
- Vibrant social atmosphere and group activities
- Secure lockers for personal belongings
Cons:
- Some dorms lack privacy curtains
- Limited number of bathrooms for shared rooms
⭐ Rating: 8.8 over more than 3,000 reviews
💲 Prices: from €23
What do guests say?
Guests love Nomads Sydney for its friendly and helpful staff, central location near Town Hall and major attractions, and clean facilities. The hostel's social atmosphere, with events and activities, makes it easy to meet others. Rooms, especially deluxe options, are comfortable and well-maintained.
Nomads Sydney is one of the best hostels in Sydney’s CBD, offering a prime location just steps away from the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Its central position makes it easy to explore all of Sydney's must-see attractions, with Darling Harbour, Sydney Town Hall, and various shops, bars, and restaurants just around the corner.
The hostel caters to all types of travellers, providing a range of accommodation options, from shared dorms to private deluxe rooms. Guests can enjoy 24/7 reception support and access to the Goki app for easy communication with staff. The hostel also offers a lively social scene with its award-winning bar, The Scary Canary, which hosts regular events such as trivia nights and silent discos.
For those looking to explore Sydney and meet new people, Nomads Sydney offers a variety of free activities, including pancake days, beach BBQs, and guided walks along Sydney’s famous coastline. The combination of its unbeatable location, comfortable accommodation, and fun social atmosphere makes Nomads Sydney an excellent choice for anyone seeking a vibrant, central place to stay in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.
Pros:
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Clean and comfortable rooms
- Social events and activities
- Secure room access via app
- Convenient transport links nearby
- Well-maintained facilities
- Great for meeting new people
Cons:
- Some rooms can be noisy due to the nearby bar
- Limited phone charging points
- Some shared rooms can feel cramped and dark
⭐ Rating: 8.9 over more than 60 reviews
💲 Prices: from €43
What do guests say?
Guests love Tequila Sunrise Hostel for its prime location in Chinatown, clean facilities, and private pod-style beds. The friendly staff, free breakfast and dinner, and comfortable atmosphere make it an excellent value for travellers seeking privacy and convenience in Sydney.
Tequila Sunrise Hostel Sydney is an excellent choice for young travellers looking to stay in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Its prime location ensures easy access to some of the city’s top attractions, including Chinatown, Capitol Theatre, and various nightclubs, making it a perfect base for exploring Sydney’s vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. With tram, bus, and train stations just a short walk away, you can conveniently reach other parts of the city and beyond.
The hostel is surrounded by an array of dining options, from local Australian cuisine to diverse international flavours, ensuring guests can enjoy a variety of meals without having to travel far. Tequila Sunrise Hostel also fosters a social and friendly atmosphere, making it easy for guests to meet new people and create lasting connections.
The hostel’s innovative approach to accommodation ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Tequila Sunrise offers a lively environment in one of the best locations in Sydney. For those wanting to experience the best of the city, this hostel is the perfect place to stay.
Pros:
- Exceptionally clean facilities
- Comfortable pod-style beds with privacy curtains
- Free breakfast and dinner provided daily
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Secure and private atmosphere
- Convenient access to nearby restaurants and supermarkets
Cons:
- Limited number of bathrooms
- Not the most social atmosphere
- Could use more communal space for working or relaxing
⭐ Rating: 8.0 over more than 1,000 reviews
💲 Prices: from €20
What do guests say?
Guests love The Downing Hostel for its central location, friendly staff, and clean facilities. The hostel's social atmosphere, with regular events and activities, makes it easy to meet people. Guests also appreciate the well-equipped kitchen and welcoming, inclusive environment.
The Downing Hostel is one of the best hostels in Sydney’s CBD, offering a prime location and a welcoming, social atmosphere. Situated just minutes from Museum and Town Hall stations, it provides easy access to public transport, including direct buses to Bondi Beach and Watsons Bay. With major attractions like Hyde Park, Chinatown, Darling Harbour, and Oxford Street all within walking distance, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city.
The hostel is ideal for travellers looking to meet new people, with a friendly vibe that feels like a family. Its rooftop terrace is a great spot for socialising, enjoying meals, or relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Guests also appreciate the range of free amenities, including Wi-Fi, tea and coffee, secure lockers, and luggage storage.
While the central location offers convenience, it can be noisy at night, and there’s no lift, but staff are happy to help with luggage. Air conditioning is available in the common areas, and fans are provided in the rooms.
With its unbeatable location, social environment, and excellent free offerings, The Downing Hostel is a fantastic choice for those seeking a fun, budget-friendly stay in the heart of Sydney.
Pros:
- Friendly and welcoming staff
- Clean and well-equipped facilities
- Sociable atmosphere with regular events
- Great value for money
- Private bathrooms with cubicles
- Spacious kitchen
- Supportive and inclusive environment
Cons:
- Some rooms can be hot with limited cooling options
- Limited social space during colder months
If you're keen to discover more top-rated hostels in Sydney, don’t miss our detailed guide: Best Hostels in Sydney. This guide showcases a curated selection of the city's finest hostels, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you're seeking the best party hostel, a centrally-located retreat, female-only accommodations, youth hostels, or vibrant social spaces perfect for meeting fellow travellers, our guide highlights the best Sydney has to offer.
What to Expect from Hostels in Sydney CBD
Hostels in Sydney CBD offer a perfect blend of convenience, affordability, and vibrant social atmospheres. Expect clean, comfortable accommodations ranging from dormitory-style rooms to private options, often with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and communal kitchens. Many hostels feature rooftop terraces, social events, and common areas ideal for meeting fellow travellers. Centrally located, these hostels provide easy access to Sydney’s iconic landmarks, public transport, shopping districts, and a variety of bars and restaurants.
Top Attractions Near Sydney CBD Hostels
Staying in a Sydney CBD hostel means being close to the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions. Here are some top sights you can easily explore from your hostel:
- Sydney Opera House: A world-famous architectural icon, perfect for photos or attending a performance.
- Sydney Harbour Bridge: Take a walk across or book a thrilling bridge climb for panoramic views.
- Darling Harbour: A lively waterfront district with restaurants, museums, and entertainment.
- Circular Quay: The gateway to Sydney’s ferries and an ideal spot to explore or catch a ride to nearby beaches.
- Chinatown: Experience Sydney’s multicultural side with authentic dining and shopping.
- The Royal Botanic Garden: A beautiful park for relaxing or picnicking with stunning harbour views.
- Queen Victoria Building: A historic shopping centre with unique stores and cafes.
Tips for Travellers Staying in Sydney CBD Hostels
For a smooth and enjoyable stay in Sydney CBD hostels, keep these tips in mind:
- Book early: Hostels in central Sydney are popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Check hostel amenities: Look for features like free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and lockers to enhance your stay.
- Choose a location near transport: Staying close to train stations or bus stops makes it easier to explore the city.
- Read reviews: Guest reviews can give insight into cleanliness, staff friendliness, and hostel atmosphere.
- Bring essentials: Earplugs, a sleep mask, and a padlock for your locker are useful items for hostel stays.
- Join hostel events: Many hostels organise social events, a great way to meet fellow travellers and explore the city together.
FAQs for Hostels in Sydney CBD
Are hostels in Sydney CBD safe?
Yes, most hostels in Sydney CBD offer secure facilities with lockers, 24/7 reception, and keycard access. Reading reviews can also help ensure safety standards meet your expectations.
How much do hostels in Sydney CBD typically cost?
Hostel prices in Sydney’s CBD range from €20-€45 per night for a dorm bed, depending on the season and hostel facilities. Private rooms usually cost between €60-€120 per night.
Do hostels in Sydney CBD offer private rooms?
Many hostels in Sydney CBD offer private rooms alongside dormitory options. These rooms usually come with en suite or shared bathrooms and are ideal for travellers seeking more privacy.
Are hostels in Sydney CBD close to public transport?
Yes, hostels in Sydney CBD are typically located near bus stops, train stations, and ferries, making it easy to explore the city and nearby attractions.
What types of amenities can I expect in a Sydney CBD hostel?
Expect essentials like communal kitchens, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and often a rooftop terrace. Some hostels also offer free breakfast, organised activities, and social events.
Are Sydney CBD hostels good for solo travellers?
Yes, Sydney CBD hostels are ideal for solo travellers. Many hostels have social events and communal areas, making it easy to meet other guests and explore the city together.