If you’re backpacking through Australia, Melbourne’s a must on your itinerary. It’s effortlessly cool – think of it as Sydney’s laid-back, artsy sibling. Melbourne’s all about culture, from museums to legendary sports events and music scenes. And let’s not forget its insane nightlife – if you’re into a good pub crawl, you’ll feel right at home.
But let’s be honest, saving money while exploring Australia can be a challenge. With a dizzying array of hostels to choose from, figuring out where to crash can feel like a mission. Do you want something central? Social? Easy on the wallet?
No worries. I’ve done the hard yards, digging through the good, the bad, and the quirky to bring you the ultimate guide to the best hostels in Melbourne.
I’ve written this guide with one goal in mind – to help you book your Melbourne hostel as quickly, and easily as possible.
Whether you are trying to party hard, unwind in style, sleep cheap, or find a comfy spot to call your office, this list will sort you out.
So, pack your bags and get ready to dive headfirst into Melbourne’s buzzing laneway culture, where coffee is king, and the weather unpredictable (don’t worry – it’s all part of the fun).
Ready to roll? Let’s get to it.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Melbourne
- Best Overall Hostel in Melbourne – Nomads St. Kilda
- Best Hostel in Melbourne for Solo Travellers – Melbourne City Backpackers
- Best Cheap Hostel in Melbourne – Flinders Backpackers Melbourne
- Best Party Hostel in Melbourne – The Nunnery
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Melbourne – Selina St Kilda Melbourne
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The 5 Best Hostels in Melbourne
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Melbourne’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
1. Nomads St. Kilda – Best Overall Hostel in Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $25
- Private Room: From $81
- Address: 17 Carlisle St, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia
Situated close to the beach at St Kilda, Nomads St Kilda is my pick for the best hostel in Melbourne. It’s in the best neighbourhood in Melbourne for backpackers and is within easy reach of a tram station to get into the heart of Melbourne. Broke backpackers can hunt for paid opportunities on the jobs board and start each day on the right note with a free continental breakfast. Look out for cheap deals during happy hour in the bar too.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Ensuite Rooms
- Incredible location
- Multiple room options
Save on food costs by preparing your own grub in the kitchen, and chill for free in the lounge or on the terrace. There’s free WiFi and the hostel has laundry facilities, luggage storage, a tour desk, and a book exchange.
Nomads St. Kilda offers the perfect room for every type of traveller. Budget backpackers will love the dorm rooms. The pod-style beds, complete with a curtain, provide privacy for a good night’s sleep. Digital nomads and groups of friends can opt for a deluxe balcony private room.
If you need to get some work done, head down to the communal space and get going. As always, you can rely on their strong and free wifi so bang out a couple of hours of work.
Once you’re done, head to the reception to ask the staff for their recommendations on what to do with the rest of your day. They give the best insider knowledge of the city and are known to be incredibly helpful.
2. Melbourne City Backpackers – Best Hostel in Melbourne for Solo Travellers
- Dorm (mixed): From $30
- Private Room: From $106
- Address: 197-199, King Street, Melbourne, Australia
A relative newcomer to Melbourne’s hostel scene, Melbourne City Backpackers is clean, friendly, and centrally located near Southern Cross Station, Queen Victoria Market, Old Melbourne Gaol and Melbourne Cricket Ground. It’s all within the free tram zone too. Why pay more (or, anything) for transport when you don’t need to?!
Breakfast and WiFi are free and regular social events help you meet other long- and short-term travellers. There are mixed and female-only dorms in addition to private rooms for one or three. You’ll be impressed by their amenities too.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Super central location in Melbourne CBD
- Activity nights with freebies
- Airconditioned rooms
Let’s talk more about the hostel’s rooms. Everyone knows that Australia’s summer can be brutal. Luckily, all rooms at Melbourne City Backpackers are equipped with air conditioning. During the winter months, you’ll get an extra blanket to keep you warm. No matter if you’re in a dorm or private room, the comfy beds come with reading lights, USB ports, and free linen.
Travelling on your own can feel quite lonely sometimes. Luckily, this hostel offers the best socialising events in the city, perfect for solo travellers backpacking Melbourne. Movie nights, BBQ nights, you name it – the perfect opportunities to link up with like-minded travellers and make new friends. Those nights also come with free booze and popcorn. Hell yeaaaaaah.
3. Flinders Backpackers Melbourne – Best Cheap Hostel in Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $27
- Private Room: From $73
- Address: 35 Elizabeth st, Melbourne, Australia
At first glance, this hostel doesn’t look that cheap. But just wait, I know what I’m doing here. If there was a winner for the best hostel in Melbourne CBD with the best free breakfast it would probably be Flinders Backpackers. Eat as much as you like, with a variety of cereals and bread and as many DIY pancakes as you can manage. The hostel also has regular free dinners, free walking tours each day, and an array of fun free events. Think of all that money saved, now you see huh?
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Amazing location
- Massive communal area
- Super helpful staff
It’s a great Melbourne youth hostel for travellers who love to socialise. There’s a bar and kitchen on-site with numerous workstations, a movie room, and a chill-out area with a pool table and foosball.
The location of Flinders Backpackers is ideal as well. You’ll be based in the heart of Melbourne CBD, the perfect place to execute your Melbourne travel itinerary. You’ve got Chinatown, Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Cricket Ground and the National Gallery of Melbourne to explore all within walking distance.
You’ll be living amongst Melbourne’s funky café and shopping district while only being a few minutes walk from Flinders Street Station (it’s called Flinders Backpackers for a reason!), South Bank, Federation Square and The Melbourne Museum.
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI4. The Nunnery – Best Party Hostel in Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $26
- Private Room: From $81
- Address: 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia
The Nunnery really knows how to throw a party. Whether you’re looking for a private or dorm, this place will hook you up with cosy sleeping spaces in a historic building that’s bursting with character. It actually used to be a nunnery in the 19th century – hence the name!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Busy social scene
- Heated/fanned rooms
- Free bike rental
This hostel’s always buzzing – perfect for rounding up new mates to hit the town with. But a heads-up: the party vibes here are off the charts, so don’t count on catching much shut-eye. If you’re a night owl, you’ll be in your element!
Situated in trendy Fitzroy, the hostel goes all out when it comes to fun and free experiences. From the Sunday pancake breakfast and the BBQ nights on Fridays to chilled movie nights and lively pub crawls, there are heaps to suit all tastes.
No matter what budget you’re travelling on, The Nunnery will have the right room type for you. Whether that’s a shared dorm or one of their private rooms, you’ll always get incredible value for a pretty low price. Each room has a fan and a heater (but no aircon), USB ports and charging stations on each bed, and a massive locker that fits even the biggest backpack.
If you want to explore the surrounding neighbourhoods like North Melbourne, head to the reception and hire a bike – for free! While you’re there, ask the staff for recommendations on where to visit in Melbourne. They’ve got great insider tips that will open up a completely new side to Melbourne.
5. Selina St Kilda Melbourne – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $27
- Private Room: From $66
- Address: 24 Grey St, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia
Every experienced backpacker in Australia knows the deal with the Selina chain. Although not always the cheapest option, there’s always a guarantee of standards when choosing this hostel chain. This hostel is always clean, has SO many facilities and is never a bad choice – a safe bet if you will.
This hostel has many different room types available for any traveller type. Facilities include a coworking area and super reliable fast WiFi – great for digital nomads. There is also an on-site restaurant/bar, a wellness deck and a rooftop terrace. You can choose any of these locations as your office for the day.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Co-working area
- Many room types are available
- Great Location
Plus, this hostel has a cinema room, comfy dorm beds with USB sockets, and a 24-hour reception with a tour and travel desk. Now, Selina tours might not be the cheapest option for the hardcore budget backpacker, but they’re spot-on for those who want to be whisked away without the hassle of planning. Perfect if you’re just in Melbourne for the weekend or a quick stopover. And trust me, you’ll walk away with new friends from every corner of the globe—I’ve been on enough of these to know!
In the evenings, why not head up to the rooftop bar and sip on some cocktails with your new friends from the tour? Selina bars are known to get quite lively sometimes, and this hostel is no exception. Perfect for switching up the vibe after a day typing away on your laptop and rewarding yourself for all that hard work.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Melbourne Hostels
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Melbourne below.
6. Europa Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $25
- Private Room: From $67
- Address: 310 – 314 Queen Street, Melbourne, Australia
Europa Melbourne is the kind of spot where good vibes and even better amenities come together in a prime location. You’re practically living next door to Melbourne’s best attractions – no Uber required! Just a few steps from the free tram zone, you’re a breezy five-minute stroll away from Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Old Melbourne Gaol, Melbourne Central, and all the cool cafes around Hardware Street.
The rooftop and common areas are PERFECT for meeting other travellers backpacking Australia, whether you’re an experienced traveller or hot off the plane. The rooms are roomy enough for all your gear and have everything you need for a comfy stay. They even have a free breakfast with pancakes, juices, tea and coffee. Let’s be real, I’m a sucker for a free brekky.
7. YHA Melbourne Central
- Dorm (mixed): From $25
- Private Room: From $70
- Address: 562 Flinders Street, Melbourne, Australia
YHA Melbourne Central is a great hostel if this is your first touchdown in Melbourne. It boasts a killer rooftop that’s perfect for meeting fellow travellers, cranking out some work, or plotting your Melbourne adventures. The bathrooms are spotless, and the rooms are cosy, with everything you need for a comfy stay. Plus, the downstairs reception and communal areas are styled in that urban cool vibe that screams “Melbourne.”
If you’re arriving by bus or train the location is great as YHA Melbourne Central is located near Southern Cross Station and Flinders Street Station. Plus, the free tram zone is right out front, ready to whisk you off to all the iconic spots like the MCG, Shrine of Remembrance, and Rod Laver Arena. You’ll have the best of Melbourne at your fingertips.
8. Summer House Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Private Room: From $63
- Address: 109 Barkly Street, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia
Part of a larger hotel, Summer House Backpackers is one of the best cheap hostels in Melbourne. This hostel is perfect for you budget backpackers.
The rooftop bar ramps up the volume and life at the weekends, with regular live music, comedy acts, and happy hours. ‘Cos who can say no to a happy hour? Although this is a popular spot for those on working holiday visas, it also welcomes backpackers and holiday-makers with open arms. This mixed-bag crowd is what makes it so great!
There are mixed and female-only dorms and access is by key card. Additional services include 24-hour reception, housekeeping, a tour desk, and luggage storage, and you’ll find basic self-catering facilities here in this modern hostel too.
9. Barkly Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Address: 102 Barkly St, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia
A budget backpacker hostel in Melbourne’s suburb of St Kilda, Barkly Backpackers is a terrific option for people who need to combine work and leisure; it’s our recommendation for one of the best hostels for digital nomads in Melbourne.
There are computers in the common room that are free to use, as well as free Wi-Fi. You’ll also find enough quiet spots, including in the lounge, to sit in peace and get your head into work mode.
There’s a kitchen, making grabbing a bite to eat quick and easy without needing to head out, and there’s even a free pasta night once a week. Tea and coffee are free too, ideal for break times.
Dorms are spacious and bright, with mixed and female-only rooms available. It’s a great modern hostel located near to the beach which offers a good balance of a great working environment with that classic fun hostel environment.
10. Landing Pads Brunswick
- Dorm (mixed): From $24
- Address: 13 Blyth street, Brunswick, Melbourne, Australia
A small and intimate hostel in Melbourne, Landing Pads Brunswick is geared towards travellers looking for jobs in Australia, particularly travellers who have a working holiday visa. As well as a jobs board and super fast free Wi-Fi, the hostel gives handy tips and tutorials to get people into work quicker.
The sociable vibe is strong here at Landing Pads Brunswick, helping you to meet new pals for your time in Oz. There are regular social activities and guests tend to stay for at least a few weeks, helping to build a friendly sense of community.
11. The Village Melbourne
- Dorm (mixed): From $51
- Private Room: From $178
- Address: 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
The Village Melbourne has really crafted a stellar space – one of the best atmospheres in the city. This hostel is complete with mixed or female-only dorms, comfy AF couches in the chill-out areas, an activity centre, an on-site bar, and a nightclub! There is not much else you could want from a hostel.
If you’re looking for the best parties in Melbourne, you won’t even need to leave the building. Simply head down to the hostel’s private underground nightclub – yup, you heard right. Get your hands on some tasty (and affordable) drinks, dance until your feet are sore, and then head back up to enjoy a peaceful sleep. I have really never seen party hostels like this before – you HAVE to check it out.
It’s one of the biggest hostels in the city but comes with incredible features. There are hang-out areas on every level, multiple laundries, and even a super modern gallery kitchen.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Melbourne
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Melbourne
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Melbourne’s hostel scene.
What to Pack for your Melbourne Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Melbourne?
Hostel prices in Melbourne range from $18-30/night on average. For a private room, you’ll be paying around $50/night.
What are the best hostels in Melbourne for couples?
Nomads (Base) St. Kilda is an ideal hostel for couples in Melbourne. It’s budget-friendly, just a hop from the beach and the tram stop. You get the best of both worlds, so you can sneak away for a romantic escape whenever the mood strikes!
What are the best hostels in Melbourne near the airport?
Landing Pads Brunswick is just 17.6km to Melbourne Airport. You’ll be at the airport in less than half an hour – perfect for those early morning flights.
Final Thoughts on Melbourne’s Hostels
The Sydney vs. Melbourne debate has been raging for ages, but let’s be real – Melbourne’s where it’s at. It’s like the effortlessly cool younger sibling who just knows how to do everything right.
Whether you’re here for the killer coffee, the live music, or just to soak in the city’s unique vibe, there’s a spot on this list that’ll feel like it was made just for you.
If you’re still undecided as to where to stay, go with Nomads St. Kilda. It’s the heart of Melbourne’s backpacker scene, where making new mates to grab a coffee or a beer (or three) is practically guaranteed.
If your Aussie backpacking journey is just getting started, trust me, Melbourne is a place that leaves its mark. So, book that hostel, dive in, and get yourself to the nearest pub, mate! Happy travels!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Australia for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Melbourne covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Melbourne if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Melbourne before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate East Coast Australia backpacking guide.
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