Melbourne is the capital of the Southern Australian state of Victoria, and it’s jam-packed with culture. Here, there are museums, galleries, exhibits, and live music throughout the city pretty much every day of the week. There’s also a thriving café culture, and a lot of natural attractions just outside of the city – including a Penguin colony!

With everything that Melbourne has to offer, it’s hard to choose the best place to stay, and the city can sometimes be a bit pricey. Hostels are a good way to save your money so that you can spend it in the city’s excellent cafes, bars, and restaurants! And don’t think that hostels are unclean and cramped – there are some great options in Melbourne which show that’s a thing of the past!

To make things easy for you, we’ve looked into the best and most suitable hostels in Melbourne for your budget and itinerary.

And it’s good news! There’s lots to choose from – you’ll find a couple of international chains and a whole load of independent, cosy, and characterful places to stay. So, let’s see the best hostels Melbourne has to offer!

Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Melbourne

#1 Best Overall Hostel in Melbourne – Landing Pads Brunswick
#2 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Melbourne – Victoria Hotel Backpackers
#3 Best Party Hostel in Melbourne – Base St. Kilda
#4 Best Hostel near South Wharf – Urban Central
#5 Best Hostel near Melbourne Cricket Ground – Tram Stop 14 Backpackers
#6 Best Hostel near Eureka Tower – United Backpackers
#7 Best Hostel near Melbourne Museum – The Nunnery
#8 Best Hostel near Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine Airport) – Habitat HQ
#9 Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Railway Station – Europa Melbourne
#10 Best Hostel near Flinders Street Railways Station-  Flinders Backpackers
#11 Best Hostel near Southern Cross Station – Melbourne Central YHA
#12 Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Bus Station – Space Hotel
#12 Best High-end Hostel in Melbourne – Claremont Guesthouse
#13 Best Budget Hostel in Melbourne – Exford Hotel
#14 Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Melbourne – City Centre Budget Hotel

#1 –  Landing Pads Brunswick

Best Overall Hostel in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 3 Blyth street, Brunswick
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Landing Pads Brunswick…
This friendly and sociable hostel in the suburb of Brunswick is our favourite hostel in Melbourne, and with good reason. There are weekly events including movie nights, family dinners, and even job seekers’ tutorials. We loved the social areas, which include a lounge, a sun porch, and a covered outdoor area complete with BBQ!

Landing Pads Brunswick is perfect for…
Solo travellers or those with a working holiday visa will love Landing Pads Brunswick. It’s a home away from home, complete with linens, bathrooms, showers, and lots of spots to chill with other travellers. The sessions on finding jobs will be particularly helpful for long term travellers, so don’t miss out on staying in this great hostel!

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Travel can be expensive! But then again, Melbourne’s cheap hostels will show you how little it can cost!

#2 –  Victoria Hotel Backpackers

 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 380 Victoria Street, Brunswick
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Victoria Hotel Backpackers…
This large and friendly hostel is the perfect stop if you’re travelling on your own – there’s not just 1 common area, but 3! There’s also an outside balcony, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining area where you can spend time with your new friends. If that’s not enough, there are also events throughout the week including a free BBQ and a trivia night!

Victoria Hotel Backpackers is perfect for…
Travelling solo can sometimes be lonely but you certainly won’t feel that way at Victoria Backpackers! If you’re on your own, you’ll soon forget that here. If you’ve just arrived in the city and need help to plan your trip, the free Wi-Fi and the friendly staff are invaluable if you’re not 100% sure of your way round.

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Australia is alive! And you’ll find these party hostels have some of the best events around!

#3 – Base St. Kilda

Best Party Hostel in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 17 Carlisle St, St Kilda
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Base St. Kilda…
This lively hostel has a DJ every night of the week, so you’ll certainly not be stuck for something to do in the evenings. Silent discos, foosball, and a pool table make this hostel great for hanging out and meeting new people! There are pancakes for breakfast every morning too, so if you do get a hangover you can say goodbye to it with those, or in one of the nearby cafés.

Base St. Kilda is perfect for…
If you’re looking to have a good time in Melbourne, look no further than Base St. Kilda. You’ll have a lot of fun in the hostel itself, but its location couldn’t be better. Right on the water, and close to some of the city’s finest eateries and cafés, you’ll certainly not regret book this fun and friendly hostel!

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P.S. – Save a bit of cash in Brisbane with our EPIC guide to the best hostels in Brisbane!

 

#4 – Urban Central

 Best Hostel near South Wharf

• Cost – $$
  
• Location –  334 City Road Southbank
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Urban Central…
We love this hostel because there’s always something going on. Whether you want to test your brain at a trivia night, learn Latin dance, or get down to the music of a weekly live DJ, then you’ve come to the right place! It’s also located just a short walk from South Wharf, meaning it’s great if you want to sample some of the city’s nightlife.

Urban Central is perfect for…
If you want to be close to the bars and restaurants of South Wharf, then look no further than Urban Central! However, that’s not all. If you’re looking to extend your trip in not just Australia, but the continent of Oceania, the helpful staff can organise tours close to the city, but also throughout Australia, New Zealand, and even Fiji!

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Want to see more than just Sydney? Take a day trip from Sydney to get to know Australia!

#5 – Tram Stop 14 Backpackers

 Best Hostel near Melbourne Cricket Ground

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 151-153 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Tram Stop 14 Backpackers…
The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground is only a short walk from Tram Stop 14 Backpackers, meaning it’s the perfect place to stay if you want to take in a game during your trip, or simply are just interested in seeing the stadium where the Ashes have been won and lost countless times. We love the cosy atmosphere here!

Tram Stop 14 Backpackers is perfect for…
This cosy hostel is suited more to travellers who want a quieter stay than some of the other hostels on this list. It’s a great spot for sports fans, or musicians who have a gig in the city. The simple and clean rooms are no-frills, but you’re sure to have a good night’s sleep here!

Check for Best Price

 

 

#6 – United Backpackers

Best Hostel near Eureka Tower

• Cost – $$
  
• Location –  250 Flinders Street 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like United Backpackers…
If you want to be close to the tallest building in Melbourne, Eureka Tower is the place for you. The hostel’s basement bar is bound to be a sure-fire hit, and the daily events may have something to do with why United Backpackers is constantly featured on not only lists about the best hostels in Melbourne, but in the whole of Australia!

United Backpackers is perfect for…
You can’t really ask for a better location in Melbourne! Not only is it close to Eureka Tower and other city centre attractions, it’s right by Flinders Street Railway Station too. If you want to party, look no further than United Backpackers – it’s one of the city’s best party hostels with events every night of the week!

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Check this out – these are the wildest and craziest party hostels in Sydney!

#7 – The Nunnery

 Best Hostel near Melbourne Museum

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like The Nunnery…
This unique and charming hostel is only a hop, skip, and a jump from the Melbourne Museum, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re interested in the culture and history of the city. It’s a hostel with a difference, as it’s located in a building which dates all the way back to 1888! We love the plush interior lounge which is nicer than our own living rooms!

The Nunnery is perfect for…
If you want to forget you’re in a hostel and get a little slice of luxury, the Nunnery is for you! It’s a beautiful building, both inside and out, and you’re sure to be comfortable here. As it’s in the cool suburb of Fitzroy, you’re not right in the centre of the hustle and bustle of the city, but it’s close enough to reach by a short stroll.

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P.S. – Save a bit of cash in Byron Bay with our EPIC guide to the best hostels in Byron Bay!

#8 – Habitat HQ

 Best Hostel near Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine Airport)

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 333 St Kilda Rd,, St Kilda 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Habitat HQ…
Unfortunately, if you want to be near to Melbourne Airport, you’ll have at least an hour journey on public transport – wherever you stay. So, the next best thing is an airport transfer service, right? You’re in luck! Habitat HQ offers a very reasonable airport transfer, meaning that all the stress of getting to and from the airport is taken care of.

Habitat HQ is perfect for…
If you want to enjoy downtown Melbourne and take tours to tourist attractions like the Great Ocean Road or St Phillip’s Island penguin colony without worrying about the stress of getting to or from Melbourne Airport, then this place is perfect for you! It really offers the best of both worlds.

Check for Best Price

 

Do you love hostels? These are the most amazing hostels in Perth!

#9 – Europa Melbourne

 Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Railway Station

• Cost – $$
  
• Location –  310 – 314 Queen Street
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Europa Melbourne…
This no-frills hostel is perfectly situated less than 5 minutes walking from Melbourne Central Railway Station, making it the perfect place to stay if your trip to Australia extends beyond the city. It’s also close to Hardware Street, where there are a number of great cafés, and Victoria Market. The free breakfast is a great way to fuel up before a day of exploring!

Europa Melbourne is perfect for…
For the budget-conscious traveller who wants to have all the benefits of staying in the city centre, then Europa is the best place to stay. Also, being close to Melbourne’s Central Railway Station takes away the stress of having to navigate across an unknown city to catch an early morning connection!

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Need more info? Here’s a rundown of things to do in Melbourne to fill your time there!

#10 – Flinders Backpackers

 Best Hostel near Flinders Street Railway Station 

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 35 Elizabeth st
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Flinders Backpackers…
As you may have guessed from the name, Flinders Backpackers is right on the doorstep of Flinders Street Railway Station, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re catching a train from there, or arriving late at night. Unlimited pancakes for breakfast always get a thumbs up, as does the free pool table!

Flinders Backpackers is perfect for…
Flinders Backpackers is not only close to the railway station, but also to the cool and funky shopping and café district. If you don’t feel like chilling in the hostel, there’s always somewhere close by that you can spend some time relaxing! There are also weekly events, so for the social traveller – it’s perfect!

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Editor’s Note – No matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance. We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and can say without a doubt that World Nomads is the absolute best (and most affordable!). Fill out this form to get a quote for your trip to Melbourne!

 

Don’t stay in the city too long! Take one of these great day trips from Sydney to see more of the area!

#11 – Melbourne Central YHA

 Best Hostel near Southern Cross Station

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 562 Flinders Street
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Melbourne Central YHA…
Melbourne Central YHA is on the doorstep of Southern Cross Station, making it the perfect place to stay if you need to be close to your train connection. It’s also within walking distance of many tourist attractions such as the Yarra River, Eureka Skydeck, Federation Square, and much more. Of course, you’ll be able to see all of these while enjoying a BBQ on the roof terrace!

Melbourne Central YHA is perfect for…
No matter when you arrive at Melbourne Central YHA, you’re guaranteed a friendly welcome thanks to the 24-hour reception. Therefore, if you’ve spent the night on a train or bus, you don’t have to worry about not being allowed straight in! It’s also perfect if you want to be right amongst all the city centre action!

Editor’s note – Heading to Sydney next? Check out our post about the best hostels in Sydney!

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Want to learn more about Melbourne? These are the most AMAZING tours in Melbourne!

#12 – Space Hotel

 Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Bus Station 

• Cost – $$$
  
• Location – 380 Russell Street
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Space Hotel…
Space hostel offers luxury for budget travellers, slap bang in the middle of Melbourne CBD and Lygon Street – also known as Melbourne’s famous bar and restaurant district. The lounge and cinema are undoubtedly great, but the highlight is the rooftop pool, which offers a fabulous view of the city!

Space Hotel is perfect for…
Travellers who want to be right in the centre but don’t want to compromise on quality and luxury will be delighted with Space Hostel. The range of communal spaces means it’s a great place to meet other travellers, so if you don’t mind splashing a little more cash, you certainly won’t regret doing it here

P.S. – Save a bit of cash in Sydney with our EPIC guide to the best hostels near Sydney Airport!

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#13 – Claremont Guesthouse

 Best High-end Hostel in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 189 Toorak Road, South Yarra
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Claremont Guesthouse…
This classic and charming guest house is a great place to stay. Don’t just take our word for it – Hostelworld guests voted it as one of the top 10 hostels in Australia! Enjoy the spacious common areas and the extensive book exchange. Oh, and did we mention there’s a free and tasty continental breakfast?

Claremont Guesthouse is perfect for…
If you want the benefits of the sociability of a hostel, but also a feeling of homeliness, then Claremont Guesthouse is perfect for you. There’s a range of rooms – from dorms to privates for up to 4 people, so there’s bound to be something that will suit you. It’s also just a 100m walk to Chapel Street, one of the best places to see in South Yarra!

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P.S. – Save a bit of cash in Cairns with our EPIC guide to the coolest hostels in Cairns!

#14 – Exford Hotel

 Best Budget Hostel in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 199 Russell Street, Melbourne
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Exford Hotel…
This charming hostel, set in a historical building, is perfect if you’re travelling on a budget – you’ll find that you’ll pay less here for a private room than a dorm in some other Melbourne hostels, but without compromising on quality. The location’s not bad either – it’s right in the centre of Chinatown! We really enjoyed having a beer and a pizza in the elegant lounge bar.

Exford Hotel is perfect for…
There’s nowhere better for budget travellers in Melbourne than the Exford Hotel (well, there is, but after reading the reviews you might change your mind). And there’s no compromise on quality – there’s free tea and coffee, and digital colour TVs in private rooms! There’s also a rooftop garden for days when you want to rest and relax in the sun.

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Ready to book? We’ve put together our favorite places to stay in Gold Coast so you don’t have to stress!

 

#15 – City Centre Budget Hotel

 Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 22-30 Little Collins St
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like City Centre Budget Hotel…
This friendly and family run hostel has a range of private rooms, including comfortable single, double, and triple rooms which are good quality, clean, and set in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s true to its name too – the prices are reasonable and won’t break the bank, unlike staying in a fancy hotel! We love its proximity to central Melbourne attractions and the sunny and relaxing roof terrace!

City Centre Budget Hotel is perfect for…
Long-term travellers who are tired of sharing their rooms with strangers, or couples who want a bit of time to themselves will love City Centre Budget Hostel. The big and fluffy duvets, new beds, and warm towels will make you feel like the hostel is a home away from home! Although the private rooms are excellent, there are no en-suite options.

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Heading to Australia? Save some money with our guide to the coolest hostels in Australia!

Other Best Hostels in Melbourne

#16 – Home at the Mansion

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 66-90 Victoria Parade 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like home at the Mansion…
This quirky hostel is completely unique, as it’s located inside a castle! It’s full of character, and the onsite Victoria’s Secret Bar (please don’t go in just your underwear), is a great place to meet fellow travellers! If you can tear yourself away from this unusual and fun hostel, it’s really close to city centre attractions, and the free city circle tram line is just minutes away.

Home at the Mansion is perfect for…
If the first thing you look for in your accommodation is a bit of quirkiness, then Home at the Mansion might just be what you’re looking for. As well as the whole business of it being in a castle, you’ll be able to enjoy stained glass windows and flamingo statues! The staff are considered some of the friendliest in Melbourne, and the hostel has won Hoscars in the past!

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Need specifics? We also have our favorite hostels near Central Station Sydney!

#17 – Landing Pads Richmond

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 151-153 Hoddle Street, Richmond
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Landing Pads Richmond…
The sister hostel of our number 1 choice, Landing Pads Brunswick, you know that you’re in for a great time if you stay in their Richmond property! They also offer events such as weekly drinks, movie nights, and family dinners. You’re close to Bridge Road too, with plenty of supermarkets for buying food to cook in the hostels generously-sized kitchen.

Landing Pads Richmond is perfect for…
Long term travellers and those with a working visa will find that Landing Pads Richmond is one of the top places in Melbourne for them. They can help you find work, and there’s also fast Wi-Fi so you can job search on your phone or laptop too. There are also lots of other home comforts in the common areas and kitchens.

Check for Best Price

 

#18 – Collingwood Accommodation Melbourne

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 137-139 Johnston Street, Collingwood
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Collingwood Accommodation Melbourne…
This laid-back and easy-going hostel is close Collingwood, undoubtedly one of the top spots in Melbourne for a cup of coffee and a slice of cake. It’s definitely not a party hostel, but travellers often spend weeks there rather than nights, making it a fantastic place to make friends, especially if you’re travelling solo!

Collingwood Accommodation Melbourne is perfect for…
If you want to get out into Melbourne, rather than party inside your hostel, then Collingwood Accommodation is a great option. Brunswick street is within walking distance, where you’ll find a number of bars, live music events, and a great atmosphere! If you want to venture further afield into the city centre, it’s just a short tram ride away.

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#19 – Hub Hostel

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 139 – 149 Flemington Road, North Melbourne
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Hub Hostel…
This safe, comfortable, and bright hostel is a great option for travellers who want to be a little away from the madness of the city centre but can visit if they have the option. We love Hub Hostel’s high ceilings and light interior, and we had an incredible night’s sleep in the luxury, king size bunk beds!

Hub Hostel is perfect for…
If you want to get to know the suburb of North Melbourne, then look no further than Hub Hostel. It’s 2.5km away from the city centre, meaning that you’ll have the best of both world’s – enjoying the charm of a suburb while city trams can cart you into Melbourne, practically from your doorstep!

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#20 – Richmond Hill Hotel 

• Cost – $$
  
• Location – 353 Church Street,, Richmond 
• Reviews → Check on Hostel World

Why we like Richmond Hill Hotel…
There are a number of options for private rooms at Richmond Hill Hotel, including singles, doubles, and deluxe private rooms, which is just one of the reasons that we love it! It’s right in the middle of the suburb of Richmond, meaning you’ll have a good night’s sleep away from the loud noise and lights of the city centre. There’s also a tasty free breakfast!

Richmond Hill Hotel is perfect for…
Long term travellers or couples will be pleased that there’s a big choice of private rooms, meaning that they can trade sleeping in a crowded dorm for a night! Also, if you’re travelling in Melbourne with your own transport, paying for parking is one thing you won’t have to worry about, as the hotel offers it free of charge.

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FAQ’s

How Much are Hostels in Melbourne?

You're looking at about $20 a night for most dorm rooms, and a minimum of $50 per night for a private. There are dorms for less than $20, but check to make sure they have the amenities you want for a comfortable stay.

What are Hostels in Melbourne Like?

In general, a great way to experience the city! Melbourne is a popular tourist destination in Australia, and you'll be able to meet plenty of other backpackers and travelers at a hostel. Many hostels have an artsy vibe, while some are located in more historic areas.

How Safe are Hostels in Melbourne?

Melbourne is generally known as a safe city, and in general hostels are well-maintained and organized. Since it's a big city, be cautious, but you're not likely to have any safety issues at hostels!

How to Find Hostels in Melbourne?

Check out HostelWorld and other online platforms to search for the right accommodation option for you! If you're traveling to Sydney or other places in Australia, you can also ask for suggestions about the best places to stay.

 

	Best Overall Hostel in Melbourne Landing Pads Brunswick Towels Included	Check Best Price
	Best Party Hostel in Melbourne Base St. Kilda Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Melbourne Victoria Hotel Backpackers Free Internet Access	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near South Wharf Urban Central Free WiFi	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Melbourne Cricket Ground Tram Stop 14 Backpackers Towels Included	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Eureka Tower United Backpackers Free City Tour	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Melbourne Museum The Nunnery Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine Airport) Habitat HQ Free Internet Access	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Railway Station Europa Melbourne Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Flinders Street Railway Station Flinders Backpackers Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Southern Cross Station Melbourne Central YHA Free WiFi	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel near Melbourne Central Bus Station Space Hotel Free Towels	Check Best Price
	Best High-end Hostel in Melbourne Claremont Guesthouse Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Budget Hostel in Melbourne Exford Hotel Free Breakfast	Check Best Price
	Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Melbourne City Centre Budget Hotel Towels Included	Check Best Price

 

Conclusion

So, there we have it. We’ve had a detailed look at the best hostels that Melbourne has to offer and we’re pretty sure there’s something on our list that will suit your budget, personality, and travelling plans while you’re in Melbourne.

We wouldn’t want you to miss out on visiting one of Australia’s most exciting and cosmopolitan cities, after all!

Hostels are a great way to travel and can save you a whole load of cash, especially in a city like Melbourne where costs can quickly stack up. We hope with the savings you make, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all the cool tourist attractions in Melbourne, and maybe even venture further afield in Australia!

Whichever hostel you pick, we hope you have a fantastic stay and don’t forget to check out our number one choice, Landing Pads Brunswick!

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep the site going :)