Top 5 hostels in Sydney

There’s so much to see and do in Sydney; you don’t want to break the bank with your accommodation before you’ve even had time to experience this amazing city. Travel Money Oz in Sydney can help you look after your pennies, but if you need ideas for great hostels, have a look at our list of the top five.

Jolly Swagman Backpackers

Although it’ll probably get Waltzing Matilda stuck in your head for your whole stay, the Jolly Swagman Backpackers is a fantastic hostel for those looking for ample facilities for a great price. Read the Swagman News online before you go and be sure to make this your accommodation if you’re heading to Mardi Gras – it’s situated within walking distance of the famous festival.

Wake Up

Who wants free stuff? Wake Up hostel is the king of free experiences. Go on a guided city tour, test your memory at a trivia night, feast on a BBQ in the park or go on a beach walk from Coogee to Bondi. This place looks like a big old fashioned pub on the outside but it’s got sleek modern interiors and facilities so you can appreciate the clash of old meets new.

Rooftop Travellers Lodge

Head to quaint Glebe to stay at Rooftop Travellers Lodge, a hostel with a difference. No shared rooms here, instead you get your own room and bathroom. While other hostels offer free internet, Rooftop Travellers Lodge goes one better and offers a PC in every room with unlimited internet, in addition to a TV and DVD player. There is also the quirky option to rent the room and not the bed, so you can squeeze up to four people into one room if you’re strapped for cash.

Big Hostel

So it’s…um…a big hostel. The name says it all, really. Cheap and cheerful and located right in the city, Big Hostel is a great no-frills option for travelers on a budget. The rooms are clean an minimally fitted out and there are private rooms with ensuites available, as well as facilities for those with disabilities. Stroll down to Chinatown and Pitt Street Mall for a day of shopping, or catch the train from nearby Central Station to start your adventures further afield.

Blue Parrot Backpackers

Look for the big blue bird on the sign out the front and step inside Blue Parrot Backpackers, one of Sydney’s best-loved hostels. This is a hostel catering to those aged between 18 and 35 only, so you’ll be sure to be among your peers. Blue Parrot is run by sisters and prides itself on creating a “one big family” vibe, so those who may be feeling homesick will love it here. Walk 15 minutes into the city when the weather is fine, or hole up with the Wii and DVDs on rainy days.

Whether they’re quaint and family-style or rowdy and raging, there’s a hostel for every taste in Sydney.

Maree is a student fresh out of university and has decided to travel the world. She has been travelling for the past 8 months and in her spare time writes all the tips and tricks she can think of to share with other beginner travellers.