3 Best Hostels in Brisbane, Australia

3 Best Hostels in Brisbane, Australia
Photo by Brisbane City YHA

So you’re heading to the capital of Queensland and you’re in search of the best hostels in Brisbane. Welcome to the only guide you’ll need to discover the coolest hostels whilst backpacking Brisbane.

Yep; we’ve collected great hostels that come with awesome vibes, cool design and locations in the midst of the city buzz.

Here’s a shortcut for you:

  1. Brisbane City YHA – great for solo travellers
  2. Breeze Lodge – one for female solo travellers
  3. City Backpackers HQ – ideal for backpackers

Oh yeah, and a swimming pool! We also have a guide on the best hostels in Noosa!

This guide is perfect for YOU, when …

  • tired of bad and crappy hostels
  • want to avoid the “young party kids”
  • happy to spend 1-2€ for a better experience

We cover in this article:

Quick Introduction to Brisbane

Average price for a bed: Hostels in Brisbane cost 12.50€ – 25€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 25€ up to 65€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

Unlike other destinations in Australia, hostels in Brisbane are more budget friendly, yet still more pricey than European destinations.

Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

🎁 New to Hostels? Read my guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. I especially recommend reading:

The 3 Best Hostels in Brisbane

Let’s jump right into the boutique hostels in Brisbane.

Quick overview:

  1. Brisbane City YHA – great for solo travellers
  2. Breeze Lodge – one for female solo travellers
  3. City Backpackers HQ – ideal for backpackers

We put all three accommodation on the map, you will find the map at the end of the article.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🩾 Solo Traveler: Brisbane City YHA
đŸ™Žâ€â™€ïž best for Female Solo Traveler: Breeze Lodge
đŸ„ł Party Hostel:Bunk Brisbane
đŸ‘©â€â€ïžâ€đŸ‘šCouple Hostel: Brisbane City YHA
đŸ‘šâ€đŸ‘©â€đŸ‘Š Family Hostel: Brisbane City YHA
đŸ‘©â€đŸ’» For Digital Nomads: City Backpackers HQ
🧘 Cozy Hostel: Breeze Lodge

1. Brisbane City YHA

If you’re looking for a cool, contemporary and conveniently located hostel; opt for Brisbane City YHA Queensland. It’s the best hostel Brisbane City has to offer!

Honestly, you may find no reason to step foot outside the front door once you’re in. Especially when there is a…

  • Huge outdoor rooftop swimming pool
  • Games room w/ pool table
  • On-site bar & cafe
  • Cosy TV lounge

As with many YHA hostels and YHA locations around the country, you can expect this one to be big and lively. That’s why we recommend this more for solo travellers and groups. Anyway, you can ask the staff for YHA Brisbane airport shuttle.

Perhaps you’re into organised activities?

Well then great! At our #1 choice there are weekly activities including BBQ’s, yoga classes, pub crawls and movie nights.

The friendly staff will be happy to fill you in on what’s hip-hop-happening whilst you’re in town.

Choose between dorms and private rooms, all of which comes with linen, Wi-Fi and air-con.

Good to know: if you want super fast Wi-Fi an upgrade is available at a charge.

As for the location, you won’t be disappointed. From here you overlook the CBD and Brisbane River. It’s a short distance to all of the major attractions and a supermarket is just around the corner.

This is your best hostel bet for:

  • Solo travellers
  • Groups
Book Brisbane City YHA here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Brisbane City YHA is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia Brisbane City YHA is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia Brisbane City YHA is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia

2. Breeze Lodge

Breeze Lodge is a comfortable and affordable hostel situated in Kangaroo Point. Hop on a bus right outside or jump on the free ferry to Brisbane’s CBD – cool, huh?

Don’t let us fool you into thinking this is the only enticing thing about our #2 hostel.

It has a great range of rooms, from 4-bed female and 10-bed mixed dorms to a twin option for travelling friends.

There are no private rooms here, so apologies to the couples!

Instead, if you’re backpacking Brisbane you’ll feel right at home here.

Whilst there are no privacy curtains on the bunks, each person gets their own reading lamp, socket and locker.

But to be honest, we urge you to dump your bags and make use of the awesome amenities, including:

  • Rooftop terrace
  • Fully equipped kitchen w/ tea & coffee
  • TV lounge area
  • Games area (ping pong, board games, cards)

If it’s about time you contacted home, you’ll be satisfied with the free Wi-Fi in all areas of the hostel.

Start your day with a yummy breakfast before chatting to the staff about what to see and do. Don’t forget to ask them about the reception opening hours.

Like we said before, Breeze lodge is a free ferry ride from the centre of Brisbane. This means you can enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere yet remain close to the nightlife.

This is one of the best hostels in Brisane for

  • Female solo travellers
  • Backpackers
Book Breeze Lodge here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Breeze Lodge is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia Breeze Lodge is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia Breeze Lodge is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia

3. City Backpackers HQ

Fancy being super close to the action of the city whilst also staying at a super social accommodation? Welcome to City Backpackers HQ!

The cool thing about this hostel is that they have room choices for every budget so there’s always a nice mix of people here.

From here it’s a super easy and quick walk to the best shops, restaurants and bars in the entertainment areas of Brisbane.

Keen to have a look at the hostel highlights?

  • Mutiple decks w/ city & river views
  • Movie lounge
  • Outdoor pool with epic city views
  • Live entertainment
  • Shared kitchen

Whilst the rooms here are pretty basic, they’re affordable and range in size. So you could either opt for an intimate 4-bed female dorm, or get social in the 12-bed.

Our top tip: Just use the rooms for sleeping and storing your stuff – make the most of the social areas.

Before you panic! Yes, there is free Wifi here. Phew.

A top choice for:

  • Backpackers
Book City Backpackers HQ here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

City Backpackers HQ is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia City Backpackers HQ is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia City Backpackers HQ is one of the best hostels in Brisbane, Australia

What about cheapest hostels in Brisbane?

If you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you wanna save every penny, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Brisbane.

  1. Open Hostelworld with full list of budget places to stay in Brisbane
  2. Order the listing by price

Simple as that. Make sure you use then the other filters and rank per price.

Also keep a close eye on the ratings, especially the “extreme ratings”. Meaning, the best and worst. These ratings can give great insight on what to expect.

Read: How to book hostels with Hostelworld.

Best Hostels in Brisbane for Solo Travellers?

What is the serious, best hostels Brisbane has for solo-travellers?

Brisbane is a great city for solo travellers as there is tons of entertainment and events to get involved in.

You surely won’t be left to feel lonely!

However, if you need that extra bit of help to meet people we recommend two hostels for solo travellers in Brisbane:

Best hostel for female solo travellers: Breeze Lodge
Best hostel for sociable solo travellers: Brisbane City YHA

Breeze Lodge offers great female only dorms in a safe part of the city not too far from the centre. We think the rooftop terrace and games offer a great way to break the ice in a non-forced setting.

If you’re looking to join activities and enjoy a late night or two, Brisbane City YHA is another great option for solo travellers. It’s unlikely you’ll be sitting alone for long at this very social-orientated hostel.

Party Hostels in Brisbane

If you’re looking for a good time in Brisbane, without having to leave the comfort of your hostel, you’ll be impressed by Bunk Brisbane.

This place has an awesome bar, outside swimming pool AND hot tub!

Being a big place, you can opt for a budget shared dorm with up to 20-beds, or flash pack your way to a private room. Linen is included and lockers are big.

Expect nightly themes and entertainment at the bar. And if you fancy hitting the streets to continue the party Brisbane has a great nightlife scene is within 100m of Bunk.

Book Bunk Brisbane here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Bunk Brisbane is the best party hostel in Brisbane, Australia

More Brisbane hostels worth a mention

City backpackers, are you ready to explore Brisbane? We have provided a lot of backpacker hostels and we are confident that all of them are really great.

Solo travelers and backpackers in Brisbane get ready to check out more hostels worth a mention. After all, we want you to experience the best of Brisbane.

  • Brisbane Backpackers Resort
  • Summer House Backpackers Brisbane
  • Nomads Brisbane Hostel

Brisbane Backpackers Resort

Brisbane Backpackers Resort has a good vibe.The atmosphere is great!

Ping Pong and basketball court all on site. So if you are tired of hanging out in swimming pool, you can do other outdoor activities.

Key card entry to rooms, but no lockers available in rooms, only outside.

Hostel Highlights:

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Airport shuttle
  • Swimming pool
  • Outdoor pool
  • Spa and wellness centre
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Bar
  • Free Breakfast

Location: Located in Brisbane’s West End, 10 minutes’ walk from Southbank. Brisbane Backpackers Hostel is a 5-minute bus ride from Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. It is a 10-minute drive from The Tivoli Theatre. Brisbane Airport is 20 minutes’ away.

Book Brisbane Backpackers Resort here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Brisbane Backpackers Resort

Summer House Backpackers Brisbane

Summer House Backpackers Brisbane is a nice hostel, rooms are really clean and spacious.

Staff are welcoming and knowledgeable. The only disadvantage is the kitchen. It is a bit small for guests who want to cook their meals.

Hostel Highlights:

  • 24 Hour Security
  • Airport Transfers
  • Housekeeping
  • Internet Access
  • Internet cafĂ©
  • Laundry Facilities
  • Luggage Storage
  • Shuttle Bus
  • Tours/Travel Desk
  • Towels for hire

Location: Just a 10 minute walk from Suncorp Stadium. Summer House Backpackers is a 5 minute walk from Brisbane Transit Centre and a 10 minute walk from Roma Street Station and a 5 minute drive from the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. Fortitude Valley is 8 km away from Summer House Backpackers. Brisbane Airport is a 15 minute drive away.

Book Summer House Backpackers Brisbane here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Summer House Backpackers Brisbane

Nomads Brisbane Hostel

Nomads Brisbane Hostel includes shared dormitories, private single rooms and private double rooms.

It has a bar in the basement so if you are looking for a quiet place to stay, you better skip this and go on the next hostel.

Hostel Highlights:

  • 24 Hour Reception
  • 24 Hour Security
  • ATM
  • Housekeeping
  • Internet Access
  • Laundry Facilities
  • Luggage Storage
  • Shuttle Bus
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Restaurant
  • Bar

Location: Situated in Brisbane’s Central Business District. It is few minutes walk to Brisbane Central Station, Anzac Square, King George Square, Brisbane Square and Queen Street Mall. Brisbane Airport is 12.9km away from the hostel.

Book Nomads Brisbane Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Nomads Brisbane Hostel

How to book?

We recommend using Booking.com or Hostelworld for your reservations.

Hostelworld is super safe and the biggest booking platform for hostels.

On both platforms your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

Here’s our guide how to book hostels with Hostelworld.

We included the handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Here is the overview:

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible!

All of Brisbane best hostels are popular; especially in high-season.

To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fixed.

Any Discounts?

Currently, we have no special hostel discounts in Brisbane. I know, it’s a pity. You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive our newest hostel discounts always to your inbox.

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here.

Hostel Map Brisbane Nomadic AnnaMy Best Hostels in Brisbane for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights

Whether you want to stay in hostels or hotels, we want you to enjoy Brisbane. P.S. Hostels are always better for us compared to hostels!

Let us have a look on the map. Below we list all three best Brisbane hostels on a map.

We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:

  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
  • South Bank
  • Story Bridge
  • Queen Street Mall
  • Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
  • Glass House Mountains
  • The Wheel of Brisbane

There’s a lot of cool day trips and activities to join in Brisbane, including:

FAQ

Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Brisbane.

Here are some more awesome guides in Australia:

Heading over to Fiji? check out our guide to the best hostels in Fiji.

You can find all our new and updates articles for Best Hostels in here.

We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.

Over to you

Was this useful? Do you have any questions, doubts?

Then please please leave us a comment. This list of awesome Brisbane hostels should be as informative and useful as possible.

Your question will help me to understand what I have missed to mention.

Therefore, drop us a comment, we are keen to help you!

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter and find the best place on a budget! We ONLY recommend places we know you will enjoy, no matter what.

We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We only share with you places we also recommend to our best friends and family!

Enjoy this fine hostel selection and all 5 Star Hostels.

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Best Hostels in Brisbane, Australia - the complete guide and overview for backpackers

CLOSED: Aussie Way Backpackers

Update: Our former #3 hostel has permanently closed its doors.

Fancy staying in a 1872 colonial style building that has its historic charms and modern necessities?

It’s the open verandas and wooden floors that really caught our eye at Aussie Way Backpackers.

This really is a top choice for those looking to wind down and escape from the sometimes stressful side of travelling. It’s super cosy here!

The no alcohol policy ensures everyone gets a good nights sleep. However! If you’re keen for the nightclub scene and Brisbane’s top entertainment district, it’s all easily accessible.

As for the rooms, choose from:

  • 4-bed dorms
  • Single rooms
  • Twin rooms
  • Double rooms

It’s a simple set up but you won’t have to worry about linen and towels as these are included.

If you’re keen to meet other peeps, check out the living area where you’ll find sofas, board games and a TV.

Although not strictly a Brisbane working hostel, some people do use this as a base for finding work in the area. No doubt the staff can help with this so don’t be shy.

The location is top notch within a quiet area yet close to the city centre. You can reach the CBD on foot, just 10-minutes away.

Tip: at the end of the street there is an olympic-size swimming pool!