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Get to know the best digital nomad friendly hostels for your stay in Sydney. Meeting people and coworking!
Hello, fellow backpackers and digital nomads!
Sydney may be notorious for its high amount of hostels, but no worries! I’ve checked out some digital-nomad friendly hostels in the city that not only won’t break the bank but also offer a vibrant community for digital nomads. While budget hostels are abundant in Sydney, finding one that caters to the needs of digital nomads, with coworking spaces and a lively atmosphere, can be a bit trickier.
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to 5 top-rated hostels in Sydney where you can work, network, and meet people all over the world! With shared dorms starting from $31 (AUD=Australian Dollar), you have the option to choose between a private room or a shared room, depending on your preference and budget.
Additionally, if you’re planning to stay long-term (one month or more), many of these hostels offer special discounts, either directly through the hostel or via booking platforms like hostelworld.
The hostels are not in a specific ranking, as location, rating, and price are very subjective for digital nomads.
Beforehand: What amenities all 5 hostels have by default
All 5 hostels have a huge kitchen, where you can cook or make quick a tea/coffee to be productive. Some even have in-house cafe-bar.
Moreover, in all hostels you will find a decent table and chair where you can actually work comfortable. Keep in mind that at some places background music can be played though!
Last but not least, all here introduced hostels are in top locations in Sydney (now it depends on your preference). See my personal criteria for the best hostels for digital nomads here!
In the following, all prices are in AUD (Australian Dollar). For your reference $1 AUD = €0.61 and $0.66 US (as of Mai 2024). $20 would be €12.23 and $13.22.
Alrighty, let’s get started:
1. Wake Up! Sydney Central hostel
Wake Up! Sydney, voted ‘Best Hostel in Australia’ & ‘5 Best Extra-Large Hostel Worldwide’ at the 2020 Hostelworld HOSCAR awards (Oscars for hostels), and indeed it’s kind of a hotel for backpackers. Centrally located, Wake Up Sydney provides easy access to the city’s top attractions, with Central train station just opposite the hostel. Buses and trams are also nearby, offering seamless connections to iconic landmarks like the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Renowned for its engaging community, the hostel boasts super-friendly staff who go the extra mile to ensure a memorable stay, hosting daily parties and events. Guests appreciate the attention to detail, including rare extras like an on-site ATM and thoughtful amenities such as hooks and shelves in the showers.
Ready to embark on an unparalleled adventure in Sydney? Wake Up! Sydney Central offers an array of perks and benefits to enhance your stay:
- Social meetups and complimentary bar tabs
- Complimentary pizza nights
- Onsite travel desk with discounts available
- In-house cafe, bar, and nightclub
- Sydney pub crawls
- 24-hour reception and check-in
- Easy-to-use laundry facilities
- Daily happy hour and live DJs
- Daily social events and activities
Wake Up! Sydney Central at a glance
- Prices from $53 dorms and $134 private rooms
- Hostelworld ranking 9.2 (all hostelworld rankings in this post from 5 Mai 2024)
- Located near Central Station
- Dozen of events and even a bar on site
2. Summerhouse Backpackers Kings Cross hostel
This Australian hostel chain is one of my favorites to stay long term because it meets my personal criteria to stay in a hostel! Besides, it’s one of the more budget friendly hostels on the list!
Summer House Backpackers offers clean conveniently located just a short walk from Kings Cross Station and Hyde Park. Tucked away in a quiet street behind the vibrant Kings Cross nightlife district, you can enjoy easy access to Sydney’s best pubs, clubs, and restaurants.
You can take advantage of:
- Surfboard hire
- Travel discounts
- Large security lockers (padlocks not provided)
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Daily organized events and nights out—all included in the room rate.
Summer house backpackers at a glance
- Prices from $31 dorms, $120 private rooms – one of the cheapest in my list
- Hostelworld ranking 7.9
- Located conveniently in Kings Cross near Hyde Park
- Dozen of events and small community
- Free breakfast and free pancake breakfast on Sundays
- Meets my criteria: Short ways in between room, kitchen, working space
3. Big Hostel
Now, let me introduce you to Big Backpackers Hostel—a snug, welcoming, and secure haven right in the heart of Sydney CBD. Here’s why I rave about it:
- Round-the-Clock Assistance: With 24/7 on-site staff, you’re always in good hands, whether you need travel tips or a friendly chat.
- Diverse Accommodations: From dormitories to private rooms, all equipped with AC, there’s something for every traveler’s preference and budget.
- Prime Location: Just a short stroll from Central Station and within reach of Sydney’s top attractions like Hyde Park, Chinatown, and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the city’s wonders.
- Convenient Amenities: With a fully-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, and comfortable common areas open 24/7, convenience is at your fingertips throughout your stay.
- Unlimited Connectivity: Stay connected with unlimited free Wi-Fi available throughout the hostel, even on the rooftop terrace—a perfect spot for soaking up the sun and mingling with fellow travelers.
- Diverse Room Options: Choose from mixed or female-only dormitories, as well as private rooms catering to various group sizes and preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
- Top-notch Security: With key-only access and CCTV surveillance, your safety and peace of mind are paramount during your time at Big Backpackers Hostel.
Big Hostel at a glance
- Prices from $34 dorms, $108 private rooms
- Hostelworld ranking 8.3
- Located conveniently in Kings Cross near Hyde Park
- Dozen of events
4. The Pacific House
Former “Elephant backpackers hostel” where I stayed long term. Meanwhile, a HOSCAR winner 2024! The Phoenix rose from the ashes, I would say! It’s now a place where luxury meets affordability, and history intertwines with contemporary style.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
Luxury Affordability: Providing a luxurious experience without breaking the bank. You’ll find comfort and elegance here at a price that won’t empty your wallet.
Rich Heritage: Resides in a historic building dating back to 1892, boasting a fascinating past as a temperance hotel and city hospital. Today, it stands as a testament to hospitality, blending old-world charm with modern comforts.
Stylish Interiors: Renowned Australian designer Tamsin Johnson has worked her magic, transforming our interiors into spaces of tranquility and style. Expect soothing color palettes, plush bedding, and captivating mural artwork by Tabitha Hope.
Thoughtful Amenities: Thought of everything to ensure your stay is as comfortable as can be. From inviting communal areas to premium amenities, every detail is designed with your comfort and convenience in mind.
The Pacific House at a glance
- Prices from $51 dorms, $125 private rooms
- Hostelworld ranking 8.9
- One of the best locations! Very close to Hyde Park (CBD) and Kings Cross. Walking distance to the Opera House
- Dozen of events and people
- Perfect for long-term-stays
5. YHA Sydney Harbour hostel
Sydney Harbour YHA stands as a beacon of excellence, having been crowned the best in Australia and Oceania at the prestigious 2010 HOSCAR awards. And let me tell you, it’s no surprise! This modern gem offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Opera House, leaving travelers in awe.
What sets this hostel apart? Well, according to fellow adventurers on Hostelworld, it’s the spacious and pristine ensuite rooms that steal the spotlight. They rave about the warm, family-like atmosphere that makes them feel safe and right at home. Oh, and let’s not forget about “The Big Dig” – an archaeological wonder nestled beneath the ground floor, visible from every level of the hostel.
But there’s more to Sydney Harbour YHA than meets the eye. Nestled in the historic Rocks precinct, this budget-friendly haven combines modern amenities with a rich heritage experience.
From the self-catering kitchen to the rooftop terrace boasting panoramic views, every corner exudes charm and comfort. And did I mention the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi? It’s a digital nomad’s dream come true!
And here’s a pro tip: Don’t pass up the chance to explore the extensive beer list at The Australian Heritage Hotel next door. Plus, with daily activities and a helpful tour desk, you’ll have all the tools you need to make the most of your Sydney adventure!
YHA Sydney Habour at a glance
- Prices from $31 dorms, $121 private rooms – one of the cheapest in my list
- Hostelworld ranking 9.1
- One of the best views
- Dozen of events and people
- Perfect for long-term-stays
Final thoughts and conclusion
Sydney is jam-packed with hostels, but no worries fellow backpackers and digital nomads! I’ve sifted through the abundance to uncover digital-nomad friendly hostels that won’t drain your bank account and promise a vibrant community and coworking. While budget options are wide-ranging, finding one tailored to digital nomads with coworking spaces and a lively vibe can be a bit of a scavenger hunt.
In this guide, I’ve handpicked 5 top-rated hostels in Sydney where you can work, network, and forge connections with like-minded travelers. With shared dorms starting from $31 (AUD), you have the flexibility to choose between private rooms or shared dorms, catering to your preference and budget.
I highly recommend doing one-week stays for the beginning (at the very least) to get special discounts and get to know the people and vibe in the hostel.
Without further ado, now get started and dive into the world of Sydney’s digital nomad-friendly hostels:
What’s next in your journey?
For working holiday starters:
- Apply for the working holiday maker visa subclass 417 (usual approval time 1 min – 14 days) or 462 (usual approval time at least 14 days due to further requirements)
- Provide further details if necessary to get the application going (health examination etc.) in your immigration account (immiAccount)
- Get credit cards, especially a WISE account (Australian bank account) and check passport validity! (min. 2 weeks – 1 month before you plan to flight)
- Book your flights (AFTER received approval letter from immigration)
- Packing list 2024 (Coming soon)
- Get travel insurance before you fly (SavetyWing or Heymondo)
- Get an Onward ticket ALWAYS! (24-48h before your flight, evidence of leaving the country you enter). For working holiday Australia visa holders, it’s NOT necessary.
- Book your accommodation via hostelworld to get to know people quickly. I recommend the first two weeks at the same spot
- Job hunting and other bureaucratic stuff (once in Australia)
- Open up your US LLC to get your Freelancer business started!
- Sign up to my Newsletter to get a smarter traveler and stay up-to-date
For digital nomad starters:
- Open up your US LLC to get your Freelancer business started! (4 weeks before your trip)
- Get credit cards and check passport validity! (min. 2 weeks – 1 month before you plan to flight)
- Apply for possible longer stays like digital nomad visa or extended visa (typically 2 months before your flight)
- Book your flights
- Packing list 2024 (Coming soon)
- Get travel insurance before you fly (SavetyWing or Heymondo)
- Get an Onward ticket 24-48h before your flight (evidence of leaving the country you enter, ALWAYS!). If you have a visa, it’s not necessary!
- Book your accommodation via hostelworld to get to know people quickly. I recommend the first week in one spot
- Sign up to my Newsletter to get a smarter traveler and stay up-to-date
