Sydney Hostel Backpackers

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a digital nomad, or a group of adventurers eager to experience the thrills and sights of Sydney, Little Drifter Hostels promise a welcoming, fun, and comfortable stay. From sunny Bondi Beach to the vibrant streets of Surry Hills, our Sydney hostels and accommodation ensures every backpacker and group have their travel needs met. Dive into Sydney’s exciting mix of sun, surf, culture, and nightlife with Little Drifter Hostels as your base

Our Sydney Hostel Locations

A Unique Hostel Experience in Sydney’s Top Neighbourhoods

Sydney’s charm lies in its unique neighbourhoods, each offering a different slice of city life. Little Drifter Hostels, located in some of Sydney’s most beloved areas, provide a gateway to these distinct experiences.

Bondi’s Best Hostel

Just steps away from the golden sands of Bondi Beach, Drifter Hostel Bondi Beach is more than just a place to sleep. It is a gateway to the laid-back beach culture and seaside activities that define Sydney. Whether it's surfing at dawn or enjoying the lively eateries that line the beachfront, your hostel stay in Bondi will be one to remember. 

Cosy Hostel Stay in Surry Hills

Nestled in buzzing Surry Hills, this Sydney hostel is your key to discovering the artistic heartbeat of the city. Whether cosying up at the local pub or indulging in an evening of fine dining or dance-all-night revelry, Surry Hills is all about unexpected finds and unforgettable moments. The Village Hostel Surry Hills offers the ultimate retreat, with thoughtfully designed private rooms and dorms, an alfresco dining area and cosy communal areas.

Facilities Designed for the Modern Sydney Backpacker

Little Drifter in Sydney is perfectly tailored for backpackers and travellers, offering essential facilities like free high-speed Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, cosy lounges, and vibrant outdoor spaces ideal for socialising and relaxation. Travellers will appreciate convenient extras like on-site laundry, vending machines, digitised services, dedicated co-working areas, and engaging curated events. With recreational games and spaces designed specifically for community-building, Drifter ensures a comfortable, connected, and memorable hostel experience during your Sydney adventures.

Why Stay With Drifter?

Private & Shared Accommodation Types

Whether you're a backpacker seeking budget-friendly shared accommodation to connect with fellow explorers travelling through Sydney, a digital nomad needing a quiet and comfortable private suite to recharge, or travelling with friends who prefer something in between, Drifter has you covered. With modern, comfortable spaces ranging from communal dorm rooms with private lockers, to private suites featuring queen beds and ensuite bathrooms, it's the ideal home base for your Sydney holiday, no matter your travel style.

Meet likeminded travellers through our Sydney events

What better way to enjoy your trip than to share it with the people that you meet along the way. Never miss out on the fun, with a variety of engaging and social activities designed for you to meet likeminded backpackers and travellers throughout Sydney to share your best moments with. From getting in touch with your creative side, to exploring the local culture, giving back to the environment, and just having fun, check out all of our events at Drifter Sydney!

Whether you're a solo explorer, digital nomad, or part of a group, Little Drifter's blend of style, comfort, and community makes it a standout choice for backpackers and travellers eager to experience the real Sydney.

Backpacking Sydney? Things To Know Before Your Trip

What’s the best month to visit Sydney as a backpacker?

Sydney is a year‑round destination with its warm, sunny summers and mild winters.

Summer (December to February): Peak season for beach lovers and those fleeing the European winter. Expect bustling shores, lively festivals like the Sydney Festival in January, and longer daylight hours ideal for harbour cruises and evening rooftop bars.

Spring (September to November) & Autumn (March–May): Shoulder season perfect for exploring Sydney on foot. These months are ideal for walking tours, coastal hikes along the Bondi to Coogee trail, and day trips to the Blue Mountains without the peak-season rush.

Winter (June–August): Low season will have the cheapest deals on accommodation and although cooler, the weather remains pleasant enough for sightseeing. Visiting in Winter will be best if you’re on a budget

How many nights should I stay in Sydney for the first time?

For first‑time visitors, a 5 night stay lets you cover Sydney’s top tourist attractions from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge to Bondi Beach. If you’d like to add day trips to the Blue Mountains or explore at a more leisurely pace, we recommend staying 7-9 nights.

Drifter offers long stay accommodation in Sydney with rates starting from $250.

Can I get around Sydney by public transportation?

Sydney has a vast modern public transport system including trains, buses, ferries and trams that make exploring Sydney a breeze

Just tap on/off using your contactless debit or credit card or purchase an Opal card to access public transport across the city.

Can I drink the tap water in Sydney?

Yes, Sydney’s tap water is safe to drink and is amongst the safest and cleanest tap water in the world

Is Sydney safe for solo travellers?

Sydney is considered very safe for solo travellers but we would recommend everyone take standard precautions, especially at night.

Key Attractions Around Sydney

Visit Top Attractions in the Area

​Whether you’re at any one of our three locations throughout Sydney, you're perfectly positioned to experience and enjoy Syney’s most iconic landmarks.

• Wander through the enchanting Royal Botanic Gardens, where harbour views meet vibrant greenery.
• Take on the Harbour Bridge, whether you walk it or climb it, the panoramic views of the city are unforgettable.
• Animal lovers can hop on a ferry to Taronga Zoo, where native wildlife and nature meet skyline backdrops.
• For a dose of culture, the Australian Museum is just a short ride away, packed with stories of nature, history, and everything in between.

Iconic Beaches in the Neighbourhood

The city’s beaches are undoubtedly a highlight, with the world-famous Bondi Beach leading the charge. This iconic destination is not just about golden sands and surf; it’s a lifestyle, a place where the city’s electric energy meets the tranquillity of the ocean.

Our top 3 beach recommendations include:

• Bondi Beach - world-famous surf, sun, and people-watching and home to the instagram famous Bondi Icebergs swim club
• Coogee Beach - great for a relaxed swim, visit one of the ocean pools or hike along the famous Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
• Manly Beach - surf-friendly, laid-back vibe with beach bars and weekend markets with loads of backpacker-friendly food spots and pubs nearby

Dive Deep into Sydney’s Cultural Scene

Sydney’s culture goes far beyond the beaches, its creative neighbourhoods, rich history, and thriving arts scene make it a cultural playground for curious travellers.

• Carriageworks Farmers Market (Saturdays) - A must-visit for food lovers, this weekly market in Eveleigh (near Redfern) features farm-fresh produce, gourmet treats, and artisan products.
• Newtown Street Art Walks - A creative inner-west suburb known for its alternative culture, vintage stores, and diverse food scene. Street art is everywhere, so make sure to bring along your camera.
• Art Gallery of NSW - Located next to the Royal Botanic Garden, the Gallery of NSW houses Australian, Indigenous, European, and Asian art collections. With free entry to permanent exhibitions, this world class gallery visit is perfect if you're on a budget.

FAQ about our Sydney Hostels