Short answer: The three best hostels in Brisbane are 1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel (big, social, with a rooftop pool, great for solo travelers and groups), 2. Breeze Lodge (relaxed female-friendly spot in Kangaroo Point with a free ferry to the CBD), and 3. Brisbane Quarters (modern and social in the city centre, ideal for solo travelers and digital nomads). Compare live prices for all three on Hostelz before you book, since Brisbane is cheaper than Sydney but still fills up around big events.
So you’re heading to the capital of Queensland and you’re after the best hostels in Brisbane. Welcome to the only guide you’ll need to find the coolest hostels while backpacking Brisbane.
Yep, we’ve gathered great hostels with awesome vibes, cool design and locations right in the thick of the city.
Our favorite hostels in Brisbane are:
- Brisbane City YHA Hostel - best for Solo Travellers
- Breeze Lodge - best for Female Solo Travellers
- Brisbane Quarters - best for Digital Nomads
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel
2. Breeze Lodge
3. Brisbane Quarters
Oh yeah, and a swimming pool. We’ve also got a guide on the best hostels in Noosa.
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
Quick Introduction to Brisbane
Average price for a bed: Hostels in Brisbane cost €12.50 to €25 per night for a dorm bed. A private room starts from €25 up to €65 per night. That’s a rough guide, just to set expectations.
Unlike a lot of Australia, Brisbane hostels are fairly budget-friendly, though still pricier than European destinations. Prices swing with the season and holidays, so always check live rates. The easiest way is to compare across the booking sites at once on Hostelz, or check Hostelworld.com or Booking.com directly.
Check-in and check-out: Check-in is usually from 15:00 (3pm), with check-out before 11:00 (11am). Most places store luggage if you arrive early or leave late. Just ask whether storage is free or costs extra.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Brisbane are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Brisbane.
- Brisbane City YHA Hostel – best for Solo Travellers
- Breeze Lodge – best for Female Solo Travellers
- Brisbane Quarters – best for Digital Nomads
These are our favorite hostels in Brisbane. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel
2. Breeze Lodge
3. Brisbane Quarters
We’ve put all three hostels on the map, which you’ll find at the end of the article.
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Brisbane City YHA |
| 🙎♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler: | Breeze Lodge |
| 🥳 Party Hostel: | Bunk Brisbane |
| 👩❤️👨Couple Hostel: | Brisbane City YHA |
| 👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | Brisbane City YHA |
| 👩💻 For Digital Nomads: | Brisbane Quarters |
| 🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Breeze Lodge |
The 3 Best Hostels in Brisbane
Here’s the quick comparison before the full write-ups. Skim it, then read on.
Best Hostels in Brisbane Compared at a Glance
| Hostel | Best for | Vibe | Area | Standout |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel | Solo travelers, groups | Big, lively, social | CBD, overlooking the Brisbane River | Rooftop pool, on-site bar/cafe, weekly activities |
| 2. Breeze Lodge | Female solo travelers, backpackers | Relaxed, social, dorms-only | Kangaroo Point (free ferry to CBD) | Rooftop terrace, female-only dorms, no private rooms |
| 3. Brisbane Quarters | Solo travelers, digital nomads | Modern, social, stylish | Central Brisbane | Outdoor pool, free breakfast, privacy curtains in dorms |
How to Pick the Right Brisbane Hostel
Not sure which one is you? Here’s the shortcut.
- Solo and social: 1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel
- Groups: 1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel
- Female solo traveler: 2. Breeze Lodge
- Backpacker on a budget: 2. Breeze Lodge
- Digital nomad who wants modern and tidy: 3. Brisbane Quarters
- Here to party: Bunk Brisbane (further down)
- Cheapest bed, full stop: compare them all live on Hostelz
Hostelgeeks Tip: Brisbane is easier on the wallet than Sydney or Melbourne, but beds still tighten up around big events like the Ekka in August and Riverfire. Compare your dates on Hostelz first so you grab the best-value bed before they fill.
1. Brisbane City YHA Hostel
If you want a cool, contemporary and conveniently located hostel, go for Brisbane City YHA Hostel. It’s the best hostel Brisbane City has to offer.
Honestly, you may find no reason to step outside the front door once you’re in. Especially when there’s a:
- Huge outdoor rooftop swimming pool
- Games room w/ pool table
- On-site bar & cafe
- Cosy TV lounge
Like a lot of YHA hostels around the country, this one is big and lively, which is why we recommend it more for solo travelers and groups. And you can ask the staff about the YHA Brisbane airport shuttle.
Into organised activities? Great. At our #1 choice there are weekly activities including BBQs, yoga classes, pub crawls and movie nights. The friendly staff will happily fill you in on what’s hip-hop-happening while you’re in town.
Choose between dorms and private rooms, all of which come 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 the major attractions, and there’s a supermarket just around the corner.
This is your best hostel bet for:
- Solo travellers
- Groups
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Breeze Lodge
Breeze Lodge is a comfortable and affordable hostel over in Kangaroo Point. Hop on a bus right outside or jump on the free ferry to Brisbane’s CBD. Cool, huh?
And that’s not the only thing going for our #2 hostel. It has a great range of rooms, from 4-bed female and 10-bed mixed dorms to a twin option for friends travelling together. There are no private rooms here, so apologies to the couples. But if you’re backpacking Brisbane, you’ll feel right at home.
There are no privacy curtains on the bunks, but each person gets their own reading lamp, socket and locker. Honestly though, we’d urge you to dump your bags and make use of the great amenities:
- Rooftop terrace
- Fully equipped kitchen w/ tea & coffee
- TV lounge area
- Games area (ping pong, board games, cards)
Time to contact home? You’ll be sorted with free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel. Start your day with a tasty breakfast before chatting to the staff about what to see and do, and don’t forget to ask about the reception opening hours.
Like we said, Breeze Lodge is a free ferry ride from the centre of Brisbane, so you get a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere while staying close to the nightlife.
This is one of the best hostels in Brisbane for:
- Female solo travellers
- Backpackers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Brisbane Quarters
Brisbane Quarters is for travelers after something a little more modern, but still super social. Brisbane Quarters might just be your perfect fit.
This one is all about a chilled but stylish feel: bright interiors, plenty of natural light, and just enough energy to make meeting people easy. It’s right in the heart of Brisbane, so whether you’re here for the lively nightlife, the cafes, or just exploring on foot, you’re well placed.
Want to know why travelers keep raving about Brisbane Quarters?
- Complimentary breakfast
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Clean, comfy rooms with privacy curtains
- Shared kitchen and communal lounge
- Events like trivia and movie nights
- Female-only dorm options available
The rooms are modern, tidy and great for resting between days out. Choose between mixed or female-only dorms, or a private room if you’re craving a bit of quiet.
Our insider tip: Don’t skip the free brekkie. It’s a great way to fuel up and meet new mates before a big day exploring Brisbane.
This is one of the best hostels in Brisbane for:
- Solo travellers & digital nomads
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
What about cheapest hostels in Brisbane?
Travelling on a shoestring and want to save every cent? Here’s how to find the cheapest beds in Brisbane.
- Compare on Hostelz first to see prices across the booking sites in one place.
- Open Hostelworld for the full list of budget places to stay.
- Order the listing by price.
Simple as that. Use the other filters too, and keep a close eye on the ratings, especially the “extreme ratings” (the best and the worst). Those give great insight into what to expect.
Read: how to book hostels with Hostelworld.
Best Hostels in Brisbane for Solo Travellers?
What’s the best hostel Brisbane has for solo travelers? Brisbane is a great city for going solo, with tons of entertainment and events to get involved in. You won’t be left feeling lonely.
That said, if you want a little extra help meeting people, we recommend two hostels for solo travelers in Brisbane:
Best hostel for female solo travellers: Breeze Lodge
Best hostel for sociable solo travellers: Brisbane City YHA
Breeze Lodge has great female-only dorms in a safe part of the city, not too far from the centre. We reckon the rooftop terrace and games are a great way to break the ice without it feeling forced.
If you’d rather join activities and enjoy a late night or two, Brisbane City YHA is another great option. It’s unlikely you’ll be sitting alone for long at this very social hostel.
Party Hostels in Brisbane
If you want a good time in Brisbane without leaving the comfort of your hostel, you’ll be impressed by Bunk Brisbane.
This place has an awesome bar, an outdoor swimming pool AND a hot tub. Being a big spot, you can opt for a budget shared dorm with up to 20 beds, or flashpack your way to a private room. Linen is included and the lockers are big.
Expect nightly themes and entertainment at the bar. And if you fancy hitting the streets to keep the party going, Brisbane’s nightlife scene is within 100m of Bunk.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
More Brisbane hostels worth a mention
City backpackers, ready to explore Brisbane? We’ve lined up a few more backpacker hostels, and we’re confident they’re all really great. After all, we want you to experience the best of Brisbane.
Summer House Backpackers Brisbane
Summer House Backpackers Brisbane is a nice hostel, with really clean and spacious rooms. The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable. The one downside is the kitchen, which is a bit small for guests who want to cook their own meals.
Hostel Highlights:
- 24 Hour Security
- Airport Transfers
- Housekeeping
- Internet Access
- Internet café
- 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 the Brisbane Transit Centre, 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, and Brisbane Airport is a 15-minute drive.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
City Backpackers HQ
Fancy being super close to the action while staying somewhere really social? Welcome to City Backpackers HQ.
The cool thing here is that they’ve got room choices for every budget, so there’s always a nice mix of people. From here it’s a quick, easy walk to the best shops, restaurants and bars in Brisbane’s entertainment areas.
Keen to see the highlights?
- Multiple decks w/ city & river views
- Movie lounge
- Outdoor pool with epic city views
- Live entertainment
- Shared kitchen
The rooms here are pretty basic, but they’re affordable and range in size, so you can 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, and make the most of the social areas. And before you panic: yes, there’s free Wi-Fi. Phew.
A top choice for:
- Backpackers
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Discounts and Promo Codes
Any current Brisbane discounts or promo codes show up here, so it’s worth a quick look before you book.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
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 and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
How to Book?
Once you’ve settled on a hostel, the safest bet is to book through a major platform where your payment is protected and your bed is confirmed straight away. Not sure who has the best rate? Run the hostel through Hostelz first to compare across the booking sites in one go, then book wherever it’s cheapest.
Book early in peak season and around big events, when the best-value Brisbane beds disappear fast.
Our Favorite Hostels in Brisbane put on a map + sights
Whether you want hostels or hotels, we want you to enjoy Brisbane. P.S. Hostels are always better than hotels, in our book.
Let’s take a look at the map. Below we’ve pinned all three of the best Brisbane hostels, plus the main attractions you’ll want on your radar:
- Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
- South Bank
- Story Bridge
- Queen Street Mall
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
- Glass House Mountains
- The Wheel of Brisbane
There are loads of cool day trips and activities to join around Brisbane, including:
Any questions about hostels in Brisbane? 🤔
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FAQ
The questions travelers actually ask before booking Brisbane, answered fast.
What is the best hostel in Brisbane?
It depends on your trip. Brisbane City YHA is the big, social pick with a rooftop pool, Breeze Lodge is the relaxed female-friendly spot in Kangaroo Point, and Brisbane Quarters is the modern, central choice for solo travelers and digital nomads.
How much does a hostel in Brisbane cost?
Dorm beds run roughly €12.50 to €25 per night and private rooms €25 to €65, generally cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne. Compare live rates on Hostelz before you book.
What is the best area to stay in Brisbane?
The CBD for sights and transport, Fortitude Valley for nightlife, South Bank for the riverside and cultural precinct, and Kangaroo Point for a quieter base with a quick ferry across.
Are hostels in Brisbane safe?
Yes, Brisbane is a very safe city. Just take normal precautions around the Fortitude Valley nightlife late at night.
What is the best hostel for solo travelers in Brisbane?
Brisbane City YHA for the social scene and activities, and Breeze Lodge for a female-friendly base where it's easy to meet people.
What is the best party hostel in Brisbane?
Bunk Brisbane, with its own bar, outdoor pool and hot tub, right by the Fortitude Valley nightlife.
What is the best hostel for female solo travelers?
Breeze Lodge, with female-only dorms in a safe area and a free ferry into the CBD.
How do I get from Brisbane Airport to the city?
The Airtrain runs from right outside the terminals to the CBD in about 20 minutes (around AUD $22, cheaper booked online, and kids under 14 travel free with an adult), or take a rideshare or taxi. Tap on with a go card or contactless card.
How do I get around Brisbane?
Use a go card or contactless card on the Translink network of buses, trains and CityCat ferries. The free red CityHopper ferry and the scenic CityCats are a lovely way to move along the river.
How many days do you need in Brisbane?
Two to three days covers the city, South Bank and the river, with extra days if you want to day-trip to the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast or Moreton Island.
When is the best time to visit Brisbane?
Autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) bring warm, dry weather. Summer is hot and humid with afternoon storms.
Is Brisbane cheaper than Sydney and Melbourne?
Yes, dorms are generally cheaper, though still pricier than most of Europe. Compare on Hostelz to find the best value for your dates.
Should I book Brisbane hostels in advance?
Yes in peak season and around big events like the Ekka. Compare and book early on Hostelz to lock in the best price.
Got your hostel sorted? Time to look at flights. Most travelers land at Brisbane Airport (BNE), about a 20-minute Airtrain ride from the CBD.
Flights to Brisbane?
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More Guides
Alright, that’s your answer to where to stay in Brisbane.
Here are some more awesome guides in Australia:
- best hostels in Australia
- best hostels in Sydney
- best hostels in Cairns
- best hostels in Alice Springs
- best hostels in Byron Bay
- best Hostels in Adelaide
- best hostels in Perth
- best hostels in Airlie Beach
- best hostels in Darwin
- best hostels in Noosa
- best hostels in Bondi Beach
- best hostels in Surfers Paradise
- best hostels in Hobart
Party hostels:
Backpacker hostels:
- backpacker hostels in Sydney
- backpacker hostels in Melbourne
- backpacker hostels in Brisbane
- backpacker hostels in Cairns
Heading over to Fiji? Check out our guide to the best hostels in Fiji.
You can find all our new and updated Best Hostels In articles here.
We also put together a huge guide to hostels, covering how to build lifelong friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.
Over to you
Was this useful? Any questions or doubts? Then please leave us a comment. This list of awesome Brisbane hostels should be as informative and useful as possible, and your questions help us spot anything we’ve missed.
So drop us a comment, we’re keen to help.
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’re convinced by, never anything we haven’t evaluated. We only share places we’d happily send our best friends and family to.
Enjoy this fine hostel selection and all 5 Star Hostels.
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