7 Coolest Party Hostels in Melbourne – Espresso Martinis, Beers & Moonlight Tans

7 Coolest Party Hostels in Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne, where the coffee is strong, the street art is stronger, and the party scene is the strongest.

In this article, we’re your nocturnal navigators, ready to unveil the best party hostels in Melbourne. Because in this Australian gem, they don’t just party; they put the “bar” in “barista.” – whatever that means.

This guide is an extension of our handwritten guide to the best hostels in the city.

🥳 The COOLEST Party Hostels? Our favorites are:

  1. Space Hotel
  2. Nomads St Kilda - Base
  3. Melbourne Central YHA
  4. Summer House Melbourne Backpackers
  5. The Nunnery Accommodation
  6. Selina Central Melbourne
  7. Flinders Backpackers

Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. You can even filter specifically for Party hostels on Hostelz.com.

The Nunnery Accommodation Lobby

This guide is perfect for YOU, when you want …

  • to party!
  • a social Hostel to actually meet people!
  • a cool hostel with drinking games and such!

Intro text with related, internal links

You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all the guides to “Best Hostels in” here.

Quick Introduction to Melbourne

Average price for a bed: On average, the price of a hostel in Melbourne is around €30 per night. Prices always depend on the season and holidays. Please always check the exact rates on Hostelz.com.

Check-In and Check-Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3 pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11 am). 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.

Where to Party in Melbourne:

  • Chapel Street: This iconic street is party central, boasting a plethora of bars and clubs. Hit up Revolver Upstairs for marathon dance sessions that stretch into the early hours.
  • Fitzroy: This hipster haven is a mecca for live music. Venues like The Night Cat offer funky beats, making it a must-visit for music lovers.
  • CBD: Melbourne’s central business district transforms after dark. Check out Cherry Bar for some rock ‘n’ roll vibes, and don’t miss Section 8 for its iconic shipping container bar.

Best Bar Areas in Melbourne:

  • Rooftop Retreats: Melbourne is known for its rooftop bars. Try Naked in the Sky for stunning views or Loop Roof for a chill atmosphere.
  • Lane way Libations: Melbourne’s famous lane ways are hiding secret bars like Bar Americano. It’s so underground, it’s literally underground.
  • Hidden Speakeasies: Seek out speakeasies like Eau de Vie. Finding the entrance is part of the adventure, and the cocktails are to die for.

What to Drink in Melbourne:

  • Espresso Martinis: Melbourne claims to have invented this coffee-infused cocktail. Try one at every bar to see who makes it best.
  • Local Craft Beer: Melbourne’s craft beer scene is booming. Try Little Creatures, Mountain Goat, or Stomping Ground for a taste of the local brews.
  • Aussie Classics: When in doubt, embrace the local culture. Sip on Bundaberg ginger beer or a classic glass of Yarra Valley wine.

🔥 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

The Coolest Party Hostels in Melbourne are …

Let’s jump right into the fun hostels in Melbourne for partying:

  1. Space Hotel
  2. Nomads St Kilda - Base
  3. Melbourne Central YHA
  4. Summer House Melbourne Backpackers
  5. The Nunnery Accommodation
  6. Selina Central Melbourne
  7. Flinders Backpackers

These are our favorite hostels in Melbourne to party. We put all these hostels on the map, including our own insider tips for bars, clubs, and popular night life areas in Melbourne (and more!).

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🙎‍♀️ Female Solo Traveler:Space Hotel
👫 For Socializing:Nomads St Kilda - Base
🎒 for Backpacker:Melbourne Central YHA
🦸 Solo Traveler: Summer House Melbourne Backpackers
👯For Groups:The Nunnery Accommodation
👩‍💻 For Digital Nomads: Selina Central Melbourne
🌆 For Nice Views:Space Hotel

1. Space Hotel

At Space Hotel, budget-conscious partygoers find their haven in Melbourne’s core.

Here, you’ll be able to sleep soundly knowing your wallet isn’t being perpetually pounded while having the ability to fully dominate Melbourne’s cultural scene.

Space Hotel’s rooftop terrace offers killer city views and serves as the perfect place to take a drink or dip your toes in a Jacuzzi. With free weekend breakfasts, you’ll also be able to conquer your hangovers when they are at their peak.

Our favorite hostel in Melbourne for

  • female solo travelers
Book Space Hotel here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Space Hostel in Melbourne Space Hostel

Space Hotel Foosball

2. Nomads St Kilda - Base

Once known as Base St Kilda, Nomads St Kilda - Base is located a short walk away from Acland Street’s lively vibes and the beach, and their rooms cater to all—from private balcony suites to cozy shared dorms.

This is a super social hostel that hosts a range of epic events like Big Willy’s Bingo in the sizzling Red Eye Bar.

It’s where fun, comfort, and caffeinated beach strolls collide with alcohol. So if 2 am parties sound like your thing, consider staying here.

This hostel is great for:

  • social butterflies
Book Nomads St Kilda - Base here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Nomads St Kilda - Base Bar Nomads St Kilda - Base Terrace Nomads St Kilda - Base

3. Melbourne Central YHA

Nestled in Melbourne’s lively heart, the super-welcoming Melbourne Central YHA tempts partygoers with blazing Wi-Fi and round-the-clock reception for those midnight rooftop BBQ urges.

Offering a cozy AC lounge, shared kitchen, and cool common areas with various room options including rooftop singles, this hostel is all about fun.

A short walk away from top attractions and the free City Circle Tram, it’s the ultimate party hub. Earplugs are included in your stay because the place can get pretty noisy with all the events going around.

A top choice for:

  • backpackers
Book Melbourne Central YHA here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Melbourne Central YHA Melbourne Central YHA Rooftop Melbourne Central YHA Dorms

4. Summer House Melbourne Backpackers

In the heart of St Kilda lies Summer House Melbourne Backpackers, Melbourne’s ultimate party hostel for digital nomads and backpackers.

Boasting cozy, affordable dorms with en-suites and lockers, it’s a short walk away from Acland Street’s buzz, Luna Park, and the Esplanade.

Their Hotel Barkly bar offers weekly trivia and live music events, while Sundays with their rooftop parties.

Praised for spacious dorms, clean bathrooms, and a fabulous rooftop terrace – it’s the ideal haven for fun-seekers.

Despite potential busyness during peak times, their friendly staff prioritizes work-life balance, making this one of Melbourne’s best party hostels for those who like to work and play.

One of the best hostels for:

  • solo travelers
Book Summer House Melbourne Backpackers here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Summer House Backpackers Melbourne Rooftop Summer House Backpackers Melbourne Lounge Summer House Backpackers Melbourne

5. The Nunnery Accommodation

The Nunnery Accommodation, Melbourne’s ultimate party hostel, oozes historic flair and cheeky charm.

Once a legit 1888 nunnery, it now hosts spirited global adventurers and their quirky staff, aka “The Nuns.”

Unearth Fitzroy’s vibrant essence by day and electrifying nightlife in their prime location.

Lap up freebies like Wi-Fi and mingle with fellow travelers in their awesome courtyard. 

Great for:

  • Groups
Book The Nunnery Accommodation here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

The Nunnery Accommodation Terrace The Nunnery Accommodation Lobby The Nunnery Accommodation

6. Selina Central Melbourne

Selina Central Melbourne, the ultimate party hostel nestled in the CBD, boasts epic Yarra River views and easy access to upscale shops, trendy cafés, and awesome bars.

Just a hop away from St. Paul’s Cathedral and Federation Square, this sassy haven promotes mingling with fellow globetrotters.

Free Wi-Fi, coworking spaces, and a super popular on-site bar make this not only a wild ride but also a cozy hideout for adventurers seeking fun and relaxation in their Melbourne escapades. 

This hostel is recommended for:

  • Digital nomads
Book Selina Central Melbourne here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Selina Central Melbourne Area Selina Central Melbourne Street Selina Central Melbourne Lounge

7. Flinders Backpackers

Flinders Backpackers, offers a taste of “luxury” with communal living in the city’s heart.

Enjoy shared amenities, surprise parties, and their very social communal lounge.

Their ever-friendly staff and proximity to Flinders Street Station make it a gem for adventurers seeking fun in a higher-end type of atmosphere. Don’t miss the discounted barbecues and wild parties.

A top choice for:

  • Cozy Hostel
Book Flinders Backpackers here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

Flinders Backpackers Bar Flinders Backpackers

Best Hostels in Melbourne for Solo Travellers
Flinders Backpackers

Fun Tips for Party Hostels in Melbourne

As you have come to realize, staying at a party hostel is a little different than staying at a regular hostel. Here are some tips to make your stay go a little smoother, and how to be prepared:

How to identify a party Hostel? 4 Simple indicators:

  1. Is there an age limit? 18+ and an upper age-limit are indicators
  2. Do they offer Pub Crawls and Drinking Games in the hostel?
  3. Check for party pictures
  4. Filter the Reviews on Hostelz.com for keywords like "Party", "nightlife" or "social"
Filter hostel reviews for Keywords
Filter the reviews for Keywords - a cool feature on Hostelz.com

We have written many more guides helping you find these hostels to have an amazing time. We cover many more party cities like ...

Find all our party hostel guides.

This one might be a party hostels...Wild Rover Hostels, one of the most Famous Party Hostels in the World
This one might be a party hostel...Wild Rover Hostels, one of the most Famous Party Hostels in the World

Things to Bring & Pack

There are a few things backpackers should be sure to bring when staying at a party hostel specifically. These items include earplugs (for early mornings and loud roomates), a padlock (lock up your valuables BEFORE going out), headache medicine (always usefful!), and condoms.

Especially for the bigger European cities where pickpocketing is common we recommend wearing trousers with zippers. This limits the chances of stealing from your pockets.

Read: 23 best items to pack for staying in a hostel

Be Sociable

One of the best things about a hostel is being able to meet new people from every corner of the world. Be sure to talk to people and mingle. Travelling solo is great and life-changing, yet enjoying it with new friends can be even better. Locals especially, can show you hidden secret and some of the best spots in the city.

Read: 18 Rules for Hostels and how to build life-time friendships in Hostels

What about the cheapest hostels in Melbourne?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Melbourne.

  1. Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Melbourne
  2. add your dates
  3. Order the listings by price

Simple as that.

Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.

Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.

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 Melbourne 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.

Download the Hostelworld App here

QR Code to Download your Hostelworld app with one scan
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!

The best way to find hostels: Hostelgeeks website and Hostelworld App

Need an eSIM Card for Melbourne?

Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.

No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.

Get your eSIM Card now

Need an eSIM Card for Melbourne?

Our Favorite Hostels in Melbourne put on a map + sights

Let us take a look at the handmade map we have created for you. As promised, below we list all party hostels and best hostels in Melbourne, as well as sights and our own travel tips.

Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map. It’s just easier. We thought this map would help you with planning your trip too.

Any questions about hostels in Melbourne? 🤔

Join our Facebook Group!

Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

Our Insider Tips

As mentioned in the beginning, this guide is an extension of our article “Best hostels in Melbourne”.

Yet, we have written down more of our best tips for Melbourne. Check out the following:

Nightlife Events and Activities

  • Live Music Love: Melbourne lives for live music. Keep an eye out for gigs at the Corner Hotel, the Espy, and the Northcote Social Club.
  • Comedy Central: The city has a booming comedy scene. Head to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival if you’re up for a laugh.
  • Late-Night Nosh: When the midnight munchies hit, grab a classic kebab or venture to Chinatown for a 3 AM yum cha feast.

Happy Hour Heaven

  • Asian Beer Café: Cheap pints and cocktails galore, plus a fantastic view of Melbourne Central.
  • The Shaw Davey Slum: Happy hour here is a bonanza with $4 pints and $6 basics. Prepare for a rowdy time.
  • Bimbo Deluxe: Pizza, pot, and ping pong! Happy hour stretches for a glorious five hours. Get ready for a night of debauchery.

FAQ

More questions left? No worries, we are here for you.

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Melbourne for nightlife and party. 

Here are some more awesome guides in Australia:

Party hostels:

Backpacker hostels:

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

Over to you

Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

Your question will help us to improve this Melbourne guide.

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 will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks

We are 100% Independent: Some links on Hostelgeeks are so-called affiliate links. If you decide to book through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support allows us to keep producing high-quality, independent content free of influence from hostels or external advertisers. Learn more here. 🙏

✏️ Read our Editorial Guidelines

Our Favorite Travel Resources 2024

👏 Booking Hostels: Always find better deals for Hostels on Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking.com.

✈️ Cheap Flights: The first websites we always check are Skyscanner and Google Flights.

🤒 Travel Insurance Simplified: We always go either with Safetywing and Hey Mondo.

🤓 Smart Travel Tools you need to know: Find a list of our favorite travel tools.

Get your Smart Packing List (Free Printable): Knowing what to pack and what not to pack is key. Get our ultimate list of smart items to bring on your trip.

Download your Free PDF Packing List

Best Hostel Packing List