Best Hostels in Toronto for Backpackers

Updated On October 9, 2023
Toronto sign near the water

Canada is beautiful all year round but especially in the summer. 

During this season, it transforms into a tourist-welcoming place, embracing also locals who are slowly waking up from winter hibernation.

If you ask Torontonians, they’ll tell you that it’s the best time of the year and no wonder why!

All outdoor areas open up and everywhere you go, you may hear joyous chatter and laugh.

Bars and restaurants are soaked up in sun and visitors enjoy their coffee while getting some extra vitamin D.

In other words, you must visit Toronto in the summer!

Although it doesn’t have as much hype as other world megalopolises, it still levels up with any grand city in the world.

You will immediately feel the cosmopolitan vibe and the diversity as anyone you mingle with or talk to will probably turn out to be a Torontonian who was born somewhere else. 

And sure, it is not the most budget-friendly destination but it is still quite accessible for youngsters who love careless traveling and hostel accommodation.

Here are some of our hostel recommendations in Toronto.

Neill-Wycik Backpackers Hostel

The Neill-Wycik Backpackers Hostel is located near the University of Toronto, right in the center of the city.

It is a hostel with dorms and private rooms which makes it budget-friendly though close to the exciting hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a day trip to the Art gallery of Ontario or make a pub tour every Thursday evening organized by the hostel’s staff, or just ask and you’ll be kindly directed to engage in a number of activities.

A boy in the street
A boy in the street

The Only Backpacker’s Inn

The Only Backpacker’s Inn is a backpackers hostel that is not very close to the heart of the city but, nevertheless, it offers great service for your stay.

The rooms are airconditioned with comfy beds and there is a welcoming café included in the hostel where you can have your favorite drink while making new friends with travelers from all around the world.

The atmosphere in Only Backpacker’s Inn is relaxing and joyful, so you will definitely enjoy your time spent at this place.

Bunk beds
Bunk beds

HI Toronto

HI Toronto is labeled as one of the best in Toronto and there are several reasons why is this so.

It is located in the popular St Lawrence neighborhood, just a few minutes away from the tourist sights like the Distillery District, the CN Tower, the Eaton Centre, and the historic center where you can find an abundance of bars, dining places, and art galleries.

However, if you want to have it planned, then feel free to ask for a full itinerary by the hostel’s staff.

The HI team organizes different activities on a daily basis, including tours, dinners, and party nights.

The hostel includes a cocktail bar (Cavern bar) and live music gigs in the evenings.

A rooftop bar
A rooftop bar

Planet Traveler Toronto

Planet Traveler Toronto is a modern and stylish hostel that is eco-friendly and super convenient for backpackers that support and engage in green initiatives.

The structure of its ecosystem is directed toward reducing the footprint by recycling hot water, using solar power and geothermal heating as well as L.E.D bulbs.

Nevertheless, the sustainability in this hostel goes hand in hand with comfort so you can expect all the necessary amenities plus a rooftop lounge for relaxing time with fellow travelers.

Skyline in the sunset
Skyline in the sunset

The Parkdale Hostellerie

Okay, so travelers describe this hostel as an upper-level accommodation for backpackers, and trust us, they’re right.

First, it is located near Lake Ontario, so great views and dips are guaranteed, plus it has a custom-designed interior and lures with its homey atmosphere.

The Parkdale Hostellerie is a wonderful, hospitable place that is clean, cozy and always puts a smile on its face when welcoming new guests.

Coastline
Coastline

Before Traveling to Toronto

We recommend reading Toronto’s safety report to know more about the state of things before traveling.

Toronto Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Toronto Safety Review

Safety Index:
81
  • OVERALL RISK: LOW
  • TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
  • PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
  • NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
  • MUGGING RISK: LOW
  • TERRORISM RISK: LOW
  • SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
  • WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

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