Sydney is one of the world’s most vibrant cities, known for its stunning harbour, iconic landmarks, and buzzing nightlife.
For backpackers, it’s a paradise filled with diverse cultures and endless opportunities to meet new people and have a great time.
If you’re new to Sydney, solo traveller and looking for friends or just looking to explore the local bar scene, here’s a guide to the best backpacker bars in Sydney CBD and beyond.
Scary Canary
Located in the heart of the city, Scary Canary is a favourite among backpackers for its lively atmosphere and budget-friendly drinks.
By day, it’s a casual spot to grab a meal, but by night, it transforms into a bustling dance floor. With its history steeped in nights out with travellers and featured on Geordie Shore Down Under.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Themed party nights
- Budget-friendly drinks especially goes down well with working holiday makers
- Central location in the CBD and close to Darling Harbour
Cargo Bar
Situated on the Darling Harbour waterfront, Cargo Bar offers stunning views and a relaxed vibe. With a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an excellent spot for a laid-back evening.
The bar often hosts live music and DJs, making it a fun place that turns from a restaurant to a dance floor at certain times of the evening. I celebrated a few birthdays over the years at Cargo, It always makes a fun night out.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Waterfront views- close to other bars and the city
- Live music and DJs
- Relaxed atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating
3 Wise Monkeys
Housed within a grand three-story heritage building, 3 Wise Monkeys is a staple in Sydney’s backpacker bar scene.
It is situated in a historic building at the corner of George and Liverpool Streets in the CBD, easily recognised by the three monkeys statues on the facade, representing the “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” proverb.
When I was a backpacker in 2010 this was across from my apartment in Liverpool Street at World Square and was a usual haunt of mine. It’s also known for its very vibrant crowd and lively events.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Regular live music
- Located in the CBD
Side Bar Sydney
Side Bar is another central gem that attracts a young international crowd. With its underground setting, it offers an intimate yet electric atmosphere. It’s situated in the basement of the Wake Up! Sydney hostel, near Central Station, making it a convenient spot for those staying nearby.
Known for its themed nights, including karaoke. Side Bar is a hotspot for those looking to dance the night away.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Underground, intimate setting
- Popular among international travellers and backpackers
Pontoon Bar
Nestled alongside Cockle Bay Wharf, Pontoon Bar is the go-to place for a drink with a view. The outdoor seating provides a fantastic vantage point of the harbour but also the deal here is the amazing happy hours it puts on throughout the week.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Harborfront location
- Great mix of indoor and outdoor seating
- Perfect for socialising
- Happy hour throughout the week
Scruffy Murphy’s Irish Bar
For a taste of Ireland in Sydney, head to Scruffy Murphy’s. Located in the CBD, this Irish bar offers hearty meals, a wide selection of beers, and live music. Its cosy setting is perfect for mingling with fellow backpackers and enjoying a relaxed evening.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Authentic Irish vibe
- Live music
- Hearty meals and a great selection of beers
PJ O’Brien’s
Another Irish gem, PJ O’Brien’s, brings an authentic irish pub atmosphere to Sydney’s backpacker scene. With its traditional decor, live Irish music, and hearty pub grub, it’s a great place to unwind and experience a piece of Ireland in the middle of the city.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Traditional Irish decor
- Live Irish music
- Hearty pub food
Bungalow 8
With its tropical-inspired decor and laid-back vibe, Bungalow 8 is a favourite among backpackers looking for a beachy escape in the city.
However the bar is undergoing a new look and renovation, so it will be awesome to see how it looks when it reopens in October 2024.
The bar often features live music, making it a lively spot to relax and socialise.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Tropical decor
- Waterfront views
- Live music
The Golden Sheaf
Situated in Double Bay, The Golden Sheaf is known for its massive beer garden and relaxed ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a chilled-out evening.
Given its Double Bay location, The Golden Sheaf attracts a slightly more upscale crowd compared to typical city pubs but also lots of students on the weekends.
The bar hosts various events throughout the week, from live music to trivia nights.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Large beer garden
- Weekly events
- Relaxed and social atmosphere
Strawberry Hills Hotel
Located in Surry Hills, Strawberry Hills Hotel combines old-world charm with a modern twist.
The rooftop terrace is a key highlight, offering a fantastic spot for sipping cocktails. It’s a great place to start your night before heading to more energetic venues and also a good place to grab some drinks before dinner in Surry Hills in some of the close by cheap Thai restaurants.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Rooftop terrace
- Blend of old-world charm and modern style
- Great cocktails
Bank Hotel, Newtown
In the heart of Newtown, Bank Hotel the large beer garden is a major drawcard for backpackers and travellers alike, as is the live entertainment on offer.
With its eclectic atmosphere and friendly vibe, it’s a must-visit for any backpacker exploring the nightlife in Newtown.
I’ve detailed more about the Bank Hotel in Newtown as one of the best gay bars in Sydney.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Large beer garden
- Live entertainment
- Eclectic, friendly atmosphere
The Glenmore Hotel
For stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, The Glenmore Hotel is the place to be.
The rooftop bar offers panoramic views that are hard to beat, making it a favourite for both locals and travellers. The lively atmosphere and great drink specials add to the appeal.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Rooftop bar with panoramic views
- Great drink specials
- Lively atmosphere
The Orient Hotel
Down in The Rocks, The Orient Hotel offers a historic setting with modern vibes. The venue features multiple levels, each offering a unique experience, from live music to quiet corners for a more intimate evening.
It’s a great spot to immerse yourself in Sydney’s rich history while enjoying a night out. One of the best nights in Sydney was at the orient singing Karaoke on level 2 with some friends. This place has a vibe!
Highlights of this bar are:
- Historic setting
- Multi-level venue
- Live music and karaoke
Helm Bar
Helm Bar, located in Darling Harbour, is known for its breezy waterside setting. The bar offers an extensive drink menu and delicious food, making it a great spot for a casual evening.
This is the place you go after the Pontoon bar on your way to Kings Street Wharf.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Waterside setting
- Extensive drink and food menu
- Relaxed atmosphere
The Australian Heritage Hotel
If you’re in the mood for something uniquely Australian, The Australian Heritage Hotel in The Rocks is a must-visit.
Known for its Aussie-themed decor and vast selection of craft beers, it offers a true taste of Australia. The friendly atmosphere and frequent events make it a favourite among travellers and the pizzas here are good especially if you like Crocodile or Kangaroo Pizza!
Highlights of this bar are:
- Aussie-themed decor
- Wide selection of craft beers
- Friendly atmosphere
Coogee Bay Hotel
Located just a stone’s throw from the stunning Coogee Beach in Sydney, the Coogee Bay Hotel has earned its reputation as a go-to destination for backpackers. With its rich history, diverse crowd, and beachfront views, it’s the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the local culture. The Coogee Bay Hotel has something for everyone.
One of the greatest joys of visiting backpacker bars like Coogee Bay Hotel is the opportunity to meet fellow travellers. The bar’s welcoming atmosphere and communal seating arrangements make it easy to strike up conversations and forge new friendships.
Highlights of this bar are:
- Beachside seating
- Outdoor and indoor seating and bars
- Friendly atmosphere
Best Backpacker Bars in Sydney
Sydney’s bar scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering something for every backpacker.
From the lively atmosphere of Scary Canary to the historic charm of The Orient, there’s a bar for every taste and mood.
Whether you’re here for a short stay or a longer adventure, these bars provide the perfect place to meet new people in Sydney and fellow travellers.
Ready to explore? Head out and experience the best backpacker bars Sydney has to offer.
Have a drink for me! Cheers!
