Where to Stay in Melbourne? Mad Monkey Melbourne for Budget-Travelers

Traveling to Australia is not cheap. I’ve been to 15 countries, and I would have to say that Australia is not a cheap tourist destination. I stayed there for three weeks, and I must say that you’re planning to do the same thing, especially if you’re a solo traveler (like me), then finding a cheap accommodation is a must!

Thus, if you’re looking for the best budget accommodation in Melbourne, I personally would highly recommend Mad Monkey Melbourne. Whether you’re a backpacker, solo traveler, or simply traveling on a budget, finding the right place to stay in the city can make or break your experience. During my recent trip to Melbourne, I stayed at Mad Monkey Melbourne, and it was everything I needed and more.

In this blog post, I’ll share exactly why this hostel stands out, especially if you’re planning to explore Victoria, Australia, and want a safe, social, and affordable place to stay.

Table of Contents

Essential Travel Guide & Tips

If this is your first time in Melbourne or you’re traveling alone, here are a few helpful tips:

Stay central: Choose a location like Mad Monkey that’s close to transport and walkable to major spots.
Join group tours: A great way to explore and meet people at the same time.
Use a local SIM card or eSIM: Stay connected easily (I recommend Vodafone or Optus).
Get a Myki card: This is your ticket for all trains, trams, and buses in Melbourne. Although the tram ride is FREE within the CBD area, you would still need to get a Myki card if you’re planning to explore outside Melbourne city.
Visit local markets: Places like Queen Vic Market offer affordable meals and snacks.

How to apply for an Australian Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa) for Filipinos?

Whether you’re heading to Sydney or Melbourne, Perth, or other parts of Australia, applying for a tourist visa for Filipinos is a must. Thus, I provide a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an Australian tourist visa for Filipinos.

Why Choose Mad Monkey Backpackers Melbourne?

Budget-Friendly Location Near Southern Cross Station

Located at 475 Spencer Street, Mad Monkey Backpackers is just a 10-minute walk from Southern Cross Station, the main hub for airport buses, interstate trains, and local public transport. This prime location makes it ideal for early-morning tours and late-night arrivals. If you’re planning tours to the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island, most tour companies offer pickup nearby.

Affordable Rooms for Solo Travelers and Backpackers

best place to stay in melbourne australia

Mad Monkey offers both dormitory-style and private rooms. If you’re traveling solo, the dorms are budget-friendly, clean, and safe. Lockers are provided, and there’s good airflow and lighting. The private rooms are great for couples or travelers looking for a bit more comfort.

Prices vary seasonally, but it’s consistently one of the most affordable hostels in Melbourne.

A Social Hostel with Daily Activities

the entertainment room at mad monkey melbourne

What makes this hostel special is its built-in community vibe. Mad Monkey organizes fun daily events that make it easy to meet other travelers. Activities include:

Movie nights
Pasta nights
Sangria socials
Cheese tasting evenings
Local walks and themed events

Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, the communal feel here makes it easy to connect.

A Well-Equipped Kitchen (Perfect for Budget Travel)

kitchen at mad monkey melbourne australia

A standout feature for any long-term or budget traveler is access to a kitchen, and Mad Monkey’s kitchen is one of the cleanest and best-organized I’ve seen.

You’ll find:

Full sets of cookware and utensils
Plenty of storage space
Clean fridges and prep areas
Ample seating and dining space

Cooking your meals in Melbourne not only helps save money but also gives you the chance to share meals with fellow travelers.

Friendly Staff and Clean Facilities

The staff at Mad Monkey deserves a special mention. From the moment I checked in, they were welcoming, helpful, and full of local tips. They helped me with:

Tour bookings
Restaurant recommendations
Navigating the local transport system

The hostel itself is well-maintained. Bathrooms are cleaned multiple times a day, and the common areas are tidy and well-lit.

Top Attractions Near Mad Monkey Melbourne

Mad Monkey’s central location makes it easy to walk or take a short tram to several iconic Melbourne attractions. Some must-see places include:

Queen Victoria Market: Try local snacks and pick up budget-friendly souvenirs
Hosier Lane: Explore Melbourne’s famous street art scene
Federation Square & Flinders Street Station: Cultural landmarks and central meeting points
Royal Botanic Gardens: This is where you can relax or enjoy a picnic.
Chinatown Melbourne: A perfect place for budget meals and unique finds.
Docklands: An ideal place for shopping, entertainment, and waterfront dining.
St. Paul’s Cathedral: This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen in my life!

Furthermore, one best things about Melbourne is that the tram is FREE, as long as it is within the Central Business District (CBD) area.

How I Booked My Tours in Melbourne, Australia

I booked most of my tours with KLOOK and Go West Tours, both of which offered fantastic day trips and were easy to use. Another travel saving hack: Use my exclusive KLOOK code ARAPATRIAKLOOK to save up to 5% on tour bookings.

Some day trips outside of Melbourne city that I highly recommend include:

Is Mad Monkey Melbourne Worth It?

If you’re looking for a budget hostel in Melbourne that doesn’t feel like a compromise, Mad Monkey Melbourne is a top choice. The mix of affordability, location, cleanliness, and social activities makes it an excellent option for solo travelers and backpackers alike.

It’s more than just a place to sleep; it’s a place to connect, relax, and make the most of your time in one of Australia’s best cities.