Little Drifter Surry Hills

Hotel Description

I’ll be honest – when I first walked into Little Drifter Surry Hills, I wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star place on Cleveland Street. But you know what? This little spot actually surprised me. It’s got that relaxed, slightly bohemian vibe that feels perfectly at home in Surry Hills, without trying too hard to be trendy. The lobby has this warm, lived-in feeling with mismatched furniture and local artwork that looks like it was actually chosen by someone who cares, not pulled from a hotel catalog.

The location is genuinely brilliant if you want to experience Sydney like a local rather than just hitting the tourist spots. You’re literally a two-minute walk from Central Station – I mean, you can practically roll your suitcase there – but once you turn onto Cleveland Street, you’re in this great neighborhood bubble. Crown Street’s famous strip of cafes and vintage shops is just around the corner, and honestly, some of the best coffee in Sydney is within stumbling distance. I spent most mornings at nearby Reuben Hills (their weekend brunch queue is worth it) and discovered this amazing little wine bar called Dear Sainte Eloise that I never would have found staying in the CBD. The staff seemed to actually know the neighborhood too, which is refreshing – they pointed me toward Kensington Street precinct when I mentioned wanting good dinner spots, and it ended up being one of my favorite discoveries.

Now, it’s not perfect – the rooms are on the smaller side, and if you’re a light sleeper, you’ll definitely hear some street noise since Cleveland Street gets busy during rush hour. But the beds are surprisingly comfortable, and there’s something charming about the slightly quirky room layouts (mine had this oddly-shaped bathroom that somehow worked perfectly). The 7.7 rating feels about right – it’s not luxury, but it’s thoughtfully done and genuinely comfortable. What really won me over was how the place feels connected to its neighborhood rather than isolated from it. You’re staying in Surry Hills, not just sleeping there, if that makes sense. Plus, parking is actually manageable in this area compared to the city center, and you’re close enough to walk to Darlinghurst or Paddington when you want to explore. If you’re the type of traveler who’d rather discover a great local pizza place than eat at another hotel restaurant, Little Drifter gets it.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $197. Queen Room with Private Bathroom with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $54. Bed in 12-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $55. Bed in 10-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $56. Bed in 8-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $57. Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $58. Bed in 6-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with Private Bathroom with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $58. Bed in 6-Bed Female Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $58. Bed in 4-Bed Mixed Dormitory Room with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $60. Bed in 4-Bed Dormitory Room with Private Bathroom with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1
• Estimated price from: $60. Bed in 4 Bed Female Dormitory Room with Private Bathroom with 1 bunk bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Quiet comfortable room in a good location, in a hostel environment. – Lesley from Australia – 23 June 2025 (8/10)

  I stayed in a private queen room, and alhough I was told that there were no towels and toiletries that must be for the dorms, as I had both. Toiletries and towels supplied and room air conditioned. Room was quiet and comfortable. Good kitchen for backpackers, and I believe there are organised activities. Huge TV screen and you can use your own apps. Location is handy for Central Station and was able to find a Lebanese and Indian restaurants five minutes up the road. Seemed safe enough early as there was a show on at the Grand Electric next door. Staff were friendly but didnt know some local information in regards to restaurants locally. Maybe an information folder would be good.
  
  What could be improved: I was on the top floor and there were a lot of stairs, if you are young and fit you will get your bags up there Ok, otherwise may be a bit of a struggle. Everything very technological, thought I had checked in through app, but apparenty I could not do that for my room. TV was very techno as well so could not work it. Younger people more technologically savvy would have no problems.

• Superb – Logan from Australia – 2 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great Staff really helpful
  Great Location
  
  What could be improved: I stayed in Room 1004, It was great but having a shower the hot water would stay on for a couple of minutes then it would go completely cold and it did it a few times

• Superb – Thiago from Brazil – 23 May 2025 (9/10)

  A nice and comfortable room with great facilities, including a shared kitchen and gym. The hostel organises regular events to bring the community together, and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. Check-out was quick and easy. The location is excellent—close to many of Sydney’s top tourist attractions
  
  What could be improved: There were small cockroaches in the bathroom and one in the room.

• Superb – Charles from Australia – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  Clean rooms good spacious beds pleasant and helpful staff
  
  What could be improved: Good service

• Perfect place to stay in the city – Loisa from Australia – 24 March 2025 (9/10)

  It is in the center of city, yet the price is affordable. Not to mention the room is define. All the facilities are great!

• Great atmosphere and very comfortable stay – Romel from Mexico – 18 March 2025 (9/10)

  The room looks just like the pictures, and the beds are very comfortable. The courtyard is a great place to relax and socialize, with activities organized almost every day. The front desk service is excellent, especially with Bea and Maria always ensuring you have a pleasant stay. Their attentiveness truly stands out
  
  What could be improved: The courtyard could stay open a bit later. When requesting something regarding cleanliness, it takes a little longer to be done. Other than that, everything is perfect

• Lovely hostel – Molly from United Kingdom – 24 February 2025 (9/10)

  The cleanliness of the kitchen, hairdryers provided, yoga classes
  
  What could be improved: Not the most social, if you’re looking for a party hostel this is not the one.

• Great – Silvia from Italy – 21 February 2025 (9/10)

  We stayed at The Village Surry Hills for 15 days in a double room with a private bathroom. Everything was fantastic—clean spaces, great location, and amazing staff! Thank you so much, it was a great choice for the start of our journey in Australia!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, everything was good!

• Great hostel! Would highly recommended! – Josh from United Kingdom – 15 February 2025 (9/10)

  One of the best hostels I have stayed at in Sydney. Nice modern vibe and very clean. Rooms are very comfy and clean! Location is so good, there’s a really nice park opposite, lots of cafes nearby, and only 10 minute walk to central station. Staff are supper friendly, especially Maria on reception who was so welcoming qnd always goes above and beyond to help!! Would highly recommend.

• Very convenient and comfortable with a lot of people to meet – Dupont from United Kingdom – 13 January 2025 (9/10)

  The commodity are very great , the curtain for the bed give some privacy
  
  What could be improved: The kitchen closing a 10 so everyone leave their dirty dishes outside

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities