I feel sorry to see how this place is going downhill. I live local and stayed here 3-4 times in the past 4 years while moving and travelling as it is located very closed to Southern Cross Station where Skybus goes directly to Melbourne International Airport (Tullamarine Airport / MEL). The bed is very squaky, uncomforable (mattress quality is low even for a hostel), and shakes a lot with a thin metal frame. The reception today around 10am was hosted by three ladies who were not attentive to a guest at all except for one person. They were busy talking among themselves. I dropped my key in front of them while they were chatting. The lift seems to have a problem too. I used stair more than using a lift as it wasn't working often (don't move 5-10min getting held by a cleaner or for whatever reason). The only one part I noticed a significant improvement is the choice of music. Literally the best selection of playlist in the town. I wish this place was open for co-working or cafe lounge. I enjoyed staying in the common area more than having a bed to sleep. The common area is cosy and good to focus even though it's an open area. Tip #1 If you are sensitive to traffic noise, stay away or prepare earplug Tip #2 If you are coming from out of state or in Australia for a longer staying, there are other accomodations that have better quality for the similar or cheaper price like Selina, Flinders Backpacker, Airbnb, or a deal on hotels. Tip #3 There's a unisex toilet you can use your own. There are also shared toilet that is mostly kept clean. If you are a frequent international traveller who is not so fussy, this YHA is still unbeatable. Location is very good.
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 2
Service: 4
Location: 5
Hotel highlights
Great value

The vibe is definitely young and social. The common areas buzz with backpackers swapping stories and planning adventures. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, offering city views and a chance to get some open air. The staff are friendly and helpful, always up for a chat or some local tips. Accommodation: My dorm room was clean and functional, with enough space for my bags and not much else. Shared bathrooms were plentiful and kept tidy. If you're a light sleeper, be aware of some late-night noise Minor Quirks: The kitchen could get a bit cramped at peak times, and I wish there were more laundry facilities. Also, remember, you're in a heritage building - charmingly wonky floors and creaky stairs add to the character, but may not be for everyone. Overall: YHA Melbourne Central is a great budget option for solo travelers or anyone looking for a social and central base in Melbourne. Just be prepared for the typical hostel quirks and pack your good vibes (and maybe earplugs) – you're in for a fun and immersive experience in the heart of the city. I'd recommend it to: Budget-conscious travelers, solo adventurers, social butterflies, those who don't mind shared spaces and a bit of noise. Not for: Light sleepers, privacy seekers, those who prefer modern amenities. Final Verdict: 3.5 out of 4 stars - A funky, central hostel with a lively atmosphere, perfect for budget-minded city explorers. Just be prepared for a few shared-space quirks. Bonus Tip: Check out the hostel's events calendar for pub crawls, movie nights, and other cool activities. It's a great way to meet fellow travelers and explore the city like a local.

While the staff at YHA Melbourne were absolutely wonderful and accommodating, I have to express some concerns about the room conditions. The bed frames felt quite old and emitted an annoying squeak with the slightest of movements. There was noticeable mold on the windows, which doesn't sit well for health reasons. It's worth noting that the windows aren't double-glazed, which might be the reason for the prominent noise from public transport. Additionally, there was a constant sound, which I couldn’t decipher whether it was from AC motors or perhaps an electric pump. Also, a heads up for future guests - you might be charged more if you don't book directly through their website. Despite these issues, I'd like to reiterate that the staff were truly a highlight of the stay.
Rooms: 2
Service: 4
Location: 2

I stayed there for three days on a wintery part of the year. Granted Melbourne is dreary and cloudy that part of the year I stayed with the hostel. The weather is more than compensated with some things that make Melbourne truly special: the blend of people that make Melbourne happening. Special thank you to Ben who makes YHA Melbourne Central a great experience. Great recommendation to food, events and great company. Great location to wherever that matters in Melbourne, in the free tram zone and within walking distance to Spencer Street - actually Southern Cross - Station and trams. Oh, tours are nearby too, so penguins and Twelve Apostles here I come! If the bathrooms are not that crowded and the rooms not that stale, I will be glad to stay a little longer.
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5

I'm downgrading my review to 3 stars for this 2nd stay of mine at YHA Melbourne Central for the following main reasons: - the check in process is not as smooth as other YHA branches like YHA Sydney Harbour - I faced the loudest snorer I ever faced in my entire life. it was so bad I eventually gave up & went to the ground floor and spent the night sitting on a chair instead & was too tired to travel during the day & the reception is closed after 11 pm. Now is this something YHA has no control over? I think no, YHA Melbourne Central could have given disposable ear plugs to its guests to reduce the pain from this experience. Not looking forward to my subsequent nights(s) here
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 3
Service: 2
Location: 3

Nice, cozy hostel. When I first arrived I questioned the "youth" part of the hostel but then I saw alot of people my age around. The place is moderately clean, staff are super chill and down to earth, location is nice, and amenities are ok. Everything feels a bit smaller like the common areas, rooms, and kitchen but you still have enough space. I stayed at the YHAs in Sydney and they are more modern and spacious. The vibe was pretty open. I had several chats with other guests and wasn't super weird or anything. They also do events like beer long, language exchange, and ping pong tournaments.
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 4
Service: 4
Location: 4
Hotel highlights
Quiet, Great value

The dorm rooms were fine. It would have been nice to have plug sockets next to the beds though! The blanket was big and warm! However, the bed frames were very squeaky. I had someone sleep on the bunk above me, and the squeaking was so loud it kept me from falling asleep! Lockers were spacious, and the wifi was good. Staff were friendly and approachable, and the common area is massive and spacious, i was enjoying just chilling in there! There’s a small balcony area to chill on too. Buses and tram lines were nearby, and it didn’t take long to walk to places. The bathrooms were clean and the showers were nice because there was room to put your clothes and things inside.
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

Great location near Southern Cross Station, loved the rooftop (perfect spot to relax) Stayed here at the end of December 2022 in the lead up to Christmas. Facilities were extra clean; room was nice and comfortable (although the bed I was in did creak a fair bit and it was a little dark). Rooftop area was great, when the Melbourne weather played ball. Reception was 24/7 so able to assist me after my flight in was delayed and didn't arrive until 1am. Only complaint I'd have is they'd do cleaning in the mornings, so the bathrooms were unavailable around 8am, which is highly inconvenient given checkout is 10am.
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 4
Service: 4
Location: 5

Best hostel in Melbourne yet! I've stayed in a few hostels & this has the best laptop working space, spacious rooms, clean & spacious bathrooms & kitchen. Was worried based on negative reviews, but stayed on a Sunday night in August & was fine. No one above me so bed didn't creak either. Only issue was my roommate at 2am convinced reception the lock was broken (it wasn't), & they decided to rubber band it at 2am waking us all up. Aside from that, great service, room 410 female 6 beds was quiet enough (not much train noise). Great location. Top choice. Room a bit old, but didn't bother me.
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

I arrived at 6am after a flight from Europe, I had mentioned in my booking that it would be great if I could do an early check in, but hadn’t got this confirmed. Reception didn’t open until 8am but there was a lounge area where I could rest until they opened. Receptionist let me check in early to get some rest, thank you! I only stayed for 4 nights. Looked like there was a bit of staff shortage but everyone I saw was working very hard, so very much appreciated :) Even though I didn’t see that many bathrooms there was never a wait for showers! Great WiFi network, spacious kitchen and helpful staff.

YHA Melbourne Central is really good, friendly and helpful staff, rooms are great, state of the art kitchen to cook your food, everything is cleaned daily. Close to Flinders st station and the famous crown casino. Heaps of places nearby to get food if you don't feel like cooking. Tram stop right out the front of the premises. This is a great location and would highly recommend staying here if you need somewhere to stay..
Trip type
Business
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5
Hotel highlights
Luxury, Great view, High-tech

Excellent location. Clean Bathroom but the DOWNSIDE IS ELECTRIC FANS ARE DIRTY AND BROKEN. Rooms are very hot. I was at least expecting for an AC. I did not have a good sleep in my stay at the hostel.
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 1
Service: 4
Location: 5
Rooms
Excellent location. Clean Bathroom but the DOWNSIDE IS ELECTRIC FANS ARE DIRTY AND BROKEN. Rooms are very hot. I was at least expecting for an AC. I did not have a good sleep in my stay at the hostel.
Hotel highlights
Quiet

Centrally located and the price is unbeatable. A good spot to meet other travelers over beers. The individual rooms are on the rooftop which is cool. Seemed like a lot of digital nomad types so was quiet enough to get a good sleep. Decent WiFi (regularly got 100mbps or more)
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Couple
Rooms: 3
Service: 5
Location: 5
Walkability
Transit is right outside the door, also close to the river so easy to walk on paths to the nearby parks.
Hotel highlights
Great value

Terrible experience. Expected a hotel like experience for the $265 I paid, not a rundown hostel. Room was cold, heater barely worked. The room and bathroom where smelly and dirty. A lot of rust in the bathroom, the place is not maintained well at all. Won't come back and definitely not recommend. I feel like I've been scammed and robbed. Took my wife out for 1 night and ended up being an embarrassement. Staff was ok and location good.
Travel group
Couple
Rooms: 2
Service: 2
Location: 4

As young women travelling by ourselves for the first time, my friend and I were cautious about staying in a hostel. Once we arrived at YHA however, we were immediately at ease because of the kind staff and range of activities and shared spaces we had access to. Amazing location right next to a tram stop in the free tram zone, and the private room we shared was perfect for the price. Definitely will stay at YHA again and would recommend to absolutely anyone!
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

People kicked me out cuz I vomited on the floor because I was sick and was told that you have to checkout today as I write this review. But I did ask if I could get a new room but was told no and had to find a new place but location it’s a great area but if you do come here don’t vomit in the room or you will be kicked out
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 1
Service: 1
Location: 5

Standard yet comfortable hostel. Overall clean. To me the experience is good and acceptable as a backpacker traveller. Location is also great and close to lots of happening sites
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Friends
Rooms: 4
Service: 4
Location: 4
Rooms
Comfortable and clean for a backpacker traveller
Hotel highlights
Great value

Internet is exceptionally fast with 260MBit/s up and down. Showers were ok. It's close to a rail track with very thin windows so I had a bad sleep. You've got lockers and our 4 bed room had 5 plugs (none near the bed or locker). You'll lose access to the room at 10am sharp, so don't forget anything.
Rooms: 3
Service: 3
Location: 5

Friendly staff, decent sized kitchen and good bathrooms but that's the only good points. Rooms have a strong musty smell that even an air freshener couldn't help! The rooms, especially the windows, are filthy! Need a deep clean, the bed was comfortable but it is on a very very noisy street with trains, trams, cars passing all night long.

Great service from all staffs. Thanks to Teagan for allocating me the right room I was looking for, quiet & peaceful and thanks to morning staffs for making me a good coffee to start my day.
Trip type
Business
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5
Hotel highlights
Great value

Was enjoying my stay until the second morning I was woken up by drilling and machinery from renovations on the rooftop at 8 am, the guy on reception didn’t have answers for me and wasn’t apologetic, in fact he was just rude and sarcastic about the situation, not the right attitude to have as an employee in hospitality and tourism.

Hostel in excellent location and very nice and helpful staff. Might be a little loud due to trains close by. Very spacious and clean kitchen. They also organize social gatherings you can join. Very good hostel if you want to explore the center of Melbourne.
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

Standart hostel. Overall clean. Just needs some maintenance to have warm water on all levels and the laundry room was out of order without any other option suggested. They also need new forks as there was literally one in the whole kitchen.
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

The location was amazing But The room smelled a bit. And also we can cook here in kitchen everything always
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 4
Service: 4
Location: 4
Hotel highlights
Great value

Had a private room. Nice and clean. Centrally located so you could walk almost anywhere you needed to go.
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5
Hotel highlights
Great value

Great hostel, the staff are chill and helpful. Rooms and bathrooms are cleaned regularly. Only downside is the kitchen is a little small, and I wouldn't bother paying for the breakfast.
Rooms: 4
Service: 5
Location: 5

Best hostel for the price during 1 month travel in Australia. Clean bathroom and good kitchen/bar
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo
Rooms: 5
Service: 5
Location: 5
Hotel highlights
Great value

Rude staff, unhelpful. Staff hate customers asking questions. Staff should consider getting new jobs if customers asking questions is way too difficult for them.
Trip type
Vacation
Travel group
Solo

Excellent location, super clean, quiet, amazing shared place that we could have access to. They organized wide range of activities . Also the private room was perfect for the price.

Wouldn’t stay here if you paid me. It’s also the worst part of Melbourne and the worst youth hostel I’ve ever stayed at… YHA has really let it self go