Best Backpacker pubs in Sydney

Meet Fellow Travellers at Best Backpacker Pubs in Sydney

With its breathtaking harbour views and iconic landmarks, Sydney also offers a buzzing nightlife that draws backpackers from every corner of the world. If you’re looking to dive into the local scene while enjoying great food, drinks, and entertainment, Sydney’s backpacker pubs are the perfect places to be. These lively spots combine affordability with a fantastic atmosphere, making them ideal for travellers keen to relax, meet new people, and celebrate after a day of exploring the city. Join us as we uncover the top backpacker pubs in Sydney — where unforgettable memories and new friendships are always just around the corner!

1. Sidebar

⏰ Opening Hours

Tue-Sun: 4 PM – 3 AM
Mon: 4 PM – 3 AM

🎉 What’s On

🎧 House Party Mondays – Every Mon | 8 PM – 3 AM
🧠 Trivia Tuesdays – Every Tue | 7 PM – 9 PM
🎶 Side Bar Wednesdays – Every Wed | 8 PM – 3 AM
🎶 Side Bar Fridays – Every Fri | 8 PM – 3 AM
🎶 Side Bar Saturdays – Every Sat | 8 PM – 3 AM
📀 90s & 00s Sundays – Every Sun | 9 PM – 3 AM

Get Directions 👇

2. Bitter Phew Darlinghurst

🕒 Opening Hours

Tuesday – Thursday: 3 PM – Midnight
Friday & Saturday: 2 PM – 2 AM
Sunday: 2 PM – 10 PM
Closed Mondays

Get Directions 👇

Bitter Phew is a sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts, tucked above the lively Oxford Street in Darlinghurst. Since opening in 2014, this award-winning bar has become a cornerstone of Sydney’s beer scene, renowned for its ever-evolving selection of rare and innovative brews from Australia and around the globe. With 12 rotating taps and an extensive bottle list, Bitter Phew offers a curated experience in a minimalist, welcoming space, complete with a rooftop terrace perfect for relaxed evenings. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, Bitter Phew invites you to explore the diverse world of craft beer in a comfortable setting.

Visit Official Website: https://bitterphew.com/

3. Pontoon Bar

🕒 Opening Hours

Wednesday – Monday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 3 AM (Late Night Vibes!)

🎉 What’s On

🔥 Salsa Thursdays
Spice up your night with Latin beats & dancing!

🍕 Pizza Thursdays
$12 Pizzas | $7.50 Coronas
Every Thursday from 5 PM – Come hungry, leave happy!

🎆 Saturday Night Fireworks
Explosive fun you don’t want to miss!

🎧 Live DJS Every Weekend
Feel the bass. Free entry, all night long!

Get Directions 👇

Nestled along Sydney’s iconic harbour, Pontoon Bar is a hotspot for backpackers looking to dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife. With stunning waterfront views and a buzzing social vibe, it’s no wonder this venue ranks among the top backpacker bars in Sydney. Guests can enjoy ice-cold beers, creative cocktails, and mouth-watering pub fare in a laid-back yet lively setting. As the weekend rolls in, DJS turn up the energy with beats that keep the crowd dancing well into the night. Whether kicking back in the sunshine or hitting the dance floor, Pontoon Bar is the go-to destination for unforgettable nights out in Sydney.

Visit Official Website: http://www.pontoonbar.com/

4. Churchill’s Sports Bar

🕒 Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 6AM – 5AM
Friday – Saturday: 6AM – 6AM
Sunday: 6 AM – Midnight

🍔 Bar & Grill Daily Specials

Monday:
🥩 250G Rump Steak served with chips, salad & your choice of sauce

Tuesday – Wednesday:
🍕 Any Pizza + 🍺 House Beer

Thursday – Friday:
🍔 Any Burger with chips + 🍺 House Beer

Saturday – Sunday:
🍗 Schnitzel or Loaded Parmi’s with chips, salad & 🍺 House Beer

💰 Weekday Lunch Specials from just $18!
🕚 11 AM – 4 PM | Monday to Friday

Get Directions 👇

LIVE SPORTS EVERY WEEK! ⚽

At Churchill’s Sports Bar, every live sporting event is available on the big screens, TAB, seven betting stations, KENO, and Trackside, making us the ultimate sports fan’s paradise. We also boast a huge bistro menu, a great selection of local and imported beers, poker, pool, trivia, and more. Churchill’s Sports Bar has something for everyone.

Please bear in mind that the times and dates of the live performances are subject to change. This is another crucial consideration to keep in mind. Therefore, we strongly recommend visiting these pubs’ official websites before your visit. You can also find out about upcoming events on these pubs’ official websites.

Visit Official Website: https://www.churchillsbar.com.au/

Best Sydney Sports Bars for Live Action and Great Drinks 🍻⚽

5. Salty’s Bondi

🌴 Opening Hours

Mon – Thu: 11:30AM – MIDNIGHT
Fri – Sun: 11 AM – MIDNIGHT

🎉 What’s On at Salty’s 🎉

🌞 Easter Long Weekend
Endless Summer Feels
🗓️ Thu 17 – Mon 21 Apr

🍹 Bottomless Bliss – Every Day!
From $109pp – Sip, snack & repeat!

🎶 Weekends at Salty’s
DJS, Margs & Beach Vibes
🕺 Every Fri – Sun

🍻 Happy Hour
$8 Spirits, Beer & Wine
🕓 Mon to Fri | 4–6PM

🌮 Taco Tuesdays
$6 Tacos – All. Day. Long.
🌮🌮🌮

🎧 DJS at Salty’s
7 Days a Week – Beats for every vibe

🎂 Birthdays at Salty’s
Eats, Drinks & Party Vibes
🎁 Free Birthday Marg!

🥂 Functions
The Perfect Place to Play
✅ No Booking Fees

Get Directions 👇

A favourite among backpackers, Salty’s in Bondi delivers the ultimate beachside hangout. Just steps from the iconic Bondi Beach, it combines ocean views with a buzzing, laid-back vibe. Known for its lively crowd, upbeat music, and irresistible drink specials, Salty’s is the perfect spot to chill out after a day in the surf. Whether you’re sipping cocktails or making new friends, the welcoming atmosphere and regular events make it a top pick for anyone wanting to experience Sydney’s nightlife in a fun and friendly setting. Salty’s isn’t just a bar – it’s where beach days turn into unforgettable nights.

Visit Official Website: https://saltysbondi.com.au/

6. The Dolphin Hotel Surry Hills

🕒 Opening Hours

Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 12 AM

Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM

🎉 What’s On at The Dolphin

🏉 Go the Swans!
Cheer on your team in style and celebrate the 2025 season

🏟️ Exclusive Game Day Offers

🍽️ Pre & Post-Game Lunch & Dinner

🍴 Lunch, Dinner + Everything In Between

Kitchens are open daily from noon to midnight — perfect for a long lunch, late dinner, or anything in between.

Get Directions 👇

Located in the vibrant heart of Surry Hills, the Dolphin Hotel stands out as one of Sydney’s best backpacker pubs. Known for its lively atmosphere, great food, and refreshing drinks, it’s a must-visit for travellers looking to experience authentic local vibes. With a spacious bar, rooftop seating, and stylish interiors, the Dolphin Hotel is perfect for socialising, relaxing, or starting a big night out. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or exploring Sydney with friends, this iconic venue promises a memorable time in one of the city’s trendiest suburbs. Discover why it’s a top pick among Sydney’s backpacker pubs.

Visit Official Website: https://dolphinhotel.com.au/

7. 3 Wise Monkeys Pub

🎉 OPENING HOURS

🕙 Open Daily: 10 AM – 4 AM
We keep the party going every day of the week!

🔥 WEEKLY EVENTS LINE-UP 🔥

🎧 Thamel Nights – Sundays
The ultimate Sunday sesh at Club 3 Wise Monkeys! DJ Nutcase on the decks from 9 PM till late. Vibes guaranteed.

🕺 Saturday Night Fever – Saturdays
Dance floors heat up every Saturday with our resident house DJS spinning all night long.

🎉 Thamel Fridays – Fridays
Start your weekend right with DJ Nutcase taking over Friday nights with massive energy.

🎸 Live Bands – Fridays
Experience live bands on Entertainment Level 3, followed by a DJ set to keep the rhythm going.

🍹 Thirsty Thursdays
Big savings, big beats:
✅ 49% off selected cocktails
✅ VB pints at schooner prices
✅ $7.50 house drinks (club only)

Live music & DJS to set the tone.

🎤 Live Music – Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Chill vibes midweek with live acoustic acts (solo & duo) in the main bar.

Get Directions 👇

Located in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant CBD, the 3 Wise Monkeys Pub is a beloved destination for locals and travellers alike. Famous for its lively atmosphere, iconic heritage building, and exceptional live music, this multi-level pub offers a unique experience for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy a night out with friends, catch live sports on big screens, or indulge in delicious pub fare and drinks, 3 Wise Monkeys has it all. Discover why this popular pub is a must-visit spot in Sydney’s bustling nightlife scene.

Visit Official Website: https://3wisemonkeys.com.au/

8. Opera Bar

⏰ Opening Hours

Sun–Thurs: 11 am–12 pm
Fri & Sat: 11am–12:30am

🎉 What’s On @ Opera Bar 🎉

🌈 23 May – 14 June – Vivid at Opera Bar
Sip, snack, and soak in the VIVID lights with exclusive specials and unbeatable views.

🎶 Live Music & DJS – Summer Soundtrack
Free daily live sets by Sydney’s best artists. Vibes all day, every day by the water.

Get Directions 👇

9. The Scary Canary

🕒 Opening Hours

Thursday to Saturday: 12 PM – 3 AM
Sunday: 4 PM – 3 AM
Monday to Wednesday: 12 PM – 3 AM

🎉 WHAT’S ON at The Scary Canary

🎲 BINGO & BANGERS – Mondays

Win $1000 in prizes!
Bingo has never been this fun (or this wild). You’d be mad to miss it.

🎧 SILENT DISCO – Weekly Event

Three DJS. Three channels. One insane party.
🎶 Choose your vibe – EDM, hip-hop, or throwback classics.
💃 DJs from 8 PM | Headphones on from 9 PM
💸 Entry: Just $10 from 10 PM

💦 WET WEDNESDAYS

World-famous midweek madness.
The wildest night in town.
Perfect for uni students and backpackers ready to get loose.

🎧 DJS from 8 PM
🏓 Water Pong Showdown
👕 Male & Female Wet T-Shirt Competitions

You’ll tell your mates. Or maybe you won’t. 😉

🎤 KARAOKE THURSDAYS

Channel your inner rockstar!
Belters, bangers, and brave voices take the mic every Thursday from 8 PM.
No judgment. Just fun.

💥 FRI-YAYS AT THE SCARY CANARY

🎉 First Friday of every month – expect chaos.
👊 KY Jelly Wrestling
💰 $400 in Prizes
You’re not living until you’ve seen it.

Get Directions 👇

The Scary Canary pub in Sydney is a top choice among backpacker pubs, offering a lively atmosphere that perfectly complements the city’s vibrant nightlife. Renowned for its friendly vibe and affordable drink specials, this iconic pub attracts travellers from around the world looking to socialise and unwind. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, The Scary Canary features a spacious outdoor area, regular live music, and themed events, making it the perfect spot for backpackers to meet new friends and share unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re in for a casual drink or a night of dancing, The Scary Canary is a must-visit destination for backpackers exploring Sydney.

Visit Official Website: https://www.scarycanary.net/

10. ​The Golden Sheaf

🕙 Opening Hours

 Mon–Wed: 10 am–1 am
Thu–Sat: 10 am–2 am
Sun: 10 am–12 pm

🍻 Bottleshop Hours

 Fri–Sat: 10 am–12 pm
Sun: 10 am–10 pm

🔥 What’s On @ The Sheaf 🔥

🎉 June Long Weekend at The Sheaf!
Four days of fun — acoustic vibes by day, DJs by night. Party all weekend, Fri–Mon!

🥊 UFC 316 – Sun, June 8
Catch Dvalishvili vs O’Malley 2 live & loud this long weekend!

🎸 Fridays – Live Music
Chill in the beer garden with live duos from 5–8 pm + $12 Tommy’s Margaritas!

🧠 Monthly Themed Trivia
Simpsons? Disney? The Office? Bring your crew for laughs, prizes & great banter. Bookings recommended!

Get Directions 👇

​The Golden Sheaf in Double Bay is one of Sydney’s best backpacker pubs, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and relaxation. Established in 1936, this heritage-listed venue boasts a lush beer garden shaded by a giant fig tree, providing a perfect escape from city life. Backpackers are drawn to its lively atmosphere, with live music and DJ sets energising the crowd, especially during the popular Wednesday student nights. The rooftop bar offers a secluded spot to enjoy cocktails under the stars. With its combination of history, entertainment, and diverse spaces, The Golden Sheaf is a must-visit for backpackers exploring Sydney.

Visit the Official Website: https://www.thegoldensheaf.com.au/

11. Fortune of War – Sydney’s Oldest Pub

🎉 Opening Hours – Come On In! 

Fortune of War
🕘 Open Daily: 9 am ‘til late

Fortune of War Lock Up
🕦 From 11:30 am ‘til late

🎊 What’s On

Easter Long Weekend at Fortune of War!

🐣 Good Friday: 12 pm –10 pm
🍽️ Easter Saturday to Monday: Open All Day!

🥂 Cold Beers. Hearty Pub Fare. Good Times.
Join us all weekend for delicious eats, drinks and unbeatable vibes.

👉 The perfect spot for your Easter catch-up!

🍴 Daily from 11:30 am – enjoy comforting pub classics, rotating beers on tap, fine wines & cocktails made to impress.

Get Directions 👇

Fortune of War, established in 1828, is Sydney’s oldest pub and a must-visit for travellers seeking authentic backpacker pubs in Sydney. Located in the historic Rocks district, this iconic venue offers a welcoming atmosphere, live music, and a great selection of beers. With its rich history, traditional pub fare, and lively crowd, Fortune of War is a favourite among locals and backpackers alike, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up Sydney’s vibrant culture.

Visit Official Website: https://www.fortuneofwar.com.au/

12. The Marlborough Hotel(The Marly)

🕒 Opening Hours 

Marly:

Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 4 AM

Sun: 10 AM – 12 PM

Upstairs:

Mon-Thu: 5 PM – 10:30 PM

Fri-Sun: noon ’til close

Tokyo Sing Song:

Fri & Sat: 9 PM – 4 AM

🎶 What’s On 🎶

🎶 QUEER ICONS MUSIC BINGO 🎉
Wed, June 11 | From 7PM | Free to Play
Celebrate Pride at The Marly!

Every Weekend
MARLY WEEKENDS
We’re turning up the volume! Experience Newtown’s ultimate party house. Come see what the buzz is all about!

Sun, July 13th
KING ST CRAWL
The iconic King St Crawl returns! 25+ venues, 100+ artists, and an unforgettable journey through Newtown. Live music all day — don’t miss out!

🎂 Celebrate Your Birthday with Marly! 🎂
Marly Birthdays
Bring 7+ mates on a Friday or Saturday, and enjoy free entry for everyone + a cheeky $50 bar tab for the birthday star!

Get Directions 👇

The Marlborough Hotel, affectionately known as “The Marly,” is a cornerstone of Newtown’s nightlife, blending over 160 years of history with a vibrant, contemporary energy. Located at 145 King Street, this three-level venue offers everyone a classic pub atmosphere on the ground floor, a stylish cocktail lounge upstairs, and the underground Tokyo Sing Song nightclub pulsing with diverse beats. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, DJ sets, themed trivia, or a casual drink in the beer garden, The Marly delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s a must-visit destination for locals and travellers alike seeking the authentic spirit of Sydney’s Inner West.

Visit Official Website: https://www.marlboroughhotel.com.au/

15. The Grand Hotel Bondi Junction

🕒 Opening Hours

Mon–Wed: 8 AM – Midnight
Thurs–Sat: 8 AM – 2 AM
Sun: 10 AM – 10 PM

🎉 What’s On @ The Grand Hotel Bondi 🎉

📺 2025 Lion Games
Catch every moment LIVE & LOUD on our JUMBO SCREENS!

🍽️ $28 Famous Sunday Roast
The perfect end to your weekend – don’t miss it!

🎶 County Bondi Trad Nights
Every Wednesday from 6 PM – Traditional tunes & good times.

🎸 Live Music

Wed to Fri: Vibes from your favourite local artists

Sunday Sesh: Kick off from 3 PM

🍻 Sunday Specials

Pints for just $8.15

Live music all arvo!

Get Directions 👇

Located in the vibrant heart of Bondi Junction, The Grand Hotel is a top choice for backpackers looking to unwind and have a good time. With its buzzing atmosphere, wallet-friendly drinks, and regular live entertainment, it’s the perfect spot to kick back after exploring Sydney. Whether you’re catching up over beers, dancing to DJ sets, or joining one of their many events, The Grand offers a laid-back, social vibe that makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. It’s more than just a bar—it’s a community hub for the backpacker crowd.

Visit Official Website: https://thegrandbondijunction.com.au/

16. Cargo Bar

🕒 Opening Hours

Monday – Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM

🎉 What’s On – Weekly Specials 🎉

🍕 Monday
$25 Pizza + a Drink
Kickstart your week with a slice and a sip – from noon till late!

🌮 Tuesday
$25 Tacos + a Drink
Taco Tuesdays just got tastier – noon till late!

🍔 Wednesday
$25 Burger + a Drink
Midweek cravings sorted – noon till late!

🍗 Thursday
$25 Schnitty or Parma + a Drink
Classic pub faves + cold bevvies – from noon till late!

🔥 Friday
$25 1kg Bucket of Wings + a Drink
Start your weekend with a spicy bang – noon till late!

Get Directions 👇

Cargo Bar, a popular hotspot in Darling Harbour, is a top choice among backpacker pubs in Sydney. Its waterfront views, vibrant nightlife, and stylish open-air setting make it a must-visit for travellers looking to enjoy Sydney’s social scene. Offering delicious cocktails, casual dining, and live DJ sets, Cargo Bar provides the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. Whether you’re new in town or exploring Sydney’s best bars, Cargo is a go-to destination for backpackers and partygoers alike.

Visit Official Website: https://cargobar.com.au/

Where to Find the Best Craft Beers in Sydney 🍻

17. P.J. O’Brien’s Traditional Irish Pub in Sydney

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: noon to Late
Saturday & Sunday: 1 pm to Late

🎉 What’s On

Weekly Specials – Unbeatable Deals, Every Day of the Week!

🍔 Monday – Cheeseburger & Pint – Only $25
Get a juicy cheeseburger with a pint of Bulmers Cider or a glass of House Wine. (Prices subject to change.)

🍝 Tuesday – Lasagne & Pint – Only $25
Indulge in our hearty lasagne with a refreshing pint of Heineken or a glass of House Wine. (Prices subject to change.)

🥩 Wednesday – Porter & Porterhouse – Only $28
Savour a delicious porterhouse steak with chips, salad, and your choice of a pint of Guinness or a glass of House Wine. (Prices subject to change.)

🍗 Thursday – Parma & Pint – Only $28
Dig into our mouthwatering Chicken Parma, served with a pint of Carlton or a glass of House Wine. (Prices subject to change.)

🥧 Friday – Pie & Guinness – Only $28
Treat yourself to the Chef’s Pie of the Week with a pint of Guinness or a glass of wine. (Prices subject to change.)

🍖 Sunday Roast – Only $27
Put on your P.J.’s and join us for The Best Sunday Roasts in Town! Enjoy roast beef or chicken, creamy mash, Yorkshire pudding, roasted chips, seasonal veggies, and gravy for just $27.
Only available on Sundays! Don’t miss out on the cozy vibes of P.J.’s!

Get Directions 👇

Located on the corner of King & Clarence Street, P.J. O’Brien’s offers a taste of Ireland in the heart of the CBD. The warm glow of the open fire and traditional Irish music drowned out the hustle and bustle of city life. As daylight fades, the ‘craic’ begins. Settle in with a creamy pint of Guinness or one of our many beers, wines, and spirits. Our kitchen offers a variety of savoury Irish dishes and contemporary pub meals. Let the friendly staff at P.J.O’Brien’s make your day or night an occasion to remember. Come in, kick back, and discover the ‘Craic’ that P.J.O’Brien’s is famous for!

Visit Official Website:  http://www.pjobriens.com.au/sydney/

Top Female-Friendly Pubs in Sydney for Backpackers 💃🍻

18. Bat and Ball Parkside

🕒 Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: noon till Late
Saturday & Sunday: 1 PM till Late

🎉 What’s On

🍗 Sunday – Classic Sunday Roast
🍝 Tuesday – $17 Lasagne Night
🍗 Wednesday – $17 Parmy Special
🍻 Weekdays – Pints at Schooner Prices!
🥩 Thursday – $20 Steak Night
🦪 Saturday – $1 Oysters All Day!

Get Directions 👇

We’re about awesome food, music, service, and drinks. A local pub with a brand-new atmosphere

We are not a small bar. We are a pub, a regular bar, and a local. We’re a place to relax, meet up, have a laugh, watch a game, grab some food, shoot the breeze, and unwind.
We’re in Redfern – Cnr Cleveland + Sth Dowling

Visit Official Website: https://www.batandballhotel.com/

19. The Palace Hotel, Sydney

🕒 Opening Hours

We’re Open Daily: 10 AM – 4 AM
Late nights, good vibes, and something happening every day!

🎉 What’s On 

🍽 Monday Madness
👉 $5 Fish n’’ Chips – All Day!
👉 $15 Lunch Specials – Mon to Fri | 12 PM – 5 PM
👉 Farmagiana – Enjoy your Parmy & support a cause! $2 donated with every order
🍺 $12 Tiger Jugs – All Day Long

Get Directions 👇

Visit Official Website: https://palacesydney.com.au/

Discover Authentic Irish Pubs in the Heart of Sydney 🍀🍻

20. Backpackers love Scruffy Murphy’s

🕒 Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday
🕛 12 AM – 6 AM
🌞 9 AM – Midnight

🎉 What’s On This Week

🎸 Live Music Mondays & Tuesdays

From 6 PM in the Main Bar
Sydney’s top solo artists bring the vibes to start your week right.

🎤 Karaoke Wednesdays – 8:30 PM

Take the mic & steal the spotlight!
🎁 Every singer enters the draw for a $50 bar tab
🎧 DJ to follow, spinning beats till late.

🍻 Thirsty Thursdays

🎶 Live Music 7–10 PM — Sydney’s best solo & duo artists
💃 DJ takes over after 10 PM — party goes late!

🔥 Fridays – Live Music & DJS

🎤 Ben Greene live from 6–9 PM
🎧 DJ Daz brings the party till close

🎶 Saturdays – Big Vibes All Night

🎸 Local Live Acts from 6 PM
🎧 DJ Podgee hits the decks from 9 PM till late

🍗 Sunday Sesh

🥊 UFC Live & Loud on the Big Screen
🍽️ Sunday Roast — get it before it’s gone
🎶 Live Music by Cara Kavanagh & Ant Drumz at 7 PM
🎧 DJ Ant closes out the weekend strong

Get Directions 👇

Backpackers go crazy for the nonstop excitement at Scruffy Murphy’s main bar, which is part of a hotel complex that also has a nightclub and a lounge. Anytime, day or night, you may find this Irish pub providing a wide variety of affordable beverages. There are a lot of drink promotions available, and they change every day.

Visit Official Website: https://scruffymurphys.com.au/

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