Nashville, Tennessee, is known as Music City, and visitors come for the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry. Hostels are few and demand is high, so book early, especially for spring and fall weekends.
Our top pick: Nashville: Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour
Where hostels are
- Downtown: the most convenient base, near the Ryman, the Country Music Hall of Fame and the riverfront.
- The Gulch and Midtown: modern, walkable areas just south and west of downtown, close to Music Row.
- East Nashville: across the Cumberland River, a residential area of independent cafés and shops, a short drive or rideshare from downtown.
Getting in from the airport
Nashville International Airport is about 8 miles east of downtown. A taxi or rideshare takes around 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic, and the local WeGo bus offers a cheaper option with more time.
Safety and budget tips
Downtown and the Gulch are busy, well lit areas for visitors. Use rideshares late at night rather than walking between districts, keep valuables in your locker and read recent reviews for the street. Since dorm beds are limited, widen the search to budget hotels outside the center and use the city’s hop-on hop-off trolleys or buses instead of renting a car. Book spring and fall stays early, as events and conferences push prices up.
Check hostel prices in Nashville
Sightsee by day, rest by night. Many of the best attractions, such as the Ryman and the museums, are daytime visits, so pick a quiet area to sleep.
Top-rated Nashville tours
Nashville: Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour
A flexible way to see the city. 4.6/5 from over 1,800 reviews.
Nashville: Ryman Auditorium Self-Guided Tour
Visit the historic music hall. 4.8/5 from over 270 reviews.
Nashville: Double-Decker City Tour
An open-top city overview. 4.6/5 from over 850 reviews.
Why book online
- Free cancellation on most tickets, usually up to 24 hours before
- Reserved time slot: no queue at the ticket desk
- Mobile ticket on your phone
- Reviews from verified travelers
Frequently asked questions
Are there many hostels in Nashville?
Nashville has only a handful of hostels, so book early and compare them with budget motels and private rooms.
Do I need a car in Nashville?
You can see downtown, the Gulch and the Ryman Auditorium on foot, but the city is spread out. Hop-on hop-off trolleys, buses and rideshares work well, so a car is optional for short stays.
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