Seattle sits between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and its visitor area is compact. Hostel beds are concentrated in and around downtown, which keeps you close to Pike Place Market, the waterfront, the ferry terminal and the light rail. The city is hilly and rainy for much of the year, so a central base saves a lot of walking in the wet.
Our top pick: Seattle: Guided Underground Walking Tour
Where hostels are
- Downtown and the Pike Place area: the handiest choice. The market, the waterfront and the main transit hub are all within walking distance.
- Belltown: a residential strip just north of downtown, with an easy walk to the Seattle Center and the Space Needle.
- Capitol Hill: a walkable neighborhood east of downtown with cafés and shops, connected by light rail.
- University District: quieter and cheaper, close to the University of Washington and on the light rail line.
Getting in from the airport
The Link light rail connects Seattle-Tacoma Airport with downtown in roughly 40 minutes, and it avoids the traffic on Interstate 5. From the downtown stations, most central hostels are a short walk or one bus ride away.
Safety and budget tips
Downtown and the main visitor areas are busy through the day. As in any big US city, stay alert around transit stops late at night, keep valuables in the hostel locker and check recent guest reviews for the exact street. To save money, book dorm beds early for July to September, look for hostels with a free breakfast or shared kitchen, and use an ORCA card or day passes for buses and light rail instead of rideshares.
Check hostel prices in Seattle
Bring a rain jacket, not an umbrella. Locals rarely use umbrellas, and a light waterproof layer works for most of the year.
Top-rated Seattle tours
Seattle: Guided Underground Walking Tour
A look at the city's buried history. 4.6/5 from over 2,600 reviews.
Seattle: City Highlights Tour
The main sights in one outing. 4.7/5 from over 560 reviews.
Seattle: Harbor Cruise with Local Guide
See the skyline from the water. 4.8/5 from over 740 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
How do I get from Sea-Tac Airport to a hostel downtown?
Take the Link light rail from the airport station to Westlake or University Street in downtown. The ride takes roughly 40 minutes and costs far less than a taxi.
Is Seattle a good city for hostels?
It is a good fit for solo travelers and budget visitors, because hotel rates are high, especially in summer. Hostels cluster in and near downtown, so you can walk to the waterfront and Pike Place Market.
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