Where to Stay in Brooklyn
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Williamsburg
Offers some of the few hostel options in Brooklyn at a more accessible price point.
See full Brooklyn neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Brooklyn
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Williamsburg
Trendy and artistic, known for its vibrant street art, boutique shops, and lively music scene.
Our top picks in Williamsburg
Park Slope
Family-friendly brownstone neighborhood with leafy streets, independent shops, and proximity to Prospect Park.
Our top picks in Park Slope
Boerum Hill
Charming and historic, offering a mix of brownstones, independent boutiques, and a burgeoning restaurant scene.
Our top picks in Boerum Hill
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Williamsburg | Mid-range | Trendy and artistic, known for its vibrant street art, boutique shops, and lively music scene. | nightlifefoodies |
DUMBO | Luxury | Picturesque waterfront district with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and iconic Manhattan Bridge views. | couplesfirst-timers |
Park Slope | Mid-range | Family-friendly brownstone neighborhood with leafy streets, independent shops, and proximity to Prospect Park. | familiescouples |
Boerum Hill | Mid-range | Charming and historic, offering a mix of brownstones, independent boutiques, and a burgeoning restaurant scene. | couplesfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Brooklyn
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Brooklyn
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Brooklyn. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Brooklyn
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Brooklyn
Williamsburg
Mid-rangeTrendy and artistic, known for its vibrant street art, boutique shops, and lively music scene.
- +Abundant dining and nightlife options
- +Strong artistic and cultural presence
- +Good public transport links to Manhattan
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Increasingly expensive
DUMBO
LuxuryPicturesque waterfront district with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and iconic Manhattan Bridge views.
- +Breathtaking Manhattan skyline views
- +Charming historic architecture
- +Excellent park access
- -Can feel touristy and crowded
- -Limited budget accommodation
Park Slope
Mid-rangeFamily-friendly brownstone neighborhood with leafy streets, independent shops, and proximity to Prospect Park.
- +Excellent family atmosphere
- +Direct access to Prospect Park
- +Charming residential feel with good amenities
- -Can be quieter at night
- -Slightly less direct subway access to Midtown Manhattan compared to Williamsburg
Boerum Hill
Mid-rangeCharming and historic, offering a mix of brownstones, independent boutiques, and a burgeoning restaurant scene.
- +Excellent dining and shopping on Smith Street
- +Central location with many subway lines
- +Less touristy than neighboring areas
- -Can be noisy due to traffic and subway lines
- -Fewer large hotels, more boutique options
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 150/day
Hidden Gems in Brooklyn
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Brooklyn Farmacy and Soda Fountain
Step back in time at this charming 1950s-style soda fountain, serving up delicious homemade ice cream, decadent sundaes, and classic diner fare. It's a delightful spot for a sweet treat and nostalgic atmosphere.
Bushwick Collective
FREEAn ever-evolving outdoor street art gallery where local and international artists have transformed industrial walls into vibrant murals. It's a dynamic and colorful showcase of contemporary urban art.
Industry City
FREEA sprawling complex of industrial warehouses reimagined as a hub for makers, artisans, and food vendors. Explore unique shops, enjoy diverse food options, and experience a creative community atmosphere.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Brooklyn
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Brooklyn Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Brooklyn on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Brooklyn Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Brooklyn with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Brooklyn: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Brooklyn's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Brooklyn: Scenic Excursion
Escape Brooklyn for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Brooklyn Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Brooklyn's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Brooklyn
Backpackers in Brooklyn: FAQ
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