Where to Stay in Nashville
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Midtown
Provides more affordable accommodation and dining options while still being close to attractions and nightlife.
See full Nashville neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Nashville
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Midtown
A vibrant mix of lively bars, diverse restaurants, and historic architecture, popular with locals and students.
Our top picks in Midtown
Convenient lodging located on the Vanderbilt campus, ideal for visiting parents or academics.
Book NowOffers spacious suites with kitchens, good for longer stays.
Book NowReliable option with good amenities and a central location within Midtown.
Book Now
East Nashville
A hip, eclectic neighborhood known for its independent spirit, vintage shops, and diverse culinary scene.
Our top picks in East Nashville
Downtown
The energetic heart of Nashville, buzzing with live music, honky-tonks, and tourist attractions.
Our top picks in Downtown
Connected to the convention center, offering luxury amenities and city views.
Book NowA historic luxury landmark known for its opulent lobby and impeccable service.
Book NowModern hotel with a rooftop pool and bar offering great city views.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Midtown | Mid-range | A vibrant mix of lively bars, diverse restaurants, and historic architecture, popular with locals and students. | nightlifefoodies |
Downtown | Luxury | The energetic heart of Nashville, buzzing with live music, honky-tonks, and tourist attractions. | first-timersnightlife |
The Gulch | Luxury | A trendy, upscale urban neighborhood with chic boutiques, modern apartments, and popular restaurants. | luxuryfoodies |
East Nashville | Mid-range | A hip, eclectic neighborhood known for its independent spirit, vintage shops, and diverse culinary scene. | foodiesculture |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Nashville
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Nashville
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Nashville. 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 Nashville
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Nashville
Midtown
Mid-rangeA vibrant mix of lively bars, diverse restaurants, and historic architecture, popular with locals and students.
- +Great variety of bars and restaurants
- +More local feel than Downtown
- +Good value for money
- -Can get loud on weekends
- -Parking can be challenging
Downtown
LuxuryThe energetic heart of Nashville, buzzing with live music, honky-tonks, and tourist attractions.
- +Central to most major attractions
- +Abundant live music venues
- +Walkable to many sights
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Higher prices due to tourist volume
The Gulch
LuxuryA trendy, upscale urban neighborhood with chic boutiques, modern apartments, and popular restaurants.
- +Upscale dining and shopping options
- +Modern and clean atmosphere
- +Good nightlife scene
- -Can be expensive
- -Limited historic charm
East Nashville
Mid-rangeA hip, eclectic neighborhood known for its independent spirit, vintage shops, and diverse culinary scene.
- +Unique local businesses and eateries
- +Creative and bohemian atmosphere
- +Less touristy
- -Requires more driving/rideshare to reach other main areas
- -Some areas can feel less polished
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 75/day
Hidden Gems in Nashville
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Five Points Alley
FREEWander through this vibrant alleyway in the Five Points neighborhood, known for its colorful murals and street art. It's a fantastic place for unique photos and experiencing local creative expression.
Lockeland Springs Farmers Market
FREEExperience a true neighborhood market buzzing with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. It's a great place to mingle with Nashvillians and grab a delicious bite.
Edley's Bar-B-Que (12th Ave South)
While Nashville has many BBQ joints, Edley's on 12th Ave South offers a genuine local taste with a relaxed atmosphere. Their smoked meats and Southern sides are a consistent hit with residents.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Nashville
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Nashville Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Nashville 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
Nashville Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Nashville 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 Nashville: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Nashville'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 Nashville: Scenic Excursion
Escape Nashville 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
Nashville Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Nashville'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 Nashville
Backpackers in Nashville: FAQ
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