FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Seattle

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: USD 120/day🚇 Good Transit

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Fremont

Offers more affordable accommodation and dining options compared to downtown, with a distinct local character.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Seattle

1

Fremont

Budget

Quirky and artistic, known for its independent spirit, public art, and unique shops.

culturefoodiessolo travelersbudget
  • +Distinctive local character and art installations
  • +Great independent breweries and restaurants
  • +Relaxed atmosphere
  • -Further from downtown attractions
  • -Public transport requires transfers for some areas
🏨 Hotel Hotel Fremont🏨 Fremont Vintage Mall
2

Capitol Hill

Budget

Eclectic and vibrant, known for its LGBTQ+ scene, independent shops, diverse eateries, and lively nightlife.

nightlifefoodiesculturesolo travelers
  • +Incredible variety of restaurants and bars
  • +Unique shops and vibrant street art
  • +Excellent public transport access
  • -Can be very busy and loud, especially on weekends
  • -Parking can be difficult and expensive
🏨 The Chihuly Garden and Glass🏨 Hotel Sorrento🏨 Silver Cloud Inn - Seattle Capitol Hill
3

Downtown

Luxury

The bustling heart of the city, packed with attractions, shops, and business.

first-timersculturenightlifeluxury
  • +Central location with easy access to major sights
  • +Abundant dining and entertainment options
  • +Good public transport links
  • -Can be crowded and noisy
  • -Higher hotel prices
🏨 Thompson Seattle🏨 The Edgewater Hotel🏨 Mayflower Park Hotel
4

Belltown

Mid-range

Trendy and energetic, known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse restaurants, and art scene.

nightlifefoodiescouplessolo travelers
  • +Excellent dining and bar scene
  • +Walkable to many attractions and the waterfront
  • +Lively atmosphere
  • -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
  • -Some areas have visible homelessness
🏨 Ace Hotel Seattle🏨 Palladian Hotel🏨 The Sound Hotel Seattle Belltown

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 120/day

Hostel bed at Green Tortoise Hostel SeattleUSD 45
Pike Place Chowder - bowl of clam chowderUSD 15
ORCA Card load for multiple bus ridesUSD 10
Explore Pike Place Market (free entry)USD 0
Visit the Gum WallUSD 0
Walk through Olympic Sculpture ParkUSD 0
Beecher's Handmade Cheese - mac and cheeseUSD 12
Frozen yogurt from Frankie & Jo'sUSD 7
Take the free Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island and backUSD 0
Dinner at Dick's Drive-In BurgersUSD 16
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Seattle

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🚶

Fremont Troll

FREE

A massive, quirky sculpture lurking under the Aurora Bridge, this concrete troll is a beloved local landmark and a fun, unexpected photo opportunity.

streetFremont
🛍️

Pike Place Market (Lower Levels)

FREE

While the main level is famous, explore the maze-like lower levels for unique shops selling antiques, comics, crafts, and quirky souvenirs.

marketDowntown
🍜

The Pink Door

A charming Italian restaurant and bar known for its delicious food, lively atmosphere, and surprise trapeze performances on select nights.

foodPike Place Market
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Seattle

More Seattle Guides

Full Seattle guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers