Where to Stay in Surrey
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Whalley
Offers the most affordable accommodation and dining options, with excellent SkyTrain access for exploring the wider region.
See full Surrey neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Surrey
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Newton
A diverse and rapidly growing community with a strong cultural presence and commercial strips.
Our top picks in Newton
Offers a good balance of comfort and amenities, often catering to business and leisure travelers.
Book Now
Whalley
Surrey's bustling downtown core with a mix of urban development and community services.
Our top picks in Whalley
Offers comfortable rooms and amenities, conveniently located near shopping and dining.
Book NowStylish hotel with modern design and rooftop amenities, close to the SkyTrain.
Book NowReliable option with standard amenities, accessible via transit.
Book Now
Guildford
A large suburban hub centered around a major shopping mall and residential areas.
Our top picks in Guildford
We 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Newton | Budget | A diverse and rapidly growing community with a strong cultural presence and commercial strips. | foodiesculture |
Whalley | Mid-range | Surrey's bustling downtown core with a mix of urban development and community services. | first-timersbudget |
Guildford | Mid-range | A large suburban hub centered around a major shopping mall and residential areas. | familiesbudget |
Cloverdale | Mid-range | A historic village feel with a charming downtown, known for its equestrian roots and community events. | familiescouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Surrey
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Tips for Backpackers in Surrey
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Surrey. 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 Surrey
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Surrey
Newton
BudgetA diverse and rapidly growing community with a strong cultural presence and commercial strips.
- +Authentic and diverse culinary scene
- +More affordable dining and shopping
- +Community-focused atmosphere
- -Limited high-end hotels
- -Less developed public transit compared to Whalley
- -Can feel spread out
Whalley
Mid-rangeSurrey's bustling downtown core with a mix of urban development and community services.
- +Excellent transit connectivity
- +Wide range of dining options
- +Central location for exploring the region
- -Can feel very urban and busy
- -Visible homelessness and social issues
Guildford
Mid-rangeA large suburban hub centered around a major shopping mall and residential areas.
- +Excellent shopping and dining at the mall
- +Family-friendly atmosphere
- +Good access to parks and green spaces
- -Less vibrant nightlife
- -Can feel very car-dependent outside the mall area
Cloverdale
Mid-rangeA historic village feel with a charming downtown, known for its equestrian roots and community events.
- +Charming historic downtown
- +Strong community events calendar
- +More residential and quieter atmosphere
- -Further from Vancouver and requires driving for most activities
- -Limited hotel options
- -Public transit is less frequent
Daily Budget (Budget)
CAD 100/day
Hidden Gems in Surrey
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Surrey Central Farmers Market
FREEOpen on Saturdays, this vibrant market is where locals gather for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to mingle with the community and discover local flavors.
Baan Thai Restaurant
While many restaurants exist, Baan Thai is a local gem known for its authentic and flavorful Thai cuisine, often praised for its generous portions and friendly service. It's a consistent favorite for those seeking a delicious and unpretentious meal.
Crescent Beach Boardwalk
FREEStroll along the charming boardwalk at Crescent Beach, enjoying the ocean breeze and scenic views of the water. It's a relaxed local spot with ice cream shops and cafes perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Surrey
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Surrey Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Surrey 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
Surrey Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Surrey 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 Surrey: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Surrey'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 Surrey: Scenic Excursion
Escape Surrey 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
Surrey Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Surrey'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 Surrey
Backpackers in Surrey: FAQ
What is the best area in Surrey for backpackers?
Is Surrey safe for backpackers?
How much does it cost per day in Surrey for backpackers?
When is the best time for backpackers to visit Surrey?
Where are the cheapest hostels in Surrey?
Found your hotel in Surrey?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Plan Your Perfect Surrey Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.