Most Melburnians wouldn't know it but backpacker bars rule. They have cheap specials, are full every night of the week and are frequented by open minded Scandinavians. Here are some of the best.
Blue Moon Bar, Carlton
Below the Space Hotel, ideally located on the city fringe, we daresay this venue has some of the best specials in town. Always full of backpackers (budget travellers is the new term) who are always looking full.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/blue-moon-bar/
Victoria Hotel, Nth Melbourne
We don't mind it when an old school pub morphs into an active hostel, because pubs should be full of life and merriment…and why wouldn't they with these specials. Take a peek and check out the long wooden bar.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/victoria-hotel-bev-and-micks/
Turf Club Hotel, Nth Melbourne.
The beauty of this place is that it's usually full of Melbourne University students so the chance of some international interaction is high. Good specials too!
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/turf-club-hotel-bev-and-micks/
Royal Derby Hotel, Fitzroy.
Many wouldn't know that budget accommodation is available upstairs, and perhaps the cheapest single room in town ($40 per night), but you'll find a splattering of travellers using it as their Fitzroy base.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/royal-derby-hotel/
College Lawn Hotel, Prahran
Very nice backstreet pub which has a very tasty beer garden for those summer days. Backpacker accommodation upstairs gives the place a bit of added life.
/venues/melbourne/college-lawn-hotel/
Pint and Punt (Windsor)
A member of our Top 50 Pubs in Melbourne, this well run comfy nook prides itself in always having a jovial atmosphere. Irish backpackers are everywhere upstairs.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/pint-on-punt/
U Bar (City)
Has a reputation for some very long nights, but if you're heading to Southern Cross station a few of their happy hours are very worthy. Especially the free tacos on Tuesdays.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/u-bar/
Industry Bar
Another Nomads hostel, this is one of the more active backpacker haunts around town. Has a nice little outdoor area too.
https://www.thehappiesthour.com/venues/melbourne/industry-bar-lounge/