Athens is one of the world's oldest cities, and it is rich in archaeological artifacts. The Acropolis and Parthenon are the main draws for first-time tourists, but the city is studded with ancient Greek and Roman remains. Visiting Athens is like taking a step back in time. Our guide to the best hostels in Athens will assist you in selecting the right hostel for your needs during your stay in Athens.
Best Hostels in Athens - Quick Answers
Here’s an overview by category of the awesome hostels mentioned in this article. Scroll down to see a full description (and images) of each recommended hostel.
- Overall Best Hostel in Athens - City Circus
- Best Cheap Hostel in Athens - Pella-Inn Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Athens - Athens Backpackers
- Best Hostel in Athens for Solo Travellers - Athens Hub Hostel
Quick Introduction to Hostels in Athens
Athens has several outstanding hostels which are among the best hostels in Europe. According to Hostelworld, Athens has 49 hostels so finding one that meets all of your needs can be difficult. Athens also has different types of hostels and some of the large European hostel chains have a location in Athens.
Here are some things that you should consider before booking a hostel in Athens.
- Price - A bed in a dorm room starts at only €8 per night (normally in large dorm rooms), but expect to pay between €15 to €22 per night in a medium-sized dorm room (6 to 10 beds). As with all other major cities in Europe prices at the weekend or at holiday periods tend to be 20% to 40% higher. In Athens, the city tax costs €0.50 per person/per night, and this fee is often not included in the price you find on Hostelworld and other booking websites. Consider it as an extra fee that is paid upon arrival in cash.
- Location - Athens is a medium-sized city but it's best to stay in a central location close to the top sights and nightlife. (All hostels listed below are in central locations.)
- Amenities/Services - Every hostel in Athens offers free Wi-Fi and a few hostels include breakfast in the price, but if you want more specific services be sure to do your research to find the hostel that best meets your needs.
- Staff - Most hostels in Athens have excellent staff. They are normally very friendly and will give you some great tips on restaurants, bars and clubs etc. But my advice is to read reviews to make sure the hostel you choose has friendly and helpful staff because rude or unhelpful staff could ruin your hostel experience.
The 10 Best Hostels in Athens
Here’s our comprehensive list of the best hostels in Athens which includes a detailed description and the amenities of each hostel.
1. City Circus Athens
City Circus Athens is a trendy and well-regarded hostel located in the heart of the city. The hostel stands out for its unique circus-themed design, creating a fun and playful ambiance for guests. It offers a variety of accommodation options, from dormitory rooms to private rooms, catering to the needs of different travelers. One of the highlights of City Circus is its rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis and the city skyline, making it a fantastic spot to relax and socialize.
The hostel's communal areas are vibrant and social, providing ample opportunities for guests to meet fellow travelers and make new friends. The friendly and helpful staff are always ready to assist with travel tips and recommendations for exploring Athens. City Circus Athens is conveniently located near major attractions such as Monastiraki Square and the Ancient Agora, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's historic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.
Standout Features
- Roof terrace with a stunning view of the Acropolis
- Delicious breakfast
- Super friendly staff
Price: Dorms from €14.30, Private Rooms from €52.00
2. Athens Studios
Athens Studios is a modern and stylish hostel located within walking distance of the Acropolis and other major attractions. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitories, all equipped with modern amenities for a comfortable stay.
The rooftop bar and swimming pool are popular features, providing a relaxing space for guests to unwind and enjoy the views of the city. The hostel has a vibrant atmosphere and is known for hosting social events, making it easy for guests to mingle and connect with other travelers. The central location of Athens Studios allows guests to easily explore the historic Plaka district, visit the National Archaeological Museum, and experience Athens' vibrant nightlife. All of this makes Athens Studios one of the best hostels in Athens.
Standout Feature
- On-site (Athens) Sports Bar
- Outdoor Terrace
Price: Dorms from €18.30, Private Rooms from €53.00
3. Athens Backpackers
Athens Backpackers is a lively and social hostel located in the heart of the historic Plaka district. The hostel features a vibrant bar and a rooftop terrace, where guests can enjoy drinks and soak in the stunning views of the Acropolis and the city.
The hostel organizes regular social events, including BBQ nights and themed parties, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for travelers to connect and share experiences. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always eager to provide tips and recommendations for exploring the city's best attractions. With its prime location near the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, Athens Backpackers is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a vibrant and social stay in Athens. Athens Backpackers is one of the best hostels in Athens for party-goers because of its lively rooftop bar.
Standout Features
- Rooftop sports bar
- Free breakfast
Price: Dorms from €14.00, Private Rooms from €53.00
4. Athens Hub Hostel
Athens Hub Hostel is a boutique hostel located in Psyri neighborhood which happens to be close to the Acropolis, Monastiraki Square, and Syntagma Square. If you are looking for accommodation that offers more than a backpacker hostel but not at hotel prices, then Athens Hub is ideal for you.
Athens Hub Hostel was fully renovated in 2019. The dorm rooms are chic and stylish. They offer 4, 6, and 8-bed mixed dorms as well as female-only and private rooms. All dorm (bunk) beds come with a personal power socket, night light, privacy curtains, locker, and high-speed free Wi-Fi. Their bar is cozy and their rooftop garden is a great place to chill out after a hard day of sightseeing.
Athens Hub Hostel is one of the best hostels in Athens for solo female travelers because they offer super chic female-only dorms.
Standout Features
- Super cool dorm rooms
- Rooftop garden
Price: Dorms from €18.00, Private Rooms from €72.00
5. Students and Travellers Inn
Students and Travellers Inn is one of the city's oldest hostels. It has been in existence since 1977. They offer standard amenities like free Wi-Fi and hot showers, as well as unique features like beer vending machines, a courtyard with a big-screen TV, and a garden bar with shisha. The Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are all within a 15-minute walk of the hostel.
The hostel has both mixed and female-only dorms, all of which have heating and air conditioning. The bathrooms are either en-suite or shared. Breakfast (for an additional charge) in their café is a great way to start the day.
Standout Features
- Beer vending machines
- Garden bar
Price: Dorms from €17.00, Private Rooms from €50.00
6. Pella-Inn Hostel
Pella-Inn Hostel is situated in a prime location near Monastiraki Square, one of Athens' most vibrant and central areas. The hostel's strategic location allows guests to easily explore the city's main attractions, including the Acropolis, Plaka district, and the bustling Monastiraki Flea Market. Many of the ancient sights are only a 15-minute walk away from this hostel.
One of the highlights of Pella-Inn Hostel is its rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city skyline. The terrace is a great place to relax, socialize, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
They also provide free bedding and towels in both mixed and female-only dorms. Pella-Inn is one of the best hostels in Athens for backpackers who are on a tight budget as a bed in a dorm room starts at only €8.00 per night. If you are looking for a place to have a quiet night's sleep, then this is not the hostel for you.
Standout Feature
- Their rooftop bar
Price: Dorms from €8.00, Private Rooms from €32.00
7. Safestay Athens
Safestay Athens is situated in a central location, close to Monastiraki Square and the historic Plaka district. The hostel's prime position allows guests to easily explore Athens' major attractions, including the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora.
This hostel is a laid-back, friendly hostel located less than a 10-minute walk from most of Athens' most famous sights. They provide a very affordable breakfast at only €4.
One of the highlights of Safestay Athens is its rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the Acropolis and the city. The terrace is a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and take in the picturesque scenery.
The hostel is comprised of three separate buildings. Free Wi-Fi, guest PCs, a Rooftop Bar and cafe, 24-hour reception, a communal kitchen, a lobby, and a basement lounge are among the other amenities.
Standout Feature
- Their Rooftop Bar (open year-round)
Price: Dorms from €18.00, Private Rooms from €27.00
8. Athens Hawks Hostel
Athens Hawks Hostel is situated in a prime location, close to Monastiraki Square and the vibrant Plaka district. The hostel's central position allows guests to easily explore Athens' main attractions, such as the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum.
For backpackers, they offer spacious dorms with their own lockers and bedside lamps. Dorms are either mixed or female only. They have an onsite bar where every guest gets a free shot upon arrival. At the bar, you can participate in different bar activities. Other activities include a free daily walking tour and cooking classes.
Athens Hawks Hostel places a high emphasis on cleanliness and safety, ensuring a pleasant and secure environment for its guests. The hostel's staff is known for being friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable about the city. They are always ready to provide tips and recommendations for exploring Athens' best attractions and hidden gems.
Standout Features
- A large variety of activities
- Friendly staff
Price: Dorms from €8.60, Private Rooms from €26.50
9. SmallFunnyWorld Athens
SmallFunnyWorld Athens is a chilled hostel relatively close to the center of Athens and near most of Athens's main tourist sights. The famous Acropolis and Greek Parliament Square are only a 10-minute walk away.
Their dorm rooms are bright and very spacious. Bed linen towels and lockers come free with every dorm bed. If you are travelling to Athens on a super tight budget then SmallFunnyWorld hostel is a good option for you as it's cheap and you also get a free breakfast. You also get to use their Guest Kitchen where you can cook your own meals saving you more money.
Standout Features
- Rooftop terrace
- Well-designed bunk beds
- Free breakfast
Price: Dorms from €9.00, Private Rooms from €30.00
10. Crafoord Place Hostel Athens
Crafoord Place Hostel Athens is situated in a central location in Athens, close to the vibrant areas of Exarchia and Omonia Square. The hostel's prime position allows guests to easily explore Athens' main attractions, such as the National Archaeological Museum and the historic Plaka district.
The hostel has mixed and female-only dorm rooms. They provide a laundry service, the use of a shared kitchen, and vending machines.
Price: Dorms from €8.90
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Athens
I hope that this guide to the best hostels in Athens helps you in selecting a hostel that best meets your needs during your visit to Athens. In general, the quality of hostels in Athens is high, however, there are a few exceptions. Hopefully, this list can assist you in avoiding substandard or mediocre hostels, ensuring that you have a pleasant stay in Athens.
More on Hostels
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- 8 Different Types Of Hostels
- Best Hostel Chains in Europe
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I'm Mike McGuinness, the guy behind the scenes of Hostel Vagabond. I've stayed in literally hundreds of hostels across Europe and the world. I created Hostel Vagabond so that I could share those experiences with you.