The Best Hostels in Athens, Greece

Opened in 2018, Mosaikon is best known for its prime location near Monastiraki Square, along with its next-level comfort and signature aesthetic – think Japanese design meets Aegean colours. With its mixed and single-sex dorms, as well as private rooms, Mosaikon offers the experience of a boutique hotel at the price of a hostel. For a spot of sunbathing or to enjoy some drinks al fresco, guests can step out on to Mosaikon’s rooftop terrace, which has a view of the Acropolis. Located on Kolokotroni Street, which runs from Syntagma to Monastiraki, Mosaikon is on the doorstep of some of the best nightlife in Athens. Choose from indie bars like Booze Cooperativa and cocktails at Noel, the city’s most popular lounge bar.

Bed Station is located northwest of the Acropolis in the Kerameikos neighbourhood – historically the potters’ quarter of the city, the area is conveniently central but away from the tourist crowds. Close to the nightlife hub of Gazi and a few steps away from both the Gazarte concert hall and the Kerameikos Archaeological Museum, this hostel is perfectly situated for those interested in discovering both the ancient and contemporary culture of Athens. Among the hostel’s main draws are its minimalist decor, spacious and serene dorms of just four beds (each with privacy curtains), and rooftop with views towards the Acropolis. Bed Station is particularly popular among digital nomads, who appreciate the zen vibes and the emphasis the hostel places on privacy.

Set in the central Monastiraki district, BedBox is best described as modern and trendy with a chilled-out atmosphere. An attractive option for digital nomads, the rooms offer privacy curtains and each bed has its own charging outlet for electronics. The common area is relaxed yet sociable – ideal for co-working – and doubles as a cafe and smoothie bar. The friendly staff also hang out here and will happily clue you in on what to do and where to go in the city. The rooms are spacious and well organised, with single-sex and mixed dorms available and a variety of single and double beds, too.

Nubian Hostel offers a modern, sleek space decorated with muted tones contrasted with bold pops of colour and vibrant murals. The bedrooms are elegant and comfortable, with a choice of mixed or female dorms and private accommodation. The common areas are an invitation to relaxation, with soft lighting in the charming back garden and on the terrace, providing the perfect setting to make new friends or catch up on your emails uninterrupted. Located at the intersection between hip Exarcheia and upscale Kolonaki, here you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to nightlife within walking distance.

Athens Studios is a go-to choice for comfortable and reasonably priced accommodation, offering dorms, shared studios and private apartments. It has a cafe, restaurant and bar, and a range of fun organised activities such as walking tours. If you’re on a tight schedule, the location alone is a strong draw: situated between the Acropolis and the up-and-coming Koukaki neighbourhood, it has tourist must-sees and authentic local haunts right on its doorstep.

Dioskouros is nestled among the narrow streets of Plaka, a hillside neighbourhood in the shadow of the Acropolis with a distinctly village-like feel. A small, modestly priced hostel for those looking for a more intimate setting, Dioskouros offers private rooms with small balconies overlooking the area’s cobbled streets, and a verdant garden for enjoying an al fresco breakfast, which is included in the price of the hostel. Hadrian’s Arch is opposite the hostel, and the quaint Anafiotika neighbourhood with its bars, cafes and tavernas is a short walk away.