Athenstyle is one of the first hostels in Athens. It opened in 2008 in the Psyri district, and within a year was on the Europe Famous Hostels’ list.
Its owner, Sofia Litsio had been working as a lawyer in Italy and came to Greece to make her dream come true by opening a hostel. She instantly realized Psyri was a key destination for tourists, and when she found a building with a panoramic view of the Acropolis, she fell in love with it and, along with her uncle, decided to open Athenstyle on the spot.
“A lot of people believe hostels are something like a commune. Greeks, especially, have got the wrong idea of what it’s really like to stay somewhere that is like a hotel but at the same time different. Young people from foreign countries are much more familiar with such accommodation.
“Hostels are ideal for those who want to experience a different travel experience or go on vacation alone. Despite what many people believe, most hostels aren’t full of dirty rooms without doors, with people waiting in line to take a bath,” Mrs. Litsio said.
“Our rooms are affordably priced, with an en suite bathroom, kitchenette and full air-conditioning. We also offer breakfast, free wi-fi and a full-time cleaning service. The only difference with a hotel is that the atmosphere in a hostel is more relaxed and the residents are friendlier and open to new experiences and acquaintances. We also organize excursions and guided tours in the city – and some very successful parties, attended by Athenians and guest alike,” the owner added.
“I treat my customers as if they were guests in my own home,” Mrs. Litsio said, upholding the world-renowned hospitality of the Greeks. “I want them to have a great time in Athens, be satisfied with their stay and come back in the future, that’s the biggest reward for me in my job,” Mrs. Litsio concluded.
Some other hostels in Athens popular among tourists are the following.
With a built-in bar, a panoramic view of the Acropolis and filled with young, energetic residents, Athens Backpackers Hostel is the ideal hostel for those looking for a fun vacation. Another one, Aphrodite’s House, is located in the center of Athens and is perfect for those searching for an easy-to-get-to hostel. It also features its own bar and offers long-term baggage storage.
Student and Travelers Inn is located in the Plaka district, near the Acropolis and is a member of the Hostelling International federation. In the surrounding area tourists can find many shops to buy clothes, jewelry and souvenirs and of course many restaurants and taverns to taste traditional Greek specialties and admire the Acropolis and Plaka view.
Moreover, near the National Archaeological Museum, visitors can find Zorba’s Hostel and Hotel, a hostel in a picturesque old building with clean, nicely furnished rooms. Another popular hostel is Dioskouros, with affordably priced rooms and a key location near the Acropolis Museum, the Temple of Zeus and Syntagma Square. Its rooms are painted in vivid colors and are nicely furnished, featuring a lovely patio to enjoy your breakfast, coffee or beer.
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