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Far from the sights and the buzz of the city centre, but prices for dorm beds can’t be beaten. This is the headquarters of the Greek Association of Youth Hostels, an organization that can help you find cheap accommodation throughout the country.

Representing a great deal for its bulls-eye central location, Phivos is the newest city-centre addition to Athens’ collection of hostels. The hostel is run by a very friendly and helpful owner, and all the rooms come with bathrooms and air conditioning.

Another perfectly central location for this small, friendly, family-run guesthouse. Despite its low prices, the old-fashioned rooms still have basic amenities and comforts, including the welcome respite of air conditioning.

This spotless, cheerful, recently renovated hostel is located in a pretty quarter of Plaka, an easy walk from most sights and downtown. Private rooms and dorms have wooden floors, big windows and private phones with internet access. Bathrooms are shared, but each bedroom has its own sink and mirror.

A favourite with the international backpacking set. Dorms and private rooms that sleep up to four are usually packed in summer, but students and young people don’t seem to mind, instead enjoying the festive atmosphere. Most gather to enjoy a beer in the garden out back at the day’s end.

The best thing about the Tempi is its wonderful location on a central but quiet pedestrian street, overlooking a church, the Monastiraki flower market and the Acropolis. Rooms are rock-bottom basic, but the family running the hotel are helpful and can also arrange city tours.

The location is central, if a little seedy, but the super-cheap dorm beds are in immaculate, quiet rooms (a real achievement in this part of town), and the staff are glad to help you. Facilities include laundry and a kitchen for guests.

A good place for a night or two on a tight budget. Tiny, clean rooms and dorm beds on a noisy street in an area that’s run down but close to the centre. Pluses are a welcoming staff who speak perfect English, and large bathrooms.

Clean dorm beds and a lively atmosphere. Once again, a somewhat seedy area, but it’s not too far to the centre and it’s close to the train station. Facilities include laundry and pay internet access. Students and backpackers gather at the bar downstairs.

The only campsite in the Athens area and thus the cheapest sleep around. But it’s located in a depressing strip off a busy highway well over an hour outside the city. Head here as a last resort when you’re completely strapped for cash.