Dioskouros Hostel

From the sleepy street just off Plaka's main tourist path, Hotel Dioskouros's art deco railings, doors and ample greenery are welcoming. The one-star hotel/hostel tends to host university-age guests and young families. Beds are rented dormitory-style, but there are several inexpensive two-bed rooms.

Simple and unadorned, Dioskouros's 17 rooms set up shop in a rambling building that feels more like a retrofitted mansion than a hotel. All rooms share bathroom facilities, though they have their own sinks. Décor is not the guiding principle here, though rooms feature all sorts of charming little touches. We loved the blue window frame trim and seemingly random furniture combinations. Room amenities stop at air conditioning, but free Internet access is available, in the form of Wi-Fi as well as three computers in the common area.

Families and larger groups should note that Dioskouros has a large basement suite with both bunkbeds and conventional beds. In the off-season, Dioskouros opens its doors to long-term guests and offers rooms on a very affordable monthly basis.

Breakfast is included.