Astoria City Hostel

For 20€ a night in August, Astoria City hostel was decent during my four-night stay. It’s centrally located, right by a subway entrance. Bathrooms were clean and modern, with big showers and plenty of hot water. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and laundry costs 8€. The apartment faces the street, so there’s some noise, though it wasn’t too bad. There’s a patio behind the kitchen where smoking is allowed, but it’s so tiny it’s practically part of the kitchen, and the usual wind carries smoke through the whole apartment. They recommended Bali Café, but I’d choose Ruben's instead, which is better and cheaper. At 15€ per night, I’d call this a very good hostel.

The staff were friendly, chatty, and helpful. Just remember it’s in a regular building on the third floor, so use the left elevator and keep quiet in the stairwell. We stayed four nights and were completely satisfied. The city center location means street noise is normal, and it might bother people who aren’t used to it. But the doubled windows keep things quiet when shut. The bunk beds and mattresses were fine, though sitting on the lower bunks isn’t comfortable for tall people. Bathrooms and kitchen had what we needed. Showers were clean with hot and cold water, while the washbasin only had cold. There’s a balcony off the kitchen, facing the quiet backyard, where you can eat breakfast. Breakfast was fine: bread, chocolate spread (“nutella”), jams, cream cheese, cornflakes, muesli, milk, tea, and coffee. A bit more savory food would’ve been nice, but it’s not a Hilton, hahaha. There was only one guy complaining, and I can remind you it’s not a five-star hotel. Cheers!

The internet was unreliable at some points during the day, but the people were welcoming and nice. They also suggested a few tourist attractions. It was pretty good overall.

Well priced, with a good location. A great hotel.