Crete, one of the most beautiful Greek islands, is a safe destination for backpackers and solo travelers.
Generally speaking, accommodation can be quite affordable in Crete, however, if your budget is really tight or would like to make friends along the way, sharing a hostel dorm might be the best solution!
In this article, I bring you the most popular and best-reviewed hostels in Crete for an unforgettable time on the island.
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Top-Reviewed Hostels in Crete
Be sure to book ahead of time to ensure availability!
🛎️ Find the best hotels in Crete here
📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
– Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa
– Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site
🚘 The best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.
📲 Book a consultation call if you need help planning your trip to Crete!
Hostels in Crete: Is it a good idea to stay in a hostel?
As we have already discussed in this article about solo traveling in Crete, the island is an excellent destination whether traveling alone or with friends.
Female solo travelers will especially find Crete extremely safe, offering plenty of entertainment, attractions, and many things to do. Crete is also a great destination for students and young couples.
Every year, hundreds of young travelers, eager to discover the Mediterranean, get their backpacks ready and venture to Crete, eager to explore its natural landscapes and gorgeous old towns. Backpacking in Crete can be a truly unforgettable adventure!
Regarding holidays in Greece, accommodation can represent a substantial portion of any budget, and staying in a hostel can be the smartest solution to cut costs to a minimum.
This will let you spend more money visiting interesting archaeological sites or enjoying adventures and outdoor sports.
Hostels in Crete have changed over the years. While in the past it was common to find old, shabby places, today most hostels offer upgraded facilities, modern dorms with super clean bathrooms, and as much privacy as possible.
Besides, hostels offer the chance to meet other like-minded travelers, share experiences, and make friends on the road.
Looking to save a few extra Euros in Crete? Check out this guide to traveling on the island by bus.
How Much is a Bed in a Hostel in Crete?
As with regular accommodation, prices change based on location, dorm type, the possibility of having breakfast included, and other amenities the property offers.
Furthermore, several hostels now offer the opportunity to have private rooms with a private (or shared) bathroom, which would raise the fee by a little.
Overall, you can expect to pay an average fee ranging between €15 and €25 per night to stay in a central hostel. Still, it’s much cheaper than an affordable hotel!
Prices will also vary depending on the time you visit, with shoulder season and non-peak months being cheaper. As usual, these fees are estimates, and prices are always subject to change.
Are you eager to know how much a vacation in Crete will cost? Check out this budget guide to holidays in Crete.
Recommended Hostels in Crete
Here is a list of a few of the most beautiful hostels in Crete. They boast good reviews and offer modern facilities, a good location, and affordable prices.
For obvious reasons, they are located in different regions (the island is huge), so check beforehand which of the 4 regions of Crete (Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, or Lasithi) will be the place you’d rather stay and then book your hostel.
Kumba Hostel
- Location: Chania Town, Chania region
This is not the first time I’ve recommended checking out this hotel on the blog. I’ve also recommended it in several Crete accommodation guides.
Kumba is one of the best hostels in Chania. It features a modern combination of African and Cretan decor. It’s conveniently close to the old town and a few blocks from the town beach of Koum Kapi.
Kumba Hostel features 5 dormitories, 6 private rooms, and a cafe bar! All rooms are uniquely designed to maximize comfort and feature convenient amenities. The hostel also comes with a shared kitchenette area.
Highlights of Kumba Hostel:
- Kumba is a child-friendly hostel
- Bed linen is included
- Free parking, free city maps, and free Wi-Fi
- Laundry facilities available
- Towels, adaptors, and hair driers available for hire
- Luggage storage available
Cocoon City Hostel
- Location: Chania Town, Chania region
Located on a central road only a few meters from the old town, this hostel features a cutting-edge design and offers stylish and comfortable dorms and rooms. It also has a full kitchen.
Cocoon is an eco-minded property with cheerful colors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Since it’s located only a few blocks from Chania’s public bus station, it’s easier for travelers to reach the port and the airport, other regions in Crete, and some of the most famous local beaches within the Chania region.
The hostel is also wheelchair accessible.
Highlights of Cocoon City Hostel:
- Fast internet access free of charge, free city maps offered
- Linen included, and towels available for hire
- Washer and dryer available
- Breakfast is €5 per person per day
- Minimum age: 16
- Luggage storage available
- Non-smoking property
Boho City Hostel
- Location: Old Town Chania, Chania region
Situated in a picturesque alley in Chania’s Old Town, Boho City Hostel is close to virtually every landmark you want to visit.
Just steps from the property are bars, coffee shops, traditional taverns, and restaurants. The hostel is also within walking distance of Chania’s main bus station.
Facilities include a well-equipped communal kitchen and an outdoor sitting area. With a security door code, travelers can book a bed in one of the dorms.
Every bed features free linen, a bed socket, and a light, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Breakfast is not included in the price, and pets are not allowed.
Highlights of Boho City Hostel:
- Child-friendly property
- Free parking and free city maps are available
- Bike hire is available, and there is free parking for bikes
- Towel hire available
- Luggage storage offered
- Book exchange services
Youth Of Dope Hostel
- Location: Cape Akrotiri, Chania region
One of the most original hostels in Chania, this is an excellent option for those who don’t want to stay in the buzzing center of town.
Youth of Dope is located in the tranquil Cape Akrotiri, a few minutes from the spectacular Agia Triada Monastery, making it a perfect choice for those searching for stunning beaches.
Created as a refuge for “travelers, artists, and other creatures,” the hostel is set inside a nineteenth-century Cretan mansion. It features accommodation, an office space, and an exhibition area.
The accommodation offers free bikes, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, and a bar. You can also hire airport transportation.
The hostel features a shared kitchen, air-conditioned rooms with a desk, coffee machine, fridge, oven, terrace, and a shared bathroom with a shower. Breakfast is not included in the fee
Highlights of Youth of Dope:
- Linen Included
- Bike hire is available, and there is free parking for bikes and cars
- Towel hire available
- BBQ and swimming pool
- Cots available
Poco Loco
- Location: Old Town Chania, Chania region
Although not a hostel but more of a bed and breakfast, this place deserves a spot on Crete’s list of the best-reviewed hostels.
The colorful and cozy atmosphere is one of the highlights of this incredible property in the heart of Chania. The small property features 5 spacious apartments (fully renovated) only steps from all the attractions in Chania, close to taverns, restaurants, and local museums.
The place features an elegant open-air space to enjoy morning breakfast (not included, €5 per person per day) or snacks and drinks during the day.
Rooms come with a private bathroom and can accommodate up to 4 people. A child under 2 years old can stay in a child’s cot free of charge. An older child or adult is charged €10 per person per night when using existing beds.
Highlights of Poco Loco:
- Outdoor Terrace
- Free public parking is available nearby
- Mini bar and meals available
- Child-friendly property and cots available
- Pet-friendly, pets stay at no extra cost on request
Intra Muros Hostel
- Location: Heraklion city center, Heraklion region
Heraklion’s first boutique hostel, Intra Muros, is just minutes from essential city landmarks, such as Morosini Fountain and Heraklion’s Loggia.
Intra Muros is a family-run hostel that focuses on the needs of every modern traveler. Here, guests can relax on the spacious veranda with city views, socialize with other backpackers in common areas, or cook and share a meal in the fully equipped kitchen.
The hostel features free internet, musical instruments, board games, and a book exchange, all great ways to meet other travelers.
All dorms feature big and bright areas with shared bathrooms and air conditioning, while all bunk beds come with linen, towels, privacy curtains, power sockets, reading lights, and individual lockers. The hostel is a non-smoking property. Guests must be at least 12 years old to stay in this hostel.
Highlights of Intra Muros Hostel:
- Both bed linen and towels are included
- Free WiFi and free city maps
- BBQ and self-catering facilities
- Luggage storage available
- Breakfast is available but not included
- A shared coffee machine is also available
So Young Hostel
- Location: Heraklion city center, Heraklion region
Situated only four minutes from the impressive Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, So Young is one of the most popular hostels in the island’s capital, featuring modern and comfy boutique facilities, eco-friendly furnishings, and a gorgeous roof garden with a bar.
Located only minutes from the city’s Venetian Walls, the Venetian Koules, and the Museum of the Battle of Crete, this central hostel is in a quiet and safe area, close to shops, bakeries, coffee shops, and restaurants.
The hostel provides dorms with shared bathrooms and some rooms with private bathrooms, contactless late check-in, affordable parking areas, and free luggage storage.
The property features a communal kitchen with a coffee machine. A courtesy shuttle to Ammoudara Beach is also available.
Highlights of So Young Hostel:
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly property
- Bed linen included
- Free WiFi and free city maps
- Security lockers available
- Laundry facilities
- Book exchange available
- Breakfast not included
Heraklion Youth Hostel
- Location: Heraklion city center, Heraklion region
Right in the center of Heraklion, this hotel offers basic and affordable accommodation every month of the year.
The hostel is close to the most important attractions, shops, restaurants, and the Heraklion bus station (perfect for reaching Knossos Palace).
The hostel is set in a two-story stone building, and it features bright rooms with windows or balconies and air conditioning. You will find male and female dormitory rooms, hot showers, and a kitchen with a cooker, microwave oven, fridge, freezer, coffee makers, and boilers).
Luggage storage and WiFi access are free of charge. The property also features a patio and a sunny terrace with sunbeds.
Highlights of Heraklion Youth Hostel:
- Safety lockers, safety boxes, and adaptors are available
- Bed linen included
- Free WiFi and free city maps are available
- Hair dryers and towels available for hire
- Breakfast is not included
- City taxes included
Matala Hostel
- Location: Matala Village, on the southern coast of the Heraklion region.
No other destination on the island better embodies the hostel spirit than the coastal village of Matala, in the south of Heraklion. A paradise for hippie travelers and independent backpackers, the village features a hostel!
Ideal location to visit the naturist Red Beach or the Archaeological Site of Phaistos, this hostel is only 10 minutes from Matala Beach and is ideally situated, far from the busy northern coast of Crete and surrounded by the laid-back vibes of the south.
The hostel, described as the southernmost hostel in Europe, offers a shared kitchen and a few rooms with private bathrooms. The premises have a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, and a bar.
You can also enjoy indoor and outdoor common areas and lounges while Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, and car rental is also available.
All rooms are spacious and have en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. Bunk beds have linens, towels, privacy curtains, and individual lockers.
Highlights of Matala Hostel:
- Bed linen included, and towels available for hire
- Security lockers and luggage storage are available
- Swimming pool
- Microwave and coffee-making facilities
- Dorms with 4-6-8 bunk beds and family rooms available
Rethymno Youth Hostel
- Location: Rethymnon city center, Rethymnon region
Located in the eclectic center of Rethymnon town, not far from the Guora Gate to access the Old Town.
The property features a large tiled courtyard and a patio with green bushes and plants for you to sit and meet other fellow travelers or chill out with a cocktail.
It is a home away from home for travelers wishing to discover this gorgeous region in the island’s center.
Set in a historical Venetian building, overlooking one of the town’s minarets and in a relaxing neighborhood, only steps from Rethymnon’s long sandy beach and close to the best nightlife on the island!
The hostel features an equipped kitchen and has been awarded the “Best Value Hostel” recognition.
Highlights of Rethymno Youth Hostel:
- Security lockers, adaptors, and luggage storage are available
- Bicycle parking
- BBQ facilities
- Towel-for-hire and laundry services are available
- Breakfast is not included; coffee-making facilities on-site
Youth Hostel Plakias
- Location: Plakias village, southern coast of the Rethymnon region
Considered one of Crete’s most popular hostels, this place is on the gorgeous southern coast of Rethymnon, near natural wonders such as Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Other interesting points of interest in the area are the picturesque village of Spili and the spectacular Preveli Monastery. Besides, Plakias is a renowned coastal village that’s famous among snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts.
Awarded with the “Best Hostel in Greece” recognition, the property has six 8-bed dorms set in an olive grove with a large patio.
Featuring cheap beer and wine, cheap breakfasts, free use of guitars, and special equipment for water sports, including snorkels, flippers, and river shoes, the place is a perfect base to explore the area by joining hikes or other group activities.
The hostel is open from April to November. Check-in is late in the afternoon, but luggage storage is available no matter what time you arrive.
Highlights of Youth Hostel Plakias:
- Bed linen included, and towels available for hire
- Laundry services and a washing machine are available
- BBQ facilities and book exchange available
- Free parking available
- Breakfast not included
- Free use of beach mats and snorkeling equipment
As you can see, Crete has no shortage of affordable yet beautiful hostels. Pick a date and pack your swimsuit to explore the island!
Are you ready to book a hostel in Crete?
I publish new content about Crete almost every day! Bookmark my Crete and Practical Guides pages to learn more before your trip.
Are you dreaming of a getaway to Crete but feeling overwhelmed with planning?
- You can join my Facebook Group, Things to Do in Crete, a friendly gathering of Crete enthusiasts.
- With my consultation call services, I have assisted countless travelers in crafting the perfect Crete experience. Please, email me for more information!
Don’t forget travel insurance!
Although Crete is a safe destination, getting travel insurance is like having a safety net for your adventures. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected situations.
- Heymondo offers customizable plans that suit your itinerary and activities. >> Get a quote from Heymondo here.
- Safety Wing offers insurance plans for long-term travelers. >> Get a quote from Safety Wing here.
Read more about Crete
- Nightlife in Crete: What to Do and Best Places for a Fun Stay on the Island!
- How to Get to Elafonisi Beach for a Great On-the-Road Experience in Crete!
- 10 Days in Crete: A Stunning Itinerary in West Crete
- How to Get from Heraklion to Matala, Crete (and from Matala to Heraklion) without Getting Lost!
More resources to enhance your Crete adventure
Start by checking out my guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets. If you prefer, you can purchase one of the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
When it’s time to plan, explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, and be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches. If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lasithi, and Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.
Suggested accommodation in Crete
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these places to stay:
- Heraklion: Galaxy Hotel.
- Chania: Porto Antico.
- Rethymnon: Archipelagos Hotel.
- Agios Nikolaos: Hotel Port 7.
Pin this Guide to the Top-Reviewed Hostels in Crete
About me:
I have lived in Chania, Crete, since 2016. As a local, I have an intimate knowledge of the Crete. I host culinary and concierge tours and experiences in Crete and write about the island for several travel media. During the last five years, I have helped many travelers plan the perfect holiday in Crete. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.