Headed to the Peach State of Georgia? Then you’ve definitely got to spend some time in Atlanta, a destination spot for international travelers and Americans alike. It’s one of the largest cities in the south, and its Southern charm is felt throughout.
The city is alive with the hustle and bustle of major companies that call Atlanta home, like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines. Students FLOCK to the area to attend universities such as Emory and Agnes Scott. The MARTA, the public transit system (including bus, rail, and streetcars), is a great way to travel throughout the city without a car.
With all of this, you’d think Atlanta, GA would be stacked with hostels but alas, that is not the case. There aren’t too many hostels in Atlanta, but there’s no need to go breaking the bank for a good night’s stay. From crashing on someone’s couch to boutique hotels, there are so many different types of places out there.
To help you decide where to stay in Atlanta, I’ve listed my top budget picks below. There are still wonderful accommodations and I’ve got the best hostel in Atlanta too, don’t you worry! I’m here to help you find the best option for your trip.
So, let’s get into Atlanta, Georgia!
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The Best Hostel in Atlanta
Here it is – the best (and only) hostel in Atlanta GA! With limited options for backpackers, this spot is still an absolute cracker and there are plenty more places to stay in Atlanta, just not exclusively hostels. Let’s check it out…
eKstasis Hostel & Urban Farm
- Dorm (mixed): From $43
- Address: 1860 Penelope Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30314, United States
OK, so this isn’t your typical hostel, but that doesn’t mean you won’t love it! If you’re backpacking in the USA and want to hit the top attractions like Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Beltline, and even downtown Atlanta. This hostel in Atlanta GA is something special, in a friendly neighborhood out of the hustle of downtown Atlanta.
With the amenities you want (think shared kitchen, outdoor BBQ area, bunk beds, communal lounge), in a large clean home setting. There’s a coffee machine in this hostel, room to get work done if you’re living the distal nomad life. As a prolific solo traveler, what I really love is that the dorm rooms are small and intimate in this Atlanta hostel.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wifi
- Daily HOusekeeping
- Free Parking
If you’re traveling the USA and Atlanta, GA is a stop on your list, you’ll love staying at this sweet home-style hostel. Solo travelers will feel safe and secure in this homely space and have the opportunity to meet other like-minded travelers. The location of this hostel is convenient, not too far from the Atlanta Airport, and getting into downtown Atlanta is easy too.
There are two four-bed mixed dorms at this Atlanta hostel and while only one dorm has a private bathroom, you’re not sharing between many. There’s plenty of space to make your own breakfast in the kitchen and all the amenities you could wish for. If you want to head out and about at night, you do you boo! downtown Atlanta isn’t too far away. There’s great public transport and plenty of cabs.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Other Epic Budget Stays in Atlanta
So, that’s that. The only hostel in Atlanta, GA. Let’s move on to the rest of the best affordable spots. Atlanta might have a pricey reputation, but if you’re thrifty enough you can score some swanky digs on a backpacker budget. Here are my top picks for budget stays to crash when exploring Atlanta, GA.
Luxury Crash Pad on Marta
- Private Room: From $32
- Address: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Luxury Crash Pad has the heart of a hostel without actually being one. The large sleeping room is divided into small semi-private areas with the cozy feeling of your own, individual zones. There’s also a shared kitchen, where you can keep costs down by cooking your own meals.
The backyard is totally chill with a firepit, hammock, and veggie garden, so feel free to hang out and chat with other travelers. Perfectly positioned, it’s outside of the city center so you don’t have to pay insanely high rates. But, it’s within steps of a MARTA station, so you can explore Atlanta’s top attractions with ease.
Cozy Bedroom w/Full Bath, Hosted by Patricia and Michael
- Private Room: From $68
- Address: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Essentially a suite, you get a spacious bedroom and private bathroom, so you can get some privacy even though you’re staying in someone else’s home. There are some restaurants nearby, or you can choose to cook meals in the shared kitchen.
Centrally located, it’s a short walk to the Atlanta Beltline and other things to do, including the Ponce City Market. Free breakfast is provided, so you can sit back and enjoy your morning coffee overlooking the downtown skyline. The location alone is a good reason to stay here, but the lovely house and super cool hosts (and their dog) sweeten the deal.
Guesthouse in Prime Midtown Location, Hosted by August
- Private Room: From $110
- Address: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
If you’re headed off on a couples getaway, this is the ideal place to really get away from it all. August’s guesthouse is the best place for you to be on your own and in the lap of luxury. The guest house is detached from the rest of the property, so the entire apartment is yours.
Positioned in midtown, everything is an easy stroll away. There are also plenty of public transport options available to you, so you can explore Atlanta with ease.
Claremont Hotel
- Private Room: From $155
- Address: 789 Ponce De Leon Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306, United States
This awesome hotel has a great option for groups of friends. The Claremont’s various accommodation options offer bunk rooms that can be shared between you and three friends (without sharing an actual bed). Split between you all, it’s a cheap stay and you get the perks of a high-end boutique hotel in a great location.
The vintage decor throughout the hotel feels like you’ve stepped back in time to when travel was done in style and with serious class. The amenities like the rooftop bar and Tiny Lou’s are not to be missed. At the Claremont, it feels like you’re livin’ it up without killing your travel budget.
Beautiful Historic Spot/Midtown, Hosted by Maria
While traveling it’s nice to unplug from life back home, but digital nomads will need to stay connected. Maria’s apartment helps you do both. This gorgeous studio is newly renovated and up to speed on all the comforts of a relaxing stay, including its full kitchen and sleek bathroom.
To stay connected virtually the work-nook is perfect to set up shop, focus, and get work done. When you’re not working, the apartment is a short walk from shops, restaurants, and the top tourist attractions of the city.
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Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIArtmore Hotel
When you’ve come to Atlanta to have fun, you should stay in a place that knows how to have a good time! The Artmore Hotel has got you covered. Situated in midtown, it’s steps away from awesome places to eat and drink in town. The MARTA station is just across the street so the whole of Atlanta GA is open to you, day trip anywhere you like!
Don’t want to go too far from where you’re spending the night? Artmore’s own Studio + Bar is a popular bar in its own right, with a stunning cocktail garden to boot. Without a doubt, this is one of the best places to stay in Atlanta for nightlife.
ZenZone, Hosted by Maurice
Oooooommmmm. Maurice radiates peace and tranquility that transforms a spare room into the ZenZone. Recharge in the private bedroom, which has a spacious queen-sized bed, desk, and comfy lounge chair. Venturing out of your room, the shared spaces of this cool home are highlights and you can relax on the porches or in the yard.
Nourish your body and keep within your travel budget by using the shared kitchen. The location of ZenZone is also totally chill—just a five minute walk to the MARTA and you’ll be in the centre in no time. While this is no Atlanta treehouse, the opposite in fact, it’s still a sweet stay in Atlanta.
‘69 Airstream in the City, Hosted by Ashley
Unique and affordable! This updated 1969 Chevy Airstream is a fantastic way to spend your time in Atlanta. Ashley has created a cozy space inside this vintage caravan vacation rental in Atlanta so you’ll feel comfortable. You could spend tons of time in the Airstream, but don’t worry, that’s not the only thing included in your stay.
The shared bathroom and full kitchen are just steps away and the yard is lively with goats, chickens, and even a treehouse. It’s separated from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, so you’ll want to figure out how to get around beforehand. Public transport and Uber are easy options in Atlanta GA.
Atlanta Midtown Hostel
A traditional hostel, Atlanta Midtown is perfect if you’re traveling on a budget. It’s got plenty of shared spaces where you can get to know other travelers, and the kitchen is ideal for keeping backpacking costs low.
The location of Atlanta Midtown Hostel is perfect for seeing the city, situated within walking distance from the top attractions. With a great location, stellar vibe, and affordable rates—you can’t beat this epic hostel in Atlanta.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Atlanta
Everyone needs good hostel insurance, no matter what type of accommodation you’re staying in.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Atlanta Hostels
Here’s what people usually as about hostels in Atlanta GA
What to Pack for Your Atlanta Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much do hostels in Atlanta cost?
Dorms in Atlanta are quite few but there are a lot of cheap guesthouses everywhere. The cheapest typical shared room can range from $46 to $75.
What are the best hostels in Atlanta for couples?
My top guesthouse in Atlanta is Hosted by August. It’s located in midtown and just a few minutes away from Piedmont Park where various festivals are held. This is the perfect spot for you music lovers.
What is the best hostel in Atlanta near the airport?
Just 20 away from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is eKstasis Hostel & Urban Farm. It’s a very cozy hostel in the city center with a wide garden and a comfy bed. It may look tiny but there are a lot of nooks and crannies for personal space and it’s perfect for meeting new people!
Final Thoughts on Atlanta’s Hostels
That’s it y’all. The Best Hostels in Atlanta list is complete. There are so many things to see and do in this vibrant city, so you’re bound to have a great time no matter when you visit.
Each one of these accommodation options in Atlanta is awesome in its own right. But, if you’re still not sure where to stay, definitely check out eKstasis Hostel & Urban Farm. It’s the best traditional hostel and offers great value for money, so you really can’t go wrong!
There are so many wonderful things to do in Atlanta, I love the Atlanta Beltline for a fun, cheap day out. You can grab a picnic and hang out wandering around there for the day, soaking up the Atlanta GA vibes.
Wherever you stay in Atlanta, GA, I’m sure you’ll love it, this city is a big vibe and a must-see city in the USA. While hostels in Atlanta are rare, Georgia is still worth the trip and a great place to visit any time of year.
Do you have any Atlanta GA recommendations? I’d love to hear from you if you’ve been there or are going, hit me up in the comments!
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Georgia for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Atlanta covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Atlanta if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Atlanta before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for the USA to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate USA backpacking guide.
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