Whether you’re solo-traveling through Turkey or backpacking across Europe, Istanbul is a must-stop — and the city’s hostel scene is surprisingly stylish, social, and affordable. From rooftop hangouts in Galata to cozy dorms in Kadıköy, this city offers some of the best hostels for making friends, sharing stories, and exploring on a budget.
Here’s our curated list of Istanbul’s top hostels for backpackers and solo travelers, based on location, vibe, safety, and amenities.
🧭 Best Areas for Hostels
- Taksim – Great nightlife, central location, metro access
- Galata – Artsy, historic, near landmarks and trendy cafés
- Kadıköy – On the Asian side, more local and budget-friendly
🛏️ Top Istanbul Hostels for 2025
🏨 Proost Hostel – 🥂 Best for Social Travelers
Located between Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern, Cheers Hostel is famous for its on-site bar, rooftop terrace with views, and warm, welcoming vibe. Perfect for meeting travelers over a Turkish beer.
- 📍 Location: Sultanahmet
- 💰 Price: $
- ✅ Wi-Fi, lockers, free breakfast, rooftop bar
- 🧑🤝🧑 Vibe: Lively & social
👉 [Check prices on Hostelworld →]
🏨 Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel – 🛁 Best for Amenities
This award-winning hostel is close to the Blue Mosque and offers a mix of dorms and private rooms, a rooftop terrace, and even free Turkish cooking classes!
- 📍 Location: Sultanahmet
- 💰 Price: $–$$
- ✅ Lockers, Wi-Fi, free events, laundry service
- 🌍 Vibe: Friendly & activity-rich
👉 [See availability →]
🏨 Hush Hostel Lounge – 🎧 Best in Kadıköy (Asian Side)
Across the Bosphorus in the hip district of Kadıköy, Hush is a modern, chill space with garden hammocks, a rooftop terrace, and music-inspired design.
- 📍 Location: Kadıköy
- 💰 Price: $
- ✅ Kitchen, lockers, shared lounges, quiet nights
- 🌱 Vibe: Peaceful, artistic, local
👉 [Book a bed at Hush Hostel →]
🏨 Second Home Hostel – 🧼 Best for Clean & Central Stay
A highly rated hostel just minutes from Sirkeci Station. Offers a cozy, clean base with free breakfast and social dinners several nights a week.
- 📍 Location: Sirkeci (between Sultanahmet & Karaköy)
- 💰 Price: $
- ✅ Wi-Fi, breakfast, lockers, chill lounge
- 🧳 Vibe: Laid-back and secure
👉 [Check reviews and prices →]
🏨 #Bunk Taksim – 💻 Best for Digital Nomads
Modern, minimalist, and close to the nightlife of Istiklal Street, #Bunk offers fast Wi-Fi, a rooftop bar, and coworking space vibes.
- 📍 Location: Taksim
- 💰 Price: $$
- ✅ Wi-Fi, breakfast café, lockers, towel rental
- 👩💻 Vibe: Work + Play
👉 [Book now on Hostelworld →]
🏨 Galata West Hostel – 🌆 Best Rooftop for Solo Travelers
With panoramic views of Galata Tower and the Golden Horn, this hostel is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want scenery. It’s simple but has everything you need.
- 📍 Location: Galata
- 💰 Price: $
- ✅ Rooftop, kitchen, lockers
- 📸 Vibe: Chill with a view
👉 [Reserve your spot →]
✨ What to Look for in an Istanbul Hostel
Feature | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Lockers & Security | Essential for safety in shared rooms |
Wi-Fi & Outlets | Crucial for travel planning + work |
Common Areas | Ideal for meeting other travelers |
Quiet Hours | If you need sleep after sightseeing |
Proximity to Transit | Helps for day trips and airport transfers |
🎯 Ready to Book Your Istanbul Hostel?
🧭 Want to explore both Europe and Asia, meet fellow adventurers, and stay under budget?
Choose one of these top-rated hostels for a comfortable, social, and safe stay in Istanbul.
👉 [Click here to browse Istanbul’s best hostels →]
👉 [Explore hostel + tour combo deals →]