The largest city to dwell on two continents, Istanbul truly is an international marvel, and one of a kind travel experience. Marvel at the Hagia Sophia and the glorious Topkapi Palace and wander the grand bazaar or Taksim Square while you’re here. The culture, food, historical sights, amazing tourist attractions to soak in, and low price make it one of the best backpacking destinations on the planet.

But Istanbul is massive. And with over 100 registered hostels it can be overwhelming to know exactly which hostel to stay at and in what neighbourhood.

That’s the exact reason why I wrote this guide. 

My ultimate list of the 5 best hostels in Istanbul is made for travellers, by travellers. I have taken the highest-reviewed hostels in this amazing city and put them together so you can see which one is best for you.

I’ve organised this list to fit YOUR needs.

Everyone travels differently. Some travellers are looking to party. Some travelers just need a cheap bed. Sometimes you’re a couple looking for some privacy or a solo traveller looking to make new friends.

Grab that Turkish tea, relax and let’s take a look at the best hostels in Istanbul.

Colourful lamps inside the alleys of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey
“Phenomenal Cosmic Powers, Itty Bitty Living Space.” – Genie in Aladdin (1992), although I think his lamp looked different to these.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Istanbul

The 5 Best Hostels in Istanbul

If you are backpacking Turkey, then the chances are you’re gonna pass through Istanbul. To help you decide where to stay, I’ve gone and made this list so you can pick the right hostel for you.

1. Cheers Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Istanbul

Girls holding up Cheers sign in front of ivy coveres building on the cobbled streets of Istanbul Cheers Hostel best hostels in Istanbul
Award-winning Cheers Hostel is a great hostel in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $24-36/night
  • Private Room: From $57-$170/night
  • Address: Alemdar Mah. Zeynep Sultan Cami sokak No 21 Fatih, Fatih, 34110 Istanbul, Turkey

The best overall hostel in Istanbul is Cheers Hostel. This place is always pumping! Cheers Hostel has won multiple hostel awards and they just keep kicking on.

Cheers Hostel is great for solo travellers as being so popular means that there’s always a decent-sized crew hanging out here. The Cheers bar is the best place to head if you wanna find a new crew to see the best of Istanbul with.

With all of the amazing awards that the hostel won, it’s clear that it’ll be a popular choice for travellers. That means that during high season, you’ll need to book well ahead to secure yourself one of their comfy dorm beds.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Great views of the city
  • Free Wi Fi
  • Cool social events

Speaking of comfy beds, the Cheers Hostel has some of the most comfortable dorm beds in all of Istanbul. Each bed is equipped with a reading light, wifi and a power outlet so you can keep your electronics charged while snoozing the night away. Linen and lockers are free as well.

One of the best things about this hostel is the social area. You can choose from the cosy common room, an outdoor terrace, and a pretty cool bar area with great views of the city. No matter where you decide to mingle around, you can be sure to meet plenty of other backpackers and make new friends.

The hostel also organised walking tours through the city, party nights at the on-site bar, private yacht excursions, pub crawls and much more. You see, Cheer Hostel properly looks after their guests!

2. Hostel Le Blanc – Best Hostel in Istanbul for Solo Travelers

Hostel Le Blanc Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $23-39/night
  • Private Room: From $86-$103/night
  • Address: ?ahkulu, Marmara Region, ?ah De?irmeni Sk. no:7 Taksim, 34421 Beyo?lu/?stanbul, Türkiye

For solo travellers who are keen to make new friends while in Istanbul you should head to Hostel Le Blanc. A close contender for number one Istanbul hostels, Hostel Le Blanc has got this hostel lark sorted out!

Located close to Galata Tower, in the heart of the of the city center, you’ll be in the melting pot of art and history. Feel the pulse of the paradox of old and new Turkey, meeting new people, exploring vibrant Istanbul streets. You’ll find authentic places, vibrant streets and museums all within walking distance of Istiklal Avenue.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Welcoming Vibe
  • Great Staff
  • Multiple room options

Solo travellers who are keen on a bit of privacy while also having the option to socialise will absolutely love this hostel. You can choose to book a private room, a family room or dorm beds in a mixed room or one of the female only dorms. Once you’ve recharged your social batteries, you’ll still be able to make friends with your roommates and bunk buddies on the outdoor terrace.

Previous guests especially praised the incredible cleanliness and value for money you’re getting by staying at the hostel. The staff are also known to go above and beyond for their guests, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help or have any questions. Let them help you to sort the perfect Istanbul itinerary!

You can see that the hostel keeps all its promises by having a look at the reviews. With over 300 reviews, Hostel Le Blanc is still going strong with an incredible 9.8 out of 10 rating. If that’s not impressive, I don’t know what is…

3. Cheers Midtown – Best Cheap Hostel in Istanbul

people eating free breakfast at the on site cafe at Cheers Downtown best hostels in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
  • Private Room: From $50/night
  • Address: Firuzaga Mah. Bogazkesen Cad. No:68 Firuzaga/Beyoglu, Beyoglu, 34000 Istanbul, Turkey

Cheers Midtown – yup, another Cheers hostel, just like the first one I showed you. It’s part of the Cheers hostel brand. Just like the Cheers above, Cheers Hostel Midtown is just as amazing!

This laid-back vintage hostel is perfect for all sorts of travellers, especially budget backpackers and digital nomads. What previous guests love about Cheers Midtown is the free tea and coffee served all day in their cafe. If travellers nowadays need anything aside from WiFi to get working it’s copious amounts of Turkish tea and coffee!

Cheers Midtown has spacious dorms and is incredibly clean. The kinda place you could hang out in for a week or more and still enjoy!

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Incredibly clean
  • Super modern design
  • Spacious rooms

Cheers Midtown is a cosy boutique hostel located in the heart of the typical Ottoman district of Beyoglu near Taksim Square. Its prime location allows easy walking access to main transport systems (tram/ferry at the end of the street so ideal for day trips in Istanbul). Only 10 minutes from Galata Bridge, connecting you to the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, Fish Market, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and plenty more tourist attractions. Istiklal Street is minutes away, the gateway to the bustling nightlife of Tunel & the many cafes, bars, rooftop terraces and memorable Meyhanes of Beyoglu.

The hostel offers a mixture of private rooms, mixed dorms, female only dorms, and family rooms, some of which have en-suite bathrooms. Most guest rooms now have dorm beds with a personal locker, padlocks for those lockers are provided, but you can also use your own!

Like all the other Cheers Hostels in Istanbul, this is known for being run by the kindest staff and looking after you with abundant care! If you’re looking for a safe home away from home in an Istanbul hostel, this is definitely an epic spot.

Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
Aether Backpack

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

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 REI

4. Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Istanbul

friends posing for photo mid party at Bahaus Guesthouse Hotel best hostels in Istanbul
They’ll be ready for the free breakfast in the morning, that’s for sure!
  • Dorm (mixed): From $14-$20/night
  • Private Room: From $55-$63/night
  • Address: Cankurtaran, Cankurtaran Akb?y?k Caddesi &, Bayram F?r?n? Sk. No:7, 34122 Fatih/?stanbul, Türkiye

Bahaus is a top party hostel in Istanbul. If you’re in for a good time, not a long time, maybe even just the weekend in Istanbul, you best head to Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel. Their bar is pumping and the place is full of easy-going, friendly and adventurous travellers just like you.

The outdoor terrace is what makes Bahaus a leading Istanbul backpacker hostel. You can smoke hookah and shisha, have a drink and let the good times roll. The staff all know how to run a cracking hostel and set to work making sure you have the best time at Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel!

Truthfully, if you’re not into socialising and meeting new people – this hostel might not be the right one for you. The social vibe is insanely good here and you’ll find loads of like-minded travellers that want to enjoy their time together instead of by themselves. It’s ideal if you’re a solo traveller looking to meet new people, or just love to have fun with a solid crew.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Great social atmosphere
  • Epic planned activities
  • BBQ nights

Aside from the epic parties that the hostel hosts, there are also plenty of other activities on offer. Bahaus Guesthouse Hostel offers a weekly schedule with tours, activities and events, from exploring the city to enjoying a BBQ dinner together and pub crawls. If you want to know more details about it, make sure to stop by the reception and ask what’s on the menu for today.

On those rainy – or dusty – days you can also opt to stay inside and spend time in the comfy common room. The rooftop terrace isn’t just great for parties, it’s also the ideal spot to read a book, have breakfast and admire the views of the city.

Partying is all fun and games until the next morning, feeling like you’d rather die than drag yourself through the day with a horrible hangover. Luckily, all dorm beds have private curtains which can block the sun completely, so you can sleep all day long and recover from the night before. You could also opt for one of the private guest rooms, these are even equipped with a TV!

5. Hush Hostel Lounge – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Istanbul

Lushy green tree covered outdoor dining area at Hush Hostel Lounge best hostels in Istanbul with guests sitting for free breakfast
Trure bliss… No laptops in sight 😉
  • Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
  • Private Room: From $42-$66/night
  • Address: Rihtim Cad. Iskele Sok. 46 Kadiköy, Kadikoy, 34716 Istanbul, Turkey

Hush Hostel Lounge is a cracking Istanbul backpackers hostel designed for true travellers. This chilled-out and happy hostel is a real home away from home for backpackers arriving in Istanbul. Hush Hostel is great for digital nomads setting up their temporary office in Istanbul as they have fast free wi fi and plenty of common areas.

On a sunny day, the Hush Hostel’s sun-trapped garden terrace is a gorgeous place to hang out in. And on those not-so-sunny days, you can stay inside and chill in the cosy common area where you can do work or mingle around with all the other backpackers. It’s a calm hostel, yet it’s still got a very nice social vibe.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

  • Cute outside area
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Private rooms with a balcony

The dorm rooms in this Istanbul hostel are pretty basic, but according to previous guests, all dorm beds are super comfy. You’ve got high-speed internet connections in all parts of the hostel, including the outside areas. This makes it a breeze to get your work done.

In case you’re taking a work-rest day, head to the reception and ask about the bike rental. Exploring the streets of Istanbul with a bike is a lot more efficient and you’ll be able to see a lot more of the city. Perfect if you have to go back to your laptop!

Located on the Asian Side of the city, Hush is close to a transportation hub that services the whole city. Including the ferry which takes you to the European Side and historical sightseeing just in 20 minutes. The ferry over to Sultanahmet or Taksim Square is cheap, easy, and has beautiful views of the city.

If you need some inspiration on what to do or see in the city, join one of the free events and walking tours that the hostel offers. Alternatively, you could also ask the staff about their recommendations, maybe an Istanbul food tour tickles your fancy? Local knowledge always goes a long way!

Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Hide Yo’ Money!

More Epic Istanbul Hostels

Haven’t found the right Istanbul hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Istanbul below.

6. Levanten Hostel

Levanten Hostel Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $17/night
  • Private Room: From $47-$70/night
  • Address: Cihangir, Pürtela? Sk. No:42/ A, 34420 Beyo?lu/?stanbul, Türkiye

Levanten hostel offers a great selection of rooms and an even better hostel vibe, they’ve been at it for over 10 years. With all this knowledge, you’re in the right place to find out about day trips in Istanbul too.

Levanten Hostel is a three minute walk to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street which has great cafes, restaurants, shops and nightlife. There’s an airport shuttle stop just down the road as well as Taksim metro station, bus station, and tram station. Hop on one of these and you’ll be in the old city in ten minutes.

7. Wabi Sabi Hostel Istanbul

Wabi Sabi Hostel Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $24-$30/night
  • Private Room: From $59-$84/night
  • Address: Inonu Mah. Papa Roncalli Sokak No:34, Elmadag, Sisli, 34373 Istanbul, Turkey

Wabi Sabi Hostel Istanbul will have you slipping into the fun-loving, laid-back vibe of the joint immediately. You’ll meet travellers from all over the world in this home away from home. Surrounded by great restaurants within walking distance and minutes from the nightlife on Istiklal Street.

Stay at Wabi Sabi Hostel Istanbul to immerse yourself in the Istanbul culture, starting with a free Turkish breakfast daily. Located in downtown Istanbul, Wabi Sabi Hostel is in the city center, a five minute walk from Taksim Square. The Wifi is bomb, there are a few awards under their belt and friendly staff, I’m in!

8. Stanpoli Hostel

Stanpoli Hostel Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $25/night
  • Private Room: From $80/night
  • Address: Küçük Ayasofya, Ye?en Sk. No:5, 34122 Fatih/?stanbul, Türkiye

In the heart of Sultanahmet, Stanpoli Hostel is a five minute walk to all the tourist hotspots of Istanbul. Their MO is ensuring you feel like you’re at home and if my home has breakfast views of the Marara Sea, I’d be home a lot more. For now, I’ll stay at Stanpoli Hostel, thank you!

The tram station is within walking distance for accessibility to the city centre and places like Istiklal Street and the historic Sultanahmet district. Stanpoli Hostel is located in a quiet street so you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep in your cozy dorm bed. Make sure you tap into the local knowledge of the staff here, they love to share their tips for the best time in Istanbul.

9. Stay Inn Taksim Hostel

Stay Inn Taksim Hostel Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $15/night
  • Private Room: From $45/night
  • Address: Kamer Hatun Mah. Balik Sk. No: 7, Beyoglu, 34435 Istanbul, Turkey

Places like Stay Inn Taksim Hostel won’t be around forever, this is an absolute gem of a hostel, with stunning staff and good vibes. Be warned though; there is not an elevator and you may have to climb stairs… Great for staying fit on vacay but maybe not ideal for those with disabilities, heavy luggage or if you’re just lazy.

There are private rooms at Stay Inn Taksim Hostel and great dorm beds in the two dorms. What’s more, they have air conditioning babyyy. I love the intimate vibe this hostel offers and the people passing through seem to be truly lovely and heaps of fun to wander Istanbul with!

10. Agora Hostel & Guesthouse

sunny morning light coming into the free breakfast dining room at Agora Hostel & Guesthouse best hostels in Istanbul
Great reviews, free breakfast and solid location make Agora a top pick
  • Dorm (mixed): From $22/night
  • Private Room: From $87-$103/night
  • Address: Akbiyik Cad Amiral Tafdil sok NO:6 Sultanahmet, Fatih, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey

Agora Hostel is one of Turkey’s best hostels. A vintage hostel with a cosy feel, Agora have been stunning travellers with a high standard of service for years. The free breakfast is a total bonus and part of the reason why Agora is a winner when it comes to Istanbul hostels.

The rooms are simple, stylish, and inexpensive; everything you could ask for in a hostel really! Even air conditioning. A great all-rounder, Agora is a great Istanbul hostel regardless of whether you’re travelling solo, with your crew or lover.

11. Chillout Lya Hostel & Bar

friends partying with party hats and balloons in Chillout Lya Hostel & Bar best hostels in Istanbul
Set in Istanbul’s premiere party neighbourhood, Chillout Lya is one of the best party hostels in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $16/night
  • Private Room: From $29-$103/night
  • Address: Huseyin Aga Mah. Topraklule Sok. No:1 Beyoglu, Beyoglu, 34435 Istanbul, Turkey

The best party hostel in Istanbul is Chillout Lya. They’re quick to tell guests that they’re just 15 seconds away from Istanbul’s nightlife and host some awesome pub crawls. To me and you, that means they’re right in the party of Istanbul’s nightlife district.

With their own bar on the ground floor, Chillout Lya is a top hostel in Istanbul for all those party animals out there. Chillout Lya is located in the vibrant Beyoglu district, a liberal and happening part of the city with a wild party scene.

12. Sultan Hostel

friends with drinks smiling for the camera Sultan Hostel best hostels in Istanbul
A budget hostel with great value, Sultan Hostel is a vibe
  • Dorm (mixed): From $14/night
  • Private Room: From $40-$77/night
  • Address: Cankurtaran, Cankurtaran Mahallesi Akb?y?k Caddesi, Terb?y?k Sk. No:3, 34122 Fatih/?stanbul, Türkiye

Sultan Hostel has dorm beds in female only dorms, mixed dorms and a variety of private rooms, have it your way shaggers! They not only offer a free Turkish breakfast, free Wi Fi and bed linen but they have clean, spacious and, most importantly, cheap dorm rooms too. Sultan Hostel is the coolest hostel in Istanbul if you’re on a tight budget.

On top of cracking value for money, Sultan Hostel offers its own bar and cafe. Serving up backpacker budget-friendly food and booze every day of the week, as well as epic pub crawls. If you’re looking at the best Istanbul hostels on a budget, this is the one!

13. Harmony Hostel

Harmony Hostel best hostels in Istanbul friends sitting around a table playing games smiling for a photo
Harmony Hostel is high on my list of must stays in Istanbul…
  • Dorm (mixed): From $10-$15/night
  • Private Room: From $65/night
  • Address: Hudavendigar Cad HocaPasa Mah No 20 Sirkeci, Fatih, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey

Harmony Hostel is a top hostel in Istanbul for travellers who are keen to meet and mingle but don’t want to break the bank. Harmony Hostel is a super welcoming and chilled-out Istanbul backpackers hostel right in the centre of the city, between Sultanahmet and Sirkeci. If you’re keen to get the most out of backpacking Istanbul, swing by the front desk to see what deals and discounts they can offer.

14. Avrasya Hostel

Avrasya Hostel best hostels in Istanbul
I’ll take my complimentary breakfast here thank you!
  • Dorm (mixed): From $81/night
  • Private Room: From $48-$65/night
  • Address: Cankurtaran, Seyit Hasan Sk. No:12, 34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Türkiye

Avrasaya is a much loved and highly recommended hostel in Istanbul and you’re gonna love it too. As a top hostel in Istanbul Avrasaya has its own cafe and restaurant on the roof, their awesome menu must be tried! Humble, simple and homely, Avrasaya Hostel can be found in the Sultanahmet district.

You couldn’t stay closer to Istanbul’s famous landmarks if you tried. Both the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are just 150m away! You shouldn’t need directions but the Avrasaya will be more than happy to show you the way.

15. Istanbul Taksim Hostel Green House

Istanbul Taksim Hostel Green House
Gorgeous rooms starting at $30 a night make Istanbul Taksim Hostel a top hostel for couples in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $22/night
  • Private Room: From $91-$150/night
  • Address: Cumhuriyet caddesi paparoncalli sok No 15 Elmadag/Taksim, Sisli, 34437 Istanbul, Turkey

A great hostel for couples in Istanbul is Green House, it’s a little bit of luxury, to say the least! Where else can you and your lover sleep in a 4-poster bed for less than $30 a night?! Green House is a highly recommended hostel in Istanbul ideal for couples who want to spend some quality time together while in Turkey.

Being in the Taksim Square area means that you’re super close to all of Istanbul’s must-visit tourist hotspots. If you come to Istanbul at the weekend, Taksim does get lively in the evenings but it’s all good fun. It’s one of the best Istanbul hostels for the location for sure!

16. Bucoleon

Bucoleon best hostels in Istanbul
More on the luxurious side (but still affordable!) Bucoleon is a great option for travelling couples
  • Dorm (mixed): From $16-$24/night
  • Private Room: From $48-$160/night
  • Address: Kucukayasofya Cad. Cayiroglu Sok. No:22 Sultanahmet, Fatih, 34122 Istanbul, Turkey

If you’re seeking a top hostel in Istanbul to stay in with your lover, you have to check out Bucoleon by Cheers. Cheers have a number of hostels in Istanbul and Bucoleon is their boutique, luxury edition, with a complimentary breakfast… Boujee, but still broke backpacker vibes!

You and your partner can check into one of Bucoleon’s lavish private ensuite rooms complete with a view of the Blue Mosque. Bucoleon is the coolest hostel in Istanbul if a touch of luxury is what you’re after. Embrace the romance and share a glass of wine with bae while you watch the sunset over the Blue Mosque from your own private balcony.

17. Moda Hostel

Moda Hostel best hostels in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $17/night
  • Private Room: From $54/night
  • Address: Cafera?a, Tellalzade Sk. 15/A, 34710 Kad?köy/?stanbul, Türkiye

Moda Hostel is a great youth hostel in Istanbul for travellers looking for a modern yet homely place to stay in the city. Moda is a light, spacious and colourful hostel on the Asian side of Istanbul. Located in the vibrant, artistic district of Kadikoy, Moda Hostel incorporates these vibes into its hostel’s atmosphere.

If you’re keen to stay on the Asian side of Istanbul and experience literally and metaphorically a different side of the city… Moda Hostel is where you need to go.

18. Cheers Lighthouse

Cheers Lighthouse best hostels in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $16-$24/night
  • Private Room: From $45-$188/night
  • Address: Kucuk Ayasofya Mahallesi Cayiroglu Sokak No:18 Sultanahmet, Fatih, 34400 Istanbul, Turkey

Cheers Lighthouse is the cosiest and most homely of Cheers’ Istanbul backpackers hostels. Lighthouse offers travellers amazing views of the Asian side of Istanbul from some of their rooms. From others, you look out onto the charming cobbled streets of Istanbul’s Old Town.

The Cheers Lighthouse restaurant is fabulous, you needn’t eat anywhere else when you’re in Istanbul in all fairness. Lighthouse is a really sociable hostel that attracts a chilled-out and friendly group of backpackers throughout the year. Make sure you get into the Turkish coffee, it’s tradition.

19. Hanchi

Hanchi best hostels in Istanbul
  • Dorm (mixed): From $14-$21/night
  • Private Room: From $63-$80/night
  • Address: 11 Samsa Sokak, Fatih, 34130 Istanbul, Turkey

Hanchi is one of only a few Istanbul backpackers hostels to have a guest kitchen. If you’re on the road long term you’ll know it’s the little things like cooking that you start to miss. Hanchi is close to the local bazaars and provides you with a great opportunity to explore the markets.

So, put your haggling skills to good use so you can return to Hanchi and cook up a meal to share with your hostel mates. The Hanchi staff are super professional and very accommodating, just holla for help!

20. Sultans Inn

Sultans Inn best hostels in Istanbul
  • Private Room: From $52-$80/night
  • Address: Kucukayasofya Mah. Mustafa Pasa Sok. No:40 Sultanahmet, Fatih, 34400 Istanbul, Turkey

For digital nomads who fancy escaping the dorms when in Turkey Sultans Inn is the place to book. As a highly recommended hostel in Istanbul, Sultans Inn has a number of single private rooms at dorm-like prices perfect for digital nomads. Each room has its own working desk, TV, mini-fridge and ensuite too.

Admittedly Sultans Inn is more of a hotel than it is an Istanbul backpackers hostel but it’s ideal for digital nomads nonetheless. The dining terrace is the best place to meet fellow digital nomads and travellers and revel at the Blue Mosque in the distance.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Istanbul

Everyone needs good travel Insurance, better be safe than sorry.

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.

FAQ about Hostels in Istanbul

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Istanbul.

What to Pack for your Istanbul 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.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

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.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

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.

Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

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.

Make Some New Buddies…
Make Some New Buddies…

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.

Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

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 does a hostel cost in Istanbul?

The average price of hostels in Istanbul ranges from $9-16 USD/night for a dorm room (mixed or female-only), while a private room costs $28-39 USD/night. There’s so many cool and unusual bits to do in Istanbul thought, it’s pretty priceless.

What are the best hostels in Istanbul for couples?

Istanbul Taksim Hostel Green House is my pick for couples in Istanbul. It is comfy and in a great central location, close to all of Istanbul’s must-visit tourist hotspots.

What are the best hostels in Istanbul near the airport?

Chillout Lya Hostel & Bar , another party hostel in Istanbul, can provide an airport shuttle service for an additional fee.

Final Thoughts on Istanbul’s Best Hostels

Istanbul is an absolute marvel. You can spend a lifetime there and still only see a fraction of what this amazing city has to offer. With so much to see, don’t waste any unnecessary time trying to find an Istanbul hostel!

With the help of this guide to the best hostels in Istanbul, you’ll be able to book your hostel quickly and focus on what matters… Eating baklava and drinking Turkish tea.

If you are having a tough time picking, book yourself into Wabi Sabi Hostel Istanbul, their rooftop terrace is something else. Wabi Sabi Hostel has epic dorm beds, private rooms, female only dorms as well as mixed rooms. 

If your backpacking purse strings don’t quite stretch that far, Stay Inn Taksim Hostel has got you! This hostel is a big vibe and I’m sure you’re a better human than that one guy on hostel world who hated the stairs. Or at least you’re too broke to be too picky (I feel ya, we’ve all been here, boss)!

By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Istanbul has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit me up in the comments!

The sunsetting behind the minarets of a large Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey
That’s all for now amigo’s! Enjoy your trip!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Looking for more info on travelling to Istanbul and Turkey?

Buy Us a Coffee!

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
Thank you <3