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Demonstration website by Medya 333 — prices, reviews and contact details are sample content.

Istanbul Hostel

Explore Istanbul

A local guide written by our team. Walking times are from the hostel.

Galata Tower

Sights · Galata

Galata Tower

The medieval stone tower above our neighbourhood. Go at opening time to skip the queue, or just admire it from the square with a simit.

7 min walkOpen in Maps
Hagia Sophia

Sights · Sultanahmet

Hagia Sophia

Fifteen centuries of history under one dome. Dress modestly and avoid Friday midday prayers.

15 min on the T1 tram from KaraköyOpen in Maps
Grand Bazaar

Sights · Beyazıt

Grand Bazaar

Sixty-odd covered streets of lamps, leather and carpets. Haggling is expected — start around half the asking price. Closed on Sundays.

T1 tram to Beyazıt–KapalıçarşıOpen in Maps
Spice Bazaar

Sights · Eminönü

Spice Bazaar

Walk across the Galata Bridge for sumac, pul biber and lokum. The side streets outside are cheaper and more fun.

18 min walkOpen in Maps

Getting around

Istanbul is easiest by tram, metro and ferry. One card covers them all.

  • Istanbulkart

    One card for tram, metro, bus, funicular and ferries. Buy and top it up at the yellow machines at Karaköy station; you can share one card between friends.

  • T1 tram

    From Karaköy to Eminönü, Sultanahmet and the Grand Bazaar. Every few minutes, 6 min walk from the hostel.

  • M2 metro

    Şişhane station is 8 minutes away. Two stops to Taksim, and on to the business districts.

  • Ferries

    Karaköy pier for Kadıköy and Üsküdar. The cheapest Bosphorus view you'll get.

  • Airports

    Havaist buses run from Istanbul Airport (IST) to Taksim; Havabüs from Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Or book our transfer.

  • Taxis

    Use a taxi app or ask reception to call one. Make sure the meter is on.