By Mike Dunphy
Cheap Hostels in Istanbul, Turkey
In a city of palaces and Mediterranean vistas, it's easy to shell out a royal sum for accommodation. Istanbul's gracious hospitality provides dazzling eastern comforts for those fortunate of income. If your pockets are light, however, significantly cheaper hostels and pensions thrive within the touristic areas of the city. They may lack the harems and hamams of the Ritz but can still provide a roof over your head and a pillow under it for a reasonable price.
World House Hostel
Ideally situated under the gaze of Galata Tower, you can reach most of Istanbul's sights easily from World House Hostel. Its quaint historical stone facade attracts even the eyes of nontourists. The street side cafe is inviting, and prominent multinational flags are reassuring. Rooms range from $17 to $60 depending on type and are always clean.
Phone: 011 (+90) 212 293 5520
Address: Galipdede Cad. No 85, Beyoglu
www.worldhouseistanbul.com
Bahaus Hostel
Belly Dancer at Bahaus Hostel
Rated consistently high, Bahuas Guesthouse puts you deep in the heart of the historic Sultan Ahmet neighborhood. Your immediate neighbors include the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia, and roommates most of the world. Its rooftop terrace hops as much as any club on warm summer nights and the airport service especially pleases. Shared rooms cost about $20 dollars each and privates nearly $40.
Address: Akbiyik Cadessi, Bayramfirin Sokak No 11, Sultanahmet
Phone: 011 (+90) 212 638 6534
www.travelinistanbul.com/index.htm
Antique Hostel
Single room at Antique Hostel
Some of the best hospitality for less than $100 can be found at Antique Hostel. Longtime owner and resident Hilmi Efendioglu considers guests family and treats them as such. The cheapest beds will run you $17 and anything on above up to $60. Its central location in the old city makes it easy to visit Istanbul's main sights but hard to escape the swarming carpet salesmen.
Address: Kutlugun Street No:51, 34122 Sultanahmet
Phone: 011 (+90) 212 638 1637
www.antiquehostel.com
Neverland Hostel
Neverland Hostel offers no frills accommodation that will nevertheless satisfy your basic necessities. Run by self-declared backpackers with, you can put your communal feet up and chill out with fellow peaceniks and an abundance of incense and tie-dye n the shared dorm rooms or cafe out front. Beds begin at $13.
Address: Bogazkesen cad. No:96 Beyoglu
Phone: 011 (+90) 212 243 3177
Website: http://hostelneverland.com/main.htm
Resources
About the Author:
Mike Dunphy is currently a graduate student at Emerson College pursuing a Master's degree in publishing and writing. He spent nearly a decade abroad working as teacher both privately and for the Peace Corps. A Native Vermonter, Dunphy graduated from UVM in 1997 with a degree in English.
Photo Credits:
http://www.flickr.com, https://www.antiquehostel.com
