Jacki U.
Yelp
I stayed at Second Home Hostel 10 years ago for 4 nights while visiting Istanbul and had an absolutely wonderful, memorable time here. My friend and I shared a room - as not all rooms are dorm style. This way, if you prefer to have your own room, you can, as well as be in the hostel environment where you can meet travelers from around the world.
I returned this month and have stayed over a week here as my base in Istanbul. It is just as great as I remember it, and they are continually renovating the building and rooms. As we speak, they are putting new paint on the whole interior building, adding new beautiful lamps, art and design.
The PRO's of Staying here:
*The most friendly, hospitable staff:
---The owner, Çan, is so accommodating and chivalrous. We have kept in touch through social media since I came a decade ago and coming back felt like I was here yesterday.
---The main employees: Zack (2 years working here) and the Manager, Memo (10 years), who are super friendly and helpful. They all feel like brothers and that you have arrived to your "Second Home"
*The rooms are very affordable, either $15 a bed in a 6-8 person room (shared bathroom). Or $30 for a single room in the Hostel building. I opted for a spacious studio apartment style room in the next building over: Second Home Suites for about $45 a night
*The lobby area is welcoming for all guests to hang out at, ask questions about tours and recommendations, as well as to use the full kitchen/fridge
*Turkish style Breakfast and Dinner is an option for a low affordable price. Just let them know the day before and they will have it prepared for you. As in classic Turkish Hospitable, you will be welcome to eat all together with Staff and Guests.
*The Rooftop is another main attraction. Indoor where you can lounge on the Turkish Carpet, smoke Shisha and get laptop work done. With a balcony overlooking the city (+ a small garden they have planted)
*Located in the Old City, it's 10 minute walking distance to Hagia Sophia and all the main touristic attractions people come for. (Main bridge is just a 7 minute walk down hill)
*There are restaurants, markets, cafes, shisha spots, shops all within steps from the hostel
*They provide laundry service which is convenient and overall is very customer service oriented
I prefer to walk as the mode of transportation in Istanbul. As a solo female traveler, I feel very safe walking alone (even at night). The area the hostel is in is very safe as well. If you want to reach Karakoy or Taksim square, it's about a $2-3 taxi ride (20 minutes) or a 30 minute walk. I have been walking daily and absolutely love it.