Turkey sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, and it delivers a mix of Mediterranean beaches, Byzantine landmarks and the famous balloon-filled skies over Cappadocia. Whether you're drawn by history, the outdoors or simply a spot on the sand, the country has something to match.
Given how much there is to see, keeping accommodation costs down makes sense. Hostels offer better value than fancy hotels, which helps stretch a longer trip—and they also make it easier to meet other travellers and build friendships along the way.
With that in mind, here's a rundown of standout hostels across Turkey, chosen with travel style, personality and—above all—budget in mind. Your ideal base is likely somewhere in this list.
Top Hostels Across Turkey
Affordable, well-run hostels can be found throughout the country.
We begin with places that are worth the trip on their own merits. These weren't selected for their location—wherever they stood, you'd still want to stay. They represent the best of the bunch, and memories made here tend to stick.
Bahaus Guesthouse – Overall Best in Istanbul
The exterior of Bahaus Guesthouse in Turkey
- Free breakfast
- Roof terrace
- Lively parties
- Daily events
First up is a party-minded hostel in Istanbul. Bahaus Guesthouse works well as a sightseeing base in this striking city, and it also puts the nightlife within reach—without leaving the building. Daily events on the roof terrace often turn into a big night out. It holds one of the highest ratings on Hostelworld, with an almost perfect score from more than 9,000 reviewers, so praise for it doesn't rest on our word alone.
Hostel Terra Vista – Best Cheap Option in Goreme
The dining area of Hostel Terra Vista in Turkey
- Free breakfast
- Cave lounge
- Terrace common area
- Activities bookable on site
For the cheapest stay in Turkey, head to Goreme, a handy base near Cappadocia. Costs matter when you're planning extras like hot air balloon flights, which aren't cheap. That said, you don't have to sacrifice quality. Hostel Terrace Vista offers a terrace common area and a cave lounge, making it easy to connect with other guests. Free breakfast helps you start the day fuelled up.
Best Hostels in Istanbul
Istanbul is where east and west truly meet, and it ranks among the world's most captivating cities. You could stay for months and still stumble on small attractions and hidden corners that win you over. Ottoman architecture, important religious sites and excellent food might even make you forget the nightlife—or not. The city is home to some of Turkey's coolest and most fun hostels. What's not to like?
Cheers Hostel
One of the best hostels in Turkey, full stop.
The bedroom area of Cheers Hostel in Istanbul
- Award-winning
- Bar with a view of Hagia Sofia
- Free Turkish breakfast
- Excellent location
The flagship of a small Istanbul hostel chain, Cheers is a strong choice if you're new to the city. The location is hard to beat: close to the main tourist sights, with a view of Hagia Sofia from the winter bar. The free Turkish breakfast is useful before a long day of walking. If this award-winning Cheers is fully booked, the chain runs several other well-regarded hostels in Istanbul worth checking.
Big Apple Hostel
A top Turkish hostel for solo travellers
The common area of Big Apple Hostel in Istanbul
- Free breakfast
- Frequent pub crawls
- Bar
- Award winner
Many backpackers in Turkey travel alone, and a good number end up at Big Apple Hostel. It won best hostel in Turkey two years running, in 2016 and 2017, and although it hasn't held the title since, guests are unlikely to be disappointed. If you fancy a few drinks without a full-on party atmosphere, there's a bar here, and pub crawls run a few times a week.
Agora Hostel and Guesthouse
One of the best hostels in Turkey for digital nomads
The rooftop cafe of Agora Hostel and Guesthouse in Istanbul
- Free buffet breakfast
- Great location
- Rooftop café
- Splendid views
If you want a base where you can work a few hours, explore a few more, then enjoy the city's nightlife, Agora Hostel and Guesthouse fits the bill. Nights here aren't wild parties, but the place remains sociable. The rooftop terrace, where a free breakfast is served, is a fine spot to open your laptop and send emails or finish an article. If you need a break from the screen, pick something from the book exchange and lose yourself for a while.
Istiklal Oldcity
A long-standing budget hostel in Turkey
The bedroom area of Istiklal Oldcity in Istanbul
- Rooftop bar
- Incredible location
- Comfortable chillout areas
- Great views of Istanbul attractions
Some of Turkey's best cheap hostels are in Istanbul—but so are some of the worst. If you're watching your budget, take note: Istiklal Old City sits in the historic heart of Istanbul, near the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia and the Grand Bazaar. Head to the terrace for views of these landmarks and the blue of the Marmara Sea. Breakfast is included in the price, which saves a few lira each day on morning coffee and a croissant.
Best Hostels in Antalya
Antalya is the gateway to the Turkish Riviera and the largest town on Turkey's western Mediterranean coast. If you're after a tan and a swim in turquoise water, it's worth adding to your itinerary. The hostel scene isn't huge, but the good news is that a few highly recommended places exist in Antalya.
Flaneur Hostel
A highly recommended hostel in Turkey
The bedroom area of Flaneur Hostel in Antalya
- Shared meals
- Outdoor terrace
- Common room
- Community-oriented environment
Antalya moves at a different pace from Istanbul, but that doesn't mean you'll miss out on a great Turkish hostel. Flaneur Hostel combines the best of both: old on the outside, new within. Centrally located, it saves you money on transport and may introduce you to fellow travellers for a shared meal, Turkish style. If that's not your thing, use the fully equipped kitchen, or grab some tea and relax in the garden or coworking space alongside the hostel pets.
Gold Coast Hostel
A well-known cheap Turkish hostel
The common area of Gold Coast Hostel in Antalya
- Great location
- Stylish rooms
- Outdoor terrace
- Book exchange
For an affordable Antalya base, Gold Coast Hostel is a solid pick. It's a short walk from the coolest spots, including the Broken Minaret, the castle, Turkish baths and the sea. See how many you can spot from the outdoor terrace. Keep costs down further with free breakfast each morning at the on-site cafe and bar. If you want postcards to arrive home before you do, use the hostel's postal service.
Kuyu Beer Garden & Hostel
A top Turkish hostel for solo travellers
The exterior of Kuyu Beer Garden & Hostel in Antalya
- Beer garden
- Special events
- Central location
- Live music
We've already covered one of the best party hostels in Turkey, in Antalya. Here's another with a beer garden, though a somewhat calmer one. Kuyu Beer Garden serves good beer on tap without being wild and raucous—ideal for solo travellers who prefer deep conversations and board games to shots until 3am. There's live music too, so you can dance the night away if you really want.
Funky Monkey Antalya Hostel & Pub – Best Party Hostel in Antalya
The on-site bar of Funky Monkey Antalya Hostel and Pub in Turkey
- Near all the nightlife
- Pub with live music
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Fun party activities
If you're after a party hostel in Turkey, Funky Monkey is the place. LGBTQ travellers can have a tough time in Turkey, but not here: you'll be welcomed and included in the activities, which usually start at the bar—whether that's live music or drinking games. Staying around the hostel is fun, and the best clubs in Antalya aren't far. You can carry on the night there, as some guests will probably want to sleep.
Best Hostels in Goreme
Goreme may not ring a bell, but Cappadocia should. As the gateway to this beautiful region and the launch point for hot air balloon trips, most travellers to Turkey want to stop here for a few days. It offers some excellent places to stay, including a couple of cave hostels—a truly unique experience.
HomeStay Cave Hostel
A Turkish hostel that's also a cave
The common area of HomeStay Cave Hostel in Goreme
- In a cave
- Rooftop terrace
- Free shampoo and towels
- Hostel dog
One of the most unusual hostels in Turkey—who wouldn't want to stay in a cave? The rooms here are full of character, but you'll want to spend just as much time on the rooftop terrace, especially at sunrise when the hot air balloons fill the sky above Cappadocia. If you're lucky, you might chill up there with the hostel dog—a comfort for long-term travellers missing their pets. And there are more freebies than breakfast: shampoo and towels are included too.
Kose Hostel
An excellent cheap Turkish hostel
The common area with pool at Kose Hostel in Goreme
- Swimming pool
- Breakfast included
- Airport shuttle service
- Top location
Want a Cappadocia/Goreme stay without breaking the bank? Kose Hostel fits the bill. Just because it's cheap doesn't mean you get little for your money—there's a swimming pool, and breakfast is included in the price. Unsure how to spend your time once you arrive? Friendly staff can help arrange balloon rides, tours to nearby sites and ATVs. There's even an airport shuttle service to make your stay as easy and convenient as possible.
The Dorm Cave (by Traveller's Cave)
A unique Turkish hostel
The exterior of The Dorm Cave in Goreme
- Traditional Turkish breakfast
- Free bus terminal pickup
- Hot air balloon rides
- Terrace restaurant
Another traditional Turkish hostel in a cave—the choice really is plentiful. Book here and the hostel will look after you with free pickup from the bus terminal and a traditional Turkish breakfast. If you enjoy that, return to the on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner. It won't be free, but it will introduce you to local cuisine. Need help booking tours? The tour desk has plenty of information and assistance on what to do nearby.
Best Hostels in Bodrum and Marmaris
Bodrum and Marmaris are two of the most popular seaside getaways for tourists, but these fascinating places offer far more than sun, sea and sand. The earliest evidence of human settlement in caves can be found nearby. Resort hotels dominate this part of the world, but we've tracked down a couple of cool hostels and campsites so you know where to stay in Bodrum and Marmaris.
La Luna Hostel
An excellent Turkish hostel
The common area of La Luna Hostel in Bodrum and Marmaris
- Outdoor terrace
- 100 metres from the seaside
- Board games
- Eco-friendly
If you want to stay in central Bodrum, a short walk from the beach, this is the hostel for you. You'll have access to all the cafes, bars and shops you could want, plus one of Turkey's best beaches for watersports and cruises on your doorstep. After a day on the waves or working on your tan, come back and enjoy a board game with fellow travellers in the eco-friendly common room.
Bodrum Ecofarm Camp & Hostel
A fun and friendly cheap Turkish hostel
The exterior of Bodrum Ecofarm Camp & Hostel in Bodrum and Marmaris
- Unlimited tea and water
- On an eco farm
- Great location
- Peaceful area
Bodrum isn't only worth visiting for its seaside—the countryside is pretty too. For a stay with a difference, consider a farmstay. This seasonal accommodation is one of the top-rated hostels in Bodrum, and while it isn't right on the seafront, beaches are within walking distance. Animal lovers will enjoy it here, with a hostel dog, chickens and turkeys. There's also an on-site cafe serving tasty dishes.
Best Hostels in Izmir
History buffs may know this place as the ancient Greek city of Smyrna, but today Izmir is Turkey's third-largest city. It's a huge cultural melting pot, and this port is often skipped by many travellers—a shame, as there's plenty to discover. There's also a fair amount of choice when it comes to hostels. Here are our favourites.
Shantihome Hostel Izmir
Another top youth hostel in Turkey
The bedroom area of Shantihome Hostel Izmir in Izmir
- Excellent location
- Big terrace
- Bicycle hire
- Book exchange
'Shanti' means peaceful, and that's what the lovely owners of this hostel hope to offer backpackers in Turkey. If peace and quiet is what you're after, you'll find it on the large rooftop terrace. Pick something from the book exchange and make the most of disconnecting. When you want to explore Izmir, you can borrow a bike for a small donation—a lovely way to see this gorgeous city. Make sure to confirm your stay a day in advance during high season.
Lotus Garden Hostel Izmir
An excellent budget hostel in Izmir
The common area of Lotus Garden Hostel Izmir in Izmir
- Small fountain and courtyard
- Close to all the attractions
- Family run
- Peaceful oasis
This family-run hostel feels like a home away from home—a great option if you've been travelling a long time and miss a little TLC and home comfort. Chill out in the courtyard to the sound of the fountain, or enjoy the company of new friends in the small but relaxing common area. The owners call it a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and it's hard to disagree.
Best Hostels in Fethiye
This lovely city has a couple of things to show off—one being the ancient city of Telmessos. If you're in Fethiye, chances are you'll take a Turkish yacht cruise on those gorgeous blue waters. There are a few nice hostels in the area, so you can save on accommodation and have a taste of the high life.
Hostel Chillsteps
A top Turkish hostel for digital nomads
The kitchen area of Hostel Chillsteps in Fethiye
- Free breakfast
- Tent option
- Outdoor terrace and BBQ
- Free parking
As mentioned, Fethiye is an excellent spot for remote work, and here's one of our favourite hostels for digital nomads in Turkey. This relaxed, modern hostel offers on-site activities once you've finished working on your latest article in the garden. If the weather is really warm, why not stay in a tent instead of indoors? It's sure to be a fun and memorable experience, especially after an evening enjoying a BBQ on the outdoor terrace. Emerge from your tent the next morning to enjoy free breakfast. Got your own transport? It's safe with the on-site free parking.
Best Hostels in Ankara
Hands up, who thought Turkey's capital was Istanbul? We forgive you—many people make the same mistake, but it's actually Ankara. It can't offer Istanbul's opulence and history, but it does have some great museums and plenty of places to eat. It isn't awash with hostels, but here are our two favourites.
Deeps Hostel
A top Turkish hostel for big groups
The exterior of Deeps Hostel in Ankara
- Right in the centre
- Three common areas
- Great for big groups
- Help with planning adventures
Whether you're travelling alone or as part of a big group, don't discount Deeps Hostel from your Ankara itinerary. The star of the show is the common room, set across three levels: the ground floor, where you can enjoy a movie on one of the comfy sofas, or the cellar. If the weather is warmer, head out to the garden and enjoy the cool night air over a few drinks.
Inn 14 Hostel
The best hostel in Turkey's capital city
The common area of Inn 14 Hostel in Ankara
- Table tennis and darts
- PlayStations
- Roof terrace
- Decorated by young artists
We've focused on quality rather than quantity with our Ankara hostels, and Inn 14 is our favourite. This cosy hostel prides itself on cleanliness, but that's not all it has to show off. Its central location means you can explore everything Ankara offers without shelling out extra for taxis or buses. Once you get back, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained—or better yet, meet new travellers. PlayStations, table tennis and darts are just some of the ways to have fun here.
Before You Book Your Hostel in Turkey
Now that you've seen all of our favourite Turkish hostels, a few more details will help you make the most of your trip. This section covers safety and preparation for your trip to the Mediterranean.
Currency – Lira. USD1 = 6.7 Lira.
Language – Turkish is the main language spoken, with 70% of the population speaking it. Other spoken languages are Kurmanji, Arabic and Zazaki.
Visa – Tourists can obtain a tourist e-visa online, granting entry to Turkey for up to 90 days within 6 months.
Other – Santa Claus is originally from Turkey. Yes, you read that right.
Map of Where to Stay in Turkey
1. Istanbul 2. Antalya 3. Goreme 4. Bodrum and Marmaris 5. Izmir 6. Fethiye 7. Ankara
Why You Should Travel to Turkey
That concludes our list of the best hostels in Turkey. Whether you want a cave in Cappadocia, a fun hostel in central Istanbul or camping in Bodrum, there's a hostel in Turkey for you.
We just hope the choice hasn't overwhelmed you. If it has, take a step back and a deep breath. Then head back to the top of our list for our favourite hostel in Turkey: Bahaus Guesthouse. Right in the heart of Istanbul, it blends an excellent location with irresistible value for money. And they know how to party too.
Start planning your trip to Turkey now and consider booking a hostel while you're at it.
However, wherever you decide to stay in Istanbul, you'll have an incredible time—provided it's from our list, of course.
Now that we've hopefully helped you plan your trip a little better, it's time for us to leave you. We hope you have an incredible vacation in Turkey and make the most of everything the country has to offer.
