Cheers Hostel Istanbul sits in the heart of Sultanahmet, the Old City neighbourhood where Byzantine and Ottoman heritage surrounds you on every corner. Located just a one-minute walk from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Underground Cistern, the hostel is a natural base for exploring Istanbul’s most famous sights without spending an hour on transport.
The property mixes dorm-style budget accommodation with private rooms, and unlike a typical chain hotel, it functions as a social hub. A rooftop terrace bar and common lounge area serve as meeting points where solo travellers, groups and couples naturally collide over drinks and backgammon. Most guests are international travellers aged 18–40, though families and older visitors are welcome in the private rooms.
Quick Facts
| Address | Alemdar Mah. Zeynep Sultan Cami Sokak No 21, Sultanahmet, Istanbul Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
|---|---|
| District | Fatih |
| Metro | Sultanahmet (T1, Exit towards Zeynep Sultan Mosque; the hostel is a 5-minute walk from the tram stop) |
| Opening hours | Open 24 hours |
| Best time to visit | Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant temperatures, lower humidity and fewer crowds than summer. Winter (December–February) brings occasional rain and mild cold; heating is available in all rooms. Summer (June–August) is the peak season: expect crowded dormitories, packed terrace bar evenings and noise; rooms book weeks in advance. Book as early as possible for May–September; flexible travellers can often find walk-in availability in winter and spring shoulder weeks. |
| Recommended duration | 1–3 nights |
| Website | cheershostel.com |
| Operating status confirmed | October 2026 |
Booking and Check-In at Cheers Hostel
Book online through the official website (cheershostel.com) or via major booking platforms (Booking.com, Hostelworld, Expedia). The hostel accepts direct reservations by phone (+90 212 526 0200) or email (info@cheershostel.com).
Check-in: From 13:30 until 23:59. Early check-in is available on request if rooms are ready; ask the reception desk. Late arrivals after midnight can store luggage with the 24-hour desk and explore the neighbourhood immediately.
Check-out: By 11:00. Late checkout is sometimes available for a fee; confirm when booking or ask at reception.
Cancellation: Policies vary by room type and booking platform. Check the terms at booking confirmation; free cancellation windows are common for standard rooms but may be restricted for promotional rates.
Breakfast and dining: A basic breakfast is typically included or available as an add-on (confirm when booking). The hostel’s terrace bar serves kebabs, sandwiches and international dishes; guests also cook in a shared kitchen area or eat at numerous restaurants within a 5-minute walk.
Registration of foreign guests: Turkish law requires hostels to register foreign nationals. The hostel handles this automatically using your passport details at check-in; this is routine and causes no delay.
For all ticket categories, rates, and cancellation terms specific to your dates, visit the official website or contact reception directly. Prices vary significantly by season and advance booking window.
Why Visit Cheers Hostel?
Cheers Hostel offers unbeatable location and value for independent travellers on a budget. The Sultanahmet position eliminates long commutes; breakfast and evening drinks happen at street level, surrounded by restaurants serving everything from Ottoman palace cuisine to casual kebab.
The hostel stands apart from anonymous chains through hands-on management and practical help: staff guide guests to nightlife, arrange cooking classes and airport transfers, and hold tour bookings. Rooms have air conditioning, heating and lockers. Common spaces feature free Wi-Fi, a kitchen area and a bar serving mojitos. If you want social energy and proximity to major sights without paying hotel prices, this is where to aim.
Highlights of Cheers Hostel
Wintergarden Terrace & Panoramic Bar
The rooftop bar occupies a covered garden space overlooking the Old City skyline, serving kebabs, international dishes and house-mixed cocktails. It functions as both a common space for guests and a social bar, and most evenings draw a mix of backpackers, locals and day-trippers. The views include minarets and domed silhouettes of the Sultanahmet neighbourhood.
Tip: Arrive after sunset in autumn or spring for the best light and smaller crowds; summer brings wall-to-wall guests.
Dormitory Rooms (6, 8 and 10 beds)
These rooms have individual lockers, air conditioning and heating; bathrooms are shared in the corridors. Designed for budget travellers and groups, they typically house a rotating cast of solo backpackers and multi-night groups. Linen and towels are included; the age range for dorms is normally 18–40 by hostel policy.
Tip: Reserve well ahead if you're arriving in May to September, when dorms fill quickly. Request a quiet room if you sleep early.
Private Rooms (double, twin and family)
The hostel offers en-suite private rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning and heating. These accommodate couples, small families and visitors seeking more privacy than dorms. Room quality varies; the best private rooms have balconies and views, which guests report as exceptional.
Tip: Ask the reception staff about room views when booking; a balcony room costs more but transforms your experience.
24-Hour Front Desk
Staff are available around the clock for check-in, luggage storage, currency exchange and booking assistance. This makes late airport arrivals simple and allows flexible return times for guests exploring the city. The desk also offers airport transfer arrangements and can help reserve walking tours or boat trips.
Tip: Use the express check-in service if arriving before standard check-in time (typically 13:30); staff will store your bags and let you explore immediately.
Free Wi-Fi and Common Lounge
The shared lounge area has a television, backgammon board and comfortable seating. Free Wi-Fi covers the building. Many guests use this space to plan days, book onward travel or simply unwind with other travellers. Turkish tea and coffee are available.
Tip: The lounge quiets down mid-afternoon when guests are out sightseeing; it fills again in the evening as people return and gather before going out to dinner.
Location and Walking Routes
Standing in Sultanahmet, you are a true walking distance from the neighborhood's defining sights. Hagia Sophia is a 1-minute walk south; the Blue Mosque, a 2-minute walk; the Basilica Cistern (Underground Cistern), a 5-minute walk southwest; Topkapi Palace, a 5–10 minute walk east. The Grand Bazaar is 10–15 minutes north. Turkish carpets shops, small museums and local restaurants fill the streets around the hostel.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; Sultanahmet's streets are cobblestone and hilly. Carry a light bag during the day—the narrow alleys get crowded and pick-pockets exist.
Atmosphere
Cheers Hostel has a young, international energy driven by the constant flow of backpackers, solo travellers and groups. The mix shifts throughout the day: mornings are quiet as guests depart for sightseeing; afternoons bring scattered returns and laptop work; evenings ignite in the terrace bar with conversation, music and rounds of drinks. The staff are visibly engaged and often join guests, which sets the tone as a genuine social space rather than a transactional check-in box.
The interior mixes old Istanbul sensibility (narrow passages, balconies, terrace views) with practical hostel needs (lockers, common bathrooms, a bar counter). Common areas are clean but worn in a lived-in, authentic way. Summer nights can feel crowded both in rooms and on the terrace; spring and autumn offer more breathing room while maintaining the social buzz.
How to Get to Cheers Hostel
By metro (tram): Take the T1 tram line (Tramvay T1) towards Kabataş or Bağcılar. Exit at Sultanahmet station. From the exit, walk south-southeast along Zeynep Sultan Cami Sokak (the street runs downhill toward the mosque of the same name). The hostel is on your right after about 5 minutes, clearly marked.
From Istanbul Airport (Atatürk / Sabiha Gökçen): The most straightforward option is the metro-tram combination: take the M11 metro line from Istanbul Airport towards Gayrettepe, change to the M2 line at Gayrettepe towards Yenikapı, then change to the T1 tram at Yenikapı towards Kabataş. Total journey is roughly 1 hour 10 minutes. Alternatively, HAVAİST buses run hourly from the airport directly to Sultanahmet station (1.5 hours). The hostel offers an airport shuttle service (paid, advance booking recommended).
By taxi or rideshare: A taxi from the airport costs more but is faster (30–45 minutes depending on traffic) and hassle-free if you have luggage. Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt) also operate; expect to pay upscale rates during peak hours.
From Sirkeci Train Station (Marmaray/Metro): The station is only 5–10 minutes’ walk north-northwest from the hostel; exit the station and ask for Zeynep Sultan Mosque (Zeynep Sultan Camii), then navigate nearby streets.
Accessibility
Cheers Hostel is located in Sultanahmet's cobblestone Old City. The hostel building itself has stairs at the entrance and between floors; there is no elevator or ramp to the main entrance, which limits wheelchair access. A companion can help navigate stairs if needed. Common bathrooms in dormitory corridors are narrow and not designed for wheelchair use. Private rooms have en-suite bathrooms that may have shower steps. For detailed accessibility information, contact the hostel directly before booking.
Food Nearby
Sultanahmet is saturated with restaurants and cafes. Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine and Buhara Ocakbasi Restaurant (both approximately 100 metres away) serve formal Ottoman and grilled meat dishes. Casual options include kebab stands, Turkish breakfast spots and international chains within the same radius. The hostel's own terrace bar serves food and drinks. Bakeries (fırın) selling bread, cheese and pastries are everywhere; small grocery shops stock snacks, water and toiletries. The Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar) is a 10-minute walk and sells fresh produce, dried fruits, nuts and prepared foods.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes are essential; Sultanahmet streets are uneven cobblestone. A light day bag or backpack protects belongings during crowded walks through bazaars and near monuments. Sunscreen and a hat for summer; layers for spring and autumn. A small towel or scarf for entering mosques (women may also need a headscarf; men must remove hats). Power adaptors for Turkish outlets (Type C/F). A reusable water bottle; tap water is safe to drink. Bring minimal valuables; secure items in room lockers during outings.
Photography Rules
Photography is free inside the hostel common areas and terrace bar. At nearby major sights (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern), follow site-specific rules: some charge photography fees or prohibit flash indoors. Drones are not permitted in urban Sultanahmet. For tripods, check with the hostel before setting up in common spaces.
Family Suitability
Cheers Hostel accommodates families in private rooms (double, twin and family rooms for 2–4 people). Dormitory rooms typically restrict ages 18–40 and are not suitable for children. Families with young children find the hostel convenient due to location and 24-hour support, but noise from the bar and social atmosphere can be loud in evenings. Stroller access is limited by cobblestone streets outside and narrow corridors inside. Bathrooms and room standards are basic; a family seeking spa-like comfort should book a hotel. Families are welcome to book private rooms with reservations in advance.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Buy an Istanbulkart (contactless transit card) at any metro or tram station on arrival. It's cheaper than single-ticket cash fares for repeated tram rides between the hostel and other neighbourhoods, and the card works on all metro, tram, bus and ferry systems across Istanbul.
- Visit major sights (Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern) early morning (before 09:00) when queues are shortest and light is best for photography. By 11:00, Sultanahmet is crowded with tour groups; narrow streets become shoulder-to-shoulder.
- The hostel staff know the local nightlife and restaurant scene intimately. Ask them for recommendations rather than relying on online reviews; they'll direct you to places that match your mood, budget and interests and often have direct contacts for reservations.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash through crowded markets. Use ATMs (marked 'Para Çekme' or 'ATM') inside the hostel or nearby banks. Credit cards work in most restaurants and shops, though small vendors may demand cash only.
- If you plan a cooking class or special tour, book it through the hostel desk the day before. They arrange group rates and handle logistics; solo booking online is usually more expensive and less reliable.
- Respect prayer times at nearby mosques (Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia open to visitors outside daily prayers). Dress conservatively in all religious spaces: women should cover shoulders and knees; men should remove hats and wear long trousers. Shoes must be removed inside mosques.
What to Do Within Walking Distance of Cheers Hostel
These places are an easy walk from Cheers Hostel and help you plan your days:
Within walking distance
Hagia Sophia – about 250 m away (~4 min walk) · typical visit: 1–1.5 hours8 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–19:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hagia Irene – about 300 m away (~5 min walk) · typical visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour10 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:00, closed TueMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Archaeological Museums – about 350 m away (~5 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours13 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–18:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Binbirdirek Cistern – about 400 m away (~7 min walk) · typical visit: 45 minutes–1 hour5 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro, Open daily 10:00–17:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Explore Nearby Cheers Hostel
Metro stations near Cheers Hostel
Çemberlitaşabout 600 m away (~10 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Gülhane – about 650 m away (~11 min walk)Open daily 06:00–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Cheers Hostel
Matbah Restaurant – about 150 m away (~3 min walk)9 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–22:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Balık Ekmek at Eminönü – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)7 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–22:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)7 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 11:00–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hafız Mustafa 1864 – about 500 m away (~8 min walk)12 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro, Open daily 12:00–23:59Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Cheers Hostel
Roxy – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)7 min on foot from Gülhane metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Seven Hills – about 450 m away (~7 min walk)4 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 08:00–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hotels near Cheers Hostel
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotelabout 200 m away (~3 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Neorion Hotelabout 400 m away (~6 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmetabout 450 m away (~8 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Cheers Hostel
Eminönü Ferry Terminalabout 950 m away (~16 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Karaköy Ferry Terminalabout 1.3 km away (~21 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near Cheers Hostel
Istanbul Marathonabout 550 m away (~9 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Related guides
- Hagia Sophia: Visitor Gallery, History and What to See8 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–19:30
Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Blue Mosque: Visiting Tips, History and What to See3 min on foot from Gülhane metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Basilica Cistern: Tickets, Hours and What to See Underground4 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–18:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topkapi Palace: Ottoman Empire’s Power, Treasures and Harem15 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed TueMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Byzantine Hippodrome: Ancient Racetrack and Monuments of Sultanahmet5 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 24 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: More in Fatih · All Hostels · All Hotels
FAQ: Cheers Hostel
Is Cheers Hostel suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Dormitory rooms are specifically designed for solo travellers aged 18–40 to meet each other. Common spaces (lounge, terrace bar) are gathering points where solo guests naturally connect. The hostel's size and social structure make it easier to find companions for day trips or evening outings than many other hostels.
What is the age limit for dormitory rooms?
Dormitory rooms typically accept guests aged 18–40. Private rooms (double, twin, family) have no age restriction. Guests outside the 18–40 range are welcome to book private rooms or should confirm with reception before booking a dorm.
Is breakfast included?
Breakfast policies vary by room type and booking date. Some packages include a basic breakfast; others require an additional fee. Confirm the inclusions when you book or email info@cheershostel.com. Many guests skip hostel breakfast and eat at nearby bakeries or cafes.
How far is the hostel from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque?
Both are approximately 1–2 minutes' walk from the hostel. You can walk to either sight in under 10 minutes from your room. This is the main reason many visitors choose Cheers Hostel: unbeatable proximity to Sultanahmet's main attractions eliminates transport hassles.
Can I check in late (after midnight)?
Yes. The hostel has 24-hour reception. If you arrive after the standard check-in window (13:30–23:59), call ahead (+90 212 526 0200) or email to notify them. Reception will store your luggage and provide room access when staff are available. No extra charge applies, but advance notice is appreciated.
Is Wi-Fi free and reliable?
Yes, free Wi-Fi covers all common areas and rooms. Connection speeds are typical for a hostel and may slow during peak evening hours when many guests are online. Use the Wi-Fi mainly for planning and communication; download offline maps (Google Maps) for navigation to avoid slow loading on the street.
Are there cooking facilities for guests?
Yes, the hostel has a shared kitchen area where guests can prepare basic meals. Equipment is simple (stove, pots, plates, utensils); bring or buy ingredients locally. Many guests cook pasta or simple dishes rather than eating at restaurants every meal to save money.
What security measures are in place?
Dormitory rooms have individual lockers for personal valuables. Private rooms have keys. The hostel has 24-hour reception, security staff and CCTV. Use the lockers; do not leave valuables unattended in common spaces. Bag snatching exists in Sultanahmet markets, so keep bags close and zipped on the street.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
Other hotels nearby
- Modern Sultan (50 m) Check prices (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
- Modern Sultun Hotel (50 m) Check prices (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
- Basilisis Hotel (50 m) Check prices (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
- The Print House (50 m) Check prices (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
- Zeynep Sultan Hotel (50 m) Check prices (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
Affiliate link (opens the booking site): we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.
Take this guide with you
Get a free PDF of this guide to print or read offline: key facts, tips and a map link on a few clean pages.
Report an issue on this page
How we research and update our guides
About this guide: AI assistance and accuracy
This guide is created with the help of AI and is based on official sources where available. Mistakes can still happen. Opening hours, prices, rules and other details are given to the best of our knowledge as of the date shown and can change without notice. It offers general recommendations only, not professional, legal or travel advice. Please confirm important details with the official source before you travel; you are responsible for your own plans and decisions.
* Affiliate link: as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
