Second Home Hostel: Budget Stays in Sirkeci with Rooftop Views

Second Home Hostel Istanbul occupies a converted five-storey building in Sirkeci, the Old City neighbourhood at the foot of the Golden Horn. Within an 8-minute walk lie Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern—among the world’s most visited historical sites.

Opened in 2009, Second Home has evolved into a social hub for international travellers. The hostel runs pub crawls, family dinners and group boat tours, and its rooftop terrace serves as the social centre, offering views across the Bosphorus and both European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Quick Facts

Address	Hocapaşa Mahallesi Ebusuud Caddesi No:19 Sirkeci, Fatih, Istanbul 34110 Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps
District	Fatih
Metro	Sirkeci (Marmaray, South (Cağaloğlu) entrance) Gülhane (T1 Tram, 3 minutes' walk north)
Opening hours	Open 24 hours
Best time to visit	Visit April–May or September–October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer. Winter (December–February) is cool and can be rainy, but quieter and atmospheric. Avoid July–August, when heat soars and the entire area becomes packed with day-trippers. Avoid Ramadan (dates vary each year) when some restaurants and social activities may be curtailed. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends in Sirkeci.
Recommended duration	Overnight stay
Website	hostelsh.com
Operating status confirmed	October 2026

Booking and Check-In at Second Home Hostel

Book through the hostel’s official website (hostelsh.com), Booking.com, Hostelworld or other major booking platforms. Check-in begins at 13:30; check-out is at 10:00. Late check-in is possible by arrangement with the front desk.

Rooms include dorm beds (with age restrictions: maximum 40 years old in mixed dorms), twin/double rooms with shared bathrooms, and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Rates vary by room type and season. Breakfast is available daily (cooked-to-order from 08:30 to noon) for an additional fee. Airport shuttle service is available 24 hours for a surcharge.

Cancellation policies vary by booking channel and rate type; check your confirmation email. Foreign guests must register with the hostel—staff handle this at check-in using your passport. No pets are permitted. Contact the hostel directly at +90 212 512 57 90 or secondhomehostel@gmail.com for questions about specific room types, group bookings or accessibility needs.

Why Visit Second Home Hostel?

Unbeatable location: The hostel sits steps from Sirkeci Marmaray station and the T1 tram stop, making it easy to reach any part of the city. All major Sultanahmet monuments are within walking distance.

Social scene: Regular pub crawls, group dinners, boat tours and rooftop game nights create connections among guests from around the world. A lively atmosphere appeals to solo travellers and those seeking a hostel community.

Budget-friendly: Dorm beds start at the lower end of Istanbul hostel pricing, with private rooms also available. Breakfast is available for an additional fee.

Highlights of Second Home Hostel

Rooftop Terrace with Bosphorus Views

The hostel's signature outdoor space overlooks both sides of Istanbul, with views across the water toward Asia. This is where social activities unfold: shisha evenings, game nights and the pre-party gathering point for pub crawls. Open to guests throughout the day and evening, it's the most distinctive feature setting Second Home apart from other budget accommodation in the area.

Tip: Arrive early in the evening for shisha and quieter socialising; the terrace fills with pub-crawl groups after 9 pm.

Proximity to Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

Both monuments lie within an 8-minute walk. Hagia Sophia, the 6th-century Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque, stands 600 metres away; the Blue Mosque, built in the 17th century, is even closer. The hostel's location on the edge of Sirkeci means you can step out and reach these without a metro ride or taxi.

Tip: Visit Hagia Sophia early (before 09:30) to beat the crowds. Tickets sell out in advance; book online before arriving.

Basilica Cistern

The underground Roman water storage chamber, built around 500 AD, lies 568 metres away—a 7-minute walk. Dimly lit chambers and columns submerged in water create an atmospheric experience unlike anything above ground. Entry requires a separate ticket and takes 45 minutes to an hour to explore.

Tip: Go late in the afternoon (after 16:00) when the crowds thin and the lighting is more dramatic.

Topkapi Palace

The sprawling palace complex where Ottoman sultans lived and governed from the 15th to 19th centuries lies 600 metres away—a 7-minute walk uphill through Gülhane Park. The palace contains the Treasury, imperial apartments, and the famous Harem section (separate ticket). Plan 2–3 hours minimum.

Tip: Enter through the Imperial Gate near Gülhane Park rather than hunting for a separate entrance. Wednesday is the quietest day of the week.

Grand Bazaar and Egyptian Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar, a sprawling 15th-century covered market with over 4,000 shops, lies 500 metres away. The Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar, smaller and more intimate, is even closer at 400 metres. Both are chaotic and atmospheric; allow 1–2 hours per bazaar to browse and get lost intentionally.

Tip: Visit the Grand Bazaar first thing (08:00–09:00) before it fills, then explore the Egyptian Bazaar from 10:00 onward. Avoid mid-afternoon crowds.

Sirkeci Train Station and Golden Horn Waterfront

The historic Sirkeci station (terminus of the Istanbul-Paris Orient Express, built 1890) lies 250 metres away. From here, walk to the Galata Bridge and Golden Horn waterfront to watch ferries and the daily life of the city unfolding. The waterfront restaurants offer views and a slower pace than the tourist core.

Tip: Walk to the station in early morning before the area fills with day-trippers. The station's Ottoman Revival architecture (with a clock tower) is worth photographing even if you don't board a train.

Gülhane Park

A 55-hectare park descending from Topkapi Palace toward the Golden Horn, with flower gardens, walking paths and waterfront views. It's one of Istanbul's oldest parks, originally part of the palace grounds. Much quieter than the bazaars and mosques, offering a place to rest and reset.

Tip: Enter from the northern end (near Sirkeci) and walk downhill toward the water; the views improve as you descend.

Pub Crawl and Social Activities

The hostel runs nightly pub crawls visiting 3–4 bars and clubs with entrance fees included, free shots and priority access. Mixed-age groups of travellers depart at 21:00 from the rooftop, travel by private bus, and experience Istanbul's nightlife scene. Family dinners and boat tours (seasonal) are also organised.

Tip: Sign up at the front desk by 19:00 if interested; the group typically includes 20–30 people. Bring a small bag; bag checking is standard at clubs.

Atmosphere

The hostel hums with international energy: backpackers, digital nomads and solo travellers move between dorm rooms, the lobby lounge (where guests play board games and swap stories), the guest kitchen and the rooftop. The rooftop terrace is the beating heart—a semi-outdoor bar where you might hear Turkish pop, reggae or live conversation in a dozen languages depending on the hour.

Staff are visible, friendly and organised, running activities but not imposing them. By evening, the rooftop fills with backpackers settling in before nightlife; by morning, it’s quieter coffee-and-planning territory. The building itself, an old Ottoman-era structure, has charm—narrow corridors, handmade wooden fixtures—but feels snug rather than spacious. Bathrooms are clean but shared facilities in dorms are standard hostel-style.

History of Second Home Hostel

Second Home Hostel opened its doors in 2009, when the Sirkeci area was less developed as a tourist accommodation hub. The building itself dates to the early 20th century, part of the Ottoman-era residential fabric of the neighbourhood. The location—steps from Sirkeci station and a short walk from Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace—positioned the hostel perfectly as backpacker accommodation in the heart of the Old City.

Over the following years, the hostel expanded from a small operation to one of Istanbul’s most reviewed and consistently high-rated hostels. By 2024, it had ranked in the top 3 hostels on Booking.com, Hostelworld and TripAdvisor. In 2024 and 2025, it received awards as most popular hostel in Istanbul and best small hostel in Europe, according to its official website.

The hostel’s success reflects a deliberate focus on social atmosphere and guest experience. The rooftop terrace was developed as a communal space for guests from around the world to meet. Social activities—pub crawls, group dinners, boat tours—became core to the offering, distinguishing Second Home from purely accommodation-focused competitors. The hostel has remained independently operated, avoiding the chain-hotel model.

How to Get to Second Home Hostel

By Marmaray Metro: The nearest station is Sirkeci, located at the southern (Cağaloğlu) entrance, just 250 metres away. The Marmaray line connects the airport (Istanbul Airport is 35 km away, about 45 minutes by metro) to Bosphorus destinations. Exit at Sirkeci and walk uphill along Ebusuud Caddesi (the street name is also written Ebussuud); the hostel is on your left, a 2–3 minute walk.

By Tram: The T1 tram line stops at Gülhane, 300 metres away (3 minutes’ walk). From Gülhane, walk west down the hill toward Sirkeci; you’ll pass Gülhane Park on your right.

By Taxi or Ride-Share: Give the driver the address: Ebusuud Caddesi No:19, Sirkeci. The building is directly on the main street; the taxi will drop you at or very near the entrance.

On Foot* from Taksim/Beyoğlu: It’s a 25–30 minute walk via the Galata Bridge. Cross the bridge toward the Old City and bear right; Sirkeci station is hard to miss, and the hostel is a few minutes from there.

Accessibility

The hostel occupies a five-storey building with no lift. Ground-floor areas (lobby, reception, guest kitchen) are accessible, but bedrooms are reached via stairs. The rooftop terrace requires climbing stairs. Guests with mobility limitations should contact the hostel directly at +90 212 512 57 90 before booking to discuss ground-floor room availability and any accommodations possible. Bathrooms in dorm rooms and shared private rooms have shower cubicles; en-suite private rooms have facilities in-room. The hostel is not wheelchair-accessible due to the stairs.

Food Nearby

The area around Sirkeci is saturated with restaurants and cafes. Bitlisli (150 metres away) serves traditional Turkish and Middle Eastern dishes. Roof Mezze 360 Restaurant offers views and international cuisine. The Egyptian Bazaar (Spice Bazaar) is 400 metres away and full of food stalls, tea gardens and restaurants selling street food and traditional snacks. The hostel's guest kitchen allows you to prepare meals; a convenience store operates on-site. Avoid tourist traps along the main streets; instead walk side streets where locals eat.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes (the area has uneven pavements and hills). A lightweight scarf or shawl (respectful when visiting mosques; also useful for sun protection). A reusable water bottle (Istanbul's tap water is safe, and fountains are available in parks). If visiting in winter, a warm layer and waterproof jacket. Sunscreen and a hat for summer and spring. A small day pack for exploring neighbourhoods. Bag checks are standard at bars and clubs; keep bags* light.

Photography Rules

Photography of the hostel interiors and rooftop is permitted for personal use. No flash or tripods are allowed in shared spaces (the rooftop terrace, lobby). Guests on pub crawls should be respectful of nightlife venues' individual policies regarding photography. Outside the hostel, all major mosques and many museums (Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern) allow personal photography but prohibit flash and sometimes tripods or drones.

Family Suitability

Second Home is primarily geared toward adults and solo travellers aged 18–45. Dorm rooms have age restrictions (maximum 40 years old). However, the hostel does accept families in private rooms (single, double, triple and suite rooms). Children are welcome, and family dinners are organised seasonally. The rooftop bar can be loud in the evening, so families may prefer rooms on lower floors away from the rooftop. The location is excellent for families wanting to explore historical sites on foot, though crowded bazaars and streets can feel overwhelming with young children.

Istanbul Vibes Tips

• Sign up for social activities (pub crawls, dinners, boat tours) at the front desk, not online. Staff will tell you group size, meeting time and what's included. Pub crawls leave nightly but sometimes small groups combine.
• If you book a dorm bed, arrive early in the day to claim a locker and choose your bunk; late arrivals get less desirable spots. Earplugs are essential in mixed dorms.
• The 8-bed mixed dorm is in the basement; if you dislike basement rooms, book the 6-bed or request a higher-floor room when booking.
• Check metro or tram status before travelling; weekend maintenance sometimes affects service on the T1 tram. The Marmaray is more reliable but may be busy during rush hours (07:00–09:00, 16:00–18:30).
• The rooftop terrace is best experienced in spring and autumn; in summer it can feel uncomfortably hot, and in winter wind and occasional rain make it less appealing. Book any seasonal boat tours in advance during May–September.

What to Do Within Walking Distance of Second Home Hostel

These places are an easy walk from Second Home Hostel and help you plan your days:

Within walking distance

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  Sirkeci Railway Museum – about 100 m away (~1 min walk) · typical visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour15 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro
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  Museum of Science and Technology in Islam – about 350 m away (~6 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours15 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro, Open daily 09:00–19:00
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  New Mosque – about 400 m away (~7 min walk) · typical visit: 30–45 min12 min on foot from Haliç metro
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  Egyptian Bazaar – about 450 m away (~8 min walk) · typical visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour13 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open daily 08:00–19:30

Explore Nearby Second Home Hostel

Metro stations near Second Home Hostel

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  Çemberlitaşabout 850 m away (~14 min walk)

Restaurants and cafes near Second Home Hostel

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  Hafız Mustafa 1864 – about 100 m away (~2 min walk)12 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro, Open daily 12:00–23:59
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  Hamdi Restaurant – about 300 m away (~5 min walk)12 min on foot from Çemberlitaş metro, Open daily 12:00–00:00
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  Pandeli – about 450 m away (~7 min walk)12 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open 11:30–19:00, closed Sun
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  Şehzade Cağ Kebap – about 550 m away (~9 min walk)11 min on foot from Haliç metro

Nightlife near Second Home Hostel

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  Cheers Karaköy – about 700 m away (~12 min walk)9 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open daily 08:30–02:00
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  Roxy – about 850 m away (~13 min walk)7 min on foot from Gülhane metro

Hotels near Second Home Hostel

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  Sanasaryan Han, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Istanbulabout 100 m away (~2 min walk)
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  Mercure Istanbul Sirkeciabout 150 m away (~2 min walk)
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  Neorion Hotelabout 200 m away (~3 min walk)

Train stations and river piers near Second Home Hostel

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  Eminönü Ferry Terminalabout 450 m away (~7 min walk)
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  Karaköy Ferry Terminalabout 700 m away (~11 min walk)

Events and traditions near Second Home Hostel

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  Istanbul Marathonabout 1.1 km away (~18 min walk)

Related guides

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  Hagia Sophia: Visitor Gallery, History and What to See8 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–19:30
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  Blue Mosque: Visiting Tips, History and What to See3 min on foot from Gülhane metro
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  Topkapi Palace: Ottoman Empire’s Power, Treasures and Harem15 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed Tue
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  Basilica Cistern: Tickets, Hours and What to See Underground4 min on foot from Gülhane metro, Open daily 09:00–18:30
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  Grand Bazaar: History, Hours, and Shopping Guide4 min on foot from Beyazıt-Kapalıçarşı metro, Open 08:30–19:00, closed Sun

Browse more: More in Fatih · All Hostels · All Hotels

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FAQ: Second Home Hostel

Is breakfast included?

Breakfast is not included in the room rate but is available daily from 08:30 to noon for an additional fee. It is cooked-to-order (not buffet style) and includes Turkish-style eggs, bread and tea or coffee. Guests can also use the communal kitchen to prepare their own meals.

What is the age restriction in dorm rooms?

Dorm rooms (6-bed mixed and 8-bed mixed) have a maximum age of 40 years old for guests. This policy creates a younger social atmosphere. Private rooms (single, double, triple, suite) are available for any age and do not have restrictions.

Can I bring pets?

No, pets are not permitted at the hostel.

Is there parking?

Public parking is available nearby for a daily fee (paid parking lot adjacent to or near the hostel). Ask staff for current rates and directions. On-street parking in Sirkeci is limited and metered during the day.

How do I get to the airport?

The Marmaray metro connects Sirkeci station directly to Istanbul Airport (35 km, about 45 minutes). A train departs every 15–20 minutes. The hostel also arranges airport shuttle service 24 hours; this must be booked in advance and is charged separately.

Is the hostel good for solo travellers?

Yes. The hostel is specifically designed for solo travellers and backpackers. The social activities (pub crawls, group dinners, rooftop hangouts) make it easy to meet other guests. Most rooms have dorm bed options, and staff are experienced in connecting solo travellers.

Can I check in late?

Standard check-in is from 13:30 onwards. Late check-in (after 23:59) is possible but must be arranged with the front desk in advance. Contact the hostel by phone or email before arriving to confirm late arrival.

What is included in the pub crawl?

The pub crawl includes entry fees to 3–4 venues, free shots at each bar, priority access to clubs, and transport by private bus. The hostel provides the meeting point (rooftop at 21:00) and organizes the group. Alcoholic drinks beyond the free shots are not included; you may purchase additional drinks at venues.

Other hotels nearby

• Dervish Han Boutique Hotel (50 m) Check prices* (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
• Manesol hotel (50 m) Check prices* (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
• صيرفه حسين علي خضير (100 m) Check prices* (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
• Glamour Hotel (100 m) Check prices* (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
• İstasyon Hotel (100 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.

All hotels in Istanbul – Fatih

Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.

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