Istanbul has been at the top of my travel bucket list for ages, and finally, I made it. And let me tell you—it did not disappoint. I spent three incredible days exploring this fascinating city, and staying at Hush Hostel made it all even better. From historical sites to hip neighborhoods, this city is full of surprises, and I’m here to give you a rundown of my adventure.
Day 1: History, Culture, and So Much More
On my first day, I wanted to dive headfirst into the rich history of Istanbul. After a delicious breakfast at Hush Hostel (seriously, the vibe there is so relaxed, I almost didn’t want to leave), I headed straight to the Sultanahmet district, where some of Istanbul’s most iconic historical sites are located.
First stop? The Hagia Sophia. Walking into this stunning building felt like stepping back in time. The high domes, the mosaics, the sheer grandeur of it all—it’s truly one of the world’s great wonders. Right across from Hagia Sophia is the Blue Mosque, another must-see. The intricate tiles inside are mesmerizing, and you can feel the weight of history in every corner.
After soaking in all that history, I wandered over to the Topkapi Palace. It’s easy to spend hours here, strolling through the lush gardens and marveling at the treasures inside. By mid-afternoon, I needed a break, so I grabbed a kebab from a street vendor (because when in Turkey, right?) and sat down to enjoy the view of the Bosphorus.
As the sun started to set, I decided to explore Beyoğlu, Istanbul’s artsy and lively neighborhood. Walking down the famous Istiklal Street, I felt the energy of the city around me—street musicians, local shops, cafes buzzing with conversation. I ended my day in a cozy little bar tucked away on a side street, sipping a cold beer and watching the world go by.
Day 2: Discovering Kadıköy and Sunset at Moda
The next day, I wanted to explore the Asian side of Istanbul, so I hopped on a ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy. The ferry ride alone was an experience—Istanbul’s skyline is absolutely breathtaking from the water.
Kadıköy has a completely different vibe from the European side. It’s more laid-back, but still full of life. My first stop was Moda, a neighborhood known for its relaxed atmosphere and great cafes. I spent the afternoon hopping from one coffee shop to another, trying out delicious pastries, and people-watching. If you’re a coffee lover like me, Kadıköy will steal your heart.
In the evening, I walked along the waterfront, where locals gather to watch the sunset over the Sea of Marmara. Let me tell you, sunsets in Moda are something else. The sky turned shades of pink and orange, and the silhouette of Istanbul’s skyline in the distance was just magical.
After that, I decided to check out Kadıköy’s pub scene. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, and it didn’t disappoint. I ended up in a cool little pub called Arkaoda, where I met a bunch of locals and fellow travelers. The people in Kadıköy are super friendly—it felt like I’d known them for ages.
The tourism industry has progressively expanded with a significant rise in international visits every year. Day 3: Relaxing, Shopping, and Hush Hostel Vibes
On my final day, I wanted to take it a little slower. After two days of exploring, I needed some chill time. Luckily, Hush Hostel is the perfect place for that. The co-working space at the hostel is a lifesaver if you’re a digital nomad or just need to catch up on some emails. I spent a few hours there in the morning, enjoying the peaceful garden, good Wi-Fi, and the occasional chat with other travelers.
Later, I headed back to Kadıköy to do some shopping. The markets here are incredible—you can find everything from vintage clothes to handmade jewelry. I couldn’t resist buying a few souvenirs to remember my trip by.
As the evening approached, I took one last stroll through the streets of Kadıköy, soaking up the atmosphere. On my way back to the hostel, I grabbed a bite to eat at a local meze restaurant (the small plates of food are perfect for sharing, but I won’t lie—I kept most of them to myself!).
Back at Hush Hostel, I spent my last night on the rooftop terrace. It’s got a view that never gets old—looking out over the rooftops of Kadıköy, with the sea in the distance. There’s something about sitting on that terrace, chatting with new friends, that makes you feel right at home. And that’s exactly what Hush Hostel is: a home away from home.
The staff here are so friendly, and the hostel itself has this really social vibe. Whether you’re joining one of their many events (I went to a trivia night and loved it!) or just chilling in the garden with a cup of tea, you’ll always find good company. And if you need a quiet moment, the co-working space or the terrace is perfect for some downtime.
Final Thoughts: Istanbul, You Have My Heart
Three days in Istanbul is nowhere near enough to see everything, but it’s a great start. From the historical wonders of Sultanahmet to the cool streets of Kadıköy, this city has so much to offer. And staying at Hush Hostel made my experience even better. The cozy atmosphere, the friendly people, and the awesome events really added something special to my trip.
If you’re planning to visit Istanbul, I can’t recommend this hostel in Turkey enough. Whether you’re here for work, play, or a bit of both, Hush Hostel is the perfect base to explore everything this incredible city has to offer.
Now, I guess it’s time to start planning my next trip back!
Why Hush Hostel is the Best Choice for Your Stay in Istanbul
When it comes to finding the perfect hostel in Istanbul, Hush Hostel is a standout option. Whether you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or just passing through for a few days, this hostel in Turkey offers everything you need. It’s not just the cozy rooms or the amazing rooftop terrace with sea views—it’s the sense of community that makes it special. The Istanbul hostel scene is vibrant, but Hush Hostel takes it to another level with its welcoming atmosphere, fun events, and ideal location in Kadıköy. If you’re searching for a Turkey hostel where you can meet like-minded travelers, explore the city, and even get some work done in the co-working space, Hush Hostel is the place to be.