Waking up at Hush Hostel feels like starting the day in a cozy oasis. As the morning light gently seeps through the curtains, I’m excited to begin another day of exploring Istanbul, starting in the vibrant neighborhood of Kadıköy.
A Relaxed Morning at Hush Hostel
First and foremost, I head to the shared kitchen to kick off my morning. It’s bright and inviting, with big tables that make it easy to meet other travelers. I prepare a quick breakfast of Turkish simit, fresh fruit, and strong coffee. Fortunately, the kitchen has everything — air fryer, microwave, and three fridges — so making breakfast is always a breeze.
Afterward, I take my coffee to the garden, which is one of my favorite spots. The peaceful, green space offers a perfect escape to start the day on a relaxing note. Meanwhile, some guests are already working on their laptops outside. I find a seat in the shade, where I catch up on emails. Whenever I want a change of scenery, the rooftop is an excellent alternative. The view of Haydarpaşa station and the Bosphorus is stunning, especially with the morning sun casting a soft glow over the city.
Mid-Morning Walk in Kadıköy
Once I’m done with work, I set out to explore Kadıköy. Luckily, Hush Hostel’s prime location makes it incredibly easy to dive straight into the lively atmosphere of this neighborhood. As soon as I step outside, I’m immediately greeted by colorful street art, quirky shops, and trendy cafés.
I wander over to Kadıköy Market, which is always a feast for the senses. Vendors enthusiastically call out their specials, and the scent of fresh spices fills the air. I pick up a few Turkish treats to enjoy later in the day. On my way back, I stop at Wanderlust Café, a cozy spot just around the corner from the hostel. Their iced latte is the perfect refreshment for a warm afternoon, and it’s a great place to sit back and watch the neighborhood come to life.
Afternoon Adventure in Istanbul
In the afternoon, I decide to take the ferry from Kadıköy to the European side of Istanbul. The ferry ride is, without a doubt, one of my favorite parts of the day. The views of Istanbul from the water are breathtaking, giving you a unique perspective of the city. Today, I visit two iconic landmarks: the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Each time I visit, I am amazed by their history and architectural grandeur.
After exploring Sultanahmet Square, I stop for a quick lunch at a nearby café. It’s a peaceful break before heading back to Kadıköy on the ferry. The return trip is equally magical, with the evening sun reflecting beautifully on the Bosphorus.
Evening at Hush Hostel: Barbecue and New Friends
When I return to Hush Hostel, the evening atmosphere is already in full swing. Tonight, there’s a barbecue happening in the garden, and the smell of grilled food fills the air. The hostel staff and guests gather around, sharing stories and enjoying the relaxed vibe. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, and everyone is friendly and welcoming.
Hush Hostel organizes a variety of activities every evening. Whether it’s trivia nights, movie screenings, or barbecues, there’s always something fun to do. After dinner, a few of us decide to head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy the view. We exchange travel tips, laugh about the day’s adventures, and make plans for tomorrow.
Nightlife in Kadıköy
Later in the night, a group of us heads out to experience Kadıköy’s vibrant nightlife. The streets are buzzing with excitement, and we quickly find a small bar with live music. As the evening goes on, the energy in Kadıköy only gets stronger. It’s a place where you can easily lose track of time, as the party seems to never stop.
Winding Down at Hush Hostel
When we return to the hostel, it’s late, but the common area is still full of life. Some guests are watching a movie, while others are playing board games. Regardless of the time, there’s always someone to chat with. The community feel at Hush is truly what makes it special.
As I finally crawl into bed, I reflect on the day. I’ve explored new corners of Istanbul, met amazing people, and enjoyed the cozy, welcoming environment of Hush Hostel. Staying here has been one of the highlights of my time in Istanbul. It’s the perfect base for exploring the city while making lasting connections with fellow travelers. Tomorrow, I’ll wake up and do it all over again, with new adventures waiting just around the corner.
Ending the Day Back at Hush Hostel
When we finally make our way back to Hush Hostel, it’s well past midnight. But even at this hour, the common area is still buzzing with life. Some people are lounging on the couches watching a movie, while others are playing board games or just chatting. I love how there’s always someone to talk to or something to do, no matter what time it is.
By the time I head to bed, I’m exhausted but happy. I’ve spent the day exploring one of the world’s most fascinating cities, made new friends, and experienced the unique sense of community that Hush Hostel fosters. It’s not just a place to sleep — it’s a place to connect, to share stories, and to feel at home in a city that’s constantly moving. Tomorrow, I’ll wake up and do it all over again, with new adventures waiting just outside the door.
