Cheers Hostel

Our only regret about staying at Cheers Hostel was that our travel plans only allowed us to stay in Istanbul for three nights. If we could have, we would have stayed longer. The hospitality and advice by John and his entire staff made us feel at home and enhanced our first visit to Istanbul. We stayed in one of the private rooms (which we learned was their best room with a balcony and view) and it was very clean and comfortable. Breakfast was delicious and nutritious! The Hostel is located within walking distance of key sights, attractions, metro, shops, and restaurants. John made reservations for us to a relaxing and cleansing Turkish Bath and a Whirling Dervish show. When we had to leave, they arranged for our cab to the airport. Pick up service from the airport is also easily arranged. No wonder the Hostel is called Cheers! It is a welcoming Hostel where the hosts know your names and treat their guests like family.

We had a great time at cheers hostel. The staff was really helpful, especially John who shared a lot of insight and good tips for the planning of our following two weeks in Turkey. Thanks again!

Unfortunately, I had a terrible experience at Cheers Hostel. The owner was extremely rude, telling me, “You didn’t pay for me, you paid for the room,” after I mentioned he should be respectful to paying customers, among other disrespectful comments. The staff member who initially caused the problems repeatedly made me wait 15+ minutes while casually chatting outside. When I expressed my frustration, he yelled that he was on the phone with his “boss,” but then turned the phone toward me, showing a personal WhatsApp conversation with his girlfriend—who was not the owner, as I later confirmed. The owner also stated the staff member was “allowed to talk on the phone” while a guest waits. I have never written a negative review before, but the combination of rudeness from both the front desk worker and the owner forced me to find a different place to stay. I love the concept of a social hostel, but unfortunately, this experience was extremely unpleasant and left me feeling traumatized.

Oh Cheers, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways — if I can. This may not be the tidiest hostel in Istanbul (though I happily report no critters). The floors might also not be in the best repair, but OMFG do I love Cheers. Where do I begin... Certain hostels bring out guests' social sides, and this did it X10. No joke, I made more friends than I can count. The amazing bar on the roof probably helps, but it's the whole place. The terrace out front, social. The breakfast downstairs (with my favorite dog), super social too. Even just being in the room — you guessed it — social. The location and the blah blah blah, yea, all great, but the people... How do you guys do it? I can't wait to go back.

This truly is one of, if not the best, hostel I have ever stayed at. I have stayed at many many many hostels, hotels and air bnbs in my 30 years of travel. Cheers hostel is just wonderful! The location is absolutely unbeatable! It is literally blocks away from the major attractions of old Istanbul, like the Blue Mosque, Cistern, Hagia Sofia, and all...the tram is one simple straight line to Karakoy and port across the Golden Horn to some of the best restaurants and further attractions. I stayed in the single private room which was lovely, clean, cozy and quiet, and only steps away from the main hostel. Above all, the hospitality of the owners and staff was bar none. I have never been made to feel so welcome each time I entered the main door. The breakfast is also a complete treat! Again, the best I have ever been offered during a stay at a hostel. Turkish style, fresh and delicious. I looked forward to it every day! The coffee and tea always served with a smile. This hostel is a jewel in the heart of historic Istanbul. Highest recommendations!

So much fun, really good vibe. Tammy is amazing!!!

Cheers Hostel in Istanbul is the best. The people engage with all guest and encourages everything to do events such as pub crawls, cruises. If in Istanbul I would recommend Cheers Hostel.

Without a shadow of a doubt easily the best hostel I’ve ever stayed at. The staff are super friendly and outgoing, the atmosphere is incredible, and the events offered are fantastic (especially the pub crawls) I cannot recommend this hostel enough

What an amazing place to stay while visiting Istanbul, extremely friendly and welcoming hosts. Had a great time when staying here for my holiday with my friend on our holiday. So many fun activities planned in the evenings from them as well.