Chambers of the Boheme has such huge potential, as it is set in a very unique little building that feels like grandma's house, with an antique look and feel to it, so we thought we were in for a treat. However, we were a bit disappointed when we came and saw that the building is pretty cold, dark, not very tidy, and generally in not-great shape.
The Location
The location is really fantastic -- we couldn't have asked for a better location. The hostel is just off one of the main shopping streets, a few minutes' walk from Taksim Square. It is super easy to get here from the airport and it's within walking distance from pretty much all of the tourist attractions. If you're a bit intimidated by the many hills, there's easy access to buses, metros, and even the cute historic tram. Needless to say, you won't be hungry around here, the food in the area is amazing and affordable. It is also one of the best spots to explore the city's vibrant nightlife, whether you're into dancing, live music, or just chilling and smoking some hookah.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The rooms are very basic; not too big, not too small. Some of the dorms have bunk beds and some have regular beds. There are pretty spacious lockers in the dorms. Most of the dorms don't have en suite bathrooms, but there's a toilet and a shower on every floor, so it's not so bad. The showers are great -- there's hot water all the time and there's hand soap. The toilets and showers are a bit dirty pretty much all of the time, though.
Common Spaces
We really wish there would be more common spaces here, because we think this place has so much potential! There's a roof terrace that nobody seems to be using. In the lobby, there's a little sitting area, but it's not great, because mostly the owner is right there watching Turkish telenovelas. There are more seating areas in the bar/cafe, but the bar was not functioning during our stay. You can still buy Turkish tea or coffee sometimes, but that's it. The whole lounge is also very poorly lit and a bit too chilly to hang out in. We are also disappointed that there is neither breakfast nor a communal kitchen. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel. The staff are very friendly, and there are usually some cool volunteers from around the world, but we didn't get to meet many other backpackers, as most of the guests seem to be local.
Summary
This is a very quiet and low-key hostel, which is not bad if you want to chill, and the location is fantastic. However, if you're here to party and socialize, this might not be the place for you. Also, we think it's not really great value for your money.
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Chambers of the Boheme Reviews
The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
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Markovka
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on Mar 16, 2018
Description
Located in the heart of Istanbul's most popular district, Taksim, Chambers of the Boheme is truly a gem to behold. Just steps from Taksim Square, Chambers of the Boheme puts the best of Istanbul's unparalleled nightlife at your fingertips.
Whether you fancy a night of Turkish delights and nargile, a cruise on the beautiful Bosphorus, live music and all-night dancing, or a glance at Istanbul's historical sights, all are within reach when you stay with us. With hundreds of bars, cafes, and clubs within walking distance, you can kiss those car keys goodbye.
Situated in a beautifully restored 19th century building, formerly home to one of Turkey's most renowed writers, Chambers of the Boheme offers the glamour and decadence of the Bohemian lifestyle, without compromising modern comforts. Private, semi-private, and family-style rooms are available. Relax in our large common area and patio, or socialize with other global travellers in our newly renovated espresso bar (opening May 1).
Named Turkey's #1 Hostel in 2009, we're certain your stay in Istanbul won't be the same without a visit to Chambers of the Boheme. With over 500 positive recommendations, you are sure to be delighted with your experience.
We look forward to welcoming you soon. Istanbul'a Hos Geldiniz!
View our new video at youtube.com/watch?v=P460CZKorLs or search Chambers of the Boheme on YouTube.
Location and Contact
Location
• ou can BY BUS: From Atatürk or Sabiha Gökcen Airports, take the Havas Bus (approx. 12 TL / 6 €) to Taksim Square.
• BY TAXI: From Atatürk Airport (approx. 35-40 TL /17.5-20 €)
• From Sabiha Gökcen Airport (approx. 70 TL / 35 €)
• We are a 4 min walk from Taksim.
• From Taksim Square, look for İstiklal Caddesi. Ypinpoint İstiklal by looking for the streetcar rails. (The streetcar runs down İstiklal from Taksim to Tünel.)
• Walk 3 minutes down İstiklal. Take the second left (at the McDonald's) and we're located on your left.
• Super easy access to all forms of public transport. Although, with hundreds of bars, cafes, clubs within walking distance, you won't often need them :)
Map
Chambers of the Boheme is listed on the following booking sites:
Hostelworld Booking.com Not listed at HostelsClubWebsite
www.chambersoftheboheme.com
Phone Number:
+90 212 251 0931
To add or correct information for this listing, please use the Listing Correction Form.
Facilities and Amenities
Groups (10+ people)
Party Hostel
Solo Traveller
Bedsheets
Breakfast
Luggage Storage
Wi-Fi in Lobby/Commons
Bike Rental
City Tours
Lockers in Lobby
Towels
24 Hour Security
Air Conditioning
BBQ Grill
Bar
Board Games
Concierge/Info Desk
Credit Card Payments
Currency Exchange
Elevator/Lift
Food/Restaurant
Gameroom
Hair Dryers
Hot Showers
Lounge Area
Movie Library/Rental
Airport Pickup
Parking
Wheelchair Accessible
Service Animals
Curfew: No Curfew
Open Dates: All Year
Reception Hours: 24 Hours
Size: Small (less than 30 beds)
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