Side Hotel & Pension, Istanbul

The Side Hotel & Pension is popular with backpackers and low-budget travelers, mostly due to its extremely friendly, helpful management and well-kept rooms. The hotel itself is clean and tidy with en suite bathrooms in each room, boasting very modern plumbing unlike many of its counterparts. The pension side is a little more basic, offering shared bathrooms. Each room is fairly different, so it's wise to inspect a few of them before you choose. Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace and free tea is served in the reception area where there is also a tiny book exchange for guests.