Istanbul, Türkiye
It’s been an eye-opening February in Istanbul, Türkiye.
What I saw on travel videos was only the tourist attractions.
What I experienced was something much more grand yet modern, quaint yet effortlessly cool.
Yes, the city is vast, historic, and architecturally stunning, but beyond the famous mosques and palaces, there’s a different kind of charm.
Neighborhoods that feel intimate, lined with boutique shops that are thoughtfully curated rather than just tourist trinkets.
Coffee shops that could rival the best of Berlin or Melbourne, where the baristas take their craft seriously.
And while Istanbul is known for its energy, the people I encountered were surprisingly chill, friendly, but not overbearing.
It’s a city of contrasts, and that’s what makes it fascinating.
Let me share with you
Coffee shops to work from
Foods I obsessed over
Places & moments that stood out
Best neighborhoods to stay in
Best Coffee Shops to Work From
In Istanbul, 8 out of 10 coffee shops require a Turkish number to access WiFi.
Here are my go-to spots with strong WiFi and great coffee—no local number needed.
1. Kava Coffee
A small spot with fast WiFi, surprisingly good sandwiches, and a cold brew that became my favorite (even in the dead of winter).
Stunning interior, comfortable seating, and perfect lighting. With numerous awards under their belt, they deliver quality—my go-to is their matcha and banana cream pie.
It’s not a cat café, but there’s always a cat or two around—and pups too! With a work-friendly vibe that feels like a coworking space, it’s also a great spot to meet people.
Foods I Obsessed Over
Yildirim Usta Karakoy Balik Durum
This spot blew up on YouTube, so weekends mean lines around the block. It’s incredibly tasty and textural—I had to resist getting it daily since it was right downstairs.
Skeptical at first, but the silky, not-too-sweet San Sebastian cheesecake won me over. Pricey at $11, but it was my birthday treat. It’s a prime place for people-watching—felt like a movie.
Künefe is a syrup-soaked dessert with crispy phyllo, gooey cheese, and pistachios. I had mine at a small café in Cappadocia, but Hafız Mustafa 1864 Galataport looks legit—rave Google reviews.
Karaköy Güllüoğlu - Nadir Güllü Plenty of cheaper baklava spots, but this was close to where we stayed, and opens late. The chocolate baklava was my favorite. Tip: Use the take-out shop to skip the crowd.
Places & moments that stood out
Walk over the Galata bridge from Karaköy to Eminönü
It was my birthday, and we were out to explore. The morning was misty, the skyline softened into ghostly silhouettes. The bridge was lined with fishermen—some half-asleep, others pulling in their catch—while cats weaved between them, waiting for a slip. The air smelled of the sea and grilled fish from the stalls below.
Feeding the birds on the ferry
Just a five-minute walk from our place, the ferry to Kadıköy was a must. On board, a German guy shared his simit (Turkish bagel)–not to eat, but to feed the gulls.
Dozens of them floated behind the ferry, catching every crumb mid-air. From the shore, it looks like an attack, but up close, it’s effortless—graceful, almost weightless.
Weekend coffee shop vibes
I love walking through Cihangir on a weekend morning. At certain cross-sections, trendy cafés anchor every corner, tables spilling onto the sidewalks, filled with effortlessly cool people sipping coffee and chatting. Down a quiet side street, another café—equally stylish—drawing in the crowd. It’s the kind of place where you could sit for hours, just watching the city unfold.
The CATS
On my way to my favorite coffee shop, I’d pass a litter of kittens. In cafés, cats curl up in corners or jump onto laps, demanding attention like old friends. Outside restaurants, they linger where staff regularly feed them. In parks and on sidewalks, they rub against your legs, press their heads into your hands. In Cihangir, they rule the streets, each block its own little cat haven.
Neighborhood Vibes
European Side:
Karaköy - Lively & Well-Connected
A waterfront neighborhood with stylish cafés, boutique shops, and historic charm. Walkable to Galata Tower, the Bosphorus, and ferry terminals, making it easy to explore both sides of the city. Perfect for those who want a mix of old and new Istanbul.
Cihangir – Local & Bohemian
A laid-back, artsy neighborhood with cozy cafés, vintage shops, and quiet streets. Close to Taksim Square and Istiklal Street but with a more residential, local feel. Great for travelers who want a relaxed stay in the heart of the city.
Asian Side:
A vibrant, energetic district with bustling markets, street art, indie cafés, and a thriving food scene. Well-connected by ferry, just 20 minutes from the European side. Ideal for travelers who want a lively, local experience.
A peaceful, seaside neighborhood next to Kadıköy with stunning Bosphorus views, leafy streets, and cozy cafés. Ideal for slow mornings, long walks by the water, and a laid-back atmosphere away from the crowds.
Before You Go…
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Teşekkürler (Thank you).
