7 Best Cafés in Istanbul to Take a Break From the Tourist Crowd (+Bonus Spot)
Fact checked by Yaren Coşkun
Embracing new adventures, trying new things, and exploring unfamiliar surroundings may take a lot of coffee breaks to keep your best experience intact. If you’re looking for a good cup of Turkish coffee, a traditional bite-to-eat menu, a homey space to hang out with locals, or simply a moment of serenity in one of these best cafes in Istanbul with views—you’re in for a treat.
Each cafe in the list shares unique establishments that stand out for something special about it. You can enjoy Istanbul’s traditional coffee culture, have breakfast with a view next to the Bosphorus Strait, or even smoke shisha at one of the best rooftop cafes in Istanbul. The visual ambiance and decor of each cafe are distinctive.
Who knows.. maybe you’ll even snag an #Instaworthy photo while exploring the best Turkish coffee shop in Istanbul?
What makes Turkish coffee different?
The way traditional Turkish coffee is prepared affects the way it tastes.
Menengiç coffee (made with beans of the Pistacia terebinthus tree), Dibek (a stone-ground Turkish coffee made by grinding coffee beans), and Mırra (made by roasting beans twice, which gives a slightly bitter taste) are among the most common types of Turkish coffee available.
Browse the list to find out your favorite cafes in Istanbul, Turkey.
1. Kafe Ara (Cafe Ara)
Google Map: Cafe Ara
Those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul can find a perfect reprieve at Kafe Ara, or, depending on the spelling, Ara Kafe. A fitting homage to the famous Turkish photographer, Ara Güler, alias “The Eye of Istanbul,” the cafe itself is adorned with his photographs, capturing life as it was in Turkey not so long ago—a feast for the eyes of photography lovers and anyone else lucky enough to pass through its doors. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling a warm cup of traditional Turkish coffee or tea.
Whether you want to kick back and relax with some coffee and pleasant music or sample some of the delicious Turkish cuisine and unique historical photographs, Cafe Ara has something for everyone. With vegetarian and vegan options and indoor and outdoor seating, you can enjoy your meal regardless of the weather. But don’t forget to save room for a helping of the cafe’s signature dish, Balkan Kofte—a flavor you may not find anywhere else in town that will have you coming back for more!
- Best for photography lovers
- Balkan Kofte (specialty)
- Indoor and outdoor seating options
- No alcohol
2. Dukkan Galata
Google Map: Dükkan Galata
Dukkan Galata is the cafe for you where you’ll get a perfect blend of Turkish and European options to choose from. Located around 100 meters from the Galata Tower, this cafe is ideal to stop by for a fresh and healthy recharge before jumping on the tour again. Brunches are the best here, especially if you go for the Dukkan Breakfast or the Asian Bowl on the menu, along with some Turkish Coffee.
This cafe stands out from many others with its unique inclusivity. From delicious vegan and vegetarian meals to succulent meat dishes, there’s something to satisfy every craving here! It’s not just a great place to take a break and relax; it’s also an ideal spot to get some work done (but with permission).
- Vegan and non-vegan options available
- A modern aesthetics
- Located close to the Galata Tower
3. Ehli Keyf Cafe
Google Map: EHLİ KEYF CAFE
Ehli Keyf Cafe is one of the top-rated cafes in Istanbul for enjoying a traditional Turkish breakfast with coffee prepared in a copper pot or warm tea options. You can also enjoy the atmosphere here with hookah if you want.
Several toast options are available here as well, such as toast with cheese, toast with sausage (or a combination of both), toast with meat, and others. Don’t forget to try menemen: It’s a traditional Turkish dish made of eggs, tomato, and green peppers that you should not miss out on.
- Good for breakfast
- Best Hookahs to relish
- Vegetarian option available
- Indoor and outdoor seating options
- Relaxing vibe
4. Miran Nargile Cafe
Google Map: Miran Nargile Cafe
Great music, a chill vibe, and people unwinding over Nargile set the tone of this cafe located in Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia. The outdoor seating keeps you connected to the outside world while you delve deeper into the flavors of Turkish and Middle Eastern delicacies. Dinner at this cafe is often followed by after-meal tea. If you are coming with your friends, family, and loved ones, Miran Nargile Cafe is a great option to spend some quality time.
- Alcohol served
- Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine
- Apple hookah has some rave reviews
- Outdoor and indoor seating options
5. Kronotrop Cafe
Google Map: Kronotrop Cihangir
One of the oldest third-wave coffee shops, serving since 2012, Kronotrop has about 15 branches in Istanbul, making it a perfect place for a coffee enthusiast around. You can either enjoy your coffee inside the cafe or outside, based on your preference. It offers you a cozy vibe, an amazing cup of coffee, a relaxing atmosphere, skilled baristas, and delicious food.
You can choose from Filter Coffee, Espresso, French Press, Moka Pot, Hario V60, Aeropress, and other Turkish coffee flavors. You can also opt for take-outs and buy coffee powders, machines, and filters.
Coffee rates from Kronotrop might seem a bit more expensive when compared to others. This is because of the quality and taste this cafe has to offer you. Nevertheless, you might enjoy discounts by downloading the cafe’s app.
- Famous for its coffee among remote workers
- Turkish go-to chain restaurant
- Aesthetics meet quality
6. Durbun Cafe
Google Map: Dürbün Cafe
A cafe with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Istanbul, including Topkapı Palace, Maiden’s Tower, Bosphorus, Çırağan Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Galata Tower, Galata Bridge, and Golden Horn.
Outdoor seating with such an incredible view takes the experience to the next level, especially the sunset. The food served here is fresh and delicious. Devouring Turkish and European cuisines paired with some Bitki Çayı (Turkish Herbal Tea) is a great way to calm yourself down to wrap up the day.
- Amazing views from the Cafe
- Good food and excellent service
- Hookah with the views
OUR BEST PICK OVERALL
7. Ağa Kapısı
Google Map: Agha Gate
Ağa Kapısı is a treat for the eye, offering one of the most beautiful views of all. The cafe gives you a breathtaking view of the waterfront and the surrounding city. The aesthetics are classic with wooden and stone bases.
Apart from the Coffee and Tea that most of the cafes offer, you can also have a sherbet (a kind of fruit juice) to unwind and enjoy the vibe. This cafe has multiple floors, and you will find different smoking and non-smoking areas. Considering the food and the view that it offers, Ağa Kapısı offers a reasonable price to its customers. We recommend making a reservation one week prior to get the best place for yourself.
- Classic cobblestone floor and wooden interiors
- Outdoor and Indoor seating options
- Fruit-based “Sherbet” is popular
That’s a wrap! You now know all the best places to relax over a cup of coffee during your trip to Istanbul.
The best cafes in Istanbul listed above are really worth checking out. You’ll find your favorite cup of Turkish coffee, get to know a few friendly locals and escape from the crowds while taking a break at one of these lovely little gems. The prices of these cafes can also vary greatly depending on the time of day and location.
But one thing is for sure: you’ll always get a great cup of coffee at any of these cafes in Istanbul. Thanks to Turkey’s complex culture, you can sit and drink your coffee in both a Middle Eastern and a European environment. Ethnic or modern, the choice is entirely up to you!
DID YOU KNOW: In most public indoor places in Turkey, smoking is prohibited. So, if you smoke, try looking for places (or simply ask locals) where you can smoke outside.
