Best Cafés to Work in Istanbul: Where to hang remotely in İstanbul
Finding balance between work and mental space can be tricky when you live in Istanbul. As a busy expat or freelancer, you’ve probably felt the challenge: constant movement, endless noise, and a fast rhythm that makes it hard to stay focused.
Yet, the city hides its quiet side — cafés where you can open your MacBook, enjoy a great cup of coffee, and feel grounded again.
These are places where productivity meets calm, carefully chosen from my own routine as an English speaking psychologist in Istanbul.
I should mention that most of these recommendations are on the European side, since that’s where I’ve been living and working for quite some time.
Later, I’ll also share a few suggestions from my friend Dersim, an artist and illustrator who has been living and working on the Asian side of Istanbul for years.
Best Cafés to Work in Istanbul: Where to hang remotely in İstanbul
Minoa – Beşiktaş
Hidden in a quiet corner of Akaretler, Minoa combines the spirit of a café, bookstore, and creative workspace. You’ll find English books, unique design objects, and high-quality coffee — a rare mix in the heart of Beşiktaş.
It’s perfect for expats looking for remote working cafés in Istanbul that feel both cultural and calm. There are also branches in Pera and Etiler, each offering the same balance of comfort and inspiration.
Yan Dükkan – Teşvikiye
Tucked away on a charming street in Teşvikiye, Yan Dükkan is small but full of life. It serves breakfast, desserts, and carefully brewed coffee. The atmosphere is calm yet subtly creative — you’ll feel the energy of people working, sketching, and thinking around you.
It’s one of those best cafés to work in Istanbul where productivity flows naturally, especially on quiet weekday mornings.
Cafe 21 – Cihangir
Warm, local, and unpretentious, Cafe 21 captures the essence of Cihangir’s creative neighborhood spirit. If you go before sunset, you can comfortably work on your laptop with a coffee or drink.
After dark, the vibe changes — music gets louder, the lights dim, and the place transforms into a lively bar.
It’s perfect if you’re an Istanbul psychologist or remote worker who enjoys blending focus with a bit of evening energy.
Kahve 9 – Cihangir
In the heart of Cihangir, Kahve 9 is both my neighbor and my favorite. It’s a simple, friendly café where you’ll often see people working quietly on their laptops.
The coffee is consistently good, the staff are warm, and the atmosphere stays relaxed throughout the day.
If you visit before sunset, you’ll catch its calmest hours — ideal for writing, planning sessions, or simply taking a mindful break between clients.