Published 8th January 2025
Istanbul, an ancient megacity bridging Europe and Asia, is rich in history and culture. We’ve curated a list of Istanbul’s best laptop-friendly cafes to help you find the best places to take your laptop and work while soaking up both old-world and new-world Turkish vibes.
Istanbul’s unique blend of old traditions and modern amenities makes it an attractive and popular destination for digital nomads seeking a culturally rich environment to live and remote work.
Why Istanbul Appeals to Digital Nomads
Istanbul’s appeal to digital nomads stems from several factors
Istanbul is a megacity – joining other megacities like London and Moscow, Istanbul offers plenty of everything and very little chance to get bored.
Strategic Location – Straddling two continents, Istanbul offers easy access to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, making it a convenient hub and jumping-off point for digital nomads.
Affordable Living – Compared to Western European cities, Istanbul provides a lower cost of living, allowing digital nomads to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Rich Cultural Heritage – With landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, Istanbul offers a deep dive into history and culture, providing endless exploration opportunities.
Modern Amenities – Istanbul boasts a growing number of co-working spaces and laptop-friendly cafes equipped with reliable Wi-Fi, catering to the needs of a growing number of remote workers and entrepreneurs calling Istanbul home for a while.
Long opening hours – Unlike most cities in the west where cafes tend to close by around 5pm or 6pm, cafes in Istanbul are usually open until late, often past midnight. If you like to or need to work late due to timezone differences, Istanbul is ideal, providing plenty of places to work away happily into the early hours and food and drink at your disposal.
Tea and Coffee Culture in Istanbul
While our guide is more coffee focused we wanted to provide some information about the the Turkish tea culture as well and would highly recommend enjoying the lovely tea shops and tea houses spread around the city.
Istanbul’s tea and coffee culture is deeply ingrained in daily life, offering a unique experience for visitors:
Turkish Tea (Çay) – Served in small, tulip-shaped glasses, Turkish tea is a staple of social interactions. It’s typically strong and consumed without milk, often accompanied by a cube of sugar.
Turkish Coffee: Known for its rich flavour and thick consistency, Turkish coffee is unfiltered and served in small cups. The grounds settle at the bottom, and it’s customary to sip slowly, sometimes followed by fortune-telling using the leftover grounds.
Local Customs: Unlike Western coffee culture, Turkish establishments may not offer a wide variety of milk-based coffee drinks. Additionally, lingering over a single beverage for extended periods, especially in smaller traditional cafes, might be less common than in other global digital nomad destinations.
Tea Culture in Turkey
Tea, or “çay” in Turkish, is deeply embedded in Turkish culture and daily life. Turkey is among the world’s leading tea producers and consumers, with the Black Sea region, particularly Rize province, being the heart of tea cultivation.
Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and social interaction. It’s consumed throughout the day, starting with breakfast and continuing until bedtime. Offering tea to guests is a gesture of goodwill and is integral to Turkish hospitality.
Types of Tea and Establishments common in Istanbul, Turkey
The most commonly consumed tea in Turkey is black tea, traditionally brewed using a double teapot called a “çaydanlık.” This method allows individuals to adjust the strength of their tea by mixing strong tea from the upper pot with hot water from the lower pot. Tea is typically served in small, tulip-shaped glasses known as “ince belli bardak,” which showcase its deep red colour. It’s usually enjoyed without milk, and sugar is optional.
Turkish tea can be enjoyed in various establishments
Tea Houses (Kıraathane) – Traditionally male-dominated spaces where locals gather to drink tea, play games like backgammon, and engage in discussions.
Tea Gardens (Çay Bahçesi) – Open-air venues offering a serene environment to enjoy tea, often surrounded by greenery. These gardens are popular among all demographics and serve as social hubs for relaxation and conversation.
Tea Shops – Retail outlets where various types of tea and related accessories are sold. Some may offer tasting sessions.
Coffee Culture in Istanbul, Turkey
While tea is highly popular, Turkish coffee also holds a significant place in the nation’s cultural heritage.
Introduced in the 16th century, it’s known for its strong flavour and unique preparation method using a “cezve,” a special pot designed for brewing.
The coffee is unfiltered, resulting in a thick consistency with grounds settling at the bottom of the cup.
Turkish coffee is traditionally served in small cups and enjoyed slowly.
An interesting cultural practice can involve fortune-telling, known as “tasseography,” where the patterns of the coffee grounds left in the cup are interpreted.
Map of Istanbul boroughs and districts
A short introduction to the districts and boroughs of Istanbul popular with digital nomads
If you click on the district name in the section below it will take you directly to the laptop-friendly, cafes, coffee shops and tea houses in that district. We have focused our guide on the Istanbul districts most popular with digital nomads.
Laptop-friendly cafes on the European Side of Istanbul
Beyoğlu
Vibe – Trendy, artistic, and bustling.
Key Areas – Taksim, Cihangir, Karaköy, Galata.
Highlights – Beyoğlu is the heart of Istanbul’s cultural and nightlife scene. Cihangir is a bohemian haven with narrow streets, antique shops, and cosy cafes. Karaköy and Galata offer a mix of historical architecture and modern designer cafes.
Şişli
Vibe – Urban, commercial, and modern.
Key Areas – Nişantaşı, Mecidiyeköy, Bomonti.
Highlights – Nişantaşı is an upscale neighbourhood known for designer boutiques, chic cafes, and tree-lined streets. Bomonti is an emerging area with a mix of trendy spots and industrial charm.
Beşiktaş
Vibe – Energetic, youthful, and waterfront.
Key Areas – Ortaköy, Arnavutköy, Akaretler.
Highlights – Beşiktaş is a lively district with a mix of traditional and modern vibes. Ortaköy is famous for its Bosphorus views, while Arnavutköy offers charming Ottoman-era houses.
Fatih
Vibe – Historic, religious, and traditional.
Key Areas – Sultanahmet, Balat, Fener.
Highlights – Sultanahmet is the heart of Istanbul’s history, home to the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Balat and Fener are colourful neighbourhoods with a hipster vibe amidst historical charm.
Sarıyer
Vibe – Leafy, serene, and luxurious.
Key Areas – Emirgan, Tarabya, Rumelihisarı.
Highlights – Situated along the Bosphorus, Sarıyer boasts green spaces like Emirgan Park. Rumelihisarı offers iconic views of the Bosphorus Bridge and castle ruins.
Laptop-friendly cafes on the Asian side of Istanbul
Kadıköy
Vibe – Hip, relaxed, and community-driven.
Key Areas – Moda, Yeldeğirmeni.
Highlights – Known for its artistic and laid-back vibe, Kadıköy is a hub for creatives and young professionals. Moda is a favourite for its seaside promenade and stylish cafes.
Üsküdar
Vibe – Conservative, historical, and tranquil.
Key Areas – Kuzguncuk, Çengelköy.
Highlights – Üsküdar offers a more traditional Istanbul experience with stunning mosques and serene waterfront views. Kuzguncuk is a picturesque neighbourhood with a village-like atmosphere.
Ataşehir
Vibe – Modern, business-oriented, and residential.
Highlights – A fast-growing area with skyscrapers, malls, and a suburban feel.
Beykoz
Vibe – Natural, scenic, and exclusive.
Highlights – Located on the northern part of the Asian side, Beykoz is known for its lush forests and upscale villas.
Check out our list of the best laptop-friendly work cafes & coffee shops with free wifi in Istanbul below
We’ve curated a collection of the best laptop-friendly work cafes and coffee shops in Istanbul, Turkey where you can rock up with your laptop and get some work done while enjoying the famously warm and friendly Turkish hospitality. To learn more about Istanbul as a digital nomad destination you can view our guide here.
If you have any suggestions for laptop-friendly cafes and coffee shops to work in Istanbul do let us know in the comments section or you can submit a personal review of your favourite laptop-friendly work cafe in Istanbul as well as other cities around the world.
BEYOĞLU, EUROPEAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL
SALT GALATA, BEYOĞLU, ISTANBUL
Arap Cami, Bankalar Cd. No:11, 34420 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
SALT Galata, located in Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, is a multifaceted cultural venue housed in a historic former bank building with free entrance.
SALT Galata combines a library, art gallery, and café, making it an interesting and unusual remote work spot for digital nomads.
The serene atmosphere of the library provides a calm and cultured environment in which to do focused work or study.
Visitors can access free Wi-Fi, although some digital nomads have reported occasional connectivity issues, particularly with certain devices. Please note that you will need a local Turkish number to have the wifi password sent to you. If you don’t have a local number, perhaps a hotspot from your mobile will do the trick for a while.
A limited amount of power outlets are available, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot next to an outlet.
SALT Galata operates from 11 am to 7 pm everyday except Sunday when it closes at 6 pm. SALT Galata is closed on Mondays.
If you are a person who likes to work late or needs to work late due to time zones, you’ll find cafes in Istanbul that are even open until 2 am!
SALT Galata’s interior design is really noteworthy, with many visitors appreciating its highly Instagramable aesthetics.
The top floor houses a classy bar and restaurant, offering a small selection of food and beverage options.
However, the café’s menu is somewhat limited, focusing primarily on coffee and light snacks. Typically the kind of menu you’ll find in a museum cafe for instance.
SALT Galata offers a unique and inspiring remote work environment and is an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet workspace amidst Istanbul’s otherwise vibrant atmosphere.
Have you worked from SALT Galata? Let us know your experiences in the comments.
FEDERAL GALATA, BEYOĞLU, ISTANBUL
Şahkulu, Küçük Hendek Cd. No:7, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
Federal Galata is a popular laptop-friendly cafe close to Istanbul’s iconic Galata Tower. Federal Galata café with its exposed brick walls and modern industrial décor creates an inviting environment for digital nomads looking for a cool place to work.
Federal Galata’s menu features a variety of breakfast options, including fluffy omelettes, Turkish breakfasts, and croissants, alongside quality coffee selections.
Visitors to Federal Galata frequently praise the friendly staff and the café’s commitment to providing a comfortable working environment. However, some note that the music can sometimes get a bit loud, which might be distracting during work.
Overall, Federal Galata combines a pleasant ambience, reliable internet, power outlets and a decent menu, making it a solid choice for those seeking a laptop-friendly café in the Galata neighbourhood of Istanbul.
Federal Galata is open every day from 8 am to 11pm
Have you been to Federal Galata? Let us know your experiences in the comments
TURKISH-GERMAN BOOKSTORE & CAFE, BEYOĞLU, ISTANBUL
Şahkulu, İstiklal Cd. No:237, 34431 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Türkiye
The Turkish-German Bookstore & Cafe (Türk Alman Kitabevi & Cafe) in Beyoğlu, Istanbul is a solid choice for digital nomads looking for a nice place to work on their laptops, study or just read for a while.
The Turkish-German Bookstore & Cafe is set over two floors and offers ample seating options and places to remote work from. You’ll also find plenty of power outlets scattered around which is always great to have.
Also, if you love books, hot wine, German pretzels and cakes you will be in the perfect spot!
We would highly recommend Turkish-German Bookstore & Cafe if you are in the Beyoğlu neighbourhood and looking for a laptop-friendly cafe to work from.
Opening hours are daily from 7 am to 10.30 pm.
If you have been to Turkish-German Bookstore & Cafe and have any personal thoughts or recommendations please do share them in the comments section.
KADIKÖY, ASIAN SIDE OF ISTANBUL
ESPRESSOLAB KADIKÖY, CAFERAĞA ISTANBUL
Caferağa, Muvakkıthane Cd. No:7, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Espressolab Kadiköy a coffee shop chain outlet in the Caferağa district of Kadiköy Istanbul is a highly recommended laptop-friendly cafe close to Kadiköy metro station.
Espressolab Kadiköy is set over several floors with the second and third floors being ideal to set up a work space for a longer period of time and plenty of power outlets to keep your laptop charged.
There is a small roof terrace and also an outside space in the rear for those lovely days when you would like to sit al fresco
It’s also worth noting that Espressolab Kadiköy has an elevator in case you have issues climbing stairs.
Espressolab Kadiköy is a great option if you are looking for a laptop-friendly coffee shop with power outlets and comfortable seating in the Kadiköy area.
The interior design is clean, zen and modern making it a nice space to work from.
You should note that Espressolab Kadiköy does get busy due to its popularity and location and mornings tend to be better times to visit and find a space to work.
Prices are above average, however bearing in mind the availability of working desks, power outlets and wifi plus good coffee it’s maybe justified.
Espressolab Kadiköy has long opening hours, 7 am – 12.30 am every day except Friday and Saturday where they stay open until 1.30 am.
Have you worked from Espressolab Kadiköy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
WALTER'S COFFEE ROASTERY, KADIKÖY, ISTANBUL
Caferağa, Bademaltı Sk. No:21, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Walter’s Coffee Roastery on the Asian side of Istanbul in the Kadıköy neighbourhood is a must-visit laptop-friendly coffee shop if you are a fan of the TV show Breaking Bad or all things chemistry.
Walters Coffee Roastery features decor inspired by the popular TV show, including periodic table elements and staff dressed in yellow lab suits, creating a distinctive atmosphere that appeals to fans and visitors alike.
Walter’s Coffee Roastery claims to be the first coffee laboratory in Istanbul specialising in fresh roasted coffee and a passion for coffee and its chemistry
There are power outlets, plenty of seating and free wifi making Walters Coffee Roastery a popular remote work cafe for digital nomads.
Walter’s Coffee Roastery is open daily from 10 am until 11 pm.
If you are on the Asian side in the Kadıköy area of Istanbul and looking for a cool laptop-friendly coffee shop to work from for a few hours you should give Walter’s a try
Have you been to Walter’s Coffee Roasters? If you have any personal experiences please feel free to share them in the comments
TASARIM BOOKSHOP & CAFE, KADIKÖY, ISTANBU
Osmanağa, Nevzemin Sk. 6/A, 34714 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe in Kadıköy, Istanbul, offers a stylish work environment, ideal for digital nomads looking for an inspiring place to work on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe seamlessly blends a bookstore, café, and workspace in one, making it a great remote work spot for digital nomads.
It’s clear that much thought went into interior design and architecture and should appeal to digital nomads seeking nice aesthetics.
While not as quiet as a library, Tasarim Bookshop & Cafe might be a little quieter than other cafes in the area.
There is usually music playing in the background but fortunately not too loud so as to disrupt your workflow.
Saying this, the space is popular and can get lively at times so those seeking absolute quiet might find it less suitable during peak hours.
Power outlets are available, ensuring devices remain charged during work sessions. Again, best to arrive early to find a good working space and an outlet close by.
The menu features quality coffee and delectable brownies, with prices slightly below the local average.
For instance, an Americano is priced at 15 TL. The friendly staff and unique interior, adorned with 1970s relics, enhance the overall working experience.
Have you been to Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments
TASARIM BOOKSHOP & CAFE, KADIKÖY, ISTANBU
Osmanağa, Nevzemin Sk. 6/A, 34714 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe in Kadıköy, Istanbul, offers a stylish work environment, ideal for digital nomads looking for an inspiring place to work on the Asian side of Istanbul.
Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe seamlessly blends a bookstore, café, and workspace in one, making it a great remote work spot for digital nomads.
It’s clear that much thought went into interior design and architecture and should appeal to digital nomads seeking nice aesthetics.
While not as quiet as a library, Tasarim Bookshop & Cafe might be a little quieter than other cafes in the area.
There is usually music playing in the background but fortunately not too loud so as to disrupt your workflow.
Saying this, the space is popular and can get lively at times so those seeking absolute quiet might find it less suitable during peak hours.
Power outlets are available, ensuring devices remain charged during work sessions. Again, best to arrive early to find a good working space and an outlet close by.
The menu features quality coffee and delectable brownies, with prices slightly below the local average.
For instance, an Americano is priced at 15 TL. The friendly staff and unique interior, adorned with 1970s relics, enhance the overall working experience.
Have you been to Tasarım Bookshop & Cafe? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments
BOOKS & COFFEE YELDEĞIRMENI, KADIKÖY, ISTANBUL
Rasimpaşa, Karakolhane Cd. No: 38, 34716 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
Books & Coffee located in the Yeldeğirmeni district of Kadıköy, Istanbul, offers a calm and cosy environment for digital nomads and entrepreneurs seeking a laptop-friendly café to work from, especially if you are a book lover.
Books & Coffee has both indoor and outdoor seating and features a wood fire stove inside, ideal for finding a warm and cosy work spot during the winter.
The decor isn’t perhaps as cool or hip as Tasasim Bookshop & Coffee but nice enough to spend some time working surrounded by books.
The staff are super friendly and the prices are affordable compared to other cafes in the area.
Have you been to Books & Coffee in Yeldeğirmeni ? Let us know your experiences in the comments
IDEA KADIKÖY, CAFERAĞA, KADIKÖY, ISTANBU
Caferağa, Küçükmoda Burnu Sk Kadıköy Bld. Sosyal Tesisleri No:4, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Türkiye
IDEA Kadıköy is a municipally owned and funded “public space” in the Caferağa district of Kadıköy on Istanbul’s Asia side popular with locals and digital nomads in the city.
IDEA Kadıköy has a self-service cafe where the prices are quite reasonable and a lovely outdoor terrace area with great views to the sea.
Inside IDEA, there is a “co-working” area with tables to work or study and as an extra bonus offers beautiful views to the water.
While IDEA Kadıköy is maybe not the coolest or hippest spots in Istanbul to work from it is a great place if you are looking to work for a while in comfort and without disturbance with relatively low prices for food and beverages (including alcohol)
It is worth noting that IDEA Kadıköy is popular and does get quite busy, so best to get there early or go during less busy times to snag a nice place to sit and work.
IDEA Kadıköy is open daily from 9 am until 9 pm
Have you been to IDEA Kadıköy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
