Coffee may have been discovered in ancient Egypt, but cafe culture has taken root in the Ottoman Empire since the days of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Today, the best cafes in Istanbul are a great way to immerse yourself in centuries-old Turkish cafe culture and enjoy a delicious cup of tea or coffee with some spectacular views.
Whether you want to explore the world of latte art or just relax and take in the beautiful atmosphere, we have you covered with these 15 Best Cafes in Istanbul!
Muz Botanik & Kahve
One of the prettiest cafes in Istanbul, Muz Botanik & Kahve is a must-visit for anyone looking to get a taste of centuries-old Turkish culture. The interiors are adorned with large murals of birds, while the outdoor area offers stunning views of the city.
The menu here is a mix of traditional and modern coffees 15 Best Cafes in Istanbul to Visit (2023), so there's something for everyone. Besides the usual espresso and cappuccino, you can also try their signature Bond coffees brewed using eight different techniques such as AeroPress, Chemex, cold brew and v60 drip methods.
It's a quiet little place that's perfect for relaxing and enjoying a coffee with a view of the historic city. The seating is simple but comfortable and you'll enjoy the scent of Turkish coffee wafting through the air at all times due to the open kitchen.
Harab'be Café
This cafe is a great place for a light meal or just to have a relaxing drink with your friends or family. It is a local favourite and attracts lots of visitors during the day. The seating is a mixture of chairs and tables, and the interior is decorated with antique photos and frames from a bygone era.
If you're visiting the Beyoglu neighbourhood, Harab'be Café is a must-visit for a relaxed lunch or to just have a chat with your friends. It's a bit on the pricey side, but it's worth it for its cozy atmosphere and views of Beyoglu.
Karabatak Kaffee is another popular coffee shop in Istanbul that offers a variety of blends and seating options. The cafe is laid-back and the staff are really friendly. The food is good and the prices are decent for a place this size.
Minoa Café Bookstore
If you are a book lover, then you'll want to visit this bookstore and cafe in Istanbul. Here, you can sip a delicious coffee and indulge in the shelves full of books that will take you on an enchanting journey!
Top of all, the cafe has a gorgeous view of the sea and coastline, making it one of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul. This is a must-visit for anyone interested in reading, and it's also a great spot to catch up with some friends.
Bond Coffee Co
If you're in the mood for flavorful coffees, laid-back charm, and foam latte art, then you'll want to check out this popular coffee house in Istanbul. The quaint store has plenty of natural lighting, and the baristas are super friendly. They serve coffees brewed in eight different ways and have an extensive selection of teas, too.