Istanbul’s Most Beloved Independent Bookstores

In 2025, we’ve compiled a list of Istanbul’s most cherished independent bookstores, capturing the attention of book lovers and the cultural scene alike:

1. Gergedan Kitabevi – Caddebostan
   For about 25 years, this boutique bookstore on Bağdat Avenue has been known for its curated “Books That Don’t Sell Much Elsewhere” section and unique shelf arrangements. It offers a book experience infused with music and is a key stop for events supporting independent bookstores.
2. Don Kişot Sahaf – Kurtuluş
   This second-hand bookstore, stocked with books, CDs, and vinyl records, has quickly won over readers with its cozy atmosphere and literature-focused selection.
3. Frankeştayn Kitabevi – Karaköy / Beyoğlu
   Known as “The Bookstore of the Others,” this book-café features shelves filled with fiction centered on gender and feminism, offering a safe meeting point for readers with its vibrant event calendar.
4. Yeniköy Kitapçısı – Yeniköy
   With a serene sea view and a tranquil reading atmosphere, this neighborhood bookstore is perfect for working with your laptop or discovering carefully selected books from independent publishers. Events can be followed on Instagram.
5. Pandora Kitabevi – Nişantaşı
   A bright, spacious two-story bookstore where you can get lost among new releases and foreign titles. Located on Valikonağı Avenue, it blends seamlessly with Nişantaşı’s dynamic book and culture scene.
6. Patika Kitabevi – Teşvikiye
   Ideal for art and history enthusiasts, this bookstore in Milli Reasürans Çarşısı offers a rich collection of both Turkish and foreign books, featuring selections from unique publishers like Taschen.
7. Robinson Crusoe 389 – Beyoğlu
   Since 1994, this bookstore has been a cornerstone of Istanbul’s literary and art scene. With its book-lined walls, talks, poetry readings, and cinema events, it lives up to its slogan, “Books Along the Walls.”
8. FiLBooks – Karaköy
   A dynamic space offering photography books, magazines, independent publications, coffee, and workshops. It also supports creative projects through mentorship programs.
9. Homer Kitabevi – Beyoğlu
   Specializing in academic archaeology, art, ancient history, and social sciences, this bookstore, with over 30 years of experience, operates like a cultural hub with its “Homer Kids” section and events.
10. Heybeli Sahaf – Heybeliada
    Housed in a 118-year-old wooden mansion, this bookstore offers a nostalgic island experience with ephemera, vinyl records, and vintage posters, appealing to both quiet visitors and island readers.
11. Pestil Books – (various neighborhoods)
    Known for its inspiring selection of art, cinema, and design-focused books, this shop also brings the past to life with second-hand titles.

Apartment No:26 Note

In 2025, Istanbul’s independent bookstores stand out not only for selling books but also for offering cultural gatherings, creative production, aesthetic atmospheres, and a sense of community. They cater to a wide range of interests, from academic pursuits to art and nostalgia.