I was reading The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen but half way through reading it, during a trip to the Black Sea mountain-tops, I lost it. Coming back to Istanbul, I had to buy a new copy. I was sad but finding it was easy. Not cheap but fairly easy.
Istanbul is a city that has been attracting travelers for centuries with its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. For book lovers, Istanbul is also a treasure trove of bookshops that offer a vast selection of books in different languages, covering various topics from history and art to literature and poetry. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 bookshops in Istanbul that foreign travelers should visit.
Pandora Kitabevi
Located in the vibrant and trendy neighborhood of Kadikoy, Pandora Kitabevi is a must-visit bookshop for anyone who loves literature. The shop has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and offers a vast selection of books in different languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish. In addition to books, the shop also sells journals, art supplies, and handmade paper products.
Website: https://pandora.com.tr/
Address: Caferaga Mahallesi, Sakiz Sokak No:17, Kadikoy, Istanbul
Robinson Crusoe 389
Named after the famous novel by Daniel Defoe, Robinson Crusoe 389 is a charming bookshop located in the heart of Istanbul’s historical district, Beyoglu. The shop offers a vast selection of books in different languages, including English, French, and German. Robinson Crusoe 389 also hosts literary events, book launches, and poetry readings.
Website: https://robinsoncrusoe389.com/
Address: Asmalimescit Mahallesi, Sofyali Sokak No: 28, Beyoglu, Istanbul
Homer Kitabevi
Homer Kitabevi is another fantastic bookshop located in Beyoglu, Istanbul. The shop offers a vast selection of books in different languages, including English, French, and German, covering various topics such as history, philosophy, and literature. Homer Kitabevi also has a cozy reading corner where visitors can sit and read their favorite books while enjoying a cup of Turkish tea.
Website: https://www.homerkitabevi.com/
Address: Mesrutiyet Caddesi No:62/B, Beyoglu, Istanbul
Minoa Kitap
Minoa Kitap is a unique bookshop located in Istanbul’s historic district of Sultanahmet. The shop specializes in books on archaeology, history, and art, making it a favorite among history buffs and art enthusiasts. Minoa Kitap also has a selection of books on Istanbul’s history and architecture, making it an excellent place for visitors who want to learn more about the city.
Website: http://www.minoakitap.com/
Address: Binbirdirek Mahallesi, Klodfarer Caddesi, Salkim Sogut Sokak No:4/1, Sultanahmet, Istanbul
Alman Kitabevi
Alman Kitabevi is a German bookshop located in Istanbul’s historic district of Beyoglu. The shop offers a vast selection of books in German, including literature, history, philosophy, and language learning materials. Alman Kitabevi also has a cafe section where visitors can enjoy German-inspired baked goods while browsing through the books or chatting with friends. The cafe section also hosts cultural events, making it a great hangout spot for locals and travelers alike.
Alman Kitabevi is not only a bookshop but also a cafe, making it a great place to spend a lazy afternoon or an evening with friends. The cafe section has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere and offers a variety of German-inspired baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and pastries. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while browsing through the books or chatting with friends. The cafe section also hosts events, such as live music and art exhibitions, making it a popular hangout spot for locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to buy books or simply want to relax with a cup of coffee, Alman Kitabevi’s cafe section is a great place to do both.
Website: https://www.alman-kitabevi.com/
Address: Istiklal Caddesi, Balyoz Sokak No:2, Beyoglu, Istanbul
In conclusion, Istanbul is a paradise for book lovers, and the city’s bookshops offer a vast selection of books in different languages, covering various topics. Whether you’re interested in literature, history, or art, some of the best bookshops listed above are must-visit places for foreign travelers who want to explore Istanbul’s literary scene.
I highly recommend The Sympathizer by the way 🙂