Zeynep from Istanbul

Engineer by degree, HR professional by heart, and artist by soul. I believe life is best lived in layers—some structured, some spontaneous, all meaningful. I’m the founder of ZepArt, a brand born from late-night sketches, street art inspiration, and a love for self-expression. Creativity is my compass, whether I’m curating designs or wandering through Istanbul’s hidden corners. ...
Sep 24, 2025

Homer Kitabevi Istanbul

Independent Bookstore

"What if peace smelled like paper and sounded like a turning page? Homer Kitabevi, 30 years on Istiklal, is a quiet gem worth slowing down for."

What if peace smelled like paper and sounded like a turning page?

I’ve walked past Homer Kitabevi more times than I can count, and somehow, writing about it only happened now — just as it celebrates its 30th year. Nestled quietly off Istiklal Street, this independent bookstore has been part of my Beyoğlu for as long as I can remember. In a neighborhood full of places to explore, Homer is one of those quiet gems that deserves to be noticed. And with this article, I’m happy to join the celebration in my own way.

Step inside and take a slow walk through the shelves. On the ground floor, you’ll find a colorful selection of children’s books—perfect for curious little souls. Climb the wooden staircase, and the second floor is home to Turkish and English literature. Go up one more level, and you’ll discover books on sociology, art, philosophy, cooking, and much more.  It’s the kind of space that slows you down without asking. Suddenly, the rush of İstiklal fades, and you’re just...in it.

One of the most charming surprises sits outside: their “Blind Date with a Book” stand. Each book is wrapped in brown paper, tied with string, and teased with just a few keywords. You won’t know what you’ve chosen until you unwrap it—a playful reminder that reading is all about discovery.

Next time you’re in Beyoğlu, put your phone away, support an independent bookstore, and remind yourself that it’s okay to pause.

002-building
Art & culture
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

About this spot

Yeni Çarşı Caddesi No: 52 Galatasaray, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey

Book:

TL

500

find your way in Istanbul, download our app.

Find your way with 240 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Istanbul guide.

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul

Demeti Cihangir

Dining At The Balcony

Make sure you try the fried aubergines in tomato garlic sauce, zucchini fries, taramasalata, and mom's style fries. All are delicious!

021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 25, 2025

Petra Bebek

Cozy Garden Café

The outdoor area is perfect for warm or hot weather, with a mix of deck chairs, regular tables, and a shared table, all adding to its inviting atmosphere.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing
024-burger-1
Snacks

by

Cemre

Sandal

Sep 23, 2025

The Bench with a poet

A Poetic View of Istanbul

The bench itself, though simple in design, provides a comfortable and inviting place to rest. Sit in silence, read a book, or watch the world go by...

002-building
Art & culture
017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Brasserie Di Dante

Church and mosque unite

When you enter Brasserie di Dante, you're greeted by an outdoor seating area surrounded by plants and trees. Even in cold weather, they have fire heaters.

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Yenikoy Kitapcisi

Book Coffee Affair in Istanbul

What sets Yenikoy Kitapcisi apart is that they proudly showcase lesser-known publishing houses, celebrating diversity & creativity of the literary world.

020-coffee-cup-1
Coffee & tea
017-plant-1
Relaxing
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Çukurcuma Hamamı 1831

Spa day in Istanbul

Çukurcuma Hamam 1831 has a unisex policy, allowing you to enjoy the experience with your partner. As the hamam is not very big, make a reservation.

017-plant-1
Relaxing

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Explore Çukurcuma

Art nouveau at Faik Paşa St.

As you walk from Galatasaray to Karaköy, prepare for a nostalgic journey with a contemporary vibe with cobblestone streets and art nouveau-style buildings.

002-building
Art & culture
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants
026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Nadas Istanbul

Ecology and Art in Istanbul

Nadas Istanbul is a creative space dedicated to urban diversity with the goal of creating a more leisurely, conscious, and empathetic living community.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Isola Cocktail Bar

A stylish escape in Istanbul

Whether for daytime dining or nighttime pleasure, Isola Bomonti promises a Mediterranean-inspired moment that's sure to please...

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
029-guitar-instrument-1
Music
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Çukurcuma 49

Pizza meets rustic vibes

They offer a variety of traditional as well as innovative styles of pizzas, all made with the freshest ingredients and all nineteen of them are delicious!

028-beach-bar-1
Bars
021-spoon-and-fork-1
Restaurants

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Feriköy Antique Bazaar

Vintage day in Istanbul

Here you will find vinyls, old books and magazines, original film posters, collections of old coins, old photos, jewels, and much more...

026-thrift-shop-1
Shopping

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Tütün Deposu

Exhibitions in a tobacco warehouse

Tütün Deposu is a non-commercial, flexible, and independent space that welcomes critical voices in Istanbul's cultural landscape.

002-building
Art & culture

by

Zeynep

Ozortac

Sep 21, 2025

Heading to Istanbul?

240 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

Authentic Stories by Real People

Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌

... for just €9.99

0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters

240 Insider Tips

✓ Escape the Crowds

✓ Find Spots nearby

✓ Authentic Stories

... for just €9.99

City guides by those who know the city in and out!

Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture

Our team loves Istanbul

Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul

As featured on:

New-York-Times
the-guardian
mashable
the-sunday-times
[paywall_activator]
false
0
false
7291
Made with the 💚 of 498 Spotters.
Filters