The Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Istanbul: A Blend of Work, Culture, and Discovery

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern convenience, making it an exciting destination for digital nomads like myself. Here, I'm sharing my personal experiences and insights to help fellow travelers navigate this vibrant city.

Finding the Perfect Accommodation

When you first arrive in Istanbul, your priority should be finding the right place to stay. In fact, you should do this step before you even arrive :) Here's what I looked for:

1) Location: If I am going to stay in the places I go to for a long time, I first stay for 1 week based on comments and recommendations before going. In this 1 week, I experience firsthand the discovery that will decide where I want to stay in the long term. In Istanbul, I recommend you choose a neighborhood that is both central and culturally lively. For example, Beyoğlu and Beşiktaş on the European Side, and Kadıköy on the Anatolian Side would be my first choices due to their lively atmosphere and accessibility.

2) Internet Reliability: As a digital nomad, strong and stable Wi-Fi was a non-negotiable. You need to choose accommodation with high-speed internet. Internet in Istanbul, or rather throughout Türkiye, is still not very good. For this reason, it would be a good idea to ask for a speed test and get comments about it before you go. Of course, I'm saying this for homes and cafes. Good coworking spaces generally have above-average internet service.

3) Comfort and Amenities: A comfortable workspace is very important. You can look for apartments with shared living spaces that provide private workspaces or shared workstations. But if it were me, I wouldn't want to come to Istanbul and work in one place. There are so many places to visit, see, experience and work comfortably while doing these. Sometimes even I am surprised by this abundance.

Istanbul's Culture

Living in Istanbul, you can immerse yourself in its culture. From learning a few phrases in Turkish to enjoying the weekly rituals of Turkish baths, each experience will enrich your stay.

A Blend of Local and Global: Galataport

Galataport is a melting pot of cultures, ideal for networking and enjoying Istanbul's stunning seaside. And it's one of my favorite spots, too. The area boasts an array of restaurants, cafes, and rooftops, offering the perfect setting to experience Turkey's modern flair. As a digital nomad, I find the mix of local and international vibes here both refreshing and inspiring.

1) Networking Opportunities

2) Diverse Dining Experiences

3) Scenic Workspaces

The Scenic Workspace: Bebek

Over in "Bebek", the view is a show-stopper. Imagine working with the Bosphorus in your backdrop, sipping on a $2 large filter coffee from Starbucks. This spot exemplifies the blend of beauty and practicality that Istanbul offers to digital nomads. This is where I experienced working as a digital nomad. I will share your videos on both our YouTube and TikTok accounts soon. I invite you to subscribe and follow now!

Cultural Hotspots: Nişantaşı, Cihangir, Taksim, Beşiktaş

These neighborhoods are the lifeblood of Istanbul's European side, each with its unique charm and character. From trendy cafes to historical sites, they offer a vibrant backdrop for both work and leisure.

1) Trendy Cafes and Workspaces

2) Cultural and Historical Sites

3) Local and International Communities

Must-Visit Touristic Spots

No visit to Istanbul is complete without exploring its iconic landmarks:

1) Hagia Sophia

2) Galata Tower

3) Sultan Ahmet Mosque

4) Topkapi Palace

5) Grand Bazaar

6) Spice Bazaar

These spots provide a profound sense of place and history, enriching your experience as a digital nomad.

The Anatolian Side: Kadıköy

Taking a ferry from Eminönü to "Kadıköy" for just $0.50 is an experience in itself. Feeding seagulls, sipping tea on the boat, and exploring the vibrant streets of Kadıköy are highlights of my time here. The neighborhoods of Moda, Fenerbahçe, and Bağdat Street pulse with energy and creativity, perfect for those seeking inspiration.

1) Moda's Coffee Shops

2) Fenerbahçe's Seaside Charm

3) Bağdat Street's Bustling Life

A Novel Workspace: The Old Ferry Pier

The renovated old ferry pier opposite the Moda "Espresso Lab", now a library and study area, offers a serene environment to work, socialize, or just enjoy a good read with a view. You can also have a really enjoyable time working in this Espresso Lab that I mentioned. Likewise, its video will come to both YouTube and TikTok.

A Culinary Journey Through Istanbul

Trying local delicacies is a must. Here's a list to start with (I deliberately wrote them with their Turkish names so that it would be easier for you to find them):

1) Kebap

2) Lahmacun

3) Köfte

4) Börek

5) Midye Dolma

6) Balık Ekmek

7) Kumpir

8) Islak Hamburger

9) Rakı-Balık with meze

10) Döner

And surprise! I tried most of the dishes on this list for you (of course I loved them!) and shared them with the location information. Please watch and leave your comments!

These dishes offer a taste of Istanbul's rich culinary heritage, an essential part of the digital nomad experience in this city.

Discovering Work-Friendly Spots

Istanbul is dotted with numerous cafes and co-working spaces. Here are my favorites:

1) Co-Working Havens: JUSTWork, Kolektif House, and CoBAC,  stand out for their inspiring environments and community events.

2) Cafés with Character: I can't finish counting them, but I mentioned above the ones that are clearly ahead of me. So, if you want more, the best option is to sit and experience the place you like while traveling.

Balancing Work and Exploration

My strategy for maintaining a healthy work-life balance would be:

1) Morning Routine: Starting early with a visit to the local bazaar or a jog by the Bosphorus.

2) Structured Work Hours: I dedicated specific hours for work, usually during mid-day when the city buzzes with energy.

3) Evening Exploration: Evenings were for savoring Istanbul’s culinary delights and attending cultural events.

Istanbul, with its unique blend of history, modernity, and cultural diversity, is more than just a destination. It's a place where work and leisure intertwine seamlessly. Whether you're here for a short stay or planning to set up your digital nomad base, Istanbul promises an experience filled with discovery, inspiration, and connection.

For more tips and insights on digital nomadism, check out the NomadVibe Instagram account.

And as I always say, until the next post arrivederci folks :)