Istanbul Stationery Stores Guide – Best Pen Shops & Paper Places

by Galen Leather June 21, 2025

Ah, Istanbul. A city where continents meet, and stories are layered like the domes of its mosques. It’s not just the history, the skyline, or the call to prayer echoing through the alleys that makes it unforgettable—it’s the texture of daily life. And for those of us who love the feel of paper and the scratch of a good nib, Istanbul has a quiet but soulful stationery culture waiting to be explored.

Istanbul has always been a city of stories — and now, we are incredibly happy to welcome you into ours. Galen Leather Galata, our first physical store, opened in November 2025. It’s more than a shop: an experience space filled with leather stationery, writing boxes, pens, inks, wood pieces, and all the little details that make Galen… Galen. You can browse, test inks, smell the leather, and enjoy a quiet corner dedicated to writing. For more information, visit Galen Leather Galata.

Even though we finally have a home in the heart of the city, Istanbul is full of places that every stationery lover should explore. From independent pen shops and calligraphy corners to cozy cafés and cultural stops, this guide highlights the best spots to visit while you’re here — places we personally love and recommend.

✒️ Istanbul Stationery & Pen Shops

Galen Leather Galata – TomTom/Galata

Our new experience store just a short walk from Galata Tower and GalataPort. Filled with our full leather collection, wooden accessories, writing boxes, pen trays, inks, pens, and exclusive items not available online. A warm, boutique-style space designed for browsing, testing, and enjoying the craft behind every piece.
More details are on store page.

Panter Kırtasiye – Taksim

Located right off Istiklal Street, this charming old-school shop carries a solid selection of affordable fountain pens, including Retro 51 and Diamine inks. It’s not fancy, but it has soul—and it’s perfect for spontaneous finds while exploring Taksim.

Panel Kırtasiye – Erenköy

On the Asian side, Panel is where you go when you're looking for something more refined. Their lineup includes Montblanc, Pelikan, Diplomat, and a generous selection of inks. It’s a modern, well-curated shop—and a bit of a hidden gem for luxury pen lovers.

Plumon – Nişantaşı

A small boutique nestled among the stylish streets of Nişantaşı, Plumon leans more into art and lifestyle stationery. Blackwing pencils, Japanese notebooks, and journaling gear are their strengths. Limited fountain pens, but plenty to tempt any stationery addict.

Yeni Zaman Kırtasiye – Sirkeci

A tiny, nostalgic shop that’s all about writing instruments. It may not have notebooks or broad ink lines, but you’ll find solid European brands here at fair prices. We love its old-school charm and the owner’s quiet passion for pens.

Murat Sönmez – Sirkeci

If you're into vintage pens or need a nib tuned, Murat Usta is your guy. His tiny workshop is packed with knowledge and a few hidden treasures under the glass cabinet—just ask. It’s a real experience for anyone who appreciates craftsmanship.

Montblanc Boutique – Nişantaşı

For those wanting to test every nib size and feel every resin body, the official Montblanc store is the place. Friendly staff, elegant setup, and the full collection to explore hands-on.

Montegrappa Store – Beşiktaş

One of the only official Montegrappa boutiques in the world, this shop offers collectible pens in luxurious Italian style. A must-see for enthusiasts and collectors.

Visconti Istanbul – Etiler

An appointment is usually required, but if you can plan ahead, you’ll find a treasure trove of Italian writing beauty. Their team is helpful and passionate—and the location is serene, perfect for a focused pen-choosing session.

Kilk – Üsküdar

The flagship store of Turkey’s own Kilk Pens. Elegant, handcrafted, and deeply personal. Appointments recommended, but always worth the effort. We’re proud to call them friends.

Bonus: Halk Ticarethanesi – Kayseri

One of the oldest stationery stores in Turkey, Halk Ticarethanesi is a dream for lovers of vintage and classic gear. They carry Cleo Skribent, Rohrer & Klingner, and have a rotating stock of vintage pens. A beautiful stop if your travels take you to central Anatolia.

Bonus: Moda Kırtasiye – Ankara

Located in Kızılay, this traditional store mixes pens, notebooks, and even EDC gear. Friendly staff, solid prices, and a warm welcome—just what you want in a local stationery stop.

🕌 Historic Spots Worth Visiting

• Hagia Sophia – Layers of history and faith in one breathtaking structure. Quietly awe-inspiring.
• Topkapı Palace – Walk through the private lives of sultans, complete with calligraphy-covered walls.
• Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar – A sensory overload in the best way. Look up—you’ll spot old signage from Ottoman-era papermakers.
• Süleymaniye Mosque – Serene and dignified, with beautiful views over the Golden Horn. A personal favorite spot to pause with a journal.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Istanbul

• Çiya Sofrası – Kadıköy – A culinary love letter to Anatolia. Every dish feels like a regional postcard.
• Karaköy Lokantası – Karaköy – Simple, refined, and delicious. The tiled walls are almost as beautiful as the food.
• Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi – Comfort food near the tourist core. It’s simple but iconic—and always satisfying.
• Van Kahvaltı Evi – Cihangir – Breakfast here is a slow ritual. Bring your journal and make a morning of it.
• Balat Sahil Restaurant – Balat – Fresh fish and calm waters. A lovely lunch spot to unwind after a morning of exploring.

We hope this guide brings a little inspiration to your Istanbul visit. Whether you're here for the pens, the paper, the views, or the stories—they all belong together. And if you share your adventures, don’t forget to tag us—we’d love to follow along.

Warm wishes from our city to yours,
The Galen Leather Team

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