The Best Record Stores in Istanbul
For those who prefer the unadulterated sound of the LP record, Istanbul has more than enough record stores. Check out these nostalgic shops with an array of records to browse and buy.
Analog Kültür
You’ll find a superb collection of Turkish and international second-hand LPs here, including rare items. Analog Kültür is a basement shop run by vinyl lover DJ Kaan Düzarat. His deep knowledge and love of Turkish music’s history is very apparent, and a visit here is like a comprehensive lesson in all the necessary classics. The shop invites artists to use the recording studio at the back, where events and workshops are also hosted, plus audio equipment and instruments are traded.
Lale Plak
One of Istanbul’s oldest record stores can be found on Galip Dede Caddesi, a street known for its musical instrument shops. You’ll find almost everything you’re looking for here, from ’70s Turkish vintage rock to jazz classics and rock heroes.
Şahkulu Mahallesi, Galip Dede Cd. No:1, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey +90 212 293 77 39
Zihni Müzik
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Zihni is inside the Akmar Pasajı, where students go to browse academic books. In the basement you’ll find one of the biggest LP collections in the city, which means you can spend a few hours here looking through thousands of records.
Caferağa Mahallesi, Mühürdar Cad. Akmar Pasajı No:70 D:13, Caferağa, 34710 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey +90 216 336 50 09
Deform Müzik
Owned by DJ duo Deform-E, this record shop has a great selection of ’50s and ’60s soul and funk, as well as rock and Turkish icons. The tiny store that is Deform also hosts small performances by artists who you’ll never see on the stage anywhere. The street outside becomes crowded with people enjoying some live music.
Kuloğlu Mh., Turnacıbaşı Cd. No:45, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey +90 212 245 33 37
Mono Plak
You’ll find this record shop in the neighborhood of Çukurcuma, which is famous for its antique shops. Mono focuses on folk, rock, and jazz music, as well as iconic vintage Turkish music. The wide selection ranges from Aretha Franklin to Black Sabbath to Zafer Dilek.
Vintage Records
Another excellent record shop on the Asian side, Vintage Records is one of the newer additions to the city’s music shop culture, but has already made a name for itself with a great collection. You’ll find many LPs of Turkish pop and rock from the ’60s and ’70s, as well as musical equipment.
Kontraplak
If you’re on the lookout for more obscure titles, Kontraplak is the place to go. It’s preferred by the underground crowd, and has a wide musical spectrum that includes everything from acid to techno to jazz. The record player is also a nice addition for those who’d like to listen to their music before they decide to buy.
Tomtom Mah., Yeni Çarşı Cad., Galatasaray Lisesi Yanı 60/A, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey +90 212 243 86 80
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.