Best Areas to Live in Istanbul

Istanbul is a unique city with an ancient history and unique color. About 15 million people live here, there is a large flow of tourists at different times of the year. The metropolis is constantly developing, new areas appear every year. Therefore, buying an apartment or apartments in the city is always a good idea and a profitable investment. We offer an overview of Istanbul areas that are suitable for living.

What are the differences between Istanbul's districts: what do you need to know?

Istanbul is a wonderful city not only for recreation but also for work. Investors consider it an excellent option for investment in real estate and tourism. Natural beauty, a large flow of tourists, modern comfortable hotels, companies, and many shopping centers are the secrets that make Istanbul attractive to investors. Since 1998, Istanbul has been divided into districts. There are 39 of them: 25 in the European part of the city, 14 in the Asian part. It is important to consider that the city is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, so it has a heterogeneous structure and a very diverse population. But, without a doubt, everyone will find a place for themselves here according to their needs: both those who love peace and quiet and those who cannot imagine life without the bustle of the city. According to investors, the city has a high standard of living, developed social infrastructure, and excellent conditions for doing business. In addition, it attracts with its architecture, history, unique geographical location, and authentic atmosphere.

What does the Istanbul map with districts look like?

It is often difficult for a novice tourist to navigate the area, and a map will help with this. The fact is that there are official city districts (administratively designated), as well as tourist and historical ones. Often these names simply overlap. And some districts of Istanbul may not be marked on the map, so a map will help out in different situations.

The best areas of the European part of Istanbul

The European part of the city is characterized by crazy competition between areas for buying apartments. Sales are growing, and this has a positive effect on investors' profits. This is especially true for coastal areas. In particular, the most popular European areas of Istanbul are:

• Attack.

Luxurious modern hotels are the highlight of this area. The area overlooks the Sea of Marmara, has good infrastructure and many green spaces. Therefore, it is a great place to buy an apartment. In addition, there are many new buildings and seaside restaurants.

• Basin Express.

An area that attracts investors from different countries. There are dozens of modern residential complexes, hotels, shopping and entertainment centers. And the secret of investment attractiveness is that the area is located at the intersection of roads between Ataturk Airport and the new Istanbul Airport.

• Halkali.

Many investors choose this area. And for good reason: it offers a magnificent view of the lake. Innovative technologies are used in construction, so the housing is modern, convenient and very comfortable.

• Kagythane.

One of the most prestigious central areas, constantly developing. Real estate can be purchased cheaper than in other areas. Here you can choose a cozy apartment that is suitable for a family, meeting the requirements for quality and standards of luxury real estate in Istanbul.

• Beylikduzu.

Do you dream of an apartment with a sea view? Choose housing in the Beylikduzu area. The area is characterized by a long coastline of the Sea of Marmara, there are various historical attractions. This attracts real estate buyers from other countries.

The most interesting areas of Istanbul

• Beyoglu – you can feel like a local and be in the center of events. Here you can visit the hotel where Agatha Christie herself lived, take a photo near the Galata Tower. You can walk endlessly on the pedestrian Istiklal Street.
• Cihangir is a cute and prestigious area with narrow streets that will not leave anyone indifferent. Quiet streets, neat lawns, modern architecture – all in the best traditions of European neighborhoods.

Historical areas of Istanbul

• Sultanahmet. Almost every building here is a landmark: Topkapi, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Constantinople Hippodrome and much more. The stunning embankment with a beautiful view of the Bosphorus will be remembered for a long time.
• Besiktas. A wealthy area with modern apartments. Dolmabahce Palace and Ciragan, Yildiz Park are located here. You will find local souvenirs and leather goods at Besiktas Bazaar.

The most beautiful areas of Istanbul

• Taksim. The heart of the modern city. On Taksim Square and Istiklal Avenue you will find shops, galleries, restaurants. In this area the past and the future intersect.
• Nisantasi (translated as "Target Stone"). Sultans once practiced their archery here. The real elite lives in a place of luxury and history.
• Karakoy is a district where art comes alive in street galleries and avant-garde exhibitions. The pedestrian walkway to Galataport is a highlight of the area.

Shopping areas of Istanbul

• Osmanbey specializes in textile products. Finding clothes, shoes or toys here is not difficult.
• Zeytinburnu. In this area, they can make a custom coat in 2-3 days. Keep in mind that it is located far from the center. It is easy to find finished products in the Olivium outlet.

What makes the Asian districts of Istanbul special?

The Asian side of the city is characterized by a calm atmosphere. The best areas of the Asian side of Istanbul:

• Uskudar.

The transportation network, modern technology in public facilities and parks, quality hospitals and an international airport make the Asian segment the best place to invest in real estate in Istanbul.

• Maltepe.

A quiet area with a long history dating back to the Byzantine Empire. It became popular a few years ago. It is home to educated intellectuals. Its convenient location provides access to all modern services and amenities, as well as to coastal resorts.

• Sariyer.

A young but promising area, often chosen by wealthy foreigners. There are business centers and entertainment venues here, and the windows of the residences offer views of the Bosphorus. This area is known for its elite real estate: there are many houses and villas here, the cost of which can exceed $1 million.

Top Istanbul Neighborhoods for Families

Developed social infrastructure (schools, hospitals, kindergartens, playgrounds, shopping centers) and safety are key criteria when choosing a residential area for families with children. So, which are the best areas in Istanbul that meet these criteria?

• Basaksehir.

This is one of the quietest areas in the European part of Istanbul. A cozy area with many green areas and places for family walks. In recent years, modern residential complexes with a wide range of amenities have been built here. Experts call the area one of the most prestigious for family living. Nearby is a large lake, various establishments and places for work, study, and recreation. Due to high demand, apartment prices are constantly rising.

• Buyukcekmece.

Like other good areas of Istanbul, Buyukcekmece is considered one of the best areas for families to live. A comfortable and safe area with well-developed social infrastructure. Apartments in large residential complexes are especially popular. And apartments in this microdistrict are distinguished by their spacious interiors and modern layout.

• Ataşehir.

Luxurious skyscrapers and active everyday life. Housing and living standards meet modern standards. There is everything you need for life: supermarkets, shopping centers, hospitals, educational institutions. In addition to the developed housing sector, this part of the city is considered the center of science, culture and art.

Dangerous for life: bad areas of Istanbul

In addition to comfortable and safe areas, there are also areas in Istanbul where you definitely should not choose housing, in particular, these are dangerous areas of Istanbul, including:

• Tarlabashi.

This is a quarter in the city center, where there are many abandoned and even destroyed houses, some streets have no lighting. Poor immigrants live here, there is a high level of crime and unemployment. In this area, Istanbul opens up from a completely different side, and certainly not the best one. There are many street thieves, homeless people, hooligans. This quarter is included in the list of criminal areas of Istanbul.

• Sultangazi.

This is a district of Istanbul where Syrian Kurds, Roma, and Albanian immigrants live. The area is considered disadvantaged.

• Bagcilar.

There are a lot of people living in this residential area, so it can only be considered for temporary residence.

• Gaziosmanpasa.

A residential area with chaotic development. A large number of gypsies, immigrants from other countries, live here.

Istanbul's Main Attractions by District

Sultanahmet is a godsend for tourists who love cultural recreation and learning something new. This area of Istanbul, located on the shores of the Sea of Marmara, is the most visited. There are historical monuments, original architectural ensembles, large museum complexes, the Hagia Sophia, ancient palaces, fountains with gardens. Modern hotels and apartments offer incredible views of the city and its charms. In addition to expensive hotels, you can book inexpensive hostels. After all, living in the Sultanahmet area is not cheap. If you are planning to buy real estate in Turkey, contact professionals. Deniz Estate agency specialists will help you choose the best area to live and choose an apartment or house according to your needs, wishes and budget. This approach will not only save time and effort, but also help you avoid troubles. Trust your search to specialists with many years of experience, and the result will pleasantly surprise you!