Best Place to Buy an Apartment in Istanbul: Top Areas for 2026

The best place to buy an apartment in Istanbul depends on your investment goals, but areas like Başakşehir, Küçükçekmece, and Beylikdüzü are among the top choices due to their modern infrastructure, rapid development, and high demand.

Istanbul remains the most vital city in Turkey, attracting foreign investors with its rich history, dynamic lifestyle, and growing real estate market.

As the city expands, several districts stand out for their urban transformation and increasing property value. In this article, we explore the top areas in Istanbul for apartment buyers and real estate investors.

Top High Investment Areas to Buy Apartment in Istanbul

Istanbul consists of 39 districts, 27 them are the actual city.

The Asian side is 14 districts and the European side is the remaining 25 provinces, separated by the Bosphorus Strait.

Each district or municipality of the city has some of its own characteristics.

It is well known that the city of Istanbul meets all the requirements of its population, including the most important tourist attractions and the most important economic activities, and the vital real estate projects, where the beautiful nature, flourishing markets, high-rise buildings, and the most prominent projects in Turkey.

Here we will talk about the most important and famous areas on the two sides of the city, to give you the general perception of these areas, and some of the advantages of residence.

The Most Valuable Investment Areas to Buy Apartments in Istanbul European Side

The European side of the city attracts the largest part of the sale of real estate to those wishing to own an apartment in Istanbul, thus, this part saw a huge urban development in its large parts of its areas, due to the large business activity in this side of the city, in addition to the tourist demand.

The most important areas and real estate activities in the European side:

1. Basaksehir District

The district of Bashakshehir occupies the throne of the most vital areas of the European part of Istanbul city, which consists of 39 (municipal) areas spread between the European and Asian continents on both sides of the city.

The municipality of Basaksehir was established in 2008 after it was separated from the municipality of Kuchukcekmece. It is bordered by Arnaoutkoy from the north, Eyup from the north-east, Sultan Ghazi, and Esenler from the east, Bagchelar, Kuchukcekmece and Avchilar from the south and Esenyurt from the south-west.

One of the city's most sophisticated infrastructure, the area of Basaksehir is a modern one with a modern and extensive structure.

Basaksehir has become one of the most attractive areas for both local and foreign investors, not only because of modern buildings with the highest standards of comfort and well-being but also because of the strong infrastructure, social, cultural, health and educational facilities that have characterized it from all other parts of Turkey. Making it a competitor to many of its European counterparts.

2. Bakirkoy Area

Located on the European side of Istanbul, Bakirkoy is a long stretch of coastline on the Sea of Marmara, which undoubtedly contributes to the moderation of its climate and natural beauty, making it a destination for those wishing to spend the happiest times in its unique pools and facilities.

When natural elements are available like a strategic location, direct sea views, and mild weather, the human hand continues to add to its expert touches. The result is a vital infrastructure with a cohesive infrastructure capable of hosting a variety of activities. This is exactly what has been accomplished in the area of Bakirkoy Istanbul in recent years.

This is evidenced by the area's embrace of unique projects the size of Ataturk International Airport, located in the Yeşilköy district of Turkey's Bakirkoy district.

A landmark in the history of Turkish architecture during the 1980s, it is one of the earliest modern buildings of Turkey and considered the first modern shopping complex in Istanbul. And for those looking for malls in Istanbul, Galleria Atakoy Mall is one of the most important malls in Istanbul. Opened in October 1987, this commercial complex was established at the recommendation of then-Prime Minister Turgut Uzal, who copied the idea from the Houston Galleria complex in Texas.

Located in the Atakoy district of the municipality of Bakirkoy, it has more than 130 diverse stores of international and local brands, as well as restaurants, cafés, cinemas, children's games, and entertainment centers, it also features bowling and skiing.

3. Bahcesehir (The Garden City)

Bahcesehir (or The Garden City), also known as the amazing City, is located at a strategic point northwest of Lake Kucukcekmece. It was first opened by the Collective Housing Department attached to the Turkish Prime Ministry through the construction of a series of leading real estate projects.

Bahcesehir is Located in the heart of Istanbul on the European side of the city, within the borders of Basaksehir Municipality, the site of Bahcesehir and Ispartakule is close to the city's mega project areas, Such as the third Istanbul Bridge project, the third Istanbul Airport project and the Marmara North Highway project linking these two mega-projects, which also affects real estate prices in the area with a unique investment future.

4. Beylikduzu District

Beylikduzu is a beautiful suburb of Istanbul, with its wide streets and green expanses. It meets the latest European standards. It has a clean environment, healthy buildings, excellent medical and educational facilities and social intellectuals. 

Beylikduzu is located in the west of Istanbul, bordered by the region of Avcilar from the east, Esenyurt to the north, and Buyukcekmece to the west, and to the south is the Sea of Marmara, which we all see on the map of Beylikduzu:

About 40 km is the distance between Istanbul city center and the Beylikduzu area.

And many ask: How far is Beylikduzu from Taksim?

In fact, those who live in Beylikduzu apartments will find a variety of tourist, service, social and entertainment facilities, in which there is will be no need to go always to the city center. While when the fresh air of Istanbul takes you for example to Sultan Ahmed and Taksim Square, modern transport networks from the Metrobus to the tramway will quickly take you there, even to highways, but you have to avoid peak hours and congestion!

5. Kucukcekmece Area

The municipality of Kucukcekmece and the Halkali region are witnessing a major acceleration in its real estate growth. It overlooks Lake Kucukcekmece with a fascinating view, which is expected to be booming with the completion of the new canal project.

Its large residential complexes characterize Kucukcekmece and modern real estate projects, built according to innovative technologies, and has become one of the best residential areas in Istanbul. A new destination for quiet and luxurious accommodation, close to the famous Basaksehir district.

Its main shopping centers include the Arena Park Center, the Trandiol Center and the Halkali Center, as well as the important international schools and prestigious educational institutions, such as the University of Sabahattin Zaim.

The area's proximity to the TEM and E5 highways increased its importance ensuring that the region is connected to the rest of Istanbul in a smooth manner.

Related: Best Place to Buy Property in Istanbul

The Top Places to Buy Apartments in Istanbul Asian Side

The Asian side of the city enjoys its charming green nature and its services, with relative calm compared to the European part of the city, providing good opportunities to own apartments for sale in Istanbul Asia.

In the Asian side, luxury accommodation is available in many of its wonderful areas, as well as the spread of important business centers.

One of the most beautiful and beautiful areas in the Asian part of the city is the prestigious area of Uskudar, with the most beautiful waterfront overlooking the Bosphorus, the maiden tower and other historical attractions and magnificent gardens.

One of the most distinctive areas in the Asian part is the Kadikoy district, which is full of restaurants, cafes, residential complexes, and shopping centers.

As well as Baghdad Street, which is one of the finest neighborhoods on the Asian side.

The Asian side of Istanbul attracts tourists looking for a quiet place to stay in an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication, offering an ideal choice for those looking for the best place to buy an apartment in Istanbul.

Best place to buy apartment in Istanbul for foreigners

Foreign buyers often look for areas that offer a mix of modern living, investment potential, and easy access to city amenities. Here are the top districts in Istanbul preferred by international investors:

1. Basaksehir – Offers modern residential complexes, advanced infrastructure, and excellent healthcare and educational institutions. Popular among foreign families and investors.

2. Beylikduzu – Known for its clean environment, spacious urban planning, and European-style living. Ideal for expats seeking comfort and affordability.

3. Kucukcekmece – Located near the future Istanbul Canal project, offering scenic lake views and strong investment potential with growing infrastructure.

4. Bahcesehir – Offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with proximity to mega projects like Istanbul Airport and Northern Marmara Highway. Appeals to those looking for long-term value.

5. Kadikoy (Asian Side) – A vibrant cultural and commercial hub with sea access, shopping centers, and strong transport links. Preferred by foreigners who enjoy city life on the Asian side.

Edited by: Imtilak Real Estate ©