Best areas to buy apartments in European Istanbul 2026

Basaksehir, Beylikduzu, Esenyurt, Zeytinburnu, Bahcesehir, and Bagcilar top the list of the best areas to buy apartments in European Istanbul, but each area suits a completely different purpose. Some are ideal for families seeking tranquility and modern urban planning, some are suitable for investors looking for a low entry price, and others are perfect for those who want a luxurious feel and a Bosphorus view. In this guide, we take you on a tour of each area individually, to help you make a clear decision that matches your actual goal.

Comparison of the Best Areas to Buy Apartments in European Istanbul

Before getting into the details of each neighborhood, here is a comparative summary to give you a quick overview before going deeper:

Basaksehir

Basaksehir is one of the most sought-after areas in European Istanbul among Arab buyers, thanks to its well-thought-out urban planning, vast green spaces, and diverse social mix. The area includes sub-districts with various price levels, from Kayasehir, which is relatively higher priced, to Ikitelli, which is more affordable.

If you are comparing Basaksehir with its luxurious district Bahcesehir in particular, you can check our dedicated guide comparing Basaksehir and Bahcesehir to understand the exact differences between them before making your decision.

Beylikduzu

Beylikduzu is known for its organized urban planning and long promenade on the Marmara Sea, giving it a calm character similar to the traditional European style. This area is especially suitable for those seeking long-term family stability with reliable infrastructure, although its prices have seen rapid growth in recent years.

For a direct comparison between it and its more economical neighbor Esenyurt, see our comprehensive guide on Beylikduzu and Esenyurt.

Esenyurt

Esenyurt is one of the most densely populated areas in European Istanbul and offers the widest range of relatively low-priced options compared to neighboring areas. However, the quality of infrastructure varies significantly from one sub-district to another within the area, so it is important to carefully choose the neighborhood and project, not just rely on the general area name.

Zeytinburnu

Zeytinburnu is located on the coast of the Marmara Sea and is distinguished by its proximity to the historic areas of old Istanbul, giving it a central character that combines practical living with closeness to the city's main landmarks. This area is suitable for those seeking a balance between centrality and relatively reasonable prices compared to the luxurious Bosphorus areas.

Bahcesehir

Bahcesehir is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in European Istanbul and is famous for hosting the largest artificial lake in Turkey, surrounded by luxurious residential projects and well-organized green spaces. This area is especially suitable for those seeking a high standard of living and exceptional tranquility, with a higher budget compared to its surroundings.

Bagcilar

Bagcilar is characterized by its high commercial activity and population density, making it an area with active and continuous rental demand. This area is particularly suitable for investors seeking stable rental returns rather than residential tranquility or luxury.

How to Choose the Most Suitable Area for You?

• Looking for a balance between good planning and average price? Basaksehir is your first choice.

• Is your priority the lowest possible entry price? Esenyurt gives you this flexibility, provided you choose the neighborhood carefully.

• Want calm family stability and reliable infrastructure? Beylikduzu suits you best.

• Looking for absolute luxury and tranquility? Bahcesehir is your destination.

• Is your goal an active rental return from investment? Bagcilar offers you continuous rental demand.

• Want to be close to the historical center of Istanbul at a reasonable price? Zeytinburnu is the best choice.
  
  

How Does Imtilak Real Estate Help You Choose Your Area in European Istanbul?

Choosing the right area in European Istanbul is not a decision based on a famous name alone, but on accurate knowledge of each neighborhood and its sub-districts. At Imtilak Real Estate, we help you understand the actual differences between each area and guide you to the best apartments for sale in Istanbul currently available in our portfolio, tailored to your budget and specific goal.

Contact us for a free consultation, and let us help you make your next real estate decision in European Istanbul with complete confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Areas to Buy Apartments in European Istanbul

What are the best areas to buy apartments in European Istanbul?

Basaksehir, Beylikduzu, Esenyurt, Zeytinburnu, Bahcesehir, and Bagcilar top the list, and each area suits a different purpose depending on the budget and the reason for purchase.

What is the cheapest area to buy an apartment in European Istanbul?

Esenyurt is among the most economical areas in terms of entry price, but it is necessary to carefully select the sub-district and project due to the varying quality of infrastructure within it.

What is the best area for families in European Istanbul?

Basaksehir and Beylikduzu are especially suitable for families, thanks to their well-planned urban design, vast green spaces, and relative tranquility.

Which area in European Istanbul is suitable for real estate investment?

The answer varies depending on your goal; Bagcilar is suitable for active rental returns, while Basaksehir and Beylikduzu are ideal for stable long-term investment due to their continuous price growth.

Is Bahcesehir part of Basaksehir?

Yes, Bahcesehir is administratively a district of Basaksehir, not an independent area, although its distinctive luxurious character often leads to it being mentioned separately.