Which side of Istanbul is better to buy an apartment — European or Asian?
Istanbul, the only city in the world that spans two continents, is a fascinating blend of cultures, lifestyles, and investment opportunities. The Bosphorus Strait divides the city into two distinct sides: the European side and the Asian (Anatolian) side. Each offers unique advantages and characteristics for those considering buying an apartment. But which side is better for you as a homeowner or investor? Let’s take a deep dive into the differences, pros, and cons.
European Side
The European side is where Istanbul’s historical heart beats. Districts like Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Beyoğlu offer a vibrant city life with shopping streets, art galleries, and entertainment hubs. This side is also home to business centers such as Levent and Maslak, making it ideal for professionals who want quick access to corporate offices. The pace of life is generally faster, and the population is denser.
European Side
The European side traditionally has higher property prices in prime locations like Nişantaşı, Etiler, and Bebek. However, emerging districts such as Beylikdüzü, Esenyurt, and Başakşehir offer more affordable options with strong rental yields. Thanks to its high demand from both locals and foreign investors, the European side tends to appreciate faster in value.
Asian Side
Property prices on the Asian side are generally more affordable for similar quality compared to the European side. Areas like Ataşehir, with its growing business district, and Pendik, with proximity to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, have shown strong appreciation in recent years. The Asian side often provides better value for money, especially for those seeking larger apartments at lower prices.
European Side
The European side benefits from a dense public transport network, including Metrobus, metro lines, trams, and ferry connections. Istanbul Airport (IST), one of the largest in the world, is located on this side. However, heavy traffic is a common issue, especially during rush hours.
Asian Side
The Asian side is well-connected with ferries, Marmaray (underground rail), and expanding metro lines. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) serves this side, catering to domestic and some international flights. Traffic tends to be slightly lighter, though commuting to the European side for work can take time.
European Side
Most foreign buyers prefer the European side due to its historical landmarks, lively neighborhoods, and central business hubs. Areas like Taksim, Fatih, and Beyoğlu are especially popular for short-term rental investments.
Asian Side
The Asian side attracts foreign buyers who prioritize a peaceful lifestyle over nightlife and tourism hotspots. Kadıköy, with its artistic vibe, and Çamlıca, with its panoramic Bosphorus views, are particularly appealing to expats seeking long-term stays.
Buying a house on the European side of Istanbul offers a blend of cosmopolitan living, rich history, and strong investment potential. This side is home to the city’s most iconic landmarks from the majestic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque to the bustling Grand Bazaar as well as vibrant modern districts like Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Beyoğlu. The European side is also the heart of Istanbul’s business and financial centers, with areas such as Levent, Maslak, and Bomonti attracting professionals and multinational companies. For investors, it presents some of the city’s highest rental yields, especially in central and touristic zones where short-term rentals are in high demand.
While upscale neighborhoods like Nisantası, Etiler, and Bebek offer luxury waterfront living with Bosphorus views, emerging districts such as Beylikduzu, Basaksehir, and Esenyurt provide more affordable options with promising appreciation rates. Accessibility is another advantage, with extensive public transportation networks, metro lines, Metrobus routes, and ferry connections, along with the convenience of Istanbul Airport one of the largest in the world. Whether for lifestyle or investment, the European side’s mix of culture, commerce, and connectivity makes it a top choice for both local and foreign buyers seeking to be at the center of Istanbul’s dynamic energy.
Buying a home on the Asian side of Istanbul appeals to those seeking a calmer, greener, and more community-oriented lifestyle while still enjoying the vibrancy of city life. Known for its cleaner air, lower population density, and relaxed pace, this side offers an abundance of parks, coastal promenades, and family friendly neighborhoods. Areas like Kadıköy combine a lively arts and café culture with easy ferry access to the European side, while Üsküdar offers a more traditional charm with its historic mosques, seaside views, and quiet streets. The rapidly developing district of Ataşehir has emerged as a modern financial hub with high-rise residences, shopping centers, and strong transport links, making it a magnet for professionals.
Compared to the European side, property prices here often deliver more spacious apartments or houses for the same budget, making it attractive for families and long term residents. Accessibility is steadily improving through expanding metro lines, the Marmaray undersea rail connection, and proximity to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, which is ideal for frequent domestic and regional travelers. With a balance of modern conveniences, cultural richness, and a slower pace of life, the Asian side is an excellent choice for buyers who value comfort, community, and a more tranquil urban experience without sacrificing access to the heart of Istanbul.
Choosing between Anatolia (Asian side) and Europe (European side) to live in Istanbul ultimately comes down to lifestyle priorities, daily commute needs, and personal preferences. The European side offers a faster pace, denser urban development, and proximity to the city’s historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and major business hubs. It’s ideal for those who thrive in a vibrant, metropolitan environment with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options at their doorstep. In contrast, the Anatolian side is known for its calmer atmosphere, wider green spaces, and a more residential feel, making it a favorite among families, retirees, and those who prefer a less crowded, more community-oriented setting.
While the European side provides quicker access to global business districts and international tourism areas, the Anatolian side offers larger living spaces for the same budget and cleaner, less hectic surroundings. With modern transport links like the Marmaray, metro expansions, and ferry lines bridging both sides, living on one side doesn’t mean losing access to the other but your day to day experience will be shaped by the unique character of the side you call home.
When it comes to real estate investment in Istanbul, both the European and Anatolian sides offer strong opportunities, but they cater to different investor profiles and strategies. The European side is generally considered the epicenter of high-demand property markets, especially in districts close to business hubs, historic landmarks, and touristic zones. Central areas like Şişli, Beşiktaş, and Fatih deliver consistent rental demand, while emerging districts such as Beylikdüzü, Esenyurt, and Başakşehir have been attracting investors with more affordable entry prices and strong appreciation potential. This side also draws significant foreign interest, driving up property values in certain neighborhoods.
The Anatolian side, on the other hand, offers a more stable, long-term investment environment, with growing commercial areas like Ataşehir and Maltepe seeing steady demand from both professionals and families. Properties here often provide better value per square meter, larger living spaces, and a lower vacancy risk, making them attractive for buy-to-let investors targeting long-term tenants. With ongoing infrastructure projects — including new metro lines and transport links — the Anatolian side is steadily increasing in value, while the European side continues to deliver faster capital growth in prime and redevelopment zones. The best choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize quick appreciation and short-term returns (European side) or steady rental income with long-term growth potential (Anatolian side).
When comparing rental yields between the European and Anatolian (Asian) sides of Istanbul, the differences are shaped by location, property type, and tenant demand. The European side generally offers higher gross yields, especially in developing districts such as Beylikdüzü, Esenyurt, and Başakşehir, where entry prices are lower but rental demand remains strong. In these areas, yields can range from 9% to over 11%, making them attractive for investors seeking quick returns. Central business and tourist districts like Şişli, Fatih, and Beyoğlu also perform well for both long-term rentals and short-term holiday lets, although luxury zones such as Bebek or Nişantaşı often deliver lower yields of around 4–5% due to high purchase prices.
On the Anatolian side, yields are typically more moderate, averaging between 5% and 7%, with stable, long-term demand from professionals and families. Districts like Kadıköy, Maltepe, and Ataşehir offer consistent rental income, lower vacancy risks, and better value per square meter, even if capital appreciation may be slower. In essence, the European side tends to favor investors aiming for higher and faster returns, while the Anatolian side is better suited for those prioritizing steady, predictable income and a lower-risk rental portfolio.
When it comes to foreign buyers, the European side of Istanbul is overwhelmingly the preferred choice, primarily due to its central location, historical landmarks, and vibrant lifestyle. Districts like Beşiktaş, Beyoğlu, Şişli, and Fatih attract expatriates and international investors because of their proximity to business hubs, international schools, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. The European side also offers stronger potential for short-term rental income, particularly in areas popular with tourists, making it appealing for those looking to combine investment with occasional personal use.
That said, the Anatolian side has steadily gained attention among foreigners seeking a quieter, more residential environment with spacious apartments and a family-friendly atmosphere. Neighborhoods such as Kadıköy, Moda, and Üsküdar offer scenic seaside views, lively local markets, and a slower pace of life, appealing especially to those relocating for long-term stays rather than investment purposes. Overall, while the European side dominates in foreign demand due to its cosmopolitan appeal and connectivity, the Anatolian side is emerging as a strong alternative for those prioritizing tranquility and quality of life.
When it comes to Turkish buyers, preferences often vary depending on lifestyle, family needs, and investment goals, but the European side of Istanbul generally remains the most popular. Many local buyers are drawn to central European districts such as Beşiktaş, Şişli, and Fatih for their proximity to workplaces, shopping centers, and schools, as well as the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings. Emerging European-side neighborhoods like Beylikdüzü, Esenyurt, and Başakşehir have also gained popularity among middle-income buyers, offering modern housing projects at more accessible prices and promising potential for property value appreciation.
Meanwhile, the Anatolian side appeals particularly to families seeking larger apartments, quieter residential environments, and a slower pace of life. Areas like Kadıköy, Maltepe, and Ataşehir attract buyers who prioritize green spaces, community living, and convenient connections via ferries and the Marmaray line. Overall, while both sides have strong local demand, the European side sees higher transaction volumes and remains the preferred choice for Turkish buyers looking for both lifestyle convenience and long-term investment potential.
As a result, both the European and Anatolian sides of Istanbul offer their own unique charm, making the city an extraordinary place to live or invest. The European side impresses with its cosmopolitan energy, historical landmarks, and bustling business districts, providing residents and investors with endless opportunities and a fast paced urban lifestyle. In contrast, the Anatolian side captivates with its tranquil neighborhoods, spacious green areas, seaside promenades, and family-friendly communities, offering a more relaxed and comfortable way of life without losing connectivity to the city center.
Whether you are seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation, a dynamic social scene, or peaceful residential living, both coasts of Istanbul deliver exceptional experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two sides comes down to your personal priorities, lifestyle preferences, and investment goals, but one thing is certain no matter which side you choose, you will be surrounded by the beauty, culture, and vibrancy that make Istanbul truly incomparable.
🌐 Website: www.besthouseturkey.com
📞 WhatsApp: [+90 532 607 37 01]
📧 Email: [email protected]