Home/Turkey/Istanbul

Living in Istanbul🇹🇷

The city where East meets West — spanning two continents, with Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, world-class cuisine, and a booming expat scene.

Internet

50

Mbps

Safety

6/10

Cost modifier

=

vs country base

Highlights

Two continentsHagia Sophia & Blue MosqueGrand BazaarThriving expat scene

Neighborhoods

Beşiktaş / Bebek

Upscale & European

$700/mo

55 Mbps

Istanbul's most prestigious European-side neighbourhood — Bosphorus views, luxury restaurants, young professionals, and a vibrant market.

Pros

  • Bosphorus views
  • Best restaurants
  • Safe & lively

Cons

  • Expensive for Istanbul
  • Traffic

Kadıköy (Asian side)

Bohemian & local

$550/mo

50 Mbps

Istanbul's most beloved neighbourhood on the Asian side — a lively market, indie music venues, the best street food, and a genuinely local atmosphere.

Pros

  • Most authentic
  • Best street food
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Ferry needed to European side
  • Can be crowded