The Asian side of Istanbul, known locally as Anatolia, is often overlooked by international buyers in favor of the more touristic and historically recognized European side. However, this vast and diverse half of the city offers some of Istanbul’s most desirable neighborhoods for residential living, significant infrastructure developments, and high-quality urban planning. As of 2025, with metro expansions, urban regeneration, and lifestyle enhancements, the Anatolian side is gaining popularity not only among locals but also savvy investors seeking long-term value.
Üsküdar: A Historic and Prestigious District
Üsküdar is one of Istanbul’s oldest and most picturesque districts, facing the historic peninsula across the Bosphorus. It’s famous for the Maiden’s Tower and skyline views of minarets and domes. Üsküdar is also known for its traditional neighborhoods, many mosques, and hilltop parks like Çamlıca Hill, which now features the striking Çamlıca TV Tower.
Transport & Investment
Üsküdar is a transport hub, offering seamless connection to the European side via Marmaray, ferry lines, and the M5 Metro Line. In 2025, the new Camlica Metro Station is expected to open, improving access to inland neighborhoods. With its preserved historic character and high demand for luxury apartments, Üsküdar is one of the most sought-after districts for long-term residential investment.
Kandilli, Çengelköy, and Altunizade
Kandilli and Çengelköy are charming waterfront neighborhoods with a village-like ambiance, home to historic Ottoman mansions, boutique cafes, and waterfront restaurants. These areas are undergoing discreet urban regeneration, especially around Çengelköy. Altunizade is more modern, offering luxury residences, international schools, and healthcare hubs such as Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital.
Beykoz: Nature, Luxury, and Privacy
Beykoz, stretching along the northern Bosphorus and into lush forestland, is Istanbul’s greenest and most exclusive district. Thanks to tight zoning laws, construction is limited, preserving its natural character. The region is popular among families looking for villas and private compounds.
Acarkent & Konaklar
Acarkent is Beykoz’s flagship villa compound—gated, secure, and luxurious, with international schools like TED Istanbul and proximity to Medipol University Kavacık Campus. Beykoz also benefits from ferry services at Paşabahçe and Çubuklu, including a regular car ferry to Istinye. The North Marmara Highway connects it quickly to Istanbul Airport, while a planned metro line will pass through Beykoz in the coming years.
Kadıköy: The Cultural and Commercial Core
Kadıköy is a vibrant coastal district combining heritage with cosmopolitan energy. Known for Moda, Bahariye Street, and its famed markets, Kadıköy is ideal for both end-users and investors due to its excellent public transport, high rental yields, and rich cultural scene.
Bağdat Avenue and Surrounding Neighborhoods
Bağdat Avenue is one of Turkey’s most prestigious residential and shopping areas. Flanked by Caddebostan, Suadiye, Erenköy, Göztepe, and Bostancı, the district features high-rise luxury apartments with sea views. These neighborhoods offer some of the highest real estate prices on the Asian side, ranging from $4,000 to $7,000 per sqm for premium units.
Ataşehir & Ümraniye: Istanbul’s New Financial Core
2023 saw the official opening of the Istanbul Financial Center (IFC), making Ataşehir and Ümraniye central to Istanbul’s business ecosystem. Anchored by modern skyscrapers, foreign banks, and global companies, this new financial core has driven residential demand and prices.
Infrastructure & Urban Regeneration
The M12 Metro Line (Göztepe–Ümraniye) has made the area even more accessible. Nearby, the Metropol Tower and vast compounds like Varyap Meridian offer city views and top-tier amenities. Yeni Sahra is undergoing state-led urban renewal, adding modern apartment complexes with attractive payment plans.
Çekmeköy: Istanbul’s Forested Suburb
Once a rural area, Çekmeköy has grown into a leafy district popular with families seeking space and calm. Located near Şile Highway, it connects easily to Üsküdar and Ataşehir. Neighborhoods like Ömerli and Reşadiye feature private villa communities and nature parks like Alemdag Forest. It’s also home to private schools like Doğa Koleji and Bahçeşehir KolejiOnce overlooked, Istanbul’s Asian side is now a powerhouse of real estate opportunity. With world-class transport, new financial institutions, protected green zones, and a high quality of life, Anatolia offers tremendous potential for homeowners and investors alike in 2025. Whether you prefer a sea-view penthouse in Kadıköy, a private villa in Beykoz, or a sleek apartment next to the IFC in Ataşehir—this side of Istanbul is more attractive than ever before.
