Here at Pera Property, people looking to buy property in Istanbul are often ask us where certain popular Turkish dramas are set. We thought we’d put together the settings and locations of five popular Turkish TV dramas in Istanbul.
Istanbul has long been a favorite setting for Turkish dramas, not just for its rich history but also for its captivating scenery. Several of the most popular Turkish series have used the city as a backdrop, showcasing its blend of modern urban life and historical beauty. Each series has captured the essence of different parts of Istanbul, tying its stories to iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, and historical homes that reflect the city’s cultural depth.
One of the most iconic dramas, Muhteşem Yüzyıl (Magnificent Century), is set during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. This historical epic brought the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire to life, with scenes heavily inspired by Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans. While much of the series was filmed on elaborate sets, Topkapi Palace itself became a symbol of the opulence and power of the Ottoman era, making it an essential reference throughout the drama. As one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it provided the historical weight needed to ground the story in its true setting.
In contrast, Kara Sevda (Endless Love) took a modern approach, using Istanbul’s urban beauty to highlight a tragic love story. The waterfront mansions and scenic views of the Bosphorus played a key role in creating the emotional landscape of the series. One notable filming location was Baltalimanı, a charming area in the Sarıyer district. This neighborhood, with its stunning views of the Bosphorus, captured the elegance and drama of the characters’ lives, blending the city’s contemporary appeal with traditional architectural beauty.
Ezel, another wildly popular drama, showcased Istanbul’s diversity, from its trendy urban spots to its deep historical roots. The neighborhood of Cihangir, in the heart of Beyoğlu, featured prominently throughout the series. With its narrow streets, artistic cafés, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus, Cihangir’s urban charm set the stage for the series’ intense plot of betrayal and revenge. Other notable Istanbul landmarks, such as the historic Grand Bazaar and the iconic Galata Tower, also appeared in the show, adding depth to the story by incorporating the city’s bustling, timeless atmosphere.
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For fans of Aşk-ı Memnu (Forbidden Love), the lavish setting became as important as the story itself. The show’s key location was the Süreyya Yalısı, a grand Ottoman-era mansion located on the Asian side of the Bosphorus in Kandilli. This breathtaking waterfront mansion, with its expansive gardens and stunning views of the Bosphorus, reflected the luxury and complexity of the characters’ lives. The opulent setting turned the Süreyya Yalısı into an unforgettable symbol of both beauty and tragedy, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
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While Istanbul often features in glamorous city-based dramas, Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne? (What is Fatmagül’s Fault?) brought a more rural feel to the screen before transitioning into the city. Initially set in a coastal village, later scenes were filmed in Rumeli Feneri, a charming fishing village on the European side of Istanbul. The area’s natural beauty, coupled with its proximity to the Bosphorus and Black Sea, played a significant role in the show’s narrative, marking the characters’ journey from rural life to the challenges of the city.
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These five popular Turkish dramas not only captivated audiences with their gripping storylines but also highlighted Istanbul’s multifaceted character. Whether through historic palaces like Topkapi, waterfront mansions like Süreyya Yalısı, or vibrant neighborhoods like Cihangir, each series captured a different side of the city, enhancing the connection between the story and its setting. Istanbul’s role in these dramas adds a layer of authenticity and visual splendor, showcasing the city as a living character in its own right.
