It is no secret that Turkey is an immensely diverse and multifaceted country where the more you travel, the more you see how truly unique the local cultures are.
Above all this, Turkey has one of the most eye-catching landscapes in the world. From enchanting beaches to forest-covered mountains, Turkey is where you will find the very best of nature.
Moreover, Turkey also has a vibrant history, as apparent from the countless historical sites dating as far back as thousands of years. The country’s reputation for having some of the most captivating historical landmarks as well as its Mediterranean climate has boosted its popularity among not just travellers but also potential expats who wish to move for a better lifestyle.
If you are interested to know more about Turkey and find out which city is the best for living for expats, stay with us till the end.
Recommendations for the Best Turkish Cities for Foreigners to Live in
Turkey is an absolutely fantastic place to live if you love the warm Mediterranean climate and want to enjoy a much more affordable lifestyle with only the most premium facilities at your disposal.
Here is a list of the top cities of Turkey that are perfect for living for foreigners.
Istanbul - Ideal for Urban Enthusiasts
Istanbul is truly a marvel for its seamless mix of heritage-filled beauty and its modern character. Here, life is fast-paced but vibrant with the colors of the sea and the greenery of the city.
As the largest city in the country, Istanbul is dotted with amazing historical and even modern landmarks. These include the Topkapi Palace which is also a museum, the Camlica Tower which is a TV and radio tower, the Blue Mosque, the Beylerbeyi Palace, and much more.
The Bosphorus divides the city between the European and Asian sides, giving foreigners the option to either live on the lively and modern European side or the slow-paced and tranquil Asian side.
Additionally, the city center isn’t the only option for living, the suburbs of Istanbul such as Basaksehir, Bachesehir, Bahcelievler, Arnavutkoy, etc are highly developed and have every modern facility available along with access to Metro train lines, buses, etc.
These areas are particularly perfect for those who want to steer clear of the bustle of the city center.
Ankara - The Second Best Option for Urbanites
The second best option we have for those who always opt for city life is Ankara. It’s the capital of the country and therefore, is one of the most modern and highly developed as well.
Ankara is fantastic for families to move to because they can access the best schools and universities in the country here.
Ankara is also the location for many government institutions. Not to mention, compared to Istanbul, Ankara is not as busy and in fact, offers a much slower more tranquil environment.
The only drawback, however, is that Ankara lacks beaches, otherwise, Ankara has all the amenities expected of big cities and a lot of natural beauty as well.
Antalya - Perfect for Nature Lovers
Antalya enjoys the beauty of the sea as well as the charm of the Taurus Mountains. It follows closely after Istanbul as one of the most popular vacation destinations, especially for Middle Eastern and European tourists. It is one of the most populous cities in the country but not without reason. Antalya has some of the most shimmering coastlines with crystal-clear waters which, coupled with the city's warm climate makes for an amazing location to live year-round.
Antalya is particularly ideal for digital nomads as it has all the modern facilities while offering the best cafes, and restaurants, as well as parks, museums, and co-working spaces.
Izmir - For a Relaxed Lifestyle
Another metropolitan city, Izmir is the best option for those who want an urban lifestyle but want to live in a city that is a little less crowded than Istanbul. As the third-largest city of Turkey, Izmir is home to multiple key ports and like Istanbul, offers the opportunity to experience coastal life due to its pristine coastlines.
Izmir is also one of the most diverse cities in the country with people of different nationalities and religions living in it.
Bodrum - Best Suited For Luxury Living
One of the most well-known towns on the Turkish Riviera, especially among the rich and famous is Bodrum. It is the go-to place for the ultra-wealthy to enjoy their private beaches and read their mega yachts.
However, Bodrum is also suitable for those hunting for affordable homes so they can live close to the beach for the ultimate beachside living experience.
Retirees can also opt for Bodrum for its relaxing vibe and sizable expat population. Locations such as Yalikavak, and Gumusluk are great for their proximity to beaches and ample entertainment facilities while areas such as Turkbukus are preferred by wealthy investors who wish to buy only the most high-end homes.
All-in-all, Bodrum has something for everyone.
A Final Word
When it comes to a quality lifestyle, Turkey can definitely provide just that. From highly developed amenities to diverse options for accommodation, the above-mentioned cities of Turkey are perfect for every foreigner, whether they be a retiree, digital nomad, or even a businessman.
If you are also keen on moving to this beautiful country, we can help you find your next home. We have a plethora of residential options available in our portfolio as well as some exclusive options in all the above cities as well as other ones.
All you have to do is reach out to our team via our contact form. Our experts will get back to you as soon as possible to offer you a free consultation.
