Nestled on the Asian side, Kartal in Istanbul remains relatively unknown to tourists, yet holds a wealth of appeal for locals and savvy home buyers. Overlooking the Marmara Sea, this district blends scenic views with family-friendly amenities and peaceful surroundings. The alternative lifestyle, one far removed from bustling tourist zones, with both seaside charm and urban life, makes this a well-rounded district.
For young families, professionals, and investors, Kartal offers proximity to nature, stunning sea views, solid infrastructure, and expanding transport links, all while remaining outside the tourist crush. With its name meaning “eagle” in Turkish, Kartal is indeed soaring as an emerging residential and investment destination. If this district has sparked your interest, whether for lifestyle or investment purposes, now might be the time to take a closer look.
Guide to Kartal in Istanbul
Rich History Beneath the Surface
Kartal’s history stretches back to the 6th century, during the time of the Byzantine Empire, when it was a modest fishing village called Kartalimen. It wasn’t part of Constantinople but a fringe settlement. In 1075, control shifted when the Anatolian Seljuk State challenged the Byzantines. A peace agreement placed the Dragos hill stream as the border between the two powers, marking the first known Turkish-Byzantine boundary in Anatolia.
The area changed hands several times before falling under Ottoman rule for over four centuries. During Ottoman times, Kartal was linked to Üsküdar, until 1908 when it became a separate district. In recent decades, especially with Istanbul’s push to modernise into a global metropolis, Kartal has taken its place in the city’s urban transformation plan.
Strategic Location and Layout
Located on the southwestern part of the Kocaeli Peninsula, Kartal boasts a prime position along the Marmara Sea. It lies just 19 kilometres from Kadıköy, the Asian commercial and cultural hub, which sits next to key districts such as Maltepe, Pendik, Ataşehir, Sultanbeyli, and Sancaktepe. Covering 38 square kilometres and comprising 20 neighbourhoods and over 2,100 streets, buyers choose from various housing options.
Everyday Life in Kartal
Life unfolds along streets lined with bakeries, tea houses, and small local shops. It's a place where residents enjoy slow mornings over Turkish tea and warm simit, and friendly chats with neighbours. Outdoor enthusiasts often head to Aydos Forest, on the district's edge, with walking trails, a tranquil lake, horseback riding, and cycling paths. Nearby Aydos Hill, the highest point, offers panoramic views and a respite from city life.
Families also enjoy Bayram Demirkol Park and numerous smaller parks. Coastal settings mean fresh catches are always within reach. The local fish market sells daily selections like sea bass and mackerel, served up in traditional and modern seafood restaurants. Those craving variety won’t be disappointed either, thanks to the abundance of fast-food chains, kebab houses, and international cuisine.
The weekly neighbourhood markets sell fresh produce in areas like Atalar, Cevizli, Cumhuriyet, and Soganlik Yeni. Additionally, modern shopping options like the IST Marina AVM offer luxury boutiques to family entertainment zones and fast-food courts. The contemporary design and regular events make the mall popular for shopping and socialising.
Seamless Transport: Metro and Airport
The M4 Metro Line, which runs from Kadıköy to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, services the district with fast and efficient transport. Spanning 34 kilometres and 23 stations, this metro line runs parallel to the D100 and E-5 highways and connects to a robust bus network. This ensures a desirable location for commuters and anyone needing convenient access to ferry ports, highways, or airports. For international travellers and residents, Sabiha Gökçen Airport, only a 20-minute drive away, adds to the appeal.
Community Amenities and Facilities
The area is home to various public and private schools for different age groups and educational needs. In addition to primary and secondary schools, some well-known universities with campuses include İstanbul Gedik University and the Dragos Campus of Marmara University. The district also features numerous hospitals, along with specialised clinics and health centres, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage. Notable hospitals include Yakacik Doğum ve Çocuk Hastalıkları Hastanesi (Yakacik Maternity and Children's Hospital), Tuzla State Hospital, Megapol Hospital, and the Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital.
Ferry Services from Kartal
Just a 40-minute ferry ride away, the Princes’ Islands are among the best-kept secrets. These nine car-free islands provide a tranquil escape from the city’s fast-paced environment. Buyukada, the largest island, earns fame for Ottoman mansions and seaside promenades, while Heybeliada features lush green landscapes and serene beaches. Smaller islands like Kınalıada and Burgazada charm visitors with monasteries and traditional fishing communities. Whether it's biking, swimming, or exploring historical landmarks like the Aya Yorgi Monastery, the islands provide the perfect weekend getaway.
Another travel perk is the ferry route connecting Kartal-Pendik to Yalova in just 45 minutes. Once a well-kept secret, Yalova has gained popularity due to its hot springs, stunning sea views, and affordable real estate. This charming town, once a favourite retreat of Atatürk, the founder of the modern-day Turkish Republic, is now a haven for spa seekers, nature lovers, and second-home buyers. Many investors are drawn to Yalova for low home prices, seaside living, and easy access to Istanbul via ferry.
Kartal’s Housing Market: Investment on the Rise
Kartal’s rising reputation as a real estate hotspot is no coincidence. The combination of urban development and convenient infrastructure easily attracts investors. Istanbul, the most dynamic real estate market in Turkey, and a world-class Alpha city, offers everything from budget apartments to high-end villas. Lifestyle residential complexes of modern buildings with communal facilities appeal to both locals and foreign buyers, and with Istanbul’s real estate market showing consistent annual appreciation, properties are a wise long-term investment. The district’s strategic location, growing amenities, and connectivity all enhance its appeal for homebuyers and investors alike.
Beyond Kartal: Asian Istanbul
While many tourists focus on European Istanbul, Asian Istanbul holds its own. Nearby Kadikoy buzzes with energy, offering street art, cafes, and a dynamic lifestyle. Moda and Kalamış boast leafy streets and waterfront dining, while Fenerbahçe features expansive parks and coastal walks. Further inland, Çamlıca Hill offers sweeping Golden Horn views reached via cable car. Exploring this side gives more profound, more authentic experiences.
Asian Istanbul is an increasingly attractive area for property investment thanks to the modern infrastructure and more affordable apartment prices compared to the European side. Neighbourhoods offer residential environments with quality schools, hospitals, and shopping centres, while still being well-connected through efficient transportation networks, such as the Marmaray and metro lines. The area’s lower population density, family-friendly atmosphere, and ongoing urban development projects make it ideal for both living and long-term investment.
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We are PropertyTurkey.com and we sell apartments and villas across the country. Our portfolio includes major destinations as top investment spots. See our portfolio in Kartal here, and contact us for more details or to arrange viewings. Alternatively, call our agents today and discuss more reasons why Kartal in Istanbul is an up-and-coming district.
Nezir Can Operations Manager
Nezir 'Nez' Can is Operations Manager at Property Turkey and a contributor on Turkish culture, lifestyle, and everyday life across the country. Since joining the company, he has helped international readers better understand what it is like to live, work, and settle in Turkey.
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Operations Manager
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