Bahçeşehir in Istanbul is unlike less 'aesthetically-pleasing' neighbours like Beylikduzu and Esenyurt, in that this elegant settlement with a great deal more attention paid to urban planning during development stages has outstanding curb appeal. The modern district has, since the turn of the millennium, attracted many city professionals seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to more enjoyable ways of living.
Bahçeşehir, which means Garden City in Turkish, represents one of Istanbul's most thoughtfully designed modern districts, earning a reputation as a premier European residential area. This carefully planned neighbourhood in the Başakşehir area highlights how contemporary urban development can harmoniously blend with natural elements. Let’s find out more.
Guide to Bahçeşehir in Istanbul
1: Where is Bahçeşehir located?
Bahçeşehir is in the western suburbs of European Istanbul, between Büyükçekmece and Kucukcekmece lakes on the shores of the Sea of Marmara. It sits 35km from Taksim, and on a good day and with average traffic, Bahçeşehir is just under one hour to drive from Taksim and approximately 40 minutes from the airport. You can reach Lake Büyükçekmece and Lake Kucukcekmece in around 10 minutes.
2: Impressive Transport Links
The TEM motorway, which connects the area to the business and financial districts, as well as the two Bosporus bridges that cross Europe to Asia, can be accessed within minutes. Compared to Beylikduzu, for example, it would take you a lot longer to access TEM from Beylikduzu, particularly if the rush hour traffic is intense.
IETT Istanbul's bus network connects to Bakirkoy, Avcilar, Taksim, and beyond every 10 minutes. The network is reliable and mostly punctual. The metro underground and railway system is also ever-expanding, with lines extending outward to all suburbs and connecting inward to the city centres.
3: Things to Do and Main Attractions
Bahçeşehir suits the lifestyles of young families and city professionals who have escaped the busy city life for calmer living in more natural surroundings. There are many attractions to explore, including a beautiful central lake, several modern shopping centres, cinemas, walking paths, and trendy bars and restaurants.
Bahçeşehir Lake Park is central to the area and provides a 'Central Park' like setting akin to a smaller-scale New York. Facilities include mini-golf clubs, restaurants, tea gardens, walking paths, children's playgrounds, and many more to keep the whole family entertained.
Several major shopping malls, including Akbati Shopping Centre and Park Prestige Mall, accommodate well-known international and Turkish brands. They come complete with theatre and cinema halls, cultural centres, restaurants, and cafes.
4: The Magnificent Bahçeşehir Gölet Park
At the heart lies the spectacular Gölet Park, home to an impressive artificial lake that transforms the entire district's character. Göleti creates a stunning focal point, surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and walking paths that invite both residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
Bahçeşehir Park offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities, from spacious playgrounds to jogging circuits that wind around the lake. The park's design prioritises accessibility and safety, featuring comprehensive lighting systems and well-maintained pathways that encourage evening strolls and early morning exercise routines.
5: Educational Hub and Cultural Centre
Bahçeşehir University anchors the district's educational landscape, creating a vibrant academic atmosphere that attracts students from across Turkey and internationally. The university's modern campus contributes to the area's dynamic character, while Bahçeşehir College provides quality education at the secondary level. Lastly, Bahçeşehir Library serves as a community resource for learning and cultural enrichment.
6: Bahçeşehir Square - Modern Living and Entertainment
The district's commercial heart revolves around Bahçeşehir Square, where residents and visitors gather for shopping, dining, and social activities. The area features contemporary shopping centres, diverse restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, and entertainment venues that cater to a wide range of tastes and age groups.
7: Lavish Lifestyle at Affordable Prices
Bahçeşehir, a desirable suburban town since the mid-2000s, is only 20 years old, as a building association started developing the area in 1990 with 20,000 units of mid-to-upper-level housing estates. Initially, the area was marketed to mid- to high-income city dwellers; hence, considerable attention was devoted to designing and planning the urban area.
In the late 1990s, to protect the exclusivity of the area and provide privileged lifestyles, the local municipality decided to control access to Bahcesehir, much like a private estate would. In other words, Bahcesehir was perceived as a luxury suburban settlement with access control (now no longer in place) and an exceptional environmental awareness. This helped improve the area's image as an elite and well-sought-after neighbourhood.
After 2005, the district expanded and became a central entity, having originated from humble beginnings just 20 years prior. Developers have built many luxury apartment and villa projects, and investment has enhanced the infrastructure.
Today, Bahcesehir, widely regarded as a luxury residential district favoured by mid- to higher-income brackets, has clean, wide roads and quiet, green parks. Shopping facilities are excellent, and the area is easily accessible to young families. Therefore, owning property provides access to a luxurious lifestyle, with safety for the entire family, at affordable prices. Compared to central districts, real estate prices are still around one-third of the cost per square metre.
8: The Real Estate Market
The variety of apartments is in modern residential complexes. These developments typically feature landscaped gardens, swimming pools, fitness centres, and 24/7 security, appealing to buyers who seek comfort, security, and convenience. Whether you prefer a cosy apartment or a spacious luxury apartment, the area offers options that cater to various tastes and budgets.
In addition to apartments, elegant villas provide privacy and ample space. These properties are especially popular among families looking for quieter suburban lifestyles. As Istanbul continues to grow, Bahçeşehir stands out as a hotspot, boasting well-planned infrastructure, proximity to the new Istanbul Airport, and ongoing development of transportation networks, including the extension of the metro line.
9: About Ispartakule on the Border with Avcilar
Ispartakule, a rapidly developing region within Bahçeşehir and part of the Avcılar district, is attracting attention for investment due to large-scale urban projects and increasing demand for modern housing. Key Features of Ispartakule include…
Strategic Location: Ispartakule lies at the gateway, offering direct access to major transportation routes, including the TEM Highway, making it easy to reach the city centre and Istanbul Airport. It's located near the planned route of the Kanal Istanbul mega-project, which will boost property values.
Residential Development: The region is characterised by newly built residential complexes, offering luxury apartments and modern apartments, along with family-friendly amenities such as parks, sports facilities, schools, and shopping centres. It offers a suburban lifestyle that combines natural beauty with urban comfort.
Attractive for Real Estate Investment: Due to ongoing development and relatively affordable prices, this area is ideal for investment properties. Many buyers are purchasing property here not only for personal use but also for long-term real estate.
Housing Options: From stylish apartments in secure complexes to spacious villas, Ispartakule offers a diverse range of housing options. Reputable construction companies construct many developments and comply with the latest earthquake regulations. Ispartakule also attracts families and investors alike with modern real estate, convenient locations, and a promising future.
11: Great Investment Opportunities
The lifestyle makes Bahcesehir highly desirable for young professionals and families. As a result, there is a robust rental market in addition to a very high demand for quality real estate ownership. Currently, people prefer to buy off-plan properties due to the payment incentives offered on these arrangements. From the off-plan stage to completion alone, we are seeing price increases of over 15%, which provides investment potential for early buyers.
High demand ensures a safe exit strategy should you wish to sell and realise your capital gain in as little as 18-24 months, which is the stage from off plan to completion for most projects. Property prices have doubled over the last 20 years; however, considering the quality of life on offer, we believe prices still have a very long way to go within the next 5 years.
12: Turkish Citizenship by Investment Through Property Purchase
In recent years, the Turkish Citizenship Investment Program has emerged as a valuable pathway for foreign investors seeking second citizenship, primarily through real estate investments. Among the many districts, Bahçeşehir, a master-planned urban zone renowned for its modern infrastructure and family-friendly lifestyle, has gained popularity as a smart location for both lifestyle buyers and investors seeking citizenship.
Under the programs introduced by the Turkish government, foreign nationals can obtain Turkish citizenship by purchasing property in Turkey worth at least $400,000 (as of the latest regulation). The property must be held for a minimum of three years, and multiple units can be purchased to meet the investment threshold.
This makes real estate investment, which offers luxury apartments, villas, and well-located units from reputable developers, an excellent way to gain access to citizenship, a comfortable lifestyle, and capital appreciation.
13: Key Advantages of Investing
- Proximity to the Istanbul Airport Project and major highways like the Marmara Highway, the Marmara North Highway project, and the E80.
- Easy access to the M3 Metro Line, the metro line project and planned stops along the Yedikule–Küçükçekmece Line.
- Located near key landmarks such as Gölet Lake, Sazlıdere Dam, and Shamlar Forest, this enhances the eco-friendly appeal.
- Nearby institutions include İbn Haldun University, Istanbul Technical University, and Al Aqsa International Schools, as well as international hubs such as BAU Global, which serve both graduate and undergraduate students.
- The world-class Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital, as well as the medical city developments, boost medical tourism and also provide services for residents.
- Fantastic lifestyle facilities with the Aqua Club Dolphin, and access to sports hubs, including İstanbul Başakşehir F.K.
14: Who Is This Ideal For?
- Families seeking long-term residence in green environments with elite education and health options.
- Investors interested in both citizenship and high-return investment property in an up-and-coming district.
- International professionals looking for a second passport and a gateway to the EU and Asia.
- Students and academics aiming to study at institutions like BAU Global or İbn Haldun University have access to top-notch educational and research centres.
15: Secure Your Future in Bahçeşehir
Purchasing property is about more than just real estate; it's a step toward a new lifestyle, a stable future, and potentially, a second citizenship. With rising demand, Bahçeşehir stands out as ideal for total comfort, opportunity, and a secure international base.
Bahçeşehir features a planned urban structure, lush green landscapes, and expanding infrastructure. Sitting strategically near key transport links, including the TEM Highway and the upcoming Istanbul Canal, this vibrant district is close to natural attractions such as Lake Küçükçekmece, Küçükçekmece Lake, and Gölet Park, also known as Bahçeşehir Göleti—a beloved part of Bahçeşehir Park.
Real estate is booming, with a wide range of apartments for sale, modern social facilities, and luxury complexes. Developers offer high-quality housing that appeals to both locals and international buyers. Projects gain attention for blending nature with architectural innovation.
The district’s increasing appeal is due to its proximity to Başakşehir, Esenyurt, and other key areas. The Istanbul Third Bridge and the expansion of Bosphorus Strait infrastructure, including the Bosphorus tunnels and crossings, enhance connectivity.
Also emerging as an educational and technological hub, institutions on the South Campus host events that focus on innovation and global collaboration. Schools and universities offer attractive admission opportunities for students, while international events showcase the area’s cultural diversity. With access to Taksim Square and secure environments, Bahçeşehir is not just a place to live, but a lifestyle.
Next Step – Learn About Our Services
With years of experience in the Istanbul real estate market and deep local knowledge of Bahçeşehir, we can help you find the perfect home or investment opportunity in one of the city’s most promising areas. From luxury apartments near Bahçeşehir Gölet Park to modern residences close to the Istanbul Canal and TEM Highway, our curated listings offer something for every lifestyle and budget. Whether you're looking to secure a residence permit, relocate with your family, or explore high-potential property investment, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
We invite you to browse our latest listings and discover why Bahçeşehir remains a sought-after destination for both local and international buyers. To schedule a private viewing, please get in touch with us through our website or by phone. Our experienced agents are ready to answer all your questions, provide detailed information, and help you make a confident and informed decision when buying a home in Bahçeşehir in Istanbul.
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