The European and Asian parts of Istanbul: what is the difference

One could talk endlessly about Istanbul, and every story would be filled with remarkable facts: from its centuries-long history as the capital of two great empires to the captivating blend of cultures and religions. Its uniqueness is also reflected in its geography. Istanbul doesn’t just sit on two banks of a strait – it stretches across two continents.

The city’s division by the Bosphorus into the European (Thrace) and Asian (Anatolia) sides is more than a geographical marker. It is a factor that has literally shaped the appearance of entire neighborhoods, influenced social dynamics, and affected popularity among expats. While many cities around the world are divided by natural water barriers – rivers, canals, or even bays – Istanbul is perhaps the only example where this separation is clearly visible in the continental, cultural, and economic contrast of its two halves. The Bosphorus has become not just a boundary, but an axis around which two distinct lifestyles have developed.

Pace of Life and Atmosphere

The Asian side lives at a measured pace. Districts like Kadıköy or Moda feature quiet streets with traditional cafés, family-run restaurants, and green squares. There are far fewer tourists, preserving the atmosphere of an authentic Turkish neighborhood with local bazaars.

The European side, in contrast, is all about constant movement. Offices of major companies, trendy restaurants, nightlife venues. Beyoğlu, with its legendary İstiklal Street, turns into a carnival in the evening: street musicians, bars with live music, and an endless stream of people.

Architecture and Infrastructure

The Asian shore is more modern and uniform. Multi-story residential complexes built in recent decades dominate, often with well-planned infrastructure. There are fewer historical monuments, but more parks and green spaces. The transport network is good, though less extensive. The Marmaray tunnel and ferries connect the two sides of the city.

On the European side, the concentration of historical landmarks is impressive: Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, Galata Tower. Modern skyscrapers of the business districts in Şişli and Levent coexist with Ottoman-era mansions. About 64.9% of the city’s population lives here, and the transport network is highly developed, including metro lines, trams, and buses. The new international airport is also located on the European side.

Real Estate and Prices

The Asian side offers more affordable options while maintaining high-quality housing. Modern complexes in Ataşehir or Kartal, with swimming pools and fitness centers, are cheaper. Kadıköy, with the prestigious Bağdat Avenue (14 kilometers of boutiques and cafés), remains attractive, though prices here are lower than in comparable European neighborhoods.

The European side is traditionally more expensive. Districts like Beşiktaş, Nişantaşı, or coastal neighborhoods along the Bosphorus belong to the premium segment, where an apartment with a view of the strait can cost millions of dollars.

Today, Istanbul is one of the most sought-after markets for real estate abroad. When choosing a property, it is important to consider not only its general location in the city but also the characteristics of the neighborhood, infrastructure, transport accessibility, and cultural context. In Istanbul’s case, it is also important to take into account which side of the city the property is on – the European or the Asian side.