Spotting the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul for digital nomads can be tough, especially if you've never been to this spell-binding city before.
This historical and cultural spot straddling the continents of Europe and Asia has got it all — delicious and cheap food, affordable housing (for those who earn a wage from abroad), mesmerizing views of the Bosporus, magnificent mosques, friendly and hospitable people, and high-speed internet.
So, what's the best place in Istanbul to settle down? Let me help you.
As a digital nomad myself and a solo female traveller who has lived in Istanbul for two months, I may know a thing or two about the hottest places to rent.
Below, you'll find the top neighbourhoods in Istanbul for digital nomads and remote workers who want to meet other foreigners or expats, socialize, and get tons of work done.
Check out these quick tips and secret
tricks to make sure that your experience in Istanbul is the best one yet.
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| Photo by Mert Kahveci on Unsplash |
Kadıköy and Moda: For Party People and Digital Nomad Events
Without a doubt, the best neighbourhood for digital nomads in Istanbul who want to socialize with other like-minded nomads is Moda in the Kadıköy district. The Kadıköy district is located on the Asian Side of Istanbul on the Marmara Sea coast.
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| Kadikoy |
Believe it or not, the hipster-driven Moda is said to be among the coolest neighbourhoods in the world. Here, you'll find tons of cool cafes, bars, unique restaurants, and shops offering everything from jewellery to traditional Turkish spices and sweets.
However, that's not why I listed Kadıköy as the top best neighbourhood in Istanbul. Rather, here you'll have the easiest access to the weekly digital nomad events.
Couchsurfing events in Istanbul are also held here, and if you rent in Kadıköy or Moda, you can skip public transport and walk to your destination. The Moto Pub is the go-to place for every Istanbul digital nomad.
You can go to the weekly Couchsurfing/digital nomad meetup every Friday after 8 pm.
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| The "Bull" in Kadikoy |
When in Istanbul, an Airbnb may be your best choice, especially if you are staying short-term.
Besides being accessible, fun to hang around, and more relaxed than other areas of the city, there's something else that may make you fall in love with Kadıköy.
It is one of the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul because it has the most authentic "vibe" compared to other areas of the city I have visited. Definitely check it out.
Pros:
● You'll be in the centre of the digital nomad community.
● Perfect for shopaholics.
● Cheaper prices when compared to other neighbourhoods.
Cons:
● Loud and noisy.
● Very busy area.
Üsküdar: For Peace and Quiet
Although Üsküdar is a district on the Asian side and not a neighbourhood, many people refer to it as the latter.
Whatever the case may be, it is one of the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul for digital nomads who are practising Muslims or nomads who appreciate the beauty of Islam.
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| Üsküdar |
Why is Üsküdar one of the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul?
In short, it's more conservative than the rest of the city. This district is well known for its stunning coastline, Camlica Hill, Maiden's Tower, Fethi Pasa Grove, and most notably, its wide array of historical mosques.
Some of the most prominent mosques in Istanbul are located here, including Ayazma Mosque, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, Atik Valide Mosque, Uskudar Yeni Mosque, and others.
Üsküdar is one of the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul for digital nomads because it is close to Kadıköy — just hop on the metro or the bus and you're at one of the famous digital nomad events. Rent is typically lower here as well.
Pros:
● Some digital nomads may prefer more conservative neighbourhoods.
● Quiet and safe area.
● Foreigner-friendly.
Cons:
● Not the best option if you want to party.
● Not as "open-minded" as other neighbourhoods.
Beşiktaş: For Foodies and Practical Nomads
The waterfront of the Beşiktaş area on the European side of Istanbul is the best place for digital nomads in Turkey who value practicality: Get on the ferry and you're on another continent in under 45 minutes!
Plus, there are so many things to see in Beşiktaş, including the opulent Dolmabahçe Palace, and a variety of outstanding restaurants for all taste preferences. Craving mouthwatering junk food? Beşiktaş and its börek have got you covered.
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| Beşiktaş and the Ortaköy mosque |
Do you want to walk off the extra calories? Take a walk in Yıldız Park, one of the biggest public parks in the city.
Every Istanbul digital nomad will enjoy the lively streets of Beşiktaş, especially after a long day of work in one of the laptop-friendly cafes.
Yes, there's plenty.
If you're still hungry, take a walk to Ortaköy, a neighbourhood within the district of Beşiktaş and try the legendary kumpir or waffles.
Pros:
● Close to the ferry.
● Lively district suitable for party people.
● Some of the best restaurants in Istanbul are located here.
Cons:
● You'll need to take a ferry if going to the nomad events (HOWEVER; Taksim — another area where you can meet other foreigners, is close!)
● Very crowded and noisy.
SECRET TIP
If you made up your mind and you are renting an Airbnb in Istanbul on the European side, you can still go to expat events. For example, one of the hottest party places where digital nomads in Istanbul often meet up is TAKSIM Square.
However, in my opinion, this is the loudest and most obnoxious neighbourhood in the area. Even locals agree!
Those were the best neighbourhoods in Istanbul for digital nomads. While there are many fantastic hot spots for remote workers in the city, these three were my top favourites, based on location, accessibility, number of quiet cafes for work, and overall price.
What is your favourite place in Istanbul as a digital nomad? I'd love to hear your feedback. Please leave a comment below, as I would love to connect with other fellow digital nomads - bonus points if you are a female traveller with a keen eye for details!
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