Kartal

A dynamic, scenic district on Istanbul’s Asian side, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Princes’ Islands, an expansive modern coastline, and the lush elevations of the Aydos Forest.

Discover the breezy, maritime charm of Kartal, a district that beautifully bridges coastal relaxation with energetic urban life. Stretching along the Sea of Marmara, Kartal has evolved from a historic fishing village and industrial zone into a premier residential and cultural hub. The defining feature of the district is its magnificent, miles-long coastal promenade (Kartal Sahili), which offers unobstructed, postcard-perfect views of the Princes’ Islands. Filled with wide cycling tracks, green lawns, and seaside cafes, this coastline serves as the social heart of the district where locals gather to catch the sea breeze.

Kartal also boasts unique geographical and cultural assets. It houses the prestigious Dragos neighborhood, often referred to as the “balcony of Istanbul” due to its elevated, villa-lined hills and scenic vantage points. On its northern border, the district ascends into the Aydos Forest (Aydos Ormanı), featuring the highest peak in Istanbul along with a peaceful hidden lake, making it a major destination for weekend trekking and outdoor barbecues. Back in the center, the bustling Kartal Square and the upscale IstMarina mall offer world-class shopping and waterfront dining. With its seamless Marmaray train connections and active ferry port, Kartal provides an authentic, high-quality slice of Asian-side lifestyle wrapped in rich natural landscapes.

Rating: 4.6/5 stars

Price Range: $$–$$$$ (Offers highly budget-friendly local cafes and street bakeries in the central market alongside premium, upscale waterfront dining at the marina).

Business Hours: Open 24/7; the coastal park and Dragos hill are active from early morning until midnight, while shopping malls and central markets operate 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.