
Close to Istanbul without the crowds: Bursa, Kocaeli and Sakarya for Arab buyers
Bursa, Kocaeli and Sakarya are three provinces near Istanbul with lower prices and more nature. Sakarya is known for Lake Sapanca and its summer homes; Kocaeli combines the industrial city of İzmit with the nature of Kartepe overlooking the lake; and Bursa is a large green city at the foot of Mount Uludağ, with the modern district of Nilüfer. Istanbul is reached by motorway, high-speed train and sea ferry. Because the region was hit by the 1999 earthquake, choose modern buildings built to the new regulations.
Last reviewed Oct 7, 2026