The best Turkish cities for studying and living: Your ideal choice for a bright future

With its cultural diversity, prestigious universities, and reasonable costs, Turkey is an attractive destination for international students seeking a high-quality university education. With numerous Turkish cities boasting excellent universities, choosing the best city to study and live in is a crucial decision that will impact your overall academic and life experience.

There is no single definition of “best,” as what suits one student may not suit another. The optimal choice depends on several personal factors, such as the desired field of study, available budget, climate preferences, the type of social life the student prefers, and future career prospects. In this comprehensive article, we will review the most prominent Turkish cities that offer a unique blend of excellent education and a student-friendly living environment, along with a thorough analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each city to help you make an informed decision.

Criteria for selecting the best Turkish cities for study

Before delving into the details of cities, let’s define the basic criteria that should be considered when evaluating a suitable city for studying and living:

1. Quality and diversity of universities: The presence of prestigious public and private universities, offering diverse specializations that suit students’ interests.
2. Cost of living: the ability to afford housing, food, transportation, and entertainment.
3. Student and social life: Cultural, artistic, sports activities and student clubs are provided to enrich the student experience.
4. Job and training opportunities: An active job market provides training opportunities during studies and job opportunities after graduation.
5. Transportation and communication: Easy movement within the city and between other Turkish cities.
6. Safety and security: A safe environment where the student feels comfortable and secure.
7. Climate: The impact of weather conditions on quality of life and study.
8. Cultural and social environment: The extent of the city’s openness to different cultures, and the degree of integration of international students.

Review of the best Turkish cities for studying and living

Based on the criteria mentioned, here is an analysis of the most prominent Turkish cities that are considered ideal destinations for students:

1. Istanbul: The vibrant and educational heart of Türkiye

Istanbul is undoubtedly the first choice for many international students, as it is the largest city in Türkiye and its cultural, economic, and educational center.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • University diversity: Istanbul boasts the largest number of universities in Turkey, including prestigious public universities such as Istanbul University, Istanbul Technical University, and Boğaziçi University, as well as dozens of renowned private universities like Koç University, Sabancı University, Medipol University, Bahçeşehir University, Bilgi University, and others. This diversity ensures that there are specializations and programs to suit every interest.
  • Economic and financial center: Istanbul offers tremendous opportunities for internships and post-graduation employment in major global and local companies, especially in the fields of business, technology, and finance.
  • A vibrant student life: The city never sleeps. Istanbul offers countless cultural, artistic, recreational, and sporting activities to suit all tastes and budgets. From museums and art galleries to concerts and sporting events, you’ll never be bored.
  • Unparalleled cultural diversity: Istanbul is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world, enriching the international student’s experience and enabling them to build a global network of relationships.
  • A well-developed transportation system: A wide network of metro, trams, buses, ferries, and minibuses (dolmuş) enables students to move around the city easily and conveniently.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • High cost of living: Istanbul is considered the most expensive Turkish city in terms of rents, especially in the central areas.
  • Overcrowding and congestion: The city is huge and crowded, and transportation can take a long time during peak hours.

Istanbul Summary: The ideal choice for those seeking high-quality education, ample career opportunities, a rich social and cultural life, and a budget that allows them to cover the relatively higher cost of living.

2. Ankara: The capital of academia and quality

Ankara is the administrative and political capital of Turkey, and is known as a center for higher education and high-quality state universities.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • High-quality education: Ankara boasts a selection of Turkey’s world-class public universities, such as Middle East Technical University (METU), Hacettepe University, and Ankara University, as well as distinguished private universities like Bilkent University. These universities place a strong emphasis on scientific research and offer robust academic programs.
  • Lower living costs: The cost of living in Ankara, especially rents, is much lower compared to Istanbul, making it an excellent budget option for students.
  • A relatively well-organized and quiet city: Ankara is well-planned and has less crowded streets compared to Istanbul, providing a quieter and more focused study environment.
  • Large student community: As the capital of higher education, Ankara has a large and diverse student community, making it easier for students to build friendships and get involved in university activities.
  • A safe city: Ankara is known for its high level of safety and security.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • Fewer entertainment options: Although there are many cultural and artistic activities, entertainment and nightlife options may be less diverse compared to Istanbul.
  • Less tourist attraction: It may not be a tourist destination par excellence like Istanbul or Izmir, which may make it less exciting for some students.

Ankara Summary: Ideal for students who focus primarily on high academic quality, scientific research, and living in a calm and organized environment at reasonable costs.

3. Izmir: The pearl of the Aegean Sea and a comfortable student environment

Izmir is located on the Aegean coast and is known for its natural beauty, mild weather, and liberal and open atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for students.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • Mild weather and stunning scenery: Izmir enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and green parks, providing a high quality of life.
  • A vibrant and comfortable student environment: Izmir is known as a premier student city, with numerous universities such as Ege University, Dokuz Eylül University, and Izmir Institute of Technology. The city offers a relatively relaxed and tranquil atmosphere compared to Istanbul.
  • Reasonable cost of living: Izmir is considered mid-range in cost, more expensive than Ankara but much cheaper than Istanbul, providing a good balance between quality and cost.
  • An open and hospitable culture: Izmir is known for its openness and acceptance of different cultures, which makes it easier for international students to integrate.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • Fewer major universities: Although there are outstanding universities, the number of universities with high global rankings may be lower compared to Istanbul and Ankara.
  • Fewer job opportunities: Job and training opportunities may be less diverse compared to major cities like Istanbul.

Summary of Izmir: An excellent choice for students looking for good quality education, a comfortable and beautiful environment, pleasant weather, reasonable living costs, and who prefer a relatively quiet coastal atmosphere.

4. Bursa: The charm of history and nature, close to Istanbul

Bursa is located at the foot of Mount Uludağ, and is known for its rich Ottoman history and stunning natural beauty, offering a unique study experience.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • Natural and historical beauty: Bursa offers a unique blend of nature (the famous Uludağ Mountain for skiing and hiking) and authentic Ottoman historical landmarks.
  • Low cost of living: Bursa is considered one of the cities with relatively low living costs compared to major cities.
  • Its proximity to Istanbul: Istanbul is easily accessible by ferry or bus, allowing students to take advantage of Istanbul’s benefits without incurring its high costs.
  • A strong university: It includes Uludağ University, which is one of the large and important state universities.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • Less major diversity: Major options at universities may be less diverse compared to major cities.
  • Less international: Student life may be less culturally diverse compared to Istanbul.

Bursa Summary: Suitable for students who prefer a quiet environment, low living costs, and natural beauty, with easy access to Istanbul.

5. Eskişehir: A city of youth and students par excellence

Eskişehir is known as the “student city” or “youth city,” and it is a lively and active city thanks to the large number of universities and students in it.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • A student city par excellence: It includes two large universities (Anadolu University and Eskişehir Osmangazi University) and a huge number of students, creating a youthful and vibrant environment.
  • Very low cost of living: Eskişehir is considered one of the cheapest Turkish cities in terms of rents and the cost of living in general.
  • Efficient public transport: It features a sophisticated public transport system that includes trams and buses, making mobility easy.
  • Cultural and sporting activities: Despite being a medium-sized city, it offers many cultural, artistic and sporting events aimed at youth and students.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • Limited major options: The available major options may be less diverse compared to major cities.
  • Fewer job opportunities: Training and employment opportunities may be limited after graduation.

Eskişehir Summary: The perfect choice for students looking for an authentic student experience in a city with very low living costs, a vibrant youth environment, and who are not necessarily focused on great job opportunities after graduation.

6. Antalya: Study in the heart of a tourist paradise

Antalya is known as the tourism capital of Turkey, but it also has universities that offer outstanding academic programs, especially in tourism-related fields.

• Its advantages for studying and living:
  • Exceptional natural beauty: stunning beaches, green mountains, and a warm, sunny climate most days of the year.
  • Opportunities in the tourism sector: Ideal for students studying tourism and hotel management, as there are ample training and job opportunities in this sector.
  • High quality of life: The city boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure, providing high-quality services and facilities.
• Her challenges in studying and living:
  • Less university diversity: Akdeniz University is the most prominent university in the city, and other major options may be limited.
  • Relatively higher living costs: Living costs can be high in some tourist areas, especially during peak seasons.
  • Overwhelming tourist atmosphere: Some students may find that the city’s tourist character overshadows the academic aspect.

Antalya Summary: An excellent choice for students interested in tourism and hospitality majors, or those who prefer to study in a tourist-oriented environment with a warm climate.

Quick comparison table between cities (estimated)

Tips for choosing the most suitable city for you

When you start thinking about the best Turkish cities to study and live in, keep these final tips in mind:

1. Define your priorities: Is the priority absolute academic quality, budget, or a particular lifestyle?
2. Find your major: Make sure that the city you choose has universities that offer the major you want at a high level.
3. Take a virtual tour: Explore the city online, watch videos, and read about past students’ experiences.
4. Connect with current students: Don’t hesitate to contact international students who are currently studying in the cities you are considering for real-life advice.
5. Think about your future after graduation: Does the city offer job opportunities in your field of specialization?

Choosing the best Turkish cities to study and live in is a crucial step in your educational journey. Whether you’re looking for the vibrant city life of Istanbul, the academic tranquility of Ankara, or the coastal charm of Izmir, Turkey offers a diverse range of options to suit every student. With careful research, prioritization, and budget planning, you can find the Turkish city that not only provides an outstanding education but also a rich and rewarding life experience that will enrich your academic and personal future.