Are you curious about what it’s like to be a digital nomad living in Turkey? You’re not alone! Turkey is a popular choice for remote workers, and for good reason. It’s a fantastic country with breathtaking scenery, rich culture, delicious food, fascinating history, and friendly locals. But before making your final decision, it’s important to gather as much information as possible about what life here is really like.
As someone who has lived in Turkey for several years and still visits regularly, I’ve noticed a significant increase in the number of remote workers choosing to relocate to different parts of the country. Turkey is becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, and to help you decide whether this move is right for you, this digital nomad guide to Turkey will provide you with all the information you need.
About Turkey
Turkey is a vast country situated between Europe and the Middle East. While many people think Istanbul is the capital city, the title actually belongs to Ankara. However, Istanbul is by far the largest city and is a favorite for many. The south coast is particularly popular during the summer months due to its stunning beaches, but there are many other amazing towns and cities to explore, such as vibrant Izmir, historical Ankara, and beautiful Antalya.
Turkey is a country with a rich blend of old and new, and the friendliness of the people makes it easy to make friends. There’s an abundance of things to see and do, from exploring historical sites to trying the delicious cuisine, especially the various kebabs and street food.
Living in Turkey as a Digital Nomad
Turkey has become a great spot for remote workers, with numerous work-friendly cafes and coworking spaces in large towns and cities. Internet quality is generally high, but using your phone as a hotspot can sometimes work better than WIFI. The most popular places for digital nomads include Istanbul, Izmir, Fethiye, Antalya, and Bodrum, as well as various other areas across the country. The relatively low cost of living and the fantastic cafe vibe and nightlife scene make it an attractive destination for remote workers.
Life in Turkey is generally laid-back, except in the heart of Istanbul, which is fast-paced and exciting. As a digital nomad in Turkey, you’ll have no trouble finding hidden gems or tourist hotspots to explore during your downtime.
Is Turkey Safe?
From personal experience, Turkey is a safe place and I never felt unsafe, even in Istanbul. However, it’s important to use common sense, especially in large cities. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuable items hidden, and dress conservatively if you feel the need. While Beyoğlu, Istanbul is known for pickpockets and scams, overall Turkey is a safe place to be.
Best Places to Live in Turkey
The best places to live for digital nomads in Turkey include Istanbul, which is a vibrant city with a perfect blend of ancient and modern. There are many work-friendly areas within the city, offering a friendly and welcoming vibe. While traffic in Istanbul can be overwhelming, the advantages far outweigh the downsides.
In Istanbul, it’s hard to pinpoint the center, but Beşiktas is a great area providing a local vibe, several attractions, and great coworking spaces. Other areas such as Beyoğlu and Fatih also provide unique experiences for remote workers.
Coworking Spaces in Istanbul
Istanbul offers many solid coworking spaces, including Workinton in Nişantaşi, Galata Business Center in Beyoğlu, and CoBAC in Eminönü. These spaces provide a great environment to meet other digital nomads and get work done in a vibrant city.
Things To Do in Istanbul
There are a variety of things to see and do in Istanbul, including visiting historic sites like Dolmabahçe Palace and the Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque.
In conclusion, Turkey is a fantastic destination for digital nomads, with its rich culture, friendly people, and work-friendly environment. With a wide array of cities and towns to explore, there’s something for everyone in this diverse country.