Kartal is a thriving waterfront district on the Asian side of Istanbul, stretching along the beautiful coastline of the Sea of Marmara. Combining a rich historical heritage with modern urban development, Kartal has transformed from a quiet fishing and agricultural settlement into one of the city’s most important residential, commercial, and business centres.
Known for its long seaside promenade, panoramic views of the Princes’ Islands, green parks, cultural venues, and excellent transportation links, Kartal offers visitors a pleasant blend of history, nature, and contemporary city life. Its location also makes it an ideal gateway to both the Princes’ Islands and the scenic hills of eastern Istanbul.
History
Although archaeological evidence suggests that the Kartal region has been inhabited since ancient times, most documented history begins during the Byzantine period. Excavations in the Yakacık area have uncovered churches, cisterns, pottery, and other remains that demonstrate the area’s importance as a rural settlement serving Constantinople.
Because of its strategic position on the Sea of Marmara, Kartal played an important role during the Byzantine Empire. The natural harbour along the coast served merchant vessels, fishing boats, and military ships travelling between Constantinople and northwestern Anatolia.
During the late eleventh century, following the Seljuk expansion into Anatolia, the region temporarily came under Turkish control during the reign of Sultan Süleyman Shah. A frontier was established near the Dragos Stream, which for a period marked the boundary between Byzantine and Seljuk territories. This frontier represented one of the earliest political borders between the two powers in northwestern Anatolia.
The Byzantines later regained control of the region before the arrival of the Ottoman Turks. In the early fourteenth century, following the Ottoman conquest of nearby Aydos Castle under the leadership of Abdurrahman Gazi and other frontier commanders, Kartal gradually became part of the expanding Ottoman state.
Throughout the Ottoman period, Kartal remained a peaceful coastal settlement known for agriculture, vineyards, orchards, fishing, and freshwater springs. Its fertile land supplied produce to Istanbul, while its coastline supported local trade and maritime activities.
Modern development accelerated during the twentieth century as Istanbul expanded eastward. Improved transportation, industrial investment, residential construction, and urban renewal transformed Kartal into one of the largest districts on Istanbul’s Asian side. Today, it continues to evolve as an important financial, residential, and cultural centre.
Geography
Kartal is located on the southern coast of Istanbul’s Asian side, bordering Maltepe to the west, Pendik to the east, Sancaktepe to the north, and the Sea of Marmara to the south.
The district stretches from the coastline to the forested hills around Yakacık and Aydos, creating a diverse landscape of seaside promenades, residential neighbourhoods, parks, and elevated viewpoints.
Kartal enjoys magnificent views across the Sea of Marmara toward the Princes’ Islands, especially from its coastal parks and higher elevations.
Top Attractions
Kartal Coastline
One of the district’s greatest attractions is its beautifully landscaped waterfront. Walking and cycling paths extend for several kilometres, offering uninterrupted views of the Sea of Marmara, marinas, parks, and the Princes’ Islands.
Yakacık
Often called the “Balcony of Istanbul,” Yakacık sits on the hills above Kartal and has long been famous for its fresh air, natural springs, and panoramic scenery. During the late Ottoman period, it became a popular summer retreat for Istanbul residents seeking a cooler climate.
Aydos Forest and Aydos Hill
Located near Kartal, Aydos Forest is one of Istanbul’s largest natural recreation areas. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, cycling routes, and beautiful views from Aydos Hill, the highest point in Istanbul.
Dragos Hill
Dragos is one of the finest viewpoints on the Asian side of Istanbul. The hill overlooks the Sea of Marmara and the Princes’ Islands, making it especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Kartal Marina
The marina and surrounding waterfront provide pleasant places for walking, dining, and enjoying views of sailing boats and luxury yachts.
Things to Do
Kartal offers a wide variety of recreational activities.
Visitors can walk or cycle along the coastal promenade, enjoy picnics in waterfront parks, take ferry excursions to the Princes’ Islands, hike in nearby forests, photograph panoramic sea views, or explore the cafés and restaurants overlooking the marina.
The district also hosts cultural events, outdoor concerts, sports activities, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Food and Drink
Kartal offers an excellent selection of restaurants serving traditional Turkish cuisine alongside international flavours.
Seafood restaurants along the waterfront are particularly popular, offering freshly caught fish, meze, grilled octopus, calamari, and spectacular sunset views. Visitors will also find Turkish breakfast cafés, kebab restaurants, pastry shops, dessert cafés, and modern coffee houses throughout the district.
Shopping
Shopping opportunities range from neighbourhood markets and traditional bazaars to modern shopping centres featuring fashion, electronics, home goods, and entertainment facilities.
Weekly local markets provide fresh produce, spices, textiles, and regional delicacies, offering visitors an authentic shopping experience.
Accommodation
Kartal offers a growing selection of business hotels, boutique accommodation, serviced apartments, and international hotel brands.
Many visitors choose Kartal for its quieter atmosphere, affordable accommodation, and convenient access to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport and the Princes’ Islands.
Climate
Kartal experiences a mild climate influenced by the Sea of Marmara. Summers are warm and sunny, while winters are generally cool, rainy, and occasionally snowy.
The coastal location helps moderate temperatures throughout the year, making outdoor activities enjoyable during most seasons.
Getting There
Kartal is one of Istanbul’s major transportation hubs.
The district is served by the M4 Metro line, Marmaray suburban railway connections nearby, numerous municipal bus routes, minibuses, coastal roads, and ferry services linking the district with the Princes’ Islands.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is only a short drive away, making Kartal particularly convenient for international visitors.
Nearby Attractions
Kartal is ideally positioned for exploring several popular destinations, including:
- Aydos Forest
- Aydos Castle
- Dragos Hill
- Yakacık
- Pendik Marina
- Maltepe Coastal Park
- Princes’ Islands
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
Travel Tips
Kartal is an excellent destination for visitors who wish to experience a quieter side of Istanbul while remaining well connected to the city’s major attractions. The waterfront is particularly enjoyable during the late afternoon and evening, when locals gather for walks, cycling, and dining by the sea.
Spring and autumn offer ideal weather for exploring Yakacık, Aydos Forest, and the coastal promenade, while ferry services provide easy access to the Princes’ Islands for memorable day trips.