Living in Zeytinburnu: Coastal Istanbul Next to the Historic Peninsula

Zeytinburnu sits on the Marmara coast just outside the historic city walls, a few minutes from the Old City and well connected to almost every part of Istanbul. Once known for tanneries and industry, it has been transformed by coastal parks and large residential projects. For buyers who want sea views, strong transport links and quick access to the historic peninsula, Zeytinburnu deserves a closer look.

Last updated: November 2026.

Zeytinburnu at a Glance

Zeytinburnu lies on the European side, between Fatih, Bakırköy, Bayrampaşa and Güngören. Its southern edge faces the Marmara Sea, and the Theodosian Walls mark its border with the historic peninsula. Former industrial land along the coast, particularly around Kazlıçeşme, has been redeveloped with residential towers, offices and public spaces.

Transport and Connections

• Marmaray: coastal stations connect Zeytinburnu with Yenikapı, Sirkeci and, under the Bosphorus, the Asian side.
• M1A metro: links the district with Aksaray and the western districts.
• T1 tram: runs from Zeytinburnu through the historic peninsula to Sultanahmet, Eminönü and Kabataş.
• Metrobus: the Zeytinburnu stop connects with the metrobus corridor across the city.
• Roads: the coastal road and the E-5 give fast access to the centre and the west.

Few districts offer this many rail options, which is a major factor for tenants. Read buying property near metro stations.

Daily Life in Zeytinburnu

• The coast: landscaped shoreline parks with walking and cycling paths along the Marmara Sea.
• Historic surroundings: the city walls, Yedikule and the historic peninsula are on the doorstep. See our guide to Sultanahmet.
• Shopping: shopping centres and local markets, including the district's well-known textile and leather trade.
• Healthcare: several hospitals in and around the district.

Housing Types in Zeytinburnu

• Coastal residences: high-rise projects with Marmara Sea views, concierge and parking, especially in Kazlıçeşme.
• Heritage-inspired projects: developments on former industrial sites that combine historic buildings with new homes.
• Older apartment blocks: in inland neighbourhoods, many of which are being renewed under urban transformation.

Zeytinburnu from an Investment Point of View

• Location: close to the historic peninsula, the coast and the city's main transport corridors.
• Tenant demand: professionals, students and families value the rail links and short commutes.
• Sea-view premium: coastal towers with protected views tend to hold their appeal.
• Mixed streetscape: new projects sit beside older, denser neighbourhoods, so the immediate surroundings matter.

Things to Consider Before You Buy

• Exact location: conditions change quickly from the coastal projects to the inland streets.
• Building standards: check the age and construction of older buildings. Read building standards before buying property in Turkey.
• Running costs: towers with extensive facilities can have high monthly fees. See aidat and site management explained.
• Views: confirm whether planned buildings could affect a sea view.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Zeytinburnu?

Zeytinburnu is on the European side of Istanbul, on the Marmara coast just west of the historic peninsula and the city walls.

How is Zeytinburnu connected to the city?

By Marmaray, the M1A metro, the T1 tram, the metrobus and the coastal road, which makes it one of the best-connected districts in Istanbul.

Can you get sea views in Zeytinburnu?

Yes. Many coastal residences, especially in Kazlıçeşme, have views of the Marmara Sea.

Is Zeytinburnu close to the Old City?

Yes. The T1 tram runs directly to Sultanahmet and Eminönü.

Find Property in Zeytinburnu

Browse current property for sale in Zeytinburnu, for example Fişekhane Heritage Residences, or compare all property for sale in Istanbul. Start with our Property Turkey guide or ask our team for a shortlist.