Turkey’s bases range from a megacity to small coastal towns. Two have full guides; this page compares eight.
The costs are ballpark figures for a comfortable month for one person in a furnished apartment, eating out often, with coworking, transport and a social life. Lira prices change quickly.
The Bases at a Glance#
| Base | Comfortable month | Best months | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | about $2,000 | April to June, September to November | Big city, culture, community |
| Antalya | about $1,700 | April to June, September to November | Beaches and city |
| İzmir | $1,400 to $1,800 | April to June, September to October | Liberal Aegean city |
| Kaş | $1,500 to $2,000 | April to June, September to October | Small seaside town, diving |
| Fethiye | $1,300 to $1,800 | April to June, September to October | Coast, paragliding, expats |
| Bodrum | $1,800 to $2,600 | May to October | Upmarket resort town |
| Alanya | $1,200 to $1,600 | March to June, September to November | Cheap beach town |
| Cappadocia (Göreme) | $1,200 to $1,600 | April to June, September to October | Unique landscape, calm |
Istanbul#
One of the world’s great cities, with a huge international community, coworking and nightlife. Kadıköy, Cihangir and Beşiktaş are popular. See the Istanbul digital nomad guide.
Antalya#
A Mediterranean city with beaches, an old town and 300 sunny days. See the Antalya digital nomad guide.
İzmir#
Turkey’s third city is liberal, relaxed and on the Aegean, with a seafront promenade and lower costs than Istanbul.
Kaş#
A small, charming seaside town on the Lycian coast, known for diving, kayaking and a long-stay community of creatives and remote workers.
Fethiye#
A coastal town with beaches, islands, paragliding at Ölüdeniz and a large foreign community.
Bodrum#
An upmarket Aegean resort with marinas and nightlife; expensive in summer and quiet in winter.
Alanya#
One of the cheapest beach towns on the Mediterranean, with a castle, long beaches and many foreign residents.
Cappadocia (Göreme)#
A landscape of fairy chimneys, cave hotels and hot-air balloons. Quiet and inspiring for a month, with decent internet in many cave hotels.
Choosing Your Base#
- Istanbul in spring and autumn, the coast in shoulder seasons.
- Avoid the coast in July and August heat unless you love it.
- Check internet in small towns before renting.
Where to Base FAQs#
Where do most digital nomads live in Turkey?
Istanbul, followed by Antalya, with smaller communities in Kaş, Fethiye and İzmir.
What is the cheapest place in Turkey for digital nomads?
Alanya and Cappadocia, at about $1,200 to $1,600 a month.
Is Kaş good for digital nomads?
Yes, for a calm seaside life with diving and a creative long-stay community.