Turkey is a country with an incredible diversity of regions, each offering its own unique characteristics and features. The areas of Turkey generously present us with beauty ranging from golden beaches to majestic mountains, from bustling metropolises to tranquil villages.
Today, we’ll talk about the various regions of Turkey and try to figure out which one might be the ideal place for your permanent residence. In this article, we will explore the regions of Turkey, their natural and cultural features, as well as discuss in which cities you can obtain a residence permit and which areas are restricted for obtaining this status.

Picturesque Southern Regions of Turkey
The southern regions of Turkey are renowned for their beautiful beaches, mild climate, and well-developed infrastructure for both leisure and living. These areas are perfect for those dreaming of a life by the sea, enjoying warm days and a rich cultural experience.
Cozy and Sunny Alanya
Alanya is one of the most popular resort towns on Turkey’s southern coast. This city attracts both tourists and permanent residents with its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife.
Alanya offers everything necessary for comfortable living and leisure. Here, you can find modern apartments, a wide range of restaurants and cafes, as well as numerous family-friendly entertainment options. For those considering areas in Turkey for obtaining a residence permit (residence visa), Alanya can be an excellent choice due to its convenient location and well-developed infrastructure.
Antalya: The Heart of the Turkish Riviera
Antalya, known as the gem of the Turkish Riviera, is one of the largest and most developed cities in the southern part of the country. This city beautifully combines historical heritage with modern comfort, making it an ideal place for living and relaxation.
In Antalya, you will find not only stunning beaches and scenic promenades but also a wealth of cultural and historical landmarks. The city is famous for its markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Turkish goods. Thanks to its well-developed transport network, Antalya provides easy access to any part of Turkey. For those thinking about obtaining a residence permit, Antalya offers many opportunities, including affordable housing and high-quality healthcare.

Northern Regions of Turkey: Green Mountains and Cultural Heritage
Moving on to the northern regions of Turkey, we cannot overlook their unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This region, distinct from the southern resorts, is characterized by its mild climate, green mountains, and abundance of historical landmarks.
The Black Sea coast of Turkey is famous for its lush forests, cool climate, and hospitable locals. Cities along the coast, such as Trabzon and Rize, offer unique opportunities for those seeking a peaceful and measured life away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Trabzon: A City at the Crossroads of Cultures
Trabzon is one of the largest cities on the Black Sea coast, known for its rich historical heritage and strategic location on the trade route between Europe and Asia. Here, you will find many historical monuments, such as the famous Sumela Monastery, as well as beautiful beaches and mountain landscapes.
Trabzon is ideal for those seeking a quiet life surrounded by nature and history. The city offers well-developed infrastructure, including modern medical facilities, educational institutions, and a variety of shops and restaurants. For those interested in obtaining a residence permit in Turkey, Trabzon can be an excellent choice, offering numerous advantages and opportunities for a comfortable life.
Rize: The Green Gem of Turkey
Rize is a small town on the Black Sea coast, famous for its tea plantations and picturesque mountain scenery. This place is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The town is surrounded by green hills and forests, creating ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities.
Rize attracts those looking for a quiet and cozy place to live away from the urban hustle. Here, you will find charming homes, welcoming locals, and a unique atmosphere of traditional Turkish culture.

Western Regions of Turkey: Modernity and History
The western regions of Turkey are renowned for their vineyards, olive groves, and ancient cities. It is the perfect destination for those who want to combine a peaceful life in nature with the opportunity for travel and cultural discoveries. Cities in western Turkey offer numerous possibilities for obtaining a residence permit due to their rich history and modern amenities.
Western areas such as Izmir and Bodrum provide a unique blend of modern living and rich historical heritage. These cities attract both tourists and those seeking a comfortable place for permanent residence.
Izmir: A City of Contrasts
Izmir is the third-largest city in Turkey, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and modern conveniences. Here, you will find numerous historical landmarks, such as the ancient city of Ephesus, as well as modern shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Izmir attracts those who want to live in a large city with well-developed infrastructure and vast opportunities for work and leisure. The city offers comfortable living conditions, including modern residential complexes, high-quality healthcare facilities, and a variety of educational institutions.
Bodrum: A Resort for the Elite
Bodrum is one of the most popular resort towns on the Aegean coast, known for its luxurious villas, yachts, and upscale hotels. The city offers unique opportunities for recreation and entertainment, as well as comfortable conditions for permanent residence.
Bodrum is ideal for those seeking a luxurious lifestyle by the sea, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here, you will find numerous opportunities for active leisure, including water sports, golf, and tennis.

Eastern Regions of Turkey: Exoticism and Adventure
The eastern regions of Turkey offer unique opportunities for those seeking adventure and exotic experiences. These areas are known for their ancient cities, majestic mountains, and rich culture. They are distinguished by their unique cultural heritage and traditions. These places offer a completely different perspective on life in Turkey, with an unparalleled atmosphere and the hospitality of the locals. Here, you can find the “real” Turkey, far from tourist routes but rich in history and traditions.
Van: A City on the Shores of a Lake
Van is a city located in eastern Turkey, famous for its vast saltwater lake and ancient ruins. It is the perfect place for those seeking solitude and tranquility, surrounded by nature and history.
The city of Van offers unique opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and water sports. For those interested in history and culture, Van boasts many historical landmarks, such as ancient churches and fortresses.
Closed and Open Areas of Turkey for Obtaining a Residence Permit
Recently, the issue of closed and open areas for obtaining a residence permit in Turkey has become increasingly relevant. This is due to changes in legislation and government policies aimed at regulating migration flows. Let’s take a closer look at which areas remain accessible for residence permits and which are closed to new applicants.
Which Areas are Available for Obtaining a Residence Permit?
Despite the changes in legislation, there are still regions in Turkey where it is relatively easy to obtain a residence permit. These include many popular resort cities and areas with well-developed infrastructure. It is important to know which cities in Turkey offer residence permits and which areas are most attractive for living.
Open Areas for Residence Permits in Alanya
In Alanya, despite the popularity of this resort, there are still open areas for obtaining a residence permit. These areas include:
- Mahmutlar: This district is known for its affordable property prices and well-developed infrastructure. Here, you can find everything needed for a comfortable life, from shops and restaurants to medical facilities and schools.
- Kestel: A quieter and more peaceful district compared to the central part of Alanya. It’s perfect for those who prefer to live in more secluded areas without losing access to city amenities.
- Avsallar: This district attracts attention with its beautiful beaches and green parks. There are excellent housing options at affordable prices here.
For more detailed information on which areas of Alanya are open for obtaining a residence permit, feel free to contact us.
Open Areas for Residence Permits in Antalya
Antalya also has several districts where it is relatively easy to obtain a residence permit. These include:
- Lara: This area is considered one of the most prestigious in Antalya. It’s home to luxury hotels, elite residential complexes, and the city’s best beaches. Lara is ideal for those seeking comfort and a high standard of living.
- Konyaaltı: A district that combines affordable housing prices with well-developed infrastructure. You will find many parks, shops, and entertainment venues here.
- Kepez: A more budget-friendly district that is perfect for families and those looking for affordable housing options. Kepez offers plenty of amenities and good transportation accessibility.

Why Are Some Areas of Turkey Closed for Residence Permits?
The reasons why certain areas of Turkey are closed for obtaining a residence permit can vary. Often, this is due to overpopulation, infrastructure limitations, or political decisions. Understanding these reasons can help you better navigate the situation and choose the most suitable place for living.
Is It Possible to Register in a Closed Area?
Many wonder if it is possible to register their residence in an area closed for residence permits. The answer depends on the specific situation and current legislation. In some cases, exceptions or special conditions may allow for living in such areas. Turkish regions independently determine these possibilities.
Interactive Map of Closed Areas
You can view the closed areas of Turkey for residence permits and the list of cities on an interactive map of closed areas. This map provides up-to-date information on regions that are closed for obtaining residence permits, helping you navigate and plan your move more effectively.
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Closed Areas of Alanya for Residence Permits
Certain districts or specific mahalles (neighborhoods) of Alanya have been added to the list of areas closed for residence permits. These changes are due to the city’s high popularity among foreigners and limited resources to accommodate a large number of new residents. Among the closed areas are:
- Tosmur: This area was closed for residence permits due to high population density and limited resources. In recent years, Tosmur has become one of the most sought-after districts among foreign property buyers, leading to overcrowding.
- Oba: This district attracted many foreigners with its proximity to the center of Alanya and well-developed infrastructure. However, due to the large influx of new residents, authorities decided to limit the issuance of residence permits here.
- Cikcilli: Located near the city center, it was also closed for residence permits. This district is known for its new residential complexes and amenities, but due to high demand, it was added to the list of closed areas.
Closed Areas of Antalya for Residence Permits
Despite its popularity, Antalya also has districts that are closed to new applicants for residence permits. These measures were taken to control population density and ensure comfortable living conditions for all residents. Among the closed districts of Antalya are:
- Muratpaşa: One of the central districts of the city, which was closed to new residence permit applications. This is due to high demand for housing and population density in this area. Specific mahalles within the district are affected.
- Döşemealtı: Although less known among tourists, this district was also included in the list of closed areas due to the increased number of new residents. Currently, two mahalles in this district are closed.
- Kemer: A resort area that attracts many foreigners was also closed for residence permits. The popularity of Kemer among tourists and permanent residents has led to the need to regulate migration flows.
Impact on the Real Estate Market
Changes in residence permit rules are also affecting the real estate market in Turkey. The demand for housing in areas of Turkey that are open for residence permits may increase, which, in turn, impacts prices and the availability of real estate. Obtaining a residence permit is becoming a crucial factor when choosing a place to live and purchasing property in Turkey.
Considering all these factors, it becomes clear that choosing a district for living in Turkey requires a careful approach and a thorough review of up-to-date information.
For more detailed information, feel free to contact us on our website, and we will help you make the right choice!