New York and Dubai have long established themselves as megacities with breathtaking skyscrapers. But Istanbul has something to offer too: the city, located on the border between Europe and Asia, not only preserves its historical heritage but is also actively reaching for the sky. Dozens of modern towers have sprung up here, impressive in their scale and architectural boldness. And we’re not just talking about the famous Istanbul Sapphire. By 2025, Istanbul will have more than 60 skyscrapers over 100 meters high, and we will take a look at the most interesting ones.
5. Spine Tower
- Height: 202 m
- District: Maslak
- Year of construction: 2014
- Use: mainly office building
Spine Tower is one of Istanbul’s most recognizable office skyscrapers. It stands out for its angular silhouette and environmentally friendly engineering solutions. The architects specifically designed the floors to be uneven in shape to maximize natural lighting for all offices. The building uses a heat recovery system. Nearby are parks, restaurants, major banks, and the headquarters of international companies.
Interesting fact: The name “Spine” is clearly reflected in the building’s design: its structure resembles vertebrae, and LED lighting at night creates the effect of “nerve endings.”
4. Anthill Residence Towers
- Height: 210 m
- District: Bomonti (Şişli)
- Year of construction: 2010
- Use: premium residential complex
Two identical towers built in a rapidly developing district that is transforming into a trendy urban cluster. The windows offer breathtaking views of the Bosphorus, the Old City, and the Sea of Marmara. The complex features a swimming pool, fitness area, tennis court, and even a ski simulator. A popular choice among foreigners, tenants, and those looking for modern property in Istanbul.
An interesting detail: the Bomonti district got its name from the Bomonti brewery, founded in 1890 by Swiss brothers. Today, the old brewery site is home to a cultural center, and the Anthill towers have become a symbol of the gentrification of this historic district. The complex has a unique “smart home” system – residents can control lighting, temperature, and even order food through a mobile app.
3. Istanbul Sapphire
- Height: 261 m (including the spire)
- District: Levent
- Year of construction: 2010
- Use: residential complex, offices, shopping center, observation deck
It was the first “super-tall” skyscraper in Turkey and remained the tallest building in the country for a long time. Special feature: a double facade that protects against overheating in summer and retains heat in winter. The top floor features an observation deck with panoramic views of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. There is also a café, a cinema, and even a helicopter flight simulator over Istanbul.
2. Skyland Istanbul
- Height: 284 m (tallest in 2025)
- District: Seyrantepe
- Year built: 2017
- Use: residential and commercial premises, hotel
The Skyland complex consists of two towers and a podium connecting them. It is not just housing, but a lifestyle concept with recreation areas, offices, restaurants, and a concert hall next to the Türk Telekom Arena stadium. The Skyland Residence tower is considered the tallest in Turkey in terms of roof height.
1. Metropol Istanbul Tower
- Height: 301 m (with spire)
- District: Atasehir (Asian part of Istanbul)
- Year of construction: 2019
- Use: offices, apartments, shopping center
This skyscraper has become a symbol of the rapidly developing Atasehir district, where a new business center is taking shape. The project includes not only the tower, but also a huge shopping and entertainment complex with shops, cafes, a fitness center, and even a concert arena. The architects incorporated references to traditional Turkish architecture into the design: the spiral elements of the facade resemble the patterns of Ottoman mosques. The interiors are minimalist in style, and many apartments offer views of the Princes’ Islands.
