3 cities from Turkey make the list of the world's smartest cities

The results of the comprehensive research, based on 2025 data and published in 2026, focused not only on the technological infrastructure of cities but also on their resilience against crises, levels of intellectual capital, and cognitive efficiency that impacts quality of life. In this assessment, three cities from Turkey achieved significant success on the international stage by entering the top 30.

Among the cities that stood out in the research, Zurich in Switzerland, Singapore, Seoul in South Korea, and Oslo in Norway led the way. Eskişehir, which placed in the top 15, surpassed many world metropolises with its student-friendly structure, strong universities, and dynamic young population; it managed to enter the list at 15th place, ahead of cities such as Stockholm, Berlin, and Paris.

The other two Turkish cities also secured significant rankings: Ankara entered the list at 19th place, and Istanbul at 24th. The success of these cities on the list was attributed to their performance across various categories.

Analyses regarding Eskişehir's success particularly highlighted its student-centered urban life, the integrated structure of its universities with the city, and the city's young profile that adapts easily to technology. The transformation of the area around the Porsuk Stream, which has become a symbol of the city, along with pedestrianized streets and avenues, and economic and bureaucratic flexibility, were cited by international experts as an example of urban transformation.

This success was not limited to international assessments. In an IQ study conducted by the IQ Test Center with the participation of 1.2 million people, Eskişehir was also the province with the highest cognitive performance in Turkey with a score of 105.20, confirming its success at the national level as well.

ANKARA AND ISTANBUL MADE A DIFFERENCE IN GOVERNANCE

The capital, Ankara, drew attention with its academic potential and technological innovations based on the defense industry, securing its place at 19th on the list. Ankara's ability to produce fast and effective solutions in extraordinary situations was cited as one of the factors that increased its score.

Istanbul, despite its dense population, placed 24th thanks to its breakthroughs in traffic and financial technologies. In particular, its advanced smart transportation systems and the city's rapid adaptation to digitalization were evaluated as "high adaptability" in the international index.

Other prominent cities that found a place in the top 30 of the international city intelligence research include Zurich, Singapore, Seoul, Oslo, Canberra, Geneva, London, and Copenhagen.

News Source: 12punto