17 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips

Wondering where to take photos in Istanbul? You are in the right place! I will help you discover the best photo spots in Istanbul and make sure you get some wonderful Istanbul postcards from your trip.

Istanbul is one of the most photogenic cities in the world, with its colorful bazaars, grand mosques, and dramatic skyline stretching across two continents. This is why you want to bring your camera and take some epic photos during your trip. 

My guide to the best photo spots in Istanbul is going to ensure that you don’t miss a single photo opportunity! I will share additional photography tips, the best time to see these places without crowds, and help you with picking out the right lens. Let’s get started!

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win!

Are you still planning a trip to Istanbul?

I am here to help you out with some of the essentials, like tours, hotels, and other useful travel tips that will help you with the entire process.

🏨 When it comes to accommodation, here are the top hotels in Istanbul for every budget:

🍽️ Foodies should try: a traditional Turkish breakfast, a street food tour, or a cooking class with a local chef. Don’t miss classics like kebab, menemen, simit, and of course, baklava.

💡 Must do in Istanbul? Visit Hagia Sophia, climb Galata Tower, explore the colorful streets of Balat, step inside the Blue Mosque, wander through Topkapi Palace, shop at the Spice Bazaar & Grand Bazaar, and take a sunset Bosphorus cruise.

✈️ Flying into Istanbul Airport (IST)? You can book this top-rated private transfer straight to your hotel for a smooth arrival.

💰 Want to save money in Istanbul? Get the Istanbul E-pass, which includes top Istanbul attractions with the Skip The Line option (great if you have a packed itinerary!).

17 most Instagrammable places in Istanbul

1. Ortaköy Mosque

Where to take the best photos in Istanbul?
One of the most instagrammable places in Istanbul Ortakoy Mosque
Ortakoy Mosque one of the best photo spots in Istanbul
Sunrise at the Ortaköy Mosque in Istanbul

Photos of Ortaköy Mosque have been sitting on my Pinterest boards for ages, and it didn’t disappoint once I finally got to see it with my own eyes.

Sitting right on the edge of the Bosphorus with the 15 July Martyrs Bridge in the background, this is one of the best photo spots in Istanbul.

Ortaköy Mosque was built in the mid-1800s during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I. The architect was Nigoğos Balyan, part of the famous Balyan family who designed a lot of important buildings in Istanbul, including Dolmabahçe Palace.

The mosque itself is small but incredibly beautiful. The outside is full of details: carvings, curved windows, decorative stonework.

Inside, you will find tall windows and even more beautiful details. You can visit Ortaköy Mosque for free, but a modest dress code is a must.

If you want to avoid the crowds, you will need to wake up early. Morning and golden hour light are especially soft and flattering. You can catch reflections in the water, ferries gliding by, and the occasional cat sitting just where you want it.

When it comes to equipment, a 35 mm lens will do the job. A wide-angle lens can also work, but might shrink the mosque in your frame. A telephoto lens is not needed unless you are planning to take some portraits and details of the mosque.

💡 Do you want to see Ortaköy Mosque from a different perspective? Visit The House Cafe for breakfast or stay at The Stay Bosphorus hotel and enjoy it from your balcony.

2. Seven Hills Restaurant

Seven Hills Istanbul offers one of the best views in Istanbul
View of Blue Mosque from Seven Hills
Seven Hills Istanbul offers one of the best views in Istanbul
View of Hagia Sophia from Seven Hills

Located on a rooftop in Sultanahmet, Seven Hills Restaurant offers amazing views of the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Sea of Marmara, which makes it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Istanbul.

When it comes to food, we were pleasantly surprised and absolutely loved their traditional breakfast spread. We even ended up going back for a dinner experience to try their famous seafood and see sunset over the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque.

When it comes to the bill, prices are on the higher side. However, considering the beautiful location, I can’t blame them. A reservation is recommended, and you can make it here.

The restaurant opens at 8 am, and I recommend you arrive 5 minutes before the opening time. Unless you are visiting Istanbul in summer, when sunrise is way before opening time. In this case, I suggest you go for sunset instead.

My favorite photos are taken with a 50 mm lens, but that’s as zoomed in as you can get. You can use a wider lens, but leave your big telephoto lens at home.

🕌 More restaurants with similar Istanbul views:

  • 360 Panorama Restaurant
  • Queb Rooftop Restaurant
  • Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop
  • Deraliye Terrace
  • Turk Art Terrace Restaurant

3. Suleymaniye Mosque

best places to photograph in Istanbul
Interior of Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul

When you think of Istanbul, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia usually come to mind first. But just a short walk uphill brings you to one of the most impressive and underrated places in the city – the Süleymaniye Mosque.

This mosque sits high on the Third Hill of Istanbul, overlooking the Golden Horn. It was built in the 16th century during the reign of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. And the man behind the design? Mimar Sinan, one of the most respected architects in Ottoman history.

Even though it’s one of Istanbul’s most important landmarks, the Süleymaniye Mosque is far less crowded than the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia. With its stunning design, no list of Istanbul photo spots would be complete without this masterpiece.

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the Süleymaniye Mosque. I used a 14mm lens for my shots, and it worked out perfectly. The wide perspective really helps show off the symmetry and detail that make this mosque so special.

Süleymaniye Mosque is open from 8.30 am to 4.45 pm. On Fridays, it closes at 1.30 am, however, I wouldn’t recommend visiting any mosques on Fridays. The entrance is free.

4. Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque one of the prettiest places in Istanbul
Blue Mosque one of the prettiest places in Istanbul

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, the Blue Mosque is probably already on your list—and it should be. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and it absolutely deserves its place among the top Instagram spots in Istanbul.

The official name is the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, but most people know it as the Blue Mosque thanks to the 20,000 handmade İznik tiles that cover its interior walls.

Inside, the central dome and surrounding semi-domes create a beautiful symmetry. There are more than 200 stained glass windows, and they let in just enough natural light to highlight the soft colors of the tiles and the intricate calligraphy.

Keep in mind that this is still a working mosque, so you’ll need to plan around prayer times. Entry is free, but dress modestly. Headscarves are required for women, and they’re usually available at the entrance.

In case you want to recreate the photo above, walk the Sultan Ahmet Park and head to the Hagia Sophia, and bring a telelens. As you already know, another great view of the Blue Mosque is from the Seven Hills Restaurant.

Both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque open at 9 am, which is also when most tourists start arriving. But if you get to Sultanahmet Park around 8 am, you’ll find it surprisingly quiet, perfect for stunning Istanbul photos without the crowds.

5. Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkaki Palace must visit in Istanbul
Topkaki Palace must visit in Istanbul

The Topkapi Palace Museum is one of Istanbul’s most impressive historical sites. With its courtyards, domes, tiled rooms, and sweeping views, it easily earns its spot among the best Istanbul photography spots.

The palace was built in the 15th century by Sultan Mehmed II, just after the conquest of Constantinople. It became the heart of the Ottoman Empire for nearly 400 years. Today, it’s a museum, but walking through the grounds still feels like stepping into a different world.

It’s made up of four main courtyards, each more impressive than the last, plus gardens, pavilions, and hidden corners that are perfect for photography. One of the most photogenic spots is the Imperial Harem. 

The Imperial Treasury is another highlight, home to some of the most famous Ottoman treasures like the Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond. 

If you want to avoid crowds, arrive slightly before opening time. I would also recommend visiting the Imperial Harem and Imperial Treasury first because these places get crowded quickly. Keep in mind that during high season, the palace gets very crowded during the day.

For photography, bring a wide-angle lens for the courtyards and domes, and a zoom lens if you want to catch some of the finer architectural details.

Other things to know before visiting the Topkapi Palace Museum

🕘 Opening Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (last entry at 5 pm)
🚫 Closed on Tuesdays
Recommended Visit Time: 2–4 hours
🎟️ Ticket Price: 2000 TL – available at self-service kiosks at the entrance
⚠️ Heads up: There is a security check at the entrance, and during high season, it can take up to 30 minutes, so plan accordingly.
👉 Want to learn more about Topkapi Palace? Book this top-rated tour with entrance tickets included.

6. Taht Istanbul

15 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips
15 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips

Looking for that perfect Istanbul photo? You’ve probably already seen the dreamy rooftop shots with colorful cushions, patterned rugs, and the Bosphorus in the background. That’s Taht Istanbul – a photo studio on a rooftop with one of the best views in the city.

I have to say that this was my first experience with a photo studio, and I was a bit pessimistic at first, however, I absolutely loved the final results. Also, this is a great place if you have limited time in Istanbul and don’t have a lot of time for snapping pics around the city.

Inside the studio, you’ll find several different photo spots to choose from. The most iconic one is the terrace, which offers panoramic views over the city. During the colder months, it’s enclosed with see-through fabric so you can still enjoy the view without freezing. 

My personal favorite was the room filled with colorful Turkish lamps, it is probably my favorite photo from Istanbul. There are also 2 to 4 additional setups that change from time to time, depending on the latest trends.

The entrance fee is €30 per person, which gives you access to the studio and lets you take your own photos. I also rented a traditional costume for an extra €30. Another popular option is the flying dress rental, which costs €50.

You can also book a professional photographer for €175 if you’re doing a solo shoot, or €200 for couples. I’ve heard mixed reviews about this option, though I can’t speak from personal experience since my partner is my photographer.

They offer several different packages, and it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But the team is responsive on Instagram, so you can always message them to clear up any confusion before booking.

💡 Good to know! You can pay in local currency, euros, or dollars. However, if you choose card payment, a 20% fee will be applied.

7. Theodosius Cistern or Basilica Cistern

Theodosius Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey
Theodosius Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey

When exploring Istanbul, it’s easy to get caught up in the city’s surface beauty. But some of its most fascinating places are hidden underground. Theodosius Cistern and Basilica Cistern are ancient water reservoirs built during the Byzantine Empire.

Let’s start with the Theodosius Cistern. It’s not as famous as the Basilica Cistern, but honestly, I think it’s just as impressive. The architecture is clean and symmetrical, with 32 marble columns that were brought over from Marmara Island.

What’s interesting is that this cistern was hidden for centuries. In 2010, it was rediscovered during demolition work, and after a major restoration, it opened to the public in 2018. 

The Basilica Cistern covers almost 10,000 square meters & could hold around 80,000 cubic meters of water. There are 336 columns, each 9 meters tall, arranged in perfect rows. Many of these were reused from earlier Roman buildings.

One of the most famous details in the Basilica Cistern is the Medusa heads. Two of the columns rest on stone blocks carved with her face. Definitely another epic Istanbul photography spot. 

Consider that both cisterns have limited light, so you will want to bring a lens with a wide aperture. When it comes to mm, you will want to keep it wide-angle as well.

–> Get Theodosius Cistern tickets here
–> Get Basilica Cistern tickets here

8. Hagia Sophia

Best places to photograph in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia one of the top Instagram spots in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia probably doesn’t need an introduction, as few places in the world feel as powerful and layered as Hagia Sophia. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most beautiful places in Istanbul.

The building itself is incredible. Hagia Sophia has a long and fascinating history. It was first a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again. When you stand in front of it, you can feel how much it has seen over the centuries.

The interior of Hagia Sophia is just as impressive, if not more. The huge space, the way the light filters through the windows, and the mix of Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy create something truly unique.

When it comes to equipment, a wide-angle will do the job and will help you spread out the massive crowd. If you are planning to capture some details, a telephoto could be a good choice as well.

While I am usually pretty good at avoiding crowds at popular attractions, Hagia Sophia was challenging. Let’s just say that I failed it completely! If I had to visit again, I would aim for a later afternoon visit and try to stay until closing hours.

Also, keep in mind that Hagia Sophia is open from 9 am to 7.30 pm and not 24/7 like indicated on Google Maps. You can get a regular ticket at the ticket counter or buy a skip-the-line ticket online. If you want a guided experience, you will love this top-rated tour.

9. Umbrella Street (Karatavuk Street)

15 most Instagrammable places in Istanbul

If you are looking for colorful and fun places to photograph, Umbrella Street in Istanbul is a great choice. It’s one of the popular Instagram spots in Istanbul, and it’s easy to see why once you get there.

The street is covered with dozens of bright umbrellas hanging above your head. No matter when you visit, it brings a pop of color that looks amazing in photos. The umbrellas create a really nice contrast with the old stone walls and small cafés around.

You’ll find Umbrella Street tucked away in the Karaköy area, next to the Ben’den Karaköy bar. It’s not a huge street, but it’s packed with charm. Unless you are planning to sit down at the cafe, it won’t take a lot of your free time.

I recommend going early in the day if you want the street a bit emptier for your pictures. Later in the afternoon, it gets busier with people sitting in the cafés.

10. Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie

Best rooftop cafes with a view of Istanbul

If you are looking for one of the best views of Galata Tower, Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie is the place to go. It’s a beautiful rooftop spot in the heart of Galata, and it’s also one of the best places to take photos in Istanbul.

Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie has a cute terrace that gives you a unique perspective of Galata Tower. It’s a perfect spot if you want a photo with the tower without the crowds you usually find at ground level.

I have to say, the first time we came here for lunch, the light was really awful. So we decided to give it another try. Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie is actually part of the Meroddi Barnathan Hotel, and for a fee, anyone can join the breakfast, even if you’re not staying there.

This is truly the best way to get photos at Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie. There are only a few people around, and the morning light is very soft and gentle. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere, I would recommend visiting the cafe around sunset instead.

Do you want to stay at the Istanbul hotel with a Galata Tower view? Meroddi Barnathan Hotel is one of the options, but the view from the Galata Istanbul Hotel MGallery is even more incredible.

11. Balat

Balat is one of the most picturesque areas of Istanbul
Instagram spots in Balat

Balat is one of the most colorful neighborhoods and Insta-worthy places in Istanbul. If you love photographing colorful houses, charming streets, and local cafés, this area is a must-visit.

The first thing you’ll notice in Balat is the row of colorful houses stacked along the steep streets. Every corner feels like a little surprise, with bold shades of blue, yellow, red, and green. Some streets are quieter, while others are full of small shops and coffee places with outdoor seating.

One of the most famous photo spots in Balat is Kiremit Street, where you’ll find the iconic rainbow houses. They look amazing in photos. Besides the houses, Balat is full of cute little cafés with colorful chairs and vintage decorations.

I feel like Balat is the perfect place to wander without a map or a plan. Trust me, you’ll find endless photo opportunities, and your camera won’t get a break. If you want to know more about the neighborhood and gain local insights, you will love this Balat guided tour.

12. The iconic Tram

The iconic Istanbul tram

The red trams running through Istiklal Street are one of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul. They move slowly through the busy street, surrounded by shops, street musicians, and crowds of people. It feels like stepping into a movie scene.

One of the best spots to photograph the tram is near Galatasaray Lisesi. From there, you can capture the tram with the long stretch of Istiklal Street behind it. Most people photograph it from Taksim Square, which is beautiful but way too crowded.

I recommend visiting early in the morning if you want a cleaner shot without too many people. At the same time, crowds are part of the charm when it comes to this area of Istanbul.

Another fun idea is to hop on the tram for a few stops and take some pictures inside. The windows, the seats, and the little details make it easy to get some beautiful, nostalgic shots.

13. Galata Tower

Galata Tower must visit photo spot in Istanbul
best Istanbul photos

Galata Tower is one of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul — and probably one of the most photographed spots in the city. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen, standing in front of it still feels special.

There are lots of ways to photograph the tower. The classic view is from the small street leading up to it, with cafés and shops lining both sides. For example, the photo above was taken near the famous Sirin Firin Bakery.

It’s a popular shot, so you might have to wait a bit to get a clean frame. Early morning is best if you want to avoid crowds. Actually, early morning is a must if you want to avoid crowds, because this is truly one of the most popular photo spots in Istanbul.

You can also go up to the top of the tower. The 360° view of Istanbul is stunning, especially around sunset. From up there, you’ll see the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn, and the rooftops stretching all the way across the city. It’s one of the best views in Istanbul, hands down.

14. Istanbul from the boat

Iconic views of Istanbul from a cruise

Seeing Istanbul from the water is something you shouldn’t miss. A boat ride on the Bosphorus gives you a completely different view of the city, and it’s easily one of the best places to take photos in Istanbul.

From the boat, you can see the skyline with its mix of mosques, palaces, bridges, and old wooden houses. Everything feels calmer from the water, and it’s a great way to take in how big and beautiful the city really is.

Some of my favorite photo moments were passing by the Ortaköy Mosque with the Bosphorus Bridge behind it, and seeing both the European and Asian sides at once. The light is also really nice in the late afternoon, especially during golden hour.

A zoom lens can do wonders and capture some of the main attractions in Istanbul, but if you want to take photos with yourself, you will need to use 35mm and wait until the boat is closer to the coastline.

You can take a public ferry or join a short Bosphorus cruise. If you are on a tight budget, I recommend the public ferry ‘Karakoy – Eminononu – Kadikoy’ or ‘Ortaköy – Beşiktaş – Eminönü’. However, an organized Bosphorus cruise is a better option for tourists.

These are top rated cruises in Istanbul:

15. Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar

Spice Bazaar photographers dream in Istanbul
best photo spots in Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous landmarks in Istanbul. It’s massive, historic, and full of everything from carpets and ceramics to jewelry and lamps. It’s definitely worth a visit, but when it comes to photos, the Spice Bazaar offers a much better experience.

The Grand Bazaar can feel a bit overwhelming. It’s huge and busy, and while there are a few nice photo spots (like the colorful lantern shops), the lighting inside can be tricky, and the layout is like a maze.

Now, the Spice Bazaar is smaller but much more photogenic. The colors are incredible! Rows of spices, teas, dried fruits, and sweets all lined up in perfect displays. There’s something about the way everything is arranged that just makes you want to take a picture of every stall. 

So yes, go see the Grand Bazaar because it’s iconic, but if you’re looking for rich colors, better light, and more relaxed photo moments, the Spice Bazaar wins.

16. Çiçek Pasajı

Interior of Cicek Pasaji in - one of the best hidden gems in Istanbul

Tucked away along the busy İstiklal Street, Çiçek Pasajı is one of the hidden Istanbul photo spots that often gets overlooked. This historic arcade is lined with restaurants, bars, and old-school charm and offers great photo opportunities.

Its glass ceiling, ironwork details, and warm lighting give it a cozy, vintage feel that’s especially beautiful in the evening. It’s not a big space, but the curved passage, colorful tables, and nostalgic touches offer plenty of photo angles, especially if you like capturing architectural details.

Çiçek Pasajı also has an interesting backstory. It used to be a flower market (hence the name), and you can still feel that romantic atmosphere when you walk through.

17. Dolmabahçe Palace

Dolmabahçe Palace is one of the most elegant and underrated Istanbul photo spots. Located right on the edge of the Bosphorus, it blends European and Ottoman architecture in a way that feels completely different from the city’s older palaces and mosques.

I have to say I was super excited to visit this place. However, as soon as we arrived at the ticket booth, a security guard stopped us and said that photo shoots weren’t allowed. He said that we would have to store our camera equipment with him if we wanted to enter.

It felt really strange, especially because he approached us even before we reached the ticket booth. What made it even weirder is that others don’t seem to have the same experience. I’ve even seen bloggers mention using a tripod inside the palace.

After reading some recent reviews, it honestly seems like the guard was just having a bad day and decided to take it out on us. Since others haven’t had the same issue, I still decided to include it in the list of the best photo spots in Istanbul.

Make sure you visit the Dolmabahçe Mosque nearby. Since we didn’t get to visit the palace, we had some extra time and ended up discovering this fantastic hidden gem of Istanbul.

Further reading for the best photo spots in Istanbul

Or read more about: Istanbul | Turkey

In conclusion…

15 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips

This is the end of the best photo spots in Istanbul and I am sure you are impatient to hit the road. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find new angles and fresh stories to capture. So take your time, wander a little, and let the city surprise you.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save the best photo spots in Istanbul! 

15 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips
15 Best Photo Spots in Istanbul, Turkey + Photography Tips

86 Comments

  1. Moroccan Travel says:

    Istanbul appears incredibly photogenic! I love how vibrant and lively it looks. Theodosius Cistern seems like an enchanting spot for photography—I’d love to visit! Taht Istanbul also sounds perfect for capturing beautiful photos without the crowds. Your shots are spectacular! Thanks for the fantastic guide!

  2. Lovely pics! Thanks for all the info. Can you tell me were to find the bout tour you found by accident? Thank you.

    1. Thank you so much! I just updated the article, but there are multiple sellers around Hazerfen Ahmet Çelebi İskelesi. They are hard to miss as they are holding high posters with pictures of different places that you can see from the boat. Hope it helps and hope you enjoy your time in Istanbul!

  3. Wow, great photos! I wish I had seen this before I went because mine do not look like this 😆 Great tips, thank you!

  4. Simply Amazing photos! Thank you for posting:)

  5. Great read. Thanks for the info.

  6. Sankarraj says:

    Best part about your blog is – you provide google maps location and best time to vist. Thank you

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Always happy to help! 😊

  7. Each of these is better than the last! I was in Istanbul many years ago and absolutely loved it, but I tragically didn’t take many photos. I loved the photos of Balat, with the cobblestone streets and bright houses.

  8. Thank you for the amazing post. I was searching everywhere for the the lenses I shoudl take to Turkey. Your post has answered all my questions 🙂 . Good work !

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! I really appreciate that 🙂

  9. I always appreciate you excellent photography tips and inspiring photos. I can’t wait to visit Istanbul and see these places in person!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      I’m sure you will love it and will be able to take some gorgeous photos 😍 So kind of you, thanks, Erica!

  10. The mosques are all incredible, and I love the details inside the harem. I missed out on my planned Istanbul visit due to COVID, but have a cruise next July that overnights in Istanbul next July. Looking forward to seeing all these great places for myself!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Oh that’s so exciting! There is so much to see in Istanbul so get ready… I really loved it and I hope you will as well 😍

  11. Valentina says:

    Lovely article! You pictures are always beautiful. You look like a princess in all of them! Thanks for all your great tips and info. You are great content! Keep up with the good work!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      So sweet of you, Valentina! Your feedback means a lot ❤️ Thank you!

  12. What a post! As always, i loooove your photos Lasma! Especially the close up of the kitty in Hagia Sophia! What a great mix of history and cuteness!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much, Josy ❤️ There are so many kitties in Istanbul, you will find them everywhere!

  13. Turkey is so beautiful!! All these places are really a dream!! I still haven’t visited but I hope I can go soon! Thanks for this handy list!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Hope it helps once you actually get to visit! It’s such a unique place, you certainly should visit ❤️

  14. Looks like there are quite a few places in Istanbul to take some gorgeous photos! We have been to Turkey, but didn’t make it to Istanbul, unfortunately.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Maybe next time! Istanbul really surprised me, in a positive way 😍

  15. Such stunning photos from Istanbul! I especially love your shot in front of the Ortaköy Mosque 🙂 I recently visited for the first time and wish I would’ve had your blog for inspo as I hadn’t heard of some of these places!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      That’s such a sweet comment, thank you, Olivia! Maybe that means that you can plan another trip to Istanbul haha.. after all, it’s a beautiful city 😍

  16. These photos are amazing! What a great accumulation of gorgeous photo spots in Istanbul. Some of these places I’ve never even heard of but would love to visit!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much!! I’m glad you found something new here, so hopefully you can go back and visit them all! ❤️

  17. You’re right; these are amazing pictures! We are contemplating visiting Instanbul this summer or fall. I’ll definitely keep this list handy. Great photos!! Thank you for putting this together! – Linzey @thefamilyfuntour

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much Linzey, means a lot!! I hope this guide can help you create beautiful memories from Istanbul ❤️

  18. Elle Burne says:

    Lovely post! I have been to a lot of these spots but there are definitely a few new ones there too. Hopefully I will get back to Istanbul soon and I can visit them all!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you, Elle! I hope you can go back and see even more ❤️

  19. Istanbul looks like such a photogenic city! I love all the colors. Your photos are absolutely spectacular! I would love to visit one day. Thank you for sharing!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      It really is! I hope you can visit soon and see it for yourself ❤️ thank you so much!

  20. I love all of your tips of where to go, when, camera lens to use, and the addresses. Thanks for such a detailed post that I would surely follow if I was in Istanbul.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      It’s my pleasure! I really hope it makes it easier for someone… and thank you so much❤️

  21. These photos of Istanbul are breathtaking! So beautiful…would love to visit.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much ❤️

  22. Oh my – your post gave me some serious wanderlust! I love Istanbul so much, but haven´t visited Balat yet! Your pictures are so beautiful and full of vibrant local details! Thanks for sharing!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Aww thank you so much for your kind words! Balat for next time, right? Hopefully 🤞🏻

  23. I didnt know the Basilica Cistern was closed – was planning to pop over to Turkey some time this year and your mention definitely helped! 🧡

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Glad to hear that! Maybe check Google for updates before you go, but in case there is another Cistern to visit ❤️

  24. Fantastic job picking locations and I love your outfits!!!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much!

  25. Wow! I loved reading about the best places to take photos in Istanbul. All of your photos, dresses and the buildings were fabulous! Thanks for such a great share.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much, Ashlee! I’m passionate about photography, so these words mean a lot!

  26. Wow! Turkey looks so breathtaking and you look gorgeous in all of your dresses. I will definitely be saving this post for when I plan my trip to Turkey! Thank you!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      How sweet of you! Thank you, Michelle! I hope you get a chance to visit soon ❤️

  27. Simply outstanding!! Such beautiful photos you have… I will definitely use your tips when traveling to Istanbul..

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! So happy to hear your feedback ❤️

  28. Stunning photos ! I love this colorful and interesting city with its unique architecture. Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie looks like the perfect rooftop spot to have a cup of coffee. I have not been to Istanbul yet, but am making plans now. Thanks for an informative blog post. 🙂

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you, Jan! Istanbul is a very unique place and I say it as a compliment! Turkish coffee, right? Because it’s a must when visiting Turkey 👌🏻

  29. Balat and Umbrella Street look like such a cool place to visit. I think I could spend and entire day walking around Balat and looking at all the details in the houses.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      I see you like colorful places, right?! Spice market could be a good idea as well!

  30. All your photos are seriously amazing! Really makes me want to go

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Yay! Thank you so much!

  31. Istanbul is just so photogenic no? I really enjoyed looking at your photos. Your outfits are so lovely too.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Totally! It’s full of photo spots, but I hope this guide can help to find only the best ones! Thank you so much! ❤️

  32. Istanbul is such an exotic city to visit & your post brought back memories of the stunning mosques, the beautiful tiles of the Topkapi Palace and the colourful souks. But there’s so much more to see & I loved your beautiful pics! Thanks so much for sharing!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! You are right, I stayed 2 weeks in Istanbul and still didn’t manage to see it all.. a good reason to come back ☺️ glad you liked it!

  33. Those pictures and outfits are gorgeous! Istambul has been on my bucket list for soo long, I hope to visit one day!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! I hope you can visit soon, because it’s such a wonderful city ❤️

  34. Balat is so colourful! I’d love to go around Instanbul and get photos in all of the historical locations.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Right?! It’s such a unique place and a must place to visit 😍 I hope you can do that very soon!

  35. Lovely photos! And great suggestions for places to get pix. Though Istanbul is such a gorgeous city that it’d be hard to get a bad picture! Thanks for all the suggestions.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      That’s so true! Beautiful photos all around, but I hope this guide can still help to make sure visit at the right time and use the right equipment ❤️

  36. Oh my goodness, your photos of Istanbul are such a feast for the eyes! Thanks for sharing your best photo spots, I’m saving this for later so I can get some great photos too.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Aww thank you so much, Jenn! I hope you can visit soon and recreate all the photos ❤️

  37. We recently went for photos at Taught Istanbul too! It wasn’t on our itinerary, but we were looking for a rooftop view and a random guy took us there! We decided to just sign up and we love the pics that we got!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      I know what you mean, it’s so easy to take beautiful photos there! Certainly convenient photo spot for those that are on the clock ❤️

  38. Wow your photos are amazing! And all of these photo spots are just spectacular. I love all of the locations are so vibrant and colorful. Your dress collection is also so impressive!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Haha thank you for all these compliments, Kate! Very thankful for your kind words!

  39. What a beautiful place and wonderful photos!
    I loved reading about this great place, and you make it look so amazing in your words and photos!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! I hope I convinced you to visit Istanbul ❤️

  40. On the travel wish list! Would love to visit Istanbul. And your post shows so many beautiful spots we will have to see. We would definitely head to the restaurants with those great panoramic views. And would definitely not miss the Blue Mosque. I can’t wait to get Istanbul on our travel planning board.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      I hope you get a chance to visit soon! Honestly, I didn’t have high expectations for Istanbul but ended up loving it! Hope this list can help you plan your trip ❤️

  41. Spectacular photos. Istanbul is certainly a colorful place! Thank you for your inspiring post about this exotic city.

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you, Sharon! I’m so happy you liked it ❤️

  42. I’m actually headed to Istanbul in May, so this post will come in handy for my trip!! Thank you!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Glad to hear that! Hope you have a wonderful trip, Maggie!

  43. Istanbul looks like such a photogenic city! I love how colourful and lively it looks! Theodosius Cistern looks like such an enchanting place to visit and take photographs, I’d love to visit! I also love the idea of Taht Istanbul to create some really beautiful photos without crowds – your shots look spectacular! Thanks for the great guide!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much, Hannah! I’m so happy you enjoyed this guide ❤️ I never been in a photo studio before, but I liked it and understand now why so many people loved it… perfect place to take photos and then enjoy the rest of the city!

  44. Istanbul has so many cool photo spots and you have combined them all. Well done! And the little tips about equipment and time are so useful!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Means so much, thanks! Always happy to help ❤️

  45. These are the best photo spots of Istanbul! Waiting for the next guide! My favorite were hands down Hagiq Sophia and Ortaköy Mosque! Also i loved the view from the Hamdi restaurant and the Dolmabache Mosque! Istanbul really stole my heart!

    1. lasma.plone says:

      Thank you so much! And I can say the same, such a magical city ❤️

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