7 Best Places to See Sunset in Istanbul

Top 7 Istanbul sunset spots

1. Ortaköy Mosque & Bosphorus Bridge

Ortaköy is easily one of the most iconic Istanbul sunset spots. The combination of the elegant Ortaköy Mosque and the Bosphorus Bridge in the background creates a picture-perfect view, especially when the sky starts changing colors in the evening.

This area has a great mix of scenery and local energy. The waterfront is the best place to sit and take it all in. From here, you get a clear view of the mosque, the bridge, and the glowing sky behind them.

It’s a great spot for photographers, too. You can play with reflections on the water or frame the mosque with the bridge in the distance. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit Ortaköy Mosque for sunrise instead.

2. Bosphorus Cruise

No Istanbul travel guide is complete without mentioning a Bosphorus cruise. If you’re wondering where to catch the sunset in Istanbul, this is a must. Sailing between Europe and Asia as the sun goes down gives you a completely different view of the city.

The Bosphorus Strait separates the two continents, and cruising along it at golden hour offers some of the most stunning sunset views over the Bosphorus. You’ll pass iconic landmarks like Dolmabahçe Palace and Ortaköy Mosque, all glowing in the evening light.

There are plenty of options depending on your time and budget. Public ferries are the most affordable, while sunset or dinner cruises offer some of the most romantic sunset spots in Istanbul.

🛥 Best sunset cruises in Istanbul:

• Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
• Sunset or Daytime Istanbul Guided Luxury Yacht Cruise with Snacks
• Istanbul: Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide

⛴ Top public ferry routes for a scenic sunset over Istanbul:

• Karakoy – Eminononu – Kadikoy
• Ortaköy – Beşiktaş – Eminönü

3. Taht Istanbul 

If you’re searching for the most Instagrammable sunset spots in Istanbul, Taht Istanbul is one to consider. You’ve probably seen those dreamy rooftop shots with colorful cushions, patterned rugs, and the Bosphorus in the background. 

It’s a photo studio set up on a rooftop with one of the best views in the city. This was my first time trying a photo studio experience, and I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical at first. But I ended up really liking the results. 

Inside, there are several setups to choose from. The most iconic one is the terrace, which offers panoramic views over the Bosphorus. In colder months, the area is covered with see-through fabric so you can still enjoy the sunset without freezing.

Entry is €30 per person, and you can take your own photos. I rented a traditional outfit for another €30, and they also offer flying dress rentals for €50.

If you want professional photos, you can book a photographer for €175 (solo) or €200 (couples), though I’ve seen mixed reviews about that option.

The pricing and packages can feel a bit confusing at first, but their team is quick to respond on Instagram if you have questions. Just note that card payments come with a 20% fee, while cash is accepted in lira, euros, or dollars.

4. Seven Hills

Seven Hills Restaurant in Sultanahmet is one of the best sunset locations in Istanbul for photographers. Perched on a rooftop, it offers panoramic views of the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Sea of Marmara.

We were pleasantly surprised by the food as well. Their traditional Turkish breakfast was excellent, and we enjoyed it with a view that’s hard to beat. We even returned for dinner to catch the sunset over Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Prices here are on the higher side, but considering the view and overall experience, it feels justified. I recommend making a reservation in advance, especially for sunset, as tables on the rooftop fill up quickly.

🌅 More restaurants & rooftop bars to watch the sunset in Istanbul

• 360 Panorama Restaurant
• Hanzade Terrace Restaurant
• Barnathan Cafe & Brasserie
• Queb Rooftop Restaurant
• Ararat Terrace Restaurant & Rooftop
• Deraliye Terrace
• Turk Art Terrace Restaurant

5. Eminönü Waterfront

If you’re looking for where to watch the sunset in Istanbul, Eminönü Waterfront is a great option. As the sun goes down, the view across the Golden Horn becomes beautiful. 

You can see the silhouettes of the New Mosque, Galata Tower, and boats moving slowly across the water. There are plenty of spots to sit along the water, and you’ll often find people enjoying tea or grabbing a simit from a street vendor. 

If you like a bit of movement in your sunset shots, this area is perfect. Ferries come and go, seagulls fly overhead, and the reflections on the water add to the scene. It may not be the quietest place, but the view and atmosphere will be worht it.

We spent New Year’s Eve at Hamdi Restaurant in Eminönü, which offers a similar view from a more private setting. However, I’ve noticed that since our visit, the restaurant’s ratings have dropped due to the new prices and bad service.

6. Galata Tower

Galata Tower offers one of the best sunset views in Istanbul. Standing tall in the Beyoğlu district, this medieval tower is a must-visit for anyone looking for incredible Istanbul sunset shots. 

From the observation deck, you can watch the city gradually light up as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s also a fantastic spot for those who want to see the city from a higher perspective, with the contrast of ancient and modern Istanbul laid out before you.

Although it can get crowded, the views are definitely worth it. Arriving a little before sunset allows you to secure a spot. It’s open throughout the day, but the sunset experience is definitely the highlight.

Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning views. Galata Tower is definitely one of the most Instagrammable spots in Istanbul.

7. Sultanahmet Park

Sultanahmet Park offers one of the most beautiful spots to watch the sunset over the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. Located between these two iconic landmarks, the park is one of the best sunset spots in Istanbul.

The park itself provides a spacious green area with beautiful pathways, fountains, and a lovely view of the mosques framed by the setting sun. Sultanahmet Park is a perfect place to end your day in Istanbul.

Keep in mind that the popular landmarks surrounding the park make it super crowded. However, you can find unique angles and remote corners for a peaceful experience. If you want to avoid crowds, visit the park for sunrise instead.