10 photogenic spots in Istanbul for photography lovers

May 18, 2025

Istanbul’s fascinating history and breathtaking architecture have inspired artists, painters, and photographers for centuries. From grand mosques to colourful streets, the city is a dream destination for anyone who loves capturing beautiful moments.

I personally love visiting in spring or autumn when the light is softer, the weather is mild, and sunsets linger a little longer. It’s easily one of my favourite places in the world for landscape and street photography.

If you're someone who travels with a camera (or just loves a good backdrop for your photos), here are 10 of the most photogenic spots in the city to inspire your inner photographer.

Planning a trip to Istanbul?
Make sure to check out my Istanbul Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors, including a curated 4-day itinerary filled with insider tips and cultural highlights.

10 photogenic places in Istanbul for photography lovers

1. The Blue Mosque

No list of Istanbul’s photogenic locations is complete without the iconic Blue Mosque. With its sweeping domes and towering minarets, this architectural masterpiece dominates the skyline of Sultanahmet.

Tip: Capture it from above! Rooftop terraces offer incredible panoramic views of both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Book a stay at a hotel with a rooftop in Sultanahmet. Places like the Seven Hills Restaurant offer breathtaking views perfect for early morning or twilight shots.

2. The Grand Bazaar

Step into a photographer’s paradise. With its moody lighting, colourful shops, and labyrinthine alleys, the Grand Bazaar offers a sensory overload of textures and tones.

“Street vendors are the songbirds of the streets, they are the life and soul of Istanbul, he said. Under no circumstances must they ever be banned.”
Orhan Pamuk

3. The Bosphorus Cruise

There’s something timeless about being on the water in Istanbul. A Bosphorus cruise offers a constantly changing backdrop—palaces, bridges, colourful houses, and golden-hour sunsets. The light here is perfect for dreamy, nautical photos.

4. The colourful neighbourhoud of Balat

Balat is bursting with colour, charm, and character. Known for its vibrant colourful houses and steep cobbled streets, it’s become a favourite Instagram spot—but there’s much more to discover.

Wander beyond the famous Kiremit Caddesi and explore the area’s mix of cultures, street art, synagogues, and churches. It’s full of stories and surprises.

Balat has a unique and unusual style of architecture with cobbled roads, steep streets and colourful houses adjoining dilapidated grey buildings.

It also has street art and quirky cafes and a generally chilled and very friendly atmosphere.

5. Sirkeci Station (The Orient Express Terminal)

If you’re a fan of nostalgia and legendary travel, head to Sirkeci Station, once the final stop of the Orient Express.

In 2024, the Belmond Group revived the legendary route with a new luxury train service from Paris to Istanbul, nearly 50 years after the original route was discontinued in 1977.

6. The Pera Palace Hotel

The Orient Express theme extends beyond the train station and into the historical Pera Palace hotel. This iconic hotel was built to accommodate the wealthy and famous passengers of the Orient Express. Agatha Christie used to be a regular guest and is thought to have written her famous book Murder on The Orient Express in her favourite room, 411. Other famous guests included Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Queen Elisabeth II and Alfred Hitchcock.

The stunning hotel is located in Beyoglu district and boasts 115 rooms built in the neoclassical architecture, featuring french balconies, the first elevator in a hotel which is still currently in use, and a stunning lounge for afternoon tea. It’s worth a visit, even if you’re not staying the night.

Bonus: it's the star of the Netflix series Midnight at the Pera Palace.

7. Nuruosmaniye Mosque

Often overlooked, this stunning 18th-century mosque near the Grand Bazaar is a peaceful and photogenic spot. Its elegant architecture featuring a single dome and two minarets gives it a distinctive look. It also has a spacious courtyard which make for beautiful compositions without the crowds you’ll find at more famous mosques.

8. Beyoğlu and the Galata tower

Beyoğlu is full of art deco buildings, charming side streets, and one of Istanbul’s most iconic views: Galata Tower.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning for quiet cobbled streets and the best light. Don't miss the nostalgic red tram on Istiklal Avenue for some old-world charm.

Photo by Kayra Sercan- Unsplash.com

9. Amiral Tafdil Street (Sultanahmet)

Lined with bougainvillea-covered buildings and charming terraces, Amiral Tafdil Street is a hidden gem right in the heart of Sultanahmet.

Whether you go during the day or when it’s lit up at night, this street oozes atmosphere and charm.

10. Ortaköy Mosque

Set right by the water, Ortaköy Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most picturesque spots. The view of the mosque with the Bosphorus Bridge in the background, especially at sunrise or sunset, is breathtaking.