Where to Take Stunning Photos in Istanbul: A Photographer’s Guide
Istanbul is a paradise for photography enthusiasts with its historical and natural beauty. From Anadoluhisarı on the Anatolian side to Rumelihisarı on the other side of the Bosphorus; from the stunning green area of Emirgan Korusu in Sarıyer to Yıldız Park, which adorns Beşiktaş; from neighbourhoods such as Arnavutköy and Bebek, which line the shores of the Bosphorus, to architectural marvels dating back to the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul offers countless photo opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
In this guide, we have compiled Istanbul's most popular photo spots for both landscape and architectural photography enthusiasts. If you too want to immortalise Istanbul's unique land and sea views, keep reading!
Anadoluhisarı and Rumelihisarı: The Historical Guardians of the Bosphorus
Anadoluhisarı, also known as Güzelce Hisar, is a medieval castle located on the Asian side of Istanbul. The castle was given this name because the people of Istanbul refer to the Asian side as ‘Anadolu’ (Asia). One of the oldest structures in Istanbul, Anadoluhisarı was built as a watchtower during the siege of the Byzantine city, under the orders of Ottoman Sultan Bayezid I.
It is an excellent spot for photographers, offering both street perspectives and shots taken from the middle of the Bosphorus. Rumelihisarı, located opposite Anadoluhisarı, was built by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II, and the two castles were designed to work together to control the Bosphorus. Also known as Boğazkesen Castle, Rumelihisarı is architecturally stunning. From certain points in Istanbul, it is possible to photograph the castle together with the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge.
Some neighbourhoods along the Bosphorus, such as Beykoz, offer the most beautiful views of these two castles. It is also possible to capture the best angles of the 15 July Martyrs' Bridge and the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge from here.
Çengelköy: The Quiet Shore of the Bosphorus
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Çengelköy is a spot beloved by photographers for its view of the Bosphorus. The cafes and restaurants along the shore offer unique Bosphorus photos with their verandas and terraces. The Ottoman-style wooden mansions and palaces in the neighbourhood add a classic atmosphere to the photos.
Kuleli Military High School (now a museum) is one of the structures that has attracted photographers' interest since 1845 due to its architectural and historical value.
Beyoğlu: History and Modernity on the European Side
Beyoğlu should be the first stop for photographers who want to discover Istanbul's historical texture and architectural riches on the European side.
Istiklal Street: With its historic tram, historic buildings stretching along the street, and colourful shops, it offers unique photo opportunities.
Galata Tower: This is the spot to capture the city's most panoramic views. Once the tallest structure in the city, the tower is now an excellent location for photographing the Istanbul skyline.
Kamondo and Rainbow Stairs: These stairs, a symbol of Karaköy, are ideal for Instagram and social media photos. According to legend, Kamondo, a banker, had the stairs built so his grandchildren could take a shortcut to school.
Beşiktaş: In the Footsteps of Ottoman Palaces
Located in Beşiktaş, Ihlamur Kasrı is a summer pavilion built during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Abdülmecid II (1839-1860). Featuring neo-baroque architectural elements, this structure is both a historical and aesthetic example for photographers.
For green photography, Istanbul's most beautiful parks and forests are recommended:
Yıldız Park
Maçka Democracy Park
Gülhane Park
Atatürk Arboretum
Belgrade Forest
These areas allow you to capture scenes immersed in nature without straying too far from the heart of the city.
Istanbul's Landmarks: Mosques and Palaces
Istanbul's most famous mosques:
Süleymaniye Mosque
Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque
Ortaköy Mosque
These structures offer unique motifs for photographers with their intricate interior workmanship and exterior architecture. The rooftops surrounding the mosques provide stunning views combined with sea views.
Behind the Sultanahmet Mosque, at the end of the old Hippodrome, lies Topkapı Palace. This palace, which served as the centre of the Ottoman sultans, combines history and aesthetics in a single frame. The Çini Pavilion within the palace, with its İznik tiles and Seljuk poetry, is a treasure trove for photographers.
Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar and Spice Market
Photographers can capture both architectural and cultural scenes in Istanbul's colourful bazaars:
Grand Bazaar: Handcrafted products, jewellery, carpets and its historic structure inspire photographers.
Spice Bazaar: A bazaar where spices from Egypt were sold during the Ottoman period, it attracts attention with its colourful packaging and historical atmosphere.
Balat and Eyüp: Colourful Streets and Panoramic Views
Balat: Located on the shores of the Golden Horn, its colourful, narrow streets and Jewish and Greek cultural heritage attract photographers.
Eyüp – Pierre Loti Hill: Offers a Turkish coffee experience with a view of the Golden Horn. Named after French writer Pierre Loti, this hill is one of the city's most panoramic spots.
Secrets of Istanbul: The Islands
Another destination in Istanbul that is popular with photographers is the Princes' Islands. Consisting of Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada and Kınalıada, these islands can be reached by a short ferry ride from Istanbul and offer natural beauty and historical structures. Büyükada in particular enriches photographs with its historical texture and unspoilt nature.
Istanbul offers a different landscape, history, and colour at every step. In this city with no limits for photographers, every corner is waiting to be photographed like a work of art.
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