27+ Best Instagram Spots in Istanbul

You know those cities that just seem made for Instagram? Istanbul is definitely one of them.
I’ve explored every corner of this incredible city and I’m excited to share with you my top 27 inspirational photo spots in Istanbul that can fit awesome on your Instagram feed, as well as in your heart 😉

From iconic landmarks to hidden corners that tourists often miss – here’s your complete guide to capturing Istanbul’s magic in your Instagram photos.

Places we’ll cover:
the most popular tourist spots and beyond

Historic Landmarks (5 places)
Most Popular Instagram Spots (3 places)
Hidden Gems (19 places)
Seasonal Photo Opportunities (bonus)

Want to be honest with you?
Alright – I’m not a huge fan of Instagram or Facebook, as a lot of the photos there are fake or captured, especially for social media, but don’t represent reality.
People developed the Instagram and FB culture that shows us you should look happy every time and everywhere, while this cannot be the truth.

I’m more of a fan of the idea that the world needs to calm down with the social pressure to look curtain way on the Internet and people need to live more in- and for real life.

However, I’ve been to many places and had moments I wanted to capture, but unfortunately, it’s not the same in the photo anymore. Views that are much more beautiful in reality and look average in the photos. Because photos are still 2D and cannot capture the look and feel of the place and the way you feel there. And this may be for the best.

So with that in mind, that’s my idea of the best Instagrammable places in Istanbul – places that are magnificent in the picture, as in real life, or even more.

Historic Landmarks That Will Make Your Feed Shine

Let’s start with the places that make Istanbul instantly recognizable:
If you’re a fan of classic sightseeing and you don’t want to skip the landmarks of Istanbul, I’ve prepared an Instagram list with the classic spots for you that are all also must-see places.

These landmarks aren’t just tourist spots – they’re architectural masterpieces and offer endless opportunities for unique photos.

All of them are located on the European side of Istanbul:

Quick Tips for Landmark Photography:

Always respect cultural sites and dress appropriately
Check photography rules when entering each place – some have restrictions
Switch to Wide or Ultra-wide lens on your phone to fit more of the place in your photo
Early morning or late afternoons are your best friend (best light and less crowd)

1. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)

This mosque is an architectural masterpiece that’ll blow your mind!
Built in the early 1600s, it stands out with six stunning minarets and blue-tiled interior where you’ll want to spend hours capturing every detail.

Photo tips for the Blue Mosque:

Best time: Go early to avoid crowds or one hour before sunset
Prime spots: Main courtyard for symmetry shots
Use reflecting pools for mirror effects
Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered
Look for unique angles that include the surrounding gardens

2.Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia tells a story that’s nearly 1,500 years old. This architectural wonder has been a church, then a mosque, a museum, and now it’s back again to being a mosque.
Its massive dome and incredible Byzantine architecture make it a photographer’s dream.

Photo spots at Hagia Sophia:

Visit at opening time for empty shots
Capture the dome from different angles
Upper gallery offers unique perspectives
Look for spots where light beams shine through
Frame your shots using the massive columns
Include the Islamic calligraphy in your compositions

3.Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace will make you feel like in a fairytale:
Imagine walking through the home of Ottoman sultans. Yes, it was once their home, with stunning Bosphorus views and four courtyards – each one of them offer something special you’d love to include in your Instagram photos.

Best shots at Topkapi:

Fourth Courtyard for Bosphorus views
Treasury section for architectural details
Harem for colorful tile compositions
Early morning light in the courtyards
Imperial Gate for grand entrance shots
Include the palace kitchens for unique angles

4.Süleymaniye Mosque

Süleymaniye Mosque is located on Istanbul’s highest hill, so the panoramic views of the city are some of the best. It’s less crowded than the Blue Mosque, which means more space for those picture-perfect moments. The garden terraces will look perfect in your photos with the Golden Horn as your backdrop.

Tips for Süleymaniye photos:

Visit during afternoon golden hour
Find spots in the gardens for city views
Capture reflections in the courtyard fountain
Look for frames through the archways
Try both close-up and distance shots
Include the vibrant red carpets in interior shots

5.Dolmabahce Palace

Dolmabahce Palace has a completely different vibe. It was built in an European-style but located right on the Bosphorus. This palace shows off Istanbul’s more modern, luxurious side, and you’ll find photo opportunities around every corner.

Photography spots at Dolmabahce:

Main entrance gate for classic shots
Waterfront for palace reflections
Crystal staircase (when allowed)
Clock Tower from different angles
Garden views with the palace backdrop
Bosphorus-facing facade at sunset

Most Popular Instagram Spots in Istanbul

All located on the European side, these places will make your feed pop!

6.Ortakoy Mosque

Ortakoy Mosque is probably the most Instagrammed spot in the city.
This is the small but stunning white mosque with the Bosphorus Bridge in the background. I’m sure you can recognize it in the Instagrammers photos –
It’s built in baroque-style and looks magical during sunset.
You can grab your favorite piece of Turkish street food and sit to relax and enjoy the view after photo shooting.

Best photo ops at Ortakoy:

Sunset shots with the bridge
Waterfront angles during blue hour
Include boats in your composition
Frame the mosque with bridge lights
Capture street food scene
Look for reflection shots in calm water

7.Balat neighborhood

Location: Balat, Sancaktar Ykş. No:4, 34087 Fatih

Vibe: The colorful streets of Balat are already on the photo list of everyone visiting Istanbul, especially Instagrammers.
It’s an old neighborhood that looks like an open-air museum with rainbow-colored houses, street art, and local life & vibe. Every corner seems to offer a new Instagram opportunity.

Balat photo spots:

Colorful house rows
Traditional doors and windows
Local cafes, shops & souvenirs
Street art walls
Merdivenli Yokuş (famous steps)
Colorful umbrellas

8. Rooftop places with Istanbul views

Quick Rooftop Photography Tips:

Check opening hours in advance
Some locations require reservations
Choose to dress something colorful or long that will fly with the wind

– Seven Hills Restaurant

Location: Cankurtaran, Tevkifhane Sk. No:8 Kat:3, 34122 Fatih

Vibe: Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, this restaurant offers a 360-degree view – it’s the holy grail of Istanbul views, lol 🙂
You can capture both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in one frame. While you might come for the photos, don’t forget to take a moment and sit quietly to enjoy the view.

Seven Hills photo tips:

Book a table near the edge
Arrive before golden hour
Try different angles of both monuments
Include seagulls in your shots
Capture the changing light
Order Turkish coffee for foreground props
Cons: this place is getting so popular and touristic, that it could feel crowded, over-priced or with service & food getting lower quality, so I’m giving you alternatives below

– Taht Istanbul Photo Studio

Location: Süleymaniye Mah. Siyavuşpaşa Sok. Kurtel İş Hanı, No:14 D:301, 34116 Fatih

Close to the Seven Hills Restaurant, you can find a nice rooftop photo studio, if you prefer professional photo shoots.
At Taht Istanbul Photo Studio, they’ve turned rooftop photography into an art form. Yes, it’s a bit pricy, but the professional setup and the views make it worth every lira. The staff knows exactly what they do and how to help you get those dreamy Istanbul shots.

Studio photo opportunities:

Professional lighting setups
Skyline views
Multiple shooting angles
Props available on request
Sunset and blue hour sessions
Clear views of Galata Tower

– Zula Galata Rooftop Bar

Location: Walton Hotels Galata Roof, Bereketzade Mahallesi, Bankalar Caddesi, Şair Eşref Paşa Sk. No:4, 34420 Beyoğlu

Vibe: On the opposite side of the Golden Horn, near Galata Tower, Zula Galata Rooftop Bar offers cool vibes with killer views. You get the historic peninsula, Bosphorus, and modern Istanbul all in one spot. It’s perfect for those lifestyle shots that make everyone wish they were there.

Photo spots at Zula:

Corner seats with panoramic views
Bar area with city backdrop
Terrace edges for skyline shots
Cocktail shots with views
Sunset light through glass walls
Night shots with city lights

– Rooftop Galata Photo Studio

Location: Müeyyetzade, Yüksek K aldırım Cd. No:11 D:21, 34425 Beyoğlu

Want something extra? Rooftop Galata is another option for professional photo shoots with a rooftop view. These guys offer dress rentals and the famous seagull-feeding photo ops where you look like in a fairytale.
All this experience with Istanbul as your backdrop.

Hidden Gems and Instagram-Worthy Locations

It’s time! Let’s explore some lesser-known spots that are also worth getting a little lost for!
Now, I’m going to take you on a tour beyond the most popular tourist places in Istanbul like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque or Dolmabahce Palace.

These are the most obvious Instagram spots in Istanbul you’ll visit anyway, cause they’re must-sees before Instagram even existed. So I’m sure, you already have plenty of photos in front of them, inside, outside, posing etc. 🙂

Get prepared to discover some “not-so-popular” photo spots in Istanbul – hidden gems in this big and busy metropolis. While you’ll take fantastic Instagrammable photos at these places, the places themselves could take your heart away 😉

I’ll break this down into two sections: European and Asian sides, with a mix of free and paid/commercial spots that’ll make your Instagram feed absolutely shine!

EUROPEAN SIDE SPOTS

Free Locations:

9. The Facade of Hotel Romantic

Location: Cankurtaran, Mimar Mehmet Aga Cad, Amiral Tafdil Sk. No:17, 34122 Fatih

If you’re close to Hagia Sophia, it’s worth checking the small streets around – in one of them you’ll discover the wonderful facade of Hotel Romantic!
You don’t even need to book a room to capture its stunning exterior!

10. Umbrella Street in Karakoy

Location: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Hoca Tahsin Sk. No:17, 34425 Beyoğlu

Just a 10-minute walk from Galata Tower, you can find the Instagrammable Umbrella Street in the Karakoy neighborhood. At one end of the street, are a few different shops, and at the other, you’ll find lovely cafes.

(Cihangir and Karaköy – Street Art & Graffiti Havens

Neighborhoods like Cihangir and Karaköy are absolute goldmines for urban photographers.

The street art landscape keeps changing, making it different every time I visit these locations.
Walls bursting with color, creative murals, and unexpected art around every corner.

Street art photo tips:

Best light: 9-11 AM
Include balconies and windows
Look for contrasts between old and new
Frame shots using doorways
Check side streets for hidden pieces
Include people for scale
Check local cafes for indoor art )

11. Soğukçeşme Sokağı / Soguk Cesme Sokak

This is a tiny, car-free street between Hagia Sophia and Topkapı Palace and a hidden historical gem.
It feels magical, especially early in the morning – it’s quiet and has perfectly restored Ottoman houses in ice cream colors. The best part? It’s totally free and looks like you’ve stepped back in time.

Photo spots here:

Rainbow row of houses
Cobblestone reflections after rain
Traditional wooden details
Flower-filled windows
Cats on windowsills

12. Arnavutköy’s Colorful Wooden Houses

Location: Arnavutköy, Bebek Arnavutköy Cd, 34345 Beşiktaş

Located in Beşiktaş, these are the Instagram-perfect wooden houses you can recognize from Istanbul’s photos. Arnavutköy’s wooden mansions are famous for their pastel colors, and historic architecture. The mix of Jewish, Greek, and Turkish style tells stories of Istanbul’s multicultural past.

Arnavutköy photo spots:

Row of historic waterfront mansions
Waterfront promenade shots
Narrow cobblestone streets
Pastel wooden facades
Fish restaurants by the water
Sunset reflections on the Bosphorus
Historic street lamps

13. Nostalgic Red Tram
If you want to capture a dose of local culture and nostalgia, the Nostalgic Red Tram is what you’re looking for!
It runs from Taksim to Istiklal Street and you can capture it against the historic buildings.
Come early in the morning when the street is less crowded and you can just pose in front of it in one of its stops or use your Istanbulkart and hop on the iconic red tram.

EUROPEAN SIDE SPOTS –

Commercial Places and Cafes:

14. House of Medusa Restaurant

Location: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. No:9, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul

Vibe: House of Medusa Restaurant is a cute and cozy place decorated in vibrant colours.
It’s super easy to find it as it is located in the historical centre of Istanbul near Hagia Sophia.
It has a fantastic courtyard where you can rest while also enjoying your delicious food or Turkish coffee.
I promise it will become one of your favourite photo spots in Istanbul.

Tips: The place is already famous and could be busy during the day, so I’d recommend going earlier in the morning to find a free table.

15. Romantic Cafe & Restaurant

Location: Cankurtaran, Nöbethane Caddesi /Tayahatun Sokak No:28, 34400 Sirkeci/Fatih

Vibe: Romantic cafe is another colourful cozy place in the historical centre of Istanbul where you can stop for rest before you continue to the next place on your checklist.

It’s right near Gulhane Park and Topkapi Palace, so it’s perfect to pause in its romantic atmosphere. Having a cup of Turkish coffee is enough time to fall in love with the place.
Try to capture the vibe and take it with you by shooting some of your best Instagrammable photos in Istanbul here!

16. MacKenzie-Childs Store

Location: Teşvikiye, Harbiye mahallesi Maçka caddesi Narmanlı Apartmanı, No 26, 34367 Şişli

Vibe: After you’ve visited Dolmabahce Palace,you can go further and explore the Nişantaşı quarter in the Şişli district (still in the European part).
Soon you’ll discover a place where you feel like Alice in Wonderland. That’s the magical MacKenzie-Childs Store.
I bet it’s not on your bucket list but definitely worth visiting while in Istanbul.
The decoration of the store windows is always different depending on the season or the upcoming holidays! Enjoy!

17. Kybele Hotel and Maya’s corner Cafe

Location: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. No:23, 34110 Fatih

One of my favorite and most colorful cafes you can find in Istanbul – Kybele and Maya’s Corner Cafe in the Sultanahmet area. It’s so worth having a Turkish coffee or a meal here after you’re tired from sightseeing.

18. Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia

Location: Cankurtaran, Yeni Saraçhane Sk. No:18, 34122 Fatih

Another option to rest for a coffee before or after visiting the attractions nearby.
Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia offers some interesting interiors you can capture while relaxing there.

19.The Must Turkish Restaurant

Location: Alemdar, Alemdar Cd. No:9, 34150 Fatih

The Must Turkish Restaurant is really a MUST. It’s for a taste of luxury, authentic atmosphere and incredible photo opportunities.
The interior design here is just stunning – a mixture of traditional Turkish elements with modern vibes.

20.Patisserie De Pera

Location: Evliya Çelebi, Pera Palace Hotel, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:52, 34430 Beyoğlu

Located in the old and historic Pera Palace Hotel, this spot offers both delicious treats and gorgeous interiors. Perfect for those who love a bit of vintage glamour in their Instagram shots.

Best to capture:

Art nouveau interiors
Traditional pastry displays
Vintage furniture settings
Crystal chandelier details

21. Minoa Pera

Location: Evliya Çelebi, Meşrutiyet Cd. No:99, 34430 Beyoğlu

Close to Patisserie De Pera, Minoa Pera is another hidden gem of modern Istanbul.
It’s a bookstore where you can also sit for a coffee while enjoying the cozy vibe and Instagram-worthy interiors.

22.Venezia Mega Outlet

Location: Karadeniz, Eski Edirne Asf. No:408, 34250 Gaziosmanpaşa

Here’s a surprising addition to my Instagram itinerary – Venezia Mega Outlet!
If you’re from the people who raise an eyebrow at visiting a mall, just hear me out –
this isn’t a typical shopping center, it’s a must-be place.
The mall is with unique architecture, an Italian vibe and canals with gondolas to imitate the real experience.
It offers unusual Istanbul photos that can have your followers asking – “Wait, where is this?”

Tips:

Go during the week days and avoid weekend, as it could be more crowded
Ride a gondola
Take photos from one of the bridges
Cons: it’s far from Istanbul’s City center

ASIAN SIDE SPOTS

Free Locations:

23. Kadiköy

Kadiköy is Istanbul’s modern and creative soul. It’s where local life really shines.
The energy here is completely different from the European side – more local, more authentic.
From vintage shops to street art, every corner tells a different story. The market area especially comes alive with colors and local life. Plus, you’ll find some of the most photogenic food spots around.

Kadıköy photo opportunities:

Vibrant market scenes
Street art corridors
Local shop displays
Food market close-ups
Antique store fronts
Cultural center murals

24. Kuzguncuk

Location: Kuzguncuk, 34674 Üsküdar

Kuzguncuk is absolutely adorable district with colorful historic houses and a super chill vibe. Perfect for those seeking less touristy, more genuine Istanbul moments.
The pastel-colored houses and quiet streets feel more like a small town than part of huge Istanbul. It’s perfect for lifestyle shots that don’t scream “tourist.”

Tips for Kuzguncuk:

Early morning walks
Cafe frontages
Quiet street scenes
Historic synagogue exterior
Traditional architecture

25. Sunset at Çamlıca Mosque / Camlica Mosque

Location: Ferah, Ferah Yolu Sk. No:6 D:3, 34692 Üsküdar

You need to cross the Bosphorus to the Asian side to find one of Istanbul’s most magnificent views and photo opportunities – the open terrace of Çamlıca Mosque. It’s the largest mosque in Turkey so far and it has breathtaking panoramic views of both continents.

Tips for Çamlıca Mosque:

Go at sunset (check the hours)
Dress properly to visit the Mosque
Spend time exploring the terraces, views, exterior and interior, the park nearby, and the whole Camlica Hill

Commercial/Paid Experience Locations:

26. Restaurant Arada Blue City

Location: Kuzguncuk, Paşa Limanı Cd., 34674 Üsküdar

Vibe: Lebanese cuisine with a view that’ll make your followers jealous! Located in Üsküdar, it offers a different perspective of Istanbul.

27. Kemal Usta Waffles

Location: Caferağa Mah. Moda Caddesi Erdem Apt No: 180 / B, 34710 Kadıköy

Located in Moda, this isn’t just about food – it’s an experience. The waffle shots guarantee to make everyone hungry. The creative presentations are perfect if you’re a fan of food photography.

Best shots here:

Waffle presentations
Street seating scenes
Local crowd interactions
Dessert close-ups
Moda street views

Seasonal Instagram Photo Opportunities in Istanbul

Let’s explore how each season creates unique photo opportunities in this amazing city.

SPRING HIGHLIGHTS: The Tulip Paradise

Istanbul transforms into a floral wonderland during its famous Tulip Festival. Here are the must-go locations you will enjoy and want to capture:

1. Emirgan Park (European side)

Emirgan Park during the Tulip Festival transforms into a photographer’s paradise. Millions of tulips create colorful patterns across the park, with the Bosphorus as a backdrop.

Photo opportunities:

Aerial views of tulip patterns
Macro flower shots
People among flowers
Historic pavilions with blooms
Morning dew on petals
Festival activities

2. Sultanahmet Square (European side)

Sultanahmet Square blooms differently in spring. The contrast between ancient architecture and fresh flowers creates stunning compositions.

Best photo spots:

Tulip beds near monuments
Historic fountain with blooms
People enjoying spring

3. Gülhane Park (European side)

Located near Topkapi Palace, this park becomes a tulip wonderland. Every photo you make here will look magical.

WINTER MAGIC & HOLIDAY SEASON

Kadıköy Streets (Asian Side)

Winter in Kadıköy isn’t just cold – it’s charming. Turkish people are muslims, so they don’t celebrate Christmas, but as this area becomes more popular for tourists all over the world, they’ve started to create more and more shiny holiday decorations here. You can capture the neighborhood’s authentic vibe with the lights and decoration of the local cafes.

Quick Seasonal Photography Tips:

– Dress in layers for comfort and style

– Be patient and wait for the perfect light

What’s your best Instagram spot in Istanbul?

Istanbul has so much to offer – from its famous landmarks to hidden gems and secret places – you can never get bored with this city!

No doubt you can find your own magical place for best photo shoots or why not even create your own list with Instagrammable places in Istanbul?
Don’t forget to capture the moment also in your heart and remember the way you felt in that moment!

If you prefer a virtual guide to the next bucket of amazing places in Istanbul, let me be this person for you.

Places we’ll cover: the most popular tourist spots and beyond