Best classic places spots hotspots sites sights views photo locations to photograph for photography with maps tips ideas composition postcard photos cool beautiful pictures
Grand Prize in the National Self-Published Book Awards
Benjamin Franklin Award for Best First Book
Best Travel Guide, Benjamin Franklin Awards finalist
“Impressive in its presentation and abundance of material.”
— National Geographic Traveler
“PhotoSecrets books are an invaluable resource for photographers.”
— Nikon School of Photography
“One of the best travel photography books we’ve ever seen.”
— Minolta
“Guides you to the most visually distinctive places to explore with your camera.”
— Outdoor Photographer
“This could be one of the most needed travel books ever published!”
— San Francisco Bay Guardian
“The most useful travel guides for anyone with a camera.”
— Shutterbug’s Outdoor and Nature Photography
“Takes the guesswork out of shooting.”
— American Way (American Airlines magazine)
PhotoSecrets Istanbul, first published May 3, 2016. This version output April 21, 2018.
Curated, coded and designed by Andrew Hudson. Copyright © Andrew Hudson for PhotoSecrets (Photo Tour Books, Inc.). Photos, text and maps copyrights are listed in the credits section.
“‘And what is the use of a book,’ thought Alice ‘without pictures or conversations?’”
— Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll
Thank you to the many talented photographers that generously made their photos available. Photos distributed by the following:
Text copyright of Wikipedia editors and contributors. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike (CC BY-SA).
Map data from OpenStreetMap and its contributors. Open data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License (ODbL).
Cover image by OPIS Zagreb/Shutterstock.
Back cover image by .
All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any way without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner(s) and the publisher of this book.
The information provided within this book is for general informational purposes only. Some information may be inadvertently incorrect, or may be incorrect in the source material, or may have changed since publication, this includes GPS coordinates, addresses, location titles, descriptions, Web links, and photo credits. Use with caution; do not photograph from roads or other dangerous places or when trespassing, even if GPS coordinates and/or maps indicate so; beware of moving vehicles; obey laws. The publisher and author cannot accept responsibility for any consequences arising from the use of this book. There are no representations or warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, images, or graphics contained in this book for any purpose. Any use of this information is at your own risk.
For corrections, please send an email.
A great travel photograph, like a great news photograph, requires you to be in the right place at the right time to capture that special moment. Professional photographers have a short-hand phrase for this: “F8 and be there.”
There are countless books that can help you with photographic technique, the “F8” portion of that equation. But until now, there’s been little help for the other, more critical portion of that equation, the “be there” part. To find the right spot, you had to expend lots of time and shoe leather to wander around, track down every potential viewpoint, and essentially re-invent the wheel.
In my career as a professional travel photographer, well over half my time on location is spent seeking out the good angles. Andrew Hudson’s PhotoSecrets does all that legwork for you, so you can spend your time photographing instead of wandering about. It’s like having a professional location scout in your camera bag. I wish I had one of these books for every city I photograph on assignment.
PhotoSecrets can help you capture the most beautiful sights with a minimum of hassle and a maximum of enjoyment. So grab your camera, find your favorite PhotoSecrets spots, and “be there!”
Bob Krist has photographed assignments for National Geographic, National Geographic Traveler, Travel/Holiday, Smithsonian, and Islands. He won “Travel photographer of the Year” from the Society of American Travel Writers in 1994, 2007, and 2008.
For National Geographic, Bob has led round-the-world tours and a traveling lecture series. His book In Tuscany with Frances Mayes spent a month on The New York Times’ bestseller list and his how-to book Spirit of Place was hailed by American Photographer magazine as “the best book about travel photography we’ve ever read.”
The parents of three sons, Bob and his wife live in New Hope, Pennsylvania.
Thank you for reading PhotoSecrets. As a fellow fan of travel and photography, I hope this guide will help you quickly find the most visually stunning places, and come home with equally stunning photographs.
PhotoSecrets is designed to show you all the best sights. Flick through, see the classic shots, and use them as a departure point for your own creations. Get ideas for composition and interesting viewpoints. See what piques your interest. Know what to shoot, where to stand, when to go, and why it’s interesting. Now you can spend less time researching and more time photographing.
The idea for PhotoSecrets came during a trip to Thailand, when I tried to find the exotic beach used in the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun. None of the guidebooks I had showed a picture, so I thought a guidebook of postcard photos would be useful for us photographers. Twenty-plus years later, you have this guide. Thanks!
Now, start exploring — and take lots of photos!
Originally an engineer, Andrew Hudson started PhotoSecrets in 1995. His first book won the Benjamin Franklin Award for Best First Book and his second won the Grand Prize in the National Self-Published Book Awards.
Andrew has published 38 nationally-distributed photography books. He has photographed assignments for Macy’s, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Men’s Health and Seventeen, and been a location scout for Nikon. His photos and articles have appeared in Alaska Airlines, National Geographic Traveler, Shutterbug Outdoor and Nature photography, Where, and Woman’s World.
Andrew has a degree in Computer Engineering from Manchester University and a certificate in copyright law from Harvard Law School. Born in Redditch, England, he lives with his wife, two kids, and two chocolate Labs, in San Diego, California.
At a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Name: | Istanbul |
| Address: | Istanbul, Turkey |
| Turkish: | İstanbul |
| Fame: | Largest city in Turkey Largest European city Straddles Europe and Asia One of the most significant cities in history Capital of the Roman empire (330–1204) Capital of the Ottoman (1453–1922) |
| Country: | Turkey |
| Region: | Marmara |
| Founded: | 660 BCE |
| Previously: | Byzantium (660 BCE – 330 CE) Constantinople (330 – 1930) |
| Population: | City 14,025,646 (2015) Metro 14,657,434 (2015) |
| Time zone: | EET (UTC+2) |
| GPS: | 41.013611, 28.955 |
| Website: | Official site |
Photographer: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Year: 2015.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
The Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III III.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.0082528 28.9812111 | |
| What: | Fountain | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Serhinho
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Matthias Süßen
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 3.
A former Eastern Orthodox church located in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace.
| Addr: | Cankurtaran Mh., 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.009645 28.981177 |
| What: | Former church | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Aya İrini | Wik: |
Photographer: Andrew Gould
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Paul Simpson
Year: 2008.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
This crenelated gate has two large octagonal pointed towers.
| Addr: | Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.011293 28.983162 |
| What: | Gate | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Middle Gate, Bâb-üs Selâm | Wik: |
Photographer: Maksym Kozlenko
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Stegop
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The building where the arms and armour are exhibited was originally one of the palace treasuries.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.012673 28.983672 | |
| What: | Building | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Dîvân-ı Hümâyûn Hazinesi, Hazine-ı Âmire | Wik: |
Photographer: Someone
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.013000 28.984000 | |
| What: | Exhibit | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The Imperial Council building is the chamber in which the ministers of state, council ministers, the Imperial Council, consisting of the Grand Vizier, viziers, and other leading officials of the Ottoman state, held meetings.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.012378 28.983436 | |
| What: | Building | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Dîvân-ı Hümâyûn | Wik: |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Maksym Kozlenko
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.012044 28.983722 | |
| What: | Arcade | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The rectilinear Terrace Kiosk also erroneously known as Kiosk of Kara Mustafa Pasha, was a belvedere built in the second half of the 16th century.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.01362 28.984841 | |
| What: | Kiosk | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Sofa Köşku / Merdiven Başı Kasrı | Wik: |
Photographer: Wolfgang Moroder
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.013000 28.984000 | |
| What: | Garden | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Norbert Nagel
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.013170 28.984340 | |
| What: | Fountain | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Josep Renalias
Year: 2005.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
The Courtyard of the Sultan’s Consorts and the Concubines was constructed at the same time as the courtyard of the eunuchs in the middle of the 16th century.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.012851 28.983135 | |
| What: | Courtyard | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Kadın Efendiler Taşlığı / Cariye Taşlığı | Wik: |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Next to it is the small but very colourful Privy Chamber of Ahmed III III.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.01339 28.983511 | |
| What: | Room | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Fruit Room, III. Ahmed Has Odası, Yemis Odası | Wik: |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The Courtyard of the Favourites forms the last section of the Harem and overlooks a large pool and the Boxwood Garden.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.013438 28.983972 | |
| What: | Courtyard | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Gözdes, Gözdeler, Mabeyn Taşlığı ve Dairesi | Wik: |
Photographer: David Stanley
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.013199 28.983703 | |
| What: | Room | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Payman Sazesh
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Topkapı Palace, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.012981 28.983613 |
| What: | Room | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Etaergun
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
The oldest and one of the most expansive public parks in Istanbul.
| Addr: | Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.0127 28.9805 |
| What: | Park | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Gülhane Parkı | Wik: |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Tom Worthington
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 3.
Opened in 2008.
| Addr: | Has Ahırlar, 34112 Gülhane - Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.013236 28.978907 |
| What: | Museum | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Islam Bilim ve Teknoloji Tarihi Müzesi, IBTTM |
Photographer: Brian Gratwicke
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Lion.
| Addr: | Add to Istanbul, İstanbul Province, Marmara Region, Turkey, Middle East | Where: | 41.016135 28.985341 |
| What: | Sculpture | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Viacheslav Lopatin
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
| Addr: | Ayasofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.9799382 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Tatiana Popova
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
| Addr: | Ayasofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.9799381 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Artur Bogacki
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
| Addr: | Ayasofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008459 28.980142 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Brian Jeffery Beggerly
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Casalmaggiore Provincia
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Leandro Centomo
Source: Flickr
License: CC-PD 1.
Do not know what this is but it looks good.
| Addr: | Somewhere, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979837 |
| What: | Something | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Wissam Shekhani
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Chandelier | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Facemepls
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Altay Ozcan
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Serafita
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Edal Anton Lefterov
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Mosaic | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Jorge Láscar
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Passageway | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Mattias Hill
Year: 2015.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Roweromaniak
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
Photographer: Jen Supaph
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Me Stesso
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: TTstudio
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.007038 28.978082 |
| When: | Anytime | Look: | Northeast ↗ |
| Far: | 230 m (750 feet) |
Photographer: Mstyslav Chernov
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Dennis Jarvis
Year: 2005.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Alexander Klink
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 3.
Photographer: Bengoetzinger
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Markusmark
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Courtyard | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Mm
Year: 2015.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Photographer: Dennis Jarvis
Year: 2005.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Till Niermann
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Sundial | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Muffinn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Mogadir
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Tomb | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Mogadir
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.008548 28.979938 |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Mogadir
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: OPIS Zagreb
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
Also try Sultanhan Hotel rooftop restaurant.
| Addr: | Binbirdirek Mah, Klodfarer Cd. 8/10, 34122 Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.007779 28.972479 |
| When: | Afternoon | Look: | East-southeast → |
| Far: | 480 m (1590 feet) |
Photographer: Samet Guler
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
| Addr: | Cankurtaran Mh., Tevkifhane Sk. No 8, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.0063624 28.9797413 |
| When: | Morning | Look: | West-southwest ← |
| Far: | 270 m (890 feet) |
Photographer: Luciano Mortula
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
| Addr: | Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. No 6, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.007147 28.971472 |
| When: | Afternoon | Look: | East-southeast → |
| Far: | 0.53 km (0.33 miles) |
Photographer: JJ_Dredd
Source: Flickr
License: CC-PD.
Photographer: TTstudio
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
Photographer: TTstudio
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
Photographer: Dersaadet
Year: 2002.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Binbirdirek, Binbirdere Meydanı Sk. No 1, 34400 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.007172 28.973842 |
| When: | Afternoon | Look: | East-southeast → |
| Far: | 350 m (1150 feet) |
Photographer: Benh Lieu Song
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Courtyard of the Blue Mosque.
Photographer: Benh Lieu Song
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005974 28.976448 | |
| What: | Arcades | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Travancorehistory
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005483 28.977385 | |
| What: | Minaret | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Year: 2015.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005556 28.976944 | |
| What: | Arcade | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Dennis Jarvis
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005483 28.977385 | |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Krissanapong Wongsawarng
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
| Addr: | Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.005256 28.976857 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Christian Perez
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005483 28.977385 | |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Istanbul Blue Mosque.
| Addr: | Add to Istanbul, İstanbul Province, Marmara Region, Turkey, Middle East | Where: | 41.028348 29.000988 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005278 28.976944 | |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: William Neuheisel
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005674 28.976579 | |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Brian Jeffery Beggerly
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
The dome of the Blue Mosque.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005483 28.977385 | |
| What: | Tiles | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005278 28.976944 | |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Christian Perez
Year: 2013.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.005483 28.977385 | |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Oleg Znamenskiy
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
| Addr: | Where: | 41.008337 28.977835 | |
| What: | Sculpture | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Serg Zastavkin
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
| Addr: | Where: | 41.008434 28.977856 | |
| What: | Sculpture | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Marco Zanferrari
Year: 2012.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.005866 28.977043 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Girish Gopi
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.008491 28.977899 | |
| What: | Columns | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: David Haberthür
Year: 2012.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-NC 2.
Photographer: Darwinek
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A tower at Rumelihisarı fortress.
| Addr: | Rumeli Hisarı Mh., 34470, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.084782 29.056735 |
| What: | Tower | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Halbag
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Photographer: Mr Hicks46
Year: 2013.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
| Addr: | Galata Tower, Bereketzade Mh., Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.025746 28.974128 |
| What: | Looking up | When: | Afternoon |
| Look: | Southeast ↘ | Far: | 25 m (82 feet) |
Photographer: Dieter Titz
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
A medieval stone tower, one of the city’s most striking landmarks.
| Addr: | Bereketzade Mh., Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.02561 28.97416 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Simm
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Skyline view from Galata Tower.
| Addr: | Bereketzade Mh., Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.02554 28.974359 |
| When: | Afternoon | Look: | South-southeast ↓ |
| Far: | 1.89 km (1.18 miles) | AKA: | Seraglio Point/Golden Horn |
Photographer: Viacheslav Lopatin
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license (editorial use only).
The largest mosque in the city, and one of the best-known sights of Istanbul.
| Addr: | Prof Siddique Sami Onar Caddesi, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.01611 28.96389 |
| What: | Mosque | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Süleymaniye Camii | Wik: |
Photographer: Winstonza
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Kcsarioglu
Year: 2006.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: José Luiz
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.01611 28.96389 | |
| What: | Oculi | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Nérostrateur
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.01611 28.96389 | |
| What: | Domes | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2002.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Muscol
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.0170139 28.971472 | |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Josep Renalias
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: H005
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Boğaz İskelesi pier, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.017793 28.975267 |
| When: | Anytime | AKA: | Yeni Cami |
Photographer: Diplomedia
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
| Addr: | Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.0170606 28.9697056 |
| When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Oliver Twentyman
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Yoros Castle is a Byzantine ruined castle at the confluence of the Bosphorus and the Black Sea, to the north of Joshua’s Hill, in Istanbul, Turkey.
| Addr: | Beykoz, Asian side, Istanbul | Where: | 41.179 29.094 |
| What: | Castle | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Josep Renalias
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
The busiest rail terminal in Turkey.
| Addr: | Kadiköy Iskelesi Karsisi, Haydarpaşa Istanbul, 34714 Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 40.996227 29.018636 |
| What: | Railway station | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Haydarpaşa Garı | Wik: |
Photographer: Starliner
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: …trialsanderrors
Year: 2010.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Kadıköy, Asian side, Istanbul | Where: | 40.968111 29.032056 |
| What: | Lighthouse | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Acp
Year: 2005.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Heritage tramline loop.
| Addr: | Asian side, Istanbul | Where: | 40.9914606 29.0239852 |
| What: | Heritage tramline | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | T3 line | Wik: |
Photographer: Maurice Flesier
Year: 2015.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 4.
Istinye Park is a shopping center in the İstinye quarter of Istanbul, Turkey with 291 stores, 85,250 m of retail area, and four levels of underground parking.
| Addr: | İstinye, Asian side, Istanbul | Where: | 41.1104389 29.0329194 |
| What: | Shopping center | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Darwinek
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A famous historic passage (galleria, arcade) on İstiklal Avenue.
| Addr: | Hüseyinağa Mh., 34435 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.033944 28.977917 |
| What: | Historic passage | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Flower Passage, Cité de Péra | Wik: |
Photographer: Baristarim
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Halbag
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
A medieval stone tower, one of the city’s most striking landmarks.
Photographer: Huseyin185
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Ağa Hamamı is a historical Turkish bath located on Turnacıbaşı street in the Taksim Square neighborhood of Istanbul, Turkey.
| Addr: | Taksim Square, Beyoğlu, Central, European side, Istanbul | Where: | 41.0332 28.9818 |
| What: | Turkish bath | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Turkish bath | Wik: |
Photographer: Scisa
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A notable monument to commemorate the formation of the Turkish Republic in 1923.
| Addr: | Taksim Square, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.03694 28.98500 |
| What: | Monument | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Cumhuriyet Anıtı | Wik: |
Photographer: Scisa
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Ail Subway
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A private industrial museum opened in 1994.
| Addr: | Piri Paşa Mh., Hasköy Cd No:5, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.04227 28.94926 |
| What: | Museum | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Fabien Agon
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
| Addr: | Sururi, Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.014231 28.969745 |
| What: | Door | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: David Haberthür
Year: 2012.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-NC 2.
The largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city.
Photographer: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
The primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for approximately 400 years of their 624-year reign.
Photographer: Ceegee
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
The Ahırkap Feneri, a historical lighthouse still in use, is located at the southern Seraglio Point on the Rumelian coast of Bosporus’ south entrance, in Ahırkapı neighborhood of Istanbul’s Fatih district, Turkey.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.0063306 28.9854306 | |
| What: | Lighthouse | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Llorto
Source: Wikipedia
License: Any use with attribution.
Glazed brick panel.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.010872 28.981659 | |
| What: | Glazed brick panel | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Keystone from Forum of Constantine.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.011471 28.981193 | |
| What: | Keystone | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Harold Litwiler
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Istanbul Archaeolgical Museums, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.00892 28.970947 |
| What: | Sarcophagus | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Saragoldsmith
Year: 2006.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Three archeological museums.
| Addr: | Where: | 41.011468 28.981449 | |
| What: | Staircase | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Jon-Eric Melsæter
Year: 2009.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
The Ancient Egyptian obelisk of Pharaoh Tutmoses III re-erected here in the 4th century.
| Addr: | Binbirdirek Mh., 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.0059000 28.9753972 |
| What: | Obelisk | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Dikilitaş | Wik: |
Photographer: José Luiz
Year: 2011.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Ian Scott
Year: 2010.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Brian Jeffery Beggerly
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Photographer: Carole Raddato
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Georges Jansoone
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2002.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
One of the best-known sights of Istanbul.
Photographer: Bit Boy
Year: 2012.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
One of the largest bazaars in the city.
| Addr: | Ragip Gumuspala Cad. Eminonu/Cagaloglu, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.01639 28.97056 |
| What: | Bazaar | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Egyptian Bazaar | Wik: |
Photographer: Someone
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: William Neuheisel
Year: 2011.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
One of the largest bazaars in the city.
| Addr: | Spice Bazaar, Ragip Gumuspala Cad. Eminonu/Cagaloglu, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.016191 28.970899 |
| What: | Spices | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Laszlo Ilyes
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 2.
Colorful lanterns.
| Addr: | Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.010601 28.968072 |
| What: | Lanterns | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Brewbooks
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
| Addr: | Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.010610 28.968476 |
| What: | Spices | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Jez Elliott
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
| Addr: | Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.010610 28.968476 |
| What: | Dishes | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Gryffindor
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora is considered to be one of the most beautiful surviving examples of a Byzantine church.
| Addr: | Eyüp, Kariye Cami Sk No:26, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.03111 28.93917 |
| What: | Church | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Church of the Holy Saviour | Wik: |
Photographer: Dimitry B
Year: 2008.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
The Church of the Holy Saviour in Chora is considered to be one of the most beautiful surviving examples of a Byzantine church.
| Addr: | Eyüp, Kariye Cami Sk No:26, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.031157 28.939018 |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Takeaway
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Eyüp, Kariye Cami Sk No:26, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.031189 28.939034 |
| What: | Dome | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Gerald Figal
Year: 2007.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY 3.
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Istanbul.
| Addr: | Add to Istanbul, İstanbul Province, Marmara Region, Turkey, Middle East | Where: | 41.03042 28.947029 |
| What: | Street | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Moyan Brenn
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY 2.
Istanbul.
| Addr: | Add to Istanbul, İstanbul Province, Marmara Region, Turkey, Middle East | Where: | 41.030943 28.947883 |
| What: | Street | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Svietlieisha Olena
Source: Shutterstock
License: Shutterstock standard license.
The main ceremonial entrance into the capital.
| Addr: | Yedikule Mh. 34107 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 40.992868 28.923038 |
| What: | Gate | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Yedikule Hisarı Müzesi | Wik: |
Photographer: Greenshed
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Photographer: Someone
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
The Xylokerkos or Xerokerkos Gate, now known as the Belgrade Gate (Belgrat Kapısı), lies between towers 22 and 23. Alexander van Millingen identified it with the Second Military Gate, which however is located further north. Its name derives from the fact that it led to a wooden circus (amphitheatre) outside the walls. The gate complex is approximately 12 m wide and almost 20 m high, while the gate itself spans 5 m.
According to a story related by Niketas Choniates, in 1189 the gate was walled off by Emperor Isaac II Angelos, because according to a prophecy, it was this gate that Western Emperor Frederick Barbarossa would enter the city through. It was re-opened in 1346, but closed again before the siege of 1453 and remained closed until 1886, leading to its early Ottoman name, Kapalı Kapı (“Closed Gate”).
| Addr: | Sümbül Efendi Mh., 34107 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 40.99978 28.920591 |
| What: | Gate | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Belgrat Kapısı, Xylokerkos Gate |
Photographer: Edal Anton Lefterov
Year: 2008.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
An Ottoman imperial mosque.
| Addr: | Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.01000 28.95667 |
| What: | Mosque | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Laleli Camii | Wik: |
Photographer: G Dallorto
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
Photographer: Darwinek
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Hinnd
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
A Roman aqueduct which was the major water-providing system of the Eastern Roman capital of Constantinople.
| Addr: | Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.015944 28.95556 |
| What: | Aqueduct | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Bozdoğan Kemeri | Wik: |
Photographer: Orth
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
One of many ancient cisterns of Constantinople that lie beneath the city of Istanbul.
| Addr: | Piyer Loti Caddesi, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.00725 28.9726 |
| What: | Cistern | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Veritas-Tr
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: Released by author into the public domain.
Situated at the waterside of the Ortaköy pier square, one of the most popular locations on the Bosphorus.
| Addr: | Mecidiye Mh., 34347 Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.04694 29.02694 |
| What: | Mosque | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Ortaköy Camii | Wik: |
Photographer: Danbury
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Turkmessage
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Founded in 1863, this is the first American higher education institution founded outside the United States.
| Addr: | Kandilli Mah., 34684 Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.083556 29.050598 |
| What: | University | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Boğaziçi Üniversitesi | Wik: |
Photographer: Peace01234 Peace01234
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
The main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1922.
| Addr: | Dolmabahçe Palace, Vişnezade Mh., 34357 Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.03944 29.00167 |
| What: | Staircase | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Dennis Jarvis
Year: 2005.
Source: Flickr
License: CC-BY-SA 2.
The main administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1922.
| Addr: | Dolmabahçe Palace, Vişnezade Mh., 34357 Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.03944 29.00167 |
| What: | Gate | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
An historical 117-acre urban park.
| Addr: | Emirgan Mh., 34467, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.10833 29.05250 |
| What: | Park | When: | Anytime |
| AKA: | Emirgan Korusu | Wik: |
Photographer: Nevit Dilmen
Year: 2006.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
Photographer: Ollios
Year: 2012.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A sculpture.
| Addr: | Hacı Hamza Mektebi Sk, Sümbül Efendi Mh., 34010 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 40.999812 28.920565 |
| What: | Sculpture | When: | Anytime |
Photographer: Ceegee
Year: 2014.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 4.
Endem TV Tower is a 236 meter high TV Tower in Istanbul.
| Addr: | Büyükçekmece, Outer, European side, Istanbul | Where: | 41.0263888889 28.6202777778 |
| What: | Tower | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Darwinek
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
| Addr: | Şile, Outer, European side, Istanbul | Where: | 41.177972 29.616500 |
| What: | Lighthouse | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
Photographer: Darwinek
Year: 2009.
Source: Wikipedia
License: CC-BY-SA 3.
A historic house museum dedicated to the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first president of the Republic of Turkey.
| Addr: | Şişli, Istanbul, Turkey | Where: | 41.056397 28.987212 |
| What: | Museum | When: | Anytime |
| Wik: |
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Cover image by .Acp ( fa); Fabien Agon ( fb); Dimitry B ( wm); Baristarim ( wb); Brian Jeffery Beggerly ( wa); Bengoetzinger ( sh); Artur Bogacki ( fb); Bit Boy ( wb); Moyan Brenn ( fa); Brewbooks ( wa); Ceegee ( fc); Leandro Centomo ( wa); Mstyslav Chernov ( wa); G Dallorto ( wa); Danbury ( wa); Darwinek ( wa); Dersaadet ( wa); Nevit Dilmen ( sh); Diplomedia ( fb); Jez Elliott ( wa); Etaergun ( wb); Facemepls ( wb); Gerald Figal ( wb); Maurice Flesier ( fa); Girish Gopi ( fa); Andrew Gould ( fb); Brian Gratwicke ( wm); Greenshed ( wm); Gryffindor ( sh); Samet Guler ( wa); H005 ( f); David Haberthür ( fb); Halbag ( fa); Mr Hicks46 ( wa); Mattias Hill ( wm); Hinnd ( wa); Huseyin185 ( wb); Laszlo Ilyes ( wa); Georges Jansoone ( fa); Dennis Jarvis ( fc); JJ_Dredd ( fa); Kcsarioglu ( wb); Alexander Klink ( wa); Maksym Kozlenko ( wb); Jorge Láscar ( wa); Edal Anton Lefterov ( fb); Harold Litwiler ( wa); Llorto ( sh); Viacheslav Lopatin ( wa); José Luiz ( wm); Markusmark ( fb); Jon-Eric Melsæter ( wa); Mm ( wa); Mogadir ( wa); Wolfgang Moroder ( sh); Luciano Mortula ( fb); Muffinn ( wa); Muscol ( wa); Norbert Nagel ( wa); Nérostrateur ( wb); William Neuheisel ( wg); Till Niermann ( sh); Svietlieisha Olena ( wa); Ollios ( wa); Orth ( wa); Altay Ozcan ( wa); Peace01234 Peace01234 ( wa); Christian Perez ( sh); Tatiana Popova ( wa); Casalmaggiore Provincia ( fa); Carole Raddato ( wa); Josep Renalias ( wa); Roweromaniak ( fb); Saragoldsmith ( wa); Payman Sazesh ( wa); Scisa ( fa); Ian Scott ( wa); Serafita ( wa); Serhinho ( wg); Wissam Shekhani ( wa); Simm ( fb); Paul Simpson ( wa); Someone ( wa); Benh Lieu Song ( wb); David Stanley ( wa); Starliner ( wa); Stegop ( wa); Me Stesso ( wb); Matthias Süßen ( wa); Ail Subway ( wa); Jen Supaph ( wa); Takeaway ( fa); Dieter Titz ( wa); Bjørn Christian Tørrissen ( wa); Travancorehistory ( wb); …trialsanderrors ( sh); TTstudio ( wa); Turkmessage ( wa); Oliver Twentyman ( wm); Veritas-Tr ( wa); Winstonza ( sh); Krissanapong Wongsawarng ( wb); Tom Worthington ( sh); OPIS Zagreb ( fa); Marco Zanferrari ( sh); Serg Zastavkin ( sh); Oleg Znamenskiy ( sh). Some text adapted from Wikipedia and its contributors where noted by the URL path in the “Wik” table field, used and modified under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike (CC-BY-SA) license. Map data from OpenStreetMap and its contributors, used under the Open Data Commons Open Database License (ODbL).