Start our journey with three classic vantage points that are a must-stop for any photography enthusiast visiting Istanbul.

1. the Galata Tower Galata Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of Istanbul and also an excellent vantage point. This 14th-century building, 63 meters high, offers a panoramic view of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Old City. From the observation deck at the top of the tower, you can admire the distinctive silhouettes of mosques and palaces, as well as the bustling streets of Beyoğlu.

Practical information:

• Address: Bereketzade, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm (as of 2023)
• Ticket price: about 40-60 TL, depending on the season
• Rating: 4.6/5 based on tourist reviews

Tip: To avoid long queues, it is advisable to purchase your ticket online through the official website. The best time to visit is in the morning hours or just before sunset, when the light is best for photography.

2 - Çamlıca Hill Çamlıca Hill, located in the Asian part of Istanbul, offers one of the widest views of the city. From 268 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a panorama that includes both sides of the Bosphorus, the bridges connecting Europe and Asia, and the picturesque Princes' Islands.

Practical information:

• Address: Kısıklı, Çamlıca Tepesi yl No:25/10, 34692 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey.
• Access: open 24/7, free entrance to the park
• Rating: 4.7/5 according to visitor reviews

Tip: It's worth visiting this place at different times of the day to capture the changing light over the city. Sunrise and sunset are especially recommended.

3 Istanbul Sapphire observation deck For those who prefer modern vantage points, Istanbul Sapphire is the perfect place. This 261-meter skyscraper offers an observation deck on the 54th floor with spectacular views of the entire city.

Practical information:

• Address: Emniyet Evleri, Eski Büyükdere Cd. No:1, 34415 Kağıthane/İstanbul, Turkey
• Opening hours: daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (as of 2023).
• Ticket price: about 100-150 TL
• Rating: 4.4/5 according to tourist reviews

Tip: Take advantage of the flight simulator over Istanbul, which is an additional attraction on the observation deck.

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on Istanbul, allowing you to capture its diversity and beauty. Be sure to bring a camera with a wide lens so you can capture as many of these breathtaking views as possible!

Continuing our tour of Istanbul's best vantage points, let's take a look at places that offer unique perspectives on the city from street and water level.

4. the Galata Bridge Galata Bridge, which connects the Karaköy and Eminönü districts, is not only an important thoroughfare, but also an excellent vantage point. The bridge offers a picturesque view of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Old City skyline with its distinctive silhouettes of mosques.

Practical information:

• Address: Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa, Galata Köprüsü, 34425 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey
• Access: open 24/7, free admission
• Rating: 4.6/5 according to tourist reviews

Tip: The best photos can be taken at sunset, when the light reflects in the waters of the Golden Horn and the minarets of the mosques are drawn against the golden sky. It's also worth going down to the lower level of the bridge, where there are numerous restaurants overlooking the water.

5 Ortaköy Square Ortaköy Square, located right on the Bosphorus, offers one of Istanbul's most iconic views. From here you can admire the majestic Bosphorus Bridge against the backdrop of the strait's blue waters and the charming Ortaköy Mosque.

Practical information:

• Address: Mecidiye, İskele Sk., 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey.
• Access: open 24/7, free admission
• Rating: 4.6/5 according to visitor reviews

Tip: This place is especially photogenic in the evening when the bridge is illuminated. You should also try the local delicacy kumpir (baked potato with various toppings) while admiring the view.

6 - Eyüp Sultan Tepesi Eyüp Sultan Hill, also known as Pierre Loti Hill, offers a quieter alternative to the crowded viewpoints in the city center. A cafe at the top of the hill offers panoramic views of the Golden Horn and the Eyüp district.

Practical information:

• Address: Eyüp Merkez, 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Turkey
• Access: cable car runs daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm (as of 2023)
• Price: about 15 TL for a one-way train ride
• Rating: 4.6/5 according to tourist reviews

Tip: It's a good idea to combine a visit to the hill with a tour of the historic Eyüp district and the Eyüp Sultan Mosque. It is best to arrive here early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

7th Pierre Loti Hill Although often confused with Eyüp Sultan Tepesi, Pierre Loti Hill is a separate place offering equally beautiful views. Named after the French writer who often visited the site, the hill is famous for its romantic sunsets over the Golden Horn.

Practical information:

• Address: Merkez, İdris Köşkü Cd., 34050 Eyüpsultan/İstanbul, Turkey.
• Access: cable car runs daily
• Rating: 4.3/5 according to visitor reviews

Tip: It's worth coming here before sunset and staying until dusk to see the city slowly light up with thousands of lights.

Each of these sites offers a unique perspective on Istanbul, allowing you to capture its diversity, dynamism and beauty from different points of view. Remember to always carry your camera with you - you never know when you'll stumble upon another breathtaking view in this fascinating city!

At the end of our tour of Istanbul's best vantage points, let's discover places that combine history with breathtaking views.

8. süleymaniye Camii viewpoint Suleimaniye Mosque, one of the masterpieces of the famous architect Sinan, offers not only impressive architecture, but also a magnificent viewpoint. The courtyard of the mosque offers a panoramic view that includes the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Old City.

Practical information:

• Address: Süleymaniye, Mimar Sinan Cd. No:77, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
• Opening hours: daily, with breaks for prayers
• Admission: free of charge
• Rating: 4.3/5 according to visitor reviews

Tip: It's best to visit this place early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Be sure to dress appropriately - shoulders and knees should be covered.

9th Rumeli Hisarı Rumeli Hisarı, an impressive fortress dating back to the 15th century, offers not only a history lesson, but also great views of the Bosphorus. From the walls of the fortress, you can admire the strait, the bridges and the Asian side of the city.

Practical information:

• Address: Rumeli Hisarı, Yahya Kemal Cd., 34470 Sarıyer/İstanbul, Turkey
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (as of 2023).
• Ticket price: about 15-20 TL
• Rating: 4.5/5 according to tourist reviews

Tip: It's worth combining a visit to the fortress with a cruise on the Bosphorus to see it from both land and water.

Comparison of viewpoints:

1. Altitude:

• Highest point: Istanbul Sapphire (261 m).
• Lowest point: Ortaköy Square (sea level)

2 Price:

• Most expensive: Istanbul Sapphire (100-150 TL)
• Cheapest: Galata Bridge, Ortaköy Square (free).

3 Tourist ratings:

• Highest rating: Çamlıca Hill (4.7/5).
• Lowest rating: Süleymaniye Camii viewpoint (4.3/5).

4 Accessibility:

• Most accessible: Galata Bridge, Ortaköy Square (open 24/7).
• Least accessible: Rumeli Hisarı (limited opening hours)

5 Type of view:

• Widest view: Çamlıca Hill (360-degree panorama)
• Most unique: Ortaköy Square (iconic view of the Bosphorus Bridge)

6 Amenities:

• Best amenities: Istanbul Sapphire (restaurant, flight simulator)
• Least amenities: Galata Bridge (no special amenities)

When choosing vantage points, consider not only the view itself, but also the time of day, weather conditions and your own preferences. Each of these places offers a unique perspective on Istanbul, allowing you to capture its diversity, dynamics and beauty from different viewpoints.

Remember that Istanbul is a city best explored slowly, savoring every view and every moment. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply a lover of beautiful views, these vantage points are sure to give you an unforgettable experience and capture the magic of this unique city at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.