Discover Non-Touristy Places in Turkey Perfect For Instagram

Are you looking for off-the-beaten-track destinations to fill your travel Instagram with magnificent photos? Let’s discover some non-touristy places in Turkey where you can take lots of great pics to make your travel blog one of the best IG travel accounts.

If you’re a travel photography enthusiast starting a travel Instagram, a trip to Turkey might be the perfect opportunity to take many magnificent pictures. 

Turkey offers endless possibilities to travel photographers. You can take popular Istanbul tours to capture the city’s spectacular historical texture or create your own route to off-the-beaten-path spots to share Turkey’s lesser-known but equally amazing gem with the rest of the world.

So, if you’re looking for the best Turkey destinations to take Instagrammable photos, you’re at the right place! In this article, I will show you the most picturesque spots throughout Turkey!

Hidden Places In Turkey (& The Best Photo Spots Once There)

A successful travel Instagram is about capturing the best pictures and sharing the most relatable and entertaining content. So, you should find the perfect destination to attract your target audience and gain more followers. Thankfully, Turkey is the one destination where you can find everything you may want!

One significant thing Turkey is known for is its picturesque nature and appealing riviera. From the coastal towns in the southwest to the verdant plains in the east, every corner of Turkey boasts hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Photography enthusiasts and travel bloggers can use this plethora of natural wonders to promote their content and reach a wider audience while exploring a new country.

1. Artvin – A Paradise Unveiled

The first destination on our list is Artvin, a tiny border city in northeastern Turkey. Although it shares the same climate and landscape as prominent Black Sea cities, such as Trabzon or Rize, Artvin’s tranquil atmosphere and untouched nature make it unique.

Artvin is a great destination for nature and urban photography. This beautiful city has a distinct, down-to-earth aura and a slow-paced way of life—in fact, it seems like a still-life painting.

Some must-see destinations in Artvin are Hatila Valley and Borçka Karagöl natural parks, both of which offer nature enthusiasts an unforgettable experience. You can visit Maral Falls to bask in the mystic atmosphere, snap stunning photos, and enjoy a guided tour of the surrounding area.

Plus, if you enjoy historical landmarks, you must add old churches, such as Tibeti and Doliskana, to your Artvin itinerary. The ruins of these once-glorious churches provide a spectacular glimpse into the region’s past and also make great spots for travel photography.

Our favorite photography spots in Artvin:

Hatila Valley

Hatila Valley is one of the most popular destinations in Artvin. A tributary of the Çoruh River, Hatila has many waterfalls. The valley is within a verdant national park and, thanks to its dramatic scenery, attracts many nature photographers.

Karagöl Nature Park

Artvin is home to the gorgeous Karagöl, located in the Borçka municipality. Thanks to the dense greenery it offers, you can take lots of Instagrammable photographs with a mystic vibe.

Çifte Kemer Köprü

Çifte Kemer Köprü (Double Arch Bridge) is a must-see landmark that adds an urban twist to Artvin’s breathtaking nature. You can take pictures of and from the bridge to share spectacular scenery with your followers.

Barhal

Barhal, or Parkhali, Church is an ancient Georgian church built by King David Magistros in the 10th century. This magnificent building lies within Artvin’s lush nature and offers a colorful glimpse of the city’s rich past. You can take the structure’s pictures to share this wonder with your followers to attract history lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

2. İzmir – Bask In History

İzmir is one of the best destinations for summer holidays and a great option for those looking to promote their travel Instagram with magnificent pictures.

İzmir offers everything you may look for in a city: spectacular scenery, magnificent historical texture, stunning landmarks, and a lively culture. During your stay in Izmir, you will have the opportunity to take lots of photos!

If you enjoy photographing nature and landscapes, your destination should be Urla, Seferihisar, or maybe Foça. These towns are known for their mostly untouched nature and stunning historical landmarks and are among the best things to do in Turkey.

Alternatively, those interested in street photography and capturing the local culture might visit the Konak, Alsancak, Karşıyaka, or Güzelbahçe areas. These parts of the city are the liveliest, full of large markets (çarşı), nightclubs, venues, restaurants, and pubs. Plus, Konak is the historical center of Izmir, where you can capture the late Ottoman architecture.

Our favorite photography spots in Izmir:

Şirince

Şirince is a peaceful town located in the Selçuk municipality of İzmir. The town is mainly known for its traditional Turkish winemaking culture and spectacular scenery. Besides, there are various historical landmarks within and near the town, making it a popular attraction for history enthusiasts.

Thanks to its unique characteristics, Şirince is among the best places for travel bloggers to visit in İzmir.

Efes (Ephesus) Open-Air Museum

Efes Open-Air Museum is among the most spectacular historical landmarks in Izmir. The ancient city is home to the ruins of temples, forums, and a historical amphitheater. Here, you can take astonishing pictures of the ruins of a once-thriving settlement.

Asansor

Tarihi Asansör (Historical Elevator) is a popular attraction in Konak, İzmir’s heart. You can take the lift to ascend to the Şehit Nihat Bey Street, which boasts a spectacular view of Konak – where you can take dramatic pictures of the city.

Dining at Tarihi Asansör Restaurant while watching the magnificent scenery is also a must.

Bostanlı

Feeling like a promenade? Bostanlı is the perfect place for that.

Thanks to the green coastline and peaceful atmosphere, you can capture the tranquil urban lifestyle without being bothered by crowds. Plus, the Sunset Terrace might be a great spot to photograph the dramatic sunset over the Aegean.

3. Diyarbakır – Paris Of The East

Diyarbakır is commonly known as the Paris of the East in Turkey. This eastern Anatolian city has been among the most prominent centers of culture and civilization in Turkey, with a history dating back 12 thousand years.

If you’re used to the nature and atmosphere of cities in the western and southern parts of Turkey, Diyarbakır might feel like a completely new land. Its architecture and unique nature are definitely worth seeing and photographing.

Historical churches, mosques, and magnificent city walls will help your audience explore the region’s rich past. Meanwhile, the photos of these landmarks will share some of Turkey’s most underrated spots with the rest of the world.

Besides its glorious history, Diyarbakır offers an opportunity to bless your followers’ Instagram feeds with gorgeous snaps of Mesopotamian nature. Being the second largest city in southeastern Anatolia, Diyarbakır boasts untouched nature reserves and hidden gems.

Our favorite photography spots in Diyarbakır:

Diyarbakır City

Diyarbakır is one of the most popular destinations in eastern Anatolia. This historic city is home to many monuments, the most prominent of which is the Diyarbakır Walls surrounding the city.

The local bazaar also makes a vibrant backdrop for photos!

As a lesser-known destination, this distinct city is the perfect spot for all photography enthusiasts.

Hevsel Gardens

Hevsel Gardens are the green symbol of Diyarbakır. These verdant gardens cover a significant portion of the city beyond the walls and attract many visitors throughout the year.

The gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are an important agricultural area for the local population.

Pictures of these unfathomable gardens might be the perfect addition to your Instagram account.

Surp Giragos Church

This picture shows the interiors of the magnificent Surp Giragos Church, an Armenian Apostolic church still active. The church is the best specimen of Armenian religious architecture and serves as a great subject for travel photography.

So, your Diyarbakır itinerary should definitely include this gorgeous structure.

Malabadi Bridge

Malabadi Bridge is a historical bridge in Diyarbakır with unique architecture. The structure demonstrates the architectural tradition of the Turkish Artuqid dynasty, which ruled the area around the 12th century.

Surprisingly, despite its age of 9 hundred years, the bridge is still in use.

The outstanding views of the bridge will definitely help you attract more followers and photography enthusiasts.

4. Mersin – The Pearl Of The Turkish Riviera

Yes, Mersin is by no means a hidden gem; it’s a relatively popular travel destination for visitors from all around the world. However, compared to Antalya, its western neighbor, this gorgeous Mediterranean city is still quite underrated.

If I call Mersin the pearl of the Turkish Riviera, I wouldn’t be mistaken. Unlike other popular destinations on the Mediterranean coastline, Mersin still boasts a plethora of pristine coves and beaches.

Mersin has many great spots for Turkey photography. You can add Şeytan Deresi Vadisi (Devil’s River Valley) or Gilindire Cave to your itinerary for some dramatic nature views. I’m sure your audience will love the scenes you capture!

Alternatively, you can choose to share some historical or architectural wonders with your audience and visit Mamure Castle. This historical fortress is the main highlight of the Anamur area. Besides, Anemurium and Olba ancient cities are perfect spots to snap the ruins of once-thriving cities.

Our favorite photography spots in Mersin:

Mersin City

Mersin is a blue city, with unfathomable turquoise extending along the city’s partly golden, partly green coastline. If you’re looking for a destination to take photos with “sun, sand, and sea” vibes, this city is the way to go.

Maiden’s Castle

Mersin’s Kızkalesi, or Maiden’s Castle, is a historic castle in the middle of the sea. Although the original castle is older, the modern structure was built in the 13th century.

Thanks to its unique architecture and location, the structure is a popular attraction for visitors worldwide. So, if you’re seeking a spot to take distinctive photos to share with your followers, this is the place.

Urban City Streets

In addition to its gorgeous nature and historical structures, Mersin is also an excellent spot for visitors with its spectacular urban architecture. Every corner of the city has something to offer for visitors, photographers, and explorers.

Additionally, Mersin is the perfect choice for those seeking a less-crowded destination than large tourist destinations, thanks to its less touristy nature compared to neighboring Antalya.

Gilindire Cavern

In addition to historical gems, Mersin is also known for its unmatched natural beauty. Gilindire Cavern, one of the highlights of the city, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year with its outstanding formation.

5. Kars – White City

Kars stands out with its spectacular urban scenery. Due to the brief period of imperial Russian rule, many structures bear the marks of iconic Baltic architecture.

Kars’ natural environment also includes numerous old structures and historic buildings. The ruins of the ancient city of Ani, once the capital of an Armenian Kingdom, are located within the snowy plains of Kars and provide a splendid subject for photography enthusiasts.

Overall, despite being a relatively smaller city than other popular destinations, Kars is home to many hidden gems. So, your visit to this humble eastern Anatolian town might provide you with captivating photographs to share with your audience.

The best part is that you won’t be bothered by crowds during your trip!

Our favorite photography spots in Kars:

Kars’ City Streets

Kars’ streets, where the local and Baltic architecture of the late imperial Russian period mix, offer an extraordinary spectacle. This photogenic city is perfect for sharing magnificent urban scenes with your followers.

Ani Ancient City

If you’re looking for a magnificent spot to take amazing pictures, Ani Ancient City in Kars is the way to go. This historical settlement was once the capital of the Bagratid Armenian kingdom and held great importance. The ancient city is often referred to as “The City of A Thousand Churches” because of the over 100 churches excavated at the site.

Fethiye Camii

Once a magnificent Cathedral, Fethiye Camii is definitely one of the highlights of Kars. Its distinct architecture and magnificent look will definitely stun your followers.

6. Mardin – City Of Cultures And Religions

Mardin is often titled the City of Religions. This lesser-known city in southeastern Anatolia is one of the few places where you can see ancient Assyrian churches alongside Islamic mosques, signifying the peaceful coexistence of both communities.

One of Mardin’s most significant highlights is the Ghurs Valley, where the ruins of old structures lie amidst verdant greenery. You must visit this spectacular spot before it becomes popular!

Mardin Grand Mosque and the Church of the Virgin Mary are two must-see structures in the city. In addition to their historical and cultural importance, these structures offer an outstanding view and gorgeous architecture.

Our favorite photography spots in Mardin:

Church And Patriarchate Of Virgin Mary

The Church and Patriarchate of the Virgin Mary is one of the most prominent churches in Mardin and deserves a visit. The structure boasts local architecture and is a perfect spot for Instagram travel bloggers.

Ğurs (Yüceli) Valley

Despite its primarily yellow landscape, Mardin boasts a few valleys and lush plains as well.

A popular natural wonder in the city is the Ğurs (Yüceli) Valley. Photography enthusiasts among the locals and visitors often travel to the valley in order to capture its pristine beauty. Thanks to its relatively isolated location, the valley preserves its natural charm quite well.

Mardin Grand Mosque

If you want to witness the cultural harmony in Mardin and photograph the local architecture better, Mardin Grand Mosque is the perfect destination. Located near the city center, this historical mosque is a must-see for travel bloggers and Instagrammers.

7. Bolu – The Green City

Bolu might be one of the greenest cities in Turkey. With hundreds of lakes, unfathomable mountains, and spectacular plains, the city is the perfect spot for a solo traveler or a nature enthusiast. Plus, traveling couples might also enjoy Turkey tours with Bolu as one of the destinations.

Countless lakes and national parks in Bolu provide visitors with the perfect backdrop for taking magnificent pictures. Whether you’re starting a travel Instagram or already have one, Bolu is the ideal spot for anyone looking to share unforgettable memories with their followers.

The famous Lake Abant is the symbol of Bolu, a must-see spot for all visitors – especially those looking to take spectacular pictures. The mystic atmosphere in this natural wonder makes it a superb destination to capture magnifying scenes. Besides, Akkaya and Yedigöller, with their equally stunning scenery, must also be on your itinerary.

Our favorite photography spots in Bolu:

Abant

Abant is the literal definition of picturesque. This magnificent lake is a popular attraction for nature enthusiasts and campers in Turkey. Thanks to the breathtaking scenery, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos in Abant.

Akkaya Travertines

Akkaya Travertines are the second most popular travertines in Turkey, just after those in Pamukkale. This unique natural formation is a must-see for all travel bloggers because it offers an intriguing story and stunning scenery to share with followers. Plus, the view from the facility by the travertines is truly majestic.

Yedigöller National Park

Yedigöller National Park is a spectacular destination for visitors looking for a tranquil getaway and panoramic views. The national park, with many lakes and lush greenery, is a popular spot for travel Instagrammers. So, if you want to share outstanding photographs with your followers, add this green park to your Turkey travel itinerary.