An Amazing 48 Hours in Istanbul

In 2013 I spent only about 48 hours in Istanbul and completely fell in love with the city. It is still one of my favorite places all these years later. The mix of history, culture, architecture, and energy makes it one of the most fascinating places I have ever visited. Istanbul sits at the crossroads of East and West, and you feel that blend everywhere you go, from the food and markets to the people and the buildings. Even with such a short visit, the city left a lasting impression and quickly climbed to the top of my list of places I want to return to.

Turning a Layover into an Adventure

After spending the previous week photographing in Niger, we decided to extend our layover in Istanbul to explore the city. It turned out to be the best layover I have ever had. From the moment we arrived, it felt like every street corner offered something worth photographing. With limited time, I focused on walking, observing, and capturing the exotic feel of the city.

The Beauty of Istanbul’s Architecture

Istanbul is filled with incredible historic architecture, much of it layered with centuries of stories. Wandering through the city felt like stepping through different eras all at once. Ornate details, massive domes, and weathered stone walls created endless photographic opportunities. The scale and craftsmanship of the buildings made it impossible not to stop and look up. One building that truly stands out is the Hagia Sophia. Originally built in the sixth century as a cathedral, later transformed into a mosque, then a museum, and now functioning again as a mosque, it reflects the complex history of Istanbul itself. The scale of the interior, the towering dome, and the mix of Christian mosaics and Islamic calligraphy make it one of the most visually and historically striking buildings I have ever experienced. Standing beneath the dome, it was impossible not to stop, look up, and feel the weight of history surrounding you.

Photographing the Blue Mosque

One building that repeatedly drew my attention was the Blue Mosque. We had a beautiful view of it from our hotel, and the changing light throughout the day made it a constant subject for my camera. Photographing it at different times offered a chance to capture its calm presence against the rhythm of the city. It quickly became one of my favorite architectural subjects I have ever photographed.

Istanbul Street Food and Everyday Flavor

One of my favorite ways to experience Istanbul was through its street food. Everywhere we walked there were vendors pulling and stretching taffy, squeezing fresh pomegranates into bright red juice, and roasting chestnuts whose smell filled the streets. It felt impossible to go more than a few steps without encountering something new to taste or photograph. The colors alone were incredible, from piles of glossy fruit to trays of golden pastries catching the light.

Street food in Istanbul is not just about convenience. It is woven into daily life and gives you a direct connection to the city and its people. It also gave me some great details to photograph to capture the feel of the city.

Exploring the Grand Bazaar

Walking through the Grand Bazaar felt like stepping into a living maze that has been active for centuries. The narrow corridors were packed with shops selling everything from colorful textiles and handwoven rugs to spices, ceramics, lamps, and jewelry. Every turn offered a new scene, and the mix of light, texture, and movement made it overwhelming to the senses.

Beyond the shopping, the Grand Bazaar was an experience in human interaction. Shopkeepers greeted us with smiles, friendly conversation, and offers of tea, creating an atmosphere that felt welcoming rather than overwhelming. It was a place where tradition and daily life blended seamlessly, and photographing it gave me a deeper appreciation for how history continues to thrive in the heart of the city.

A Turkish Bath Experience I Will Never Forget

One of the most memorable experiences of my trip had nothing to do with photography. We visited a traditional Turkish bath, or hammam, that was more than 500 years old and built into a cave. Between hot water being splashed on me and getting thoroughly scrubbed by a large Turkish attendant, it was intense, unforgettable, and surprisingly refreshing. I left feeling better than I had in weeks. I do not have photos from the experience, but it is a memory that will stay with me forever.

A City I Cannot Wait to Return To

Even in just 48 hours, Istanbul completely captured my attention. The people were welcoming, the food was incredible, and the city felt alive in a way that few places do. I hope these images give you a sense of why this city left such a strong impression on me. Istanbul is a place that deserves far more time, and I cannot wait for the chance to return and explore it more deeply.

Want to Photograph Cities Like This?

Trips like this continue to shape how I see the world and how I photograph it. If you want to improve your own travel photography skills, you can learn more about my travel photography coaching or explore upcoming workshops and tours.