My favourite Istanbul mosques – in photographs

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A few years ago, when the Coronavirus pandemic was ramping up I marked my birthday by sharing a selection of my favourite images from  Istanbul mosques.

I’m a Leo so I usually go large on birthdays with celebrations lasting at least a week and sometimes as long as a month. In the past I’ve enjoyed dinner with all my friends at a nice restaurant, held a party at home or had a romantic dinner with my lovely husband in a beachside destination somewhere in Turkey or Europe. Each birthday I hope the following year brings me health and happiness, more book sales of course, and like a beauty contest entrant, desire world peace.

I’m not an expert photographer. I’m a writer first and foremost but one thing writing has taught me is the importance of paying attention to the details, something I think translates well in these images.

And of course I have to finish with my favourite shot of an Istanbul mosque, taken by my Dad when he came to Istanbul in 2007. I think it’s pretty good given he had glaucoma in both eyes and very limited vision when he took it, don’t you?

I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into my take on what’s to like about Istanbul. Read more about some of these mosques and how to visit them and other lesser known sights in my new in 2023 alternative guide Istanbul 50 Unsung Places.

Planning to come to Istanbul or Turkey? Here are my helpful tips for planning your trip.

For FLIGHTS I like to use Kiwi.com.

Don’t pay extra for an E-VISA. Here’s my post on everything to know before you take off.

However E-SIM are the way to go to stay connected with a local phone number and mobile data on the go. Airalo is easy to use and affordable.

Even if I never claim on it, I always take out TRAVEL INSURANCE. I recommend Visitors Coverage.

I’m a big advocate of public transport, but know it’s not suitable for everyone all the time. When I need to be picked up from or get to Istanbul Airport or Sabiha Gokcen Airport, I use one of these GetYourGuide website AIRPORT TRANSFERS.

ACCOMMODATION: When I want to find a place to stay I use Booking.com.

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Let me guide you around Kadikoy with my audio walking tour Stepping back through Chalcedon or venture further afield with my bespoke guidebook Istanbul 50 Unsung Places. I know you’ll love visiting the lesser-known sites I’ve included. It’s based on using public transport as much as possible so you won’t be adding too much to your carbon footprint. Then read about what you’ve seen and experienced in my three essay collections and memoir about moving to Istanbul permanently.

Browse the GetYourGuide website or Viator to find even more ways to experience Istanbul and Turkey with food tours, visits to the old city, evening Bosphorus cruises and more!

However you travel, stay safe and have fun! Iyi yolculuklar.