10 Hidden Instagram Spots in Turkey for Epic Photos

Love exploring unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations that look amazing on your feed? Turkey is full of fantastic hidden gems that go beyond the iconic Hagia Sophia or the stunning fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. From surreal landscapes to ancient ruins, Turkey is an Instagrammer’s dream—but not all its treasures are well-known.

This guide is here to reveal the 10 hidden Instagram spots in Turkey you need to check out for jaw-dropping photos. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast or a culture explorer, these spots will leave both your feed and your heart happy!

1. Suluada Island (Antalya’s Maldives)

Dubbed the “Maldives of Turkey,” Suluada Island might just convince you that paradise is closer than you think. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches, it’s an unmissable destination for Instagrammers seeking tropical vibes.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Azure waters that rival Southeast Asia’s best beaches.
• Get candid shots jumping off boats or lounging on the untouched sands.

How to get there: Book a boat trip from Adrasan, a lovely nearby Antalya town.

2. Lavanta Gardens (Isparta)

Take a scenic break at the lush lavender fields in Isparta. Perfectly timed with the summer bloom, a stroll here will turn your photos into lovely purple wonderlands. Just think of the dreamy floral backgrounds!

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Rows of lavender as far as the eye can see (perfect for an ethereal outfit moment).
• Timing is key! Visit in June or July during lavender season.

Pro Tip: Pair your lavender pics with accessories like a sunhat or a summer dress to highlight the magical hues.

3. Gokceada’s Secret Beaches

Forget crowded tourist shores. Gokceada, one of the largest Aegean islands in Turkey, is home to protected, untouched beaches that feel like a secluded oasis. Combine the views with a golden sunset, and you’ve got something Instagram kryptonite-worthy.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Less-explored, serene settings.
• Rich Mediterranean vibes with coves, sailboats, and rugged cliffs.

Don’t Miss: Yildiz Bay, where the combination of turquoise waters and white sands pulls off cinematic drama.

4. The Ancient Ruins of Aizanoi (Cavdarhisar)

Often nicknamed the “Second Ephesus” due to its remarkably well-preserved architecture, Aizanoi is an ancient Roman city that remains largely off most tourists’ radar.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Staggering columns and a majestic temple dedicated to Zeus.
• Wide, open landscapes make for dramatic scenic shots.

How to make it pop: A sunset shoot will add golden hues that complement the ruins’ textures.

5. Egirdir Lake (Isparta)

We can’t resist an Instagram gem that mixes serene waters with snow-capped mountains in the background. Egirdir Lake offers incredible natural beauty alongside quaint pastel-painted houses from local villages.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• The lake reflects the sky like a mirror, making each shot unique.
• Picture-perfect during sunrise and sunset.

Bonus Tip: Snap a shot of the stone bridge leading into Yesilada Island for symmetrical perfection.

6. The Ghost Town of Kayakoy (Fethiye) 👻

If you’re a fan of moody, urban aesthetics, Kayakoy is a haunting yet beautiful abandoned village to explore. The remnants of old houses and chapels serve as striking backdrops for surreal photography.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Slightly eerie but oh-so-intriguing atmosphere.
• Great for experimental edits or “throwback to another era” vibes.

How to get there: Alaturca Turkey operates several engaging culture tours in Fethiye that include Kayakoy.

7. Phaselis Ancient City and Beach

This spot is unique because it combines the grandeur of an ancient city with a stunning Mediterranean shoreline. Strolling through amphitheaters, colonnaded streets, and aqueducts just steps away from crystal-clear waters? This is Instagram gold.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Juxtaposition of history and nature in a single frame.
• Capture everything from historic ruins or your sun-kissed swim by the sea.

Pro Tip: Bring snorkeling gear to discover the underwater treasures nearby.

8. Salda Lake (The Turkish Maldives 2.0)

Ever heard of a lake that mimics the appearance of Mars from above? Salda Lake’s white sandy shores and unique mineral formations have earned it comparisons to space landscapes.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• Unique terrain with white beaches and turquoise water.
• Dramatic sunrise silhouettes.

How to get there: Located in Burdur, this destination is a short drive from Isparta and easily included on a broader Alaturca Turkey tour.

9. Halfeti’s Sunken City

Halfeti is a town partially submerged underwater following a damming project—but that hasn’t stopped it from being incredibly photogenic. Hop onto a boat tour to explore this semi-underwater hidden gem.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• A partially sunken mosque spire creates one-of-a-kind compositions.
• The reflections on the water add an ethereal glow to your photos.

Bonus Adventure: Don’t leave without trying Halfeti’s unique black roses, famous for their dark hue!

10. The Monastery of Sumela (Trabzon)

Tucked into the steep cliffs of the Pontic Mountains, this ancient Greek Orthodox monastery is as breathtaking as it is historical.

Why it’s perfect for Instagram:

• The monastery appears to defy gravity in its hillside perch.
• Dramatic misty mountain backgrounds that look like something out of a fairytale.

Best Time to Visit: Mornings often feature low-lying clouds that create a dreamy aesthetic.

Plan Your Adventure with Alaturca Turkey

Intrigued? Turkey is overflowing with hidden destinations just like these, waiting to transform your feed into a visual masterpiece. Alaturca Turkey, a renowned Turkey Travel Agency, can help you craft the ultimate Instagram-worthy trip through custom tour packages.

From historical ruins at Ephesus to personalized itineraries around the serene beaches of Antalya, our expert guides will unlock a side of Turkey few others get to see.

Start planning your tour now with Alaturca Turkey Tours and discover the hidden side of this beautiful country. Get professional assistance, private transfers, yacht rentals, and curated travel packages tailored to your budget and unique interests.