Discover pages that were once filled with Paris’s Eiffel Tower or Bali’s swings have now been replaced by lesser-known, quieter, yet equally impressive destinations. Turkish travelers have also embraced this change. New travel routes shaped by factors such as accessibility, visa-free travel, and cultural proximity have exploded on Instagram.
In this article, we will explore one by one the destinations that will stand out among popular international routes in 2025 and have become the favorites of Turkish travelers. Are you ready to discover these places that have both a story and eye-catching photographs?
Lesbos Island: Peaceful and Colourful Getaway in the Aegean
Hidden in the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea, a getaway spot where history and nature intertwine: Lesbos Island. Lesvos, with its Greek name, is the third largest island in Greece and attracts more and more travelers every year with its cultural richness and natural beauty.
This island, which you can reach only by a 1-hour ferry ride from Ayvalık, is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and take a breather with its easy accessibility and calm atmosphere. With its stone houses that still bear traces of the Ottoman Empire, narrow streets, mastic trees and fishing villages set up against the sea, Midilli is one of the rare routes that make you feel both sides of the Aegean at the same time.
Why is Lesbos Island Popular?
- Lesbos is on the rise among popular destinations in 2025 because:
- With its natural and authentic atmosphere, it offers frames that do not need filters.
- Thanks to its easy access by ferry, it offers a visa-free European atmosphere.
- It offers a non-touristic, real island life experience.
- It is one of the most accessible Greek islands with visa on arrival.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
There are many different places to visit in Lesbos, but there are a few that are especially essential for Instagram lovers:- Molivos (Mithymna) : The island's most popular town with medieval stone streets, houses decorated with bougainvillea and sunset views from the castle.
- Petra : A quiet stopover with small but aesthetically pleasing houses located by the sea.
- Skala Eressos : Attracts attention with its bohemian spirit and deep blue coast. Ideal for artists and nature lovers.
- Agiassos : This traditional mountain village in the interior of the island is worth exploring with its handmade ceramics and authentic streets.
Lesbos Island Photogenic Places
Every corner of Lesbos offers a different photo opportunity, but the most popular Instagram spots are as follows:- View of the town from Molivos Castle : A magnificent light is captured at sunset.
- Panagia Glykofilousa Church in Petra : The church on the hill, climbed by 114 steps, offers a wonderful view.
- Skala Sikamineas Port : An aesthetic stop with its fishing boats, pastel-toned houses and simple beauty.
- The streets of Agiassos are a true storyteller with their colourful windows, flowered balconies and local shops.
- Sunrise walks among olive trees : Perfect for minimal and natural content.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : It is recommended to go in May – June or September.
- Transportation : It takes approximately 1 hour to get there by ferry from Ayvalık.
- The best hours for content creation : Between 8:00 am and 10:00 am and sunset hours.
- Story idea : Morning coffee, street exploration and sunset series with the theme of “A day in Lesbos”.
- Budget-friendly note : Much more affordable than other popular Greek islands.
Meis Island: Small, Quiet But Very Impressive
Only 2 kilometers away from the Turkish coast, but a completely different world: Meis Island. Kastellorizo in Greek, this tiny island located in the easternmost of the Twelve Islands may be small in terms of surface area, but its impact is huge.
Meis, which can be reached by a 20-minute ferry ride from Kaş, is a haven for travelers looking for tranquility. With its colorful houses, quiet streets and turquoise shores, it represents the concept of less but more. It also fits perfectly with the slow travel trends of 2025: a favorite of those who prefer to explore by digesting rather than fast-paced tours.
Why is Meis Popular?
The reasons why Meis has been seen frequently on Instagram in recent years are quite clear:- Its colorful neoclassical houses and pastel harbor are like a painting.
- Since it is not yet overly touristic, it offers a quiet, simple and natural atmosphere.
- Small islands are one of the strongest examples of the big experiences trend.
It has entered the radar of travelers who adopt a minimalist travel approach, especially in 2025. It is perfect for those who want to discover small but original places.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
Although Meis Island is built on a small area, it offers a lot to discover:- Harbour area : Surrounded by colourful houses, this area is the heart of the island. It has a special peace with fishing boats in the mornings and dim street lights in the evenings.
- Blue Grotto : One of the largest sea caves in the world. This cave, which turns neon blue with sunlight, offers a mystical experience.
- Kastellorizo Castle : The castle on the hill allows you to fit both the island view and the Kas coast into the same frame.
Meis Island Photogenic Places
- Colorful Harbour Houses : The first image that comes to mind when you think of the island. Pastel tones stand out with soft light in the morning hours.
- Blue Cave : The blueness captured from inside looking out is like a fairy tale.
- Ideal place for drone shooting : Bird's eye view of the entrance to the castle and the harbor.
- Colorful wooden boats : Great symmetry shots can be captured with the boats reflecting in the water.
- Island cats : The cats roaming the streets of Meis are perfect for creating natural and cute frames.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : May to July, ideal for calm and beautiful light.
- Transportation : Transportation is provided by ferries departing from Kaş several times a day.
- Content suggestion : Reels series titled “One Day in Meis” – from morning coffee to sunset.
- What it makes you feel : An atmosphere that reminds you of the value of silence, simplicity and simple beauty.
- Bonus info : The Blue Cave can only be accessed by boat; it's best to go in the morning for the light.
Rome and Amalfi: Every Frame a Postcard
Rome, adorned with layers of history, blends the splendor of the past with the crowds of today; while the Amalfi Coast reveals the cinematic spirit of Italy. When the two come together, it is not just a holiday, but also a visual feast.
Rome fascinates with an ancient story around every corner, its classical architecture and legendary squares. Amalfi offers a journey that satisfies the mind and eyes with the pastel houses of Positano, the terrace views of Ravello and the lemon-scented streets of Sorrento.
Among the popular routes of 2025, they have become the most preferred duo for travelers looking for both cultural heritage and natural beauty. A true masterpiece, especially for those who want to live by feeling, not just see and pass by.
Why Is It So Popular?
The main reasons why these two destinations are popular together are:- A combination of rich history and breathtaking nature.
- Appealing to both urban explorers and beach-loving travelers.
- In both regions, scenes like a photograph are experienced at every step.
- The classical elegance of Rome offers a perfect contrast to the bohemian and colourful texture of Amalfi.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
Places to Visit in Rome:- Colosseum and Forum : Indispensable for history lovers.
- Fountain of Love (Fontana di Trevi): Ideal for both wishes and frames.
- Pantheon & Piazza Navona : The elegant heart of Ancient Rome.
- Trastevere : Get lost among bohemian cafes and narrow streets.
- Positano : Colorful houses, the leading role of Instagram.
- Ravello: A quiet and panoramic oasis.
- Amalfi Town : Walks along the coast and limoncello breaks.
- Capri Island (extra trip): You can go on a day tour for the Blue Grotto and luxurious streets.
Photogenic Places of Rome and Amalfi
Rome:- The Colosseum, golden in the morning light.
- Frames in front of a rustic wall in the streets of Trastevere.
- View of Rome from Gianicolo Hill.
- That iconic view looking up from the beach in Positano.
- Sunset at Terrazza dell'Infinito in Ravello.
- Cliffs and white boats above the sea in Capri.
- The best spots for drone shots : the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast and the bird's eye view of Positano.
Quick Tips for Travelers
When should you go?- Spring months (April-May) are ideal for exploring both Rome and Amalfi before the crowds arrive.
- The end of September is equally enjoyable.
- Photo carousel : Create a sense of time travel with a theme from Ancient Rome to the Amalfi Coast.
- Story series : Morning espresso in Rome, evening sunset in Amalfi.
Moroccan Tale: Colors of Marrakesh, Silence of the Desert
Morocco… It’s like being in another universe, but not too far away from us. This country in the heart of North Africa offers a visual and spiritual journey with its labyrinthine bazaars, spice-scented streets, mosaic-adorned courtyards and the enchanting silence of the Sahara Desert. The Marrakesh and Merzouga area in particular is like a dreamscape for the experience-oriented traveler of 2025.
When you step into these lands, time slows down, the noise of the modern world gives way to the desert wind, the joy of the market and Moroccan melodies. A perfect balance point for those looking for both culture and nature.
Why Is Morocco Popular?
There are several main reasons why Morocco has become so prominent on social media in recent years:- The colorful streets and architecture of Marrakech turn every step into a square.
- Experiences like sunrise on a camel in the Sahara Desert are visually unique as well.
- It meets the dreams of travelers looking for cultural depth + aesthetic atmosphere.
- It offers an exotic yet accessible alternative that is easily accessible from Europe.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
Morocco is a big country but it is hidden in two most preferred routes:Marrakech : With Bahia Palace, Majorelle Garden and Medina streets, you witness both the history and the spirit of the city. Even getting lost in its labyrinthine streets is an experience to plan.
Merzouga and the Sahara Desert : With its golden sand dunes, camel caravans and nights camping under the stars, the desert is the most impressive way to be alone with nature.
Additionally, cities like Fez and Chefchaouen are on the radar of content creators and photography enthusiasts with their authentic spirit.
Photogenic Places in Morocco
- Majorelle Garden (Marrakesh) : This garden, filled with cobalt blue and exotic plants, is one of the most shared Moroccan frames on Instagram.
- Bazaar streets: Spices, lanterns, carpets… Each shop is like a concept.
- Camel silhouettes on the desert : Taken at sunrise or sunset, these shots combine minimalism and nature aesthetics.
- Riad courtyards : The inner courtyards of traditional Moroccan houses offer a visual feast with their mosaic patterns and tranquil atmospheres.
- Desert nights : Shots taken under the star-covered sky accompanied by the warm light of a fire are perfect for creating impressive stories.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : March to May and September to November, neither too hot nor crowded.
- Transportation : It is possible to reach Marrakech by direct flight from Istanbul. Train and bus options are common on domestic routes.
- Content suggestion : “Morocco in 3 days” – Reels series divided into sections such as the morning souks of Marrakesh, sunsets in the desert, tea ceremony and the tranquility of a riad.
- What it makes you feel : Colorful yet calm, familiar yet different, intense yet slow... Morocco leaves a feeling that simplifies as you explore.
- Bonus information : Breakfast in Riads offers excellent Reels opportunities in terms of light. Also, be sure to prepare light clothes, a scarf and a power bank before going on a desert tour.
Aesthetic Journey in Japan: From Kyoto to Tokyo
Japan… A living work of art where tradition and modernity are intertwined in perfect harmony. This journey that begins in the Zen gardens of Kyoto takes on a completely different rhythm in the neon-lit streets of Tokyo. The transition between these two cities is not just a change in geography; it is a change in philosophy of life, an aesthetic evolution.
In 2025, the focus of travelers is no longer just to see and pass by, but to feel and internalize. Japan, in line with this understanding, carries meaning and elegance in every detail. Feeling and experiencing the spirit of Japan is just a plane ticket away.
Why Japan is an Aesthetic Journey?
- Everything has been designed thoughtfully, simply and to serve its purpose: from the architecture to the cuisine.
- Walking through a temple in Kyoto and examining the interior design of a cafe in Tokyo are equally fascinating.
- This culture, where minimalism and attention to detail are skillfully blended, provides both mental and visual serenity.
- For photographers and content creators, every step is a composition opportunity.
- Japan is one of the rare destinations that can simultaneously appeal to the visual demands of the digital age with its traditional aesthetic understanding of wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection).
Kyoto: Like a City Frozen in Time
Kyoto is the soul of Japan. The ancient capital brings the elegance of the past to the present.- Fushimi Inari Shrine : Passing through thousands of red torii gates is like a visual and symbolic rite of passage.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest : A fascinating place where you feel the vertical rhythm of nature while walking silently.
- Gion District : Traditional kimonos, tea ceremonies and nostalgic streets bring the past to life here.
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple) : The golden yellow reflected on its surface takes on a surreal beauty in the morning light.
Tokyo: The City That Captures the Rhythm of the Future
Moving from the calm of Kyoto to Tokyo is like going from downtempo classical music to electronic music all at once. But the transition is not shocking; on the contrary, it is energizing.- Shibuya and Shinjuku : Streets dancing to the rhythm of the crowd provide powerful visuals for the content.
- Harajuku : The heart of fashion, street art and youth culture. Colorful and striking scenes are hidden here.
- TeamLab Planets/Tokyo : This space, filled with digital art and interactive exhibits, is a gold mine for content creators.
- Ueno and Asakusa : Areas where tradition and modernity stand shoulder to shoulder; full of temples, museums and traditional street food.
Photogenic Spots
- Sakura season in Kyoto : Cherry blossoms blooming behind temples are one of Japan's iconic images.
- Tokyo subway lines : Minimalist station designs and symmetrical passages are ideal for content.
- Traditional inns in Kyoto : The simplicity and wooden texture of Japanese architecture are at the forefront.
- Shibuya Crossing : The world's busiest crosswalk creates a sense of chaotic yet controllable movement.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : It is possible to achieve the aesthetic balance of light and nature between April (sakura season) and November (autumn colors).
- Content suggestion : A vlog or reels series called “From Kyoto to Tokyo: Aesthetic Japan in 7 Days”.
- What it makes you feel : Calmness, awe and endless respect. Japan offers an experience that recalibrates one's inner rhythm.
- Bonus information : With a JR Pass, you can use high-speed trains economically and travel between Kyoto and Tokyo in approximately 2.5 hours.
Montenegro's Favorite: Visa-Free Exploration with Kotor and Budva
If you are looking for a place far from the crowds of Europe but still offering the aesthetics of Europe, Montenegro is for you. This Adriatic beauty, which you can go to without a visa, has become one of the remarkable escape routes of recent years, especially with its two charming cities, Kotor and Budva.
Attracting both travelers and content producers with its historical texture, nature and affordable prices, Montenegro is one of the strongest stops of the slow and conscious travel trend in 2025.
Why Popular?
- Ease of visa-free travel : The right to stay for up to 90 days without a visa is a great advantage for Turkish citizens.
- Compact yet rich : Despite its small surface area, mountains, beaches, history and nightlife can be experienced all in one trip.
- Photogenic cities : Kotor and Budva, in particular, appear frequently on Instagram with their historical texture and natural landscapes.
- Affordable European alternative : Very affordable compared to Italian or Croatian prices.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
Kotor:- Kotor Old Town (Stari Grad): This labyrinthine city, a UNESCO heritage site, is charming with its stone streets, cathedrals and cafes.
- Kotor Fortress (San Giovanni): This castle, which is reached by hundreds of steps, is unforgettable with the Adriatic view offered at the end of the effort.
- Kotor Bay : Reminiscent of the Norwegian fjords, this bay is a natural wonder of Montenegro. Boat tours are quite popular.
- Budva Old Town (Stari Grad) : Surrounded by walls and located on the coast, this city is ideal for those who want both history and a seaside holiday.
- Mogren Beach : This beach, right next to the city, is great for both swimming and watching the sunset.
- Sveti Stefan Viewpoint : The islet, famous for its luxury resort, is one of the most iconic Montenegrin squares.
Photogenic Places in Montenegro
- Sunrise from Kotor Fortress : The misty mountains and the sun slowly illuminating the bay are like a postcard.
- Sunset on the Budva coast : The old city walls with their riot of colors are ideal for romantic shots.
- Kotor streets : Streets filled with stone buildings, rustic doors and flowered windows.
- Sveti Stefan : The entire island and its surroundings are breathtaking, captured from a drone shot from end to end.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : May to June or September to October, when the crowds are away and the weather is perfect.
- Transportation : From Tivat Airport, Kotor is 15 minutes away, and Budva is 30 minutes away.
- Content suggestion : “48 Hours in Montenegro” vlog or “Silent Mornings of Kotor” themed Reels series.
- What it makes you feel : Peace, time slowing down, nostalgic admiration for old European cities.
- Bonus information : If you go up to Kotor Fortress before 7am, you will not have to pay for a ticket and you will catch the perfect sunlight.
Thai Dream: The Sparkle of Bangkok, the Calm of Chiang Mai
Thailand… One of the rare countries that can offer both the dynamism of the Far East and spiritual peace at the same time. This geography, which extends from the modern but chaotic streets of Bangkok to the cool mountains of Chiang Mai and the serenity of tropical islands, brings together taste, aesthetics and spiritual balance. The northern and southern tips of Thailand in particular are among the favorite stops of the “slow but intense” travel concept of 2025.
When you step into these lands, days are measured not only by hours but also by feelings. In the golden temples, incense-scented mornings, coconut street food and the silence of Buddhist monks, you enter another timeline.
Why Is Thailand Popular?
There are many reasons why Thailand has become one of the favorite destinations of content creators, digital nomads and travelers around the world in recent years:- Visual richness : Colorful temples, street markets and nature views offer endless material for creating content.
- Atmosphere suitable for spiritual search : Meditation camps, yoga retreats and temples of silence are ideal for those seeking awareness.
- High experience at an affordable budget : Offers experiences that give a sense of luxury at an affordable price.
- Culture + nature + taste trio : In a single trip, the palate, the eyes and the soul are satisfied.
Where to See? Which Places Do Travelers Prefer?
Bangkok :It's a chaotic yet impressive entry point, with golden temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, sunset views along the Chao Phraya River, and huge markets like Chatuchak.
Chiang Mai :
The green heart of the north… The serene side of Thailand with its jungle temples, elephant farms (prefer ethical ones), night markets and peaceful mountain villages.
Phuket / Krabi / Koh Phi Phi :
Sea, sun, coral reefs and pastel sunsets... Island life highlights the aesthetic side of Thailand. Especially the limestone cliffs and blue lagoons around Krabi offer a visual feast.
Photogenic Places in Thailand
- Wat Arun (Bangkok) : Taken at sunrise or sunset, this temple literally glows with the light.
- Chiang Mai mornings : Mountain temples and orange monks rising from the mist.
- Railay Beach (Krabi) : This beach, sandwiched between rocks, is legendary for drone shots.
- Floating Markets : Colorful boats, tropical fruits and life on the water.
- The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai : A marvel of architecture that is both fairytale-like and modern.
Tips for Travelers
- Best time : November to February. Cool and rainless.
- Transportation : Domestic flights from Bangkok are very affordable, and train journeys are scenic and impressive.
- Content recommendation : Reels series themed “5 Senses Experience in Thailand” – temple silence, street food, beach sunsets, tropical nature and night markets.
- What it makes you feel : Sometimes complicated but always warm, sometimes crowded but also a very personal journey... Thailand is an inspiring country for those seeking inner transformation.
- Bonus : In Chiang Mai, the meal served to monks every morning at 6am is a tradition that is both photogenic and culturally respected. If you want to participate, just observe politely and quietly.