Istanbul of TV Series Locations: 'Black Love' and 'Magnificent Century'

'Black Love', 'Magnificent Century' and 'Early Bird' are series that families watched, rewatched and discussed together. And all three were filmed in Istanbul. For fans, this is a rare opportunity: to see with your own eyes the very streets and views you have seen on screen so many times — and to combine it with an ordinary, affordable family trip rather than a pricey 'tour for the chosen few'.

Why it is worth planning in advance

The main advantage of such a route is that it requires nothing extraordinary. You are travelling to a big city with an airport, transport, hotels for every budget and food that is familiar to both children and adults. And the 'series' part is simply an extra layer of impressions: recognising familiar scenes works more powerfully than any guidebook.

So don't turn the trip into a marathon. Two or three spots a day plus time for walks is better than ten addresses at a gallop.

How to build a route through filming locations

• Start with scenes, not addresses. Write down 5–7 shots that are especially dear to you — they make it easier to choose where to go.
• Check current addresses and access. Some locations may be closed to visitors or on private property, so it is best to confirm the information before you set off.
• Allow for travel time. Istanbul is big, and getting around takes more time than it seems on the map. Build in a buffer.
• Leave a day 'just for the city'. Markets, embankments, cafes and ordinary walks — these are exactly what the best family memories are made of.
• Take screenshots of the shots. With them, it is easier to explain to a driver or simply compare the view on the spot.

The practical side: budget, season, children

If the goal is to stay within a reasonable sum, flexible dates matter more than any discounts: shifting the trip by a couple of weeks often saves noticeably more than searching for the 'perfect' hotel. With children, it is more comfortable to plan a trip in a calmer season — less heat and fewer queues. And don't forget the basics: comfortable shoes, water and snacks in a backpack save the whole family's nerves.

A ready-made route — with Onyx Tour

If you don't want to bring together the flight, hotel, visa formalities and city transfers yourself, Onyx Tour will help: we will select a tour to Istanbul to suit your budget and family composition, show you current hot offers, and take care of booking the flight and hotel. Calmly, to the point and without overpaying — so that you have time left only for impressions.