Hey there, fellow shutterbug! If you’ve ever felt that itch to pack your bags, grab your camera, and chase the light across the globe, you are in the right place. We all know that feeling of standing in front of something so beautiful that your heart skips a beat: and your first instinct is to capture it so you never forget.
At Photoguides, we believe that photography shouldn't be stressful. Whether you’re shooting on a high-end mirrorless setup or just the phone in your pocket, the world is your canvas. From the romantic streets of Paris to the mystical forests of Kyoto, I’ve put together a list of the 30 best photography locations worldwide to help you plan your next adventure.
Don't worry about the logistics too much; we've got you covered. If you're looking for the best ways to get around or find unique photo tours, definitely check out these incredible travel activities and experiences.
The Big Four: Paris, Bali, Rome, and Kyoto
These four destinations are the heavy hitters. They are the "bucket list" staples for a reason: they are some of the most instagrammable places on the planet.
1. Paris, France: The City of Light
Paris is an absolute dream for photographers. There is something about the way the light hits the Haussmann-style buildings that just feels different. The Eiffel Tower is, of course, the star of the show. For a classic shot, head to Trocadéro at sunrise. If you want a more local vibe, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre offers a panoramic view of the city that is hard to beat.
Pro Tip: Don't just look up. The "gorgeous windows" and café culture at street level are perfect for street photography. If you're wondering what to pack for a city shoot, check out our guide on essential photography gear.
2. Bali, Indonesia: The Island of the Gods
Bali is a tropical playground for anyone with a lens. From the emerald-green Tegalalang Rice Terraces to the serene water palace of Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, the island is filled with "instagrammable places." The light in Bali is soft and humid, which creates a natural glow in your portraits.
3. Rome, Italy: The Eternal City
Rome is like an open-air museum. You can’t walk two blocks without hitting a 2,000-year-old monument. The Colosseum at dusk is spectacular, but for something a bit more intimate, wander through the narrow, ivy-covered streets of Trastevere.
4. Kyoto, Japan: Timeless Tradition
Kyoto is where you go to find the soul of Japan. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is iconic, but it gets crowded fast. My advice? Get there at 6:00 AM. If you miss the morning light, head over to the Fushimi Inari Shrine and its thousands of vermilion torii gates. The depth and perspective there are a photographer's dream.
European Gems and Hidden Corners
Beyond the big names, Europe holds some of the most diverse landscapes you can find.
5. Provence, France
If you love color, Provence is your place. The lavender fields in the Valensole Plateau bloom in late June and July, creating a sea of purple that stretches to the horizon. It’s one of the best photography locations for landscape enthusiasts. You can find more inspiration for fine art photography over at Edin Fine Art.
6. Mont Saint-Michel, France
This abbey perched on a rocky islet is something straight out of a fairy tale. It’s ideal for long-exposure sunset photography, especially when the tide comes in and reflects the lights of the abbey in the water.
7. Santorini, Greece
The blue domes of Oia and the white-washed walls reflecting the Aegean Sea are legendary. It’s a bit of a cliché, but once you see that sunset in person, you’ll understand why.
8. Venice, Italy
No cars, just canals. Venice is a masterclass in composition. The reflections in the water and the peeling paint on centuries-old buildings provide endless textures to play with.
9. Hallstatt, Austria
Often cited as the most beautiful lakeside village in the world, Hallstatt is best shot during the "blue hour" just after the sun goes down.
Natural Wonders and Dramatic Landscapes
If you prefer mountains and waterfalls over cathedrals and cobblestones, these spots will blow your mind.
10. Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina
With over 200 individual waterfalls, Iguazu is massive. The "Devil’s Throat" offers a dramatic landscape opportunity that few other places can match. Just make sure you have a waterproof cover for your gear!
11. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
The world’s largest salt flat becomes the world’s largest mirror after a bit of rain. It’s a surreal experience where the sky and the ground become one. For tips on shooting in harsh conditions, peek at our educational photography section.
12. Banff National Park, Canada
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are famous for their turquoise water. Surrounded by the rugged Rocky Mountains, it’s a landscape photographer's paradise. For more national park photography tips, Edin Chavez shares his personal experiences on his personal blog.
13. Antelope Canyon, USA
The swirling sandstone walls and light beams of Upper Antelope Canyon are a bucket-list item for many. It’s a technical challenge to shoot, but the results are otherworldly.
14. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Moody, rugged, and hauntingly beautiful. The Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing are must-visit spots for anyone who loves dramatic, atmospheric shots.
Cultural Icons and Urban Vibes
15. Marrakech, Morocco
The Medina is a labyrinth of vibrant tiles, spice markets, and mysterious lighting. The Jardin Majorelle offers a stunning contrast with its cobalt blue architecture and exotic plants.
16. New York City, USA
From the top of the Rock to the streets of DUMBO in Brooklyn, NYC is the ultimate urban photography destination. If you're looking for a specific vibe, check out our thoughts on camera reviews for 2024 to see what gear handles the city grit best.
17. Cappadocia, Turkey
The sunrise hot air balloon flights over the "fairy chimneys" are perhaps the most photographed event in the world right now. It is every bit as magical as it looks on Instagram.
18. Petra, Jordan
The "Rose City" carved into the cliffs is a marvel. Shooting the Treasury at night by candle-light is an experience you’ll never forget.
19. Machu Picchu, Peru
The Incan citadel set against the backdrop of the Andes is awe-inspiring. Try to get there for the first light to capture the mist rising over the ruins.
20. Hoi An, Vietnam
At night, this ancient town is lit up by thousands of colorful lanterns. It’s a fantastic place to practice your low-light photography.
10 More Quick Hits for Your List
- Lisbon, Portugal: Catch the yellow Tram 28 winding through the hills of Alfama.
- Cinque Terre, Italy: Five colorful villages clinging to the Italian Riviera.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia: The "Pearl of the Adriatic" with its massive stone walls.
- Bagan, Myanmar: Thousands of ancient temples scattered across a vast plain.
- London, UK: From Big Ben to the neon lights of Soho.
- Cape Town, South Africa: Table Mountain and the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap.
- Sydney, Australia: The Opera House and the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk.
- Zhangjiajie, China: The "Avatar" mountains: towering sandstone pillars in the clouds.
- Chefchaouen, Morocco: The famous "Blue City" where every alleyway is a photo op.
- Havana, Cuba: Classic cars and crumbling colonial architecture.
Essential Travel Photography Tips
Before you head out to these "best photography locations," here are a few reassuring tips to keep in mind:
- Golden Hour is Real: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset are your best friends. The light is softer, warmer, and much more flattering.
- Be Patient: The most instagrammable places are often the most crowded. Wait for that split-second gap in the crowd, or use a tripod and a long exposure to "blur" people out.
- Respect the Culture: Especially in places like Kyoto or Marrakech, always ask before taking a portrait of a local. A smile goes a long way.
- Backup Your Photos: Don't let a lost SD card ruin your trip. Back up your files every night.
- Enjoy the Moment: Sometimes, the best way to "capture" a place is to put the camera down for five minutes and just breathe it in.
The world is a big, beautiful place, and there is no "wrong" way to photograph it. Whether you're exploring cheap weekend getaways or planning a month-long trek through South America, remember that the best photo is the one that means something to you.
Ready to book your next adventure? Head over to Viator to find the best local guides and photo tours to help you find those secret spots the tourists usually miss. Happy shooting!
