There are few Brits out there that don’t love going on holiday, especially to picturesque spots. It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional photographer or just fancy some snaps for your Instagram feed; either way, you should definitely check out the following 18 photogenic locations for your next holiday.
Santorini, Greece
Every year, many Brits flock to Santorini, Greece, for its white-washed buildings, which contrast beautifully against the deep blue sea. This Greek island is famous for its sunsets, which create stunning hues across the sky and water. Every corner, including both its winding streets and its cliffside views, offers a picture-perfect moment. However, as Yahoo UK reveals, the site is becoming overwhelmed with tourism for this reason, so it might be best to visit off-season.
Kyoto, Japan
Cities don’t get much more photogenic than Japan’s Kyoto, with its ancient temples and vibrant cherry blossoms making it a photographer’s dream. The city’s traditional tea houses and serene gardens provide an idyllic backdrop, and best of all, each season transforms Kyoto, with autumn, in particular, bringing brilliant red and orange foliage.
Banff National Park, Canada
Everyone knows Canada is full of stunning locations, but the towering mountains and pristine lakes of Banff National Park can’t be beaten. The turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are particularly stunning. Furthermore, wildlife sightings and picturesque hiking trails add to the allure, making it a must-visit for nature photographers.
Venice, Italy
Instagram snaps don’t get much more iconic than Venice’s winding canals and historic architecture, offering endless photo opportunities. Gondolas gliding along the waterways and the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square create a unique charm, and the play of light on the water at sunrise and sunset is particularly magical.
Patagonia, Argentina
The dramatic landscapes of Argentina’s Patagonia, with its towering peaks and expansive glaciers, are truly awe-inspiring. El Chaltén and Torres del Paine National Park offer some of the best vistas, with the region’s rugged beauty being perfect for capturing both grand and intimate nature scenes.
Marrakech, Morocco
An increasing number of Brits are heading to Marrakech, Morocco, on holiday these days, and it’s easy to see why. It’s bursting with color and life, especially within its bustling souks and tranquil gardens. The intricate designs of the Bahia Palace and the vibrant hues of the Jardin Majorelle are also very captivating, and every alley and market stall offers a unique and vibrant photo opportunity. There’s simply so much to see.
Cappadocia, Turkey
It’s every photographer’s dream to head to Cappadocia, Turkey, where hot air balloons can be seen drifting over the city’s unique rock formations, creating an iconic scene. The fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings add to this surreal landscape. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity for an early morning balloon ride, which will no doubt be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Queenstown, New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its incredible views, especially in Queenstown, which is nestled by Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by mountains. The Remarkables mountain range provides a dramatic backdrop, too, and there are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy while you take in the scenery, including bungee jumping, paragliding, and plain old hiking.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
There are many stunning views to be found in Croatia, but Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and crystal-clear waters take the cake. The old town, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, is perfect for capturing timeless scenes, and views from the city walls provide sweeping panoramas of the Adriatic Sea.
Iceland
There aren’t many countries out there quite as picturesque as Iceland, thanks to its diverse landscapes dotted with glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls. Best of all, The Northern Lights are visible during the winter months, creating a mesmerizing display that simply should not be missed.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Anyone who has visited Italy will tell you that the Amalfi Coast’s rugged cliffs and charming villages create a stunning coastal panorama. Positano’s pastel-colored houses, cascading down to the sea, are particularly photogenic, as is the coastal road, which offers breathtaking views at every turn.
Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the seven wonders of the world, the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, set high in the Andes, offer a stunning glimpse into Incan history. The site’s dramatic location provides awe-inspiring views, especially if you catch it in the early morning light, which dramatically enhances the mystique.
Paris, France
While it’s not exactly the friendliest city, Paris, the city of light, is still synonymous with romance and beauty. The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the charming streets of Montmartre all offer classic photo spots, just to name a few.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Australia is an enormous country, so if you’re only able to visit a few areas, don’t miss The Great Barrier Reef. Its vibrant marine life and coral formations are a visual feast, with snorkeling and diving offering up-close encounters with this underwater wonder. If you have the cash to splash, aerial views from a helicopter or seaplane also provide a stunning perspective of the reef’s vast expanse.
Grand Canyon, USA
There’s no denying that the Grand Canyon’s immense scale and layered rock formations are breathtaking. Sunrise and sunset cast dramatic shadows and colors across the canyon. The South Rim offers accessible viewpoints, although you don’t have to sleep in the less crowded North Rim, which provides equally stunning vistas.
Albania
Albania is quickly becoming a popular tourist spot for Brits, and for good reason. The people are incredibly welcoming, the history is fascinating, and the food is to die for. However, perhaps the most overlooked aspect of Albania is its incredible views. In fact, many people claim that the country has the most beautiful beaches, mountains, and rivers that can be found in Europe.
Bali, Indonesia
Have a scroll through Instagram, and you’ll quickly see that Bali’s lush landscapes and rich culture create diverse photo opportunities. It’s an absolute favorite among influencers; the island’s terraced rice paddies and pristine beaches are visually striking, as are the traditional ceremonies and the ornate architecture of temples like Uluwatu.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Finishing up with a more local site, Edinburgh’s historic architecture and scenic landscapes offer a variety of photo opportunities right on our doorstep. The medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town contrast beautifully, and views from Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill provide sweeping panoramas of the city and its surrounding hills. If you’re British and haven’t yet visited, it’s time to change that.