We all want some amazing photos to bring back from our holiday to give us memories to savour forever. But even if you’re not David Bailey there are some places in the world where it is difficult not to take a good photo.
The location, the lighting, the people, the animals all just sometimes come together in a magical way to provide the perfect shot. You could be using your old flip phone from 2002 and it’s still going to look great. Yes really. So if you want to get some great photographs to show off to your mates, we’ve come up with the 20 most amazing places to get beautiful photographs.
Enjoy!
1. The Most Beautiful Place in the World – Fiordland, New Zealand
Is New Zealand actually the most beautiful country in the world? Well, Mother Nature really did do a great job here. Fiordland is one of the most naturally beautiful places you will ever see.
Located in the southwest of the South Island, Fiordland is most famous for the epically stunning Milford and Doubtful Sounds fjords. A beech forest trail on the sandy Milford shore offers views of towering Mitre Peak. Writer Rudyard Kipling (The Jungle Book) called Milford Sounds “the Eighth Wonder of the World.”
Where to stay: Kamana Lakehouse in nearby Queenstown.
Best time to visit: It may come as a surprise but the New Zealand winter (June and July) offers the most settled weather with blue skies.
Picture ideas: To take the most amazing pictures, get right on top of the water on a kayak tour. The lake acts like a mirror to all the amazing surroundings.
2. Historically Beautiful – Fingal’s Cave, Scotland
Some of the most amazing places in the world are right here in the UK, so we’re heading north to the geological wonder of Fingal’s Cave on Staffa Isle found in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland.
It’s a very tricky spot to photograph inside because the volcanic basalt rocks are black and there is not a lot of natural light deep inside the cave, but if you manage to get there early on a very sunny day you have the best chance of an amazing picture.
Not just good for photos, get a video too as the the natural rock formations that make up this ancient and dramatic sea cave not only resemble a church organ, but create incredible acoustics as the waves crash against the walls.
Where to stay: Stay on the nearby Isle of Mull.
Best time to visit: During the spring from April until June.
Picture ideas: Get lots of photos of the outside of the cave (which is also amazing!) as it’s generally hard to photograph inside unless you’ve got professional equipment.
3. Amazing Natural Beauty at Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, China
China is a vast country and is home to many of the world’s most amazing locations, many of which are unknown to western tourists. Choosing just one stunning Chinese destination to photograph was a daunting task, but the spot trending above the rest is the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain (yip, from the film) in The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, which in itself is one of the most beautiful places in China.
Amazing photos in the park are easier than ever thanks to the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the highest glass-bottom bridge in the world. Mind you, it’s not for the faint of heart!
Save some serious dosh by flying to Beijing and then taking a domestic flight to Zhangjiajie rather than flying direct.
Where to stay: Try the nearby Sunshine Zhangjiajie Hotel
Best time to visit: April–May or September–October for smaller crowds and the best climate.
Picture ideas: There is a viewing deck perfectly placed to view the spectacular garden mountain that inspired the Avatar landscape.
4. The incredible Salt Flats in Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
While Salar de Uyuni isn’t the easiest destination to get to, no list of ‘the most beautiful places in the world’ would be complete without it. The world’s largest salt flats, located in the Bolivian Andes, create an astonishing vista with a horizon that appears to be endless. There are two distinct seasons here that have a dramatic effect on the landscape.
From La Paz, either take a 1-hour domestic flight to the city of Uyuni or travel on an overnight with an organised tour group. From here it’s easy to travel out to Salar de Uyuni.
Where to stay: Hotel Palacio De Sal is located in Uyuni.
Best time to visit: The dry season (May-November) when you can explore the entirety of the stark white flats, and the wet season (best to visit between February-April) when the water creates an incredible mirror effect.
Picture ideas: Lay down on the salt for the best perspective photographs. Look online before you go for ideas of how to photograph this natural wonder.
5. Uniquely Exquisite Hallerbos Forest, Belgium
When you think of the most beautiful countries in the world, Belgium doesn’t usually spring to mind, but for a few weeks every year the Hallerbos Forest becomes one of the most stunning destinations on earth.
Also known as ‘The Blue Forest’, for a short amount of time around mid-April the floor of this forest turns into a riot of purples and blues as a carpet of bluebells bloom. In fairness, the forest is gorgeous anytime of year but to get that perfect photo make sure to be there for the flowering season.
Where to stay: B&B Kaai 16 is a ten minute drive from the forest.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Hallerbos Forest is when the bluebells bloom in mid-April.
Picture ideas: Follow the forest’s yellow path to the Tranendal section which has the most bluebells and views. If you do have a sunny day the picture opportunities are incredible but rain and cloud can add mystery to the images so don’t worry too much.
6. Fabulously Featured in the Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands is a largely untouched archipelago between Norway and Iceland packed with authentic and unique adventures all set in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Expect blindingly green hills and mountains, crystal clear lagoons, and picture-perfect hikes, all scattered between quaint towns inhabited by fiercely friendly locals. The Mulafossur Waterfall on Vagar Island is a popular photography spot all year round.
Where to stay: We recommend staying in Tórshavn.
Best time to visit: Summer for the most settled weather.
Picture ideas: Gasadalur is the most famous point in the Faroe Islands where you can see the Mulafossur waterfall.
7. No. 1 Best National Park – Zion National Park, Utah
Okay, so the most beautiful national park in the United States may be a bold claim. It’s true, the US may be overflowing with large swathes of natural beauty but Zion National Park in Utah is a photographer’s dream. Hike to the top of Observation Point for a perfect view of the entire park; it’s a steep 4-mile climb gaining nearly 2,000 feet of elevation so it’ll be a toughie. You’ll probably find yourself alone up there, the perfect place to show off to your friends back home with a smug selfie. Truly one of the most amazing places on earth – don’t miss out.
Where to stay: Majestic View Lodge is a good spot to relax after a busy day of exploring.
Best time to visit: October or November offer the best conditions for hiking to the Observation Point.
Picture ideas: Go to the Canyon Junction Bridge to photograph the Watchman, the most iconic view in Zion.
8. The Dark and Beautiful Hedges, Northern Ireland
We’re taking liberty with our sub-heading but the Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland is a misnomer. While the hedges definitely have a magical but spooky quality to them, they are definitely one of most beautiful places in the world. Best of all?
One of the most photographed place in Northern Ireland due to Game of Thrones, it’s the perfect place to start off a fantastical holiday.
Where to stay: Up for glamping? Further Space at Thornfield Luxury Glamping Pods is just a 15-minute drive from Dark Hedges.
Best time to visit: Before 9am on a weekday.
Picture ideas: Sunrise and sunset provide the best picture opportunities.
9. An Amazing Hidden Gem in Banff, Canada
This seemingly unremarkable Canadian resort town is probably unknown to most UK dwellers, but Canada has been hiding it from the rest of the world.
With a skyline to rival any oil painting, it’s dotted with snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and hot springs to unwind in. It’s more than earned the title of one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit.
Whether you travel in spring or summer, the view from Lake Minnewanka and Bow River is unrivalled. Breathe in the fresh air and partake in any number of outdoor activities. If you’re not sure what’s best, ask a local, and being Canadian, you’ll probably end up best friends.
Where to stay: The Hidden Ridge Hotel is in a great location downtown in Banff.
Best time to visit: December – March.
Picture ideas: Kayak across Lake Louise and its stunning turquoise water with a GoPro (in a waterproof case!).
10. Visit the Natural Beauty of Hvitserkur, Iceland
Just off the North-West shore of Iceland is the Hvitserkur, a sea stack that looks like a dragon or dinosaur drinking from the water. An amazing spectacle to see up close, it’s one of the many reasons why Iceland is frequently called one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The word Hvitserkur means “white shirt”, so named because of the pesky birds doing their business on the monolith. This area of Iceland is relatively tourist-free, and since the Icelandic Seal Centre is nearby, make sure you see the seals after you see the dragon.
Where to stay: Hótel Hvítserkur is a cozy base for exploring.
Best time to visit: The midnight sun in midsummer is particularly nice for photographing the area.
Picture ideas: At low tide you can guide photographs of the stack with striking patterns in the sand in front of it.
11. Machu Picchu, Peru
Getting the first look at Machu Picchu – especially after a three-day hike – is simply incredible. Standing on top of a mountain, 8000 feet (2430m) high in the tropical forest stands a former Incan city and now one of the most important heritage sites in the world. Built in the 15th century but now abandoned. you’ll find classic Inca style, with polished dry-stone walls built into the lush emerald green mountain range.
The colour contrasts and artistry is amazing so make sure you soak in the magic before you grab your camera. You might even be able to grab a llama for a selfie!
Where to stay: In a tent! Join an organised tour and trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Best time to visit: April or May as the rainy season will have passed.
Picture ideas: To the side of Machu Picchu you’ll find the Sun Gate which offers a fantastic viewpoint.
12. Bixby Canyon Bridge, The Big Sur, California
You’re likely to want to get out of your car every five minutes if you’re on a road trip along California’s Route 1.
But the Big Sur is definitely something else, with 300km of beautiful, natural coastline.
The view of Bixby Canyon Bridge is one you’ve probably seen endless times in films and TV shows. Connecting two rugged cliffs with the ocean in the background, the bridge is of an aesthetic design which looks stunning in an amazing setting.
Where to stay: A campervan will give you the freedom to stop where you like. There are lots of sites to stay along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Best time to visit: Springtime as the weather is beautiful.
Picture ideas: You’ll get the best shots of Bixby bridge by standing at Castle Rock Viewpoint, which is located at the north end of the bridge (ocean side).
13. Porthcurno Beach, West Cornwall
You’ll find soft sand and azure water that wouldn’t look out of place in an advert for the Maldives at Porthcurno, which is located on the far reaches of the Cornish coast. Commonly referred to as the best beach in the UK, the sheltered cove is a great place to soak up the sun.
Where to stay: Try the highly-rated Duporth Guest House in Penzance is nearby.
Best time to visit: Sip cocktails on a hot summers day and you can pretend you’re in some far-flung paradise.
Picture ideas: Visit the Minack Theatre on the clifftop above for amazing panoramic photographs.
14. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Grab your underwater camera for epic shots of the colourful coral that lies underneath the waves near Cairns. Go scuba-diving or snorkelling and get a snapshot of the 2900 coral reefs that are erupting with colour and home to lots of different species – many of which cannot be found anywhere else in the world .
The natural wonder is thriving again after a few years recovering from recent life-threatening coral bleaching. Thank goodness for that!
Where to stay: The Abbott Boutique Hotel in Cairns is a convenient base.
Best time to visit: For the best visibility and pictures visit between August and December.
Picture ideas: Manta rays and hammerheads could feature in your photos if you visit between August and September.
15. The Amalfi Coast, Italy
Awarded recognition as a World Heritage Site in 1997, the Amalfi coast is a stunningly beautiful stretch of the south Italian coastline featuring clifftop villages, quaint fishing ports, vibrant waters, orchards and vineyards. Hire a car and make the drive from Naples along the Sorrentine Peninsula and down to Salerno and you’ll find so many photograph opportunities.
Where to stay: We love the cliff-hanging town of Positano which legend says was created by the god of the sea.
Best time to visit: The summer for the best blooms.
Picture ideas: Visit Ravello, the highest village along the coast for the most dramatic pictures.
16. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Probably the most beautiful castle in the world, Neuschwanstein is a wondrous site overlooking the majestic Alpine forests.
A gothic masterpiece, the grandiose castle has featured in TV shows and movies including The Great Escape, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Monuments Men. It was also the inspiration for the famous Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Florida.
The stunning castle, which dates back to the late 1800s, was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, but he died under mysterious circumstances after only living there for 172 days.
Where to stay: Hotel Alpenstuben is situated between Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, another royal castle which is worth a visit.
Best time to visit: June or July before the schools break up for summer for the best visibility and least crowds.
Picture ideas: Walk to the nearby Marienbrücke bridge, which is built right between two sheer cliffs, to find the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
17. The Amazon River, Manaus, Brazil
At nearly 7000km long, you can get wonderful photo opportunities pretty much everywhere along the Amazon River.
But a trip along the Brazilian stretch to Manus will give budding photographers outstanding opportunities for beautiful shots of wildlife in the rainforest, ranging from reptiles to mammals, birds and butterflies.
A river cruise at sunset adds to the spectacular experience.
Where to stay: Amazon Jungle Palace is located on the river front.
Best time to visit: The humidity is lower between July and September, offering a more enjoyable experience.
Picture ideas: Consider using a GoPro to capture everything as you cruise along the river or trek through the jungle.
18. Sagano Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan
Arrive early for the best photographs, this mysterious forest is 16 square kilometers of tall, dense bamboo, located on the outskirts of Kyoto. Tourists flock to get photos of the famous bamboo which grows at a rate of 36 inches in 24 hours. Wow!
If you do stumble upon a quieter day in the forest take a moment to listen to the noise as the wind blows through the bamboo – a sound which has entered the list of the top 100 sounds to preserve compiled by the Japanese government.
Giant Panda, Mountain Gorilla, Tiny bat and birds including drymophila, flatbill, antbird all live in the forest.
Where to stay: Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama is a 15-minute walk from Sagano Bamboo Forest.
Best time to visit: The weather is very unpredictable here but summer offers the best conditions if you arrive before the crowds.
Picture ideas: Try and take a video so you can record the sound of the forest on a quieter day. With a camera shoot upwards from the floor to capture the full length of the bamboo at sunrise.
19. Santorini, Greece
Capture the world-famous unique blue-domed buildings, on the dramatic clifftops of Santorini, against the backdrop of the bright blue Mediterranean sea. Situated on the Caldera cliffs, visit the village Oia, for magical photos of the stunning cliffs, Oia castle and the three-domed church.
Commonly known as the most idyllic of the Greek Islands, Santorini has postcard photograph opportunities at every turn so also make time to visit Skaros Rock and Akrotiri Lighthouse.
Where to stay: Esperas Santorini is a stunning hotel located in Oia.
Best time to visit: The summer for the best lighting and weather.
Picture ideas: The village of Fira comes a close second to Oia so make time to go to both.
20. Chefchaouen, Morocco
The baby blue-rinsed houses and streets on the mountainside town of Chefchaouen are a popular photograph opportunity, seen often on Instagram and in fashion shoots.
Commonly referred to as the ‘Blue Pearl’ of Morocco, the location has a unique charm and mystery around it.
Long ago Jewish immigrants painted the houses blue but it’s still not known exactly why. One theory was that the buildings were covered with an ancient natural blue dye to remind people of God’s power.
While the theory has never been confirmed we are thankful for the town’s beauty.
Where to stay: Hotel Parador is located in the heart of Chefchaouen.
Best time to visit: Spring or Autumn for the most comfortable temperatures for exploring in the African sun.
Picture ideas: Visit Callejon El Asri alley on the north side of town early in the morning to replicate the popular Instagram image.
If you enjoyed this article, you might like:
