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15 Best Brooklyn Bridge Photo Spots

Dale P. August 31, 2023 Discover NYC , Explore Brooklyn , Manhattan , Photography , Travel Tips Leave a Comment

Want a local New Yorker + licensed tour guide to help you plan an unforgettable trip tailored to your interests? Then check out our Custom NYC Travel Planning . We can help you experience the best of New York!

By Dale P. This guide to the top photography spots on the Brooklyn Bridge contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for the best Brooklyn Bridge photo spots ?

Then you’re in the right place!

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in New York City. Stretching across the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn, this historic bridge dates back to 1883.

Walking across the bridge is one of the most popular tourist activities in NYC, and the bridge is a favorite spot for photographers.

Are you looking for the best view of the Brooklyn Bridge? Here are the top Brooklyn Bridge photo spots where you can snap amazing photos of this iconic architectural gem.

😍 Want to book a hotel with an epic view of the Brooklyn Bridge? Check out the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge , located in the trendy and scenic DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn. Many of our guests stay here and absolutely love this property!

Table of Contents

Book A Brooklyn Bridge Photoshoot

Want shots of the Brooklyn Bridge — with you in the photos? We have two great options for this:

NYC Photo Journey . Part tour, part photoshoot, our NYC Photo Journeys are a great way to learn about New York while capturing beautiful photos along the way. Our most popular itinerary is Times Square – Central Park – Upper East Side – Brooklyn Bridge.

Custom NYC Photoshoot . If you don’t necessarily care about a tour and want as many photos as possible, this is your best option. Additionally, you’ll have more package choices depending on your budget and the edits you’d like. During our planning call, we can also discuss custom shoot locations — from the Brooklyn Bridge and beyond!

Get a taste of our work via the Brooklyn Bridge gallery here or head to our Instagram @NYCPhotoTour .

Best Brooklyn Bridge Photo Spots

On that note, let’s go over some specific spots for amazing Brooklyn Bridge photography. These are some of the best places to take pictures in NYC . Remember that any of these can be incorporated into a private New York photoshoot :

1. Center Of The Brooklyn Bridge

One of the best Brooklyn Bridge picture spots is from on the bridge itself! With a pedestrian walkway stretching the entire length of the bridge, you can take a leisurely stroll and stop for plenty of photos along the way.

Along with the unique architecture of the bridge itself, you can also capture photos of the Lower Manhattan skyline from the bridge.

Tip: Walk towards the center of the bridge (about 15 minutes from either entrance) for the best shots of the bridge’s famous arched pylons. The closer you get to them, the better your photos will turn out. Just note you may want to avoid high heels, as the bridge’s walkway features spaces between its wooden planks.

2. Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is an iconic Brooklyn Bridge photo spot if you want to get a shot of the bridge from a distance. Located in the DUMBO area of Brooklyn — which stands for “Down Under The Manhattan Bridge Overpass” — you can access this rocky beach at the intersection of Main Street and Plymouth Street.

From the beach, you’ll find the best place to view the Brooklyn Bridge and the Lower Manhattan skyline in the background, as well as the historic Jane’s Carousel, which has been on the waterfront for more than 100 years.

Tip: Be careful when climbing or sitting on the large rocks along the beach because they can get slippery.

3. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Along with being one of the top NYC picnic spots , Brooklyn Bridge Park, as the name implies, is a great place for taking photos of the Brooklyn Bridge.

The park is located on the Brooklyn side of the bridge between Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO and offers one of the best free views in NYC .

This waterfront park is one of the top Brooklyn Instagram spots and is a gorgeous location for shooting photos with the bridge and the New York City skyline in the background.

Tip: While Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great photo spot at any time of day, you can also find the best view of Brooklyn Bridge at night here.

4. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge Rooftop

For a famous Brooklyn Bridge photo spot, head to the rooftop of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. This property is located in Brooklyn Bridge Park right by the iconic architectural landmark.

If you’re wondering how to see Brooklyn Bridge from above, this rooftop features the perfect vantage point and it’s a wonderful spot for taking photos of the bridge and the Lower Manhattan skyline.

Tip: There’s a restaurant and cocktail bar on the rooftop of the hotel, and reservations are highly recommended in advance.

👉 Click here to check rates for this gorgeous hotel .

5. Emily Warren Roebling Plaza

Emily Warren Roebling Plaza is a newer addition to the best Brooklyn Bridge photo spots.

For a bit of background, Emily played a pivotal role in the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge after her husband, Washington Roebling, the project’s chief engineer, became bedridden from caisson disease.

Although not originally trained as an engineer, Emily stepped in to serve as the project’s field engineer, learning the necessary engineering principles and managing communications between her husband and the construction site. When the bridge opened in 1883, she was the first to cross it, symbolically carrying a rooster for victory.

In that same groundbreaking spirit, this new plaza now makes it possible to pass right under the Brooklyn Bridge. If you’re looking to take unique photographs of Brooklyn Bridge, this is a spot you should definitely check out.

Tip: Emily Warren Roebling Plaza is the only place where you can photograph the Brooklyn Bridge from directly beneath it, meaning you can capture some really cool shots.

📸 Want beautiful photos taken of you on the Brooklyn Bridge? Book a Private Photo Journey , a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot . Email [email protected] with inquiries.

6. Time Out Market Rooftop

Time Out Market is a popular destination close to the Brooklyn Bridge located in the DUMBO neighborhood. This food hall is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after walking across the bridge.

But many people don’t realize that a famous photo spot of the Brooklyn Bridge is actually located on the rooftop of this bustling food hall. You can get a spectacular vantage point of the bridge from the roof.

Tip: The rooftop is home to a cocktail bar, and with outdoor seating, you can sit and enjoy stunning views of the bridge. Alternatively, there is a free-to-enjoy rooftop park attached to the eatery.

7. Boat Tour

One of the more unique ways to photograph the Brooklyn Bridge is on a boat tour. There are many NYC skyline tours by boat that you can book that will take you by the Brooklyn Bridge, along with many other iconic landmarks.

Photographing the Brooklyn Bridge from a boat allows you to capture it from different angles that you would not otherwise see.

Tip: Book a sunset sailing if you want to see the bridge as the sun sets and the lights of the city start coming on.

😍 A few top picks for boat tours with Brooklyn Bridge views include: 👇 🗽 Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise 🌇 New York Harbor Lights Cruise at Twilight 🛥️ Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise 👉 Click here for a full list of NYC boat tours .

The best Brooklyn Bridge view from Manhattan is Pier 17. Located in the South Street Seaport district of Lower Manhattan, Pier 17 overlooks the East River and has great views of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Walk out onto the left side of the pier for incredible unobstructed views of the bridge. You will also be able to photograph the Manhattan Bridge in the background.

Tip: The Rooftop at Pier 17 is a concert and events venue. It’s one of the coolest places to see live music in New York with the Brooklyn Bridge right behind it.

9. The River Cafe

The River Cafe is one of the best restaurants with a view of the Brooklyn Bridge. Located on the waterfront, this restaurant is positioned in the shadow of the bridge and offers spectacular views.

Aside from the vista, The River Cafe is known for its upscale and inventive Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining when the weather is nice.

Tip: Reservations are highly recommended for this restaurant. For the best chance of getting a window seat, book an early lunch or dinner reservation.

10. East River Greenway Two Bridges

Another one of the best Brooklyn Bridge viewing spots from Manhattan is the East River Greenway in Two Bridges.

Two Bridges is a Lower Manhattan neighborhood that, as the name not-so-subtly suggests, is bordered by two bridges, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.

Along the East River Greenway, a walking and biking path that runs right along the river, you can get beautiful views of both bridges.

Tip: This is a great New York bridge photography spot at any time of day, but you can catch some amazing lighting at sunset.

11. Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 1

If you’re looking for the best Brooklyn Bridge Park photo spots, don’t miss Pier 1. Located right next to the bridge, it’s a stunning location to get some up-close photos of the Brooklyn Bridge with the East River waterfront in the background.

You can also get some incredible shots of Lower Manhattan, including One World Trade and other iconic buildings.

Tip: You can catch the NYC Ferry from this pier. The East River Ferry will take you right under the Brooklyn Bridge.

12. Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Brooklyn Heights is one of the most charming neighborhoods in New York City and features a top Brooklyn Bridge picture spot. Located close to the bridge, it’s known for its historic brownstones and picturesque tree-lined streets.

You can snap lots of classic New York pictures from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, which is a pedestrian walkway stretching along the river.

Not only can you get photos of the Brooklyn Bridge, but it’s also an excellent spot for photographing the Downtown Manhattan skyline.

Tip: This is a great photo spot to check out at sunset and at dusk for dramatic lighting.

13. Jane’s Carousel

Jane’s Carousel is a gorgeous spot for taking unique photos with the Brooklyn Bridge in the background. This carousel, located in the Empire Fulton Ferry area right on the waterfront, dates back to 1922.

This quaint glass-enclosed carousel offers scenic views of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Manhattan skyline, and the East River in the background.

Tip: If you’re looking for a unique place to take photos of the bridge, this is an excellent location. It’s possible to get photos on the carousel with the Brooklyn Bridge in the background if you time it right. Tickets are $2.

14. NYC Ferry

For unique pictures of the Brooklyn Bridge, take the East River Ferry from Pier 11 / Wall Street station. A one-way ticket costs $4 and allows you to get a glimpse of the Brooklyn Bridge from the water.

This ferry makes a stop in DUMBO and then continues on directly under the Brooklyn Bridge towards its next stop.

Tip: Stay on the ferry until you get to East 34th Street for a scenic ride that passes under not only the Brooklyn Bridge but also the Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge . You can enjoy great Manhattan skyline views too.

15. Washington Street

Finally, although it’s not the best viewpoint of the Brooklyn Bridge, Washington Street is a DUMBO photo spot you can’t miss. It’s one of the most Instagrammable places in Brooklyn — and NYC as a whole!

This street, specifically the block right before it dead-ends into the waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park, is the best Manhattan Bridge photo spot.

The Manhattan Bridge is another iconic NYC bridge connecting Manhattan (Chinatown) and Brooklyn (DUMBO), and since it’s so close to the Brooklyn Bridge, you shouldn’t miss checking it out.

Afterward, you can head into the adjoining Brooklyn Bridge Park for views of the Brooklyn Bridge. Or, you might consider walking the Manhattan Bridge as it runs parallel to the BK Bridge and offers great views of it.

Tip: This DUMBO picture spot can get crowded, but with some patience, good timing, and creative camera angles, you can easily get a photo without anyone else in the background.

How To Take Pictures On The Brooklyn Bridge

Now that you know the best Brooklyn Bridge photo spots, here are some tips for getting the best shot.

Get to the Brooklyn Bridge early. One of the best things you can do is arrive early in the morning. Not only is the Brooklyn Bridge an extremely popular tourist attraction, but commuters also use it in the mornings to get to work. Arriving very early is your best bet. Around sunrise has great lighting for photos too.

Know where to enter. Entering the bridge from the Brooklyn side and walking towards Manhattan will allow you to get some famous New York City skyscrapers like the One World Trade and the Empire State Building in the background of your photos.

Get centered. Want the best photo spot on the Brooklyn Bridge? Here’s a tip: If you want to get the iconic arched pylons of the bridge in your photos, walk toward the center of the bridge and get as close to them as possible. From either entrance, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the center of the bridge.

Know where the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian entrances are. When it comes to entering the bridge to take your Brooklyn Bridge pictures, there are pedestrian entrances on the Manhattan side and the Brooklyn side.

The location of the pedestrian entrance in Manhattan is at the intersection of Centre Sreet and Park Row across from City Hall Park. You will see lots of vendors outside selling souvenirs and this entrance is hard to miss. There’s also a smaller entrance from the Park Row Underpass, but most people will just enter the bridge from the main entrance.

On the Brooklyn side, there are also two entrances. These two are further apart, so which one you use will depend on where you’re coming from. The main entrance is located at Tillary Street and Brooklyn Bridge Boulevard. If you’re coming from Downtown Brooklyn or Brooklyn Heights, this is the closest entrance.

There’s also an entrance at the Brooklyn Bridge Underpass. This is located at the intersection of Prospect Street and Cadman Plaza East. If you’re in the DUMBO area, this will be the closest entrance.

Hotels With A Brooklyn Bridge View

Want to enjoy gorgeous views of the Brooklyn Bridge from your hotel? Consider booking a room at:

• 😍 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge (DUMBO)
• 🌉 New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge (Downtown Brooklyn)
• 🛏️ The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel (Lower Manhattan)
• 🏨 Millenium Hilton Downtown (Lower Manhattan)
• 🛎️ The Tillary Hotel Brooklyn (Downtown Brooklyn)

👉 Click here for a full list of hotels near the Brooklyn Bridge .

Brooklyn Bridge Tours

One of the best ways to get great photos of the Brooklyn Bridge while also learning about this fascinating NYC landmark is to book a guided tour. A few top-rated options include:

• 🚴 Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge Guided Bike Tour
• 🚁 New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights
• 🥘 NYC Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Food Tour – one of the top Brooklyn walking tours !
• 🌉 Manhattan to Brooklyn: Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Neighborhood Tour
• 🚍 Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food & Culture Bus Tour

👉 Click here for a full list of Brooklyn Bridge tours .

New York City Travel Insurance

When visiting New York City — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Brooklyn Bridge Photo Spot FAQ

Now that you know some of the best Brooklyn Bridge photo spots, let’s go over answers to some commonly asked questions about planning a Brooklyn Bridge photoshoot so that you’re fully prepared.

While there isn’t an exact address as you can take photos all along Washington Street in DUMBO, you can put the address of Joe’s Coffee at 45 Washington Street Brooklyn NY 11201 into your Google Maps.

There are many great spots to view the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan, such as from Pier 17, a rooftop bar like Manhatta, or an observation deck like the One World Trade Observatory.

The Brooklyn Bridge is renowned as one of the earliest and most iconic suspension bridges. Its blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal has made it an enduring landmark and a representation of the city’s spirit and innovation.

The Brooklyn Bridge was designed by John A. Roebling. After his untimely death, the construction was overseen and completed by his son, Washington Roebling, with significant assistance from Washington’s wife, Emily Warren Roebling, especially after Washington fell ill.

The Brooklyn Bridge doesn’t connect two cities, but instead the two NYC boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. In terms of neighborhoods, it connects Lower Manhattan and DUMBO, Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Bridge Photo Spots: Final Thoughts

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks. Not only is it historic, but it’s also stunning, helping to add beauty to your photos.

Whether you want to take Brooklyn Bridge photos on the bridge, near the bridge, or from above the bridge, you’re sure to get stunning pictures you’ll cherish forever. Hopefully, the above guide has helped you choose the best Brooklyn Bridge photography spot for your shoot.

And if you’d like help with capturing photos of the BK Bridge with you in them, make sure to check out our NYC photo tours and custom photoshoots !

What best Brooklyn Bridge photo spots would you add to this list?

Bonus nyc resources:.

15 Best Central Park Photo Spots

Where To Take Stunning Winter Photos In NYC

How To Spend 4 Days In New York City

38 Fun Activities In NYC For Couples

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Best Places to Take Pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge

updated on December 21st, 2022

A professional or amateur’s photography portfolio is arguably incomplete without their take on the Golden Gate Bridge. We’ve plotted out some of the best spots to take pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge , one of the most iconic structures in the world.

Photos from the South Side of the Bridge

Baker beach.

Baker Beach is one of the best spots to get sunset photos of the Bridge. You will also have great rocky beach views and a good sightline to the Marin Headlands. This beach can get pretty popular when the weather is good. It should be noted that the very northern section of the beach is known as “clothing optional.” However, these things shouldn’t deter you from a visit for some breathtaking vacation photos. We visited with our dog and were able to get awesome pics of her enjoying the view!

Battery Godfrey

To get a nice shot looking straight through the bridge, head to Battery Godfrey. At the northernmost point of the parking lot is a small overlook where you can line up a nice shot looking straight through the towers of the bridge. Safer than driving and trying to line the shot up in traffic!

Fort Point is a great spot to tour and learn about the history, as well as get fantastic shots of the Golden Gate Bridge. Originally built to defend the bay from hostile ships, the area is now a National Historic Site. The location is situated at sea level, under the Bridge. In the winter the surf gets choppy for some awesome photo ops as well.

Torpedo Wharf 

Located a bit to the east (and walking distance) of Fort Point, Torpedo Wharf will get you out onto the ocean to get a long shot of the entire bridge. This spot would be wonderful on a foggy day, capturing the Golden Gate shooting into the clouds. It’s also recommended to continue east and get a shot with the wharf in the foreground and the Bridge in the background.

Crissy Field

Photographers can’t visit San Francisco and miss Crissy Field. The iconic park is one of the best-known spots for a full view of the Golden Gate. A plethora of locations awaits you. On a sunny day, a foggy day, sunset or sunrise, this will be your shining moment. Also a great spot for photos of families, friends, or any other photo subjects.

Fort Miley, situated on the Lands End trail, is a historic military outpost located on Point Lobos. All of the Lands End trails will offer spectacular views of the Bridge peeking out of the forest. Fort Miley itself has straight views to the Bridge. Much of the grounds have now been handed over to the VA Hospital. This is a wonderful starting point for taking a camera and wandering the Coastal Trails through Lands End. Plan on a bit of hiking, and stairs, if you plan to explore the area.

An iconic structure itself (best photographed from the Hilton San Francisco Financial District), offering seriously impressive views of downtown San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. 360 degrees of awesome.

Photos from the North Side of the Bridge

Battery spencer.

You’ve most definitely seen photos, commercials, or movie shots taken from this spot. It’s extremely popular. To get there get off the 101 at Alexander Ave after crossing the bridge. From here, make left turns as if you’re getting back on the 101 heading south. Just before you join back to the freeway, make a right onto Conzelman Rd. The first parking lot will be for Battery Spencer, park here. It’s a short hike up to the overlook. Try to hit it on an “off” day when the crowds are smaller.

Vista Point

For a similar shot as Battery Godfrey, through the towers of the bridge but from the North, Vista Point is your spot! To get there, take the very first exit for Vista Point, heading north across the Golden Gate Bridge. Here you’ll find a large parking lot and a popular visitor center and ample room to find a nice angle. You do run the risk of fighting for space as this is a very popular tourist spot.

Fort Baker and Moore Road

It’s surprising how few “tourists” make it to this spot for a photo opportunity. For a great close and low angle shot from the north, head towards Fort Baker on the 101 across the bridge. Get off on Alexander Ave. Make your first right onto Bunker Road, follow that down to Murray Circle and turn right onto Moore Road. From here drive all the way up until cars are restricted and park. Enjoy an awesome and unique photo spot!

Hawk Hill is a great location to get a full bridge shot with downtown San Francisco in the background. Like all of the spots we have listed on the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge, this one is accessed via Conzelman Road. Simply follow the road all the way up and park in the parking lot just before Conzelman turns into a one way road. This spot is literally just off the road, below Nike Missile Control Site SF-87.

A great beach shot from the North side. To get here, park in the Battery Spencer parking lot. At the West end of the lot, you will see Kirby Cove Road, a small, one lane road that descends down. Follow this for a mile, through Kirby Campground, until you reach the beach.

Slackers Hill

*This spot requires a bit of hiking.

Take Conzelman Road and continue following it past the parking lot for Battery Spencer until you come to the roundabout and park in the parking lot for the Coastal Trail. Head out on the Coastal Trail heading northeast and cross the road. After you cross the road continue for roughly 1,000 feet until the trail forks, go right (southeast). Continue on the trail until you find your ideal photo spot!

Check out the best spots to photograph the Eiffel Tower

Need a hotel in San Francisco? We love starting our search for great deals on San Francisco Hotels with Booking.com .

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• Best Spots To Photograph the Eiffel Tower
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28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024

Travelers are always looking for inspiration to guide their adventures. Coming up with a list of places to visit can be challenging when you're staring at a globe. What are the top tourist attractions in the world? The most iconic sites that all travelers have on their bucket-list of things to see around the globe?

Some destinations just stand out above the rest. Many are the type of places where you can take a photo, and it requires no explanation to identify the location: the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. But some places are less well known to new travelers or those who have not yet ventured out to the more exotic destinations. These can often be the most rewarding to visit.

For many of these attractions, it's what they symbolize and the destinations they represent that make them so significant. In other cases, it is the site itself that makes it worth visiting the country. Some of these are the more popular UNESCO World Heritage sites .

If you're looking to start your own checklist of places to visit during your life, begin with our list of the top tourist attractions in the world.

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

2. the colosseum, rome, 3. statue of liberty, new york city, 4. machu picchu, peru, 5. the acropolis, athens, 6. the taj mahal, india, 7. pyramids of giza, egypt, 8. great wall of china, 9. angkor wat, cambodia, 10. petra, jordan, 11. grand canyon, usa, 12. stonehenge, england, 13. borobudur, indonesia, 14. niagara falls, canada & usa, 15. bagan, myanmar, 16. sydney opera house, 17. mount kilimanjaro, 18. the louvre, paris, 19. forbidden city, china, 20. prague castle, czech republic, 21. chichen itza, mexico, 22. corcovado and cristo redentor, rio de janeiro, 23. château de versailles, france, 24. mount fuji, 25. central park, new york city, 26. alhambra, spain, 27. buckingham palace, london, 28. ubud, bali, indonesia.

The symbol of Paris and one of the most photographed structures in the world, a visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must for all travelers. Few landmarks inspire such a passion for travel as this single iron structure.

Young travelers heading out on the road for the first time, couples looking for a special getaway, artists looking to spur their creativity, and romantics of all types are all drawn to Paris. This is a city where history and culture collide and where travelers of all kinds can find the experience they're after.

Head up the tower for spectacular views over the city, and don't miss a chance to see the tower lit up at night.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

The most famous and largest structure still standing from the Roman Empire, the Colosseum is also the biggest attraction of modern-day Rome . It's been a bucket-list destination of travelers for generations. And it does not disappoint.

Set in the heart of the city, the Colosseum is an easy place to visit. Direct flights from around the world land in Rome daily, making it a destination you can visit in a weekend if you choose. Wander through Rome's ancient streets, tour the colosseum, and if time allows, plan a trip to other areas of Italy .

America is full of great sights and places to visit , but it's the Statue of Liberty that represents the United States like no other place. This symbol of freedom in New York City was gifted by the French to the American people in 1896.

Of all the attractions in New York City , this is one every tourist must see. The best thing to do at the Statue of Liberty is to take a ride up to her crown and soak up the view over the city. Access to the statue is via ferry, also a highlight of a visit.

If you don't have time for a tour, you can still see the statue without leaving Manhattan. Head to Battery Park for the best views. You can also see the Statue of Liberty on a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry. See our guide to touring New York City by water on the NYC Ferry System .

If you are planning to see only one attraction in South America, this is the place to come. The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is arguably the most impressive ruined city in the world.

Much of the attraction comes from its location, high in the jungle-clad mountains of Peru. Set on a high plateau with soaring green mountains, the setting is surreal. The sheer tenacity of the original builders to create this amazing place in what would have been impenetrable jungle, is, in itself, impressive.

Visitor numbers are now limited to a maximum per day, so the experience has been greatly enhanced.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Perched above present day Athens , the Acropolis draws you up and in. Follow in the footsteps of the ancients as you walk up the same steps that have been walked on since 438 BC - 2,500 years.

Views out over the city are incredible as you walk between the meticulously restored ancient buildings. Near the end of the day, you'll want to linger and watch the sunset from the stairs near the entrance. This is a nightly ritual in Athens.

The site is also impressive looking up at it from the city below. Spend an evening dining on a rooftop patio to soak in the view of the hilltop ruins lit up at night.

Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

The Taj Mahal is the one sight in India that all travelers need to see. The country is filled with incredible cities and fabulous places to visit, but the 17th-century Taj Mahal in Agra is the one place that says you've been to India.

This mausoleum, commissioned by the Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is known internationally as a symbol of love. This fantastic structure, made with inlaid precious and semi-precious stones, has to be visited to be fully appreciated.

Its riverfront setting, surrounding gardens, and reflecting pools are also what make the Taj Mahal so special.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in India

If you've visited places like the Colosseum in Rome or the Acropolis in Athens, built over 2,000 years ago, you may think you have a good handle on ancient sites. But the Pyramids of Giza take ancient to a whole other level. These were built over 4,500 years ago. Tourists were coming to see these magnificent structures literally thousands of years ago.

Located just outside Cairo , the pyramids, which is also where you'll find the Sphinx, are easy to get to, and tours are easy to arrange. A sunset camel ride around the structures is a wonderful experience.

In a land of modern cities and towering skyscrapers, the Great Wall of China, built between the 14th and 17th centuries, is a stark contrast but a striking image that all visitors to China should see.

A stroll along the top of the wall provides an incredible view of the structure snaking off into the distance. The wall stretches an astounding 21,196 kilometers, through some remote areas.

Many travelers seeing the sights of China choose to visit the wall on easily organized tours from Beijing, a relatively short motorcoach ride away.

Surrounded by jungle and, in some cases, overgrown with huge trees and roots, the ancient structures of the Angkor complex may look like a movie set to some visitors.

Wandering through Angkor Wat, the main centerpiece of the complex, it's easy to feel like you've entered another era. This is without a doubt, one of the most impressive sites in Southeast Asia and the main reason many people visit Cambodia .

The stone faces peering out over the buildings and gates are images that you won't soon forget.

Angkor Wat is located just outside the city of Siem Reap, a popular tourist center in Cambodia.

You may have an Indiana Jones feeling as you walk through a 1.2-kilometer-long narrow crack in the sandstone hills and emerge into a hidden city. First built over 2,000 years ago and lost to the outside world for 600 years, the city was only discovered in 1812.

Stunning buildings are carved directly into the red rock walls and are wonderfully preserved, just begging to be explored and photographed.

If you arrive early, an eerie silence, coupled with long shadows, give this abandoned city a special feel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

The greatest natural attraction in the United States, the Grand Canyon is a key sight for all travelers planning their lifetime of adventures. Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, looking out over the carved landscape, will awaken your senses.

Several hikes in the canyon and along the rim offer unique perspectives. Walk even a short distance down the Bright Angel trail to gain additional views and to experience what the canyon is like below the rim.

For even more adventure plan a rafting trip down the Colorado River through the canyon.

The Grand Canyon looks different throughout the day and at different times of the year. One trip is never enough. If you are going to add this place to your to-see list, consider what you want to do here to determine the best time to visit.

Read More: Top Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Stonehenge is one of those places that makes you ponder what went on here over 4,500 years ago. It's long been a mystery to historians, and has captured the imagination of countless visitors. Despite the large number of tourists that descend on Stonehenge, the place still has a mystical feel.

At the site, giant stones, some standing, some fallen, are set in two roughly circular patterns that are oriented to highlight the summer and winter solstices. For a truly memorable experience, plan your visit during one of these times.

An easy day trip from London , Stonehenge can easily be worked into your UK itinerary.

Set in a steamy jungle with three volcanoes providing the backdrop, Borobudur is Indonesia's top tourist attraction .

Borobudur dates from the 9th century and is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. It's a fascinating place to wander about. Over 500 Buddhas are spread around the site, some of which sit under ornate stupas.

Try to visit early in the morning when you'll have the best chance of experiencing a bit of early mist, and the view to the volcanoes will be the clearest.

On the border between the United States and Canada, these great falls have been drawing explorers and travelers for centuries. Just over an hour from the city of Toronto, Niagara Falls is easy to get to, and the town is a fun place to spend a night or two.

Walk up to the edge of the falls, stroll along the paved walk lining the gorge for different views, or take a boat tour for a close-up look at the water pouring over the lip of the gorge above you. For a bird's-eye view, head up the Skylon Tower to look out over the falls.

At night, see the falls lit in different colors. If you're visiting in winter, watch the huge plume of mist rising into the sky above the falls.

Niagara Falls is easily reached from Toronto, Canada, or Buffalo, New York.

While this ancient site may not be on the average traveler's radar, it's another of Southeast Asia's bucket-list attractions.

Spread out over a lush plain are more than 10,000 sacred structures dating from 1044 through to 1287. Hire a bicycle and pedal your way from one amazing structure to the next, or take a tour. Some of the structures can be entered, but the real beauty is the sheer number that dot the landscape.

For an aerial view, consider taking a hot air balloon tour at dawn.

Like many other attractions around the world, the Sydney Opera House is one of those places that is easy to identify and obviously associated with Australia. A photo of yourself in front of the white sails screams Australia.

The Sydney Opera House was built in several stages and officially opened in late 1973. To fully experience the building, take a tour inside to see the unique shape and hear the exceptional acoustics.

Soak up the view from the Opera House area back towards the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The highest peak in all of Africa, this majestic mountain – a dormant volcano – is one of the most recognizable symbols of the continent. The snowcapped peak is an impressive 5,985 meters (19,340 feet) and is often the backdrop to photographs of the wild animals that roam Amboseli National Park and other areas.

You can see this beautiful sight from afar or tackle the multi-day hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro for the fantastic views over the land, and to watch the sunrise.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

If there is one museum in the whole world that you absolutely must see in your life, it's the Louvre. Even if you are not a fan of museums, this one is worth the trip to Paris to see.

Although most people know it as the home to the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa , this is just one of the reasons to visit the Louvre .

The museum holds countless masterpieces by the greatest artists that have ever lived. But even the building itself is an icon. The glass pyramids and the 18th-century building are recognizable to almost everyone, and have been shown in countless movies.

Like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, in Beijing is one of the top places to visit in China . The sprawling complex dates from the 14th and 15th centuries and is a spectacular example of historical China.

Over the centuries, the palace has housed 24 Ming and Qing Emperors. Inside the city, the Palace Museum holds over 340,000 artifacts showcasing the treasures of China's dynasties. In front of the Forbidden City is the massive Tiananmen Square .

Prague is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Sitting atop a hill across the river from the center of the city, Prague Castle casts an imposing aura over its surroundings. The castle is an incredible collection of buildings constructed from the 9th to 14th centuries.

Stroll over the ornate 14th-century Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River and head up the hill to wander the narrow, twisty streets in the castle complex . The castle is one of the largest in the world, and around almost every corner is a historical building, church, or open square.

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza have been drawing curious tourists since they were first brought to light by a popular book by John Lloyd Stevens in 1843. Today the site, located near the center of the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The 30-meter-high Pyramid of Kukulkán has been restored to its full glory along with many of the other significant buildings, including the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the eerie Skull Platform.

Chichen Itza is located about 200 kilometers from Cancun and is easily accomplished in a day trip from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other areas of the Mayan Riviera either on your own or as part of a group.

Keeping a watchful eye over the citizens of Rio de Janeiro from his perch atop Corcovado mountain is the stunning statue of Cristo Redentor. This huge 30-meter-high statue with its arms wide open in a welcoming gesture has been one of Rio's top tourist attractions since 1931.

The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world . The views from the top of the 709-meter Corcovado look out over this beautiful sight, including Sugarloaf Mountain and the city perfectly poised for beautiful photographs. The best way to get to the top is a ride up through the forests of the Tijuca National Park on the 3.5-kilometer Corcovado Rack Railway.

The wealth and grandeur of 17th-century France is on display at the incredible Château de Versailles. The château and the grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and should be near the top of your touring plans when in France.

The Château de Versailles has an unbelievable 2,300 rooms housing some of France's most impressive interior design work, especially in the world-famous Hall of Mirrors. Other important rooms include the King's State Apartment and the Queen's Apartment.

The grounds of the château encompass 800 hectares, and one of the most impressive sights is the Gardens (Les Jardins). Geometrical pathways follow immaculately trimmed hedges past serene pools all surrounded by lawns cut to within an inch of their life.

Mount Fuji is the most well-known and highest mountain in Japan. Often pictured snowcapped, this dormant volcano is both a spiritual site and one of the top tourist attractions in Japan . Soaring 3,776 meters high, Mount Fuji is one of three Holy Mountains, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Hiking to the top of the mountain is a popular thing to do in Japan. Each year, nearly 300,000 people follow one of four routes to the top. One of the most popular things to do is time your hike so that you reach the summit just before sunrise.

Mount Fuji is located 100 kilometers east of Tokyo and is easily accessible via public transit and tours .

Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Loved by generations of New Yorkers and by people from around the world, Central Park is one of the most famous public spaces in the world. The backdrop to countless movies and television shows, the park's walkways, lakes, and historical sights have been drawing city dwellers and visitors since it was first created in 1858.

Some fun things to do in Central Park include taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, visiting the Strawberry Fields Forever area and Imagine monument dedicated to the late John Lennon, renting a row boat, or just strolling under the towering trees. If you find yourself in the park in the cold season, ice skating is one of the most popular things to do in New York in winter . Going ice skating with your sweetie is also a romantic thing to do in New York.

The stunning Alhambra is perched high on the hills above the Spanish city of Granada and is a testament to the wealth and power of the Nasrid Dynasty of the 13th Century. A huge complex full of ornate gardens, lush courtyards, bubbling water features, and spectacular buildings make it one of Spain's top tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Count on a full day to explore the Alhambra with its incredible buildings which include the Palacios Nazaries consisting of the Palacio Real (Royal Palace), the Palacio de Comares (Palace of Ceremonial Rooms), and the Palacio de los Leones (Palace of the Lions). Views out over the city of Granada and the surrounding mountains from the ruins of the Alcazaba are among the highlights.

The stately palace located in the heart of London attracts millions of visitors every year. This iconic building and treasured monument is home to the ruling monarchy and its grand façade showcases the importance of the Royal Family in British society.

Highlights of a visit to Buckingham Palace include witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony where guardsmen with their red tunics and bearskin hats execute an intricate series of maneuvers.

If you find yourself visiting in the summer, try your best to get tickets for the tour through the grand State Rooms with their extensive and impressive collection of priceless art and period pieces.

A fun town with a Boho vibe, Ubud is high on the list of things to see and do in Bali . Located inland in a lush area, the town has a wide range of cultural and natural attractions. A must-see is the Sacred Monkey Forest , a dense site of towering trees, river gorges, historic temples, and of course, monkeys. Hundreds of monkeys live in this protected area and wander freely on the pathways providing non-stop entertainment.

Just out of town are the world-famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces . Descending from a ridge to the valley below, the terraces flow according to the landscape.

Ubud features prominently as a destination for shopping, many of Indonesia's best artisans have shops here selling everything from Batik fabrics to ornate jewelry.

Ubud is also known as a place to work on your inner well-being, countless yoga studios and wellness retreats are located here.

More on Cambodia

16 of the best photo spots at Walt Disney World: Can you hit them all on your next visit?

Walt Disney World  guests don't need a fancy camera or paid Memory Maker photo package for fantastic photos.

Disney PhotoPass  photographers will gladly take photos on guests' cameras and cellphones for free, upon request. Fellow guests can also help snap group photos in a pinch. And there are always selfies , which are especially fun with free Disney PhotoPass Lens filters on the My Disney Experience app.

The important thing is knowing where to capture the magic, away from crowds . Here are 16 of the best locations for photos across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom in Florida.

Confessions of an ex-Disney princess: What it's really like and what guests don't know

Daunted by Disney World?: 10 tips to keep the magic in your vacation

Magic Kingdom

Cinderella castle.

Many people stop along Main Street U.S.A. for a photo of Magic Kingdom's signature Cinderella Castle. Keep going.

Just past the  Partners Statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse, guests will see two sets of archways. The interactive map on Disney World's website identifies them as Central Plaza East and West Gazebos. 

The arches beautifully frame guests standing against the columns, with the castle in the background. 

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Dumbo the Flying Elephant delights kids of all ages in Storybook Circus.

The attraction is particularly popular among families with young children because there is an air-conditioned play area along the queue for the ride.

Guests don't have to ride Dumbo, however, for this photo opportunity just outside the big top.

The Purple Wall

It's easy to miss this highly Instagrammed backdrop on the edge of Tomorrowland, just around the corner from Main Street, U.S.A.

That's because The Purple Wall is located on a walkway between Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant and Monster's Inc. Laugh Floor.

Many guests skip that path altogether taking the more obvious bridge to and from Tomorrowland, under the big Tomorrowland sign.

The Sword in the Stone

According to the plaque on The Sword in the Stone , whoever pulls the sword out is "rightwise ruler born of England."

Guests can channel their inner Arthur and give it a try, just like in the animated movie.

Even if it doesn't work, it makes a memorable photo. 

The Sword in the Stone is located beside Prince Charming Regal Carrousel in Fantasyland, on the side closest to Cinderella Castle.

What not to do: A former cast member's advice on meeting Disney characters

Spaceship Earth

Nothing says EPCOT like Spaceship Earth , an instantly recognizable backdrop from any distance.

This spot can be found along the water between The Land and The Seas with Nemo & Friends.

Closer up to Spaceship Earth, guests can strike silly poses, pretending to lift the massive ball over their heads or hold it in their hands.

Bruce the shark

Bruce the shark is always ready for his close-up.

Just climb inside his big toothy grin at  The Seas with Nemo & Friends .

No need to worry about him chomping down. Fish are friends, not food.

The entrance to The Land is lined with walls of rich mosaics.

The bold earth tones are just right for the farm-to-table venue. The Land is home to several eateries,  Living with the Land  and Soarin' Around the World.

World Showcase

Ornately decorated pavilions throughout the World Showcase make guests feel like they've stepped into other countries, like Germany, Japan and Mexico.

It looks like it too, in photos. 

Each pavilion offers postcard-perfect settings like the  Temple of Heaven in China, red phone booths in the United Kingdom, and mosaic-lined walls and fountains of Morocco.

Disney freebies: 10 things you can get for free at Disney World

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Tower of terror.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror has become a symbol of Disney's Hollywood Studios, especially since the giant Sorcerer's Hat was removed years ago.

Many guests snap photos of the tower as they walk along Sunset Boulevard.

This unobstructed view, without fellow guests, can be found along the walkway to the attraction's entrance.

Rise of the Resistance

There are tons of great photo ops around Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, but some like Millennium Falcon can be filled with fellow guests in the background.

This relatively intimate gem rewards guests who've made it through the always long line at  Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance .

Cast members may encourage guests to keep moving, but there's definitely enough time for a quick selfie with Stormtroopers.

Toy Story Land

With the tip of a hat, Woody welcomes guests entering  Toy Story Land from Pixar Place.

There's a PhotoPass spot right in front of him, but good views are also available just off to the side. 

The whole land is full of vibrant colors and playful nostalgia that pops in photos.

Behind the magic: What it takes to transform Disney World for the holidays

Gertie the dinosaur

Gertie the dinosaur is always adorable but especially during the holidays.

Located on Echo Lake, across the water from Dockside Diner , the surrounding greenery helps keep crowds out of photos.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Tree of life.

There are over 300 animals carved onto the iconic  Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

The best way to see them and take cool photos is to get closer to the trunk on Discovery Island . This carving can be found near the entrance to " It's Tough to Be a Bug! "

Expedition Everest

Expedition Everest is impressive at any angle.

This uncluttered view can be captured along Discovery River, just across the small cove from the amphitheater where guests watch Disney KiteTails .

Harambe Market

Guests looking for inspiration can find it on the walls around Harambe Market , where  word art  like this "children of the world" quote and "You are most beautiful" make popular backdrops for photos.

An amateur-looking painting of Mickey Mouse with the words "Fichwa Fellow!" is also widely photographed.

The scenery in Pandora: The World of Avatar is out of this world.

That's because it's set in the fictional  Valley of Mo'ara . 

Guests will want to take photos of the floating mountains and all the unusual flora, but this unobstructed waterfall should not be missed.

It can be found just outside Avatar Flight of Passage .

Bonus:  Anywhere

Just about anywhere in Disney World can be a memorable photo spot for guests willing to have fun with it. 

Contributing: Britt Kennerly, Florida Today

The best photo spots in Rome (with map): 30+ locations you’ll love

A handy guide to the best photo spots in Rome with map and locations of the most instagrammable places in Rome.

Rome is so beautiful, it will easily fill your camera with stunning photos no matter what you do.

Panoramic terraces, domes, statues, churches and streets offer uncountable photo opportunities; however, there is no doubt that some corners of Rome are more photogenic than others.

While I highly recommend you explore and find your own favorite photo spots, having a list as a starting point can be handy.

I have been living in Rome most of my life and I have brought a camera out with me around the city well before phone cameras became a thing so this selection of photo spots comes after a long study!

Today, I am sharing my favorite photo locations in Rome and give you their address and a map so you can find them easily.

As you will see, I have selected photos that have no / very little post-processing, so you can see what the city really looks like.

Most of these photos are taken with a simple smartphone: exceptions are the view from St Peter’s dome and the picture with me and the kids in front of the Colosseum.

This last one is by a professional, available for family photoshoots in Rome. You can read all about how to book him here .

Good to know! Many attractions in Rome do not allow tripods. Even in public areas such as piazzas, you want to be careful with bulky equipment: crowds can be intense and anything that gets in the way may get damaged or cause negative reactions. Always be aware of access rules and practicality.

Table of Contents

The best photos spots in Rome: chart

The best photos spots in rome map.

I recommend you read this guide in conjunction with our article about the best views over Rome , with all the best locations for capturing Rome from above!

My favorite photo locations in Rome

Oppian hill/ colle oppio: the best spot to photograph the colosseum from the outside.

My favorite spot for stunning photos of the Colosseum outside is the Oppian Hill.

The Oppian Hill is a small hill just in front of the Colosseum, part of the Esquilino, one of the seven hills of Rome .

In ancient times, it used to host the baths of Emperor Trajan and Nero’s Domus Aurea, which you can still see, and it is now occupied mostly by a pleasant park.

There are several photos spots here, which will allow you to capture the Colosseum at best.

Some I love are: the spot immediately outside the Oppian cafe, the lower park entrance and the exit door of the Domus Aurea. In summer, bursting pink bougainvillea frame the Colosseum, a photographer’s dream!

Best photo spot for the inside of the Colosseum

My favorite photo location to capture the inside of the Colosseum is its top tier, aka the belvedere ring.

From here, you can easily take a photo that captures the shape and size of the Colosseum and you can catch a breathtaking image of the arena too.

I also love the underground area of the Colosseum: the photos you catch here are possibly less scenic however, they allow you to capture an unusual angle and make your photo stand out.

This top tier is not always open to the public.

The lower one, with similar views, is. You can learn how to visit the underground area and top tier of the Colosseum here.

The best photo spots for the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is a vast archaeological area and they have several stunning photo locations.

My favorite way to capture the Forum is from above.

I find the following locations incredibly photogenic:

The Terrace of Horti Farnesiani on the Palatine , which is just the first of many beautiful photo locations in this area.

Click here >>> for my Palatine Hill photos and guide

The terrace at the back of Piazza del Campidoglio , which has brethtaking views over the Roman Forum with the Colosseum in the background.

Good to know! The Capitoline Hill is a gem in itself as the piazza on top has been designed by Michelangelo. You can read all about what to see and how to get there here >>> my guide to Capitoline Hill , Rome.

Inside the Roman Forum , you will also find many opportunities to take photos of temples and architectural details.

You can find here >>> my guide to the must see spots inside the Roman Forum .

Best photo spot for the Pantheon

I have taken this photo a million times, just because I like it so much!

For me, the best place to take a photo of the Pantheon is Piazza del Pantheon, precisely stationing yourself behind the fountain.

This way, you photograph one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome and get a fantastic frame for the facade of the Pantheon too!

If you go inside the Pantheon, then make sure you also take a photo of the oculos: while it doesn’t look like much in photos, once you look at that image back home, it is guaranteed to bring back memories of the day!

Find here >>> my complete guide to visiting the Pantheon

Piazza Navona and Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

Piazza Navona is probably the most photographed piazza in Rome and with good reason.

There are plenty of ways to capture it, from ground level or from above.

My favorite photo of Piazza Navona usually involves a frame that includes the Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini and Sant’agnese in agony but you can also opt for aerial views.

The best photo spots for Piazza Navona from above are the third floor or Palazzo Braschi and the Borromini Terrace, one of the best rooftop bars in Rome

Find here >>> my full guide to Piazza Navona and its attractions

Altare della Patria/ Vittoriano

Vittoriano is the large, white building with statues on top that you see in Piazza Venezia, in Rome City center.

Its appearance is controversial, locals being equally divided between those who love it and those who find it an eyesore however, it is so peculiar and unique, it is a fantastic subject for photos!

I love to photograph Rome from the top of the Vittoriano but I also love to take photos of the building itself, especially at night.

Find here >>> my complete guide to Il Vittoriano, Rome .

The Monti Neighborhood

The Monti district is in central Rome and one of the best places to take photos of cobbled streets and romantic corners of Rome with overflowing climbers and plants.

Among the many bautiful streets, I love Piazza della madonna ai Monti, Via della Madonna ai monti, Via Panisperna and piazza degli zingari.

However, the choice is so vast, if you want to go on a photo itinerary, you can eaily spend a morning here!

You can do so following my guide to the Monti district of Rome

Rome’s pyramid and the protestant cemetery

Rome’s pyramid is one of the most peculiar buildings in Rome and a fantastic photo subject.

It is located in the Ostiense neighborhood and it is just beside another Rome hidden gem: the non-Catholic cemetery of Rome .

The two are best seen together.

My favorite place to take a photo of it is the so-called protestant cemetery: in spring/summer, it has wonderful flowers that make photos extra special.

Villa Borghese’s Pond

Villa Borghese (Borghese Gardens) offer plenty of photo opportunities and one of my favorite location is the Villa’s small pond.

Decorated with a small temple to Asclepius, the Roman God of healing and medicine, and popular with people renting rowing boats, it is one of the most romantic spots in Rome and it is a great photo spot to capture the greener side of Rome.

Find here >>> My full guide to Villa Borghese with all the info on how to find the pond

The Pincio Terrace

The Pincio Terrace is also in Villa Borghese and it is a wonderful photo spot to capture a view over Rome. From here, your photo can include Piazza del Popolo and, in the distance, St Peter’s dome.

In 2021, beautiful sculptures by Carole A. Feuerman decorate the terrace, adding extra possible angles and subjects to your photos.

Piazza di Spagna

When photographing the Spanish Steps, you can decide to capture them from the top or from below.

My favorite way is from below, either from via dei Condotti, from where you can catch a photo of the steps framed by buildings, or from beside La Barcaccia fountain, one of Bernini’s masterpieces you can find in Rome .

Whether you decide to take a photo of the Spanish Steps from above or below, you will quickly see why this is one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome .

Fontana di Trevi

The main issue when photographing the Trevi Fountain is crowds.

The fountain overlooks a small square that gets swamped by people so the only chance to take a photo without having to retouch them out is to get there early in the morning or later in the evening.

You can find here >>> my guide to the Trevi Fountain .

Ponte Sant’Angelo

Ponte Sant’Angelo is one of the most beautiful bridges in Rome. It connects the two sides of the Tiber in front of Castel Sant’Angelo and offers several photo opportunities.

From the bridge, you can photograph Castel Sant’Angelo itself, catch a beautiful view of St Peter’s or you can photograph the details of the statues of the angels that frame the bridge: some of them are by Bernini and are among the most beautiful sculptures in Rome!!

The top of Saint Peter’s Dome

There is no more iconic view of Rome than the one you can catch from the top of St Peter’s dome.

Getting this photo however is not for the faint of heart!

To climb the dome you need to tackle a long and narrow staircase: it is worth every step however, it gets very hard for people with a fear of heights or who suffer from claustrophobia so evaluate carefully if this is a place for you.

The Aventine

One of the most unique photos you can take in Rome is from the top of the Aventine Hill, where you find two wonderful locations: the Garden of Oranges and the Aventine keyhole .

The two locations are one beside the other and they have in common the fact that they look towards St Peter’s dome, which you can easily photograph from here.

The Garden of Oranges is a panoramic terrace.

The keyhole is just that: a keyhole in a historical gate, which frames a wonderful view of Saint Peter’s Dome!

The view through the keyhole is fun and beautiful however, capturing a photo of what you see is not easy.

Depending on light conditions and the camera you have, you may need to experiment with focus: once you get the right settings, however, you will get one of the best photos of Rome!

Circus Maximus

In between the Aventine and the Palatine Hill lies Circus Maximus, the ancient Roman chariot stadium.

The stadium is a fantastic vantage point to admire the Palace of Emperors: go at sunset for unforgettable photos!

Trastevere: one of the best photo spots in Rome for cobbled streets

Trastevere is a large neighborhood with many photogenic locations.

Out of the many, I love the roads around Arco di San Callisto, Via dei Genovesi and Piazza di Santa Cecilia, which are charming and less busy than better-known locations in this neighborhood.

Find here a photo ready Trastevere itinerary

Good to know! Above Trastevere, you find the Janiculum Hill. On its top, there is a beautiful fountain, Fontana dell’Acqua Paola (aka Il Fontanone) and a panoramic terrace with expansive views of Rome. Both among the photo spots in Rome!

Piazza Mincio

Piazza Mincio is outside of the historical city center but it is the best place in Rome for whimsical photos that seem out of a fairytale.

This is down to the fantastic and unique architecture of this area: imagined and realized by architect Coppede’, this is one of the few examples of Art Nouveau in Rome.

You can read here >>> my full guide to the Coppede’ District in Rome

A fantastic area for photographers in Rome is the romantic district of Garbatella.

Unlike monumental Rome, Garbatella offers to its visitors small streets, overflowing bougainvilleas and charming yards.

This is one of the best photo spots in Rome for street photography and documentary style photo essays.

You can find here >>> my complete guide to Garbatella district Rome .

Arco degli Acetari

If small, scenic courtyards are your thing (I love them!), then you will also love Arco degli Acetari.

This is a small, romantic private courtyard in Rome city center that will make you feel as if you had stepped out of Rome and entered into a medieval village!

Perfect photo location if you are into Rome hidden gems and unusual places. Please be advised that this is private property: while visitors are welcome, make sure you respect the privacy of those who live here.

I hope you enjoyed this quick overview of my favourite and best photo spots in Rome and it gave you ideas on where to go to photograph the Eternal City. Safe travel planning!

The best photo spots in Rome – pin this!

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

The Esquiline Hill of Rome (Esquilino): all you need to know

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Mukikapup's Travels

The Best Photo Spots In Tucson, AZ In 2024 (With Map)

Looking for the best photo spots in Tucson, AZ? Consider this post your guide to all kinds of photography and photoshoots, from things like engagement and prom photos to Instagram, nature photography, vacation photos and more!

Why listen to me? I’m a professional photographer and I’ve traveled all over the US, plus many places abroad. I’ve also done a lot of research for my own solo trips, so I know how to find all the best spots!

Tucson is just 60 miles from the Mexican border, making it one of the best places in the US to go for authentic Mexican culture and food. It also has a lot of Native American history and archaeology and art.

Tuscon is surrounded by four mountain ranges, which are the Santa Catalina Range, the Rincon Range, the Santa Rita Range, and the Tucson Range. There are multiple parks, and the desert is one of the best places for unhindered landscape photography with the largest cacti in the US, plus more flora and fauna.

Read on for the best photo spots, places to stay and more tips for photography in Tucson!

Planning Your Tucson Trip? Use my favorite resources:

Accommodation: Booking.com Rent a Car: Discover Cars Travel Insurance: Allianz Flights: WayAway Tour: Tucson Behind the Scenes Tour

Map of the Best Photo Spots In Tucson

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Photo Tours

In a rush or short trip, or just don’t want to deal with all the logistics and transportation yourself? Here are the best tours in Tucson for photographers!

1. Tucson – Behind the Scenes Tour

This Behind the Scenes Tour of Tucson is a great way to be guided through Tucson in a private car and get the best photo stops, including food, with explanation as you take photos to your heart’s content!

Photo ops include:

• Mercado San Agustin
• Barrio Viejo
• El Tiradito Shrine
• Hotel Congress
• Presidio San Agustin del Tucson
• Historic Pima County Courthouse

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Rick_L: “Our group ranged in age from 24 – 84. Priscilla was able to adjust the pace of our tour as needed to meet everyone’s needs and level of activity. The tour was very well planned and she was very eager to share her knowledge of Tucson and the area. We would highly recommend this tour and any tour offered by Priscilla.”

📸 Learn More About this Tucson Behind the Scenes Tour Here

2. Tombstone & San Xavier, How the West was Won!

This Tombstone & San Xavier, How the West was Won! Tour is a fabulous option if you want to focus on photos of the wild west in Tucson, while hearing the stories behind the places!

• Big Nose Kate’s Saloon
• Good Enough Mine Tour
• University of Arizona & Historic Old Main
• Historic Hotel Congress
• St. Augustine Cathedral
• Mission San Xavier del Bac
• OK Corral Reenactment & More
• Davis-Monthan Air Force Base

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from A Tripadvisor Reviewer: “A must do even if not interested in Wild West. Tombstone is an interesting and great little spot to visit. San Xavier is also very picturesque and Boneyards a sight to see! Mike was friendly and informative.”

📸 Learn More About this Tombstone & San Xavier, How the West was Won! Tour Here

3. When Nature Calls – Exploring the Sonoran Desert Tour

This When Nature Calls – Exploring the Sonoran Desert Tour is the best choice for outdoor photography on a guided tour in Tucson with the top spots!

• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
• Saguaro National Park

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Sonia_H: “Southern Arizona Tours did an Amazing job with this tour. Taffy was full of knowledge and a great Historian and Educator. I have learned so much in a day and have seen Nature at its best. This is a tour to Remember.”

📸 Learn More About this When Nature Calls – Exploring the Sonoran Desert Tour Here

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Downtown

4. Barrio Viejo (Barrio Libre/Barrio Historico)

Barrio Viejo is Spanish for “old neighborhood”, which is fitting – it’s a historic neighborhood that has possibly the largest collection of 19th century adobe structures in the US. It used to have even more, but years ago a lot of them were destroyed to make way for a convention center.

The neighborhood went through a time of disrepair, until it became a cultural icon in recent years with historic preservation and revitalization, making this area perfect for Instagram photos, too!

• Colorful 19th century adobe houses that make excellent photoshoot backdrops
• Restaurants & Pubs, including authentic Mexican cantinas
• The Jewish History Museum
• Teatro Carmen
• El Parque de San Cosmé
• Cesar Chavez Park with Sunday farmer’s market
• El Tiradito Wishing Shrine (El Tiradito)

5. Rosendo S. Perez Park

Rosendo S. Perez Park overlaps a bit with Barrio Viejo, but is a park worth mentioning because it’s a great spot for photoshoots, or another location after the colorful houses of the neighborhood, to find more places for engagement photoshoots, prom and graduation photos and more!

Rosendo S. Perez Park is a great Instagram location as well, because it’s covered with murals that celebrate the history and culture of the neighborhood, with Aztec and Mexican imagery!

• La Pilita Fountain of Youth

6. Congress Street

Congress Street is also known as the “main drag” for downtown, and this is an excellent location to capture the historic and modern city combined! It’s also the location of some of the best restaurants, cafes, bars, nightlife and festivals/events in Tucson (keep reading for those later on in this post)!

Many of these spots have their own listings in this post, so keep reading to learn more!

• Sidewalk cafes & Vintage shopping
• Preserved historic sites with skyscrapers in the background
• Tucson Museum of Art & The Museum of Contemporary Art
• Etherton Gallery of photography
• The Historic Depot
• Temple of Music and Art
• Rialto Theatre
• Fox Tucson Theatre
• The Screening Room
• Cobra Arcade Bar
• University of Arizona

7. The Lost Barrio Historic Warehouse District

The Lost Barrio Historic Warehouse District is located at the east end of downtown near the University of Arizona. It consists of 3 city blocks with unique and colorful shops that make excellent photo backdrops or subjects (especially for fashion photoshoots), as well as cafes and more!

• Antique stores
• Southwestern & Mexican decor shops
• High-quality Mexican import shops
• Tooley’s cafe
• La Casa Mexicana
• Petroglyphs
• Eclectic Flea

8. Greetings From Tucson Mural

The Greetings From Tucson Mural is also one of Tucson’s most Instagrammable spots, and one of the most iconic photo locations in the city! The mural was painted by artists Victor Ving and Lisa Beggsis and features Tucson icons in the letters.

It’s located at E 7th St & N Arizona Ave, Tucson, AZ 85705.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Frank Ramos (@frank.ramos1)

9. Fox Tucson Theater

The Fox Theater in downtown Tucson is a historic theatre that originally opened in 1930 as a vaudeville and movie house. Today, after being renovated it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Iconic neon sign
• Southwestern Art Deco decor (interior & exterior)
• Live performances & classic films
• Event rentals , including weddings, receptions, Awards Ceremonies, Film Screenings & more

10. Rialto Theater

The Rialto Theater is nonprofit, historical theater in downtown Tucson that has been revitalized and is a premiere concert venue today. Like all theaters named “Rialto”, it’s named after a medieval bridge in Venice Italy where common people could go for entertainment, as opposed to the theaters for only the rich.

It was originally built in the 1910s and opened in 1922, showing vaudeville shows and movies. The theater is thought to be haunted as well.

• Historic architecture built by the same architects as the Hotel Congress
• Live Performances

11. Teatro Carmen

Teatro Carmen is yet another historic theater in downtown Tucson that makes a great photoshoot backdrop and Instagram spot! It was one of the first exclusively Spanish theaters in Tucson, showing plays, movies and live events like boxing matches.

While you can’t enter the theater today as the inside is still being restored. It’s owned by the Arizona Historical Society and you can go take photos in front of the restored adobe facade!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Teatro Carmen (@teatro_carmen)

12. Old Town Artisans

Old Town Artisans is located in a historic adobe building from the 1850s, and is filled with local artist vendors and more. You can find Native American art and more here.

It’s located in a historic shopping block in downtown Tucson that is located in the same area as El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson, a fort built in 1775 by the Spanish looking to claim New Spain territory. The shopping block used to be the location of the stables, and you can still find original elements like saguaro cactus ceilings, whisky barrel staves and gold-leaf moldings.

• Restaurants, ice cream shop & more
• Historic architecture

13. Historic Pima County Courthouse

The Historic Pima County Courthouse is a Tucson icon that was originally built in 1929 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Besides the iconic architecture, this building is famous (infamous?) for trials, especially of John Dillinger, “America’s Public Enemy #1”. He was a celebrity gangster and bank robber, and he and his gang members were held in the courthouse. This was featured in a 1980s movie starring Gene Wilder called Stir Crazy .

Clark Gable also sat on trial here as part of a damage lawsuit, and the location has also been used in movies.

• Historic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture (named “most outstanding Colonial Revival Building in Arizona”)
• Blue-tiled mosaic dome
• Hollywood notoriety

14. Armory Park

Armory Park is a historic park at the location of Camp Lowell, established by the US Army in 1866 for military protection to Tucson residents. Part of the site later became an armory in 1913 in Military Plaza, which today is Armory Park.

• Historic Monuments
• Shuffleboard, Bocce Ball & Horseshoes
• Public events like yoga classes

15. Mercado District

The Mercado District is a market district in Tucson that’s a great place to live, shop and eat, as well as – of course – take photos and do photoshoots!

The area is located on the Streetcar line, so it’s easy to reach, and on either end of the district you’ll find shopping centers – the Mercado San Agustín and the MSA Annex . The street these are both on is the Avenida Del Convento , a gorgeous tree-lined street where you can also get amazing photos !

• Spanish colonial architecture
• Other diverse architecture
• Colorful buildings and greenery
• Iconic “Mercado San Agustín” Market sign
• Mercado San Agustín open-air courtyard
• Tree-lined Avenida Del Convento
• Restaurants

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Saguaro National Park

🥾☀️ Tips : – When planning hikes and time outdoors in Arizona, always check the weather and other information on each site’s website. Summer is really hot, and there is a monsoon season where flash floods can occur. – Always wear sunscreen and bring a hat, sunglasses and at least a gallon of water per person, plus electrolyte packets. Know the signs of dehydration. – Wear good hiking boots and gear, and bring plenty of snacks. – Make sure you have paper maps and a plan. Many areas do not get good cell service. If needed, get a tour guide. – Always keep your distance from wildlife. Bring a long zoom lens if you plan on photographing animals. – Go early in the morning to avoid the most heat. – Practice the 7 “Leave No Trace” Principles.

Saguaro National Park is a large national park, and the two sides are divided because they have very different landscapes and vegetation! It also takes an hour to get from the East to West and vice-versa (downtown is centrally located between the two), so you may not want to do both in one day/photoshoot (and if you do, you’ll want to plan ahead)!

The park is open all year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Their busy season is November-March. You can find the best blooms and cactus from late February-March, and winter is also cooler, which is nicer for hiking!

July is the worst time to visit because it’s monsoon season and there are flash floods.

Tip: Check for current park conditions, entrance fees and more here!

Wildlife in the park includes jackrabbits, birds, roadrunners, horned lizards, gila monsters, kangaroo rats, collared peccaries, and more!

Saguaro National Park is the perfect spot for outdoor photoshoots, nature and wildlife photography and more. Here’s more information about each side and their respective visitor’s centers:

16. Saguaro National Park East (Rincon Mountain District)

The East side, known as the Rincon Mountain District (RMD), is mountainous. It’s the bigger of the two and has the most hiking spots.

• Mountains and hiking areas
• Paved roads, including the Cactus Forest Loop Scenic Drive
• Camping (hike-in only backcountry sites – reservations are required)
• Freeman Homestead Hike
• Javelina Rocks Overlook (catch the sunset here!)
• Tanque Verde Ridge 0.5-mile hike (catch the sunset here!)
• Cactus Forest Overlook
• Loma Verde Trailhead
• Desert Ecology Trail
• Nature & Wildlife Photography, also including black bears and deer in higher altitudes on Mica Mountain

The Rincon Mountain Visitor Center (East) is where you can get a visitor’s pass, find a bathroom, get maps and more. Check for their hours and fees here .

17. Saguaro National Park West (Tucson Mountain District)

The West side of Saguaro, also called the Tucson Mountain District (TMD), is known for its vegetation and having the most cactus plants. It’s also the more popular side for visitors, and is right beside the Sonoran Desert Museum and Old Tucson.

• Giant Saguaro Cacti & Desert blooms
• Birding, Nature & Wildlife Photography
• Dirt roads, including the Bajada Loop Scenic Drive
• Gates Pass (catch the sunset here!)
• Safford Peak (Sombrero Peak)
• Sus Picnic Area
• Bajada Wash Trailhead
• Hugh Norris Trailhead
• Valley View Overlook (one of the best in the park!)
• Signal Hill Picnic Area with over 200 Native American Petroglyphs
• Red Hills Visitor Center patio views

The Red Hills Visitor Center (West) is where you can park, get maps, find a restroom and more. Learn more here .

Tip: Cell service is poor throughout the park, so make sure to plan in advance!

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Outdoor Photoshoot Locations

These are all the best photoshoot locations you can use for photoshoots, Instagram, wildlife and nature photography and more!

📸 Tip: Commercial and professional photography and filming special use permits are required for commercial photographers to use Pima County Parks as photoshoot locations. Find out more here .

18. Tucson Mountain Park

Tucson Mountain Park is a 20,000-acre historic park that was first established in 1929. It’s one of the largest natural resource areas owned by a local US government. It’s a great spot for photoshoots of all kinds, from engagements to prom and more!

• Gates Pass Scenic Overlook views
• Horseback riding
• Mountain Biking
• Amazing mountain views
• Sunset photography
• Nature & Wildlife photography, including birdwatching
• Historic structures & Historical signs
• Archery range

19. Agua Caliente Regional Park (Oasis in the Desert)

Agua Caliente Park (also known as Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Regional Park) is a historic site in the Tanque Verde Valley, and a nonprofit organization takes care of the site to preserve the Sonoran desert plants and wildlife habitats. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places. There was a fire in 2022, but the park has since reopened.

Note: There are “off-limits” areas of the park that must be protected for the natural water source. The spring’s source is off-limits as well as other areas – learn more here .

• Nature & Wildlife photography
• Photoshoots for couples, weddings, engagements, prom, graduation and more
• Palm Trees, more kinds of trees and Wildflowers
• Ranch House (Visitor & Art Gallery)
• Rose Cottage (Pink exterior only)
• Events including classes, tours, bird walks, hikes and more (online registration and fees required)
• Walking paths
• Reservable sites for events

20. Rio Vista Natural Resource Park

Rio Vista Park Natural Resource Park is a community and natural resource park in Tucson that is an excellent place for outdoor photoshoots of all kinds, wildlife and nature photography, family photos and more!

• Compassion Garden
• Walking & Biking Paths
• Playgrounds & Picnic Tables
• Rillito River Park , which has equestrian access
• Mountain views

21. Tucson Botanical Gardens

The Tucson Botanical Gardens is a 5-acre area with 17 gardens that was founded in 1964, located in midtown Tucson. You can do a photoshoot here and get a lot of variety!

Photo spots include:

• Trees including olive trees, dwarf citrus trees and more
• Specialty gardens
• Butterfly exhibits
• Birds including hummingbirds, cardinals, quail and more
• Wildflowers, Iris, Cacti, Orchids and more flowers
• Art exhibits and galleries
• Outdoor restaurant
• Classes & Events
• Wedding and Private Event Venue

📸 Check Prices for Tucson Botanical Gardens Admission Tickets Here

22. Tohono Chul Desert Botanical Gardens

The Tohono Chul Desert Botanical Gardens was named one of the World’s Great Botanical Gardens by Travel + Leisure Magazine, and it’s an amazing place for photoshoots, Instagram photos, flower photography and more!

The gardens are located on a 49-acre property where you can find desert plants, art and garden exhibits,

• Themed botanical gardens
• Art Galleries
• Outdoor Bistro
• Wedding & Private Event Venue
• Classes and tours
• Sonoran Cinema

23. Old Tucson

Old Tucson is an Old West town and theme park where you can find tons of creative photo opportunities, from family photoshoots, to graduation and even engagement photoshoots!

• Old Western town and buildings
• Live-action stunts
• Attractions, rides and shows
• Christmas decorations, events and photos with Santa
• Halloween events
• Events & Concerts

24. San Xavier del Bac Mission

The San Xavier del Bac Mission is a Spanish Catholic Mission and National Historic Landmark that was built from 1783-1797, making it the oldest intact European structure in the state of Arizona. Today it’s an active Catholic church and pilgrimage site. It’s located on the on the  Tohono O’odham Nation  San Xavier Indian Reservation.

• Historic Baroque Architecture with white stucco, Moorish-inspired facade and mesquite-wood doors (considered to be the best example of a Spanish mission in the US)
• Interior statues, frescoes, carvings and more with New Spain and Native American motifs
• Masonry vaults unique to Spanish architecture

📸 Note: The church is not available for renting, commercial advertising or film sets, or commercial photoshoots, and drones are prohibited.

25. San Pedro Chapel

San Pedro Chapel is a small and picturesque adobe church located on a hill that overlooks Old Fort Lowell. It was built in 1932 and is no longer a functioning church, but hosts weddings and more events like lectures, art exhibits and memorials.

• Photoshoots
• Wedding Venue
• Special Event Venue
• Cacti & nature

View this post on Instagram A post shared by San Pedro Chapel, Tucson (@sanpedrochapel)

26. Cathedral of St. Augustine

The Cathedral of St. Augustine is a historic Roman Catholic church (referred to as a cathedral by many) that was founded before Arizona became a US state, in 1776. It was inspired by the Cathedral of Querétaro, Mexico, and remains the second-most photographed building in the entire Southwest!

The church was rebuilt in 1897, but wasn’t completed, and in 1928 it was given the full Mexican baroque architecture it has today, and went through renovations in 2011.

• Historic Mexican Baroque Architecture
• Facade details like desert plants
• Palm trees and grounds
• Interior decor, statues and more

27. Rattlesnake Bridge

Rattlesnake Bridge is one of the most unique photo spots in Tucson – it’s a bicycle and pedestrian bridge that literally looks like a rattlesnake, designed by artist Simon Donovan! It also won an award. The entrance was made to look like a rattlesnake head with eyes and all, and the other end is the tail!

The bridge is located east of downtown, over Broadway Blvd. at the Barraza-Aviation Parkway. This is a great spot for photoshoots and Instagram photos!

28. White Stallion Ranch

White Stallion Ranch is an award-winning dude ranch that’s been in many movies, and it’s perfect for all kinds of outdoor photoshoots, especially western-themed ones! The ranch owns one of the largest private herds of horses in Arizona and has an extensive riding program for all experience levels.

• Engagement, wedding and couples photoshoots
• Fashion photoshoots
• Prom and graduation photoshoots
• Horseback riding (every day except Sundays)
• Cowboy skill training
• Wine & Cheese rides, Beer & Cheetos rides and Hay rides
• Lodging and dining
• Activities including rock climbing, e-biking, archery range and more
• Evening entertainment

29. Mesquite Valley Growers Nursery

The Mesquite Valley Growers Nursery is a gardening and landscaping store, and it’s 20 acres of flowering plants, fruit trees, cacti, succulents and more, as well as garden furniture and accessories like sculptures and pottery!

• Flowers, cacti and more
• Events like the annual citrus tasting
• Holiday decor
• Photoshoots, Instagram photography and more

30. Sabino Canyon Recreation Area

Sabino Canyon Recreation Area is a natural area located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, where you’ll find all kinds of outdoor photo opportunities! You will need to purchase a pass online and some activities have a fee.

• Unique desert plants and wildflowers with mountain backdrops & steep rock cliffs
• Sabino Creek, which flows nearly all year
• Bear Canyon, which has 7 waterfalls
• Bear Canyon Trail & Overlook
• Hutches Pool
• Sycamore Reservoir
• Wildlife photography, including gila monsters, bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, hawks, rattlesnakes, hummingbirds and more
• Hiking and biking, free of private vehicles
• Open-air shuttle option (tickets needed) with a tour

📸 Tip: Read drone rules and tips for this area here .

31. Catalina State Park

Catalina State Park is a 5,500-acre park located at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains. There are tons of outdoor photo opportunities here, including desert plants, wildlife, canyons, streams, picnicking, camping and so much more!

• Camping & RVs
• Mountain biking & Hiking trails
• Equestrian staging & camping area
• Wildlife photography and birdwatching, including over 170 species of birds, deer, coyotes, javelinas, bobcats & jackrabbits
• Programs & Events

32. Fort Lowell Park

Fort Lowell Park is a 59-acre city park in North-Central Tucson that is a great spot for all kinds of photos and photoshoots, especially ones that involve sports! This would be perfect for graduation photos, family photoshoots and more. Park admission and parking are free of charge, too!

• Outdoor photoshoots
• Playgrounds, ball fields, racquetball & tennis courts
• Mile-long walking path
• Turf and sand volleyball courts
• Picnic tables and grills
• Rentable Ramadas
• Trees and greenery
• Pond with fountain, turtles and more wildlife
• Upcoming Splash Pad
• Swimming pool ($1 for kids, $2 for adults)
• Fort Lowell History Museum (Free entry, donations welcome)

33. Himmel Park

Himmel Park is a historic 25.4-acre park in midtown Tucson that is in a nice neighborhood and is well-loved by locals, as one of the oldest parks in the city (Himmel means “heaven” in German!). It’s the perfect spot for photoshoots, nature and wildlife photography and more! The park has free admission and parking.

• Swimming pool
• Tree-lined path
• Fitness Areas
• Birdwatching and more wildlife photography
• Natural amphitheater
• Shuffleboard court, tennis courts, multi-use court & basketball half court
• Playgrounds
• Picnic Tables & Grills

34. Ventana Canyon Hiking Trail

Ventana Canyon Hiking Trail takes you to one of the most photo-worthy canyons in the Santa Catalina front range mountains. It’s also one of the least visited, meaning you’re more likely to get the place to yourself to get amazing photos!

🥾 Tip : Keep in mind that the trail can be steep and rocky, and requires caution and some experience. The trail is 4.8 miles to Maiden Pools, and 12.3 miles to The Window, round-trip.

Ventana means “window” in Spanish, and there is an opening the name refers to, which is a 15×25-foot opening in a rock at the peak of one of the mountains that you’ll reach by the hike.

• The “window”
• Panoramic mountain views
• Canyon photos
• Birdwatching and wildlife photography
• Nature photography
• Some pools and a creek, with water in the summer

35. Michael Perry Park

Michael Perry Park is a hidden, 7.6-acre neighborhood park with free admission where you can go for outdoor photoshoots, graduation and prom photos, events and much more!

• Basketball court and ball fields
• Connects to Pantano River Park via The Loop
• Children’s Memorial Garden

36. Finger Rock Trail

Finger Rock Trail is an iconic landmark on the Pusch Ridge skyline! It’s a 100-foot tall rock formation that looks like a closed hand with the index finger making a “#1” sign.

The trail to Finger Rock Canyon has an easy start and gets harder as you go, so you’ll need a moderate level of fitness, or you can go as far as you like for any level! You can also keep going all the way to Ventana Canyon.

• Iconic finger rock formation
• Nature and wildlife photography of the Upper Sonoran Zone (yucca, live oak, juniper, agave and more)
• Canyon photography

37. Sweetwater Wetlands Park

Sweetwater Wetlands Park is a hidden gem in Tucson, which makes it an excellent spot for photos and photoshoots! It’s a public park, wildlife habitat and water treatment facility. The wetlands use exclusively reclaimed water.

• Sunrise and sunset photography
• Nature & Wildlife photography, especially birds and water habitats
• Family photoshoots, couples photoshoots and more
• Self-guided tours
• Over 2.5 miles of paths, some of it wheelchair accessible
• Bike path that is part of the Loop pathways

38. Bowen Hidden Canyon Trail

Bowen Hidden Canyon Trail is a 2-mile loop trail that is moderate-level and takes about an hour to complete (more when you’re taking all the photos)! It’s a popular hiking area and is open throughout the year. It’s popular, but its location is hidden away near the JW Marriott Resort at Start Pass.

• Mountain vista views (some of the best in Tucson!)
• Nature & Wildlife photography, especially the unique cacti, bobcats and more
• Sunrise & Sunset photos

39. Sentinel Peak Park (“A” Mountain)

Sentinel Peak Park is a 372.8-acre regional and historic park that is known as “A” Mountain because of its whitewashed stone “A” created by University of Arizona students in 1915, that to this day is used in homecoming festivities including being lit up at night.

The mountain is a 2,897-foot landmark, and there’s a hiking trail, park and more to find here! The mountain is made up of layers of igneous rock from various volcanic activity (the mountain is not a volcano).

The base is known as the birthplace of Tucson, as it was used by Hohokam tribe and one settlement was called “Schuk-Shon”, which means “at the foot of the black mountain”, which the Spanish pronounced “Tuk-Son”. Archaeological findings have shown that the history of the area goes back more than 4,000 years!

• Iconic stone “A”
• Hiking and biking

40. Honey Bee Canyon Park

Honey Bee Canyon Park is an 80-acre park and hidden gem in the Rancho Vistoso area of Oro Valley, and there are a lot of excellent outdoor photo ops here! They include:

• Archaeological ruins of the Hohokam people from 450 CE at Honey Bee Village, where you’ll find petroglyphs, hundreds of ancient homes and more!
• Nature and wildlife photography, including birds
• Hiking and biking trails

41. Ciénega Creek Natural Preserve

Ciénega Creek Natural Preserve is an area in Vail, AZ, about 30 minutes from Tucson. It has more than 12 miles of protected creek, and it’s an important ecosystem because it protects biodiversity that is becoming more and more rare in Arizona. There are elements of both the Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts here.

• Outdoor family photoshoots, plus more types
• Rare bird species
• Amphibians & reptiles
• The largest natural population of endangered  Gila topminnow in the US, plus other endangered species
• Desert cacti, tree canopy, creek and more
• Entrance Sign
• Archaeological remains
• Remains of the Pantano community and historic railroad, plus current tracks operated by the Southern Pacific Railroad

Tip: You’ll need a permit to hike here, which you can get online.

42. Colossal Cave Mountain Park

Colossal Cave Mountain Park , located in Oro Valley, is a fantastic spot for adventure photos and experiences, cave photos and more!

• Bats and more wildlife photography
• Camping & Picnicking
• Mountain Park – hiking, biking & horseback riding trails
• Nature & Landscape photography
• On-Site Cafe

43. Tucson Amtrak Station (Historic Train Depot)

The Historic Train Depot was a train station in 1860, and today it’s an Amtrak station and has shopping, a museum and more! It was restored in 2004 to its 1941 architectural style, which included the main depot building as well as neighboring buildings.

• Vintage train called the Locomotive 1673
• Train museum
• Maynards Market & Kitchen Restaurant
• Wyatt Earp  &  Doc Holliday  statue
• Seasonal Holiday Express event – perfect for families, especially photos with Santa!

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Event Venues

44. saguaro buttes weddings & events.

Saguaro Buttes is a wedding and event venue that is also one of the most picturesque places in Tucson!

• Wedding photography
• Sunrise, sunset and night photography
• Photography of the grounds, landscaping and more
• Outdoor wedding site with unobstructed views of Saguaro National Park
• Waterfall, Lights, Romantic Archway, decorations and more
• Floral and Citrus Gardens
• Indoor reception site with banquet hall & more
• Other wedding services available (check their website)

45. Kingan Gardens

Kingan Gardens is a wedding and event venue near downtown Tucson in the historic Kingan building with beautiful grounds for photography!

• 1900s Carriage House
• Weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, anniversary parties and more

46. Stardance Event Center

The Stardance Event Center is a rustic banquet hall wedding and event venue with outdoor and indoor settings and a fabulous mountain backdrop for photos! It borders the Saguaro National Park West not far from downtown Tucson, and the venue owns over 30 acres.

• Panoramic Tucson Mountain views
• 6,000-square-foot indoor reception area (barn-style) with 40-ft sliding doors
• Lawn for outdoor ceremonies, parties and events

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Indoor Photoshoot Locations

47. tucson warehouse and transfer studios.

Tucson Warehouse and Transfer Studios is an artist space with shops, lofts, studios and galleries in the district. It’s a great place to find indoor spaces for photoshoots, film shoots and more! The Goddess of Agave Mural is on the side of this building, too.

48. Design Studio 1127

Design Studio 1127 is an interior design firm specializing in Mexican and Southwestern decor. The Gilded Sunset and Pilita murals are located here, as well. If you’re doing an indoor photoshoot, they can help design the set!

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: University of Arizona

49. tumamoc hill.

Tumamoc Hill is another outdoor photo and hiking spot! The paved road is open from 4am-10pm every day for walking (bikes are not allowed). It’s 3 miles round-trip with 700-foot elevation gain, and there are benches, plus a Port-a-Let and a water fountain at the mid-point so you can refill water bottles.

• Wildlife photography including birdwatching
• Sunrise & Sunset photography
• Outdoor photoshoots (especially graduation!)
• Tucson city skyline views

50. Old Main Building

Old Main was the first building at the University of Arizona when the school first opened in 1891. It’s on the National Register of Historic Places. It was designed by a Phoenix architect with high ceilings and shaded porches, with bricks made on-site (this was back when students rode horses to class)!

In 1942, the building was repaired by the US Navy and used for training during WWII, then made into a campus building again in 1945.

• Historic Architecture & Grounds, with palm trees, cacti and flowers
• Outdoor staircase photos
• Berger Memorial Fountain

51. Arizona State Museum

The Arizona State Museum was established in 1893, and is the oldest and biggest anthropological research facility in the US Southwest. It’s also Arizona’s official archaeological repository, with a world-renowned conservation laboratory and preservation program.

• Rows of olive trees, flowers and the building are great for outdoor photoshoots
• Ancient artifacts from the American Southwest
• The world’s most comprehensive collection of Native North American basketry
• More museum exhibits

📸 Check Prices for Arizona State Museum Tickets Here

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Night Sky Photography

52. steward observatory (inside & outside).

The Steward Observatory , part of the University of Arizona, is part of the Astronomy Department and is one of the best astronomical studies centers in the world! The Observatory was established in 1916, and the original dome is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Observatory also has some of the best telescopes you can find, and the school has public events and tours of the labs!

• Night sky photography
• Milky Way photography
• Iconic Dome
• Telescope photography
• Events & Tours

53. Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium

The Flandrau Science Center and Planetarium is another great spot for telescope viewing and star photography at the University of Arizona, with a 16-inch telescope that’s free for use by the public. Just call ahead to see when they’re open – they have volunteers!

There are also all kinds of exhibits, including ones for kids, a fun laser show and more!

📸 Check Prices for Flandrau Science Center Tickets Here

54. Sky Bar Tucson

Sky Bar Tucson is a “solar-powered cafe by day, astronomy bar by night”! They have telescopes set up outside at night and there are even astronomers there to point out the constellations and such and even help with photos!

The bar serves drinks like galactic jungle juice and cosmic jello shots, too! Their hours are Sun-Thurs 11am-12am and Fri-Sat 11am-2am (there’s also a pizza place next door).

• Events like open mic nights, Skyraoke and trivia

55. Loews Ventana Canyon Resort

The Loews Ventana Canyon Resort is a luxury resort that has stargazing parties! The location is ideal because of the low light pollution, and the natural setting 3.5 miles from Sabino Canyon.

Photo ops & amenities include:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport shuttle
• Spa & Fitness Center
• On-Site Restaurant & Bar
• 80-foot Waterfall
• Rooms with balconies
• Sunset & Sunrise photography
• Wedding & Event Venue
• Golfing and more activities

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Jeffrey: “beautiful resort incorporated into the desert naturalized area of the Catalina foothills”

🛌 Check Prices at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort Here

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Viewpoints

Besides all the viewpoints mentioned earlier, such as overlooks and stargazing places, here are some more ways to get unique views over Tucson for amazing photos!

56. Tucson: Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Breakfast

This Tucson: Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Breakfast is an early morning, 45-60 minute hot air balloon flight over the Sonoran Desert, with breakfast after you land with a balloonist ceremony and champagne toast! You’ll also get a commemorative flight certificate.

During the flight, your pilot will tell you about history, flora, fauna and landmarks so you can get all the best aerial photos!

📸 Learn More About this Tucson Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Breakfast Here

57. Zipline Course over Sonoran Desert

This Tucson: 5 Line Zipline Course over Sonoran Desert is a fabulous way to get action photos and videos with an action camera !

This experience is located an hour outside of Tucson, and includes 5 ziplines that range from 400-1,500 feet. One is a dual line so you can zip right next to a friend!

Beyond the ziplines, this experience has short hiking trails where you can get all kinds of desert photos. You can do photoshoots and get nature and wildlife photos.

You can also get photos on the scenic drive there and back, and the property overlooks the San Pedro River Valley, the Galiuro Mountains, Tonto National Forest and the Catalina Mountains, so you can get amazing photos of the sweeping views!

📸 Learn More About this Tucson: 5 Line Zipline Course over Sonoran Desert Here

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Museums

58. degrazia gallery in the sun museum.

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum is a 10-acre National Historic District designed and built by Ettore “Ted” DeGrazia, an award-winning Arizona artist. The adobe bricks were built on-site, and the structure is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The structure is built in adobe mission style at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains and blends in with the landscape, making it an ideal place for outdoor photoshoots!

The gallery museum has permanent collections of paintings that show Southwestern historical events and native cultures, as well as rotating exhibits that display DeGrazia original paintings and more.

• The Mission in the Sun Architecture, murals and open-air roof
• Outdoor grounds, including the Cactus Courtyard, more buildings, chapel, mosaic, fountain and more outdoor artworks

59. El Presidio Museum (Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum)

The El Presidio Museum is a re-creation of the 1775 Tucson Presidio, and it lets visitors see what life was like for early Tucson residents, including Native Americans, Presidio residents and settlers during the Territorial period.

• Archaeological remains of a pit house and more
• Original Presidio wall
• Reenactments on certain days and more events

60. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

The Tucson Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum includes a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery & classes, natural history museum, and aquarium!

• 2 miles of walking paths across 21 acres of desert landscapes
• Nature photography of more than 55,000 plant species
• Wildlife photography including coyotes, javelinas, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep
• Bird photography in two aviaries – one is all hummingbirds!
• Events like World Oceans Night
• Adult trips to Mesa Verde and more!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from a GetYourGuide Traveler: “The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a great and extraordinary museum. Usually you stay here for 3-4 hours. It’s a great place for families and children. All the animals of the desert can be seen on site. Since 80 percent of the museum is outdoors, it is important to wear a hat, water (can be filled up free of charge at water points in the park) and good sunscreen. Have fun exploring the desert museum.”

📸 Check Prices for Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Admission Tickets Here

61. Pima Air & Space Museum

The Pima Air & Space Museum is one of the biggest non-government funded aviation and space museums in the world, and it’s a fantastic place for photos because you’ll find tons of airplanes,

• 6 indoor exhibit hangars (3 dedicated to WWII)

62. Tucson Museum Of Art and Historic Block

The Tucson Museum Of Art and Historic Block is an art museum and block of historic houses that make for excellent photo opportunities for mostly outdoor photoshoots! The museum also hosts an amazing art collection, and has a lot of events going on throughout the year, so make sure to check it out!

• Outdoor photoshoots in front of the Museum Building for weddings, engagements, prom & more
• Exhibitions and Permanent Art Collections
• Historic Southwestern architecture on the Historic Block
• Award-winning restaurant Café a la C’Art
• Museum events & programs

63. The Jewish History Museum & Holocaust Center

The Jewish History Museum & Holocaust Center is a non-profit museum located in Barrio Viejo that’s dedicated to education about the holocaust and other genocides, the legacy of Jewish experiences in Southern AZ, preserving Arizona’s first synagogue, and promoting human rights.

• Exhibits, including the historic synagogue built in 1910
• “Mapping Migration”, a family photo-memoir project that traces local families in Southern Arizona
• Panel discussions & events
• Human Rights Gallery
• Memorial garden & contemplation space

64. The Arizona Historical Society’s Arizona History Museum

The Arizona Historical Society’s Arizona History Museum has artifacts from archaeological digs in Arizona – you can see things unearthed from sites like Julian Wash Archaeological Park and more places, as well as more historical exhibits!

• Archaeological findings
• Transportation Gallery
• Mining Hall

Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Most Instagrammable Places

65. the mini time machine museum of miniatures.

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures is a nonprofit museum in Tucson that is dedicated to the art of miniatures! The collection includes more than 500 antique and contemporary dollhouses and roomboxes, plus special exhibits.

• Unique and diverse miniatures, like “ Ara Bentley’s Addams Family Mini Mansion ” & “ Favored by the Gods: Legendary Figures of Ancient Greece “
• Tours, including private group tours & more

📸 Tip: Flash photography is not permitted in the miniatures museum.

66. Tucson Boneyard (Davis-Monthan Air Force Base “Aircraft Boneyard”)

The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base “Aircraft Boneyard” is “the largest boneyard in the world”! It began storing military aircraft after WWII, and Tucson is ideal because of the low humidity and rainfall, hard alkaline soil, and high altitude, all of which naturally preserve the aircraft for possible reuse.

This is a really fun spot for outdoor photoshoots of all kinds, from engagements, to prom or fashion shoots, to family photoshoots and more! You can also just go take photos of the aircraft, or Instagram pictures.

67. Metal Arts Village

Metal Arts Village is part of the Fort Lowell Arts District, and has 12 individual studios of artists designing and creating in Steel, Stone, Glass, Wood, and Photography.

They have open studio nights each time there’s a full moon when you can go see all the exhibits!

68. Most Instagrammable Murals In Tucson

Tucson has a lot of murals and art to photograph! Here are the most photographed murals to find:

• La Pilita Mural by Martin Moreno (Rosendo S. Perez Park)
• Gilded Sunset Mural by Issac Caruso
• Goddess of Agave Mural (Tucson Warehouse & Transfer Co)
• Giant Whale Mural by Joe Pagac
• Gastronomy Mural by Ashley White (Zio Peppe)
• Lalo Cota’s Mural

Most Instagrammable Hotels In Tucson

Tucson has some of the most unique and impressive hotels you can find! It may be difficult to decide which one to stay in, but you can always go to the on-site restaurants, bars and more to take photos, too!

69. Lodge on the Desert

Lodge on the Desert is a super photo-worthy and Instagrammable Tucson hotel not far from the University of Arizona! It’s an Arizona landmark 100-room boutique hotel in an authentic Old Pueblo, in midtown Tucson with hacienda-style rooms and amazing amenities, plus grounds you’ll love photographing!

• Landscape photography with mountain views and lots of cacti
• Fitness Center
• Outdoor fireplace and balcony
• Wedding & Private Events spaces

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Melinda: “Very beautiful landscaping and views of the mountains. Hotel staff were exceptionally polite and friendly. Rooms were very spacious.”

🛌 Check Prices at the Lodge on the Desert Here

70. Hotel Congress

Hotel Congress is located in downtown Tucson near the airport and convention center, this historic landmark was built in 1919 and is definitely a place to get photos! It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The hotel is infamous because bank robber John Dillinger used it as a hideout until he was captured there by law enforcement during a fire in 1934. It’s also thought to be haunted.

• Original and historic elements in the hotel like vintage radios, 1930s telephone switchboard and more
• Southwest deco decor
• On-Site Nightclub & Live Entertainment
• Award-winning restaurant, the Cup Café and Maynards Kitchen
• Club Congress
• The Plaza Stage
• The Tap Room Bar
• The Century Room Jazz Club & Mezcal Lounge
• Events including HoCo Fest, Agave Heritage Fest, Surfpalooza & more

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Stacey: “The location is unbeatable, the staff is excellent, the bars and Cup Cafe are delicious, and the historic vibes are delightful. A great place to stay for a fun weekend in Tucson!”

🛌 Check Prices at Hotel Congress Tucson Here

71. Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort

The Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort is a Forbes 4-star luxury resort in the Sonoran Desert with awe-inspiring views and more photo-worthy details.

Photo ops & amenities:

• 2 Outdoor swimming pools, one is an infinity pool, with sweeping mountain views
• Pool Bar & 2 On-Site Restaurants
• Hot Tub & Jacuzzi
• Botanical Gardens
• Outdoor Fireplace & Terrace
• Sculptures, paintings, pottery, photography & tile-work
• Live Entertainment & Events
• Nearby Hiking Spots
• Some rooms have a kitchen
• American breakfast served daily
• Fitness Center & Spa

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Roxanne: “spectacular views! excellent service! great room & lovely grounds… wonderful restaurants & a great history!!”

🛌 Check Prices at the Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort Here

72. Graduate Tucson

Graduate Tucson is, as its name implies, on the campus of the University of Arizona. It’s close to Arizona Stadium and downtown Tucson, and has multiple things to make it worth photographing and staying in!

• Southwestern-inspired decor
• The Moonstone rooftop bar & restaurant with photo-worthy skyline views of downtown Tucson, Mt. Lemmon and more
• Outdoor rooftop swimming pool
• Lobby coffee shop
• Complimentary bike rentals
• Curated local art collection with Desert Landscape Art, Native American Art & Modern Sketch Art
• Wedding & Private Event Rentals
• Events & Live Entertainment

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Vanessa: “We love the convenience of being near University with lots of shops and cafes to walk to. The hotel staff was incredibly friendly and the room was really clean and comfortable. We loved our view of downtown from the top floor!”

🛌 Check Prices at Graduate Tucson Here

73. Hotel McCoy

Hotel McCoy “Art, Coffee, Beer Wine” is a amazing 1960’s mid-century, 3-star hotel with modern art, local beer and wine, a local bookstore onsite, and much more to fill your camera and experiences! Plus, they’re committed to serving the local community, and even the coffee and tea are locally sourced!

• Heated saltwater pool
• Lobby art gallery with local Arizona art and murals
• Local beer & wine bar
• Zen Zone & water feature
• Outdoor firepit
• Live Entertainment & Events, like swim with a mermaid
• On-Site, locally-owned bookstore
• pinball, ping pong, cornhole & foosball
• A-shaped entrance with exposed beams
• Entire property is on the ground floor
• Some rooms have a mountain view
• Continental breakfast
• Rooms have local art, green tea memory foam mattress, retro fridge, chalkboard canvas & more photo ops
• Event Venue

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from Maria: “pretty cool hotel, has everything you need, you don’t even need to go out. They had live music, a food truck, bar and pool. We even got to use the bikes that they offer for free to go to downtown. Will stay here every time I go to Tucson from now on.”

🛌 Check Prices at Hotel McCoy Here

74. JW Marriott at Starr Pass Resort

JW Marriott at Starr Pass Resort is a luxury resort & spa located in a Saguaro Cactus forest with 3 golf courses, 3 outdoor swimming pools, an extensive spa and much more to enjoy and photograph!

• Amazing mountain & city views and desert landscapes
• 3 outdoor swimming pools
• 3 golf courses with 27 holes that Arnold Palmer and more famous golfers have visited
• 4 on-site dining options with patios
• Multiple hot tubs
• Every room has a balcony or patio
• Fitness Center with Yoga & Pilates
• Events like Mitakuye Oyasin ritual, held at sunrise on the Salud Terrace with traditional burning of sage and a Native American flute serenade, sunset tequila toast & more
• Nearby hiking and biking trails, including guided hikes
• Sunset, Sunrise & Night photography

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Nicholas: “The setting of the property is breathtaking overlooking the nearby mountains and the city in the distance. The facilities are top-notch and the staff is very helpful and customer friendly.”

🛌 Check Prices at the JW Marriott at Starr Pass Resort Here

75. The Citizen Hotel Tucson

The Citizen Hotel is a new boutique hotel in a renovated historic building, which was Tucson’s first newspaper press and was built in 1921! The hotel is focused on giving visitors an immersive experience into Arizona’s Sonoita wine region.

This hotel is a really unique and somewhat exclusive experience, with only 10 luxury rooms! All rooms have high ceilings, Arizona clay walls, a fridge and local snacks. The bath suites are luxurious as well – they’re oversized with benches, cedar-lined closets, spa robes and more!

• Room decor and bathrooms
• Handcrafted furniture & Quartz entryways
• Individual soaking tubs
• On-Site Restaurant, the Red Light Lounge
• Wine Club Memberships

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by J, “Absolute Hidden Gem of a Boutique Hotel!”: “Large, clean rooms – the soaking tub was AMAZING! The shared spaces and bar were fantastic as well. Within easy walking distance of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and entertainment. There’s really nothing negative I have to say about the place. Staff was extremely helpful and responsive. Thanks for an amazing stay!”

🛌 Check Prices at The Citizen Hotel Tucson Here

76. Most Instagrammable Restaurants, Cafes & Bars In Tucson

Honestly, it’s difficult to go wrong in Tucson when it comes to restaurants and food – Tucson is the first city in the U.S. to be given the title of UNESCO City of Gastronomy ! Here are some places to get you started:

• El Charro Cafe : the oldest Mexican restaurant in the US, still run by the same family that opened it in 1922!
• Tucson Hop Shop , a beer garden
• The Cup Cafe , which has impressive desserts and more, at Hotel Congress
• 5 Points Market & Restaurant
• Coronet Restaurant/Nightjar/Cafe (formerly Cushing Street Bar)
• Cartel Roasting Co.
• Presta Coffee Roasters
• Prep & Pastry
• Tito & Pep
• Seis in Joesler Village
• Barrio Brewing Co

77. Best Photo Spots In Tucson: Festivals & Events

Tucson has many events throughout the year! Here are some to consider for photography:

• Agave Heritage Festival
• All Soul’s Procession/MMOS
• Dillinger Days: reenactments, food, and music
• Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase
• Parade of Lights & Festival
• Meet Me at Maynards walk/run
• Second Saturdays Downtown

78. Best Photo Spots Near Tucson: Mount Lemmon

Mt. Lemmon is about an hour’s drive from Tucson, and you’ll get this mountain in your photos from a distance, but it’s also worth a visit in its own right! it’s the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains at 9,171 feet, and its a Sky Island in the Coronado National Forest (which means the elevation and environment are drastically different from the surrounding areas)!

Photo ops and activities include hiking, biking, skiing in Sky Valley with views from the Sky Ride experience, rock climbing and more – the mountain is an average of 30 degrees cooler than Tucson, so you can also use it to get a break from the heat!

• Sky Island Scenic Byway
• Windy Point Vista, one of the most Instagrammable spots in Tucson (also a popular outdoor wedding spot)
• Hoodoo Viewpoint
• Pusch Ridge Wilderness

This guided audio tour of Mount Lemmon will allow you to ride in an air-conditioned vehicle to see Mount Lemmon from Tucson! You’ll get to take photos to your heart’s content, look through provided binoculars and even get photos taken of you and/or your group by your guide!

🌟 Check out this 5-star review from WilliamM: “Timothy is an excellent knowledgeable guide. His passion for Tucson and the Coronado National forest spills out during the entire tour. He takes you to great scenic spots and captures majestic memorable images for your group. worth every cents.”

📸 Learn More About this Guided Audio Tour of Mount Lemmon (Oasis Tour of Tucson) Here

Best Photo Spots Near Tucson

79. phoenix.

Phoenix is around a 2-hour drive from Tucson, and there are many more photo ops to find there! It’s the 5th-most populated US city, and the Grand Canyon is there, which is one of the best photo spots in the country! You can make a day trip or add onto a Tucson trip with a stop in Phoenix.

👉 Check out this guide to all the best photo spots in and around Phoenix, AZ!

80. Kitt Peak National Observatory

Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO) is about a 50-minute drive from Tucson, and is one of the best places to go for astronomy and star photography! They have the largest and most diverse collection of telescopes in the world. A great way to experience them is by going to one of their nightly stargazing programs.

81. Empire Ranch

Distance from Tucson: around 50 miles

The Empire Ranch is a large adobe house with wood framing that is on the National Register of Historic Places – it was built in 1870! The ranch is located in the Las Ciénegas National Conservation Area (NCA), a 42,000-acre area.

The ranch has 22 rooms, some of which are accessible through the breezeway, as well as the public restrooms.

• Historic Architecture
• Wildlife and nature photography
• Special events like trail rides, western movies and more

82. Way Out West Ranch

Way Out West Ranch is in Marana, AZ and is a great spot for horseback riding, and the family-owned ranch uses rescue horses. It’s also out in the Sonoran Desert miles away from paved roads, so you can have a lot of unencumbered photo ops!

83. Picacho Peak State Park

Picacho Peak State Park is about a 50-minute drive from Tucson, and its a 1,500-foot peak that has a unique geological shape that has been used as a landmark since prehistoric times

• Nature & Wildlife photography, especially the wildflowers
• Visitor Center with exhibits
• Landscape photography

Bonus – Best Photo Spots Near Tucson: Day Tours

“fine wineing” – a wine tasting experience in the vineyards of the desert.

This Desert Wine Tasting Experience is a day trip to Sonoita and Elgin , where wine is made in Southern Arizona, deep in the Sonoran Desert! You’ll be able to taste all the wine, and take all the photos, you want with a professional guide and driver!

The experience includes visits to three wineries, lunch at Autumn Sage Vineyards, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

• Landscape and nature photography
• Instagrammable winery photos

📸 Learn More About this Desert Wine Tasting Tour Here

Friday; The Tour Too Tough to Die – Tombstone/ Bisbee

This Tombstone/ Bisbee Day Trip from Tucson is an all-day tour (8 hours) that will take you into Bisbee and Tombstone, around 1.5 hours away from Tucson. Bisbee has antique shopping, and you’ll stop for photos in the 1902 Copper Queen Hotel. Tombstone is known for being the home of famous people like Doc Holiday and Wyatt Earp.

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Anne_C: “Don’t miss the stagecoach ride or lunch at the salon with the entertainment. The walk around town is so much fun dodging in and out of the shops and museums. Pick up the flyer on the grave yard near tombstone. It was truly the wild wild west.”

📸 Learn More About this Tombstone/ Bisbee Day Trip from Tucson Here

Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour

This Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour is a 3+ hour tour in Florence, AZ, in the Pinal Mountains and Box Canyon, which are halfway between Tucson and Phoenix, on dirt trails with an ATV.

• Native American Petroglyphs
• Old adobe building used in the 1860s by the Butterfield Overland Stage Coach Company
• Box Canyon, a slot canyon with walls that are 10-20ft apart, and 900 feet high

📸 Learn More About this Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains Half-Day ATV Tour Here

Places to Stay In Tucson On Any Budget

✅ budget option: university inn tucson.

University Inn Tucson the number one top-rated budget hotel in Tucson, and it also has great photo ops! It’s popular with guests for the price, comfort, location, staff, decor and more things.

• Modern design with wall murals & pops of color
• Daily continental breakfast
• Fridge and microwave in each air-conditioned room

🌟 Check out this 5-star review by Judith: “Had a quick overnight stay. Newly updated with comfortable beds, interesting decoration and good towels. Good wifi. No problem with a late arrival.”

🛌 Check Availability at University Inn Tucson Here

✅ Mid-Tier Option: Graduate Tucson

The Graduate Tucson was mentioned in Tucson’s most Instagrammable hotels, and it’s also the top-rated mid-priced hotel in the city. It’s close to downtown Tucson on the campus of the University of Arizona, and you’ll definitely feel the college nostalgia staying here!

✅ Luxury Option: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort

The Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort was also mentioned in the most Instagrammable hotels in Tucson, and it also happens to be the most highly rated luxury hotel in the area! It’s a Forbes 4-star luxury resort in the Sonoran Desert with awe-inspiring views and more photo-worthy details.

🛏️ VRBO is a great place to find vacation rental houses for yourself or a whole group to have the entire place to yourself.

Getting to and around Tucson

👉 Flights: WayAway is a flight aggregator that helps you find the cheapest flights. Use the code MUKI-TRAVELS for 10% off WayAway Plus.

👉 Sun Link Streetcar : The Sun Link is a modern streetcar that was started in 2014 in Tucson, and goes through Congress Street to connect downtown to the University of Arizona, plus more neighborhoods and areas.

👉 Rent a car in Tucson: Discover Cars is a great tool to use to find the best deals.

👉 Airport Transfer in Tucson: Here’s a Tucson International Airport One Way Transfer you can book!

Photography Gear for Tucson Photoshoots

📸 There are DSLRs, Mirrorless options and more that are all great to consider. Check out this guide to the Best Cheap Cameras For Travel Photography Beginners for small, lightweight and affordable cameras of every kind (including Mirrorless, DSLR, action cameras, vlogging cameras, instant camera, point-and-shoot and more)!

I currently own and use this Canon 6D DSLR camera . It has wifi connectivity and is a full-frame professional camera:

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

• Well-built and weather sealed
• Lightweight for travel
• 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• 45-point all cross-type AF system

📸 For even more affordable DSLR options, check out this post on the 5 Best DSLR Cameras Under $300 .

Depending on your photography style, you might want a wide angle, telephoto (for close-up nature and wildlife photography), and standard zoom for an all-around lens.

I use this Canon EF 16-35mm Wide-Angle Zoom Lens , because I love wide-angle photos but don’t want to sacrifice zoom capability:

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L is USM Lens - 9518B002, Black

• Make sure this fits by entering your model number
• Full-time manual focus permits critical focusing precision, even in AF mode. Help provide excellent color balance
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF covers Approx. 100% Area with 1,053 AF Areas

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is one of the best drone options for travel photography, because it’s lightweight and folds to fit in a camera bag:

DJI Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo Plus

• Lightweight and compact, no registration required for easy travel
• Stunning 4K/60fps HDR vertical videos, perfect for capturing various scenic landscapes
• Omnidirectional obstacle sensing for enhanced safety during flights

✅ GoPro Action Camera

A GoPro is a perfect addition to your main camera to capture water sports, hiking, biking or horseback riding, zip-lining or anything that involves movement! The GoPro HERO 11 Black is waterproof down to 10m (33ft) without housing:

GoPro HERO 11 Black

• 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video
• Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth Image Stabilization
• Up to 75 minutes of uninterrupted video recording

✅ 4-In-One Travel Tripod

I use this tripod because it works for both DSLRs/Mirrorless cameras and smartphones, plus doubles as a selfie stick, monopod and trekking poles! It’s also lightweight and folds small enough to fit in your suitcase (and did I mention, it’s affordable?):

4-In-1 Travel Tripod

• Beginner-friendly with room for growth
• Works with smartphones & cameras
• Folds up small & lightweight
• Turns into a selfie stick & trekking poles
• Comes with a carrying case
• Affordability

✅ Memory Card for DSLR/Mirrorless

SanDisk Extreme Pro memory cards are the best for cameras because they prevent issues with photography and video that happen with lower quality memory cards:

SanDisk Extreme Pro Memory Card (Regular Size SD Card)

• Best for taking more photos & video
• Temperature Proof, Water Proof, Shock Proof & X-ray Proof

✅ Remote Shutter

A Remote Shutter, like this one for Canon , is excellent for low-light and long-exposure photography, including sunrise or night photos:

Camera Remote Shutter Release Wireless

• Compatibility with a lot of cameras (be sure to check for yours)
• Works at 2.4GHz frequency with 16 available channels
• Reduces camera shake
• 5 Shooting Modes

Here’s a remote shutter (2-pack) for smartphones :

Remote shutter (2-pack) for smartphones

• Seamless Selfies and Steady Shots - Compatible with Social Media Apps
• Pocket-Sized Convenience
• Operational range of up to 30 feet (10 meters)

✅ Circular Polarizer

A Circular Polarizer is perfect for capturing lake reflections and getting the bottom of bodies of water – just make sure to get the correct size for your lens:

Circular Polarizer Camera Lens Filter

• Circular polarizer--one of the most popular special-effect filters
• Deepens the intensity of blue skies; reduces or eliminates glare
• Multi-coating reduces reflection

✅ For more photography guides & gear, check out these posts:

📸 The Top 5 Best Camera Straps For Backpacking 📸 Mukikapup’s Ultimate Travel Photography Guide

🛂 National Parks Passport

America’s National Parks Store is where you can get National Park passports, clothing and more. They donate a portion of their proceeds to the National Parks System!

🥾 Visit America’s National Parks Passport Store Here

What to Consider for Photography in Tucson, AZ

👉 Weather. Tucson summers are extremely hot, and the winters and cooler and drier. It doesn’t rain much, but the temperature gets up to more than 107°F in the summer! The hottest time of year is from May 25-Sept 17, with July being the hottest month. The “dry heat” is hot, but you can cool off easier.

The cool season in Tucson is from Nov 22-Feb 28, and the high temperature average is 72°F. The coldest month is December.

The best times to visit Tucson are April-May and Sept-Oct. These are the shoulder seasons, when weather is nicer and it’s cheaper to visit!

👉 Wildlife. Tucson has a lot of desert wildlife to photograph, but be sure to keep your distance from animals and know what to watch for for safety and photography! This includes over 500 species of birds plus Mountain Lions, Rattlesnakes, Scorpions, Gila Monsters and many more. When photographing wildlife:

• You’ll need at least a 400mm lens
• Make sure the sun is behind you
• Afternoon light is better for photography of animals

👉 Cactus. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to get cactus stickers that are really painful and annoying to get out of skin, clothes and hair (believe me… I have stories from archaeological digs near cacti in Israel )! In addition, in Arizona sometimes animals make their homes inside cactus plants, so it’s best to keep your distance.

The best time to photograph cacti is during golden hour, when you can get the sun shining on them, creating a glow. In this case, you want the sun in front of you, not behind you. You can also have the sun behind you if there’s a rock or mountain for the light to bounce off of to light up the plants!

FAQs: Best Places To Take Pictures In Tucson

👉 Is Tucson a beautiful place?

Yes, Tucson is one of the most beautiful places in the US! It’s located in the Sonoran Desert, and there are unique plants like cacti and more, plus four mountain ranges.

👉 What is the most photographed spot in Arizona?

The Grand Canyon, in Phoenix, is the most photographed spot in Arizona.

All In All: Best Photoshoot Locations In Tucson, Arizona

I hope this guide helps you find your best and most awe-inspiring photo spots in Tucson, plus tips for photos, where to stay and more if you’re visiting!

For more Western US places to photograph, check out:

📸 Best Photography Spots In Colorado Springs 📸 Best Rocky Mountain National Park Photography Locations 📸 Best Photography Spots In Southern California 📸 Best Photography Spots In Lake Tahoe 📸 Best Photography Spots In Salt Lake City, Utah 📸 Best San Antonio Photography Spots

📸 For all my US photo spots guides, check out this page!

Get my FREE guide on How To Take Better Smartphone Photos

Hi! I'm Sarah Simon, the founder of Mukikapup's Travels! I created this blog as a place to share travel and photography tips that I've learned and additional research using my experience solo traveling and living abroad, plus getting various degrees, including a Masters in Archaeology from Tel Aviv University in Israel. Mukikapup is a character my grandfather created to tell us stories about - read more on my "about" page. I'm so glad you're here!

Where Jess Travels

Oia Photo Spots: 10 Unmissable Locations For Beautiful Shots

Looking for the best Oia photo spots? The charming town is one of the most photogenic places I’ve visited. So to make the most of your trip, this guide covers 10 of my favourite places to capture the perfect shot.

The first time I visited Santorini, it was a whistle stop tour at the end of two weeks island hopping . We were flying home from there, so we did a very quick day trip to Oia. It was crowded and boiling hot, but undeniably beautiful.

I knew I wanted to visit again and take the time to explore it properly, and I’ve just got back from a week relaxing on the island.

Oia is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited, with its blue-domed churches, cave houses built into the caldera, and charming cobbled streets. So it’s pretty difficult to take a bad picture here.

But, it does get very busy, and I know how overwhelming it can be to be sweaty, fed up, and also trying to find this one spot you saw on Instagram, with no clue where it actually is.

So to help you quickly find the best Oia photo spots, I’ve put together this guide with 10 of my favourites. I’ve also added their Google maps location, and they’re in order of how you’ll come across them as you walk through the town.

* Some links in this post are affiliate links. It won’t make a difference to what you pay, but I may earn a small commission if you purchase something I’ve recommended. I’m really grateful for your trust in my advice, and if I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend, I won’t recommend it to you.

Top tip for getting the best photos in Oia

To capture beautiful shots in Oia, I’d recommend booking a photographer . They know the best places to go, when the lighting will be the nicest in each spot, and how to direct you to get the perfect photo.

It’s very common to see people having professional photos taken in Oia, so you don’t need to worry about looking out of place.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ MY PICK:  Photo Shoot with a Private Vacation Photographer . It has   a 4.9 star rating from over 150 reviews and plans a custom route based on what you want to see. Plus, it focuses on capturing candid moments rather than overly posed ones. Book now !

If you’re shooting alone, I’ve made a guide to all of my camera equipment , which includes what camera I use, my lenses, tripod, and all of the accessories I wouldn’t be without!

10 best Oia photo spots

Here’s my 10 favourite Oia photo spots, from the stunning blue domed churches, to the ruins of Oia castle.

1. The Church of Panagia Platsani

Google maps location: 36.4621025,25.3762292

There’s around 70 churches in Oia, but the Church of Panagia Platsani is one of the largest and most beautiful. It’s also one of the first churches you’ll see as you come into Oia, as it’s located in the main square.

The church was originally located inside the walls of Oia castle, but was rebuilt in its new location after it was destroyed in the 1956 earthquake.

The building consists of 5 domes, arched windows, a bell tower and beautiful detailing, and it’s a stunning backdrop for a photo.

Good to know: The square outside the church gets so busy in the day, you can barely move for people. So I really recommend visiting early.

2. Churches of St. Anastasi and St.Spirydon (viewpoint A)

These two churches are next to each other on the edge of the caldera, and they’re one of the best Oia photo spots.

They were built in the 1800s, and are a typical example of Santorinian architecture, with the white buildings and blue domes.

There’s two different viewpoints for getting photos of the churches, but number 2 is definitely my favourite.

Spot A) Google maps location: 36.461278,25.375639

With the Church of Panagia Platsani on your right, follow the main street towards Oia until you see a small church on your left. Turn left down the street in front of it, and then turn right at the end. From here, follow the steps down until you find the perfect place for your photo.

3. Blue domes of St.Anastasi church (viewpoint B)

Spot B) Google maps location: 36.461333, 25.375250

This is probably the most iconic of all the Oia photo spots, and easily my favourite. You’ll get a view of St. Anastasi church and out to sea, and it’s absolutely beautiful.

Although a lot of blog posts mentioned that this spot had a “private property” sign, it wasn’t there when I visited, and you were able to take photos at your leisure.

There was a sign on the wall with a few rules though, mostly that you shouldn’t take longer than 5 minutes so that everyone can take a picture. In general, people stuck to this rule, and I actually didn’t mind having to queue because it meant no one else was in your shot.

We arrived here at about 8:30am, and the queue only took 5 minutes, but I’ve heard that in the middle of the day you can be queuing for over 45 minutes. No thank you!

Good to know: If you’re visiting in the morning, the shade still partially covers the steps, so make sure you walk further down into the sunlight so you get the best lighting.

4. Saint Nicholas church

Google maps location: 36.4610137,25.3740146

Saint Nicholas Church is a beautiful church with a blue dome and stone facade. The cobbled alleyway leading down to it is the perfect photo opportunity – with the blue dome in the background and a view out to sea.

5. Ledge next to Saint Nicholas Church

If you’re standing with Saint Nicholas Church in front of you, look left. There’s a small ledge with incredible views over Oia that makes for a beautiful photo.

It can get a little busy here, as the people queuing for a photo of the ledge will be blocking the view of Saint NIcholas Church, but if you’re there early it shouldn’t be too bad.

6. Kastro House

Google maps location: 36.4606714,25.3731092

Kastro Oia Houses is one of the most iconic Oia photo spots. Its orange facade looks incredible against the whites of the rest of the town. It’s located over by the castle, so it does get busy, but there’s lots of options for different shots, either down by the house, on the stairs next to it, or from the top looking down.

Kastro House is actually apartments, so expect to see people sat out on the balcony.

Good to know: If you’re here early in the morning, the house will be completely in the shade, so I’d actually recommend coming here later in the day. It’s a difficult one to photograph without people in because there’s not a place you can queue, unlike the other spots. So you’ll either need to be very patient or photoshop people out later.

7. Sea viewpoint

I haven’t really seen this location on many lists of the best Oia photo spots. And I only discovered it by accident. We were waiting to photograph Kastro House and happened to turn around and stumble across this viewpoint. It’s directly behind it.

It’s not a popular spot so there was no one here, but I think it’s such a beautiful shot. I’d recommend getting there early in the morning when the boats are still docked, as they really add to the picture.

Also, early in the morning the lighting here is absolutely stunning, I hardly had to edit this picture.

8. View from Oia Castle

Google maps location: 36°27’36.7″N 25°22’22.7″E

Located next to the previous viewpoint, the most popular spot for taking sunset pictures in Oia is at the castle of Agios Nikolaos, which offers incredible views over the town. It does get very busy though, so if you can, book a cave hotel, and watch the sunset from the privacy of your balcony.

The castle dates back to the 15th century, where it acted as a viewpoint to keep a lookout for incoming pirates.

After the 1956 earthquake that devastated Santorini, much of the castle was destroyed, and there is now only the watchtower left.

Its high vantage point means you get incredible views over Oia, in both directions, and the photos are some of my favourites.

9. Doorways and streets

The beauty of Oia is that you don’t need to look very far to find something to photograph. Every street, doorway and building is an opportunity to get a stunning shot.

Some of the best Oia photo spots aren’t on any guide or blog post, so keep your eyes peeled for a new place to discover.

10. A cave hotel

Undoubtedly one of the best Oia photo spots is from the comfort of your own hotel, and for the ultimate Santorini experience, you can’t beat a cave hotel. They’re built into the caldera and offer uninterrupted views over the sea and Oia.

I’d recommend staying just outside of the main town so you can look back on the whole of Oia. Plus, it’s quieter.

We checked into Olvos Luxury Suites , which was without a doubt the best place I’ve ever stayed. It was the perfect place to take pictures, as there’s only 3 bedrooms so we often felt as though we were the only ones there.

Each room has a private hot tub, and there’s also a heated infinity pool with breathtaking views.

Anastasia, the host, couldn’t do enough to make our stay special, and was available on Whatsapp for anything we needed. One night, we had dinner on our balcony, made by a local cookery school, and it was my favourite meal of the trip.

Top tips for taking pictures in Oia

• Visit early in the morning – I can not stress this point enough, Oia gets so busy and hot in the middle of the day, that it becomes really unenjoyable to try and take pictures. There’s queues for most picture spots, and by midday they can be over 50 minutes long. We got up early and had all of our photos done in an hour, leaving the rest of the day free to enjoy.
• Don’t climb on churches and rooftops – There’s lots of signs telling you not to do this, and I’d have thought it’s just common sense, but be respectful of people’s privacy.
• Be quick – There’s lots of signs telling you to take no longer than 5 minutes, and it’s best to stick to it. There’s nothing more frustrating than waiting to take a picture and the person in front of you is having a full photoshoot. This happened to me a couple of times and it’s very annoying.
• Get a tripod – If you’re travelling solo, pack a tripod so you don’t need to rely on anyone else to get the shot you want. This way, you can set up the framing exactly how you’d like it. I have this one for my camera and I love it. It’s sturdy so I know it won’t fall over and break my camera, and it’s easy to set up quickly.

Where to stay in Oia

If you’re looking for somewhere beautiful to stay in Oia, here’s 3 of my top picks:

Olvos Luxury Suites

If you want the typical cave hotel experience, I can’t recommend Olvos Luxury Suites enough.

There’s only 3 bedrooms so it feels completely private, and each one has its own hot tub.

There’s also a stunning infinity pool, with incredible views over Oia. It’s rated 9.9* (Exceptional).

Volcanic Arc Suites

This beautiful hotel is a 30-minute walk from the centre of Oia, so you’ll get much more for your money here.

All of the rooms come with a spacious balcony and a sea view, perfect for watching the sunset.

There’s a spacious swimming pool, and breakfast is included in the room rate. It’s rated 9.3* (Exceptional).

Arm enaki is a luxury boutique hotel located just a 3 minute walk from my favourite photo spot in Oia – the blue domes of the church of St. Anastasi.

There’s only 11 rooms here, all carved into the volcanic rock, and finished with sleek, minimal interiors.

Each room has outdoor space with either a pool or plunge pool, and breakfast is included in your room rate and served on the balcony each morning. It’s rated 9.4* (Exceptional).

Oia photo spots: FAQs

1. is oia prettier than fira.

In my opinion, Oia is much prettier than Fira . With its charming cobbled streets, white cave houses built into the caldera, and blue domed churches, it’s like something out of a fairytale. If you’re looking to take pictures in Santorini, head to Oia.

2. Where can I take sunset pictures in Oia?

The most popular spot for taking sunset pictures in Oia is at the castle of Agios Nikolaos , which offers incredible views over the town. It does get very busy though, so if you can, book a cave hotel, and watch the sunset from the privacy of your balcony.

3. Is Oia walkable?

Yes, Oia is very walkable . It’s actually quite a small town and you won’t need very long there to feel as though you’ve seen it all. Public transport will drop you just outside the town, and then you’re free to explore at your own leisure.

4. What time does Oia get busy?

As Oia is such a beautiful location, it gets busy early , but mostly with photographers. We arrived at 8:30am and there were already quite a few people out taking pictures. By the time we left at 10:30am, the streets were packed.

5. Where is the most scenic spot in Oia?

It’s not hard to find a scenic spot in Oia , the views over the caldera from every corner are simply breathtaking. The view over the Churches of St. Anastasi and St.Spirydon are one of my favourites, and you can’t beat seeing Oia from the castle ruins.

Oia photo spots: the wrap up

Finding the best Oia photo spots isn’t a hard task, seeing as every part of this charming town is stunning.

From blue domed churches, to sunset views across the caldera, there’s a photo opportunity waiting around every corner.

It really is one of the most magical places I’ve visited, and I hope this guide helps you find some of my favourite spots on your trip!

Hi, I'm Jess, the founder of Where Jess Travels. After studying Psychology at University, I pursued a career in Marketing for 7 years, whilst taking as many trips as my annual leave would allow. I now work full time on my blog, sharing destination guides and hotel reviews.

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15+ Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam (With Exact Locations!)

By: Author Bruna Venturinelli

Home » Travel » Netherlands » 15+ Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam (With Exact Locations!)

Traveling to Amsterdam soon and wondering what the best photo spots in Amsterdam are?

We’re sure you’ve seen a bunch of magical Amsterdam pictures online, and now you’re wondering where you can take them yourself.

Well, we understand. We have taken about 2k photos of Amsterdam in the last five years, and every day we still find new ridiculously photogenic corners.

Yes, the city is highly photogenic, but we pinned on a map of the 20 best photo spots in Amsterdam so you can get yourself started.

Best Photos of Amsterdam

In this guide, you’ll learn about these so-called Instagrammable spots in Amsterdam. Places where you’ll fall in love with the views and cute spots.

But don’t worry. We’ve put together a list of the best photo spots with the respective city photos, a map where we indicate the exact locations mentioned in this article, and some more Amsterdam photos to inspire you.

In today’s post we’ll talk about:

• Amsterdam Photography Map
• Amsterdam City Photos Tips
• Amsterdam Central Station
• Eye Film Museum and A’DAM Tower
• A’DAM Lookout Tower
• Houses Of The Seven Countries
• Rijksmuseum And Museum’s Library
• Groenburgwal
• Sint Olofssteeg
• Seven Bridges
• Amstel River
• Nemo Science Museum
• Jordaan Neighborhood
• Corner of Keizersgracht and Leidsegracht
• Flower Market
• Wake Me Up When I’m Famous Wall Art

Amsterdam Pictures Map

Click here to access the interactive map below. In case you want to create your own maps, check out our Google My Maps tutorial .

Amsterdam Photography Tips

• Choose your accommodation in Amsterdam wisely so that you have a good start point for your photography route.
• It’s no secret that Amsterdam is a touristy city, so be sure to be at your location early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
• By shooting at blue or golden hour, it’s implicit you need a tripod if you’re using a DSLR.
• The city has lots of elements: boats, bikes, cars, ducks, to name a few. Use them in your favor. Be creative when choosing your angle.
• Regarding the cars and bikes, be sure you’re not on the bike path nor in the middle of the street – it can be dangerous.
• Amsterdam’s weather isn’t the best. Google it in advance and in case it’s going to be a dull day, learn some Lightroom to give those photos a dramatic look.
• You might want to rent a bike to follow the map below because it’s a 6.2 mi (10 km) walk.
• These are the prettiest streets in Amsterdam . You might want to jot them down in your itinerary too!

Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam

1. amsterdam central station.

First things first. The central station is an ornate building designed by Pierre Cuypers. He is the same person who created the Rijksmuseum.

This place is a photo hotspot in Amsterdam because there are many possibilities of angles here, and of course, the bright orange neo-renaissance building makes the perfect contrast with a (hopefully) blue sky.

The Amsterdam Central isn’t necessarily a romantic place in Amsterdam , but that’s where Frank and I met, so it’s special for us. ♥

Photo spots: Take close up shots of the details, clock, windows. Also, take some shots of the whole building, although it might not look so beautiful because people are passing by the entire day. Walk inside the station as the platforms and halls are exciting spots too.

Entrance fee: Free

Best time to photograph: Early in the morning when there aren’t many people or late in the afternoon, when the sunlight isn’t so bright anymore. Don’t forget your tripod to “fade away” the few people who might be there (aka taking a long exposure shot).

2. Eye Film Museum and A’DAM Tower

The next location is behind the train station, near the ferry. The Eye Film Museum and the A’DAM Tower together make for a neat shot when the sky is clear.

Again, play around with angles and light to make the most out of this view.

Photo hotspots: Take close up shots of some elements as well as the whole scene.

Best time to photograph: Blue and golden hour. Don’t forget your tripod to “fade away” the possible clouds.

Read next: 2 Perfect Days in Amsterdam

3. Amsterdam Best Views – A’DAM Lookout Tower

Looking for a shot of Amsterdam from above? Then head up to the top floor of the A’DAM Lookout Tower. From up there you can see the city behind its postal card, the Central Station.

Photo hotspot: Top floor.

Entrance fee: €12.50. To get there take the free ferry behind the Central Station towards the Eye Museum.

Best time to photograph: We slightly prefer the view during the blue hour, but it might be tricky to set up your tripod there, though.

4. Best Amsterdam Pictures – NDSM Area

Every city has its underground or alternative area, and with Amsterdam, this is no different.

Most of Amsterdam graffiti spots are in the NDSM area which is also filled with industrial settings. Perfect spots for urbex and street art lovers.

Photo hotspots:

• Anne Frank Graffiti – Let me be myself is one of the most beautiful murals by Kobra, a Brazilian artist.
• Crane Hotel – An exclusive and high-tier hotel in a crane.
• NDSM-Plein – The whole area has a lot of graffitis and an industrial setting.

Entrance fee: Free. To get there take the free ferry behind the Central Station towards NDSM-Werf .

Best time to photograph: During the day.

Here you can photograph one of our favorite photo spots in Amsterdam. This place certainly gives you the best scenario to describe Amsterdam in one photo: narrow houses, lots of windows, uneven roofs, water, and boats.

Photo hotspot: Try to take shots with and without the boats that sail often here. Also, put the three layers in a frame: sky, houses, and water. You can focus on the rooftops for other angles too.

Best time to photograph: This will depend on the season, but it’s best to wait until the afternoon when the sun is shining on the houses rather than from behind them. Otherwise, they will look too dark.

Also, come back at the blue hour to take some night shots of Amsterdam. The lights lit up the scene, and it gives you a beautiful night shot. This is seriously one of the best places for photography in Amsterdam.

Pssst: If you prefer having a professional & local photographer taking magical pictures of you in Amsterdam, click here to find one with the style you like the most.

6. Dam Square

The Royal Palace and the surrounding buildings make the Dam Square an iconic place in Amsterdam.

Naturally, the palace alone is very charming with its classicist and highly detailed facade. Next to the palace, the gothic New Church completes the sophisticated scene.

Both constructions date back to the Dutch Golden Age, around the 17th-century.

Photo hotspots: There are many details to capture around the palace , so walk around and try different angles and focal length ranges.

Best time to photograph: In the blue hour and the morning.

7. Zevenlandenhuizen – Houses Of The Seven Countries

The next stop is on the Zevenlandenhuizen. Yup, what a word!

These are seven houses in a row decorated in different architectural styles aiming to represent different European countries.

The meaning behind them is that these seven houses consecutively show the contribution of seven States to the history of architecture.

• No. 20 is Germany – It shows the romantic German architecture with pointed arch windows.
• No. 22 is France – It has a Loire castle style.
• No. 24 is Spain – The Moorish architectural style in Granada inspires this building (see the horizontal stripes).
• No. 26 is Italy – It reminds an Italian palace.
• No. 28 is Russia – It resembles a cathedral with an onion-shaped dome.
• No. 30 is the Netherlands – A characteristic residence in the Renaissance style as you have seen throughout the city.
• No. 30 is England – It has a typical English cottage style.

Photo hotspots: Take photos of the houses separately and as a whole, from across the street.

8. Rijksmuseum & Museum’s Library

As the central station, the Rijksmuseum is a beautiful neo-renaissance building highly detailed.

Take your time to walk around the museum because the garden can also offer interest shots as well as the tunnel where the entrance is.

Unlike the Van Gogh Museum, you’re allowed to take pictures inside, so you can find cool spots to photograph inside it too, including the library.

The latter has three floors of walls covered with books which give a feeling that you just entered a dusty old school library. You can almost smell the books.

Photo hotspots: Right behind the lake in front of the museum so that you can photograph the whole building. Also, take some close-ups to capture details.

Inside, head up to the library and take some photos from upstairs. Moreover, a classic shot (and almost cliche too) is of Rembrandt’s The Night Watch with people staring at it (without letting their faces recognizable).

Entrance fee: €20

Best time to photograph: Early in the morning and preferably during the week.

9. Groenburgwal

If there’s such a thing as an Amsterdamer shot, we can include this one on the list because this photo is taken from a bridge while you capture the canal flowing smoothly towards a church tower, the Zuiderkerk.

Very sweet!

Photo hotspot: Stand on the bridge while you photograph the canal, houses, and tower. Watch out for the bikes because it’s a busy place.

Best time to photograph: In the blue and golden hour. Don’t forget your tripod.

10. Sint Olofssteeg – Red Light District Corner

Bruna’s very first photo of Amsterdam was on this corner. Here you’ll have the perfect example of how the Dutch deal with water: They just build on and in it, and life goes on. 

The windows of the buildings on the left are very close to the water, and like any Dutch house, there are plenty of them.

Note that this spot is at the beginning of the infamous Red Light District , so be careful when pointing your camera there.

Do NOT photograph the girls , that’s forbidden, and they have security. If they think you’re taking photos of them, you’ll get yourself into some serious problems.

Photo hotspot: Capture the house sinking in the water and the two canals meeting in front of you.

Best time to photograph: Somewhere in the afternoon when the sun is shining on these houses and at night.

11. Best Pictures of Canals – Seven Bridges (Reguliersgracht)

As the name suggests, you’re able to see seven bridges emerging after each other. This is the only place in the city you can see so many bridges in a row.

Moreover, this sweet spot gives you the chance to photograph the crooked houses on the corner together with the sparkling bridge next to it, when shooting at night.

That’s because the seven bridges sparkle like a Christmas tree at night. We honestly think this is one of the best canal pictures of Amsterdam.

Photo hotspot: Stand between the bikes parked next to the canal and sit on the ground to capture the bridges from below the first arch.

Once you have taken your photos, stand up and from the same spot photograph the house on the left corner together with the sparkling bridge next to it. 

Alternatively, you can rent a pedal boat/boat and photograph it from the water.

Best time to photograph: Golden hour so that the houses and the bridges are lit up.

12. Amstel River

You’ll see many photo spots along the river that gave a name to the city, but we have a few favorite locations to share with you.

• Magere Brug – You can take photos of the bridge from the sidewalk, standing in the middle, focusing on elements. (It’s completely Instagram worthy).
• Blauwbrug – You can take a perfect shot from the National Opera Ballet from this spot.
• A little before the Herengracht Brug – From here you can photograph the Walter Suskindbrug across the river.
• Other places – At sunset, shoot a picture of the houses on the Eastern side of the river.

Best time to photograph: In the afternoon and the golden hour.

13. Nemo Science Museum

Not only the museum offers a beautiful photo spot by itself, but you can also go onto it to take an aerial photograph of its surroundings.

• MR JJ van der Veldebrug – Standing in the bridge, take a shot of its extension at sunset.
• Prins Hendrikkade – From here you can take a photo of the Nemo Museum and the Bridge together (and possibly from the boats that are around).
• On the rooftop of Nemo Museum – Point the camera at the city center and enjoy it.

Best time to photograph: In the morning and the golden hour.

14. Jordaan Neighborhood

Beautiful streets full of hip eateries and shops make this neighborhood one of the most charming ones in Amsterdam. The houses, canals, literally everything here is photogenic.

Start at Papiermolensluis and walk down the area to find more sweet spots.

• Eerste Leliedwars Straat – Frame the tower of the Western Kerk with the houses on both sides of the street.
• The facade of the brick houses – Choose a diagonal angle.

15. Begijnhof

The Begijnhof is a hidden spot in the city center, but not so secret as tourists are constantly visiting it.

Moreover, this beguinage has a calm and peaceful courtyard surrounded by the typical houses of Amsterdam.

Be sure to be quiet and to respect the ladies that live here.

Photo hotspots: Before the grass, you can photograph the statue and the houses in one shot.

16. Corner of Keizersgracht and Leidsegracht

Stop by one souvenir shop and look for their postcards. You’ll see this spot in at least a couple of them.

Of course, as you walk down the canals, you’ll find many views worth photographing, especially the ones in the Canal Belt Area, a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Photo hotspots: Photograph the house on the corner together with the Keizersgracht and Leidsegracht meeting below.

17. Flower Market

Tulips, together with clogs and windmills, are commonly referred to as the most significant symbols of the Dutch culture. And if you’re traveling to Amsterdam during the spring, you’ll see lots of tulips throughout the streets of the city.

But you can also spot lots of tulips, and maybe even buy some, at the floating Flower Market.

Unfortunately, the Keukenhof Gardens aren’t in Amsterdam. Otherwise, we would have added it to this list, but you can quickly go on a day trip from Amsterdam to many magical places, including the tulip fields.

Anyway, wander around the flower market to photograph some interesting angles.

This is one of the few floating markets in the world. The Flower Market is settled on boats parallel to the street.

Photo hotspots: Take some close-up shots of the real and wooden tulips.

18. Wake Me Up When I’m Famous Wall Art

It’s just a mural, nothing special around it. But still, we love the simplicity of it.

The “Wake me up when I’m famous” mural is at a walk distance of the Rijksmuseum, and there’s even a bench in front of it so that you can sit and someone else photograph you there.

Photo hotspots: There might be cars parked in front of the mural, so you can either take a shot from a diagonal angle or while standing right next to the car if your camera allows it.

Other Photographs of Amsterdam to Inspire You

Wrapping up on Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for some Amsterdam pictures inspiration, this article showed you excellent spots to spend a day roaming around the city.

Naturally, you can take photos of Amsterdam from every corner because the city is ridiculously pretty, but these Amsterdam city photo spots are a good route to start with.

Now tell us, what were your favorite images? Tell us in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!

Did you like this article about photos of Amsterdam? Then pin it to your Pinterest travel board!

Our best travel tips & resources:

• Saving money: Fly on offseason, winter (not Xmas or NYE), Tuesday, or Wednesday! According to experts, these are the cheapest days to fly.
• Travel insurance: Before you leave for your trip, make sure you have a valid travel insurance policy because accidents happen on the road. We have been paying for Safety Wing travel insurance for a little over a year now, and we happily recommend them to our family and friends.
• Accommodation: We usually stay in mid-range comfy hotels or private rooms in hostels. These are the sites we use to book accommodation: Booking.com for hotels ( excellent flexible cancellation policy) and Hostelworld for hostels ( low deposit and easy cancellation).
• Tours: We absolutely love booking guided tours with locals to get a history lesson while sight-seeing, especially food tours and walking tours! We book all of our tours using Viator and GetYourGuide.
• Transportation: We use Google Maps to figure out how to get around a place using public transport. When we book a rental car, we always use Discover Cars to find the best deal.

Tuesday 1st of October 2019

Hey, loved the photos in this post, but the one I liked the most is the image with a red bike. Well done!

Bruna Venturinelli

Friday 25th of October 2019

Hi Mark, thanks for your message and for your kind words. In all honesty, not all images are mine, but the one with a red bike is. I'm pretty proud of it. :) Thanks!!

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14 Best photo spots in Istanbul – Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Istanbul is an entirely Instagram-friendly city. The best photo spots in Istanbul can be found on every street corner, near hundreds of years old mosques, in bazaars packed with products, on the streets, on the Bosphorus, everywhere.

But, if you only have a few days to spend in the city, you need this guide of the most Instagramable places in Istanbul. Places you can easily visit in just 5 days in Istanbul .

From towers to minarets, from pastel buildings to sumptuous palaces, from parks and gardens to bridges and gates, these are the best photo locations in Istanbul:

PIN IT FOR LATER ↓

Where to stay in Istanbul:

Knowing that Istanbul is one of the best places to take pictures in Turkey, it is clear that we need to spend at least a few days here for that. So, these are the hotels I recommend when you visit the city.

• budget:  Taksim Terrace Hotel   – located in the heart of the fair and with a sensational panorama of the Bosphorus, room service, delicious breakfast
• mid-range:  Saba Sultan Hotel   – located in the mosque area, superb view, rooms with unique design, free parking, delicious breakfast
• luxury:   Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul  – situated in the mosque area, splendid view, ultra-modern rooms, bar, wifi, room service, restaurant

Or find your hotel directly on the map ↓

Best photo spots in Istanbul – Instagrammable places in Istanbul

1. ortakoy mosque.

I must admit that the Ortakoy Mosque is not by chance in the first position of Instagrammable places in Istanbul and even the best Instagram spots in Turkey.

It’s my favorite from this list, and I consider it the perfect place to have an amazing photoshoot on the shores of the Bosphorus. It’s also one of the top tourist spots in Istanbul, so expect to be crowded.

The two minarets that frame the large dome of the mosque, together with the water and the Bosphorus bridge in the background, make up one of the most recognizable images of Istanbul Turkey.

Add a few pigeons that will gather around you and get the perfect photo spots in Istanbul.

The Ortakoy Mosque was built between 1835 and 1855 by the famous architect Nigogos Balyan, who also designed the Dolmabahce Palace in neo-baroque style.

We certainly owe him that we can admire so many pretty places in Istanbul nowadays.

Entrance: free

Address:   Mecidiye Mahallesi, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. 1/1, 34347 Beşiktaş

What I use every time I travel:

• To book hotels: Booking.com
• To book tours:  GetYourGuide.com

2.  Galata Tower, one of the top tourist spots in Istanbul

Built in the 14th century to 63 meters, Galata Tower was the tallest building in the city for several hundred years.

It offers a 360-degree view of the city and is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions and also a perfect place to take pictures of Istanbul Turkey.

So when you come here, you have to be patient. The good part is that the tower offers two perspectives for beautiful photos of Istanbul.

The first is with the tower itself, and the second is with the views over the city from the tower. 

Galata Tower is one of the most famous places in Istanbul and a spot from where you will have one of the best views in Istanbul.

⇒ Book your Galata Tower walking tour

Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421

Entrance: 130 TL 

3. Topkapi Palace | Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace is not only a great photo location in Istanbul but also an essential part of the history of the Ottoman Empire.

Built in 1478, Topkapi Palace was the political center of the Empire for about four centuries.

Inside, you can admire an impressive collection of precious jewelry, including an 86-carat diamond.

The former administrative headquarters of the Ottoman sultans also has a huge harem with 400 rooms, opulent pavilions, and beautifully decorated inner courtyards.

It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 and is a must-see on the list of Instagrammable places in Istanbul.

⇒ Book your Topkapi Palace guided tour  

Address: Cankurtaran, 34122

Entrance: 200 TL

4. The Spice Bazaar, one of the most famous places in Istanbul | Istanbul Instagram spots

If the fascinating architecture of the Egyptian Bazaar is not a good enough reason for you to come here, let me give you a list of many other reasons for which you must add this place to your Istanbul photo diary.

Saffron, cardamom, paprika, mint, thyme, curry, baklava, Turkish shit, homemade chocolate, dried fruit, halva, and many other traditional Turkish delicacies are inside the bazaar.

The sellers are always ready to offer you a piece of the goodies lying on the stalls of this top tourist spot in Istanbul. The Egyptian Bazaar is a fragrant and colorful place you must visit at least once.

I personally prefer the Egyptian Bazaar to the Grand Bazaar, but I think you should visit both for a complete experience in the city. They are also both great places to take the best pictures of Istanbul.

Address: Rüstem Paşa Mahallesi

READ ALSO: 4 Days in Antalya – Best Antalya itinerary

5. Basilica Cistern | Most beautiful places in Istanbul

If the beauty of Istanbul is obvious on the surface, the underground will also surprise you with one of the best spots for photography in Istanbul.

And I’m not referring to the subway, but to the Cistern Basilica , a sunken Palace with 336 columns, diffused lights, and thousands of fish swarming in the pools here. And probably the best place in Istanbul underground.

The Cistern Basilica was built to supply water to the imperial palace and surrounding buildings and dates back to the 6th century.

It’s 140 meters long and 70 wide, and the main elements that attract tourists like a magnet are the two Medusa heads that support the columns.

Basilica Cistern is definitely one of the best places for photos in Istanbul.

⇒ Book your Basilica Cistern guided tour

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turcia

Entrance: 190 TL

Basilica Cistern – best photo spots in Istanbul

6. Galata Bridge | best photo spots in Istanbul

In the same area where the Galata Tower is located, we find another symbol of the city and one of the best places for photography in Istanbul, the Galata Bridge.

With a length of almost half a kilometer, Galata Bridge stretches over the Bosphorus and connects the Sultanahmet and Karakoy neighborhoods.

One of the symbolic images of this bridge is that moment of the day when all the fishermen gather to throw their fishing rods in the Bosphorus.

Here you can take some gorgeous pictures of Istanbul since you have a great perspective of the city.

The bridge has two levels. The upper level is for the traffic, while on the lower level you will find many restaurants. If you get here, quench your hunger between photo sessions with Istanbul with a famous fish sandwich.

Remember that your Galata Bridge photos may look better early in the morning or at sunset.

Galata Bridge – Best photo spots in Istanbul

7. Istiklal Street and the red tram | Istanbul photo spots

One place you will definitely want to take pictures of Istanbul when you arrive in the city is Istiklal Street in Taksim. It’s probably the most famous street in Istanbul and certainly the busiest. It’s like New York’s 5th Avenue.

Both tourists and locals come here, looking for the coolest shops and the most Instagrammable cafes in Istanbul.

And the main element for the best Instagrammable photos here is the famous red tram. You can’t leave Istanbul without adding the tram to your Istanbul photography guide!

8. The views of the Bosphorus | Photography in Istanbul

Without the Bosphorus, one of the most picturesque places in Istanbul, the city would not have the same charm.

Therefore, once you arrive in the city on two continents, you must have this experience. Especially since it’s the fastest way to move from the European side to the Asian side and vice versa.

You don’t have to go on an expensive sunset cruise if you don’t want it or if you have a specific budget for visiting Istanbul and want to stick to it. You can opt for a ferry trip that costs as little as 2 or 3 Turkish lira.

Some of the best photos of Istanbul are taken from the Bosphorus. You can view the mosques, the famous bridges, the Galata Tower, and the Dolmabahce Palace, all accompanied by noisy seagulls.

The Bosphorus offers endless opportunities for unique Istanbul photography, so you would not want to miss it. It’s also a great Istanbul sunrise spot. 

⇒ Book your Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise

9.  Sultanahmet Square | Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Some of the best Istanbul photo spots are the two famous mosques in the old city, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet Square.

It is the No. 1 top tourist spot in Istanbul for sure. For this reason, you should try to get here early in the morning and avoid weekends as much as possible.

As spectacular as they are on the outside, as beautiful is their interior. So, if time allows, visit the two world-famous mosques. But make sure that your clothing is adequate and follows the standards of religion.

Sultanahmet Square, the former Hippodrome of Constantinople, is a space where you’ll find all kinds of important monuments in the city’s history.

The most significant are the Serpentine Column, the Egyptian Obelisk, the Walled Obelisk, and the German Fountain.

It is an open-air museum and one of the best photography spots in Istanbul. The best time of year to come here is between April and June when the park alleys are full of flowering trees.

Unless you want to visit Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet Square is one of the free things to do in the city and one of the best Istanbul Instagram spots.

Therefore, you won’t need to spend money to take Istanbul best photos, but you will need to reserve almost a full day to spend here on your Istanbul itinerary.

⇒ Book your Hagia Sophia guided tour

Sultan Ahmed Mosque – free

Sultanahmet Square – free

Hagia Sofia – free

10. Dolmabahçe Palace | Most Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Everyone who visits Dolmabahçe Palace falls in love, without exception, with the most opulent building on the shores of the Bosphorus.

The gigantic construction with 285 rooms, majestic chandeliers, and big gates carefully decorated is a true architectural splendor that quickly became one of the best places for photography in Istanbul.

One of the most Instagramable photos in Istanbul is one of the Bosphorus Gate, which has a direct opening to the waves in the straits.

For an overview of Dolmabahçe Palace, go to Miniaturk Park, where you can admire all the architectural details at a 1:25 scale.

Dolmabahçe Palace is considered one of the best photography spots in Istanbul, visited annually by almost one million tourists. 

⇒ Book your Dolmabahçe guided tour

Address: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş

Entrance: 300 TL

11. Balat | Istanbul Instagram spots

Becoming one of the best Istanbul Instagram spots, the Balat neighborhood is one of the most colorful and picturesque areas in Istanbul.

The houses in bright and pastel colors, especially those on Kiremit Street, are a real magnet for those who stop in the Turkish metropolis.

The predominant color of the buildings in Istanbul is gray, so for the houses on Kiremit Street, it was easy to stand out in the city landscape and reach the top of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul.

Balat – one of the most Instagrammable places in Istanbul

12. Miniaturk | Most Instagrammable places in Istanbul

Often ignored by Istanbul’s travel guides, Miniaturk Park might be one of the most Instagrammable places in Turkey.

A place where you can take beautiful pictures in Istanbul and which I have not seen at all mentioned so far in the photo guides dedicated to the city, although is one of the pretty places in Istanbul where you can admire a miniature Turkey.

All models are made on a 1:25 scale, so you can leisurely admire the architectural details of the most important tourist attractions in Istanbul.

You will feel like a drone or like Gulliver in the land of dwarves. It’s a place appreciated by both adults and all children.

There are 134 models, from the mini stadium and mini airport to the mosques, palaces, the Bosphorus bridge, and even Pamukkale or the relief of Cappadocia. Tell me this isn’t one of the best photo spots in Istanbul!

Address: Örnektepe, İmrahor Cd. No:7, 34445 Beyoğlu

Entrance: 90 TL

⇒   Book a tour at Miniaturk Park

13. Gülhane Park | Best places to take photos in Istanbul

Another underrated place, if you ask me when it comes to Instagrammable places in Istanbul, is Gülhane Park. In Turkish, this would translate into the house of roses.

Located quite close to Sultanahmet Square, Gülhane Park is the oldest and largest park in Istanbul, but also a beautiful one, a perfect Istanbul Instagram spot.

Especially in the spring months, when all the flowers in the park bloom, next to the secular oaks. And if you want to catch the tulip festival, you have to get here in the last 3 weeks of April.

Take advantage of the fact that Gülhane Park is not a very touristy spot and go there to take some beautiful pictures of Istanbul. Thank me later! 🙂 

Gülhane Park – Best photo spots in Istanbul

14. Rooftops with views of the Bosphorus and the Galata Bridge | Best photo spots in Istanbul

If you want to avoid the queue formed in front of the Galata Tower to see Istanbul from a height, you can always go to a rooftop bar and have a similar experience. You have to go here and have dinner or smoke a hookah in the evening.

There are many in the Sirkeci area and offer spectacular views over the Bosphorus, the bridges, and illuminated minarets.

As I mentioned in another article dedicated to Istanbul, I recommend Ala Café, but there are many other rooftops in this area.

The rooftops with views of the Bosphorus are undoubtedly some of the best Instagram spots in Istanbul. Go grab a coffee and start your Istanbul rooftop photoshoot.

View over the Bosphorus – Best places for photos in Istanbul

Other Instagrammable places in Istanbul:

• Chora Church
• Rainbow Stairs
• Rooftop of Kubbe
• Umbrella Street (Caferağa Mahallesi, No, Piri Çvş. Sk No:13, 34714 Kadıköy/İstanbul, Turkey)
• Çiçek Passage 

READ MORE about TURKEY:

→ 12 Most Beautiful places to visit in Turkey

→ A Perfect Two Week Road Trip In Turkey

→ Top 15 places to visit in Cappadocia, Turkey

→ Hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey. The ultimate guide

→ 21 Best things to do in Istanbul

→ Beautiful hotel in Cappadocia – Sofa Hotel Review

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20 Best Photo Spots in Paris (+ Secret Spots)

Are you looking for the perfect Paris photography locations? Paris is one of the most photogenic places in the world for a good reason. The city combines old architecture, with stunning gardens and palaces, with charming cafes. Whether you are looking for instagrammable places in Paris, a spot for a family photoshoot, or just 

I have lived in Paris as a student and revisited the city hundreds of times, so I know the city quite well. If a photo spot you have in mind isn’t listed or you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask me in the comments. 

This list below includes the best Paris photography locations including some of the most iconic ones, but also some hidden spots. Don’t skip a spot because it’s a popular location (eg. Montmarte) – it’s popular for a reason and while it might be more crowded, it’s definitely still worth your time!

If you’d like to stay near any of these locations, check out my ultimate guide on where to stay in Paris depending on your preferences and enjoy your trip to Paris!

Also, don’t forget that Paris offers plenty of amazing day trips to other amazing castles, palaces and gardens that are must-see spots on every photographer’s Paris bucket list.

Great Photo Spots in Paris

1. eiffel tower.

Everyone wants a photo with the Eiffel Tower and your possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for the best spots for Eiffel Tower photo, there’s no such thing as a top spot. Each spot has a different charm and hence why I included various options.

Because of endless opportunities and angles, I put together a separate post on best places for an Eiffel Tower photoshoot.

2. Pont Alexandre III

The  Pont Alexandre III is a deck arch bridge that spans the Seine that connects the Champs-Élysées with those of the Invalides and Eiffel Tower. The bridge itself is stunning and the views from it are photoworthy. There are always many wedding photoshoots going on there, but everyone is always respectful regardless of whether you’re just shooting a quick selfie, complicated Instagram scene, or professional gown photoshoot. 

Click here for Google Maps Location

3. Notre Dame

Notre Dame Cathedral used to be the top spots to photograph, especially the gargoyles from the terrace. Unfortunately, due to the fire of 2019, this is obviously no longer possible as the terrace and roof are under renovation. 

But, it doesn’t mean the cathedral isn’t photogenic from the front of the sides. It’s actually a pretty awesome spot for cherry blossoms if you’re traveling in the springtime.

4. Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe is a gorgeous building worth a photo.

My tip is not to go there very late. It’s not the safest spot, especially if you’re just walking with your girlfriends. 

IMPORTANT: I see many Instagrammers promoting standing or even worse – sitting, on the dot located in the middle of the road saying the traffic cannot go that way. Trust me, many cars still pass through so it’s pretty dangerous. Also, if you ever partied in Paris you know you’d never want to actually sit on the street especially in your fancy clothes 😉

5. Plaza Athenee Balcony

Plaza Athenee is THE instagrammable hotel that comes with a heavy price tag. Personally, unless you want the same photo a famous instagrammer has got, I would suggest Shangri-La Hotel instead or even an AirBnB with an amazing rooftop.

Credit: @leoniehanne | @katieone

6. Musee D’Orsay Clock

Situated in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, the Musée d’Orsay is a former railway station converted to host some of the most iconic works of impressionists. 

The photogenic clock is part of this former train station offering great views over Paris and the Seine river. Head there early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the museum after getting your photo.

7. Les Colonnes de Buren

The 17th century Palais Royal is photogenic itself, but the most popular part – Les Colonnes de Buren. It used to be a highly controversial art installation from 1980s. Its original purpose was to ventilate, but it turned out to be not sustainable enough. Nevertheless, it’s a great photo spot these days!

The Louvre offers endless photo opportunities. Starting from the pyramid at the entrance, to view from side cafes and sunsets. However, you can also take photos inside the museum – it’s pretty spectacular!

9. Galerie Lafayette

Galerie Lafayette is a shopping mall with the most incredible seasonal decorations. If you’re visiting in the winter you need to see their Christmas tree. 

There are many photo angles at Lafayette, but if you wish to take a photo on the glass bridge be aware of long lines.

10. Magazine Stands

Along the Seine there are plenty of newsstands that appear in literally every single movie featuring Paris. 

Remember, if you want to take a photo please ask the owner if they’re ok with being in the shot and having their stand photograph. It’s a common courtesy.

11. Dior House

Dior House has never been on my bucket list when I lived in Paris, but thanks to a big Instagrammer @leoniehanne is became super famous.

12. Opera Garnier

My favorite photo spot in Paris. Opera Garnier is where the infamous Phantom of the Opera was born, so you’ll see actors walking around in phantom’s masks. Everything at this place is gorgeous – stairs, ceilings, balconies!

I recommend visiting right before they close when most crowds are gone. Since it’s a working opera it requires tickets to visit, but there’s no need to purchase them in advance.

13. Sinking House of Montmarte

The house is not actually sinking – it’s an optical illusion caused by a hill position. Perfect fun photo opportunity!

14. Le Consulat

Le Consular is an iconic cafe in Montmartre. Not my favorite spot since it’s always packed with tourists (and if you go in the morning the tables aren’t out and the magic disappears). 

15. La Maison Rose in Montmartre

A pink building in Montmarte is a famous photo spot, yet it’s never crowded for some reason. It’s also a working restaurant so you can stop and grab a bite to eat.

I actually found streets around it way more photogenic, so remember to wander around Montmartre and simply get lost!

16. Sacré-Cœur

The Basilica of Sacred Heart of Paris is located on top of the hill in Montmartre. It’s photogenic itself, but also offer a panorama of Paris when you’re standing next to it. There’s also a carousel at the bottom of the hilly meadow. 

P.S. If you want to purchase the helium balloon for your photoshoot there are many stores in Paris that sell them. I got mine at 1000 Fetes store.

Lesser-known photo locations in Paris:

17. pink mama.

Pink Mama is a VERY photogenic restaurant. It might not be your typical “Paris photoshoot spot”, but it’s definitely very instagrammable. Plus, the food is actually excellent there.

18. Rue Cremieux

Rue Cremieux is a regular street with houses painted in different colors, occasionally with different accents like a cat or bird. Think Seven Painted Ladies in San Francisco but on a bigger scale!

The street became famous and while it’s a bit off the tourist path, due to the increased volume of wedding photoshoots the residents ask for not sitting on their porches and definitely respecting their privacy. 

19. Square Gabriel Pierné

I discovered this spot by accident and I’m stunned it’s not more famous. Square Gabriel Pierne is a small square, just like many others in Paris, but the benches are shaped like open books.

20. Pigalle Basketball Court

Pigalle doesn’t have the greatest reputation due to its past, but it’s now perfectly safe. It’s also home to one of the most colorful basketball court in the world. 

It’s not easy to get to a spot, as it’s private property and often closed or used by actual players. If you’re very nice to the caretaker he can open it for you for a few minutes before a new game starts.

21. Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole

It’s a semi-secret cafe a few steps from Notre Dame. It looks very cute with tables set outside and the decor changes during the year to match the season and holidays.

One thing almost every photographer is skipping is to actually go inside – the cafe has a whole restaurant floor upstairs and it’s just gorgeous!

22. Sainte Chapelle

Most tourists head to Notre Dame and skip Saint Chapelle, located right next door on the same island! It has a beautiful chapel with tall floor-to-roof stained glass windows and gorgeous gothic ceilings. 

23. Galerie Vivienne

A visit to the covered passage is a must in Paris. Vivienne is 176 meters long and 3 meters wide, and officially a historic monument. It’s never too busy, so you can shoot your photos any time!

24. Midnight in Paris location

You’ve probably seen the movie! The locations of Woody Allen’s masterpiece are now a mini-tourist attraction, but I’ve never seen any crowds to be honest. Head to Place Place de l’Abbé Basset to sit on the same staircase Owen Wilson sat when he was picked up by a magic car. Actually, if you wait around you might see a vintage car passing by quite often.

Once you’re done with your photos check out Polidor restaurant nearby – it’s also been featured in the movie. It’s a very old traditional and photogenic restaurant that I really love.

25. Le Refuge

Le Refuge is a cafe that’s not very photo-worthy itself, but its location creates a beautiful Parisian shot. 

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Thursday 20th of August 2020

Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Europe , Photography , Travel · Last Updated: April 25, 2023

The Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam: A Complete Guide

The ultimate guide to the best photo spots in amsterdam.

Looking for the best photo spots in Amsterdam? Well, you’re in luck because Amsterdam is one of the most photogenic places in Europe. From the endless canals (60 miles to be exact) to the 17th-century row homes, and tulip fields for days – anyone will leave this city with beautiful memories captured on film. Amsterdam made me fall in love with traveling it’s so charming and quaint and can easily be visited in a few days. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy your time if you plan to visit for longer. In this guide, I’ll be sharing the best photo spots to make your Amsterdam photography trip picture-perfect.

Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content in this best photo spots in Amsterdam blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources.

Amsterdam’s canals are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city, offering a glimpse into its rich history and culture. As well as stunning views and unique experiences. It would be hard to visit Amsterdam and not enjoy views over the canals. Since the most iconic feature of the city is its canals.

There are three main canals which are the Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht. Lining the canal are rows of canal houses built by wealthy merchants during the Golden Age which are characterized by their narrow houses and charming facades. The houses are narrow because back in the day you paid taxes on the width of your house. Furthermore, many of the houses have been converted into museums, shops, restaurants, and private residences.

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s canals is by taking a canal cruise, which allows you to see the city from a unique perspective. Canal tours are available throughout the day and evening and can be done by boat, waterbike, or even stand-up paddleboard. Finally, it’s a great place for locals and visitors to relax, with many cafes and restaurants offering canal-side seating. Book your canal tour here !

Dam Square is located in the heart of the city. It received its name from the Dam that was built across the Amstel River in the 13th century. It is a popular tourist spot with a lot of historical buildings and statues. It’s also home to the Royal Palace, which is a great photo subject due to its grand facade. When visiting Dam Square you can enjoy lots of street food, live-performers, and it’s a main hub for transportation.

Throughout the year, Dam Square hosts many events and festivals, including the famous Koningsdag (King’s Day) celebration on April 27th, when the entire city turns orange to celebrate the Dutch monarchy. Dam Square is a vibrant and bustling part of Amsterdam that offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture, as well as many opportunities for photos.

Damrak – The Dancing Houses

Damrak is a street that starts at Amsterdam Central Station and goes all the way to Dam Square. You could say it’s the most popular street in all of Amsterdam and a hub for public transportation. Along the street is the most famous Amsterdam photo spot, the dancing houses. The Dancing Houses consist of three narrow buildings, each with a distinct and quirky shape. The buildings were designed by the Dutch architect Winy Maas and completed in 2002.

The buildings are characterized by their curved and tilted facades, which give them the appearance of dancing or swaying in the wind. The facades are covered in glass and stainless steel panels, giving the buildings a modern and futuristic look. It’s best to photograph across the canal on Damrak. Furthermore, near Damrak is the Red Light District, and while it’s popular, it’s not really the place to photograph.

Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam: MOCO Museum

The MOCO Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The museum is known for its unique and exciting exhibitions featuring works from some of the world’s most famous modern and contemporary artists.

Some of the most notable artists whose works are on display at the MOCO Museum include the elusive street artist Banksy, Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Roy Lichtenstein. The museum features a variety of media, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and street art.

The most popular exhibition at the MOCO Museum is the Banksy: Laugh Now exhibit, It features over 50 works from Banksy’s career, including many of his most famous pieces. Overall, the MOCO Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art, and it offers a unique and engaging perspective on some of the most important artistic movements of our time. Book your tickets here !

This is Amsterdam’s largest park, and it’s a great spot for taking photos of nature and people enjoying the outdoors. It’s located in the heart of Amsterdam and spans 120 acres. It was named after the famous Dutch poet and playwright Joost van den Vondel. The park offers a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. It features winding paths, beautiful gardens, and numerous water features, including ponds and streams.

Vondelpark is also home to many statues, sculptures, and monuments, including a monument dedicated to the park’s namesake, Joost van den Vondel. Throughout the year, Vondelpark hosts many events and festivals, including concerts, theater performances, and open-air film screenings. The park is also a popular spot for sports and recreation, with facilities for cycling, running, and skating. Finally, it’s a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and experience the vibrant cultural scene of the city.

The Rijksmuseum

This is one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam and notably the world. The museum’s collection consists of over 1 million objects, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The most famous works in the collection include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.

The Rijksmuseum’s most notable work is Rembrandt’s “Night Watch,” a large-scale painting that depicts a group of civic guards from Amsterdam. The painting is considered a masterpiece of the Dutch Golden Age and is a must-see for visitors to the museum. In addition to its collections, the Rijksmuseum also features a number of exhibitions and events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and film screenings.

Furthermore, the library located inside is what dreams are made of. The library is considered one of the most important art libraries in the world, with a collection of over 400,000 volumes, including books, journals, manuscripts, and maps. It’s a valuable resource for scholars and researchers interested in Dutch art and history and is one of the most stunning libraries in the world.

The Jordaan neighborhood

The Jordaan neighborhood is known for its charming streets, cozy cafes, and quirky shops. It’s a great place to take photos of architecture, houseboats, and people. Originally a working-class neighborhood, the Jordaan has undergone significant gentrification in recent years and is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Despite these changes, the area has managed to maintain its character and charm.

The area also boasts a number of art galleries, boutiques, and vintage stores, making it a popular destination for shoppers. The famous Negen Straatjes are located in Jordaan the best shopping in all of Amsterdam. It is also known for its lively nightlife, with many bars and music venues located in the area. During the summer months, the neighborhood comes alive with outdoor concerts, festivals, and other events. Finally, a few of our favorite places to eat in Jordaan are Pancakes Amsterdam, Fabel Freits, Pluk, Ree7, and Jansz.

The Anne Frank House

This is a historic house and the museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank. A Jewish girl who became famous for her diary during World War II. The museum is located in the actual house where Anne and her family hid from the Nazis during the war. The house was originally built in the 17th century and was used as a warehouse and office space before the Frank family moved in.

In July 1942, the Frank family went into hiding in a concealed area of the house, along with four other people. They remained in hiding for two years until they were discovered by the Nazis in August 1944. The museum offers an audio guide while you journey through the rooms of the house where the Frank family hid.

It is a powerful and moving testament to the resilience and courage of Anne Frank and her family, as well as to the countless victims of the Holocaust. It is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Amsterdam and interested in the history of the Holocaust.

The Bloemenmarkt

The Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only floating flower market. It is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors every year. The market is located along the Singel Canal, near the Koningsplein square, and consists of a series of houseboats that have been converted into flower stalls.

The market sells a variety of flowers and plants, including tulips, daffodils, roses, and more. The Bloemenmarkt has a long history, dating back to the early 19th century when flower sellers would come to Amsterdam to sell their wares. Over time, the market became a permanent fixture, and the floating flower stalls were introduced in the 20th century. Finally, you can walk around and shop as they have tons of plants, flowers, and souvenirs to choose from.

Tulip Fields (seasonal)

The Netherlands is famous for its beautiful tulip fields, and there are several locations near Amsterdam where you can experience these colorful displays of flowers. These fields are a photographer’s dream and the season takes place in the month of April. Here are some of the best tulip fields in and around Amsterdam:

• Keukenhof Gardens – Located in Lisse, about a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam.
• Noordoostpolder – This area is located about an hour’s drive from Amsterdam and is one of the largest tulip-growing regions in the Netherlands.
• Haarlemmermeer – Located just outside of Amsterdam and is known for its tulip fields and flower farms.
• Amsterdamse Bos – This large park on the outskirts of Amsterdam is home to several tulip gardens and features over 400,000 tulips.
• Bloemendaal aan Zee – This coastal town near Amsterdam is known for its sandy beaches and beautiful tulip fields. Visitors can take a bike ride through the fields. As well as dine at one of the many beachfront cafes.

Thank you for reading my Ultimate Guide to Taking the Best Photos in Amsterdam. For more information on visiting you can’t miss my “ 2 Day Amsterdam Itinerary “. Finally, check out more of my European travel guides.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Paris Instagram Spots

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Amsterdam Photography: 22 Best Photo Spots in Amsterdam

By Author Maartje Hensen (she/they)

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2023

It’s no secret that Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most visited—and photographed—cities. It’s such a picturesque small big city, and it’ll always be our second home (read how our love story unfolded in this city).

Although you can wander around and find Instagrammable spots in Amsterdam everywhere, your Amsterdam photography will be complete when you visit these photo spots!

Amsterdam Canals

Amsterdam canal cruise.

A classic Amsterdam photo is one with canals in it. What’s a better way to photograph the iconic waters than from a canal cruise?

There are many places to hop on a cruise; the most popular spot is at Damrak, close to the Central Station.

Are you with a group and looking for a unique experience? Look up the initiative Plastic Whale! We highly recommend Rederij P. Kooij at Rokin for your Amsterdam photography, where you can hop on a cruise from €12 per person.

Brouwersgracht

The most famous Amsterdam photo spot of the canals, with the traditional canal houses that look like they’re about to tip over! You have the best view from the Papiermolensluis bridge.

TIP visit the canals for sunrise when water is still. It makes for great reflections and the city is so incredibly peaceful!

Recommended read: our travel guide to lesbian Amsterdam !

Damrak Traditional Canal Houses

The classic gingerbread houses are so crooked because they’re sinking! Don’t be fooled: this spot is not as peaceful as it looks because it is the Damrak , the street that connects the central station with the Dam square—where every tourist goes.

But it’s the most famous spot for Amsterdam photography.

TIP the light is best at the end of the day when the sun is setting but not quite yet!

Amsterdam Bridges

Reguliersgracht: seven bridges.

On any canal cruise, you’ll pass this point and have the best view, but you can also visit Thorbeckeplein (right next to Rembrandtplein ) and look to the south for your Amsterdam photography.

If you place your camera on the ground at the edge of the street (don’t drop it in the canal!), you can see seven bridges in a row.

Magere Brug / Skinny Bridge

This cute white bridge across the river Amstel is one of the most famous bridges in Amsterdam.

Legend tells that two skinny sisters had a small bridge built, as each sister lived on one side of the Amstel – and the bridge was to see each other more often.

It used to be a skinny bridge, but a slightly wider bridge replaced it in 1871.

TIP if you visit this bridge with your lover, make sure to kiss on (or under, on a cruise) the bridge, it allegedly brings luck!

Staalmeestersbrug

The Staalmeestersbrug is such a cute bridge – and a pretty street. It’s a bridge for love locks and makes for the best view of the Zuiderkerk !

TIP use props like a bicycle or flowers to make your photos EXTRA!

Other Famous Amsterdam Photo Spots

Rijksmuseum.

The National Museum is dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam and displays many famous paintings by Dutch masters from the 17e century, like Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer.

The museum’s architecture is as beautiful as the masterpieces that decorate the walls inside.

The design (by Pierre Cuypers) wasn’t well-received: people considered it too medieval and not Dutch. Luckily much has changed since the official opening in 1885!

TIP on Instagram we noticed many people take pictures across the museum: there’s a cute house, which is the office of Atlas Fiscalisten .

I Amsterdam Sign

The I Amsterdam sign used to be one of the famous spots of Amsterdam photography, located at Museumplein, in front of the Rijksmuseum.

The city, however, decided to remove the letters as they attracted too many tourists in one spot. Now, a set of letters travels around the city, and one set stands at Schiphol airport!

Central Station

The central station building is as gorgeous as the Rijksmuseum, which isn’t weird: as it is a design by the same Pierre Cuypers (opened a few years later, though, in 1889).

The odds are, you will already pay a visit to this station the first day you arrive! A train from Schiphol only takes 15 mins.

Chinatown & Nieuwmarkt

In Chinatown, you’ll find a beautiful temple and fantastic food. At Nieuwmarkt, you can have a couple of drinks with some delicious (Dutch) snacks! This area is crowded, but super fun to visit.

Jordaan: 9 Straatjes (9 Little Streets)

If you like shopping, this is the place to be. Forget the commercialized Kalverstraat or fancy PC Hooftstraat; you want to check out the cute boutique shops at 9 Little Streets!

Besides shopping, the Jordaan is great for drinks and photographing the cutest Amsterdam streets!

Begijnhof (Hidden Gem Amsterdam)

The Begijnhof is one of the oldest Dutch hofjes , founded in the middle ages! As the name suggests, it was a beguinage .

So it wasn’t private housing, and women of the Catholic sisterhood inhabited it. Similar to nuns, they lived more independently and free.

In 1971 the last beguine who lived there passed away. The houses are still inhabitant, though not by beguines. Please be respectful of their living space!

Amsterdam Windmill & Brewery ‘t IJ

Amsterdam has the tallest windmill in the Netherlands! No need to travel far to see this Dutch icon, take tram 14 from Central Station or the Dam to Pontanusstraat for about 15 mins.

Right next to windmill De Gooyer, you’ll find the tasting room of Amsterdam brewery ‘t IJ.

Zaanse Schans

For more windmills, you have to visit the Zaanse Schans. It’s free to visit unless you enter some of the (windmill)museums.

For example, you can visit a wooden shoe museum to see how Dutchies make traditional shoes!

You can get to the Zaanse Schans by train (17 min ride, 15 min walk) or by bus 391 (40 min ride), the Industrial Heritage Line.

TIP most group tours visit the Zaanse Schans early morning, so you’ll be better off visiting later in the day!

Views of Amsterdam

Oba rooftop viewpoint.

The OBA has the best FREE viewpoint of Amsterdam! Go up to the OBA’s rooftop cafe (Amsterdam’s public library) and enjoy the view.

A’DAM lookout

If you’re up for some excitement – try Europe’s highest swing at the A’DAM lookout. There’s an over-the-edge swing on the 20th floor. We can say from experience: it’s scarier than it seems!

TIP do not try to fly your drone in Amsterdam for a nice overview. The city is too close to the airport !

We gotta talk about street art photography opportunities in Amsterdam! The “Wake me up when I’m famous” art in the Pijp has become super famous over the last year.

The neighborhood has many cute cafes and restaurants – make sure to wander around!

Rainbow Road Sloterdijk Station

It’s no secret we love everything rainbow. The rainbow road at Sloterdijk Station was made for us!

Amsterdam Zuid-Oost

Again, we’re biased because this was where we lived before traveling the world. The Heesterveld Creative Community (right next to the Bullewijk subway stop) is color-heaven.

There’s also an adorable cafe Oma Ietje (grandma Ietje), that serves the best toasted sandwiches! If you wander around the area (towards the shops at De Poort), you’ll see much more street art.

Our newest favorite area! Super industrial and raw – the opposite of the cute canals, yet so cool. Lots of graffiti, sea containers and more cute cafes! Every month you can visit the biggest flea market in Europe here (IJhallen), but any time is great to wander around this area.

Amsterdam Light Festival

Every December/January, the city lights up during the Amsterdam Light Festival . It’s an open-air art exhibition throughout the city, with all kinds of light artworks.

You can do an art walk at night, but it’s a truly magical experience to hop on a canal cruise and see it from the water.

Ice Skating at Museumplein

Unfortunately, it’s not every year you can ice skate on natural ice on the canals or in the Amsterdamse Bos.

You can, however, always ice skate at the Ice*Amsterdam skating rink from mid-November until early February!

King’s Day and Amsterdam Pride

Perfect for some colorful Amsterdam photography: visit the city for King’s Day (April 27) or Amsterdam Pride (Canal Parade, first Saturday of August).

On the King’s birthday, everyone wears oranges and drinks beer on the streets!

Flowers: Tulips and Cherry Blossoms

Of course, everyone wants to see one thing in the Netherlands: tulip fields! You can only see it for a few weeks, from mid-April until mid-May (but it all depends on the weather!).

Little do people know we also have a beautiful cherry blossom ( sakura ) park in Amsterdam! The trees bloom in the spring, and it can be a little tricky to say when is the best time to visit, but this year, we were lucky visiting late March.

Amsterdam Photographers

Did you know you can hire me as Amsterdam photographer ? I am Amsterdam based, but available worldwide! As a queer photographer , I offer solo and couple photoshoots , wedding photography , and tailor-made photoshoots!

Best Amsterdam Instagram accounts to follow:

For more inspiration, we recommend following these outstanding Amsterdam accounts: @arden_nl @bodiek @humansofamsterdam  @macenzo  @iamsterdam @dutch.shooters @visitnetherlands @amsterdam.explores @amsterdam

Amsterdam Photography Map

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Rafal Sulowski

Monday 14th of October 2019

Hi guys! What a great blog ;) and a great article, now I know some good spots to try out my new Canon M50. I also blog about Amsterdam We should meet sometimes and make a vlog together! ;)

Roxanne & Maartje

Thursday 17th of October 2019

Hi Rafal! We should, sounds like fun!!

Sunday 28th of July 2019

Zelfs na zo vaak in A'dam geweest te zijn zie ik een hoop nieuwe spots voorbij komen in jullie blog, heel gaaf!! We hebben wat te doen de eerst volgende keer in A'dam haha!

Monday 29th of July 2019

Yess zo leuk!

Sunday 23rd of June 2019

I know that the post is about Amsterdam, but the two of you are sush a cute couple! Love and happiness to you both!

Tuesday 25th of June 2019

Ahww thanks so much!!!

Silly Little Kiwi Blog

Saturday 22nd of June 2019

Amsterdam is such a pretty city!! You women have given me YET ANOTHER reason to return!

Hahaha yaay so happy we did ❤️

I love love love your photos, ladies! And thanks for this awesome guide, it is always handy to know what are the most photogenic spots.

Thanks so much!! We're "visual" travellers - always looking for the best photo spots haha

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8 Best Spots To Take Epic Photos Of Rome’s Colosseum

By: Indigo Sahara, M.A. | Published: March 7, 2022 | Updated: April 11, 2023

Visiting Rome and looking for the perfect Colosseum photo spot ? Look no further!

Witnessing the historic, legendary and iconic Roman Colosseum is a must-do activity on your Italian vacation — and so is taking photos of and with the monument.

Regardless of whether you’re a professional travel photographer or an amateur Instagram-loving tourist , these 8 best places to take pictures of Rome’s Colosseum will produce absolutely jaw-dropping photos.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If a product is purchased using one of the following links, I may earn a small commission from the brand at no cost to you.

Table of Contents

Prepare To Take Instagram-Worthy Colosseum Photos

Before we jump into this epic Colosseum photo spot list, there are three steps you need to take to ensure excellent photos.

• Gather your camera gear — even if that’s just your iPhone. (I’ve listed all of the  best budget camera gear for travel photography here .)
• Learn the basics of taking amazing travel photos (as you can find  here ).
• Learn a couple of poses for your travel photos. (Here are  25 easy poses for travel photos with examples .)

Now for the Colosseum photo spots!

Can You See The Colosseum From Outside?

You won’t be able to see the interior ruins from the outside, but yes! You can see the vast majority of the Colosseum from the outside. In fact, the best views of the Colosseum are seen from the outside.

Most of the best Colosseum photo spots are located outside of the Colosseum, too.

1. Outside The Colosseo Metro Station (Colosseum Photo Spot)

Whether or not you use the public transportation system during your time in Rome, the outside of the Colosseo metro station is a must-see Colosseum photo opportunity.

Immediately after you exit the metro station, you are met with a unbelievable view of the massive Colosseum. Seriously, it’s so remarkable that you won’t be able to stop yourself from muttering, “Wow.”

Just be sure to watch for pickpockets inside and around the metro station. Keep your valuables unreachable and an eye on your surroundings.

2. Via Nicola Salvi (Colosseum Photo Spot)

Just down the street from Colosseo toward the Colosseum is Via Nicola Salvi . Similar to Colosseo, Via Nicola Salvi offers an epic ground-level view of the Colosseum .

But, unlike the metro station, there are innumerable creative angles for photos, as this Colosseum photo spot is actually an entire street next to the Colosseum.

3. The Colle Oppio (Oppian Hill)

Furthermore, while you walk down Via Nicola Salvi, you will eventually pass a cobblestone staircase. This staircase leads to the iconic Colle Oppio , AKA Oppian Hill (labeled Oppio Caffe on the map).

Colle Oppio boasts an extremely photogenic, Instagram-famous view of the Colosseum from a higher level .

There will likely be a crowd of tourists taking photos here (and for good reason), but if you wait your turn, you shouldn’t have any issues taking photos without people in the background. Otherwise, early morning is always the best time to avoid crowds.

4. Outside Terrace Seating At La Biga Ristoracaffe (Colosseum Photo Spot)

The next best Colosseum photo spot, the terrace of La Biga Ristoracaffe , is situated right across the street from Colle Oppio (Oppian Hill), adjacent to the Oppio Caffe restaurant.

At La Biga Risotracaffe, the outdoor terrace seating offers the same magnificent view of the Colosseum as the Colle Oppio. Except, here, you’ll be able to indulge in a fabulous Italian meal while you revel in the scenery.

As you could imagine, you may have to wait a little longer for outdoor seating here, but it is so worth it.

5. Meta Sudans Near The Arco De Costantino (Arch Of Constantine

Now for the other side of the Colosseum!

The garden area called Meta Sudans , which is located next to the Arco De Costantino (Arch Of Constantine in English), is another great place to take photos of the Colosseum.

What makes Meta Sudans stand out from the other photo spots is that it features the large slanted “crack” in the Colosseum . Photos with the slanted portion of the Colosseum will evoke historic, nostalgic emotion for the viewer, which makes for excellent travel photography.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Girl Born Travel (GBT) (@girlborntravel)

6. Palatine Hill (Colosseum Photo Spot)

Moving a little farther away from the Colosseum, Palatine Hill boasts views of the Colosseum, as well as the Roman Forum and surrounding city .

This Colosseum photo spot is almost completely unknown . The views of the Roman Forum from Palatine Hill often override the visitor’s line of sight, which means the view of the Colosseum is often overlooked. This spot is a true hidden gem !

You’ll find this exact photo spot on Palatine Hill near the fountain .

Note, you do need to purchase a ticket to enter the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which you can purchase here . Luckily, most of the tickets include admission to the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill as well as the Colosseum.

7. Outside Seating At The Ristoro Della Salute (Colosseum Photo Spot)

Like La Biga Ristoracaffe, you can also enjoy dinner with a view of the Colosseum on the outside seating of the Ristoro Della Salute (next to Royal Art Cafe and Ristorante Caffe Martini & Rossi).

I have to admit, though, that the restaurants closest to the Colosseum tend to have the worst food , as they cater to tourists instead of locals. So, if you’re looking for authentic Italian food, walk a few streets away from the Colosseum for dinner.

That being said, La Biga Ristoracaffe (mentioned earlier) is way better than this Ristoro Della Salute in terms of food. If you choose to eat at Ristoro Della Salute anyway, opt for pizza over pasta. Nonetheless, the view is fabulous!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ristoro Della Salute (@ristoro_della_salute)

8. Inside The Colosseum

In addition to taking photos outside of the Colosseum, you can obviously also take fantastic shots inside the Colosseum.

As briefly mentioned earlier, entrance into the Colosseum does require buying tickets . But, again, most of the tickets available for purchase also provide access into the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill .

Where Is The Best Place To Take Pictures In The Colosseum?

The best place to take pictures in the Colosseum is on the overlooks of the Colosseum’s interior. As you walk through the inside of the Colosseum, you will come across various overlook points on both sides of the monument.

From the overlooks, you can take pictures of the city ruins on the floor of the Colosseum and see the arena from an ancient Roman spectator’s point of view .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Musicalità A☀️K 82 (@musicalita.del.mediterraneo)

Do you know another Colosseum photo spot that isn’t listed here? Let me know in the comment section below!

And, be sure to  follow me on Instagram  where I post  daily travel inspiration and photography tips .

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30 Amalfi Coast Instagram Spots For Iconic Photos (Map & Photos) 17 Positano Outfits: What To Wear In Positano, Italy Where To Stay In Positano, Italy, On A Budget 10 Top Things To Do And See In Positano, Italy

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Best Budget Camera Gear For Travel Photography 15 Easy Beginner Tips To Elevate Your Travel Photography 25 Easy Poses For Travel Photos (With Examples)

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About Indigo Sahara, M.A.

Indigo Sahara, M.A., is the founder and CEO of the Indigo Sahara travel blog. Since earning her master's degree in global leadership, she has traveled to more than 20 countries. Now, her goal is to make travel accessible to all by teaching others how to travel on a budget. She writes world travel guides and travel hacking tips weekly.

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Reader Interactions

September 2, 2022 at 4:55 pm

Hi! Could you please be so kind to send me the exact spot to my email account? Just send a screenshot where you have marked the exact spot to my mail. I To publish a comment I have to send the email, so just type back to that please.

For this location: 3. The Colle Oppio (Oppian Hill)

I tried to google it but coudnt see it..:/

September 12, 2022 at 4:53 pm

Hey Dina! If you plug “Oppio Caffe” into Google Maps, it should come up with directions to Oppian Hill! It’s also labeled as “Oppio Caffe” on the map at the beginning of this article. The photo spot is located just across the street from the caffe. There will probably be lots of people taking photos here, so you’ll see it!

[…] Don’t be afraid to get creative in personalizing this Christmas gift for travelers. You could give an airplane ornament, train ornament, camper van ornament, or even an ornament specific to the traveler’s upcoming or favorite destination (like this Rome, Italy, ornament to remember the Colosseum). […]

[…] first, if you need any Italy Instagram inspiration, I have an entire guide to the best Colosseum photo spots in Rome, as well as travel photo tips for posing, beginner travel photography and the best budget […]

[…] if you need some extra Colosseum Instagram photo inspiration, I have an entire guide to the best Colosseum photo spots here, as well as additional Italy Instagram caption ideas here and Italian Instagram caption ideas […]

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The Best Grand Canyon Photo Spots: Our Complete Guide (with map!)

Grand Canyon National Park in the US state of Arizona was carved out by the mighty Colorado River, and close to 5 million visitors travel to this World Heritage Site each year to take in its unforgettable views and gorgeous hiking trails. Located in the northwest of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is just 80 miles north of Flagstaff and 280 miles from Las Vegas, NV.

The Grand Canyon is 18 miles wide and over 1 mile deep in places, with stunning rock formations and the Colorado River creating unforgettable views from overlooks around the canyon rim. You'll be spoiled for choice with fabulous photo spots on your trip.

The famous views of Grand Canyon National Park hardly need an introduction, and there are countless places where you can stop to enjoy a breathtaking glance across the canyon. We've put together some of our favorites to help you make the most of your trip, along with the best times to visit for some stunning road trip photography.

Please see the map below to see where our photo spots fall along the Grand Canyon:

1. Hopi Point/Powell Point

What makes this photo spot special: The walk from Hopi Point to Powell Point is just a 10-minute walk, covering 0.3 miles. The stunning views here are in easy reach - great if you're short on time or want to fit in every possible photo opportunity on your trip.

How to get there: Both Hopi Point and Powell Point are off Hermit Road. From 1st March to 30th November, you can only access this road by shuttle bus - take the Red Route to get here.

If you visit outside shuttle operating times, approach via Grand Canyon National Park's South Entrance then turn left onto Center Road after around 3 miles. Continue for 1.6 miles and take a right turn onto Village Loop Drive and follow until you see the right turn for Hermit Road. After 2 miles, you'll see signposts for the right turn to Hopi Point.

Best time to visit: Hopi Point is famous for its panoramic sunset photo opportunities.

If you'd rather visit on your own schedule and avoid taking the shuttle bus, travel between December and February.

Where to park: While there are no parking bays on the paved loop that takes you close to this photo spot, you can briefly pull over.

If you're visiting between March and November then you won't need to worry about parking since you'll be catching the shuttle from the South Rim Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where there's plenty of parking.

2. Lipan Point

What makes this photo spot special: Lipan Point is the starting point for the stunning Tanner Trail. It's also considered to offer up one of the most expansive views of the canyon.

How to get there: From the East Entrance, drive 2 miles then turn right onto Lipan Point Road. Follow the road for half a mile to reach Lipan Point Parking Lot at the end of the road.

Best time to visit: This is a popular place to watch the sunrise or sunset. People also come here at night for stargazing. However, you'll have to arrive early to guarantee a parking spot at sunset.

Where to park: The parking lot is right by the viewpoint. There are only 20 parking spaces on the lot though, so it does fill up at peak times.

3. Yavapai Point

What makes this photo spot special: As well as the unforgettable canyon view that you can enjoy from Yavapai Point, it's also right next to the Yavapai Geology Museum.

That means that once you've finished taking your photos and admiring the stunning landscape, you can call in to get a fantastic overview of the natural factors that make the Grand Canyon so special.

How to get there: After entering from the South Rim take a left turn onto Center Road after just under 3 miles. Then, take the first right onto Market Plaza Road and the next left onto Zuni Way. Once you've joined S Entrance Road, it's just under 1 mile before you turn onto Yavapai Viewpoint Road.

Best time to visit: You can get a great picture here at any time of year, but one thing that makes Yavapai Point stand out is that the museum has a panoramic window where you can enjoy the view. That means that if you're visiting in winter, you can keep warm while enjoying the picture postcard views.

Where to park: The Yavapai Geology Museum Parking Lot has ample space. You'll find it at the end of Yavapai Viewpoint Road.

4. Navajo Point

What makes this photo spot special: Navajo Point is the highest elevation viewpoint on the South Rim, soaring up to 7,461 feet, which means you will be able to take a panoramic photo of the Grand Canyon from here.

How to get there: Enter the national park at the East Entrance Station then continue for the first mile of the scenic Desert View Drive. Take the right turn when you see the ‘Navajo Point' signpost, then keep right for the parking lot.

Best time to visit: Desert View Drive is open year-round, and the short drive from the East Entrance Station is usually accessible throughout the winter (weather dependent).

Whatever time of year you visit, Navajo Point is a popular place to watch the sunset.

Where to park: There's parking at Navajo Point, which includes 5 spots for larger vehicles such as RVs.

5. Moran Point

What makes this photo spot special: Named after the landscape painter Thomas Moran, this photo spot offers great views of the Colorado Butte and the Red Canyon rock formations. When there's no wind, you can even hear the Colorado River echoing below.

How to get there: Enter at the East Entrance Station and continue on Desert View Drive for 7 miles. You'll pass Navajo Viewpoint, Lipan Point, and other fantastic viewpoints along the way. A few minutes after passing Tusayan Museum and Ruins, take a right onto Moran Point Road.

Best time to visit: Landscape artists enjoy this viewpoint, which is accessible all year round, because of the shadows and light that change throughout the day. Stay a while, if you can, to watch the way the landscape changes.

Where to park: There's a parking lot at the end of Moran Point Road.

6. Grandview Point

What makes this photo spot special: Grandview Point is a popular spot as it has many amenities such as toilets and wheelchair access. As well as a great view across the Grand Canyon, it's famous as the trailhead for the epic but treacherous Grandview Trail.

How to get there: Enter at the South Entrance and continue towards the canyon on South Entrance Road for 4 miles. Take a right when you reach Desert View Drive, then after just under 9 miles turn left and follow signposts for Grandview Point.

You can also reach Grandview Point from the East Entrance. Simply continue west along Desert View Drive as you travel in the direction of Grand Canyon Village.

Best time to visit: Grandview Point is a popular spot in summer because of the trailhead. If you're just planning on taking photos, sunrise is a great time to see this stunning view.

Where to park: There's parking at the end of the road but remember this is a popular spot and parking is limited.

7. Desert View Watchtower and Desert View Point

What makes this photo spot special: Close to the East Entrance, Desert View Point is often the first glimpse visitors get of the Grand Canyon. It's also the site of the Watchtower, a historic structure built in 1932 where you can get an elevated view from the national park's most easterly viewpoint.

How to get there: Enter Grand Canyon National Park at the East Entrance then after a short 0.3-mile drive, take a right to reach the parking lot.

Best time to visit: The national park's East Entrance is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can stop to see the view at whatever time you arrive at Desert View Point. At sunset, the tower itself makes for an interesting feature in your photos.

Desert View Visitor Center is open from 9am to 5pm, while the Watchtower's View Room is open 8am - 7pm in peak season (check for times if you're visiting in the quieter months).

Where to park: There's ample parking here alongside other amenities such as a deli and gas station, so you can stock up here before heading on to other Grand Canyon viewpoints.

8. Mather Point

What makes this photo spot special: This popular spot near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and main parking lots is often the first look of the canyon for guests arriving via the South Entrance and Grand Canyon Village.

How to get there: From the South Entrance, continue on South Entrance Road for around 5 miles. Then simply take a right turn into the South Rim Visitor Center parking lots.

Best time to visit: Because this is a popular spot, you'll might struggle to avoid the crowds if you visit in the peak summer season. You can still enjoy the view, but you'll have to work a little harder to set up the perfect, uninterrupted photos you probably have in mind.

In spite of that, sunrise and sunset are popular times to visit. As well as the gorgeous golden light, you'll be able to reach Mather Point quickly if you're staying in Tusayan.

Where to park: Mather Point is a short walk from the main South Rim parking lots.

9. Angels Window and Cape Royal

What makes this photo spot special: The natural arch at Angels Window has a walkway that will make you feel like you're floating above the canyon. You can also photograph the arch from a distance at The Viewpoint for Angels Window.

How to get there: After entering through the North Entrance Station, continue on AZ 67 until you reach Cape Royal Road. Take a left turn here and follow the road for 20 miles until you reach the Cape Royal Parking Area.

Best time to visit: Sunrise is a popular time to take photos at Angels Window, so that you can capture the strong colors which light up the landscape. The other advantage is that visiting at this time of day means you'll stay cool - although it's only a short hike, you'll still need to walk to Angels Window, so avoid the hot midday and afternoon in summer.

Note that Cape Royal Road is closed between October and May.

Where to park: There's a good amount of space at the Cape Royal Parking Area at the end of Cape Royal Road.

10. Widforss Trail and Widforss Point

What makes this photo spot special: It's a 9.6-mile round-trip hike to reach Widforss Point. Because it's a challenging point to reach through forested landscapes, you can expect a tranquil viewpoint without the crowds.

How to get there: Enter Grand Canyon National Park at the North Entrance Station then drive on AZ-67 for around 10 miles. Turn right onto the gravel road for Point Sublime Trail.

Best time to visit: The average hiking time is 4 to 6 hours. It's best to set out early in the morning so that you won't spend too much time hiking through the hottest part of the day - it's recommended to avoid hiking between 10am and 4pmin summer. This also means you won't be hiking back in the dark.

Roads and parking areas are closed during winter, so you won't be able to reach Widforss Trail at this time of year.

Where to park: Parking is available at the trailhead. However, it's a gravel parking area reached by a dirt road.

11. Yaki Point

What makes this photo spot special: Yaki Point is the only viewpoint along Desert View Drive that you cannot access with your car. Such restrictions make it a serene spot great for photographers.

How to get there: You cannot drive to Yaki Point. Instead, follow South Entrance Road for around 5 miles and leave your vehicle at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Parking.

Here, jump on the free orange shuttle, which runs from the Visitor Center towards Kaibab and Rim Route.

Best time to visit: Come at sunset, when the fading light reveals the deep canyon colors.

Where to park: There's no parking at Yaki Point itself, since private vehicles aren't permitted to come this far. Instead, park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

12. Pima Point

What makes this photo spot special: Renowned as a leading place to look down towards the Colorado River below, on a quiet day you can even hear the river echoing through the canyon.

How to get there: From the South Entrance, drive for around 3 miles, then turn left onto Center Road. From the Grand Canyon Village Parking Lot, turn left onto Village Loop Drive and follow Maswik Laundry Road.

Next, turn left onto Rowe Well Road, which you'll follow for a mile before taking right turn onto 6A Road then a left turn onto Hermit Road. Finally, veer right onto Pima Point Overlook Road.

Best time to visit: Sunrise and sunset are popular times to visit Pima Point.

You can only reach Pima Point by car in December and February. At other times of year you'll have to catch the red shuttle route.

Where to park: Pima Point Parking Lot is on a paved loop where you can park.

13. Plateau Point

What makes this photo spot special: Plateau Point lets you see the Grand Canyon from a different angle, since you'll descend 3,195 feet into the canyon by the time you reach the viewpoint.

You'll have to take a 12-mile round-trip hike along the Bright Angel Trail to reach Plateau Point. Once you're there, you'll have a lower vantage point, albeit still 1,300 feet above the Colorado River.

How to get there: To access Plateau Point you'll need to hike the Bright Angel Trail. From the South Entrance drive just under 3 miles and take a left turn on Center Road. Join Village Loop Drive by taking a right and follow the road until reaching Grand Canyon Village. This is the closest parking to the trailhead.

Best time to visit: You can camp along the trail at Havasupai Gardens Campground. This'll help you get an early start and reach the point to photograph at sunrise.

This route is only recommended for fall, winter or spring. The humidity makes the hike too dangerous in summer.

Where to park: The closest parking to the Bright Angel Trailhead is at Grand Canyon Village.

14. Ooh Aah Point

What makes this photo spot special: To reach Ooh Aah Point, you'll have to hike the South Kaibab trail. It's a moderate-difficulty trail covering 1.8 miles round trip, but you should probably avoid this trek if you're scared of heights.

Once you reach Ooh Aah Point you'll be rewarded with fabulous views to the east and west.

How to get there: From the South Entrance Station, drive for 5 miles and head to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Parking. We'd recommend taking the Orange Loop Shuttle Bus to the South Kaibab Trailhead, since parking is limited nearby.

Best time to visit: This is a popular sunrise hike, and arriving before 7am means you'll have a better chance of avoiding other visitors getting in the way of your photos. Even this early in the day the trail can get busy.

Bring a head torch if you can so that you can see your way in the dark. While the trail is open year-round, we don't recommend attempting the hike if there's ice or snow on the ground as this makes it a much more dangerous route.

Where to park: You can't park easily nearby, so use the Orange Loop Shuttle from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.

15. Havasu Falls

Havasupai reservation.

What makes this photo spot special: Located n the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls is a remote place to snap pictures of turquoise pools below the cascading waterfalls. It's not a part of Grand Canyon National Park, but it's still a stunning nearby photo opportunity.

How to get there: Accessing Havasu Falls is very difficult. You'll need a permit and a reservation for the lodge or campground beforehand.

To check in for a permit, you'll first need to head to Grand Canyon Caverns Inn, on Old Route 66. You'll find the Inn 37 miles from Seligman, AZ.

The trailhead is at Hualapai Hilltop, a further 63 miles north. Come prepared since it's a very strenuous hike from Hualapai Hilltop to the stunning waterfalls.

Best time to visit: The falls are quietest after 6pm, but allow plenty of time to get back to your vehicle.

After winter storms and flooding, mud often turns the falls brown, so you photos could look quite different at this time of year.

Where to park: You can leave your car at Hualapai Hilltop before setting out along the trail

16. Point Imperial

What makes this photo spot special: Point Imperial is the highest overlook on the North Rim, at 8,803 feet in elevation. From here, you can photograph the point where the Grand Canyon narrows into the narrower Marble Canyon.

How to get there: After passing the North Entrance, drive 10 miles on AZ-67 then take a left at Fuller Canyon for Cape Royal Road. Bear left onto Point Imperial Road, which you'll follow until you reach the Point Imperial Parking Lot.

Best time to visit: Come in the early morning to avoid crowds. The sunrise itself won't be in line with the viewpoint, but it does create interesting light which is great for photographs.

Where to park: Use Point Imperial Parking Lot at the end of Point Imperial Road.

17. Vista Encantada

What makes this photo spot special: This is a beautiful and tranquil setting where your view will comprise Ponderosa pine trees set on the canyon rim.

How to get there: From the North Entrance drive 10 miles on AZ-67 and take a left turn onto Cape Royal Road. After 10 miles, take a left to Vista Encantada.

Best time to visit: Vista Encantada is a popular picnic spot, so avoid the middle of the day if you're hoping for a peaceful and uninterrupted view across the canyon.

If you're an early riser, head here first thing to see the sun rising over the canyon, which casts a beautiful light over the landscape.

Cape Royal Road is closed in winter so, as a general rule, you won't be able to access Vista Encantada between October and May.

Where to park: You can pull up just off Cape Royal Road, but parking is limited so be prepared to wait for a space.

18. Bright Angel Trail and Bright Angel Point

What makes this photo spot special: Bright Angel Point offers expansive views at the end of a short hike. Its accessibility and views make it the most popular viewpoint on the North Rim.

How to get there: Enter at the North Entrance Station then continue your drive all the way along AZ-67, around 13 miles. You'll eventually meet the North Rim Lodge and Visitor Center. Park here and follow the Bright Angel Point Trail to see the viewpoint, which is a 0.5-mile round trip.

Best time to visit: Bright Angel Point is a great spot to capture the layers of rock, which is achievable anytime during daylight. It gets particularly busy at sunset though, with many people visiting late in the day to watch the changing light and shadow on the rocks.

Bright Angel Point is usually only accessible between the 15th of May and the 15th of October.

Where to park: You can park nearby at the North Rim Lodge and Visitor Center, then it's just a short walk to the viewpoint.

19. Walhalla Overlook

What makes this photo spot special: As well as enjoying splendid views of the canyon at Walhalla Overlook, you can also look down to see the Unkar Delta and Colorado River far below. You can spot archaeological sites from this viewpoint too.

How to get there: Enter at the North Entrance Station and follow AZ-67 for 10 miles. Next, take the left turn onto Cape Royal Road and before reaching the end of the road, pull over for the Walhalla Overlook Parking.

Best time to visit: Unlike many of the other viewpoints, Walhalla Overlook faces southeast, so it's not a big sunset destination. Instead, head here through the day to enjoy the view.

In common with many other North Rim overlooks, Walhalla Overlook is inaccessible between October and May.

Where to park: Next to the overlook is Walhalla Overlook Parking.

20. Mohave Point

What makes this photo spot special: The westward view from Mohave Point captures the Colorado River and the Hermit Rapids below.

How to get there: To reach Mohave Point, enter via the South Entrance then turn left onto Center Road to reach Grand Canyon Village.

Between 1st March and 30th November, you can only access this viewpoint by shuttle, so leave your vehicle at Grand Canyon Village and take the Red Route Shuttle Bus to Hermits Rest.

If you're visiting in winter you can drive yourself to the viewpoint. From Village Loop Drive continue straight ahead onto Hermit Road and follow it until you reach Mohave Point.

Best time to visit: As a west-facing viewpoint, Mohave Point is famous as a sunset lookout.

Where to park: In peak visiting season, you'll have to take the shuttle. At other times, there's a parking lot where you simply pull over along Mohave Point Road.

Bonus: Horseshoe Bend

Glen canyon.

What makes this photo spot special: Technically located in Glen Canyon, but we possibly could not skip this stunning photo spot! Horseshoe Bend is an iconic photo opportunity where the Colorado River travels around a 270-degree horseshoe-shaped bend.

How to get there: The approach to Horseshoe Bend is different to the lookouts around the canyon rim. Starting out from Page, join Highway 89 South then after around 3 miles you'll see a signposted right turn. Parking for the overlook is on Page Parkway, from where it's a 1.5-mile round trip hike.

Best time to visit: Head to Horseshoe Bend at dawn for a more peaceful experience. As a bonus, you'll see sunrise paint a glowing backdrop across the canyon.

Come in early fall (September to October) and this highly popular lookout should be less crowded. That way you'll have more freedom to pick your photo spot.

Where to park: Parking for the overlook is just off Highway 89. However, when the parking lot is full, Page also runs a shuttle service. It's often needed during peak weekends and holidays.

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The Maya Train Will Get You to All of Yucatán’s Best Spots. But Not Yet.

In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups.

By Elisabeth Malkin

Elisabeth Malkin has been visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for three decades.

I stepped off the platform at the gleaming new Maxcanú train station, eager to see the magnificent Maya archaeological site of Uxmal. All I needed was a taxi to take me there, a trip of about 30 miles away.

There are no taxis, said the stationmaster, as we stood on the polished limestone floors of the high-ceilinged station, which was cool and breezy despite the brilliant late-morning sun outside. And I was the third person in two weeks to get off at Maxcanú expecting to reach Uxmal, he said.

I was midway through a five-day trip to explore the brand-new Maya Train and several of its destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico . Designed to run 965 miles (1,554 kilometers) around a loop of 34 stations when completed, the train will whisk passengers in cool comfort through colonial cities, archaeological sites, splashy resorts and tropical forests.

Now I was stunned. Wrangling a taxi has never been a problem in Mexico. But the drivers gathered in the main square of Maxcanú offered only beat-up vans that hopscotch through small towns, where I might or might not find a taxi to Uxmal. The next van was leaving in 45 minutes.

Yucatán’s layers of history have long held me spellbound. During earlier car trips, I have clambered up deserted Maya temples and palaces, stepped into the cool naves of massive 16th-century churches and visited restored haciendas, testaments of the ostentation — and hardship — of the peninsula’s 19th-century plantation economy. Traveling by train, I thought, would allow me to steep myself in more of that history.

But as I found in Maxcanú, a train won’t necessarily get you to where you want to go.

During my February trip, I traveled on the only route then available, an east-west leg that opened in December and runs from Cancún to Mérida, and then south through the port city of Campeche to the Maya site of Palenque (a short route between Cancún and Playa del Carmen opened last month, with three trains a day). I encountered scheduling confusion, unfinished stations and a dearth of trains — just two operating daily each way between Cancún and Campeche, and only one to Palenque. Overnight sleepers and special dining trains seem years away.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador considers the Maya Train his showcase development project, and wants to inaugurate the rest of the train before he leaves office on October 1. Based on my experience, that goal seems elusive.

A $29-billion route through the jungle

I started my journey in Cancún, where in the pre-dawn gloom the station hovered like a glowing spaceship. An attendant scanned the ticket I had bought online and a half-dozen more pointed me toward my tourist-class car, which was about a quarter full. I planned to go to Campeche, about 300 miles away, stopping once each day. At 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) an hour, the train covers the route in about six hours, the same as a car. (When construction is complete, the train’s speed should increase to 160 kilometers an hour.)

The car’s wide windows looked out at a wall of low jungle. The blue-green seats were comfortable and there was ample space between the rows. I bought a very good cappuccino at the snack bar, but declined the plastic-wrapped sandwiches. The rest of the merchandise was fruit cups, milk boxes and junk food.

The train will ultimately cost much more than the $29 billion budgeted so far, and it’s not the first time ambitious planners have alighted on the region. Cancún was once a tiny fishing village, selected half a century ago as a tourist hub. Last year 10 million international tourists flew into its airport, more than the airports of Mexico City, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta combined.

But uncontrolled growth has stressed the Caribbean coast’s fragile environment. The Maya Train, scientists warn , will push those problems south, threatening the area’s water supply, its unique system of underground limestone caves and its vast nature reserves.

Mr. López Obrador has charged ahead, handing the train over to the military , and arguing that it will spread Cancún’s wealth and attract new visitors. Mexico received more than 42 million overseas tourists last year and they spent almost $31 billion .

Local governments see an opportunity. “The train will allow people to disperse throughout the peninsula,” said Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary for Yucatán state, which promotes dozens of attractions far beyond highlights like Mérida and Chichén Itzá .

Now that the train is operating, transport companies will begin to connect stations with lesser-known sites nearby, she said.

It’s fair to ask whether the train is the most effective way to develop the peninsula’s tourism. Tour companies already run trips to many sites from major cities, which are well served by buses. Driving a rental car through most of the area is considered safe , according to U.S. State Department travel guidance .

Route of Mexico’s Maya Train

Canceled trip.

It took two hours (and one time-zone change) to reach Valladolid, a colonial city of handsome streets and ancient churches, where I bought the rest of my tickets at the station. A tourist-class ticket from Cancún to Valladolid costs 472 pesos (around $28) for foreigners and 355 pesos (around $21) for Mexicans. First class, with wider seats, costs 755.50 pesos and 566.50 pesos, and discounts are available for older travelers and residents of the five states along the train’s route. (A first-class bus from downtown Cancún to Valladolid costs between 222 and 344 pesos, depending on the time of day, and takes half an hour longer.)

It was impossible to run the new Maya Train tracks into dense city centers and the Valladolid station, like the rest, was outside the urban core. A waiting bus took disembarking passengers downtown, a 15-minute ride for 35 pesos.

That day I toured Ek Balam , the site of a ninth-century Maya kingdom that is dominated by a 100-foot palace distinguished by a facade of carvings depicting winged warriors, stylized animal features and geometric patterns bordered by giant fangs. Admission to the site includes entry to the X-Canché cenote, one of thousands of limestone sinkholes that were sacred to the Maya.

Later that afternoon, I was wandering through the Museum of Ethnic Clothing, a private collection of traditional dress, embroidery and hats, when a WhatsApp message from the ticket office blinked on my phone. My train scheduled for the following day was canceled.

I decided to deal with the problem in the morning and enjoy the city. As I wandered past the antique shops and boutique hotels of the elegant Calzada de los Frailes, it was clear that Valladolid’s tourism, and the infrastructure to handle it, was well established. The Maya Train is simply an alternative way to reach a city that tourists discovered years ago.

‘We’re on the Tren Maya!’

In the morning, I found that my train had not been canceled, but the station for which I had a ticket, Tixkokob, was closed. I got off instead one stop earlier at Izamal, known for its ocher streets and the giant Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop the ruins of a pyramid.

During the 90-minute ride, I heard widespread enthusiasm among fellow travelers who expressed a willingness to give the train time to work out the kinks. “We’re an experiment,” said Oliva Escobedo Ochoa, 64, who was vacationing from her home in central Mexico.

Leticia Iliassich, 57, who is Mexican, was traveling with her Croatian husband along with relatives from Mexico and Croatia. They had initially been scheduled on an earlier train to Mérida that had been canceled. “We knew that it was a new project,” she said. “We don’t mind.”

The group had already sent a video to friends declaring, “We’re on the Tren Maya!”

At the Izamal station I hitched a 15-minute ride into the town center with a man who had asked me to take his photo alongside the train and his father. From there I negotiated a taxi to Hacienda San Lorenzo Aké, a working hacienda that still turns the fiber from an agave plant called henequén into coarse rope. Global demand for henequén, known as Yucatán’s “green gold,” brought fantastic wealth to the region in the mid-19th century, speckling the peninsula with more than 1,000 haciendas. ( Many are now sumptuous hotels.)

Where geometry, nature and the divine merge

It was during my third day that I found myself stuck in Maxcanú, after a 90-minute train ride from Izamal. The stationmaster, an army captain, offered me a ride to Uxmal, just as he had to the stranded tourists before me.

Eying Uxmal’s 4 p.m. final ticket sale, I accepted.

My situation made it clear just how distant the Maya Train’s promises are for tourists seeking to explore more of Yucatán. In time, that will change, said Ms. Fridman, the tourism secretary. “The idea is to have more hotels along the train line,” she said. “That will happen little by little.”

But Uxmal , among the most stunning of the Maya sites, made up for the inconvenience. Uxmal’s grand buildings are faced with intricate decorative masks as well as friezes in which geometry, nature and the divine merge. New plaques at each structure offer detailed information in English and Spanish, part of the government’s investment in improving displays at Maya sites for the train project.

Most tourists either take day trips by car or bus to Uxmal from Mérida or stay at one of three nearby hotels. As I finished dinner at my hotel, the dining room began to fill up: 47 Polish tourists had arrived.

Panama hats and a cramped van

My plan for the day was to go by taxi to Bécal, a town where Panama hats are woven in limestone caves to keep the fibers soft, and then pick up the afternoon train in nearby Calkiní for the port city of Campeche.

But I spent so much time watching the hat-making demonstration and then fitting my new hat and buying gifts that we set off with little time to reach the station. To my chagrin, I missed the train, the last one of the day.

On Calkiní’s central square, I found a van that was leaving for Campeche. Cost: 65 pesos. Time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes, similar to what I would have spent on the train. Of course, I was trapped in a cramped seat and had to listen to the driver’s choice of sentimental ballads, but I was dropped off in downtown Campeche, close to my hotel.

The next day, I toured the Museum of Maya Archaeology , an expertly curated collection that included haunting jade funeral masks, glyphs and delicate ceramic figures.

José Madrigal, 45, an engineer from Fremont, Calif., was trying to make Maya pottery interesting for his twin sons. The boys had just turned 5 and their birthday present had been a ride on the Maya Train. “They love trains,” Mr. Madrigal said. Then the family moved on, keeping up a brisk clip through the museum. They had another train to catch.

Should you take the train?

Yes, if you are traveling between larger stations. The train also offers a way to get to Palenque, which is harder to reach and has roads with security concerns. Travelers can stow bicycles on board.

To see train times, check the destinations on the website . You cannot buy tickets online more than a week in advance. But when you finally board, the ride is smooth — and the coffee is excellent.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Critical Financial

18 Top U.S. Spots Where Seniors Live Their Best Lives

Posted: April 30, 2024 | Last updated: April 30, 2024

Retirement should be full of enjoyment, and there are places in the U.S. where it can be enjoyed more than others. This can be down to picturesque views, different communities, and lots of fun activities. Here are 18 top U.S. spots where seniors live their best lives. 

Brentwood, Tennessee

Brentwood is considered a national favorite for retirement. For example, The Tennessean writes, “Brentwood stood out due to the suburb’s financial well-being, high life expectancy, low climate risk, low crime rate, and low senior poverty rate.” It offers a high quality of life, especially thanks to its amenities and great healthcare. 

Winchester, Nevada

Thanks to its affordability, low cost of living, and tax benefits, Winchester is a favorite among retirees. There are many leisure and recreational activities available in the city, making it a great option for an active senior lifestyle. It’s also in close proximity to Las Vegas, which has many entertainment options. 

Sun City, Arizona

Sun City was designed with seniors in mind. It’s considered one of the best retirement cities because it was purposely built for that reason. This means plenty of golf courses, social clubs, and special events aimed just at retirees. There’s also a year-round warm climate, giving a person lots of options for outdoor activities. 

The Villages, Florida

The Villages is another community that’s been built just for retirees. This is one of the largest retirement communities in the U.S., which means you can expect lots of lively activities. There are numerous clubs and amenities, all of which are aimed at seniors. The cost of living in The Villages is also below the national average.  

Naples, Florida

Senior Lifestyle writes, “With relatively warm weather all year-round compared to averages around the country, this town is a top destination for retirees, including one of the top retirement communities in Naples, FL, the Pineapple House at Sapphire Lakes.” It’s a high-end retirement setting with great shopping, restaurants, and beaches. 

Ft. Myers, Florida

Many seniors live their best lives in Fort Myers, thanks to its warm climate and scenic beauty. You can also expect to have a great social life if you retire in Fort Myers, as it has many dining and entertainment options. Retirees love its community feel and recreational amenities. 

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh is loved for its many amenities and accessible healthcare. The city also has a low unemployment rate and a strong economy, which makes it a comfortable city to live in. There are numerous parks and recreational activities that help improve a person’s quality of life during retirement. 

Wichita, Kansas

With its affordable living, low housing costs, and great essential services, Wichita has become a popular place to retire. The city has a strong community feel thanks to its many cultural and social activities. Seniors will find great healthcare services in Wichita, which also adds to its popularity. 

Portland, Oregon

Portland scores high when it comes to wellness and transportation for seniors. It has a great cultural scene with access to lots of outdoor activities and beautiful nature spots. There’s also a strong community feel, with lots of support systems in place for older adults. 

West Des Moines, Iowa

West Des Moines is considered a popular place to retire. For example, Unbiased writes, “West Des Moines offers numerous parks and trails, a variety of shopping and dining options, and a strong sense of community.” It also has a lower cost of living for seniors and great healthcare facilities. 

Manhattan, Kansas

Also known as “The Little Apple,” Manhattan, Kansas, offers retirees affordable housing and an active lifestyle with its many walks and nature trails. There’s also a strong sense of community engagement through the university-led senior programs. Having so much to do helps retirees really live their best lives. 

Ann Arbor, Michigan

If any retirees are still looking to educate themselves, then retiring in Ann Arbor is the answer. It has the famous Ann Arbor University, which has numerous programs available just for seniors. It’s a bustling college town with lots of entertainment and education opportunities, even for those who have retired. 

Mankato, Minnesota

For a spot with a small-town feel, Mankato can be the answer. It still has a thriving downtown and an active community, just without the hectic feeling of living in a city. It’s also an affordable spot to live in and has lots of shops and restaurants to keep a person entertained. 

Kansas City, Missouri

Thanks to its below-average cost of living, Kansas City is an affordable place for retirees to live, giving them extra cash to live their best lives. Kansas City is also home to lots of culture with its museums, theaters, and historic sites. Seniors can also expect good access to healthcare facilities. 

Billings, Montana

St. John’s United writes, “The cost of living in Billings is slightly below the national average, making it a more affordable option for many retirees.” It also has great medical and dental systems in place and numerous recreational and fitness centers for seniors.  

Appleton, Wisconsin

There’s lots to keep retirees entertained in Appleton, thanks to its entertainment and recreational options. It’s also a more affordable city compared to many others in the U.S., which gives seniors more cash to play with in retirement. Appleton also has a strong community feel with many social and cultural events.  

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Harrisburg is ranked one of the top cities in the country to retire to. This is because it’s known for its affordability and rich history. There are many things for a person to do in Harrisburg, such as visiting museums and parks or taking part in riverfront activities. 

Reading, Pennsylvania

Reading is loved by retirees for it’s low cost of living, as it helps seniors on a fixed income. The city has a range of community activities tailored just for seniors, such as libraries and social clubs. There’s lots of nature surrounding the city, which is perfect for anyone seeking an outdoor lifestyle.

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This Is the No. 1 Family Beach Vacation Spot in the U.S.

While Alabama might not be the obvious choice for a beach vacation, Gulf Shores claims the top spot.

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If your idea of a perfect summer involves soaking up warm sunrays and splashing in refreshing waves, America’s coastlines are brimming with delightful seaside towns just waiting to be discovered. U.S. News and World Report recently analyzed destinations across the U.S., considering factors like safe waters, kid-friendly attractions, restaurants, accommodations, and prices to determine the best family beach vacations in the U.S.

While Alabama might not be the obvious choice for a beach vacation, Gulf Shores claims the top spot, with 32 miles of pristine white sands. Whether you're seeking a taste of history at Fort Morgan, exhilarating thrills at Waterville USA, or peaceful hikes at Gulf State Park, there’s something to keep every family member engaged. Stay at the Beach Club Resort , an 86-acre village-style property offering beachfront condos, lakeside cottages, and an array of amenities, including two pools, five dining options, an arcade, and a playground.

Outer Banks, North Carolina, is second on the list, a premier surfing destination on the East Coast. This idyllic cluster of barrier islands is home to the wild horses of Corolla, five historic lighthouses, and the iconic Wright Brothers Memorial in Kitty Hawk, where the world’s first powered flight took place. While there are several luxury properties like Sanderling Resort , renting a vacation house near the beach is also an excellent option, especially for large families. 

Anna Maria Island in Florida takes third place, with seven miles of glistening beaches, mesmerizing sunsets, and various family-friendly activities ranging from interacting with marine life at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium to painting sand dollars at Shiny Fish Emporium. Of course, seafood is a must when visiting the island and the nearby Cortez Historic Fishing Village, with local spots like Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Tide Tables, and Sandbar Seafood & Spirits serving fresh catches daily. Exploring the island has never been easier, thanks to a free trolley system and a new ferry service that links the island to downtown Bradenton’s Riverwalk.

Ranked fourth is Kiawah Island , South Carolina, which is home to the luxurious Kiawah Island Golf Resort . With a vast portion of its land designated as protected habitat, this Lowcountry hideaway south of Charleston invites visitors to revel in a slower pace of life and reconnect with nature. The best way to see the island is to hop on a bike and pedal along its 30-mile network of paths, including Kiawah Beachwalker Park, the island’s only public beach.

Destin , Florida, rounds out the top five family beach destinations. Alongside its sister city, Fort Walton Beach, this jewel of a town is renowned for its crystal-clear emerald waters and sugar-like sands. Kids will love taking a dolphin cruise with companies like Smile and Wave Adventures, learning about marine animals at Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, and visiting Gator Beach, where they can safely interact with alligators. As for dining and accommodations, options are numerous, with kid-approved restaurants like Rockin’ Tacos, Harbor Docks, and Lulu’s and cozy beach resorts like Henderson Beach Resort and Beal House Fort Walton Beach .

For a complete list of the rankings, visit travel.usnews.com .

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Breaking news, tourists slammed for posing naked in popular desert spot: ‘very sickening’.

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They de-nude-ed the landscape.

Another day, another instance of tourists disrespecting a landmark.

This time, foreign sightseers angered Namibian authorities after posing naked atop the legendary Big Daddy Dune in the Namib Desert, as seen in photos circulating on social media .

“It is very sickening and it really [creates] a bad image for Namibia,” Kenneth Nependa, vice-chairperson of the Federation of Namibian Tourism Associations, told the Namibian Sun, the BBC reported.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Namibian (@thenamibian)

He added that these antics risked attracting tourists who think that “anything goes” in the southern African nation.

Accompanying footage and video, snapped by an unknown source, shows the unnamed trio strutting about in their birthday suits atop the over 1,000-foot-tall sand mound, which is reportedly popular with families.

Visitors didn’t appreciate the tourists treating the scenic site like a nude beach and called on tourism officials to take action against the crass culprits.

Authorities haven’t yet publicly identified the sandy stripteasers, who allegedly left Namibia by the time authorities received the reports.

However, the nudists could be banned from entering the country’s parks, according to tourism ministers, who added that the “extremely shocking” act was public indecency and therefore punishable by local law.

In light of the indecent incident, officials are calling on visitors to report violators to authorities so they can deal with them accordingly.

“We appeal to that section of tourists to summon the conscience so that they do the right things,” declared Romeo Muyunda, a spokesperson for the ministry of environment, forestry and tourism.

However, many social media users disagreed that the incident was problematic.

“Why are they in trouble? They bothered no one,” an X user declared, according to the BBC, while another claimed that there is “nothing wrong with sunbathing.”

Big Daddy is one of the three largest dunes in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park and is a popular destination among sightseers looking to get a picturesque view from its crest.

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15 Super Cool Places to Camp in Colorado

From supported campgrounds to dispersed areas with stellar stargazing, we found the best places to sleep outside in the Rocky Mountains

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

I’ve been hiking and camping in Colorado for more than 25 years, but last summer, I went on one of the most delicious backcountry overnights I’ve ever done, literally.

The gist? I met up with a group of outdoor experts, including Stephen Starks , aka “The Mountain Chef”, at the Fourth of July Trailhead, near Boulder, Colorado . There, we strapped on packs to haul 4.4 miles up and over the Continental Divide’s Arapaho Pass to Caribou Lake—an alpine oasis at 11,147 feet. Our goal? To test a bunch of gear and cook good food in the field.

I was stoked to tag along for two reasons: first, to hike and camp with other gear junkies who love being outside as much as I do; second, the trip’s head honcho scored a coveted backcountry permit for the Indian Peaks Wilderness, providing immediate access to this stunning (but popular) 74,000-acre chunk of Rocky Mountains in my backyard.

Because Caribou Lake sits in the exposed shadow of the Divide, it experiences rapid, severe weather swings, or in other words, becomes prime gear-testing ground. And unsurprisingly, as we crested the pass, horizontal hail and wind slammed us from the west. We descended to the lake, found our camp spot, slung off our packs, and pitched our tents.

Just as we kicked back for happy hour, a slushy hail storm rolled in. So, we scooped handfuls of ice from the seats of camp chairs and plopped them into cocktails, then Starks whipped out new MSR stoves and cook kits and began frying up Korean BBQ, followed by hot pots piled with vegetables, noodles, and sizzled strips of salty meat.Within 15 minutes, the sky cleared up into a blood-red sunset, and we stood chatting, munching, and slurping to an alpenglow show, before crashing for the night and descending the next day. (For the record: the gear held up and The Mountain Chef’s cuisine was as stellar as the views.) It was bliss.

Camping in Colorado: With Hundreds of Options, These Are Some of the Best

Beyond burly backpacking overnights, Colorado has lots of other cool ways to catch Zzzs outdoors, including at trailheads and in fancy tents. Below, I’ve highlighted some notable and new places for camping in Colorado, broken down by type, from supported campgrounds to dispersed options, and more. Some of these spots are free and first-come, first-served, some require months of planning just to snag a reservation. But pick any one of these (mostly) off-grid gems and you won’t go wrong.

My bottom line? It doesn’t matter whether I’m camping with my kids, buddies, solo, or with other outdoor pros testing pots and pans in a hail storm—as long as I’m sleeping outside, I’m set.

Dispersed Camping

In Colorado, dispersed camping, a.k.a. primitive campsites are usually interspersed along dirt roads in public lands, outside of designated campgrounds. Opt for these options for solitude and the best stargazing around. Just don’t forget your own drinking water or filter, follow Leave No Trace Principles and pack out your trash, and know how to responsibly poop in the woods , please and thanks.

Pawnee Buttes

📍 Location: Pawnee National Grasslands, northeast of Ault in Eastern Colorado

Just 13 miles shy of the Wyoming border in northeastern Colorado, the Pawnee Buttes is part of Pawnee National Grasslands. Dispersed camping is allowed on the Pawnee National Grassland year-round and there are numerous primitive campsites off the network of dirt roads that are a short drive from the Pawnee Buttes Trailhead. Per usual for dispersed camping, there aren’t facilities at any of these sites, but you’ll find a bathroom and shelters at the official trailhead.

💰 The Cost: Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The main reason to drive up here is to hike the Pawnee Buttes Trail , a short but inspiring 4.4-mile out and back walk to two enormous sand and rock formations rising up from the plains. Note: It’s completely exposed to the elements, and summer temperatures easily reach 90-100°F, but early morning, spring, and fall are perfect times to visit, and camping near the trailhead gives you immediate sunrise and sunset options when it’s not as hot and bright.

Gross Reservoir / Winiger Ridge

📍 Location: West of Boulder, Front Range, Colorado

This chunk of White River National Forest only a few miles west of Boulder is accessible by high clearance 4WD only and offers a handful of free, dispersed camping spots, mostly along a ridge above Gross Reservoir. There is a vault toilet at Forsythe Canyon Trailhead , but none at the campsites, which are marked with numbered posts. Although this is technically still dispersed camping, you must find an available designated site and can’t just post up anywhere. National Forest System Road 359, which provides access, is open from mid-May through mid-November during a typical year.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The reservoir itself is open for regular and ice fishing, canoeing, and SUP (but no swimming allowed).

Bear River Developed Campsites in Flat Tops Wilderness Area

📍 Location: Near Yampa, in north-central Colorado

There are 30 designated dispersed campsites along the Bear River Corridor, which is the main eastern entrance road to Stillwater Reservoir and the Flat Tops Wilderness (Forest Service Road 900). You’ll find these spots with superb views along the road between several established Forest Service campgrounds, as well as a string of lakes and trailheads. Each site has a picnic table and fire grate and a numbered post.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The Flat Tops Wilderness spans the Routt National Forest and White River National Forest, with elevations ranging from 7,640 to 12,354 feet. It’s the third-largest Wilderness area in Colorado. Check out the 7-mile out and back hike to Keener Lake from Stillwater Reservoir.

Camping at Trailheads

The following trails allow primitive camping either in or near trailhead parking lots, providing optimal early-morning access to stunning hiking trails. Usually it’s explicitly prohibited to camp at most trailheads in Colorado, but here are a couple of interesting exceptions.

Sheep Creek Hot Springs

📍 Location: East of Durango, southwest Colorado

Okay, let’s clear this up right from the start: there are no hot springs, just some warmish algae covered spots on the Piedra River, at the bottom of this short trail into San Juan National Forest (at least, that’s what I found when I hiked and camped here in 2022). That said, it’s still a lovely walk in the woods and you can sleep outside around here. The Sheep Creek Hot Springs Trail descends a few hundred feet to the confluence of Sheep Creek and the Piedra River, then heads upstream along the latter over a flat, mossy, other-worldly forested river bank. There are backcountry campsites down there too, as well as a few car camping spots at the trailhead, all primitive with nothing but a fire ring and some downed logs to sit on.

💰 The Cost: Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Trout fishing on the Piedra River. Plus, check out Chimney Rock National Monument and the town of Pagosa Springs nearby, where you will indeed find incredible hot springs, plus some lovely shops and restaurants.

Picture Canyon

📍 Location: Comanche National Grassland, Southeast Colorado

This lonely, remote corner of the state doesn’t get as many visitors as mountainous destinations, making it all the more reason to visit. Archeologists estimate this area has been inhabited for over 12,000 years. Evidence includes projectile points, stone tools, charred bones, and rock shelter sites. There are 13 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails throughout this section of Comanche National Grassland. Dispersed camping is permitted in Picture Canyon, both in the picnic area by the parking lot, and along several dirt roads in the area. Campers may only use existing fire rings and park in designated areas, but there are a number of obvious spots to choose from with flat spots for tents and established fire pits.

💰 The Cost : Free 📆 Book It: First-come, first-served; get details here 🔎 Don’t Miss: The variety of habitat makes this a first-rate birding spot to view Eastern Phoebe, Scaled quail, Bullock’s oriole, eagles, burrowing owls, towhees, wrens, sparrows, grosbeaks, and more. You’ll want to hike to local examples of rock art, although much of it has been vandalized; there’s an interesting crack cave near an old homestead, about a mile’s walk in.

Best National Park/Monument Campgrounds

Many campers plan their entire Colorado trip around visits to the five national parks (this includes Amache National Historical Site , which was designated a national park in February 2024) and nine national monuments distributed throughout the state, most of which maintain and manage some pretty cool campgrounds. Here are a few of my favorites.

Aspenglen Campground

📍 Location: Rocky Mountain National Park , near Estes Park

One of the smaller, more remote-feeling campgrounds inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspenglen is located on the east side of the park, about a five-minute drive from the Fall River Entrance. The campground has four tight loops with 51 sites for tents and RVs up to 30 feet, including 10 tent-only sites. Its facilities are wheelchair-accessible, and picnic tables, grills, fire rings, and tent pads are provided by the National Park Service (NPS). Flush toilets, drinking water, dishwashing sinks, food lockers, campfire programs, an amphitheater, and a riding stable are also available. Leashed pets are permitted in the campground, but don’t forget they’re not allowed on any national park trails.

💰 The Cost: $26 per night; campers must also purchase a vehicle day pass (or have an annual NPS pass) 📆 Book It: Reserve here ; note that this campground fills up quickly when spots open up to six months in advance 🔎 Don’t Miss: Check out Horseshoe Park, the best place to see elk and bighorn sheep, as well as the 6-mile out-and-back Deer Mountain Trail , a singletrack day hike with epic views of Longs Peak, both of which are accessible from the campground. The Lawn Lake Trailhead is also a short drive away and is a strenuous 12.5 mile out-and-back hike up to the pristine high-alpine lake (which has a primitive campsite requiring an overnight permit).

Saddlehorn Campground

📍 Location: Colorado National Monument, near Fruita

Most Coloradans drive by Colorado National Monument on their way to Utah, never realizing that some canyons and rock features they seek exist just south of the interstate here. The monument protects 32 square miles of rock ridges and plateaus on the northern end of the Uncompahgre Uplift. Saddlehorn Campground, which is inside the National Monument, near the Visitor Center, is perched 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, with stunning panoramic views over the valley, including the towns of Fruita and Grand Junction.

💰 The Cost: $22 per night, plus park entrance 📆 Book It: Reserve here ; available up to six months in advance 🔎 Don’t Miss: During summer months, the campground hosts ranger-led campfire programs and guided walks. In winter, you can cross-country ski the monument’s trail system. Mountain biking and dogs are prohibited within the monument, but you can take a spin or bring your pup to most of the surrounding BLM land, worry-free. Additionally, campers may have the opportunity to join the Grand Junction astronomy club, which occasionally sets up telescopes at the campground for stargazing sessions.

Piñon Flats Campground

📍 Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve , San Luis Valley, Colorado

Piñon Flats is the official campground inside the national park, located at the base of the 30-square-mile dune field, across the creek. Piñon Flats has 88 campsites, plus a section for big groups. It’s important to note you can’t collect firewood inside the national park, but the camp store, visitors center, and the Oasis store and restaurant (just outside of the park) all sell locally sourced firewood. Piñon Flats campground has two loops of sites in a piñon-juniper woodland, some with privacy. Note that all sites are small, most can only accommodate one tent, and it can be a bit noisy in the mornings and evenings, as generators are allowed from 7A.M.–8P.M. But sunrise access to the dunes makes it worth it.

💰 The Cost: $20 per night (group sites are $65-80 per night for up to 40 people), plus park entrance 📆 Book It : Loop 1 is open year-round; the rest of the campground is open from late spring to early fall. Reservations are recommended and accepted for Loop 2 from mid-May to mid-September. 🔎 Don’t Miss : Most visitors spend a day exploring the dunes, hiking to any of the nearby shifting high points. If Medano Creek, the waterway that runs below the dunes, is flowing above ground (usually in late May and June), plan on some high-mountain “beach” time, splashing in the shallow water.

Unique Full-Service Campgrounds

These special spots sit on the camping spectrum, somewhere between forest service campgrounds and fancy glamping. They come in different sizes, with the biggest ones operating more like mini villages than remote nature experiences, but it’s that character that makes these worth visiting—especially for family reunions with large groups.

Campfire Ranch on the Taylor

📍 Location: Near Crested Butte, central Colorado

Campfire Ranch has several locations, including “on the Taylor,” where they offer tent, car, and van camping. They have onsite rental camping gear from leading outdoor brands and an “Adventure Concierge” that connects guests with local outfitters and activities. It’s located halfway between Crested Butte and Gunnison, about 15 minutes away from either outpost, and is surrounded by hundreds of miles of singletrack trails for day hikes, mountain biking, and trail runs.

💰 The Cost: Ranges from $67 per night for campsites to $130 per night for their “micro cabin” 📆 Book It: Season runs mid-May to early October. Most reservations can be made only 14 days in advance, though for 3+ campsites or for large groups you can reserve up to 6 months before your stay. 🔎 Don’t Miss: The Taylor Canyon is home to the gold-medal fishing waters of the Taylor River and decent whitewater for rafting and kayaking. Venture east to Taylor Park to enjoy one of Colorado’s most stunning high-alpine valleys for more fishing, boating, hiking, and off-roading adventures.

Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountain

📍 Location: Granby, Colorado

This huge collection of accommodations near the Colorado River, just across the road from Granby, is especially nice if you’re traveling with children or older folks. You can all stay comfortably at camping and non-camping accommodations, including RV hookups, tent sites, Airstream trailers, and covered Conestoga wagons. There are on-site amenities like a big pool, hot tubs, restaurant and bar, playgrounds, recreation center, arcade, and more. When I last stayed here with my mother and children, I was able to head out early for a long hike in Indian Peaks Wilderness, knowing that my family had plenty to do on Sun Outdoors’ campus. Pro tip: rent a golf cart to get around for added fun.

💰 The Cost : Summer rates for tent spots start at $67 per night, Airstream and wagons start at $155. Book early, especially for summer weekends. 📆 Book It : Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss : Day hike in Rocky Mountain National Park or Indian Peaks Wilderness, both to the east; soak at Hot Sulphur Springs , just to the west; or visit State Forest State Park , an hour to the north.

Dolores River RV Resort

📍 Location: Dolores, Four Corners Region, southwest Colorado

This river-side oasis in southwest Colorado is the perfect stopover between Four Corners and the San Juan Mountains, and it also operates like a micro-village. Most adventurers use this location as a basecamp, as it’s uniquely situated between destinations with awesome, 360-degree outdoor access. Stay in one of 78 tent or RV sites, or in a tepee, yurt, cabin, vintage trailer, or covered Conestoga wagon. All guests can use the community bathhouses, laundry machines, and a large common recreation hall, and enjoy grub from food trucks, as well as scheduled music and social events.

💰 The Cost : Tent and RV sites begin at $29 per night, and glamping options like a covered wagon start at $62 per night 📆 Book It : Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Check out Petroglyph Point Trail , a 2.5-mile loop, in Mesa Verde National Park . A little closer, just drive up Highway 145 which follows the Dolores River upstream toward the San Juans and Telluride. There are ample spots to pull off and explore, or head into the little town of Dolores and walk the Dolores River Trail.

Yurt and Wall Tent Camping

Yurts and wall tents feature sturdy, semi-permanent structures like wooden frames and tent platforms, providing a comfortable shelter in a rustic, natural setting. Tent material is typically thick, waterproof canvas, and you’re often sleeping on an actual bed, as opposed to the ground.

Rustic Rook Resort

📍 Location: Near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

Just off the approach road to the national park, this new camping compound offers furnished tents, upcycled grain bins (a.k.a. repurposed farm silos) with stargazing loft domes, plus a few vintage RVs. Rustic Rook is a family owned and operated business and has a handful of fully furnished platform tents with wood burning stoves (five have in-tent plumbing, guests at the rest use a community bath house). Rustic Rook serves fresh, pre-adventure breakfast burritos each morning and s’mores around the campfire at night.

💰 The Cost: $160-$330 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: In addition to the nearby national park, the San Luis Valley has an eclectic and alluring list of attractions, including a UFO Watchtower, Colorado Gators Reptile Park , and Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa .

Dunes Desert Camp

📍 Location: Near Mosca and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

This 320-acre private property in San Luis Valley has luxury safari tents with views of the surrounding valley and Sangre de Cristo mountains. The owner, Chris Mahoney, spent 14 years guiding safaris in Africa, so he’s well versed in luxury camping and works with Narrow Ridge Outdoors to arrange guided hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding, rafting, and 4WD tours. The tents are cozy and carpeted and have private stargazing porches. Plus, there’s a communal fire pit for grilling up tasty meals after a long day of adventuring.

💰 The Cost: Safari tents from $250 per night, campsites from $50 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Plan to hike around Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve early, so the sand isn’t so hot. Plus, you’ll experience the post-dawn light show on the dunes. Other area activities outside of the park include taking the short hike to Zapata Falls, birding at Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge , and visiting the mountain town of Crestone.

Mudita Camel’s Yurt

📍 Location: South of Alamosa, in San Luis Valley, Colorado

I found this gem on Hipcamp—a solid resource for unique campsite reservations. Mudita Camel’s Yurt is a 35-acre, high-desert property in Trujillo Canyon surrounded by public lands and national forest in a striking and remote corner of the San Luis Valley. And, boy, does it deliver as advertised: a homey yurt next to a herd of photogenic camels that the owners take care of. Why camels? This herd is tangentially related to the now extinct Camelops that once roamed this valley, mingling with wooly mammoths and other Ice Age creatures, up until about 13,000 years ago. The yurt sleeps up to four, you can bring your pets, and your hosts may or may not be making soaps and other products from camel milk when you visit. Ask for a farm tour.

💰 The Cost: $137 per night 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: Ride the narrow gauge Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad , which follows the high passes between Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico. There’s also hiking in the Southern San Juan mountains (try Elk Creek Trail , a 3-mile out and back to incredible high-alpine meadows). After your train ride or hike, feast on the enormous platters at Dos Hermanas Mexican-American Steakhouse (on Main Street in Antonito).

📍 Location: Naturita, in Western Colorado

This unique, under-visited part of western Colorado, west of Telluride, is on the site of a repurposed abandoned mining community. CampV’s mission is to “combine art, history, architecture, design, outdoor recreation, and unique spaces,” and the result is quite unique as far as outdoor stays go. Crash the night in one of the fully furnished Airstreams, a Lotus Belle or safari tent, a historic restored luxe cabin, or at the primitive riverfront campsites. There are RV hookup sites as well.

💰 The Cost: Tent sites from $30 per night, glamping options from $155, cabins from $185 📆 Book It: Reserve here 🔎 Don’t Miss: CampV offers an on-site “Stargazing and Snuggles” experience in an old, empty water tank, where they’ll set you up with blankets, a fire, and hot drinks, and a chance to enjoy the certified Dark Sky above. You can also hike or bike the 4.1 mile out-and-back Shamrock Trail to the confluence of the San Miguel and Dolores River.

Snow Mountain Ranch Yurts

📍 Location: Near Winter Park and Granby, Colorado

This is one of Colorado’s best family destinations, run by YMCA of the Rockies at Snow Mountain Ranch. It’s a massive 5,000-acre affair with lodges, cabins, campgrounds, and yes, a yurt village. Each yurt sleeps six guests via one queen bed and two bunk beds, and has a tent pad, picnic table, and fire pit outside. Available from June to October, yurt amenities include a public bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets, and a dish-cleaning area.

💰 The Cost: $140 per night 📆 Book It: Reservations open the first Wednesday of January each year and fill up quickly for summer 🔎 Don’t Miss: There is an enormous menu of on-site activities right on site, both indoor and outdoor; my kids’ favorites are roller skating and the climbing wall. The craft center is also a big hit, not to mention, the campus has playgrounds, tubing hills (in both summer and winter), horseback riding, and a pool. You’re also not far from the west entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. In winter, use the on-site nordic ski trail system, or head to Granby Ranch, a smaller, less crowded ski area minutes away.

Joshua Berman is a teacher, wilderness instructor, writer, and former wildland firefighter, who has been camping and hiking in Colorado for 20 years. He is the author of seven books, including Moon Colorado Camping and Moon Colorado Hiking , and a contributor to The Denver Post travel column, “Around Colorado.”

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The Best LED Face Masks To Target Fine Lines, Dark Spots And More

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While at-home LED devices can’t compete with the power of a professional light therapy treatment administered by a dermatologist, they can effectively complement a well-rounded skincare routine when used properly and consistently. The best LED face masks fit comfortably, are FDA-cleared, and feature an effective number of LED bulbs that emit wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and provide various skincare benefits. Our top pick is the Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro , which offers red and blue lights, three treatment settings and a hands-free design for ease of use.

From the Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite to the MZ Skin mask, these are the best LED face masks.

Given the buzz surrounding these skincare tools, a growing number of options are available that vary in design, modes and efficacy. When shopping for an LED face mask, it’s important to consider factors such as ease of use and comfort, the recommended usage time and frequency, available light modes, and most importantly whether it’s been clinically studied and tested for safety. To simplify your shopping experience, we’ve rounded up the best LED face masks on the market based on extensive research and expert insights.

• Best LED Face Mask Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
• Best Value LED Face Mask: Solaris Laboratories How To Glow LED Face Mask
• Best LED Mask For Skincare Multitasking: Therabody TheraFace Mask
• Best LED Face And Neck Mask: CurrentBody Face And Neck Kit
• Best Luxury LED Face Mask: MZ Skin LED 2.0 LightMAX Supercharged LED Mask
• Best LED Face Mask For Comfort: HigherDose Red Light Face Mask
• Best LED Face Mask For Wrinkles: Omnilux Contour Face Mask

Best LED Face Mask Overall

A top choice that targets multiple skin concerns, dr. dennis gross drx spectralite faceware pro.

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red, blue, or red and blue | Skin concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, redness, acne, discoloration | Usage: Three minutes per day | Wireless: Yes

This internet-famous, dermatologist-developed LED face mask addresses breakouts and signs of aging using a combination of red and blue LED lights. Users can also select just one individual type of light therapy if they have a more targeted concern—red light to target fine lines and fade dark spots or blue light to help clear blemishes. The rechargeable machine shuts off automatically after three minutes, helping to reduce user error, and features an adjustable head strap to eliminate slipping and sliding.

Best Value LED Face Mask

A rechargeable pick that's under $200, solaris laboratories how to glow led face mask.

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red, blue, green, amber | Skin concerns : Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, discoloration, dullness, redness | Usage: 15 minutes, three to five times a week | Wireless: Yes

Unlike other LED face masks that fit more like a mold and hug the facial contours, this rechargeable option from Solaris Laboratories resembles a face shield with a plastic nose piece and two arms. It features four different light therapy colors—red, blue, amber and green—to treat a variety of skincare concerns like acne, signs of aging, redness and discoloration. It has a recommended 15-minute treatment time, which is slightly longer than other options on this list, and also comes with safety goggles.

Best LED Mask For Skincare Multitasking

A versatile device with a massage feature, therabody theraface mask.

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red, blue, red and infrared therapy | Skin concerns: Acne, fine lines, wrinkles, loose skin, discoloration, dullness, uneven skin texture | Usage : Nine minutes per day for full cycle, three minutes per day for one mode | Wireless: Yes

Therabody, the brand behind the popular handheld deep tissue massagers, further expanded its foray into beauty with the TheraFace Mask. This LED face mask features red, blue and red-and-infrared light therapy—plus a calming massage setting that pairs with the light treatments (it can be turned off or used separately). Besides two cut-outs for the eyes, the mask features 648 medical-grade lights to cover the entire face. Another unique feature: The rechargeable, cord-free mask comes with removable protective eye shields so you can use the mask with your eyes open. One nine-minute session cycles through all three light settings to address multiple skin concerns, but users can also choose a single light setting for a three-minute targeted treatment.

Best LED Face And Neck Mask

A duo that targets fine lines, crepey skin and more, currentbody face and neck kit.

Target areas: Face, neck, décolletage | Light modes: Red, near-infrared | Skin concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, crepey skin, redness | Usage: 10 minutes, three to five times a week | Wireless: Yes

The neck and décolletage tend to be neglected in skincare routines, but this LED mask set targets those oft-forgotten, delicate areas. Both the face and neck masks feature a combination of red and near-infrared LED lights to help firm and smooth fine lines, deep wrinkles and loose, crepey skin. Customers also praise it for helping reduce redness, fade dark circles and boost skin radiance. Both masks are connected to individual rechargeable controllers via wires but can be used away from an outlet or while traveling.

Best Luxury LED Face Mask

A medical-grade pick with impressive results, mz skin led 2.0 lightmax supercharged led mask.

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red and infrared, blue and red | Skin concerns: Fine lines, acne, dullness, inflammation | Usage: 10 minutes, four times a week | Wireless: No

This medical-grade face mask features two modes of LED light therapy: The anti-aging mode (red with infrared) helps firm, smooth and reduce inflammation, and the acne mode (red and blue) helps treat breakouts. According to the brand’s 100-person clinical study, the device can reduce wrinkle depth by 34% in four weeks, and 81% of testers reported fewer acne blemishes in 12 weeks—stats that may help some justify the high price. Its patented silicone design allows for closer contact with the skin and more comfortable wear, while an adjustable Velcro strap allows users to customize their fit and prevent slippage during treatment. The controller, which is responsible for powering the mask, is rechargeable and connects to it by a small wire during use.

Best LED Face Mask For Comfort

A cordless option with flexible head straps, higherdose red light face mask.

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red, near infrared | Skin concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, redness, dullness | Usage: 10 minutes, three to five times a week | Wireless: Yes

Sometimes one head strap just isn’t enough to ensure a snug fit. Like the TheraFace mask, the HigherDose version has intersecting head straps—ones that runs horizontally and one that runs vertically—to keep the device secure while you’re sitting or moving around. It’s also much more lightweight than many other picks on this list. It’s made from flexible medical-grade silicone, which provides more comfort during wear and allows for easy sanitizing. It features 132 lights that emit red and near-infrared light wavelengths to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, boost radiance and reduce redness.

Best LED Face Mask For Wrinkles

A pick that addresses multiple signs of aging.

Omnilux LED

Omnilux Contour Face Mask

Target areas: Face | Light modes: Red, near infrared | Skin concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, redness, discoloration | Usage: 10 minutes, three to five times a week | Wireless: Yes

This popular at-home skincare device addresses multiple signs of aging in a 10-minute session. According to the brand, the 132 LED bulbs—made up of two clinically studied wavelengths of light, red and near-infrared—help stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother-looking skin. Reviewers also note the flexible silicone mask helps brighten dull skin and fade discoloration.

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The 12 best places to go in june, why trust forbes vetted.

At Forbes Vetted, we’ve researched and written dozens of skincare stories . These include topics like the best retinol creams , vitamin C serums , face washes for oily skin and more.

• Author of this piece Victoria Moorhouse is a beauty reporter with over a decade of experience covering beauty and lifestyle topics.
• This story was assigned, edited and produced by deputy editor Jane Sung , who leads the beauty and grooming category and has 15-plus years of experience covering lifestyle topics.
• Moorhouse also gathered key insight and guidance from several industry professionals: Dr. Joshua Zeicher , an NYC-based dermatologist; Dr. Margarita Lolis , a New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon; and Dr. Mary L. Stevenson , a cosmetic dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

How We Chose The Best LED Face Masks

To select the best LED Face Masks, we carefully evaluated options from top retailers and brands, including Dr. Dennis Gross, Therabody, HigherDose and more. We also consulted with several industry experts for insights on what to look for.

• We only considered products that have received FDA clearance or approval.
• We analyzed features including design, target areas, light modes, comfort and ease of use to assess the overall value and help readers pinpoint the best option for their needs.
• Our final list includes picks for different skin types and concerns, ranging from wrinkles to acne to dullness.
• Along with Sung, our three medical experts made recommendations based on their experiences, while customer reviews were examined for standout product traits.
• As everyone’s budget looks slightly different, we included a wide range of prices.
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