There’s something about Europe that just makes you want to take pictures. Maybe it’s the centuries-old architecture, or the charming villages with their cobblestone streets. Or maybe it’s the beautiful countryside, with its rolling hills and snow-capped mountains. Whatever it is, European cities are a photographer’s dream come true.
There are so many amazing places to photograph in Europe that it was tough to choose just 20. But we did it, and here they are: the top 20 best European cities for photography.
#20 European Cities for Photography: Amalfi, Italy
Amalfi may not be what comes to mind when you think of busy cities. But it’s just as exciting as the most extravagant places in Europe.
This coastal town is filled with medieval stories and dainty houses for architecture photography. And cliffs that are the perfect subjects for .
#19 Vilnius, Lithuania
Lithuania’s capital city has a plethora of photogenic buildings. These will inspire even those who aren’t interested in architecture.
You can spend hours admiring the city’s castles and towers, learning about its Jewish history and Soviet past. We also recommend you try the kibinai – Lithuania’s traditional pastries.
Lithuania is considered to be one of the cheapest countries in Europe. This makes it the best destination for those traveling on a tight budget.
Even in its capital city, you’ll be able to stay in a decent hotel for a few days for less than $100.
#18 Venice, Italy
If you love canals, seafood, and architecture bursting with history, you’ll love Venice.
The best part is that you don’t even have to spend more than one day in this popular city.
You’ll have enough time to enjoy the Grand Canal, photograph the Rialto bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. And at least 5 more tourist attractions, all while enjoying the pleasant sounds of water.
#17 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is considered one of the most interesting seaside locations in Europe. Located right next to the Adriatic Sea, this city has everything a summer-loving photographer needs.
There’s history, a variety of picturesque locations, and lots of quaint houses.
And let’s not forget this is where many spectacular Game of Thrones scenes were shot.
#16 Riga, Latvia
Riga is filled with culturally rich museums, wooden buildings, and concert halls. If you want to take a break from the noisy traffic, you can visit the pedestrian-friendly old town. There are absolutely no cars.
In addition to all the history, this city offers an abundance of bars and nightclubs. It’s the ideal place for people of all ages.
#15 Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its historic buildings and Gothic churches will inspire you to grab your camera. And encourage you to simply be present and enjoy the beauty of Prague.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy taking photos of the Vltava river, the longest river in the country.
Architecturally savvy folks will be amazed by the Prague astronomical clock. It’s the oldest working clock in the world.
#14 Porto, Portugal
Porto is filled with so many attractions that it would take you at least two busy days to discover it.
Don’t forget to take a boat cruise, visit the landscaped gardens in Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, and spend a few unforgettable hours on the beach.
#13 Oia, Greece
Oia is located in Santorini, a Greek island that has the perfect weather all year round. If you hate gloomy weather, this place will give you many opportunities to take summery photos all day, every day.
Once you get there, you can photograph the stunning white buildings, go sailing, and visit the castle ruins.
End your day with an unforgettable view of the sunset.
#12 Nuremberg, Germany
If you’re a fan of arts and culture, you’ll enjoy this cozy German city. Known for its handmade toys, Nuremberg is at its most beautiful during the Christmas holidays.
But you can buy its famous toys all year round in Handwerkerhof, a shopping area with a medieval twist.
All the beautiful details and sceneries in this city make it the ideal location for both macro and landscape photographers.
#11 Kraków, Poland
Kraków has an abundance of bars, streets brimming with Jewish culture, and picturesque locations for both city and nature lovers.
If you want to take breathtaking landscape, portrait, underwater, and macro photos, visit Zakrzówek.
This is a gorgeous lake where you can sunbathe, spend time with your travel buddies, and take scuba diving lessons.
#10 Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck is the place to go if you love winter sports (or winter sports photography).
Landscape and architecture photographers will also love this city because of the Alps, which surround the city, and the contemporary architecture.
#9 Helsinki, Finland
The southern capital of Finland, also known as one of the best places to live in the world. The city will put a smile on your face and inspire you to take as many photos as you can.
Make sure you visit the food market, visit one of the 300 islands surrounding Helsinki alone, and get to know the friendly locals.
#8 Florence, Italy
There’s no end to what you can do in Florence, the city where the Renaissance period was born. With over 20 historic walking areas, 150 places to eat, 100 museums, and 15 full-day tours, this city is open to people of all kinds.
No matter where you go, you’ll find something worthy of being photographed.
Just make sure you bring lots of memory cards with you!
#7 Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is as special as its name. Even a one-day trip will mesmerise you with historic sculptures, colorful buildings like the ones above, and castles that look like movie sets.
If you like taking cinematic photos, this city will inspire you to no end.
#6 Colmar, France
Paris is every traveller’s main destination in France. But the country’s other cities are just as stunning.
If you want to get away from the busyness of Paris, you can visit Colmar. This humble place offers peaceful canals, picture-perfect castles, and interesting museums.
#5 Budapest, Hungary
Photography spots in Budapest have everything a photographer would want: stunning architecture, delicious food, picturesque landscapes, a peaceful river, and easy-to-use transport.
If you’re a fan of art, you can visit the Buda Castle or photograph the Hungarian Parliament Building.
You can also warm up in the many thermal baths available in the city, take the Castle Hill funicular to avoid hiking, or photograph the landmark statues in Heroes’ Square.
#4 Bruges, Belgium
As one of the most important trading regions in Europe, Bruges has a variety of goods.
You can admire canals that are reminiscent of Venice, relax in extravagant hotels, and spend hours photographing the city’s eye-catching buildings.
#3 Paris, France
Paris, one of the most popular cities in the world, should be visited at least once by anyone who loves traveling.
Even though it’s often associated with the Eiffel Tower, Paris has so much more to offer than a few famous landmarks.
If you’re into fashion, delicious food, beautiful buildings, and walking, you’ll find nothing but happiness in the city of love.
#2 London, England
With over 8 million residents, London is one of the most populated cities in Europe. Given this fact, it’s not surprising that there’s something for everyone there.
Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can enjoy the beauty of London by visiting the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Imperial War Museum. All of these are free to enter.
You can also satisfy your creative needs by taking hundreds of photos in Hyde Park.
#1 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is full of incredible art and historical moments that will spark your creativity.
In this bustling city, you can visit Anne Frank’s home, admire the largest Van Gogh collection in the Van Gogh Museum, and find inspiration in the NEMO Science Museum.
Or you can simply fall in love with the beautiful houses scattered all over Amsterdam.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with 20 of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Whichever locations you choose to visit, make sure you pack a lot of camera batteries, lenses, and memory cards before your trip.
With the right essentials, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip, absorb the rich history of every city, and go back home feeling like a new person.