Get ready to embark on a visual adventure in 2025 with these top 20 photography tour hotspots. From jaw-dropping landscapes to architectural wonders, each destination has its own magic and allure and offers the opportunity to elevate your photography skills to new heights.
Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone, have just gotten a DSLR or mirrorless camera, or a pro behind the lens, a photography tour is a great way to see what the world has to offer. You can choose from guided or solo tours, tours that last a few hours, a day, or longer, and many other options to ensure that you get to photograph what you love. These tours are also the perfect way to discover hidden gems you may have otherwise missed out on.
Let’s get to it! 🌎📸
1. Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland’s dramatic scenery is a dream come true for photographers. On a photography tour in Reykjavík, you can capture the mystical Northern Lights against the striking contrasts of glaciers and geysers from September to April.
For all-year-round photo opportunities, Thingvellir National Park features fascinating geological formations where tectonic plates meet, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is ideal for snapping floating icebergs. The Blue Lagoon creates an extraordinary contrast with its steaming blue waters against the rugged lava fields. Iceland’s scenery is not just breathtaking—it is otherworldly.
2. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City’s lively streets, colonial architecture, and lush parks provide a rich canvas to seize the essence of this energetic metropolis. The colorful facades of Coyoacán’s historic district offer a lively backdrop for your photos, while the majestic Zócalo square showcases the grandeur of the city’s past.
Wander through Chapultepec Park, where the blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks like the Chapultepec Castle creates striking scenes. Mexico City’s fusion of history, culture, and urban energy ensures that every minute of your photography tour lets you capture an unforgettable moment.
3. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town’s varied landscapes offer ample photo opportunities, from striking beaches to towering mountain ranges. Table Mountain delivers panoramic city perspectives perfect for showcasing sweeping vistas. At Cape Point, the rugged coastline and impressive cliffs create dramatic imagery.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, with its native plants and mountain backdrop, is perfect for capturing beautiful nature shots. This family-friendly destination has something for everyone, and the electric environment of the “Mother City” means you’ll find beauty in every frame.
4. Venice, Italy
Venice’s canals and unique designs create an enchanting backdrop for timeless shots. Going on a photography tour on a gondola down the Grand Canal is the perfect way to see the city and capture vibrant scenes of its bustling waterway and historic buildings.
St. Mark’s Basilica, with its elaborate mosaics and grand façade, is ideal for incredible architectural photos. The colorful houses of Burano Island make for lively and picturesque imagery. This ancient water-locked city’s charm is in its intricate details and the way its history is reflected in every corner.
5. Seven Miles El Progresso, Belize
The blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in the agricultural region of Seven Miles El Progresso in Belize makes for an enthralling photography tour. Barton Creek Cave is close to the village, and it adds an air of mystery with its Mayan artifacts and giant passages.
The lush landscapes and long history of this small town create a rich landscape ready for your camera to capture. Whether hiking along the scenic trails, finding hidden waterfalls, or meandering along the riverbank, every corner of Seven Miles El Progresso makes dramatic, unforgettable photos possible.
6. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires blends European charm with Latin American flair, providing diverse photographic opportunities. La Boca’s street art and lively tango scenes make for dynamic images. The grand mausoleums and statues at Recoleta Cemetery offer an intriguing perspective on Argentine history.
San Telmo Market’s energetic atmosphere and eclectic street performances are perfect for lively street photography. Buenos Aires’ streets are full of life, and this rich cultural backdrop will add depth to your photo collection.
7. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala’s colonial charm and animated cultural atmosphere offer a wealth of captivating subjects for your camera. The cobblestone streets and colorful facades of historic buildings create picturesque scenes at every turn.
The iconic Santa Catalina Arch frames staggering vistas of Volcán de Agua, while the bustling local markets provide powerful and lively compositions. The blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in Antigua ensures that each photograph records a story steeped in tradition and warmth.
8. Petra, Jordan
A photography tour in Petra will open your eyes to a world of natural and man-made attractions. Petra’s ancient rock-carved structures and exceptional desert terrain make dramatic backdrops for your photos. With its grand façade carved into the rock, the Treasury is a celebrated subject.
The Monastery is the perfect spot for majestic shots with sweeping views from its isolated perch, while the Siq, a narrow gorge leading to Petra, features brilliant light and shadow contrasts. Petra’s timeless grace gives you an unparalleled opportunity to grasp the grandeur of ancient history.
9. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s charming streets, iconic trams, and scenic viewpoints are perfect for capturing the city’s essence. Belém Tower, with its ornate design and riverside setting, offers classic shots of Lisbon’s history.
The Alfama District’s narrow alleys and traditional Fado music make for powerful street photography. LX Factory, a creative hotspot, features astonishing murals and vibrant street life. The gorgeous scenes in this part of Portugal will enrich your portfolio with its distinctive character and charm.
10. New Delhi, India
New Delhi’s rich culture, historical landmarks, and bustling markets make vivid subjects for your camera. The Red Fort’s grandeur and the lively market area make for dramatic architectural shots.
Qutub Minar’s towering minaret and nearby ruins provide depth, while the Lotus Temple’s lotus-shaped design creates a striking contrast with its surroundings. With its sparkling energy and historical significance, New Delhi is a dynamic location for capturing diverse photographic moments.
11. Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s spectacular sunsets, whitewashed structures, and deep blue waters create a romantic setting that’s perfect for photographs and couples! The legendary white buildings and sunset views of Oia are incredibly photogenic. Fira’s charming streets and cliffside vistas offer additional opportunities.
The unique black sand beaches contrast beautifully with the azure waters for compelling imagery. Whether you visit in summer or winter, Santorini’s idyllic vistas are the perfect canvas for capturing breathtaking and romantic scenes.
12. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown’s remarkable countryside and adventure activities make for great photo opportunities. Lake Wakatipu’s serene waters, framed by the Remarkables mountain range, create incredible reflections worth capturing on film.
The rugged peaks of The Remarkables are perfect for mountain photography, while Milford Sound’s towering cliffs and waterfalls deliver awe-inspiring natural scenes. The assorted scenery and outdoor adventures in this part of New Zealand guarantee that your photos will be filled with dramatic and captivating elements.
13. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval architecture and amazing coastal scenes offer rich material for your shots. The City Walls provide panoramic views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea. The famous buildings and charming streets of the Old Town capture the city’s character.
Lokrum Island’s lush gardens and ancient ruins add extra variety to your photos. Dubrovnik’s historic charm and scenic beauty will give your photography a special and timeless appeal.
14. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi’s vibrant street scenes, renowned architecture, and bustling markets are all diverse subjects that beg to be photographed. Hoan Kiem Lake, with its tranquil waters and Turtle Tower, is ideal for capturing peaceful images.
The busy Old Quarter’s traditional shops and street life are perfect for lively street photography, and the Temple of Literature’s classic construction and serene gardens are well worth shooting. Embarking on a photography tour that showcases Hanoi’s rich cultural tapestry and exciting atmosphere will allow you to add bold elements to your photo collection.
15. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s charm, impressive buildings, and scenic streets provide ample opportunities for capturing Scottish heritage. Edinburgh Castle’s grand city sightlines and intricate details are a must-shoot. Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, offers sweeping shots of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The Royal Mile’s historic streets and lively atmosphere make for engaging photographs. This part of Scotland is also very pet friendly, so if you fly your dog over with you, you can enjoy the many scenic photographic walks together. If you want to capture the essence of Scottish culture, Edinburgh’s blend of history and natural beauty is the place to be.
16. San Salvador, Salvador
San Salvador’s rich history, magnetic culture, and iconic landmarks yield many captivating photographic opportunities. With its blend of traditional and modern architecture, the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral makes for a striking subject. The Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s spirit.
At the same time, the flamboyant street art and bustling markets bring the energy of San Salvador to life. The mix of historical significance and contemporary flair you;ll see on a photography tour in San Salvador lets you use your camera to compile a compelling narrative of the past and present.
17. Sydney, Australia
Sydney’s iconic landmarks, impressive harbor, and bustling urban environment are diverse photographic subjects each offering something special. The Sydney Opera House’s distinctive sail-like design is a must-shoot landmark.
The Harbour Bridge’s impressive structure and outlooks of the harbor are perfect for memorable images. Bondi Beach’s coastal scene and beaches are a great option for dazzling and engaging shots. Sydney’s blend of architectural marvels and natural beauty makes for dynamic and captivating photographs that you’ll treasure.
18. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s special blend of Eastern and Western influences, celebrated sites, and electrifying bazaars are the perfect option for a photography tour rich in exciting subjects. Hagia Sophia’s majestic interior and buildings are ideal for artistic shots.
The Blue Mosque’s stunning blue tiles and grand domes are popular subjects. The Grand Bazaar’s colorful stalls and lively atmosphere make for dynamic street photography. Istanbul’s cultural richness and historical significance will add depth and intrigue to your photographic journey.
19. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi’s charming old town, eclectic construction, and vibrant street life make it a captivating destination for photography. The narrow streets and traditional houses of the Old Town make for charming scenes that deserve to be immortalized.
Narikala Fortress provides panoramic frames of the city from a memorable vantage point. The sulfur baths’ idiosyncratic edifice and exciting neighborhood add intriguing elements to your photos. Tbilisi’s blend of historical and modern elements will enrich your photography experience.
20. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto’s tranquil temples, traditional wooden homes, and beautiful gardens offer endless opportunities to uncover the spirit of old Japan. The red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine create a captivating path for your lens. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove presents a magical atmosphere with its towering bamboo, while Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, creates breathtaking reflections in its serene pond.
Kyoto’s blend of historical and natural beauty ensures that every click of your camera captures a moment of serene elegance. These photography tour destinations promise distinctive panoramas, architectural wonders, and exciting cultures. Pack your camera and get ready to explore these remarkable spots in 2025! 🧳✈️