12 Most Instagrammable Spots in European Cities
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Are you looking to enjoy your European city getaway while taking your Instagram aesthetic to the next level? Read on; this list has got you covered.
When exploring Europe, go beyond immersing yourself in history and vibrant culture and capture the cities’ stunning beauty through your camera’s lens. With beautifully captured photos, you will have irresistible content for your Instagram and well-documented memories of your travel.
European cities are home to numerous Instagrammable spots whose photos will awe you and your followers. Whether you seek ancient architecture, picturesque landscapes, or vibrant street scenes, these spots will elevate your Instagram feed.
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
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The Eiffel Tower in Paris is a classic choice for a stunning Instagram post, and it is pretty obvious why. Whether you are taking photos from its observation decks, from different viewpoints during the day, or at night when the tower is beautifully lit up, snaps of the Eiffel Tower will always make magnificent pieces.
The thing with capturing the Eiffel Tower is the many experimentation angles you get to play with; it is truly a little gem for photography enthusiasts.
If you want the best shots of the tower, try snapping from Trocadero Gardens, Bir Hakeim Bridge (Pont de Bir- Hakeim), Alma Bridge (Pont de l’Alma), on Seine River Cruises, and Rue de l’Universite.
If you are going with Rue de l’Universite, be sure to be on site a little early; it offers fantastic tower views and, therefore, gets crowded.
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Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
La Sagrada Familia is an architectural marvel renowned for its unique and intricate designs, which make it an iconic landmark in Barcelona. Whether you snap its insides or outsides, its beauty will elevate your Instagram aesthetic.
For the best shots, visit during off-peak hours, such as early morning, to avoid crowds. The best shots of the cathedral can be obtained from Plaça de Gaudí, a small square near the basilica and Avinguda de Gaudí (Gaudi Avenue). In the Basilica, focus on the towering columns, detailed ceiling, and colorful stained glass windows.
It is also a great idea to capture La Sagrada Familia from rooftop restaurants. The panoramic views of the basilica amidst Barcelona’s city skyline are always a sight to behold.
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Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The history, architecture, and amazing photo opportunities—the Colosseum is an iconic landmark in Rome you can soak in for hours and hours. Its impressive exterior, consisting of three tiers of arches and columns, provides a stunning backdrop for photos.
Ensure you get tickets to explore its insides; it offers stunning perspectives that many tourists overlook. On the exterior, capture photos from the surrounding streets or Colle Oppio Park, which also offers fabulous panoramic vistas.
You may also want to capture views during the night when the amphitheater is illuminated.
Read also: Top European Cities With Awesome Architecture
Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic
Spanning the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is a Gothic architectural style bridge adorned with stunning Baroque statues. In addition to being picturesque by itself, it offers magnificent views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle.
The views on Charles Bridge are more magnificent during sunrise and sunset. On the end of the bridge stands Old Town Bridge Tower, which you should feature in your shots. Climb to the top of the tower for unique vantage views of the bridge and the city’s skyline.
Consider capturing views of the bridge from Kampa Park. If you get good angles in this riverside park, you may capture shots featuring the bridge, its reflection on the Vltava River, and the Prague Castle in the background. This is a shot you and your Instagram audience will love.
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The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis in Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
For starters, the Acropolis is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city of Athens. This, along with history-filled and picturesque temples like the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, are some of the reasons this site remains a favorite for architecture, history, and photography enthusiasts.
Some specific subjects to focus on when capturing the beauty of the Acropolis include the Parthenon, Propylaea, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.
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The Duomo, Florence, Italy
The Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in Florence is a magnificent destination for stunning photos. The detailed marble facade, the intricate sculptures, the endless history it holds, and how powerfully the dome dominates Florence’s skyline are some of the few reasons this masterpiece has to feature in your Instagram feed.
A good starting point is the Piazza del Duomo, the square in front of the cathedral that offers an unobstructed view of the Duomo’s artistic façade. You may also want to go up Giotto’s Bell Tower for panoramic views of the city, which perfectly showcases the beauty of The Duomo.
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The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
The Alhambra is a stunning Moorish Palace complex with beautiful gardens and intricate architectural design, making it a treasure trove for Instagram-worthy shots.
The palace is located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Granada. Therefore, if you want breathtaking views of the aesthetically pleasing city, the best place to do it would be at The Alhambra.
Other notable subjects for your photography should include its detailed Moorish architectural designs, the beautiful stone works, and lush gardens.
Some unmissable highlights include the Court of the Lions (Patio de los Leones), which features a fountain surrounded by 12 marble lion statues, the colorful Generalife Gardens, and the Alcazaba Fortress, the oldest part of the fortress.
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Louvre, Paris, France
Whether you are focusing on the architecture or the artifacts, the Louvre has many spots that make perfect photo backdrops.
The Mona Lisa is the most sought-after spot in the Louvre, and you, too, should pose for a photo in front of it.
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Beyond the Mona Lisa, you should also pose in front of the glass pyramids, expansive courtyards, and the Baroque facades.
The glass pyramids are stunning at sunset and when illuminated at night. When visiting, you do not want to miss out on these perspectives.
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Tower Bridge, London, UK
Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in London. With its distinct twin towers and suspended deck, you can achieve numerous unique shots with the Tower Bridge.
Whether you want to incorporate the views of the River Thames, London’s skyline, or other iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, this bridge is a perfect spot for Instagrammers.
For the best natural lighting, visit in the morning or late in the evening. These are also the off-peak hours for tourists. Remember, with smaller crowds come the best photo opportunities.
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Duomo, Milan, Italy
Milan’s Duomo is a magnificent Gothic cathedral in the city’s heart. Its beautiful facade is decorated with thousands of marble statues and spires, which makes it a stunning subject for your Instagram photos.
Capture photos in the square in front of the cathedral, which typically has many pigeons flying around. With the stunning front views of the cathedral and pigeons photobombing your snaps, you will indeed have captured the best of Milan’s essence.
You may also want to climb the Duomo’s rooftop and capture panoramic views of Milan and the surrounding Lombardy region.
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Prinsengracht (Prince’s Canal), Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals, but one whose appeal is top-tier would have to be Prince’s Canal. This canal is lined with beautiful historic buildings and houseboats, offering a scenic charm perfect for exploration. Prince’s Canal is also home to the must-see in Amsterdam, Anne Frank House.
To capture the best of this canal, find angles that incorporate the bridges, reflections on the water, and the nearby buildings in one shot.
To enhance your photo’s quality, capture them during sunset when the warm yet gentle lights enhance the colors of the buildings and the reflections on the waters.
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Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, known for its charming gardens, historic rides, and colorful ambiance. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens, with their seasonal flowers, fountains, and pathways, offer plenty of opportunities for stunning nature shots.
During the evening, Tivoli Gardens is illuminated with thousands of lights, creating a magical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos.
Some of the park’s highlights include The Nimb Hotel, Tivoli Lake, Peacock Fountain, and its perfectly manicured gardens.
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