The most instagrammable cities in Europe: quick guide 2024

This post is for all the photography lovers out there! Are you looking for a quick guide to the top Instagram spots in the most Instagrammable cities in Europe? I’ve got you, boo!  As a solo female traveler who has spent nearly a decade scoping out some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, I’ve also become an avid photographer with a penchant for discovering the places that will set your Instagram feed on fire. This quick guide will help you locate the best Instagram spots in Europe’s most Instagrammable cities fast, so you won’t miss a single iconic photo. Plus, this guide includes specific Google Maps locations of every attraction, the most photogenic times of year to visit, and my personal protips for getting the best photos. Let’s go! 

How to make sure you take the best photos of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe

• Get up early. The most iconic Instagrammable places in Europe get crowded with tourists as the day goes by. 
• Use an unusual angle. Don’t just point and shoot. Take a moment to set up your shot, and consider changing it up a bit by framing your shot with your camera held down low, up high, or peeking out from behind something interesting
• Focus on the details. Everyone’s got that classic photo of the Eiffel Tower or the Trevi Fountain. Change it up a bit by focusing on a small, unexpected detail that other people may not notice.
• Use the Rule of 3rds. Photography buffs swear by this one. As you set up your photo, imagine splitting your frame into thirds, i.e if you’re photographing a landscape: ⅓ sky, ⅓ trees, ⅓ grass. The human eye is said to find this ratio the most visually pleasing!
• Use a tripod and a Bluetooth remote. This will let you have complete control over your selfie game if you’re traveling solo! 
• Always carry a backup battery pack. It’s no fun running out of juice on the go. 

The Dancing House in Prague. (Photo Credit: Mattias Acco via Pexels)

interactive map of the most instagrammable spots in Europe

Use this map to find helpful up to date information about all of the spots mentioned in this post such as locations, opening times, websites, contact info, and more.

budapest, Hungary

Parliament building in Budapest, Hungary

Why Budapest is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

Budapest tops this list of most Instagrammable cities in Europe because of its distinctive east meets west vibe and sheer variety of incredible sights you can see. Architecture lovers, prepare to have your socks knocked off because Budapest has everything from Roman ruins to ruin bars, which are cozy, eclectic pubs sprouting up in the city’s neglected pre-WW II buildings.

The most Iconic Instagram location in Budapest

Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest

Fisherman’s Bastion

If you’re looking for a stunning spot for a photoshoot in Budapest, you can’t miss Fisherman’s Bastion. This ornate neoclassical fortification perched high on a hill near Buda Castle offers panoramic views of the entire city. As you stroll along the terrace, don’t forget to pause at one of the numerous cutouts in the facade. These little spots are the perfect place to frame a photo with all of Budapest below. As one of the most Instagrammable places in Budapest, Fisherman’s Bastion is the perfect place to capture an irresistible Reel or perhaps even your very own flying dress shoot.  

Most Unusual Instagram Spot in Budapest 

The interior of Matthias Church, Budapest

Matthias Church

This breathtaking gothic church with its wedding cake exterior is amazing on the outside, but in my opinion, the interior of Matthias church is what makes it completely unique. Decorated in the most intricate and brilliant colors and patterns I’ve ever seen, stepping inside Matthias Church feels like being rolled into a tapestry. This is the perfect instagrammable place in Europe to practice capturing photos from an unexpected angle. 

Best Place to take a Selfie For your Instagram in Budapest 

Splashing around with locals in Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Budapest

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal bath is known as the largest medicinal thermal bath in Europe. At first glance, a thermal Bath may seem like an odd choice for a selfie, but hear me out. This massive neo-baroque outdoor pool is like taking a bath in a royal palace. It makes a perfect backdrop for a stunning swimsuit shot, or perhaps you’d like a snap of yourself beating some old men at chess at one of the pool’s built-in chessboards. There’s no limit to the creative selfies you can take in one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe. 

The most photogenic times of year to visit Budapest

Spring and summer are stunning times to visit Budapest

Berlin, Germany

Baroque Buildings as viewed from a boat on the river Spree in Berlin

Why Berlin is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

There’s no doubt about it, Berlin is pretty much the capital of cool. From futuristic landmarks that look like they’ve come straight out of a sci-fi film to glorious baroque palaces, Berlin is an unmissable stop on your tour of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Berlin

Berlin’s Brandenberg gate in the early morning sunshine

The Brandenberg Gate

Can you even say you’ve been to Berlin if you don’t snap a photo of the Brandenberg Gate? Probably one of the most recognizable Instagram spots in Europe, this historic neoclassical monument has been standing since the 18th century. Get up early to ensure you get a crowd-free shot of one of the most Instagramable places in Europe. 

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Berlin

Arresting political art at East Side Gallery, Berlin

east side gallery

This massive outdoor art installation is a series of murals painted on the largest surviving section of the Berlin Wall. Showcasing the work of over 105 global artists, the murals at East Side Gallery range from political, to inspiring to just plain weird. 

Best Place in Berlin to Take a Selfie For your Instagram 

Berliner Fernsehturm (Berlin TV Tower)

Berlin TV tower is one of those delightfully weird attractions you could only find in Berlin. Constructed in the 1960s, this retro-futuristic landmark looms large over the Berlin skyline. Today you can book a visit to the top of the 365-meter tower to take in a panoramic view of the city at the observation deck or dine in a kitchy glam restaurant. What a perfect place to grab your tripod and remote to set up a shot of yourself sipping prosecco in one of the most Instagrammable places in Europe! 

The most photogenic times of year to visit Berlin

Summer is when Berlin really shines, but autumn and spring are also worth a look!

Lisbon, Portugal

The skyline of Lisbon

Why Lisbon is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

Move over Paris, to me Lisbon is one of the most romantic cities in Europe. From sweeping castle views to cozy Fado bars to classic orange-tiled rooftops, Lisbon’s most instagrammable spots are always only just a few steps away.

The most Iconic Instagram location in Lisbon

Tram 28, Lisbon

Tram 28

This nostalgic wooden tram won’t just take you to all of the most scenic spots in Lisbon, it is in and of itself an Instagrammable spot in Lisbon. The tram’s 6.6 km route will take you from Sao George Castle to Barrio Alto and is the perfect place to shoot a romantic Instagram reel…

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Lisbon 

Carmo Convent, Lisbon

Carmo Convent

This ruined Carmelite convent is tucked away in the heart of the city center. It’s a beautiful, quiet place to explore and snap some photos that everyone else won’t have on their Instagram feed. 

Best Place in Lisbon to Take a Selfie for Your Instagram

A selfie on a chilly day at Sao George Castle in Lisbon

 Sao George Castle

Located on Lisbon’s highest hill, this iconic fortress will give you one of the best possible views of Lisbon. Established by the Romans in 200, BC Sao George Castle is also home to a stunning set of gardens featuring lots of unusual Mediterranean vegetation. You may even run into one of the castle’s many peacocks! 

The most photogenic times of year to visit Lisbon

Lisbon is stunning all year round, however, spring and autumn are ideal.

Krakow, Poland

The Facade of Krakow’s biggest church

Why Krakow is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

Krakow is one of Europe’s most Instagrammable cities because it is absolutely packed with old-world Eastern European charm without the big crowds you’ll find in more well-known tourist hot spots. This means you have a better chance of getting up close and personal with the most Instagrammable spots in Krakow. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Krakow

Krakow Old Town Square

Main Market Square

Krakow’s main market square is the largest Medieval square in Europe. Make sure you check out Krakow’s Town Hall and the beautiful St. Mary’s Basilica. You’ll also want to spend some time strolling Krakow’s Renaissance-era Booth Hall. Established in the 13th century, this is still a wonderful place to pick up authentic souvenirs in Krakow. I got a beautiful handmade amber necklace there.

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Krakow 

Chandeliers made of salt inside St. Kinga’s Chapel, Krakow

Wieliczka Salt Mines

This UNESCO World Heritage site is located just outside the city but is well worth a visit if you’re keen to visit Krakow’s most Instagrammable places. Located 372 meters underground, the salt mines are a labyrinth of 3.5 Kilometers of underground passages decorated completely by sparkling salt sculptures.  Make sure you spend some time in St. Kinga’s Chapel. This stunning underground chapel is decorated with crystal chandeliers and is a popular wedding spot in Poland.

Best Place in  Krakow to Take a Selfie For your Instagram 

A fearsome dragon statue guarding the gardens of Wawel Castle, Krakow

Wawel Castle

Said to be the home of an ancient dragon, Wawel Castle is the perfect place to test your tripod skills with a selfie like none other. Take a pause in your stroll along the terraces of Wawel Hill to snap a photo of yourself with a sweeping view of Krakow as your backdrop. Especially pretty when autumn colors are popping off, your visit to the most Instagrammable places in Krakow is incomplete without a stop at this magical spot. 

The most photogenic times of year to visit krakow

Krakow is stunning when the autumn foliage is in full color and it’s also very charming in the festive period when it’s lit up with cozy Christmas markets.

Zürich, Switzerland

A view of the river Limmat in Zürich, Switzerland

Why Zürich is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

From a stately church featuring the largest clock face in Europe to street art and outdoor beer gardens with an industrial edge, Zürich really is a city of contrast. There’s a surprise around every corner in this charming Swiss city. That’s what makes Zürich one of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Zürich 

Stunning frescoes in the gardens of Fraümunster Church, Zürich

Fraumünster Church

One of the prettiest churches in Zürich, Fraumünster is full of surprises. The beautiful old town location and Romanesque architecture are just the beginning of Fraumunster’s charms. 

Don’t forget to visit the secret garden in the cloisters below the church. The walls of the garden are decorated with a series of eye-poppingly gorgeous frescoes depicting the legend of the founding of the church. The story goes that one night a deer with glowing horns appeared to guide two young women home through a darkened forest. Later, their father decided to build a church on the spot. Today this spot is one of the most Instagrammable places in Zürich.

The exterior of Fraumünster church, Zürich, illuminated at night.

zürich ig Proptip:

Tourists are drawn to Fraumünster’s church from all over the world to see the beautiful stained glass windows designed by artist Marc Chagall. Photography is not allowed inside the church sanctuary so getting a photo of the windows is tricky. My advice is to wait until dark and get a photo of the illuminated windows from the outside from the vantage point of Münsterbrucke. This small stone pedestrian bridge crosses the Limmat River to connect Fraumünster and Grossmüster, the two largest churches in Zürich. 

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Zürich 

A pavilion in Zürich’s Chinagarten

Zürich Chinagarten

Located along the shores of Lake Zürich, this peaceful Chinese temple garden was a gift from Zürich’s partner city, Kunming, China. Stroll along the banks of the koi pond and snap a photo of yourself in one of the beautiful pavilions. 

Best Place in Zürich  to take a Selfie For your Instagram 

It can be done! Taking a selfie with my dad at the Lindenhoff, Zürich

The Lindenhoff 

This public square overlooking Old Town and the Limmat River is one of the best places to get a bird’s eye view of some of Zürich’s most iconic landmarks including Grossmünster and Fraümunster churches and the rooftops of old Town. On a good day, you can see clear to Lake Zürich and the alps beyond, making the Lindenhoff the best place to snap an unmistakably Zürich selfie! 

The most photogenic times of year to visit zürich

Zürich is stunning all year round, however, it’s especially pretty in wintertime when it’s dusted in snow and lit up with Christmas markets. Summer is also a great time to visit Zürich as it hosts colorful events such as the Zürich Theater Spektacle and Street Party, the largest open-air techno music party in the world!

copenhagen, denmark

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

Why Copenhagen is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

This enchanting port city feels like a fairytale come to life, with something magical around every corner. With no shortage of colorful sights that you won’t find anywhere else, Copenhagen is a must-visit if you’re looking to discover the most instagrammable places in Europe. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Copenhagen

Nyhavan Canal, Copenhagen

Nyhavan Canal

This colorful harborside spot featuring wooden sailing ships is a must-see Instagramable spot in Copenhagen.

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Copenhagen 

Christiania Freetown, Copenhagen

Christiania Freetown

A hippie commune in the heart of the city, Christiania Freetown is loaded with offbeat places to snap a completely unique photo for your Instagram feed. From overgrown gardens to street art to ramshackle homes, Christiania is without a doubt the most unusual Instagram spot in Copenhagen. 

Best Place in Copenhagen to take a Selfie For your Instagram 

The Infinity Room of Copenhagen’s Louisiana Museum

Louisiana Art Museum

An art lover’s paradise, this indoor/outdoor museum about 30 minutes from the city center is a must-see Instagram spot in Copenhagen. Level up your selfie game with a visit to the museum’s infinity room. Designed by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, in this immersive exhibit, the ceiling and walls are covered in mirrors, the floor is a reflecting pool and the room is lit by hundreds of lights that slowly change color.

copenhagen selfie protip:

To take a truly scroll-stopping selfie in Kusama’s infinity room: stand in the center of the room and wait patiently for other guests to filter out. Once you are relatively alone, take your shot! The room fills quickly so you’ll have to be slick to get your a solo photo in Copenhagen’s best Instagram spot.

The most photogenic times of year to visit Copenhagen

Copenhagen is stunning in spring and fall. Due to Baltic weather patterns, it can be surprisingly damp and dreary in summer. However, you shouldn’t let the weather hold you back. A visit to Copenhagen is always a good idea.

Colmar, France

A shop in Colmar’s Old Town

Why Colmar is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

Located in the Alsace region of France, Colmar is said to be the town that inspired the setting for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. If that’s not enough to send you packing your bags to this iconic French location, picturesque canals, and Alscace wine will have you saying oui! Colmar may be tiny, but this stunning storybook town nestled on the border between Germany and France is undeniably one of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Colmar

Petit Venice, Colmar, France

La Petite Venice (Little Venice)

The canal district in Colmar is lined with colorful early-renaissance half-timber-style houses, bursting with flowers in springtime. Running from the Koïfhus through the fishmonger’s district, this is also the perfect place to take a ride in a canal boat. 

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Colmar

old town

A restaurant in Colmar, France

Colmar Old Town is remarkable because it is home to numerous incredibly beautiful and well-preserved Renaissance buildings, some with intricately embellished facades. It is packed with iconic Instagram spots such as Maison Pfister, St. Martin’s Church, and a beautiful riverside covered market.

colmar ig protip:

A cafe in Colmar, France

Colmar’s Old Town is the perfect place to take a pause in a charming cafe, experience some traditional Alcase food and wine, and practice taking some flatlays for your IG feed. 

Best Place in Colmar to Take a Selfie for Your Instagram 

Canals of Colmar, France

Pont St. Pierre

Located in Little Venice, Pont St. Pierre is the ideal place to get a selfie with the backdrop of Colmar’s iconic half-timber houses in the backdrop.

The most photogenic times of year to visit colmar

Colmar is stunning in the summer and springtime when the geraniums are in full bloom. However, around the festive period, it’s also home to one of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets. 

Prague, Czech republic

Facades of Prague

Why Prague is one of the most Instagrammable cities in Europe

This cultural and creative capital is more than the sum of its parts. The city is home to a staggering variety of attractions from a pristine old town square to contemporary masterpiece ‘The Dancing House’ a stunning modern building designed by Croatian-Czech architect Vlado Milunić. Prague never fails to fascinate and delight. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Prague

The Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge

Both a bridge and an open-air art gallery featuring Baroque statues, the Charles Bridge connects Prague Castle to the city’s old town. This is an ideal spot to capture a sweeping shot of the city or practice your selfie skills in an unmistakably Prague location! 

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Prague 

Yes, those are babies! Prague’s iconic TV tower

The Žižkov Television Tower

You asked for weird? You’re gonna get it. When it comes to unusual Instagram spots in Prague, Prague’s TV tower is next level. You can take a lift to the top of the observation deck and chill out in a futuristic bubble chair while enjoying the piped-in sounds of birds calling. Keep an eye out for the giant baby sculptures crawling up the tower. Yeah, you read that correctly. 

The best place in Prague to take a selfie 

Graffiti at John Lennon Wall

John Lennon Wall 

The John Lennon wall popped up in the 1980s as a tribute to the fallen Beatles singer. Ever since then it’s become a living street art gallery filled with colorful graffiti, Beatles lyrics and messages of support for different global causes. This is a must visit if you love music and the perfect place in Prague to snap a selfie. 

The most photogenic times of year to visit Prague

Prague is amazing in autumn and spring however if you love Christmas markets, you could give Prague a try in the winter as well!

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

Why Edinburgh is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

With a UNESCO World Heritage site or cozy cafe around every corner, it’s hard to argue with Edinburgh’s status as one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe. Much has been written about Edinburgh’s most iconic Instagram spots so I won’t repeat them here. Rather, as a local, I’m going to give you the lowdown on the best Instagram spots in Edinburgh that aren’t totally overdone! 

The most Hidden Instagram location in Edinburgh

Chessel’s Court, Edinburgh

Chessel’s Court

Tucked away in a quiet close just off of the Royal Mile, Chessel’s Court is known for the distinct heart-shaped ivy hedge creeping up one of its walls. It really is a beautiful little oasis of calm and the perfect place to stop off and snap an unusual photo of Edinburgh for your Instagram feed that everyone else won’t already have. 

The most Modern Instagram Location in Edinburgh

Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh

Scottish Parliament

Think Edinburgh is all medieval closes and charming old world style? Think again! Scottish Parliament is considered one of the most innovatively designed buildings in modern Britain. When you look at it’s impressive geometric facade it’s easy to see why.

Parliament is designed to mirror the relationship between Scots and the natural landscape around them. The beautiful reflection pool in front of the building with Arthur’s seat in the background is the perfect place to practice the Rule of Thirds with your photography.  

Scottish Parliament is a perfect place to stop on your journey between other top Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh such as Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat! 

the Most Unusual Instagram Spot in Edinburgh

The facade of Rosslyn Chapel, Edinburgh

Rosslyn Chapel

This ornate Gothic chapel and surrounding gardens on the outskirts of the city is one of the most Instagrammable places to spend an afternoon in Edinburgh. See if you can snap a photo of every gargoyle on the church’s facade before strolling on down to the ruins of Rosslyn Castle and crossing the bridge to the fairy land of Rosslyn Glenn. 

the most photogenic times of year in Edinburgh

Although known for its rain and dreary weather, Edinburgh has surprisingly sunny weather and long days in spring and early summer. The city sparkles with Christmas decorations from November to the end of December and is also a blast during the city’s colorful Hogmanay (New Year’s) celebrations. If you’re not a fan of crowds or theater, you may wish to give the city a pass during Festival Fringe in August.

 reykjavik, iceland

Rooftops of Reykjavik, Iceland

Why Reykjavik  is one of the most instagrammable cities in Europe

When travellers think of Iceland, we often think about natural beauty like glaciers, geysers and the Northern Lights. All this is true, however Iceland’s lively capital city of Reykjavik is also packed with unique and distinctive sights, making it one of Europe’s most instagrammable cities. 

The most Iconic Instagram location in Reykjavik 

The spire of Iceland’s largest church, Reykjavik

Hallgrimskirkja church

The largest church in Iceland, Hallgrimskirkja dominates the Reykjavik skyline with its massive 75-meter tall spire. Designed to echo the mountains and glaciers of Iceland, you can take the steps up to the top of the tower for a sweeping view of the city beyond. 

Most Unusual Instagram Location in Reykjavik 

Solfar Sculpture, Reykjavik (photo credit: Lyn Ong via Pexels)

Solfar (Sun Voyager) Sculpture

Overlooking Reykjavik Harbor, this massive abstract steel sculpture was commissioned in 1990 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Iceland. Solfar is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Reykjavik any time of day, but for maximum drama, try getting of shot of this stunning sculpture at sunset. 

Best Place in Reykjavik to Take a Selfie for Your Instagram

Reykjavik’s Rainbow (Photo credit: Peter Holboe via Pexels)

the rainbow street, downtown reykjavik

This street was painted the colors of the rainbow for Reykjavik’s Pride Festival! Now this iconic rainbow stays up most of the year in order to celebrate Iceland’s inclusive spirit. It’s the perfect place in central Reykjavik to pause for a selfie.

the most photogenic times of year in Reykjavik

You may be surprised to hear this, but my favorite time to visit Iceland is in winter! I had a blast photographing snowy Reykjavik in February. I’ve also heard that Iceland is absolutely stunning during summer when you’l experience midnight sun.

What about you? What are your favorite Instagrammable spots in Europe?

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