20 of the most photogenic places in the world
21.07.2023 - 07:51
/ roughguides.com
/ Sophia Loren
The world is full of beautiful places – both natural and manmade – and even the most avid globetrotters can't hope to exhaust them all. But some simply love the camera more than others. Here, our Senior Picture Editor, Phoebe Lowndes, picks a snapshot of the most photogenic places on Earth, with more stunning, alternative destinations highlighted in our month by month, where to go when guide. Get your camera at the ready…
Persian-Islamic architecture is a true celebration of craftsmanship: decorative, symbolic and proud. The buildings of Esfehan exemplify these principles with grace and grandeur. Stroll along perfect tree-lined boulevards, take in the colourful tiled mosques and discover the vaults and domes of Khaju Bridge at dusk, where people gather to sing and recite poetry.
Esfehan mosque, Iran
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Matej Hudovernik/Shutterstock
Rudyard Kipling dubbed Milford Sound «the eighth wonder of the world» – and all who have explored this serene fjord would wholeheartedly agree. Mountains frame pristine waters, which are home to seals, penguins and bottlenose dolphins. Humpback whales have also been spotted here increasingly regularly. Dramatic Mitre Peak is the money shot.
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If you're in search of la dolce vita, look no further than Positano. Perched on the cusp of the Amalfi Coast, this patchwork of colourful villas and colonnaded balconies have a chicness that calls for sunset-hued aperitivo and a glamorous, Sophia Loren-inspired, outfit. The small pebble beach is peppered with sea glass and striped umbrellas, the perfect place to pose amongst bronzed locals and movie stars alike.
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Lake Tahoe – meaning «big water» – is famed as one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. The water here is sheltered from strong winds by mountains, meaning it's a dream for paddle boarding. If it's a true photo opportunity you're after, head to Emerald Bay to see the sunrise; you’re guaranteed an otherworldly experience.
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In the northern state of Uttar Pradesh lies the ancient and holy city of Varanasi. Hindu pilgrims journey here for a chance to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River and to cremate loved ones who they believe will set sail into the next life. The romantic Mughal architecture, colourful waterside rituals and chants of funerary rites stick long in the mind. At sundown, when the nightly ceremonies begin and the river glitters with candlelight, it is at its most beautiful.
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Bruges is a medieval masterpiece of cobbled streets, canals and romantic footbridges – and it also boasts some of Belgium’s finest chocolate shops. There are fairy-tale scenes at every turn and it's a challenge not to get distracted by the inviting window displays. When