What are your priorities for picking your perfect vacation spot? Perhaps you’re a foodie on the lookout for fantastic cuisine, a culture vulture scoping out which city break has the most museums per square mile, or simply a sun-worshipper seeking somewhere to top off your tan. From beautiful cities steeped in history to beach breaks and countryside retreats, Europe has a destination for every traveller. But what if a different dealbreaker comes into play when booking flights for that dream trip across the pond?
Forget sightseeing opportunities or great weather — a recent survey revealed that more than 40 percent of those under 33 prioritize “Instagrammability” when deciding where to pack their cases and jet off to next. If you’re keen to get some envy-inducing shots on your next trip, then Europe is brimming with destinations that are sure to spruce up your social media feed. Try one of these photogenic spots for a like-worthy adventure:
Oxford, U.K.
For a dose of history, Oxford is the go-to stop for all of your travels. Most famous for its ancient university, the city center is dominated by colleges carved from golden-yellow stone and secret alleyways tempting visitors into quirky pubs and down cobbled lanes. Gothic spires stretch skyward, students trundle through medieval streets on bicycles, and Harry Potter tours reel in tourists by the busload.
Although stunning buildings like the Radcliffe Camera and Christchurch College are obvious fodder for your feed, Oxford is also crammed with tranquil courtyards, serene riverside settings, and gargoyles leering from every corner. With centuries of architecture and art, you’ll find plenty of unusual and unexpected opportunities for your perfect holiday snap.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Perched on the glittering blue seas of the Adriatic Coast, Dubrovnik’s walled old town is a tumble of terracotta-roofed houses, imposing domed churches, and charming viewpoints ideal for taking in this pristinely preserved city. A walk around the turrets and towers of Dubrovnik’s walls or a trip up the nearby mountains by cable car present great photo-ops of the densely-packed sprawl of this vibrant location, and the elaborate Renaissance architecture looks just as good up close.
Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
With the Emerald Isle just a border crossing away, Northern Ireland is awash with greenery and breathtaking countryside. No trip to the area would be complete without a visit to the Causeway’s hexagonal basalt columns that sprout along the coast and gave rise to millennia of folklore.
Fans of Game of Thrones should also be sure not to miss the Dark Hedges, an eerie tunnel of beech trees used as the setting for scenes from the show. Pose beneath the otherworldly branches and get your #winteriscoming hashtags at the ready.
Mostar, Bosnia, and Herzegovina
Sadly, Bosnia and Herzegovina have yet to quite recover from the war that took place there over 20 years ago. While a long holiday here might not be for everyone, the pretty town of Mostar is an easily accessible day trip from nearby countries. Cross the stone bridge that dominates the cobbled streets and wander around the colorful market place. You can even stop off at the stunning Kravica waterfalls to round off your trip with the perfect bikini snap.
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Amsterdam is well known for the elaborate network of canals that hem the pretty streets. With bikes being the equivalent of the national transport, it’s the perfect place for a cycle tour, and the city’s iconically tall and gabled houses will stunningly border pictures of the many bridges that link the watery streets. For some artistic inspiration, Amsterdam is also a cultural hub with a range of incredible art museums. Take in a Rembrandt at the Rijksmuseum and browse Van Gogh’s impressionist paintings in his dedicated city center gallery.
Lisbon, Portugal
From the panoramic views from St George’s castle to the winding village-like streets of Alfama, Lisbon has a multitude of scenic spots — but the setting isn’t the only thing to get on the ‘gram. Lisbon is also a foodie’s paradise of tapas-style cuisine that will make a dreamy flatlay, and you should be sure to sample the world-famous Pastel Del Nata — tasty custard tarts that are a staple Portuguese treat.
Mdina, Malta
Tucked below Italy, the tiny archipelago of Malta is a sun-kissed jewel of sweeping bays and turquoise seas. Atop a hill overlooking the main island you can find the Arabic town of Mdina, an archaic walled settlement nicknamed the “silent city” by locals and visitors alike. Quiet streets trimmed with bright pink flowers form the ideal backdrop for that whimsical posing-in-a-doorway pic, and the adorable squares lined with cafes make a great stop if the heat calls an end to your photoshoot.
Naousa, Greece
Although every Instagrammer worth their salt has snapped a pic in stunning Santorini, there are plenty of other Greek islands to explore. Try Naousa, a quieter (but just as pretty) village on the island of Paros. With picturesque streets, a busy nightlife, and beautiful beaches, there’s something for any kind of photographer.
Where are you excited to travel this Spring?
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