The most romantic photo locations in the world

However subjective the concept might seem, some destinations simply scream “romance” more than others. Perhaps they offer sights that take the breath away, stimulate the senses or evoke a sense of wonder. Or maybe they’re storied locations that have long been associated with love, inspiring centuries-worth of paintings, poetry or songs. Capturing these locations in a photograph can instantly transport you back to that moment, serving as a way to preserve deeply meaningful experiences in visual form.

Whether you’re seeking an unforgettable engagement location, honeymoon destination or simply somewhere to create lasting photographic memories with someone special, here we’ve highlighted 10 of the world’s most romantic locations to provide a blank canvas for your own love story.

Paris, France

While the City of Love might seem a cliched inclusion, its photogenic skyline – across gothic spires, slate-grey roofs, Hausmannian boulevards and the telltale wrought-iron pinnacle of the Eiffel Tower – is inseparable from notions of romance. Without doubt the best views are found from the city’s higher reaches – take a hike through Montmartre to the lofty heights of the Sacré-Cœur, where facing south reveals a stunning panorama across landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Panthéon and the Centre Pompidou. Timing your visit with the soft light of early morning promises fewer crowds.

Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s former capital for more than a thousand years, Kyoto’s atmospheric blend of old and new makes it a captivating city to wander. Among the centuries-old temples, shrines and gardens that shape its neighbourhoods, seek out romantic spots such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering trees meet to form a natural tunnel, or the stunning Kinkaku-ji pavilion, whose reflection shimmers across a peaceful pond. Coincide your visit with the sakura season, between March and May each year, when the city’s cherry blossoms turn the city vivid shades of pink.

Santorini, Greece

Few resist the romantic pull of a sunset, with the volcanic Greek island of Santorini serving up some of the world’s best. High up on the edge of the caldera, perched above steep slopes that plunge down to the sea, watch the sun sink below the horizon as its reflection ripples across the Aegean. While the photogenic village of Oia gets busy in summer, worthy alternative spots include Fira, Imerovigli and Pyrgos – or visit during the shoulder season, when Santorini’s breathtaking sunsets can be enjoyed without the crowds. Experiment with a wide-angle lens to effectively capture these expansive views and play with composition, including the island’s iconic white buildings to add foreground interest.

Skye, Scotland

The spectacular scenery found on the island of Skye offers an altogether wilder take on the notion of romance. Lying off the west coast of Scotland, its rugged rockforms, sea lochs and hidden coves feel like something out of a fairytale. On the northeastern side of the island, the towering granite pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr is perhaps its most iconic sight, and best photographed early in the morning, when the sun first hits its cliffs and illuminates the surrounding hills. It’s a steep hike to the various viewpoints along the ridge, and unpredictable weather conditions can add further challenges, but when conditions align, the resulting photography can be nothing short of spectacular.

The Maldives

Shimmering turquoise waters, palm-lined white sands and abundant coral reefs – it’s easy to see why the Maldives consistently ranks among the world’s top honeymoon destinations. Across this sublime scattering of islands in the Indian Ocean, romantic retreats offering overwater villas, sunset cruises and candlelit beach dinners create endless opportunities to capture unforgettable moments wherever you’re staying. While the midday sun is best for capturing the ocean’s vivid colours when the sunlight reflects off the white sand, the soft light of golden hour is a magical time for photographing your chosen island idyll at its best, reducing harsh shadows and creating flattering conditions for portraits.

Provence, France

Having inspired generations of influential artists, the southern French region of Provence is among the world’s most evocative destinations. While its charismatic market towns, pine forests and stunning coastline are effortlessly picturesque, summer also provides another draw for photographers. From mid-June to August, vivid purple swathes of blooming lavender fields transform the countryside – particularly around the Plateau de Valensole and the Luberon region – into fragrant, flamboyant scenes from an Impressionist painting. Use these fields’ geometric rows as compositional tools, using lines within your shot to guide the viewer’s eye to a specific point of interest.

New England, US

Each autumn, crisp, clear days and cool evenings see the states of the north-eastern United States erupt in a dramatic explosion of vibrant reds, golds and oranges as the trees throughout the region start to drop their leaves in an ever-changing display that peaks between late September and mid October. Head to Stowe, Vermont, where the forested slopes of the Green Mountains form a magical backdrop, or drive the 35-mile Kancamagus Highway between Lincoln and Conway, which cuts through thick forest, offering endless opportunities for a romantic photoshoot.

Marrakech, Morocco

Fall in love among the winding alleys and warm terracotta hues of Marrakech’s medina, where an evening wander through labyrinthine souks, mosques and hidden courtyards offers one of the world’s most evocative travel experiences. Journey a little beyond the medina and you’ll find another spot that’s endlessly romantic in the form of Jardin Majorelle, which was transformed into a cobalt blue oasis by fashion luminary Yves Saint Laurent. Here, Art Deco and Moorish architecture frame mesmerising displays of desert species, creating stark contrasts and unforgettable photographs.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

With pastel-hued villages spilling down steep slopes towards the sea and streets scented by jasmine and lemon, the Amalfi Coast is a dazzling feast for the senses. From high-altitude panoramas and beach scenes to secluded corners and stunning shots taken from the water, photographers will find plenty to delight throughout the year. During spring, bright wildflowers dot the slopes and in summer beaches are lined with colourful parasols as visitors flock to its landmarks. Meanwhile, the atmospheric conditions of crisp winter days emphasise the deep turquoise of the sea.

Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s charismatic capital is incredibly easy to fall in love with. Bathed in sultry Caribbean heat and bursting with vibrant colour, its vivid-hued colonial architecture, street musicians and the classic American cars that cruise its streets mean sights resembling movie scenes exist around every corner. Yet it’s at sunset when the city comes alive, with locals and visitors alike drawn to the Malecon, where – along this the west-facing promenade – life plays out in technicolour as the sun dips towards the horizon. Capture its romance and energy in the light of golden hour, framing the city’s skyline and reddening sky with the lengthening silhouettes of families and friends along the curve of the sea wall.