#Europe – The five best places to get instagramable landmark shots
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but if you could only take one picture while visiting some of the most documented destinations around the world, what would it be? To help you capture that perfect shot, Booking.com, presents seven of the world’s most photogenic landmarks and suggests some of the best stays to snap them day and night in all their magnificent glory, straight from your window!
Big Ben – London, UK
Situated on the banks of River Thames, the iconic clock tower of Big Ben is a British icon and one of London’s (perhaps even the world’s) most recognizable landmarks. Originally named the Clock Tower, the massive bell was completed in 1859 and is attached to the Palace of Westminster. Chiming every 15 minutes, the sound of the bell can be heard as far as the Tower Bridge on a quiet evening.
Where to stay: Situated opposite the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London offers stylish rooms, studios and apartments (sure to evoke jealousy in the hearts of your Instagram followers!). Home to the award-winning Brasserie Joël, which serves classic French-influenced bistro dishes with a twist, this modern hotel is a great choice for guests who want to stay in the heart of London and even snap a picture of London’s historic landmarks from their bedroom window.
Acropolis – Athens, Greece
Endorsed by Booking.com customers for history and ancient landmarks, the Greek capital of Athens is home to one of the world’s most iconic monuments, the Acropolis. Built between 447 and 438 B.C, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Parthenon is the chief temple of the Acropolis and one of the most significant examples of the ancient Greek architecture.
Where to stay: Set right opposite the Acropolis, the AthensWas Hotel features spectacular views of the Parthenon that you’ll struggle to beat. The modern rooftop dining restaurant on the seventh floor is a great spot to enjoy modern cuisine or a refreshing cocktail while taking photos of the illuminated Acropolis by night – #magical!
Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
Ah the city of love! And of the perfect picture! If tourists were only allowed to take one photograph in Paris, it would have to be of the Eiffel Tower. Built by Gustave Eiffel, the French cultural icon is one of the most photographed and most visited structures in the world. Visitors can enjoy a stunning 360° view from the top deck, while after sunset the tower is illuminated and offers a spectacular light show of sparkles every hour on the hour.
Where to stay: Set in a renovated historic building, Résidence Charles Floquet is a short 50 metres from the Eiffel Tower and offers spacious, self-catering rooms with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Guests can watch the glittering lights from their living room after the sun goes down, how romantic.
Duomo - Florence, Italy
You’ll never be bored in this beautiful city filled with museums, history, art and architecture - the city of Florence is a landmark itself! Home to the iconic Duomo and many artistic masterpieces including Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture and Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”, this well-known destination is a journey back in time. The Piazzale Michelangelo, a square with a panoramic view of the city located in the Oltrarno district, is the perfect spot to snap a photo of Florence’s breath-taking skyline, no matter what time of the day.
Where to stay: In the centre of Florence, and a short 5-minute walk from the Piazza del Duomo, is the Firenze Rentals Corso 12. This beautiful property offers self-catered apartments with a balcony overlooking the magnificent Duomo.
Hungarian Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The largest building in Budapest and the tallest in Hungary, the grand Hungarian Parliament Building, is a must when visiting this lively city. Steeped in history and sitting in a central location on the bank of the river Danube, you’ll fall in love with this architectural gem.
Where to stay: Parliament Penthouse Boutique B&b is situated a mere 300m from the Hungarian Parliament Building. The bed and breakfast has a sun terrace that looks directly on to the gorgeous building along with views of the mountain, and a highly rated restaurant.