Foodie Vacations

For real food lovers, travel starts with the taste buds. Visiting a foodie destination isn’t just about eating well; it’s about stepping into vibrant culinary scenes filled with tradition, innovation, and the occasional fusion. With this crowd in mind, we’ve asked our local photographers to share their can’t-miss hometown eats. With their insider know-how, we’ve put together this culinary travel bucket list: 12 foodie vacations around the world for every appetite.

Since 2013, Flytographer has connected travellers with trusted local photographers in 350+ destinations worldwide. We’ve captured over six million memories for 100,000+ travellers who wanted more than a phone snap.

Time to get slightly overindulgent!

Jump in

1. Chase pizza pilgrimages in Naples, Italy
2. Savour New Nordic cuisine in Copenhagen, Denmark
3. Hop pintxos bars and Michelin-starred kitchens in San Sebastián, Spain
4. Dive into sizzling markets and Korean barbecue feasts in Seoul, South Korea
5. Taste hawker legends and global flavours in Singapore
6. Snack through street stalls and rooftop dining in Bangkok, Thailand
7. Slurp ramen and sample precision dining in Tokyo, Japan
8. Follow taco trails and vibrant markets in Mexico City, Mexico
9. Dig into Cajun and Creole classics in New Orleans, Louisiana
10. Brunch on bagels and bistro classics in Montreal, Quebec
11. Savour parrilla steaks and cafe traditions in Buenos Aires, Argentina
12. Discover farm-to-table creativity and Andean flavours in Bogotá, Colombia

Photo: Chiara in Naples for Flytographer. Stephen and family capture memories in Naples on a family photoshoot.

1. Naples, Italy

With its ancient roots in Mediterranean flatbread, pizza as we know it today is said to have been born in Naples, arguably the world’s best place for a pizza pilgrimage. Italy’s signature dish was originally invented as a meal for labourers: cheap, portable, and meant to be eaten at any time of day. Eating a Margherita al portafoglio (casual, street-style) in noisy markets or under laundry fluttering above narrow streets is a proper local custom. Sitting in a pizzeria by a sunny piazza, sipping a lovely Chianti from Tuscany and finishing with a gelato isn’t bad either.

Fly Tip: Naples offers plenty of pizza cooking classes where you can learn how classic ingredients, simplicity, and, paradoxically, a bit of imperfection in the dough make for the perfect pizzaiolo method.

Photo: Chiara in Naples for Flytographer. Paige and partner capture memories in Naples on a couples photoshoot.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Largely shaped by René Redzepi of Copenhagen’s Noma, aka the world’s best restaurant, “New Nordic” cuisine is a culinary movement that champions hyper-local ingredients, meticulous technique, and careful plating. Sounds familiar? Much of this philosophy reached a broader audience through the TV hit The Bear. Noma itself is a tough one to book, but perfect for milestone occasions. The restaurant helped put the city’s fine-dining scene on the map, offering a full experience, engaging scent, visuals, and even sound.

If that feels a bit highbrow, don’t worry. What makes Copenhagen interesting for foodie vacations is that the world-class fine-dining mindset spills into everyday food. You’ll find everything from pan-African restaurants to South American flavours and Asian delights, all reinterpreted through Nordic ingredients. Add to that the fact that the city is small and walkable, and you can easily explore it all.

Photo: Reannan in Copenhagen for Flytographer. Seth and partner capture memories in Denmark on a couples photoshoot.

3. San Sebastián, Spain

How do you pick a place for a foodie vacation? A high concentration of Michelin stars is a good start. The relatively small Basque city of San Sebastián has one of the world’s highest per capita densities. Much of this reputation comes from its famous pintxos culture: small bar snacks, often built around one ingredient. The tradition encourages bar-hopping, especially in Parte Vieja, the Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to the occasional historic marvel that reminds you to pause between bites.

Fly Tip: If there’s one specialty you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it is Basque cheesecake. Creamy. Rich. Caramelized on the outside. Simply irresistible.

Photo: Sofia in San Sebastián for Flytographer. Kim and family capture memories in Spain on a family photoshoot.

4. Seoul, South Korea

Like K-pop and K-dramas, local food has become a major pillar of the Korean Wave. In Seoul, options like tteokbokki, Korean fried chicken, and gimbap are everywhere you look, and make perfect refuelling stops during city explorations, especially in markets packed with stalls like Gwangjang Market. You can even try a gamja dog, a hot dog on a stick rolled in French fries.

Visiting a Korean barbecue spot, where the main dish arrives with a small parade of side dishes, is highly recommended. A bibimbap restaurant is another must, where you mix colourful toppings right in a sizzling bowl at your table. In Seoul, cooking as you eat is simply part of the experience.

Fly Tip: Another fantastic experience for a South Korean foodie vacation? Try temple food. Restrained, sustainable, and plant- and fermented-based, this mindful cuisine is like wellness on a tray, rooted in millennia of Buddhist tradition. 

Photo: HaleLee in Seoul for Flytographer. Jennifer and family capture memories in South Korea on a mother-daughter photoshoot.

5. Singapore

In Singapore, diversity is the whole point of the menu. This island city is home to an equally diverse population, predominantly Chinese, Indian, and Malay. You can imagine what that does to the culinary offerings in town. Local kopi and kaya toast for breakfast, a spicy laksa for lunch, and tandoori chicken for dinner? The order hardly matters; follow the aroma and the longest queue.

Make your first stop a hawker centre. These organized communal spaces bring together small cooks, many of whom once thrived as traditional street food vendors, serving their best dishes with impressive speed. Then book a table in one of the city’s sleek restaurants, where international cuisines shine, the food is extraordinary, and the bill rises to meet it.

Photo: Gan in Singapore for Flytographer. Katherine and partner capture memories in Singapore on a couples photoshoot.

6. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok was the world’s most visited city in 2025, and we have a feeling its legendary street food scene had something to do with it. After all, tourists and Bangkokians alike look for their daily comfort food at tiny, mobile restaurants that, like modern-day food trucks, come to you rather than the other way around. They serve everything from pad thai and pad krapow to papaya salad and the almighty mango sticky rice, gloriously bathed in coconut milk. The bustle of these stalls only adds to the delightfully chaotic cityscape.

If you want to escape the heat, many of the city’s air-conditioned shopping malls also offer great street food–style restaurants, some of them even Michelin-listed. And of course, you can always head to one of the city’s countless upscale eateries, many perched on rooftops above Bangkok’s glittering skyline.

Photo: Idsara in Bangkok for Flytographer. Rachel and partner capture memories in Thailand on a couples photoshoot.

7. Tokyo, Japan

From standing sushi bars to elaborate kaiseki tasting menus, Tokyo’s food scene will blow your mind. If San Sebastián boasts the highest concentration, Tokyo holds the crown for the world’s largest number of Michelin-starred restaurants. In the Japanese capital, chefs work with seasonal produce and exceptionally fresh seafood. The culinary precision appears from fine dining to everyday food.

Locals literally line up for what’s known as “B-class gourmet”: comforting, affordable dishes served in restaurants that focus on doing one thing and doing it extremely well. These vary from ramen and udon to gyoza, or even a perfectly swirled soft-serve ice cream. And if the late-night munchies strike, you can head to the yokocho alleys, the narrow streets glowing with red lanterns, where tiny bars and grills keep the city happily snacking.

Fly Tip: The sheer number of options can be a little overwhelming. That’s why Tokyo food tours are a favourite among foodie vacationers; they help uncover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist map.

Photo: Idsara in Bangkok for Flytographer. Rachel and partner capture memories in Thailand on a couples photoshoot.

8. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City was dubbed the tastiest destination in North America, and it also made our list of the world’s greatest cities for foodie vacations. In the city, tradition meets modern creativity, and Mexican classics like tacos and enchiladas are reinterpreted in bold ways using global techniques, often plated with enough flair to rival chic eateries in Paris or London.

Still, there’s something for every budget in the Mexican capital. The experience can be just as satisfying at a street-side taco stall or in simple cantinas where people eat, drink, and socialize. Expect plenty of corn-based dishes and chilli sauces, many rooted in traditions that trace all the way to the Mayan and Aztec kitchens. Colourful markets like Mercado de San Juan are also well worth a foodie stop, the latter a spot where the city’s chefs shop and where you can wander in for a full meal yourself.

Photo: Alejandra in Mexico City for Flytographer. Amanda and partner capture memories in Mexico on a couples photoshoot.

9. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans’ food scene results from a rare culinary fusion of French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences that developed into something entirely its own. In fact, not just one cuisine but two: Cajun and Creole. Cajun cooking comes from the countryside, and centres on hearty dishes simmered in big pots, like a good old jambalaya. Creole, meanwhile, is city-born and a touch more refined, with dishes such as seafood gumbo and beignets, those airy squares of fried dough that reflect the city’s old coffeehouse culture, especially in the French Quarter. 

A must-try in town is the po’boy, a sandwich said to have been created during a streetcar strike to feed the “poor boys” manning the picket lines. The real magic, locals insist, lies in the bread: crisp and flaky on the outside, soft inside.

10. Montreal, Quebec

When it comes to food, Montreal delivers quality at every price point, from award-winning chefs’ tables to mom-and-pop neighbourhood bakeries. Critics often say this is where Europe meets North America, with the tradition of French bistro cooking meeting the informality of the New World. Besides, the city may well have the strongest brunch culture on the continent.

Still, make no mistake, there’s also a strong sense of local terroir, found in beloved classics such as the bagels at Fairmount Bagel, the world-famous smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz’s Deli, and the Quebecois comfort food par excellence, poutine, fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. For more cosmopolitan tastes, head to Chinatown for authentic dim sum and fiery Szechuan noodles. 

Photo: Vivian in Montreal for Flytographer. Didi and friend capture memories in Quebec on a friends photoshoot.

11. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Love a good steak? Buenos Aires is one of the world’s great steak cities. In the Argentine capital, steak is a ritual shaped by grass-fed beef from the Pampas, traditional wood-fire parrilla grilling, and distinctive Argentine cuts. The city also offers lighter fare, though. Traditions brought over by waves of European immigrants are still visible today in dishes like handmade pasta and arguably some of the best pizza you can have outside Italy. In Buenos Aires, cafe culture is as strong as in Paris. Locals take their time enjoying staples such as empanadas (savoury stuffed pastries), alfajores, and desserts filled with dulce de leche. We really can’t stress enough how good the latter are.

What about a wine tasting for pairing? Buenos Aires has fabulous wine bars pouring bottles from across the country, most sourced locally from Argentina. The country is home to some of the world’s most celebrated wineries and wine regions.

Photo: Amelia in Buenos Aires for Flytographer. Christopher and partner capture memories in Argentina on a couples photoshoot.

12. Bogotá, Colombia

Often overshadowed by cities like Lima, Bogotá is finally finding its momentum as a major foodie destination in South America. Until recently, many local chefs looked mainly to European flavours for inspiration, but a culinary revolution is now underway. A new generation of farm-to-table eateries is rethinking the concept, spotlighting ingredients long used by Indigenous communities and sourced from Colombia’s remarkably diverse ecosystems: the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the Caribbean coast.

The best part is that this movement ripples far beyond the plate: restaurants support local farmers and communities while celebrating the country’s extraordinary biodiversity. Indulging in some of the best food in South America while doing a little good for the places you visit? That definitely calls for seconds.

Capturing memories with good eats

From Louisiana’s overstuffed po’boys to delicate nigiri in Tokyo, the world is full of places where a special dish is waiting for you. The moments in between the bites? Connect with one of our local photographers in 350+ destinations around the world. They’ll help you explore the city, uncover photogenic corners, and even throw in a few extra food recs your way.

The Most Aesthetic Hotels

A great hotel is easy to find. A hotel that makes you want to call a photographer and stay an extra day. That’s something else.

We asked our local photographers, the ones who know every good light source and hidden corner in their cities, to name the one hotel they’d most want to shoot in. Not the most famous, not the most expensive. The most photogenic. The results are a shortlist of places where architecture, setting, and light all conspire to make something genuinely extraordinary.

Since 2013, Flytographer has connected travellers with trusted local photographers in 350+ destinations worldwide. We’ve captured over six million memories for 100,000+ travellers who wanted more than a phone snap. These are the hotels our photographers keep coming back to.

In this guide:

1. Paris: Shangri-La Paris
2. Honolulu: Royal Hawaiian Hotel
3. New York City: The Beekman
4. Venice: Hotel Danieli
5. Kyoto: Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
6. Marrakesh: Amanjena Resort
7. Cancun: Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya
8. Santorini: Honeymoon Petra Villas
9. Lake Como: The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
10. London: Raffles London at The OWO

Photo: Leo in Paris for Flytographer. Zach and partner capture memories at Trocadéro in Paris, just a stone’s throw away from the Shangri-La Hotel.

1. Paris | Shangri-La Paris

“It has an incredible rooftop and one of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. The interiors are very luxurious and refined, and it is absolutely perfect for private ceremonies. In a way, it feels even more refined and intimate than the Ritz.” – Flytographer Leo in Paris

Before it was a hotel, it was a palace. The Shangri-La Paris was built in the 1890s as the private residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, great-nephew of Napoleon, and the provenance shows in every detail: silk-threaded wallpaper, crystal chandeliers, white marble fireplaces, a grand spiral staircase in forged steel and brass. Half the guest rooms face the Eiffel Tower directly, and the top-floor La Suite Shangri-La commands a wraparound terrace with views stretching all the way to Sacré-Cœur.

For couples marking a milestone: a surprise proposal, a honeymoon, an anniversary worth remembering. Very little competes.

Photo courtesy of Shangri-La Paris.

2. Honolulu | Royal Hawaiian Hotel

“Right in the heart of Waikiki and just steps from the ocean, the Royal Hawaiian is one of those places that feels almost too pretty to be real. Think iconic views of Diamond Head, a lush tropical feel, and every detail dressed in the most perfect shade of pink, right down to the pancakes!” – Flytographer Natalie

Nearly a century old and not remotely tired. The Royal Hawaiian has been turning heads since 1927, when Warren and Wetmore, the architects behind Grand Central Terminal, designed it in a Spanish-Moorish style: cupolas, dramatic archways, pink turrets that practically glow at golden hour. The famous salmon-pink exterior has launched a thousand photo shoots, and the interior keeps pace with fuchsia headboards in the Historic Wing and a legendary Mai Tai Bar where the original Hawaiian mai tai was born in 1953.

Add Diamond Head in the background, tropical gardens across the grounds, and the Pacific stretching beyond the beach umbrellas. Your photographer will not want to leave.

Photo: Natalie in San Clemente for Flytographer (photos taken in Honolulu). Megan and partner capture memories at the Royal Hawaiian on a couples trip to Oahu.

3. New York City | The Beekman

“This hotel has such a unique interior, honestly, unlike any hotel I’ve seen before. Even though the lighting can be a bit challenging, the textures and design details make every corner visually striking and a beautiful setting for elopement or engagement photos.” – Flytographer Sehee in New York City

The Beekman has a story worth knowing. Originally built in the 1880s as a commercial tower called Temple Court, the building sat abandoned for decades before reopening as a boutique hotel in 2016. The centrepiece is a nine-story Victorian atrium with a pyramidal skylight, cast-iron railings adorned with dragons and sunbursts, and encaustic tile floors in deep reds and golds. Designer Martin Brudnizki layered in aged-oak flooring, olive-green leather, and jewel-toned velvets throughout.

If you’re in the city for an elopement or engagement session, this is the backdrop that will make Manhattan feel genuinely surprising. Pair it with a walk through Lower Manhattan for a true city getaway.

Photo courtesy of The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel by Hyatt.

4. Venice | Hotel Danieli

“The Danieli Hotel is a magical place: an intense dream of elegance and beauty in the breathtaking setting of Venice. Photographing here is like immersing yourself in that dream and creating images suspended between reality and magic.” – Flytographer Marta in Venice

Marta is not exaggerating. The oldest wing of Hotel Danieli, Palazzo Dandolo, dates to the 14th century and was built by one of Venice’s most powerful families. Inside, a four-story open atrium rises beneath a stained-glass cupola, with pink marble columns, Moorish arches, and a golden staircase draped in doge-red carpet. Murano glass chandeliers, hand-painted ceiling frescoes, and damask fabrics at every turn. Dickens, Byron, Proust, and Coco Chanel have all stayed here.

Worth noting: a major renovation is currently underway, and the hotel will reopen in August 2026 as Danieli, A Four Seasons Hotel, Venice, with the beloved atrium and golden staircase preserved. For families and couples visiting Italy, this remains one of the most visually extraordinary settings in the world.

Photos courtesy of Marta in Venice. Photos taken at the Danieli Hotel in Venice.

5. Kyoto | Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

“Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is incredibly photogenic because it blends modern luxury with a serene Japanese garden setting. In November, the vibrant maple leaves create a breathtaking backdrop that feels both elegant and timeless.” – Flytographers Coo and Yurika in Kyoto

Coo and Yurika shoot here in autumn, and their images say everything. The Four Seasons Hotel in Kyoto was built around the Shakusui-en Pond Garden, an approximately 800-year-old landscape once belonging to the legendary samurai Taira no Shigemori. Ancient stone bridges, moss-covered islands, and a restored waterfall. In November, the maple canopy turns the whole property into something close to surreal. Inside, polished hardwood floors, hand-painted fusuma screens, and floor-to-ceiling windows frame the garden like a living painting.

Autumn is the obvious season. But this hotel rewards a visit to any of the four.

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Katy and family capture memories at the Four Seasons Hotel in Kyoto with a family photoshoot.

6. Marrakesh | Amanjena Resort

Tucked among ancient olive groves just outside the medina, Amanjena arrives as a quiet surprise. Designed by architect Ed Tuttle, the resort rises from the red earth in the same soft rose-pink as the city itself, with traditional packed-earth walls finished in lustrous tadelakt. The layout radiates outward from a central ornamental pool, with pavilions connected by Moorish colonnades, zellige tile walkways, and lush garden courtyards. Inside: hand-carved cedar doors, green marble bathtubs beneath vaulted ceilings.

The most compelling moments for photos are the reflective basin at dusk, the ornate Caidal tent set for candlelit dinners, and the olive groves with the Atlas Mountains dissolving into the distance. For design-minded travellers, this is one of the most visually considered properties in North Africa.

Photo: Ilyass in Marrakesh for Flytographer. Caroline and partner capture memories at Amanjena Resort in Marrakesh with a couple’s photoshoot.

7. Cancun | Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya

“Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya is vibrant yet romantic, with grand Spanish-inspired architecture, tropical gardens, and golden-hour glow that lend every photograph a sense of drama and warmth.” – Flytographer Claudia in Cancun

The Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya is an adults-only resort on Mexico’s Playa del Secreto that channels the architecture of a Yucatán colonial hacienda: vivid colours, ornate tilework, archways at every turn. The property sits surrounded by tropical gardens and a natural mangrove lagoon, an upscale setting that feels far removed from the typical all-inclusive. One of the largest pools in the Riviera Maya faces the Caribbean beachfront, which delivers exactly the kind of golden-hour drama Claudia describes.

Some places look better in photos than in person. This one looks even better.

Photo: Claudia in Cancun for Flytographer. Jordan and partner capture memories at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya with a couple’s photoshoot on the beach.

8. Santorini | Honeymoon Petra Villas

“There is an incredible hotel in Imerovigli called Honeymoon Petra Villas. Imerovigli is located on the highest spot of Santorini’s caldera and has the most breathtaking view.” – Flytographers Stathis and Christina in Santorini

Imerovigli is quieter than Oia and higher than Fira, and Honeymoon Petra Villas sits at its peak, perched directly on the caldera cliff with unobstructed Aegean views. The hotel is split into two distinct wings: the Traditional Wing, carved into the volcanic rock in true cave-suite style, and the Petra Wing, built over 20 years by hand from Santorinian stone. Most suites come with private jacuzzis and caldera views. The infinity pool, hewn from volcanic rock and one of the largest on the caldera, faces open sea.

For the sunset Santorini is famous for, this is exactly where you want to be standing.

Photo: Stathis and Christina in Santorini for Flytographer. Allison and partner capture memories at the Honeymoon Petra Villas in Santorini wth a couples photoshoot.

9. Lake Como | Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni

“The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio is an amazing hotel! I would suggest it because it’s timeless, elegant, historical, luxurious and one of the most private with amazing views. Also, this is in Bellagio, which is always my most recommended Flytographer route.” – Flytographers Mattia and Maria in Lake Como

Mattia & Maria shoot across Lake Como, and they keep coming back to Bellagio. The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni sits at the tip of the promontory where Lake Como divides into its two southern arms, a position so perfectly scenic that the Bellagio in Las Vegas borrowed its name. The property began as a private villa in 1854, became a hotel in 1873, and has been owned by the Bucher family for three generations. The interiors are pure Belle Époque grandeur: marble staircases, frescoed ceilings, Murano glass chandeliers in the Salone Reale, and 95 rooms dressed in period furniture, linen sheets, and hand-sewn silk bedspreads. Every room is different. Many face the lake.

Outside, two gardens slope toward the water, where a lakeside pool offers what might be the most quietly spectacular swimming setting in northern Italy. Bellagio itself is the draw within the draw: cobblestone lanes, waterfront cafes, and a scale that feels personal rather than performative.

For couples and families visiting Italy’s lake country, this is the one that sets the standard.

Photo: Mattia & Maria in Lake Como for Flytographer. Tanya and partner capture memories at The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni with a couples photoshoot.

10. London | Raffles London at The OWO

“Beautiful interior and many art deco rooms. I love photographing there. Very relaxed with photography for customers.” – Flytographer Jimmy in London

For over a century, this building was closed to the public. The Old War Office on Whitehall was where Churchill made wartime decisions, where intelligence officers plotted in corridors, and where Ian Fleming, a regular visitor, found inspiration for James Bond. In 2023, after a meticulous six-year renovation, this Edwardian Baroque landmark reopened as Raffles’ first London hotel, and the result is one of the most striking new hotels in Europe.

Designer Thierry Despont, the same mind behind the restoration of the Statue of Liberty, reimagined the interiors of Raffles London at The OWO with a contemporary take on Edwardian grandeur. The five Heritage Suites occupy the building’s most storied rooms: the Churchill Suite is all wood panelling and antique fireplaces, while the Granville Suite, named after Churchill’s favourite spy, has a golden bathtub.

For photographers, the building is endlessly rewarding. A magnificent Grand Staircase sweeps through the centre. The location, directly opposite Horse Guards on Whitehall, puts Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and St. James’s Park within a short walk. Jimmy is right that the hotel is relaxed about photography for guests, which makes it a rare find in a city where many luxury hotels are not.

Photo: Jimmy in London for Flytographer. Nikki and family capture memories at the Raffles in London.

The Best Urban Escapes

Every year brings a fresh urge to explore a new city, and the urban landscape of 2026 is shaping up to be one for the books. From Paris settling into its most walkable era yet, to a World Cup summer electrifying Seattle, to the 50th anniversary of the New York City Marathon, this year’s lineup of the best cities to visit offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re chasing world-class food, art that stops you in your tracks, or the golden-hour light hitting a cobblestone street, these ten destinations belong at the top of your urban bucket list.

Flytographer easily connects travellers with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and has captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to share the cities they’re most excited about in 2026, the places brimming with culture, energy, and unforgettable backdrops in this urban travel guide.

Jump in

1. Melbourne, Australia
2. Mexico City, Mexico
3. Santa Barbara, California
4. New York City, New York
5. Seattle, Washington
6. Singapore
7. Washington, DC
8. Bangkok, Thailand
9. Paris, France
10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Photo: Kari in New York City for Flytographer. Erika and partner capture memories on a trip to New York City with a couples photoshoot in Brooklyn.

1. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne has long been one of the best cities to visit for anyone who loves the intersection of food, art, and effortless cool. While you may be tempted to flock to Sydney, Melbourne offers a taste of local living down under. The city’s identity lives in its laneways: wandering Hosier Lane’s ever-changing street art, sipping a flat white in a hidden café on Degraves Street, or ducking into a world-class brewery in Collingwood that you stumbled upon by accident. Melbourne is Australia’s undisputed coffee capital, and neighbourhoods like Fitzroy, Richmond, and Footscray deliver some of the most exciting multicultural dining in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you’re exploring the Queen Victoria Market or catching a coastal sunset along the Great Ocean Road, this city blends creativity and laid-back energy like nowhere else.

2026 Key Moments

• Australian Open: January 12 – February 1, with record A$111.5 million in prize money
• Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix: March 5–8 at Albert Park, opening the entire 2026 F1 season
• Cartier at NGV: June 12 – October 4, the largest Cartier exhibition ever staged in Australia with 300+ masterpieces

Photo: Rina in Melbourne for Flytographer. Kevin and partner capture memories on a trip to Australia with a couples photoshoot at Flinders Street.

2. Mexico City, Mexico

Still one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Mexico City is layered, soulful, and endlessly creative. It’s also the largest city on this list by a large margin, with over 21 million people. The food scene alone makes CDMX one of the best cities to visit this year. Quintonil (currently ranked #3 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list) and Pujol are both here, alongside legendary street food markets where tacos al pastor and tlacoyos cost a few dollars. Wander tree-lined Roma Norte and Condesa for design-forward galleries and cafés, explore the deep cultural history of the Centro Histórico (the Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Templo Mayor), or spend an afternoon in Coyoacán at the Frida Kahlo Museum. Every neighbourhood’s historic sites reveal a new layer.

2026 Key Moments

• Art Week CDMX and Zona MACO: February 4–8, with 220+ galleries from 26+ countries and satellite fairs across the city
• FIFA World Cup at Estadio Azteca: June/July, bringing global attention and tourism investment to the city
• Design Week Mexico: October 5–11, featuring the Inédito design showcase in Bosque de Chapultepec

Photo: Alejandra in Mexico City for Flytographer. Cindy and family capture memories on a trip to Mexico with a couples photoshoot at Xochimilco.

3. Santa Barbara, California

Located just 2-hours North of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is the kind of coastal city that feels restorative without feeling sleepy, and that vibe makes it one of the best places for a slower-paced city escape in 2026. The entire downtown reflects a Spanish Colonial architectural style adopted after the 1925 earthquake, giving it one of the most visually cohesive cityscapes in America. Stroll the Funk Zone for walkable wine tasting rooms and galleries in converted warehouses, then drive 30 minutes north for a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley for world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay country. Better yet, a California coast road trip through the Napa Valley would be a great option for our fellow wine enthusiasts out there. Between the Pacific views, mountain backdrops, and Mission-era architecture, every corner of this US city is genuinely photogenic.

2026 Key Moments

• Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival: June 27, set beneath redwoods at the Museum of Natural History
• California Wine Festival: July 17–18, featuring a beachside tasting at Chase Palm Park
• Santa Barbara Vintners Festival: October 17, the 42nd edition of the original SB wine festival

Photo: Allie in Santa Barbara for Flytographer. Megan and family capture memories in California with a multigenerational family photoshoot at East Beach.

4. New York City, New York

There’s a reason New York City tops nearly every “best cities to visit” list in 2026. The FIFA World Cup Final arrives at MetLife Stadium, America’s 250th birthday brings a historic tall-ship flotilla into New York Harbor over the Fourth of July weekend, and the museum calendar features a once-in-a-lifetime Raphael retrospective at The Met alongside a Marcel Duchamp exhibition at MoMA. The food scene in New York is having a moment of its own, with London’s beloved Dishoom café opening its first permanent U.S. location in Lower Manhattan and Gymkhana bringing upscale Punjabi fine dining to NoMad. Beyond the new arrivals, NYC’s favorite places to eat remain as essential as ever: dollar-slice counters, Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side, soup dumplings in Flushing, and the open-air Smorgasburg markets that return each spring. Broadway’s 2026 season is stacked with star power, from Nathan Lane in Death of a Salesman to the cast of The Bear making their stage debuts in Dog Day Afternoon. Whether you’re a first-timer strolling Central Park or a seasoned visitor discovering a new corner of Jackson Heights, New York City rewards every kind of traveller.

2026 Key Moments

• FIFA World Cup Final: July 19 at MetLife Stadium, with eight total matches hosted between June 13 and July 19
• America’s 250th Birthday & Sail4th 250: July 3–9, featuring 30+ tall ships, a U.S. Navy fleet review, and the first-ever non–New Year’s Eve Times Square ball drop on July 3
• New Museum OMA Expansion Grand Opening: March 21, doubling the museum’s gallery space on the Bowery
• TCS New York City Marathon 50th Anniversary: November 1, celebrating 50 years of the iconic five-borough course

Photo: Kari in New York City for Flytographer. Beena and family capture memories on a trip to New York City with a couples family in Central Park.

5. Seattle, Washington

Seattle has always been a nature-anchored city where creativity and calm coexist. It remains one of the best cities to visit for coffee lovers longing for an espresso at Victrola, music pilgrims on their way to the MoPOP’s Nirvana and Hendrix exhibits, and food enthusiasts who want to eat their way through Pike Place Market. With the Puget Sound sparkling on one side and the Cascades rising on the other, the backdrops here are unmatched. Olympic National Park is only a couple of hours away, and the Hood Canal is a must-see along the way, featuring stunning, natural fjords. June and July are Seattle’s sweet spot: long daylight hours, minimal rain, and temperatures in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F.

2026 Key Moments

• FIFA World Cup: Six matches at Seattle Stadium between June 15 and July 6, including the marquee USA vs. Australia game on June 19
• Northwest Folklife Festival: May 22–25, the 55th annual edition with 6,000+ artists
• Bumbershoot Festival: September 5–6 at Seattle Center

Photo: Sarah in Seattle for Flytographer. Rachelle and partner capture memories on a trip to Washington State with a couples photoshoot at Pike Place Market.

6. Singapore

Singapore is one of the most forward-thinking cities in the world: precise, multicultural, and deeply livable. The food scene spans every level, from Michelin three-star fine dining at Odette and Zen to a Michelin-starred hawker stall (Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle) where a bowl costs a few dollars, all within a city that holds nearly 300 Michelin-recognized establishments. The seamless urban experience, from the futuristic Gardens by the Bay to the heritage shophouses of Katong and Tiong Bahru, makes Singapore one of the easiest and most beautiful cities to explore. New attractions opening this year include the Singapore Oceanarium, the Disney Adventure cruise departing from Marina Bay, and a major new live music venue, making it easy to see why Singapore consistently ranks among the best cities to visit.

2026 Key Moments

• Art SG: January 23–25 at Marina Bay Sands, with 100+ international galleries during Singapore Art Week
• Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix: October 9–11, the only night race on the F1 calendar, now featuring a first-ever Sprint Race format
• Disney Adventure Cruise: Launching from Marina Bay Cruise Centre

Photo: Eleanor in Singapore for Flytographer. Trung and partner capture memories on a trip to Sinapore with a couples photoshoot at the Gardens by the Bay.

7. Washington DC

Washington, DC is more layered and creative than most people expect. The world-class museum scene (all Smithsonians are free!) pairs beautifully with walkable neighbourhoods like Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Capitol Hill. The food scene has evolved dramatically, too, with José Andrés operating eight restaurants across the city and exciting new openings along 14th Street. And in 2026, there has never been a better reason to visit: this is the year of America’s 250th birthday, and the celebrations are truly monumental.

2026 Key Moments

• National Cherry Blossom Festival: March 20 – April 12, with America250 programming throughout
• National Air and Space Museum Fully Reopens: July 1, with all galleries open for its 50th anniversary
• America’s 250th Birthday: July 4, the most ambitious National Mall celebration in the city’s history

Photo: Ica in Washington DC for Flytographer. Kelsey and family capture memories on a trip to Washington DC with a family photoshoot at the Tidal Basin.

8. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a city of contrasts: spiritual, electric, and endlessly photogenic. Temple-hopping is essential here: Wat Arun at sunset, the 46-metre reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace’s sacred Emerald Buddha are all within walking distance of each other. Teeming with natural beauty along its tropical shores, it also makes a great beach getaway for those craving the best of both worlds. The street food scene is legendary, and Yaowarat (Chinatown) comes alive at night with roasted duck, grilled river prawns, and mango sticky rice from stalls where everything costs under a few dollars. The city’s design and fashion scene continues to emerge, too, with the Charoenkrung creative corridor and neighbourhoods like Ari and Thonglor transforming into destinations of their own.

2026 Key Moments

• Bangkok Design Week: January 29 – February 8, with 350+ creative programmes across four historic districts and an expected 400,000+ visitors.
• Songkran Festival (April 13–15, 2026): The traditional Thai New Year and world-famous water festival, with major, city-wide water battles and cultural activities.

Photo: Flytographer in Bangkok. Eileen and partner capture memories on a trip to Thailand with a couples photoshoot at Wat Pho.

9. Paris, France

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first time or 50th time, Paris will always have something incredible to offer. Paris has settled into a new rhythm: more accessible, more walkable, and still utterly iconic. Paris is a big city, but each neighbourhood you find yourself exploring on foot somehow has a small-town feeling. The 2024 Games left behind a transformed city with new cycling infrastructure, an extended Metro Line 14, the Olympic Village converted into a vibrant neighbourhood, and the Olympic rings still gleaming on the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame is a must-see as it was magnificently restored in late 2024 and has already welcomed over six million sightseeing visitors. Major exhibitions this year include Renoir at the Musée d’Orsay, Lee Miller at the Musée d’Art Moderne, and Hilma af Klint at the Grand Palais. Paris is always among the best cities to visit, but in 2026, the layers of reasons run even deeper.

2026 Key Moments

• Paris Fashion Week: Four editions throughout the year (January, March, June, and September/October)
• French Open / Roland-Garros: May 18 – June 7
• Bad Bunny Paris Debut: July 4–5 at La Défense Arena
• Art Basel Paris: October 23–25 at the Grand Palais, with 206 galleries from 41 countries

Photo: Mary in Paris for Flytographer. Tracey and partner capture memories on a trip to France with a couples photoshoot at Montmartre.

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If you are searching for a city where energy, beauty, and culture collide unapologetically, look no further than Rio de Janeiro. The beach culture is iconic: Copacabana’s four-kilometre crescent, Ipanema’s famously cool Posto 9 scene, and Leblon’s quieter, family-friendly stretch all deliver that quintessential Rio experience. There is a distinct beat that accompanies the nightlife of Rio. Music lives everywhere here, from Lapa’s legendary samba venues to Pedra do Sal’s Monday night rodas de samba in the port district. The food scene centres on feijoada, açaí bowls, fresh caipirinhas at beachside kiosks, and Bar da Laje’s panoramic rooftop views in the Vidigal neighbourhood. With Carnival, a major music festival, and the NFL all arriving in 2026, Rio stakes its claim as one of the best cities to visit for sheer, joyful energy.

2026 Key Moments

• Carnival: February 13–21, with elite samba school parades at the Sambadrome, 462 authorized street blocos, and an estimated two million visitors
• Rock in Rio: September 4–13, seven days of music featuring Elton John, Gilberto Gil, and Stray Kids
• First-ever NFL game in Rio: At Maracanã Stadium, part of a five-year commitment (teams and date TBA)

Photo: Claudia in Rio de Janeiro for Flytographer. Rebecca and family capture memories on a trip to Brazil with a multigenerational family photoshoot.

Capturing memories in the city

No matter which of these incredible destinations calls to you in 2026, whether it’s the laneway coffee culture of Melbourne, a sunset temple moment in Bangkok, or that perfect twirl beneath the Eiffel Tower, Flytographer is there to help you capture it all. With trusted local photographers in 350+ destinations worldwide, we make it easy to turn your favourite travel moments into wall-worthy photos you’ll treasure forever. Book your shoot today and bring home the best souvenir: magic memories.

Female Entrepreneurs in the Travel Industry

To celebrate International Women’s Day we’re highlighting 12 amazing women in travel who are trailblazing the industry every day. These women are changing the way we make and capture memories for the better, and we can’t wait to share with you their stories, initiatives, empowerment, and their positive impact in the travel and tourism industry!

TLDR

• Publishers & Communities
• Social Changemakers
• Travel Agencies & Mentors
• Travel Experiences

Publishers & Communities

1. Beth Santos, Author of Wander Woman

Beth Santos is an entrepreneur, travel expert, and advocate for women’s empowerment. Beth is the founder and CEO of She’s Wanderful, a global community and platform aimed at empowering like-minded women to travel and explore the world confidently, supporting and inspiring each other in their travel experiences. Beth is also the author of Wander Woman: How to Reclaim Your Space, Find Your Voice and Travel the World Solo.

Beth is a proud advocate for diversity and inclusivity in travel, and her work has helped women travelers from different backgrounds gain confidence in exploring new destinations. Her efforts have led to creating events, content, and tools that foster a supportive travel community for women. She covers practical advice, tips on navigating solo travel, and how to break free from societal expectations and fear.

Hot tip! Here are some of our favourite solo female travel stories to inspire your next adventure! 

2. Sheena Bhattessa, Founder of Citizen Femme

Sheena Bhattessa is the founder of Citizen Femme, a luxury travel platform dedicated to women who love to travel in style. Citizen Femme offers curated travel guides, recommendations, and insights tailored to women seeking to explore the world with a focus on style, culture, and authentic experiences. Sheena has built a community of female travelers, influencers, and industry experts, providing a trusted resource for high-end travel and inspiring women to travel on their terms.

Sheena is passionate about promoting women’s voices in the travel industry, especially when it comes to sharing stories, experiences, and advice that empower women to confidently navigate the world.

3. Evita Robinson, Founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe

Writer and motivational speaker Evita Robinson is also the founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe, a global community and social network designed to connect and empower travelers of colour, especially Black travelers, who share a passion for exploring the world. Nomadness Travel Tribe has grown into one of the largest and most influential travel communities, offering resources, events, and a platform where members can share their travel experiences, tips, and advice.

Evita’s work with Nomadness Travel Tribe has been instrumental in breaking stereotypes, addressing the lack of representation of people of colour in the mainstream travel industry, and in promoting DEI in the travel space. Evita has created a platform where travelers can connect with like-minded individuals, find support, as well as celebrate their shared experiences.

4. Katalina Mayorga, CEO of El Camino Travel

Katalina Mayorga is the CEO and founder of El Camino Travel. Katalina is passionate about using travel as a tool for personal growth, cultural exchange, and social impact. Katalina’s approach emphasizes experiential travel that fosters meaningful connections between travelers and local communities, while also promoting responsible tourism practices. Katalina is an advocate for the empowerment of women in the travel industry and for promoting diversity and inclusivity in the global travel space.

El Camino Travel is a travel agency and community dedicated to curating immersive, transformative travel experiences, authentic and off-the-beaten-path adventure travel, and culturally rich and sustainable trips that allow travelers to engage deeply with the places and communities they visit.

Social Changemakers

5. Cristina Mittermeier, President of SeaLegacy

Cristina Mittermeier is a renowned conservation photographer, marine biologist, speaker, and writer. Cristina is also the co-founder and president of SeaLegacy, an organization dedicated to ocean conservation.

Cristina is one of the most influential figures in the world of environmental conservation, particularly through her work that highlights the beauty and fragility of marine life. Cristina’s striking photographs have been published globally, and she has used her platform to advocate for sustainability practices and the protection of marine biodiversity.

In addition to her work with SeaLegacy, Cristina is a co-founder of The International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP), an organization that brings together conservation photographers to advance environmental causes through the power of visual storytelling. Her work and activism focus on addressing the effects of climate change, ocean pollution, and overfishing, aiming to inspire a global movement for ocean conservation.

6. Iris Serbanescu, Founder of wmnsWORK

Iris Serbanescu is the founder of wmnsWORK, a platform and community focused on empowering women in the professional world, particularly in male-dominated industries such as technology, business, and leadership. Through wmnsWORK, Iris aims to provide support, mentorship, and resources for women to navigate and succeed in their careers while fostering a culture of inclusion, equity, and collaboration.

wmnsWORK offers various initiatives such as networking opportunities, career development resources, and events designed to connect women across different sectors. By creating a supportive space, Iris hopes to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles, advocate for themselves in the workplace, and build strong professional networks.

Travel Agencies & Mentors

7. Henley Vazquez, Founder of Fora Travel 

Henley Vazquez is the co-founder of Fora Travel, a modern world travel agency that connects clients with expert travel advisors to craft personalized travel experiences, focusing on building lasting relationships between travelers and advisors rather than simply booking trips.

Henley co-founded Fora Travel with her partner, Kelsey Ferguson, with the mission to create a new kind of travel experience that goes beyond just logistics and incorporates deep, custom insights into destinations and activities. Through Fora, Henley has helped to reimagine the travel industry by empowering travel advisors and offering consumers access to meaningful travel experiences for all types of travelers (we love so many of their wellness-focused resources and ideas!).

8. Melissa Halliburton, Founder & CEO of BringFido

Melissa Halliburton is the founder and CEO of BringFido, a popular travel platform designed to help pet owners find pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, activities, and services, making it easier to plan trips with pets in mind.

Melissa’s work with BringFido is driven by her passion for animals and her belief that pets should be included in the travel experience. Through her platform, she has made it simpler for people to travel without leaving their pets behind, helping to create a more pet-inclusive travel industry.

9. Amanda Ho, Founder of Regenerative Travel

Amanda Ho is the founder of Regenerative Travel, an award-winning platform dedicated to promoting sustainable and regenerative tourism practices. The mission of Regenerative Travel is to empower travelers, tourism operators, and destinations to go beyond traditional sustainability by focusing on regenerative practices that restore and enhance the environments and communities they engage with.

Amanda’s vision for Regenerative Travel is to create a travel model that not only minimizes the negative impact of tourism and the hospitality industry, but actively contributes to the regeneration of natural ecosystems, local cultures, and economies. The platform works with hotels, resorts, and travel providers that are committed to environmental, social, and cultural responsibility, offering travelers the opportunity to support destinations that are committed to regeneration.

Travel Experiences

10. Camille Rumani, co-founder and COO of Eatwith

Camille Rumani is the co-founder and COO of Eatwith, a global platform that connects people with local hosts for unique dining experiences. Eatwith allows travelers and food enthusiasts to book meals, cooking classes, and food tours with hosts in cities around the world, offering authentic and immersive culinary partnerships that go beyond traditional restaurants. (Bonue! We love the opportunity of gleaning the benefits of group travel and dining without the need to travel as a group!)

Eatwith has grown into a popular platform for food lovers looking for one-of-a-kind dining experiences, and Camille’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping its success by emphasizing community-building, sustainability, and cultural exchange through food.

11. Kiran Samra, Founder of Lokafy

Kiran Samra is the founder of Lokafy, a unique travel company that connects travelers with local guides for personalized, off-the-beaten-path , in-person experiences in cities around the world. Lokafy matches travelers with locals who share their interests and passions, with experiences designed to offer more intimate and customized tours rather than following typical tourist routes.

Kiran’s vision behind Lokafy was to bridge the gap between travelers and local cultures, creating opportunities for deeper connections and a more meaningful travel experience. Kiran has become an advocate for more sustainable and authentic forms of travel, where local communities benefit from tourism and travelers gain a richer understanding of the places they visit.

12. Nicole Smith, Founder + CEO of Flytographer

Nicole is on a mission to help people remember their favourite stories, forever. The idea for Flytographer came to her in 2011 while on a trip to Paris with her best friend.  She struggled to get a good photo that “captured the spirit of her trip and the beauty of Paris.”  Realizing others may have this problem too, she launched the world’s first global marketplace where you can easily book a trusted local photographer for a short vacation photo shoot. Since then, Flytographer has expanded to over 350 cities, been trusted by over 100,000 travellers, and brought meaningful work to local photographers across six continents.  Flytographer has been embraced by couples, families, and solo travelers alike, all seeking to preserve their travel memories in a beautiful, memorable way. 

Celebrating Women in Travel

We love supporting women in travel, female-led startups, and female-based entrepreneurship, particularly when it makes travel decisions easier! We encourage you to check out the women and businesses we’ve highlighted via their websites and social media— such an inspiration.

We honor and celebrate the brilliant women in our lives, the women and visionary ideas who came before, and all those who are thinking of and envisioning ideas to make the future even better!

Happy International Women’s Day!

Japan Cherry Blossom Season

Hanami, or flower viewing during Japan’s cherry blossom season, is a cultural phenomenon woven into traditions from snowy Hokkaido to sun-soaked Okinawa. The fleeting beauty of sakura is not only the perfect excuse for a springtime photoshoot but also a chance to enjoy lively cherry blossom festivals and to grasp Japan’s deeper philosophies.

With sakura trees soon set to bloom, this guide will give you everything you need to know about cherry blossoms in Japan — from the perfect time to see them in full bloom to the best hanami spots from north to south. 

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever.

To sprinkle in even more tips and insider tricks for your Japan adventure, we asked our local photographers to spill all the details: what are the best cherry blossom spots? When is cherry blossom season in Japan, and what can we learn from sakura?

TLDR

• 2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast
• Japan Cherry Blossom Tree Varieties
• Best Sakura Viewing Spots in Japan
• What Can We Learn from Sakura?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Diana and family capture memories in Kyoto with a family photoshoot at Higashiyama District during cherry blossom season in Japan.

2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast

They don’t call it a fleeting beauty for nothing — cherry blossoms bloom for only a short period, lasting about 1-2 weeks. However, blooming times vary across the country, typically spanning from late March to early May. That’s why timing your visit for sakura viewing and considering regional variations is important.

Luckily, meteorological agencies release forecasts to inform flower-viewing lovers when cherry trees are expected to start blooming and when they will reach full bloom. Plus, our local Flytographers in Japan have on-the-ground insight for the best viewing time for this year.

Japan Cherry Blossom Tree Varieties

Bright pink, pale pink, pure white, even yellowish and green — cherry blossoms come in so many shades that it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite! With over 100 varieties blooming across Japan, here’s a cheat sheet to level up your sakura knowledge.

What are Weeping Cherry Trees?

Also known as Shidarezakura, these are a distinctive variety of cherry trees with gracefully drooping branches, resembling a weeping willow. You can find them in Kyoto’s Maruyama Park, among other locations.

What is the Yoshino Cherry Tree?

The Somei-Yoshino is the most popular and widely cultivated cherry tree in Japan. It’s the “classic” sakura tree planted all over the country. During full bloom, their delicate blossoms dominate the branches, creating a striking, cloud-like effect with no leaves.

Are Plum Blossoms Also Sakura?

Plum blossoms, or ume, are another famous flowering tree in Japan that bloom earlier than sakura, with hues ranging from white to dark pink. Although often mistaken for cherry blossoms, plum blossoms have a denser, hardier appearance, with flowers and buds appearing together.

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Rachael and partner capture memories in Kyoto with a couples photoshoot at Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Best Sakura Viewing Spots in Japan

Hokkaido

Hokkaido’s capital welcomes its bloom burst later than most of Japan, in late April, after long winters. You can even admire them with snow-capped mountains in the background — quite a sight!

In the city, Maruyama Park is a prime spot to take in the spectacle, with the impressive Hokkaido Shrine right next door framed by dozens of cherry trees. The long and narrow Odori Park is also painted in shades of pink, and Moerenuma Park, designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, sits just outside town, offering a more modern, artistic take on hanami.

Aomori

In Tohoku’s Aomori Prefecture, cherry blossoms begin to bloom around mid-April. The star attraction? Hirosaki Park. The park is home to over two thousand cherry trees, which many consider the most beautiful in all of Japan. Endless clouds of pink and white frame Hirosaki Castle and its tranquil moat, creating a scene straight out of an ancient Japanese painting. It’s pure hanami magic!

Kanazawa

Beginning in early April, Kanazawa’s historic architecture becomes even more enchanting when framed by cherry blossoms. One of the top spots is Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. Each section showcases different cherry blossom varieties, and the scene is especially beautiful when viewed from the Flower-Viewing Bridge, where delicate petals reflect elegantly on the pond’s surface.

At Kanazawa Castle, the spectacle takes on a unique charm — at night, the blossoms are illuminated with LED lights. It’s a chance to embrace the fleeting beauty of life and soak in the magic of a sakura-lit evening.

Tokyo

Renowned for its urban green spaces, Tokyo transforms into a fantastic stage for the sakura symphony. A picnic at Shinjuku Gyoen Park is a great starting point. The park boasts a diverse collection of cherry tree varieties, and you can get seasonal sweets and souvenirs inspired by the delicate blossoms. 

Shioiri Park offers a more tranquil riverside setting along the Sumida River, perfect for a leisurely sakura-lined stroll. Over in Ueno Park, you’ll find a tunnel of cherry blossoms along the park’s central walkway — picture-perfect photo ops guaranteed!

Also in central Tokyo, Shiba Park features a stunning view of Tokyo Tower framed by pink petals. Paying a visit to the nearby Zojo-ji Temple is one of the best things to do in Tokyo in any season, but during hanami, this traditional landmark meets the sleek city skyline beneath a magnificent sakura canopy.

Fly tip: Just a short trip from Tokyo, still in the Kanto region, there are several spots and onsen towns that offer views of cherry blossoms framing Mt. Fuji. The most famous location? Chureito Pagoda — Fuji-san, cherry blossoms, and a five-story pagoda? Pure Japan in a single view!

Photo: Nathalie in Tokyo for Flytographer. Vithun and partner celebrate a surprise proposal in Tokyo with an engagement photoshoot at Kasai Rinkai Koen during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Kyoto

From the end of March, vibrant shades of pink and white blanket Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. You can stroll along the city’s Philosopher’s Path, a famous 2-kilometre walking trail lined with hundreds of Somei Yoshino cherry trees. Their branches arch over a canal, forming a breathtaking tunnel in soft pink hues. 

At Kinkaku-ji Temple, a few cherry blossoms were strategically placed for the ultimate aesthetic effect. The delicate pink petals and the temple’s golden surface create a mesmerizing scene — and their reflection in the front pond is the cherry on top (no pun intended!).

Other must-visit spots in the ancient capital include Maruyama Park, where you’ll find the perfect Japanese ambiance with beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds, and bridges. And for that old-world feel, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the famed Higashiyama District, lined with traditional townhouses.

Catch the sakura season in Kyoto, and you’ll understand why ancient poets once called it “The Capital of Flowers.”

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Annie and partner capture memories in Kyoto with a couples photoshoot at Higashiyama District during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Osaka

In Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, you’ll find a whopping 4,000 cherry trees surrounding the famed Osaka Castle, creating a picturesque urban setting and a perfect spot for a picnic. 

Want more castle views? A day trip away is Himeji, home to Himeji Castle, a national treasure of Japan that becomes even more appealing when framed by cherry blossoms.

Nara is also just a short train ride away. Amidst its stunning architecture and a good dose of sakura swirl, you’ll encounter one of the city’s most beloved symbols — an army of free-roaming deer wandering the temple grounds. Can you imagine a more idyllic experience?

Kyushu

Of Japan’s main islands, Kyushu is about as far south as you can go, which means sakura season kicks off a little earlier, starting in late March.

Fukuoka is the perfect launchpad for your sakura adventure, with nighttime illuminations setting the scene for a stroll after indulging in the city’s legendary food scene.

Less than two hours from central Fukuoka, you’ll find Kumamoto Castle, one of Japan’s three premier castles. Its dark, imposing structure stands in stunning contrast to the hundreds of cherry blossoms that surround it.

From Kumamoto, it’s an easy trip to Kagoshima, where cherry blossoms frame none other than an active volcano — Sakurajima, still puffing smoke into the sky. Now that’s a hanami view with a twist!

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Osaka for Flytographer. Angela and family capture memories in Osaka with a family photoshoot at Osaka Castle during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Customer Spotlight: What Can We Learn from Sakura?

Like the mighty Mount Fuji, sakura is one of Japan’s most iconic symbols. Look a little closer, and it transforms from a fleeting bloom into a profound experience.

Executive Chef Ken Nakano of Market by Jean-Georges at Vancouver’s Shangri-La Hotel recently returned to Japan during the hanami season to celebrate his mother’s 80th birthday. His journey through Wakayama, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Tokyo showed him the profound cultural significance of the fleeting beauty of the sakura season, which embodies the Japanese concept of “mono no aware:” the awareness of life’s impermanence. 

The trip deepened Nakano’s connection to his heritage as he visited his grandmother’s mikan orange farm and witnessed how different cities celebrate this natural cycle.

Many places around the world celebrate cherry blossom season differently, but in Japan, hanami is a collective tradition, bringing the entire nation together in reflection and appreciation. This cultural immersion inspired Nakano to bring Japan’s dedication to tradition and mindfulness back to his culinary leadership in Vancouver.

Photo: Flytographer in Tokyo. Ken Nakano captures memories in Tokyo with a solo adventure photoshoot during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which month is cherry blossom in Japan?

Cherry blossom season varies across Japan, typically spanning from late March to early May. For early blooms, you can visit Okinawa in mid-January, while Hokkaido sees its blossoms as late as April.

Which city in Japan has the best cherry blossoms?

Kyoto, known as “The Capital of Flowers,” offers stunning views along the Philosopher’s Path and around historic temples like Kinkaku-ji. The ancient capital combines cherry blossoms with traditional architecture, creating unparalleled viewing experiences.

What is the best time to visit Japan?

Late March to early April is ideal for catching cherry blossoms in major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. The exact timing varies by region, so check local forecasts for your specific destination.

Is April too late for cherry blossoms in Japan?

April is not too late, as northern regions like Hokkaido and Aomori typically see their peak bloom in mid to late April. However, cherry blossoms in southern regions will have already finished blooming by this time.

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Kaytlin and partner capture memories in Kyoto with a couples photoshoot at Philosopher’s Path during cherry blossom season in Japan.

Capturing Cherry Blossom Memories

As Nakano discovered, visiting Japan during the Sakura season is about living in the moment and appreciating life’s transient beauty.

Still, you’ll want to capture this natural spectacle in the best way possible. Our Flytographers across Japan are ready to help. With their talent, they can transform the magic of Japanese cherry blossoms into timeless photographic memories you’ll cherish forever. 🫶

Top 10 Cities for a Destination Proposal in 2026

Proposal Destinations

Most people replay their marriage proposal for the rest of their lives. So it’s no surprise that proposal destinations have become one of love and travel’s biggest headliners, right up there with destination weddings and Valentine’s Day getaways. With some careful “proposal planning,” you can orchestrate the entire trip without your loved one suspecting a thing (yes, even navigating airport security with the engagement ring discreetly tucked away). Beyond a setting with strong visual framing, wonderful engagement photos will make the memory of the big question even better. Our local photographers often double as unofficial proposal planners, and they know all the best places to pop the question in their cities.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers and have captured over 9,000 surprise proposals around the world since 2013. Book a local proposal photographer in 350+ cities for your destination proposal to ensure the big moment is captured for your forever frames. Today, we’re gathering local proposal ideas from our crew and sharing our top 10 booked destinations for surprise proposals in 2026!

Jump in

1. Frame a glamorous love story on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.
2. Wander bamboo groves and vermilion shrines in Kyoto, Japan.
3. Choose from waterfalls and golden beaches in Hawaii, USA.
4. Pop the question amid the cinematic surroundings of New York City, USA.
5. Toast your forever among Renaissance rooftops in Florence, Italy.
6. Let effortless romance script your big day along the Seine in Paris, France.
7. Go big where turquoise lakes meet towering peaks in Banff, Canada.
8. Embrace neon lights or serene temples in Tokyo, Japan.
9. Chase waterfalls and striking Nordic architecture in Reykjavik, Iceland.
10. Find a Caribbean fairy tale of pastel streets and fortress walls in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Photo: Enzo in Honolulu for Flytographer. Isaiah and partner celebrate their engagement on Oahu with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

1. Lake Como, Italy

Italy has un certo non so che for romance, and if it’s proposal destinations you’re after, Lake Como should top your list (as it does ours). As if the small towns with cobblestone streets, idyllic piazzas, and immaculate villas weren’t enough, the lake itself becomes your backdrop: elegant, powerful, and simply spectacular.

You can frame the perfect proposal experience beneath ivy-covered gates or along arched colonnades wrapped in florals, marble floors cool underfoot. Or choose manicured hedges and long pathways, with classical facades shimmering in the distance. The winner, though, may very well be gliding across the water in a vintage boat, the question asked as the mountains rise around you — just the backdrop for a glorious love story.

Photo: Lorenzo and Ylenia in Lake Como for Flytographer. David and partner celebrate their engagement in France with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

2. Kyoto, Japan

Oozing the delicate beauty of old Japanese culture, Kyoto is a place where special moments unfold naturally. For the occasion, everywhere you stop feels like an inspired proposal setting: exquisite teahouses, centuries-old Buddhist and Shinto shrines, and torii gates glowing in bright vermilion.

Proposal ideas include wandering through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, standing beneath its cathedral-like canopy of green, or following the Philosopher’s Path, beautiful in any season but especially during cherry blossom time. In both locations, an early morning proposal feels ideal when the light is soft and the crowds have yet to arrive. Come nightfall, the weeping cherry trees at Maruyama Park glow thanks to seasonal illuminations. At any time of day or year, Nanzen-ji’s Zen gardens offer a calm you will want to carry with you for a lifetime.

Photo: Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Justin and partner celebrate their engagement in Japan with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

3. Hawaii, USA

A land of white-sand beaches and cascading waterfalls, dotted with hibiscus blooms, what could be a better backdrop than Hawaii’s Maui for stunning proposal spots? On the “Valley Island,” you’ll find a sheer range of proposal-ready settings. Towering bamboo stalks sway along the Pipiwai Trail, while waterfalls spill over moss-covered cliffs. At Waiʻanapanapa State Park, volcanic drama takes centre stage: jet-black sand striking against turquoise waves, sculpted by ancient lava. Then there’s Kapalua Bay for a beach proposal, all soft white sand and reef-sheltered waters.

Fly tip: You can follow the “yes” with a traditional Hawaiian luau for a celebration, complete with music, hula, and the warmth of the aloha spirit.

Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Martin and partner celebrate their engagement in Hawaii with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

4. New York City, USA

The setting for countless love stories and rom-com proposals, asking the question in New York City feels like a scene straight out of a film. The Big Apple offers the most varied backdrops.

An all-time favourite is Central Park, a stretch of calm in the middle of the city, where you can propose in a rowboat on the lake, beneath the arches of Bethesda Terrace, or near Gapstow Bridge with the skyline rising behind you. In Times Square, the mood shifts to neon lights and streaming yellow taxis; proposing in the middle of the bustle feels like an electric version of romance, and you’re likely to get strangers cheering you on. Then there’s Brooklyn Bridge Park, with the bridge and the skyline as the backdrop, and Washington Street in DUMBO, with cobblestones underfoot, brick warehouses on either side, and the bridge towering above. Add a kneeling loved one and an engagement ring, and that’s a scene worthy of a movie poster.

Photo: Kari in New York City for Flytographer. Martin and partner celebrate their engagement in NYC with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

5. Florence, Italy

In Florence, love meets passion and inspiration. It did so for the likes of Dante, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci, and it will do so for you. Everywhere you look in the city, there’s a scene worthy of a Renaissance canvas.

Piazzale Michelangelo offers the most iconic panoramic views, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and terracotta rooftops lining the horizon, a scenery especially stunning at golden hour. Another wonderful place for the big question is Ponte Vecchio, a one-of-a-kind bridge lined with buildings on both sides, whose reflections shimmer on the water. Of course, the Duomo itself — the city’s cathedral and defining symbol — brings a touch of monumental grandeur to a proposal.

Fly tip: In all these spots, the best proposal moment happens in the morning, when everything feels more intimate, less crowded, and less like a tourist destination.

Photo: Flytographer in Florence. Gaurav and partner celebrate their engagement in Italy with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

6. Paris, France

The light, the bridges, the cafes — Paris practically scripts the occasion for a romantic proposal. Everything in the city feels like a scene waiting to happen. Anywhere along the Seine riverbanks, you’ll find classic Parisian romance, and proposals with the Iron Lady in the frame at the Champ de Mars or the Trocadéro are timeless choices — yet it all can still feel unexpected for the “oui” moment. The Louvre and its glass pyramid are also strong options, bringing that blend of modernity with royal grandeur. Paris even offers unexpected proposal spots, like Bir-Hakeim Bridge, with its industrial steel arches and the Eiffel Tower framed neatly between the beams. Make no mistake, the city of love is always ready with romance.

Fly tip: Paris is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world, so timing your marriage proposal right matters. Our photographers have plenty of experience capturing engagement photos in Paris and can guide you on the best timing and perfect locations.

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Elizabeth and partner celebrate their engagement in France with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

7. Banff, Canada

Some places frame a proposal. Banff magnifies it with landscapes that feel almost mythic in scale. A short drive from the famous Canadian mountain getaway, Lake Louise’s water glows beneath the Victoria Glacier, and a canoe proposal feels perfectly suited to the moment. Nearby, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds aristocratic air to the big moment, especially after dark, when fireplaces flicker inside, creating the perfect ambiance for an intimate proposal. ‍

Want more natural backdrops? There’s Sulphur Mountain, where a gondola ride rises above town, revealing layered ridgelines fading into the horizon, but don’t worry, you don’t get the smell all over the mountain! There’s also Moraine Lake, which brings mountain intensity, while the forest-wrapped Emerald Lake softens the tone. Choose carefully — you only get to do this once.

Photo: Robin in Banff for Flytographer. Cameron and partner celebrate their engagement in Lake Louise with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

8. Tokyo, Japan

Unexpected contrasts can make special moments even more memorable. That’s why Tokyo is a fabulous proposal destination: neon lights and quiet shrines, futuristic skylines and centuries-old temples. Plus, with so much happening in one single place, a surprise proposal will be the last thing on your significant other’s mind.

In all its technicolour, creative Harajuku makes for a very unconventional proposal spot, filled with youthful backdrops. Likewise, Shinjuku and Shibuya are highly social-media worthy, with seas of people moving in organized waves and flashing billboards all around. Meanwhile, Sensō-ji Temple, with its lanterns and incense smoke, offers a more traditional atmosphere. Still, if you want something more serene for when you unbox that engagement ring, head to the wide lawns and manicured gardens of Shinjuku Gyoen, where, in season, you’ll find blossoms or autumn leaves.

Photo: Ayako in Tokyo for Flytographer. Krish and partner celebrate their engagement in Japan with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavík blends colourful harbour life with otherworldly geothermal landscapes and magical, rainbow-filled waterfalls, all surprisingly close to each other, making it one of the Nordic region’s best proposal destinations.

Towering over the city, Hallgrímskirkja Church is architecture as dramatic as it gets, and the wide-open square right in front of it is a magnificent setting for the moment you kneel. The city’s Old Harbour, with its colourful fishing boats and views of Mount Esja, is another strong contender. If it’s natural wonders you’re after, Skógafoss Waterfall lets you walk right up to the wall of water, where mist and sunlight often create rainbows. Just outside Reykjavík, Krýsuvík gives you a classic geothermal scenery for a great photoshoot. If the northern lights decide to make an appearance while you’re in town, well, that’s just Iceland showing off.

Photo: Ernir in Reykjavik for Flytographer. Willis and partner celebrate their engagement in Iceland with a surprise proposal photoshoot.

10. San Juan, Puerto Rico

With fortress walls, turquoise waters, and swaying palms, Puerto Rico’s capital feels like a Caribbean fairy tale, with Old San Juan setting the stage for your big moment.

Perched by the sea, Castillo de San Cristóbal offers sweeping views from its vast esplanade, with picturesque turrets completing the picture for you and your loved one. 🫶 Across the old town, the narrow cobblestone lane leading to the imposing La Fortaleza is another spot of pure magic, with buildings in a palette of soft pastels, delicate mouldings, and wrought-iron balconies — it gives serious Wes Anderson vibes, if you ask us! Since this is the Caribbean, a beach proposal photoshoot simply makes sense, especially if you pick Condado Beach, which offers that effortless tropical glow, so you can capture your “just-engaged” glow, too.

Photo: Raul in San Juan for Flytographer. Nicholas and partner celebrate their engagement in Puerto Rico with a couples photoshoot.

Capturing Your Destination Proposal

Think your next chapter could start in any of these proposal destinations? Great! If engagement photos are part of the plan, you can connect with one of our local proposal photographers in 350+ destinations. 

They’re all experienced in capturing special moments like proposals and will even help you keep the surprise element for the grand reveal. We know how important this is, and our dedicated Concierge Team is also here to support you every step of the way. After the big “yes,” it’s time to celebrate, sharing the joy on social media and with friends and family.

Tulips near Amsterdam

Every spring, the Dutch flower obsession is in full bloom because it’s tulip season. There’s no better time to visit Amsterdam, combining museum and architecture hopping with world-famous tulip festivals and quick trips to sites known for spring flowers, including tulips in Amsterdam that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Netherlands’ tulip season is definitely spectacular, but also short, so a little insider help goes a long way.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever.

Today, we’ve tapped none other than one of our local Flytographers, Joanna, to share the best places to take photos with tulips in Amsterdam, plus a handful of insider tips along the way.

Ready for technicolour tulips at their most photogenic?

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Bloom Basics

1. Keukenhof Gardens
2. The Tulip Barn
3. Tulip Experience Amsterdam
4. Poldertuin Ana Paulowna
5. The Flower Parade
6. The Noordoostpolder Region
7. Hoorn to Medemblik Steam Train

Photo: Flytographer in Amsterdam. Photo of a tulip field in the Netherlands.

Bloom Basics

Tulip season in the Netherlands is beautiful and relatively easy to navigate. Still, here’s a little tulip know-how to get you started:

• National Tulip Day: This holiday kicks off the tulip season in the Netherlands. National Tulip Day happens on the third Saturday of January. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the city and take some solo photos. You can usually pick tulips for free in special tulip-picking gardens set up around town, including at Museumplein
• The bloom window is fleeting: Peak tulip season is brief and shifts slightly from year to year. The best time for the most photogenic backdrops is from mid-April to early May, but remember, nature keeps her own calendar and rarely checks yours.
• Look, don’t touch: Unless clearly specified, tulip fields are for admiring only, not picking or wandering through. The tulip bulbs, not the blooms, are the actual crop, so stepping into the rows or picking flowers doesn’t just raise eyebrows; it jeopardizes next year’s show.
• Make garden time count: Formal gardens typically charge €11–25 for entry, which makes pacing yourself and choosing wisely part of the ritual. Some fields that allow close-up photography can charge up to €50 per person, so it’s wise to know the rules before you strike a pose. 

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Jamie and partner capture memories in the Netherlands on a couples photoshoot.

1. Keukenhof Gardens

Want to start big? Visit Keukenhof first. Located in Lisse, in the heart of the Bollenstreek region, this is the world’s largest bulb-flower garden and is considered one of the best places to visit near Amsterdam. Each spring, seven million flower bulbs come to life across planted displays and open fields, showcasing around 800 tulip varieties. Other flowers also take a bit of the spotlight, with daffodils and hyacinths blooming alongside the Dutch tulips. A classic windmill adds to the storybook setting, and you can even climb it for sweeping views over the tulip carpets. It doesn’t get much more Dutch than that.

What is the best place for a Flytographer shoot with tulips near Amsterdam?

“Keukenhof is super large; it can be photographed in 30 minutes, but it’s best with 60 minutes or even 90 minutes. Keukenhof is the safest option because of the access and the extended time they have with tulips in bloom.” – Flytographer Joanna in Amsterdam

Good to Know:

• Bloom Timing: Thanks to its extended season, Keukenhof is a safe option for bloom timing. Still, it’s worth knowing that even though April is the best time for tulips, some varieties flower in late-March.
• Plan Your Time: plan at least 30–60 minutes for a sound photo session; 90 minutes are ideal if you want to slow down and experience the gardens beyond the shots.
• Tickets & Getting There: Keukenhof tickets are €21.00 for adults if purchased online in advance, or €25.00 at the door. A guided tour can hover around €80.00. The park gets busy, so mornings are usually your best bet. Keukenhof is easy to reach via special shuttle buses and public transport. Expect the journey to take about 40–50 minutes.

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Ariel and partner capture memories in Keukenhof Gardens on a couples photoshoot.

2. The Tulip Barn

The Tulip Barn doesn’t do small, either. It grows upwards of two million tulips across 200 varieties, which means you’ll see nearly every colour imaginable here. Each year, the landscape designers introduce new planting patterns, so the landscape is never really the same. Another thing that sets this spot apart is that it’s intentionally designed with photography in mind. You’ll find playful props scattered throughout. From a painted 1960s-style psychedelic car to an old-school farming tractor tucked among the show gardens, there’s far more than just tulips to fill your frame.

Good to Know:

• There’s an additional fee of €30+ for photo access at Tulip Barn.
• 30-minute Fly photoshoot sessions are available for this location.
• In April they are open later (until 9pm!), so you can experience sunset in the gardens.

3. Tulip Experience Amsterdam

What began as a family business in the 1950s has grown into one of the Netherlands’ most sought-after tulip galore. Tulip Experience Amsterdam brings together a garden, a tulip museum, and an indoor picking area, all in one thoughtfully designed stop. In the exhibition spaces, you can trace the history of tulips and the Dutch bulb industry, learn how the flower became a national icon, and discover the harvesting techniques that take place behind the scenes.

You can wander through the tulip fields and take photos among the blooms. At the end of your visit, you’re invited to pick a few blooms to take with you from the indoor picking area, which is a lovely way to create your own small arrangement.

Good to Know:

• This garden allows photography with a €30+ fee for professional photo access.
• Flytographer offers 30-minute sessions to cover the outdoor area.
• From April 11th to May 2nd, they are open until 9pm as well to account for sunset.

Photo: Elina in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Jillian captures memories in Amsterdam on a vacation photoshoot.

4. Poldertuin Ana Paulowna

In the province of North Holland, Poldertuin Anna Paulowna feels like a miniature version of Keukenhof, minus the crowds and the price tag. Dedicated volunteers make free access possible, and what you’ll find is pure fairytale splendour. The grounds unfold around a stately house, with flat, accessible paths winding past canals, charming bridges, mature trees, and generous clusters of colour. There are no extra attractions here. It’s simply a garden, but a beautiful one at that, perfect for a slow stroll, a few photos, and perhaps even a picnic.

Good to Know:

• Free access (always a win).
• Open only in late April, with April 15–25 typically the best window for viewing tulips in Amsterdam.
• From Amsterdam, it takes about an hour to reach by public transport.

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Dahlia and partner capture memories in Amsterdam on a couples photoshoot.

5. The Tulip Parade

This year, the Tulip Parade will take place on April 18th in Bollenstreek. This iconic annual spring parade features elaborate floats and vehicles covered in fresh seasonal blooms. After passing Keukenhof Boulevard, the parade continues toward Haarlem, where the floats are often displayed the following day. This is one of the most celebrated flower parades in the world and a cherished local tradition, brought to life by an army of volunteers who work relentlessly, not just in spring, but year-round.

Good to Know: Anywhere along the route makes for a perfect photo perch, and you’ll get fantastic views simply by standing roadside. If you’re after a livelier, festive atmosphere, head into one of the villages.

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Taylor and family capture memories in Amsterdam on a family photoshoot.

6. Noordoostpolder Region

Believe it or not, this large patch of land didn’t exist a century ago. It was actually reclaimed from the sea in an impressive feat of engineering. It turns out the soil is exceptionally well-suited to tulips, so much so that it became the country’s second-largest tulip-growing area. In Noordoostpolder, bands of colour stretch across the horizon, and visitors can explore the expansive fields, as well as tulip farms. There’s something indescribable about standing ankle-deep in blooms and marvelling at the fact that this sea of colour was, until recently, simply sea.

7. Hoorn to Medemblik Steam Train

Set in a pastoral stretch of North Holland, this rail line runs as a heritage steam tram with a saloon-deck carriage departing from the Stoomtram Museum in Hoorn and leading to Medemblik. Make it a round trip, and it becomes a full-day outing, passing through tulip fields, farmland, and old villages. The experience is not just about sightseeing; it’s about seeing tulips the old-fashioned way, not from a hurried roadside stop, but from the gentle vantage point of a century-old steam carriage.

Good to Know: Between April 18 and April 30, the steam train pauses at scenic viewpoints, allowing passengers to step off and take in the spectacle properly. The staff, mostly composed of volunteers, are remarkably friendly and will passionately share stories and facts about the steam trams.

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Saranya and partner capture memories in the Netherlands on a couples photoshoot.

Capturing Tulips in Amsterdam

Tulip season doesn’t stop in Amsterdam. It unfolds across the entire Netherlands, with tulip festivals and flower shows brightening towns and countryside alike. From Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague make excellent shoulder-season side trips. Both are under 40 minutes away by high-speed train, with easy connections to Schiphol Airport.

Our local photographers in the Netherlands are ready to capture you among the spectacular tulips in Amsterdam. In over 350 locations worldwide, our local Flytographers are there to do the same, turning your travels into frame-worthy memories.

Atlantic Canada Photo Spots

Etched by salt air, tides, and the mighty force of nature, Atlantic Canada unfolds as a rugged corner of North America that invites slow road trips and mindful travel. Quieter than Ontario and Quebec, the Atlantic provinces reveal a more immersive side of the East Coast, with fjord-like inlets, Acadian fishing villages, Inuit homelands, and a distinctive, painterly charm found almost nowhere else.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever.

Today, we teamed up with our local photographers to create this Canadian travel guide focusing especially on some of the most striking Atlantic Canada photo spots.

Ready to uncover “The Maritimes?”

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1. Find coastal charm and storybook scenery in Charlottetown, PEI
2. Wander river paths by day and sample local brews by night in Fredericton, New Brunswick
3. Explore maritime history and Atlantic horizons in Halifax, Nova Scotia
4. Take in iceberg sightings and layered history in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
5. Hike highland trails for dramatic views on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Photo: Maddie in St. John’s for Flytographer. Megan and partner capture memories in Newfoundland on a couples photoshoot.

1. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Set on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Prince Edward Island, or simply PEI, is one of Canada’s Maritime provinces. The capital, Charlottetown, is a small coastal city that balances creative energy with an easygoing island rhythm. The harbourfront boardwalk is a highlight and a picture-perfect Atlantic Canada photo spot, with lobster boats and sailboats resting side by side and nets drying in the sun. How to complete the Anne of Green Gables picture? Stay in a B&B infused with classic coastal allure.

After a slow morning, head out to explore the island’s pastoral scenery via cycling routes and coastal walks. When it’s time to refuel, expect some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere along North America’s Atlantic coast.

Photo: Danielle in Charlottetown for Flytographer. Shannon and fmaily capture memories on Prince Edward Island with a family photoshoot.

2. Fredericton, New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, the riverfront town of Fredericton offers a seemingly endless expanse of trails tracing the banks of the broad, slow-moving Saint John River, known as the “Beautiful River.” The river makes for one of the best Atlantic Canada photo spots, and no matter when you visit: you will get some spectacular natural framing.

The experience extends well beyond the riverbanks to the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides. You can kayak past fjord-like cliffs at low tide, then return hours later to watch everything reshaped by surging water. It feels like a whole other world! In town, evenings come alive with a lively mix of breweries, meaderies, and cideries.

Photo: Lara in Fredericton for Flytographer. City photo of Gibson Trail in New Brunswick.

3. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Besides being a top family-friendly destination in Canada, Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, is also great for history buffs. As the last resting place of many who perished with the sinking of the Titanic, the city carries deep ties to the tragedy. There are places of reflection, including cemeteries and museums, that offer a deeper understanding of the events. Beyond the city, National Historic Site locations such as Port-Royal and Louisbourg place First Nations and European histories in dialogue, showing how different cultures shaped the same places over time.

Fly tip: Looking for more Atlantic Canada photo spots? Take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove for wind-swept granite, crashing waves, and its iconic lighthouse, then continue to Mahone Bay, where a colourful harbour is reflected in calm waters.

Photo: Flytographer in Halifax. Kiki and family capture memories in Nova Scotia on a family photo shoot.

4. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

As the capital of Newfoundland & Labrador, St. John’s blends stunning coastal landscapes with millennia of history. Its location as one of the easternmost places in North America means you can enjoy one-of-a-kind ocean-based activities such as whale watching excursions and, in season, spot towering icebergs drifting past as part of the famous Iceberg Alley.

History also abounds here. St. John’s is one of the oldest cities on the continent, and the broader region reflects the enduring traditions of Inuit communities in Labrador. The sense of uniqueness deepens if you travel farther afield to Gros Morne National Park, where fjords, cliffs, and striking geological formations turn even the most casual snapshot into something wildly frame-worthy.

Fly tip: From St. John’s, a longer road trip takes you to L’Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only authenticated Viking settlement in North America.

Photo: Maddie in St. John’s for Flytographer. Cali and family capture memories in Newfoundland on a family photo shoot.

5. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Condé Nast Traveler once named Cape Breton the number-one island destination in the Americas. It’s easy to see why. You can hike coastal paths and forested highlands, especially in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Much of the park is accessible via the Cabot Trail, where mountain plateaus drop straight into the Atlantic, creating scenery that’s hard to beat — and easy to photograph! It’s impossible not to feel the rich sense of history here, rooted in Mi’kmaq culture, European settlement, and long traditions of harvesting natural resources from the sea.

Fun fact: Cape Breton’s beauty has long resonated with some of the brightest minds. Alexander Graham Bell once said, “For simple beauty, Cape Breton outrivals them all.” And that was long before he figured out how to call anyone about it!

Capturing memories on the East Coast

Nothing against the other Canadian provinces, but Eastern Canada really wins you over with unmatched Atlantic Canada photo spots.

No matter where you land on your next trip, you can reach out to our local Flytographers. Across 350+ destinations around the globe, they’ll show you the best photo spots while capturing your favourite travel moments along the way.

Wellness Travel Destinations

In 2026, the Global Wellness Institute points to a tipping point in the wellness industry, one that’s changing how — and why — we travel. From science-grounded strategies to community-driven wellbeing and even “movement snacks” (you read that correctly), the best players in the wellness tourism sector know that today’s wellness travel is less about rigid programming and more about rhythm. Also, as recent travel news suggests, environment, nature, and culture are becoming the new treatment, meaning a well-chosen getaway can help you reconnect and kick-start new life habits.

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever.

Today, we asked our local photographers to help us craft this travel guide to wellness trips around the world. Here are the top categories in today’s wellness economy and a selection of unique destinations to visit this year.

Jump in

• Alpine Wellness Destinations that will clear your head at altitude.
• Nature-led Reset Destinations that will let the landscape set the pace.
• Farm-Forward Foodie Destinations that will make eating feel like self-care again.
• Water, Heat & Ritual Destinations that will reset your senses.
• Spiritual & Energetic Wellness Destinations that will leave you lighter and energized.

Photo: Lucrezia in the Dolomites for Flytographer. David and partner capture memories in The Dolomites on a couples photoshoot.

Alpine Wellness Destinations

Defined by seasonality, forest bathing, and altitude, alpine destinations turn the environment into therapy. Here are two trending wellness escapes set high above it all.

Dolomites, Italy

Topping travel trends and Northern Italy itineraries this year, not only because of the Winter Olympics, the Dolomites offer an ideal setting for combining intentional rejuvenation with natural surroundings. Each season introduces its own cadence, transforming the experience, and the mountains themselves are so striking that architect Le Corbusier once called them the most beautiful “buildings” in the world.

Where to stay: In the realm of luxury wellness, Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti might be the benchmark. Home to one of the largest spa areas in the Alps, the resort features several saunas and a vast magnesium-rich saltwater whirlpool, perfectly positioned to frame sweeping views of pine forests.

Photo: Tomas in the Dolomites for Flytographer. David and family capture memories in the Dolomites on a family photoshoot.

Banff, Alberta

The charming town of Banff also ranks among this year’s top wellness travel destinations. Fresh mountain air, cinematic scenery, and a laid-back pace make it an excellent choice for a restorative escape in an alpine setting. With national parks close at hand, nature sets the rhythm, inviting walking, hiking, soaking, breathing, and even stargazing.

Where to stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds a refined layer to the experience, particularly through its BASIN Signature Retreat. The programme offers a highly personalized approach to wellness, pairing thermal bathing with curated in-room rituals and a menu of spa treatments. Sounds like wellness for the stars. And in a way, it is. The retreat is celebrity-approved, with Justin and Hailey Bieber among recent visitors.

Fly tip: For more alpine-minded wellness, follow the scenery further to Switzerland or New Zealand, where the views do half the work.

Photo: Marie-Christine in Banff for Flytographer. Sara and partner capture memories in Banff on a couples photoshoot.

Nature-led Reset Destinations

Certain locations thrive as nature-led wellness escapes, offering just the right sense of grounding. Here are two nature-led wellness travel destinations leading the way in 2026.

Tofino / Ucluelet, British Columbia

These coastal towns on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast are perfect picks for family travel infused with wellness. The winning combination of natural beauty and an array of eco-friendly establishments means kids have plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, which, by the way, is one of the best forms of wellness for younger travellers.

Where to stay: Retreats like the Wickaninnish Inn and Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge will charm everyone. The former offers oversized soaking tubs in every room alongside a warm, lodge-style atmosphere, while the latter features canvas-tented accommodations set close to wildlife and hot springs, all without sacrificing modern comforts.

Photo: Flytographer in Tofino. Nicole and family capture memories in Banff on a family photoshoot.

Todos Santos, Mexico

Todos Santos is your best pick among the more austere wellness travel destinations in Baja California. With particular appeal for slow travellers, the town is deeply rooted in desert stillness. You’ll find a wide range of nature-led, holistic experiences that draw not only from the desert terrain but also from ocean horizons and abundant open space.

Where to stay: The adult-oriented Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa is ideal for couples’ wellness retreats, while the design-forward Paradero Todos Santos boasts a striking Brutalist design that helps guests fully absorb their surroundings. Both come with standout spa experiences.

Fly tip: Mexico is full of hidden gems for wellness-minded travellers. Take a look at this countrywide travel guide we’ve crafted and get inspired.

Photo: Fernanda in Todos Santos for Flytographer. Kortney and partner capture memories in Todos Santos on a couples photoshoot.

Farm-Forward Foodie Destinations

Eating mindfully on holiday can sometimes be a challenge, unless you plan the entire trip around it. These two European spots make it easy.

Alentejo, Portugal

In Alentejo, agriculture transcends food; it shapes the entire way of life. Close to Lisbon, the region’s rolling hills, medieval towns, and vast farming estates set the tone. Long walks through fields and vineyards invite reconnection with nature, while eating the produce becomes the most intuitive complement to it all.

Where to stay: An estate like São Lourenço do Barrocal is an ideal base, an old farming community that now welcomes guests while keeping its old-world character firmly intact. Herdade da Malhadinha Nova offers a similar concept, with select villas featuring private kitchens, inviting guests to get hands-on with mindful cooking at their own pace.

Photo: Claudia in Lisbon for Flytographer. Tyler and partner capture memories in Lisbon on a couples photoshoot.

Umbria, Italy

It’s safe to say that hospitality grows directly out of agriculture in Umbria, Italy’s quieter, greener counterpoint to Tuscany. This is a region rooted in rural histories, where repetition and routine become mindful pleasures. Seasonal cooking is almost the norm. In Umbria, food is dictated by what’s growing, what’s ready, and what’s nearby. You can prepare it yourself or enjoy it at a shared table, there’s no going wrong. The latter is a very Italian — and arguably mindful — ritual, especially when taken al fresco among gnarled olive groves.

Where to stay: Surrounded by rolling hills and cypresses, Reschio Hotel occupies a former Etruscan castle estate, offering a strong sense of ancient allure. Borgo dei Conti is another countryside option, with two excellent on-site restaurants that serve as a perfect excuse to slow down and eat mindfully.

Photo: Emma in Umbria for Flytographer. William and partner capture memories in Umbria on a couples photoshoot.

Water, Heat & Ritual Destinations

Hot or cold, thermal bathing delivers powerful sensations that demand presence and sharpen perception. We know exactly where to go this year for next-level soaking.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

For Icelanders, thermal bathing is like a national pastime, and the most famous place for a long soak is the Blue Lagoon, a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. This geothermal wonder feels otherworldly, with milky-blue water set against a jagged, jet-black basalt lava plain formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. It’s also unique for its water, rich in silica, algae, and minerals.

Where to stay: Right next to the lagoon, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is a standout place to stay. Carved directly out of the lava fields, it features floor-to-ceiling windows in the suites that keep you immersed in the landscape. Another excellent option is Deplar Farm, a remote lodge with a turf-covered roof and Scandi-rustic interiors. 

Fly tip: The Blue Lagoon is as popular as it gets in Iceland, so the earlier you go, the better your chances of avoiding crowds. Also, remember to use plenty of conditioner; the minerals in the water can leave your hair feeling very stiff and dry.

Photo: Luis in Reykjavik for Flytographer. Deetta and partner capture memories in Iceland on a couples photoshoot.

Hokone, Japan

In Japan, the natural hot spring baths fed by geothermal waters are called onsen, and that’s where the day loosens its grip. Onsen culture is less about indulgence and more about etiquette and restoration. Just a two-hour train ride from Tokyo, Hakone offers the full package for experiencing it all. The variety is striking, ranging from outdoor pools surrounded by mountains and lake views to large traditional indoor onsen finished with natural stone and bamboo.

Where to stay: You can carry the experience through to bedtime if you stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. It doesn’t get much better than Gora Kadan, a former imperial family retreat surrounded by serene countryside, or Hakone Ginyu, where private open-air hot spring baths are paired with traditional meals served in-room. Trust us, it’s an experience that could only happen in Japan.

Photo: Ayako in Tokyo for Flytographer. Dante and partner capture memories in Tokyo on a couples photoshoot.

Spiritual & Energetic Wellness Destinations

Spiritual wellness often emerges through a connection to place, and certain settings feel energetically attuned to experiences that invite mental expansion.

Sedona, Arizona

With Indigenous roots and a desert climate, Arizona has long been regarded as a healing landscape. Sedona, the state’s spiritual epicentre, is famed for its vortexes, places believed to hold concentrated earth energy. Experienced firsthand, people report sensations ranging from a tingling in the skin to a striking sense of mental clarity.   Beyond the many energy-related healing practices in town, you can also explore the surrounding red rock landscapes on foot, a grounding and spiritual experience in their own right.

Where to stay: Staying at a wellness resort from the Enchantment Group allows you to make the most of it all. Mii amo, a terracotta-hued sanctuary set into the desert, is considered the benchmark. Guests can choose from over 80 wellness experiences, including vortex lectures, flow yoga, and labyrinth meditation walks.

Fly tip: Australia’s Outback offers a similar, scenically endless redness of sand that’s awe-inspiring, made even more powerful by ancient Aboriginal culture and wisdom.

Photo: Amanda in Sedona for Flytographer. Mandy and partner capture memories in Sedona on a couples photoshoot.

Bali, Indonesia

With countless yoga and meditation retreats, forest temples, and an enviable island lifestyle, Bali consistently features on top lists of wellness travel destinations. On the island, Ubud is the wellness capital and an excellent base, with Balinese Hinduism providing a backdrop of majestic temples and water purification rituals. You’ll be spoiled for choice, and the crowd is truly cosmopolitan: it’s not unusual to encounter yoga instructors from New York or Thailand alongside chefs from Morocco or Costa Rica, each bringing their own perspective to plant-based cuisine.

Where to stay: Just fifteen minutes from Ubud, COMO Shambhala Estate places you amid tropical jungle and thatched pavilions. Also in Ubud, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offers a similar setting, with an extensive range of wellness programs and facilities such as meditation suites and vitality pools, the latter particularly atmospheric during moonlit evenings.

Photo: Bayu in Bali for Flytographer. Heather and partner capture memories in Bali on a couples photoshoot.

Capturing memories on your wellness journey

Luxury resorts and wellness retreats or boot camps are wonderful, but they’re not essential to a meaningful wellness journey. Wherever you’re headed, the actual goal is to travel with intention, take a break from social media, and stay present.

Wherever your next trip takes you, you can reach out to one of our local photographers. In over 350 destinations around the world, they’ll capture those magical moments as you explore and connect with a place — and with yourself.

Upcoming Sporting Events

The 2026 sporting events calendar makes travel part of the game. From the FIFA World Cup to chic tennis and golf world series, there are plenty of excuses to plan a trip around the upcoming sporting events this year.

At Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over six million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever. Today, we asked our local photographers to help us craft a guide on the top 11 destinations to visit for upcoming sporting events.

In 2026, the host cities below are half the win.

Jump To:

1. Watch world-class tennis or chase the roar of engines through Melbourne, Australia
2. Soak up the charm and excitement of winter games in Milan, Italy
3. Catch the Super Bowl spectacle in San Francisco, California
4. Pair Formula 1 with cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Japan
5. Experience golf’s most exclusive week from Savannah, Georgia
6. Join the madness of college basketball in Indianapolis, Indiana
7. Feel Formula 1’s festival energy in Miami, Florida
8. Watch clay-court tennis at its most elegant in Paris, France
9. Step into tennis tradition at Wimbledon in London, England
10. Make the World Cup part of a historic stay in Boston, Massachusetts
11. Close out summer with Grand Slam tennis in New York City, New York

Photo: Flytographer in Melbourne. Ellyana captures memories in Melbourne with a solo adventure photoshoot.

1. Melbourne, Australia

The land down under is trending hard for 2026 travel, and Melbourne is hosting two major sporting events early in the year.

Australian Open (January – February 2026)
The Australian Open is often dubbed the “Happy Slam” thanks to its uniquely upbeat atmosphere. Players arrive fresh and at their best, while visitors get to enjoy the city’s unmatched cultural landscape and a wealth of hip, design-led boutiques and vintage shopping.

Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix (March 2026)
The Australian Grand Prix opens the Formula 1 World Championship at Melbourne’s Albert Park, a lakeside circuit minutes from the city centre. The city fills with the roar of engines and burning rubber. You really couldn’t ask for a more exhilarating soundtrack for strategic laneway coffee breaks.

Fly tip: An Australia-bound long-haul flight deserves to be stretched with extra stops in Sydney and the Outback, or even by popping over to New Zealand for dramatic landscapes and deeply inspiring Māori culture.

Photo: Rina in Melbourne for Flytographer. Kevin and partner capture memories in Melbourne with a couples photoshoot.

2. Milan, Italy

The Winter Olympics (February 2026)
Winter Paralympics (March 2026)

One of the biggest sporting events of the year is the Milano–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics. Split between Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, this edition is distinctly Italian, blending skiing with fashion, food, and design. Cortina, set in the Dolomite Mountains, delivers alpine glamour paired with village life and dreamlike alpine hotels, all framed by some of Italy’s most striking scenery.

Fly tip: Scenic train rides through Northern Italy make it easy to add visits to Lake Como for its lakeside villas or Venice for its canals, with both buzzing with the dynamism that only a major sporting event brings.

Photo: Alice in Milan for Flytographer. Jennifer and partner capture memories in Milan with a couples photoshoot.

3. San Francisco, California

The Super Bowl (February 8, 2026) — Santa Clara, CA

One of the most pop-culture-heavy moments on the sporting events calendar lands in the Bay Area this year: the Super Bowl 60, played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, home of the San Francisco 49ers. The Super Bowl is the NFL’s World Championship game, and as always, music plays an outsized role in the spectacle. This year’s halftime show features Bad Bunny.

A short drive from the stadium, San Francisco makes a strong base, with its icons doing much of the heavy lifting. The Golden Gate Bridge, rows of Victorian Painted Ladies, and classic cable cars all contribute to that cinematic backdrop we know so well — one that’s always more inspiring in person.

Photo: Joseph in San Francisco for Flytographer. Jennifer and partner capture memories in Milan with a couples photoshoot.

4. Kyoto, Japan

Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix (Late March 2026) – Suzuka

At the Japanese Grand Prix, the crowd sets the tone: respectful, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic without tipping into rowdy territory. What else could you expect in Japan? At the heart of it all is the Suzuka Circuit, celebrated for being fast and visually striking.

Basing yourself in nearby Kyoto lets you balance race action with refined tea houses, Buddhist and Shinto shrines, and picturesque torii gates. There’s more: cherry blossoms are often forecast for around the same dates.

Fly tip: From Kyoto, you can take the Shinkansen to Nagoya, then continue to Suzuka on local train lines. By the same logic, extending your trip elsewhere in Japan is easy, whether that means Osaka, Tokyo, or journeys into the Japanese Alps.

Photo: Coo & Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer. Cody and partner capture memories in Japan with a couples photoshoot.

5. Savannah, Georgia

The Masters Tournament (April 2026) – Augusta, Georgia, USA

In the world of golf, while the PGA Championship rotates among different U.S. courses, the Masters Tournament is always played in Augusta. The experience is closer to a pilgrimage than a typical sporting trip, with a sense of country-club luxury woven into it. After all, this ranks among the world’s most exclusive sporting events.

Staying nearby in Atlanta or Savannah — both about a 2.5-hour drive — is a great idea. Savannah, in particular, makes an excellent base, adding allure with its old-world charm and leafy parks and squares. Here’s an idea: treat yourself to a luxury rental steeped in timeless elegance or enjoy world-famed Southern hospitality in a traditional Georgian-style mansion.

Fly tip: For those drawn to equestrian competition, the Kentucky Derby in Louisville is horse racing at its best, wrapped in style and tradition, very much mirroring the Masters’ atmosphere.

Photo: Flytographer in Savannah. Brooke and partner capture memories in Savannah with a couples photoshoot.

6. Indianapolis, Indiana

NCAA March Madness / Men’s Final Four (April 2026)

April in Indianapolis is all about NCAA March Madness and the Men’s Basketball Final Four. The vibe is electric because of the playoff-style, win-or-go-home matchups. It’s also prime territory for NBA fans tracking future stars.

Indianapolis offers plenty beyond the basketball tournament, pairing games with long weekends of busy bars and city exploration. You can explore the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, kayak the Central Canal, or visit the Madam Walker Legacy Centre, which honours America’s first self-made female millionaire and the city’s role in Black entrepreneurship.

Fly tip: The NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship lands in Phoenix this year, packing Final Four spark on its own terms, while Oklahoma City hosts the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships, another fan favourite on the women’s sports calendar.

7. Miami, Florida

Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix (May 2026)

Set around Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the Miami Grand Prix unfolds close to the crowd, with plenty of grandstand angles that deliver genuine on-track action. Arrive early or linger between sessions, and there’s a real chance of spotting drivers and team personnel weaving through the complex.

In Miami, F1 feels closer to a festival than a traditional race weekend: Latin music pulsing through the grandstands, DJs and pop-up stages, and an unmistakable beach-club energy. More than a sporting event, it’s a social occasion. Outside the circuit, the full weekend experience naturally spills into Art Deco architecture, fantastic cuisine, rooftop bars, and a nightlife scene turned up a notch. 🪩

Fly tip: This year’s F1 calendar is stacked with major sporting events. The Bahrain Grand Prix lights up the desert, the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most scenic circuits, not just in Belgium, but in the world, the Monaco Grand Prix brings street-circuit glamour in Monte Carlo, and the Hungarian Grand Prix keeps things fairly technical.

Photo: Daniel in Miami for Flytographer. LaShonda and partner capture memories in Miami with a couples photoshoot.

8. Paris, France

French Open (May – June 2026)

The French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, is more classical than the US Open or Australian Open and feels deeply rooted in tradition. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, made even better by seeing the biggest names battle it out on clay.

The crowd is as stylish and cultured as it gets in sport, and with Paris in late spring at peak travel season, the tournament becomes as much about cafés, boutiques, museums, and evening strolls as it is about Centre Court action. Among the upcoming sporting events, this one strongly appeals to couples, particularly when paired with trips to Provence or the Riviera and romantic dining in the City of Light. Truth be told, with Paris as the backdrop, tennis is just one part of a refined, romantic European escape.

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Dana and family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot.

9. London, England

Wimbledon (June – July 2026)

Another staple on the tennis calendar with appeal for couples and luxury travelers is Wimbledon. You can think of it as stepping into a living, deeply English tradition: effortlessly chic, with all-white dress codes, immaculate grass courts, and a polished, country-club atmosphere.

Even though Wimbledon lands right in the middle of London’s summer peak, there’s still something unmistakably British about the experience. Strawberries and cream feel practically mandatory, as does gallery hopping, wandering historic streets, and taking in the best of London between matches.

Fly tip: Want to play along with the look? You can’t go wrong with tailored summer suits, floral frocks, polka dots, and sharp dresses that feel straight out of a classic British garden party.

Photo: Jimmy in London for Flytographer. Byron and partner capture memories in London with a couples photoshoot.

10. Boston, Massachusetts

FIFA World Cup 2026 (June – July 2026)

Everyone who’s attended a FIFA World Cup says it feels like the world gathering in one place. Unlike the UEFA Champions League Final, every match feels bigger because teams are playing for their country, not a club. This edition also marks the first time 48 national teams will qualify, up from 32 in Qatar.

What better reason to plan an ambitious multi-city trip? Host cities include Toronto, Vancouver, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, the Bay Area, Seattle, Boston, Philadelphia, Houston, and Kansas City. With a list this big, regional travel is very much part of the appeal.

If you pick just one stop, make it Boston. The Greater Boston area will host seven matches in June and July, making it easy to pair football thrills with wandering brick lanes, soaking up American history, and taking in the modern skyline from a harbour cruise.

Fly tip: Demand will be especially high for North American hubs, particularly when paired with extensions to Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey. It’s also worth noting that the USA will stage the World Cup final, played at MetLife Stadium.

Photo: Flytographer in Boston. Jonathan and partner capture memories in Boston with a couples photoshoot.

11. New York City, New York

US Open (August – September 2026)

Late summer in New York City is hard to beat, and the US Open only adds liveliness. The city feels dialled up another notch, with events, pop-ups, and tennis buzz spilling across town. The event itself can be crowded, and the heat and humidity are very real, but it’s all absolutely worth it. You’re close to the action, star players feel within reach, and Fan Week is a major highlight, especially for first-timers.

Beyond the courts, this is one of the most lifestyle-driven sporting events on the calendar, where fashion, celebrity sightings, dining, and culture all collide. How to make it even better? Choose standout New York hotels to elevate the experience, mix in some gallery hopping, and linger over superb meals.

Fly tip: For a classic add-on, tack on an escape to the Hamptons for relaxed beach days and that signature end-of-summer ease New Yorkers swear by.

Photo: Sehee in New York City for Flytographer. Jenna and partner capture memories in NYC with a couples photoshoot.

Capturing Memories at the Game

Honourable mentions for upcoming sporting events include MLB’s championship event, which drives sports travel to cities with strong baseball culture, and the Madrid Open, which places Spain firmly on the global tennis calendar. There’s also beach volleyball in New Orleans, more NFL action in Pittsburgh, and major surfing pipelines from Brazil to Hawaii worth keeping an eye on.

Wherever the game takes you, let Flytographer help you remember it beautifully. With local photographers in 350+ destinations, you’ll turn those moments into memories worth revisiting long after the final whistle.