Top Photo Opportunities Around Europe
Leaning Tower of Pisa
I have never taken too many photos on tour over the years. Despite the advent of digital technology in my touring years I remain someone who (surprisingly) trusts his memory when it comes to travel.
However, none of this precludes me from giving some advice. So here are a few places off the top of my head that will make for a good picture while touring this year.
Holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa – a classic of the genre. Position yourself near the line of stallholders just before you reach the baptistery and then put your arm out so that you appear to be holding up the tower. Genius. I once saw a guy do it with his foot, kicking his leg in the air and holding it, occasionally hopping on the other foot, while his friend got the right angle. Quite impressive.
The steeple of St Bride’s
The City of London – Head to level 7 of the Tate Modern on the South bank of London (it’s free to go inside) and you are rewarded with a beautiful view over the financial capital of London. You will spot numerous churches in amongst the glass and steel. Try to pick out the steeple of St Bride’s (to the left of the dome of St. Paul’s) long said to have been the inspiration for the tiered wedding cake design.
Grand Canal Venice – Like so many Italian cities, part of the fun is getting a little bit lost and seeing what you discover and taking pictures of it all along the way (if nothing else so you can find your way back). Venice is filled with intriguing passageways to discover but the Grand Canal remains a classic. Can I also add that I once saw two people fall in as they stepped backwards under instruction from their (confused) friend holding the camera.
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (The church of St. Mary in the hollow of white hazel trees near the rapid whirlpool by St. Tysilio’s of the red cave). - It is the longest place name in Europe and the sign outside the Welsh train station is always worth a couple of minutes to get a picture. The real test is being able to pronounce it.
Meteora Monasteries – I do not get to visit Greece as much as I would like these days but Meteora is always a stunning site to re-visit. There are six monasteries in total, close to the town of Kalambaka. As you approach from the roads below they soar above you, the views across the countryside from the monasteries themselves is also unforgettable.
Park Guell
Somewhere in Ireland – Really, take your pick. This beautiful country is a range of terrific photo opportunities. You can pick from the amazing countryside, the small towns that you pass through, the color of Dublin or Galway or any of the aged castles that dot the roadside.
The Montjuic Hill and Park Guell. – These are both destinations your guided tour will lead you to during your time in Barcelona. Montjuic is a great spot for seeing the harbour and the beach area that was developed as a result of winning the bid to host the 1992 Summer Olympics. Further north in the city is Park Guell where Gaudi’s superlative designs blend beautifully with the park space and terrific views.
I am sure there are a few others I could name, but I guess we can save them for another time. What sights around Europe do you suggest adding to this list?
Flickr photo via Danny McL, lucas dziwezanowski
