Aesthetic Summer Bucket List: Most Beautiful Things to Photograph Around the World

This website contains affiliate links from trusted partners. If you purchase through a link on this site, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Privacy Policy and Disclosure for more information.

Updated July 2026

In the age of digital aesthetics and travel wanderlust, the very act of exploring the world has become an art form. 

My philosophy has always been chasing adventure through my lens! And luckily, that’s taken me to some pretty epic (and stunning) locations around the world.

They are the type of locations where I’ve thought, “Dang. I’m so grateful that my eyes and camera can capture this beauty!”

Here are all of the places that are so stunning they have taken my breath away!

In this post, I am specifically talking to travel enthusiasts, Instagrammers, and photographers who are in constant pursuit of the visually extraordinary.

What Is an Aesthetic Summer Bucket List? 

An aesthetic summer bucket list is different than the traditional checklist of destinations and activities. 

It’s curated with an eye for beauty, aimed at those who seek not just to visit, but to experience the world through an artistic lens. 

This list is going to emphasizes the aesthetic value of each location, focusing on picturesque landscapes, architecturally stunning buildings, and culturally rich environments that offer visually striking experiences. 

Unlike a normal bucket list, which might prioritize popular tourist attractions or personal milestones, an aesthetic summer bucket list prioritizes visual appeal and the emotional response it evokes. 

It’s my goal to make this list something that photographers drool over!

Each item on this list is carefully curated to ensure that it not only looks good on your feed but also leaves an indelible mark on your memory.

Take a Flower Bath in Bali

Bali, known for its spiritual and holistic healing experiences, offers the tranquil practice of taking a flower bath.

This is an undeniable treat to any aesthetic summer bucket list!

…Or just do anything in Bali. 

I am not going to sugarcoat it, Bali is the most aesthetic location I have ever traveled to. I saw lines of travel influencers just salivating at the mouth. 

From the iconic jungle swing to more “hidden gem” temples, Bali is quite literally a tsunami of aesthetic travel experiences. 

Read More about Bali – Bali Bucket List | Full Flower Bath Guide | Indonesia Bucket List | Guide to Surfing in Bali | Best Adventure Tours in Bali

Photography Tip

Shoot from directly overhead if possible.

Most flower bath photos fail because they’re taken at eye level and just look like someone sitting in a bathtub.

Use a balcony, stool, or extended tripod and shoot straight down. Arrange flowers around your face and shoulders rather than letting them drift randomly.

Wear a color that contrasts with the flowers. White often gets lost.

Do a Flying Dress Photoshoot in Santorini

I know you have seen the iconic landscapes of Santorini, Greece. But have you seen the EPIC flying dress photoshoots? If you haven’t, I guarantee that you will have a hard time picking up your jaw from the floor. 

This is an essential for every traveling woman looking to boost self-love and choke after she sees these photos.

I have literally NEVER seen a bad photo of a long dress photoshoot in Greece. Ever. 

Plus, the island’s breathtaking scenery provides the perfect backdrop for these ethereal photo shoots. The villages of Oia and Fira, with their iconic blue domed churches and sweeping caldera views, offer the ideal setting. 

Photography Tips

This experience often can’t be done by yourself (unless you own a super long dress for some reason?) so you will need to hire a photographer: 

If you are doing it yourself, fast shutter speed (1/1000+) is essential.

If the wind is blowing toward the photographer, the dress balloons outward and creates dramatic shape.

If the wind is blowing away from camera, the dress collapses behind you.

I would also look at previous dress photoshoots so that you can get some posing ideas.

If you are looking for guidance, check out my travel photoshoot guide.

Witness Golden Hour at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon transforms during the golden hour, casting a warm glow over its rocks. 

For a stunning viewpoint, Mather Point offers stunning vistas and is accessible enough for all kinds of travelers. Plus, it is only a 5-minute walk from the Visitor Center. 

I went a little crazy and actually did Rim to Rim and saw both sunrise and sunset. So, I can safely recommend both!

Safety

When photographing at the canyon, always stay behind guardrails and keep an eye on your equipment, as strong gusts can sweep things away.

Photography Tips

Don’t photograph the canyon. Photograph the light hitting the canyon.

Most visitors aim wide and capture a giant brown hole. Instead, zoom in and isolate individual ridges as sunlight and shadow move across them.

The magic is in the layers.

Rent a Kimono and Wander through Japan

Exploring the historic streets of Kyoto or the bustling atmosphere of Tokyo while dressed in a traditional kimono offers a unique way to immerse oneself in Japanese culture. 

This experience connects you with the country’s rich history and traditions, allowing for a deeper appreciation of its aesthetic and societal norms.

I had a delightful opportunity during my visit to Tokyo with my best friend. We figured that we were going sightseeing anyway, and we wanted to deepen our appreciation for traditional Japanese culture.

And we were right! The entire experience was beautiful and extremely meaningful.

PHotography Tips

Use side streets, not just famous landmarks.

Everyone photographs Senso-ji Temple. Walk one block away and look for lanterns, narrow alleys, bicycles, and traditional storefronts.

Your kimono becomes the subject instead of competing with crowds.

Bask at the Ancient Ruins of Petra

The rose-red city, half as old as time, will dazzle you with its rock-carved beauty. 

Odds are that if you follow a travel blogger, they will have this on their feed. It is also common to have a camel be your mode of transportation. 

And what is more aesthetic than you on a camel in front of Petra? Not much.

Early Morning Excursion

The site opens at 6 am, and the Treasury is a 10-minute walk from the entrance. The early morning light is ideal for photos.

Arrive early to beat the crowds and wander through the Siq to witness the sun’s first rays on the Treasury.

I would also suggest going on this adventure in early or late summer to avoid the heat.

Photography Tips

Shoot the Treasury through the Siq.

Instead of rushing out when the canyon opens, stop and photograph the first glimpse framed by the narrow rock walls.

That’s often a more powerful image than the Treasury itself.

Wander the Taj Mahal at Dawn

The Taj Mahal, bathed in the soft morning light, is a sight that cannot be captured in words alone. This also makes it a stunning place for travel photography.

When I was in India, I was told to arrive early. And by early…I mean early. If you see my photo below, there are NO people in my shot.

This is because I got up before the sun, cried a little bit, and waited in line at the East Gate before they opened. 

Was I tired? Yes. Was it worth it? YES! 

Wearing a Sari

I have a family that married into an Indian family. Ever since then, I knew that I wanted to get a sari made for me. With the guidance of my family, I ended up getting a gold and teal sari when I was in Agra. 

And I’m only a little obsessed with it. 

My travel companions also got saris which made for an epic shot of all of us in front of the Taj Mahal. 

My only warning to you is that if you do this all eyes will be on you. I had several people wanting my picture and stopping to talk to me. I didn’t mind it, but this might put some travelers on edge. 

Read More – Taj Mahal Tips for Visiting

Photography Tips

Use the reflecting pools early before the wind and crowds start.

By mid-morning the water often becomes rippled.

The reflection shot only works when the surface is calm.

Bring a longer lens and isolate details in the marble.

Take in the Beauty of Cinque Terre

The five villages that makeup Cinque Terre sit precariously on the cliffs above the Ligurian Sea and are renowned for their stunning vistas and pastel-colored houses.

If you are looking for that iconic view of this colorful city, you are going to want to hit the Santa Maria Belvedere terrace for that epic photo on your aesthetic summer bucket list.

The Blue Path

The ‘blue path‘ that connects the towns is a popular hiking trail and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the region.

It is about 7.5 miles (12 km) and starts from the westernmost village, Monterosso, and ends in the easternmost village, Riomaggiore. 

Photography Tip

Photograph between villages because most people only shoot from inside the towns.

The hiking trails provide the iconic views showing colorful villages perched dramatically on cliffs.

Swim in the Blue Lagoons of Malta

Malta’s Azure Window may have collapsed, but the island still boasts incredible blue lagoons. 

The island of Comino’s Blue Lagoon is a paradise for snorkelers and swimmers, with shallow, crystal-clear water.

The Blue Lagoon also has some of the most bought and highly rated tours on both Viator and GetYourGuide. I would highly suggest checking them out if you want to check this off of your bucket list. Here are few examples:

Best Conditions

Since it can be very hot, especially in July and August, it is highly recommended to go early in the morning. This also helps you avoid those pesky photobombers. 

Photography Tips

Use a polarizer only if you want to reduce glare. Sometimes reflections make water look magical.

Take one photo with polarization and one without. Many photographers accidentally remove the sparkle.

Relax in Bora Bora’s Overwater Bungalows

Luxuriate (that’s a word, right?) in the famous overwater bungalows, a signature of this paradise. 

With the legendary Mount Otemanu as a backdrop, Bora Bora offers an unparalleled setting for exquisite photos.

Lodging Choices

Book a bungalow to ensure you wake up to the sight of the lagoon and have perfect lighting throughout the day.

This might cost you a pretty penny but this is a once-an-a-lifetime experience that will surely shine on your aesthetic summer bucket list. 

Once you are in Bora Bora, there are so many tropical bucket list ideas for you to choose from:

Photography Tips

Use the bungalow as a frame.

Instead of shooting outward from the deck, photograph through doorways, curtains, hammocks, and railings.

The structure adds depth and context.

Plus, this makes it different and less boring. Think of your three layers: foreground, subject, and background.

Photograph the Fiords of New Zealand

New Zealand’s Milford Sound is a must-see for its granite peaks jutting out of still, blue waters. The sound comes alive after a rainfall, with countless waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

It is astounding that I did not hear of Milford Sound’s awe-inspiring beauty before visiting it myself.

However, when I saw its wonders first-hand, I quickly learned why it demands such attention from travelers. 

In fact, it was one of the coolest things I saw in New Zealand (and that’s saying something). Well, other than my bungee jump, of course. 

I wasn’t even really into photography at this point, and got stunning pictures with my old iPhone 14.

Cruise or Kayak?

A cruise provides the best vantage points, especially for photography. The local companies are adept at maneuvering close to the waterfalls for a unique shot.

However, if you are looking for an adventure and a picture of yourself, then you might want to consider a kayak. 

Or, better yet, some offer both options (linked below!)

Cruise Tours

Kayak Tours

…or you could extra extra and just fly over it!

Photography Tips

Keep your lens cloth in your pocket. Seriously.

Rain, mist, and waterfall spray constantly coat lenses. Most visitors unknowingly spend the entire trip shooting through water droplets.

Check your lens every few minutes.

Have an Adventure in Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park, located in Chile’s Patagonia region, is a spectacle of nature that epitomizes the untamed beauty of the wilderness. 

Visiting during the summer months unveils a vibrant tapestry of flora and fauna against the backdrop of majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and expansive glaciers.

This makes it one of the most aesthetically pleasing places in the world to visit!

This destination promises stunning photo opportunities and moments of reflection amidst some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Photography Tip

Use people for scale. The landscape is so enormous that photos often feel flat.

Include a hiker on a ridge or trail to show just how massive everything is.

Run Through the Lavender Fields of Provence

Nothing is more Instagram-worthy than the purple sea of lavender in France. The best time to visit is mid-June and mid-August. Mid-July is when the fields are in full bloom.

I would make sure to wear your best outfit because you are going to look absolutely stunning surrounded by purple!

Ideal Locations

Valensole Plateau and Sénanque Abbey offer some of the most iconic views of the lavender fields.

Photography Tip

Shoot low and align the rows. Get close to the ground so lavender rows create leading lines toward your subject or the horizon.

Random angles often look chaotic.

This is also a perfect time to check out some posing ideas before hand and photograph motion instead of standing still.

Hike The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

A trek to Machu Picchu in Peru is not only rewarding for the soul but also for the camera. 

The Sun Gate boasts the classic view of the citadel, especially during the dry season (May to October) when mists are rare.

Permits and Preparation

Limited permits are available each day, so booking well in advance is essential.

I would also encourage you to actually TREK to Machu Picchu, instead of just taking the bus. I’m not saying that taking the bus is kinda cheating, but this jaw-dropping landmark is 100% more meaningful when you’ve earned it. 

I might have earned it a bit too much by trekking both the Salkantay and the Incan Trail for a week (51 miles and we reached over 17,000 feet)…but I bawled once I got to Machu Picchu. 

…and that’s also why all of my “aesthetic” photos were taken from the back: because I hadn’t showered in over a week! 

Photography Tip

Photograph the journey more than the destination. The trail itself provides better storytelling than the final overlook.

Capture boots, camps, fog, stairs, and trail moments.

Plus, there were a ton of hidden historical sites that deserves your attention!

Enjoy a Ride in the Canals of Venice

Exploring the canals of Venice offers an experience like no other, a chance to step into a living masterpiece of architecture and history. 

Venice’s labyrinth of canals is best explored early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the stillness.

Among the most photogenic locations are the Grand Canal and the Bridge of Sighs.

Photography Tips

Gondolas and Vaporetto ferries add charm to canal shots. The first vaporetto along the Grand Canal leaves at around 5 am in summer.

Overall, I prefer early early morning or blue hour. The canals become mirrors when lights begin reflecting off the water.

Sadly, midday often produces harsh shadows and tourist chaos.

Book a Venice Gondola Ride

Take a Stroll Through Sunflower Fields in Tuscany

Tuscany’s sunflower fields are a summer spectacle, with their bright yellow flowers contrasting the green of the rolling hills. These vibrant fields stretch as far as the eye can see, painting the countryside in a brilliant hue of yellow from June to August. 

For photographers and nature lovers alike, the sunflower fields of Tuscany offer a unique opportunity to capture the essence of Italian summer, where the warm, golden tones of the flowers contrast beautifully against the deep blues of the Tuscan sky.

Although it is possible to go “sunflower hunting” in this area, it is recommended to travel via Cassia, between Siena and Montalcino for a true sea of yellow. 

Ideal Time

Mid-June to early August is when the sunflowers are in full bloom, so visit then for the perfect shot.

You might need to be flexible since there is only a small window of full bloom.

Photography Tips

Look for a single imperfect flower. Thousands of flowers facing the same direction can become visually boring.

Find one bent stem, one bee, or one flower facing the camera. That’s your focal point.

It is really important here to have a clear subject that guides the viewer’s eye.

Explore Banff National Park in Canada

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. 

Its vast wilderness, characterized by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and expansive forests, offers a natural playground unparalleled in beauty. 

The park’s wildlife, including elk, bears, and wolves, adds an element of awe and respect for nature’s inhabitants.

Top Things to Do in Banff National Park

Photography Tips

Shoot before sunrise. Not at sunrise. Before sunrise.

Many lakes are calmest during blue hour and become windier after the sun rises.

Mirror reflections disappear quickly.

See the Magic of Bioluminescence

Witnessing bioluminescence is like capturing the stars in the sea. Mosquito Bay in Puerto Rico, is one of the brightest and most reliable spots for this natural phenomenon.

Although I attempted to witness this while I was traveling in Costa Rica, I finally caught a glimpse of this phenomenon while in the Bay of Islands in New Zealand.

I was night kayaking and it was as if the water glowed as I paddled through the water. It was, to put it simply, magical. 

Ideal Conditions

The bioluminescence is best seen during the new moon when the sky is darkest. It is also best seen in areas with very little light pollution. 

You can find examples of bioluminescent tours below. Although you can see it by yourself, it is sometimes tricky without a local guide…

Photography Tips for shooting Bioluminescence

Shooting bioluminescence is challenging but rewarding. It might be hard to capture this incredible natural phenomenon without a professional camera. 

Use a tripod and manual focus because autofocus usually fails in darkness.

Focus during daylight or on a distant light source first. Then switch to manual focus and leave it alone.

Cruise Through Halong Bay

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is celebrated for its breathtaking seascape of limestone pillars and islets rising from emerald waters. 

Taking a cruise through this geological wonder allows you to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of nature up close. 

While summer voyages might greet you with a sprinkle of rain, this actually enhances the mystical ambiance of the bay and results in fewer crowds, offering a more exclusive and serene experience.

When I visited this incredible Vietnamese location, my mind was blown by all of the natural wonders that surrounded me. 

It is surely one of the most beautiful natural places I’ve ever been!

Photography Tips

Use atmospheric haze creatively.

Instead of trying to eliminate the mist, layer islands into the distance.

The fading silhouettes create depth and mood.

Respect the Temples of Angkor Wat at Sunrise

Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, is beautifully preserved and a testament to the Khmer Empire. Built in the 12th century by Suryavarman II, the entire thing is an architectural wonder. 

Most tours (including mine) opt for the sunrise tour. I didn’t see a ton of bright orange colors like I expected to and there were a lot of people there.

However, it still was absolutely magical and a moment I have dreamed about ever since I was a wee little mermaid.

PHotographing tips

Turn around!

Everyone photographs the temple during sunrise.

Sometimes the best images are of monks, visitors, and palm trees illuminated by the sunrise behind you.

Don’t stop photographing at Angkor Wat

When I first desired to explore Angkor Wat, I thought that it comprised of those three iconic pillars and that was it. I was so wrong! 

The temple complex is vast, so explore the less-visited areas for solitude and unique angles.

Ironically, I actually enjoyed the Ta Prohm temple the most and found its photography opportunities plentiful!

Think Lara Croft aesthetic! I was in love!

Another one of my favorites was the Bayon Temple with its 37 Buddha faces and intricate passageways. 

Top Tours of Angkor Wat

There are some very highly rated tours of Angkor Wat! I will list a few below, but I would suggest you click here to see them all.

Explore the Snow-Capped Peaks of the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are synonymous with charm, with their perfect, snow-capped peaks, blue skies, and rolling clouds.

Interlaken and Zermatt are the gateways to some of the most scenic alpine experiences.

Even though I am accustomed to majestic mountains here in my native Colorado, there is nothing quite like the Swiss Alps. 

Plus, there are aesthetic opportunities galore! From vast mountain landscapes to cozy Swiss chalets (and fondue?), you will have no trouble finding beauty in Switzerland. You can even paraglide over them!

Seasonal Considerations

During the summer, most snow will have melted in the lower elevations and stunning hiking trails will be open. This is a perfect excuse to get outside to capture the quintessential Swiss Alps.

With that being said, I would also consider coming back during the winter ski season for a complete change in landscape and some snowy adventures. 

Photography Tips

Use foreground flowers. The mountains are incredible, but photos often feel empty.

Wildflowers, fences, and alpine huts add depth and scale.

Make sure that your foreground or depth guide the viewer into the scene.

Top Tours in the Swiss Alps

Discover Antelope Canyon in Arizona

The Navajo sandstone slot canyons of Antelope Canyon are a photographer’s dream. 

It doesn’t even look like Earth to me! 

The Upper Antelope Canyon with its beams of light shafting through at midday, and the Lower Canyon, offering less crowded photo ops throughout the day.

Just prepare for some intense summer heat in the summer!

PHotography Tips

I’m gonna hold your hand when I say this…slot canyons are brutal to photograph due to contrasting conditions.

Underexpose slightly because the bright sandstone can easily blow out highlights.

Protect the highlights and recover shadows later.

You can brighten shadows in editing. You can’t recover blown-out rock textures.

Optimal Light

For ideal light conditions, schedule your visit around midday, but avoid the months of December and January when the beams don’t hit the canyon floors.

Witness the Emerald Green Waters of Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also home to vibrant, azure waters that cascade through a series of lakes and waterfalls.

It is a perfect place for an outdoor lover to wander around and take in its beauty. 

As soon as you enter Entrance 1, you will be treated to Veliki Slap, one of the tallest waterfalls in Croatia. 

As you start to make your way through the park, there are plenty of opportunities for lakes, waterfalls, and enchanting hikes.

If you do not feel comfortable taking this stunning park on by yourself, there are several highly rated day trips available:

Wondering how to EDIT waterfall shots? Check out this live editing demo.

Seasonal Beauty

The park is stunning year-round, but the lakes are at their well-known emerald best in the sunlight of summer, which is why it earned its place on this list.

Photography tips

Use a slow shutter on waterfalls.

Around 1/4 to 1 second usually creates silky water without turning it into a featureless white blob.

I encourage your to experiement rather than automatically using 30 seconds.

I tried this handheld technique when perfecting my waterfall photography.

Get Lost in the Colorful Streets of Burano

The Venetian island of Burano boasts a collection of rainbow-hued houses that are a joy to photograph. Explore the quieter alleys to find charming sights without the crowds.

Although this might not be as popular as the Venice canals itself, it should not be overlooked. 

If you are in Venice already, you might consider taking a tour that irons out all of those pesky travel details for you:

Photography Tips

Watch for color combinations.

The magic isn’t a single house.

It’s finding neighboring homes whose colors complement each other and then waiting for a person to enter the frame.

Best Time of Day for Photography

Early morning or late afternoon light will make the colors pop without the harsh midday shadows.

Visit Lofoten Norway 

The Lofoten Islands are an archipelago of natural beauty with their fishing villages, scattered islands, and towering mountains that drop directly into the sea.

This place looks like it was taken straight out of a Scandinavian postcard. 

Adventure Surrounds

Hiking, sea kayaking, and even surfing are available, offering unique perspectives ruled by nature’s unfiltered beauty.

Photography Tips

Shoot during weather changes.

Storms moving through often create dramatic light shafts and rainbows.

The best photos frequently happen 15 minutes before or after bad weather.

Discover Zhangye Danxia Geopark

The Zhangye Danxia Geopark, located in China, is renowned for its extraordinary landscapes of colorful rock formations. 

These striking geological wonders, often referred to as the Rainbow Mountains, are the result of millions of years of mineral deposits and weathering. 

The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset when the sunlight enhances the colors, providing a breathtaking view that resembles an impressionistic painting brought to life.

I got the chance to visit the same phenomenon while in Peru. It was nothing short of spectacular!

Photography Tips

Use a telephoto lens.

Most people shoot ultra-wide.

A longer lens compresses the colorful ridges together and exaggerates the striped patterns that make the landscape famous.

My Challenge to You

This list isn’t an end-all-be-all. In fact, it’s not even close.

It’s a personal challenge to look beyond the surface, to find beauty in the hidden corners of the world, and to document these experiences in a way that inspires others. 

Then, photograph these epic locations and show us how it looks through your eyes! That is the magic of travel photography.

Packing and Preparation Tips for Aesthetic Travel

Packing for an aesthetic summer bucket list trip is different from your average vacation.

Your list should contain not just practical items like map, adaptor, and sunscreen, but also camera gear and outfits that pop in photographs.

Or in my case, a mermaid tail.

Invest in a good backpack that can hold your camera gear comfortably, and always carry a waterproof backpack cover or a dry bag to protect your equipment from the elements. 

The Best Gear for Aesthetic Travel Photography

Portable tripods and stabilizers can be a lifesaver in uneven terrains or when the lighting is low.

Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards because you’ll be snapping more than usual.

Lastly, remember to travel with an open mind. Your most aesthetically pleasing photos may come from the unplanned moments and the unforeseen corners of the world.

Aesthetic travel doesn’t always require a professional camera; it requires a good eye and an understanding of lighting, composition, and a little creativity. 

Features like a full-frame sensor that excels in low light, manual settings, and RAW capabilities are indispensable.

If you’re traveling to destinations with stunning night skies, consider a fast prime lens or a camera with excellent low-light performance.

Read More – Best Lenses for Travel Photography

For landscape or architectural shots, wide-angle and standard zoom lenses are best.

Look for lenses that are versatile and can handle varying lighting conditions. A macro lens will come in handy when you want to capture the small details of a location.

Read More – The Most Photogenic Places in the World

Final Word on this Aesthetic Summer Bucket List

This aesthetic summer bucket list is more than just a guide to taking beautiful photos, but it’s an invitation to explore, to see the world through a new lens, and to find beauty in every corner. 

Whether you’re watching the sunrise from a mountaintop, capturing the vibrant hues of a bustling city street, or enjoying the serene moments of a sunset beach picnic, each experience adds a unique layer to your summer story. 

Remember, the best accessory you can bring on any adventure is your perspective. This summer, challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, to make connections with the places and people you encounter, and to share the stories that unfold. 

Happy travels, and may your summer be filled with unforgettable moments and breathtaking sights.