If you’re looking to add timeless, storybook photos to your travel album, Eastern Europe is calling your name. With fairytale architecture, charming cobblestone streets, dramatic landscapes, and hidden gems around every corner, it’s no wonder this region is a favorite among travelers—and travel photographers.
Let’s explore the best Eastern European countries to visit, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking photo opportunities. From iconic cities to secret locales, here’s your ultimate visual travel guide.
Why Czechia is One of the Best Eastern European Countries to Visit
The Czech Republic is one of the best Eastern European countries to visit if you’re chasing magical cityscapes, historic architecture, and romantic riverside moments. It’s an ideal destination for a professional photoshoot—offering the perfect mix of grandeur and intimacy. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or charming small towns, every corner looks like it belongs in a fairytale.
Prague
One of the best Eastern European cities to visit, Prague offers stunning views from Charles Bridge at sunrise, the iconic Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square, and romantic alleyways in Malá Strana. A local photographer can help you find the perfect lighting in this city of spires.
Wedding photoshoot by Victor, Localgrapher in Prague
Cesky Krumlov
This small town is a storybook brought to life. With its riverside castle, winding cobblestone streets, and red-roofed houses, it’s ideal for whimsical couples’ photos or family portraits away from the crowds.
Family photoshoot by Robert, Localgrapher in Cesky Krumlov
Telc
A hidden gem with colorful Renaissance houses reflected in quiet lakes—perfect for lifestyle shots or solo travel portraits with a touch of old-world charm.
Kutna Hora
Home to dramatic gothic churches and the surreal Bone Church, this UNESCO-listed town adds depth and contrast to your photo album.
Whether you’re posing by the Vltava River or twirling through castle courtyards, the Czech Republic offers endless photo inspiration. A professional photoshoot here will turn your vacation memories into timeless keepsakes. Let the beauty of this magical country shine through in every frame.
Visit Hungary‘s Photo-Worthy Capital
Hungary is one of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe for travelers looking to blend rich culture with striking architecture and river views that beg to be photographed. From ornate cafés to thermal baths and medieval castles, Hungary offers a variety of scenic settings perfect for a professional photoshoot. Whether you’re planning a romantic couple session or a solo travel shoot, this country is a visual feast.
Budapest
As one of the best Eastern European cities to visit, Budapest delivers unforgettable photo backdrops: the neo-Gothic Parliament building, the pastel Fisherman’s Bastion, and sunset over the Chain Bridge are must-haves in your travel gallery. Don’t miss a golden hour shoot from Gellért Hill for panoramic shots of the Danube.
Couple photoshoot by Anita, Localgrapher in Budapest
Eger
This charming town is full of baroque buildings, cobbled streets, and vineyards. It’s a great place for couples’ or family shoots away from the capital, with a warm, intimate vibe.
Pécs
A colorful, Mediterranean-influenced city with Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and quaint alleys—ideal for capturing contrast and character in your travel photos.
Tihany
Located on Lake Balaton, this peaceful village offers lavender fields, lakeside paths, and panoramic views—perfect for relaxed, romantic, or boho-style photography.
Hungary’s mix of elegance and charm makes it one of the best Eastern European countries to visit for capturing memories that feel both timeless and unique. With the help of a local photographer, you’ll walk away with stunning images that reflect the country’s vibrant soul and your personal travel story.
Why You Should Visit Poland‘s Picture-Perfect Cities
Poland stands out as one of the best Eastern European countries to visit for travelers who want to blend history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural backdrops. With its beautifully preserved old towns, modern cityscapes, and fairytale forests, Poland offers something for every type of photoshoot.
Whether you’re exploring solo, traveling with family, or planning a couple’s getaway, the country is full of locations that look incredible on camera.
Krakow
Often ranked among the best Eastern European cities to visit, Kraków’s medieval main square, Wawel Castle, and charming Planty Park offer everything from regal to cozy photo vibes. A shoot at sunrise in the Old Town is pure magic.
Couple photoshoot by Victor, Localgrapher in Krakow
Warsaw
Poland’s capital blends classic elegance with modern edge. Capture the pastel facades of the Old Town, reflective shots in Łazienki Park, or edgy urban portraits in the revamped Praga District.
Couple photoshoot by Michal, Localgrapher in Warsaw
Zakopane
Nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, this alpine town is perfect for nature lovers. Whether it’s snow-covered chalets or summer hikes with panoramic views, it’s a dream for adventurous photoshoots.
Gdansk
A coastal gem with a colorful harbor, brick Gothic churches, and maritime charm. Ideal for nautical-themed or heritage-inspired photos.
Poland’s diversity makes it one of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe, offering everything from grand architecture to quiet nature. A local photographer will know exactly where to catch the light and lead you to spots that match your vibe. Don’t leave without capturing the moments that make your trip unforgettable.
Marvel in Romania‘s Fairytale Backdrops
If you’re drawn to mystical landscapes, towering castles, and villages that feel lost in time, Romania is one of the best Eastern European countries to visit for a travel photoshoot that feels truly magical. It’s a land of contrasts—where medieval towns meet dramatic mountains and ancient legends linger in the air. A local photographer can help bring the mood and mystery of this incredible country into every frame.
Bucharest
The capital city combines grand architecture with gritty street scenes. Capture a mix of elegant urban shots at the Palace of the Parliament or laid-back lifestyle photos in hip neighborhoods like Lipscani. As one of the best Eastern European cities to visit, it offers both edge and elegance.
Couple photoshoot by Delta, Localgrapher in Bucharest
Brasov
Framed by the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov is all about cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and gothic towers. It’s perfect for romantic or family shoots in a setting that feels straight out of a medieval novel.
Sibiu
With its pastel houses, charming squares, and “eyelid” windows watching from the rooftops, Sibiu adds whimsy and warmth to any photo session.
Bran
Famous for its connection to the Dracula legend, Bran Castle offers a dramatic backdrop that’s ideal for moody, cinematic portraits.
Romania deserves its place on every list of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe, especially if you’re seeking authentic, storybook moments. From dramatic peaks to peaceful plazas, this country brings emotion, beauty, and depth to your travel photo album—especially when captured through the lens of a professional.
Discover Croatia‘s Coastal Charm
Croatia is one of the best Eastern European countries to visit if you’re dreaming of dramatic coastlines, sun-drenched islands, and ancient cities bathed in golden light. Whether you’re capturing the elegance of old-world streets or the raw beauty of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia offers the perfect combination of culture and nature for a stunning photoshoot.
Dubrovnik
A standout among the best Eastern European cities to visit, Dubrovnik’s white stone walls, sea cliffs, and terracotta rooftops provide cinematic backdrops at every turn. Ideal for romantic couple portraits, elopements, or iconic family shots along the city walls.
Proposal photoshoot by Nino, Localgrapher in Dubrovnik
Split
This coastal city blends Roman ruins with a vibrant promenade. Diocletian’s Palace is perfect for moody, historic photos, while the nearby beaches add a relaxed, sunny vibe to any session.
Proposal photoshoot by Mario, Localgrapher in Split
Hvar
For a luxurious island escape, Hvar offers lavender fields, yachts, and panoramic sea views. It’s a dream destination for lifestyle shoots or honeymoon portraits.
Couple photoshoot by Mario, Localgrapher in Hvar
Plitvice Lakes
Nature lovers will fall in love with the turquoise waterfalls, wooden boardwalks, and forest paths—perfect for candid travel moments in a serene setting.
Croatia is one of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe for capturing a variety of visual styles, from elegant and historic to casual and beachy. Hiring a local photographer here means you’ll not only discover the best angles but also avoid the tourist rush to get those magical, crowd-free shots.
Enjoy Slovenia‘s Hidden Beauty
Small but full of charm, Slovenia is one of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe if you’re after fairytale scenery without the crowds. With alpine lakes, emerald rivers, and charming cities, Slovenia offers a peaceful yet photogenic setting for travelers looking to capture meaningful moments on camera. Whether you’re planning a couple’s shoot or a relaxed family session, Slovenia delivers effortlessly beautiful backdrops.
Ljubljana
Among the most underrated gems on the list of best Eastern European cities to visit, Slovenia’s capital has a fairytale old town, arched bridges, and a relaxed riverside vibe. It’s a perfect setting for lifestyle photos or romantic portraits.
Couple photoshoot by Andraz, Localgrapher in Ljubljana
Lake Bled
One of the most iconic locations in the country, Lake Bled’s church-topped island and mountain views look stunning in every season. Whether shot from a boat, the shore, or a castle above, it’s a dream for couples or honeymooners.
Couple photoshoot by Polona, Localgrapher at Lake Bled
Piran
This coastal town with Venetian architecture and Adriatic views offers a charming Mediterranean vibe, ideal for sunny, relaxed photo sessions with a historic twist.
Soca Valley
For adventurous souls, the emerald Soca River and surrounding peaks offer breathtaking scenery for candid, nature-focused photography. You can also visit the Napoleon Bridge for great views of the emerald waters from above.
Slovenia may be small, but it ranks high among the best Eastern European countries to visit if you value peace, beauty, and authenticity in your travels. A local photographer will help you find the most magical angles—whether it’s the calm of a lakeside sunrise or the energy of a colorful city street.
4 Places to Visit in the Baltics
For travelers seeking something unique and slightly off the typical tourist trail, the Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—are among the best Eastern European countries to visit. These three small but mighty destinations offer medieval charm, dramatic coastlines, and atmospheric streets perfect for one-of-a-kind travel photos. With fewer crowds and plenty of character, they’re ideal for a professional photoshoot that captures both intimacy and history.
Tallinn, Estonia
Easily one of the best Eastern European cities to visit, Tallinn is a medieval dreamscape. Think castle towers, stone walls, and cobbled alleys wrapped in golden light. From its cozy cafés to panoramic hilltop views, the city is ideal for warm, timeless portraits.
Solo photoshoot by Maria, Localgrapher in Tallinn
Riga, Latvia
A treasure for architecture lovers, Riga’s art nouveau buildings, spacious parks, and creative neighborhoods like Miera iela offer a bold, urban vibe. It’s the perfect place for modern, colorful, and expressive photo sessions.
Family photoshoot by Dmitry, Localgrapher in Riga
Vilnius, Lithuania
With its baroque buildings and peaceful courtyards, Vilnius has a calm, poetic energy. Capture slow mornings, old churches, and artistic corners that reflect personal and emotional moments.
Curonian Spit
For something truly different, head to this UNESCO-listed strip of land shared by Lithuania and Russia. Endless sand dunes, wild beaches, and pine forests provide stunning minimalist backgrounds for dreamy, nature-inspired photography.
Whether you’re exploring medieval streets, lounging by the sea, or hiking through misty mountains, Eastern Europe offers more than just incredible travel—it gives you the chance to create and capture unforgettable moments. From iconic capitals like Prague and Budapest to hidden gems across the Baltics and Balkans, these are truly the best Eastern European countries to visit for travelers who want beauty, depth, and authenticity in every photo.
FAQs About the Best Eastern European Countries to Visit
Planning a photoshoot while traveling through Eastern Europe might feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. To help you make the most of your experience in the best Eastern European countries to visit, we’ve answered some of the most common questions travelers ask before booking a professional photographer.
Q: Why should I hire a photographer when visiting Eastern Europe?
A: Hiring a local photographer allows you to professionally capture the charm of the best Eastern European countries to visit without worrying about taking selfies or setting timers. Local pros know the best photo spots, lighting, and hidden corners to make your travel memories truly stand out.
Q: Which are the best Eastern European cities to visit for photography lovers?
A: Some of the best Eastern European cities to visit for photography include Prague, Budapest, Kraków, Tallinn, and Dubrovnik. These cities offer a mix of historical architecture, natural beauty, and vibrant street life—perfect for unforgettable photo sessions.
Q: Is it easy to travel between the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe?
A: Yes, it’s very easy to travel between many of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe, especially within the Schengen Zone. Affordable trains, buses, and short flights make it convenient to explore multiple destinations in a single trip.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Eastern Europe for a photoshoot?
A: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous natural colors—perfect for photography. Winter brings snowy fairytale vibes in cities like Prague and Kraków, while summer is great for coastal shoots in Croatia and the Baltics.
Q: Why are Eastern European countries becoming popular photography destinations?
A: With rich history, diverse landscapes, and less tourist saturation than Western Europe, the region is a rising star. More travelers are discovering that the best Eastern European countries to visit offer not only affordability and beauty but also incredible backdrops for truly unique travel photos.
“Eastern Europe is the last truly romantic place left in the world.”— Jonathan Franzen, American novelist
With so many of the best Eastern European cities to visit just a short train or flight apart, it’s easy to plan a multi-country adventure full of color, charm, and character. Booking a local photographer in any of the best countries to visit in Eastern Europe ensures that your journey isn’t just remembered—it’s beautifully documented, frame by frame.
