Last Updated on October 13, 2024
Wondering which European cities are the most represented on Instagram? We’re with you on that!
Thanks to research by influencer marketing website platform, Heepsy, we no longer have to wonder.
They are places near and dear to our hearts.
The Heepsy study analyzed 43 European capitals to find the 10 most Instagrammable ones based on Instagram popularity. Key factors in the results included the number of Instagram hashtags, average annual visitors, average number of sunny days each year and of course, the most popular Instagrammable spots within each destination.
Given the factors, here are the cities that made the top 10 list:
1. London, UK
London ranks first due to the highest number of Instagram hashtags at over 167 million. With 30 million annual visitors and 1,633 sunny hours per year, the capital city offers endless opportunities to capture iconic sights and secure its top spot.
With iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, it’s no wonder London took top honors.
2. Paris, France
Not far behind, Paris, often referred to as the “City of Light,” holds the second spot with 145 million hashtags. While London wins in hashtag counts, Paris is the most visited destination, reporting 50 million annual visitors. Its most popular spot, the Eiffel Tower, continues to draw photographers, and with 1,662 hours of sunshine, it’s easy to see why it’s such an Instagram favorite.
One visit here, and you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved destination.
3. Moscow, Russia
The capital city of Russia ranks third, with 56 million hashtags. Despite having fewer visitors than London and Paris (24 million annually), Moscow still offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially around Red Square. The city gets 1,901 hours of sunshine, making it a good choice for travelers looking for impressive shots.
Consider however, that geopolitical tensions and the current political situation, particularly with the Ukraine conflict, can make this destination less unpopular and more unsafe these days.
4. Berlin, Germany
Creative Berlin seduces locals and visitors alike, taking fourth place with over 54 million hashtags. Despite fewer visitors than Moscow (12 million annually), Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate continues to be a significant Instagram hotspot.
With 1,626 sunny hours per year, the city maintains a bright and lively atmosphere, making it a top choice for travel enthusiasts.
5. Madrid, Spain
This vibrant city secures fifth place with 51 million hashtags. While it has one of the lowest annual visitors counts at 5.8 million, Madrid offers the most sunshine among all the capitals, with 2,769 sunny hours per year, and that means landing good photos.
The Royal Palace serves as the most Instagrammed landmark, showcasing the city’s unique charm and appeal.
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
The capital of the Netherlands ranks sixth, amassing nearly 37 million hashtags. The charming canals of Amsterdam provide endless picturesque scenes, attracting 8.8 million visitors annually.
With 1,662 sunny hours yearly, the city is a favorite for capturing beautiful moments in a charming urban setting. The Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are also highly visited sites.
7. Bern, Switzerland
Known for its medieval architecture and charming old town, the capital of Switzerland comes in at seventh place, with 31 million hashtags. Though it’s smaller with just 478,000 annual visitors, the Chapel Bridge, iconic Zytglogge clock tower and 1,887 hours of sunshine make it a great spot for Instagram-worthy shots.
8. Rome, Italy
Steeped in history and culture, Rome, the “Eternal City” and one of my absolute favorite places in the world, ranks eighth in the field with 30 million hashtags. As one of the most visited cities on the list, with 38 million annual visitors, Rome’s Colosseum remains a timeless Instagram favorite.
The city enjoys 2,473 sunny hours per year, making it a prime destination for capturing historical and breathtaking photos with its stunning piazzas, fountains and ancient ruins.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
This stunning city takes ninth place, with over 19 million hashtags. Known for the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the iconic Astronomical Clock, Prague attracts seven million visitors annually and offers 1,668 sunny hours, making it a photogenic destination for travelers looking to capture its historic beauty and blend of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance styles.
If you’ve never been here, you must put this on your travel bucket list.
10. Vienna, Austria
Another absolutely gorgeous city, Vienna, rounds out the top ten, with nearly 17 million hashtags. The Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s most Instagrammed spot and such a jewel, and the city sees around 4.5 million visitors each year. With 2,048 sunny hours, Vienna offers plenty of picturesque moments for capturing its rich culture and architecture.
A spokesperson from Heepsy commenting on the study said it best, “When exploring the most Instagrammable spots, it’s important to think about not just the iconic landmarks but also the lesser-known corners that capture the true spirit of a city. The study shows that the number of sunny hours can make a big difference in getting that perfect shot, so plan your visit around these sunny days for the best lighting. And remember, popularity isn’t everything – sometimes, the most stunning photos come from those hidden gems that aren’t as widely tagged or visited.”
That being said, what’s your favorite Instagrammable European capital?
