Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to propose, a city break couple seeking some fabulous couple photos or newlyweds wanting memorable backdrops for your photos, we know all of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations.

We’re always more than happy to share our thoughts on some of the best and most iconic spots for taking amazing photographs.

We are excited to introduce a beautiful collection of our most beloved photos from magical photography sessions with our couples. A joyous set of pictures that wonderfully portrays their individual characters and the deep love they have for each other.

It was like a dream come true, capturing the spirit of these couples stunningly. Walking through the city, their sweet love permeated the air, and we found ourselves led to find idyllic locations that were perfect for a photo backdrop.

With its historic charm and breathtaking landscapes, Edinburgh offers many picturesque locations for fabulous photos.

This article features Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations, all a feast for the eyes that will remain in your memory for days to come.

Are you visiting Edinburgh, maybe even getting ready to say your vows, and looking for a photographer who can take stunning photos at the city’s best Instagram spots?

Contact us if you are interested in exploring our availability!

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Circus Lane

Start your engagement photoshoot with a casual walk on one of the famous streets in Edinburgh; the charming and peaceful Circus Lane, lined with its lovely cobblestones, holds a nostalgic appeal that brings such a lovely warmth to each photograph taken in this peaceful environment.

  • A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand down a cobblestone street lined with stone buildings and greenery.
  • Edinburgh's most Instagrammable locations featuring a couple, dressed in smart attire, smile and walk arm-in-arm on a cobblestone path lined with trees.
  • A bride and groom walk arm in arm along a cobblestone path, the groom in a light gray suit and the bride in a white dress with a veil.
  • A bride and groom walk arm in arm down a cobblestone path. She is in a white dress and veil, and he is in a light gray suit. They are looking at each other and smiling.
  • A man in a light gray suit and a woman in a white dress stand closely together and smile outdoors in front of a blurred architectural background.
  • A man in a gray suit and glasses and a woman in a white dress are standing closely, looking at each other with smiles, outdoors.
  • A couple stands and smiles at each other in an outdoor setting, both dressed formally; the man in a grey suit and the woman in a white dress. The background shows greenery and buildings.
  • A man in a light grey suit and a woman in a white dress stand closely together, smiling, on a narrow street lined with buildings and trees.

Victoria Street

One of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations, featuring its cobblestone pavement and its colourful, curving fronts overflowing with storefronts, it provides a lively dash of colour for your photos.

Rumour has it that Victoria Street inspired JK Rowling in Edinburgh to create Diagon Alley in her Harry Potter books. 

You don’t need to be a Harry Potter fan to fall in love with this magical, winding street!

The busy street is defined by engaging curved lines, medieval buildings, gothic spires and an invigorating, lively atmosphere.

  • A man and a woman wearing formal attire pose together on a wet cobblestone street in front of arched buildings.
  • A couple stands close together on a wet cobblestone street in an urban area, surrounded by old buildings with various colorful storefronts. It appears to be an overcast day.
  • Two people are standing close, facing each other, and smiling. They appear to be outdoors.
  • A man and woman stand closely together, smiling at the camera with a street in the background adorned with string lights.
  • A couple, dressed formally, walks arm-in-arm down a crowded street with shops and people in the background.
  • A well-dressed couple walks arm-in-arm along a cobblestone street lined with colorful buildings and holiday decorations.
  • A man and woman stand closely on a narrow street, looking at each other warmly as the man gently holds the woman's head. Urban buildings and pedestrians are visible in the background.
  • A man and woman smiling at each other while the man gently holds the woman's neck. They are outdoors with blurred buildings and lights in the background.
  • A couple dressed in formal attire walks arm-in-arm on a wet cobblestone street, smiling and looking at each other. People bundled in winter clothing are seen in the background.
  • A couple stands close together embracing on a cobblestone street lined with colorful buildings.
  • A couple stands together on a wet cobblestone street flanked by buildings and shops, with a crowd and festive decorations in the background.
  • A man and woman walk side by side on a rainy day, dressed in formal attire. The man carries a rolled-up newspaper. They are on a sidewalk with ornate railing behind them.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is famous for its stunning panoramic views that extend throughout the city and offer dramatic backdrops that are perfect for engagement photos.

National Monument, Nelson Monument, and Dugald Stewart Monument offer unique settings and viewpoints that are ideal for capturing both intimate and dramatic moments.

The main reason we find this one of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations is the views across Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.

  • A man and woman stand outdoors on a hillside with a blurred cityscape and historic buildings in the background. Both are wearing coats, with the woman having her hand on the man's chest.
  • A man and a woman stand outdoors against a blurred natural background. They are both dressed in formal winter clothing and smiling at the camera.
  • A couple stands on a grassy hill, embracing and looking toward a distant cityscape with historic buildings and a clock tower.
  • Person wearing a dark checkered coat, with hands clasped together in front.
  • A couple walks hand in hand on a paved path in a park, with people in the background and a hill visible in the distance. The man is wearing a brown jacket, and the woman is wearing a beige coat.
  • A couple stands close together, gazing at each other, with a historical monument and cityscape in the background under a cloudy sky.
  • A couple stands close together, the man embracing the woman from behind, with a cityscape in the background.
  • A couple in coats stands on a viewpoint overlooking a cityscape. The man embraces the woman from behind, both smiling with city buildings and a clock tower visible in the background.
  • A man and a woman walk along a pathway on a cloudy day, with a cityscape and historical buildings in the background.
  • Two people standing on a hilltop holding hands and smiling at each other, with a cityscape in the background. One is wearing a brown coat, and the other is in a dark jacket and black pants.
  • A couple stands close together outdoors, touching foreheads and smiling, with the man holding the woman's head. The background shows a blurred landscape.
  • A man and woman stand outside holding hands, both dressed in coats and boots. They face each other, smiling. A large ivy-covered building is in the background.
  • A man and woman pose on a grassy hill in front of a stone structure with pillars. The woman sits on a large rock while the man stands beside her with his arm around her.
  • A couple stands facing each other, holding hands in an open grassy area. In the background, there is a large ancient structure with tall columns and a clear sky.
  • A couple embraces outdoors on a grassy area near historical ruins. A faint rainbow is visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
  • A couple embraces outdoors on a sunny day with a faint rainbow in the background. The woman faces the camera, smiling with eyes closed, while the man faces her, partially obscured.
  • A couple standing outdoors, with one person hugging the other from behind. Both are looking off-camera. The background features a blurred mountainous landscape under a cloudy sky.
  • A couple stands embracing and smiling on a hilltop, with a view of a city and hilly landscape in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
  • A man and woman sit on a black bench, outdoors, in front of large pillars. They are facing each other, smiling, with the woman resting her hand on the man’s knee.
Vennel newlyweds with Edinburgh Castle in the background

Vennel

A vennel is a lovely little Scots word (borrowed from the French “venelle”) that means a narrow lane or passageway between buildings.

You’ll find them tucked away in historic places like Edinburgh and Perth — little secret walkways that have stood the test of time.

We love using Edinburgh’s vennels for wedding photos, and this particular one, actually called ‘Vennel’, is full of charm and character. The perfect mix of history and intimacy for a beautiful wedding backdrop!

The Vennel is a hidden gem for photography. It provides stunning views of the cityscape and the iconic landmark, Edinburgh Castle.

Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano in Edinburgh, Scotland, provides a dramatic backdrop to the city’s skyline.

A popular hiking destination, its summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding area.

Rich in history and folklore, Arthur’s Seat is a natural haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a symbol of Edinburgh’s rugged beauty.

Ginni and Henry at St Anthony's Chapel
Newlyweds at Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, is a lush oasis beneath the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

With beautifully manicured lawns, vibrant floral displays, and historic monuments, it serves as a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors, providing a scenic respite from the bustling city life.

A highlight of Princes Street Gardens is the beautiful Ross Fountain, recently restored to its Victorian-era glory!

Contact Us To Arrange Photos At Edinburgh’s Most Instagrammable Locations

If you love the photos on this page, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Contact us and tell us your story. We promise to create classic, genuine photos that tell the story of your love.

Let’s discover more hidden nooks to take your beautiful photos at Edinburgh’s most photogenic places, for photos that will last a lifetime!

Contact Jonathon and Claire

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations?

Think castle‑framed staircases, secret mews of pastel perfection, dreamy parks and stunning viewpoints—places like The Vennel, Circus Lane, Calton Hill, Dean Village, Princes Street Gardens, Holyrood Park, and more totally steal the show.

When is the best time to shoot at these Insta‑hotspots?

Golden hour is your BFF—sneak in a sunrise snap at Arthur’s Seat or a soft sunset glow on Calton Hill. Bonus tip: early morning weekdays = empty streets and almost no insta-bombers. Wet weather can mean golden hour is a washout, so that a daytime shoot would be great!

Are there any hidden gems for go‑to Insta-content?

Absolutely! Don’t skip quirky little lanes like Circus Lane (a cobbled pastel dream), Calton Hill at sunset, or Stockbridge’s charming corners—utterly charming, surprisingly low on foot‑traffic, and big on photo appeal.

Do I need to pay for entry at any spots?

Nah – most are freebies! Public parks, streets, viewpoints—you’re golden. The only exception? A rooftop cocktail bar and pressure to sip while you snap!

How do I avoid being ‘that tourist’ at popular spots like Circus Lane?

Respect the locals (they call it “Scotland’s most Instagrammable street” for a reason). Arrive early, keep shoots low-key, and treat it like someone’s home, not just your backdrop. Bonus: check local rules if you’re thinking styled shoots—they matter, and we’re happy to discuss this with you.

Which spot gives the best castle backdrop?

The Vennel staircase is a legend for a reason—its dramatic angles shoot Edinburgh Castle straight and centre. Calton Hill and Princes Street Gardens are top‑tier too—and hello, those sweeping skyline shots!

Photographer & Videographer

Once upon a time, Jonathon Fowler ran a successful print and graphic design business, turning blank paper into masterpieces. But when he married Claire, he had an epiphany—why print memories when you can capture them? That lightbulb moment led to a bold career switch, and 20 years later, he’s one of Scotland’s most experienced and sought-after wedding photographers and videographers.

From Printing to Picture-perfect Moments

Since 2006, Jonathon has photographed and filmed over 700 weddings, expertly blending artistic flair with a documentary-style approach. Whether it’s an intimate elopement in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town or a grand castle wedding in rural Scotland, he’s got the experience (and the camera skills) to capture every heartfelt moment.

Why Couples Trust Jonathon (and you should too!)

  • Unmatched experience
  • 700+ weddings, countless happy couples
  • proven track record of being in the right place at the right time to capture moments

Award-winning Photography & Videography

Recognised in the wedding industry for photographing and filming love stories creatively and precisely.

Authentic & Timeless Style

Natural storytelling documenting real, authentic emotions never goes out of fashion.

Personalised Service

Your wedding isn’t a copy-paste job, and neither is Jonathon’s approach.

With a reputation built on passion for the role he plays on your wedding day, expertise, and an eye for the perfect shot, Jonathon Fowler is the photographer you want behind the lens on your big day.

Get in touch now and allow one of Scotland’s leading wedding photographers to turn your wedding memories into something truly unforgettable.

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