Sunrise hotspots: Top 10 cities for Instagram-worthy mornings
NYC tops the list
A new study by Heepsy has highlighted the world’s top cities for capturing the perfect sunrise, ranking them based on their popularity for Instagrammable moments. The research delved into key factors such as Instagram hashtags, annual sunshine hours, the Air Quality Index (AQI), tourist traffic, and famous sunrise locations.
The rankings were determined by the number of Instagram hashtags tied to sunrises in each city, which clearly indicates their digital allure and global appeal.
1. New York City, USA
New York City clinched the top spot with a staggering 685K sunrise-related Instagram hashtags. The Big Apple’s iconic landmarks, such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park, provide the perfect backdrop for early risers looking to capture the first light of day. With over 66 million tourists annually, New York offers a vibrant sunrise experience, with a sunrise time of 7:17 AM, making it an ideal location for early morning photography.
2. Dubai, UAE
Second place went to Dubai, with 254K sunrise hashtags. The city’s consistently sunny weather and breathtaking sunrise spots like the Lahbab Desert and Burj Khalifa attract countless sunrise enthusiasts. With an impressive 3,509 annual sunshine hours—the highest of any city—Dubai’s golden mornings are a photographer’s dream, offering perfect conditions for capturing the sun’s first rays.
3. Seoul, South Korea
In third place, Seoul earned 75.6K Instagram hashtags for its stunning sunrise views. Locations like Namsan Tower and the Han River offer peaceful vistas as the sun rises at 7:47 AM. With an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 55, Seoul provides clear skies and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a calm and picturesque morning.
4. Sydney, Australia
Sydney comes in at number four with 61.8K sunrise-related hashtags. Famous for its pristine air quality (AQI of 21), Sydney provides vibrant sunrise views from Bondi Beach and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The sun rises early at 5:45 AM, allowing photographers to capture the city in the soft, early light. The city’s natural beauty and stunning architecture make it a top destination for those wanting to witness a spectacular sunrise.
5. Paris, France
Paris rounds out the top five with 52.3K hashtags. While the city may have shorter sunshine hours, its reputation as a romantic hotspot ensures that sunrises remain a captivating experience. Visitors flock to the Trocadéro Gardens, where the sun rises at 8:44 AM, offering an unforgettable view of the Eiffel Tower bathed in golden light. The beauty and charm of Paris make it a must-see destination for early-morning photographers.
6. Berlin, Germany
Berlin, with 47.9K Instagram hashtags, secured sixth place. The city’s rich history and modern flair combine in locations like the Reichstag Dome and Oberbaum Bridge, offering unique contrasts that make Berlin’s sunrises incredibly photogenic. With an AQI of 42, the skies are clear, and the early hours are perfect for capturing the city’s changing light.
7. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco took seventh place with 33K hashtags. Known for its signature fog, the city boasts some of the cleanest air (AQI of 16) and provides crystal-clear sunrise views from the Marin Headlands or Twin Peaks. San Francisco’s mix of natural beauty and foggy mornings makes its sunrises uniquely captivating.
8. Madrid, Spain
Madrid earned 21.5K hashtags for its sunrises, ranking eighth on the list. The Templo de Debod offers one of the most historic sunrise locations, where the sun rises over an ancient Egyptian temple. With almost 2,800 annual sunshine hours, Madrid’s mornings are warm and inviting, offering a soft light perfect for photographers.
9. Maui, USA
Maui, Hawaii, came in ninth place with 18.9K hashtags. Famous for its Haleakalā Summit, Maui attracts sunrise seekers who witness breathtaking views as the sun rises at 7:06 AM. With nearly 3,000 annual sunshine hours, Maui provides stunning shifts in colour during sunrise, creating unforgettable photo opportunities.
10. Barcelona, Spain
Finally, Barcelona rounded out the top ten with 17.1K sunrise hashtags. The Bunkers del Carmel offers panoramic city views, making it a popular spot for sunrise enthusiasts. The sun rises at 8:17 AM, and Barcelona’s unique blend of urban and natural landscapes makes every sunrise a memorable experience.
Commenting on the study, Tabi Vicuña, founder of Heepsy, said: “Sunrises offer a rare chance to witness destinations at their most tranquil, providing a fresh perspective on familiar locations. These early hours not only bring a sense of stillness but also reveal the beauty and charm of a city in a way that is often missed during the hustle of the day.”
Image: The Big Apple’s iconic landmarks provide the perfect backdrop for early risers looking to capture the first light of day. Credit: Pierre Blaché
