Burj Khalifa tops global photography destination rankings of 2025

Expensive to visit, too

The Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai has been recognised as the world’s most sought-after location for personal photography and one of the most expensive sites to visit, according to a new study by Heepsy. The analysis evaluated over 50 iconic landmarks worldwide, considering entrance fees, global search popularity, and annual visitor numbers.

The study highlighted the growing costs and restrictions of capturing photographs at these renowned sites.​

1 Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, at 828 metres, is the highest among the top-ranked destinations. It attracts approximately 17 million visitors annually and generates 29.4 million global searches annually. The entrance fee can exceed $50. This combination of high costs and immense popularity has contributed to its ranking, with a composite score of 100. The building’s status as the tallest structure in the world and its prominence in Dubai’s skyline make it a prime location for photography enthusiasts.​

2 Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania follows closely, with a composite score of 97.3. Despite its moderate $70 entrance fee, the mountain garners 5.5 million global searches annually. Its reputation as a challenging and prestigious trekking destination adds to its allure, making it a coveted location for photographers seeking unique and adventurous shots.​

3 Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower in Paris ranks third with a score of 94.6. At $39, its entrance fee is relatively affordable compared to other landmarks. However, it still attracts 7 million visitors annually and generates 23.4 million global searches. Its iconic status and romantic appeal continue to make it a favourite among tourists and photographers.​

4 Big Ben

London’s Big Ben follows with a score of 91.9. It charges an entrance fee of $46, attracts 5 million visitors annually, and sees 23.9 million global searches. Its historical significance and recognisable clock face ensure its place as a prominent subject for photography.​

5 Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands rank fifth with an 89.2 score. Despite their high $200 entrance fee, the islands draw 329,000 visitors yearly, generating 1.5 million global searches. Their unique biodiversity and pristine landscapes make them a dream destination for nature photographers, albeit at a premium cost.​

6 Sagrada Familia

Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia ranks sixth with an 86.5 score. It is among the more affordable landmarks with an entry fee of $29. The basilica attracts 17.2 million global searches and 4.7 million visitors annually, reflecting its architectural grandeur and cultural significance.​

7 Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon in Arizona follows with a score of 83.8. Its $35 entrance fee is reasonable, and it sees 15.7 million visitors annually, generating 15.7 million global searches. The canyon’s dramatic landscapes and geological formations make it a popular subject for photographers.​

8 Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu in Peru ranks eighth with a score of 81.1. Charging $45 for entry, it attracts 1.6 million visitors annually and generates 14.9 million global searches. The ancient Incan city nestled in the Andes offers a blend of history and natural beauty, appealing to photographers seeking to capture its mystique.​

9 Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles in France ranks ninth with a score of 78.4. Its $32 entrance fee is among the more affordable European landmarks. Despite attracting 15 million visitors, it garners 1.6 million global searches, indicating stronger physical interest than digital demand. Its opulent architecture and expansive gardens continue to captivate visitors and photographers.​

10 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

In the top ten list is Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China, which scored 75.7. While its $30 entrance fee is one of the lowest, the park attracts 15.9 million visitors yet sees only 305,000 global searches. Its limited digital presence holds it back from ranking higher, though it remains a popular location for capturing scenic landscapes, especially in Asia.​

Tabi Vicuña, Founder of Heepsy, commented on the study: “As personal photography becomes more regulated and costs vary by location, travellers are now planning around more than just the view.

“The true cost of getting a good photo goes well beyond the entrance gate, from fees to permit rules to gear restrictions. This ranking highlights a growing gap between digital interest and financial accessibility—some of the most famous places remain affordable, while others are quietly becoming luxury experiences.”​

This study underscores the evolving dynamics of travel photography, where costs and regulations increasingly influence photographers’ choice of destination. As digital platforms shape travel trends, understanding the interplay between financial accessibility and photographic opportunities becomes essential for travellers and tourism stakeholders.

Image: At 828 metres, Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest skyscraper in the world. Credit: Aleksandar Pasaric

Last Updated on 2 weeks by News Desk