7 of Europe’s Most Gorgeous Lakes to Experience and Photograph

Sunset view of Bâlea Lake in Romania from a nearby mountain
Photo: Ioan Panaite/Depositphotos

Europe is filled with stunning natural beauty, including many picturesque lakes. In this article, we’ll look at seven of Europe’s most gorgeous lakes, each offering unique vistas and photographic opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to the stillness of early morning reflections or the vibrant colors of a sunset over the water, these lakes won’t disappoint.

👉 Related reading: Unlock the Beauty of Reflections in Landscape and Travel Photography

1. Lake Bovilla, Albania

Sunset view over Lake Bovilla, Albania
Photo: Andrew Mayovskyy/123RF

Nestled in the heart of the Dajti Mountain range, Lake Bovilla is a hidden gem waiting to be photographed. This artificial reservoir, created by the construction of a dam, is characterized by its striking turquoise waters and dramatic surrounding cliffs.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The vivid color of the lake contrasts beautifully with the rugged terrain, making it a perfect subject for photos.
  • Surrounded by untouched nature, Lake Bovilla offers an escape from the bustling city life of nearby Tirana, providing a tranquil setting.
  • The hike to the lake provides various vantage points, each offering a unique perspective and photographic potential.

2. Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Sunset views at Lake Bled
Photo: merc67/Envato Elements

Slovenia boasts not one but two picturesque lakes, and we’re including them together on this list because they’re only separated by a short drive (about 25 kilometers or 15 miles.) Lake Bled, with its iconic island church and medieval castle, provides a fairy-tale setting that looks stunning from every angle. Meanwhile, Lake Bohinj, offers a more unspoiled beauty.

Why They’re Must-Visits:

  • Lake Bled’s island, with its charming church, is a focal point for many photos. You can capture it from the lakeshore or by taking a boat ride to the island itself.
  • The medieval Bled Castle perched on a cliff offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Julian Alps, ideal for wide-angle shots.
  • Lake Bohinj’s calm waters reflect the rugged peaks of the Julian Alps, creating beautiful mirror-like images.

3. Lake Lugano, Switzerland and Italy

High view of Lake Lugano
Photo: Eva Bocek/Depositphotos

Straddling the border between Switzerland and Italy, Lake Lugano is a glacial lake surrounded by lush mountains and picturesque villages. This lake blends natural beauty and culture, offering diverse subjects for travel photos.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The serene waters with the backdrop of the Swiss Alps make for captivating images.
  • The charming town of Lugano, with its Mediterranean flair, adds a cultural dimension to your photography, from colorful buildings to bustling markets.
  • The Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore viewpoints offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding regions.

4. Attersee, Austria

Female climber sitting on a rock overlooking Attersee
Photo: Mihai Neacsu/Depositphotos

Located in the Salzkammergut region, Attersee is Austria’s largest lake and a favorite for water sports. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding alpine scenery make it equally ideal for photography.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The lake’s pristine water is exceptionally clear and picturesque.
  • The surrounding mountains and quaint villages offer varied backdrops, perfect for landscape and travel photography.
  • The vibrant sunsets over Attersee are magical, providing photographers with a memorable golden hour.

5. Lake Como, Italy

Sala Comacina village on Lake Como
Photo: StevanZZ/Envato Elements

Lake Como is synonymous with luxury and elegance, attracting celebrities and travelers from around the world. Its stunning villas, charming villages, and lush gardens make it a photographer’s paradise.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The combination of opulent villas and natural beauty is perfect for storytelling through your photos.
  • The quaint villages of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio offer picturesque streets and waterfronts, each with its own charm and photographic potential.
  • The dramatic landscape, with the lake nestled between the towering Alps, provides endless photo opportunities.

6. Bâlea Lake, Romania

Sunset view of Bâlea Lake in Romania from a nearby mountain
Photo: Ioan Panaite/Depositphotos

High in the Făgăraș Mountains, the glacial Bâlea Lake offers a pristine and remote setting for photographers. Accessible via the Transfăgărășan, one of the most scenic roads in the world, Bâlea Lake is certainly worth the trip.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The lake’s high-altitude location provides a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks, even in summer.
  • The reflections of the mountains on the lake’s surface create stunning symmetrical compositions.
  • The surrounding landscape changes with the seasons, offering different photographic opportunities year-round, from lush green summers to snowy winters.

7. Lake Garda, Italy

Night view of Lake Garda with mountains in the background
Photo: Constantin Daniel Iacob/Depositphotos

Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, combines natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant towns. From the northern rugged cliffs to the southern rolling hills, Lake Garda is ideal for photography.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

  • The lake’s size and diversity mean there’s always something new to capture, from the serene waters to the bustling towns.
  • The medieval town of Sirmione, with its ancient castle and Roman ruins, provides historical context and striking architecture.
  • The surrounding vineyards and olive groves enhance the lake’s already picturesque scenery.