19 Best Drone Photography Locations for Stunning Aerial Shots

Few things excite me more than launching my drone in a place built for epic aerial shots.

Whether it’s dramatic mountains, crystal-clear waters, or buzzing cityscapes, the right location makes all the difference.

I’ve put together a list of the best drone photography locations, featuring places I’d love to fly over myself—each offering breathtaking angles and next-level footage.

If you love capturing the world from above, let’s explore 19 must-visit locations for drone pilots.

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What Makes a Great Drone Photography Location?

Not every spot is ideal for drone photography. Some places have too many obstructions, while others might have strict regulations that make flying impossible. Here’s what makes a location perfect for capturing breathtaking aerial shots:

• Wide open spaces with minimal obstructions – The fewer trees, buildings, and power lines in your way, the better. Open areas give you more freedom to fly safely and get creative angles.
• Visually striking landscapes – Mountains, coastlines, waterfalls, and urban skylines look incredible from above. The contrast of natural and man-made structures creates compelling compositions.
• Legal drone-flying zones – Some areas are restricted due to privacy concerns, air traffic, or environmental protection. Always check the rules before you launch.
• Interesting lighting conditions – Sunrise and sunset provide the best natural lighting. Soft golden hues make landscapes look even more stunning.
• Low-risk areas – Flying over large crowds or congested cities can be risky. It’s always best to choose locations where you can fly safely without endangering others.

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19 Best Drone Photography Locations Around the World

Iconic Landmarks for Epic Aerial Shots

1. Sedona, Arizona, USA

Sedona is a drone pilot’s dream with its massive red rock formations, deep canyons, and wide desert views. The contrast between towering sandstone cliffs and lush green vegetation makes for cinematic shots. The best light comes at sunrise and sunset when the rocks glow in deep reds and oranges.

For dramatic aerial footage, fly near Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, two of Sedona’s most iconic formations. Low-flying shots over Oak Creek Canyon create a stunning contrast between red rocks and greenery. If you want something different, head out to Schnebly Hill Road, where high viewpoints give breathtaking overlooks.

Where You Can Fly

✔ Schnebly Hill Road – High elevation with sweeping views of Sedona’s red rocks
✔ BLM Land (north & west of Sedona) – Public land where drones are allowed
✔ Open areas outside state parks – Many stunning spots just outside restricted zones

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

✖ Red Rock State Park – No drones allowed in Arizona’s state parks
✖ Slide Rock State Park – Drone use is strictly prohibited
✖ Coconino National Forest (some parts) – Check local regulations for designated no-fly zones

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Golden hour or after rain for dramatic reflections
• Weather considerations: Strong winds can be common—check forecasts before flying
• Regulatory reminders: Stay away from private property and state parks to avoid fines

2. Santorini, Greece

The white-washed buildings and blue domes of Santorini contrast beautifully against the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. Oia and Fira provide some of the most picturesque aerial views, especially at sunset when golden light bathes the island.

Flying above the Santorini caldera reveals breathtaking shots of volcanic cliffs plunging into the shimmering water below. Coastal winds can be unpredictable, making drone stability tricky, especially for lighter models.

Smooth, slow movements work best for capturing cinematic footage of the island’s unique architecture and landscapes.

I mean, just look at this— the way the landscape and city are laid out makes drone footage hit differently. It’s like it was made to be seen from above.

Where You Can Fly

• Akrotiri Peninsula – This area offers open spaces with fewer restrictions, providing scenic coastal views.
• Perissa Beach – A less crowded beach where drone flights are generally permitted.
• Emporio Village – A traditional village with narrow alleys and historic architecture, suitable for aerial shots.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Oia Village – Due to its popularity and dense tourist presence, drone flights are restricted.
• Fira Town – The capital of Santorini, often crowded, where drone usage is limited.
• Near Santorini Airport – All areas within an 8 km radius of the airport are no-fly zones.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture soft lighting.
• Weather considerations: Be cautious of strong winds common in the Aegean Sea region.
• Regulatory reminders: Always maintain a direct line of sight with your drone and avoid flying over private properties without permission.

3. Dubai Skyline, UAE

Dubai’s skyline is like no other, with Burj Khalifa towering above futuristic cityscapes and artificial islands like Palm Jumeirah reshaping the coastline.

Capturing footage over the Palm offers cinematic sweeps of its curved design, best framed during golden hour when shadows add depth to the structures.

Sunrise flights over Dubai Marina showcase the skyscrapers reflecting soft morning light, creating a surreal glow. Drone permits are required for flying in Dubai, and airspace restrictions are strictly enforced, so advance planning is essential.

If you really want to capture something insane, whether it’s video or high-resolution photos, fly at night. This city is extremely modern, yet so many people don’t even know about it. And still, it pulls in crowds just because of the insane tech and the way these buildings are designed.

An FPV drone like the DJI Avata 2 offers a thrilling, immersive flying experience that takes aerial footage to the next level. Read our full review here.

Where You Can Fly

• Al Qudra Lakes – Designated as a green zone, it’s suitable for drone enthusiasts.
• Jebel Ali Beach – A spacious area where drone flights are generally allowed.
• Desert Areas – Open desert spaces outside restricted zones offer expansive views.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Downtown Dubai – Areas around Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are restricted due to dense population and security concerns.
• Near Airports – A 5 km no-fly zone is enforced around all airports.
• Over Residential Areas – Flying over private properties without permission is prohibited.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning or late afternoon to capture the city’s skyline with optimal lighting.
• Weather considerations: Be aware of high temperatures and occasional sandstorms which can affect drone performance.
• Regulatory reminders: Ensure your drone is registered with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and always fly within designated green zones.

4. Great Wall of China, China

Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall offers stunning aerial perspectives as it winds through mountain landscapes. Sections like Mutianyu and Jinshanling contrast beautifully with the lush hills surrounding them.

Aerial tracking shots along the ridgeline emphasize the Wall’s incredible scale, while winter brings a special touch—snow-covered stones create a striking visual against the rugged terrain. Many areas have strict drone restrictions, so researching approved flight zones is necessary before planning a shoot.

Where You Can Fly

• Huanghuacheng Section – A less crowded area where drone flights are more feasible.
• Jinshanling Section – Known for its scenic views and fewer tourists, suitable for aerial photography.
• Gubeikou Section – A remote area offering expansive views with more relaxed regulations.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Badaling Section – The most visited part of the Wall, where drone flights are prohibited.
• Mutianyu Section – Due to its popularity, drone usage is restricted.
• Jiankou Section – A wild and unrestored part of the Wall where drone flights are not allowed.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Weekdays during early morning hours to avoid crowds and capture the morning mist.
• Weather considerations: Check for clear skies and be cautious of strong winds prevalent in mountainous areas.
• Regulatory reminders: Obtain necessary permits if required, and always respect local regulations and cultural sites.

5. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is famous for its tall rock formations and open valleys. The dry land and cave homes make for great shots. Sunrise is the best time, with hot air balloons filling the sky.

Fly over Love Valley to capture its strange rock towers. Rose Valley has smooth hills that turn pink in the evening light. Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) is a well-known spot with tall, thin rocks standing side by side.

Where You Can Fly

✔ Love Valley – Unique stone towers that look great from above
✔ Rose Valley – Rolling hills with pink and red colors
✔ Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) – A cluster of famous rock shapes

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

✖ Near Military Zones – No drones near these areas
✖ Over Certain Archaeological Sites – Protected zones where drones are banned
✖ Near Buildings – Turkish law requires 50 meters of distance from buildings

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Regulations: Follow local rules and stay out of restricted areas
• Best time to shoot: Morning when balloons fill the sky
• Weather conditions: Wind picks up midday, fly early

Natural Wonders Perfect for Drone Photography

6. Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands offer rugged landscapes shaped by sheer cliffs, powerful waterfalls, and the open Atlantic. Sørvágsvatn, the famous floating lake, creates a mind-bending illusion best captured from above.

Drangarnir Sea Arch provides another must-shoot location, offering a natural frame for tracking shots through its massive rock formations. Weather conditions are unpredictable, with strong winds that can challenge even the most stable drones, so timing flights carefully is crucial.

Where You Can Fly

• Sørvágsvatn Lake – Known for its optical illusion of a lake above the ocean, this area offers unique aerial perspectives.
• Tjørnuvík Beach – A scenic spot with coastal views and fewer restrictions.
• Kalsoy Island – Home to the Kallur Lighthouse, providing dramatic cliffside vistas.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Within 150 meters of villages or main roads – Danish regulations prohibit drone flights close to populated areas and main roads connecting villages.
• Within 5 kilometers of Vágar Airport – Strict no-fly zone around the airport.
• Above gatherings or festivals – Flying over crowds is not allowed.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning or late evening for optimal lighting and minimal wind.
• Weather considerations: The Faroe Islands experience rapid weather changes; always check forecasts before flying.
• Regulatory reminders: Do not fly above 100 meters and always maintain a line of sight with your drone.

7. Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten Islands have sharp peaks, deep water, and open land. The mix of mountains and ocean makes it perfect for drone shots. The light at sunrise and sunset brings out the colors in the sky and water.

For the best angles, fly over Fredvang Bridges for a smooth shot of winding roads leading into the mountains. Reinebringen Summit gives wide views of the village and the water below. Hamnøy Village is another good spot with red cabins against blue water.

Where You Can Fly

✔ Fredvang Bridges – Curving roads with water and mountains in the background
✔ Unstad Beach – Big waves and long coastlines make for great shots
✔ Hamnøy Village – A classic fishing village with deep blue water

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

✖ Svolvær Airport Area – No flights near the airport
✖ Leknes Airport Area – Drones not allowed around this zone
✖ National Park Areas – Places like Kvalvika Beach and Ryten are off-limits

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Long daylight hours in summer
• Weather conditions: Changes fast, check before flying
• Regulations: Stay clear of wildlife and no-fly zones

8. Patagonia & Northern Argentina

Argentina has some of the most diverse landscapes in the world. From the towering Andes mountains to the coastlines of the Atlantic Ocean, there are endless places to capture from above. The country is home to salt flats, wetlands, glaciers, deserts, and dramatic rock formations, making it a dream for aerial photography.

Drone pilots will find the best locations outside national parks and major cities, where flights are restricted. El Chaltén is a hotspot for capturing Mount Fitz Roy, a rugged peak rising above rolling hills. The Iberá Wetlands are a massive stretch of reflective water and islands, perfect for wide aerial views.

The Salinas Grandes salt flats create a surreal landscape of white, flat terrain that looks incredible from the air.

Argentina’s Atlantic coastline runs over 4,700 kilometers, giving plenty of open beaches and cliffside views. In the north, the Quebrada de Humahuaca region is filled with brightly colored hills that change in the light. While national parks are off-limits, some provincial parks and private reserves may allow drones with permission.

Always check the rules before launching.

Where You Can Fly

• El Chaltén (outside park limits) – Capture views of Mount Fitz Roy and the surrounding rugged landscapes.
• Iberá Wetlands – Expansive lakes, twisting waterways, and open land perfect for wide drone shots.
• Salinas Grandes – Bright white salt flats that create a stunning contrast with the sky.
• Atlantic Coastline – Open beaches and coastal areas like Mar del Plata and Punta Tombo offer expansive ocean views.
• Quebrada de Humahuaca, Jujuy – The colorful hills and historic sites in northern Argentina are perfect for high-contrast aerial shots.
• Provincial Parks and Private Reserves – With permission, areas outside national parks can be suitable for drone flights.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Los Glaciares National Park – Includes Perito Moreno Glacier and surrounding areas. No drones are allowed anywhere in the park.
• Iguazú National Park – The famous waterfalls and surrounding rainforest are protected. Drones are banned to avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Nahuel Huapi National Park – Covers a large part of Bariloche and its famous lake. No drone flights are allowed in park zones.
• Overpopulated cities – Cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario have strict no-fly rules unless you have a permit.
• Near airports – Stay at least 5 kilometers away from any airport or aerodrome. Violations can lead to heavy fines.
• Private property and farmland – Farmers and landowners may take legal action if you fly over their land without permission.

Key Considerations for Flying Here

• Winds can ruin flights – Patagonia is known for strong gusts. Fly early in the morning when the winds are calmer.
• Drone registration – If your drone weighs 500 grams or more, you must register it with ANAC (Argentina’s aviation authority).
• Altitude limits – The max legal height is 120 meters (400 feet). Flying higher requires special approval.
• Respect wildlife – Many regions have wild animals, including birds of prey. Keep a safe distance to avoid interference.
• Insurance is smart – While not required, liability insurance can protect against fines or damage claims.
• Police check – Some areas may have local enforcement. Carry your drone permit if you registered it.
• Salt flats reflect heat – Flying over Salinas Grandes can cause overheating. Plan flights early or late in the day.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay’s towering limestone formations emerging from emerald waters create one of the most unique drone views in the world. Traditional wooden boats weaving through the bay add movement and cultural depth to aerial shots.

The best conditions occur at sunrise when mist lingers between the formations, softening the light and making the bay appear endless. Flying over water always carries risk, so ensuring a strong signal and maintaining battery life is essential to avoid accidents.

Where You Can Fly

• Bai Tu Long Bay – Adjacent to Ha Long Bay, this area is less crowded and offers similar scenic beauty.
• Cat Ba Island – Provides diverse landscapes, from dense forests to coastal vistas.
• Tuan Chau Island – A developed area with open spaces suitable for drone operations.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Over-densely populated tourist boats – Avoid flying directly over boats to ensure safety.
• Near military zones – Strictly prohibited due to security concerns.
• Overprotected marine areas – Some zones may have restrictions to protect wildlife.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning for calm waters and fewer tourists.
• Weather considerations: Be cautious of fog, especially during winter months, which can reduce visibility.
• Regulatory reminders: Vietnam has specific drone regulations; it’s advisable to obtain permission from local authorities before flying.

10. The Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites have sharp cliffs, open valleys, and lakes that reflect the sky. The mix of stone and green land makes every shot stand out. The best time to film is early or late when the shadows add depth.

Fly over Lago di Antorno to capture still water with mountain reflections. Seceda Ridgeline has high cliffs that drop into rolling fields. Tre Cime di Lavaredo is another spot where giant peaks create a strong visual.

Where You Can Fly

✔ Passo Giau – A winding road with mountain peaks on all sides
✔ Alpe di Siusi – A high meadow with wide views and rolling hills
✔ Val di Funes – A valley with a famous small church and mountain backdrop

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

✖ Lago di Braies – Inside a nature park, no drone flights allowed
✖ Tre Cime Nature Park – Protected area, drones are banned
✖ Seceda Nature Reserve – Rules forbid drones in this region

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Regulations: Many nature parks are no-fly zones, check maps first
• Best time to shoot: Sunrise for golden light
• Weather conditions: Cold winds in high areas

Coastal & Island Paradises

11. Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui’s varied landscapes include lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and dramatic coastlines, making it an ideal drone location. The Road to Hana is a prime subject, with winding roads weaving through tropical scenery and waterfalls hidden around every turn.

Haleakalā Crater presents another striking aerial perspective, resembling a vast, otherworldly terrain at sunrise. Ocean winds in Maui can be strong, making it essential to fly in calmer conditions for steady, cinematic shots.

Where You Can Fly

• Haleakalā National Park (outside the park boundaries) – While drone use is prohibited within the park, areas just outside offer similar vistas.
• Makena State Park – Known for its expansive beaches and clear waters.
• Waihee Ridge Trail – Provides elevated views of the island’s lush landscapes.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Within national parks – Drones are prohibited in all U.S. national parks, including Haleakalā.
• Over private property without consent – Always obtain permission before flying over private lands.
• Near airports – Maintain a 5-mile distance from all airports.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Morning hours to take advantage of calm winds and soft lighting.
• Weather considerations: Maui’s weather can vary; always check local conditions before flying.
• Regulatory reminders: Ensure your drone is registered with the FAA and adhere to all local regulations.

12. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s landscapes range from terraced rice fields to towering sea cliffs, creating a diverse selection of drone opportunities. The Tegalalang Rice Terraces display intricate patterns that look incredible from above, particularly in the golden morning light.

Uluwatu Temple, perched on a high cliff, offers breathtaking aerial perspectives with waves crashing below. Kelingking Beach is another standout, featuring a T-Rex-shaped rock formation surrounded by crystal-clear water. Flying in restricted temple areas is prohibited, so checking flight zones is necessary.

Where You Can Fly

• Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Iconic stepped rice fields offering lush green landscapes.
• Uluwatu Cliffs – Dramatic coastal cliffs with panoramic ocean views.
• Mount Batur – A volcanic area providing unique geological features.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Over temples and religious sites – Respect local customs by avoiding these areas.
• Near Ngurah Rai International Airport – Maintain a safe distance of at least 15 kilometers.
• Over densely populated areas – Avoid flying over crowds to ensure safety.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Dry season (April to October) offers clearer skies.
• Weather considerations: Humidity

13. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and colorful villages make it a spectacular aerial subject. Positano and Ravello, with their buildings cascading down toward the Mediterranean, create stunning compositions from above.

Morning flights capture the coastline in soft, golden light before crowds fill the streets. Aerial shots of the winding coastal roads, hugging steep cliffs, add a dynamic element to drone footage.

Where You Can Fly

• Ravello – This hilltop town offers open areas with panoramic views, suitable for drone flights.
• Praiano – Less crowded than other towns, providing opportunities for coastal aerial shots.
• Maiori – Features a long stretch of beach with fewer restrictions, ideal for capturing expansive coastal vistas.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Positano – Due to its popularity and dense tourist presence, drone flights are restricted.
• Amalfi Town – The central area is often crowded, where drone usage is limited.
• Near Salerno Airport – All areas within a certain radius of the airport are no-fly zones.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture soft lighting.
• Weather considerations: Be cautious of coastal winds which can affect drone stability.
• Regulatory reminders: Always maintain a direct line of sight with your drone and avoid flying over private properties without permission.

14. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is a stunning aerial spectacle, with vibrant coral formations stretching for miles beneath crystal-clear waters. Heart Reef is a particularly famous drone location, its perfect heart shape standing out against the deep blue ocean.

Since the reef is a protected area, drone flights should be conducted responsibly to avoid disturbing marine life. Flying at a lower altitude reveals intricate coral details, while higher-altitude shots highlight the sheer scale of the reef.

Where You Can Fly

• Cairns Esplanade – Offers open spaces with views of the coastline and reef.
• Airlie Beach – Provides access to the Whitsunday Islands, where drone flights are generally permitted.
• Hamilton Island – Designated areas allow for aerial photography of the surrounding reefs.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Over Marine Park Zones – Certain protected areas within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park prohibit drone flights.
• Near Airports – Maintain a 5.5 km distance from all airports, including regional ones.
• Over Wildlife Habitats – Avoid flying over areas known for sensitive wildlife to prevent disturbances.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: During the dry season (May to October) for clearer skies and calmer winds.
• Weather considerations: Be aware of sudden weather changes and strong coastal winds.
• Regulatory reminders: Ensure your drone is registered with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and adhere to all local regulations.

15. Maldives

The Maldives is all about capturing overwater bungalows, white sandbanks, and endless turquoise waters. Aerial footage of the ring-shaped atolls showcases how these islands rise from the ocean, creating striking natural patterns.

Sunset flights bring out soft pastel tones in the water, making for cinematic footage that highlights the tranquil beauty of the region. Some resorts restrict drone flights for privacy reasons, so checking policies before launching is necessary.

Where You Can Fly

• Private Resort Islands – Many resorts allow drone flights within their premises; always seek permission first.
• Uninhabited Islands – Offer pristine landscapes ideal for aerial photography.
• Designated Public Beaches – Some public areas permit drone usage during specific times.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Over Residential Islands – To respect local privacy, avoid flying over inhabited local islands.
• Near Airports – Maintain a safe distance from all airports and seaplane landing areas.
• Over Protected Marine Areas – Certain zones have restrictions to protect wildlife.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Dry season (November to April) offers clearer skies.
• Weather considerations: Be cautious of sudden rain showers and strong winds.
• Regulatory reminders: Always seek permission from resort management or local authorities before flying.

Urban Skylines & Unique Cityscapes

16. New York City, USA

New York City has one of the most legendary skylines in the world, but strict drone laws make it a tough place to fly. Most of Manhattan falls within no-fly zones, limiting legal drone operations in the heart of the city.

Jersey City and Brooklyn offer some of the best legal takeoff points for capturing panoramic views of the skyline. Central Park, surrounded by skyscrapers, creates an incredible contrast when framed from above.

Nighttime flights over the Hudson River provide stunning reflections of the city’s lights but always double-check local airspace restrictions before launching.

Where You Can Fly

• Calvert Vaux Park (Brooklyn) – Designated areas allow for drone operations.
• Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Queens) – Certain open spaces permit drone flights; check local guidelines.
• Marine Park (Brooklyn) – Offers open fields suitable for drone enthusiasts.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Manhattan – Due to dense population and air traffic, drone flights are prohibited.
• Near Airports – Maintain a 5-mile distance from JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports.
• Over Crowded Areas – Avoid flying over gatherings, parades, or public events.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Early morning to avoid crowds and capture the city during golden hours.
• Weather considerations: Be aware of wind conditions, especially around tall buildings.
• Regulatory reminders: Ensure your drone is registered with the FAA and always check for Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) before flying.

17. Tokyo, Japan

Bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and an urban sprawl that stretches endlessly—Tokyo is one of the most visually dynamic cities for aerial shots. Shibuya Crossing, where thousands of people move in unison, looks mesmerizing in time-lapse drone footage.

Tokyo Tower and Skytree stand tall against the dense skyline, with Mount Fuji often visible in the distance on clear days. However, strict drone laws make flying in downtown Tokyo nearly impossible. Finding legal takeoff locations outside the main city center ensures a hassle-free experience while still capturing the essence of Tokyo’s urban energy.

Where You Can Fly

• Tama Hills – Open areas suitable for drone flights; always verify local permissions.
• Showa Kinen Park – Certain sections may allow drone usage; check with park authorities.
• Tama Riverbed – Offers open spaces away from crowded areas.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Central Tokyo – Densely populated areas are off-limits for drone operations.
• Near Airports – Maintain a 9 km distance from Haneda and Narita airports.
• Over Public Parks and Gardens – Many have restrictions; always check local rules.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• The best time to shoot is early morning for clear skies and fewer people.
• Weather considerations: Tokyo’s weather can change quickly; be mindful of sudden rain showers and wind near tall buildings.
• Regulatory reminders: Drone flights over densely populated areas are strictly illegal in Japan. Always check local municipal rules and register with the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) if required.

18. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona’s combination of Gothic and modernist architecture creates a visually stunning landscape from above. La Sagrada Familia, with its intricate spires, is one of the best drone subjects in the city, standing tall against the surrounding urban grid.

Park Güell offers colorful mosaics and geometric designs that pop in aerial footage, especially in the golden light of sunrise. Along the coast, Barceloneta Beach provides striking contrasts between the deep blue sea and the vibrant city skyline. To avoid fines, check Barcelona’s designated drone zones before flying.

Where You Can Fly

• Designated Drone Zones – Certain areas outside the city center are allocated for drone activities; always verify local permissions.
• Open Countryside Areas – Regions away from urban settings and controlled airspace where drone flights are generally permitted.
• Authorized Events or Locations – Specific events or locations may grant permission for drone operations; ensure to obtain prior approval.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Urban Areas – Flying over cities and towns is prohibited without explicit authorization.
• Near Airports – Maintain at least an 8-kilometer distance from any airport or airfield.
• Over Crowded Places – Avoid flying over gatherings, public events, or crowded beaches.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• Best time to shoot: Daytime hours with clear visibility.
• Weather considerations: Be cautious of coastal winds and sudden weather changes.
• Regulatory reminders: Drones over 250 grams must be registered with AESA. Always keep your drone within visual line of sight and fly below 120 meters.

19. Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong’s towering skyline, Victoria Harbour, and dramatic mountain backdrops make it a dream location for drone photography. The city’s vertical density creates incredible depth in aerial shots, with countless skyscrapers packed tightly together.

Victoria Peak remains one of the best legal drone launch spots, providing panoramic views of the entire city and harbor. At night, neon reflections in the water create some of the most cinematic footage possible. Government buildings and highly congested areas have restricted airspace, so pre-flight research is necessary to avoid violations.

Where You Can Fly

• Designated Flying Sites – Areas like the Tseung Kwan O and Lohas Park are popular among drone pilots. Always verify local permissions.
• Open Countryside – Regions away from urban centers and restricted zones where drone flights are generally allowed.
• Remote Coastal Areas – Beaches and coastal regions with low foot traffic can be suitable for drone operations.

Where You Can’t Fly ❌

• Urban Areas – Flying over densely populated regions is prohibited.
• Near Airports – Maintain at least a 5-kilometer distance from any airport.
• Over Sensitive Locations – Avoid areas like Victoria Harbour, military zones, and government facilities.

Quick Tips for Flying Here

• The best time to shoot is daytime hours with good weather conditions.
• Weather considerations: Hong Kong’s weather can change rapidly; monitor forecasts for rain and wind.
• Regulatory reminders: Drones over 250 grams must be registered with the Civil Aviation Department. Always fly below 90 meters and keep your drone within a visual line of sight.

Drone Photography Laws & Regulations by Location

Drone laws vary widely depending on the country, city, and even the specific landmark. Some locations allow recreational flights with minimal restrictions, while others require special permits or outright ban drones.

• Famous landmarks and national parks often have strict no-fly zones to protect privacy, security, or wildlife. Always check regulations before planning a flight.
• Crowded areas, airports, and government buildings are typically off-limits for safety reasons. Flying in these areas can result in fines or confiscation of equipment.
• Real-time airspace updates can be found on platforms like Aloft, DroneDeploy, and DJI’s Fly Safe Map—these tools help ensure compliance before takeoff.
• Some countries require registration for drones over a certain weight, and flying commercially may require certification like the FAA’s Part 107 in the U.S.

Drones flying in the United States must be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) if they weigh more than 0.55 pounds (250 grams). This applies to both recreational and commercial drone pilots, though different registration processes apply depending on the type of operation. 

Recreational flyers must follow The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) guidelines, while commercial pilots need Part 107 certification. Registration is done through the FAA DroneZone website, and failure to register can result in fines.

Checking the rules before launching a drone can save a lot of trouble. Many locations offer alternative takeoff spots just outside restricted zones, still providing incredible views while staying legal.

Tips for Capturing the Best Aerial Photos

The best drone shots come down to timing, settings, and composition. Shooting during golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides softer light, richer colors, and long shadows that add depth to aerial images. Midday sunlight can create harsh contrasts, so adjusting the shooting time makes a big difference in overall image quality.

Using ND filters helps control exposure and achieve cinematic, smooth footage, especially in bright conditions. These filters reduce glare and allow for more natural motion blur when shooting video. Pairing this with the right camera settings, such as proper white balance and sharpness adjustments, ensures crisp details and balanced colors in every shot.

Composition plays a huge role in making aerial photos stand out. Leading lines, such as roads or rivers, naturally guide the viewer’s eye through the frame. Symmetry and different altitudes help create dynamic, engaging shots. Experimenting with angles and height variations keeps footage fresh and unique, whether capturing landscapes or urban environments.

Final Thoughts & Choosing Your Next Drone Photography Spot

There’s no shortage of incredible drone photography locations worldwide. Whether it’s natural landscapes, bustling city skylines, or secluded islands, there’s always a perfect spot waiting to be explored. 

If I could, I’d list a thousand more locations, but these are some of the most popular and accessible ones for capturing breathtaking aerial shots.

Before taking off, always check local drone regulations—just because you see amazing aerial images from certain places doesn’t mean those locations are legal for everyone to fly over. 

Many of these shots were taken by pilots with special permits or certifications, allowing them access to restricted areas. Assuming you can fly there just because someone else did can get you into serious trouble. A simple follow-up call or checking official guidelines for restricted areas can go a long way in ensuring a safe and legal flight.

Now, it’s time to grab your drone, plan your flight, and capture some stunning shots! The world looks completely different from above, so get out there, stay safe, and have fun!