Charlotte Foster
Travel Tips

Don’t say cheese! Travel destinations where photos are illegal

While many happy travellers love to immortalise their holiday with a collection of photos, there are some places that don’t allow for pics to be taken. 

In several destinations across the globe, tourists are actually banned from taking selfies and can even get fined for breaking the rules.

So before you pull out your camera and strike a pose, you might want to check if what you’re snapping a photo of is legal. 

Here are just a few places where taking photos isn’t allowed. 

The Sistine Chapel, Vatican City

The use of professional cameras and phones is strictly prohibited in the Sistine Chapel so don't even think about it. 

According to VaticanCityTours, the reason you can't take pictures dates back to 1980 when the chapel was restored due to damage caused by flash photography. 

Mecca Pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, it is against the law to take photos of worshippers during Hajj, otherwise known as their pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. 

This is due to it being disrespectful to snap people while they are on their religious journey. 

The Blue Mosque, Turkey

Taking a photo of the outside of the iconic Blue Mosque is totally okay, but snapping any photos of the interior is a big no. 

Visitors also must follow strict dress codes as well as other rules and regulations.

Anne Frank's House, Amsterdam

Taking photos or selfies in the House of Anne Frank is not allowed inside the museum due to its serious nature.

There is a very sombre mood within the historical house, making it a time for reflection, not for flash photography. 

Palace of Versailles, France

Photos of both the Palace and the surrounding gardens are strictly prohibited for all travellers. 

This is due to concerns about the preservation of artwork and the safety of visitors.

Garoupe Beach, France

The famous Garoupe beach in southern France banned holidaymakers from taking selfies during the busy season in the middle of summer.

The law was first introduced to stop people from bragging about their holiday and just enjoy the stay rather than show off on social media.

Image credits: Getty Images

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travel tips, photos, selfies, illegal