Where to Photograph Street Art Around the World

My Obsession with Graffiti

One of my favorite things to do no matter what city I’m in is to take pictures of the local graffiti. I’m not sure where this obsession began, but now it’s always on my to-do list. No matter where I travel, camera in hand, I photograph street art around the world.

In fact, I love it so much, I plan on making a huge art installment with the photos I’ve taken all over the world and hanging it in our living room.

But where does one find the best street art around the world to photograph? Well, you’d be surprised about how many big cities, small villages, beach towns, and more have cool graffiti and street art. Keep reading to find out some of the best (and perhaps surprising) locations where you can snap photos of street art til your heart’s content.

Where to Photograph Street Art Around the World

Cartagena

This might sound surprising, but one of the cities that has the best collection of street art I’ve seen is Cartagena. To find it, you’ll want to head to Getsemani, a gritty and cool neighborhood just outside of the walled, old city. Once you start wandering through the narrow, cobblestoned streets, you’ll find street art everywhere.

Related: Check out my Cartagena Travel Guide

Brussels

Street art also gives you a glimpse into the local culture and individual vibe of a place. Whether it’s about political protest, social commentary, or an artist’s right to the freedom of speech, the graffiti is always bold, colorful, and unapologetic.

Brussels is a great example of street art that explores a variety of taboo topics.

Buenos Aires

My husband and I spent a few days in Buenos Aires on our honeymoon and there was no shortage of street art there, particularly in the La Boca neighborhood.

Copenhagen

I don’t think it will surprise you when I tell you that a lot of the best street art in Copenhagen can be found in Freetown Christiania, the well known, international commune where about 1000 residents reside. It’s worth visiting this commune for the graffiti alone!

Singapore

The great thing about taking pictures of graffiti is it allows you the opportunity to explore and wander without a destination in mind. Sometimes, that is the best way to get to know a new city or town.

And wander is exactly what I did when I visited Singapore. I was traveling alone and really wanted to explore the city-state on foot. I was so excited when I discovered three distinct neighborhoods – Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam, the city’s Muslim quarter, all with the coolest street art. The graffiti in each area has it’s own style and vibe, much like the neighborhoods themselves.

Miami 

If you’re looking to find some of the best street art around the world, then Miami should be at the top of your list. Why? Wynwood Walls, a unique outdoor destination celebrating graffiti artists from around the world. It is such a cool spot and the street art is off the hook. There’s also a ton of great galleries to check out in the Wynwood neighborhood,

Curious to explore more of Miami’s art scene? Then you’ll want to read my Downtown Miami Culture guide.

Luquillo, Puerto Rico 

Who knew that a tiny beach town in Puerto Rico would be full of really cool street art? If you wander among the quiet residential streets steps from the beach, you’ll find an abundance of colorful murals and graffiti.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, in Cambodia, is another city where you can happen upon street art unexpectedly. When I was visiting, there was a small alleyway near my hotel full of cute shops, cafes, and walls full of funky graffiti. It was awesome!

Planning a trip to Cambodia? Check out my Cambodia travel guides for Angkor Wat and Siem Reap. 

Santa Fe

Santa Fe has no shortage of art, and that includes street art! It’s a bit more spread out than other cities (which meant I was jumping in and out of the car a lot to snap photos) but it was worth it. One thing’s for sure, the creative spirit is alive and well in this high desert city.

Related: Check out my Santa Fe Travel Guide and Food Guide

For the Best Street Art Around the World, Visit NYC

I might be biased because I live here, but I think it’s fair to say that some of the best street art in the world is in New York City. In fact, some say that it’s the birthplace of graffiti.

Whether or not that’s true, I feel lucky that I live in a city that celebrates street art, particularly in Brooklyn.

When I’m out exploring closer to home, one of my favorite things to do is check out the street art in Bushwick, a neighborhood in Brooklyn. The local artists have anointed themselves the Bushwick Collective, and you can even take a walking tour to learn more about street art and artists in this neighborhood. (Learn more about my favorite spots in Brooklyn, including Roberta’s in Bushwick, here.)

Williamsburg is another great place for street art. When my husband and I lived there, we would constantly find new murals when we were out walking our dog, Archie.

Where Do You Recommend going for the Best Street Art Around the World?

Now I’d love to hear from you!

Are you a street art fan too?

Which cities should I put on my list for great graffiti? I’ve heard Melbourne is a great place to visit for amazing graffiti, but where else? And if street art isn’t your jam, what is the one thing you love to do wherever you travel?

Please share in the comments below!