Best camera smartphones for travel photography in 2025

There’s a certain kind of magic in travel – the golden hour light hitting a tucked-away alley in Barcelona, the gentle mist rising over a Himalayan morning, the chaos and colour of a Vietnamese night market. These are the moments we yearn to capture; not just for social media, but to relive the feeling of being there. In 2025, camera phones have become so advanced, they rival professional gear in convenience, versatility, and even quality.

If you’re planning a trip and want a camera phone that doubles as a trusty travel lens, here are five top contenders that do justice to your adventures.

Best camera smartphones for travel photography

1. Vivo X200 Pro

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

3. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

4. Xiaomi 15 Ultra

5. OPPO Find X8 Pro

1. Vivo X200 Pro: The Zeiss-backed storyteller

When it comes to portraiture and colour science, the Vivo X200 Pro continues to punch well above its weight. Its 1-inch main sensor, co-engineered with Zeiss, captures dreamy bokeh and true-to-life colours; perfect for those candid street portraits or golden-hour selfies.

ALSO READ: Comparing Vivo X200 and X200 Pro: What are the differences?

But what really makes it a traveller’s dream is its tone-mapping: soft when it needs to be, punchy when it should be. The periscope zoom lens also means faraway architectural marvels or wildlife sightings don’t escape your frame.

Best for: Travellers who love detailed portraits and vibrant city shots.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The versatile powerhouse

With a quad-camera setup that covers everything from ultra-wide landscapes to high-zoom wildlife, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the Swiss Army knife of travel photography. Whether you’re shooting the Northern Lights or the textures of Hampi’s rocky hills, this phone’s AI-enhanced imaging makes sure your memories are sharp, well-exposed, and immersive.

The 200MP main sensor, paired with smart scene optimisation, excels at both daylight and low light; meaning no need to carry an extra camera through airport security.

Best for: Those who want it all; landscapes, portraits, zoom, and night photography.

3. iPhone 16 Pro Max: The everyday cinematic genius

There’s something undeniably reliable about the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max. Its computational photography engine turns quick snaps into polished keepsakes, with improved Smart HDR and Photonic Engine upgrades.

This year, Apple refined its periscope zoom and expanded manual controls – a blessing for creators who want more hands-on control. And when you’re not taking stills, the phone’s cinematic video mode is smooth enough to capture everything from bustling night bazaars to tranquil mountain hikes.

Best for: Creators and vloggers who value consistency and cinematic-quality video.

4. Xiaomi 15 Ultra: The DSLR killer in disguise

With Leica-tuned lenses and a massive sensor setup, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is practically a pocket DSLR. You get razor-sharp detail, dynamic range to rival full-frame cameras, and manual tuning options that make it a dream for serious hobbyists.

ALSO READ: MWC 2025: Xiaomi 15 Ultra first impressions

Plus, with RAW and 10-bit video support, it’s a brilliant phone for those who like to edit their travel photos or footage later. The phone’s rugged build also means it’s not afraid of a little dust or drizzle, ideal for those off-the-map adventures.

Best for: Photography nerds who want total control and pro-grade output.

5. OPPO Find X8 Pro: The design-led low-light wizard

The OPPO Find X8 Pro is proof that style and substance can coexist. Its Hasselblad-tuned imaging system is particularly good in low light, capturing nuanced shadows and accurate colours even when the sun goes down.

Whether you’re photographing a fire-dancer on a beach or a lantern-lit temple, this phone brings the mood to life. Add to that a slick, lightweight design and fast-charging battery, and you’ve got a travel companion that’s both functional and fashionable.

Best for: Night owls and design-conscious travellers.

Final take

Travel photography isn’t just about specs; it’s about emotion, spontaneity, and telling stories that last. Whether you’re capturing fleeting expressions or sweeping vistas, these five camera phones make sure your memories look just as breathtaking as they felt in the moment. So, go ahead. Book the ticket, pack the bags, and don’t forget to charge your lens-in-a-pocket.