10 Best Canon Lenses for Travel Photography in 2024 (Top Picks)

Your lens can make or break your shots; that’s why we’re going to discuss the best Canon lenses for travel photography in this article.

With Canon’s extensive range of lenses, it can be a daunting task to choose the best one for your needs.

Whether you’re shooting wide landscapes or capturing intricate details, there’s an ideal Canon lens just waiting to enhance your images.

This roundup focuses on the battle between Canon’s EF and RF lenses, two leading choices among Canon travel photographers worldwide. We’ll provide top-notch recommendations for both types that cater specifically to travel photography enthusiasts.

So, if you’re keen on upping your photography game and capturing stunning travel memories with ease, scroll down as we unveil our top picks in this category.

Canon EF vs RF Lenses for Travel Photography

Canon EF and RF lenses are both excellent choices for travel photography, each with their unique features and benefits.

EF lenses

EF lenses, introduced in 1987, are Canon’s lens mount standard for their full-frame DSLR cameras. They are renowned for their wide variety and high-quality performance. EF lenses are also compatible with Canon’s APS-C DSLR and mirrorless cameras, making them a versatile choice for photographers.

RF lenses

On the other hand, RF lenses are the newer generation, designed specifically for Canon’s full-frame mirrorless cameras.

The RF lenses have a larger mount and shorter back focus distance, which allows for a greater optical design freedom. This results in lenses that are typically sharper, faster, and with less distortion than their EF counterparts.

However, it’s important to note that while RF lenses are only compatible with Canon’s RF-mount mirrorless cameras, Canon’s EF lenses can be used on RF-mount cameras with an adapter. This gives photographers the flexibility to use their existing EF lenses on new RF-mount cameras.

In terms of performance, both EF and RF lenses deliver high-quality images.

A quick note on other Canon lens mounts

In total, there are four Canon lens mounts: EF, EF-S, EF-M and RF.

EF-S and EF-M are more niche, so I won’t be talking about them in this round up, but they are worth knowing about.

• EF lenses are designed to be used with BOTH Canon’s full-frame and APS-C DSLR camera bodies without an adapter, and with an adaptor they will also work with full-frame (EOS R) and APS-C (EOS M) mirrorless bodies.
• EF-S lenses are for APS-C DSLR bodies, but will also work on APS-C (EOS M) mirrorless bodies with an adaptor.
• EF-M lenses ONLY work with Canon’s APS-C (EOS M) mirrorless cameras.
• RF lenses ONLY work with Canon’s range of full-frame (EOS R) mirrorless cameras.

Canon “L” lenses

When you see the letter “L” in the title of a Canon lens it means it’s part of the exclusive club of Canon “L” series lenses. “L” lenses are considered to be some of the best currently available, not just from Canon but all manufacturers. You can spot an “L” lens from the signature red ring that runs around it near the focus ring.

Canon currently only make L lenses for the EF and RF range but since the EF range can be adapted to work on all Canon cameras, it shouldn’t be a problem for anyone wanting some crispy L lens goodness no matter which body you have.

In this roundup, I will only be recommending EF and RF lenses.

Each has its own strengths and can be the best choice depending on the specific needs and photographer’s equipment.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, both EF and RF lenses offer excellent performance and versatility for travel photography.

Best EF Canon Lenses for Travel Photography

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens

Compact, affordable and versatile

If you’re on the hunt for a compact camera lens that won’t break the bank, look no further than the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens. This baby is perfect for capturing those stunning portraits, action shots, and nighttime scenes when you’re out exploring.

The best part? It’s got a stepping motor (that’s what “STM” stands for) that ensures near-silent continuous Servo AF. That means you can snap away without disturbing your subjects or getting unwanted noise in your video footage.

And guess what else? Its minimum focusing distance is only 1.15 feet (0.35 meter). Yeah, you heard it right! You can get up close and personal with your subjects without losing focus or detail.

Now let’s talk about its effective focal length – it varies between APS C and full-frame cameras. So whether you’re shooting with an entry-level DSLR or a high-end professional camera, this lens will give you fantastic results.

But here’s the kicker: despite its compact size and affordable price tag, this Canon EF lens doesn’t skimp on quality. It features dual pixel CMOS AF for fast and accurate autofocus in live view mode, making it ideal for vlogging or streaming.

With all these killer features packed into one compact size, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens truly gives other lenses in its category a run for their money!

Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L II USM Lens

The perfect all-rounder

If you’re into travel photography, the Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L II USM lens is your all-purpose buddy. This high-performance standard zoom lens comes with a constant f/4L aperture. This means whether you’re capturing the Eiffel Tower at sunrise or snapping shots of bustling night markets in Bangkok, this baby will deliver consistent light throughout the entire focal length.

The lens sports an Air Sphere Coating that seriously cuts down on flare and ghosting. No more worrying about those annoying spots ruining your perfect shot! Even in tricky lighting conditions, this lens has got your back.

But wait, there’s more! The image stabilizer corrects up to 4 stops of shake. That’s right folks, say goodbye to blurry images due to shaky hands or moving subjects. This feature ensures sharp images even when you’re on the go.

One cool thing about this lens is its new optical design which improves peripheral brightness. In simple terms, it means your photos won’t have dark corners anymore. Your pictures will be evenly lit from center to edge giving them a professional look.

The Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L II USM lens is like having multiple lenses packed into one without lugging around extra weight in your bag – a dream come true for any would-be or successful travel photographer!

This bad boy isn’t just versatile; it’s also built tough for rugged use while maintaining top-notch image quality. It’s a no-brainer choice if you want stunning photos without breaking a sweat (or your bank).

Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L USM Lens

An excellent wide-angle zoom for landscapes

Get ready to be blown away by the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L USM lens. It’s a real game-changer, folks!

I mean, who doesn’t love a lens that offers full-time manual focus in AF mode? Talk about precision! This feature is a lifesaver when you’re trying to capture that perfect shot and need just the right amount of focus.

But wait, there’s more. The color balance on this bad boy is top-notch. You won’t have to worry about your photos looking too warm or too cool. They’ll come out just right every time.

And let’s not forget about the rounded 9-blade diaphragm. This little gem helps create beautiful bokeh effects in your photos. It’s like having your own personal photo editor built right into your camera!

The focal length range on this lens is also worth raving about. With its wide-angle zoom, you can capture everything from stunning landscapes to intimate portraits with ease.

One of my favorite features of the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L USM lens is its compatibility with various Canon models. No need to worry if it will fit your camera body – chances are it will!

Finally, we can’t ignore the Dual Pixel CMOS AF that covers approximately 100% area. This means fast and accurate autofocus for all your travel photography needs.

To sum up, this lens has got it all – versatility, precision, excellent color balance and a broad focal length range. Best part? It’s all packed into one durable piece of equipment ready to hit the road with you.

So whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting out, I’d say give the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L USM lens a shot (pun intended!). It’s a solid investment that will take your photography game to the next level.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM Lens

Best telephoto lens

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L IS II USM lens is your go-to gear. It’s a lightweight champ that doesn’t skimp on quality.

So what makes this lens stand out? For starters, it’s got Optical Image Stabilization with up to five stops of shake correction. This means even if you’re bouncing around in a jeep on safari or cruising on choppy waters, your shots will still be crystal clear. No more blurry zebra stripes or fuzzy dolphin fins!

But the features don’t stop there. This lens is also dust and water-resistant making it perfect for any adventure – whether you’re trekking through a sandy desert or caught in a tropical downpour.

You know how some lenses struggle when tracking moving subjects? Well, not this one! The Canon EF 70-200mm has three Image Stabilization modes that ensure excellent results when capturing motion. So whether you’re shooting a bustling cityscape or an action-packed sports event, this lens has got you covered.

And let’s not forget about its reduced minimum focusing distance from previous models. You can get closer to your subjects without losing any image quality – great for intimate portraits or detailed close-ups!

In terms of weight and length, this lens is surprisingly compact considering its capabilities. It won’t weigh down your camera bag but will definitely punch above its weight in performance.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens

Best EF macro lens

If you’re all about capturing those tiny details that make your travel snaps pop, then this bad boy is for you! The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro lens is a top-notch gadget for macro photography.

Its focal length of 100mm means it’s got a superzoom that’ll let you get up close and personal with your subjects, without having to invade their personal space. You’ll be able to capture the intricate patterns of exotic flowers or the intricate architecture of historic buildings with ease.

Now, let’s talk about its inner focusing system with USM (Ultra Sonic Motor). This feature ensures rapid autofocus without making a racket. Plus, there’s also a full-time manual focus option if you prefer to take control and fine-tune your shots yourself.

One thing I absolutely love about this lens is its maximum close-up magnification of 1x. It literally lets you fill your frame with small subjects as if they were larger than life!

But what about blurry images? Well, worry not my friend! The Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro lens comes equipped with sophisticated Image Stabilization technology that compensates for camera shake and helps deliver clear, sharp images even at slow shutter speeds.

Whether you’re shooting indoors or shooting in low light conditions outside, this lens performs brilliantly thanks to its maximum aperture of f/2.8 which allows plenty of light in.

Setting up this lens on your APS-C or full-frame Canon camera is easy-peasy too! So no matter where in the world you are, whether inside locations like museums or outdoors exploring nature, whipping out this lens and getting ready for some serious photography won’t be an issue.

In short, the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro lens is your go-to tool for capturing stunning close-up shots on the move.

Best RF Canon Lenses for Travel Photography

Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens

Best grab-n-go option!

This little dude is compact and lightweight – the Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM is just what you need when you’re traveling with photography gear and want to keep things light. No more lugging around heavy gear, this lens is as portable as they come. It fits snugly into your camera bag or even your pocket!

But don’t let its size fool ya. This baby packs a punch with its large F1.8 aperture that’s ideal for low-light photography. So whether it’s a beautiful sunset or an indoor event, this lens has got you covered.

Now let’s talk video recording – it’s smooth sailing all the way with the stepping motor in this lens offering quiet continuous AF during video recording. No more annoying motor sounds ruining your videos!

And here’s where things get really cool – the control ring on this lens allows direct setting changes without having to fiddle around with your camera settings.

So, if you’re looking for a versatile travel companion that can handle both photos and videos like a pro, Canon RF50mm F1.8 STM Lens is worth checking out.

Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L Lens

Perfect for all scenarios

Hey shutterbugs! If you’re in the market for a new lens, check this out. The Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L lens is like the Swiss Army knife of camera lenses, ideal for just about anything you throw at it.

What’s so special about this RF lens? Well, let me tell you – it’s all about that bright f/2.8 aperture and optical image stabilization up to 5 stops. This means even if your hands are a bit shaky from too much coffee (or excitement), your photos will still come out crisp and clear.

Now, let’s talk autofocus because nothing ruins a great shot like blurry subjects. Thanks to the Nano USM technology in this baby, you get high-speed, smooth, quiet autofocus. That means no more awkward moments when everyone hears your camera focusing during that hushed sunrise shoot.

One thing I totally dig about this rf lens is the control ring. With it, you can make direct setting changes without having to fiddle with your camera body – super handy when you’re on-the-go and need to adjust quickly.

And guess what? This canon rf is compatible with various Canon Mirrorless Cameras! So whether you’ve got an EOS R or an RP sitting at home, this lens will fit right in.

In short, if you’re looking for a versatile lens that can handle everything from landscape shots to portrait photography with ease and precision, then look no further than the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L Lens.

Canon RF 15-35mm Lens

Best wide-angle zoom for landscapes

Nothing beats a versatile wide-angle lens. Say hello to the Canon RF 15-35mm lens. This bad boy is not just big; it’s a beast in the world of wide-angle lenses.

Now, if you’re thinking, “What makes this lens so special?” Well, let me tell you. It’s got an impressive f/2.8 aperture that lets in loads of light for those early morning or late evening shots when natural light is low.

But here’s where it gets even cooler! The lens features optical image stabilization up to 5 stops. So even if your hands are shaking from the cold (or excitement), your photos will still come out sharp and clear.

And let’s talk about autofocus for a second because this lens has some serious game there too! Thanks to Nano USM technology, focusing is quick and smooth as butter.

Another neat feature? You can get super close with this lens – its minimum focusing distance is just under one foot (0.92 ft./0.28M). Perfect for capturing all those intricate details in nature without disturbing the peace!

This lens works great on both full-frame cameras like Canon R5 and crop sensor cameras. No matter what sized camera you use, you’ll be able to capture stunning wide-range photos with beautiful 4k image quality.

Bottom line? If you’re into travel photography and love shooting large format landscapes scenes or need various focal lengths at your disposal, then the Canon RF 15-35mm should definitely be on your radar.

Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM Lens

A powerful telephoto option

Let’s talk about the big gun in travel photography, the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM lens. This bad boy is compact and lightweight, making it a breeze to carry around on your globe-trotting adventures.

Its design is top-notch, just what you’d expect from a high-end telephoto lens. It’s like having a whole bag of lenses in one neat package!

But don’t let its size fool you. This lens packs a punch. With its bright f/2.8 aperture, this zoom lens can capture stunningly sharp images even in low light conditions.

And here’s the kicker – it has optical image stabilization that offers up to five stops of shake correction! That means you can say goodbye to blurry photos caused by shaky hands or moving subjects.

One more thing I absolutely love about this telephoto lens is its dual Nano USM technology, which ensures smooth and quiet autofocus. Whether you’re capturing wildlife in action or shooting candid street photography, this feature will come in super handy.

In short, the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L USM Lens offers excellent image quality without weighing down your camera bag.

Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro USM

Best RF macro lens

Ready for a lens that’ll knock your socks off? You gotta check out the Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro USM, my friends. This bad boy is the world’s first medium telephoto macro lens with a maximum magnification of 1.4x. Yeah, you heard it right!

Now, what does that mean in plain English? Well, this usm lens can get you super close to your subject and still keep things crystal clear. Perfect for capturing those tiny details on your travels.

But wait, there’s more! Ever had a shot ruined by shaky hands? We’ve all been there, dude! But with this lens’ optical image stabilizer, those days are history. It compensates for both angular and shift camera shake during macro shooting. So even if you’ve just downed three cups of coffee (not that I’m speaking from experience or anything), your shots will be steady as a rock.

One thing I absolutely love about this usm is its Spherical Aberration (SA) control ring. This nifty feature lets you adjust the bokeh shape and character to suit your creative vision. Want soft, dreamy backgrounds? You got it! Prefer something sharper and more defined? No problemo!

And let’s not forget about the bright, fixed f/2.8 aperture on this rf mm prime lens! Even in low-light conditions (think dimly lit street markets or dusky landscapes), you’ll get high-quality images every time.

Plus, with firmware updates regularly released by Canon, this lens just keeps getting better over time.

In short (or should I say “in focus”?), the Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro USM is a top-notch choice for travel photography – whether you’re an old hand at it or just starting out. It’s got all the features you need to capture your adventures in stunning detail.

Buyer’s Guide to Selecting a Travel Photography Lens

First things first, think about what you’ll be shooting most. Love capturing sprawling landscapes? Or are you more into street photography? Maybe both? If landscape photography is your thing, consider a wide-angle lens. For street snaps or portraits, a prime lens might be your best bet. You’ll also have to jump into the zooms vs primes debate and decide whether you value versatility and cost-effectiveness or pin-sharp images the most.

Now let’s get real about size and weight. You’re gonna be lugging this thing around on your trip, right? So it better not weigh a ton! Look for something compact and lightweight but doesn’t compromise on optical quality.

And lastly, let’s talk moolah! Lenses can cost a pretty penny but remember: you don’t always have to go for the priciest option. Compare features across different price ranges and find one that gives you the biggest bang for your buck!

There obviously a lot more to it, but remember these tips when shopping around and I guarantee you’ll find the perfect companion for your camera! Check out which three lenses I recommend for travel photography; in the article, I talk about types of lenses rather than the manufacturer, but it should give you a better idea of the kinds of lenses you’ll get to capture the different scenes you’ll likely come across.

Concluding Thoughts on Best Canon Lenses for Travel Photography

So, you’ve made it this far. You now have a solid understanding of the top Canon lenses for travel photography. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or intimate portraits, there’s a lens here that’s perfect for your needs. The versatility of the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L USM Lens, the affordability of the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens, and the all-around excellence of the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L Lens are just a few examples.

But remember, these are just tools to help you capture your vision. The best camera is always the one you have with you – so don’t let gear hold you back! Now it’s time to get out there and start shooting. And if you need any further advice or information about these lenses or other photography equipment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’re here to help make your travel photography dreams come true.

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