travel spots around the world

100 Best Places on Earth – The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• 100-best-places-on-earth-travel-bucket-list

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 13.12.2023

This isn't just a travel bucket list; it's a gateway to experiences so profound and diverse that they promise to reshape your understanding of beauty, culture, and adventure. From the majestic peaks of Patagonia to the hidden alleyways of Kyoto, each destination on this list has been chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for the unique story it tells. Rough Guides, your trusted travel companion, goes beyond the usual tourist trails to bring you authentic, tailor-made experiences that resonate with your personal travel aspirations.

1. Bhutan - a tiny country leading the way in sustainable tourism

• 2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

3. Ethiopia - the sunken churches of Lalibela

• 4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

5. Taj Mahal - one of the new Seven Wonders of the World

6. victoria falls - the world’s widest curtain of water.

Hidden in the Himalayas, with all the matchless scenery you’d expect, the tiny country of Bhutan is staggeringly beautiful. Piercing peaks and plunging valleys fold into its borders, where you can climb to mountaintop monasteries, hike through ancient forests and horseback ride over lush green plains, while local guides give a real insight into the country’s living spirituality.

Bhutan has been quietly forging its own path for centuries. Now, it’s leading the way in sustainable tourism. With at least sixty percent forest cover, Bhutan takes environmental conservation seriously. It’s already carbon negative, and while the target to become the world’s first fully organic nation by 2020 has been pushed back, they are still actively working on it.

Preservation is priceless, and travellers to this enchanting nation will leave with a real sense of what a privilege it is to experience Bhutan’s natural, cultural and spiritual riches.

You may have heard of Bhutan’s now-famous compulsory tourist tariff, which sees foreign visitors paying a minimum of $250 per day just to visit. But what you may not know is this includes all accommodation, food, transport and a local guide – and it also grants you access to one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine corners. A tailor-made trip ensures you get to see exactly what you want to see and travel the way you prefer - a specific route, selected hotels, particular activities, it's all possible when you go tailor-made.

Monks in Bhutan

2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

While the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, has long lured visionary types to its bohemian neighbourhoods, it’s slipped under the tourist radar for years. That may have something to do with its turbulent recent history: although Georgia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, there followed a period of civil war, violence and ethnic tensions.

Over the past decade, however, a new generation has reignited Tbilisi’s cultural scene through a mix of local art galleries, exhibition spaces, music venues, concept stores and creative hubs. A growing crop of industrial- style hotels is springing up across the city, many set in Soviet-era factories and publishing houses. The food scene is thriving, too – innovative chefs have taken the helm in the kitchens of new restaurants, where they reimagine traditional Georgian cuisine with a modern twist. The revolution is underway. Read more about why Georgia is the ultimate adventure destination .

Where to stay

Enjoy a stunning view from the Terrace Boutique Hotel , located a short walk from the Tbilisi funicular.

Discover the wine region on a full-day tour from Tbilisi . Visit beautiful towns, taste plenty of Georgian wine and find out more about the traditional winemaking process.

Tailor-made travel

Planning to visit Georgia for a holiday? Talk to our carefully selected local expert to create and book your perfect trip to Georgia.

Tbilisi in Georgia

An enigmatic and utterly beguiling country, Ethiopia has endless intrigue. From its unique, highly sociable cuisine – the basis of which is injera , a spongy sourdough pancake, piled high with piquant curries and stews and shared between friends – to its ancient language and curly Amharic script, there’s very little that’s familiar about this place, and your trip will be all the better for it.

Ethiopia is a largely Orthodox Christian country, and its religious festivals and structures are something to behold. The sunken churches of Lalibela , hand-carved out of the red rock below ground some nine hundred years ago, are an astonishing feat of engineering. Come January, the network of tunnels and staircases that connect all eleven churches fill up with thousands of worshippers dressed in white, celebrating the birth of Christ with a twelve-hour mass.

Exploring Ethiopia with your own guide and at your own pace will help you really discover this fascinating country. A local expert working for a local tour operator can help to plan and book your ideal trip .

Lalibela in Ethiopia

4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

The breathtaking beauty and majesty of the Gorges du Verdon – also known as the Grand Canyon du Verdon – almost matches that of its American cousin, albeit on a much smaller scale. Peppered with spectacular viewpoints, plunging crevices up to 700m deep, and glorious azure-blue lakes, this area of Provence in France is absolutely irresistible. The river falls from Rougon at the top of the gorge, disappearing into tunnels, decelerating for shallow, languid moments and finally exiting in full, steady flow at the Pont du Galetas at the western end of the canyon. Alongside is the huge artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix, which is great for swimming when the water levels are high.

Moustiers-Ste-Marie is the loveliest village on the fringes of the gorge, occupying a magnificent site near its western end. Set high on a hillside, just out of sight of both canyon and lake, it straddles a plummeting stream that cascades between two golden cliffs. A star slung between them on a chain, originally suspended by a returning Crusader, just adds to its charms.

If you're planning to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Hotel La Bonne Auberge features a large terrace and garden, as well as a swimming pool in an excellent location in town.

Visit the gorge as well as the lavender fields on a day trip from Nice . Particularly suited for those short on time or without their own transportation, this day tour allows you to discover the area while returning back to Nice the same evening.

If you're thinking of visiting Provence and the Gorges du Verdon – get in touch . Rough Guides has paired with experienced local tour operators in France to offer fully customisable trips, like this from Paris to Provence itinerary .

Gorges du Verdon in France

Simply the world’s greatest building, Shah Jahan’s monument to love does not disappoint. Volumes have been written on its perfection, and its image adorns countless glossy brochures and guidebooks; nonetheless, the reality never fails to overwhelm all who see it, and few words can do it justice. A workforce of some twenty thousand men from all over Asia completed the Taj Mahal in 1653 after twenty years of toil, and it is undoubtedly the zenith of Mughal architecture in India .

Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore described the Taj Mahal as “a teardrop on the face of eternity”, and though its layout follows a distinctly Islamic theme, representing Paradise, it is above all a monument to romantic love. Shah Jahan built the Taj to enshrine the body of his favourite wife, Arjumand Bann Begum, better known by her official palace title, Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”). The emperor was devastated by her death, and set out to create an unsurpassed monument to her memory – the result is sublime.

There are endless accommodation options in Agra , from where most travellers start their Taj Mahal visit. Our favourites include Tajview IHCL SeleQtions with stunning views and the Grand Imperial - Heritage Hotel .

Planning to explore the Taj Mahal on your own? Get your skip-the-line access tickets to the Taj Mahal beforehand to enjoy a hassle-free visit.

To see the Taj for yourself, drop us a line . Our tailor-made trips service will pair you with a local expert based in India to plan and book a fully customisable tour of India, like this sample itinerary to explore the Golden Triangle .

Taj Mahal in sunset

Along with Mount Everest and the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls – or Mosioa-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”) – ranks as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen beforehand, nothing can prepare you for the awe-inspiring sight and deafening sound of the falls. The world’s widest curtain of water crashes down a huge precipice, producing clouds of spray visible from afar, before squeezing into a zigzag of sheer-sided gorges as a torrent of turbulent rapids, carving its way to the Indian Ocean well over 1000km away.

Their dramatic setting on the Zambezi river – on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border – has also made Victoria Falls the undisputed adventure capital of Africa. There’s an array of adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer, from whitewater rafting and bungee jumping to zip-lining and bodyboarding. Less touted are the stunning wildlife-viewing opportunities

Victoria Falls affords: the national parks that line the serene banks of the Upper Zambezi are home to large mammals, such as elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe and leopard, as well as a variety of antelope and more than 410 bird species.

Read more in our First-timer's Guide to the Victoria Falls .

Ilala Lodge is your best bet if you want to be as close to the Falls as possible. Occupying lovely grounds, the lodge has stylish rooms, a small pool and an excellent restaurant. Best of all, though, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance; from the hotel’s terrace, you can see clouds of spray rising from the Falls.

There are endless opportunities to explore the area: from a guided walking tour over sunset cruises to exploring the local entertainment and food scene .

Victoria Falls

Find more travel inspiration in our book The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth 2020 .

Header image: Yana Zubkova/Shutterstock

• Authentic Experiences
• Inspiration

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Ready to discover tailor-made travel?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

Where are the most beautiful places in the world? On a planet home to flamingo-pink lakes in Mexico, plus vast, multi-coloured hills in the USA, green ripples of rice paddies in Indonesia and epic icescapes in Antarctica, it's hard to choose a favourite – but why pick one? From countries all around the world, these are our top 60 most beautiful places to visit.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Scattered along Scotland 's west coast, this chain of isles is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Think shimmering white-sand beaches , sparkling seas and crowd-free hinterlands – it's one of the UK's last remaining secrets, and for good reason.

Douro Valley, Portugal

With endless rows of vines tumbling down hillsides and birds of prey swooping along the riverside, at first glance you'd think this place was anywhere but Europe. Right in the depths of Portugal , this valley is as romantic as it comes – hike along ridges, taste-test your way through the region's wine and cosy up in some of the country's very best hotels, before waking up and doing it all again.

Shark Bay, Australia

The most westerly point on mainland Australia is this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded before Captain Cook discovered land at Botany Bay, with Dutch explorers touching down here in the 17th century. The area is diverse – there’s a beach made up entirely of tiny white shells, stromatolites on the shore of Hamelin Pool and the salt mine at Useless Loop, which produces the purest grade of salt in the world and is only accessible via four-by-four – or visible from the sky.

Paracas, Peru

A small seaside town in the Ica region of Peru , Paracas is where the desert meets the sea. A trip to the area isn’t complete without a boat ride to Islas Ballestas, the rocky islands off the Pacific coast known for their diverse wildlife including flocks of sea lions and crowds of baby penguins.

Algarve, Portugal

The red-cliff coastline and pristine whitewashed Moorish villages that dot the south-western region of Portugal have started shifting crowds away from the region’s busier hotspots. It has its own sunny microclimate and affordable places to stay such as Casa Mãe in Lagos make it a great winter-sun option too.

Paris, France

With its striking architecture, grand boulevards, world-class art, jewel-box patisseries and classic places to stay , this is a city that never sleeps. Its unrivalled food scene is best experienced by stumbling upon corner bistros down cobbled streets.

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

Vietnamese for peace, Hòa Bình province is located in the north of the country and is home to hill tribes including the Hmong, Muong and Dzao, plus endless rice fields.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

Off-radar Milos has some of the best beaches in the Aegean without the buzz of Mykonos or Santorini . Moon-like Sarakiniko is made up of mounds of undulating bone-white, wave-like volcanic rock and forms one of the island’s most mesmerising bays.

Sarah James

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

The most extreme continent on earth is also the coldest, windiest, driest and most inhospitable to forms of life. Pristine and practically untouched, no one lives in Antarctica full time, apart from seals, penguins and marine life. It’s as remote as one can get.

Death Valley, California

Known as the hottest place on earth, Death Valley reached a record temperature of 53°C in 2019. It’s a vast area of extremes: with snowy peaks, scorching sands and wildflower meadows, the National Park encompasses a wide range of different landscapes. One of the most popular locations is the multi-hued Artists Palette, a series of eroded hills whose colouring is due to the oxidation of natural metal deposits in the mountains. ‘ Star Wars ’ fans will be keen to see the site that inspired the planet Tatooine.

Provence, France

In summer, endless fields of lavender in bloom turn the Provençal landscape purple. At the end of the season, when the crop is harvested, honey, soaps and pastries are made with a fragrant dose of the plant.

Bayon, Cambodia

Built in honour of one of Cambodia’s most famous kings, Jayavarman VII, Bayon is a 12th-century state temple that’s a unique architectural feat in the heart of Angkor Thom. Fifty-four gothic towers carved with 216 gargantuan smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara – the bodhisattva of compassion – fill the temple , and the design showcases the shift from Hinduism to Mahayana Buddhism. With Angkor Wat not far away, Bayon, its off-the-beaten track little sister, is a close second in popularity.

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The famous three peaks of the National Park are among Wyoming’s most recognisable sights, the Grand forming the highest point of the range. It’s a hike on many pro adventurers' list, but for newbies looking for an outdoors excursion floating down the Snake River or mountain-biking through the 310,000-acre landscape are viable options, too. Top it off with supper at Snake River Grill in Jackson’s town centre and an overnight stay at the cliff-side Amangani .

Angel Falls, Venezuela

The world’s highest waterfall, with 3,212ft cascades, is located in the UNESCO-protected Canaima National Park and was the inspiration for the Disney film ‘Up’. The site is only accessible by boat or plane.

A gateway to the East, Kyrgyzstan has natural beauty. Unspoilt pine forests, rocky ridges and rolling jailoos (summer pastures) are typical of the country. In the warmer months visitors flock to glacial lakes, while in winter a stay with semi-nomadic shepherds is an experience unlike any other.

Grand Canal, Venice

The 12,500ft-long canal runs straight through the centre and has inspired numerous artists including Canaletto, Monet and JMW Turner. Flanked by buildings dating from the 12th to the 17th centuries, it’s the grandest waterway in the Floating City .

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange has a greater diversity of mammals than any national park in the world and is the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe . The size of Belgium , it is home to more than 50,000 elephants and 500 species of bird. The wet-season winter months are the best time to see migratory birds or book an off-season safari when the park gets fewer visitors.

A third of Mongolia is covered in desert, and while it’s the 18th-largest country in the world, its three million inhabitants make it the most sparsely populated. Visitors can go local: riding horses, helping to look after livestock and sleeping in a herder's ger – a traditional felt yurt.

Lake Eyre, Australia

This salt lake constitutes the lowest point on the continent. Normally dry due to evaporated water, with its salt-deposit haze, the body only fills completely twice every 100 years on average.

Bali, Indonesia

Minutes from scooter-buzzing Ubud are artsy, low-key villages, vivid green rice paddies, lush forests and vast jungles. Bali is one of Indonesia’s 17,000 islands and sees an average temperature of about 30°C year round. Explore by bicycle and then head to one of its many cool beach clubs.

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

Britain’s unspoilt south coast is home to one of the country's greatest walking trails and seaside parks, the Seven Sisters. Made up of 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, a winding river valley and flat top grasslands with views of the English Channel, the coastal path begins near Eastbourne, the start of the 100-mile South Downs Way.

Atacame Desert, South America

On a route made famous by revolutionary Che Guevara who kicked off his motorcycle journey in Buenos Aires , head down to Chile through the Atacama Desert into the Peruvian Amazon and up to Venezuela. Vast expanses of sandy flats quickly roll into high tops of dunes and gorges leading to plateaus of dusty grass. It’s a trip for explorers, with the Andes standing tall above the Argentine –Chile border, blurring one side into the other. NASA even uses the desert as a testing ground for future Mars missions.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Fuji-san, the tallest peak in Japan , is a sacred mountain and symbol. On a clear day, it can be seen from Tokyo , but one of the best ways to view the still-active volcano is by taking the shinkansen bullet train from the capital to Osaka (top tip: sit on the right-hand side for the best views). Surrounding areas Hakone (where there are natural hot springs) and Fujigoko are worth visiting during cherry-blossom season.

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

The largest city in Rajasthan is filled to the brim with buzzing bazaars, sacred lakes and gilded royal palaces – the decadent 18th-century royal-owned Rajmahal Palace is a smart hotel. Among the famously rosy-hued buildings of the Pink City, the honeycomb-like Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, is surely the most recognisable of all. The incredible sandstone structure has 953 small exterior windows (called jharokhas ) decorated with intricate lattice work.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

The Namib Desert is the oldest in the world, and in the middle of its vast Skeleton Coast are endless miles of stone and sand, dry riverbeds and dunes. Desert-adapted animals here include elephant, giraffe, lion, brown hyaena and Cape fur seals that thrive in the area.

The Scottish Highlands

It’s a few hours from buzzing Edinburgh , not far from the Cairngorms, to the start of the eastern Highlands. Stretching around Skye, around the North Coast 500 route up to the village of John O' Groats, the region is also home to the tallest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis. There’s natural beauty everywhere, from babbling Fairy Pools and big-horned cattle to clear coastal waters and snowy mountain caps.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Meaning cotton castle in Turkish , this natural wonder is made up of layers of white travertine terraces of ice-blue spa pools. It’s also next to the site of the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis, the Greek-Roman city established in the 2nd century BC.

Stretching over eight countries – France , Switzerland , Monaco, Italy , Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and Slovenia – the Alps are the most extensive mountain range in Europe . It has some of the greatest skiing in the world with popular towns including Chamonix -Mont-Blanc (the highest mountain), Lech , Gstaad and Courchevel .

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

This archipelago of five islands – Bazaruto, the largest, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and the smallest Bangue – was once part of a peninsula connected to the mainland but now, when the Indian Ocean retreats at low tide, swirls and ripples of white sand become visible. A protected marine park, its waters are rich in manta rays, schools of dolphins, hawksbill turtles and dugongs (cousins of equally curious manatees).

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

Six turquoise waterholes lie within the salty plains of Ojos del Mar in the Tolar Grande region of Bolivia . Inhabited by stromatolites (deposits formed by algae) and microorganisms, the water can change slightly in colour, depending on the angle of the sun, from bright blue to seafoam green.

Mount Cook, New Zealand

Home to the tallest mountain in New Zealand , the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Site on the South Island, is a mountaineer’s dream. More than 40 per cent of the area is covered in glaciers, with the largest and longest named the Tasman Glacier. It was here that Sir Edmund Hillary trained for the first momentous ascent of Mount Everest.

Gordes, Provence

One of the Luberon's most striking hilltop hamlets, Gordes stands tall on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau. With views across the surrounding region of Provence , the quintessential medieval town is a must-visit. A stay at Bastide de Gordes , the village’s most glamorous hotel, will make the trip complete.

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

Easily one of the Canadian Rockies’ most recognisable landmarks, Emerald Lake is located within Yoho National Park in British Columbia. Backed by the towering mountain peaks of the President Range, in summer the clear glacial water is ideal for canoeing and attempting a quick swim.

The Faroe Islands

The self-governed group of 18 volcanic islands makes up this remote archipelago where sheep outnumber humans. Grass-lined houses, craggy coastlines and lush waterfalls are all part of the Nordic landscape but there’s a surprising food scene too.

Modern high-rise buildings meet period architecture in retro Hong Kong , one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It’s a street-food capital where eating dim sum like a local in an old teahouse is a mandatory experience. For the best views of the harbour, catch a Star Ferry or hike the hills of Ma On Shan, one of the summits that surround the city.

Jodhpur, India

The magical, walled Blue City is a tangle of winding medieval streets. The monumental 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which is still run by the royal family and now serves as a museum, looks out over the old city and its mesh of box-shaped buildings, shops and bazaars.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The Navajo name of this slot canyon translates to ‘the place where water runs through rocks’ and the narrow ravine is an American Southwest treasure, filled with ripples of eroded stone formations, and sunlight creating orange filters and bright patterns. The popularity of this spot among keen photographers speaks for itself – this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Svalbard, Norway

This Arctic archipelago , about a three-hour flight north of Oslo , has one of the harshest environments on the planet. Nearly two-thirds of it is protected and the islands are made up of bird sanctuaries, nature reserves and national parks where polar bears roam. The Northern Lights can be seen in the winter and in the summer, when the temperature tops out at 6°C, the sun doesn’t go below the horizon.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The forward-thinking capital of Scandi cool appeals to foodies, design junkies and a cool young crowd. With its ground-breaking food scene , including world-famous Noma (and Noma 2.0 ), it’s a city to be taken seriously. Colourful buildings dot the central Nyhavn port, but it’s worth exploring alternative community Christiania, quirky Vesterbro and hipster Nørrebro, too.

Lamu, Kenya

The old town of Lamu , on the Indian Ocean island of the same name, was established in the 14th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port city is a mish-mash of cultures – Swahili, Asian, Arabic, European – while along the laid-back coast majestic dhows sail by all day long.

Wulingyuan, China

More than 3,000 narrow, quartz-sandstone pillars make up Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in the Hunan Province. These natural wonders, many higher than 656ft, are broken up by ravines, gorges, caves and waterfalls. It’s easy to see why the UNESCO World Heritage Site was James Cameron’s inspiration for Avatar .

Redwood National Park, California

Home to the world’s tallest trees, Redwood National Park, north of San Francisco , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of an International Biosphere Reserve that protects close to half of the planet’s old-growth redwoods – some of which are 370ft high. With more than 200 miles of trail routes, it’s ideal for camping, hiking and riding.

Havana, Cuba

The crumbling façades of this island nation's capital keep bringing in waves of travelling artists, rum fanatics and cigar smokers to the city. It’s where Hemingway wrote seven of his books and drank Mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio. And with temperatures of 27°C in December, it’s an ideal winter-sun destination.

Kyoto, Japan

Considered to be the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto is awash with ancient temples and shrines, serene teahouses and sublime gardens. The bright-orange Fushimi-inari, a shinto shrine in the hills, is a visual beauty. Grab an artisan coffee, taken very seriously in the traditional city, and make the two-hour pilgrimage through the shrine's thousands of torii (gates). Other spots worth visiting include Gion, the home of the geishas, the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and Nishiki market for street food or a traditional kaiseki feast at one of the city's local restaurants.

Marrakech, Morocco

The kaleidoscopic city may best be known for its market life, spice sellers and ancient medinas, but its reimagined riads, cool independent shops and contemporary art scene are giving it a modern edge. There are lots of places to discover – from Yves Saint Laurent’s restoration of cobalt-blue Jardin Majorelle to the smoky street-food stalls in Jemaa el-Fna.

Ischia, Italy

A quick ferry ride from Naples , the island of Ischia – famed for its thermal spas and unshowy local life – is a tumble of fishing villages and beaches that match Amalfi but without the crowds.

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

Bondi Icebergs might easily be the most famous pool in the world. The Olympic-size structure has been standing on the southern end of Bondi Beach for more than 100 years. It’s not heated or chlorinated, but filled with seawater, with the Tasman Sea crashing against its edge.

The Philippines

The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands – about 5,000 of which are uninhabited – where roughly 175 languages are spoken. For diving, El Nido is the ideal spot with crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life.

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

About 20 minutes outside Kyoto’s city centre is the atmospheric Arashiyama bamboo forest. Arrive at around 7am to avoid the crowds and get a chance to see and feel the wood, as well as hear it creaking in the wind. Morning light is just as ethereal, too. Arabica coffee shop is nearby, overlooking Hozugawa River.

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

The incredible pink lakes here make up part of the protected nature reserve of Ría Lagartos Biosphere on Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula. Red-coloured algae, plankton and brine shrimp that thrive in the waters not only turn the native flamingos pink but help produce 500,000 tons of salt per year.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

This is one of Madagascar's most visited natural sites – and for good reason. Aside from the spectacular photo opportunities on offer as the sun casts auburn shades on the trees, travellers come to support local conservation efforts, and spot the unique wildlife that frolics in the overgrowth nearby.

Blue lagoon, Iceland

One of  Iceland's  most spectacular sites is, surprisingly, man-made. The Blue Lagoon's waters are a byproduct of a nearby geothermal power plant, which passes through turbines and into the lagoon. Natural geological layers account for the water's rich mineral content, which travellers use to their benefit, bathing and smothering themselves in the rich clay.

Cape Town, South Africa

Eager to spot a waddle of penguins in the wild? There's no need to save up for the ultimate excursion to Antarctica – although that's just as high on many bucket lists. On the shores of some of  South Africa's  most picturesque beaches, the animals mingle in search of a mate – safe from the fearsome great white that circle beneath the waves just metres away.

The Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon is part of the Colorado River basin and, aside from its beauty, is geologically significant as the waters that pass through here have revealed billions of years worth of rock layers. While it's popular with travelling day-trippers, native Americans still call it home, having first settled in the caves thousands of years ago.

Cenotes, Mexico

Formed by the collapse of eroded limestone,  Mexico's  cenotes harbour secrets and beauty discovered by sunshine-chasers each year. The unique formations were celebrated by the ancient Maya people, and archaeological investigations over the years have found artefacts made from gold, jadeite, shell and more on the sandy depths.

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

Stone tools and spearheads discovered in Joshua Tree National Park suggest the region was inhabited as long as 8,000 years ago. Modern travellers experience this wilderness in a very different way, checking into luxurious micro-resorts and serviced holiday homes. Think the landscapes are otherworldly by day? Look to the skies at night for an altogether different, and unforgettable, sight.

The Maldives

Spoiling retreats of all shapes and sizes litter the sandy banks of the Maldives , an archipelagic state in the Indian Ocean. Between the indulgent wellness resorts and exotic restaurants, the crystal-clear waters offer ample opportunity for snorkelling and diving excursions. Dive into the blue and find yourself in a world of kaleidoscopic colour as fish fizzle in and out of focus.

Peyto Lake, Canada

One of Canada's most beautiful and most-photographed lakes is a pool of cerulean on darker days, while its glacier waters mirror the sky's dappled blue on brighter days. Keen amblers are well rewarded as they reach Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway.

La Digue, Seychelles

The third most populated island in  the Seychelles , La Digue takes its name from a ship in the fleet of French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, who visited the Seychelles in 1768. Thanks to its otherworldly granite formations, glassy waters and fine sand, Anse Source d'Argent is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – a spot travellers fawn over as they venture out from the island's uber-luxurious hotels and resorts.

Yellowstone National Park, USA

Bison, bears, geese, deer – these are just some of the animals that call the oldest national park in the world home. Each change of the seasons beckons new residents out of their homes, as many cosy up during the cold winters and await the first signs of spring. A highlight of the park is the Yellowstone Caldera, a gargantuan crater that was formed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption some 640,000 years ago.

The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

By CNT Editors

There are three great lists annually in  Condé Nast Traveler,  all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say  our editors,  we mean  CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners   here .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-­style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Best of the Best Destinations

You’ve probably got one or two of these destinations on your list of dream vacays. What can we say? People love them—and for very good reason.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.

Dominican Republic

Playa del Carmen

New York City

28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024

Travelers are always looking for inspiration to guide their adventures. Coming up with a list of places to visit can be challenging when you're staring at a globe. What are the top tourist attractions in the world? The most iconic sites that all travelers have on their bucket-list of things to see around the globe?

Some destinations just stand out above the rest. Many are the type of places where you can take a photo, and it requires no explanation to identify the location: the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. But some places are less well known to new travelers or those who have not yet ventured out to the more exotic destinations. These can often be the most rewarding to visit.

For many of these attractions, it's what they symbolize and the destinations they represent that make them so significant. In other cases, it is the site itself that makes it worth visiting the country. Some of these are the more popular UNESCO World Heritage sites .

If you're looking to start your own checklist of places to visit during your life, begin with our list of the top tourist attractions in the world.

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

2. the colosseum, rome, 3. statue of liberty, new york city, 4. machu picchu, peru, 5. the acropolis, athens, 6. the taj mahal, india, 7. pyramids of giza, egypt, 8. great wall of china, 9. angkor wat, cambodia, 10. petra, jordan, 11. grand canyon, usa, 12. stonehenge, england, 13. borobudur, indonesia, 14. niagara falls, canada & usa, 15. bagan, myanmar, 16. sydney opera house, 17. mount kilimanjaro, 18. the louvre, paris, 19. forbidden city, china, 20. prague castle, czech republic, 21. chichen itza, mexico, 22. corcovado and cristo redentor, rio de janeiro, 23. château de versailles, france, 24. mount fuji, 25. central park, new york city, 26. alhambra, spain, 27. buckingham palace, london, 28. ubud, bali, indonesia.

The symbol of Paris and one of the most photographed structures in the world, a visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must for all travelers. Few landmarks inspire such a passion for travel as this single iron structure.

Young travelers heading out on the road for the first time, couples looking for a special getaway, artists looking to spur their creativity, and romantics of all types are all drawn to Paris. This is a city where history and culture collide and where travelers of all kinds can find the experience they're after.

Head up the tower for spectacular views over the city, and don't miss a chance to see the tower lit up at night.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

The most famous and largest structure still standing from the Roman Empire, the Colosseum is also the biggest attraction of modern-day Rome . It's been a bucket-list destination of travelers for generations. And it does not disappoint.

Set in the heart of the city, the Colosseum is an easy place to visit. Direct flights from around the world land in Rome daily, making it a destination you can visit in a weekend if you choose. Wander through Rome's ancient streets, tour the colosseum, and if time allows, plan a trip to other areas of Italy .

America is full of great sights and places to visit , but it's the Statue of Liberty that represents the United States like no other place. This symbol of freedom in New York City was gifted by the French to the American people in 1896.

Of all the attractions in New York City , this is one every tourist must see. The best thing to do at the Statue of Liberty is to take a ride up to her crown and soak up the view over the city. Access to the statue is via ferry, also a highlight of a visit.

If you don't have time for a tour, you can still see the statue without leaving Manhattan. Head to Battery Park for the best views. You can also see the Statue of Liberty on a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry. See our guide to touring New York City by water on the NYC Ferry System .

If you are planning to see only one attraction in South America, this is the place to come. The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu is arguably the most impressive ruined city in the world.

Much of the attraction comes from its location, high in the jungle-clad mountains of Peru. Set on a high plateau with soaring green mountains, the setting is surreal. The sheer tenacity of the original builders to create this amazing place in what would have been impenetrable jungle, is, in itself, impressive.

Visitor numbers are now limited to a maximum per day, so the experience has been greatly enhanced.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Perched above present day Athens , the Acropolis draws you up and in. Follow in the footsteps of the ancients as you walk up the same steps that have been walked on since 438 BC - 2,500 years.

Views out over the city are incredible as you walk between the meticulously restored ancient buildings. Near the end of the day, you'll want to linger and watch the sunset from the stairs near the entrance. This is a nightly ritual in Athens.

The site is also impressive looking up at it from the city below. Spend an evening dining on a rooftop patio to soak in the view of the hilltop ruins lit up at night.

Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

The Taj Mahal is the one sight in India that all travelers need to see. The country is filled with incredible cities and fabulous places to visit, but the 17th-century Taj Mahal in Agra is the one place that says you've been to India.

This mausoleum, commissioned by the Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is known internationally as a symbol of love. This fantastic structure, made with inlaid precious and semi-precious stones, has to be visited to be fully appreciated.

Its riverfront setting, surrounding gardens, and reflecting pools are also what make the Taj Mahal so special.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in India

If you've visited places like the Colosseum in Rome or the Acropolis in Athens, built over 2,000 years ago, you may think you have a good handle on ancient sites. But the Pyramids of Giza take ancient to a whole other level. These were built over 4,500 years ago. Tourists were coming to see these magnificent structures literally thousands of years ago.

Located just outside Cairo , the pyramids, which is also where you'll find the Sphinx, are easy to get to, and tours are easy to arrange. A sunset camel ride around the structures is a wonderful experience.

In a land of modern cities and towering skyscrapers, the Great Wall of China, built between the 14th and 17th centuries, is a stark contrast but a striking image that all visitors to China should see.

A stroll along the top of the wall provides an incredible view of the structure snaking off into the distance. The wall stretches an astounding 21,196 kilometers, through some remote areas.

Many travelers seeing the sights of China choose to visit the wall on easily organized tours from Beijing, a relatively short motorcoach ride away.

Surrounded by jungle and, in some cases, overgrown with huge trees and roots, the ancient structures of the Angkor complex may look like a movie set to some visitors.

Wandering through Angkor Wat, the main centerpiece of the complex, it's easy to feel like you've entered another era. This is without a doubt, one of the most impressive sites in Southeast Asia and the main reason many people visit Cambodia .

The stone faces peering out over the buildings and gates are images that you won't soon forget.

Angkor Wat is located just outside the city of Siem Reap, a popular tourist center in Cambodia.

You may have an Indiana Jones feeling as you walk through a 1.2-kilometer-long narrow crack in the sandstone hills and emerge into a hidden city. First built over 2,000 years ago and lost to the outside world for 600 years, the city was only discovered in 1812.

Stunning buildings are carved directly into the red rock walls and are wonderfully preserved, just begging to be explored and photographed.

If you arrive early, an eerie silence, coupled with long shadows, give this abandoned city a special feel.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

The greatest natural attraction in the United States, the Grand Canyon is a key sight for all travelers planning their lifetime of adventures. Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, looking out over the carved landscape, will awaken your senses.

Several hikes in the canyon and along the rim offer unique perspectives. Walk even a short distance down the Bright Angel trail to gain additional views and to experience what the canyon is like below the rim.

For even more adventure plan a rafting trip down the Colorado River through the canyon.

The Grand Canyon looks different throughout the day and at different times of the year. One trip is never enough. If you are going to add this place to your to-see list, consider what you want to do here to determine the best time to visit.

Read More: Top Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Stonehenge is one of those places that makes you ponder what went on here over 4,500 years ago. It's long been a mystery to historians, and has captured the imagination of countless visitors. Despite the large number of tourists that descend on Stonehenge, the place still has a mystical feel.

At the site, giant stones, some standing, some fallen, are set in two roughly circular patterns that are oriented to highlight the summer and winter solstices. For a truly memorable experience, plan your visit during one of these times.

An easy day trip from London , Stonehenge can easily be worked into your UK itinerary.

Set in a steamy jungle with three volcanoes providing the backdrop, Borobudur is Indonesia's top tourist attraction .

Borobudur dates from the 9th century and is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. It's a fascinating place to wander about. Over 500 Buddhas are spread around the site, some of which sit under ornate stupas.

Try to visit early in the morning when you'll have the best chance of experiencing a bit of early mist, and the view to the volcanoes will be the clearest.

On the border between the United States and Canada, these great falls have been drawing explorers and travelers for centuries. Just over an hour from the city of Toronto, Niagara Falls is easy to get to, and the town is a fun place to spend a night or two.

Walk up to the edge of the falls, stroll along the paved walk lining the gorge for different views, or take a boat tour for a close-up look at the water pouring over the lip of the gorge above you. For a bird's-eye view, head up the Skylon Tower to look out over the falls.

At night, see the falls lit in different colors. If you're visiting in winter, watch the huge plume of mist rising into the sky above the falls.

Niagara Falls is easily reached from Toronto, Canada, or Buffalo, New York.

While this ancient site may not be on the average traveler's radar, it's another of Southeast Asia's bucket-list attractions.

Spread out over a lush plain are more than 10,000 sacred structures dating from 1044 through to 1287. Hire a bicycle and pedal your way from one amazing structure to the next, or take a tour. Some of the structures can be entered, but the real beauty is the sheer number that dot the landscape.

For an aerial view, consider taking a hot air balloon tour at dawn.

Like many other attractions around the world, the Sydney Opera House is one of those places that is easy to identify and obviously associated with Australia. A photo of yourself in front of the white sails screams Australia.

The Sydney Opera House was built in several stages and officially opened in late 1973. To fully experience the building, take a tour inside to see the unique shape and hear the exceptional acoustics.

Soak up the view from the Opera House area back towards the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The highest peak in all of Africa, this majestic mountain – a dormant volcano – is one of the most recognizable symbols of the continent. The snowcapped peak is an impressive 5,985 meters (19,340 feet) and is often the backdrop to photographs of the wild animals that roam Amboseli National Park and other areas.

You can see this beautiful sight from afar or tackle the multi-day hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro for the fantastic views over the land, and to watch the sunrise.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

If there is one museum in the whole world that you absolutely must see in your life, it's the Louvre. Even if you are not a fan of museums, this one is worth the trip to Paris to see.

Although most people know it as the home to the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa , this is just one of the reasons to visit the Louvre .

The museum holds countless masterpieces by the greatest artists that have ever lived. But even the building itself is an icon. The glass pyramids and the 18th-century building are recognizable to almost everyone, and have been shown in countless movies.

Like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, in Beijing is one of the top places to visit in China . The sprawling complex dates from the 14th and 15th centuries and is a spectacular example of historical China.

Over the centuries, the palace has housed 24 Ming and Qing Emperors. Inside the city, the Palace Museum holds over 340,000 artifacts showcasing the treasures of China's dynasties. In front of the Forbidden City is the massive Tiananmen Square .

Prague is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Sitting atop a hill across the river from the center of the city, Prague Castle casts an imposing aura over its surroundings. The castle is an incredible collection of buildings constructed from the 9th to 14th centuries.

Stroll over the ornate 14th-century Charles Bridge spanning the Vltava River and head up the hill to wander the narrow, twisty streets in the castle complex . The castle is one of the largest in the world, and around almost every corner is a historical building, church, or open square.

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza have been drawing curious tourists since they were first brought to light by a popular book by John Lloyd Stevens in 1843. Today the site, located near the center of the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the top tourist attractions in Mexico and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The 30-meter-high Pyramid of Kukulkán has been restored to its full glory along with many of the other significant buildings, including the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the eerie Skull Platform.

Chichen Itza is located about 200 kilometers from Cancun and is easily accomplished in a day trip from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other areas of the Mayan Riviera either on your own or as part of a group.

Keeping a watchful eye over the citizens of Rio de Janeiro from his perch atop Corcovado mountain is the stunning statue of Cristo Redentor. This huge 30-meter-high statue with its arms wide open in a welcoming gesture has been one of Rio's top tourist attractions since 1931.

The harbor of Rio de Janeiro is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world . The views from the top of the 709-meter Corcovado look out over this beautiful sight, including Sugarloaf Mountain and the city perfectly poised for beautiful photographs. The best way to get to the top is a ride up through the forests of the Tijuca National Park on the 3.5-kilometer Corcovado Rack Railway.

The wealth and grandeur of 17th-century France is on display at the incredible Château de Versailles. The château and the grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and should be near the top of your touring plans when in France.

The Château de Versailles has an unbelievable 2,300 rooms housing some of France's most impressive interior design work, especially in the world-famous Hall of Mirrors. Other important rooms include the King's State Apartment and the Queen's Apartment.

The grounds of the château encompass 800 hectares, and one of the most impressive sights is the Gardens (Les Jardins). Geometrical pathways follow immaculately trimmed hedges past serene pools all surrounded by lawns cut to within an inch of their life.

Mount Fuji is the most well-known and highest mountain in Japan. Often pictured snowcapped, this dormant volcano is both a spiritual site and one of the top tourist attractions in Japan . Soaring 3,776 meters high, Mount Fuji is one of three Holy Mountains, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Hiking to the top of the mountain is a popular thing to do in Japan. Each year, nearly 300,000 people follow one of four routes to the top. One of the most popular things to do is time your hike so that you reach the summit just before sunrise.

Mount Fuji is located 100 kilometers east of Tokyo and is easily accessible via public transit and tours .

Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

Loved by generations of New Yorkers and by people from around the world, Central Park is one of the most famous public spaces in the world. The backdrop to countless movies and television shows, the park's walkways, lakes, and historical sights have been drawing city dwellers and visitors since it was first created in 1858.

Some fun things to do in Central Park include taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park, visiting the Strawberry Fields Forever area and Imagine monument dedicated to the late John Lennon, renting a row boat, or just strolling under the towering trees. If you find yourself in the park in the cold season, ice skating is one of the most popular things to do in New York in winter . Going ice skating with your sweetie is also a romantic thing to do in New York.

The stunning Alhambra is perched high on the hills above the Spanish city of Granada and is a testament to the wealth and power of the Nasrid Dynasty of the 13th Century. A huge complex full of ornate gardens, lush courtyards, bubbling water features, and spectacular buildings make it one of Spain's top tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Count on a full day to explore the Alhambra with its incredible buildings which include the Palacios Nazaries consisting of the Palacio Real (Royal Palace), the Palacio de Comares (Palace of Ceremonial Rooms), and the Palacio de los Leones (Palace of the Lions). Views out over the city of Granada and the surrounding mountains from the ruins of the Alcazaba are among the highlights.

The stately palace located in the heart of London attracts millions of visitors every year. This iconic building and treasured monument is home to the ruling monarchy and its grand façade showcases the importance of the Royal Family in British society.

Highlights of a visit to Buckingham Palace include witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony where guardsmen with their red tunics and bearskin hats execute an intricate series of maneuvers.

If you find yourself visiting in the summer, try your best to get tickets for the tour through the grand State Rooms with their extensive and impressive collection of priceless art and period pieces.

A fun town with a Boho vibe, Ubud is high on the list of things to see and do in Bali . Located inland in a lush area, the town has a wide range of cultural and natural attractions. A must-see is the Sacred Monkey Forest , a dense site of towering trees, river gorges, historic temples, and of course, monkeys. Hundreds of monkeys live in this protected area and wander freely on the pathways providing non-stop entertainment.

Just out of town are the world-famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces . Descending from a ridge to the valley below, the terraces flow according to the landscape.

Ubud features prominently as a destination for shopping, many of Indonesia's best artisans have shops here selling everything from Batik fabrics to ornate jewelry.

Ubud is also known as a place to work on your inner well-being, countless yoga studios and wellness retreats are located here.

More on Cambodia

50 Best Vacation Spots & Places To Visit In The World

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 24, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

There’s no shortage of amazing, awe-inspiring, fascinating locations to visit in this world that we live in.

With 195 countries to choose from, each with their own rich cultures and special attractions, it can be tricky to decide which one to take a trip to.

The secret lies in simply picking one, then working your way through them all!

Table of Contents

1. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH / Shutterstock

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the undisputed best vacation spots for anyone who wants the opportunity to glimpse one of the most incredible marvels of nature.

The reef spans across 2,300 kilometers and is so huge that it can actually be spotted from outer space!

Tourists will be able to enjoy the amazing sights of unique marine animals and plants, interacting with each other in perfect harmony.

You can dive or snorkel in the area to really get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna.

2. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Creative Travel Projects / Shutterstock

The Plitvice Lakes can be found on Croatia’s Adriatic Sea coast, just lingering on the border between Zadar and the nation’s capital, Zagreb.

These lakes consist of 16 bodies of water that are all joined together by a variety of cascading waterfalls and fascinating bridges, flanked by age-old emerald forests that hold wildlife aplenty: birds, wolves, bears, and more!

Enjoy walks in one of the top travel destinations in the country across a variety of paths, both natural and man-made, and explore the wide expanse between the lowest altitude lakes of 280 meters and the highest 1,000 meters above it.

You can even take a ferry to travel between them!

3. Taj Mahal, India

YURY TARANIK / Shutterstock

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous vacation spots in the world, and with good reason!

It’s one of the world’s Seven Wonders and it serves as a symbol of true, never-ending love.

This mausoleum is, contrary to popular belief, not a palace – but the final resting place of Mumtaz Mahal, built by her husband for her.

This architectural success is a prime example of the finest in Mughal architecture, with four completely identical sides over its 240-foot height.

Its appearance shifts ever so slightly throughout the day with the sunlight, and you can see its reflection ripple in its huge pool beneath.

Plus, stroll through the large garden outside for even more beautiful magnificence!

4. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Lukas Bischoff Photograph / Shutterstock

Few people consider these African nations as among the best countries to visit, but those people are missing out!

Victoria Falls is one of the earth’s largest waterfalls, reaching a majestic 355 feet in height and spanning across an entire mile.

Its rush of falling water is the biggest of its kind, with the shocking speed of 550,000 cubic meters per minute.

On top of that, Victoria Falls is among the world’s Seven Natural Wonders, and its mist that shrouds the area can be seen from 50 kilometers away, creating a rainbow!

It is also responsible for the constant, non-stop rainfall experienced by the rainforest around River Zambezi.

5. Grand Canyon National Park, USA

Wisanu Boonrawd / Shutterstock

If you like traveling at all, the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is one of the best places to visit.

It is rich in history thanks to its layered red rock bands that are a testament to millions upon millions of years of change and development in its geology.

There are countless spots that offer breathtaking views of the park.

Lipan Point is arguably the most popular, with its stunning vista of the Colorado River and the canyon all in one, but the Yavapai Observation Station and Mather Point, among others, are just as worthy of a visit.

6. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Martin Valigursky / Shutterstock

Bora Bora is an island paradise isolated from much of the world, in the middle of the South Pacific ocean.

It is one of the world’s most famous go-to honeymoon locations. It hosts a dormant volcano, which is encircled by thick, gorgeous green.

This is the perfect spot to just kick it back and relax. It’s romantic and close to nature, yet is extravagant in its elegance.

You’ll want for nothing in this heaven-like spot.

7. Petra, Jordan

tenkl / Shutterstock

Petra is an awe-inspiring archaeological site that holds so much history and breathtaking majesty that it is easily one of the best vacation spots in the world.

This ancient city hails from the 5th century BC and is a world heritage site that boasts countless amazing structures made from cut rock.

Petra houses temples, altars, tombs, and all manners of buildings, and its location between the Red and Dead Seas makes it all the more mysterious.

Beautifully decorated sights wait to be seen!

8. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Joshua Davenport / Shutterstock

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is among the best places to travel in the already attraction-packed nation of Japan.

Located along Kyoto’s outskirts, this grove is packed with countless bamboo trees, all growing to amazing heights that have to be seen to be believed.

Plus, this grove is a treat for all your senses.

Not only is it a gorgeous sight to see, but it has also been named among the top 100 Soundscapes of Japan by the country’s Ministry of Environment.

This means you can bask in the melancholic rustling of leaves and creaking of wood, alongside just seeing the endless mass of bamboo.

9. Stonehenge, England

Abdoabdalla / Shutterstock

Stonehenge is such a mysterious location, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in the world.

Heavy rocks sit in a semi-organized pile in the middle of a valley, balanced on each other.

It’s unknown who exactly put them there, what they were for, or even how they all were brought to that spot and arranged.

A guided tour will show you around the area, and you’ll be impressed with how much beauty such a simple-looking landmark can hold.

If you’re there at the right time, you can even watch as the sunset casts a bittersweet glow over the pillars.

10. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Oleg Voronische / Shutterstock

Amalfi Coast is a fantastic getaway for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for some calm relaxation, you’re itching for some fresh seafood, or you desire something more adventurous, Amalfi Coast is one of the best vacation spots you can hope for.

13 towns along the cliffside provide hiking trails and a sense of warm civilization, while beaches provide the white expanses of sand perfect for a picturesque lounge.

Look over from a luxury hotel and marvel at the view – wide cliffs, green trees, and the deep blue sea.

11. Machu Picchu, Peru

Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

Machu Picchu may have been famous for a long time, but it’s one of the more recently discovered old archaeological ruins, and it’s definitely one of the top best places to travel in the world.

These Incan ruins are full of mystery and intrigue, making them a stunner for historians and those who study them.

The ruins contain plenty of interesting spots, including the famed Temple of the Sun, and the view from the peak of these ruins is more than worth the trip all on its own.

You can also take a hike along the trails left behind to witness even more of the stunning Incan heritage on display.

12. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA

TRphotos / Shutterstock

The Niagara Falls , positioned on the border between America and Canada, is a once-in-a-lifetime type of trip that you won’t regret.

There are two ranges, each located on either side of the border, and both are equally cool places to check out.

The Falls have a natural whirlpool along the base, and a boat ride is available for those who want to even more fully explore the waterways.

If you go in the evening, you’ll be treated to a spectacle of the rushing water illuminated in vibrant hues.

Planning a visit to Toronto? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Toronto !

13. Cappadocia, Turkey

Ozerov Alexander / Shutterstock

Cappadocia is likely one of the most intriguing vacation spots in the world.

This is because of its fascinating, unique, and borderline bizarre natural structures known as fairy chimneys.

These are geological formations made from rock, shaped in cones, that form in a variety of sizes as volcanic ash solidifies.

On top of this interesting phenomenon, Cappadocia also hosts underground structures of all kinds that served as homes, stores, and cities all the way in the 4th century.

You can even spot some Byzantine art in monasteries.

14. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Yevhenii Chulovskyi / Shutterstock

You may feel like Neuschwanstein Castle looks familiar.

That’s because the famed Cinderella’s Castle building, located in Disney World, is heavily inspired by and modeled after this incredible, opulent palace.

This magnificent structure is built on top of a mountain, and its Bavarian construction is a wonder to behold.

It’s no wonder that it’s one of the top vacation spots in the country.

15. Marble Caves, Argentina/Chile

Nektarstock / Shutterstock

The Marble Caves are among the best places to visit if you are a fan of unreal sights that you can barely believe exist.

These caves are found on the border of Chile and Argentina, on the General Carrera Lake, and they are formed through tunnels and caverns that hold some of the most important and beautiful marble depositions the world has to offer.

You’ll be able to see the marble reflected in the vivid water beneath, changing in appearance with the tide and as the seasons turn.

There’s nothing quite like being there in person to witness the superb caves in motion.

16. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

EyesTravelling / Shutterstock

The Cliffs of Moher span 14 kilometers across County Clare, Ireland, and it’s a prime location for untamed, natural beauty.

They’re such an iconic location thanks to their roles in Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets and The Princess Bride, where they served as a fantastical location for the perfect scenes.

Whether you’re going for the novelty of visiting a famous movie set or to see the raw allure of the west coast of Ireland, you’re sure to find the Cliffs Moher to be one of the best places to vacation.

17. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Olga Kot Photo / Shutterstock

The Salar de Uyuni makes for an unusual trip, but it’s still one of the best vacations you might ever go on.

High up in the Andes mountains, this salt flat boasts a range of 4,086 square miles, which makes it the largest on the planet.

Standing on top of the sparkling salt that shines white in the sun, often providing a bright reflection that makes the expanse of land look like a giant mirror.

Plus, you can see all the strange and unique formations of rock there, and the islands around that sprout lots of cacti.

18. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Puripat Lertpunyaroj / Shutterstock

If you’re a sucker for a good soak in a hot spring, the Blue Lagoon is one of the best places to travel.

It’s a one-of-a-kind geothermal spa that sits right in the middle of a rather intimidating lava field.

It might sound frightening, but when you see it, you’ll know why it’s such a great place to take a trip to.

It may be a man-made lagoon, but it is home to silent, still white waters, and a lava flow nearby leads to nice, warm water that makes for a wonderful treat for your body.

It’s full of minerals, silica, and other components that will enrich your body and even help some skin conditions.

19. Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile

emperorcosar / Shutterstock

The Torres Del Paine National Park is located in the southernmost region of the Andes, and it is full of diverse natural sights to enjoy.

These sights range from wide rivers to emerald forests, from deep lakes to tall mountains, and from cobalt icebergs to golden pampas.

You can explore on foot with a good hike, or head to specific landmarks, such as the French Valley, the granite towers, or Los Cuernos, among others.

There’s so much to see and do, making this park one of the most fun places to go on vacation.

20. Socotra, Yemen

Michail_Vorobyev / Shutterstock

Socotra is one of those unusual places that is more bizarre than normal, but that just makes it one of the best vacation spots for nature-lovers.

It is an archipelago that hosts countless towering dragon’s blood trees, which fan upwards like an umbrella or a giant, branch-filled mushroom.

There is a grand total of 825 rare species of flora on the island of Socotra, and a good third of them can only be seen in this small locale.

Once you’ve had your fill of oddities, you can head to the Shouab beach for some relaxation, too!

21. Okavango Delta, Botswana

kavram / Shutterstock

The Okavango Delta is one of those travel destinations that have to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

The river delta winds in and out of gorgeous greenery and spans a whopping 49 million acres.

On either side, you’ll be able to spot incredibly diverse wildlife, ranging from predators like cheetahs to herd mammals like elephants, zebras, rhinos, and buffalos.

The best time to visit is likely during Botswana’s winter, which is when the delta floods and leads to lower grasses and much more teeming wildlife.

22. The Colosseum, Rome

Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock

The Colosseum is easily one of the world’s top travel destinations.

Known originally as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it originally served as an arena for entertainment through gladiator fights and other similar events.

Now, in modern times, actors continue to roam around the large structure, dressed in gladiator attire and ready for pictures.

Though some areas have become damaged over time, much of this glorious success in architecture remains standing strong, and there’s plenty of nooks and crannies to explore within.

23. Moraine Lake, Canada

Rowan Sims Photography / Shutterstock

Moraine Lake is often referred to as the earth’s most stunning and picturesque lake.

It sits within the Banff National Park , where it is nestled in a valley between ten hill and mountain peaks.

The deep, bright turquoise waves gently lap across the rippling lake, and a mineral-rich content allows for a truly brilliant and vibrant hue.

Is that all you can do here? Of course not!

Head here to enjoy one of the best vacation spots in the world – over a hundred scenic hiking trails, countless lodges, and great canoeing opportunities await.

24. Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

The Avenue of the Baobabs, like the name suggests, is home to incredible baobabs that reach up into the sky at 100-foot heights.

Each of these ancient trees appears surreal and almost alien-like in aesthetic as if they leaped right out of the pages of The Little Prince, where they are so whimsically featured.

The Avenue of the Baobabs sits on a rural island in Madagascar, which also hosts unique wildlife, including lemurs that stare at you with wide, big eyes, and some of the largest moth species on the planet.

You wouldn’t think Madagascar is one of the best countries to visit, but with unique traits like that, how can you resist?

25. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek / Shutterstock

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in all of Africa, and, amazingly, it isn’t connected to a mountain range of any kind.

It hits 19,000 feet in height and is surrounded by flat expanses, so it truly stands out and serves as a noticeable and breathtaking landmark.

This stratovolcano is among the best places to visit for mountain-climbing enthusiasts and nature-lovers alike.

Even if you’re new to mountain climbing and have never done so before, you can still scale this beauty – no technical skill is needed!

26. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Vaclav Sebek / Shutterstock

The Raja Ampat Islands aren’t just a few specific places – they span 1,500 different small islands that take up 29,000 square miles of ocean, and each one is biodiverse and highly unique.

If you’re up for resplendent nature to feast your eyes on, these islands will be among the best vacations you’ll ever take.

Much of the land’s aesthetic is almost prehistoric, with palm trees growing out of cliffs, lava peaks surrounded and enrobed by delightful jungles, and misty canyons all ready to be explored.

27. Northern Lake Baikal, Russia

Anton Petrus / Shutterstock

Northern Lake Baikal is an extremely large freshwater lake – the biggest on the planet!

If you visit when temperatures are at great lows, you’ll be in for an aesthetically pleasing treat.

Ice sheets form over the top of the water, glowing turquoise and seafoam in the light.

This lake is truly splendid in all its beauty, and it’s really not a surprise that it’s among the best vacation spots in the world.

If you like lakes and can’t resist some ethereal beauty, this is the place for you!

28. Reed Flute Caves, China

TDway / Shutterstock

China’s Reed Flute Caves are among the nation’s best places to travel.

The cave system runs for about 240 meters and it has been open for public viewing for more than a thousand years!

As such, it’s rich in history, intrigue, and fascination.

In modern times, pillars and other cave formations are highlighted by the installation and use of bright colorful lights, which fill the caves with exquisite beauty.

It’s the perfect meshing of worlds between the old and the new, and it’s sure to be a trip you won’t forget!

29. Geiranger Fjord, Norway

Sergey_Bogomyako / Shutterstock

We already know that Norway is easily in the top best places to visit in the world if you want to see grand, dazzling fjords of all kinds.

But of all those hundreds of fjords to visit, Geiranger Fjord is probably the most incredible.

It spans 15 kilometers in length and its coasts are completely inhabitable.

The fjord can be visited by ferry, through kayaking, or by passing through Trollstigen road.

Each option will reward you with a fantastic view of waterfalls and verticals mountains on all sides, leading up to steep cliffs that beg to be climbed on and ziplined off of.

30. Sossusvlei, Namibia

evenfh / Shutterstock

Sossusvlei is undeniably one of the best vacation spots in Nambia.

It is a clay and salt pan located within the Namib-Naukluft National Park.

It is characterized by red dunes that roll, rising and falling, across a wide expanse of land.

They form as a result of the rare rain that reaches the usually dry desert land.

Some flora and fauna linger around this area, having adapted to the rough conditions, but it’s when moisture seeps its way into the environment that it truly flourishes.

A lake forms in Sossusvlei, coaxing thousands of birds to the location in an impressive spectacle.

31. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Sean Heatley / Shutterstock

If you love history and archaeology, Angkor Wat is one of the best places to travel in the world.

Across 400 square kilometers, this temple of the Hindu faith was built in the 12th century under the Khmer Empire and took a whopping 35 years to complete.

Today, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it doesn’t just host the staggering ancient wonders of the temple, but also other attractions for tourists, and plenty of jungle-trekking to get there.

Make sure you’re all geared up early and you just may catch the sunrise!

32. Darvaza gas crater, Turkmenistan

Matyas Rehak / Shutterstock

The Darvaza gas crater, popularly also termed as the Door to Hell, is one of those cool places that you just can’t miss.

Located in the Karakum Desert, it is thusly named because it is a giant pool of crimson lava that gives off huge waves of steamy heat.

Essentially, this crater was formed by the collapse of natural gas field into some caverns below, where it was then, remarkably, deliberately put on fire in order to keep its methane gas content from escaping to the outside.

33. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

sharptoyou / Shutterstock

The Iguazu Falls isn’t just one single waterfall – it’s a collection of multiple small ones spanning across 3 kilometers, each one cascading down onto the next with raw power and energy that is spectacular to behold.

This shocking spectacle alone easily makes this location rank among the top vacation spots in the world.

This marvelous modern natural wonder sits on the border between Argentina and Brazil, within a larger national park that holds plenty of majesty and whimsy on its own in its rainforests.

Enjoy the sensational magic of the Iguazu Falls and take a trip through the forest beneath after to spot some interesting wildlife!

34. Tikal, Guatemala

Simon Dannhauer / Shutterstock

Tikal can be found within the thick rainforest of Tikal National Park , and it is a UNESCO world heritage site.

The ruins are archaeological wonders that speak of ancient Mayan culture, and it was once a teeming city occupied between the 6th century BC and the 10th century AD.

Within Tikal, you can find temples and shrines, residences, palaces, and fancy courts and plazas, making this site among the top vacation spots for history lovers.

It also contains six pyramids and numerous stone monuments numbering close to 200.

35. The Great Blue Hole, Belize

Globe Guide Media Inc / Shutterstock

The Great Blue Hole may be an odd name to find among the best places to visit, but this sinkhole isn’t just any old lake!

It measures 407 feet in depth and spans across 980 feet in width, and it’s so large that you can spot it beautifully from above.

Divers love to take a dip in this old submarine haunt, and its dark indigo and navy depths just beg to be explored.

If you love water getaways and have an adventurous streak, you’ll love checking out what lies beneath!

36. Zhangye Danxia, China

M. Scheja / Shutterstock

At first glance, Zhangye Danxia looks like it may be photoshopped.

But it’s all natural, and that’s why these Rainbow Mountains are one of the best places to vacation for unique and breathtaking sights.

These mountains make up a geopark and have multicolored stripes, showing off vibrant shades of yellow, red, green, and more.

Trace minerals, erosion, and years of weathering have led to this astonishing phenomenon, made up of mineral deposits and red sandstone that have sat here for over 20 million years.

The place looks like it came right out of a storybook!

37. Vatnajokull Ice Caves, Iceland

Albert Russ / Shutterstock

The Vatnajokull Ice Caves are deadly when the ice melts in the spring and summer, but come winter, it’s a tourist’s paradise.

A huge network of caverns, tunnels, and caves appear surreal and breathtaking, reflected in bright teal and cerulean thanks to air bubbles, icebergs, and other factors.

Plus, let’s not forget about the Vatnajokull glacier, which spans 5,500 square miles and is the biggest glacier that the country has to offer.

All in all, this spot is perfect for a wonderful, fantastic vacation full of truly glorious photo opportunities.

Unfortunately, global warming has caused many of these caves to become threatened, so a trip here would be one of the best vacations to plan quickly before it’s too late!

38. Antelope Canyon, USA

canadastock / Shutterstock

This geological phenomenon is located on Navajo territory and it is a slot canyon that boasts the privilege of being the most photographed of its kind universally.

The upper canyon area is more popular and offers a fantastic view of the curving, wavy walls of sandstone, while the lower canyon area boasts a more up-close-and-personal interaction with the magnolias colors it boasts.

Antelope Canyon is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US thanks to the amazing appearance it offers.

It’s amazing to think that all these fascinating shades of sandstone, in orange, yellow, pink, and red, occurred naturally!

39. Lake Bled, Slovenia

ZM_Photo / Shutterstock

Lake Bled looks like it came out of a medieval movie featuring brave knights and feisty dragons.

That’s what makes it so compelling among places to go on vacation.

The lake is a deep forest green with a small island nestled in its center, holding a tall ancient castle and an equally rustic church.

You can row around the peaceful, calm waters of the lake or explore its central island.

It’s a truly romantic and gorgeous place that seems to be lost in time.

40. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

givaga / Shutterstock

Most people would consider the world-famous Pyramids of Giza to be among the best vacation spots that the world has to offer.

Among them are the gigantic Pyramid of Cheops, the intriguing Pyramid of Chephren, and, of course, the towering Sphinx that gazes over the land with watchful eyes.

Experience the wonders of ancient Egypt within these pyramids, where you will see sarcophagi, passages, statues, and structures all worthy of exploration.

It’s no wonder that these iconic structures are so renowned!

41. Mount Fuji, Japan

Aeypix / Shutterstock

For the mountaineers, Mount Fuji is one of the best places to travel in the world.

It scales 12,388 feet in height and its beauty is worthy of any storybook cover.

Hike at the right time, and you’ll be able to get the summit without the hassle of the overwhelming snow.

Better yet, the area also hosts Lake Kawaguchiko, which is flanked by cherry blossoms that send soft pink petals drifting to the ground magically.

It is also backed by the view of the incredible mountain in all its glory.

42. Kuang Si Falls, Laos

WeStudio / Shutterstock

The Kuang Si Falls is known to be among the top travel destinations for backpackers.

Located very close to bustling city Luang Prabang, these waterfalls rush downwards in amazingly clear azure streams, falling through three tiers.

You can jump right into the water beneath the falls or, if you prefer, hike around the area to uncover more serene nature-filled spots that are perfect for a little exploring.

43. The Great Wall of China

zhu difeng / Shutterstock

We can’t talk about the greatest vacation spots in the world without mentioning The Great Wall of China .

It covers thousands of miles and sits on top of a mountain, allowing tourists who walk along it to glimpse breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.

This man-made marvel is so extensively huge that it’s difficult to imagine how it could have been built.

Its rich history and incredible structure make it well worth the visit, even though it’s impossible to walk all the way across it in one trip!

44. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Greg Brave / Shutterstock

If you like nature and culture all in one, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit.

Case in point: the Fiordland National Park .

This park holds 14 fjords that, according to Maori legends, were all carved by a giant stonemason with an adze.

It’s not too difficult to believe that myth when you take a look at the deep, dipping valleys, though most experts believe it’s more likely that the fjords were created by glaciers over a hundred thousand years.

Waterfalls cascade over fjords and down from giant mountains of granite, and some fauna species in this park are found only there and nowhere else.

45. Boracay, Philippines

R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock

Boracay is among the best places to visit for a relaxing beach trip and some fun in the sun.

It’s one of the world’s favorite vacation islands, and its beauty is stunning in its simplicity.

Plus, there’s lots of good food to enjoy, and the people are lovely and friendly.

It’s a little difficult to get to these islands today, as only a limited number of tourists are allowed inside on a daily basis due to overcrowding from how popular the island has gotten.

However, if you plan in advance , you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing bask in the sun on sandy beaches and wet shores.

46. Ik Kil Cenote, Mexico

Fotos593 / Shutterstock

Ik Kil Cenote is a natural pit that formed when a cave collapsed back in ancient times.

Back then, it was used by Mayans for ritual practices and also for relaxation.

Today, it’s among the greatest places to travel thanks to its gorgeous sapphire water that is crystal clear down to its depths, making it one of the greatest natural pools that earth has to offer.

Across the limestone wall, a ladder allows for easy pool access, and it’s a fantastic spot for divers and swimmers alike.

When you’re done, you can continue looking around the area for even more great spots to visit.

Planning a vacation to Cancun, Mexico? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Cancun !

47. The Pitons, St. Lucia

PlusONE / Shutterstock

The Pitons are a pair of volcanic plugs that go by the names Petit Piton (the smaller one) and Gros Piton (the larger one).

Their peaks are striking in appearance and make for incredible landmarks.

You can hike up the mountains or simply enjoy the view by resting and relaxing in Sugar Beach, which offers prime viewing of one of the best vacation spots in the world.

Either way, the dramatic and distinguished mountain spires simply cannot be denied!

48. Neelum Valley, Pakistan

Nadeem Mushtaq Jass / Shutterstock

Neelum Valley is one of the best places to travel for a more peaceful, calming experience.

Its valley, shaped somewhat like a bow, can be found at a 2000-foot altitude in the country’s Azad Kashmir.

Within the gorgeous valley flows the sublime Neelum river, and above it, the dignified mountain peaks capped by snow.

Surrounding this valley are rolling, tumbling hills rich in greenery and waterfalls for even more exploration.

49. Batu Caves, Malaysia

Photography by KO / Shutterstock

Malaysia isn’t always thought of when you consider the best places to visit in the world, but this old temple cave (alongside other attractions) makes it worth the journey.

In 1859, Batu Caves was first discovered on the top of a limestone hill.

Within its depths are a large number of smaller caves joined with three big ones.

Today, this cave serves as a Hindu temple and houses many shrines, and it can only be accessed by climbing 272 steps.

At its front, a giant, elegant golden statue of Lord Murugan stands, overseeing the area with a calm gaze.

50. Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey

THANAN / Shutterstock

The Pamukkale Thermal Pools are undoubtedly one of the best vacation spots in the nation.

Completely natural in structure, these pools are layered over one another thanks to mineral formations and travertines.

True to its name, which translates to “cotton castle”, these pools look like regally floating clouds.

The waters of these 17 hot springs in the area are rich in minerals, allowing for relaxation and skin-healing properties.

It’s basically a large natural spa that looks like an ethereal masterpiece.

Start Planning Your Dream Vacation

The world is full of rich natural and man-made wonders, whether they are resplendent in history and culture, packed with dazzling nature, or mind-blowing in their uniqueness and splendor.

These 50 places all around the planet are just begging to be explored, so what are you waiting for?

The 100 Best Places to Travel in the World

The world is full of stunning sights, and incredible adventures await around every corner.

With 195 countries across seven continents, there’s no shortage of amazing vacation spots, whether you prefer adrenaline-pumping activities or ultimate relaxation.

To help you plan for your next trip, here’s our summary of the 100 best bucket list locations you don’t want to miss.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Locations in the World

1. grand canyon, usa.

Grand Canyon National Park offers unbelievable views and amazing adventures in the American Southwest.

Nestled north of Flagstaff, Arizona, the Grand Canyon stretches 227 miles and was carved by the rushing water of the Colorado River.

This world-famous site boasts millions of years of history and geological development, with incredible scenery as far as the eye can see.

Lipan Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and Mather Point all belong on your Grand Canyon itinerary. Keep in mind you can hike and raft in parts of this national park, too.

Another pro travel tip is to visit the Grand Canyon in April, May, or June, when rainfall is low and temperatures aren’t quite as hot as later on in the summer.

The Grand Canyon receives nearly 6 million visitors a year, with thousands of families flocking to the park once school is out.

Aim to get up early and catch a Grand Canyon sunrise without so many people around.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef on Earth and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

If you want to snorkel or scuba dive the reef and see hundreds, if not thousands, of beautiful fish and sea creatures, then a trip to Far North Queensland is an absolute must.

Vibrant marine life demonstrates how animals and plants work together to thrive in this unique environment, with the reef stretching 1,429 miles or 2,300 kilometers.

In fact, the Great Barrier Reef is so large it can be seen from outer space. There are close to 3,000 individual reefs and 900 islands within the system.

While diving is undeniably popular along the reef, there are options for those who don’t want to submerge. Perhaps a glass-bottom boat tour or a helicopter ride is more your style.

A stay at Cruise Whitsundays Reefsuites is another fabulous possibility, as it’s the first underwater hotel on the reef.

It costs a pretty penny but is worth it, considering you’ll fall asleep surrounded by fish, sea turtles, coral, and so much more in luxury accommodation.

3. Great Smoky Mountains, USA

You won’t regret taking in the awe-inspiring sights of the Great Smoky Mountains along the Tennessee and North Carolina border.

The rich forests and incredible heights offer picturesque outlooks and fun outdoor activities to fuel your adventurous side.

As a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, Great Smoky makes up a national park in Tennessee where you can see blooming wildflowers and native wildlife like black bears.

Cades Cove is one of the most popular hiking and biking loops, with views of wildlife, historic homes, and gorgeous mountain scenery alongside an 11-mile loop.

Ziplining, mountain biking, and remote camping beneath the stars are top activities for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains.

At the same time, there’s a lot of luxurious accommodation for more relaxing stays, too.

Glamping is one of the latest trends to hit these beautiful mountain towns, while LeConte Lodge at the top of Mt. LeConte marks the highest guest lodge in the eastern U.S. for a truly awe-inspiring visit to Appalachia.

4. Adriatic Sea, Croatia

The Adriatic Sea near Croatia paints a stunning picture of Eastern Europe, thanks to the clear water and lush greenery along the coast.

Plitvice Lakes are some of the most famous sights in this region, and if you want amazing photos and outdoor adventures, you can’t go wrong with a visit here.

These lakes are situated on the Adriatic Sea coast between the Croatian capital Zagreb and the border city Zadar.

Beautiful waterfalls and bridges connect 16 lakes with surrounding lush emerald forests.

Birds, bears, and wolves are just a few of the common wildlife sightings as you meander along nature paths and see the sparkling lakes at every level.

The lowest lake is at 280 meters, with the highest lake at 1,000 meters above.

Ferry travel between the lakes is available, too.

5. Waikiki Beach, USA

A trip to Hawaii is not complete without a day or night at Waikiki Beach . It’s one of the best beaches for swimming , with two miles of stunning shoreline and shallow, smooth water.

Waikiki is Hawaii’s most famous beach and was originally reserved for royals before it became a tourist hotspot.

Now it’s one of the most visited beaches in the world, with millions of annual visitors.

Surf lessons, snorkeling, and sunset sails are some of the top attractions in Waikiki, although strolling the streets is just as satisfying with plenty of seaside restaurants and shops.

Canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and parasailing are also big hits with visitors and locals alike, so rest assured there’s always something to do in Waikiki.

At the western edge of Waikiki lies Duke Kahanamoku Beach, known for its spacious sandy shore and family-friendly surroundings.

It’s named for the legendary Olympic surfer who popularized surfing as a sport and was much beloved across Hawaii.

6. Taj Mahal, India

There are some sights you just have to see to believe, and the Taj Mahal in Agra, India is one of them.

As one of the Seven Wonders, this famous mausoleum is often mistaken for a palace. In reality, it’s the final resting spot of Mumtaz Mahal, whose husband built the architectural masterpiece in her honor.

The white marble mausoleum was constructed in 1648 at the request of Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who was devastated by the passing of his beloved wife.

The Taj Mahal symbolizes undying love and is arguably the most beloved example of Mughal architecture.

The structure stands over 240 feet tall and features four entirely identical sides.

The appearance shifts slightly as the sun rises and falls, and the reflection ripples in the massive pool underneath the mausoleum, which in 1983 was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitors can get a photo outside the Taj Mahal and stroll through the manicured gardens for a beautiful sightseeing excursion.

There are several hotels nearby so you can spend a day or two in this lovely corner of the world.

7. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA

Want to see one of the most well-known waterfalls in the world?

Head to Niagara Falls on the border of Ontario, Canada, and Buffalo, New York, for an exhilarating excursion you’ll never forget.

There are actually three waterfalls, which fall 51 meters or 167 feet on the southern side of the Niagara gorge.

This includes the American, Horseshoe, and Bridal Veil Falls.

A natural whirlpool sits at the base, and in the evening, the wild water is made even more gorgeous with vibrant colors.

Boat tours will bring you as close as possible to the falls, but just make sure you pack a rain jacket as you will get wet.

8. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania is home to one of the most awe-inspiring African sights, Mount Kilimanjaro.

This is the continent’s highest peak despite not being connected to any mountain range.

It towers 19,000 feet or 5,895 meters above the savannah, home to famous African wildlife like lions and giraffes.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano and a bucket list destination for mountain climbers and those with a strong sense of adventure.

It’s actually a dormant volcano featuring three volcanic cones.

Even if you haven’t mountain climbed before, you can still hike to the top of this mountain, although it will take a while!

Most people reach the peak within five to ten days of climbing.

9. Stonehenge, England

The mystery behind Stonehenge makes it a must-see tourist attraction in the U.K.

Wiltshire, England, is home to this prehistoric monument, so you can check out these massive stones if you fancy a drive through the English countryside.

The rocks are somewhat organized in a pile in the center of a valley, balancing on one another.

Standing 4 meters high, these huge stones date back 2,500 to 5,000 years ago.

Nobody knows who put them there and why, but many theories have emerged over centuries, from burial sites to aliens.

Today, Stonehenge is one of the 7 Wonders of the World, and Pagans and Druids use it to mark the summer solstice.

You can take a guided tour and check out the sunset glow over these mysterious yet majestic pillars.

10. Kyoto, Japan

Japan has plenty of tourist attractions, but one of the best places to visit is definitely the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove .

Situated on the outskirts of the bustling city of Kyoto , the bamboo grove contains countless trees towering above walkways to captivate visitors from all over the world.

Arashiyama is included in Japan’s Ministry of Environment’s top 100 Soundscapes, as the creaking wood and rustling leaves soothe the senses within the vast bamboo grove.

Kyoto as a whole is home to nearly 1.5 million people and features many more attractions such as Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and imperial palaces.

You can learn a lot from a trip to Kyoto, as it was Japan’s capital and home to the emperor from 794 to 1868.

11. Milford Sound, New Zealand

Ready for an outdoor adventure that feels like you’re in another world? Make your way to Milford Sound on the South Island of New Zealand.

Considered the country’s top natural attraction, Milford Sound is a sparkling fiord with the towering Mitre Peak dropping 5,560 feet or 1,690 meters down to the water.

Your visit to Fiordland National Park may include more than just the rushing water and eye-opening elevation.

Bowen and Stirling waterfalls and lush rainforests take the scenery to new heights.

Plus, the fiord has fur seals, dolphins, and penguins, which you can see aboard popular boat tours.

Also, check out the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see rare black coral that’s otherwise only found 500 meters down in the open water.

12. Kangaroo Island, Australia

As the name suggests, Kangaroo Island is the perfect place to visit for Aussie animals galore.

Just off the South Australian coast, this island features hundreds of wildlife species, such as its namesake kangaroo and the Tammar wallaby.

You may also catch a glimpse of Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, koalas, and sea lions on the island.

A pro travel tip: fly into Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, and then head south through the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula to reach the ferry that serves the mainland and Kangaroo Island.

There are several hotels and holiday homes on the island so you shouldn’t have a problem finding somewhere nice to stay.

13. Amalfi Coast, Italy

If you’ve only seen the Italian countryside in movies, do yourself a favor and book a ticket to the picturesque Amalfi Coast .

With no shortage of luxurious accommodations and ocean views that stretch for miles, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most sought-after destinations.

There are 13 towns dotted along the coastal cliffs, offering civilized comforts like shopping and restaurants, plus gorgeous beaches for cooling off in the summer heat.

You’ll definitely get some Instagram-worthy pics with the colorful backdrop featuring expansive cliffs, lush greenery, and sparkly blue waves.

14. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia is a beloved place to visit and live, with over five million residents and millions more visitors every year.

There’s no shortage of tourist attractions in the bustling city, known for its magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is the most beautiful bridge in Sydney , and the famous Opera House.

These landmarks are certainly worth the trip, and then you can head to Bondi Beach to see the ocean in all its glory.

If you want to get a workout in, consider the Bondi to Coogee beach walk that takes you along the coast with plenty of spots to stop and cool off.

The Chinese Garden of Friendship and Westfield Tower are other worthwhile stops for your Sydney trip.

Don’t forget about Taronga Zoo, where you can see classic Australian animals like kangaroos and koalas in addition to giraffes, elephants, monkeys, and more.

15. Banff National Park, Canada

If there’s one national park to put on your bucket list, it’s Banff . This is Canada’s first and arguably most famous national park, featuring gorgeous glacial lakes and mountain living at its finest.

As part of Rockies National Park, Banff includes Bonnet Peak, the tallest point at 3,235 meters.

You can easily spend a few days or even weeks exploring the snow-capped mountains, rich green forests, and turquoise blue lakes.

Out of everything Banff has to offer, Moraine Lake is arguably the best. You’ve probably seen photos of it all over social media, but seeing it in person is so much better.

The rich blue hue of the lake is caused by its high mineral content, and its valley location beside stunning hills and mountains makes for the perfect backdrop.

Remember to stop by the namesake town of Banff, plus Castle Junction and Lake Louise to get the most out of your visit.

16. Lake Baikal, Russia

A rugged Russian adventure is on the agenda when you visit Northern Lake Baikal in eastern Russia.

A trip to Lake Baikal is an opportunity to experience Russia’s ethereal beauty and rich culture while getting out of the big cities.

This is the world’s largest freshwater lake, and the wide expanse of water stretches as far as the eye can see.

As you’ll likely learn during your visit, Lake Baikal contains nearly one-quarter of the planet’s fresh surface water.

If the lake and surrounding mountains weren’t enough to impress, the winter conditions create ice sheets across the water’s surface for a turquoise glow.

17. Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

From ancient trees to unique wildlife, the islands of Madagascar certainly deliver amazing sightseeing opportunities.

Madagascar is known for the Spiny Forest and Avenue of the Baobabs, where these unique trees tower 100 feet above the savanna.

You could catch a glimpse of large lemurs and chameleons within this forest of thousand-year-old trees.

Just keep in mind that it’s fairly remote at this national monument, so you’ll want to plan ahead and arrange transportation.

Rest assured it’s worth reaching the beautiful red dirt roads to see the baobabs forest in all its natural beauty.

18. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Another awesome African adventure awaits at Victoria Falls on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This natural wonder in Southern Africa falls on the Zambezi River, dropping 355 feet or 108 meters to create the world’s largest waterfall.

The powerful rush of water is unlike anywhere else on the planet, with a jaw-dropping speed of 550,000 cubic meters a minute.

Spanning an entire mile across, Victoria Falls ensures the rainforest surrounding River Zambezi receives consistent rainfall.

You can see the mist from 50 kilometers away, and rainbows are also common.

To get there, you can fly to the nearest airport at Livingstone, which is just an 11km taxi ride to the falls.

If you’re in the position to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, sign up for a helicopter flight to check out the falls from above.

19. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Turquoise waters and crystal sands create the perfect place to relax and unwind in Bora Bora, French Polynesia.

This small South Pacific island is northwest of Tahiti and is the most popular island in the area. It’s an isolated piece of paradise that’s well worth the long flight.

Bora Bora is a beloved honeymoon location with a dormant volcano and gorgeous greenery. The stunning lagoon features calm, warm waters surrounded by a coral reef for incredible snorkeling and scuba diving.

Luxury hotels and bungalows on the water make for a memorable stay where you can treat yourself to the finer things in life.

20. Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, and it’s well worth the hype.

From art to ancient ruins, architecture to authentic cuisine, Rome truly has it all.

For your dream Italian vacation, put the Colosseum on your list, as the world’s largest amphitheater definitely deserves a visit.

Situated in the city center, the Colosseum was constructed in 70 AD to host 80,000 spectators for gladiator fights.

Although earthquakes have damaged the structure over time, the Colosseum remains an iconic piece of Rome recognized around the globe.

Designer fashion boutiques, world-class restaurants, and the fun traditions of the Trevi Fountain are must-see sights when visiting Rome, too.

21. Machu Picchu, Peru

Climb to new heights and see why everyone raves about Machu Picchu , Peru. The old Inca City rests atop a 2,500-meter mountain in Cusco, Peru, overlooking the Sacred Valley.

The recently discovered Incan ruins are an archeological wonder with incredible views and fascinating spots like the Temple of the Sun.

The hiking trails offer unparalleled access to the remains of an ancient civilization.

Machu Picchu was long forgotten by the Western World until it was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham.

It’s since been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the New World Wonders.

22. Hoover Dam, USA

The Hoover Dam is an impressive engineering feat dating back almost 100 years. Located on the Arizona-Nevada border, the dam was built over five years in the early 1930s before opening in 1936.

Gordon Kaufmann and Henry J. Kaiser were the mastermind architects behind this concrete arch-gravity dam, which provides hydroelectric power and irrigation water from the Colorado River.

The dam is essential to controlling the river, which once contained wild rushing water but is now prone to drought.

Hoover Dam was originally the tallest dam on Earth at 726.5 feet but was surpassed by Northern California’s Oroville Dam built in 1968 at 770 feet.

You can drive right into the Hoover Dam area and check out the visitor’s center and viewing spots.

Guided tours offer an inside look at the historic tunnels and elevators that made the Hoover Dam into the major monument it is today.

23. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Catch a plane to Cairo, Egypt, and check out the mysterious yet magnificent Pyramids of Giza .

This world-famous vacation spot features three pyramids, the famous Great Sphinx sculpture, and multiple cemeteries.

As you get up close and personal to the Pyramids of Chephren and Cheops, you can see passages, statues, and sarcophagi from ancient Egyptian civilization.

Originally constructed as a tomb for pharaohs and queens, the pyramids earned their UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1979.

Today, the pyramids are some of the most photographed subjects on the globe.

24. Antelope Canyon, USA

Arizona’s numerous attractions include not only the Grand Canyon but also the awe-inspiring Antelope Canyon.

Situated on Navajo lands outside of Lechee, Antelope Canyon is the most photographed slot canyon on the globe.

The geological phenomenon has amazing waves of sandstone rock that captivate millions of visitors annually.

In the upper canyon area, you’ll see the curving sandstone in all its glory, while the lower canyon has a fabulous range of colors on display.

The rich red, yellow, orange, and pink sandstone shades are all-natural, adding to the undeniable wonder of this serene spot.

25. Danum Valley, Malaysia

How does a trip to the 130 million-year-old rainforest sound? You can make this bucket list adventure a reality by visiting Malaysia’s Danum Valley .

This conservation area covers 438 square kilometers of historic rainforest, which remain primarily undisturbed with flourishing flora and fauna.

A visit to this lush valley will open your eyes to one of the most complex ecosystems in the world.

You may see creatures like rare Bornean orangutans, clouded leopards, mousedeer, and gibbons, just to name a few.

The valley is also home to more than 270 types of birds, such as the yellow-rumped flowerpecker and whiskered treeswift.

The Borneo Rainforest Lodge is the ideal gateway to the rainforest and offers safe, comfortable accommodation for the best experience.

26. Mount Fuji, Japan

Imagine an active volcano with a picturesque snow-covered peak, lush greenery, and blooming cherry blossoms down below.

You can expect just that with picture-perfect views of Mount Fuji , Japan’s tallest mountain at 3,770 meters.

It’s found on Honshu Island, which is west of Tokyo by around 100 km or 62 miles.

There’s a direct highway bus leaving from the Shinjuku terminal, making it easy to get to Mount Fuji and explore the breathtaking natural beauty.

Whether you’re just going for the day and want to stop by the visitor’s center, or you’re planning a full pilgrimage trek all the way to the top, you’re sure to appreciate this sacred site.

While Mount Fuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, there are 25 cultural interest sites close by so you can truly make the most of your trip.

27. Northern Lights, USA/Canada/Iceland

The Northern Lights are a spectacular vision in the night sky.

You can see these dancing lights in certain parts of Alaska, northern Canada, Norway, and Iceland.

The aurora borealis features pink, purple, yellow, and green flashes of light among the stars, caused by gas particles from the Earth and the sun colliding in the atmosphere.

The northern winter is arguably the best time to see lights, thanks to the long, dark, and most importantly, clear nights.

Midnight is the perfect time to head outside and catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, which means “dawn of the north”.

28. Falkland Islands, Antarctica

Antarctica is the least-explored of the seven continents, but it’s certainly worth seeing if you get the opportunity.

The Falkland Islands are known for their extensive wilderness, making them one of the most attractive and awe-inspiring destinations near Antarctica.

What’s interesting is that the Falkland Islands fall into the Antarctic zone biographically, although the remote archipelago is technically part of South America.

Those details aside, less than 3,000 people actually live on the islands, so they are rugged, remote, and insanely beautiful.

From the cliff-lined coasts to the iconic islets, the Falkland Islands have stunning vistas and abundant wildlife to make an Antarctic cruise worth every penny.

29. Mount Rushmore, USA

Can you imagine looking up and seeing huge faces etched on the side of a mountain? That’s essentially what Mount Rushmore is, a national memorial carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln completed the project in 1941, with the final result being 60-ft. tall granite faces carved into the mountain face.

Former U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln are featured on Mount Rushmore.

After seeing the famous faces in all their granite glory, you can check out the museum exhibits and bookstore before driving through the rest of the Black Hills.

30. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is a stunning part of the globe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.

It ranks in the top 25 most visited U.S. national parks with 3.3 million visitors in 2021 alone.

Granite cliffs, glaciers, and mountains are on full display in Yosemite along with rushing waterfalls and crystal-clear streams.

The ancient sequoia trees coupled with Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, and Half Dome all belong on your Yosemite bucket list.

If you need a break from the incredible scenery, stop by Yosemite Village to check out the museum or shop and dine at local establishments.

There are several lodging options directly in Yosemite, from tent cabins to luxurious rooms at The Ahwahnee.

Private accommodation in neighboring communities is another good option for a memorable Yosemite trip with family or friends.

31. Dead Sea, Jordan

The Dead Sea is one of the best places to visit in Jordan and Israel. Referred to as the “Salt Sea,” this body of water is 67 kilometers or 31 miles long and connected to the Jordan River.

What’s cool about the Dead Sea is that it’s almost 10 times as salty as the ocean, so you’ll float without doing a thing.

Not only is this a refreshing place to cool off, but it’s actually the lowest point of dry land on Earth, with the shoreline sitting 400 meters beneath sea level.

You can get to the Dead Sea with a short bus ride from the hustle and bustle of major cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Otherwise, there are plenty of car rental companies or tours to take you to and from the Dead Sea in style.

32. Bryce Canyon, USA

Bryce Canyon in southern Utah is full of natural beauty and the ideal destination if you’re looking for stunning scenery and memorable adventures.

It’s one of America’s most popular national parks with 2.5 million yearly visitors.

Visitors from near and far flock to the park to see massive natural amphitheaters in all their red rock glory. Shades of white and orange make these rock formations shine in the sun.

Bryce Canyon has been a national park since 1928, with countless adventurers coming here to see the soft, warm glow of its amazing sunrises.

If you go, make sure to follow the Rim Trail for awesome overlooks like Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunrise Point, and Sunset Point.

33. Gettysburg, USA

If you’re into U.S. history, Gettysburg is a must-see destination in the state of Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1806, this borough is most recognized for the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, which was a turning point in the American Civil War.

In fact, President Abraham Lincoln made the historic Gettysburg Address here, famously saying “all men are created equal”.

The Gettysburg National Cemetery has a memorial where Lincoln stood during his speech, which would become one of the most highly regarded public addresses in American history.

Today, there is a national battlefield and military park in Gettysburg, as well as the town museum and visitor center with artifacts from the Civil War.

34. Serengeti, Kenya/Tanzania

There’s no better place for an African safari than the Serengeti .

A protected region and national park covering much of northern Tanzania, the Serengeti has an abundance of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and birds.

Elephants, buffalos, and gazelles are some of the other beautiful creatures you can see in the Serengeti’s swamps and grasslands.

The World Heritage Site is known for the great migration, with two million wildebeest moving north each year alongside their newly born calves.

The Serengeti is truly a celebration of the circle of life and Mother Nature at her finest.

35. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Another fascinating stone formation is Giant’s Causeway . Approximately 40,000 basalt columns are situated off the Northern Ireland coast near Antrim.

Scientists believe a volcanic eruption caused this stone formation, although an old legend says a giant built the causeway so the Irish and Scottish giants could come together and fight.

You’ll probably want to stay in the quaint town of Bushmills, which features an Irish whiskey distillery and the famous Causeway Lodge.

The Bushmills Inn and Bayview Hotel are other hotspots in this lovely corner of the Irish countryside.

36. Kalahari Desert, Botswana

A trip to the Southern African savanna will open your eyes to the amazing sights and sounds of the gorgeous grasslands Africa is known for.

The Kalahari Desert covers over 360,000 square miles or 900,000 square kilometers throughout Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia.

A safari trip can give you a glimpse of exotic animals like the Kalahari lion, brown hyenas, and meerkats. Hundreds of different birds and reptiles call this region home, too.

Kalahari comes from Kgala , the Tswana word for “the great thirst”, or Kgalagadi , which translates to “a waterless place”.

This makes sense considering many parts of the Kalahari are covered in red sand with no permanent bodies of water.

37. Copenhagen, Denmark

When it comes to European capital cities, make sure Copenhagen, Denmark , is on your list.

The city’s culture is displayed all throughout the stunning architecture and natural surroundings.

You’ll want to see Frederiksstaden and Amalienborg Palace for a bit of history, as well as the regal Christiansborg and Rosenborg Castles.

There’s no way you will make it through all the amazing restaurants and shops, but at least there’s lovely accommodation on every corner so you can take a rest.

Plus, the Öresund Bridge connects Copenhagen and Malmo in Sweden’s south if you want to continue your Nordic adventures.

38. Mount Huangshan, China

China is one of the largest countries in the world and has so many bucket-list destinations. Mount Huangshan is definitely one of them.

This mountain range is located in Eastern China within the Anhui Province.

The highest point, Lotus Peak, is 1,864 meters, creating amazing scenery alongside lush vegetation.

Mount Huangshan is referred to as China’s loveliest mountain, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.

Make sure to visit the namesake national park to see the mountain up close.

39. Tongariro National Park, New Zealand

Tongariro National Park is a true gem on the North Island of New Zealand.

This area became the country’s first national park back in 1887, covering 80,000 hectares of rugged natural beauty.

100 years later, it was given dual World Heritage Status by UNESCO due to the significant natural features and cultural meaning for the Māori people.

There are three volcanoes here – Tongariro, Ruapehu, and Ngauruhoe – which mark the southern end of the Taupo Volcanic Zone.

If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Ring of Fire in the Pacific Ocean, this is your chance to see several volcanic mountains at once.

40. Petra, Jordan

Archeologists flock to Petra, Jordan , to see this historical site in all its breathtaking wonder.

This is Jordan’s most visited tourist site, which makes sense considering the ancient city dates back to the 5th century BC.

The World Heritage Site has a vast array of cut rock sculptures, including temples, tombs, altars, and much more.

It’s situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, which only adds to the travel appeal.

Petra is nicknamed the Rose City and certainly deserves a spot on your list of sightseeing goals.

41. Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina/Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a magical mountainous destination you’ll need to see to believe.

A trip here will take you high up to the Austral Andes of Patagonia. The mountain is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field and close to El Chaltén near Argentina’s border with Chile.

Mount Fitz Roy was climbed for the first time in 1952 and remains one of the world’s most difficult climbs with the peak at 3,405 meters.

If climbing a huge mountain isn’t quite your style, you may want to just hike to the base instead. It’s still enchanting and exhilarating, that’s for sure!

Fitz Roy isn’t the only amazing attraction within Los Glaciares National Park, which is also home to the Perito Moreno glacier and the beautiful mountain town of Lake Viedma.

42. Great Wall, China

The Great Wall of China is a monumental fortification running along the northern historical borders of ancient Chinese civilization.

The wall stretches for thousands of miles within the Jundu Mountains, offering unbelievable views and extensive history that’s hard to wrap your head around.

It’s truly amazing how this wall was built thousands of years ago to protect against Eurasian invasions.

It’s the longest wall on Earth and can be seen from space.

In 1987, the Great Wall was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it attracts more than 10 million visitors every year.

43. Kuang Si Falls, Laos

Kuang Si Falls is a must-see on your trip to Laos, a beautiful landlocked nation in Southeast Asia.

Laos is popular with backpackers, but more and more luxury hotels are popping up, too. Whichever way you want to travel, you can make the most of your time in this stunning destination.

The waterfalls have three tiers and are located less than 30 kilometers south of Luang Prabang, which is the ancient capital of Laos.

Shallow rock pools on a steep hillside lead to the stunning drop with exceptionally clear water.

You can jump in and swim under the falls or hike the serene surroundings and snap some amazing photos.

44. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

Imagine a gorgeous waterfall hike with views of a beautiful rainbow to top it all off.

That’s a definite possibility when you embrace the natural beauty of Iguazu Falls on the Argentina-Brazil border.

Instead of just one waterfall, there are multiple little falls running across 3 kilometers, cascading together into a truly spectacular sight.

The national park sits on the Brazilian side and gives you incredible access to the world’s largest waterfall system and the surrounding rainforests.

45. Glacier National Park, USA

Mountain climbers flock to the gorgeous Glacier National Park in the Rocky Mountains of Montana.

It covers over 1,500 square miles of rugged wilderness featuring glacier-carved mountain peaks and lush valleys stretching north to the Canadian border.

There are over 700 miles of wonderful hiking trails to enjoy, with cycling, camping, and backpacking popular activities for park visitors.

Keep your eye out for grizzly bears and mountain goats as you wind your way to the mystical shores of Hidden Lake.

46. Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan

Have you ever wondered what the Door to Hell looks like?

Here’s your chance – the Darvaza gas crater is nicknamed the Door to Hell and can be found in Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert.

A pool of red lava sends off steamy heat waves in this must-see crater, which was formed when a natural gas field collapsed onto the caverns underneath the surface.

What’s really neat about this gas crater is that it was deliberately lit on fire to ensure the methane gas didn’t escape outside.

47. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Nambia

While there are many African adventures to put on your bucket list, one of the best is undoubtedly Namib-Naukluft National Park .

This highly sought-after destination in Nambia is home to Sossusvlei, a clay and salt pan featuring rolling red dunes, formed by the rare rain in a very dry desert.

Even with the harsh conditions, some animals and plants survive in this environment, including hyenas, geckos, and snakes.

When the rain comes, it transforms into a flourishing habitat, complete with a lake that thousands of birds flock to.

The Namib Desert is actually the oldest desert in the world, and this park is one of the largest game parks on the planet.

48. Reed Flute Caves, China

The old and new worlds collide at Reed Flute Caves in Guilin, Guangxi, China.

The natural beauty of this cave system is on full display for 240 meters, and what’s truly fascinating is that this spot has been a public attraction for over 1,000 years.

Known as the Palace of Natural Arts, Reed Flute Caves get their name from the reed growing on the outside that can be used to make flutes.

During your visit, you will see pillars and cave formations backed by colorful lights, making this an intriguing destination everyone deserves to see at least once.

49. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Have you ever seen the Cambodian flag?

If you look closely, you’ll see Angkor Wat , a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning over 400 acres.

This temple complex is the biggest religious monument on the planet, dedicated to Vishnu in the Khmer Empire.

Historians and archeologists are big fans of this Hindu historical site, which was constructed back in the 12th century, although it took 35 years to finish.

It’s a bit of a trek through the jungle to reach Angkor Wat, but it’s well worth it to see the mystical temples in Siem Reap, especially if you can get there early enough for sunrise.

50. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Indonesia has so much to offer to tourists from around the world, including the captivating Raja Ampat Islands.

Raja Ampat actually consists of 1,500 tiny islands spanning 29,000 square miles across the sea. The biodiversity of these islands is mind-blowing, to say the least.

Think prehistoric palm trees and lava peaks that seem undisturbed by human activity, not to mention the amazing beaches.

Misty canyons and lush jungles with all sorts of animals and plants are another reason to visit the Raja Ampat Islands.

51. Boracay, Philippines

Crystal blue water, sandy beaches, and towering palm trees make Boracay one of the best destinations in the Philippines.

This resort island may be small, but it certainly packs a punch with the stunning shoreline and delicious cuisine.

Luxury accommodation is another draw, and so many people want to come here that there’s actually a limit to how many tourists can arrive each day.

That’s why it’s important to plan ahead so you can make the most of these fabulous beaches and the welcoming culture.

52. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc translates to “White Mountain” in French, and this beautiful destination certainly lives up to its name.

Situated in the Graian Alps between France and Italy, Mont Blanc is the highest of all the Alps mountains and the whole of Europe for that matter.

The peak is 4,808 meters, offering optimal conditions for hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and snowboarding.

The climb up isn’t for the faint of heart but the insane views make it all worthwhile once you get to the top.

53. Hilton Head Island, USA

Hilton Head Island is a family-friendly destination in South Carolina, and somewhere you should definitely visit at least once.

40,000 people call this island home, and it’s easy to see why given the gorgeous Lowcountry surroundings with lush green golf courses and Atlantic views.

Make sure you see the Harbor Town Lighthouse and Museum, as well as the Coastal Discovery Museum for more local heritage and history.

Alligators, deer, and birds can be spotted in the salt marsh of Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, too.

54. Tikal National Park, Guatemala

Embrace gorgeous Guatemala with a tour of Tikal National Park .

The thick rainforest and archeological ruins date back to ancient Mayan times, making this UNESCO World Heritage Site a very intriguing place to visit.

Tikal was once a thriving city from the 6th century BC to the 10th century AD, as evidenced by the fancy plazas, palaces, and temples.

While here, you’ll see plenty of shrines, residences, pyramids, and stone monuments, too. Make sure you bring your camera to capture all the glory!

55. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Millions of people visit Mexico for the beaches, but what about the volcanoes?

Embrace the adventure with a trip to Popocatépetl Volcano in Central Mexico. This is an active volcano located in Puebla and Morelos that attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Popocatépetl is Mexico’s second-highest peak with an elevation of 5,426 meters.

The surrounding parklands are accessible via Mexico City, but just remember to check the conditions before you set out.

56. Rainbow Mountains, China

The Rainbow Mountains in China are a hidden gem that will make your jaw drop.

These mountains look photoshopped but they are all-natural, much to visitors’ surprise.

Zhangye Danxia is one of the most stunning sights the world has to offer, with multicolored stripes dotting the mountainside.

The Rainbow Mountains are located in a geopark and are known for their vibrant red, yellow, and green colors, made possible through erosion and trace minerals.

What’s really neat is that the mountains have weathered away over time, revealing red sandstone and mineral deposits more than 20 million years old.

That’s how the fabulous colors came to be!

57. Ik Kil Cenote, Mexico

Ik Kil Cenote is gaining popularity as a must-see Mexican destination.

We approve of this reputation, considering the storybook beauty of this natural pit, formed in ancient times following a cave collapse.

It was once used in Mayan rituals and for relaxation, but today is a top tourist attraction thanks to the crystal-clear sapphire water.

It’s incredibly easy to see the deep depths of this natural pool, which is much-loved by swimmers and divers.

There’s even a ladder for easy access into the pool.

58. Great Blue Hole, Belize

Did you know Belize is home to the biggest sea hole on Earth?

If you’re wondering what a sea hole is, just look at the Great Blue Hole . As the name suggests, it’s a super deep drop-off off the Belize coast, near the heart of Lighthouse Reef.

This massive marine sinkhole measures 407 feet deep and 980 feet across, so you can clearly see it from above.

Divers and submarines enjoy this unique spot, although you can also admire it from afar aboard a cruise or flight.

59. La Sagrada Familia, Spain

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, make sure La Sagrada Familia makes it on your list of places to see.

Construction started on this massive church in 1882 but it was never finished.

Now, it’s a popular tourist attraction and the largest unfinished church in the Roman Catholic faith.

While exploring Barcelona’s Eixample district, you’ll not only see this church but also many amazing shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

60. Florida Keys, USA

Embrace the beach with a tropical getaway to the Florida Keys . This string of islands stretches 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Keys are a top destination for boating, fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.

When you need a break from the water activities, check out Key West, the southernmost city with thriving nightlife on Duval Street.

The nightly Sunset Celebration in Mallory Square is another big hit with locals and tourists, and you can also see the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum while you’re there.

61. Mount Etna, Italy

There are just so many beautiful mountains to see in this world, and many of them feature volcanoes.

Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, is another iconic destination. Nestled between Messina and Catania, this mountain stands 3,330 meters tall, making it the tallest active volcano in Europe.

This is the highest peak in Italy south of the Alps, and in 2013 it was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage designation for its natural beauty.

What’s fascinating about this spot is Mount Etna ranks first in terms of volcanic activity, but it’s still safe to visit as long as you plan ahead and monitor conditions.

62. Matterhorn, Switzerland

Have you ever been on the Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland? If so, why not see the real thing in Switzerland?

This mountain in the Swiss Alps stands 4,478 meters tall, making it one of the biggest in the Alps and Europe in general.

Matterhorn is especially beautiful because it’s surrounded by massive glaciers and the peak is practically symmetrical.

This is a pretty picture-perfect destination, whether you’re just going on a sightseeing excursion or you plan to make it all the way to the top.

63. Vatnajokull Ice Caves, Iceland

If you’re looking for a winter getaway, the Vatnajokull Ice Caves in Iceland may be the perfect place for you.

It’s not so safe with the melting ice in the spring and summer, but during winter, the ice caves are awe-inspiring.

They create a vast network of tunnels and caverns, bathed in bright teal from the icebergs and air bubbles.

You’ll also get to see the Vatnajokull glacier, the largest glacier in Iceland covering 5,500 square miles.

64. Mauna Loa, USA

Hawaii’s Mauna Loa is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Since recording began in the 1800s, it has erupted 33 times.

Scientists believe Mauna Loa has been erupting for 700,000 years. Not only is this a highly active volcano, but it’s also the world’s largest with a volume of 75,000 cubic kilometers.

While this may sound daunting, rest assured the volcano’s eruptions are usually non-explosive, so it’s a safe spot to visit.

The hike itself is what will really get you, so come prepared with the right gear and lots of water and snacks.

65. Mount Godwin Austen, China/Pakistan

Mount Godwin Austen sits on the border of China and Pakistan, and it’s one of the world’s most dangerous mountains to climb.

Even so, you don’t have to go all the way to the top – just hiking around the base of this 8,611-meter mountain is good enough for most adventurers.

Nicknamed K2, this is the second-highest mountain on Earth and it’s close to Godwin-Austen Glacier, offering a double whammy of stunning Himalayan scenery.

If you do decide to hike, Concordia base camp is a great place to start.

66. Mount Everest, Nepal

Of course, mighty Mount Everest belongs on this list! If you have the opportunity to see the world’s tallest mountain in person, you should definitely take it.

After all, Mount Everest rises 8,848 meters in the sky near the border of Nepal and China.

This Himalayan mountain was first climbed in 1953 but the conditions remain harsh to this day.

Epic adventurers still flock to tackle the mountain, with about 800 people reaching the top in the last year.

One climbing route starts in southeast Nepal and the other north of Tibet. Even just hiking part of the mountain is an incredibly rewarding experience to put on your bucket list.

67. Lake Bled, Slovenia

How awesome would it be to take a vacation where it feels like you’re in a fancy oil painting?

You can feel that way in the serene surroundings of Lake Bled , Slovenia, which has a medieval air to it with the ancient castle and charming, rustic church.

Not only is there a gorgeous island in the middle of the lake, but the surrounding mountains also make for a picture-perfect backdrop.

To truly embrace this wonderful environment, try rowing around the lake and really take it all in.

68. Table Mountain, South Africa

Want to see South Africa’s most iconic landmark?

Table Mountain National Park is hard to miss, considering the flat-topped mountain overlooks Cape Town, enhancing the coastal landscape that looks almost too good to be real.

Luckily for locals and visitors alike, Cape Town’s beautiful mountain is real, and it’s spectacular.

The mountain is nearly 1,100 meters tall and stretches 3km across. You can hike to the top or ride the cable car – the views are amazing either way!

69. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Make the most of Morocco and embrace the beauty of the Atlas Mountains in northwest Africa.

These mountains are just over 50 miles from the major city Marrakech, and the peak Jebel Toubkal rises a massive 4,167 meters high.

The snow-covered peaks and lush valleys surrounding the mountains are a beautiful sight to behold.

If you want to cross a mountainous trek off your list of travel goals, the traditional Berber villages are a highlight of adventures in the Atlas Mountains.

70. Neelum Valley, Pakistan

Pakistan is often considered part of both the Middle East and South Asia, and the nation’s unique culture and rich history are only rivaled by its surprising natural beauty.

While desert covers much of the country, forests and mountains also abound, offering amazing escapes like Neelum Valley .

If you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, this valley is the place to be, although it’s a bit of a trek to get there.

That’s because Neelum Valley sits at 2,000 feet in the Azad Kashmir region, but don’t worry, it’s a worthwhile adventure.

The valley is shaped like a bow and features the picturesque Neelum River and surrounding mountain peaks in their snow-covered glory.

Rolling green hills and waterfalls make this a very special destination, too.

71. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Iceland is an in-demand destination thanks to its mystical beauty, from the snow-capped mountains to the relaxing hot springs.

If you make it to this Nordic island country, make sure you put Thrihnukagigur Volcano on your list of things to see and do.

While there are so many awesome volcanoes to see around the world, this one is super special because it’s the only one of its kind where you can actually enter the magma chamber.

A lift will take you down into this dormant volcano so you can see what it’s like from the inside.

Thrihnukagigur is 213 meters deep and covers 3,270 square meters in total. It opened to tourists 10 years ago and is easy to get to, located just half an hour outside of Reykjavík.

72. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

A trip to the mountains will always inspire a deeper appreciation for Mother Nature, and Mount Bromo is a prime example.

The Indonesian mountain is actually an active volcano and part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Located in East Java, these parklands bring you to the Tengger massif volcano complex, which rises up from the surrounding sand for an unbelievable view.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb all the way to the top of Mount Bromo. It’s a two-hour walk to the top of the 2,300-meter volcano.

Many travelers have done the hike at night to make it just in time for a glorious sunrise.

73. Mount St. Helens, USA

The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful corner of the world, and Mount St. Helens is one of the best places to visit in this neck of the woods.

It’s actually an active volcano under 100 miles from Seattle in Washington State.

Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980 and has been known for ash explosions since then.

The volcano is part of the Cascade Range and the Pacific Ring of Fire, which contains 452 active volcanoes that could erupt at any time.

While that’s something to keep in mind, volcanic activity doesn’t stop visitors from enjoying the 200 miles of trails near the volcano.

74. Batu Caves, Malaysia

There’s no denying the beauty of the Batu Caves in Malaysia.

First found on a limestone hill in 1859, this series of caves is now a popular natural attraction, only accessible by going up 272 steps.

The climb to the top is worth it, considering the amazingly jagged edges of the caves and their present-day significance as a Hindu temple.

The caves contain many shrines as well as a giant golden statue in honor of Lord Murugan at the front.

75. The Pitons, St. Lucia

St. Lucia is a magical island in the Eastern Caribbean, known for its volcanic beaches and excellent reef diving.

The Pitons are one of St. Lucia’s main highlights, as these volcanic mountains certainly bring drama with their sheer size and height.

It’s impossible to miss these landmarks, named Petit Piton and Gros Piton.

You can take it all in on the relaxing shores of Sugar Beach or go for a hike up these massive mountains and the surrounding rainforest.

The 15-meter-high Toraille waterfall is especially gorgeous, dropping over a cliff and filling the garden below.

76. Tower of Pisa, Italy

As if you needed another excuse to go to Italy! The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a stunning architectural attraction everyone should see at least once.

This free-standing bell tower was meant to stand straight, but it ended up with a world-famous tilt due to the soft ground it was built on.

Constructed in 1372 with a height of 56 meters, the Tower of Pisa is located at Pisa Cathedral, which is north of Rome and about an hour’s drive from Florence.

After you snap a pic with the Tower of Pisa in the background, you can explore the rest of the charming Italian countryside.

77. Paris, France

It’s called the City of Love for a reason! Paris, France is the perfect destination for a family trip or a romantic getaway.

Even solo travelers can appreciate the unmistakable beauty of the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the night sky.

The city’s culture, cuisine, art, and fashion are easy to embrace, with plenty of photo opportunities like the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre.

Disneyland Paris is another must-see, just 30km outside of the city with theme park attractions galore.

Paris is also a great place to fly into if you want to see other parts of Europe, as there’s a huge array of connecting flights from the closest airport.

78. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

If animal life is right up your alley, then the Galápagos Islands belong on your list of dream vacations.

Once explored by Charles Darwin, this archipelago of Pacific Ocean islands is situated over the Equator and spans both hemispheres.

What’s so special about these islands is the wildlife that’s unique to this one location.

Galápagos tortoises, hawks, finches, penguins, and fur seals are incredible to see in their native habitat.

Keep your eyes peeled for the blue-footed booby, too. Their bright feet and long nose make them truly beautiful birds and a signature of the Galápagos Islands.

79. Addo, South Africa

South Africa is known for its captivating coastlines and beautiful savannah.

The town of Addo is especially memorable, thanks to Addo Elephant National Park .

This wildlife conservation park is one of 20 national parks in South Africa, and it’s the third largest behind Kruger and Kgalagadi Transfrontier parks.

Addo is tucked away in the Eastern Cape, and it’s the only spot on the globe where you can see the big seven.

This includes the African elephant, Cape buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino, plus the great white shark and southern whale off the coast.

80. Masai Mara, Kenya

If you’ve been dreaming of a safari, Masai Mara, Kenya offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for animal habitats after seeing this game reserve next to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.

Kenyan cheetahs, African leopards, Masai lions, and wildebeest roam the grassy plains, much to visitors’ amazement.

Thomson’s gazelle, zebra, and hundreds of different birds also call this preserved savannah wilderness home.

Bush picnics and hot air balloon rides can take your safari excursion to new heights.

81. Statue of Liberty, USA

New York City is a sight to behold on its own, but a trip to the Big Apple isn’t complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty .

Liberty Island in the NYC harbor is home to the famous statue towering 305 feet over the water below, as well as a history museum with countless artifacts.

When you look at Lady Liberty, you’ll see she holds a torch and a book with the Roman Numerals of the Declaration of Independence date.

The statue was a gift from France commemorating the two nations’ alliance in 1886. Bartholdi designed the statue and Gustave Eiffel built it.

In the early years of NY immigration, the statue welcomed millions of people flocking to America’s shores, and it was the first sight they’d see in New York.

82. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island , Indonesia is home to Komodo National Park, which spans the entire 390 sq. kilometer island.

Situated in the Flores Sea, this mountainous island has been named one of the new 7 Natural Wonders, thanks to its stunning landscape and wide range of animals.

The famous Komodo dragon is the largest lizard on the planet, and although you shouldn’t get too close, seeing them in their native habitat is truly special.

In addition to the population of over 4,000 dragons, you may also see Javan deer, horses, monkeys, and water buffalo.

The red volcanic hills and surrounding coral reefs are spectacular sights, too.

83. Yellowstone, USA

Yellowstone National Park is the first of its kind in America. Since opening on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone has welcomed millions of annual visitors.

The park is centered in northwestern Wyoming, although it covers parts of Montana and Idaho, too.

The wilderness recreation area covers nearly 3,500 square miles across a volcanic hot spot with alpine rivers, deep canyons, and rich green forests.

The hot springs and geysers, including the beloved Old Faithful, are some of the park’s top natural attractions.

American bison, grizzly bears, moose, cougars, and coyotes are just some of the animals found across the vast Yellowstone area.

84. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

San Francisco, California is proudly home to the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge .

The 1,280-meter suspension bridge connects the Golden City with Marin County.

It was constructed in 1937 for $35 million and has since become a cultural icon.

The Golden Gate Bridge is the most photographed of all the bridges in the world, and the neighboring park offers a unique vantage point from the bottom of the huge structure.

Over 10 million people flock to San Fran to see the bridge in all its golden glory every year.

85. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil

The Amazon Rainforest covers northwestern Brazil and parts of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.

There are an estimated 390 billion trees in the largest tropical rainforest on Earth, covering 2.5 million square miles.

The Amazon is a true celebration of biodiversity with 427 mammal species and 1,300 different types of birds.

That’s not to mention the over 400 amphibian species and reptiles, including anaconda snakes known for lurking deep in the Amazon.

The Amazon River is just one of the thousands of rivers running through the rainforest, with historic towns along the shoreline like Manaus, Belém, and Puerto Maldonado.

86. Lake Itasca, USA

Lake Itasca is located in north-central Minnesota, and it’s much more than just one of the 10,000 lakes in the state.

Itasca State Park is home to the headwaters of the Mississippi River, which is North America’s second longest river.

From its small start in Lake Itasca, the Mighty Mississippi flows 2,340 miles south to the Gulf of Mexico.

You can camp at Lake Itasca or just go for the day, with beautiful hiking trails and scenic outlooks to enjoy.

What’s really neat is you can walk over a few stones to cross the Mississippi River where it starts as a small stream.

87. Ross Sea, Antarctica

Antarctica doesn’t get the same level of tourism as Europe or the U.S., but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting.

In fact, it’s quite the opposite, as evidenced by the Ross Sea and records of previous adventurers who braved these rugged conditions.

Nicknamed “The Last Ocean,” the Ross Sea covers 1.9 million square miles or 3.6 million square kilometers off the Antarctic coast.

Helicopter tours and cruises are the best ways to see the amazing ice caps and wildlife that make the Ross Sea feel like it’s a whole different world.

88. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland may be a relatively small country, but it can’t help but boast some of the best vacation spots in the world, including the Cliffs of Moher .

Considered some of the country’s most famous cliffs, these sea cliffs stretch 14 kilometers and are found at the southwest edge of the Burren region.

This is in County Clare, Ireland, where paved pathways and parklands make the cliff’s surroundings even better, ensuring this remains a family-friendly destination for many years to come.

The untamed, rugged beauty is unmistakable when you look out at these cliffs, which have been used in movies like Harry Potter and The Princess Bride .

89. Socotra, Yemen

If you’re not afraid to go off the beaten path and want to see nature in all its wonderful, if not slightly bizarre, beauty and glory, then Socotra, Yemen may suit your travel goals.

Some people call it an alien-looking island while others just find the huge dragon’s blood trees to be some of the most fascinating plants they’ve ever seen.

Socotra is actually an archipelago, with its famous trees growing in vast abundance and fanning upward to look like a mushroom or umbrella.

There are 825 rare flora species on the island, and about one-third of them are only found here, nowhere else on earth.

When you need a break from the seemingly sci-fi-inspired forests, head to Shouab beach to relax and swim in bright blue waters.

90. Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey

Sometimes a little spa trip is all you need, and you’ll have relaxing spa treatments in spades at Turkey’s Pamukkale Thermal Pools .

These natural pools create an ethereal spa setting for the ultimate relaxation, so if you want to disconnect from the stress of daily life, this is really the place to go.

Travertines and mineral formations caused these pools to layer over each other, creating a cascading effect as the pools resemble floating clouds.

Even the name translates to “cotton castle”, which is suitable given the cotton-like soothing comfort of the 17 nearby hot springs with mineral-rich water to relax muscles and heal sensitive skin.

91. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Okavango Delta is a once-in-a-lifetime African adventure that will open your eyes to a different way of life around the world.

The river delta covers 49 million acres of greenery and grasslands, with a huge range of wildlife like elephants, rhinos, zebras, buffalo, and cheetahs.

Watch from a safe distance as herd mammals stick together and the cycle of life continues in this dynamic delta region.

If you can, try to visit during the winter when the river delta floods, keeping grasses low for easier wildlife spotting.

92. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

As you’ve seen so far on this list, waterfalls make for some of the most popular natural attractions anywhere in the world, and Blue Nile Falls in Ethiopia certainly lives up to expectations.

Its Amharic name “Tis Abay” means “great smoke”, an appropriate term considering the large mist surrounding the rushing waterfall on the upper part of the Blue Nile River.

The waterfall is nearly 30 kilometers downstream from the towns of Lake Tana and Bahir Dar, although car transportation is feasible.

Public transport buses are also available to bring locals and visitors to the waterfall, which flows 400 meters wide and 42 meters high.

93. Los Cuernos, Chile

There’s so much to see in South America, but Los Cuernos , Chile, certainly belongs on the list of best vacation spots there.

Los Cuernos are marvelous mountain peaks within Torres Del Paine National Park in the southern Andes Mountains.

From the diverse wildlife to the deep lakes and towering mountains, this area truly delivers some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll find anywhere on earth.

Look out for the rivers, forests, icebergs, and golden pampas while hiking or touring other landmarks like the granite towers or French Valley.

94. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Iceland is appearing more and more on must-see travel lists, and with amazing attractions like the Blue Lagoon , no one could blame you for heading to the North Atlantic.

According to the official lagoon website, it’s one of the 25 wonders in the world, as geothermal seawater is used for amazing spa treatments.

The unique geothermal spa is situated in a lava field, but don’t worry – it’s perfectly safe and actually super relaxing.

The warm water is high in minerals and silica to soothe the skin and help you look and feel your best for the rest of your Icelandic vacation.

With the Retreat Hotel right there next to the Blue Lagoon, this is an easy and worthwhile place to put on your itinerary.

95. Napa Valley, California

Raise your glass to an amazing time in wine country! Napa Valley , California is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, with hundreds of beautiful hillside vineyards and wineries.

It’s north of San Francisco and easily accessible via a beautiful ride through the countryside, whether you rent a car or go with one of the many trusted tour companies in the valley.

In addition to world-class wine, Napa Valley has five-star restaurants and the popular Oxbow Public Market where gourmet food is up for grabs.

Consider a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train, a vintage locomotive restaurant that carries visitors through the region in style.

Yountville is another must-see, as this lovely valley town is home to high-end dining and refreshing, sparkling wine.

96. Andes Mountains, Bolivia

If you’re going to visit one place in South America, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Andes Mountains .

While Bolivia is a popular point of access to the Andes, these mountains also run through Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.

You can head to one of the many parks and visitor centers near the Andes to get acquainted with the region, or you can plan a full climb to special spots like Mount Vinicunca, otherwise called Rainbow Mountain.

The Bolivian salt flat known as Salar de Uyuni is the largest of its kind in the world and another must-see spot within the Andes.

Crazy cool rock formations and incredible sunlight make this a gorgeous getaway for anyone with an adventurous side.

Don’t forget to look out for alpacas and other South American animals that call the Andes home.

97. Marble Caves, Argentina/Chile

With a name like Marble Caves , it’s no wonder this destination is so beloved among outdoor adventurers and world travelers.

Situated in the Patagonia region of Chile and near the border of Argentina, these caves are part of General Carrera Lake.

A unique array of caverns and tunnels boast rich marble depositions which reflect in the lake’s blue water.

This makes the caves appear icy blue as the appearance changes with the tides.

You’ll need a boat or kayak to reach these majestic caves. Luckily, local tour companies have you covered with a range of packages to get you as close as possible to the Marble Caves in all their glory.

98. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Germany is believed to have upwards of 20,000 castles, although one of the most beautiful and famous is Neuschwanstein Castle .

Plan a trip to Schwangau in southwest Bavaria so you can see this historic castle in all its glory, ideally through a guided tour.

Neuschwanstein is a mountaintop palace that actually served as inspiration for Cinderella’s Castle in the Walt Disney classic.

Your visit will bring you up close and personal to Romanesque Revival architecture at its finest, with the palace dating back to 1869.

The opulent design was in honor of opera composer Richard Wagner, who King Ludwig II of Bavaria was a big fan of.

99. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

A Caribbean getaway is tough to beat, especially when you head to Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands.

This is the third largest island in the BVI chain, although it’s just a dot in the Atlantic Ocean, spanning eight square miles.

The population is around 4,000, so it’s a quaint yet luxurious destination for relaxing and romantic trips.

Bright blue water and beachside boulder baths stand out, while the white sandy beaches of Devil’s Bay, Savannah Bay, and Spring Bay are great for swimming.

Hiking enthusiasts may also appreciate the trails leading up to Gorda Peak on the north part of the island, with awesome views of nearby islets.

One fun fact is that the name Virgin Gorda came from Christopher Columbus, who thought the island’s shape was similar to a reclining woman.

100. Cappadocia, Turkey

Last, but of course not least, Cappadocia, Turkey is one of the best vacation spots in the world. The ancient district in central Turkey sits on a rugged plateau range with the Taurus Mountains to the south.

Fairy chimneys are the most famous feature of this captivating destination. These natural geological formations were made from cone-shaped rock that solidified under volcanic ash.

The surreal scenery is perfect for a hot air balloon ride, otherwise, you can walk around and take it all in.

Make sure you visit the old monasteries and look for magnificent Byzantine art that’s over a thousand years old.

You won’t want to miss the array of underground structures dating back to the 4th century when they were used as homes, shops, and even cities.

All this history and natural beauty combine for a truly unique travel destination that deserves your full attention and appreciation.

Related posts:

• Meet the Team
• Work With Us
• Itineraries
• Italy Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Travel Information

24 epic vacation spots around the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you rarely leave your hometown, you probably daydream about exotic and beautiful destinations you could travel to. I call it destination dreaming.

This post is going to set your dreaming on a new path with 24 epic vacation spots you may not have heard of that are so fantastic, you’ll want to start planning your vacation right now. You may want to look into one of these incredible luxury vacation spot around the world.

» Looking for more vacation inspiration? See 11 Charming Small Towns in Europe and 21 Top Foodie Destinations .

The destinations were chosen by myself and some of my favorite travel bloggers, who have been to these places themselves and can unquestionable say they are the best destinations in the world.

You won’t find typical tourist spots like Rome or Paris on this list. These are more off the beaten path, where you’ll be rewarded in spades for trying something new.

Quick. Check these necessities off your prep list!

• There’s no one-size-fits-all travel insurance . Get a personalized quote from Yonder .
• The right luggage can make or break your trip. These hard-sided suitcases make traveling a breeze.
• Find your rental car on DiscoverCars.com . They search all major rental companies to find the best deal.

Table of Contents

Epic Vacation Spots

1. coral coast, fiji.

The Coral Coast is a stretch of coastline between Sigatoka and Suva, on the island of Viti Levu, in Fiji. It is one of the main tourist areas in Fiji, with plenty of resorts where you can enjoy the wonderful weather and beautiful sunsets.

The Coral Coast of Fiji is where you can be sipping a cocktail and watching the show Mother Nature puts on every night before she goes to bed. People say South Pacific sunsets are the best in the world.

It’s not hard to argue with that when you see the sky on fire, reflected in the reef’s shallow sea. It’s a double whammy.

The best part? It’ll happen all over again tomorrow . 

Where to Stay on the Coral Coast: Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa can’t be beat for the price. The rooms are gorgeous and many have uninterrupted views of the South Pacific Ocean plus a private balcony or terrace. Even if you go to the highest room category, it’s not outrageous.

2. Cancun, Mexico

A favorite and easy destinations for beach vacations is Cancun, Mexico. The weather is great year-round (though quite hot in the middle of the summer), so you can always spend plenty of quality time in the dazzling pools that so many of the large all-inclusive resorts are known for.

This pool can be found at the Valentin Imperial Maya resort in Playa de Secreto, about 20 minutes south of Cancun, on a quiet stretch of beach, where you can get away from it all and just relax poolside with a cocktail (see our list of beach drinks to order at all-inclusive resorts, like this one).

We also love the Palace Resorts in Cancun. All of them are top-notch affordable luxury resorts. 

Where to Stay in Cancun: Sun Palace is a couples-only all-inclusive resort with an exclusive oceanfront location, close to popular Cancun attractions , with fantastic accommodations and exceptional amenities.

If you’re not going as a couple, the The Grande at Moon Palace is exceptional.

3. Mauritius

Mauritius tops the list for best vacation spots in the world. It’s well known for its beaches, reefs, and lagoons, as well as the lush interior of the Black River Gorges National Park in the south-west of the island.

The east coast has many of the most popular hotels due to the vast stretches of beautiful white sand beaches.

However, the west coast has more flat, calm beaches. The south of the island is more ruggedly beautiful and contains more interesting landscape. This 272-foot waterfall at Chamarel is every bit as stunning in real life as it is in the photo!

Famed for being the ‘best’ waterfall in Mauritius, the Cascade Chamarel of the St Denis River is surrounded by lush jungle vegetation against an impressive mountainous backdrop. Just down the road there is a sugar cane rum factory where you can spend the afternoon sampling the goods.

Where to Stay in Mauritius: The Residence Mauritius is situated on the east coast of Mauritius along a mile-long beach of immaculate white sand.

4. Meteora, Greece

You might not know this amazing natural wonder exists in Greece , since the first thing that comes to mind are gorgeous beaches and picture perfect islands.

The majestic mountains of Meteora are so stunning, you won’t be able to believe it even after you’ve seen it. The landscape is dramatically marked by slender stone pinnacle that jut up into the sky.

Many of these high peaks are topped by precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. In fact, the whole area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors flock to see this marvel of masonry.

5. Lake Matheson, South Island, New Zealand

Have you ever visited a place so incredibly beautiful you just can’t bear to drag yourself away from it? That is what a visit to Lake Matheson on New Zealand’s South Island is like.

The one and a half hour walk around one of New Zealand’s most picture perfect lakes takes you through ancient forest and offers views of the surrounding mountains from various viewing points around the lake.

The showstopper though is the sight of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak, and it’s reflection (on a calm day) on the lake.

After a few hours spent walking, taking in the view and trying to capture that perfect reflection shot on your camera, it will be a difficult task to try and drag yourself away and onto other beautiful New Zealand sights.

6. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, Turkey, is one of those places you must see in your lifetime. It is truly exceptional. Located in the heart of Turkish Central Anatolia, this UNESCO World Heritage Site lies on a high plateau and is dotted with thousands of spiky volcanic rocks, with the highest of these jaw-dropping geological phenomena rising up to over 3000 meters.

You can explore several underground cities interconnected by tunnels, which were used by early Christians to hide from Persian and Arabic invaders in the 6th and 7th centuries. Don’t miss the Göreme Open Air Museum which contains more than 30 rock-carved churches and chapels with some superb Byzantine frescoes from the 9th-11th centuries.

You can see it all from a hot air balloons floating above the breathtaking volcanic landscape.  Check out our guide with more information on the top things to do in Cappadocia .

Where to Stay in Cappadocia: Argos in Cappadocia is located in Uchisar, just below the stunning Uchisar castle. The hotel has its own vineyards and winery on location. 

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark, is a city full of life. The best time to visit Scandinavia is when the sun is out. There are people everywhere having coffee in cute cafes, biking from park to park or just enjoying a fresh breeze by the harbour.

Just sitting there taking it all in will boost your happiness levels. See what there is to do in Copenhagen in 36 hours . A favorite spot with tourists is Nyhavn with its colourful houses and the old-fashioned boats.

You can take a canal boat cruise around the waterways to see the city from a different angle, of you can just sit at one of the cafes and enjoy the people watching. Copenhagen is also well known for its Michelin star restaurants and street food.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen: Copenhagen Marriott Hotel has wonderful views of the harbor and is in a great location for exploring the city.

8. El Nido in Palawan, Philippines

El Nido is a small town on Palawan island in the Philippines. It’s known for white-sand beaches, coral reefs, amazing beach resorts, and warm weather year round.

It’s also the launching off point for the stunning Bacuit Archipelago . El Nido’s magic and beauty will take you by surprise. Nothing compares to the soulful beauty and impressive landscape of the town, the scenic beaches, the enchanting lagoons, and islands. 

El Nido captures the true essence of island life. It’s simple paradise there, where the weather is always nice and the people are friendly and welcoming. This is what has made Palawan one of the hottest destinations in the world for tourists. You must see it to believe it.

Where to Stay in El Nido: El Nido Resorts Lagen Island is a relaxing and luxurious retreat where you can stay over the water, beside the beach, or surrounded by forest.

9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro has some of the most well-known, iconic beaches in the world – Copacabana Beach and neighboring Ipanema Beach among the best of them.

Ipanema is always alive with people having a good time, drinking Caipirinhas, enjoying the local food , and playing on the white sandy beach.

There are designated areas along the beach where you can go if you like to surf, play soccer on the beach or just lounge in the sun perfecting your tan. And if you like to party, this is definitely the place you want to be!

You also can’t miss the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Mount Corcovado and the towering granite peak of Sugarloaf Mountain – you can take a cable car to its summit.

Where to Stay in Rio de Janiero: Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro has a stunning beachfront location. The hotel has a tranquil and modern atmosphere and each room has either a large balcony or floor-to-ceiling that make it feel airy and connected to the landscape. 

From the first time we set foot on the white sand beaches of Santa Maria, to our last visit as we looked out onto the turquoise waters of Varadero, we knew this was a paradise we wouldn’t forget.

The incredible, unforgettable beaches only adds to the charm of this country, with a fascinating culture and truly warm and kind people. 

Taking some time away from the water and venturing into the cities, like Havana , takes you back into another time with classic, vintage cars and a variety of architectural styles including colonial and Moorish influences.

The music and dancing, the Cuban food , history and the people themselves will grab hold of your heart and mind and have you returning time and time again, whether it be in person, or as you recall the memories of your time there.

If you’re an American visiting Cuba, read these guidelines .

11. Agra, India

People from all over the world dream of visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. It’s an iconic structure that, even from afar, has the ability to capture your heart.

Taj Mahal, the symbol of eternal love for the beloved, is undeniably the most fascinating piece of craftsmanship in India. This architectural gem is not just the most treasured monument in the country, but this UNESCO World Heritage Site has also been enlisted as one of the new “Seven Wonders of the World”.

Visiting in person will help you unravel the mystery of this beautiful monument. Read our full post about this beautiful monument to get all the information you need to visit the Taj Mahal yourself.

Most travelers add the Taj Mahal as a stop on a longer Golden Triangle tour of northern India.

12. Kusadasi, Turkey

This relaxed seaside resort town is on the southwestern coast of Turkey and is a popular jumping off point for visiting Ephesus. Whether dipping your toes in the ocean, or sitting poolside enjoying the ocean breeze in your hair, Kusadasi is a true water and sun-lovers paradise.

You can shop, dine, or rent a boat for a relaxing day out in the warm waters of the Aegean. The town has a seafront promenade, marina, and harbor lined with hotels and restaurants serving local food .

If you are feeling more energetic, hire a taxi to visit the nearby ancient ruins of Ephesus , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s just a 25-minute drive away.

13. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan is an ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Mandalay Region of Myanmar. It’s the perfect place for history lovers and archeologists, due to its large number of ruins from the Pagan Kingdom of the 9th – 13th centuries.

There are over 3,000 temples around Bagan to explore. You can climb up to the top of the taller temples and see dozens of ruins dotting the land all around you with even more that are beyond your field of view.

You can even watch the sunset from the top of one of the temples. It’s simply magical. Bagan is one of the world’s greatest archeological sites, even rivaling Machu Picchu or Angkor Wat.

However, Myanmar is still a difficult place to travel, so the logistics of your visit should be carefully planned. You might find it easiest to go with a tour group, rather than independently.

14. Iceland

If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous holiday destination then Iceland should be high on your wanderlust list.

From the capital city of Reykjavik , to thermal spas like the Blue Lagoon , stunning volcanic landscapes, and the chance to see the elusive Northern Lights, Iceland has it all.

The highlight of any trip to Iceland is driving around the countryside, taking in the stunning landmarks , the geological sites, like Thingvellir National Park, the naturally powerful Strokkur geyser that shoots boiling hot water 30m into the air every ten minutes throughout the day, and the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall which runs 105ft deep.

Be sure to set yourself up with a roadtrip in Iceland , as that’s the best possible way to see as much as you can of this dramatic country.

15. Ecuador

Ecuador is home to so many wonderful attractions, like the Galapagos, the volcanoes, and the Amazon. In Otavalo, you’ll find incredible markets, festivals, crater lakes, and Kichwa culture.

In Quito there is a stunning Old Town. A short bus ride out of the city and you can be birding in the little town of Mindo. Banos is a great place for some adventure – touring waterfalls, jumping off bridges, and swinging at the end of the world.

Puerto Lopez you can see dozens of humpbacks and blue-footed boobies on Isla Del Plata. The weather, being so near to the Equator, is very predictable.

The scenery is absolutely striking through the gorgeous Andes mountain range and through various beaches. 

16. Tioman Island, Malaysia

Tioman Island is a place that makes you feel like you literally own the island. With a small cottage whose doors open right onto the sand, there really is no better place to relax and appreciate the beauty.

The water is so blue, filled with the most colorful fish, and the island is full of cute little restaurants and bars to grab some Malay food before going for a swim.

Tioman is Malaysia’s best kept secret and a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Take a motorbike around the whole island in just a few hours, go snorkeling, or simply just take in the views.

But whatever you do, don’t take it for granted-it’s truly a hidden treasure.

17. Maui, Hawaii, USA

One of the most beautiful tropical paradises on earth is Hawaii . We particularly love the island of Maui, as it has so much to offer visitors and it’s so easy to get around to all of Maui’s top sights .

Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian islands. It’s home to the volcano Haleakala in the beautiful Haleakala National Park which is frequented by visitors in the early morning hours where the views of the sunrise are particularly amazing.

There are stunning natural pools and waterfalls all over the island, as well as 30 miles of beautiful sandy beaches to explore. The winding Hana Highway stretches along the north side of the island and includes many stop off points where the views are outstanding.

There are so many resorts, hotels and Airbnb options in Maui. Check out this guide on where to stay in Maui to choose what fits your style.

18. Argentière, France

Argentière is a village near Chamonix in the French Alps. With its amazing views, it entices tourists to try out a number of outdoor activities like skiing, alpine walking and mountaineering.  You can find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and  snow at the same time – it’s the best of both worlds.

Apart from the jaw-dropping view Argentière has to offer, hikers can also look forward to reaching a resting place in the mountain called La Refuge. Here you can meet other hikers or savor the moment on your own, staring out onto the mountain and feeling one with nature.

The view and the experience of Argentière were what made me really fall in love with hiking and it’s on my list of places I think back to when I would rather be somewhere else!

Some of our other favorite places in France are Lake Annecy and the Mont Blanc / French Alps area.

19. Aswan, Egypt

If you’ve ever dreamed of going on a Nile Cruise in Egypt to see the ancient Egyptian sites you’ve always heard about, then Aswan is a destination you already have on your list.

All Nile cruises either begin or end in Aswan. It’s home to significant archeological sites like the Philae temple complex, on Agilkia Island, near the landmark Aswan Dam. 

Philae is an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Low Dam. The temple complex that was built there was in the path of the river, so when the high dam was built, the temple was moved, brick by brick, to Agilkia Island, in order to preserve it.

The temple, along with all the other charms of Aswan, are definitely worth a few days exploration. If you haven’t been yet, check out our guide to planning a trip in Egypt . It’s very much worth the effort.

20. Phuket, Thailand

If there’s one place we’ve been that far exceeded my expectations, it was Sri Panwa Resort in Cape Panwa, Phuket in Thailand. Not only was it the most romantic resort we’ve ever stayed it, the views were out of this world.

One afternoon, we sat on those plush pillows enjoying a cocktail while watching the sunset from this incredible infinity-pool surrounded lounge called Baba’s Nest. Easily the most dramatic and stunning place I’ve ever watched a sunset from.

Phuket is an island that is so varied with resorts and accommodations that you can find something you love there, no matter what kind of traveler you are, from the resort-style action going on at Patong, to the ultra-luxury hideaways, like Sri Panwa. 

While Phuket is amazing, there are so many other places you must see in Thailand, like the bustling city of Bangkok and the charming old world Chiang Mai .

If you’re a beach lover, check out this post to see the most amazing beaches in Thailand.

21. North Island, New Zealand

There are so many unique things to do on the North Island of  New Zealand . The endless rolling green pastures, sheep farms and unusual attractions along the way are all part of makes the North Island a truly incredible experience.

But we don’t want to leave out Auckland, which has an immense list of attractions for tourists. On the North Island, you can go wine tasting in Waiheke Island , just off the coast of Auckland, visit Hobbiton, the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movie set, float through the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves , spend some time in Rotorua, and then head to Hawke’s Bay.

All of these spots are jaw droppingly beautiful. Here’s your guide to the perfect 7-day trip on the North Island. It includes some of the 9 most romantic places you must visit in New Zealand.

22. Cook Islands

The Cook Islands, made up of 15 splendidly tropical isles in the South Pacific, is what Hawaii was years ago.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation in paradise, away from the hordes of tourists — a place where locals still have control of the tourist market and run hotels and restaurants without all the corporate dollars turning a really great spot into an overrun tourist destination — then you really need to go to the Cook Islands instead of Hawaii.

Rarotonga is the main island. There are tons of activities to do there, like lagoon cruises, fishing, diving, guided mountain hikes, storytelling cycling tours, buggies, quadbikes or 4WD trips around the island. 

Where to Stay in the Cook Islands: For affordable luxury, stay at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki . It is a luxury 5-star resort on the island of Aitutaki, with private beachfront accommodation and beautiful lagoon views.

23. Kotor, Montenegro

On Montenegro’s Adriatic coast is the fortified town of Kotor. Its prime located in a secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor ensures that the views are spectacular.

The lovely Old City part of Kotor was built between the 12th and 14th centuries and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s filled with medieval architecture and historic monuments and surrounded by a 4km wall that protected the city for centuries.

It’s one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Montenegro. Here are a few more ! If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, Kotor is a great choice for a relaxing vacation without the huge crowds.

There are a few airports you can fly into within a 1-2 hour drive, so getting there is easy for everyone.

>> Check out some of the surrounding best places to see in the Balkans .

24. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has beautiful golden beaches, natural wonders and wildlife, a rich heritage and culture, ancient ruins and Buddhist temples, not to mention cheap prices and lots of elephants to entice visitors.

There’s no one best way to see the island. You can head to the interior of the country to discover, or hang out on the beautiful beaches. The Cultural Triangle, in the north-central plains of Sri Lanka, is home to the relics of the Sinhalese Kingdom from Anuradhapura, the capital city of Polonnaruwa and Dambulla, known for its cave temples.

The Cultural Triangle is also home to elephants, sloth bears and leopards. Colombo is the capital city and hub of modernity in Sri Lanka.

>> Sri Lanka is just one of the many wonderful travel destinations in Asia you must see.

That’s your daily dose of destination dreaming! I hope you’ve found some travel inspiration in these awesome places. Tell us where you’d rather be right now!

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

36 Best Beach Drinks to Order at All-Inclusive Resorts (+ Recipes!)

How to Protect Your Home While Traveling

How to Take Good Food Photos With Your Phone

21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World

Like this post? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again later.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

35 thoughts on “ 24 Epic Vacation Spots Around the World ”

Oh My! My wanderlust as always been bad, but now I want to book a plane ticket to all these places! Thanks for putting this together and allowing me to be apart of it!

Thank you, Katelyn. Such great places were shared.

Thanks so much for including me in this very inspiring post.

I honestly just want to jet off to every single once of these places right now rather than sitting at work in front of the computer.

Thanks for putting this together and inspiring such wanderlust in my and others.

Thanks for contributing, Jen. It’s so much fun to see everyone’s destination choices.

I second Jen’s comment, would rather be anywhere in this list than sweating here in Istanbul… hehe. Thank you for including me, Laura. Really beautiful post! 🙂

Thank you, Ana!

Awesome list!! I also would have said Bali!! Can’t beat the beautiful green rice terraces. BUT, I haven’t been to Fiji or El Nido, and those both sound excellent too-I could use some beach time. Cool compilation of places- I’m off do some more destination dreaming! 🙂

Oh, definitely Bali! I’ll put together another destination dreaming post in the future to make sure we get around to some more fabulous places.

Love it 🙂 Thanks for letting us be a part of this wonderful list!

It was my pleasure, Sharon!

Nice post! Cancun resorts are nice, but the cenotes are better. Check them out if you have the chance:

http://www.femalehiker.com/blog/cenotes

We’ve been to the cenotes! In fact, visiting the cenote was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.

Oh I would happily be at any of these now!! 🙂

Wow, what a list! It would have to be Copenhagen for me from that, I loved it there and I’d love to go back.

Great places!

Those are some amazing locations and photographs, more than a few I would love to visit right now and a few visiting again!

Lovely post Laura, a real mix of great destinations, I know where I’d rather be! Although I definitely have a soft spot for Greece 🙂

Glad you liked it, Mel. I’m sad to admit that I haven’t been to Greece yet.

I wish Im in Cappadocia in hot air balloon. Its on my bucket list for a long time. Hope I will make it one day 🙂 Thank you for remember me my goal

I’d love to be up in the hot air balloon in Cappadocia right now too!

Ugh! Why am I home right now?! I’d rather be in any one of these places. This is a great list, and I’ve already added a few places to my ever growing list of places to visit.

Hah. I know, the list just keeps growing and being friends with a bunch of travel bloggers doesn’t really help!

This isn’t helping, haha! I’m dying to get out of here but stuck due to having a new job. As I come to think of it, I wish I’m in Philippines right now, even though I never went there!

All of these places you had shared are just so beautiful! Thank you for sharing 🙂

Wowwww! I had know idea you could see aurelia borealis over South Dakota!! Definitely pinning this one for future reference!

It’s so great to see Meteora, Greece featured here. It’s one of the most amazing, unique places in the world and I think more people need to experience for themselves.

Great compilation you have here, especially because it’s from the community of us travel bloggers! I have never even heard of Aswan! THANKS!

So many beautiful spaces! I am always dreaming of Turkey…. and as much as Fiji and Ecuador are on my list, the more I hear about the Badlands – I am intrigued!

Such inspiring pics indeed and happy to say i have ticked off a few..and hope to do many more in the future…what an adventure you have had!

Wow what choices! i think i would choose Thailand because i haven’t been! But just about any of these would be wonderful!

Great Post! Love the collaboration! Always wanderlusting!

Yeah, ok — you’re totally right! I’d rather be in just about any of these spots right now. Great collaborative post!

I really want to come back to Ecuador… There’s so much to explore in this little country, it’s crazy! I’m in Germany right now and I’d just LOVE to be in Ecuadorian Amazon valleys that I didn’t see last time… What a shame 🙁

I agree, Olga. Ecuador is incredible and there are so many things to explore there. I’d love to be there right now too.

Thank you so much for featuring our photo and description of Fiji in this marvelous post! We’re thrilled to be returning to the Coral Coast next week to hang out for a couple of months. Although I can’t imagine a better sunset photo than the one we already have, we’ll see what nature brings! Thanks again! <3

Jealous that you’re on the Coral Coast this week and for a couple months, even. How wonderful.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Travel Resources

What a thrill, to travel vicariously through the words and images of my colleagues over the past year, as they journeyed to some of the farthest reaches of the globe—and their imaginations—to tell these stories. This series of Epic Trips began with a pitch from AFAR photo editor Michelle Heimerman, who proposed a trip to one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites in the historic region of Mesopotamia, along the northern edge of the Fertile Crescent (aka Türkiye). At a glance, we were sending her to the middle of nowhere, but as she so astutely points out in her photo essay on ancient Göbekli Tepe, “You’re actually squarely in the middle of somewhere, circa 9500 B.C.” With the help of archaeologists and professors at the top of their field, she experienced “the places of our ancient ancestors, to allow space for the unanswered. To use travel as a way to think about who we once were.”

That got my mind racing. What if we could cross deserts, journey up mountains, raft river rapids and sail remote seas, even touch the edge of space to better understand our past? To examine the impact humanity has had on the planet—from different angles—and a future where we can see the world’s most stunning environments responsibly?

We traveled with companies like Lindblad , Modern Adventure , a certified B Corp, and Exceptional Kangaroo Island , an essential local business, to be sure these trips had a positive impact on the destinations we visited. How’s that for a modern definition of epic?

Read on for this year’s collection of Epic Trips to Australia, the Arctic (and Antarctica), Brazil, British Columbia, Fiji, Greenland, Mexico, the Nile in Uganda, Peru, Türkiye, across Europe, and up to the rim of the atmosphere.

-Laura Dannen Redman

From misty Northern California redwood forests to sun-kissed Southern California beaches, the enchanted Golden State may seem like a dream. Luckily, it’s all very real. Discover hundreds of places to visit, learn our diverse regions and lively cities all in one place.

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

Related stories

In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: From Nepal to Kosovo, here's how countries are celebrating Pride

• Main content

Luggage and Living (English)

LGBTQ+ Friendly and Proud: 10 Best Gay Travel Destinations Around the World

Posted: April 19, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

The 20th century has seen many countries around the world becoming more inclusive and open to gay people and the LGBTQ+ community more generally. As more and more spaces have allowed gay people to enter them safely and comfortably, it's safe to say the world has become a happier place filled with far more love and acceptance than ever before.

Unfortunately, this cannot be said about everyone and everywhere. Due to things like religion, culture, and sometimes just personal preferences, there are still many communities around the world that simply do not accept gay people - in some places, their presence is merely unwanted and uncomfortable, and in others, it's actually unsafe to be gay.

We've put together a list of the 10 best gay travel destinations around the world.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a culturally open and progressive city, known in particular for its red light district, but this applies to the LGBTQ+ too. The city is generally welcoming to all people, regardless of sexuality or anything else, and Amsterdam has had a thriving gay scene for many years.

The Netherlands was one of the first places in the world to legalize gay marriage, and there are plenty of historic monuments to represent the plight of gay people in the country. You'll find gay bars and shops all over Amsterdam, but Reguliersdwarsstraat is probably the most popular gay district in the city, although there are a few more too.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark is generally known to be pretty progressive, so it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that they became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex partnerships in 1998. Copenhagen is at the heart of this liberal nation, and has become a great queer holiday destination.

Copenhagen is actually home to Europe's oldest openly gay bar, Centralhjornet - it's origins data back to the 1950s, making it way ahead of its time. Vesterbro is another vibrant and gay-friendly areas, with plenty of gay bars and other gay-friendly establishments.

3. Dublin, Ireland

To be fair, most of Ireland is considered gay friendly, but Dublin is at the top of the list. Homosexuality was legalized in 1993 and gay marriage in 2015, putting it ahead of may other places around the world. There isn't really a specific gay district in Dublin because most of the gay bars are scattered around the city, but some of the best ones are in the Temple Bar district. The George and Street 66 are two of the most popular LGTBQ+ bars in Dublin.

4. Sitges, Spain

Sitges, Spain is well-established as a "gay town" and it's known for having one of the best gay beaches in Europe. There are plenty of gay bars (about 24) and loads of gay-friendly shops - and they aren't hidden down back streets, they're out in the open, on main roads. PDA among gay couples is totally accepted and the atmosphere is generally very accepting.

5. Toronto, Canada

Toronto is easily one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world. It has plenty of specifically gay-friendly establishments, a thriving gay dating scene, a history of promoting LGBTQ+ rights, and general safety for queer people. A few of the most popular gay districts are "The Village" (on Church and Wellesley Streets) and Queer West, and there are loads of great bars and cool nightlife to enjoy!

6. Berlin, Germany

While Berlin is considered, on the whole, a very liberal and open-minded city, with several gay neighborhoods (primarily Schöneberg) as well as "gay hotels. The LGBTQ+ scene is thriving here and has countless gay bars, gay museums, gay clubs, gay saunas, gay hotels, and so much more, making it an awesome place to visit if you want to feel totally comfortable, safe, and be surrounded by like-minded people.

7. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is considered the gay capital of Austria, and for good reason. The city has a general "love whoever you love" atmosphere, with a general openness and acceptance all around, as well as plenty gay spaces. In Vienna, you'll find places that are both mixed and gay-only, and the Naschmarkt area is where you'll find most of the city's most popular LGBTQ+ hangouts. In addition to Vienna Pride (which is held in all the cities on this list), Vienna also has a cultural festival called "Wien ist Andersrum", translating to "Vienna is Queer".

8. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is generally known as the party center of Greece, but it's actually also the country's gay capital - especially the Old Port area. In Mykonos, everybody is accepted, and the island sees a particularly high number of gay tourists during peak season. There are loads of gay-friendly hotels and hostels, as well as bars and clubs.

9. Cape Town, South Africa

While Johannesburg comes in close second, Cape Town is viewed as South Africa, and even Africa's, gay capital. Sea Point in particular is often described as "gay district", with plenty of hustling and bustling gay bars around. Clifton and Camps Bay beaches are also very gay friendly, making it a great place for a gay summer holiday!

10. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is generally known as a pretty inclusive city, and Australia legalized gay marriage in 2017. There's plenty of gay nightlife, and Prahran and South Yarra are considered the "gay hotspots". Generally speaking, pretty much everything is gay-friendly, so wherever you go or stay, you're bound to be welcomed with open arms!

10 Captivating Roadside Attractions for Your Epic Cross-Country Journey

Taking a road trip is, arguably, the best way to see a place, and embarking on a cross-country journey across the United States is bound to be the trip of a lifetime! Not only will you be enthralled by the major attractions you get to visit, but the less poignant experiences are bound to stick in your memory too. So, if you’re planning on driving across the country, we say you should do it! Here are 10 epic roadside attractions to add to your list of sights to see during your epic United States road trip.

Want To Live Abroad? Consider These 10 Countries

Moving abroad is a desire many have for a variety of reasons, whether to escape from high living costs, an unstable government, or dangerous crime rates. For others, it’s to experience a new culture and impactful landscapes or to retire in an enriching environment. If you want to live abroad, you need to consider these ten countries that have been consistently ranked amongst the top places to move to!

Top-Secret Travel Gear: The 10 Ultimate Accessories To Elevate Your Trip

Packing lists vary depending on where you’re going, how long you’re traveling, and whether you’re going on vacation or a business trip. One thing is for sure, however, having the best travel accessories along with you can improve your travel experience no end. From electronics to essential comfort items, we’ve rounded up the 10 ultimate travel accessories that will help elevate your trip.

Pound the Pavement: 10 Most Walkable Cities in the U.S.

When traveling in the United States, visiting a walkable city has many benefits for its visitors such as popular attractions and local culture. The best part is by walking to most places, you’re doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint. Read below, as we’ve compiled a list of the 10 most walkable cities in the United States.

Sunset Sensations: 10 Secret Spots to Catch the World’s Most Mind-Blowing Dusk Displays

There’s just something incredible about watching the sunset – whether you’re enjoying a peaceful moment on your own, a special outing with your best mates, or a romantic evening with your partner. Enjoying the sun setting out in the distance has the ability to put things into perspective. It has a way of making you realize how insignificant we really are but in the best way possible. It allows you to contextualize your problems and realize that maybe they’re not quite as bad as you thought they were. But, on a less deep and philosophical level, sunsets are also just really beautiful – plain and simple. However, not every sunset is the same, and that’s mostly because of where you see it from. Personally, I’m a big fan of sunsets, and I think that we should all try and see the sunset from as many different places in the world as possible in our lives. Because it allows you to get a different perspective on the world and it’s also something that connects people from different sides of the world. Here are 10 secret spots to watch the sunset around the world.

More for You

18 ‘Normal’ Things From the ’80s and ’90s That Are Considered Luxuries Now

Garfield by Jim Davis

One of these pictures of me is real and the other is AI – but which is which?

In Memoriam: Cloris Leachman's Best Roles

How Much Beer You'd Have To Drink To Equal A Single Shot Of Liquor

Watch: 'Jurassic World: Chaos Theory' trailer kills off Jenna Ortega's Brooklynn

I’m a psychologist and mom—here are 3 phrases I wish more parents would say to their kids

iPhone users in 92 countries received a recent stark warning

This humanoid robot currently holds the world record for speed

Trump acknowledges he told Secret Service on Jan. 6 that he would 'like to go down' to the Capitol

A Little Girl Complained Of ‘Monsters’ In Her Bedroom, But It Was Actually 50,000 Bees

The most expensive state to live in isn't California or New York, based on data. Here are the top 10.

Four-time Pro Bowl CB calls it a career

Liam Neeson thriller proves to be huge hit on Netflix despite critics' reviews

Democrats Massively Overperform In Special Election Triumph

This is one of the most advanced humanoid robots in the world

17 Phrases Older People Use That No One Else Gets

Employers Are Avoiding Hiring Gen Z Workers- Here's Why

5 Types of Homes That Will Plummet in Value in 2024

LeBron James looks toward intriguing NBA offseason after Lakers eliminated in playoffs

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes

29 Best Tropical Vacations Around the World

Looking for a warm-weather escape? Here are 29 incredible tropical vacations to consider.

When a warm-weather getaway is calling, set your sights on the best tropical vacation spots around the world, and aim close to the equator to maximize visions of palm trees, balmy waters, and cute cocktails. From French Polynesia to the Caribbean and beyond, read on for some of the best tropical vacations in the world — whether you're traveling as a couple , with family, or going solo.

Sloths, toucans, and howler monkeys — oh my! Let us count the ways we love a tropical beach vacation in this Central American country that comes with volcanoes, hot springs, and jungle-lined beaches that are as popular with surfers as they are with nesting sea turtles. For a romantic couples retreat, Origins Lodge has villas with sprawling terraces and wood-fired tubs overlooking the volcanic landscapes and Lake Nicaragua. And to vacation with a group, consider booking Cayuga's Pasha , a ten-room beachfront estate on Costa Rica's lush Nicoya Peninsula.

This South Pacific nation is undoubtedly one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world if it's rainbow-colored coral reefs and palm-fringed private islands you're after. Nowhere has the variety of soft corals — in every pastel hue you can imagine — that Fiji offers. Surfers with means beeline it to Tavarua Island Resort to chase epic waves while the honeymoon crowd might opt for a secluded stay at Six Senses Fiji on Malolo Island instead. For stays that appeal as much to couples as families (two words: free childcare), Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort and VOMO Island Fiji take getting away to the next level.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

It's impossible to mention the best tropical beach vacations without giving a nod to the belle of the ball. Bora Bora is French Polynesia's legendary honeymoon destination, where a stay in an overwater bungalow and snorkeling with reef sharks and stingrays is pretty much mandatory. Make it a vacation to remember when you stay at The St. Regis Bora Bora , home to the largest overwater bungalows in all of the South Pacific, overlooking what's arguably the region's most storied lagoon.

Mérida, Mexico

For a city break in a tropical place with lots of natural appeal, head to Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán. The city is home to scenic squares, art galleries galore, and tropical temperatures year round. The city is surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins like ​​Dzibilchaltún, where the Maya lived from 300 B.C. until the 16th century Spanish invasions, and cenotes where you can cool off from the heat (especially if you forget any of these essentials ) in crystal-clear waters. Stay in style within a short stroll of the city center at Wayam Mundo Imperial , an art-focused and LEED-certified boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and bar and one of the best restaurants in town, Cuna .

Bali, Indonesia

An affordable tropical vacation is within reach when you venture to Bali, Indonesia's legendary island that appeals as much to budget backpackers as it does the international jet set. Snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, volcano hikes, cultural tours, yoga retreats — is there anything you can't do in Bali? Just make sure you make time to bask in the island's indescribable beauty at a resort someplace stunning — Uluwatu's oceanfront cliffs and the remote north of Bali, around Menjangan Island, are good places to start.

Islands of Hawaii

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With six visitable islands, Hawaii offers up tropical beach vacation options for every type of traveler. Families love Maui and Oahu, and the latter is also a popular stop for the surf set. Lush and ridden with rainbows and extreme hiking trails, Kauai is a favorite among couples and those in search of eco-adventures. The Big Island (also called Hawaii) has excellent hiking and scuba diving options. And you'll never go wrong with a vacation on Lanai or Molokai, either. Humpback whales migrate through the islands from roughly mid-December to mid-May, and you can spy them from your room at resorts like Mauna Kea Resort on the island of Hawaii and Maui's Ka'anapali Beach Hotel .

Palm Beach, Florida

Along Florida's gold coast, one of the state's best beach vacations awaits in Palm Beach. Stay somewhere iconic and full of Sunshine State history like The Breakers Palm Beach , opt for an oceanfront wellness oasis like Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa , or set your sights on newcomer Amrit Ocean Resort . When you're not enjoying the beautiful blue waters of Palm Beach, it's fun to rent a bike to pedal the 5.5-mile long Palm Beach Lake Trail past historic mansions and streets lined with "security hedges" that keep prying eyes away from their famous residents.

Dominican Republic

Bachata music and rum fuel fun nights in one of the best tropical vacation destinations in the Caribbean. From the beaches of Punta Cana and Cap Cana to the kite-surfing hot spot of Cabarete, the golfing paradise of La Romana, and the inimitable stretches of sand along the spectacular Samaná Peninsula, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone. For an all-inclusive stay that will blow you away with its food and entertainment options — with designated spaces for adults and families, to boot — Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is hard to top.

Ask connoisseurs of white-sand beaches, and they'll surely point to the Maldives for one of the best beach vacations around the world. Some of the planet's most decadent luxury resorts await here on private islands surrounded by interrupted Indian Ocean views, many of which require a seaplane to reach. With so many luxury options in the overwater bungalow category, narrowing down where to stay can be tricky. But for a few epic places to start your search, consider Six Senses Laamu , The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands , and Velaa Private Island .

Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia

French Polynesia's Tuamotu Islands make for a more intrepid spot if you want to explore beyond the popular islands like Moorea and Bora Bora. Hop a flight from Tahiti's capital, Papeete, with Air Tahiti and you can land roughly one hour later on Rangiroa , the second-largest coral atoll in the world. Here, Tahitian black pearls are farmed in crystal-clear waters and the scuba diving is second to none. There are overwater bungalows to stay in on Rangiroa and Tikehau atolls ( Le Tikehau is on its own private island) if that's your scene, as well as less expensive, family-run guest houses in the Tuamotus.

Reggae music, jerked meats, and all-around irie vibes are just a few of the reasons to plan a tropical beach vacation to Jamaica. Opt for an affordable vacation in one of the many small hotels and guest houses lining Seven Mile Beach or the West End in laid-back Negril, or go for something more resort-oriented with a stay at Half Moon or The Tryall Club in Montego Bay. Adventurous travelers can make their way to Port Antonio to swim in tropical coves shaded by towering palms and stay in the rainforest at unique boutique properties like Geejam Hotel . There's even a bioluminescent lagoon near Falmouth where you can swim in water that glows a deep blue hue thanks to single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates.

The Florida Keys

Make your way south of Miami to the archipelago that makes up the Florida Keys. This is as tropical as the mainland U.S. gets, and you'll feel it in the balmy turquoise waters. Many travelers beeline it to Key West for the lively nightlife, but you'd be remiss to overlook great stops along the way, including Playa Largo Resort & Spa in Key Largo, the lovely Isla Bella Beach Resort on the island of Marathon, Bahia Honda State Park , and the many wrecks for scuba diving along the Florida Keys Wreck Trek .

Puerto Rico

Art, culture, nightlife, and world-class beaches combine to make Puerto Rico one of the best tropical vacation spots in the world. Of the many adventures to be had in this U.S. territory, there's visiting El Yunque (the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service), paddling through Vieques' famous bioluminescent lagoon, and dancing salsa while sipping mojitos at La Factoria in Old San Juan. Stay close to the action at the Fairmont El San Juan or splurge at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , which fronts a gorgeous stretch of sand west of San Juan.

Once you lay eyes on Grenada's Grand Anse Beach — a golden sweep of sand lapped by waters best described as Robin's egg blue in color — you might be ruined for life. And that's just one of the beaches where you can soak up some of the Caribbean's most laid-back vibes on this stunning spice island famous for growing nutmeg. Stay in style at Silversands Grenada , which claims to have the longest infinity pool in the Caribbean. And couples resort Sandals Grenada has rooms with private infinity pools fronting Pink Gin Beach that set the scene pretty perfectly for a tropical beach vacation to remember.

Dominica's mostly black-sand beaches put a different spin on the typical tropical beach vacation. And most visitors who come to the Caribbean's self-proclaimed "Nature Island" have things like hiking, waterfall hopping, and soaking in geothermal hot springs on their vacation to-do list, too. Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski opened in 2019 and has incredible swimming pools overlooking the beach. And Coulibri Ridge is a new eco-retreat with just 14 studios and duplexes built into the hillside with views of the Caribbean Sea and the neighboring island of Martinique.

The Bahamas

Courtesy of Baha Mar

If you've ever visited the Bahamas, you know the white-and-blue swirl of islands and sea makes for one of the best tropical vacation destinations in the world. Will you go full luxury and sleep aboard the magnificent Loon Yacht that plies these waters in exquisite style, stay in the heart of Nassau's resort action at Baha Mar, or go off the beaten path for a guest house stay at one of the Out Islands, like San Salvador or Bimini? The Bahamas is one of those unique destinations with something for every type of traveler.

What's better than pairing a mainland safari with a beach getaway to the island of Zanzibar, located roughly 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania? Take in the wildlife of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro and then head to the island of Zanzibar, known for its world-class beaches and Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tiny Micronesian nation of Palau is about as physically removed from most places on the planet as you can get. But it's worth trekking here for a tropical vacation in some of the most pristine islands on the planet. Palau is most famous for its limestone Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake. And scuba divers revere the outer coral reefs and walls here for their abundance of marine life — including sharks, manta rays, and much more — which can easily be experienced on boat trips with Sam's Tours or Fish 'n Fins . One of the very best things you can do in this tropical wonderland is head out into the Rock Islands atop a kayak for a day tour or camping expedition with Paddling Palau .

Los Cabos, Mexico

Who said a desert can't be a tropical vacation? Nobody in Baja California Sur, anyway, where Cabo San Lucas reigns supreme as the most vibrant tropical desert locale on the entire Baja Peninsula. Come for incredible oceanfront golf where you might see migrating whales in the winter as you tee off at epic courses like Quivira Los Cabos . And check out world-class luxury hotels like the adults-only Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort , Grand Solmar Rancho San Lucas Resort & Spa , and boutique stay Acre Baja (with tree houses!). You'll be surprised by the wildlife just offshore in the Cabo San Lucas Marine Reserve, where Dive Ninja Expeditions can put you in the water to snorkel or dive with sea lions and schooling fish.

Cancun, Mexico

Everything from an affordable beach vacation to something entirely luxurious awaits in Cancun , a destination known throughout the world for its turquoise waters and soft beaches with chalk-white sand. Whether you bed down in an affordable Airbnb or vacation rental set back from the beach or stay oceanfront with the family at the all-inclusive Club Med Cancun or an incredible property like Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun , tropical vacation vibes are sure to be in the mix (along with margaritas).

Riviera Maya, Mexico

South of Cancun in the Yucatan Peninsula and encompassing coastal spots like Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, Mexico's Riviera Maya is another sure bet for a memorable tropical beach getaway for all types of travelers. Families rave about Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya , where all 280 suites are oceanfront with swim-out pools, and encounters with Sponge Bob and the Paw Patrol pups happen on the regular. For a romantic couples getaway, you'll never go wrong staying just south of there at the luxury Grand Velas Riviera Maya , where spa treatments and an incredible wellness water circuit await at the spa and there's a lounge chair with your name on it along the uncrowded beach. It checks all the boxes when it comes to all-inclusive adults-only Mexican resorts .

Lamu Archipelago, Kenya

For a beach escape to remember off the coast of Kenya, head to one of coastal East Africa's first Swahili settlements and the incredible islands of Lamu and Manda in the Lamu Archipelago. On the northern tip of Manda Island, Manda Bay Lodge offers a private island stay in palm-thatched bungalows, most of which front the beach. You'll want to venture to Lamu Island across the water, too, to see the towns of Shela and Lamu, with inexpensive guest houses for a more affordable vacation.

Palawan, Philippines

A favorite with budget backpackers and intrepid couples, the Philippines offers an inexpensive tropical beach vacation in Southeast Asia. Palawan's towering limestone mountains that plunge into the turquoise sea make a postcard-worthy backdrop. When you're ready for a splurge, set your sights on the private island resort of Amanpulo in Northern Palawan, where green and hawksbill sea turtles nest on the beach and you can snorkel and scuba dive over pristine reefs just offshore.

The stunning Seychelles conjure images of white-sand beaches backed by fascinating granite boulder formations. Cruise around the archipelago in style aboard a yacht with Variety Cruises on itineraries that depart from Mahe and Praslin. Or stay land-based at Six Senses Zil Pasyon or the Club Med Seychelles Resort , which opened in 2021 within a marine reserve at the heart of the archipelago. And with just 11 villas in the brand's first private-island destination,  North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles  is a good place to offload any Marriott Bonvoy points you might have hanging around for a truly remarkable tropical vacation.

Koh Chang, Thailand

Most of Thailand's roughly 2,000 miles of coastline have the makings for fun in the sun, with easy access to some of the best and cheapest street foods in the world. Perhaps you've heard of Koh Samui and Phuket. But if the lush Thai island of Koh Chang has never registered on your radar, it's worth seeking out for an inexpensive tropical vacation in Southeast Asia. The hilly and verdant island lies in the Gulf of Thailand and is part of Mu Ko Chang National Park. You'll find family-run guesthouses everywhere here for an affordable stay, but even boutique hotels won't break the bank. Spend your extra baht indulging in the delicious local seafood and heading out on eco-tours into the jungle.

Zakynthos, Greece

Your best bet for a tropical-feeling beach vacation in Europe is on Zakynthos, Greece, an Ionian Sea island where the famous Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach) can only be reached by boat. While the climate here is Mediterranean, the vegetation skews semi-tropical thanks to ample rainfall that keeps things green. Couples can look forward to an adults-only stay at Lesante Blu , where yachts leave from the resort pier to tour you around the island.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazil's best tropical destination — where you can guarantee the waters to be balmy and the air to be silky warm — lies off the country's northern coast in the volcanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha. Mountainous terrain and incredible white-sand beaches pair with some of South America's very best scuba diving right offshore for plenty of vacation adventures. Incredible views of the island's interesting topography overlooking the Bay of Sueste await when you stay at Pousada Maravilha, an eco-luxe property known for its excellent onsite restaurant serving fresh seafood and Brazilian specialties.

Heron Island, Australia

Australia is home to more than 16,000 miles of glorious coastline. But when you want the best tropical vacation spot on the world's smallest continent, head to Heron Island, a tropical island of pristine natural beauty located along the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland. You can snorkel right from the island's protected beaches or take short boat rides to scuba dive on nearby reefs. All of Heron Island's accommodations are keyless, so you don't have to worry about taking along a room key or card while you splash in the sea, go kayaking, or head out on nature walks.

Ibiza, Spain 

Visit Spain's legendary Balearic Island of Ibiza during the summer months, and you're in for one of Europe's top tropical-feeling vacations. The island is famous for its club scene and upscale seaside restaurants that draw the yacht set, but there are incredible natural sights here, too, including Ses Salines Natural Park in the southern stretches of the island. For a peaceful stay, make Ibiza Gran Hotel your base, and make sure to book a coveted table at the hotel's celebrated restaurant,  La Gaia by Óscar Molina , which snagged its first Michelin star in 2021.

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
• The World's Top Treehouse Hotels
• The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 10 best harry potter tours in london.

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

April 29, 2024

The Best Tours of Buckingham Palace

Laura French April 29, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

9 Places to See the Summer Olympics Without Setting Foot in Paris

You may have trouble finding accommodations or tickets to events in Paris, but other destinations around France are hosting sports like soccer, sailing, basketball and surfing.

By Sophie Stuber

For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it, with crowds and high prices. But Paris isn’t the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside the metro region are also hosting events, giving travelers a way to catch some action without getting caught up in the crush.

In places like Bordeaux, Marseille and even Tahiti, you can watch top athletes compete in soccer, basketball, sailing and surfing. (Tickets have been added in batches, so if the ones you want aren’t available, keep checking the ticketing site, tickets.Paris2024.org . If all else fails, the official resale platform opens on May 15 .)

And when you’re not watching sports, you can take advantage of museums, parks, design centers, and fresh food and wine options. In Nantes, you can even ride a mechanical elephant.

Here are some ideas for planning your own alternative Olympic trip.

Basketball: July 27 to Aug. 4; tickets from 50 euros ($54).

Handball: Aug. 6 to 11, tickets from €45.

Start with a stroll around Vieux-Lille and a coffee in the Grande Place, taking in the colorful facades of this city near the Belgian border. Head over to the St.-Sauveur area to see the Art Deco belfry and exhibitions at Gare St.-Sauveur , a former train station. On Sundays, at the rambling Wazemmes market , about 400 vendors offer produce, fish, plants, fabrics, textiles and leather goods. Head out to Parc du Héron , east of the city, to see the LaM museum (€7), with works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró. Lille is better known for beer than for wine, and the Brasserie Gobrecht offers brewery tours every Saturday (reservations recommended).

Where to stay: Hotel de la Paix (€354 per night); Hotel Carlton (€406).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 2; tickets from €24.

Capital of a region best known for its wine, this small southwestern city sells local wine-walk maps at its tourist office. Stop by the Marché des Capucins , a local indoor market that also houses Bistro Poulette , a slightly chaotic and very delicious spot serving moules-frites, or mussels with fries. In the afternoon, check out the Bassins des Lumières (€15), the largest digital art center in the world, and the Cité du Vin (€21), which offers wine-tasting experiences. To wind down in a quiet wine bar, try Yarra , or for a cocktail, Symbiose . If you have time for side trips, spend a day in St.-Emilion, about 27 miles away, where you can sample great wines. Or check out the nearly 340-foot-high Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe — about 37 miles southwest of Bordeaux, near the beach town of Arcachon.

To stay: Les Chambres de Marie (€170); La Maison Galiène (€259); Yndo Hotel (€355); Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa (€419).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

The street signs in Nantes are in both Breton and French, reflecting the city’s historical ties to Brittany. Start at Talensac Market for picnic supplies, especially radishes, local cheeses and strawberries. Pick up local delicacies like Gâteau Nantais (almond poundcake) and Far Breton (flan with Armanac-soaked prunes). Take your picnic lunch to the courtyard of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne , a medieval castle and museum (courtyard is free; museum is €9). On the Île de Nantes, a former shipyard has been transformed into a wild mechanical theme park. The Machines de l’Île mixes Jules Verne’s stories with Leonardo da Vinci’s designs in the form of a ridable mechanical elephant and sea creatures (€9.50 for the elephant ride or gallery visit). The Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage (free) covers Nantes’s history as the most active slave-trading port in 18th-century France. The artists behind the glass-and-concrete memorial, Krzysztof Wodiczko and Julian Bonder , aimed to create “a metaphorical and emotional reminder of the primarily historical, but also very current, struggle for the abolition of slavery.”

To stay: Hotel Voltaire Opéra (€103); Hotel de la Cité (€120).

Châteauroux

Shooting: July 27 to Aug. 5; tickets from €24.

The small city not far from the Loire Valley is named for Château Raoul , the 10th-century castle that’s now part of a local official’s private residence. The best view of the château is from the Gütersloh Bridge. Follow the “coulée verte” — or green corridor — along the banks of the Indre River, stopping by Parc de Belle-Isle , which has a lake for swimming, with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to rent, as well as a beach, playgrounds and camping. The Franciscan Cordeliers Convent (free), which dates to the 13th century, today offers contemporary art exhibits and miles of gardens, and the Bertrand Museum (free), a former 18th-century townhouse, showcases diverse collections in each of its 26 rooms, including the plaster original of the Camille Claudel sculpture “Sakuntala.”

To stay: Au Lys Blanc (€138); Les Rives du Château (€210 for a two-bedroom apartment).

Lyon and St.-Étienne

Soccer: Lyon, July 24 to Aug. 9; tickets from €24. St.-Étienne, July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

It will be easy to catch soccer matches in either Lyon or St.-Étienne, only an hour apart by train or car in east-central France. In Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, visit the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica , then savor an ice cream at La Fabrique Givrée . Explore the city’s network of covered passageways, called traboules — originally for workers to transport textiles and later used during World War II by the French Resistance for clandestine meetings. Then climb up to the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse neighborhood, with its tiny streets, shops and views of Lyon below. On a clear day, you can even see Mont Blanc. The Lugdunum museum (€7) and the nearby Roman theater (€4) take visitors back to 43 B.C., when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, and La Maison des Canuts (€9.50), covers the city’s history as a capital of silk.

Between Lyon and St.-Étienne, Pilat Regional Natural Park offers more than 900 miles of rocky terrain for hiking and biking, culminating at the summit of 4,700-foot Crêt de la Perdrix , with views of the Alps and Massif Central range.

St.-Étienne, about 40 miles southwest of Lyon, is transforming its historical industrial identity into one of design and innovation. At the heart is the Cité du Design (€4.50), the former site of a weapons factory, which has served as a center for art and research since 2010. The complex, now a key economic force in the city, is open to the public year-round and hosts art and design exhibitions.

To stay in Lyon: Fourvière Hotel (€189); Hôtel du Théâtre (€323).

To stay in St.-Étienne: Le Parc 42 (€113); Le Golf Sauna (€269).

Sailing (including windsurfing, kitesurfing and more): July 28 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 6; tickets from €24.

This Mediterranean port city mixes urban grit and natural beauty. Start by visiting Le Panier, the village-like oldest part of the city. Try navettes , a traditional orange flower biscuit, and sample some sardines or panisses , traditional chickpea fries, on a sunny terrace. Detour through the touristy but pleasant Old Port on the way to Mucem (€11), the first major museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization and cultures. Have a pick-me-up at Deep Coffee Roasters , a specialty roaster tucked away between touristy shops. At sunset, climb up to Cours Julien , a hip neighborhood with beautiful views for your apéro. Don’t miss the Cité Radieuse , a UNESCO-listed apartment complex that shows off the architect Le Corbusier’s Modernist mastery (you can stay at the hotel in it). And just southeast of the city, the Calanques , a series of small, narrow coves , offer miles of oceanside trails and rocky scrambles along turquoise water.

To stay: Hotel Le Corbusier (€229); Maison Juste (€300).

Soccer: July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

Summer is peak season in Nice, the queen city of the French Riviera, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean. Run, bike or in-line skate along the Promenade des Anglais , a four-mile seaside path. Then climb up to the Colline du Château , a rocky hill east of the promenade with views of Nice and even as far as the Alps. For a longer walk, follow the trails from Coco Beach to the Cap de Nice along the coves. Then head to Cours Saleya , a pedestrian section of the Old Town, with flower stands, antiques and local food like the socca , a chickpea pancake. The Musée de Préhistoire Terra Amata (€5), constructed on top of an excavation site, reveals what Nice was like up to 400,000 years ago. Or just enjoy one of Nice’s pebbled beaches in a lounge chair.

To stay: Hôtel Rossetti (€186); Yelo Mozart (€238).

Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Surfing: July 27 to 31 ( events could shift through Aug. 4, depending on surf conditions); fan zones free.

For surfing’s second Olympics since its debut in Tokyo, the competition takes place far from mainland France in Tahiti, part of French Polynesia. Since the wave is offshore, there will be two ticket-free fan zones — Taharu’u Beach and Paofai Gardens — to watch the events on large screens. A third fan zone at PK0 beach in Teahupo’o will have free tickets but limited access. Tahiti offers white sands and turquoise lagoons in addition to near-perfect waves. For snorkeling, try the lagoon near Maui Beach , five miles from Teahupo’o. For black volcanic sands, head to Taharu’u Beach, about 20 miles northwest of Teahupo’o. About 45 miles from Teahupo’o, Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, with a population of about 26,000, offers a variety of local delicacies like poisson cru: raw fish with lime juice and coconut milk, served with rice. Sample local fare, including steak frites and skewered veal heart, from food trucks, called roulettes, at Place Vai’ete, on the waterfront, near the Papeete Market.

To stay: Kia Ora Lodge (€265, seven miles from Teahupo’o); Punatea Village (€73, six miles from Teahupo’o).

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of a picture with this article was published in error. The image showed the French town of Cassis, not Marseille, where several Olympic events will take place this summer. It has been replaced.

How we handle corrections

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .