most popular tourist destination city in the world

Top 20 Most Visited Cities in the World

March 13, 2024

Bangkok is the most visited city in the world with 22 million international visitors, followed by Paris with 19.10 million visitors, and then by London with 19 million visitors.

In this article you’ll find statistics revealing the 20 most visited cities in the world.

A study by Mastercard has yielded the Global Destinations Cities Index (pdf) . It ranks cities based on total international overnight visitor arrivals and cross-border spending.

In other terms, this report lists the most popular cities in the world, and the most popular tourist destinations.

By understanding international travel patterns and studying how it affects urban economies, the index can also predict visitor growth for the following year.

The review puts Bangkok as the most visited city in the world, with approximately 22 million international visitors. More detailed studies reveal visitor patterns, such as an average of 4.7 nights stay and an average spending of USD $173 daily.

The famous Bali is also on the charts at the 19th spot, totaling 8.26 million international visitors. Its diverse regions and moody aesthetics prove to be popular among social media users; search for Bali on Instagram and you’ll be flooded with stunning photos.

Paris , a solid holiday destination, continues to lead at 2nd place alongside Bangkok and London . This stresses how visitors seek cities that offer business opportunities, varied attractions, and distinct cultures. With 19.10 million international visitors, Paris is expected to host similar numbers in the coming year.

1. Bangkok: 22.78 Million Visitors

2. paris: 19.10 million visitors, 3. london: 19.09 million visitors, 4. dubai: 15.93 million visitors, 5. singapore: 14.67 million visitors, 6. kuala lumpur: 13.79 million visitors, 7. new york: 13.60 million visitors, 8. istanbul: 13.40 million visitors, 9. tokyo: 12.93 million visitors, 10. antalya: 12.41 million visitors, 11. seoul: 11.25 million visitors, 12. osaka: 10.14 million visitors, 13. makkah: 10 million visitors, 14. phuket: 9.89 million visitors, 15. pattaya: 9.44 million visitors, 16. milan: 9.10 million visitors, 17. barcelona: 9.09 million visitors, 18. palma de mallorca: 8.96 million visitors, 19. bali: 8.26 million visitors, 20. hong kong sar: 8.23 million visitors, the most visited cities in the world.

Top tourist destinations are those that offer diversity in attractions and environment. This is also a confirmed trend we noticed in the most visited countries in the world list.

From slow and romantic to fast-paced and sleek, the world’s most visited cities have their own distinct pace and color.

I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list. Susan Sontag – One of my favorite travel quotes .

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 22.78 million | Last Year’s Rank: 1

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand , is the most visited city in the world thanks to a whopping 22 million international visitors!

Wreathed in the noise of tuk-tuk s and constant activity is the city of Bangkok, where map-less exploration always leads to fun discovery.

Enjoy the usual city comforts of megamalls and modern spaces before turning towards its collection of golden temples and shrines. Follow your nose to Bangkok’s countless street markets stuffed with spicy, sour, sweet, and salty flavors, then hop on a boat to reach their floating markets.

In the night, Chinatown and Sukhumvit reveals a vibrant nightlife that is both cosmopolitan and cultural. And to forget to enjoy the exciting day-trips away from this busy city!

But learn how to stay safe in Bangkok before you go, and I also suggest that you take a look at one of the following travel guides. They are both excellent and worth reading.

Country: France | Total International Visitors: 19.10 million | Last Year’s Rank: 3 (⬆)

Paris is the second most visited city in the world and the most visited city in Europe !

Paris will arrest your attention with its classic buildings, arching Parisian bridges and elegant boulevards.

Take a cruise along River Seine for a quick look at the city’s historical monuments, or swing by individual neighborhoods for Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre , and more.

And as an established art and fashion capital, visitors can’t go without seeing the collections of Musee d’Orsay and Centre Pompidou. Atmospheric bookstores, vintage shops and flea markets make their mark beside art nouveau department stores such as Galeries Lafayette.

To immerse yourself in this beautiful city from the comfort of your couch, pick any of the following photo book. They all include breathtaking photos that will surprise and delight you for sure!

Country: United Kingdom | Total International Visitors: 19.09 million | Last Year’s Rank: 2 (⬇)

London is clearly one of the most popular cities in the world! The gothic architecture in London is matched by splashes of innovation (such as the Shard, Tate Modern, and the Sky Garden), offering up grand and historical quarters.

You’ll be charmed by the taverns and all of West End and impressed by London’s contemporary art, theater and literature.

Greeting you with both the beauty of green parks and urban sprawl, the city will take you through a stunning historical journey.

Make sure to read our guide on all the things London is famous for .

Country: United Arab Emirates | Total International Visitors: 15.93 million | Last Year’s Rank: 4

Dubai rises out from the desert in all its futuristic glory.

High-rises dominate the skyline, housing mega-malls, and sleek office blocks.

City life is defined by lazy shopping, performance venues, serene places of worship, and fancy rooftop terraces.

On the fringes are beaches, pieces of nature in contrast to the man-made aquariums and botanical gardens.

And of course, you can sign up for a desert trip and experience riding a camel, or flying down the dunes on a four-wheeler.

Country: The Republic of Singapore | Total International Visitors: 14.67 million | Last Year’s Rank: 5

Green and innovative, Singapore is a city designed with the future in mind.

Hop from attraction to another with its efficient transportation system and hit up the diverse neighborhoods of Little India to Chinatown.

From hawker centers to street markets to fine dining, you’ll be eating your fill of multi-national cuisine – Singapore is a foodie must-visit.

When you’re not busy eating, you will be basking in the luxe Orchard Road shopping mall, or exploring the famous Botanic Gardens.

Country: Malaysia | Total International Visitors: 13.79 million | Last Year’s Rank: 7 (⬆)

Open your senses to absorb Kuala Lumpur’s lively energy!

Thanks to its multicultural mix of Malay, Chinese, and Indian community, the city is home to mosques and temples that stand out from gleaming skyscrapers.

This celebration of historical and modern also shows itself in the contrasting high-fashion shopping malls and vibrant street markets.

Spend your holiday scouting out designer brands and hunting down the best hawker stalls for the best of two worlds.

Country: United States of America | Total International Visitors: 13.60 million | Last Year’s Rank: 6 (⬇)

New York, or the city where dreams are made!

Following the city’s grid-like design, trawl the streets for private art galleries and world-famous the Met, MoMA, and Guggenhiem. Indie bookstores, brightly lit Chinatown, high-end boutiques and hipster cafés lead into grand office buildings and huge Central Park.

Enjoy lavish performances in Broadway or eat your way through rooftop restaurants and hole-in-the-wall eateries. New York is THE metropolitan city that will get you buzzing in excitement.

Country: Turkey | Total International Visitors: 13.40 million | Last Year’s Rank: 9 (⬆)

Istanbul is a historical trove, its strategic location having witnessed many ruling empires.

Tracing back to the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and finally the Ottomans, the city is adorned with Byzantine churches and imperial mosques.

Recent decades have seen sharp spikes in the skyline as galleries, museums, and tall office towers grew alongside the old.

Visitors also praise Istanbul’s culinary diversity which is a mix of Asian and European flavor; but local kebab and mezze is the go-to.

Country: Japan | Total International Visitors: 12.93 million | Last Year’s Rank: 8 (⬇)

If there was a city that lived in the future, Tokyo is it!

Clean streets, chrome skyscrapers, and ever-moving crowds keep Tokyo running 24/7.

Smart electronics and convenient technology set incredibly high living standards.

Yet amidst the neon signboards and flashy urban sprawl are pockets of green and the spiritual; Tokyo remembers its past deeply. Visit the Edo-styled streets of Yanezen and serene Meiji Shrine.

To experience Tokyo, look past the trendy cafés and bold fashions to find under-the-tracks eateries, languid neighborhoods, and hidden shrines.

Country: Turkey | Total International Visitors: 12.41 million | Last Year’s Rank: 11 (⬆)

Set out for the stunning Antalya, a stylish city poised along the Turkish Riviera.

Combining the Mediterranean coastline with preserved Kaleici old quarters, Antalya is a romantic getaway.

Stroll through the city for finely restored Ottoman houses and wind up at the harbor.

With the scent of the sea in mind, explore the Suna & Inan Kirac Kaleici Museum or Antalya Museum for a walk down memory lane.

Country: South Korea | Total International Visitors: 11.25 million | Last Year’s Rank: 10 (⬇)

Seoul constantly upgrades with new trends – in fact, it is the trending holiday destination.

The city is a youth-driven hub, luring in K-pop fans, and fashion gurus with promises of cultural activities, idol sightings, and shopping.

But don’t just spend your time browsing the shops and feasting on midnight snacks; Seoul has plenty of heritage sites for you to see.

Sight-see its palaces in traditional hanbok and delve into dated markets for another piece of the puzzle.

Country: Japan | Total International Visitors: 10.14 million | Last Year’s Rank: 19 (⬆)

If you don’t dig the fast-paced Tokyo, hit up the friendly and sun-warmed Osaka instead.

The gateway to Kyoto and Kobe, Osaka is a cultural center that delights with both heritage sites and commercial fun.

Energetic Dotonbori is never empty of people, comprised of restaurants that range from okonomiyaki to standing ramen stalls.

Adjacent Shinsaibashi is kilometers of boutiques, bookstores and sweet shops; shopping malls are concentrated in Umeda.

Osaka Castle and Tennoji Temple are two of many historical structures, and Universal Studios Japan is a full-day distraction!

Country: Saudi Arabia | Total International Visitors: 10.00 million | Last Year’s Rank: 13

Highly symbolic Makkah is a key pilgrimage destination for all Muslims.

The city where Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was born, Makkah is a religious center with sacred Kaaba at its heart – it is Islam’s holiest city.

Only Muslims are allowed into this desert valley city, which dates back to 7th century.

Visitors (by millions per year) will find that Makkah is developed, modern buildings surrounding the religious hotspot; in contrast, cozy homes are nestled in rocky hills to reflect its traditional nature.

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 9.89 million | Last Year’s Rank: 12 (⬇)

Phuket is beach bliss and karst islands, encompassing two national parks and too many islands to explore.

The range of beaches is spectacular, from part-central Patong to luxurious Surin and Ao Bang Thao. Meanwhile, stunning coral reefs invite scuba divers and snorkeling groups to explore the glittering waters of the Similan Islands.

You can also kayak into Ao Phang-Nga’s lagoons and wind around limestone karsts.

Phuket Town also offers museums, cooking classes, Chinese shrines, and wildlife sanctuaries to keep things fresh.

Country: Thailand | Total International Visitors: 9.44 million | Last Year’s Rank: 18 (⬆)

If it is heat you want, hit up touristy Pattaya for endless beach fun and a party-themed central area.

There are of course, Thailand’s stunning temples and shrines, but Pattaya is known for its seaside resorts.

Sign up for a harried tour of the city before settling in along the coast for more sun and relaxation. This is a city that embraces hedonist attitudes to the max.

Country: Italy | Total International Visitors: 9.10 million | Last Year’s Rank: 15 (⬇)

Elegant Milan is all about creativity and the arts.

Breaking free of Italian wars to pave way for post-war development, Milan impresses with art deco and futuristic architecture.

Its main draw however, remains in its art and fashion.

Marvel at the city’s art collection and strike up conversation with gallery owners; Triennale design museum will wow you.

Stop by fashion houses, showrooms, boutiques and all the stylish spaces you can think of.

To round off, indulge in the rich and Mediterranean-influenced Milanese cooking.

Country: Spain | Total International Visitors: 9.09 million | Last Year’s Rank: 17

Barcelona is generous with its fresh sea bounty and world-class architecture.

You can expect as many flavors of architecture as there are tapas – too many to see in a week.

From Roman-era subterranean spaces to the Gothic Quarter of the Middle Ages, to Gaudi’s modernism masterpieces, the city is dotted with magnificent architecture.

Sandy beaches, rolling Collserola hills, majestic Montjuic and sculpture gardens add to the picturesque layout. With endless museums, galleries, taverns and green spaces to visit, you’ll be on your feet from day to night.

Country: Spain | Total International Visitors: 8.96 million | Last Year’s Rank: 16 (⬇)

Spain’s Palma De Mallorca has witnessed its share of rulers.

From 13th century Christian leaders to the preceding Moors and Romans, this historical chain of empires are seen in the city’s mixed architecture and historical sites.

Start with the Gothic Catedral and branch out into the medieval streets.

You’ll see lively public squares, noble townhouses, imposing baroque churches and colorful street markets.

The bohemian vibe is also strong in suburban neighborhoods, teeming with craft studios and galleries.

By the main reason why people visit Mallorca are its famous cristal clear beaches!

From Alcudia to Cala d’or , you’ll find plenty of wonderful spot where you can relax and swim with the fishes (literally) in the Mediterranean sea.

Country: Indonesia | Total International Visitors: 8.26 million | Last Year’s Rank: 20 (⬆)

Another trending location that has taken over social media feeds, especially Instagram, is Bali, featuring lush jungles and seaside villas. These recent years, it’s beauty made Bali one of the most popular tourist destinations !

Traditions reign as locals march to temple ceremonies and hosts incredible dance performances; the island celebrates the spiritual with colorful displays.

Bali is also diverse – you can treat yourself at lavish Bukit Peninsula, explore the mysterious Ubud or party hard at Kuta.

Diving sites, ancient monuments, city comforts, and seaside retreat in one, Bali is potential!

As millennials would say, “it is a mood”!

Country: China | Total International Visitors: 8.23 million | Last Year’s Rank: 14 (⬇)

The harbor might not be as fragrant as its name proclaims, but Hong Kong’s busy streets and sky-high buildings will linger in your senses!

The city’s skyline hides much of its unique cultural-scape, international brands and sleek malls existing beside haggling vendors and garish goods.

There’s always something to see or do, whether it is taking a ferry across the harbor or snapping panoramic shots on Victoria Peak.

Fill your itinerary with dimsum eats and temples visits. Enjoy retail time and water-themed Ocean Park. Treat yourself to challenging hikes and spellbinding coastal views for Hong Kong is more than concrete and steel.

Business ventures and growth opportunity aside, these cities gained their title of the most visited cities in the world due to strong local culture and variety in attractions.

This list has shown that travelers choose their destinations based off what unique experiences it can give them, opposed to spending potential or first-world comforts.

Diverse geography is a plus too.

The most visited countries in the world list confirms this observation.

Bali, for instance, is trending for its choice of jungle stay, seaside resorts, and city dwellings. Similarly, the sharp contrast between metropolitan Istanbul and Dubai versus their desert settings offers one-of-a-kind sights.

The trend carries over to more urban cities as well; Bangkok is visual cacophony of golden temples, unusual floating markets, sleek shopping malls and old villages. London and Paris too offer neighborhoods with distinctive style.

About the author

Travel Reporter & Editorial Director

Ph.D. in Geography, Travel Photographer, and Software Engineer. Been on 4 continents and loved them all.

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• World's Best

The 25 Best Cities in the World in 2021

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite cities in the world.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

What attracts travelers to certain cities around the world? Is it new Michelin-starred restaurants? Generations-old cultural heritage? Proximity to geographic wonders of the world ? Unsurprisingly, when it comes to determining the best cities in the world, it's all of the above for our discerning Travel + Leisure readers.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.

South Asia and Mexico had an impressive showing this year, with readers' top 10 including three Mexican cities (including the No. 1 spot!) and four South Asian cities (across Laos, India, Indonesia, and Thailand). Udaipur, on India's picturesque Lake Pichola, nabbed second place, up from last year, when it ranked No. 7. One reader described it as "enchanting," while another raved that it's "by far the most beautiful city in India." The other Indian city to make the list was Jaipur (No. 17), often referred to as the Pink City because of the remarkable pink buildings that line its streets.

Also in South Asia, Chiang Mai (No. 9) beat out Bangkok (No. 10) by just a hair, with readers specifically describing Chiang Mai as "more laid-back" and "less crowded" than Bangkok. Many of our readers were lured to Chiang Mai by the elephant sanctuary, but stayed for the "amazing people with a deep love for their way of life and cultures," as one respondent put it.

In Europe , we have nine World's Best Award–winning cities this year, from two Turkey hot spots — Istanbul (No. 3) and Bodrum (No. 16) — to the culinary capital of Spain, San Sebastián (No. 15), to Kraków, Poland, at No. 12.

And coming in ahead of cities like Cape Town (No. 20) and Antigua Guatemala (No. 24) is the lone American city on our list this year: Charleston, South Carolina. Love for the charming Lowcountry destination runs deep with our T+L readers. It's a nine-time winner for the best cities in the United States, and we had an unprecedented number of reader comments about this waterfront city known for its pastel façades and burgeoning arts scene. One reader says, "The charm of the city is its architecture," while another praises the "bevy of interesting and delicious restaurants that can satisfy all tastes."

Finally, we turn back to Mexico, which saw Mexico City and Oaxaca come in at No. 7 and No. 8, respectively. But it was San Miguel de Allende that once again took the No. 1 spot. Below, the reasons T+L readers voted for it, plus the full list of the best cities in the world for 2021.

1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

A marriage of neo-Gothic and Spanish-colonial architecture, the city — located 170 miles northwest of Mexico City — is a design lover's dream. "The mystery of what the houses look like behind the doors is intriguing," said one reader. Described as simply "magical" by more than one respondent, San Miguel de Allende also captivated readers with its history and growing culinary clout. Our respondents also gushed over the plentiful sights — "everywhere you look there are amazing sights and beauty and history" — and remarked on how walkable and easy-to-navigate the city is. From the rooftop restaurants to the central El Jardín and the Museo Histórico, San Miguel de Allende has mesmerized our readers, one of whom summarized: "San Miguel is an incredible city, very beautiful, historic, with friendly people, fantastic food and restaurants."

Score: 93.54

2. ​​Udaipur, India

Score: 91.63

3. Istanbul

Score: 91.32

4. Ubud, Indonesia

Score: 91.25

5. Kyoto, Japan

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.94

6. Florence

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.48

7. Mexico City

Score: 90.23

8. Oaxaca, Mexico

Score: 90.22

9. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Score: 90.06

10. Bangkok

Score: 89.81

Score: 89.62

12. Kraków, Poland

Score: 89.39

13. Luang Prabang, Laos

Score: 89.29

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 88.88

15. San Sebastián, Spain

Score: 88.87

16. Bodrum, Turkey

Score: 88.82

17. Jaipur, India

Score: 88.68

18. Charleston, South Carolina

Score: 88.61

Score: 88.59

20. Cape Town

Score: 88.55

21. Trieste, Italy

Score: 88.54

22. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Score: 88.47

Score: 88.00

24. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Score: 87.97

25. Porto, Portugal

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Score: 87.79

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

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

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

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

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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

Top 100 city destinations in the world

For more and more people, the wanderlust is real, and now might be the right moment to stop missing out and start seeing the world. International tourism is expected to recover in 2024 as travelers make up for lost time and make hay while the sun shines, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. Moreover, Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2024 report notes that nearly 2 in 5 travelers are spending more money on these getaways than in 2023.

Travelers are getting more creative too. They're inspired by locations they've only seen in television and movies . They plan to eat well in exotic destinations that offer favorable exchange rates or simply invest in their R&R. Nearly a quarter of U.S. travelers told Skyscanner they plan to sleep during their downtime.

Using data from Euromonitor International's 2023 Top 100 City Destinations index , Stacker compiled a list of the top 100 city destinations in the world. Euromonitor International assembled its 2023 index by comparing 55 metrics across six key pillars for more than 100 international cities to create an overall attractiveness ranking. The top 100 cities' rankings across these six key pillars—economic and business performance, tourism performance, tourism policy and attractiveness, tourism infrastructure, health and safety, and sustainability—are included.

Europe claims 63 cities in the top 100, many of which seamlessly blend ancient history with new design, technology, and sustainability developments. Meanwhile, Asia also had a strong showing—with an impressive five cities in the top 20, including the first time Tokyo broke the top 10. China alone contributed eight cities to the list—including some lesser-known destinations beyond Beijing and Shanghai.

Among the eight U.S. cities to be ranked on this list, New York was the highest at #8, with Los Angeles trailing behind and barely cracking the top 20 at #19.

Whether you're looking for the chance to kick back on a beach, explore layers of history on foot, or taste the multitude of cultural influences that come together in an international melting pot, there is a destination on this list for you—be it just across the border or an ocean (or two) away.

#100. Muscat, Oman

- Economic and business performance: #91 - Tourism performance: #100 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #72 - Tourism infrastructure: #93 - Health and safety: #62 - Sustainability: #81

Oman's port capital affords visitors access to beaches and the sea, as well as the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes of the Arabian peninsula. Experience the confluence of Portuguese and Arab influences at the Mutrah Corniche —a redeveloped stretch of the waterfront with dockside attractions, including ancient forts and a bazaar called a "souq," where you can get lost exploring its vendors selling textiles, jewelry, antiques, and more.

End your day with entertainment you might not expect in the Middle East by taking in a show at the Royal Opera House. And fortunately, you don't have to be Muslim to visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, as guests of any faith are welcome any weekday except Fridays.

- Economic and business performance: #99 - Tourism performance: #76 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #89 - Tourism infrastructure: #76 - Health and safety: #103 - Sustainability: #77

After experiencing political unrest that lasted more than a decade, Egypt has struggled to bring back its tourism industry, update its infrastructure, and marry its ancient history with future innovation. The Grand Egyptian Museum, estimated to open in mid-2024, should help achieve all of those goals. The expansive museum will be located within 3 miles of the famous Pyramids of Giza and will aim to chronicle life in Egypt under pharaohs.

#98. Hanoi, Vietnam

- Economic and business performance: #98 - Tourism performance: #103 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #93 - Tourism infrastructure: #41 - Health and safety: #90 - Sustainability: #103

Seeing Hanoi, Vietnam's capital city, is seeing its unique history, from the first inhabitants over 10,000 years ago to its recovery after the Vietnam War. Hanoi still shows symbols of past occupation by France and China. It's worth checking out the Old Quarter , a busy district of narrow streets where glimpses of the past come into full focus. First-time visitors to Hanoi might be daunted by all of the sights, sounds, and smells coming from various street food carts, small shops, and motorbike taxis, but this is truly the heart of Vietnam.

#97. Guilin, China

- Economic and business performance: #110 - Tourism performance: #77 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #104 - Tourism infrastructure: #83 - Health and safety: #26 - Sustainability: #54

Guilin is one of the most popular destinations in southern China because of its natural wonders. Known for its iconic karsts—jagged hills made of limestone—fans of the "Star Wars" franchise might recognize that Guilin was used as a backdrop in "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" to depict the Wookie planet of Kashyyyk. A popular tourist attraction is taking a cruise along the beautiful Li River , which offers visitors a view of the formations, various fishing villages, caves, and bamboo fields.

#96. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

- Economic and business performance: #93 - Tourism performance: #72 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #60 - Tourism infrastructure: #96 - Health and safety: #94 - Sustainability: #76

The Dominican Republic's Punta Cana is a dream of an island getaway, with 30 miles of pristine beaches providing access to the crystal-clear waters of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. That makes watersports like swimming and scuba diving a top attraction for tourists who stay at one of the city's many all-inclusive resorts. More adventurous types can take a flying leap for an adrenaline rush at Scape Park at Cap Cana. At the same time, those looking for a more relaxing vacation in the Dominican Republic can hit the links at one of Punta Cana's many golf courses.

#95. Mecca, Saudi Arabia

- Economic and business performance: #79 - Tourism performance: #29 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #109 - Tourism infrastructure: #92 - Health and safety: #74 - Sustainability: #108

Mecca is the holy city of Islam, drawing millions of people for the annual Hajj, a five-day religious pilgrimage Muslims must take at least once in their lives. Mecca is the birthplace of the prophet Muhammad. The Kaaba, a shrine in the middle of the Great Mosque of Mecca, is the most sacred spot in Mecca, and Muslims face it when praying.

#94. Zhuhai, China

- Economic and business performance: #88 - Tourism performance: #71 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #103 - Tourism infrastructure: #87 - Health and safety: #34 - Sustainability: #73

The port city of Zhuhai connects neighboring Macau and Hong Kong with the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge—the longest sea bridge in the world—and has become an important city for China's economy and its environment. Promoting manufacturing, technology, eco-agriculture, and research, Zhuhai has expanded rapidly to become one of China's most important cities for development.

Suppose tourists are looking for a thrilling getaway. In that case, they should check out the world's largest indoor theme park , the Chimelong Spaceship at the Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort, or the Lionsgate Entertainment World theme park, which combines a virtual reality experience with some of the Los Angeles-based movie studio's famous films.

#93. Mugla, Turkey

- Economic and business performance: #92 - Tourism performance: #41 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #81 - Tourism infrastructure: #101 - Health and safety: #79 - Sustainability: #86

The Turkish province of Muğla, along the Aegean Sea, is known for its many ruins and outdoor activities. Take a boat to Gemiler Island, featuring Byzantine-era remnants of churches and tombs. Check out what's left of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which finished construction in 350 B.C. Finally, visit Kayakӧy, a ghost town dating back to 1923 that still has evidence of a time when Muslims and Christians lived there in harmony.

#92. Vilnius, Lithuania

- Economic and business performance: #51 - Tourism performance: #98 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #86 - Tourism infrastructure: #102 - Health and safety: #55 - Sustainability: #29

Visit Lithuania's capital city for the chance to explore a history dating back to the 14th century—which you can learn all about at the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania, a museum located in a Baroque-style palace that was built in the 17th century for top members of royalty at the time. Vilnius is also known for its Gothic architecture, which can be explored at several churches, such as St. Anne's and the neoclassical-style Vilnius Cathedral, built on the site of worship of the Lithuanian thunder god Perkūnas.

#91. Marrakech, Morocco

- Economic and business performance: #109 - Tourism performance: #92 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #45 - Tourism infrastructure: #72 - Health and safety: #61 - Sustainability: #96

In Marrakech, visitors can enjoy its beautiful gardens, contemporary architecture, and local souks and markets' exotic foods and spices. The most notable attraction is Marrakech's medina, a twisting maze of small stalls; snake charmers; hagglers; Moroccan "hammams," or steam rooms; and artisanal crafts all enclosed within fortified walls. Located nearby is Djemaa El Fna, a famous city square that hosts performers of all kinds—acrobats, storytellers, musical artists, and comedians. Many of these ancient heritage sites were spared by a deadly earthquake that rocked the city in September 2023—but some rubble from other structures that were damaged in the temblor may still remain.

#90. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

- Economic and business performance: #47 - Tourism performance: #82 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #101 - Tourism infrastructure: #62 - Health and safety: #76 - Sustainability: #97

The name of the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh derives from "rawdah," meaning gardens or meadows—which is quite fitting, as the bustling metropolis seems to have sprung out of the surrounding desert land like a flower in just a few decades. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been working to deemphasize its conservative and religious reputation , making its capital a first-class destination for business and leisure travelers worldwide.

To view the city from up high and experience fine dining, visitors can make a reservation at The Globe , located near the top of the skyscraper that houses the Mandarin Oriental hotel. The restaurant is housed in a massive golden glass sphere and provides the most stunning 360-degree views of Riyadh, especially at sunset.

#89. Tbilisi, Georgia

- Economic and business performance: #100 - Tourism performance: #90 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #80 - Tourism infrastructure: #59 - Health and safety: #70 - Sustainability: #55

One of Europe's oldest capital cities, Tbilisi provides tourist-friendly access to the country of Georgia—formerly part of the Soviet Union but now an independent state, located at the nexus of Eastern Europe and Asia. Taste all those influences together by visiting any of Tbilisi's wineries, vineyards, and wine cellars —a perfect accompaniment to the gastronomical delights of the city's annual summertime cheese festival. That's just one of many palate-pleasing festivals emerging in this tasty destination, where street food is growing in popularity and availability. For a truly authentic experience, go for a scrub-down at one of Tbilisi's ancient sulfur baths.

#88. Santiago, Chile

- Economic and business performance: #65 - Tourism performance: #109 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #84 - Tourism infrastructure: #57 - Health and safety: #65 - Sustainability: #60

Journey to the heart of Chile by visiting its capital city, Santiago, nestled in a valley of the Andes Mountains. It's a bustling city escape—with about a third of Chile's population located within its boundaries—meaning there's plenty to do. Visit Latin America's tallest building, Sky Costanera , and tour the museums and other historic landmarks around the town square, Plaza de Armas, which dates back to the 16th century. For a modern, speak-easy style setting, find your way to the cultural hub, Factoría Franklin , hidden inside a complex of former pharmaceutical laboratories.

#87. Johor Bahru, Malaysia

- Economic and business performance: #52 - Tourism performance: #56 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #67 - Tourism infrastructure: #95 - Health and safety: #88 - Sustainability: #95

Johor Bahru has become a popular tourist destination near the Malaysian border with Singapore and a bustling cultural hub. Attractions include a Legoland theme park, beautiful temples—including the glass temple Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman—and numerous cafes for the whole family to enjoy. For something romantic, visit the Firefly Valley Leisure Park in Kota Tinggi, where people can see thousands of "lightning bugs" juxtaposed against a night sky full of stars.

#86. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

- Economic and business performance: #97 - Tourism performance: #73 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #98 - Tourism infrastructure: #52 - Health and safety: #77 - Sustainability: #47

Playa del Carmen is a resort town that offers a shoreline with access to the Caribbean—less popular than Cancún, but with equal access to aquatic activities like diving incredible coral reefs. A former fishing village, Playa del Carmen is now home to the annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival and a stretch of modern eateries, bars, and boutiques along La Quinta Avenida. You're less likely to find spring breakers at "Playa" compared to other destinations in Mexico—although that time frame and Christmas are most popular for tourists. It's also a port city for cruise ships. But because it offers an average of 340 sunny days a year, there's less of a "high season" to avoid.

#85. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

- Economic and business performance: #77 - Tourism performance: #85 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #95 - Tourism infrastructure: #26 - Health and safety: #93 - Sustainability: #107

What was once the romantic city of Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is now a vibrant urban hub filled with both ancient temples and modern skyscrapers. It features French colonial landmarks, such as Vietnam's own Notre-Dame Cathedral, currently being restored until 2027 , mixed with ancient Vietnamese traditions and places, such as the bustling Bến Thành Market. The moving War Remnants Museum is a must-visit, as it tells the story of the Vietnam War from the locals' point of view.

#84. Pattaya, Thailand

- Economic and business performance: #71 - Tourism performance: #49 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #68 - Tourism infrastructure: #79 - Health and safety: #106 - Sustainability: #80

The eastern Thai city of Pattaya, about two hours away from Thailand's capital, Bangkok, is known for its beaches and resort hotels, earning the nickname "the Las Vegas of Thailand." What was once a sleepy fishing village is now home to a lively nightlife and overcrowded streets. Paying homage to Thailand's more religious side, the Wat Khao Phra Bat temple is also a popular attraction, as it's home to a 59-foot golden Buddha.

#83. Tallinn, Estonia

- Economic and business performance: #67 - Tourism performance: #95 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #83 - Tourism infrastructure: #94 - Health and safety: #29 - Sustainability: #2

Today, Tallinn's Old City Harbour is a port for cruise ships—among the most popular in the Baltic Sea, serviced by most of the top cruise lines. That means the cruise terminal and surrounding facilities have seen recent modernization and upgrades, including a half-mile-long promenade open to the public—not just cruise passengers, a restaurant with outdoor terraces for sunrise and sunset views, and public art.

Head a bit farther inland, and Estonia's capital city is a feast for the eyes—with medieval towers, stone walls, and church spires among the architectural delights. As you stroll through this walkable city, stop into one of its bakeries for a slice of cake or Estonian pastry.

#82. Heraklion, Crete

- Economic and business performance: #82 - Tourism performance: #69 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #37 - Tourism infrastructure: #99 - Health and safety: #72 - Sustainability: #66

Archaeology fans and those interested in learning about the ancient people who occupied the Greek islands several centuries ago would enjoy taking a trip to Heraklion , the capital of Crete. The most popular destination is Knossos, a well-preserved and restored Minoan palace with a history that can be traced back to 1900 B.C. Another grand sight is the Koules fortress, built by the Venetians during the 16th century, which contains two floors, 26 rooms, and impressively thick walls. Climbing to the top of the fortress offers impressive views of the island.

#81. Delhi, India

- Economic and business performance: #81 - Tourism performance: #97 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #62 - Tourism infrastructure: #24 - Health and safety: #108 - Sustainability: #106

India's capital city of Delhi has seen growth in its tourism industry due to an increased focus on health and wellness, with a growing number of yoga retreats and ayurveda practices, in addition to providing continued luxury services for visitors. The 17th-century Old Delhi neighborhood, the former capital of the Mughal Empire, is home to the historic Red Fort , a Mughal political and cultural hub, and one of the largest mosques in India, Jama Masjid.

#80. Phuket, Thailand

- Economic and business performance: #95 - Tourism performance: #46 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #73 - Tourism infrastructure: #55 - Health and safety: #104 - Sustainability: #89

Surrounded by the Andaman Sea, this western Thai island is home to white-sand beaches, luxurious beach resorts, great diving, and rainforest adventures. Like other cities in Thailand, there are plenty of temples, such as Wat Chalong ; markets; and zoos or animal sanctuaries. Visit the Old Town at Phuket for a unique mix of Chinese and Portuguese influences, or check out the Simon Cabaret Show, which features live music and comedy performed by transgender performers that's been running for more than 30 years.

#79. Lima, Peru

- Economic and business performance: #96 - Tourism performance: #80 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #30 - Tourism infrastructure: #77 - Health and safety: #89 - Sustainability: #62

Peru's capital has been underrated compared to other notable spots in South America. The City of Kings perfectly blends history, nature, nightlife, and culture. Stop by the Miraflores district , an upscale neighborhood in Lima, where you can paraglide over the Peruvian coast , enjoy a bike ride overlooking the Pacific Ocean, party all night in one of the many Miraflores clubs and bars, and explore the different food and shop vendors among the many protected stray cats in Kennedy Park.

#78. Buenos Aires, Argentina

- Economic and business performance: #86 - Tourism performance: #110 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #63 - Tourism infrastructure: #31 - Health and safety: #99 - Sustainability: #50

Buenos Aires is like no other city—the birthplace of the sensual tango takes the best of both Europe and Latin America to bring travelers a unique food, dance, nightlife, and architectural experience. Attractions include the historically famous Café Tortoni , open since 1858, and the expansive Recoleta cemetery, where Argentina's rich, famous, and politically important figures are buried. Free guided tours of the cemetery are available in Spanish Tuesday through Friday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and on weekends and public holidays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Following a late-night dinner—think steak and wine, Buenos Aires' most popular commodities—stay out until the following day dancing the night away at one of the city's many clubs, or "boliches."

#77. Thessaloniki, Greece

- Economic and business performance: #85 - Tourism performance: #55 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #36 - Tourism infrastructure: #100 - Health and safety: #85 - Sustainability: #56

Most of the original city center of Thessaloniki burned down in an epic fire in 1917, but it was rebuilt around Aristotelous Square. But ruins from ancient civilizations remain, as Thessaloniki was once the second-largest city of the Byzantine Empire and one of the capitals of the Roman Empire. The still-operating Vlatadon Monastery is a relic of the Byzantine Empire. Known as the "City of Saints," Thessaloniki was the site of the second Christian church to be established in Europe. You can follow in St. Paul the Apostle's footsteps at the Charitable Brotherhood of Men of Thessaloniki's estate and celebrate his feast day annually on June 29.

#76. Bologna, Italy

- Economic and business performance: #34 - Tourism performance: #89 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #65 - Tourism infrastructure: #88 - Health and safety: #60 - Sustainability: #39

Experience northern Italy and the Italian Renaissance in Bologna, home to the world-famous Fountain of Neptune and other romantic sites, including the palaces of Piazza Maggiore. This medieval city is known for its unique cuisine—including rich pasta sauce—locally known as ragù, tortellini in broth, cured meats such as mortadella, and cheeses abound in the gourmet district of Quadrilatero. Wash it all down with a glass of vino produced locally from lesser-known grape varietals like pignoletto, alionza, and rosso Bologna—but not before visiting the main building of Europe's oldest university, the Archiginnasio at the University of Bologna.

#75. Verona, Italy

- Economic and business performance: #48 - Tourism performance: #65 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #46 - Tourism infrastructure: #106 - Health and safety: #57 - Sustainability: #58

The entire city of Verona has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and not just because it was the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet"—although you can visit the birthplace of Giulietta Capuleti, supposedly the real-life inspiration for the protagonist. Verona's tourism industry leans into the city's romantic side, offering candlelit dinners, seductive vistas as seen from lookout points like Giardino Giusti, and the observation deck of the Lamberti Tower. Beyond the Roman archaeological sites, one might expect more offbeat tourist attractions, including the Museo Africano (African Museum) and one of Europe's oldest carnivals, Bacanal del Gnoco.

#74. Rhodes, Greece

- Economic and business performance: #83 - Tourism performance: #84 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #17 - Tourism infrastructure: #85 - Health and safety: #71 - Sustainability: #46

The largest of Greece's Dodecanese Islands is a must-see destination for visitors looking to relax and take a trip to the past. Founded in 408 B.C., the Old Town of Rhodes features medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and the restored Palace of the Grand Master that will transport you to the 14th century. Medieval and historical themes are also present throughout the rest of the island and seamlessly combine with modern attractions and amenities, like the new wing of the Museum of Modern Greek Art , to bring you a well-rounded vacation.

#73. Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

- Economic and business performance: #14 - Tourism performance: #58 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #99 - Tourism infrastructure: #91 - Health and safety: #9 - Sustainability: #84

Amid Sharjah's imposing fortresses and ornate mosques, you can learn about Islam at the Museum of Islamic Civilization and Holy Quran Academy, which feature unique artifacts and stunning architecture. Since the debut of its Sharjah Biennial 30 years ago, this United Arab Emirates city has also become an art lovers' destination, with the 16th edition taking place from February through June 2025. But no matter when you arrive, you can take in beauty and creativity at the Sharjah Art Museum and Sharjah Art Foundation's permanent interactive exhibit, "Rain Room."

#72. Doha, Qatar

- Economic and business performance: #25 - Tourism performance: #96 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #42 - Tourism infrastructure: #86 - Health and safety: #13 - Sustainability: #100

Qatar's capital city, Doha, is also its fastest-growing—having gained a lot of notoriety as the host city for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Its Museum of Islamic Art boasts the largest collection of its kind in the world, and its National Museum shares Qatari history and heritage within a modern structure whose design was inspired by the shape of a desert rose. If you'd like to feel the sand between your toes, you can choose between a beach getaway or a Doha desert dune adventure for sandboarding, safaris, and camel rides.

#71. Marne-la-Vallee, France

- Economic and business performance: #76 - Tourism performance: #47 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #50 - Tourism infrastructure: #103 - Health and safety: #36 - Sustainability: #40

What put Marne-la-Vallée, France, on the map was the arrival of Disneyland Paris in 1992—but it was originally established in the mid-1960s as part of the country's "new towns" effort to create decentralized economic development and take some of the burden off of major city centers like Paris. Today, it's also home to Walt Disney Studios Park , which opened as Disney-MGM Studios Europe in 2002; the Val d'Europe shopping center, which houses the Sea Life Paris Aquarium ; and such academic institutions as ParisTech, ESIEE Paris engineering school, and Gustave Eiffel University.

#70. Cancun, Mexico

- Economic and business performance: #94 - Tourism performance: #14 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #97 - Tourism infrastructure: #60 - Health and safety: #78 - Sustainability: #49

Cancún, Mexico, is home to one of the most popular beaches in the world—and during the 2022-2023 season, it saw a 13% growth in tourism, according to Euromonitor. However, there's more to this Yucatan Peninsula gem than seaside resorts. Several Mayan ruins , such as San Miguelito and El Rey, and a museum called the Museo Maya de Cancún, display many artifacts from this ancient civilization. Additionally, there are many water sports and activities that visitors should check out in the daytime, such as snorkeling, kayaking, diving, and kiteboarding.

- Economic and business performance: #16 - Tourism performance: #39 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #76 - Tourism infrastructure: #109 - Health and safety: #1 - Sustainability: #110

The tagline "Wow, Macau!" is often used to describe this administrative region of China. Macau has no shortage of activities, including casinos with nearly ubiquitous games of baccarat, the world's highest bungee jump facility— Macau Tower , and Macau's famous Senado Square with mosaic floors invoking the styles of Portugal. Additionally, fans of card games and high risks should try playing in one of the casinos well known to the Macau region—gambling and roulette here are less lighthearted fun and more serious.

#68. Montreal

- Economic and business performance: #73 - Tourism performance: #91 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #82 - Tourism infrastructure: #51 - Health and safety: #24 - Sustainability: #21

For an authentic taste of Europe in Canada, visit the church-lined streets of Montréal— home of the North American version of Notre Dame . The basilica is open to the public via ticketed tours daily. All masses in this church are celebrated in French. In fact, the city's official language is French—although, as of 2023, more than half of those in Montréal's province of Québec can speak English.

A cultural center on a global scale, music fans will enjoy the Montréal International Jazz Festival, one of the world's largest, which takes place every June to July, and Les Francos de Montréal, which usually happens annually in April. The Just for Laughs comedy festival, held yearly in July, features headliners from around the world telling jokes in both languages. While you're there, try ordering in French at one of the many brasseries in Old Montréal and dancing to European EDM at the New City Gas complex.

#67. Honolulu

- Economic and business performance: #23 - Tourism performance: #54 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #85 - Tourism infrastructure: #90 - Health and safety: #66 - Sustainability: #22

The capital of the United States' beloved island chain combines work, play, a complex history, and a rich culture. The most notable spot to visit has to be the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor , remembering the battleship that was bombed on Dec. 7, 1941. Visitors looking to explore the best of Hawaii should hike to the summit of the iconic Diamond Head crater, visit the nature reserve at Ka'ena Point to see the endangered giant Hawaiian monk seals native to the area, and dip into the calm waters of Kūhiō Beach.

#66. Rio de Janeiro

- Economic and business performance: #87 - Tourism performance: #107 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #33 - Tourism infrastructure: #29 - Health and safety: #98 - Sustainability: #42

The home of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and the iconic and vibrant Carnival of Brazil festival, Rio de Janeiro, a South American gem, offers visitors many activities that can appeal to any tourist. Visit the Maracanã, the largest soccer stadium in Brazil. Explore the blue waters of the Ipanema and Copacabana beaches. Take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain for the best views of Rio, and finally, end your days by experiencing Rio's iconic nightlife.

#65. Krakow, Poland

- Economic and business performance: #89 - Tourism performance: #61 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #79 - Tourism infrastructure: #54 - Health and safety: #28 - Sustainability: #43

Fans of "Schindler's List" would be interested in exploring some locations in Kraków, Poland, where filming for Steven Spielberg's legendary motion picture took place, such as the Piłsudski Bridge, Oskar Schindler's real factory at 4 Lipowa Street, and Saint Mary's Basilica.

If you want to explore a fantastic location outside the city, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a popular destination. The salt deposits found here have been mined since the 13th century and were the pride and joy of Polish kings. Artists have found inspiration for their craft here, and occasional concerts are performed in the mine.

#64. Jerusalem

- Economic and business performance: #102 - Tourism performance: #19 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #10 - Tourism infrastructure: #108 - Health and safety: #64 - Sustainability: #74

Editor's note: Euromonitor's report was released in December 2023, two months after the Israel–Hamas war began in and around the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023, which has impacted tourism in Israel .

Jerusalem isn't just an important religious site for Judaism, Islam, and Christianity and has become a key historical and political center. Despite recent conflicts surrounding the area, most notably between Israel and Palestine, the city brims with culture and spirituality.

The Old City of Jerusalem allows visitors from throughout the world to walk from the Western Wall—the holiest site for Jews, to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre—where Jesus was believed to have been crucified and then resurrected, to the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock—where the prophet Muhammad was believed to have ascended to heaven and the third-holiest site for Muslims.

For those who stay longer, it is worth taking day trips to the salty Dead Sea, the lowest point in the world, and Yad Vashem, Israel's largest Holocaust memorial and museum. Yad Vashem attempts to explain the tragic events leading up to the Holocaust, provide real-life accounts and artifacts from those who survived and those who didn't, and record and remember as many names of victims as possible.

#63. Porto, Portugal

- Economic and business performance: #90 - Tourism performance: #62 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #57 - Tourism infrastructure: #71 - Health and safety: #39 - Sustainability: #27

Porto is another city combining the old and new with beautiful beaches. The Ribeira district, which overlooks the magnificent Rio Douro, has stunning architecture, craft stores, ornate churches, and quaint food spots. Before you leave Porto, try port wine, the dessert-like fortified wine that Portugal is known for, at one of the city's dozens of wine cellars.

#62. Edinburgh, Scotland

- Economic and business performance: #54 - Tourism performance: #88 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #56 - Tourism infrastructure: #68 - Health and safety: #31 - Sustainability: #30

Edinburgh Castle reigns supreme over Scotland's capital city—but there are plenty of other ways to explore "Auld Reekie," a Scots nickname meaning Old Smoky that dates back to the 17th century. To view the old city below, climb Calton Hill to the National Monument or the ancient volcano of Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park.

The U.K.'s second-most visited city—right behind London—rainy and cool Edinburgh is also a fabulous setting to sidle up to a cozy bar for a wee dram of scotch whisky—or take an entire barrel-to-bottle journey with The Scotch Whisky Experience's tours and tastings.

#61. Fukuoka, Japan

- Economic and business performance: #64 - Tourism performance: #101 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #51 - Tourism infrastructure: #47 - Health and safety: #21 - Sustainability: #61

Travelers wanting to experience the tastiest ramen, sushi, and fresh seafood should plan to visit Fukuoka, Japan. Located on Kyushu Island, its two combined towns—Fukuoka and Hakata—are a must-see destination during any season. Check out the rich flavors and textiles of the city's stores and markets .

If you're visiting in the spring, be sure to visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to see 6,000 plum trees blossom all around you and pay a visit to the Kyushu National History Museum , which explores the history of Japan through its trading relations with other Asian neighbors.

#60. Busan, South Korea

- Economic and business performance: #35 - Tourism performance: #87 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #28 - Tourism infrastructure: #73 - Health and safety: #40 - Sustainability: #94

South Korea's second-largest city, Busan, is home to the famous sandy shore of Haeundae Beach, located just steps away from the city skyline and home to the unique creations of the Haeundae Sand Festival in the summer. For a more colorful experience, visit the Gamcheon Culture Village with its rainbow-colored houses impossibly perched on a steep hillside, earning it the reputation of the Machu Picchu of Busan.

There are plenty of places to explore Busan on foot—but perhaps the most thrilling is the Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, which traces the ridge of a seaside cliff and extends over the water to loop around the uninhabited Dongseom Island.

#59. Beijing

- Economic and business performance: #74 - Tourism performance: #64 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #100 - Tourism infrastructure: #20 - Health and safety: #30 - Sustainability: #72

One of the oldest cities on this list and outliving many dynasties, Beijing has preserved its extensive history while constantly growing and innovating. Even travelers who've never visited China are familiar with its sections of the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square—but these destinations are still breathtaking when seen in person.

Another site would be a typical Beijing "hutong"—crisscrossing lanes and alleys built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. These ancient hutongs are at risk of being replaced by modern-era cities and buildings, but they are the best way to glance into a traditional Beijing citizen's life. Visitors must also make it a priority to try Beijing's world-famous Peking duck. This historic Chinese dish is older than many cities, from purveyors like the QuanJuDe Duck House chain , which has operated since 1864.

#58. Sapporo, Japan

- Economic and business performance: #72 - Tourism performance: #75 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #54 - Tourism infrastructure: #64 - Health and safety: #10 - Sustainability: #51

The Japanese city of Sapporo may be most famous for its namesake brew—which you can learn about, and even taste, at the Sapporo Beer Museum . But it's also the birthplace of a uniquely Japanese type of ramen—and while there are plenty of restaurants to taste authentic miso ramen soup, Aji no Sanpei is where it was reportedly invented. A feast for the eyes, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a wintertime destination for tourists and locals, who flock there annually to admire elaborate snow sculptures and ice carvings.

#57. Antalya, Turkey

- Economic and business performance: #68 - Tourism performance: #7 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #59 - Tourism infrastructure: #66 - Health and safety: #95 - Sustainability: #87

The Turkish resort town of Antalya keeps breaking its own records with its influx of tourists—like the 15.37 million who visited the vacation hotspot from January 2023 to November 2023. With stunning beaches at every turn, the Düden waterfalls, with stunning limestone karst springs surrounding them, and the Köprülü Canyon National Park , a spectacular natural wonder that's perfect for trout fishing and whitewater rafting, the Mediterranean gem is a perfect family getaway.

#56. Mexico City

- Economic and business performance: #69 - Tourism performance: #59 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #90 - Tourism infrastructure: #9 - Health and safety: #87 - Sustainability: #65

Mexico City is so much more than Mexico's national capital—especially with its growing art scene, including the Mexico City Art Week. Wintertime brings eco-tourists to the area to witness the annual migration of monarch butterflies at nearby nature preserves and open spaces, and the autumn sees an influx of tourists for the annual Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival and parade, which began in 2016.

Venture off the beaten path to the Barrio Chino, a tiny Chinatown that tells a lesser-known history of Chinese immigration to North America and annually celebrates Lunar New Year as a public festival.

#55. Valencia, Spain

- Economic and business performance: #57 - Tourism performance: #106 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #39 - Tourism infrastructure: #65 - Health and safety: #17 - Sustainability: #18

Behind Madrid and Barcelona, Spain's third-largest city, Valencia, mixes Mediterranean vibes and flavors, such as its world-famous paella, gothic monuments like La Lonja, The Silk Exchange, and the ultra-modern City of Arts and Sciences —Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències—complex. There's even a legacy of Arab influence from when Muslims conquered the city in A.D. 714—still visible at landmarks like the Admiral's Baths and ruins of Arab-built city walls. Consider scheduling your trip during the Fallas festivities in March to catch all the pyrotechnics, performances, light shows, and puppets called "ninots" that get blown up in celebration of St. Joseph.

#54. Sao Paulo

- Economic and business performance: #80 - Tourism performance: #104 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #32 - Tourism infrastructure: #6 - Health and safety: #96 - Sustainability: #52

With a population of more than 22 million, São Paulo is the fourth-largest city in the world. It's also ground zero for Brazil's favorite sport, soccer—with an art deco-style "football" stadium, Estádio do Pacaembu, with its own soccer museum, Museu do Futebol.

This Brazilian city is also positioned prominently on the world stage when it comes to theater. Its Theatro Municipal , inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris, is open for tours when no shows are running. It truly is a global city, too—as it's home to the largest Japanese enclave in the world—outside of Japan—the Liberdade district.

#53. Seville, Spain

- Economic and business performance: #75 - Tourism performance: #99 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #14 - Tourism infrastructure: #74 - Health and safety: #19 - Sustainability: #11

Live out your greatest Andalusian fantasies in Seville, Spain, where tourism has been booming in 2024. Among the treasures that visitors have discovered are its historic city center, tapas bars, and centuries-old landmarks like the Real Alcázar palace, Catedral de Sevilla—Europe's largest gothic-style building, and La Giralda, a tower from a mosque that was torn down in 1402. Escape the bustle by getting off the sidewalks and streets and heading onto the Guadalquivir River for a boat cruise through the heart of the city, past its many parks and with a view of its many ancient landmarks. Don't forget to take in a performance by flamenco dancers, some of whom perform on street corners as well as in bars and special venues called "tablaos."

#52. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

- Economic and business performance: #50 - Tourism performance: #68 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #40 - Tourism infrastructure: #84 - Health and safety: #20 - Sustainability: #31

Commonly referred to as "Palma," this Spanish city is known as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean." Once walled off to protect the city from invasions, only one stretch of the ramparts that once enclosed it remains—Muralla Ses Voltes, which once served as military barracks, is now part of a cultural center with sprawling exhibition space. Also at the formerly fortified port is the Es Baluard Palma Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, while the uniquely circular Bellver Castle sits high above, at Palma's highest point.

#51. Vancouver, Canada

- Economic and business performance: #31 - Tourism performance: #86 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #58 - Tourism infrastructure: #67 - Health and safety: #11 - Sustainability: #35

This British Columbian gem is a must-see when visiting Canada. With the Pacific Ocean, multiple large parks and forests, and three major mountains—all easily accessible, visitors can hike, jog, climb, play, and explore to their hearts' content.

Vancouver has also played a large role in both film and television: The city has provided the setting for productions such as the "Twilight" saga, the "Deadpool" movies, "Elf," "Night at the Museum," "Riverdale," "Battlestar Galactica," and "Bates Motel," just to name a few.

For a scenic way of taking in your surroundings, try the Skyride —North America's largest aerial tramway system.

#50. Shenzhen, China

- Economic and business performance: #55 - Tourism performance: #15 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #106 - Tourism infrastructure: #45 - Health and safety: #32 - Sustainability: #78

Shenzhen, the closest Chinese city to Hong Kong, is also one of the country's wealthiest. Shenzhen's rise to prominence started in 1979 when China designated the sleepy border town as the country's first special economic zone. What this city lacks in ancient history, it makes up for in innovation and culture. The Splendid China-Folk Culture Villages is a park with replicas of many famous attractions in China that gives visitors an easy glance into the country's long history. Meanwhile, the Window of the World theme park offers replicas of famous attractions from around the world, from Egypt to Greece to Paris to Cambodia.

#49. Budapest, Hungary

- Economic and business performance: #60 - Tourism performance: #63 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #61 - Tourism infrastructure: #46 - Health and safety: #53 - Sustainability: #34

Visitors to Hungary's capital city don't have to go far to fall for the city's charms. Fans of art and culture are drawn to Budapest's numerous architectural styles—Baroque, neo-Gothic, and Art Nouveau, just to name a few—and the newly restored 19th-century-era Hungarian State Opera House, which is open for English-language tours daily. Budapest is also home to more than 100 thermal springs—which means it's a great place to relax at one of its many spas and bathhouses, each building a mini-vacation itself. To complete their trip, visitors should also visit the famous Budapest Pinball Museum, called the Flippermúzeum , and have a night out at one or more of the ruin bars in abandoned buildings and courtyards in the Jewish Quarter.

#48. Washington DC, United States

- Economic and business performance: #10 - Tourism performance: #83 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #69 - Tourism infrastructure: #53 - Health and safety: #68 - Sustainability: #7

The United States capital is instantly recognized by its historical monuments—the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument, not to mention the White House. But beyond the National Mall and the Capitol Hill area, "D.C." also draws tourists to its many museums within the Smithsonian network , including the National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of Natural History. Perhaps the most beautiful time of year to visit the District of Columbia is spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The best place to spot them? The Tidal Basin section of the National Mall.

#47. Nice, France

- Economic and business performance: #78 - Tourism performance: #43 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #29 - Tourism infrastructure: #81 - Health and safety: #45 - Sustainability: #13

A sunny, buzzing cultural hub in southeast France, there is no end to activities that people can do in Nice. Located along the French Riviera, Nice is a city of terracotta roofs, excellent dining, beautiful public and private beaches, and museums perfect for history, music, and art buffs. Check out Lascaris Palace to see a fine collection of musical instruments and learn their history enclosed within an architecturally grand palace. End your day watching the sunset from Castle Hill, the highest point in Nice that once housed a former military citadel but is now a must-visit to get the best view of all of Nice.

#46. Copenhagen, Denmark

- Economic and business performance: #45 - Tourism performance: #79 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #15 - Tourism infrastructure: #70 - Health and safety: #49 - Sustainability: #20

If you want to explore the best of what the Danish capital has to offer, hop on a bike. Copenhagen's push for greener and healthier living has made it easier to travel on two wheels to any destination within the city's charming and colorful buildings. Perhaps Copenhagen's most interesting attraction that captures its essence is CopenHill , offering visitors the chance to ski, hike, relax, and eat on an artificial slope built atop a waste-to-energy power plant.

#45. Guangzhou, China

- Economic and business performance: #44 - Tourism performance: #12 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #102 - Tourism infrastructure: #37 - Health and safety: #33 - Sustainability: #79

Founded in 214 B.C., Guangzhou, China, is a thriving port city whose airport, public transportation, and air quality have all improved significantly over the past two decades. Visitors—including local tourists from elsewhere in the country—are drawn here to trace the history of the Silk Road trade route, see buildings designed by such "starchitects" as Zaha Hadid, and take a cruise on the historic 1,243-mile Pearl River. Want to see it all from high above the city? Ascend to the top of the Canton Tower and visit its observation deck at over 1,600 feet.

#44. Warsaw, Poland

- Economic and business performance: #38 - Tourism performance: #53 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #87 - Tourism infrastructure: #40 - Health and safety: #25 - Sustainability: #32

Visiting Warsaw is like taking a trip through the city's tumultuous history, as it had gone through many occupations and destructions—most notably in 1944, when Adolf Hitler ordered the city to be virtually leveled after the Warsaw Uprising. Since then, however, Warsaw has been rebuilt and restored, but it still pays homage to its difficult history.

Learn about the history of the uprising and the sacrifice of the Polish resistance at the Warsaw Rising Museum , with admission free on Mondays. Visit the POLIN museum, which documents the history of the Jewish community in Poland. Honor the fallen Polish soldiers of World War I and watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, active since 1925.

#43. Shanghai

- Economic and business performance: #58 - Tourism performance: #32 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #96 - Tourism infrastructure: #11 - Health and safety: #27 - Sustainability: #92

One of China's most populated cities, Shanghai is a modern, buzzing financial hub—but it also retains its colonial heritage. The metropolis's location on the Huangpu River allows visitors to see The Bund , Shanghai's impressive cityscape by the waterfront. The 1,614-foot World Financial Center is used for many purposes, including sightseeing, financial operations, fine cuisine, and a hotel.

#42. San Francisco

- Economic and business performance: #6 - Tourism performance: #81 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #74 - Tourism infrastructure: #27 - Health and safety: #81 - Sustainability: #15

This Northern California city resting on a peninsula is cool not just in terms of its foggy weather but also in its culture. San Francisco is known for its role in the Gold Rush and the tech industry—but it also offers many other attractions, including Fisherman's Wharf, the oldest Chinatown in the United States, and the former federal prison on Alcatraz Island. Getting around "Fog City" could involve climbing steep and sometimes even crooked streets—perhaps via cable car—or crossing the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. Just beware of earthquakes—like the one that flattened much of the city in 1906.

#41. Tel Aviv, Israel

- Economic and business performance: #41 - Tourism performance: #20 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #20 - Tourism infrastructure: #80 - Health and safety: #69 - Sustainability: #69

Tel Aviv, Israel, is a hip, colorful, and modern city that stands out among the more historic, older cities and towns in the country. On the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the west, Tel Aviv is a hub for art, technology, innovation, and wild nightlife. Tel Aviv is also known for being one of the more LGBTQ+-friendly and progressive cities in the Middle East , with a quarter of its population being part of the community, and hosts a massive Pride parade each year that attracts tourists from all around the world to come to see.

#40. Brussels

- Economic and business performance: #62 - Tourism performance: #38 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #53 - Tourism infrastructure: #50 - Health and safety: #52 - Sustainability: #25

Beer, waffles, chocolate, and comics are just a few reasons to consider visiting Brussels. It's the capital of Belgium and the headquarters of the European Union and European Parliament, but it's not all serious business and politics. Visitors can enjoy a whimsical and relaxed trip around this city by taking a beer tour through the best and oldest pubs and breweries in town, or follow along the comic book route and try to find as many homages to Franco-Belgian comic art painted on the walls as they can. Finally, in between looking at the fine palaces, cathedrals, and historical museums that appear all over this city, take a moment to gawk at the Manneken Pis. This fountain features a statue of a little boy peeing—sometimes in costume—and is one of the most famous sculptures in Brussels.

#39. Stockholm

- Economic and business performance: #42 - Tourism performance: #50 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #27 - Tourism infrastructure: #82 - Health and safety: #38 - Sustainability: #3

There is no shortage of things to do in Sweden's capital city, which seamlessly marries the past and the future together. A great example of this is the island of Gamla Stan , or Old Town, where Stockholm was first founded. While you're exploring, take a "fika" break —a Swedish tradition that encourages relaxing and socializing with friends and colleagues over coffee and treats—before returning to the hustle and grind of everyday life.

#38. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

- Economic and business performance: #39 - Tourism performance: #16 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #35 - Tourism infrastructure: #75 - Health and safety: #16 - Sustainability: #85

The beautiful capital of the United Arab Emirates has grown into a modern and developed metropolis thanks to the country's vast oil reserves. Abu Dhabi offers visitors luxury while paying homage to the region's rich history and Islamic religion. Explore the beautiful deserts and oases of the region; visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque , one of the largest in the world and the most architecturally impressive mosque in the country; have a taste of authentic Arabian coffee; go sailing on one of Abu Dhabi's waterfronts; and get your hands and arms painted by famed henna artists to experience this magnificent city to the fullest.

#37. Venice, Italy

- Economic and business performance: #70 - Tourism performance: #10 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #22 - Tourism infrastructure: #63 - Health and safety: #56 - Sustainability: #64

Venice is truly a place like no other. The city lies upon 118 small islands, all linked together by canals or bridges—which means the way to get around is either by walking or taking a boat. The city's structure also poses unique problems as its delicate foundation has caused the land to start sinking slowly. Additionally, high tides and strong winds could cause the canals to flood—although, in 2023, the city experienced a drought that kept water levels at bay.

Visit St. Mark's Basilica , located on St. Mark's Square and dedicated to the patron saint of Venice, to see a beautiful cathedral with beginnings as far back as 1063. Take a water taxi to some of the smaller islands within the city's network to observe the making of items like glass, gondolas, leather, and lace. Finally, gondola rides can be pricey, but they offer amazing, romantic views of Venice and its lesser-known canals and are a rare experience.

#36. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

- Economic and business performance: #15 - Tourism performance: #51 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #38 - Tourism infrastructure: #16 - Health and safety: #91 - Sustainability: #88

The Malaysian tourist industry has been on the uptick since 2020 —and its capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is one of its most popular destinations. In addition to its mixture of British colonial and Asian architecture , standouts of its skyline are the Petronas Twin Towers—the world's tallest twin structures, which pierce the sky with their matching spires. Other impressive skyscrapers include the 50-story concrete Maybank Tower and the KL Tower, whose observation deck offers a stunning view.

- Economic and business performance: #9 - Tourism performance: #26 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #77 - Tourism infrastructure: #44 - Health and safety: #83 - Sustainability: #6

Miami received the most international arrivals of any U.S. gateway, as of a preliminary 2021 report , after a record-breaking 50.6 million passengers passed through its airport that year. This Florida city attracts tourists for its stunning beaches; vibrant arts district, including the Art Basel art fair , which happens in December and brings in large crowds annually; and its distinct Cuban influence, most notably in the neighborhood Little Havana and Calle Ocho, its main street.

#34. Las Vegas

- Economic and business performance: #30 - Tourism performance: #18 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #64 - Tourism infrastructure: #49 - Health and safety: #67 - Sustainability: #16

Las Vegas—also known as Sin City—may mainly be known for its Strip, home to numerous casinos such as Caesars Palace and Aria. However, this popular Nevada city can provide an epic getaway for the entire family, with its iconic hotels, spas, faux reproductions of popular world attractions, and the chance to sit behind the wheel of some of the world's most luxurious cars. Don't be surprised if you encounter a celebrity singer or chef—artists like Lady Gaga and Mariah Carey have performed residencies in Las Vegas, and food legends like Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, and Gordon Ramsay operate restaurants there.

#33. Bangkok

- Economic and business performance: #43 - Tourism performance: #27 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #31 - Tourism infrastructure: #14 - Health and safety: #107 - Sustainability: #91

Locals actually know Bangkok as Krung Thep—short for Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit— the city's official full name. The Thai capital is yet another old city that is learning how to blend its past and its future—preserving magnificent Buddhist temples, where you'll need to dress appropriately; palaces, like The Grand Palace that is open for visits daily; while also building edgier skyscrapers like the MahaNakhon by German architect Ole Scheeren, completed in 2018.

#32. Zurich

- Economic and business performance: #29 - Tourism performance: #67 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #34 - Tourism infrastructure: #58 - Health and safety: #3 - Sustainability: #19

While internationally renowned as a global financial center, Zürich is also home to Switzerland's largest art museum, Kunsthaus Zürich , and a world-class succulent collection , located in the greenhouses of Sukkulenten-Sammlung Zürich.

For an entirely different kind of superlative, visit the world's largest Lindt chocolate shop in a stunning modern architectural landmark on Lake Zurich—a popular destination in its own right, mainly for warm-weather recreation like boating. In the winter, Zürich provides easy access to the Swiss Alps for a day trip in the snow.

#31. Athens, Greece

- Economic and business performance: #40 - Tourism performance: #66 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #4 - Tourism infrastructure: #25 - Health and safety: #86 - Sustainability: #63

Despite being one of the oldest cities on this list, Athens, Greece, saw tremendous growth in tourism between 2019 and 2023. The country's capital, which offers visitors the chance to see some historical landmarks that they may have only seen in their school textbooks, is unique in how it's lived through nearly every form of government and various styles of architecture throughout its long history.

Visit Athens' most famous destination, the Acropolis, a fortified hill that holds most of its iconic landmarks—Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, the Theater of Dionysus, just to name a few. The nearby Acropolis Museum houses the artifacts recovered from the hill and is also a must-visit, as are the other ruins of temples speckled through Athens. Finally, take a break from history by visiting the neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psirri, bustling hubs of fantastic food, shopping, and street art.

#30. Toronto

- Economic and business performance: #37 - Tourism performance: #60 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #52 - Tourism infrastructure: #32 - Health and safety: #22 - Sustainability: #26

Unlike many cities on this list, Toronto's charm lies in the fact that it's a major city—the most populous city in Canada, to be exact. It is also the most diverse city, with half of the population born outside of Canada.

Famous destinations in this capital city of Canada's province of Ontario include the CN Tower, offering several vantage points of the surrounding city. Additionally, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see for winter sport fans, as it houses the largest hockey collection in the world—including the actual Stanley Cup—and has been inducting hockey legends for nearly 80 years.

#29. Florence, Italy

- Economic and business performance: #56 - Tourism performance: #17 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #19 - Tourism infrastructure: #48 - Health and safety: #63 - Sustainability: #48

Florence shows what Italy is all about, as this Tuscan gem is the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to famous artwork and architecture, not to mention amazing food and gelato. One of the masterpieces is the Florence Cathedral or Duomo di Firenze , whose main building was completed in 1436, with some exterior parts added in the 19th century. The Duomo is a massive and constantly evolving work of art, usually noticed by its white, pink, and green marble facade; its 52 stained-glass windows; and its massive red-tiled cupola, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. Other amazing artwork can be found in the Uffizi Palace and Gallery, which hosts an impressive collection of Renaissance artwork , including pieces from Da Vinci, Caravaggio, Botticelli, Raphael, and Michaelangelo.

#28. Taipei, Taiwan

- Economic and business performance: #2 - Tourism performance: #33 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #55 - Tourism infrastructure: #28 - Health and safety: #44 - Sustainability: #83

The capital of Taiwan is known for a 1,667-foot landmark called Taipei 101 , resembling a bamboo stalk and has a high-speed elevator that takes visitors to the 89th-floor observation deck in only 37 seconds. Don't stop here; Taipei offers much more than this speedy elevator ride. Try shopping at its night markets; visiting a national park, museum, or temple; or simply sampling its street cuisine. Another exciting thing to do in Taipei is shrimp fishing , where you catch your own food from small artificial pools and then clean it and grill it.

#27. Kyoto, Japan

- Economic and business performance: #63 - Tourism performance: #44 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #5 - Tourism infrastructure: #43 - Health and safety: #7 - Sustainability: #67

If you want to experience more of the traditional side of Japan, Kyoto is your place to go. Comprising over 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, it's not unusual to see someone praying, meditating, or strolling through the many beautiful Zen gardens within these spiritual structures. Get the whole Kyoto experience by checking out the work of local artisans in the Gion district and by choosing to stay at a ryokan , a traditional Japanese inn.

#26. Frankfurt, Germany

- Economic and business performance: #20 - Tourism performance: #48 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #49 - Tourism infrastructure: #36 - Health and safety: #48 - Sustainability: #5

Known as "the gateway to Europe," Frankfurt, Germany, connects many travelers to different parts of Europe through the busiest airport in the country. Visit the old town of Römerberg during the holidays to experience its massive Christmas market . Take a trip to the restored Goethe House, where famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born. Finally, climb up the Main Tower high rise to see Frankfurt's skyline and the Main River, which have been likened to New York City's Manhattan cityscape and waterfront, from the highest observation point.

#25. Orlando, Florida

- Economic and business performance: #19 - Tourism performance: #6 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #48 - Tourism infrastructure: #39 - Health and safety: #82 - Sustainability: #37

Orlando is theme park central, with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, and Legoland—all family-friendly favorites, among many other smaller parks. But Orlando doesn't just offer the magic of Disney and Harry Potter. There is also plenty of fine dining, wonderful spas, cool museums, and relaxing parks to explore if you're just trying to enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Drive about 60 minutes east from Orlando to check out the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex if you want to pretend to be an astronaut, or travel about 40 miles west of downtown Orlando to Revolution Adventures to engage in some ATV or dune buggy racing through the muddy roads of this adventure park.

#24. Melbourne, Australia

- Economic and business performance: #49 - Tourism performance: #13 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #70 - Tourism infrastructure: #34 - Health and safety: #5 - Sustainability: #4

The city center of Melbourne, Australia, and its surrounding suburbs can offer visitors a cool, hipster-like experience, quickly noticeable just by walking down its graffitied, cobblestone streets or through its many flea markets.

Melbourne takes two things seriously: coffee and sports. Melbourne has thousands of cafes offering the best quality coffee created in many unique ways—Americans may recognize the now-popular flat white, which has Aussie origins. As for sports, Melbourne is known for cricket, Australian rules football, horse racing, and tennis, just to name a few. The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground sports stadium, "The G," is a popular destination, especially when the Australian Rules Football League season starts.

#23. Istanbul

- Economic and business performance: #13 - Tourism performance: #25 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #23 - Tourism infrastructure: #10 - Health and safety: #92 - Sustainability: #98

Istanbul saw a 26% growth in international arrivals in 2023, placing it at the top of Euromonitor's ranking. Most of Turkey's visitors came from Germany, Russia, and Ukraine in 2021—but it's also been attracting the attention of travelers from the Middle East.

For a unique Turkish retail experience, the Grand Bazaar is the place to go. It's been around since 1461, so it can be considered the world's oldest shopping center. Take a day to explore the hidden alleys of the bazaar, whose more than 4,000 small businesses offer the opportunity to haggle your way to a deal—and a unique cultural experience.

#22. Sydney

- Economic and business performance: #36 - Tourism performance: #2 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #71 - Tourism infrastructure: #42 - Health and safety: #6 - Sustainability: #17

Among Australia's largest cities, Sydney is a great place to visit for those looking to have a more laid-back vacation. The stunning Sydney Opera House is an architectural feat—and inside, you'll find myriad performances happening each week. The Sydney Harbour Bridge, nicknamed the " coat hanger ," is a structural engineering feat that you can experience up close by booking a "climb" experience, which provides the best views of the harbor.

If you're looking for day trips, the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley are the way to go. The Blue Mountains offer amazing hiking trails, and it's worth going up to the peak of these rock formations during sunset. The vineyards of Hunter Valley, located north of Sydney, are perfect for wine lovers—and you can even enjoy a glass of wine while traveling in a hot air balloon over the region.

#21. Prague

- Economic and business performance: #33 - Tourism performance: #31 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #43 - Tourism infrastructure: #21 - Health and safety: #54 - Sustainability: #23

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, saw its tourism grow by 28% in 2023 , compared to the previous year, with 5.5 million visitors arriving during the first three quarters of the year. With a bohemian appeal and fairy-tale charms, Prague attracts tourists who want to explore its trademark Prague Castle, the home of many former Czech rulers and presidents; enjoy a famous Czech beer; or explore the colorful and whimsical streets of the Old Town and the Golden Lane, where Czech-Jewish writer Franz Kafka notoriously once wrote.

#20. Lisbon, Portugal

- Economic and business performance: #61 - Tourism performance: #37 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #25 - Tourism infrastructure: #23 - Health and safety: #37 - Sustainability: #14

As tourism to Portugal surges , especially from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the United States, the colorful and architecturally stunning capital city of the southern European country has plenty to offer visitors.

Bring comfortable shoes when wandering around Lisbon, as the city is built over seven hills—and navigating its steep and winding roads is not for the faint of heart, despite the beautiful views. Using the city's tram network is a unique and fun way to get around. The most popular tram route is the E28. The 28 trams date back to the 1930s—and their slick designs are the only trams that can navigate through the narrowest Lisbon streets.

#19. Los Angeles

- Economic and business performance: #3 - Tourism performance: #11 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #66 - Tourism infrastructure: #19 - Health and safety: #80 - Sustainability: #36

The so-called "City of Angels" lures tourists with its mild weather, buzzy nightlife, laid-back vibes, and trademark Santa Monica and Venice beaches. From luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills to taking on the winding hiking trails to the famous Hollywood sign or the Griffith Observatory, everyone can find something to do in Los Angeles.

Although many tourists want to check the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame off of their lists, they can also veer off the beaten path by checking out Little Tokyo, the largest Japanese ethnic enclave in the United States, or taking a ride on "the world's shortest railway," Angel's Flight .

#18. Vienna

- Economic and business performance: #28 - Tourism performance: #36 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #41 - Tourism infrastructure: #30 - Health and safety: #41 - Sustainability: #8

Vienna gave rise to such great musical minds as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Joseph Haydn, and Franz Schubert—all of whom helped bring attention to this "city of music." The baroque streetscapes, holding various imperial palaces, are remnants of the Habsburg royal dynasty. Additionally, the city's exquisite wine culture and casual but essential coffee house culture are already enough to attract visitors. Don't forget to try a slice of Sachertorte , a chocolate-iced chocolate sponge cake with layers of apricot jam in between, which you can find at its birthplace, the Hotel Sacher.

#17. Hong Kong

- Economic and business performance: #8 - Tourism performance: #23 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #24 - Tourism infrastructure: #33 - Health and safety: #8 - Sustainability: #104

Tourism to Hong Kong is continually bolstered by its proximity to mainland China—even though relations have been particularly tense since 1997 , when Britain relinquished control over the territory. Traditionally known for its vibrant shopping centers, especially the Temple Street Night Market, Hong Kong has been focusing on showing off its natural beauty and culture when city life gets too hectic. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, numerous nature reserves, and hiking trails, and they might even get to glimpse Hong Kong's famous but increasingly rare pink dolphins.

#16. Osaka, Japan

- Economic and business performance: #46 - Tourism performance: #45 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #11 - Tourism infrastructure: #18 - Health and safety: #15 - Sustainability: #57

Tourists used to overlook Osaka, Japan, flocking instead to the better-known city of Tokyo, but that is slowly starting to change. Osaka is a vibrant, modern city filled with lights, nature, and many great cuisines. Osaka is known as "Japan's kitchen" due to its unique dishes, many Michelin-starred restaurants, and amazing street food carts. Once you've had your fill, don't miss Osaka Castle, built in the 1500s by a former feudal lord and one of the city's most important landmarks, surrounded by cherry blossom trees that burst open every spring.

#15. Dublin

- Economic and business performance: #17 - Tourism performance: #57 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #2 - Tourism infrastructure: #56 - Health and safety: #2 - Sustainability: #9

Ireland's capital is another place with beautiful, centuries-old cathedrals, castles, and museums. However, the way to get into Dublin's culture is to follow the books and booze. Channel your inner James Joyce or Oscar Wilde by exploring Dublin's numerous quaint bookstores and libraries. Check out Marsh's Library, Ireland's first public library that opened in 1707, or the Trinity College Library, the largest library in the country that contains the ancient Book of Kells . Learn more about Ireland's history by booking tours and drinks at the Guinness Storehouse Factory, the Old Jameson Distillery, and the Irish Whiskey Museum, or chat with one of the locals at one of Dublin's many unique and vintage bars.

#14. Seoul, South Korea

- Economic and business performance: #22 - Tourism performance: #34 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #21 - Tourism infrastructure: #7 - Health and safety: #42 - Sustainability: #90

Seoul, South Korea, combines aspects of South Korean culture that don't seem to mesh at first—mountain temples and shrines, ornamental palaces, a booming Korean pop and clothing scene, and futuristic neon-lit city streets. The most popular of the palaces is Changdeokgung , built in 1405 and used well into the 20th century, which is surrounded by beautiful secret gardens.

- Economic and business performance: #27 - Tourism performance: #30 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #18 - Tourism infrastructure: #17 - Health and safety: #58 - Sustainability: #53

Milan might be known as a modern metropolis and the high-end fashion capital of Italy, but the former capital of the Western Roman Empire is several thousand years old. As in Florence, one of the prettiest buildings is a cathedral—the largest Gothic complex in the world, the Duomo di Milano, which took more than 500 years to complete. However, those who want to check out the commercial life of Milan should visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , one of the oldest shopping malls in the world, built in the mid-19th century, whose architecture reflects the marble, mosaic, and glass style of Milan's other buildings.

#12. Munich

- Economic and business performance: #12 - Tourism performance: #22 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #26 - Tourism infrastructure: #38 - Health and safety: #50 - Sustainability: #10

Munich is ideal for anyone who loves exquisite palaces, historic cathedrals, and great-tasting beer. In fact, Munich's main event every year is Oktoberfest , the world's largest two-week beer festival, attracting millions of visitors between late September and early October. Another fun but unexpected activity for the landlocked capital of Bavaria is river surfing on the waves of the artificial Eisbach river , which is enjoyed by thrill-seekers year-round and attracts many spectators.

#11. Singapore

- Economic and business performance: #1 - Tourism performance: #28 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #3 - Tourism infrastructure: #35 - Health and safety: #4 - Sustainability: #99

Singapore may be the most expensive city in the world to live in. It tied with Zürich in 2023, but the "Lion City" is worth a visit for its beautiful and unusual attractions. Take, for example, its Muslim quarter—the Kampong Gelam historic district, and the Gardens by the Bay, where there's always something blooming, no matter what time of year. You can even wrap up your day at the Night Safari zoo, the first nocturnal wildlife park in the world.

#10. London

- Economic and business performance: #11 - Tourism performance: #24 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #47 - Tourism infrastructure: #1 - Health and safety: #35 - Sustainability: #45

It's hard to know how much Brexit has contributed to the decline in tourism to London since the United Kingdom officially split with the European Union in 2020, as it coincided with international travel restrictions. But as Britain's cultural, economic, and transportation hub, this capital city has seen a steady stream of European tourists since 2022—despite the added paperwork necessary for some to visit after the landmark "exit." Some of the most popular attractions include such historic sites as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the U.K. Parliament—but you can get one of the best views of London from a more contemporary attraction, the London Eye , added to the skyline in 2000.

#9. Barcelona, Spain

- Economic and business performance: #26 - Tourism performance: #40 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #13 - Tourism infrastructure: #13 - Health and safety: #23 - Sustainability: #38

The sunny capital of the Catalonia region, Barcelona is still the most popular tourist destination in Spain. There are so many activities to do in this city and places to explore that a single short trip may not be enough.

Be sure to take some time and visit all of architect Antoni Gaudí's buildings , including the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and the pavilions at Park Güell. These architectural feats are unique and show the range of Gaudí's style, as well as influence the work of more contemporary architects and designers.

#8. New York

- Economic and business performance: #7 - Tourism performance: #5 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #44 - Tourism infrastructure: #8 - Health and safety: #84 - Sustainability: #24

New York City remains the top city destination in the Western Hemisphere, attracting 56.7 million visitors in 2022 . While Manhattan may be the heart of the "Big Apple" and is known worldwide as a financial, cultural, and diverse center, the island's four surrounding boroughs each have distinct personalities and attractions. For example, Queens is known for being the most diverse county in the world, with at least 160 languages used daily. The borough of Brooklyn is connected to Manhattan by the landmark Brooklyn Bridge; it is home to the country's oldest performing arts center, the Brooklyn Academy of Music; and Coney Island , "the birthplace of the American amusement park."

- Economic and business performance: #53 - Tourism performance: #9 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #8 - Tourism infrastructure: #4 - Health and safety: #59 - Sustainability: #41

The Italian capital is Europe's fifth most visited city and the origin of the great Roman Empire. In addition to a vibrant street life and decadent cuisine, the Eternal City has been a sacred city for 3,000 years . Among the oldest of the famous Roman buildings is the Colosseum, built between A.D. 70-80; the Pantheon, construction starting in A.D.118; and the Arch of Constantine, built in A.D. 315.

- Economic and business performance: #59 - Tourism performance: #3 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #16 - Tourism infrastructure: #12 - Health and safety: #51 - Sustainability: #12

Berlin is a resilient city, as its residents work to overcome the German capital's tumultuous history from the past century. An example is the East Side Gallery , a former portion of the Berlin Wall that has now become a street art collection of murals and political drawings. Closer to the famous Brandenburg Gate lie 2,711 concrete slabs that make up the Holocaust Memorial , where visitors are encouraged to process their thoughts and emotions in their own way.

#5. Amsterdam

- Economic and business performance: #5 - Tourism performance: #8 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #12 - Tourism infrastructure: #22 - Health and safety: #43 - Sustainability: #28

The Dutch capital has become a fan-favorite due to its charming canals, colorful townhouses, and numerous bike paths. A must-visit site is the Anne Frank House . Visitors can see the annex where Frank wrote her diary and learn about life in hiding. Additionally, the Van Gogh Museum gives tourists a look into the life of 19th-century painter Vincent van Gogh, who was little-known during his actual lifetime but is now one of the most influential artists in history.

- Economic and business performance: #18 - Tourism performance: #21 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #7 - Tourism infrastructure: #3 - Health and safety: #12 - Sustainability: #59

The bright lights of always-bustling Tokyo make the capital the most popular city in Japan, and there are many reasons to keep visiting, no matter the season—from the Cherry Blossom Festival in April to the beautiful light displays in Tokyo Station, Omotesando, Roppongi Hills, and throughout the city in December. Visitors come to marvel at a concert of people moving from one street to the other at Shibuya Crossing . People watch the colorfully dressed cosplayers at Yoyogi Park or relax in the city at "onsens," or hot spring baths. Among the many popular attractions in Tokyo is Kabukiza , the main theater for the Japanese dance of kabuki, an elaborate performance with dramatic sets, outfits, and makeup.

- Economic and business performance: #21 - Tourism performance: #42 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #6 - Tourism infrastructure: #5 - Health and safety: #18 - Sustainability: #1

Madrid is a lively—though old—city with an energetic population. Walking down the street, you're likely to see buildings from the 16th century, built during the peak of the Spanish Empire or even earlier. Fans of soccer, aka football or fútbol, would enjoy a tour around Santiago Bernabéu Stadium , the home of the world-famous and prolific Real Madrid team.

If you want to escape the crowded city squares, check out the park El Retiro . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great place to relax; go for a jog; rent a bike; go for a boat ride on the park's lake in the summer; or even admire Madrid's oldest tree, which has been alive since 1633.

#2. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

- Economic and business performance: #4 - Tourism performance: #4 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #9 - Tourism infrastructure: #15 - Health and safety: #14 - Sustainability: #70

This oasis in the desert is home to some of the world's best hotels, shopping, and increasingly good dining and cultural options. These are just some factors that make Dubai the most popular destination in Africa and the Middle East. Check out Ski Dubai , the world's first indoor ski resort, open year-round in the city's warm climate.

The gold and spice souks are large bazaars offering precious jewelry and pungent flavors. Of course, the city's also home to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world , at 2,716 feet above the city.

- Economic and business performance: #24 - Tourism performance: #1 - Tourism policy and attractiveness: #1 - Tourism infrastructure: #2 - Health and safety: #47 - Sustainability: #33

Even travelers who have never been to the City of Lights have heard about its many landmarks and attractions, such as the unmistakable Eiffel Tower, the beautiful and gigantic Musée du Louvre—the most-visited museum in the world , the Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which was devastated by fire in 2019 and lost its wooden roof and spire. People worldwide raised money in support, and this famous landmark is closed for renovations until its estimated reopening date in December 2024. Though the reconstruction timeline won't line up with the expected deluge of visitors coming for the 2024 Summer Olympics, visitors may just leave this romantic city with a desire to return.

Story editing by Carren Jao. Copy editing by Lois Hince. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.

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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.”

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

Brilliant Maps

Making Sense Of The World, One Map At A Time

Top 100 International Tourist Destination Cities By Country

Which city is the most popular international tourist destination? Surprisingly, it’s not Paris, London or New York.

According to 2012 data from Euromonitor International , the number one tourist destination in the world was Hong Kong with 23.7 million visitors.

Singapore and Bangkok were ranked numbers 2 and 3 respectively, showing just how much Asian tourism has grown in recent years. London, at number 4, was the top ranked non-Asian city with 15.5 million international visitors and New York City, at number 8, was the most visited city in the Americas with 11.6 million tourists.

When looking at countries as a whole, the map at the top of the page is revealing. At first glance it shows just how few African countries made the list. Another interesting finding is that while London is the 4th most visited city, it’s the only UK city to make the list. Moreover, while many European countries have top 100 cities (Switzerland being a notable exception) none has more than Italy’s 4.

But that’s nothing compared to the big 3 who dominate the list:

• India has 6 cities on the list: Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Kolkata.
• The United States has 8: New York City, Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Francisco, Honolulu, Washington D.C.
• And, China has whopping 9 cities: Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Zhuhai, Suzhou, Guilin, Nanjing.

Plus, this doesn’t include Hong Kong (#1) and Macau (#5), which ae both Special Administrative Regions of the People’s Republic of China .

Below are the complete rankings. Please note if you click on a city you’ll be taken to HotelsCombined where you can compare the cost of local hotels:

The data all comes from this Euromonitor International report . I’d strongly encourage you to read it if you’re curious about their methodology and other interesting findings.

If you’d like to learn about the growth of international tourism, have a look at the following books:

• Overbooked: The Exploding Business of Travel and Tourism
• Rick Steves Travel as a Political Act
• 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, the second edition: Completely Revised and Updated with Over 200 New Entries

Did your favourite city not make the list? Let us know in the comments below:

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Sporxx says

March 10, 2015 at 2:09 pm

How about Jerusalem?

March 11, 2015 at 3:20 am

The results are biased. HK does get a massive flow of tourist but this can be explained by the fact that HK airport is a massive hub (works the same for Singapore airport). It’s not a touristic destination in itself, providing the tourist facilities out of HK international airport (very few) and the time people actually spend in hk. It’s more a stop over than a touristic destination. Then, you have the flow of Chinese tourists that cross the border on week ends to go shopping in HK. sqame situation, they benefit to the economy but can they actually be counted as part of the touristic industry ?

So yes, in term of people you can rank it that way but the figures do not say what kind of flows arrive to HK.

Warren Lauzon says

January 20, 2018 at 8:41 pm

No, it is not based on inbound flights. It is based on the fact that thousands of mainlanders walk across the border every day to buy non-contaminated baby formula.

turnipcake says

March 15, 2015 at 8:43 pm

As Sa said concerning Hong Kong, this list measures arrivals of tourists, I assume, at the cities’ international airports (see report). This does not show how long tourists stay in these cities, if at all. Many of the cities are close to interesting historic and scenic areas.

July 4, 2015 at 1:32 pm

Hong Kong first ? Is it a joke ? There’s nithing to see there ! Nothing, comparing to Paris, London, NYC or Beijing…

January 20, 2018 at 8:40 pm

It counts mainland tourists, who can walk across the border. But as far as “nothing to see” – have you ever actually been there?

January 20, 2018 at 9:18 pm

Yes, I’ve been there several times. Besides shopping and a few sites, what can you see there. Paris, for example, is much much more worth it.

January 21, 2018 at 8:34 pm

Funny.. I had the same impression of Paris. Once you see the Eiffel tower and a few other sites, there is not much “there” there except for overpriced restaurants and snooty bakeries 😀

Manamana says

July 26, 2015 at 11:12 am

In Poland Krakow gets much more turists than Warsaw

Rental Italy says

October 12, 2016 at 12:43 pm

Rome on 12th place, lower than Shenzhen and Macau… Wuite surprising results.

emmettbrady says

December 26, 2016 at 12:47 am

that list seems like a load of nonsense

Raj Kishor Kannoujea says

January 6, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Nice job! but need to more.

Helmut Kremers says

March 10, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Munich had 14.1 million visitors last year – and that wasn’t even the best, so how come it isn’t on the list?!

Rahul gupta says

April 24, 2017 at 7:05 am

india brautiful country with lots of diversity and more than 22+ official language having wonders of the world filled with colors and more than 2000+ local language and world second largest English speaking nation having desert ,hills,mountain,snow fall ,largest green forest,.i think it is a pack of whole European + africa. it has lots of beautiful beaches in then having world almost every religion ,here you get temple,mosque ,churchs,and many more

SIDDHANT GARG says

May 5, 2017 at 5:09 pm

apart from India more places should you visit

Bhupinder Singh says

September 12, 2019 at 5:09 pm

If India is such a wonderful place, why does everyone want to leave?

Rental24H says

January 12, 2018 at 4:55 pm

woooww! very nice photos~! good luck

Kanika Bakshi says

January 2, 2019 at 5:02 am

India is a beautiful country with lots and different culture. you will be able to learn more about its culture, traditions and languages with different food recipes.

Jonathan Ridgway says

April 14, 2019 at 12:18 am

This is list is sooo inaccurate. Business insider has a more correct list.

Kaushal Soni says

September 29, 2019 at 4:17 pm

Loved it, Insightful List!

Patricia Kavanagh says

December 22, 2019 at 9:39 am

Echo sentiments above. HK is a transport hub. Much more complex than first seems. India already has large population so will skew figures for there.

Chiku Cab says

January 28, 2020 at 11:17 am

Hey, nice post and very informative, Thanks for sharing this information.

April 4, 2020 at 8:42 am

Here is an interesting fact about the list. Turkish city Edirne has only 200K population and not so much touristic to get in this list on 62th place in the world and 4th in Turkey. Why is it here? Because Edirne covers the western border of Turkey between Bulgaria and Greece and so the EU. It is not just touristic numbers, it is also industrial transportation and transit passages all over to Turkey. This list is not accurate.

Aman Kumar says

September 26, 2020 at 7:06 am

now its very old

Kirti Pathak says

January 5, 2021 at 3:43 pm

You have list top 100 list but I think you can add some more to it.

Big Cab varanasi says

September 10, 2022 at 8:50 pm

Very informative post… Thanks for sharing

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Passing Thru Travel

10 Top Destinations in the World According to Tripadvisor

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

In a world brimming with breathtaking destinations, certain locales rise above the rest, capturing the imaginations and hearts of travelers. From the architectural wonders of ancient cities to the serene beauty of tropical paradises, these top destinations, according to TripAdvisor, offer enriching and transformative experiences. This guide explores the essence of each location, providing a window into the unique cultures, landscapes, and histories that make them must-visit spots on any traveler’s list.

1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rasto SK

Dubai’s skyline, showcasing architectural ambition, is just the beginning of what this cosmopolitan city offers. As a global hub of innovation and luxury, Dubai presents an array of experiences, from the adrenaline rush of skydiving over Palm Jumeirah to the tranquility of desert safaris in the vast Arabian Desert. The city’s shopping venues, from the sprawling Dubai Mall to traditional gold souks, offer a retail experience unparalleled anywhere in the world. Cultural explorers can uncover the heritage of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood or take an abra ride on Dubai Creek. The city’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population, offering flavors from around the globe. Dubai seamlessly blends the marvels of the modern world with the traditions of the Middle East, making it a compelling destination for all.

2. Bali, Indonesia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / DavideAngelini

The island of Bali, with its lush landscapes and spiritual essence, offers a serene getaway. Here, the majestic Mount Agung presides over terraced rice paddies that paint the countryside in shades of green. The island’s spiritual heart is evident in its temples, such as the serene Uluwatu Temple perched on a cliff edge and the tranquil Besakih Temple against the mountain backdrop. Bali’s beaches, from the surf-friendly shores of Kuta to the peaceful sands of Sanur, cater to every type of beachgoer. The island’s commitment to wellness is seen in its numerous yoga retreats and spa sanctuaries, offering a holistic approach to vacationing. Bali’s rich culture is showcased in its traditional dance performances, art galleries, and handicraft markets, making it a destination that nourishes the soul.

3. London, United Kingdom

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Marek Masik

London is a city where history is interwoven with contemporary life. The British capital boasts landmarks that span centuries, from the medieval Tower of London to the avant-garde Shard. The city’s parks, like the expansive Hyde Park and regal Kensington Gardens, offer green respite in the heart of the urban expanse. London’s museums, including the British Museum and the Tate Modern, serve as global culture and art custodians. The culinary scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods, offering everything from traditional British pub fare to Michelin-starred dining experiences. London’s theatre district lights up the West End with shows and musicals, continuing the city’s long-standing tradition of theatrical excellence. A visit to London is a journey through time, where the past is always present, and the future is being shaped every day.

4. Hanoi, Vietnam

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Amachau

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where tradition and progress coexist. The city’s heart beats in the Old Quarter, where centuries-old architecture houses a bustling commercial life that has thrived for generations. Hanoi’s lakes, including the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, provide peaceful oases amidst the urban hustle. The city is a canvas for Vietnamese culture, from the ancient Temple of Literature to the vibrant Dong Xuan Market. Hanoi’s culinary scene is a highlight, offering street food that has garnered international acclaim, such as pho and banh mi. The city’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity makes Hanoi a fascinating destination that offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich history and vibrant present.

5. Rome, Italy

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Vlas Telino studio

Every street and square in Rome narrates stories of antiquity and artistic grandeur. The Eternal City, home to pivotal sites like the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Pantheon, offers a journey through the chapters of human history. Rome’s open-air museums, such as the Roman Forum and the ruins of Palatine Hill, stand as testaments to the Roman Empire’s legacy. The city’s art extends beyond museum walls, with Renaissance frescoes and Baroque fountains adorning public spaces. Rome’s culinary offerings, from traditional trattorias to contemporary dining, reflect its ability to honor its past while looking to the future. A visit to Rome is an immersion in Western civilization, where the layers of history are revealed at every turn.

6. Paris, France

Image Credit: Shutterstock / frantic00

Often hailed as the epitome of beauty and culture, Paris stands as a beacon for art, fashion, and gastronomy enthusiasts worldwide. The city’s streets are an open-air museum lined with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, which offers an unforgettable view of the cityscape, especially at night when it sparkles under the stars. The Louvre, home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa, beckons art lovers, while the Seine River that bisects the city provides a romantic backdrop for evening strolls or boat cruises. Paris’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is exquisite, ranging from traditional bistros serving French classics to high-end restaurants boasting multiple Michelin stars. Like the Luxembourg Gardens, the city’s gardens offer tranquil escapes with meticulously manicured lawns and stunning floral displays. Paris is a world unto itself, inviting exploration and promising enchantment at every turn.

7. Cancun, Mexico

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Lev Levin

Cancun is a vibrant nexus of culture and natural beauty, offering sun-soaked beaches alongside a treasure trove of Mayan history. The city’s Hotel Zone is a pristine white sand flanked by the Caribbean Sea, where visitors can indulge in water sports or simply bask in the sun. Beyond the beach, the underwater museum, MUSA, provides an innovative approach to coral reef conservation, allowing divers and snorkelers to explore over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged beneath the waves. Cancun is also the gateway to the Riviera Maya, where ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza and Tulum await, offering a glimpse into the past of this fascinating civilization. The city’s nightlife is legendary, with many clubs and bars offering entertainment until dawn. Cancun seamlessly blends the magic of its natural wonders with the mystique of its ancient heritage, making it an irresistible destination for travelers.

8. Marrakech, Morocco

Image Credit: Shutterstock / cdrin

Marrakech, the red city, is a sensory overload, famed for its vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with colorful bazaars selling everything from spices to intricately woven carpets. The Koutoubia Mosque, with its towering minaret, serves as a landmark for navigating the city, while the Majorelle Garden offers a tranquil oasis of exotic plants and vibrant blue accents. Marrakech’s palaces, such as El Badi and Bahia, showcase the opulence of its past rulers with intricate tile work and lush gardens. The city’s riads, traditional Moroccan houses with interior courtyards, provide unique accommodations that transport visitors to a bygone era. Marrakech is a city that engages all the senses, offering a tapestry of experiences that blend the ancient with the contemporary.

9. Crete, Greece

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Georgios Tsichlis

With its diverse landscapes and rich history, Crete offers a comprehensive glimpse into the essence of Greek culture and natural beauty. The island’s rugged mountains give way to pristine beaches, such as Elafonissi’s pink sand and Balos Lagoon, where turquoise waters meet white sands. The archaeological site of Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, provides insight into the sophisticated Minoan civilization. Crete’s culinary tradition, rooted in the Mediterranean diet, emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and is best experienced in the island’s tavernas, where traditional dishes like moussaka and dakos are served. The Samaria Gorge, a World Biosphere Reserve, offers challenging hikes through one of Europe’s longest canyons, leading to the remote and beautiful Agia Roumeli. Crete is a destination encapsulating Greece’s beauty, history, and culinary richness.

10. Hoi An, Vietnam

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jason_yu

Hoi An is a city that time forgot, preserving its charm and history in the face of modernization. The Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautifully preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and street plan reflect the indigenous and foreign influences that have combined to produce this unique heritage site. Lantern-lit streets at night add to the town’s enchantment, creating a magical atmosphere. Hoi An’s tailors are renowned for their craftsmanship, offering custom-made clothing at affordable prices. The city’s cuisine is a highlight, with dishes like Cao Lau and Banh Mi Hoi An offering flavors that are as complex as they are delicious. Just outside the city, the tranquil Cua Dai Beach offers a respite from the hustle and bustle, with golden sands and clear waters. Hoi An is a testament to the enduring appeal of cultural preservation and the simple beauty of daily life.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / fokke baarssen

According to TripAdvisor, each of these top destinations offers a unique window into the world’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and histories. From the architectural wonders of Dubai and the serene beauty of Bali to the ancient streets of Rome and the vibrant markets of Marrakech, these places provide unforgettable experiences that enrich the soul and broaden the mind. As you plan your travels, remember that the true essence of each destination lies not just in its sights but in its stories, people, and the moments of connection that await. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations promise to deliver experiences that will last a lifetime. Welcome to the world’s top destinations, where every journey is an opportunity to discover something new about the world and yourself.

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The most popular cities in the world with best value for a one-night break

According to a new study, the cheapest of the world’s top ten most visited cities is Berlin, with a one-night city break costing $266 per person.

Student travel company Rustic Pathways investigated which of the world’s top ten most visited cities are the best value for a one-night stay per person. They did this by examining the median cost of a room in a mid-range hotel, the average price of breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a budget restaurant, the average spend on alcoholic beverages, the average spend on local transport, and the average spend on tips and handouts. A total cost was then calculated, and each city was ranked from the cheapest to the most expensive.

1. Berlin – total cost: $266

The capital of Germany has been named as having the best value for a one-night break out of the world’s most popular cities, with a one-night break costing a total of  $266  per person . 

The median cost for one night in a mid-range double-occupancy room is  $138 , which is the cheapest price compared to the other cities. The cost of meals at a budget restaurant is  $56,  which is the most expensive on the list. Average local transport costs for a day in Berlin will cost you  $19 .

2. Madrid – total cost: $298

The Spanish capital is the second most affordable popular city, with a one-night trip costing a total of  $298  per person . 

The median cost for one night in a mid-range double-occupancy room is  $167,  which is the third-cheapest price in the ranking. The cost of breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a budget restaurant is  $37 , and the average cost of local transport for a day is  $20 .

3. Tokyo – total cost: $338

The capital of Japan is the third most affordable of the world’s most visited cities, with the cost of a one-night stay per person totalling  $338.

The median cost for a double-occupancy room in a mid-range hotel is  $155,  the second most affordable price on this list. The cost of breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a budget restaurant is  $38 . Local transport for a day will cost an average of  $18,  the second cheapest price compared to the other cities.

4. Barcelona – total cost: $340

The popular Spanish city has been named the fourth-best value city, with a one-night break costing a total of  $340  per person . 

The median cost for one night in a mid-range double-occupancy room is  $208 . The cost of a day’s meals at a budget restaurant is  $35 . Average local transport costs for a day in Barcelona will cost you  $21 .

5. Amsterdam – total cost: $374

The Netherlands’ capital concludes the top five of the most affordable popular cities, with a one-night trip costing a total of  $374  per person . 

The median cost for one night in a mid-range double-occupancy room is  $221 . The cost of breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a budget restaurant is  $47 , and the average cost of local transport for a day is  $21 .

6. Rome – total cost: $383

The capital of Italy is the sixth cheapest most visited city, with a one-night trip costing a total of  $383  per person .  The city has the third most expensive food, with three meals from a budget restaurant costing $51.

7. London – total cost: $461

London, the capital of the UK, is the seventh cheapest city,  with the cost of a one-night stay totalling  $461  per person .  London has the third cheapest alcohol, with a person spending an average of $27 on alcohol during a one-night trip.

8. Dubai – total cost: $465

The eighth most affordable popular city is Dubai, with a one-night break costing a total of  $465  per person .  The UAE city has the second most expensive mid-range double occupancy rooms, with a one-night stay costing $340 on average.

9. Paris – total cost: $557

The French capital takes the penultimate place in the ranking, with a one-night stay costing a total of  $557  per person .  Paris has the second most expensive entertainment, with an average person spending $84 per day.

10. New York – total cost: $687

NYC rounds out the top ten, with a one-night break costing a total of  $687  per person .  The Big Apple has the most expensive mid-range double occupancy rooms, with a one-night stay costing $350, and the most expensive entertainment, with an average daily spend per person of $180.

Shayne Fitz-Coy, CEO of Rustic Pathways, commented on the findings:  “With the cost of living having risen dramatically over recent years for many countries, many will still want a holiday abroad, but will be looking to spend less than they usually would. A short-haul city break is a great option for potential holidaymakers who want to visit new places but spend a bit less.

“This study provides a clear insight into the cities that people want to visit, with Europe dominating, and which of these cities are not going to break the bank.

“If someone is looking for a break with plenty of sightseeing, then Dubai is a good option for them, with many of the country’s most popular tourist hotspots being free to the public, such as The Dubai Fountain and Marina Beach. Or if a tourist doesn’t want to overspend on food, then Barcelona is a great option, with the average visitor spending only $35 on food across a one-night break.”

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Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.

Top Travel Destinations for Retirees

Entering retirement is like beginning a fun new chapter of your life.

It means you finally have the chance to do the things you enjoy, explore new spots, and maybe even pick the ideal place that shows who you really are.

Perhaps you are even thinking about moving to a new city.

Close your eyes and picture a place that checks all your boxes—stunning views, maybe a rich art scene, or simply a peaceful moment alone.

If you haven't quite captured your dream location, read on to find out some of the top travel destinations for retirees.

Around the World

Tuscany, italy.

One of the first things retirees visiting Tuscany will notice is the landscape, with vineyards and villages dotting the hillside. There is also a calm, reliable climate with mild winters and warm summers.

The region's past sprouts out in every painting, building, and iconic historical landmark. Cities like Florence and Pisa are packed with stories. Everywhere you look, you can see the region's history come to life.

Having meals here involves savoring dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients and is among the most wholesome diets available anywhere in the world.

Feel like sightseeing? Try the Tower of Pisa , one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country, if not the world. Also, head to the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its massive dome dominating the Florence skyline.

Provence, France

Imagine sitting by the sea during a sunset, exploring hidden coves, or enjoying a picnic amidst lavender fields .

Provence is celebrated for its pace of life and living standards. This place is great for retirees who enjoy walking on stone streets, sitting at cafes, and loving the simple things in life. The nice weather here means you can hike and have fun outside any time of the year.

If you like to see historical iconic places, you have to check out the nearby Pont du Gard. The site is an ancient aqueduct built by the Romans , crossing the Gardon River. The antiquity site demonstrates the ingenious nature of ancient Romans.

The Palais des Papes, set in the old city of Avignon, stands out as one most notable Gothic buildings from medieval times. Back in the 14th century, it was also the spot where Popes lived.

Today, this grand palace is a museum, offering a glimpse into its fascinating past and design.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan is famous all over the world for its deep cultural past, full of temples and shrines in pristine condition.

Retirees have the chance to dive into the city's amazing culture and check out places like the Golden Pavilion and the old Gion area. Both offer a peaceful environment and lasting charm, making them great for relaxed visits and contemplative moments.

The city has clean streets, good public buses and trains, and lots of green areas, making it a nice and easy place for retirees to spend time.

Kyoto might be a lively city but is also surrounded by sublime scenes of nature. People can find peace away from the city noise by going to places like Mount Hiei and Mount Atago.

It is also a dream spot for those who love food, with so many traditional Japanese dishes to try. Visitors can enjoy authentic tastes at neighborhood food places, including fancy kaiseki dishes or big, satisfying bowls of ramen.

Queenstown, New Zealand

This town lies among the unforgettable views of the Southern Alps, right by the clear waters of Lake Wakatipu. Unbeatable views of mountains are just around the corner, such as Cecil Peak and Ben Lomond.

The town is lively, with events throughout the year. Some of these include the Queenstown Winter Festival and a collection of other wine and food festivals, so you know you can find a nice variety of things to do.

The town is also very accessible for people of all ages. The Queenstown Trail, in particular, stands out for this. It has more than 80 miles of paths for biking and walking, with paths linking different areas of the town together.

Feel like a nice glass of wine? The area around the town is legendary for its Pinot Noir. While having a sip of wine, your eyes get to feast on the mountains and lakes spread out before you.

Cork, Ireland

In the warm, affable streets of Cork, visitors of all ages will find the town's friendly reputation is no lie.

The town's English Market has kept its personality of the centuries and has been buzzing with activity since 1788.

It is a gem for any retiree, offering a chance to wander amongst stalls piled high with local goodies, from fresh veggies to hand-crafted cheeses. There is always something going on here, and it pulses with life and local chit-chat.

Culture is also in the air when you come to Cork. For an unforgettable evening, visit the Cork Opera House, a top spot for amazing shows like opera and dance.

In Cork, you are spoilt for choice with the number of clubs and groups to join. Whether you like strolling in nature, or arts and crafts, there is something for everyone. It is a great way to make friends while traveling.

Right in the USA

Sedona, arizona.

Sedona is a visual treat, full of breathtaking red rocks and views.

It is like a cozy small town where it seems everyone knows your name. It feels calm and not too fast, which is great for people who are retired.

Sedona is popular for these spots called vortex sites. People say they are full of this special energy for healing. Some use them to chill out with deep thoughts or even discover more about themselves.

Retirees who want to head outdoors can explore the Oak Creek Canyon gorge, while cinephiles can head to the Sedona International Film Festival.

If you want to keep active, the town is flush with walking and hiking trails. Popular trails include Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock Pathway, and Devil’s Bridge Trail.

Sarasota, Florida

Picture this: miles of soft white sand that merge with a vast stretch of blue as far as the eye can see. That is Sarasota for you, hugging the Gulf of Mexico 's shores. It is no wonder people can't stay away.

The town has comfortable, warm weather all year, with not a lot of cold to worry about. It is ideal for folks who want to spend their days having fun outside any time they want.

People have plenty to do here as well, such as walking around the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. This beautiful place gives retirees a calm space to see orchids and bromeliads, a butterfly garden, and views of the bay. So, a perfect place for relaxing strolls and taking photos.

The town is also a hotspot for culture, packed with artsy spots like the Sarasota Opera, the graceful Sarasota Ballet, and The Ringling, it is not just a circus but also an amazing art museum.

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

Thinking about retiring to a place where the beach is your backyard? Emerald Isle might just be the spot for you.

Here it feels like the sun is always out, shining down on miles of sandy shores waiting for you to stroll by. Now, picture yourself walking along the beach with not a worry in sight.

Plus, the town is recognized for being safe and having a low crime rate, which makes it a prime pick.

For any fisherman fancy casting a line, Bogue Inlet Pier is your go-to spot. It is a nice spot for reeling in all sorts of fish or just sitting and enjoying the Atlantic Ocean laid out in front of you.

There is also the Emerald Isle Woods Park, a 41-acre park that offers a walking trail and a platform overlooking the Bogue Sound, ideal for bird watching and enjoying nature.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is like no other place in the 50 states. When visitors come to Maui, they find sunshine in every season. It can feel like summer never ends.

Year-round warmth means any day's good for retirees looking to stay active. The great weather means you can play golf any time of the year on top-notch courses like Kapalua and Wailea.

The island also has great places for easy water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking at Wailea Beach or in the peaceful waters of Napili Bay.

Maui's laid-back vibe and stunning nature make it perfect for people looking for something peaceful. Spots like the Road to Hana give you amazing views and a calm place away from crowded places.

The higher lands of Kula and Makawao have cooler air and let you see the island from a wide viewpoint.

San Diego, California

San Diego' s always buzzing with stuff to check out. Its gentle winds and pleasant weather make every moment a comfortable one. There is never a dull season for dropping by.

They have the San Diego Symphony playing at that Rady Shell over at Jacobs Park. There are also shows to see over at the Old Globe Theatre.

You cannot forget about fun spots like the San Diego Zoo, the big and beautiful Balboa Park, or the USS Midway Museum.

Plus, if you just want a chill day by the sea? Try places like Coronado Beach or La Jolla Shores, which are pure relaxation.

San Diego can be great for anybody who wants to take it easy. From golfing on world-class courses to whale-watching tours, there is plenty to do without any strenuous activity.

In Conclusion

While for a lot of people, retirement is a big change to get used to, it opens a world of possibilities, from the historical richness of Tuscany and Provence to the cultural depths of Kyoto and the serene landscapes of Queenstown.

The world is full of these sorts of destinations, ready for the finding—the kind where each day is its own little exciting story to tell during your retirement years.

So sit down, close your eyes, and imagine the place that feels right for you because the journey of a lifetime awaits.

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26 top things to do in california.

There's something for everyone in the Golden State.

Top Things to Do in California

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California is full of beautiful destinations and fun attractions to experience.

California's attractions are so diverse that travelers of all types will have no problem finding things to thrill them. Beaches , lakes , forests, mountains and deserts all sit side by side within the state's borders. Amid its natural wonders, California is also home to several wine regions, luxury hotels and, of course, star-studded Hollywood. With all this and so much more, it may be challenging to figure out how to fit all the state's most important must-sees in one or more trips.

Let this guide assist you in your California vacation planning, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro. From the north to the south and everything in between, these are the top things to do in California.

17-Mile Drive

California's 17-Mile Drive is a spellbinding and awe-inspiring route that weaves along the most scenic stretch of the Monterey Bay coastline. This must-visit road, winding through the exclusive community of Pebble Beach, takes drivers up into the Del Monte Forest, past palatial mansions and down along picture-perfect craggy beaches and bluffs. Take time to stop at the various lookout points marked along the way, including the famous Lone Cypress.

If you're interested in bedding down in Pebble Beach, consider splurging on a room, or at least stopping for a meal, to behold the stunning scenery that surrounds the properties at Pebble Beach Resorts, including The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay . If you are not staying overnight or dining here, expect to pay a vehicle fee to access 17-Mile Drive. Also note that motorcycles are not allowed.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

This small community in Monterey County is one of the most unique and charming towns in California. Its enchanting coastal location, wooded streets, fairytale-like architecture, and bevy of local shops and restaurants make Carmel-by-the-Sea well worth the detour from the iconic state Route 1. Even if you only have a half-day in Carmel, browse the art galleries, take a walk on the beach and enjoy a meal in one of the quaint restaurants.

Be sure to visit a few of Carmel's beaches, starting with the namesake Carmel Beach, which is located at the end of Ocean Avenue, the town's main drag; pet owners will be pleased to know it's a dog-friendly beach . Carmel River State Beach, which is lesser known and typically not as highly trafficked, connects to the even more secluded Monastery Beach via the Carmel Meadows Trail. As for where to stay, consider treating yourself to one of the town's luxurious accommodations, including traveler-approved L'Auberge Carmel or La Playa Carmel .

[Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles .]

Visit the theme parks

Courtesy of Universal Studios

You are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to theme parks in California. The impressive amount of options will please every type of traveler. Kids will naturally be dazzled by Anaheim's world-famous Disneyland Resort . However, if you're not up for paying Disneyland's notoriously high ticket fees, consider exciting alternatives such as Legoland California . There are Six Flags amusement and water parks near both Los Angeles and San Francisco – perfect for thrill-seekers – and Universal Studios Hollywood is home to the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the new Super Nintendo World.

Due to the popularity of these parks, you'll have no problem finding nearby accommodations. Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a top choice among travelers, as is The Garland for those visiting Universal Studios Hollywood. Legoland has two kid-friendly hotels to choose from, though travelers can also opt for a stay at the well-received Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa , which is located right on the beach and only a short drive to Legoland.

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Yosemite National Park

If you only have time to visit one outdoor destination during your California trip, make it Yosemite . With the national park welcoming more than 3 million visitors per year, Yosemite Valley has been known to stir awe for centuries with its grand granite peaks, magnificent waterfalls and lush evergreen landscapes. There is so much to do in this nearly 750,000-acre park that you'll need several days to take it all in. If you're unsure where to start at this California bucket list destination, know that Glacier Point, Half Dome, Tunnel View and the Mist Trail are considered iconic, can't-miss Yosemite attractions , according to recent travelers.

There are three hotels within Yosemite, including the luxury Ahwahnee hotel. You'll also find cabins, canvas-sided tents, campgrounds and RV campsites spread around the park, as well as several dining options. Be warned that the park does get very crowded during the summer months, so visiting in the offseason is a great idea – especially with Yosemite's picturesque snow-capped peaks. Check for road closures during winter months; tire chains may be required.

Explore the desert

To properly appreciate California's diverse geological landscape, you'll need to venture beyond the coast and explore the desert. Luckily, two magnificent desert landscapes can be found less than three hours from Los Angeles and San Diego. Joshua Tree National Park , located about 130 miles east of Los Angeles, is an approximately 800,000-acre oasis dotted with the unique Joshua tree, which can only be found in the American Southwest. Meanwhile, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located about 85 miles northeast of San Diego, is California's largest state park and features striking scenery ranging from slot canyons to palm oases.

Both of these parks offer memorable hiking trails and camping options. You'll want to plan a multiday trip to explore either of these vast parks. Traveler favorites in Joshua Tree include the 3-mile out-and-back Ryan Mountain trail and the 1.7-mile Skull Rock loop trail. In Anza-Borrego, visitors enjoyed the 2.6-mile out-and-back Pictograph Trail and the more moderate 2.3-mile Slot loop trail. Due to the desert's extreme summer heat (think: daytime temperatures in the 90s or even 100-plus degrees), it's best to visit during the spring and fall.

See more of Joshua Tree National Park: Things to Do | Photos

Laguna Beach

If you're interested in experiencing small-town Southern California, Laguna Beach is the perfect place to start. Conveniently situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach is located along the coast just off state Route 1. Laguna Beach's picturesque setting is characterized by pristine oceanfront parks and a collection of beautiful beaches wedged between its coastal bluffs. Be sure to visit unique cove beaches, such as Victoria Beach and Crescent Bay Beach, as well as larger shorelines, including traveler-favorite Crystal Cove State Park, which receives praise for its beautiful setting between Laguna Beach and Corona del Mar.

Laguna Beach is also home to a bevy of luxurious accommodations , including The Ranch at Laguna Beach and the traveler-approved five-star Montage at Laguna Beach . Once an artists' colony, Laguna Beach is known for its summer art festivals and numerous art galleries. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy too, such as mountain biking, skimboarding and hiking. Parking can be hard to find in the summer months and on holiday weekends, but there is a free open-air trolley service that runs along the area's stretch of coastline.

See more of Laguna Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Located a little more than 30 miles west of Los Angeles, Malibu is often seen as a coastal refuge for the rich and famous. While that impression is certainly true, Malibu is worth a visit for its superb beaches and the exceptional parks a stone's throw away.

Drive up state Highway 1 and make a pit stop at popular shorelines, including Robert H. Memorial State Beach, Zuma Beach and Point Dume State Beach. Nature lovers should also take time to hike some of the many trails at Point Mugu State Park, Topanga State Park or the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. For hikes with spectacular ocean views, hit up the 3-mile Solstice Canyon Loop trail or the challenging 2.7-mile Mugu Peak loop trail. Check for trail closures before heading out.

Due to Malibu's small size and affluence, you won't find many hotels that offer affordable rates, so you might want to bed down in nearby Los Angeles. If you are intent on staying in Malibu, you'll find comfort and luxury at the Malibu Beach Inn , The Surfrider Malibu and Hotel June Malibu. Stop by Malibu Country Mart for high-end shopping and farm-to-table dining, or check out Trancas Country Market for snacks at Vintage Grocers or lunch at Malibu Brewing Company.

Read: The Top Los Angeles Beaches

San Francisco

A visit to California is not complete without a stop in San Francisco . There are several ways the city is a standout, not only in the state but in the entire country. Its scenic bayfront setting, towering hills and the plethora of colorful Victorian homes that line them are a feast for the eyes. On top of all of that, the city is home to world-famous attractions and is widely considered to be one of the best foodie cities in the U.S.

While here, check out all the visitor-favorite sights , including the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown. You can also take advantage of the outdoor spaces that make up the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, such as Land's End, Muir Woods National Monument and more. As for where to stay, you have endless hotel options in San Francisco , including Ritz-Carlton , Four Seasons and St. Regis outposts.

See more of San Francisco: Tours | Photos

Alcatraz Island

While in the San Francisco Bay Area, take a tour of the infamous Alcatraz Island , an island that has housed a fort, military prison and penitentiary. Self-guided audio tours are included with your ferry ticket to Alcatraz: Listen to the stories of past inmates as you walk through what was once a maximum-security prison. On the island, you'll also find an exhibition about the 1969 Native American occupation of Alcatraz that took place for 19 months to advocate for Indigenous civil rights.

Alcatraz features amazing views of the San Francisco skyline, historic gardens and a sanctuary for nesting waterbirds. The ferry ride aboard Alcatraz City Cruises takes about 15 minutes. Advance reservations are recommended.

The state's second-largest city is a great alternative for those who want a big city experience without the intense traffic and smog of neighboring Los Angeles. San Diego is a premier vacation destination thanks to its diverse array of attractions . Here, you have your pick of fantastic beaches , including Pacific Beach and La Jolla Shores.

Other top things to explore include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, museum-heavy Balboa Park, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and traveler-favorite USS Midway Museum, located in a retired aircraft carrier. You'll find plenty of hotels near various points of interest in San Diego, including by the beach, the bay and downtown. For a real treat, consider a stay at the elegant Fairmont Grand Del Mar or the historic Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton .

See more of San Diego: Tours | Photos

Death Valley National Park

This national park is one for the books, breaking records as both one of the hottest places on Earth and the driest land in North America. A visit to Death Valley is not easy; the closest major airport sits nearly two hours away in Las Vegas . Should you decide to make the trek, you'll be rewarded with memorable desert landscapes, including walkable sand dunes and Artists Drive, a 9-mile paved road past colorful hills. There's also the Racetrack, which is home to the famous moving rocks. If you'd like to stay within the park, know that there are a variety of campgrounds and lodging options, including The Oasis at Death Valley.

This laid-back remote region located along the central coast of California should be on everybody's bucket list. The beauty of Big Sur is so palpable and restorative that it's become a popular spot for a wellness retreat. You can achieve this with a stay at the famous Esalen Institute, a holistic educational and wellness center, or at the luxurious Alila Ventana Big Sur , where you can book spa treatments and wellness activities. Travelers can also practice mindfulness while taking in all of Big Sur's stunning natural sights .

First-time visitors should stop and admire Bixby Bridge, hike along the coast at Andrew Molera State Park and visit McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. You can also check out the inspiring Hawthorne Gallery or browse the Henry Miller Memorial Library before capping off the day by sitting in an Adirondack chair in the river at the Big Sur River Inn or catching a sunset at Pfeiffer Beach, home to the famous Keyhole Arch. Don't miss out on the delectable pastries at Big Sur Bakery. For lunch with a view and artisan souvenirs, Nepenthe is a must.

If Ventana Big Sur is out of your price range for accommodations , consider a stay at the more affordable Glen Oaks Big Sur or the Big Sur Lodge, both of which earn high praise from travelers for their serene woodland settings. Or, pitch a tent at Ventana Campground.

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Los Angeles

The City of Angels is a go-to place that deserves a spot on every California itinerary. Aside from being home to Hollywood, Los Angeles also offers an incomparable dining scene; some of California's most famous beaches, including Venice and Santa Monica; world-class art institutions, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the state-of-the-art Getty Center; self-guided hiking options galore; and a variety of other attractions .

There is so much to do that you'd need more than a week to see it all. An easy way to take in the sights is through bus tours: Some tours allow you to skip the line for popular attractions. LA is also filled to the brim with exceptional hotels . Give yourself the celebrity treatment and splurge on a stay at highly rated properties, such as The Beverly Hills Hotel , Hotel Bel-Air or The Peninsula Beverly Hills .

See more of Los Angeles: Tours | Photos

Indulge in wine country

Many are aware of Napa Valley 's reputation as a world-class wine destination , but Napa isn't the state's only wine producing hot spot. Sonoma is considered Napa's more casual sibling, offering more diversity in terms of attractions , including the beaches of Sonoma Coast State Park and the African-style game drives run by Safari West. Travel farther south to experience the Santa Ynez Valley, considered one of the most diverse grape-growers in the country. Meanwhile, Temecula Valley Wine Country, found north of San Diego, has produced hundreds of award-winning wines from its member wineries. With so many wine regions in California, you are likely to be within driving distance of at least one wherever you are in the state.

Behold the giant sequoias and redwoods

Did you know that the Pacific Coast of the U.S. is the only place in the world where giant sequoias and coastal redwoods grow naturally? Visiting these natural wonders is a must-do when in the Golden State. Contrary to popular belief, redwoods and sequoias are not the same tree; they require two separate climates to survive. To see giant sequoias, head into the Sierra Nevada mountain range, such as to Sequoia National Park , where you'll find the world's largest tree measured by volume: General Sherman.

To marvel at giant redwoods, you have your pick of Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park or Humboldt Redwoods State Park (don't miss the Shrine Drive Thru Tree). All these parks sit in northwestern California. These parks offer a variety of camping experiences, such as individual campsites, group sites and trail camps for wilderness backpacking and backcountry camping. Tent camping sites and cabins are available.

If you're the kind of traveler who enjoys a lake vacation , know that Lake Tahoe is California's best. Situated in Northern California, Lake Tahoe is so big that is spills into neighboring Nevada. This alpine lake destination is lauded for its spectacular clear blue waters and beautiful mountainous landscape, and it features some of the best skiing in the country .

If you're visiting during winter, enjoy a ride along the slopes of Heavenly Ski Resort and Northstar California Resort. During the summer, soak up the sun with a dip at Kings Beach State Recreation Area or with a hike through one of the many trails that meander around the lake, such as the 4.4-mile out-and-back Emerald Point Trail at Emerald Bay State Park. What's more, there are a bevy of highly rated hotels in the area, including The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe ; The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe; and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino .

See more of Lake Tahoe: Things to Do | Photos

Experience wildflower season

Spring and summer are great times to see an abundance of wildflowers – such as the state flower. Depending on where you go, the California poppy has been known to blanket valleys and hills with its vibrant orange tint. How much of a bloom you see and where varies based on the year's seasonal rainfall. Some of the best places to see wildflowers are in Southern California. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, Point Mugu State Park, Figueroa Mountain Recreation Area and Chino Hills State Park are a few of the most popular locations where you can spot pretty flowers.

If your California travels will be concentrated in the north, try North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve or Lake Tahoe, the latter of which is known to feature a spectacular seasonal display of violet and deep blue lupines. Just be sure to respect the landscapes by staying on designated trails, checking to see if dogs are permitted before you bring your furry friend, and visiting only during park hours.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enjoys a beautiful location wedged between the coast and the mountains, affording visitors plenty of opportunities for hiking and time at the beach. Can't-miss shorelines include Summerland Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach and Leadbetter Beach. Santa Barbara's alluring Spanish and Mediterranean architecture also makes this destination feel like a true getaway.

Visit the Funk Zone for wine tasting and art, State Street for shopping and dining, and the one-of-a-kind Ganna Walska Lotusland. Hotel options in Santa Barbara are just as dreamy as the setting, with highly rated spots like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel . What's more, Santa Barbara sits around 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles (about a two-hour drive), which could make it a convenient addition to your LA itinerary.

See more of Santa Barbara: Things to Do | Photos

Learn to surf at Huntington Beach

One of the most quintessentially Californian things to do during your trip is learn how to surf . There are several places you can surf up and down the coast, but beginners shouldn't go just anywhere: The best shorelines for novice surfers feature calm waters and knowledgeable lifeguards. Surf City USA (the nickname for Huntington Beach ) fits that bill perfectly, with several surf schools here. Highly rated operators include Corky Carroll's Surf School, Learn2Rip Surfing and Ocean Academy, and Banzai Surf School. After hitting the waves, rest your sore muscles at top-rated beachfront hotels , including the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort or the Pasea Hotel & Spa .

See more of Huntington Beach: Things to Do | Photos

Explore one or more of the national forests

Did you know California has the most national forests of any state in the nation? In addition to its famous national parks, California has 18 national forests to its name. If you are vacationing in the southern part of the state, consider a visit to the Cleveland, Angeles, San Bernardino or Los Padres national forests (but check with the U.S. Forest Service before you go to ensure they're not under closure orders caused by fire or storm damage when you visit). These options sit in proximity to vacation hot spots like San Diego, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

North of Sacramento, outdoor lovers have their choice of nearly a dozen national forests, including the Mendocino, Six Rivers and Klamath national forests, to name a few. These forest destinations offer beautiful wilderness landscapes, hiking trails and camping options.

Trek along the Lost Coast

Intrepid travelers looking to experience the untouched landscapes of California should consider a trek along one-of-a-kind Lost Coast. Located less than 40 miles south of Eureka in Northern California, the Lost Coast is an undeveloped stretch of coastline. Unlike Big Sur, which shares similar geography, the Lost Coast is devoid of major roads and can be accessed via a 25-mile-long hiking trail. The trail takes about two to four days to traverse (one way), so you should only attempt this hike if you're an experienced backpacker.

Visitors who make the journey will be treated to peace and quiet, empty beaches and plenty of wildlife, ranging from elk to elephant seals, not to mention striking views of the King Range, a collection of mountains that hug the coastline. Camping is allowed on the coast, but you need to obtain a backcountry permit in order to do so.

Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes National Seashore gives visitors a glimpse into a wilderness landscape on the Northern California coastline with no development. Conveniently situated less than 40 miles northwest of San Francisco, this national seashore is easier to reach than Big Sur and the Lost Coast.

Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking stretches of coastline, some of which are only accessible by trail, including the popular 9.7-mile round-trip Tomales Point Trail. A visit to Point Reyes will also take you through verdant, wooded landscapes and put you in close contact with wildlife such as elk, bobcats, seals, beavers and much more. You'll find campgrounds on-site for backcountry hike-in and boat-in camping, as well as modest accommodations in nearby towns, including Olema, Point Reyes Station and Inverness.

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here: The observatory hosts fascinating exhibits and features a top-notch planetarium. Recent travelers cited the breathtaking setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. Use of the public telescopes is also free, but you will have to pay a fee for the planetarium shows.

Hollywood Sign

The iconic Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park on Mount Lee. Visitors can hike to this iconic landmark on a few different routes and get sweeping views of LA, but the sign itself is fenced off and is typically guarded. Many visitors say that seeing the sign up close is a must-do.

The sign was originally built in 1923 and read, "Hollywoodland," the name of a real estate development, before the last four letters were removed in 1949. After years of neglect, the dilapidated sign was finally rebuilt in 1978 and has been a universal symbol for the glitz and glamour of the movie industry ever since. In 2023, the sign is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Griffith Park is free and open to the public daily with limited complimentary parking provided throughout the property.

Palm Springs

If you're looking for a place to unwind, Palm Springs is hard to beat. The Sonoran Desert provides a beautiful backdrop, warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities. In the late fall and early spring, temperatures typically range from the 50s at night to the 80s during the day. If you just want to chill, you can spend the day sipping cocktails poolside or get pampered at a luxurious spa. For travelers seeking an active vacation, other draws to the area include golf, tennis and miles of hiking trails.

A traveler-favorite Palm Springs attraction is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks visitors from the desert floor up 2.5 miles to Mount San Jacinto State Park. When the sun sets, head out to one of the city's hip bars or restaurants for a gourmet meal or craft cocktail, such as Bar Cecil or Mr. Lyons Steakhouse. Make it a weekend away with an overnight stay at a Palm Springs hotel like the new wellness-focused Sensei Porcupine Creek or the modern yet rustic Sparrows Lodge .

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Located on the central California coast, the Monterey Bay Aquarium draws nearly 2 million visitors per year. This institution houses more than 200 world-class exhibits that highlight the marine habitats of the area, as well as plants and creatures of the deep ocean. Guests can watch sea otters frolicking, witness glowing jellyfish and admire a 28-foot-tall kelp forest.

The aquarium also prides itself on working to protect the Pacific Ocean off California's coast. Its initiatives include reducing plastic pollution in the ocean, promoting sustainable seafood choices and helping rebuild sea otter populations. Past visitors recommend taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California
• The Top Things to Do in Orange County, California
• The Top Hot Springs in California

The 13 Best National Parks in California

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , California Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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What is the largest city in the world? Biggest places by population and area.

About eight billion people live on planet Earth, a milestone that the United Nations estimated we passed on Nov. 15, 2022. It's a stark increase from the world population in 1950, which was 2.5 billion. Still, the U.N. estimates the growth rate is slowing – it'll take approximately 15 years to reach nine billion people.

About 335 million of the world's population lives in the United States, according to recent U.S. Census estimates. And while the U.S. is among the world's most populous countries , its numbers pale in comparison to India and China, which each have over 1.4 billion people.

 What is the largest city in the world?

Here are the top 10 largest cities by population in 2024 according to World Population Review, rounded: 

• Tokyo, Japan - 37.1 million people
• Delhi, India  - 33.8 million people
• Shanghai, China - 29.8 million people
• Dhaka, Bangladesh - 23.9 million people
• São Paulo, Brazil - 22.8 million people
• Cairo, Egypt - 22.6 people
• Mexico City, Mexico - 22.5 million people
• Beijing, China - 22.1 million people
• Mumbai, India - 21.6 million people
• Osaka, Japan - 18.9 million people

What is the largest city in the world by area?

Each country defines a city differently, making a standard measurement for the largest city by area harder to determine.

To combat inconsistency across countries, Demographia created " Urban Areas," a standardized way to measure cities that factors in population density. Using Urban Area as a form of measurement, cities and areas are grouped together so the top 10 largest cities by area are not the individual cities but rather groups of cities within a determined proximity.

Here are the top 10 largest cities in terms of square miles according to the World Population Review, based on reports from Demographia:

• New York-Newark
• Boston-Providence
• Tokyo-Yokohama
• Los Angeles
• Washington-Baltimore 
• Philadelphia
• Dallas-Fort Worth

What state has the lowest population? Top 10 least-populated states

Just Curious for more? We've got you covered.

USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "Where is Mount Everest?" to "What is the biggest state in the U.S.?" to "Why do dogs have whiskers?" – we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you. 

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Mount Fuji view to be blocked as tourists overcrowd popular photo spot

Fujikawaguchiko town official says choice to erect huge barrier is ‘regrettable’ and last resort

A huge barrier to block views of Mount Fuji will be installed at a popular photo spot by Japanese authorities exasperated by crowds of badly behaved foreign tourists.

Construction of the mesh net – 2.5 metres (8ft) high and the length of a cricket pitch at 20 metres – will begin as early as next week, an official from Fujikawaguchiko town said on Friday.

“It’s regrettable we have to do this, because of some tourists who can’t respect rules,” leaving litter behind and ignoring traffic regulations, he told Agence France-Presse.

It is the latest direct action in Japan against over-tourism after residents of Kyoto’s geisha district banned visitors from small private alleys this year.

Record numbers of overseas tourists are travelling to Japan, where the number of monthly visitors exceeded 3 million in March for the first time.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, can be photographed from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko. This viewpoint is particularly popular because the majestic – and active – volcano appears behind a Lawson convenience store, which are ubiquitous in Japan.

Due to this visual juxtaposition, “a reputation has spread on social media that this spot is very Japanese, making it a popular photo location”, said the town official, who declined to be named.

The mostly non-Japanese tourists are overcrowding a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop, he said.

After traffic signs and repeated warnings from security guards were ignored, the town in Yamanashi region decided on the huge screen as a last resort.

The measure is also meant to protect a nearby dental clinic against tourists who sometimes park there without permission and have even been seen climbing on to the roof of the clinic to get the perfect shot, the official said.

The town wished it had not been forced to take action, the official said, adding that the current plan was for the screen to stay up until the situation improves.

Japan has been a booming tourist destination since pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted, and the government has been working hard to boost visitor numbers. But this has not been universally welcomed, including in Kyoto, where people have complained of snap-happy tourists harassing the city’s immaculately dressed geisha.

This summer, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji will be charged ¥2,000 each (£10.50, $13.35, A$20.50), with numbers capped to ease congestion.

Other destinations are also struggling with over-tourism. On Thursday, Venice began charging day-trippers to enter the city, while last week tens of thousands of people across the Canary Islands called for a freeze on visitor numbers .

• Asia Pacific

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The world’s most perfect places are being turned into backdrops for our tourist selfies

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