best places on earth to visit in your lifetime

Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 14, 2024

We have put together the ultimate travel bucket list to spark your imagination. Dave and I made a dream list of our travel bucket list travels way back in 2006. And we fulfilled every travel adventure we ever dreamed of. Now we want to help your dreams come true and share the best bucket list travels that we’ve ever done.

These are 52 destinations that you need to do at least once in your lifetime. We’ve got one idea for every week of the year! You may also like The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Table of Contents

Travel Bucket List Ideas

So, let’s look at the most mind-blowing beautiful places in the world. Oh, by the way, these are bucket list travels that we’ve done ourselves. It’s not a Google search like so many things on the internet these days.

1. Iguazu Falls

There was something magical about staying right in the heart of Iguazú National Park at the Belmont Hotel Das Cataratas. Having this natural wonder all to ourselves in the early morning was like a fairytale. We walked from our hotel to the long platform leading to the center of the massive cascade surrounded by thundering waters.

For a bucket list experience, this was spectacular. Be sure to take a helicopter tour over the falls and hop on a jet boat to get soaked. They seriously put the boat right underneath the waterfall. If there is one item on your travel bucket list. This should be it!

• Getting Soaked – The Ultimate Iguazu Falls Tour
• 11 Fun and Unexpected Things to do in Iguassu Falls

2. Amalfi Coast

We thought we had seen the beauty of Italy when visiting the Cinque Terre, but the Amalfi Coast is the Cinque Terre on steroids. The beautiful coastal towns along the Gulf of Salerno took our breath away at every turn. Rent a car and drive this famous highway that clings to the side of sea cliffs. There is nothing more romantic than driving the towns of Positano , Ravello, Amalfi, and Sorrento. Make sure to splurge on a room overlooking the terraced buildings of Positano and its beach.

• The Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast, Italy
• 10 Most Romantic Italian Coastal Towns for Couples
• Watch our Amalfi Coast Video
• Hiking Cinque Terre – The Beautiful Five Villages in Italy

3. Maldives

Staying in an over-the-water bungalow in Bora Bora or Tahiti is on everyone’s travel bucket list. But we did this in The Maldives and I cannot think of a place that is more beautiful in the world. The turquoise waters surrounded our bungalow complete with a glass floor so we could watch the fish swim by was superb. I don’t think I have seen such white sand beaches anywhere on earth.

• 15 of The Best Things to do in the Maldives
• Scuba Diving in Maldives – A Beginner’s Journey
• Best of the Maldives Video – On YouTube
• Snorkeling in the Maldives

4. Petra Jordan

By the time we made it to Petra Jordan, we had seen a lot of famous ancient cities with our own eyes. We expected to like it, but we didn’t expect to be wowed by it. Boy were we wrong! Petra is in a league unto itself. The hidden city of Petra is located within a 1.2 km rock passage reaching 80 meters into the air. Once you arrive at The Petra Treasury you are treated to an awe-inspiring scene. A massive building complete with columns is carved into the stone.

• Watch our visit to Petra on YouTube

5. African Safari

There is nothing more magical than an African Safari. We’ve been lucky to go on Safari in Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa , and Botswana. And trust me, it never gets old. Seeing the majestic lion stalk its prey and watching a herd of elephants walking through the African savanna is a scene that is forever etched into our brains. There is something special about visiting Africa. As the saying goes “I left my heart in Africa” and every time we leave the continent we feel the same way.

• African Safari Animals: 34 Photos to make you want to visit Tanzania
• What to Wear on Safari – Africa Travel Inside and Out
• Kenya Safari – The Masai Mara Experience

6. Churchill Polar Bears

Speaking of safaris, have you ever thought of a safari in Canada? I don’t think there was anything more awe-inspiring than seeing polar bears in the wild. It is even more of a bucket list ticket to be able to walk with polar bears. Going up to the arctic tundra in summer is not only unique, but it is also a chance to see polar bears in a different environment than in snow. We visited the Polar Bears twice with Churchill Wild . Once in the winter and once in the summer.

• Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari
• Kayaking with Beluga Whales – A Paddlers Dream
• The Ultimate Arctic Safari on YouTube

7. Santorini Greece

We had seen Santorini in the yogurt ads for years and dreamed of one day visiting. Once we arrived, we understood why it has been featured in so many commercials. When we looked over the cliffs of the caldera, the views didn’t seem real. Whitewashed buildings with blue domes lined the high cliffs of the caldera. Staying in a cave hotel overlooking the Aegean Sea was the ultimate dream.

• 25 of The Very Best Things to do in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece
• A Photography Guide to Santorini – Getting that Postcard Shot
• Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience

8. Kayak and Camp in Antarctica

If you haven’t noticed on our blog, a lot of our bucket list adventures have been in cold regions. And Antarctica truly tops the list. We were lucky enough to visit Antarctica with Quark Expeditions where we fulfilled every travel dream. From camping on Antarctica to kayaking around icebergs, Antarctica was an adventure lover’s travel dream.

• 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica
• Sea Kayak Antarctica – The Adventure of a Lifetime
• Camping on Antarctica
• See our complete Antarctica Expedition on YouTube

9. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp

Staying in the cold weather for a moment, the ultimate bucket list adventure is to trek to Everest Base Camp. When we can all travel again, this is something anyone can do regardless of climbing skills Follow the footsteps of Sir Edmond Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to see the Khumbu Ice Fall, Everest Base Camp, The Tengboche Monastery, and Mighty Mount Everest herself. Secure the ultimate bragging rights among your friends and trek to Everest. Our friend Dipendra at SimRik Real Nepal Treks is waiting for you.

• Everest Base Camp Trek – All You Need to Know from Start to Finish
• Remarkable Everest Base Camp Trek in Photos
• Flight to Lukla – A Scary Thrill Ride to Everest
• See our Full Everest Playlist on YouTube

10. Cappadocia, Turkey

Nearly everyone is familiar with the famous scene of balloons soaring through the air above fairy chimneys. Turkey’s Cappadocia really does feel like a fairytale. This had been our bucket list since seeing dozens of balloons in the air on Instagram nearly a decade ago. A morning hot air balloon ride fulfills the ultimate travel dream list.

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: How to Choose the Right Company
• A Tour of a Cave Hotel on YouTube
• The Incredible Landscape of Cappadocia on YouTube

11. Himalayas of Bhutan

Bhutan is the happiest country in the world and you can’t help but fall in love with the people and landscape when you visit this bucket list destination. Trekking through the Himalayas is an incredible journey but hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the Paro Valley is what draws people to the country. This iconic scene doesn’t disappoint.

• 18 Things to do in Bhutan – A Comprehensive Guide of What Not to Miss
• Bhutan Trek to Laya – A Himalayan Adventure to the Remarkable and Remote
• Watch our trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery on YouTube
• And see what happened when we met the King of Bhutan

12. Great Wall of China

We have visited the Great Wall of China twice. And it lives up to everything we ever expected. Looking at this marvel of engineering truly did inspire wonder and awe. No wonder it is listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. We loved visiting both the Mutianyu and Badaling Great Wall, they were equally beautiful yet very different experiences.

• The Great Wall of China – Mutianyu vs. Badaling

13. Machu Picchu

Speaking of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is another beautiful destination to add to your bucket lists. Hiking the Inca Trail is on many people’s adventure bucket list, but even seeing this extraordinary Inca City will take your breath away. Literally. Located in the Andes Mountains at 2,430 meters/7,972 feet in elevations, it is a wonder to see.

• Machu Picchu Hike: All You Need To Know To Be Perfectly Prepared
• How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu

14. Great Barrier Reef

The UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Australia is the largest coral reef in the world. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list. Even if scuba diving or snorkeling isn’t your thing, it is a must-visit. There are many ways to see the Great Barrier Reef. You can take a helicopter ride over the reef or even take a boat out to a platform in the middle of the sea to let you swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in the middle of this beautiful piece of ocean.

• Diving the Great Barrier Reef – Australia’s Ultimate Adventure

15. Pyramids of Giza

We had always wanted to see the Great Pyramids of Giza with our own eyes. We didn’t know what to expect, but when we first spotted them they seemed surreal. They cut through the haze of Cairo standing the desert looking like a mirage. We have had the privilege of visiting them twice and can say that for a fun way to explore them, hire a camel to take you through the pyramid complex to feel like a true Bedouin.

• The Red Pyramid of Egypt – Experience it Inside and Out
• 10 Amazing Temples of Egypt – That We’ve Seen

16. Gobi Desert of Mongolia

We are always fascinated by deserts, but there was something truly unique and spectacular about Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. It is filled with life. From the herds of Bactrian camels (two-humped camels) to the nomadic people of Mongolia moving their Ghers from camp to camp that was always something to see. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Read more at Mongolia Pictures from the Russian Border to the Gobi Desert

17. Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Ecuador that have their very own ecosystem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most biodiverse of destinations on earth. AND 97% of the Galapagos is a national park. The top draw to the Galapagos is to see its endemic species that are unique to the islands. From the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguanas, and the Galapagos penguin, the wildlife experiences.

• 27 photos that will transport you to the Galápagos Islands
• Playing With Sea Lions on San Isabella in the Galapagos

18. Mount Kilimanjaro

If there is one mountain to climb in your lifetime it is Mount Kilimanjaro, The Roof of Africa. Kilimanjaro National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the highest point in Africa. The six to seven-day climb is part of the seven summits and is a spectacular bucket list vacation. So don’t wait to start planning your climb up the highest freestanding mountain on earth.

• Read more: Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

19. Bagan, Myanmar

A visit to Myanmar is a trip we’ll never forget. Bagan was the highlight of our travels through the country. Taking an early morning ferry along the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay, we emerged at the most extraordinary complex of temples we had ever seen. Built in 1057 and covering 16 square miles Bagan houses 2200 pagodas. It looks like a massive forest of temples that you must see with your own eyes.

• Read More – The Incredible Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

20. See the Northern Lights

Have you ever wanted to witness the dazzling display of the Aurora Borealis? Once you see the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky, it doesn’t seem real at first. Are your eyes playing tricks on you? Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. We didn’t have good luck there but have witnessed them several times in Canada and in Greenland.

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

21. Mexico Cenotes

For scuba divers’ the Cenotes of Mexico are a top bucket list diving adventure. But you can tour many cenotes without diving. The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico has several adventures where you can rappel, snorkel, and paddle through Cenotes. But it was the Rio Secreto Cenote that was truly extraordinary.

• Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves
• Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

22. Rome’s Colosseum

The city of Rome is like no other. It is packed with ancient ruins and none as famous as the Colosseum. We had the good fortune of staying directly across the street from the Colosseum with a view of the amphitheater from our room. You think that you know everything about the Colosseum, but nothing can prepare you for seeing it for the first time.

• 22 of the Best Things to do in Rome
• 20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome
• 3 Days in Rome – The Ultimate Rome Itinerary

23. Christ the Redeemer – Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and Christ the Redeemer stands proudly over the city keeping watch. Seeing “Christo Redentor” standing with arms outstretched at the top of Corcovado Mountain is on many bucket list travelers list. You can see it by hiking up the mountain, taking the train, or a scenic bus ride but nothing compares to flying around it by helicopter.

• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

24. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam

Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. 1600 towering limestone islands reach up from the emerald waters of Halong Bay. What makes the bay even more picturesque are the junk boats that take tourists to explore the many islands and caves.

• Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Cruise?
• The Very Best Things to do in Vietnam from North to South

25. Have Champagne at the Eiffel Tower – France

Paris is the city of love and we never tire of seeing the Eiffel Tower . Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the city of lights is such a romantic scene, but you must go up the Eiffel Tower. And did you know you can have a glass of champagne? Celebrate a milestone, get engaged or just enjoy a toast as you take in the Parisian skyline.

• Where To Stay In Paris – The Best Neighborhoods in Paris
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit

26. Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls – Zambia

We happen to live one hour away from Niagara Falls in Canada and we do love that city and the iconic Canadian cascade. So when we had the chance to visit Victoria Falls in Zambia we were very excited. The Falls That Thunder is located in the center of Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and is the largest waterfall in the world. The setting is completely different than Niagara Falls as it is surrounded by jungle. At a Whopping 1.7 km wide (1 mile) it is massive, and the way to take in the scope of Victoria Falls is to get up in the air.

• Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls, Zambia

27. Soak in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland

Sure, the Blue Lagoon of Iceland is overcrowded these days, but no trip to “The Land of Fire and Ice” would be complete without stopping to soak in its healing waters. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list, especially after National Geographic named it one of the top 25 Natural Wonders of the World.

• How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• Best Places To Visit In Iceland

28. Explore the Canals of Venice – Italy

We truly fell in love with Venice. Staying in the city for four days allowed us to get off the beaten path to explore more of the quiet corners of the floating city. Not bucket-list travels would be complete without adding Venice to your list. While a gondola tops many bucket lists, it was the private taxi tour that we found to be far more romantic. Riding through the Grand Canal in style viewing scenery made us feel like movie stars.

• 3 Days in Venice – The Complete Venice Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Venice – The Best Neighborhoods and Hotels for Every Budget

29. Spy the Sun Stream at Antelope Canyon – USA

It is one of the most recognizable caves in the world. But where is it? Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona is located in the United States. Once a day a gorgeous waterfall of light seeps through tiny openings lighting up the layers of sandstone in this famous slot canyon. Read: The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona

• Antelope Canyon Photo Tours – How to Make the most of it

30. Hike Through Meteora – Greece

Santorini may be the luxury escape of Greece, but the Monasteries of Meteora are the wonders of Greece. Sitting at the top of massive rock monoliths reaching up to 500 meters (1500 feet) from the valley floor, ancient monasteries dot the landscape. Dating back to the 9th century, the Meteora Monasteries can be visited today by hiking to the top, walking across bridges, or simply taking in the view from one of the many lookouts.

• Meteora Monasteries of Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos
• The Best Places to Visit in Greece

31. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

A visit to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland will make you believe in giants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction and tops many a travel bucket list. To see the perfectly arranged basalt pillars leading out to sea makes you believe that a giant built a causeway to Scotland rather than a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago.

• The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway – Do You Believe?

32. Leaning Tower of Pisa – Italy

We didn’t know if we’d be in awe of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, but seeing it in person did indeed live up to the hype. Pisa alone is worth visiting. This picturesque city located on the Arno River is filled with history dating back to the 14th century.

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa – Is It Worth The Visit?

33. Stand in the Center of Times Square – New York

Standing in the center of Times Square in New York fills you with energy and excitement. New York is certainly one of the most exciting cities in the world, and while Times Square is filled with tourists, its with good reason. You feel as if you are in the center of the universe as massive LED screens surround the entire square.

• Best Things to Do in New York City
• Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets
• Fun Facts About New York

34. Go to the Top of the Burj Khalifa – Dubai

It’s the tallest building in the world sitting amongst several other massive skyscrapers. Dubai is out of this world. With each impressive structure built, there are four more in the works. Going to the top of the Burj Khalifa to see the most impressive skyline on earth is the definitive bucket list item.

• 17 Fabulous and Fun Things to do in Dubai

35. Go Sandboarding in Huacachina – Peru

I never expected sand dunes in Peru to be so massive. When we booked a bus ticket to Huacachina in Peru, we thought we’d be sitting in a tiny oasis, but instead, we were surrounded by the largest sand dunes we’ve ever seen. The way to explore them is to take a dune buggy tour or to hop on a sandboard and glide down them. You’ll be covered in sand, but what a hoot and it is something you must try at least once in your life.

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru

36. Cross the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo

Until you’ve seen Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo with your own eyes, it’s difficult to comprehend the number of people that take this crossing every few minutes each day. A quarter-million people cross this intersection each day. The best way to see this bucket list item is to go to the top of Magnet’s Mag 7 from the glassed-in viewing area.

• Awesome Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
• Best Day Trips from Tokyo

37. Golden Temple – India

The Taj Mahal may top everyone’s bucket list, but we found the Golden Temple of Amritsar to be a more authentic experience. Don’t get me wrong, the Taj Mahal is a wonder to see, but the Golden Temple is a beautiful display that is still a working temple. Join one hundred thousand pilgrims each day as they pay their respects to Sikkhism’s most holy site.

• Golden Temple of Amritsar – India’s Shining Star

38. Road trip to the Grand Canyon

I must admit I wasn’t expecting much from the Grand Canyon, but during our road trip through California and Arizona we popped into the Grand Canyon and I was taken aback by its beauty and sheer size. The Grand Canyon is on everyone’s American travel bucket list and it is spectacular. The Colorado River cuts through the 466 km long (277 mile) Colorado Plateau canyon of the Colorado Plateau and let me tell you, a pop in won’t do it justice. you must get out and explore the beauty of America’s natural wonder.

• 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon
• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon
• United States National Parks in Photos

39. Amazon River – Peru

The mighty Amazon River is the largest river by water volume in the world and it is the land of legends. It still feels as if much of the Amazon River Basin has yet to be explored. When you set out on a river cruise through the Amazon, you can almost feel what it was like to be an early exploring cutting their way through the largest jungle on earth.

• What to Expect on an Amazon River Cruise – Life on the River

40. Marvel at the Glaciers of Greenland

Glaciers are melting fast on this planet and nowhere on earth is it more prevalent than in Greenland. Visit the world’s most active calving glacier in Ilulissat and sail through a sea of floating skyscrapers of ice. Icebergs dwarfed our ship as we explored the west coast of Greenland on this truly magnificent bucket list adventure.

• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

41.Swim with Whale Sharks

There is something truly magical about swimming with whale sharks. While it might be a frenzy of tourists beaming with excitement below is calm and quiet. To see these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the sea is the ultimate bucket list travel experience. There are many places to swim with whale sharks around the world, most notably off the coast of Cancun Mexico, and in the Philippines.

• Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun – A Massive Adventure

42. Hornblower at Niagara Falls

Okay, we cannot forget to include going into the center of Horseshoe Falls in Niagara, Ontario. We have always taken this bucket list adventure for granted because we live so close to Niagara Falls, but when you go on the Hornblower, it truly is a spectacular scene. Feel the power of one of the world’s largest waterfalls as you sit at the bottom of the plunging waters. It is so powerful that everyone gets a rain poncho to wear on the boat. If you make your way to Canada, don’t miss seeing Niagara Falls.

There are so many things to do in Niagara Falls, the Hornblower is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out our full round-up of Our Favourite Things to do in Niagara Falls – Plus Where to Eat & Where to Stay

And these are our most amazing bucket list travels on earth. We’ve been lucky to be able to see and do all of these bucket list adventures in our lifetime. As I went through this list, I cannot believe that we have experienced each and every one of these. It all started by creating a dream list a decade ago, and now we have achieved travels beyond our wildest imagination. We can’t wait to add more when we can travel again.

• 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 31 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
• 16 of the Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit Right Now
• How to Travel Around the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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5 thoughts on “Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime”

wow such a wonderful list for everyone. I am from India and I was surprised when I saw the golden temple on your list because everyone includes the Taj mahal in their top list when anyone visits India. waiting for your next blog. ok, take care of each other Dave and Deb.

Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is a prestigious package for visitors to Chopta, which has mesmerizing panoramic Views of beautiful Himalayan peaks.It’s 5km and takes about 3 hours. We can organize a trip for you to this amazing destination. The hike up to Deoria Tal, amidst dense forests and filled with Rhododendrons (in summer) is part of the Chopta-Chandrashila trek. There is a famous Hindu story about it. When the 5 Pandavas were on their way to heaven, they stopped at the place and tasted the water.

I love these bucket list places to travel to!! Some of my favorites from the list were going to see the Churchill polar bears, kayaking in Antarctica, the Great Wall of China, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Northern Lights. This blog post reminds me of all the beautiful places I have yet to see and cannot wait to go to!

What an amazing compilation of great places. Cant wait to travel after this pandemic.

The Harmiandir Sahib (Golden Temple) of Amritsar has a unique distinction of offering free food at Langar Seva — The world’s largest community kitchen. People visiting the Golden temple must not miss the Langar food.

Thanks for curating a great list.

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.”

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Virtual Bucket-List Destinations that Are Streaming: The Ultimate Trips to Take

See recent posts by Megan Wood

These days, inspiration is more powerful and necessary than ever. And we can't think of anything more inspiring than dreaming about the kinds of trips that change you — the trips that should be on every traveler's bucket list. Some of our suggestions will take you a little further outside of your comfort zone than you're used to, while others fall into the "I can't believe I haven't already made time for Disney World" range. And until it's safe to travel again, we've provided ways that you can virtually explore every bucket-list trip on our list — from seeing the Northern Lights live on a webcam to trekking the Grand Canyon, we've found them all. Read on and get inspired to see where you'll go next, once the world is open to explore again.

*Additional reporting by Kyle Valenta

Want to hit the open road when it's safe? Here are the best bucket-list drives you have to take in your lifetime . 

1. See the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights , is a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged sun particles collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. The spectacular and elusive light show is most likely to happen near the North Pole — and often in the middle of the night. Nature’s most revered light show draws travelers out of their beds and into Iceland’s frosty landscape.

Since traveling isn’t safe for the time being, you can stream the Northern Lights to get yourself inspired to see them in real life. Keep in mind that this surreal display is visible from lots of different places within the Arctic Circle. Check out this streaming live cam of the Northern Lights from Manitoba, Canada , to get a taste.

Where to Stay: Frost and Fire Hotel

Frost and Fire Hotel provides an excellent outpost for watching the lights. An outdoor pool and geothermal heated hot tubs take the chill off. You’re well off-grid here, and you’ll need a 4×4 to access the hotel.

Pricing for Frost and Fire Hotel

2. Sleep in an Overwater Bungalow in the Maldives

You may have heard of them once or twice: The Maldives . The name alone is enough to conjure images of neon blue seas, blazing white beaches, and underwater wildlife in mind-boggling abundance. It’s also home to some of the world’s most famous overwater bungalows. The Maldives is very much a romantic honeymooners destinations (or a place to celebrate special occasions), but it also draws plenty of families and even has a place for solo travelers too. ( Check out our guide to everything you need to know about the Maldives for our best tips .)

To get yourself inspired for a trip to the Maldives, you can check out any of our in-depth photos of overwater bungalows, like those found at the posh Gili Lankanfushi . You can also opt for a virtual tour of the new Muraka villa at the Conrad Rangali Island , which has underwater and overwater sections (and which we also hope to visit someday).

Where to Stay: Gili Lankanfushi

Quite possibly one of the most famous resorts in all of the Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi was badly damaged by fire in 2019, but reopened in early 2020. It’s hard to overstate how nice this place is, and its only-overwater-bungalow layout draws devoted travelers year after year.

Pricing for Gili Lankanfushi

3. Tour the Pyramids in Egypt (But Don’t Skip Luxor)

The only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that still exists, the pyramids in Giza are absolutely worth braving all of the tour buses and hawkers that come along with it. Go first thing in the morning to beat crowds and heat. You only need a day, but keep in mind that a guide providing transportation and information, and who navigates the tickets and crowds, makes your life easier. For a real treat, find a hotels with a sunset view of the pyramids and the Sphinx, where you can sit on your balcony listening to the call to prayer and clip-clop of horses and goat herds going home for the day.

While the pyramids are doable as a long layover, we strongly recommend making time for a trip to Luxor. In contrast to the noise and dust of Giza and Cairo , Luxor is a quieter city on the Nile. Arrive by overnight train and you’ll see the sunrise over sugarcane fields as you come into the city. Famous for enormous temples like Karnak and Luxor, as well as the Valley of the Kings, there’s plenty to explore for several days.

To explore the pyramids virtually, Google Maps provides a cool virtual tour , which includes the experience of walking up to the pyramids. You can visit Luxor and the Valley of the Kings virtually as well , with options for VR headsets and Oculus Rift experiences.

Where to Stay: Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah

Situated relatively close to Cairo’s main central districts — and a 35-minute drive from the pyramids — the Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah is a popular choice. Rooms are attractive, and the hotel has a beautiful pool and spa.

Pricing for Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah

4. Spot Wildlife in the Galapagos

The Galapagos ‘ isolated terrain and unique ecosystems make it home to diverse plant and animal species that can’t be found anywhere else on earth. Here, humans’ needs take a backseat to animals. Turtle reserves, lava tunnels, nesting grounds, and dive sites peacefully coexist with a small development of island towns that provide the basics for nature lovers. A trip to the Galapagos Islands is expensive — there’s no denying that — but it’s something even the most casual nature lover should have on their bucket list.

Spotting a giant Galapagos tortoise is at the top of most travelers lists to this archipelago. While you can’t get to the islands right now, you can still catch these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Check out this live cam from Isla Santa Cruz — we spotted a tortoise eating between 5 and 6 PM ET.

Where to Stay in the Galapagos Islands: The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel provides all-inclusive packages that can include snorkel equipment and kayaks. It’s the only beachfront property in Puerto Ayora, but be sure to watch out for nesting iguanas — they have the right of way. 

Pricing for Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

5. Trek Machu Picchu in Peru

Built in the 1450s during the reign of Incan emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu was either a country estate for the emperor, or an important place of worship. Either way, hiking Machu Picchu is an unforgettable and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trekkers can traverse the Inca Trail or take an alternate route . Either way, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring views, diverse plant and animal life, and rich cultural heritage.

Note that as Machu Picchu has become more and more popular (and accessible), you must make advance arrangements to visit the site and there are strict caps on the numbers of tourists allowed to visit on any given day. You’ll also need a guide if you plan on hiking the Inca Trail (that’s not a recommendation, but a requirement).

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, you can take a cool virtual tour of Machu Picchu until it’s safe to travel again. With 360-degree imagery and narration about Machu Picchu, YouVisit.com offers a great virtual tour of Machu Picchu .

Where to Stay in Cusco: Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Amid the otherworldly history of this region, there are plenty of charming hotels that transport you to another time. The Belmond Hotel Monasterio is one of the more lavish in town, and its 16th-century setting certainly makes this a romantic spot.

Pricing for Belmond Hotel Monasterio

6. Visit the Gods in Athens

Athens is a modern and cosmopolitan city that still embraces its past. It’s home to dozens of ancient monuments that honor Greek gods and all hail from at least the 5th century B.C. The Acropolis and Parthenon are easily accessible in the center of the city, and teem with ancient ruins begging to be photographed. A trip to the Acropolis Museum is also a must, for access to some of the most amazing relics and antiquities on the planet. You’ll also find the Theatre of Dionysus behind the walls of the Acropolis.

While it may not be the same as an up-close-and-personal encounter with ancient ruins, there are some ways to explore Athens’ historic sights to keep you inspired. Virtual tours of the Parthenon and Acropolis are both available, and you can even virtually explore the collections of the Acropolis Museum, which has partnered with Google Arts & Culture . Need more? Check out a sunset behind the Acropolis on this live cam .

Where to Stay: Electra Palace Athens

Electra Palace Athens has some of the most stunning views of the Acropolis from the rooftop restaurant and pool. Seriously, even Athena would be jealous of how beautiful this hotel is.  

Pricing for Electra Palace Athens

7. Visit the Sistine Chapel in Rome

Rome is filled with some of the most famous and beautiful Renaissance art and ancient architecture in the world. From the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Roman Forum to Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and other incredible sights, the city is packed with history. It also has tons of Old World charm around nearly every corner (despite often being overwhelmed with tourists). Roman food — the good stuff, not what you’ll find in the tourist trattorias around Trevi — is also some of the best there is in Italy.

However, atop many travelers’ lists when they get to Rome is a visit to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s a jaw-dropping spectacle, as the museums are filled with all manner of ancient and Renaissance treasures. However, the Sistine Chapel is considered by many to be the crown jewel of the Vatican collection (if not in all of Rome). You’ll need to book your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines, and you can easily spend an entire day making your way through the museums and chapel.

While you can’t enter the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel right now, you can still take a virtual tour. The Vatican Museums have posted 360-degree imagery of their most famous rooms, including the Sistine Chapel , to help immerse you in the spectacle.

Where to Stay in Rome: Elizabeth Unique Hotel

With a prime location in Campo Marzio — close to tons of sights, shopping, and dining — as well as chic art-inspired interiors (and luxe perks), Elizabeth Unique Hotel is one of our favorite boutique hotels in Rome.

Pricing for Elizabeth Unique Hotel

8. Eat Sushi in Tokyo

Tokyo has one of the best restaurant scenes in the world and it’s entirely possible to eat very well in the city without sampling any raw fish, but why would you want to? There are over 5,000 sushi restaurants in Tokyo and sushi consumption is an art form, found everywhere from conveyor belt joints (which don’t require any Japanese language skills for ordering) to three-star Michelin restaurants presided over by kimono-clad servers who attend to diners’ every need.

The Tsukiji Fish Market is no longer, though what’s known as the Tsukiji Outer Market still bustles with countless kitchenware and dining vendors. We suggest trying sushi at any of the nearby restaurants. If you want to see the auction itself, you’ll need to head out into Tokyo Bay, to the Toyosu Fish Market.

Where to Stay in Tokyo: Park Hyatt Tokyo

Possibly the most famous hotel in Tokyo, and featured in the film “Lost in Translation,” the Park Hyatt Tokyo is an elegant, exclusive hotel that has broad appeal. It’s also in the bustling Shinjuku district, putting all sorts of amazing food, shopping, and nightlife nearby.

Pricing for Park Hyatt Tokyo

9. Take a Selfie With Mickey Mouse in Orlando

Walt Disney World is the largest theme park attraction in the world and draws kids of all ages who want to experience “The Happiest Place on Earth.” Whether you’re coming to ride the legendary rides like Space Mountain, to lose yourself among the cultures of the world in Epcot Center, to check out Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, or to simply snap as many pictures as you can of yourself and your family with Disney’s famous characters — Disney is packed with bucket-list potential.

These days, you’ll have to settle with exploring the park virtually. Our sister site Family Vacation Critic has compiled a list of all 13 Disney attractions that you can experience from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Where to Stay: Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge

A stay at Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge comes with free shuttles and extended hours to access the parks — making it easier to meet Mickey Mouse. 

Pricing for Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

10. Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro

Let’s be clear: Rio is a great idea at any time of year. This stunning city packs an insane cultural scene, amazing nightlife, beautiful beaches, jaw-dropping mountains, and modernist architecture into one of the most dazzling urban landscapes in the world. Of course, Rio comes even more alive during its annual Carnaval, which takes place in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday. The entire nation joins in on these festivities, but Rio’s samba schools and street parties are some of the most legendary in the world.

A trip to Rio during Carnaval is incredibly expensive, and tickets to the official Sambadromo sell out early. Since we can’t travel right now, though, get familiar with the mind-blowing spectacle of sights and sounds with highlights from 2019’s samba parades at this Samba Schools Perform at Brazil Carnival Parades Video . The Atlantic also has excellent photos from 2020’s festivities .

Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro: Belmond Copacabana Palace

For a taste of Rio’s stunning Art Deco architectural history and a convenient address right in famous Copacabana, the Belmond Copacabana Palace is the spot. You’re right near the beach and there’s a fun pool right on-site.

Pricing for Belmond Copacabana Palace

11. Dive or Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is so big that it can be seen from outer space. It also happens to be one of the most endangered destinations on this list, as climate change fuels mass coral bleaching events. The underwater ecosystem is home to countless sharks, dolphins, turtles, sea plants, and colorful fish, making the reef a magnet for professional and amateur divers. Excursions to Great Barrier Reef dive and snorkel sights can be arranged from many towns along the coast of Queensland. Cairns and Townsville are both popular home bases for overnight or multi-day tours of the reef.

To safely tour the reef now — along with expert insight into its ecosystems and wildlife — we recommend the legendary historian David Attenborough’s interactive reef journey . It tracks your mileage and location as you navigate about the reef learning about the habitat.

Where to Stay near the Great Barrier Reef: Qualia Resort

When you’re not out on the open water, you’ll want to bed down in style. It’s hard to top the adults-only Qualia Resort on Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, which has beautiful landscaped grounds and a seaside infinity pool.

Pricing for Qualia Resort

12. Drive the Amalfi Coast in Italy

The Amalfi Coast has been dubbed the “femme-fatale” of Italy. The stretch of coastal road from the shoreline in Sorrento south to Salerno is curvy, gorgeous, and not for the faint of heart. Hairpin turns and steep cliffs make for some white-knuckle driving. However, that precise landscape — steep cliffs and azure seas below — are what make this entire region so magical. Well, the landscape and the impossibly charming towns tucked in between, like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi.

The best sunset views are had out toward Sorrento or on the Island of Capri (though sunset cruises are also incredibly popular). You can get a nice dose of this gorgeous stretch of Italy by checking out the webcams set up in numerous towns, like Positano and Amalfi , and overlooking the beach.

Where to Stay in the Amalfi Coast: Santa Caterina Hotel

We suggest making a pitstop at the Santa Caterina Hotel for uninterrupted sea views and a super-chic pool built into the cliffs. Oh, and there’s a free shuttle to Amalfi town if you can’t stomach getting behind the wheel again. 

Pricing for Santa Caterina Hotel

13. Smoke a Cigar in Havana

Cuba has exerted a magnetic pull on the world’s imagination for decades now, and the island’s colonial architecture, incredible music scene, and white-sand beaches are not to be missed. Some of the favorite tourist pastimes are a bit cliche, but we’re not going to blame you for taking pics of vintage cars and smoking cigars. Keep in mind that for travelers from the United States, you must adhere to specific rules in order to visit the country, so check well in advance before planning your trip.

For a quick virtual introduction to Havana, check out this narrated Havana tour with 360-degree capabilities to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the city.

Where to Stay: Hotel Telegrafo

The historic Hotel Telegrafo is within walking distance to Old Havana attractions and you can buy rum and cigars on-site. 

Pricing for Hotel Telegrafo

14. Pay Homage to Frida Kahlo in Mexico City

For many art lovers and travelers, the work of Frida Kahlo is a main reason to visit Mexico City . Visitors can (and should) pay homage to her life and art at her former home — La Casa Azul — which is now a museum. The striking blue house (that she shared with partner Diego Rivera) showcases (some of) her paintings, studio, bedroom, gardens, and her iconic twists on traditional Mexican garments and textiles. When you’ve had your fill, the Coyoacan neighborhood is a beautiful part of town to stroll for an afternoon (or check out the museum devoted to Frida’s friend and Coyoacan neighbor, Leon Trotsky).

While we all curb our traveling for the time being, there are still several ways to explore Frida Kahlo’s house and work. Casa Azul is offering virtual tours of the Frida Kahlo Museum , while Google Arts and Culture is providing a Face of Frida virtual exhibition .

Where to Stay in Mexico City: Las Alcobas

For modern creature comforts like designer rooms and a spa that uses local products, it’s hard to top Las Alcobas in posh Polanco. We like to think Frida would have approved of the exquisite traditional Mexican food at the hotel’s Dulce Patria. 

Pricing for Las Alcobas

15. Walk the Great Wall of China in Beijing

You’re going to need a good night’s sleep and a big, hearty breakfast buffet (heavy on the noodles) before fighting the crowds and tackling the steps and steep terrain of the Great Wall outside of Beijing . Keep in mind that this section — Mutianyu — is the most easily accessible and popular part of the wall to visit (in fact, travelers with long layovers in Beijing often make it a day trip between connecting flights). If you’re willing to go a bit farther afield, the Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall is incredibly scenic and situated next to a lake for amazing pictures.

If you’d like a preview of what awaits you when you’re finally able to visit the Great Wall of China, check out this virtual tour at The China Guide .

Where to Stay: Rosewood Beijing

The Rosewood Beijing hotel provides just the ticket, along with a chic pool and luxe rooms that are soundproofed against the constant hustle and bustle of the city. And, if finding a reputable tour guide or accurate information on how to access the wall is proving too difficult with China’s notoriously restricted internet, the concierge staff is available to lend a hand. 

Pricing for Rosewood Beijing

16. Sleep in a Castle in England

Unless you were born a royal, chances are you haven’t spent the night in a castle . Across Ireland, England, and Scotland, castles dot the landscape, creating magical portals to another time and place in history. Many of the most famous castle hotels in the world are open to tourists during the day, offering all sorts of activities from falconry to traditional high teas complete with scones and clotted cream.

And while Windsor Castle — home to the Queen of the United Kingdom — isn’t something most of us will see in our lifetime, you can take a virtual tour of many of its interiors on the Royal Family’s official website .

Where to Stay: Langley Castle Hotel

The upscale Langley Castle Hotel is housed in a genuine 14th-century fortress complete with numerous medieval features, such as seven-foot thick fortress walls and suits of medieval armor. Four-poster beds and cavernous bathrooms will make anyone feel like a royal for the night. 

Pricing for Langley Castle Hotel

17. Hike a Volcano in Hawaii

Hawaii  is likely on your bucket list for a lot of reasons — surfing, snorkeling with turtles, and swimming under waterfalls — but one of the more unusual opportunities that Hawaii affords is volcano hiking and seeing lava flow. As of 2018, large eruptions on the Big Island’s Kilauea Volcano — inside of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — significantly altered the landscape and caused serious damage to nearby communities. There are other less-active volcanoes throughout the state, though, including the dormant summit at Haleakala National Park.

Many of the national parks in the U.S. have changed their hours or are closed, and the situation in Hawaii is no different during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are numerous live cams operated by the National Parks Service throughout Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that provide a cool virtual way to explore the landscape until it’s safe to travel again.

Where to Stay in Hawaii: Fairmont Orchid

One of the most popular hotels on the Big Island, the Fairmont Orchid is a great upmarket pick. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms are spacious, and there’s even a private beach area.

Pricing for Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

18. Eat Way Too Much Street Food in Bangkok

There are too many reasons why a trip to Bangkok is bucket-list worthy. From its historic temples to its dizzying mall scene, insane nightlife, and the incomparable Chatuchak Weekend Market. However, one thing Bangkok does better than almost any other city in the world is street food. From pungent green papaya salads to noodles thrown together in almost any and every combination (all with a sky-high spice quotient), the city’s street-food vendors are almost unmatched in the world.

For an excellent introduction to Bangkok’s street food (which is threatened by current government attempts at regulation), it’s worth checking out episode one of Netflix’s “Street Food” series, Bangkok .

Where to Stay in Bangkok: SO Sofitel Bangkok

With a rooftop pool overlooking Lumpini Park and great destination dining and drinking right on-site, the SO Sofitel is a lovely oasis in the midst of this completely chaotic city. Attractive, contemporary decor seals the deal.

Pricing for SO Sofitel Bangkok

19. Climb to the Top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

A magnet for millions of tourists every year (yes, we said millions), perhaps no other landmark so readily signifies any city in the world as the Eiffel Tower does for Paris. The iconic structure is very much a part of the Paris experience and provides sweeping views of the City of Love. The observation deck all the way at the top of the tower is unrivaled in its views of Paris (make sure you book your tickets well in advance). Visit twice — go to the top once in the daytime and then return to the base of the tower again at night when 20,000 lightbulbs twinkle.

This most inspiring of landmarks just might be the perfect remedy for this socially distanced and uncertain era — when experienced virtually. We recommend checking out the panoramic 360-degree view from the top and then heading to the Eiffel Tower’s official site to brush up on its history .

Where to Stay: Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

The Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel is just one block from the landmark and offers balcony views from some of its rooms. 

Pricing for Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

20. Go on a Safari in Africa

With their sky-high price tags and large amount of logistical wrangling necessary, African safaris are truly once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list adventures. Whether you’re exploring the Masai Mara and Serengetti in Kenya and Tanzania, or heading to Rwanda to spot mountain gorillas, a trip to these unique (and threatened) ecosystems is always jaw-dropping. That’s especially true in East Africa if you time your visit to the great migration of wildebeest and other hoofed animals.

To get your fill of African wildlife right now, there are several ways to virtually explore the continent’s wildlife from your home. Explore.org offers live cams on several African watering holes that draw an insane collection of animal. You can also get into some of Kenya’s national parks by webcam, including Aberdare National Park .

Where to Stay for an African Safari: anBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

Luxury and safari aren’t two words that usually go together, but the andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp manages to combine glamorous tents and access to wild elephants, lions, leopards hippos, buffalo, hyenas, zebras, cheetahs, crocodiles, and giraffes. It’s located in Botswana’s Okavango Delta region.

Pricing for andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

21. Tour the Ruins of Angkor Wat in Cambodia

If exploring some of the most magnificent temples ever built sounds like a dream to you, then a trip to Angkor Wat must be on your list. Located to the north of Siem Reap, Cambodia , the collection of dozens of ancient Khmer sites sprawls across the flat jungle landscape.

While Angkor Wat itself is the star of the show (at sunrise, all day long, and again at sunset), other highlights include the Bayon temple and its massive Buddha faces as well as Ta Prohm (made extra-famous in “Tomb Raider”). Pro tip? Opt for a bike ride to Angkor Wat on at least one morning and make sure you visit the Bayon around sunset for a truly atmospheric wonder.

Until it’s safe to travel again, we suggest whetting your appetite for a visit to Angkor Wat by taking the Virtual Angkor tour , which offers extensive 360-degree imagery of the main temple.

Where to Stay near Angkor Wat: The Moon Residence & Spa

About a 10-minute walk from Pub Street in central Siem Reap, The Moon Residence is a sharp boutique option in a town with more than its share. The outdoor pool is a welcome perk after a long, hot day touring the ancient Angkor Wat sites.

Pricing for The Moon Residence & Spa

22. Get Lost in a Souk in Morocco

Marrakech offers a feast for all five senses and there’s no better way to see, hear, taste, touch, or smell the city than by getting lost in its winding maze of shops, restaurants, and people that make up the souks. You’ll likely spend almost all of your time in Marrakech in the Medina, which is the ancient part of the city (though still very much thrives today). Narrow alleyways zig this way and that, and getting lost is all part of the fun. You’ll also need to make time to visit Jemaa El Fna, the city’s main market.

Until it’s safe to travel the globe again, there are some cool ways to explore the city. We love this 360-degree virtual tour of Marrakech that Samsung did in 2019.

Where to Stay: Riad Tamarrakecht

The Riad Tamarrakecht provides a nearby respite from the occasionally overwhelming city with a colorful courtyard and small plunge pool, plus a rooftop terrace with a Berber tent. 

Pricing for Riad Tamarrakecht

23. Visit the Grand Canyon

Do we even need to tell you about the Grand Canyon? Perhaps the most famous natural wonders of the entire world, the Grand Canyon is worthy of almost every superlative that exists. Tucked in the extreme northwest of Arizona, the canyon frames the Colorado River and is home to too many jaw-dropping hikes to count. The South Rim is the most famous and where you’ll find the most popular viewpoints, but venturing to the North Rim rewards with fewer crowds and more pristine natural landscapes.

The National Parks Service offers numerous virtual tours through many of the Grand Canyon’s most famous trails — including the South Kaibab Trail and Bright Angel Trail.

Where to Stay near the Grand Canyon: Yavapai Lodge

Set right inside of Grand Canyon National Park. Yavapai Lodge puts you close to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and offers clean, comfortable rooms.

Pricing for Yavapai Lodge

24. Sail Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

You’ve likely seen pictures of Vietnam’s stunning Ha Long Bay ever before you knew what it was. The image of thousands of dramatic karst islands jutting out of the sea, criss-crossed by junk-boat, is the definition of iconic. Located about four hours southeast of Hanoi , Ha Long Bay is best toured by boat. And by boat, we mean a luxury cruise. This allows you to get away from the extremely crowded waters near the shoreline that are filled with daytrippers and budget overnighters. You get what you pay for here, and the prices are high, but shelling out for a Ha Long Bay cruise is unlikely to be a trip you’ll forget once you’ve explored hidden caves and gone swimming in the bay itself.

For some inspiration to visit when it’s safe to travel again, check out this video from National Geographic , which provides some background on the legend of Ha Long Bay.

25. Tour the Taj Mahal in Agra, India

The crown jewel of Mughal architecture in India — and a building so famous it has captured the hearts and minds of travelers, romantics, and artists almost anywhere in the world — the Taj Mahal is as beautiful to behold as the hype. Should you fly all the way to India to see this building alone? No. There are thousands of amazing destinations in India to add to your itinerary. But a day in Agra touring the grounds of this marble beauty is something you won’t soon forget. Make sure to hop across the Yamuna River to watch the sun go down as well (and be sure to devote some time exploring Agra’s Red Fort too).

Since the Taj Mahal is closed during the global COVID-19 outbreak, you’ll have to settle for a virtual tour (don’t worry — it won’t ruin the impression the building makes in real life). Google Streetview has a curated experience around the Taj Mahal grounds that’s worth checking out.

Where to Stay near the Taj Mahal: ITC Mughal, Agra

If you’re after a lovely property with tons of perks (including an on-site astrologer), you’d do well at the ITC Mughal . It’s not within walking distance of the Taj Mahal, but the hotel makes for a welcome respite from the busy center of Agra.

Pricing for ITC Mughal, Agra- a Luxury Collection Hotel

Now, watch our video on bucket-list trips to take before you die.

You’ll Also Like:

• 8 Bucket-List Hikes That Will Transform You
• 11 Gorgeous Walled Cities to Add to Your Bucket List
• 10 Amazing Hotels in Africa to Add to Your Bucket List

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• Nature Travel

10 Incredible Natural Wonders to See in Your Lifetime, According to 'T+L' 's A-List Advisors

These are the most awe-inspiring natural wonders around the globe, from the mountains of Montenegro to the sand dunes of the Sahara.

In 2020, many of us found comfort in the outdoors, from visits to faraway national parks to exploring leafy neighborhoods in our own cities. Now that international travel is starting to pick up once more, we asked our trusted A-List travel advisors about the world's most impressive natural wonders, so you can start planning your bucket-list trip today.

Namibia's Deserts and Coasts

" Namibia is other worldly. The northerly Kunene region is one of the most remote areas on the planet, vistas are never ending and the landscape is lunar-esque. The Skeleton Coast is raw, desolate and eerily beautiful. A raging sea meets an angry coastline, plus there are myriad species of desert adapted wildlife. The Namib desert is the oldest in the world and home to the highest sand dunes— this majestic region is a photographer's dream." Darren Humphreys, Travel Sommelier

China's Huangshan Mountains

"People often think of China as an urban setting and rarely consider that it's the fourth largest country in the world with many natural wonders , from the southwest jungles to the Gobi desert in the northwest. People visiting China will often include outdoor travel within the context of a larger, heritage-based trip. In the Huangshan area, you can walk along the ridges of the stunning Yellow Mountains one day and then on the next day they can bike or trek past bamboo forests through verdant rice valleys to an assortment of picturesque villages. — Guy Rubin, Imperial Tours

Croatia's Lakes and Islands

"I have to start with Plitvice Lakes in Croatia , along with sleeping in the plush new treehouses near the National Park. I would also suggest a five-to-seven day cruise around Kornati islands with a visit to Telašćica Nature Park and, of course, island Mljet —which is often overlooked and provides one of the most pristine settings in the Mediterranean. Mljet is considered the mythical island of Ogygia where, according to Homer, Caliope held Odyseuss prisoner." — Mina Agnos, Travelive

The Grand Canyon (With A Side of Vegas)

Book a 6-day rafting trip through the heart of the Grand Canyon via the Colorado River . These outfitters have been running the trips for 20 or more years, and the guides really know the history of the canyon. The food is great, and you'll marvel at being a mile down in a canyon, camping on the banks at night, and roaring through the rapids from Crystal to Lava Falls. At the end, escape nature by helicoptering out to Las Vegas for a show. Kids love it (but it's best if they are 10 and above.) — Betsy Donley, Camelback Travel

Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera, formed when a volcano erupted and then collapsed inward almost three million years ago. Now it's a 12 mile wide hole in the earth's crust with mesmerizing 2,000 foot vertical walls. The cinematic light with the vertical backdrops are the things a photographer's dreams are made of. The crater boasts the densest concentration of iconic wildlife in Africa: seven prides of lion, tons of endangered black rhino, huge herds of zebra and wildebeest, and leopards, giraffes, ostrich, warthogs, and jackals roam the open grasslands, dense forests, and lakes full of pink flamingos. Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is dramatically perched on the edge of the crater rim with perhaps the most breathtaking view in all of Africa. Proximate to the crater is Africa's other greatest natural wonder, the Great Migration , and a great combination trip. Mark Lakin—The Legacy Untold

Antarctica's Frozen Wonderland

"What better place to get away from the crowds than on a polar adventure? Antarctica offers stunning vistas, plentiful penguins, playful whales and a variety of adventures including zodiac cruises, kayaking, camping, and even paddle boarding. There are few things more peaceful than floating amongst icebergs on your kayak as you take in the grandeur of the Antarctic continent. The Arctic , similarly, offers breathtaking ice in the form of glaciers, ice bergs and fjords. Polar bears lumber along the ice floes looking for seals and dive gracefully through the crystalline blue waters.— Mary Curry, Adventure-Life

Italy's Adriatic Coast

"The Italian regions of Marche and Abruzzo on the east coast of Italy, facing former Yugoslavia, are little-known gems which offers amazing outdoor activities in breathtaking natural landscapes. Explore one of the biggest underground caves in the world, Grotte Di Frasassi, hike through the mountains of Abruzzo National Park where you will meet bears and wolves, and dine in a traditional fishing hut hanging over the Adriatic sea." — Matteo Della Grazia & Daniela Mencarelli, Discover Your Italy

Morocco's Sand Dunes

"I recommend clients take the time to travel to the dunes of the Sahara . Spending a night on the dunes in a tented encampment is a memorable way to enjoy nature in Morocco . On a clear night, the African sky will present an endless field of starts. There is nothing better than sitting around a campfire in the evening in this distant corner of southern Morocco." — Michael Diamond, Cobblestone Private Travel

Norway's Wolves

"Combine natural wonders with a chance to see special animals at the Wolf Lodge in Norway . You will stay in a luxurious chalet surrounded by wolves in a large polar park and interact with the wolves with trainers. You can see the Northern lights , with snow up to your waist, as you listen to the wolves howl. They even come up to sniff you and, at times, will gently touch you with their mouths. You must be very still and kneeling—it is an incredible encounter." — Ellison Poe, Poe Travel

Montenegro's National Parks

"Though undeniably beautiful, Croatia's lakes and parks are more well known, so consider an off-beat option in neighboring Montenegro . Visit the glacier-formed Durmitor National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site ) and the Tara River Canyon, which has the deepest gorges in Europe." — Jay Ternavan, JayWay Travel

Incredible Bucket List Destinations for Once in a Lifetime Trips

Are you looking for special bucket list destinations? As inspiration for a once in a lifetime trip? Then check out the list of places below!

“If you could only pick one destination, what would be your absolute favorite must-visit place anywhere in the world?”

That is what I asked a number of seasoned travelers to create a list of unique, once in a lifetime trip destinations.

And this is the result: 16 incredible places all over the world you should try to visit at least once in your life!

Read all about these bucket list destinations below or first check out this video of the top 10

16 Bucket List Destinations for Once in a Lifetime Trips

1. meteora, greece.

By: Romy from Brunetteatsunset.com

“Meteora is an incredible phenomenon. A landscape where the wonders of nature and man meet.

Rock formations make up this landscape and monasteries were built on top of them. Monks had to climb the rocks to reach them as there were no stairs then.

Even when you’re there it is hard to believe this place is real.

Meteora is a bucket list destination for several reasons. It has an incredibly rich history. Once there were a whopping 24 monasteries sitting on top of these impressive rock formations. Only 6 of them are left standing, and they are well worth visiting.

I would recommend spending two days here to see all the monasteries instead of rushing to see everything in one day.

The entrance fee for the monasteries is only 3 euro per person so there’s no reason not to go and see them all! What makes it even more appealing to go is that it is not overrun by tourists yet.

The fact that the area is really cheap and easy to visit on a budget is just the cherry on top!”

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2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

By: Carly from Flightoftheeducator.com

“I think everyone will agree this is an absolute bucket list destination!

The Galapagos Islands have always held an air of mystery for me. They were the islands made famous by Charles Darwin, his finches, and the tortoises!

When I finally went to the Galapagos Islands, so much was a surprise.

The Galapagos are fascinating because nothing is native to it! The islands are made solely by volcanoes, and all the flora and fauna just ended up there by air or sea by accident!

Because of this interesting fact, the animals that ended up there are mostly birds and reptiles. I don’t think I saw a single mammal!

What’s even crazier is to be on an island that boasts both flamingos and penguins! The landscape was more barren than I had anticipated, but when you realize it’s made from cooled lava, it’s really amazing it has any plants at all!

If you love animals, nature, and exotic places, the Galapagos makes for one of the best once in a lifetime trips!”

3. Kyrgyzstan

By: Katherine from Thetravelators.com

“Kyrgyzstan is a nature-lover’s paradise, and it is one of our favorite destinations for a trip of a lifetime.

We trekked for two days to Song Kul Lake during our visit through beautiful grassy hills and nomadic yurt camps .

One of the highlights of our trip was staying for a few nights in a family’s yurt (traditional tent). Every night the family would light a cow dung fire in our small yurt stove to keep us warm during the chilly nights.

We loved getting to know our host family through hilarious sign language and some very limited Russian. We felt like family despite the communication barriers. They even let us loose on the steppe with their horses for a day!

A really memorable experience that we highly recommend and an absolute bucket list destination.”

4. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

By: Nina from Safarijunkie.com

“Rwanda is my top pick among favorite destinations for once in a lifetime trips, for several reasons.

Small in size which makes it an easy country for first-time (solo) travelers in Africa, but it has it all: a rich culture, ever green nature, beautiful Lake Kivu…

But the main attraction is Volcanoes National Park near Musanze, former Rughengeri, known for gorilla trekking.

The park is known for sustainable and responsible tourism practices , with strict rules about how many people can visit per day, which comes with a price tag of 700 USD and probably makes it the most expensive hour in Africa.  

It’s an hour spent in the depths of a tropical forest surrounded by volcanoes, seeing gorilla families in their daily routine , which is mainly eating bamboo and silly but also very human-like interactions between the gorillas.

Along with the fact that there are only around 800 gorillas left in the world, it feels like a big privilege to encounter all this in person!”

Also read: The Best Time to See Gorillas in Africa

5. Sailing Around the San Blas Islands, Panama

If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime trip and love unspoilt tropical islands, then the San Blas Islands should be on your bucket list.

Sailing around these islands is probably one of the most unique things I’ve ever done.

Located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, the San Blas Islands still haven’t been discovered by mass tourism.

The islands offer a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant indigenous culture, and untouched paradise.

There are more than 300 islands to choose from, with pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkeling here is beautiful, and something I highly recommend.

Sailing through these secluded islands offers a rare chance to disconnect from modern life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of untouched nature.

The islands are home to the Kuna Yala indigenous community. On some of the inhabited islands you’ll find a single Kuna family living, on others you’ll find a small community. They are all very welcoming and happy to share their rich traditions, art, and cuisine.

The absence of large-scale tourism preserves the islands’ authenticity. And these days there aren’t many places left in the world that can say the same!

I struggle to put into words how unique the San Blas Islands are, and why this is one of those trips of a lifetime.

It’s the remote, deserted islands we’ve all seen in pictures but are very hard to find in real life. It’s sitting on an empty beach with a fresh coconut in your hand given to you by the local Kuna family. And it’s the beautiful sunsets admired from a sailboat.

It’s just, well, a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

To go to the San Blas Islands, you can rent a private boat with a captain , or book one of these San Blas Islands tours . Some tours take you on a sailboat around the islands, others arrange accommodation on a different island each day.

• Useful Facts About Panama
• Sailing in the Caribbean (Including Panama)
• The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit & Why (Including the San Blas Islands)

6. Phu Quoc, Vietnam

By: Melissa from Thriftyfamilytravels.com

“Phu Quoc is the ideal beach holiday. Located south of Cambodia but part of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is best accessed via a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City.

Most of the accommodation is found along Long Beach where you can stay in a wide range of places, from basic bungalows right by the beach to luxury resorts.

Wake up late, stroll down to breakfast on the beach, and then spend the rest of the day lazying in a beach chair or cooling off in the calm, shallow water.

For lunch head to one of the beach cafes, and then have a massage right on the beach.

Towards the end of the day find a trendy beach bar, grab a cocktail and sit back and watch one of the most gorgeous sunsets you have ever seen.

Check out other popular beaches such as Sao Bai and Ong Lang Beach . These beaches are accessible by taxi or better yet hire a motorbike for some real adventure!

Ride down dirt roads and explore amazing little villages, getting a glimpse into Vietnamese island life.

Book a boat trip to go snorkeling or take the longest sea cable car in the world for a gorgeous view of Phu Quoc from the air and a visit to a water park on a neighboring island.

There are more and more massive resorts being built on Phu Quoc, so it won’t be a sleepy little beach destination for long – Therefore, get there as soon as you can! ”

Also Read: What Not to Miss in Da Nang, Vietnam

7. Hawaii, USA

By: Justine from Wandereroftheworld.co.uk

“If you dream of turquoise waters, white, sandy beaches and dramatic landscapes then Hawaii should definitely be one of your bucket list destinations.

I had envisioned all of these things when planning my trip to these beautiful islands but I also found so much more!

Having traveled around two of the Hawaiian islands – O’ahu and The Big Island, I was able to spend relaxing moments on the beach and snorkeling in the warm water but adventure also found me.

We hiked through volcanic craters, watched active volcanoes erupt, gazed at the stars from 9,000 ft up Mauna Kea mountain, and explored tranquil Buddhist temples.

Hawaii offers something special for the beach babe, the adventurer and the romantic, so if you ever have the chance to explore this mesmerizing place then I urge you to do it!

I hope to find myself back on these islands so “a hui hou” (until we meet again) Hawaii…”

Also Read: Cheap & Free Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii

8. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

By: Ella from Wide-eyedwanderer.com

“Africa is a continent that we probably don’t explore enough of.

Visiting Africa for the first time, I knew that going on a safari was a must for me. And since I was going to Kenya in particular, I knew that I had to do a safari in the Maasai Mara National Park.

This park is the epitome of a quintessential African wildlife reserve and is home to a variety of impressive wildlife.

The Maasai Mara National Park is perhaps most famous for The Great Migration , when hundreds of thousands of animals flock to and from there each year.

This safari is still one of my favorite travel memories and one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.

Being so close to the wild animals in their natural habitat was exhilarating, mesmerizing and humbling and has left me in awe ever since. My safari experience at the Maasai Mara National Park has me even more convinced that nature and animals are amazing and should be respected.

If you are looking for unique bucket list trips of a lifetime, going on a safari in the Maasai Mara National Park and having a go at spotting the Big Five, is an experience I highly recommend!”

Also Read: The 3 Best Things to Experience on a Safari in Africa

9. Hoi An, Vietnam

By: Heesun from Mewanttravel.com

“Visiting Vietnam in general was a once in a lifetime trip for me, but if I’d have to pick one place I’d pick Hoi An.

Hoi An is most famous for its ancient town , but it is also located on a beautiful coast with gorgeous beaches.

The warm waters of the beach entice you in for another dip, the perfect sand inviting you to take off your shoes and relax.

You stand in line to eat some banh mi, the third time you’ve been there in 2 days because it’s just THAT good and because Anthony Bourdain said so.

The kayak beckons you inside, as you paddle on the Thu Bon River, sweat glistening on your brow as you take in the nearby thatched roofs.

You chug a bottle of water, because it’s Vietnam and let’s be real, it’s humid.

You visit one of the countless tailors and dress stalls and decide to purchase one because you’re on vacation and it’s awesome in that it’s a souvenir that you can wear. Treat yourself.

As you go to bed, you smile, knowing that even though you’re a foreigner here in Hoi An, Vietnam, it’s starting to feel a little bit more like home.”

Editor’s Note: Hoi An’s ancient town is a World Heritage Site that’s especially beautiful just after sunset. That’s when you can go on a local boat, lit with lanterns, to see Hoi An’s beautiful streets from the water. A romantic thing to do and probably one of the reasons why it was voted the second-best honeymoon destination in the world by Tripadvisor in 2024.

Also Read: 2 Days in Da Nang, Vietnam – Things to Do & Where to Stay

10. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

By: Julianna from Thediscoveriesof.com

“Torres del Paine should be on every adventure traveler and outdoor lover’s bucket list .

Nestled in Chilean Patagonia, it’s brimming with breathtaking sceneries for you to explore on two feet.

I traveled to Torres del Paine last year to hike the W Trek (so called because the route is in the shape of a W) and it was one of the most memorable hikes I’ve undertaken in my life.

The variety of scenery is impressive – icy blue lakes change to craggy mountains and then to scrub-filled savannahs in the course of a few miles. Each day’s trek is completely different from the day before, so every day you wake up with the excitement of what you’ll see next.

A trip to the Torres del Paine takes some organization – you can choose to camp (and carry your camping kit with you) or stay in the low-key refugios along the way. Whichever you choose, you’ll need to book in advance and ensure you know what you need to bring with you.

That said, it’s well worth the effort – as the Torres’ increasing popularity shows. Just don’t forget your camera!”

• Interview With an Expat About Life in Santiago, Chile
• What to Bring on a Hike

11. Queenstown and the Southern Lakes, New Zealand

By: Emily from Emdashed.com

“Queenstown has exactly the kind of breath-taking scenery one expects to find on New Zealand’s South Island . The town sits at the edge of a sparkling lake, flanked by rows of craggy mountains as far as the eye can see.

But a town needs more than just jaw-dropping scenery to stand out in New Zealand’s parade of non-stop beauty.

Luckily, Queenstown’s got plenty more to offer. There’s an activity there for pretty much anyone – whether you’re into heart-racing bungy jumps, hitting the ski slopes, or barbecuing on the beach.

You can dance the night away or relax with a glass of local wine; you can climb a mountain or ride the Skyline Gondola to the top. Either way, the views are spectacular.

Of course, you might find Queenstown too busy or touristy. That’s when you hop in a rental car and head to mellow Wanaka, quiet and rugged Glenorchy, or quaint little Arrowtown.

Beauty is literally around every corner in the Southern Lakes, and the drive itself is worth any journey.”

• 11 Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand
• The Perfect New Zealand South Island Road Trip – A Practical Guide
• Itinerary for 7-10 Days in New Zealand’s North Island

12. Stromboli, Italy

By: Nam from Laughtraveleat.com

“Watching the red hot magma erupt from a volcano crater at a distance in the dark is one of the most surreal experiences I have ever had.

While some volcano eruptions are dangerous, others are mild enough that you can see them for yourself in close(ish) proximity, and Stromboli Island, part of the Aeolian Islands in Sicily , Italy is one of those locations.

We hiked up the sandy, steep mountainside in the cool evening air, reaching one of the craters just as the sun was setting, revealing a glorious view. We all settled in a comfortable spot, our eyes fixated on the crater, waiting for an eruption.

That night we witnessed no less than five eruptions before descending in the dark with only our head torches.

I had originally been skeptical about the experience, but the scene of the eruptions have now been forever etched in my mind and it is therefore my top recommendation for a once in a lifetime adventure!”

Also Read: The Most Beautiful Places in Sicily to Visit

13. Thailand

By: Hannah & Adam from Gettingstamped.com

“If I could pick one place in the world I think you have to visit it would hands down be Thailand.

Not only is the Thai food amazing, it tastes even better when you are on an island with your toes in the sand looking out at the turquoise waters.

Everyone should go on a Thailand island hopping adventure once in their lifetime .

My first visit was on my Thailand honeymoon in 2012 and I have since gotten 26 Thailand stamps in my passport!

Thailand is super budget-friendly and it’s easy to spend less than US$50 a day and still have an epic trip.

I always suggest starting a trip to Thailand with 3 days in Bangkok , then heading down to the islands before making your way up north to Chiang Mai for some nature & culture.

But, no matter where you go in Thailand you’ll have a trip of a lifetime!”

Also Read: Things to Know About Traveling to Thailand as a Woman

14. Brooklyn, USA

By: Katie from Realworldrunaway.com

“Just across the river from the bright lights of Manhattan lies my favorite place in the world, Brooklyn.

Set away from the tourist trap of the big city , Brooklyn is the perfect place to take in the ‘real New York’.

Packed full of independent cafes, restaurants, and bars offering some of the best food you’ll ever find, you’re never far from a hidden gem. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly and you’ll be sure to encounter more locals than tourists.

The up-and-coming neighborhood of Williamsburg, with its outdoor food extravaganza Smorgasburg, is not to be missed, as well as a trip to the funfair at Coney Island.

New York is one of the most magical cities on Earth and Brooklyn really makes it feel like a home (and the view isn’t half bad either).”

• An Insider’s Guide to Things to do in NYC on a Budget
• The Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in the United States

15. Seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland

For most of us, seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

And not many places in the world are more magical and more perfect to watch the northern lights than Finnish Lapland.

Picture yourself bundled up in your coziest gear, surrounded by the serene beauty of snowy landscapes. You’re on the lookout for nature’s greatest light show. And when those elusive lights decide to make an appearance, it’s pure magic.

The sky becomes a canvas painted with surreal hues of green, pink, and purple, swirling and dancing above you. Sure, it might take a bit of patience and some luck, but when those shimmering ribbons of light reveal themselves, it’s a jaw-dropping moment that makes every chilly minute worth it.

There’s something awe-inspiring about being a tiny speck under the grandeur of the aurora borealis—it’s a bucket list experience for sure!

If you ever want to go to Lapland to see the northern lights, read this article about the best place and time to see the northern lights in Lapland .

16. Antibes, France

By: Darcy from Sparkleinhersuitcase.com

“My absolute favorite place in the world is Antibes, France.

The French Riviera has so much to offer, from food to art to celebrity sightings, and Antibes is my favorite town in this sun-soaked region.

While a French friend once told me that only old ladies like Antibes, I couldn’t be happier there. (Perhaps this makes me an old lady.)

At once small enough to feel cozy and large enough to walk around for hours. With the history of the old town mixed with the more modern section of town, Antibes feels balanced.

It’s easy to see why Picasso was inspired here , and why he had his studio here, which you can now visit as a museum.

This is not a place where you gobble up all the sightseeing you can, but where you linger at the table before you meander to the beach. See for yourself sometime – I’ll be the old lady in the chair next to you.”

Also Read: What to See & Do in Montpellier, France

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31 thoughts on “Incredible Bucket List Destinations for Once in a Lifetime Trips”

This is quite a list of countries and cities some of which I will add to my list of future destinations. There are just so many beautiful places in the world that one will never lack a place to explore. Thanks for sharing.

Wow, amazing list of wonderful places. This is a beautiful and truly inspiring article! Thanks so much for writing all of these destinations! I’m going to save it for our future plans 🙂

Such beautiful recommendations. I wish I could go visit all of them someday!

Amazing destinations, love your recommendations.

Great bucket list. Galapagos is my next one. I would add Triglav national park in Slovenia. The 7 lakes valley, it’s awesome.

This is is a crazy list! I’ve been wanting to go to Kyrgyzstan for so long it looks so incredible. Mind you everything on this list looks amazing!!

So many gorgeous looking destinations on this list. I have been to only two, Brooklyn and Masaai Mara. I have been eyeing the Gorilla Trek for a while but it is too expensive for me right now. Kyrgyzstan looks ideal too

Not only once in a lifetime but I’d love to do them many times over a lifetime. If I have to pick one from these I will pick the Gorilla Trek. Really, what can be better than that!

The lust for Stromboli has exceeded beyond limits! Thailand and Hawaii makes me yearn for the feeling of waves washing my feet. The pictures of Vietnam is simply spectacular and hence, the ultimate bucket list has extended my travel bucket list.

This was an awesome collection of places that I would like to visit. I have pinned the article as I want to refer to it again and again. Some pics are just marvelous.

Nice list you have here for your travel bucket list! I have recently written one for myself and we have one item in common – Kyrgyztan! I am so looking forward to trek the mountains and waterfalls of that lovely country. By the way, Asian countries like Vietnam and Thailand are rightfully included in your list, but you might as well go to Philippines, too!

I didn’t know that Kyrgyzstan was so famous for its nature. Will definitely add this one to the travel bucket list. And yes, Hawaii is so amazing 🙂 🙂 Love Maui!

Hoi An should definitely be on everyone’s lists, it’s so beautiful! I also like how you included Brooklyn on there, it’s not a place many would think of ,but it’s so worth seeing! Great list 🙂

with a slight amendment it will be my bucket list 🙂 i am heading to Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan this year. What have you covered from this list so far?

This list looks really awesome. I need to visit Kyrgyzstan and the Galapagos islands. Would you be having any idea about the food at these places?

Really amazing list. I think I would like to visit all of them. I am actually visiting Hoi An later this year though which is exciting! 🙂

Aside from hawaii we haven’t been to any of these places. Hawaii was amazing indeed and you will love it. We are going to steal the rest of these for our bucket list.

I don’t know what it would be, but this list has some places that I’d love to see. I now have some new places on my list!

Interesting selection 🙂 Queenstown and Brooklyn are on my travel list already!

What an incredible list. You have highlighted so many places I wish I had visited and hope to someday soon. That picture of Vietnam is unbelievable. WOW!

It is a wonderful list. I am confused which one should be on my list first. The most fascinating are Meteroa and Stromboli. You have visited Thailand 26 times in 4 years. That’s so cool. Loved all your pictures.

Some absolutely stunning places on this list! These posts are always dangerous for me because it stretches my bucket list even farther lol

Nice list. Your pictures really make me wish to add more destinations to my ever-growing bucket list. Beautiful!

Some wonderful list there. I like the idea of going to Galapagos the most. It is my dream to go to these virgin islands ever since I saw a documentary on the same.The island is so remote and perhaps that is why it is so well preserved.

To be honest, I haven’t been to any of these yet. I will go back and revisit my travel plans now that you have shown me these wonderful destinations. I knew about some of these but not about others like Kazakhastan. Seems to be really interesting place

Kyrgyzstan looks super nice! I think I never even heard of this place and now it’s on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

Beautiful places. I have already seen a couple places from this list but I think my list just got a bit longer because of yours. haha.

A very well balanced list with some most popular destinations to some unknown but amazing places.

An awesome variety of destinations here! I’d love to visit so many of these places 🙂

Kyrgyzstan and Rwanda are UP THERE for me! What awesome destinations! Now I’m all excited to get traveling – too bad I should be working 😉

Looks like my bucket list just got longer!

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

Destinations on the rise for 2021

25 amazing places to inspire future journeys and remind us why we love to travel.

A diver explores the coral reefs around Lord Howe Island. The volcanic isle, located in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand, has more than 60 dive sites, including Ball’s Pyramid—the world’s tallest sea stack.

The world is full of wonders—even if they’re hard to reach. While the pandemic has brought our journeys to a standstill, it has not quieted our curiosity. Ahead of a new year—with the promise of a return to travel—we are eager to share these 25 timely tales of timeless places that will define our future itineraries.

Reported by the global editors of National Geographic Travel and framed by five categories (Adventure, Culture and History, Nature, Family, Sustainability), these superlative destinations speak of resilient communities, innovative conservation efforts, and thrilling opportunities for future explorations.

The joy of travel comes from the unexpected. Now is the time to dream of your next journey and lay the foundation for your next trip. We hope our list of the new year’s most important places will inspire you. We look forward to seeing you out in the world soon!

In 1912, an eruption of the volcano Novarupta formed the caldera and crater lake at the summit of Mount Katmai, in Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve.

Katmai National Park, Alaska

In the shadow of the volcano.

There are no roads into Katmai. Most of the nearly 5 million acres of this combined national park and preserve are designated wilderness where no hunting is allowed. The only way in is by boat or float plane.

For many travelers to the park—limited in number even before the pandemic— Katmai is where to visit a 1.2-mile-long fishing hole that serves the largest concentration of brown bears in the world. Thanks to the Bear Cam and Fat Bear Week it has become famous.

For archaeologists such as Laura Stelson, who explored here in the footsteps of a 1910s expedition sponsored by the National Geographic Society, the park is a site to study 9,000 years of human history. The longstanding Indigenous communities that lived in the area were displaced and re-established after the massive 1912 eruption of the Novarupta, the largest volcanic paroxysm of the 20th century. Stelson hopes one day to find the right technology to scan what lies beneath the pumice and other rock that covers this otherworldly landscape about 290 miles southwest of Anchorage .

( Related: Find six otherworldly destinations on our planet . )

“Katmai is a very unique place with all these different types of landscapes presented in one single park,” says Stelson. “You have coastal beaches. You have tundra. You have spruce forest, mountains, volcanoes, and you have this weird desert. So there’s just a lot of environmental diversity and diversity of experiences.”

Wildlife lovers can swim alongside Dominica’s resident sperm whales, but only with an accredited tour operator that follows strict animal-welfare protocols.

Caribbean adventure tourism helps fuel this island’s climate resiliency

The weathered mountains running down the spine of Dominica formed a natural shield, largely protecting the eastern Caribbean island, called Waitukubuli (“tall is her body”) by the Indigenous Kalinago, from colonial intrusions and overdevelopment. Left alone to thrive were leafy rainforest and a thrill-seeker’s dream collection of natural marvels: nine active volcanoes, 365 rivers, towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, and blistering-hot geothermal features like Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole with water temperatures nearing 200°F (93.3°C).

What Dominica’s formidable volcanic terrain couldn’t block is global climate change, which is worsening the effects of hurricanes. Warmer ocean temperatures supercharged Hurricane Maria , whose direct hit on the island in September 2017 caused catastrophic landslides and critically damaged nearly every man-made structure.

( Related: Discover more big-time adventures on the island where nature rules. )

Post hurricane, nature rebounded, residents rebuilt, and the government resolved to make Dominica the world’s first climate-resilient nation. It requires not only hurricane-proof buildings but also a diverse economy , including a tourism sector that attracts more high-end spenders and an agricultural system that grows a variety of fruits and vegetables eaten locally. Adventure tourism plays a huge role in the climate resiliency push by creating jobs and an economic incentive to restore and protect Dominica’s greatest natural resource—its wild side.

Ready to book your trip? Snorkel Dominica’s crystal-clear waters with Nat Geo Expeditions.

Perito Moreno glacier, located in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the only glaciers in the world that is growing instead of shrinking. It forms part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field—the Earth’s third-largest reserve of freshwater.

Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Where to hike a kingdom of ice.

Along the turquoise shores of Lake Argentino, the town of El Calafate gets its name from the thorny plant whose berries infuse cocktails and regional beers. However, its proximity to Los Glaciares National Park has placed the town on the tourist map as the gateway to the kingdom of ice in southern Argentine Patagonia .

There, near the border with Chile , the 1,722-square-mile park encompasses subantarctic forests that preserve habitats for species such as the guemal, puma, rhea, condor, guanaco, and the calafate plant. But the park’s main draws are the nearly 300 glaciers that cover almost half of the park surface. The most popular and accessible, three-mile-wide Perito Moreno glacier, stands almost 200 feet above the surface of Lake Argentino. Huge masses of ice spectacularly calve from its face with thunderous roars. It’s possible to hike with crampons on the glacier to find swaths of electric-blue color among waterfalls, crevices, ice caves, underground rivers, and extravagant ice formations.

( Related: Saddle up for stellar views and gaucho culture in Patagonia .)

This frozen desert is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third largest expanse of continental ice in the world, after Antarctica and Greenland . After exploring the frigid ends of the Earth, visitors return to a boat waiting on the lake to celebrate their adventures with a shot of whiskey and chips of ice. —Erick Pinedo, Nat Geo Traveler Latin America

Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus mountain range, Svaneti is home to some of the most isolated villages in Georgia. Many of the watchtowers pictured above were built during the Middle Ages to protect against marauding armies.

Svaneti Region, Georgia

A remote land of warm welcomes.

Located in the shadows of 15,000-foot peaks, the Svaneti region in northwest Georgia ’s Caucasus mountains may seem forbiddingly inaccessible. The rugged landscape bristles with medieval stone towers that doubled as dwellings and defense posts. These fortresses attest to a time when Svan families fought fiercely to hold possession of their lands in small villages and lofty settlements such as Ushguli. Protected as the Upper Svaneti World Heritage site , Ushguli is one of Europe’s highest inhabited communities, at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level.

Due to its remoteness, Svan culture evolved over the centuries in isolation from the rest of Georgian lands, developing a unique oral-only language and traditions such as ritual beard cutting and blood feuds. Once infamous for lawlessness, the region is recognized today for its welcoming spirit. “Georgia is famous for its hospitality, but Svaneti is Georgian hospitality times 10. Parties, toasts, and alcohol are the order of the day,” says Michał Głombiowski, a travel writer and photographer from Poland who frequently visits Georgia.

( Related: This mega-trail offers hikers nearly a thousand miles of forest and mountains .)

While still far off any beaten path, Svaneti now is accessible to intrepid adventurers via the Upper Svaneti section of the Transcauca sian Trail , an ambitious long-distance trail network project ultimately aiming to connect Georgia, Armenia , and Azerbaijan . Trekkers with enough lung capacity to tackle a four-day, high-altitude hike from Mestia, the regional capital, to Ushguli are treated to cool vistas of serrated peaks by day and warm receptions in Svan guesthouses at night. —Martyna Szczepanik, Nat Geo Traveler Poland

A crowd mills around the “Black Wall Street Mural” in Tulsa’s Greenwood District, soon after its unveiling in June 2018. Racial violence devastated this once thriving Black-owned business district, but a cultural and economic revival is underway.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

A hub for discussions on race in the u.s..

Greenwood Rising , the name of Tulsa’s new “Black Wall Street” history center, aptly describes the groundswell of support for sustainable socioeconomic transformation in the Oklahoma city’s Historic Greenwood District—site of one of the worst incidents of racial violence in the United States’ history.

Beginning on May 31, 1921, white terrorists destroyed the prosperous district in an 18-hour assault, murdering some 300 Black residents and erasing nearly 35 blocks of Black-owned homes and businesses. To commemorate the 100th anniversary—and tell the story of the once vibrant community—the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission is building Greenwood Rising (expected to open in fall 2021) and is hosting speakers, concerts, and other special events throughout the year.

( Related: Remembering “Red Summer,” when white mobs massacred Blacks from Tulsa to D.C. )

The history center is designed to be a catalyst for revitalizing Greenwood and for confronting and ending systemic racism across the U.S., says Phil Armstrong, project director of the Centennial Commission.

“There’s a real sense in Tulsa and throughout the country that we are much better than this,” Armstrong says. “Greenwood Rising will be a launching pad for continuing the discussion of racial trauma and reconciliation, and the entire historic district will be a place where people can come to learn, acknowledge implicit bias, and personally commit to enacting real change within their own spheres of influence.”

The only Native American site designated both a UNESCO World Heritage site and U.S. National Historic Landmark, Taos Pueblo is one of the country’s oldest continuously inhabited communities.

Pueblo Nations, New Mexico

Surfacing native american voices in the american southwest.

In New Mexico, monuments to oppressors of Native Americans—such as Spanish conquistador Don Diego de Vargas—are toppling, as some activists call to honor Po’pay, organizer of the 1680 Pueblo Revolt . The uprising ousted the Spanish from Pueblo Indian homelands. Although Spain regained control in 1692, the revolt is credited with ensuring the long-term survival of Pueblo culture.

A statue of Po’pay represents New Mexico in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C. At home, Po’pay’s enduring legacy is evident in the state’s 19 Pueblos, including Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each Pueblo is a sovereign nation and living community with distinct traditions. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) in Albuquerque is the starting point for exploring the Pueblos—online via a Virtual Culture Guide and in-person when it’s safe to resume group tours and celebrations.

Michael Lucero, IPCC’s guest experience manager and member of San Felipe Pueblo, calls the center’s resources the “lens” through which visitors can better appreciate the richness of Pueblo life. “When you step foot on a Pueblo, you’ll start connecting the dots,” Lucero says. “This is where we feel safe and connect with the Earth.”

( Want more stories from New Mexico? Visit our travel guide. )

In Guam, a local Chamoru dance group performs a blessing at the U.S. Naval Cemetery, in April 2017.

Revisiting Magellan’s legacy in the Pacific

The 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the globe isn’t exactly a cause for celebration on Guam , a U.S. territory and largest of the Mariana Islands. During a three-day stopover in March 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan killed Indigenous Chamoru people and erroneously labeled the Marianas Islas de los Ladrones (Islands of Thieves).

A Spanish naval vessel will stop in Guam in March 2021, as part of a commemorative voyage retracing the world-circling route launched by Magellan in 1519 and completed by Spanish navigator Juan Sebastián Elcano in 1522. For the Chamoru today, the arrival of the anniversary expedition is an opportunity to tell their story, one whose chapters include the Magellan encounter, Guam’s colonial history, and the realities of living at what’s dubbed the U.S. military’s “tip of the spear” in the Pacific.

( Related: Guam’s ecological fate is in the hands of the U.S. military .)

Guam’s complex story is reflected in the Chamoru language, which features Spanish, English, and Japanese words. Young Chamorus are increasingly learning to embrace their culture, says Chamoru author and activist Michael Bevacqua .

“Chamoru is an Indigenous memory,” adds Bevacqua, who teaches free language lessons and encourages fellow Chamorus to voice their choice for the future of their island’s political status—whether statehood or independence. “To me, being able to speak Chamoru and pass it on is at the core of our culture and the identity of our people.”

Donggung Palace overlooks the serene waters of Wolji Pond in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea.

Gyeongju, Republic of Korea

This ancient korean kingdom still glitters.

Named Korea ’s Culture City of East Asia 2021, Gyeongju is more commonly known by its nickname: “the museum without walls.” The city, located at the southeast corner of the Korean peninsula, is home to an astonishing abundance of archaeological sites, thanks to a nearly thousand-year reign as capital of the ancient Korean kingdom of Silla (57 B.C. to A.D. 935).

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Gyeongju Historic Areas are a captivating collection of Buddhist art from this golden age. Among the treasures: temple and palace ruins, stone pagodas, rock carvings, a superb eighth-century statue of Buddha, and about 150 Silla nobility burial mounds, some up to 75 feet high.

( Related: How did South Korea prevent a COVID-19 disaster? )

Gold, silver, and gilt-bronze crowns, jewelry, and other glittering artifacts excavated from the tombs are displayed in the Gyeongju National Museum’ s “Silla the Kingdom of Gold” exhibit. Virtually tour the exhibition hall for an inside look at the lavish lifestyles of Silla royalty. —Bo-yeon Lim, Nat Geo Traveler Korea

The elegant Plaza Nueva (or Plaza de España) is a central gathering point in the Basque capital of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country, Spain

Jazz and legends in a basque cultural capital.

In the interior of Spain ’s tradition-rich Basque Country, one city claims the cultural crown. Vitoria, also known by its Basque name of Gasteiz, was historically a commercial and cultural crossroads due to its prime position on the shortest route connecting the medieval kingdom of Castile with northern Europe.

Now, Vitorians continue the tradition of welcoming outside influences by hosting emerging and legendary jazz artists—such as trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, whose Vitoria Suite album pays tribute to the city—during the international Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival held each July. A bronze statue honoring Marsalis stands in the gardens of La Florida Park, Vitoria’s green lung and part of a ring of parks giving Vitorians more square feet of green space per inhabitant than any other Spanish city. Urban nature conservation efforts coupled with a commitment to sustainable transport—a large part of the population travels by bicycle or tram—earned Vitoria-Gasteiz the title of European Green Capital in 2012.

( Related: This is how the Basques became an autonomous community within Spain .)

Planet-protecting Vitorians are equally passionate about preserving tradition, particularly in the historic quarter. The Gothic majesty of the Cathedral of Santa María tops a hill overlooking the centuries-old district. On streets that bear the names of medieval artisans’ guilds, locals throng bars and restaurants, sampling the habit-forming Basque version of tapas, known as pintxo . A plaza at the southern end of the old town is the site every August of an unusual celebration that honors the patron of the city—and the plaza’s namesake— la Virgen Blanca (the White Madonna). During the festival, a crowd gathers here to watch an effigy of a Basque villager, known as Celedón, whiz down a zip wire with his open umbrella to kick off the party. On reaching a balcony, Celedón magically “becomes” a real person who then encourages the crowd to enjoy the revels. —Sergi Ramis, Viajes National Geographic (Spain)

The picturesque countryside of Tonglu has inspired Chinese artists and writers for centuries, including the famed painter Huang Gongwang.

Tonglu, China

A chinese landscape made famous in paintings lands its first art fest.

Completed in 1350, “ Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains ” is a touchstone of traditional Chinese shanshui , or landscape painting—a flowing visual journey along the Fuchun River and mountains that, when fully unrolled, extends more than 22 feet long.

Painter Huang Gongwang, one of the Four Masters of the Yuan dynasty, lived in seclusion alongside the Fuchun River, in Tonglu, for three years before completing this handscroll masterpiece. Ever since, tranquil Tonglu—tucked in the mountains of eastern Zhejiang Province, 168 miles southwest of Shanghai —has been a source of inspiration for generations of Chinese artists and writers.

In 2021 Tonglu is once again in the art spotlight. The first Tonglu Art Triennale, originally scheduled for autumn 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic to spring 2021, will display modern art installations in fields and along the river—and, the hope is, boost rural tourism. Festival curator and director Fram Kitagawa, founder of Japan’s Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, says the very word “Tonglu” embodies the spirit of the event.

He explains, “At this season, the fog on the Fuchun River and the clouds in the mountains are intertwined with each other, which is very similar to the Chinese landscape painting I knew when I was young.” —Yi Lu, Nat Geo Traveler China

A female moose wades across a lake in Isle Royale National Park, Michigan.

Isle Royale, Michigan

Wolves and moose roam this lesser known u.s. national park.

Nature runs wild on Michigan ’s untamed Isle Royale, a best-kept secret of a national park in the northwestern corner of Lake Superior. The 45-mile-long wilderness island is only 18 miles from the shores of northeastern Minnesota , yet frequent fog banks, fierce storms, and choppy waters can make it seem edge-of-nowhere remote.

Along with causing numerous shipwrecks in the late 1800s to early 1900s, the hazardous waters surrounding Isle Royale shaped the island’s unique ecosystem. The park has only 18 mammal species (compared to more than 40 on the mainland), many of them descendants of the hardy animals who were able to swim here in summer or cross the frozen lake in winter.

( Related: See why Isle Royale National Park is a camper’s paradise .)

Since 1958, scientists have been observing Isle Royale’s most famous residents, wolves and moose, in the world’s longest predator-prey study. When only a single wolf pair remained in 2018 , a multiyear relocation plan began to restore the population, helping keep moose numbers in check and boosting the resiliency of the entire ecosystem.

Moose sightings are frequent, as are haunting loon calls. Less seen or heard are humans. The isolation and solitude mainly beckon seasoned backpackers, kayakers, and canoeists who arrive equipped to navigate Isle Royale’s roadless backcountry and inland lake paddling route, Chain of Lakes.

Brazil’s Cerrado, South America’s largest savanna, is a haven for the seven-banded armadillo and hundreds of other species.

Cerrado, Brazil

This brazilian wilderness may be the closest thing we have to a ‘jurassic park’.

Environmental victories in the Brazilian Amazon don’t always turn out to be a good thing for its lesser known biome neighbor, the Cerrado. South America ’s largest savanna, the Cerrado covers nearly a quarter of Brazil’s land surface and is extraordinarily biodiverse. But it is increasingly vulnerable to deforestation due to soybean farming and cattle ranching driven from the Amazon . More than 40,000 square miles have been destroyed in the past decade alone.

The Brazilian Campaign for the Defense of the Cerrado (“No savanna, no water, no life”) is sounding the alarm about the pressing need to save this endangered wonderland. Several of South America’s major rivers—including São Francisco, Paraná-Paraguay, and Tocantins-Araguaia—begin here, and 5 percent of the planet’s plants and animals are found here.

( Related: Brazil’s wildfires may destroy the world’s largest tropical wetland .)

The Cerrado’s dizzying variety of life includes more than 10,000 species of plants (nearly half of which exist nowhere else) and Jurassic Park –size creatures: boarlike tapirs that can top 650 pounds; rare giant armadillos weighing up to 110 pounds; and giant anteaters, threatened with extinction in Brazil, that can weigh more than a hundred pounds. Equally outsized is a giant palm tree called buriti , nesting site for some of the 850-plus bird species and a main food source for many other wild things that call the Cerrado home.

Mount Lidgbird rises over the lagoon at Lord Howe Island, Australia. Only 400 visitors are allowed at any one time to experience the natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lord Howe Island, Australia

A ‘last paradise’ in the tasman sea.

Being off the path to anywhere helped Lord Howe, a tiny island in the Tasman Sea, stay human-free until the 18th century. Today, only 400 visitors (slightly more than the permanent population) are permitted at any one time, helping protect one of Earth’s most isolated ecosystems in what locals rightfully call “the last paradise.”

While less than seven miles long and just over a mile at its widest, Lord Howe is the largest in an eponymous World Heritage -listed chain of islands, remnants of an underwater volcano that erupted millions of years ago. Surrounding the island is Lord Howe Island Marine Park , home to the southernmost coral reefs on the planet, more than 500 fish species, and a who’s who of protected and threatened marine species, including the whale shark, great white shark, and hawksbill turtle.

( Related: Explore the southernmost coral reef in the world .)

The island’s Protecting Paradise Program takes a holistic approach to biosecurity, enlisting the help of community volunteers and technology to remove destructive invasive species ( most recently rodents ) and protect endemic ones like the critically endangered Lord Howe Island Phasmid, or “walking sausage,” a big-as-your-hand stick insect thought to be extinct until 2001.

The aurora borealis swirls over Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories.

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Northern lights shine here 240 nights a year.

The story of Yellowknife , capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, reads like an adventure novel. Sitting at the edge of the Arctic , on the banks of the Great Slave Lake, and surrounded by wild taiga, the city of 20,000 came into being when gold was discovered in the area in the 1930s.

Gold mining was the main industry in Yellowknife for decades, and when the last of the local gold mines was closed in 2004, the city was already busy mining diamonds: In 1991, geologists found one of the richest diamond deposits on Earth here.

The Dene people have stewarded and traveled this land for thousands of years. Today, in the face of global challenges like COVID-19, climate change, and environmental degradation, the Dene find freedom in the land, says Catherine Lafferty, a Yellowknives Dene Nation author whose latest book, Land-Water-Sky/Ndè-Tı-Yat’a , is the first penned under her Dene name, Katłıà.

( Related: These tips will give you the best shot at experiencing the northern lights. )

“Going out on the land is one way to find peace and solace, to reconnect and to heal,” says Lafferty, who was raised in Yellowknife and writes about Indigenous injustices in northern Canada . “The land helps us to remember what is important. It is there that we can find happiness in the simplicities of nature’s gifts.”

Future visitors to Yellowknife can experience some of these gifts during nights lit by the aurora borealis shimmering over the boreal forests and countless small lakes outside the city. —Ondřej Formanek, Nat Geo Traveler Czechia

Totem poles in Vancouver’s Stanley Park are rich with meaning for several First Nations peoples from British Columbia’s west coast. Each carving refers to a real or mythical event.

Indigenous British Columbia, Canada

Where nature and first nations connect.

Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia , is home to more than 200 distinct Nations . Amid the global reckoning on race, learning about Indigenous B.C. as a family is a springboard for talking with kids about timely issues such as cultural appropriation and racial stereotypes.

With an Indigenous history that spans some 10,000 years, the province is a perfect place to embark on authentic Indigenous travel experiences hosted by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Vancouver and Vancouver Island are among the most convenient places for families to learn about Indigenous culture. The island alone has more than 45 Nations and the city offers some kid-friendly urban options, such as Talaysay Tours’ “Talking Trees” walk in Stanley Park.

( Related: How First Nations-led protests in Canada sparked a conservation movement .)

On the 90-minute forest ramble, Squamish and Shíshálh cultural ambassadors share knowledge passed down through the generations to help visitors understand how First Nations people across southern British Columbia use the land for food, medicine, and technology.

“We do not see ourselves as separate from the land,” says Candace Campo, co-owner of Talaysay Tours and a member of the Shíshálh Nation. She explains that in the Shíshálh language, they have a saying: “ Nuchutmulh , [which] means ‘we are one’ and connected to all living things.”

Ready to plan your trip? Spend four days exploring the rich wildlife and culture of Haida Gwaii with Nat Geo Expeditions.

The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Florida’s Cape Canaveral, includes Saturn, Juno, and Mercury-Redstone rockets.

Space Coast, Florida

A launchpad for wonders both in the sky and in waters below.

With all systems go for U.S. astronauts to rocket into orbit via NASA’s new Commercial Crew program, Florida ’s Atlantic shoreline east of Orlando is again at the center of space exploration. The 72-mile stretch, known as the Space Coast, includes launch facilities at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center .

At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (open with COVID-19 restrictions), families can watch scheduled blast-offs of SpaceX and Boeing spacecrafts and walk among gigantic rockets towering over a hundred feet high. A different sort of giant, the lumbering West Indian manatee, plies the waters of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge , surrounding the space center.

Tour company Florida Adventurer leads kayaking trips in the 140,000-acre refuge. By day, kayakers are treated to glimpses of manatees and dolphins. At night (June to September or later), the refuge’s Indian River Lagoon hosts an otherworldly underwater show, called bioluminescence, courtesy of billions of light-producing plankton.

( Related: Learn more about Florida’s Space Coast and its wildlife haven . )

“On bioluminescence tours, kids see light zigzagging in every direction under the water,” says Florida Adventurer owner Josh Myers. “During the day, a manatee could pop up next to their kayak and squirt water at them. Those moments are life-changing for kids, inspiring them to learn more about what lives in the water.” —Ivan Vasin, Nat Geo Traveler Russia

When completed in 2021, the England Coast Path will link existing stretches, like the South West Coast Path (Cornwall’s Atlantic coast, pictured here), with newly minted paths to create a 2,800-mile coastal trail.

England Coast Path, U.K.

An epic walk to remember.

A colossal undertaking reaches fruition in 2021 as the England Coast Path —the world’s longest seafront walking trail, stretching nearly 2,800 miles—is unveiled in its entirety.

How does a small nation successfully vie for this global title? The answer lies in England ’s geography: peer closely at a map of Great Britain and you’ll see the land meets the water in an uneven zigzag of estuaries, inlets, and promontories. That rugged seascape—awash with secretive coves, windswept bluffs, and welcoming port towns—has been intrinsic to shaping the nation’s fortunes and character. And the new England Coast Path aims to bring this prized patrimony to the people and, in so doing, protect the landscape for generations to come.

( Related: Walking in Wales reveals legends and landscapes of imagination . )

While the project was partly inspired by the opening of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path in 2012, England has a long history of coastal hiking. In the 1970s the 630-mile South West Coast Path was established as a National Trail. The England Coast Path absorbs such existing stretches and has created dozens more from scratch for a total of 67 sections. Landowners, residents, and conservationists were consulted to harmoniously enact the landmark ruling of 2009 that legally opened up England’s whole coastline to the public for the first time.

Each segment of shore has a different character. While some stretches offer unspoiled rural scenery, others have been carefully curated. Opened in September 2020, the 40-mile segment dubbed “ Cumbria’s Hidden Coas t ,” winding from Whitehaven to Millom in the country’s northwest, is dotted with art installations and adrenalized activities. Meanwhile, in the southeast, a trail christened “ England’s Creative Coast ” links artworks and plots out a digital geocaching tour across Sussex, Kent, and Essex. —Maria Pieri, Nat Geo Traveller UK

Ready to book your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions has a 16-day cruise around the ancient isles of England, Ireland, and Scotland.

A Hungarian csikós (a traditional horse herdsman) shows off his equestrian skills at Hortobágy National Park.

Hortobágy, Hungary

Cowboys and cranes in europe’s wide-open plains.

The broad spaces of Hortobágy National Park are nature-made for social distancing. Covering nearly 200,000 acres of the Great Hungarian Plain in eastern Hungary, the expansive World Heritage site preserves the largest remaining native grassland in Europe as well as pastoral traditions dating back millennia.

Poor soil for farming helped keep Hortobágy’s mosaic of alkaline marshes, meadows, pastures, and loess-steppe vegetation intact. Free from plowing and significant development, this puszta (barren land) flourished. The resulting rich grassland ecosystem, protected since 1973, provides critical habitat for some 340 bird species, including tens of thousands of winged fall migration travelers, such as gray geese and common cranes, that make the park one of central Europe’s best birding locations.

Hortobágy isn’t strictly for the birds, though. A few hundred shepherds and cowboys, called csikós , still roam the wavy grass, giving families a rare look at centuries-old animal husbandry traditions. Horse-drawn carriage tours pass by herdsmen and their puli dogs, an ancient Hungarian breed with a coat like a mop, and racka sheep, famous for their corkscrew horns. Tours typically feature demonstrations of big-thrill rodeo skills—like galloping while standing on the backs of two horses—by daring csikós dressed in their flowing, blue-and-black traditional folk wear.

( Related: Discover one of Europe’s most underrated wine regions .)

Also home on the Hortobágy range: one of the largest populations of endangered Przewalski’s horses . Some 300 wander the park’s Pentezug Wild Horse Reserve . Although the reserve isn’t open to the public, the add-on safari ride from Hortobágy Wild Animal Park rolls closely past the grazing animals—untamed residents of Hungary’s wild, wild east. —Tamás Vitray, Nat Geo Traveler Hungary

Founded in 1211, Brasov is a gateway city to the wildflower meadows and wooded mountains of rural Transylvania.

Transylvania, Romania

Finding the real in a land famous for fantasy.

One of the side effects of Dracula —the Gothic horror novel by Irish author Bram Stoker—was that it transformed Transylvania, a perfectly real Romanian region, into a mythical realm, a “cursed spot, from this cursed land, where the devil and his children still walk with earthly feet!” as the writer put it.

Since Stoker had never seen the place himself, he craftily compiled information for his 1897 novel from books written by British travel writers. He got some of the details right: the “robber steaks” (grilled beef kebabs called rablóhús ) and national dish mămăligă (a cornmeal porridge); sweet Golden Mediasch wine; descriptions of the folk wear; the roadside crosses; and the culturally complicated mix of Magyars, Saxons, Székelys, and Wallachians.

( Related: Peek inside the fortress known as “Dracula’s Castle.” )

What Stoker missed is what Transylvania should be known for: its pastoral, old-Europe feel. Cosmopolitan Cluj is a base for exploring rural Transylvania’s wildflower meadows, storybook castles, and cobbled-lane villages. For families increasingly tethered to technology, a future farm stay here would be a chance to unplug, to spend time instead traveling by horse-drawn cart, hiking in the wooded Carpathian Mountains, and helping with chores like milking sheep, collecting eggs, and piling haystacks.

Transylvania’s bucolic charms have long captivated the Prince of Wales, whose foundation funds local architectural heritage preservation projects. “It’s the timelessness of it which is so remarkable,” the future king says in the travel documentary Wild Carpathia, “almost out of some of those stories one used to read as a child.” —Catalin Gruia, Nat Geo Traveler Romania

Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions offers a four-day extension to Transylvania on its Lower Danube River cruise.

A group of traditional Aztec dancers perform during Crush Walls 2019, a popular street art festival in Denver, Colorado. Originating in central Mexico, the dance honors ancestors and represents different relationships with the Earth, animals, time, and customs.

Denver, Colorado

A green giant of a city in the american west.

Despite financial challenges related to COVID-19, Denver is powering forward with its goal of achieving 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030. Among the latest forward-thinking initiatives are 125 miles of new bike lanes by 2023 and solar gardens to be “planted” on municipal parking lots, rooftops, and vacant land in 2021.

“Investments in Denver’s clean energy economy will strengthen our community and address multiple concerns including our carbon footprint,” says Grace Rink, executive director of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency . Along with producing clean energy for public buildings, vehicle charging stations, and nearby low-income neighborhoods, the gardens will grow jobs and a paid training program during construction.

Connecting climate action and sustainability to economic prosperity and social justice has helped Denver earn the coveted LEED for Cities Platinum Certification . To encourage business owners to join the effort by putting eco-friendly solutions to work, Colorado ’s capital offers free, customized sustainability plans through Certifiably Green Denver . Thanks to the program, nearly 2,000 Denver businesses are creating greener, more efficient operations that use less water and energy, and produce less air pollution and waste.

( Related: Discover the best of Denver with top 10 tips .)

“We’re so fortunate to live in this beautiful place,” says Adam Schlegel, co-founder of Chook , a Certifiably Green restaurant that champions sustainable food practices, “and with that fortune comes the responsibility to protect it.”

Divers explore a bounty of amphora from a fifth-century B.C. shipwreck—the first to be open to the public in Greece—in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades.

Alonissos, Greece

Mediterranean haven for seals—and a deep dive into an ancient shipwreck.

Called “the Parthenon of shipwrecks,” the eerie remains of the ancient Peristera shipwreck recently opened as the first underwater museum in Greece accessible to recreational divers. Located below the surface in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades , the site is thought to hold cargo from a large Athenian barge that sank in the fifth century B.C. Limiting human activity in the 873-square-mile marine park—established in 1992, primarily to save the endangered Mediterranean monk seal —helped keep archaeological looters at bay, preserving the wreck site and its bounty of intact, two-handled wine jars.

( Related: How Greece is rethinking its once bustling tourism industry .)

To explore the submerged museum in person, you’ll need to be able to dive to depths of 80 feet or more on a guided tour (slated to resume in summer 2021). Or, visit the information center on the small island of Alonissos and embark on a virtual reality tour of the wreck —no swimming required. —Lakshmi Sankaran, Nat Geo Traveller India

Since 2005, the Loango Gorilla Project has been studying a population of critically endangered western lowland gorillas in Loango National Park, Gabon.

More than 11 percent of this African country is national parkland

Elephants and hippos walk undisturbed on the beaches of Gabon —“Africa’s last Eden,” according to National Geographic explorer-in-residence Mike Fay —where more than 11 percent of the country is national parkland encompassing white-sand shorelines and inland forests.

Not all of Gabon’s 13 national parks are readily accessible. But Loango alone offers a variety of landscapes, vegetation, and wildlife, as well as the waterside Loango Lodge . One of this standout park’s highlights is an encounter with critically endangered western lowland gorillas . One group per day of four people maximum is allowed to try and find them, with no guarantee of success. In Pongara, one of five national parks protecting important sea turtle habitat, the beachfront Pongara Lodge offers close-up views of nesting leatherbacks, November to March, and migratory whales and dolphins, June to August.

( Related: Here are 17 unforgettable African safaris .)

Thanks to global investment in the country’s transportation networks, visiting Gabon—where an estimated 80 percent of the landmass is still covered by forest—is expected to become easier in the future. A sustainable development strategy also promises to expand ecotourism responsibly, helping ensure the country’s wildest places stay wild. —Barbera Bosma, Nat Geo Traveler Netherlands

The crystalline waters of New Caledonia harbor more than 9,000 marine species, including stingrays.

New Caledonia

Where marine life frolics in the south pacific.

Humpback whales, green sea turtles, dugongs—all congregate in the welcoming waters of New Caledonia . This French territory comprises a group of islands set like jewels in the southwest Pacific Ocean, some 900 miles off the east coast of Australia.

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, New Caledonia’s lagoons represent one of the most extensive reef systems in the world, with pristine waters and more than 9,000 marine species. In 2014, the government created the 500,000-square-mile Coral Sea Natural Park , which extends well beyond the UNESCO site. Christophe Chevillon, senior manager at the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy , says the establishment of the Coral Sea park was “a notable and critical step for the conservation of New Caledonia’s waters as well as the protection of the last virgin coral reefs in the world.”

Now, the territory has taken further steps to ensure the long-term sustainability of its unique marine sanctuary. Fishing, nautical sports, and boats carrying more than 200 passengers are forbidden in large parts of the park, while some areas are banned from any human activity at all, except scientific research. A coral farm will open on Lifou island to restore reefs damaged by tourism in the past.

( Related: Can new science save Australia’s dying coral reef? )

Inland, the government is promoting ecotours and a new law aiming to ban all disposable plastic products by 2022. Tourism is strictly regulated in provincial parks, and the Giant Fern Park —a must-see in the tropical rainforest on the main island—is divided into zones for walking and biking while others are left to nature. —Marie-Amélie Carpio, Nat Geo Traveler France

CopenHill, billed as one of the cleanest waste-to-energy plants in the world, doubles as a year-round ski slope and hiking path in Copenhagen, which is aiming to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025.

Copenhagen, Denmark

A cosmopolitan capital creating sustainable solutions that pay off.

The widespread inequalities unmasked by the COVID-19 pandemic have ignited global interest in making cities more resilient, equitable, and healthy. In other words, a city like Copenhagen , on track to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025.

“In Copenhagen we insist on green solutions because they pay off,” the city’s Lord Mayor Frank Jensen says in We Have the Power to Move the World , the sustainable transport guidebook for mayors produced by C40 , a network of cities committed to addressing climate change.

“Copenhagen’s green transformation goes hand in hand with job creation, economic growth, and a better quality of life,” he says.

Denmark ’s capital has long targeted sustainability. The city has a very efficient public transportation network, and all its buses are transitioning from diesel-fueled to electric.

CopenHill , a waste-to-energy power plant burning 70 tons of waste per hour, produces clean energy for 60,000 families, while heating 120,000 homes. In 2019, CopenHill opened its outdoor play areas to the public: a rooftop green space, including hiking trails and a year-round ski and snowboard slope, and a stacked-block facade climbing wall.

Planet-friendly urban planning—such as the web of cycling paths that more than 60 percent of residents use to pedal to work and school every day—has resulted in Copenhagen having five times more bicycles than cars. A tour on an electric bike easily takes in the city’s most well-known places, from Nyhavn , a former industrial port now lined with restaurants and bars, to Rundetaarn , a 17th-century astronomical observatory housing exhibitions. It’s no surprise that bike-centric Copenhagen was chosen to host the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in July 2022. —Marco Cattaneo, Nat Geo Traveler Italy

Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions offers a 10-day Scandinavian cruise that departs from Copenhagen.

The vibrant German university town of Freiburg holds a weekly farmers’ market in front of its historic cathedral and implements a number of best practices in sustainable living.

Freiburg, Germany

This german university town is schooling the world on the best green practices.

Germany ’s vibrant university city of Freiburg readily embraces sustainable living. Mainly known as the gateway to the Black Forest, Freiburg is remarkably green, both in appearance and in action. Woodland covers more than 40 percent of the urban area. Renewables, such as solar, biomass, wind, and hydroelectricity, power the city, which converts its trash into biomass energy. Walking, biking, e-buses, and trams are the main modes of transportation, boosting chances Freiburg will meet its goals of cutting CO2 emissions in half or more by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

( Related: In Germany, industrial sites are now artful enclaves .)

Best practices in green infrastructure—including cooperative housing with rooftop solar panels, urban gardens, and incentives for living car-free—were baked into Freiburg’s Vauban district, developed on a reclaimed brownfield site. Recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable city quarters, Vauban was shaped by a citizen-led vision of an ecological, self-organized, and socially just neighborhood. Completed in 2016, Quartier Vauban has grown into Freiburg’s most densely populated district, demonstrating that if cities build sustainably, people will come. —Werner Siefer, Nat Geo Traveler Germany

Related Topics

• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• WILDLIFE WATCHING
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

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25 Places You Need To Visit In Your Lifetime

When planning a vacation, it's important to pick the right destination. You don't want to end up in a disappointing place that lacks fantastic photo opportunities, interesting historical sites, delicious cuisine, or breathtaking landscapes.

Throughout the United States and around the world, you'll find islands, cities, and entire countries that are definitely worth the trip. Some are worth checking out for their beaches, whereas others are world-renowned for their nightlife, world-class museums, or iconic landmarks. No matter what you're looking to do, you'll definitely make some fabulous memories at these 25 places you need to visit in your lifetime.

1. Athens, Greece

Even if you're not a history buff, a visit to the city known as the "birthplace of democracy" and the "cradle of Western civilization" is sure to be a fun and fascinating learning experience. The heart of Ancient Greece and today the modern nation's capital and largest city, Athens is home to many historically significant sites such as the Parthenon, the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Agora, and the Erechtheion. 

2. The Bahamas

Bask in the Caribbean sun among clear blue waters and white sand beaches in the Bahamas, a top destination on an island bucket list. Stay at one of the many amazing hotels and resorts and try out the island's famous rum on a rum distillery tour. Also known for its stunning sunsets and rising food scene, the Bahamas hosts an amazing street festival known as Junkanoo on Boxing Day and New Year's Day. 

3. Bali, Indonesia

Renowned for its beauty, the island of Bali is one of Indonesia's 33 provinces and home to more than 4 million people. Bali's beautiful beaches, gorgeously green jungles, stunning ancient temples, and delicious cuisine have been drawing tourists from around the world since the 1980s. Relax at a world-class spa, peruse one of the island's bustling street markets or enjoy the Balinese arts scene, which includes notably unique traditional and modern dance as well as sculpture, painting, music, and metalworking.

4. Bangkok, Thailand

You can find the best of Thailand's world-famous cuisine, palaces, massage spas, and cultural performances in its capital, Bangkok. Explore the city with one of its many bicycle or tuk tuk (Thailand's version of the rickshaw) tours, take Muay Thai lessons, or visit one of the city's many unbelievable temples.

5. Beijing, China

The cultural, political, and educational center of China, Beijing is home to more than 21 million people, as well as the largest number of Fortune Global 500 companies in the world and the world's four biggest financial institutions. In addition to 91 universities and a growing skyline and technological scene, the city has multiple attractions of historic and cultural importance, such as the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Ming Tombs, and the Great Wall of China itself.

6. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is the perfect South American destination for any art lover. Known for its design, galleries, and tango dancing, the Argentinian capital is filled with fantastic Latin American arts and culture. Check out the La Boca neighborhood, known for its artistic pedestrian-only street, or Boedo, home to many tango houses. The Feria de Mataderos cultural market is another great experience where you can shop and enjoy dancers, musicians, and gaucho demonstrations.

7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica's beauty and biodiversity makes it the ultimate ecotourism destination. National parks and protected areas make up more than 23 percent of the country, and while Costa Rica accounts for only 0.03 percent of the Earth's landmass, it is home to 5 % of its biodiversity. Its natural wonders can be enjoyed with breathtaking ziplining tours, intense hikes through its forests, or by taking to its gorgeous shores. In addition, the Central American nation is also home to delicious (and cheap) food, great coffee, and a lively Latin culture.

Cruising down the Nile is a life-changing travel experience that should definitely be on your bucket list. Visit the iconic Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, and take a trip to the Grand Egyptian Museum, where you can see more than 100,000 artifacts from the time of ancient Egyptian pharaohs, including the mummy and funeral mask of King Tutankhamun. Outside of Cairo, it's worth taking a trip to historical Alexandria, cosmopolitan Port Said, ancient Luxor, or the resorts of the enchanting Siwa Oasis or Sharm el-Shaikh.

9. Florence, Italy

Florence — or Firenze in Italian — is unmatched as a destination for Western art and architecture. Considered the birthplace of the European Renaissance, the city's historic center as a whole is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Explore numerous art galleries and museums, the most notable of which are the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti. Climb the 463 steps of the stunning Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral for a breathtaking view of the city from its famous dome built by Filippo Brunelleschi, see Michelangelo's statue of David, and if you have the time, visit the nearby city of Pisa.

10. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul may not be the official capital of Turkey, but it's definitely the cultural one. Delicious Turkish kebabs and teas await you, as well as gorgeous handcrafted jewelry and ceramics at the Grand Bazaar. Istanbul also has some of the most gorgeous mosques in the world, most notably the Hagia Sophia and the iconic Blue Mosque. Make sure you also stop by the Topkapı Palace, which houses relics that are said to have belonged to several figures important to the Abrahamic religions, including Abraham, Moses, and David, among others.

11. Jamaica

A Caribbean island characterized by beaches with reefs, lush mountains, and rainforests, lively music and friendly locals, Jamaica is the ultimate destination for relaxation. Stay at a top all-inclusive Caribbean resort, soak in some sun on one of the island's pristine beaches, and enjoy some live music and Jamaican jerk chicken or curry.

The ancient city of Petra, possibly established as early as the fourth century B.C., is a site to marvel at with its gorgeous, rock-cut architecture and impressive water conduit system. Jordan is also home to both the Dead Sea and Red Sea, as well as Wadi Rum, an impressive, Martian-like red desert, and many Bedouin camps where you can experience true native Jordanian cuisine and culture.

13. Las Vegas, Nevada

Since the 1930s, legalized gambling has made Las Vegas one of the most popular tourist destinations in America. While you could definitely spend an entire weekend trying your luck at the city's many impressive casinos, Las Vegas is so much more than "Sin City." You can invest your money in fine dining instead of gaming, or you can drive a race car on an actual race track, go indoor skydiving, or learn some risqué moves from local exotic dancers. The Adventuredome at Circus Circus is the country's largest theme park, and the city also has a huge aquarium, an impressive classic car showroom in the form of the Auto Collections, multiple gardens, and museums dedicated to art, neon signs, and even the mob.

14. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal's capital has a rich culture and history, as can be seen in its many cathedrals, monuments, and museums full of art and artifacts chronicling Portugal's ancient history, as well as its rise and fall as a colonial superpower. Travelers are finally starting to give this old European city the attention it deserves, particularly thanks to its food and drink scene, which is influenced by Moorish, African, South Asian, South American, and East Asian flavors.

15. Madrid, Spain

A trip to Spain definitely has to include a trip to its capital; Madrid is known for its architecture and, of course, its Spanish cuisine. Visit the Palacio Real, or Royal Palace, the official residence of the king, or catch a flamenco show for some amazing Spanish history and culture.

16. Morocco

Morocco is a seriously hot destination — figuratively as well as literally. Offering the best of Middle Eastern beauty in terms of architecture and natural scenery, this country has plenty of must-visit stops. The city of Marrakesh is full of palaces and street markets to explore, and it's home to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where fashion lovers can visit the famous designer's Marrakesh studio and home. Less than a mile from there lie the Atlas Mountains, perfect for hiking and taking on Kasbah Toubkal, the country's highest peak. Visit Tétouan, known for its carpets and World Heritage Site medina. It's also the site of a burgeoning modern Moroccan art movement and the colorful streets of Chefchaouen, or Essaouira, a resort town with great beaches for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

17. Mumbai, India

Also known by its earlier colonial name of Bombay, Mumbai is the largest city in India. A melting pot of the nation's many different cultures and ethnicities, you'll find all kinds of restaurants to represent those cultures, serving delicious South Asian cuisine from across the subcontinent as well as around the world. The city is also home to all sorts of religious sites important to all of India's religious minorities, as well as its majority Hindu population. Catch a movie in the hometown of Bollywood— or even see if you can watch one being shot in its streets.

18. Paris, France

One of the most romantic cities in the world, Paris is home to some of Europe's most famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the nearby, breathtakingly opulent Versailles. Visit the largest art museum in the world in the Louvre Palace, home to iconic works such as the Mona Lisa, the Code of Hammurabi, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and enjoy fine dining unlike anywhere else in the world.

19. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Known for its party culture and world-renowned beaches, Rio de Janeiro is a nonstop celebration. Catch a game at Maracanã Stadium, once the world's largest (and still currently South America's) stadium, and take on the nightlife for some great samba. Visit in late winter, usually February, to take part in the phenomenon that is Rio's Carnival, probably the world's most famous of its kind.

20. Rome, Italy

The capital of Italy is an absolute must-see for any traveler. Home of the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon, it's just asking to be on your Instagram feed. Make sure you get a taste of the local gelato (outside of the main tourist spots, so you don't get overcharged) and a slice of thin-crusted Roman pizza before you leave. Rome also holds Vatican City within its borders, where you can find St. Peter's Basilica and some of the greatest art in the Vatican Museums.

21. Santorini, Greece

Repeatedly ranked the world's top island over the years, the Greek island of Santorini welcomes approximately two million tourists annually. Its fame as a breathtakingly romantic getaway is largely thanks to Oia, a town with gorgeous sunsets that are only more stunning when serving as a backdrop for the white buildings and blue domes perched on its seaside cliffs. Lava from the island's volcanoes makes up the sands of its renowned beaches, many of which are varying colors, such as the Black Beach, Red Beach, and White Beach.

22. Singapore

The city-state of Singapore is a leading East Asian destination and the second most densely populated country in the world with 5.6 million people packed into only 300 square miles of land. A lot of those people are workers and expats from around the globe, which makes for an impressive culture and cuisine, with influences from the Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities that have thrived here. It's also one of the safest countries on the planet, although that doesn't make it boring; Singapore has some of the best food, shopping, and nightlife along with many beaches and tourist resorts.

23. South Africa

South Africa offers everything from safaris to cosmopolitan city life to beaches to historical sites. Enjoy iconic street food like bunny chow, hit world-class beaches like Camps Bay Beach, and stay in affluent hotels in the Western Cape. Hotel rates aren't bad at all, particularly in the summer when it's wintertime here, and safaris and tours won't drain your wallet either.

24. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital boasts a population of over 13 million people and 23 separate wards, each with its own distinct personality, so a single visit here will barely scratch the surface of what this great city has to offer. Don't leave without trying some of the best sushi in the world or exploring Tokyo's shops full of funky fashions, anime paraphernalia, the latest electronics, and snacks in literally every flavor you can imagine (and some you can't). In addition to the city's many quirky attractions, Tokyo also offers the best of traditional Japanese culture — the city is full of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, and opportunities to participate in or observe tea ceremonies, martial arts, or calligraphy lessons.

25. Vietnam

Vietnam is a vastly overlooked and fascinating destination, with a tumultuous history and beautiful East Asian culture with French influences. Check out the museums and monuments, many of which chronicle the Vietnam War, in Ho Chi Minh City, and catch a cultural show, especially at the Saigon Opera House. Hanoi is growing fast as a top destination, and it also has great museums, as well as gorgeous parks and temples plus street food that you can check out with a guided tour. In the northeastern part of the country, the stunning limestone islands of Ha Long Bay are a sight to see, perfect for kayaking past.

TPG's top destinations for every decade of your life

The desire for bigger, more extravagant trips has never been greater. In 2022, Google searches for epic destinations skyrocketed, purse strings loosened and recruitment of travel experts reached record numbers.

Now more than ever, travelers are planning and fine-tuning their dream trips, with many booking them months — or even years — in advance. In fact, 55% of travelers planned to book a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in 2022, according to data from American Express' 2022 Global Travel Trends Report .

At TPG, we're all about seizing the moment (bring on those last-minute flight deals ), but we are also firm believers in the adage: so many places, so little time.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Limits on time and resources, as well as looming health considerations for some, mean that a well-conceived game plan will help ensure you experience the places, people and cultural attractions on your bucket list at the optimal time.

Everyone's fantasy travel list is different. There are no hard and fast rules as to which places you should visit and when. Depending on which types of trips you're hoping to take, you may find that with some careful planning and forethought, they can be tweaked to cater to your individual needs, circumstances and desires.

However, there's no denying that some trips are best enjoyed at a certain phase of life. It's not hard to understand why backpacking around Southeast Asia has become a rite of passage for travelers in their 20s, while spiritual journeys and cruises are no doubt ideal for those over 50.

To embrace the current mood for planning and provide some inspiration and helpful tips, we've come up with our top three destinations for each decade of your (adult) life. Read on to see which places you should visit as you reach each decade milestone.

In your 20s

Colombia has all the magical realism you'd expect of the land that inspired acclaimed novelist Gabriel García Márquez.

One of South America's most diverse destinations (and the second-most biodiverse country on Earth) Colombia provides a rich (and at times dizzying) initiation into the wonders of Latin America. An ideal destination for intrepid 20-something travelers with lots of time on their hands, the country packs cultural attractions, outdoor adventures and spectacular scenery into a relatively compact, accessible area.

Between jungle-fringed Caribbean and Atlantic coastlines, you can climb snow-capped mountains, eat gourmet cuisine in rainbow-hued colonial cities and explore the mystical archaeological ruins of Ciudad Perdida.

The highlight for most travelers, Cartagena, is the nation's crown jewel and contender for the most romantic city in South America. Meanwhile, Medellín draws digital nomads to its world-class restaurants, dazzling architecture, bold community projects and compelling street life.

With interregional buses, cheap domestic flights and an array of affordable accommodations, budget travelers can explore widely and comfortably.

Related: Being the Points Guy: How to book a trip to Colombia using points and miles

For 50 years, Interrail has been a rite of passage for travelers in their 20s. During the golden age of the gap year, Europeans traveled wild and free across the continent, bedding down at hostels and pensions as they spent weeks or months exploring the continent's cultural riches, majestic landscapes and compelling history.

Interrail inspired generations of travelers, helping shape the idea that travel was as much about the journey, mishaps and culture shock as it was about checking off must-see sites and landmarks. Times have changed and borders have been redrawn, but the essence of Interrail endures.

There are all kinds of Interrail pass options available, depending on how long and far you wish to travel. A Global Pass, which provides unlimited travel across 33 countries for three months, costs 677 euros (about $675). The cheapest Global Pass allows you to travel for four days in any one-month period for 185 euros ($184).

Rich in history, cultural diversity and natural beauty, Vietnam beguiles and confounds in equal measure. It offers a compelling war history; an architectural timeline that spans French colonial mansions, Chinese temples and glass and steel skyscrapers; enigmatic Indigenous cultures and downright bizarre street life — just crossing the street in Hanoi is a test of faith.

Vietnam's topography ranges from the heavenly to the surreal with jungle-fringed beaches, 400-million-year-old karst mountains, intricate cave systems and the verdant rice paddies of the Mekong Delta. Over the last decade, the country has become a haven for adventure seekers who come to motorbike the switchbacks of the Hai Van Pass, trek through the Indigenous heartland of Sapa, dive among kaleidoscopic fish at Nha Trang and rock climb at Lan Ha.

Despite its rising popularity as a travel hot spot, Vietnam remains one of the world's most enticing destinations for budget travelers. Luxurious hotels, indulgent spa treatments and, arguably, the best and most complex food in Southeast Asia can all be experienced on a shoestring budget. You can travel with relative ease and comfort for $50 per day and splurge on a $100 five-star hotel when the mood takes you.

In your 30s

French polynesia.

The ultimate honeymoon dreamscape , French Polynesia's otherworldly beauty is seared in the collective consciousness. This heavenly collection of 118 islands and atolls ringed by coral reefs is synonymous with the image of luxurious overwater bungalows strewn across a crystal-clear lagoon.

Many would claim that Moorea, with its lushly forested ridges and aquamarine lagoon, is the most beautiful island in the world. The remote Marquesas Islands are steeped in legend and lore, and far-flung jewels, such as Maupiti and Huahine, summon images of old Polynesia and American writer James Michener's mythical Bali Hai.

Active travelers can surf at Teahupo'o on Tahiti , dive and snorkel with manta rays and yellow-tipped sharks on Bora Bora , sail the tranquil lagoons of Raiatea (French Polynesia's boating capital) or visit a vanilla plantation on Taha'a.

French Polynesia never fails to disappoint at any age, even when traveling with young children , but the castaway fantasy, unbridled indulgence and unencumbered relaxation make it especially appealing to well-heeled, celebrating couples.

Related: Well worth the wait: Air Tahiti Nui to French Polynesia in premium economy

One of the finest destinations in Europe for active travelers, Slovenia has long been one of the continent's best-kept secrets. Majestic peaks, emerald green lakes and a picturesque Adriatic coastline set the stage for epic hiking , skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, rafting and spelunking adventures.

In hilltop towns and villages, there's a grandeur and cosmopolitan vibe that belies the small scale of this former Communist outpost.

Slovenia works its magic on travelers who are comfortable exploring without a fixed box-ticking itinerary. Not to mention, the country's lack of large crowds (unlike other spots in Europe) means your euros will go much further.

Ljubljana is a charming, welcoming capital city full of elegant architecture, restaurants and cafes. Less than 45 minutes away, Lake Bled is simply stunning (kayaking or swimming to its fairy-tale islet, framed by the Julian Alps, reveals some of Europe's most captivating panoramas).

For avid hikers, the Slovenian Mountain Trail extends for more than 362 miles and is every bit as awe-inspiring as the iconic peaks of the Swiss or French Alps.

Featuring cosmopolitan cities, boho beach towns, epic outdoor adventures and dramatic scenery, Australia is a playground for time-rich, thrill-seeking travelers looking to combine bucket list outdoor experiences with world-class cultural pursuits.

Melbourne and Sydney are among the world's great lifestyle cities, rounding out high-octane activities with vibrant art scenes, eclectic dining and the irrepressible verve that characterizes the land Down Under. Beyond New South Wales' spirited cities, travelers can explore waterfalls, bushlands and mountains preserved by 200-plus national parks .

With laid-back beaches, buzzing coastal towns and unspoiled islets, Queensland lives up to its tourist moniker as the "The Sunshine State." Every itinerary should feature the Great Barrier Reef — Australia's "Blue Outback" and one of the world's seven natural wonders — as well as beautiful Uluru, which has a powerful effect on all who visit.

Related: The best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia

In your 40s

One of the world's most authentic safari destinations, few places inspire awe and wonder quite like Kenya.

As one of life's greatest travel indulgences, a safari needs careful planning, know-how and a healthy budget. The average cost for a high-end safari lodge exceeds $1,200 per person, per night.

Since most flights from the U.S. take more than 20 hours, it's well worth saving up your points and miles for business-class seats — unless you don't mind paying out of pocket. The good news is that if you choose the right safari lodge, every detail is planned to a tee.

The emblematic savannah of the Masai Mara forms the nation's most prized game park, which is populated with 450-plus animal species, including the iconic Big Five. Since the 1980s, it's been hailed for its conservation efforts.

For the ultimate safari experience, choose a lodge located on a private conservancy so you can experience incredible wildlife spotting from your private deck. While it may be hard to pull yourself away from your accommodations, be sure to venture out in the company of your chosen lodge's expert naturalists, who can guide you to all of the best spots for prime views without crowds.

Try to time your trip to coincide with the Great Migration, when more than 2 million wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti and Masai Mara in what is undoubtedly the world's most spectacular wildlife event.

Related: Everything you need to know about going on safari in Africa

Machu Picchu

The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is one of the world's most awe-inspiring attractions. Nested amid soaring Andean peaks, the mythical Lost City has been full of awe and mystery since it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

Famed for its spectacular panoramas, the well-maintained, 26-mile trail to the site takes four days to complete. Dotted with Incan ruins, the path from Ollantaytambo has been a popular trek for gap year backpackers for decades — and we certainly wouldn't discourage that timing.

Witnessing the world's most famous archaeological site in your 40s has its merits, though. Unassuming Aguas Calientes is the launch pad for budget-conscious adventures, but if you have the means, several upscale lodges, such as Belmond's Sanctuary Lodge, allow unrivaled access to the site, a more characterful aesthetic and luxury amenities.

For families, Machu Picchu is an incredible shared experience that lives long in the memory bank. The abridged two-day Inca Trail hike can be tackled with active kids who are at least 10 years old. Arriving at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and staring down at the stone terraces and mist-shrouded peaks fulfills the lost world fantasies of even the most tech-centric tweens and teens.

Known as the "Switzerland of South America," Costa Rica endures as one of Latin America's most thrilling adventure travel destinations. Famous for its staggering biodiversity and varied topography — rainforests, cloud forests, volcanoes and wild coastline — the country beckons to nature-loving families with older children.

Raft the Class III and Class IV rapids of the Pacuare River, hike through lush primary forests, traverse the suspended bridges of Monteverde's Sky Walk and come face to face with monkeys, toucans and sloths.

Sheltered coves and rugged, jungle-fringed sands extend the length of the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines. Surfers ride the world-class breaks of legendary Witch's Rock, while novice wave riders flock to Tamarindo for consistent, gentle waves and a laid-back vibe.

For couples looking to unwind and rejuvenate, Costa Rica's wellness resorts brilliantly channel the national motto, "Pura Vida." Acclaimed wilderness lodges immerse families with budding naturalists in the wonders of the rainforest. One of the best ecolodges on the continent, Lapa Rios Lodge, is located on the remote Osa Peninsula, a bastion of biodiversity and sanctuary for Costa Rica's critically endangered jaguar and tapir populations.

In your 50s

South africa.

Home to primal landscapes populated with charismatic wildlife and cities shaped over centuries by distinct cultural influences, the "rainbow nation" exhilarates even the most world-weary traveler.

Without a doubt, Cape Town is one of the world's most beautiful cities, and its must-see sights and experiences can be appreciated by travelers of all mobility levels. Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, explore Cape Malay culture in the Bo-Kaap enclave and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for 18 years.

A coastal drive along the Western Cape culminates with the best land-based whale watching in the world in Hermanus. Meanwhile, bustling Stellenbosch combines outstanding viticulture, Cape Dutch architecture and magnificent scenery — all of which are best experienced with a private guide.

A safari is a linchpin for most itineraries (as it should be). An early morning game drive through Kruger National Park, a world-renowned wildlife destination in northeastern South Africa , should be on every visitor's itinerary. Spending an afternoon watching elephants congregate around a watering hole from your private deck is a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

When money is no object, the private reserve of Sabi Sands is the pinnacle of the luxury safari experience, with acclaimed lodges such as Singita and Londolozi channeling eclectic styles from plush colonial suites to rustic Afro-chic accommodations. They come complete with impeccable service, resort-style amenities and some of the best wildlife viewing on Earth.

Related: Safaris, cities and lots of elephants: How I returned to South Africa this year using points, miles and cash

Big Sky Country captures the imagination with its unexplored wilderness, off-beat frontier spirit and cowboy lore. It encompasses three of the nation's most cherished national parks — Yellowstone , Glacier and Grand Teton — where ancient glaciers, 100-foot-tall geysers, serrated mountain ranges, rock wall canyons and pristine alpine lakes await adventure-seeking travelers.

But you don't need to be in prime shape to marvel at "America's best idea." Glacier National Park's rugged landscapes are accessible to all travelers thanks to its sublime 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of America's most scenic drives .

Montana is also an ideal destination for a multigenerational trip . Stay at a luxurious dude ranch, such as the highly lauded Mountain Sky Guest Ranch (which sits 30 scenic miles away from Yellowstone's north entrance) to enjoy guided national park excursions, as well as a plethora of on-site activities, including horseback riding, hiking and fly fishing, that will keep younger family members entertained. The ranch's signature Yellowstone horseback ride gives families young and old the chance to view the park's famed boilings and bubblings from the saddle.

An enigmatic fusion of East and West, Japan never fails to ignite the senses. Within the space of a few blocks, the infectious dynamism of fast fashion and flashing neon advertisements gives way to the Zen calm of stone gardens, Shinto shrines and traditional tea ceremonies.

Japan's favorite rituals are panaceas for travelers in their 50s. Hot spring baths promise rejuvenation and cure-alls for every ailment, cherry blossom season is as much a philosophical musing on the cycle of life as it is a gorgeous natural show and catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji from the window of the Shinkansen inspires the awe that has captivated poets for centuries.

There's a serenity to Kyoto, with its ancient lantern-lit streets, jewel box temples and the finest ryokan (traditional inns) in the country. Tokyo is always racing toward the future, offering its famously frenzied Shibuya crossing, insatiable appetite for technology and unabashed consumerism. In fact, the latter has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other global city — 226, to be exact — giving even the most dedicated foodies reason to proclaim the city as the best destination for sushi.

In your 60s

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Nestled beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at an elevation of 7,000 feet, the New Mexico capital has become a haven for travelers in search of spiritual fulfillment. Shrines, sacred ruins, New Age institutes and yoga centers offer healing and enlightenment for travelers at a crossroads in life.

As one of the world's greatest art centers, Santa Fe is celebrated for its rich tricultural heritage (Puebloan, Spanish and Anglo-American), vibrant arts scene and striking adobe architecture. Galleries and artisan studios line Canyon Road, and open-air concerts at the world-famous Santa Fe Opera draw opera devotees from all across the globe.

Santa Fe's mystical desert landscapes are immortalized by the late painter Georgia O'Keeffe, the "Mother of American Modernism." The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, housed in a former Baptist church, holds the world's largest repository of the late artist's works.

The city has also become a mainspring for innovative Southwestern flavors and cuisine. A major destination for foodies, it hosts dozens of food festivals, events and winery tastings each year. Not to mention, some of the West's most acclaimed restaurants can be found here.

Related: Escape on a budget: 13 domestic destinations with an international feel

European rivers

A European river cruise provides less mobile travelers the chance to experience Europe's most celebrated attractions in an intimate setting without needing to unpack more than once. From the comfort of your private deck, you can simply relax and take in the changing scenery. Expect Gothic church spires rising above medieval neighborhoods, families shopping in colorful Sunday markets, art nouveau mansions lining river banks and animals grazing in rolling fields.

Smaller river ships place you at the heart of ancient towns and cities where you can explore destinations at your own pace or choose to join a guided tour. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, check out world-class museums and galleries, dine on local cuisine or just settle into the rhythms of local life for a day.

Weeklong cruises along the Danube and the Rhine are among the most popular itineraries, but there are countless options and combinations to consider, including themed sailings, such as AmaWaterways' "Melodies of the Danube," which focuses on the river's poetic, artistic and musical inspirations.

The most exclusive cruises offer five-star services and amenities (think: suites decorated with bespoke furnishings, cuisine crafted by award-winning chefs, private butlers, beautiful spas and movie theaters) across the board. Many provide exclusive excursions, too, such as private ballet performances in palaces, while others allow for more active pursuits like cycling through the tulip fields of Holland.

Related: The 10 most exciting new river cruise ships of 2021

Galapagos Islands

The inspiration for Charles Darwin's theory of evolution and an ecological treasure, Ecuador's famed Galapagos Islands are known for their endemic, fearless wildlife. The archipelago's extreme isolation (596 miles off the coast of Ecuador) defied human settlement until the 19th century. And as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the national park continues to preserve flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth.

Tourist activity is restricted to 60 designated visitor sites spread across the 19-island archipelago. During excursions on land and at sea, you'll encounter sea lions, marine iguanas, penguins, giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies that remain nonchalant and at ease in the presence of humans. Creatures will perform, mate, sunbathe, dance and swoon before your very eyes. It's an experience that few travelers will ever forget.

The best way to access the sites is via a cruise boat or, for those who struggle with seasickness, day trips from hotels on inhabited islands. While you can certainly pull off a last-minute trip, deciding among the hundreds of cruises and itineraries requires careful consideration and planning.

In your 70s and beyond

Alaska cruise.

From calving glaciers to whales breaching alongside a Zodiac, few places inspire awe quite like the Last Frontier. With its vast scale and raw, intimidating landscapes, Alaska can be a challenging place to visit at any age.

Opting for a seven- or 14-night Alaska cruise itinerary affords the same close encounters with Alaska's signature landscapes and cultural sites but with greater ease, comfort and luxury.

As one of the world's top cruise destinations, there are ships and itineraries for every type of traveler. Classic itineraries venture through the Inside Passage to western Canada , stopping at Skagway, Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, Strait Point and Victoria, British Columbia, while smaller ships such as those from Lindblad Expeditions have the flexibility to change course to follow a pod of whales or access more remote locations such as Wrangell, one of Alaska's oldest communities.

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer resort-style amenities and around-the-clock entertainment that cater well to multigenerational travelers. Depending on the cruise you choose, you'll have access to casinos, shows, lavish spas, amusement park-style activities for kids and a wide selection of dining and drinking venues.

And both Holland America Line as well as Princess Cruises combine time sailing with overnight stays that trace the route of the Klondike Gold Rush or visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, Kenai Fjords and Wrangell-St. Elias.

U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are especially enticing beach destinations for senior snowbirds due to their diversity and logistical ease (no passport required).

St. Thomas, the West Indies' busiest cruise ship harbor, is home to Magens Bay, which is frequently cited as one of the world's most beautiful beaches thanks to its whispery white sand and azure waters. After a day at the beach, sift through designer boutiques, fashion emporiums and jewelry stores that dot the picturesque harbor of Charlotte Amalie.

Charter a yacht or take the ferry to idyllic St. John, an unspoiled haven of coral sand beaches, fragrant pine groves and lush rainforests. Preserving some of the Caribbean 's most breathtaking landscapes, Virgin Islands National Park extends across practically the entire coastline. For active travelers, St. John offers some of the best snorkeling, fishing and sailing in the Caribbean.

A major health and wellness destination, remote St. Croix is the island trio's cultural heart, offering a bohemian, multicultural verve that inspires its moniker, "cultural callaloo."

Related: 9 amazing places to use points for a trip to the Caribbean

Blessed with cultural riches, extraordinary landscapes and tantalizing cuisine , Italy can take a lifetime to fully appreciate. The birthplace of the Renaissance and home to more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than any other country, Italy's cultural preeminence is without peer.

From churches and museums filled with masterworks — Michelangelo's David, the Sistine Chapel frescoes, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" and more — to archaeological remains spanning 2,700 years, the country's antiquity is palpable wherever you travel.

Italy's gorgeous landscapes provide the perfect complement to its cultural cachet and live-in-the-moment street life. Within a few hours' drive, you can go from Alpine peaks and glacial lakes to white sand beaches ringed with coral and rolling Tuscan hills where emblematic cypress trees stand sentry.

Whether it's to rent a villa in Tuscany for a multigenerational summer vacation, take in the spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast, sail down the Grand Canal in Venice or stand awestruck before the ancient monuments of Rome , Italy is a place you can visit multiple times yet never get enough of.

28 Adventures to Travel For, From Glacier Chasing in Greenland to Sand Surfing in the Sahara

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love lounging on a faraway beach or revisiting our favorite city for the tenth time, sometimes our passports need some adventure travel—we’re talking about those once-in-a-lifetime trips that push us way outside our comfort zones. Adventure travel is a great way to see more of the world, while also testing your physical limits, and coming home with a lifetime's worth of stories to tell at parties.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the most incredible outdoor adventures for intrepid travelers, ranging from climbing Machu Picchu to skydiving in Dubai . Even if you don’t consider yourself a daredevil, you’ll still find activities that feel exciting (hello, camping under the northern lights) without too much physical—or emotional—exertion required. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your best pair of hiking boots , and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Boat under the Iguazú Falls

South America’s Iguazú Falls, located on the border of Brazil and Argentina, make all other waterfalls look like mere trickles in comparison. The system of more than 200 cascades (reaching heights of around 270 feet) can be viewed from surrounding walkways and catwalks, but we’re fans of the more adventurous vantage-point—hopping on an Iguazú Jungle inflatable raft and sailing directly under the exhilarating, high-pressure falls.

Climb to Machu Picchu

No adventurer’s must-visit list is complete without Machu Picchu , the famous Incan citadel located in the Andes. While the site can be accessed via train and bus, more active travelers can take the five-day trek along the entire 26-mile-long Inca Trail. Or, thanks to local tour operator Sam Travel Peru , you can get dropped at kilometer marker 104 and do the whole experience in 24 hours .

Sand surf in the Sahara

The dunes of the Sahara are colossal, untouched, and tailor-made for extreme sports. The desert’s rows of barchans (meaning “crescent-shaped dunes” in Turkic) have ideal shapes for sand surfing (descending the slopes on a surfboard) and sandboarding (descending the slopes on a snowboard)—and those views don’t hurt, either. Stay at Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp in Morocco, which offers sandboarding in addition to other desert activities like camel rides and quad biking.

Heli-hike in British Columbia

With CMH Heli + Skiing , you can helicopter to the steepest and deepest powder in Canada for backcountry skiing. However, come summer , the company’s guides take guests on multi-day hiking trips to terrain otherwise inaccessible, along ridgelines, through alpine meadows, and to stunning viewpoints. While these high-altitude adventures are not for the faint at heart, the accommodations are quite comfortable, with log-hewn lodges complete with full-service restaurants, spa treatments, and a rooftop hot tub to relax in before another day on the trail.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Hot air balloon over Cappadocia

A hot air balloon ride over central Turkey’s Cappadocia region provides 360-degree views of the famous limestone spires and “fairy chimneys”—something you can't get at the ground level. We recommend booking with Kapadokya Balloons , the first company that introduced hot air balloon tourism in Cappadocia. Services include transfers to and from your hotel, snacks, full insurance, and a champagne party after the flight.

Hunt for glaciers in Greenland

Greenland is relatively expensive and tricky to get to, but well worth the effort—especially since it’s one of the most untouched landscapes on the planet. Exhibit A: the hundreds-year-old icebergs and glaciers floating off the mainland, which you can get up close and personal with during a cruise excursion. ( Hurtigruten and Cruise Norway offer these sailings.)

Hop across Botswana on a mobile safari

While most safari camps stay in one place like a traditional hotel, the private canvas safaris by  Barclay Stenner Safaris are totally mobile, meaning you can pick up and move locations based on weather conditions and wildlife movements. The outfitter’s Botswana itinerary moves across the country to fauna-rich areas like the Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—get ready to follow groups of lions, hippos, elephants, and more.

Paraglide over Turkey’s Blue Lagoon

Oludeniz has one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, with pebble shores and a “blue lagoon” of aquamarine hues. The beach also happens to be one of the world's best places to paraglide, thanks to stable weather and gorgeous panoramic views. The launch site for most companies is from Babadağ mountain, with jumping-off points reaching 6,000 feet above sea level.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef

Divers and snorkelers everywhere need to experience the Great Barrier Reef at least once in their lifetime. Not only does the site have more than 400 different types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, but the natural wonder has been rapidly eroding due to coral bleaching and global warming . That means it’s more urgent than ever to see this sight in all its glory—and to understand what we are losing.

Swim through Mexico’s cenotes

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula features a wealth of unique natural beauty, particularly when it comes to its cavernous cenotes. Floating in one of these natural sinkholes is an incredible experience, as is diving through the underground cave systems . When in Tulum , visit Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) to view one of the planet’s most beautiful underwater sites or Gran Cenote for rock formations that resemble Gothic architecture.

Free-fall over Dubai at 120 miles per hour

Dubai is one of the most over-the-top cities in the world, so are you really surprised that skydiving is one of its most popular activities?  Skydive Dubai is a company located near Jumeirah Beach, offering tandem skydiving for beginners and solo jumps for licensed divers. If you thought Dubai’s skyline was impressive already, just wait until you see it while falling from 13,000 feet in the air.

Scale Half Dome at Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome trail through Yosemite may be one of the most intense hikes you’ll ever take, stretching for 16 miles and ascending more than 5,500 feet. The final 400 feet are the trickiest—hikers must climb up the steep slope with two steel cables as their only support—but the breathtaking views from the top make the effort (and terror) worth it. Afterwards, stay at The Ahwahnee, one of the most beautiful national park hotels in the country.

Swim with great white sharks in South Africa

The fishing town of Gansbaai is often considered to be the birthplace of great white shark cage diving, an activity that would make most adrenaline junkies drool. Cage diving is totally safe (despite what some low-budget shark movies might lead you to believe), but we dare you to keep your heart rate in check as you come face-to-face with an apex predator.  Marine Dynamics is one of the most popular cage diving operators in town, with a marine biologist and videographer joining every tour.

Bungee jump in New Zealand

New Zealand practically invented adventure sports when the Kawarau Bridge Bungy opened in 1988. Here you join around 38,000 annual visitors to take the 140-foot jump from the South Island's historic, steel-framed Kawarau Bridge—an activity in which the views are almost as thrilling as the fall itself.

Climb Mount Fuji

Solitary Mount Fuji is probably Japan’s most iconic natural wonder , rising 12,388 feet above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. You can get views of the landmark from many places, like Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko and even the Park Hyatt Tokyo , but it’s the views from the mountain that will give you the most bragging rights. Visit from early July to mid-September to take advantage of the official climbing season, when the designated trails and paved roads are free of snow.

Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro in Nicaragua

If you’re looking for action sports and adventure, we recommend booking a flight to Nicaragua right now. There you can kayak, surf, zipline through the jungle, and even sled down the side of an active volcano. Intrepid travelers love to climb up the 2,388-foot Cerro Negro and then “volcano board” back down (an activity where you sit or stand on a piece of plywood and slide your way down the slopes). You'll want to go with a guided group tour with this one. Bigfoot Hostels is one of many operators for excursions—for $25, you get transportation to the volcano, boards, safety equipment, snacks, and your speed clocked by a radar gun.

Take a white-knuckle drive in Norway

Who says your adrenaline can’t pump from the comfort of your car? Trollstigen is one of the world’s most popular (and  terrifying ) highways, known for its steep gradient and hairpin turns. The one-lane road passes such impressive wonders as the 1,050-foot Stigfossen waterfall, but be sure to pull over before you gawk and snap photos. There are several viewing platforms along the road that will let you take in the sites without risking a crash.

Dive Belize’s Great Blue Hole

Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue color , the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. While an aerial shot is enough to convince anyone of its beauty, scuba divers are the ones who get to experience the wonders that lie beneath: massive, 40-foot limestone stalactites and stalagmites that formed during the last glacial period.

Go canyoning in the Azores

Portugal’s Azores Islands are equal parts adventurous and beautiful, inviting travelers to get up close and personal with nature while hiking, biking, and swimming. If you want to really push the envelope, try canyoning—an activity that has you rappel down a waterfall while navigating slippery rocks and fast-flowing water. Azores Getaways offers a comprehensive and easy-to-book experience. Training, equipment, on-site instructors, and snacks are all included in the excursion, which will no doubt become one of the most memorable of your life.

Kayak through Torres del Paine National Park

Chile’s Patagonia region is one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. But while most people experience the sights while hiking, you can get a slightly different view from the water via a kayaking trip.  Kayak en Patagonia offers several tour options ranging in duration and difficulty levels, but all let you paddle past towering mountains, rugged glaciers, and other incredible vistas.

Sleep under the northern lights

Ah, the elusive northern lights . So many factors are at play when it comes to seeing the technicolor phenomenon—location, time of year, weather conditions—but it’s hard to lose with an excursion to Finnish Lapland. The Arctic area is one of the planet’s best for aurora viewing, especially if you get to sleep in an igloo hotel at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or mobile Aurora Bubble Sled . Up your viewing chances by planning a trip between December and March.

Go heli-skiing in Alaska

If you’re a seasoned traveler who’s conquered every black diamond slope in North America, there’s still one snowy adventure left to vanquish: heli-skiing. There’s nothing quite like hopping in a helicopter and being dropped onto untouched snow at the top of a mountain—especially in a setting as formidable as Alaska’s Chugach Mountains. The experienced guides at  Valdez Heli Ski Guides (VHSG) will help make this dream a reality, taking you to some of the best runs of your life and then letting you unwind (hot tub and massages included) at the cozy  Tsaina Lodge .

Snorkel between continents in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best countries in the world for adventure travel , with opportunities for everything from glacier hiking to snorkeling and diving. For the latter, head straight to Thingvellir National Park along the country’s Golden Circle route , where two tectonic plates slowly pull apart at the rate of about two centimeters (0.8 inches) per year. The phenomenon results in the Silfra fissure, a stunning rift valley where travelers can snorkel or dive in impossibly clear (and cold) waters. Tour company DIVE.IS offers tours for divers and every level of snorkeler—including those with no prior experience—and will snap an underwater photo of you touching two continents at the same time.

Float along the Amazon

Some remote destinations are best seen from the deck of a boat, and that includes the upper Amazon River. Aqua Expeditions ’ luxury cruises through the Peruvian stretch of the river tour the area’s wildlife and culture at a delightful, leisurely pace. You'll even have chef-prepared gourmet meals and five-star suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Looking for something a little less luxe? Amazon Adventures offers kayaking trips along some Amazon tributaries, where you can fish for piranhas and camp out in the rainforest.

Surf ‘The Pipeline’ in Oahu

Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline (commonly referred to as The Pipeline) is easily one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the world. Located off the coast of the island’s north shore in Ehukai Beach Park, the surf reef break averages waves measuring nine feet high. This activity is definitely not for beginners, but even non-surfers will get a thrill out of watching the many surf competitions that take place at The Pipeline—all from the safety of a sunny beach.

Spot elusive wildlife in the Great Bear Rainforest

Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest is the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—and one of the most magical, with elusive species like sea wolves and Kermode bears roaming its 21 million acres. Outer Shores Expeditions will take you on a nine-day excursion aboard a schooner, departing from British Columbia’s First Nations community of Bella Bella and stopping for sea kayaking along the way.

Soak in the planet’s most extreme infinity pool

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls attracts thousands of tourists each year. One of the biggest draws here is the Devil’s Pool , a naturally formed eddy sitting at the very edge of the falls, where daring swimmers can splash around between August and January (depending on water levels, that is). Given that a slippery rock barrier is the only thing separating you from going over the edge, this site is easily the planet’s most extreme infinity pool .

Camp in Antarctica

Antarctica is truly the final frontier when it comes to adventure travel, providing untouched landscapes, unique wildlife, and more activities than you’ll know what to do with (like cruising, caving, and thermal spring soaking , to name a few). If you can get yourself to Punta Arenas, Chile, Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions will fly you to Antarctica for three days of skiing and hiking before setting you up for a South Pole sleepover.

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The World’s 20 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Your Lifetime

Some standards and some surprises–all dazzling destinations to tempt you on your next trip.

How does one narrow down a list of the most beautiful cities? Each city in every corner of the world holds its own particular beauty. What sets some cityscapes apart from the rest are their special combinations of the wildness of nature and structure of civilization. Cities possessing natural beauty–marvelous mountains, remarkable rivers, fascinating forests, or captivating coastline–and human-made grandeur–astonishing architecture, graceful green spaces, magnificent monuments, and superb structures–are those that rise above the rest. These cities are particularly alluring and enchanting. Some that made the list may seem unusual while others will be on every “beautiful city” list until the end of time. Regardless, each of these cities is a treasure trove of stunning sights.

Lisbon, Portugal

In a city that boasts sunshine 290 days of the year, there’s so much beauty to behold–whether it’s on the edge of the beach or atop a rolling hill. The hills offer several viewing points called miradouro throughout this historic city–visit its most famous, Miradouro da Graça, or the less crowded yet still radiant Miradouro de Monte Agudo and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

For amazing architecture, visit the Church and Monastery of São Vicente de Fora or the Arco da Rua Augusta. Experience Lisbon’s natural gifts at Cape Roca, where the land meets the sea, or Arrábida Nature Park for white sand and crystal clear water. To take in all of the sights of Lisbon, visit the Amoreiras 360° Panoramic View at the Amoreiras Shopping Center. One of the highest spots in the city at 174 meters above sea level, you’ll get a great view of the Tagus River, the Castle of São Jorge, and many of the city’s monuments.

Ålesund, Norway

After a fire destroyed most of Ålesund in 1904, the city arose with astounding Art Nouveau architecture, with some of the most beautiful examples in all of Europe. Take in the gorgeous city by kayak along the Brosundet canal, which winds through the center of the city. Take a boat along the Geirangerfjord or hike to the Mount Aksla viewpoint for marvelous views of this unique location.

Sydney, Australia

Between the turquoise oceans and golden sands of Bondi Beach to the lush rainforest of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the bush of Royal National Park, you’re never far from natural beauty in Sydney. One of the best ways to see the sights is to walk–take the Glebe Foreshore walk, for example, to enjoy views of Rozelle Bay and Blackwater Bay, the Sydney Harbour, and Anzac Bridge. For a more leisurely tour, enjoy a ferry or harbor cruise. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the world’s largest steel arch, with BridgeClimb Sydney for pleasing panoramic views of the city and a breathtaking experience.

Québec City, Canada

Old Québec is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only fortified city north of Mexico. Stroll the cobblestone streets to see the beautiful Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec and take in the ramparts and four gates surrounding the Old City. For views of the St. Lawrence River and Château Frontenac, walk along the Dufferin Terrace. You can also visit the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac on Cape Diamond, a Québec City treasure that’s been operational for more than a century. Visit the picturesque streets of Old Port and pick up a boat tour, or explore the Petit-Champlain pedestrian street. For natural beauty, visit the Jacques-Cartier National Park or the Montmorency Falls–a waterfall that is 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

With its historic buildings dating back to the 17th century Golden Age, complex canal system, and charming homes, Amsterdam is a truly stunning city. The ideal way to travel is by bike, but you can also take a boat tour of the historic canal ring, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through Vondelpark, the largest city park in Holland’s capital. Don’t leave Amsterdam without taking a flight with This Is Holland. The experience allows you to see Amsterdam from above, over the canals, polders, tulip fields, the Wadden Sea, and Veluwezoom, the oldest natural park in Holland.

Cape Town, South Africa

A port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, Cape Town sits beneath Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Hike or ride a cable car to explore the mountain’s flat top and take in the vibrant views of the Mother City, the harbor, and the nearby prison that once held Nelson Mandela.

Visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve for a chance to see the beautiful landscape–hills and rocky coastline–and wildlife like baboons and various birds. For an abundance of flora, head over to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. The Victoria & Albert Waterfront provides gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean. No matter where you go in this city, you’ll get a glimpse of natural beauty.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto’s exquisite architecture and lush scenery make it a grand city. Located on the island of Honshu, Kyoto is home to many Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, including the Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji. Other jaw dropping sites include the Togetsukyo Bridge and the Tenryu-ji temple. Visit in the spring to see the cherry blossoms or in the fall for the foliage. The Tango-hanto Peninsula is a must-visit area, with its white-sand beaches, rejuvenating onsen (hot springs), and superb scenery. One of the most beautiful spots in all of Kyoto is Arashiyama in the northwestern area, as it’s home to a sublime bamboo grove.

Prague, Czech Republic

As its nickname suggests, the City of a Hundred Spires has an abundance of appealing architecture. The best way to experience Prague is on foot. Marvel at the many towers of Prague, like the Lesser Town Bridge Towers, the New Mill Water Tower, the Old Town Bridge Tower, and the Old Town Hall Tower–or take steps to the top of one, as each affords a distinctive view of the capital city. See the Old Town Square, the Vltava River waterfront, baroque buildings, and Gothic churches. Stop by the Astronomical Clock for its hourly medieval show. Cross the Charles Bridge, a pedestrian bridge constructed in 1402 that’s lined with Catholic saint statues.

Paris, France

A list of beautiful cities isn’t complete without Paris! The French capital is home to more than 500 parks and gardens–not to mention more than 2,000 monuments and 200 museums–across its 20 arrondissements. Stroll the resplendent parks, including the Jardin du Palais-Royal, Parc de la Villette, Parc de Bagatelle, and Petite Ceinture. Wander along the banks of the Seine or walk the Champs-Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe. See the gargoyles at Notre Dame Cathedral. Climb to the tallest hill in Paris at the Sacré Cœur Basilica. The sacred Père Lachaise cemetery is another special spot in the city. A trip to the City of Light isn’t complete without delighting in the panoramic view from the top of the Eiffel Tower.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Situated along Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a resort town known for its beautiful beaches surrounded by the stunning Sierra Madre mountains. With both mountains and sea in view, there’s enticing sights as far as the eye can see. Relax on the beach, explore the coves and reefs, and take a boat to see the bay at sunset. Walk along the Malecon Boardwalk, visit the city center and its opulent Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church, and venture to the eastern tip of the Cuale River Island to take in the appealing art and culture of the city. Puerto Vallarta’s extensive biodiversity is on display at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens–check out the Cactus Garden, Tropical Fruit Orchard, and the Conservatory of Orchids and Native Plants.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Surrounded by the mountains and Lake Lucerne, you won’t believe your eyes when you take in the views of this small Swiss city. Its medieval architecture and colorful buildings in Old Town, or Altstadt, are bordered to the north by Museggmauer, a rampart from the 14th century. Visit the Chapel Bridge, a covered timber bridge built in 1333 that remains one of Lucerne’s most prominent landmarks. Take a stroll along the lakeside promenade; you will be truly stunned by the awe-inspiring view. Join a guided tour to learn about the history of the city’s monuments, including the Lion Monument. You can also climb nearby Mount Pilatus for an incredible view. If you don’t want to go quite that high, the Château Gütsch, a Belle Époque chateau and still-working hotel, looks down over Lucerne.

Budapest, Hungary

One of the most stunning cities in Europe, the Hungarian capital has much to admire on both of its banks of the River Danube. Budapest is divided in two by the river, with Buda’s hills on one side, the flatter, more built-up Pest on the other, and the 19th-century Chain Bridge connecting them together. Ride the Buda Castle Funicular, built in 1870 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, up Castle Hill to Buda’s Old Town for an expansive view of the Danube. Take a walk along Andrássy Avenue to experience the Neo-Renaissance architecture of centuries-old homes.

Sights worth seeing include Adam Clark Square, Heroes Square, Parliament, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Matthias Church, and Fishermen’s Bastion. After all that walking, don’t forget to treat yourself to a life-changing soak in the natural hot springs spas–Budapest is home to more thermal baths than any other capital city in the world.

Venice, Italy

Wend your way along the maze of calli (streets) and take in the allure of this small, unusual city built on the Adriatic Sea. You won’t find traffic or tall buildings here–instead you’ll see canals and narrow corridors. Visit the Rialto Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in the city, for a splendid sight of the Grand Canal. The Bridge of Sighs is also a bewitching sight. Experience the hustle and bustle of Piazza San Marco, and admire the Byzantine mosaic tile of the Basilica of San Marco. Climb the Campanile bell tower for a view of the city’s infamous red roofs. It may seem touristy (and expensive), but you won’t regret taking a gondola ride to see the city by canal.

Charleston, SC

Lose yourself in the hidden gardens of Charleston, taking in the fine flowers and splendid scenery. Walk the cobblestone streets to see the architecture of this historic port city, including Rainbow Row, or take the Battery promenade for views of Charleston Harbor. Waterfront Park is a beautiful place to while away the hours. Visit Middleton Place and Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to see some of the oldest gardens in America. Explore the neighboring islands for their beckoning beaches–Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Visit Cypress Gardens and paddle through the mesmerizing cypress swamp. Hop on a boat for dolphin watching or a sunset cruise.

Bangkok, Thailand

The ornate architecture of Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, is astonishing in its beauty. There are many temples that are incredible to behold, including the Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Ratchanadda, and Wat Pho. In the center of the city is the Grand Palace, which displays the opulent architectural style for which Bangkok is known. Visit the Namtok Phlio National Park in Amphoe Laem Sing, and observe the gorgeous waterfall. See the Chao Phraya River, filled with boats that travel along its canals.

Climb up the only hill in Bangkok to visit Wat Saket and the Golden Mount, a sacred Buddhist temple. Climb the 320 stairs for a panoramic view of Rattanakosin Island. Travel to Thung Prong Thong, or Golden Meadow, to take in the amazing landscape of the natural mangrove forest, which seems to shine gold in the sunlight.

Heidelberg, Germany

This southwestern city along the Neckar River is known for Heidelberg University, founded in the 14th century, and it’s also becoming known as one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. Tour the Marktplatz in the Old Town, and visit the many public squares and gardens that can be found throughout the small, walkable city.

The radiant Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle and its castle gardens on Königstuhl hill provide glorious views of Heidelberg, the river, and the nearby rolling hills. Look out across the city and you’ll see Gothic churches and monasteries with their magnificent spires reaching for the heavens.

Cartagena, Colombia

On the shore of the Caribbean Sea, the port city of Cartagena is one of the most well-preserved cities in the Americas. It is surrounded by archipelagos and islands, which offer more than 20 beaches to explore, including the islands of Rosario, Barú, and San Bernard. There are opportunities to go diving, allowing you to see the beauty of Cartagena under the sea.

With its lush landscapes, astounding architecture, tropical climate, and beautiful beaches, this Colombian city has a little bit of everything to entice you. Walk along the walled-in Old Town by the sea to go back in time with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and city squares. Tour the historic Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, the India Catalina monument, and nearby churches.

Cork, Ireland

The second largest city in Ireland, Cork City is considered by locals as “the real capital” and considered by travelers as one of the loveliest cities in the country. Once a small settlement for monks of the Celtic monastery, it is now home to University College Cork. An ancient merchant port, the city was built on a series of islands and is Europe’s last port on the edge of the Atlantic. The River Lee flows through Cork City, and you’re never far from the relaxing view of the lapping water.

Visit the Neo-Gothic St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral for grand architecture and sublime stained-glass windows. Across the river is Cork City Gaol, which from the outside looks like a small castle, but from the inside is nothing grand–it formerly housed prisoners. The city center is located where the river diverges, and it’s a special spot to explore. Just outside the city in County Cork, you’ll find the winding coastline that makes the Emerald Isle famous and the start of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Madrid, Spain

Visit the Paseo del Prado and El Retiro Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Casa de Campo, Madrid Río, and Capricho Park are other spacious destinations for their gorgeous green space, but you can stroll through nearly every neighborhood and find a park, square, or community garden. You’ll want to linger in Hapsburg Madrid, the oldest part of the city, to see the historic central square, the Plaza Mayor with its pleasing porticos, and the baroque Royal Palace, the largest royal palace in Western Europe. Be sure to incorporate a stop at the famous Cibeles Fountain before journeying down the elegant Art Walk.

Oia (Santorini), Greece

Oia, a graceful city on the northwestern point of Santorini Island along the Aegean Sea, is exquisite to behold. The blue water, sands in shades of white, red, and black, craggy cliffs overlooking a caldera–all due to the Santorini Volcano–make the beaches beautifully unique. Take in the beach at Ammoudi on Oia’s harbor. Wander the streets, taking in the spectacular homes and classic windmill. Trek up to Oia’s highest point, where you’ll find the Byzantine ruins of the Castle of St.Nicholas and an unforgettable view of the sunset.

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Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Lana Law has traveled the globe extensively, including two year-long world trips, the most recent one in 2022/2023.

The world is filled with such a wide variety of wonderful destinations and beautiful places to visit, it can be difficult to compile a list of the best ones. Thinking about a traveler who, for whatever reason, has never set foot outside his or her hometown, where would be the first places they might visit?

The list of the world's best places to visit has to include great cities, like New York, Paris, London, and so on, each of which is filled with a multitude of individual sites or must-see places to visit. The list also includes specific sites, monuments, and locations, each also worthy of a visit in their own right.

For more ideas on where to go and what to see, read our list of the top places to visit in the world.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

2. the grand canyon, arizona, 3. rome, italy, 4. maui, hawaii, 5. masai mara, kenya, 6. new zealand, 7. istanbul, turkey, 8. angkor wat, cambodia, 10. london, england, 11. manhattan, new york, 12. paris, france, 13. montreal, canada, 14. san francisco, california, 15. marrakesh, morocco, 16. cartagena, columbia, 17. the canary islands, 18. hong kong, map of places to visit in the world.

Highlights : Ancient 700-year-old city with an incredible location high in the Andes

Located high in the Andes mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is now believed to have been a sacred royal retreat for the Incan rulers. Built in the 15 th century CE and abandoned less than 100 years later, the remote site continues to amaze with its perfectly joined, mortarless, intricate stonework. Huge multi-ton blocks of stone are perfectly joined with each other, without the use of mortar or cement.

The journey to Machu Picchu typically starts in the mountain city of Cusco , which was the capital city of the Inca Empire . Cusco is a fascinating place to explore-be sure to spend a few days there before or after your Machu Picchu adventure.

It's possible to hike the Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu. The full hike takes five days, but you can also start closer and do a one-, two- or three-day hike along the trail. Most people take the train from Cusco, which takes about three and a half hours.

Machu Picchu has taken steps to avoid over-tourism and has limited the number of visitors to the site each day. All visitors need a permit prior to visiting. They are easily available from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture reservation page up to four months in advance. Many websites, hoping to sell tours, do not share this information.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Highlights : The earth's geological history opens before your eyes in a mile-deep chasm

This incredible sight, one of the seven natural wonders of the world , is in the U.S. state of Arizona. It's one of those beautiful places for which photos or video just don't do it justice-its sheer size and scope are hard to comprehend.

With geology formed over the past two billion years, yes billion, the 277-mile-long canyon itself is believed to have been started around five to six million years ago. It was formed by the flow of the Colorado River, which still flows through it and continues to erode the geology along its course. The Grand Canyon is up to 18 miles wide in places and up to a mile deep. Imagine standing on the edge, looking down a sheer rock wall almost a mile to the river below.

Most visitors come to the area referred to as the South Rim . This is where a number of impressive hiking trails into the Grand Canyon begin and great overlooks are spread along the rim road, known as Desert View Drive. A range of accommodations is available here and nearby, from tents to a rustic luxury canyon-side resort built from logs. A few accommodations are also found on the remote North Rim .

Many visitors access the canyon via the historic Grand Canyon Railway , which runs from the town of Williams, Arizona. The 64-mile rail line provides an entertaining way to get to the canyon with food and live music onboard. For those who prefer to drive, see our articles on driving north from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon or driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon .

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

Highlights : History around every corner; the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are must-sees

The Eternal City is more like a giant, living museum. Visitors are immersed in and surrounded by thousands of years of history. It's a relatively compact city, and a three-day itinerary gets you to the minimum number of must-see places.

These must-see sites for any visitor include the Colosseum and adjacent Roman Forum ; the Pantheon ; and Vatican City , a separate country in the middle of central Rome.

Take some time to explore the outskirts of Rome, too. Consider a hike along a tomb-lined section of the Appian Way, the ancient Roman superhighway, and a visit to one of the aqueduct ruins outside the city.

If you feel like hitting the beach after all your exploring, Rome has a wonderful assortment of beach towns just a short drive away on the Lazio Coast. Escape the heat, hustle, and bustle of the city to bathe in the cool waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

Highlights : A tropical paradise with stunning beaches and five-star luxury resorts

This Hawaiian island offers a wide range of experiences for visitors. You can surf, enjoy a meal on the beach at a five-star luxury resort in Wailea, ride a horse across a dormant volcano in Haleakala National Park , or hike through a rainforest in the West Maui Mountains. The natural scenery is amazing-it's truly one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

When it comes to accommodation, there is something for everyone here, from rustic hippie bungalow bed and breakfasts to five-star luxury resort hotels . Wailea has all the luxury resorts-it's like the beachfront Beverly Hills of Maui. If you're staying here, be sure to venture out and spend some time in Kihei, where the locals hang out.

• Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Maui
• Best Beaches on Maui

Highlights : Wild animals in their natural environment, luxury safari lodges

Kenya's Masai Mara is an incredible bio-diverse area and a popular safari destination. It's an opportunity to see the "big five" animals (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) all during one trip or, if you're lucky, during one afternoon.

The protected Masai Mara National Reserve park area is huge, with over 1,500 square kilometers of mainly grassland, extending all the way to the Serengeti Plain of Tanzania. The popular times to visit are during the twice-yearly migrations, the main ones being in July and August. Over a million wildebeest and other animals cross the area in huge groups to go from one feeding area to another. Most visitors fly into Nairobi , then take a small bush plane to the Mara.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kenya
• Best Game Reserves in Africa

Highlights : Amazing natural sights in one easy-to-visit country

With its striking natural beauty , friendly citizens, and recent popularity due to its use as the filming location for the Lord of the Rings films (as well as many others), this island nation is one of the world's great places to visit. The biodiversity here is amazing — it's believed New Zealand was one of the last places on Earth to have human inhabitants.

Start your visit off in Auckland , with its culture, history, and museums. Spend some time on the water and at the beach — Waitemata Harbour has beaches, along with a range of sailing and boating activities.

Visit the Rotorua area to learn about and experience Indigenous Maori culture and head to Queenstown to experience the country's wide range of outdoor extreme action sports. Remember, this is where bungee jumping was invented.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Zealand

Highlights : Shopping in the bazaars, the Blue Mosque, and Hagia Sophia are not to be missed

Turkey's capital city is another destination that offers a great mix of culture, food, and history. There are thousands of years of history here, starting with Ancient Greeks and Ancient Romans and leading up through the Ottoman Empire.

There's a mix of the new and the timeless here unlike anywhere else. You can spend the day shopping and the night at a wonderful restaurant eating great Turkish food and dancing to Turkish music, then rise (very early) in the morning to the sound of the Ezan or morning Islamic call to prayer. It echoes across the rooftops as it's broadcast from loudspeakers set atop the minarets of the city's mosques.

Istanbul has excellent public transit, which means it's easy to get around and explore all the major sites and monuments. Must-see places include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia , and Topkapi Palace.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Highlights : A stunning ancient jungle city with hundreds of intricately constructed temples

Located just outside the Cambodian city of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is the largest religious site in the world. Angkor Wat is Cambodia's top tourist attraction.

It was created originally as a Hindu temple and mausoleum for the Khmer ruler in the early part of the 12 th century and was converted to a Buddhist temple at the end of the 12 th century. Just part of an enormous ancient city. Angkor Wat is the temple area, and Angor Thom was the city and palace area. There are hundreds of other ruin sites in the area, all part of the ancient capital of Angkor.

Siem Reap and its temples and ruins are now very easily accessible via daily flights from Hong Kong and other large Asian cities. Accommodations range from inexpensive guesthouses to lavish luxury resorts, with everything in between.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap

Highlights : Tropical beaches, volcano hikes, ancient temples, and friendly people

The tropical Indonesian island of Bali is a lush, tropical destination that should not be missed. A bit of everything can be found here, from towering volcanoes and sun-kissed shores to lush jungles complete with mischievous monkeys.

Add in the cultural aspect of vibrant temples and the friendly Balinese people, it becomes very easy to spend longer here than you may have planned. Bali has a long list of interesting things to do including rice terrace tours, volcano climbs, surfing lessons, and handicraft markets.

In the evening, enjoy the delights of Balinese dining with a tasty plate of Nasi Goreng or satay followed up by the rhythmic beats of a Kecak dance performance.

Highlights : History, architecture, dining, and world-class shopping

This historic English city is another destination just filled with incredible places to visit. A trip to London is an opportunity to visit iconic places like the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace , and the Tower of London .

Take advantage of the city being a cultural center as well by seeing a West End theater show or watching a musical performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Modern London is also a city of fine dining, luxury hotels, and world-class shopping.

Don't miss the museums, the vast British Museum is free, and usually quite crowded. Make time to visit The Wallace Collection , a free museum on Oxford Street. It has one of the world's greatest collections of furniture and porcelain, along with some important Old Master paintings.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Highlights : Shopping, dining, Broadway shows, museums, and the Statue of Liberty

One of the five boroughs of New York City, Manhattan is actually an island, bordered by the East River and the Hudson (and a little bit by the Harlem River). This island is a bit less than 23 square miles and is home to almost two million residents. Add in the daily influx of workers, and the island routinely holds close to four million people.

No other city in the world offers the frenetic energy of New York City. It's filled with the world's best shopping and dining, along with incredible museums .

Manhattan also has a giant green heart, Central Park . No matter the season, it provides a playground for the city's residents, offering a range of activities from museums to a zoo. There's also a lot of green space where you can play and relax, along with miles of running, biking, and skating trails. You can also enjoy plenty of things to do in winter in NYC , from skating and sipping hot chocolate, to shopping and Broadway shows.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

Highlights : Dining, shopping, the Eiffel Tower, museums, Seine River cruises

No visit to the French capital is complete without a trip to and a trip up its most iconic structure. The 300-meter-tall Eiffel Tower was quite simply, the tallest man-made structure in the world, from its opening in 1889 for 41 years until 1930.

Use your visit as a stair workout and climb the 300 steps from ground level to the first of three levels on the tower. If you're in great shape, climb another 300 steps to the second level. Then hop on the elevator here to get to the top. Aside from the workout, you'll also skip most of the crowd who want to take the elevator the whole way.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

Highlights : Notre Dame Cathedral, historic Old Town and waterfront, delightful dining options

As you listen to the sound of French being spoken around you and explore Old Montreal , wandering down its narrow cobblestone streets-you might think you're in France. The historic area is filled with quaint shops and cafés; this Canadian city can be a chance to experience a bit of Europe in North America.

The city also has a thriving food scene, with several popular farmers' markets, including the Atwater Market and the Jean Talon Market. It's also known for its bagels, cooked hot and fresh by several iconic must-visit bakeries.

Be sure to visit the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica and take a drive up to Mount Royal, the big hill (or low mountain) the city is named after. You'll be rewarded with some amazing views extending all the way to the port.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

Highlights : The iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, historic streetcars

San Francisco is a truly unique American city and one of the world's great vacation spots. Explore its hills, ride the cable cars that climb them, and eat some seafood at Fisherman's Wharf . Also spend some time exploring Marin County on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge , including the picturesque town of Sausalito . The giant redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument are only 30 minutes away and also well worth a side trip.

Be sure to also make time for a visit to or even better, a drive across, the Golden Gate Bridge. This monument to modern engineering genius spans the strait that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The almost two-mile-long, six-lane bridge connects the Northern California city with Marin County.

Opened in 1937, the bridge has a unique, geometric beauty and can be viewed from many areas on either side of its span. Some of the best views are from the Marin Headlands, a hilly part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, a national park that includes areas on either side of the bridge.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

Highlights : Old walled city, shopping in the bazaars, and a sensory overload

Start your Marrakech adventure in the Jemaa el-Fnaa , the main, open square in the Moroccan city. It's the gateway to the medina or old walled city. The square is like nowhere else in the world, presenting a constant show of humanity. There are musical performers, snake charmers, monkey trainers, amateur boxing matches, and transvestite belly dancers.

It's also a giant food market, as well as a giant antique market and swap meet. You can even get a haircut or have some dental work performed. At night, there are fire performers, and an outdoor food fair is set up in the center, with rows of food stalls fronted by counters lined with chairs.

This exotic African destination is only a short flight (usually less than four hours) from most major European cities. As a popular getaway destination, there are frequent flights available. Accommodations range from riads , traditional houses remade into luxury boutique hotels in the medina to five-star luxury resorts just outside the city in an area called La Palmeraie.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Marrakesh

Highlights : Incredible 500-year-old walled city with historic 19th-century architecture and some of Colombia's best dining

Colorful Cartagena, one of the great historical Spanish cities of the Caribbean, pulses with life along the north coast of Colombia. Founded in 1533, its old walled city has seen its fortunes rise and fall through the centuries and has more recently experienced a resurgence and revitalization.

Significant restoration of the old city has resulted in once-dilapidated 16th-century buildings springing back to life as modern, yet historical hotels, world-class restaurants, and shops. Wander through the narrow city streets to see an impressive church, an open plaza with public works of art, or an eclectic shop selling that perfect souvenir.

Be sure to wander along the ancient city walls, and as you watch the sunset over the ocean, think back to what life used to be like here nearly 500 years ago.

It's easy to get to Cartagena from the United States, with daily flights from Miami and good connections through Panama City. This is the perfect destination for an exotic long weekend getaway from almost anywhere in North America.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

Highlights : White-sand beaches, rugged mountains, luxury resorts, island adventures

Off the coast of northwestern Africa are a delightful chain of islands that should be on every sun-seeker's to-do list. The Canary Islands are all a bit different from one another, allowing the intrepid traveler to have four or even five (or more), experiences in one trip.

The Canary Islands are especially known for their beaches. Stunning white-sand beaches washed by crystal-clear waters are among the best beaches in Spain . Many people come here to stay at the multitude of luxury resorts that line the waterfront, and rarely venture off the property.

Those that have a taste for adventure will find towering volcanoes, stunning hiking trails, towering pine forests, and authentic old towns dating back to the time of Christopher Columbus.

Some of the most popular islands are Tenerife , Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , and Fuerteventura . Each of these offers its own unique experience and landscape.

Highlights : Star Ferry across Victoria Harbor, skyscrapers, Victoria Peak views, awesome dining

Asia's largest city can feel like an Asian Manhattan, with giant skyscrapers in a compact area and a serious focus on business. But venture deeper, and you'll find the city's unique mix of ancient Chinese culture and remnants of its British Colonial history as well. Gleaming skyscrapers are built with hand-assembled bamboo scaffolding in a fusion of new and old.

The city is divided into two main sections: Hong Kong Island and Kowloon , separated by Victoria Harbour . Take the Star Ferry across the harbor, still one of the great travel bargains, given the spectacular scenery on both sides. You can also venture into the more rural areas to discover the sparsely populated Outlying Islands , hiking trails , and beautiful beaches .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

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More Great Places to Visit Around the World: If you are heading to Europe, be sure to see our guides to the best places to visit in France , Italy , and Portugal . Our lists of best places to visit in Scotland and Ireland will also point you in the right direction in these countries. For ideas on where to go in America, see our recommendations for the best places to visit in the United States .

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101 Of The World's Most Beautiful Places To See In Your Lifetime

Posted: 11 June 2023 | Last updated: 11 June 2023

What a wonderful world

Acropolis of Athens, Athens, Greece

Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto's most enchanting spots and it's easy to see why. The lush green stalks of bamboo rise tall, filtering the light from above and creating a magical atmosphere down below. Part of the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, it's a nationally-designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty alongside the Moon Crossing Bridge, Tenryu-ji temple and the hamlet of Kiyotaki.

Moai, Easter Island, Chile

Far-flung Easter Island – one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth – is a remarkable place, made even more so by its mysterious moai. These giant stone-carved heads and torsos stand stoically on sites around the volcanic island. It's widely thought, but not known for certain, that they were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Read more about the world's greatest travel mysteries that might never be solved

Salar de Uyuni, Potosí, Bolivia

Giant's Causeway, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK

Munnar, Kerala, India

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan Province, China

It's not surprising the subtropical forests, deep ravines and towering sandstone buttes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park served as the inspiration for the film Avatar . The place most definitely resembles a lost world. This ethereal spot is part of the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in central China’s Hunan Province, and is home to rare species such as the ginko tree as well unusual primates and birds.

You won't believe these landscapes actually exist

Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia

A mesmerising swirl of bright white silica sand and striking azure waters located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays certainly look like paradise on Earth. It’s not hard to see why the 4.3-mile long (7km) Whitehaven Beach, captured from above in this stunning shot, has been showered with awards and typically attracts visitors from all over the world.

Take a look at the world's most beautiful beaches from above

Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos is an isolated group of islands 605 miles (974km) off the west coast of Ecuador. Famous for being the place that inspired naturalist Charles Darwin’s work  On the Origin of the Species , the diversity of wildlife here is mind-blowing. The Galápagos is home to over 300 different reptile species and birds such as the blue-footed booby, with 50% of the world’s breeding pairs living here.

Discover more secrets of the world's most special islands

Provence, France

Taj Mahal, Agra, India

One of the world's most alluring buildings and India's most famous monument, the white marble mausoleum has become symbolic of enduring love. It was built in the 1630s by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. An exquisite example of Islamic architecture, it took about 22 years to complete with a workforce of around 20,000 people.

Discover stunning images of the world's historic attractions

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy

One of the world's most famous waterways, Venice’s Grand Canal snakes through the heart of the famous floating city. At just over two-miles (3km) long, the Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice and flows past some of the city’s most famous landmarks. This view, captured from the Ponte dell'Accademia, is undeniably one of the most stunning cityscapes in the world.

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Palawan, the Philippines

Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia

Stretching 249 miles (400km) from Torquay to Nelson along Australia's southern coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Hugging the dramatic Victoria coastline, the road passes by forests, rocky seashore platforms, wild surf beaches and towering cliffs with soaring views of the Southern Ocean-lashed coast and famous rock formations Twelve Apostles and London Arch.

Take a look at the world's most amazing roads from above

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japan

Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Mount Denali, Alaska, USA

High on many travellers' wish lists, Mount Denali is North America’s tallest peak, rising a dizzying 20,310 feet (6,190m) above sea level. Located in south-central Alaska, the native Koyukon Athabascan people named it Denali, which translates as The Great One. However, in 1896, a gold prospector decided to name the mountain after then-presidential nominee William McKinley, spurring a naming dispute which lasted more than a century. After a 40-year stint of officially being called Mount McKinley, the name was changed back to Denali in 2015.

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

It might be called a palace, but Pena Palace is in fact a castle, and few are so heart-flutteringly pretty. Its butter-yellow turrets and brick-red towers rise above the treetops in hilly Sintra, just outside Lisbon. The multicoloured beauty, an example of 19th-century Romantic architecture, was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and completed in 1854, and has been home to Portuguese royals through the years.

These are Europe's most beautiful castles

Borobudur, Central Java, Indonesia

Few sights rival that of sunrise over Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, with Mount Merapi in the distance. Yet there is a dark history behind the serene image: Merapi is volcanic, and many scientists now believe that eruptions and earthquakes between 928 and 1006 led monks to abandon Borobudur. The Mataram Kingdom erected the temple in around AD 824, which means it enjoyed barely 200 years of use before the forest reclaimed it. The temple was brought to the West's attention by British and Dutch explorers in 1814.

Montmartre, Paris, France

Oia, Santorini, Greece

Greece is so blessed with natural and man-made beauty, it’s almost embarrassing. But it’s hard to think of a view that more succinctly sums up the country’s gorgeousness than the blue domes of Santorini island. The most famous whitewashed buildings are in Oia, a clifftop village perched prettily by the Aegean Sea, whose azure hue perfectly matches those rooftops. Come sunset, it's indisputably magical.

These are the world's most beautiful coastal towns and villages

Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy

One of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, the stunning marble façade of Santa Maria del Fiore is instantly recognisable. Located in Florence's Piazza del Duomo along with The Baptistery of St John and Giotto's Bell Tower, the cathedral is one of the most famous in the world. One of its most notable features is Brunelleschi's Duomo – more than 500 years after completion it still remains the largest masonry dome in the world.

Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa's flat-topped mountain is one of the most famous and admired peaks in the world. It's also one of the most ancient at over 260 million years old. Now part of a national park, it's also home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the Table Mountain ghost frog and a whopping 1,470 flower species.

Discover secrets of the world's most beautiful mountains

Niagara Falls, USA and Canada

Niagara Falls isn’t the biggest or the tallest waterfall in the world, or even the US, but it's among the most famous – largely thanks to the dramatic confluence of its three broad, thunderous cascades. Located near Buffalo in New York state and splashing across the border into Canada, it’s made up of Horseshoe Falls (the biggest), American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Its distinctive green-blue hue, caused by a mix of rock flour and mineral salts, also contributes to its global fame.

Rome, Italy

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

St Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

One of the most colourful buildings in the world, the ornate St. Basil's Cathedral is one of Moscow's most recognisable landmarks. Located in Red Square, the cathedral's design was intended to resemble the flames of a bonfire. The church was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox Church and completely secularised in 1929 as part of the Soviet Union's doctrine of state atheism. It's since operated as a State Historical Museum but weekly Orthodox services were restored in 1997.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Yosemite Valley, California, USA

Famed for its awe-inspiring vistas, cliffs and lush forests, Yosemite National Park is full of big-hitter attractions, but there's nothing quite like Yosemite Valley. Seen here from the Tunnel View viewpoint, you can really appreciate the jaw-dropping landscape in all its splendour.

Take a look at historic photos of America's national parks

Castle Combe, Wiltshire, England, UK

With its characteristic Cotswolds stone buildings and winding countryside roads, it’s no wonder Castle Combe has often been called the prettiest village in England. The historic site was first settled by Celts in ancient times, before becoming a regional hub for the wool industry during the Middle Ages. Many of its landmarks, including a market cross, an old water pump and the Church of St. Andrew, were built during this period.

Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA

Llyn Llydaw, Wales, UK

This classic shot opens up from the summit of Mount Snowdon and while the peak is pretty to look at, it’s this view of Llyn Llydaw that has previously been voted the UK’s best sight . The skinny, squiggly lake lies within Snowdonia National Park, cradled by emerald-green valleys and surrounded by mountains. It’s also linked to the legend of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake.

Skazka Canyon, Kyrgyzstan

The Dark Hedges, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK

Often regarded as one of the most enchanting places in Northern Ireland, this mythical tunnel of beech trees looks like a doorway into another world. Originally planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as an impressive entrance for their Georgian mansion, today the trees are one of the country’s most-photographed natural wonders. Avid fans of the HBO series Game of Thrones may recognise The Dark Hedges as the location for the Kingsroad.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Manarola, Liguria, Italy

Set amid rocky coastal cliffs, Manarola is one of the five fishing villages that make up the breathtaking Cinque Terre in northwestern Italy. It's probably the most recognisable of all five thanks to the pastel houses clinging to the cliffside. Legend has it that they were painted in bright colours so returning fishermen could spot their homes more easily. The village is at its most stunning during sunset, when the low evening sun casts a honey hue over the pretty buildings.

Discover more of Italy's most beautiful towns and villages

Tiger's Nest, Bhutan

Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming, USA

Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru

Deadvlei, Namibia

Angel Falls, Bolívar State, Venezuela

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, England, UK

Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii, USA

We're not sure about you but we've never seen anything more incredible than the Nā Pali Coast in Hawaii. This dazzling shoreline is punctuated by razor-sharp sea cliffs, delicate winding valleys and cascading waterfalls. If the eye-catching area reminds you of another age when dinosaurs ruled the world, it's no wonder – the coast was the backdrop for sci-fi classic The Lost World: Jurassic Park .

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Bruges, Belgium

Kirkjufell, Iceland

Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England, UK

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Whether you're religious or not, the sight of the 98-foot (30m) sculpture of Christ rising above Rio de Janeiro's magical mountainous landscape with outstretched arms can't fail to stir you. The largest Art Deco statue in the world, this world-famous monument was the brainchild of a priest in the 1850s but it wasn't built until the 1920s. Dedicated in 1931, the concrete Christ has surveyed the city from the top of the forest-clad Corcovado mountain ever since.

Discover more of the world's most jaw-dropping sculptures and statues

Hallstatt, Austria

Five Flower Lake, Sichuan Province, China

Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah, USA

Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

Pamukkale, Turkey

The town of Pamukkale in Turkey is celebrated for its natural travertine terraces which cascade down its hillside like clouds. These 17 mineral-rich thermal pools are part of an ancient Roman spa city. The pools are formed by calcium carbonate deposits on the surface of the water and are said to have healing properties.

Take a look at the world's most beautiful natural wonders

Las Lajas Sanctuary, Nariño, Colombia

The most striking feature of this Catholic church is its setting: the grey stone structure spans a forested gorge 150 feet (46m) above a river. Its story is one of miracles and determination, beginning in 1754 when a mother and daughter, sheltering from a storm, saw an image of the Virgin Mary in the rocks. According to the story, the daughter was cured of her muteness and deafness. After hearing of the miracle, a blind man spent 10 years collecting funds to build a chapel in the spot – and his sight returned. Inspired by these marvels, the vertiginous church was finally built between 1916 and 1949.

Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris, Scotland, UK

White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA

Lofoten, Norway

Mount Fuji, Japan

The perfect snow-capped cone of Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, is a defining symbol of the nation, interwoven in its culture and religion. Revered over the centuries, the mountain, located around 60 miles (97km) west of Tokyo, is seen as many things, including a living being and the home of spirits and deities, as well as the spirits of ancestors. Today, climbing the peak is seen as a path to transcendence by Japan’s two major religions, Shinto and Buddhism. Their shrines line its sacred slopes and torii gates mark the transition from the profane to the holy.

Petra, Jordan

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Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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