most scenic travel destinations in the world

The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

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

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

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

Douro Valley, Portugal

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

Shark Bay, Australia

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

Paracas, Peru

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

Algarve, Portugal

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

Paris, France

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

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

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

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

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

Paul Richardson

Amy Abrahams

CNT Editors

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

Death Valley, California

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

Provence, France

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

Bayon, Cambodia

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

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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

Angel Falls, Venezuela

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

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

Grand Canal, Venice

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

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

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

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

Lake Eyre, Australia

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

Bali, Indonesia

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

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

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

Atacame Desert, South America

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

Mount Fuji, Japan

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

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

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

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

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

The Scottish Highlands

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

Pamukkale, Turkey

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

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

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

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

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

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

Mount Cook, New Zealand

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

Gordes, Provence

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

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

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

The Faroe Islands

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

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

Jodhpur, India

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

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

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

Svalbard, Norway

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

Copenhagen, Denmark

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

Lamu, Kenya

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

Wulingyuan, China

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

Redwood National Park, California

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

Havana, Cuba

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

Kyoto, Japan

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

Marrakech, Morocco

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

Ischia, Italy

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

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

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

The Philippines

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

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

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

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

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

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

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

Blue lagoon, Iceland

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

Cape Town, South Africa

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

The Grand Canyon, USA

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

Cenotes, Mexico

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

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

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

The Maldives

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

Peyto Lake, Canada

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

La Digue, Seychelles

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

Yellowstone National Park, USA

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

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The 30 most beautiful places in the world, according to travellers who’ve seen them all

From rainbow-coloured hills to thundering waterfalls and pretty cities, these destinations are some of the most beautiful you’ll find on earth

Choosing the world’s most beautiful places is no easy task. After all, how can you compare a thundering waterfall to a lantern-lit city? Or a rainbow-coloured hill to a gleaming white mosque? The good news is that the planet isn’t held to the same rigid beauty standards as humans are. Whether it’s a tiny island, an entire country or a Buddhist temple, anything goes on our list of the most beautiful places on earth. Spanning every continent, you’ll find some of the usual suspects (what’s a list of beautiful places without Bolivia’s salt flats, after all?) alongside some of the world’s lesser-known beauty spots – all chosen by our network of globetrotting travel writers, who've personally experienced the beauty of every place on this list IRL. 

Grace Beard   is Time Out’s deputy travel editor, based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines   and check out our latest   travel guides   written by local experts. RECOMMENDED: 🗺 The world's most underrated travel destinations 🧭 The best places to travel solo 🏝 The best beaches in the world

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The world’s most beautiful places

1.  Kotor Bay, Montenegro

In Montenegro, the Adriatic Sea slaloms through narrow passages in the steep Dinaric Alps to form the Bay of Kotor. Here, squeezed between water and rock is the triangular, medieval Old Town of Kotor, with its gravity-defying fortress zigzagging up the steep cliffs above. Although it’s possible to climb the fortress steps from town, I prefer to wander the winding shepherd’s trail on the fortress’ northern flank. It’s here, amid the ruins of a deserted, roadless village, that you can munch on homemade sheep’s cheese and rye bread at the last inhabited farmhouse, overlooking the bay’s glassy, obsidian water.

2.  Iceland

You’ll be hard-pushed to find a place with more spectacular natural beauty than Iceland . Its volcanoes, hot springs, lava fields and glaciers have earned it the moniker ‘the land of fire and ice’ – and while the island country’s natural attractions are certainly a sight to behold, Iceland’s towns and cities offer a unique beauty of their own. The capital city of Reykjavik is culturally modern and historically important, with architectural highlights including the nature-inspired Hallgrimskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall with stunning portside views of Mount Esja. The Westfjords and Austurland regions are dotted with picturesque villages like  Ísafjörður , a fishing town surrounded by dramatic mountains, and the artistic Seydisfjordur with its public art and welcoming community.

3.  Erg Chebbi, Morocco

Morocco is home to some of the world’s most beautiful deserts, and Erg Chebbi is the most evocative stretch of Sahara sand imaginable. Beyond the town of Merzouga, the Erg Chebbi dunes are a spectacular vision of shape-shifting golden sands that rise up to 300 metres tall and span over 28km in the heart of the Sahara. In the fading light, I trekked out across the desert by camel and spent a night under the stars here in the company of the Berber people. The next morning, I woke early to climb the nearest dune and witnessed a sunrise that will stay with me forever. Seeing the day break over the sloping sands of the Erg Chebbi is as extraordinarily scenic as it gets.

4.  Mont-Saint-Michel, France

My first ever trip abroad was a school trip to Brittany, and the first stop on the ferry remains one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen: Normandy’s fairytale island of Mont-Saint-Michel. I’ve been back many times since. I’ve climbed precipitously to the needlepoint of that medieval abbey spire, been guided through the surrounding bay’s miles of quicksand, and slept under ancient beams in a rampart room to watch tides race in at sunrise. What I’ve learned is that, unlike many landmarks, the reality of Le Mont’s fairytale pyramid trumps any photo. No Instagram shot can truly capture the vast misty mirror of sand with one lone fortified pilgrimage site at its heart. It’s like a giant frame for the world’s greatest architectural image.

5.  Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

On approach, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque looms like a white mirage, minarets gleaming, an otherworldly edifice of beauty that could easily pass for Jasmine’s Palace in Aladdin. Inside, the numbers are heady: the mosque boasts the world's single-largest carpet, the world’s third-largest chandelier and acres of pure white Carrara stone. It’s hard to describe the sense of serene peace within, calm and cool even in the melting midday heat. Arrive at opening or closing time to witness the sky’s violet hue reflecting off the marble at night – surely one of the world’s most extraordinary sights.

6.  Ella, Sri Lanka

Located in the stunning Hill Country of Sri Lanka , the town of Ella feels like it’s a world away from the surf beaches and bustling cities that have made this country such a popular tourist destination over the years. Ella is a relaxing outdoor-lover’s playground, surrounded by lush greenery, tea plantations and rolling hills. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the region, including ones that traverse the iconic Nine Arches Bridge – a key sight that makes Sri Lanka’s Kandy–Ella train journey one of the most beautiful rail trips in the world . There is nothing better than returning from a hike and relaxing in one of the town’s many bohemian-style cafes with a cold drink and a delicious bowl of curry.

7.  Highlands, Scotland

The majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and lupine lochs of Scotland ’s Highlands are known worldwide for their magic, mystery, and beauty. Many of the most scenic parts of this wild region can only be reached by foot, so this summer, I set out on the country’s oldest and first official long-distance trail, the West Highland Way , with Wilderness Scotland. Over seven days, we hiked 96 miles through wildflower-studded fields and dense forests, stopping overnight in tiny towns, like the quaint lochside village of Kinlochleven. We walked along the banks of Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water in the UK, climbed the so-called ‘Devil’s Staircase’ trail, and took in views of the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. I learned that knowing the Highlands is knowing Scotland.

8.  Zhangye National Geopark, China

Stripes of crimson, gold, and mossy green paint the hillside. Passing clouds play with the hues, like an artist touching up a masterpiece. Can such vibrant colours be real? Standing on the viewing platform, I had to lift my sunglasses to make sure I wasn’t imagining things. Located in Zhangye National Geopark, the Rainbow Mountains are one of China ’s many beautiful surprises. This stunning technicolour landmass was formed over millions of years by shifting tectonic plates and weather, causing red sandstone and various minerals to mix together.

9.  Storms River, South Africa

Driving the forested Garden Route through Western Cape hints at the beauty to come at Storms River, a large river winding between mountains in South Africa ’s Tsitsikamma National Park. Arriving at the coast is absolutely breathtaking: enormous waves crash against the rocks, sending spray into the air, where the sun causes rainbow rays to reflect through the droplets. The long suspension bridge crossing the river is a highlight, with spectacular views up the river gorge or out to sea. Once you’ve taken in the sight of the river and the coastal forest, head out on the famous Otter Trail, which will lead you to the park’s magnificent waterfall.

10.  New Forest, England

There aren’t many places where you’ll be startled by a pony or donkey stepping into the road, but that’s the anachronistic beauty of the New Forest in the south of England. This ancient woodland was given its name by William the Conqueror more than 900 years ago. If you choose to visit in the autumn, when the heath is purple with heather, you may find pigs guzzling acorns on the forest floor (they’re sent to protect the delicate stomachs of the 5,000 free-roaming ponies). Perhaps that’s where the famous Pig restaurant and hotel got its name – do pop in for pork scratchings and a pint.

11.  Paradise Bay, Antarctica

Towards the Antarctic Peninsula’s tip is mountain-rimmed Paradise Bay, where I cruised past icebergs pristine white on top and electric blue beneath. Disembarking, I felt the solitude of being one of only a few thousand humans on the entire continent, outnumbered by many millions of penguins. The stark landscape is enlivened by these hopping-shuffling-diving birds and large lumps of loafing seals. Nearby, on one unforgettable evening, I watched a pod of orcas hunt their dinner, a wild moment in this dreamlike place at the end of the world.

12.  Altiplano, Bolivia

Bolivia is a place of technicolour lakes, seemingly endless jagged mountains and immense salt flats. Hauling into the back of a weatherworn 4x4, I spent four days careening over the Andean plateau and following flocks of low-flying flamingos to the Altiplano’s highlights. Laguna Verde, a perwinkle lagoon backed by a perfectly conical mountain peak. The pink waters of Laguna Colorada, fading purple in the shifting sun. And the Altiplano’s biggest draw: Salar de Uyuni. The cracked white salt flats are lightly flooded in the winter months, forming a perfect mirror of the sky.

13.  Hoi An, Vietnam

Silk lanterns sway outside rows of golden-hued shophouses in this ancient river town. Located on Vietnam ’s central coast, life in Hoi An moves like molasses – slow and sweet. When I lived in this dreamy little community, I spent mornings sipping coconut coffee in cafes and afternoons biking through swaying rice paddies past grazing buffalo. Now, I spend a few months a year here, watching lantern-lit boats glode along the Thu Bon river, cycling through Old Town before the evening crowds gather, and lounging on one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.

14.  Milford Sound, New Zealand

The most famous of New Zealand ’s fiords, Milford Sound is a marvel of nature within the spectacular Fiordland National Park, on the west coast of the South Island. Enjoy the blissful sound of silence as you cruise the inky waters, where sights include the towering mist-draped mountains, frothing waterfalls tumbling into the cliff faces and fur seals soaking up the sun. The history of this famous site stretches back hundreds of millions of years, and many ice ages later, the beauty of Milford Sound remains as timeless as ever.

15.  Jaipur, India

Jaipur, otherwise known as the Pink City for its rosy-coloured buildings, is a creative hub at the heart of India ’s Rajasthan state. As well as being known for a rt forms such as block printing and blue pottery, the city is characterised by  its royal past – but the real beauty of Jaipur exists outside of the palaces. Walk through the terracotta pink gates of the Old City and you'll see colour everywhere, from spices and fruits to tiny stalls selling quilts and carpets. If you want to get the full experience of life in Jaipur, visit a bazaar for some street shopping. Walk through the stalls, stop for chai and enjoy the chaos.

16.  Hormuz Island, Iran

When I stepped onto this teardrop-shaped island off Iran’s coast, witnessing the sun descending on the horizon and the salt dome come alive in a breathtaking symphony of reds, yellows and oranges – courtesy of over 70 minerals found here – I felt I was witnessing the fullness of life and nature’s artistry. This little-known ‘rainbow island’ is a land of shimmering salt caves and crimson-hued beaches, where a ruby-red mountain casts an other-worldly crimson glow over the shoreline and waves. The red soil here, called gelack, is used in local cuisine as a spice in sauces and curries. Where else in the world can you find soil so beautiful it’s good enough to eat?

17.  Puglia, Italy

Facing the sparkling ocean on Italy 's wild Adriatic coast, Puglia is a masterpiece of scenery that's often overlooked in favour of Italy's more Instafamous destinations. Thanks to the region’s slow pace of life, it’s perfect for cycling. I’ve done so several times, crisscrossing streets that haven't changed in centuries, taking in landscapes carpeted with olive groves and admiring the unique beauty of Puglian architecture. The cone-roofed traditional Trulli houses of Alberobello – a Unesco World Heritage Site – are the most well-known of Puglia's sights, but don't miss Lecce's baroque churches, the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare or quaint, medieval Monopoli.

18.  Victoria Falls, Africa

Straddling the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is known to be the world’s largest waterfall. Immense curtains of water stretch along the edge of Victoria Falls National Park –home to giraffe, zebra, baboons, and other wildlife – and spill over cliff faces into the whirling pools of the Zambezi River. The first time I visited, standing at the edge of a dense jungle atop a flat rock table and gazing down into the abyss, I was swallowed by spirals of mist, rising from the bellowing falls and raining back down on me. It’s easy to see how Victoria Falls earned its name in the Kololo language: Mosi-oa-Tunya , meaning ‘The Smoke That Thunders’.

19.  Kinkaku-ji, Japan

Nestled in the green hills of northeast Kyoto , the Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkaku-ji glistens in gold leaf. Originally built in 1397, this gilded Buddhist shrine sits among bonsai-style pines, Japanese red maples, and mossy stones. Countless photos have been snapped of the Golden Pavilion and surrounding nature reflected on the mirrored pond, but be warned: it isn’t quite as tranquil as it looks, being one of the most popular sites in Kyoto. Step away from the money shot and explore the wider complex and garden to get away from the crowds. The gentle path beckons you through landscapes beautiful in every season, whether covered in cherry blossoms or thick snow, and is graced by incense, bell chimes, and enchanting temple vistas.

20.  South Water Caye, Belize

I’ve had my share of pinch-me travel moments, but South Water Caye is the only place I’ve looked out the window while brushing my teeth and watched an eagle ray glide through water the colour of a Bombay Sapphire bottle. This dreamy island, a short boat ride away from the coast of Belize , is full of screen-saver-worthy sights; the highlight being the untouched barrier reef full of vibrant corals. It’s a place where the only sounds are lapping waves melting into sugar-white shores and palm tree fronds softly clicking in the Caribbean breeze. In one word: paradise.

21.  Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

When I arrived at Danakil Depression, after two days of travel across sweeping swathes of sand and dry, cracked earth, I had to blink twice to make sure the landscape wasn’t a mirage. Geometric white salt flats glimmered beneath the afternoon sun and coral-like formations in rich shades of ochre and ruby rose among molten pools of bubbling green-yellow sulfur. Supposedly the hottest place on earth, the Danakil Depression in the remote Afar region of Ethiopia is formed by the slow ripping apart of tectonic plates, creating a surreal realm of lava lakes, colourful hot springs, and towering salt formations.

22.  Big Sur, USA

The majestic Santa Lucia mountains meet the Pacific Ocean along California ’s central coast to create the rugged and breathtaking natural beauty of Big Sur. Drive California’s winding Highway 1 along the coast and spend time in Big Sur, meandering through towering trees, along creeks, up mountain ridges, and onto windswept bluffs overlooking the ocean. The fresh air smells of salty ocean, earthy bay laurel and redwoods, and the sight of the waves and the sunlight dancing through the fog is mesmerizing. Keep an eye out for spouts from migrating gray whales and sea otters bobbing out on the water.

23.  Maria Island National Park, Tasmania

A small island off the coast of a big island (off the coast off an even bigger island) Tasmania ’s Maria Island National Park is a rare pocket of raw, unbridled beauty. The island known by Aboriginal people as wukaluwikiwayna was once a convict settlement, but today it’s the domain of Australian native wildlife. While hiking, I saw wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils and a massive tiger snake in just one hour. Then there’s the honeycomb-coloured cliffs and white-sand beaches with barely a soul in sight. Wondrous wildlife encounters by day, and superior stargazing after dark, Maria Island is the greatest show on earth, day and night.

24.  Registan Square, Uzbekistan

It was one of the most mesmerizing sights we’d laid our eyes on. A vast square flanked by three monumental structures that are as grand as they are intricate, as overwhelming as they are welcoming. We were at Registan Square, the ancient beating heart of Samarkand, the quintessential Silk Road city in present-day Uzbekistan. Registan’s three fifteenth- to seventeenth-century madrasahs are a spectacle of arched gateways, glimmering domes, and tall minarets, decorated with geometric patterns in bricks, tiles, and mosaics. And just when you think it couldn’t get more majestic, come dusk, the monuments are lit up in all their glory.

25.  Choquequirao, Peru

Arriving at Choquequirao, an ancient Inca city perched high above Peru ’s Apurímac River, is both visually and physically exhilarating. The Choquequirao Trail is challenging, but it made the moment I reached those sweeping canyon and mountain views more rewarding. Known as Machu Picchu’s sister site – but with markedly less visitors – Choquequirao is a sprawling archaeological site high on the canyon rim with about 80 percent still covered by dense cloud forest. The name means ‘ Cradle of Gold’ in Quechua, though the gold is long gone. Walking through the ruins, I was in awe of a civilisation that built with such intricate stonework and chose such a remote and spectacular location.

26.  Lord Howe Island, Australia

Northeast of Sydney , this World Heritage-listed speck in the Tasman Sea was described by Sir David Attenborough as ‘so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable’. Lord Howe Island is a croissant-shaped island that cradles a turquoise lagoon, framed by mountains, white sand beaches (I got married here on one!), and fringed by the world’s southernmost coral reef. Just 11km long by 2km wide, Lord Howe is recognised for its volcanic provenance, reef, and incredible biodiversity. Across this tiny stretch of land, you’ll find 241 plant species, 207 bird species and 90 types of coral. Visitor numbers are capped to protect this paradise, so nature reigns supreme here.

27.  Red Rocks Amphipheatre, USA

A 20-minute drive from downtown Denver you’ll find one of the most aesthetically (and acoustically) blessed outdoor concert venues on the planet. Joining 9000-or-so other concertgoers, I was utterly dumbstruck when I entered Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the first time. Flanked by rocks the colour of deep rust, this high-altitude venue’s beauty is matched by the all-round good vibes and fresh mountain air that this corner of Colorado is known for. Having hosted the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and Louis Armstrong, Red Rocks Amphitheater is as spectacular as concert venues get.

28.  Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

At first sight of Perito Moreno Glacier, located in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina , I was overwhelmed. From a boardwalk overlooking milky-green Lake Argentino, scattered with chunks of ice, I gazed at the immense stretch of whiteness disappearing into the horizon, hemmed by dark, foreboding mountain peaks. Jagged spires, split by ice fissures revealing a sudden pop of blue, top the glacier’s 70-metre-high vertical wall, while its base is layered with multiple hues, from a light powder blue to deep turquoise. It’s not just the sight of the glacier that’s astounding, but also the sound. Crackling and rumbling noises echoed in the valley, particularly intense when ice calved off, sending waves across the lake's surface. Just stunning!

29.  Savannah, USA

This elegant coastal city in Georgia , one of the oldest cities in the US , stole my heart the very first time I visited. It’s easy to lose yourself in the city’s history, natural splendour and famous southern charm as you wander along its cobbled streets and through its 22 squares. You’ll walk under the shade of live oak trees draped with Spanish moss and past grand, pastel-hued mansions. From Forsyth Park, with its Parisian-inspired fountain, to the lively Broughton Street, where you'll find an eclectic mix of shops and dining, Savannah is truly magnetic. 

30.  Lapland, Finland

Lying above the Arctic Circle is Lapland, Finland ’s northernmost region. I spent five days in Finnish Lapland during the winter season and was lucky enough to catch the enchanting dance of the Northern Lights in the night sky. The area is home to nature-loving people, such as at HaliPuu , who engage in unique pastimes like arctic cocooning and tree hugging competitions. In the summer, you can hike to your heart’s content in the Midnight Sun, but it’s in winter the region comes into its own. Immerse yourself in winter traditions such as ice water swimming, relaxing in a Finnish sauna and dog sledding through the snowy wilderness.

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The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World

By Caitlin Morton

Every country in the world has something to offer, from local cuisine to groundbreaking architecture . But actually ranking the most beautiful countries in the world? That's a bit trickier (eye of the beholder, and what not). That’s why we let the World Economic Forum do much of the work for us: Every year, the foundation releases their Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report , a survey that ranks the world’s countries based on various factors, from safety to life expectancy—and yes, even natural resources. 

The latter takes into consideration details like total animal species, the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites , and the amount of protected ecosystems—and 2022’s results are as stunning as ever. We pulled the top 30 countries from the all-encompassing “natural resources” section of the WEF’s report , and then polled Traveler editors for their personal picks (consider them bonus entries, if you will) to put together this list of the world’s most beautiful countries. Get ready to swoon.

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

Australia ’s natural beauty is unrivaled—from the Great Barrier Reef to the wild isolation of the Outback, to the winelands of Victoria. Witnessing the majesty of Uluru should be on every traveler’s bucket list, whether viewed from above by helicopter or from a distance at ground level during the technicolor sunset. Another must-see? Tasmania . The island state’s mountain wilderness and pristine coastline are remarkably beautiful.

Home to 67 national parks, more than 5,000 miles of coastline, and landscapes ranging from deserts to snow-capped volcanoes, Mexico ranks high on this list for a reason. The state of Oaxaca lays claim to wild, crowd-free beaches and Hierve el Agua, a set of natural rock formations and mineral springs. Down in the southern state of Chiapas, the Sumidero Canyon astounds with 3,000-foot cliff walls, caves, and waterfalls. Mexico also takes great lengths to protect its wildlife: the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve northwest of Mexico City welcomes millions of butterflies every autumn, while the whale sanctuary in El Vizcaino is an important reproduction site for grey and blue whales .

There is no shortage of grandeur in Brazil , whether you’re standing below the horseshoe-shaped falls of Iguazu, kayaking through the incomparable Amazon, or looking out from the peak of Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro . Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago off the northeast coast, features some of the best beaches in the country . Lençóis Maranhenses National Park boasts blindingly white sand dunes juxtaposed against turquoise lagoons. Then there’s the biodiversity—the greatest on the planet, to be exact. It’s not uncommon to spot jaguars, spider monkeys, piranhas, giant water lilies, and mangroves (among several other million species).

The United States of America

You could spend a lifetime exploring the sites of America, all as beautiful as they are diverse. Hawaii’s vertical Na'Pali Coast is easily one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. Denali National Park in Alaska is worth braving the extreme low temperatures. And perhaps you’ve heard of a charming little tourist destination known as the Grand Canyon ?

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

China has 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within its borders—the second-most of any country in the world (after Italy, which has 58). Here you’ll find otherworldly landscapes like the Zhangye National Geopark, whose striped, technicolor mountains are basically Mother Nature’s answer to Photoshop. You can also see skyscraper-like sandstone pillars at Wulingyuan Scenic Area, endless fields of yellow rapeseed plants in Luoping County, and multicolored lakes in the Jiuzhaigou Valley—and that’s just for starters.

Home to Himalayan peaks and Indian Ocean beaches, India’s terrain can only be described as breathtaking. Kerala is easily one of the most country’s most beautiful states, with elephants and tigers, lush lagoon networks, and tea plantations. There are incredible stretches of sand even outside of Kerala, like Marina Beach in unsung Tamil Nadu, or Chandipur Beach in Orissa, where tides recede nearly three miles out to sea. The Valley of Flowers National Park is spectacular, as hundred of species of alpine flowers carpet the western Himalayas in chromatic glory.

Oh, Canada. The world’s second-biggest country has almost too much spectacular scenery to single out favorites. But if we had to pick, we’d start with the remote Torngat Mountains National Park, a land of polar bears and caribou, glaciers and fjords, and a stretch of mountains you’re not likely to ever forget. Truly all of the country’s 48 national parks are worth a visit, from Alberta’s serene Banff to Yukon’s extreme Kluane.

One of the crown jewels of Southeast Asia, Indonesia has some of the best islands in the world . First up is the spiritual, sun-kissed paradise that is Bali . It is crowded, yes; but you can still find enclaves of quiet in places like the central region of Tabanan, with its waterfalls, butterfly parks, and UNESCO-protected rice fields. Located off the coast of West Papua, the Raja Ampat Islands are a scuba diver’s dream with blue channels and biodiverse reefs. And don’t forget about the relatively crowd-free island of Flores , complete with white sand beaches and steep green hills.

France is the stuff fairytales are made of, with fields of lavender and castles at every turn. The country’s coastline beckons travelers from all over the world, whether it’s to the beaches of Biarritz, white cliffs of Normandy, or any one of the glitzy towns along the French Riviera . For some truly untouched nature, make a beeline for the island of Corsica; if it’s ski slopes you’re after, head west to Mont Blanc.

Colombia ’s incredible landscape deserves to be recognized, and not just because it contains parts of the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountain range. Tayrona National Park is one of the most picturesque places in South America, with beaches dotted with coconut palms and rainforests sitting nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. The ochre desert meets the aquamarine sea at Cabo de la Vela, a unique cape surrounded by rocky cliffs—it’s hard to get to, sure, but absolutely worth it.

Aside from its world-class beaches (like Playa de Las Catedrales in Galicia, pictured), Spain is home to 16 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. Doñana National Park is home to five threatened bird species, plus scenic marshes and sand dunes. Teide National Park has the tallest mountain in the country (Mount Teide) and third tallest volcanic structure in the world (Pico Viejo).

Japan is at once serene and exhilarating, ancient and unexpected. The subtropical Ogasawara Islands offer pristine beaches, exceptional snorkeling and whale watching, and forests packed with 195 endangered bird species. Solitary Mount Fuji is the country's most iconic landmark, rising above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. Even the cities here are bursting with natural beauty: see Kyoto ’s scattering of cherry blossoms and Arashiyama bamboo forest, or the calm, grassy parks of Tokyo .

South Africa

South Africa is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, offering easy access to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) at places like Kruger National Park. Looking for penguins? Boulders Beach is just an hour’s drive south from Cape Town. If you can believe it, the landscapes here are even more diverse than the wildlife, from wildflower-filled Namaqualand to the soaring Drakensberg Mountains to the Blyde River Canyon. Even in urban Cape Town , you need only look up to see iconic Table Mountain and Lion’s Head .

The number of foreign visitors to Thailand has doubled in the past ten years, and it’s easy to understand why. There are literally hundreds of islands offering something for every type of traveler, whether it’s the lush jungles of Ko Kut or the crystal-clear diving waters of Ko Tao. To catch sight of wild elephants and tigers, dramatic waterfalls, and some of the world’s oldest rainforests, venture inland to the wondrous Khao Sok National Park.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There’s nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you’ll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Tanzania is a biodiverse wonderland, but its main draw is undoubtedly the Serengeti—especially if you can visit between January and March to witness the Great Migration . And don’t forget about Mount Kilimanjaro, rising like a magnificent mirage over the vast plains. Another deservedly popular spot is the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast and thriving volcanic caldera known as Africa’s Garden of Eden (assuming the garden had flamingos and zebras). Tanzania also has some 800 miles of Indian Ocean-facing coastline, with the white sand beaches and sapphire waters of Zanzibar generating the most tourism buzz.

Machu Picchu ’s panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, is known for its terraced agriculture and epic birdwatching (find everything from flamingos to giant hummingbirds here). The Paracas Natural Reserve (an easy day trip from Lima) is another ecologically rich area, where Humboldt penguins waddle freely on red sand beaches.

Argentina is one of the most awe-inspiring countries in the world, and not just because of its legendary tango performances. This nation is indeed a natural wonderland—just look at Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, comprised of jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and massive glaciers . The northwestern part of the country contains some of the Andes and a lot of vicuñas (relatives of the llama). On the Argentina-Brazil border, Iguazú Falls—a collection of 200 falls reaching heights of 200 feet—is easily one of the most stunning sites in South America.

Venezuela is truly a land of superlatives. It has the world’s highest waterfall, for starters; and the 3,212-foot cascades of Angel Falls (that’s 19 times taller than Niagara ), located in the lush Canaima National Park, are by far the country’s most popular attraction. Mount Roraima also dazzles, with vertical cliffs stretching all the way through the clouds. The archipelago of Los Roques has white sand beaches, mangrove swamps, and spectacular reefs and underwater life.

It’s almost unbelievable how biodiverse Ecuador is. The country is a smidge smaller than Nevada, but encompasses pieces of the Amazon, Andes, and Pacific Coast, as well as the entire Galápagos archipelago. We’d argue that the Galápagos Islands are reason enough for Ecuador to land on this ranking, filled with volcanoes, lakes, beaches, and more animal species than we have room to cover here.

Split by the South China Sea, Malaysia is like two countries in one—Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo—with islands thrown in as an added bonus. You’ll find a variety of diverse landscapes throughout this Southeast Asian nation. The Langkawi archipelago has pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush mountains (plus that famous Sky Bridge you’ve definitely seen pictures of). The Cameron Highlands in Pahang are home to stunning tea plantations and butterfly farms. Hoping to spot some wildlife? The Kinabatangan River winds for 348 miles through the state of Sabah, providing habitats for saltwater crocodiles, Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, and more.

Philippines

There are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, and they easily number among the most beautiful in the world. The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan encompasses mangrove forests, one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, and an underground river. The Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island consist of an estimated 1,776 grass-covered domes that are mysteriously uniform in shape. The rice terraces of both Banaue and the Philippine Cordilleras provide panoramic views of every shade of green imaginable.

It’s easy to sink into the pura vida (pure life) when you’re surrounded by misty waterfalls , deserted beaches, and protected jungles. In fact, more than a quarter of Costa Rica enjoys some form of environmental protection. Cocos Island National Park, the only island in the eastern Pacific with a rainforest, is a world-class diving destination replete with hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays, sea turtles, and dolphins. La Amistad National Park is another uniquely diverse site, with cloud forests, glacial valleys, and a rare tropical alpine grassland (say that five times fast). It’s also home to Cerro Chirripó, the highest mountain in Costa Rica.

Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City draw tons of tourists every year, but Vietnam is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts (or anyone who simply enjoys a pretty landscape). Ha Long Bay, located in northeast Vietnam , is beloved for its blue waters and spread of limestone islands—all occupied by tropical trees and wildlife. In the northeast, Hà Giang has breathtaking mountain scenery criss-crossed with steep rice terraces and hiking trails. On the southern coast, Ninh Van Bay has great snorkeling and diving . And you can always hop on a quick flight and spend a few days on Phú Quốc, a jungle-draped island off Vietnam’s southwestern coast.

We named Panama one of the best places to visit in 2022 , thanks to its biodiverse jungles, sprawling beaches, and relative lack of crowds compared to neighboring Costa Rica. The Caribbean-facing province of Bocas del Toro is a one-stop shop for both gorgeous beaches and active wildlife—for a truly memorable experience, take a nighttime snorkeling trip through bioluminescent waters right off the coast. A straight shot south from Bocas del Toro, the Pacific Ocean-facing province Chiriquí offers an equally beautiful, but wholly different slice of nature. Here you can hike through cloud forests, swim beneath roaring waterfalls, and witness the panoramic sunrise from the summit of Volcán Barú.

There are plenty of reasons to head to Kenya , and we’re not just talking about its bevy of resorts and safari camps . The Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley is the ultimate place for wildlife spotting , with cheetahs, giraffes, black rhinos, and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. Mount Kenya is the second highest peak (after Kilimanjaro) and one of the most impressive landscapes in Africa, with glacial lakes and forested slopes.

New Zealand

New Zealand is no stranger to breathtaking landscapes, with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and more than 9,000 miles of windswept shores . Just look towards the resplendent fields of pink and purple lupins at Lake Tekapo; or Milford Sound, a mountainous fjord where you can live out all of your Lord of the Rings fantasies. The splendor also extends below the surface to the Waitomo glowworm caves—leave it to New Zealand to make even worms look beautiful.

Landlocked Bolivia is often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, but this South American nation has a staggering amount of natural beauty. The country’s claim to fame is Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat which becomes a giant sky-reflecting mirror during the wet season. Just north of the Chilean border in the shadow of the Andes, Laguna Colorada is a salt lake known for its blood-red waters. And while we’re on the subject of lakes, we’d be remiss not to mention Lake Titicaca—it’s the highest navigable lake in the world (12,500 feet above sea level) and features sparkling blue water, snow-capped mountains, and floating villages.

The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, which explains why its natural sites are so beautifully diverse. In England, be sure to visit the rugged beaches of Cornwall and dazzling bodies of water in the Lake District. Wales is all about epic mountain ranges, namely Brecon Beacons and its surrounding hiking trails. Scotland’s lochs, highlands, and Isle of Skye number among the most beautiful places on the planet. And Northern Ireland has several unique sites to its name, including the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges.

Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, Croatia is a land of limestone caves, undulating fields, and white pebble beaches. The country’s most famous waters are found inland at the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a system of waterfalls, caves, and 16 terraced lakes that cover the entire blue-green color spectrum. The Adriatic Sea coast is truly unrivaled, speckled with more than 1,000 islands surrounded by impossibly clear water. The Dinaric Alps provide even more sublime views and help contribute to Croatia’s overall landscape—the craggy peaks and caverns near the coast transition to rolling farmland in the northeast Hrvatsko Zagorje region.

Situated just outside the Arctic Circle, Iceland has emerged as one of the world’s most desirable tourist destinations. Travelers flock to the island nation by the millions to bear witness awe-inspiring vistas, from towering volcanoes to gushing waterfalls and expansive underground ice caves. Jökulsárlón, the deepest glacial lake in the country, is famous for its floating blue icebergs and gatherings of seals. Down in Vik, the black sands and basalt columns of Reynisfjara Beach are just begging to be photographed.

After soaking up all that Lisbon has to offer, venture outside of Portugal’s capital city to really experience how stunning the country is. The Algarve region is ideal for road trips , where you can pull over and appreciate some seriously gorgeous beaches lines with steep cliffs (we recommend Praia da Marinha ). The Douro River is another must-visit spot, thanks to spectacular views created by the steeply terraced vineyards at the river’s edge—similar to those found in the Moselle in Germany or the LaVaux vineyards in Switzerland. And don’t forget about the Azores , an Atlantic island chain of nine volcanic islands overflowing with hedges of blue hydrangeas .

Chile occupies some of the most pristine landscapes on our planet: the moonlike dunes of Valle de la Luna; the swirling, cerulean surfaces of the Marble Caves; the gurgling geysers of El Tatio. But when you think of Chile, you most likely think of Torres del Paine . The national park is like a microcosm of all the things that make Patagonia such a spectacular place: sky-high mountains, blue icebergs, and mythical lakes galore.

When it comes to sheer natural beauty, few countries in Africa come close to Namibia . The Namib Desert is the country’s shining star, from the otherworldly landscapes of the Skeleton Coast , to the shifting dunes of the Namib Sand Sea, to the eerie, sun-blackened trees of Deadvlei. The Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, is a granite massif that glows when the sun sets (Brandberg means “Fire Mountain” in Afrikaans). And this is a coastal country, so you better believe there are beaches—namely the stunning Fish River Canyon (the largest canyon in Africa) or the rivers and wetlands in the Caprivi Strip.

Greece may be best known for the the architecture of Athens and coastal scenes of Santorini (if we had a dollar for every Oia snapshot on our Instagram feed…), but there’s a lot more to the country than its immediate associations. Each of the 6,000+ islands and islets offer swoon-worthy vistas, from the cliff-lined beaches of Zakynthos to the epic sunrises in Mykonos. Not a beach bum? Pay a visit to Epirus , the mountainous, forest-filled region in northwestern Greece.

Sri Lanka is one of our favorite travel destinations —a country complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing. Both Udawalawe National Park and Gal Oya National Park contain hundreds of elephants , while Yala National Park is home to the world’s highest concentration of leopards. And tea lovers, this advice is for you: Base yourself at Thota­lagala, a seven-suite hotel near Dambatenne, the world’s most famous tea estate, planted in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton (yes, that Lipton).

Norway is the land of glaciers, mountains, the Northern Lights, and fjords—so many fjords . The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord in southwestern Norway are among the most scenic anywhere, with steep rock walls and dense forests. For something a little more unique (and daring), there’s Trolltunga at Hardangerfjord. This protruding rock sits about 2,300 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet and provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. And don’t forget about the Lofoten Islands , sitting pretty off the country’s northwestern coast.

Turkey’s landscapes are varied, breathtaking, and even a tad peculiar. Most of the best vistas are found in Asian Anatolia, like the fairy chimneys and rock pillars of Cappadocia , or the craggy peaks and alpine pastures of the Kaçkar Mountains. In the Aegean region, the frozen waterfalls and stacked pools of Pamukkale ensure you'll never be satisfied with your hotel’s infinity pool again. The Turquoise Coast (or Turkish Riviera) is another prime location, especially if perfect beaches, mountain views, and a Mediterranean climate are what you’re looking for.

In Nepal, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and breathtaking landscapes go hand in hand. Home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains (including Mount Everest , the highest point on earth), the country is famous among hikers and adventure seekers. The Gokyo Lakes comprise the world’s highest freshwater lake system, where vibrant, glacier-fed waters are surrounded by snowy peaks. Chitwan National Park is home to rare populations of rhinoceros and Bengal tigers, while Sagarmatha National Park is the place to see snow leopards and red pandas.

Switzerland

Tucked away in the Alps, Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, no matter when you’re visiting. Come wintertime though, it becomes a veritable wonderland , with powdery ski slopes and frozen lakes galore. For the best vantage point of the country’s natural beauty, stay in the village of Zermatt, a ski town so pristine that people actually buy bottles of air from the surrounding mountains (including Switzerland’s iconic Matterhorn mountain). Not a fan of skiing? A summer visit to Switzerland is always a good idea, where Lake Geneva’s picturesque banks and Zurich's badi (natural swimming pools along the lakes and rivers) are waiting to host your next family vacation .

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34 Most Beautiful Places In The World: For Your Bucket List

What are the most beautiful places in the world? Well that depends on what you consider beautiful, and that’s exactly why you’re in the right place!

There are hundreds if not thousands of places on Earth that deserve to be on this list, but we couldn’t possibly name them all. Which is why we picked just the top few in each category, including beaches, mountains, big cities, small towns and those unique sights that are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

So, whether you’re into white sandy beaches, spectacular mountain views or surreal lakes, you’ll find plenty of stuff for your bucket list below!

Most Beautiful Big Cities

Love running around big cities? Make sure that you have at least one of these on your bucket list!

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is THE most beautiful city in the world. Its neon lights are magical and the unique skyscrapers are captivating. And that’s just one small slice of Tokyo magic. Apart from the futuristic building, this mesmerizing city also boasts ancient Shinto shrines and parks full of cherry blossoms. Early spring is the best time to visit Tokyo since that’s when everything is in full bloom.

Plus, head to any of the viewpoints in those massive skyscrapers and you’re in for gorgeous panoramic views of the city with Mt. Fuji in the back – what’s not to love?

Paris, France

Who can forget about the City of Love? Paris is easily at the top of the list of most beautiful places in the world, and not even because of the Eiffel Tower of the Louvre. Everything about Paris is Instagrammable, from the cute croissant you get in a cafe to the evening cruise on the Seine .

Paris is laid out in circles, which also makes it one of the most confusing cities in the world for non-residents. But that’s also part of its charm! And the view of the arrondissements from above is simply magical.  

New York City, USA

The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. The Greatest City in The World. All these phrases refer to New York City , and all of them are true – at least to a degree. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with spectacular skyscrapers and a park the size of Monaco in the middle of Manhattan.

New York is an enchanting city, and a panoramic view from one of the skyscrapers – preferably the Empire State Building – is enough to make you never want to leave. The Statue of Liberty, the Met, MoMA, the Brooklyn Bridge and Flatiron building are just some of the famous sights that will make you stop and stare in awe in this stunning metropolis.

Barcelona, Spain

If you’re into architecture, you know exactly why Barcelona is on this list. The city is home to the bulk of Antoni Gaudi’s buildings , which represent some of the most unique works of architecture on the planet. La Sagrada Familia alone is reason enough to cross the ocean, and Casa Battló and Casa Milà aren’t too shabby either.

If that’s not enough, remember that Barcelona also has extraordinary beaches, delicious food and beer, exceptionally friendly locals and the best Picasso museum in the world!

Jaipur, India

You have probably heard of the Taj Mahal , so you know Indian architecture is truly something else. And there’s no better place in the world to experience it than Jaipur. The Pink City, the Old City, Rajasthan’s Royal Capital are all used to describe India’s most popular tourist hub , and each of them is a reason to fall in love with Jaipur.

Admire the colorful buildings, walk around the massive forts and try to figure out the world’s largest stepwell. Head to one of the city’s vast parks, see all the stunning monuments and visit at least one Animal farm or safari for the wild animals. Even if you spent a month in Jaipur, it wouldn’t be enough to cover half of the things that make it one of the most beautiful places in the world!

Venice, Italy

The Sinking City is easily one of the most stunning places in Europe. Venice has always been a popular destination for tourists and for good reason – how many other cities do you know where boat traffic is worse than car traffic?

Venice should be at the top of your bucket list because we might be one of the last generations that witnesses its existence. The city is slowly sinking and if nothing is done to curb climate change, it will be completely underwater soon. Some experts say that Venice could be underwater as soon as 2100, so make it a priority in your upcoming travels.

Most Beautiful Beaches In The World

Is your bucket list missing a few spectacular sandy beaches? Then it’s lacking at least one of the stunning places below!

Boracay White Beach, Philippines

Photo by Trent Strohm on Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC-ND

Boracay White Beach in the Philippines is pretty much paradise on Earth. There’s soft white sand, azure blue sea and swaying palm trees – how can you say no to that? And the White Beach is not the only slice of paradise on Boracay Island – there’s at least a dozen other beaches with the same soft sand and magical views!

The best part is that the hotels are right on those beaches and they’re incredibly cheap!

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay is one of the most popular places in Australia thanks to miles and miles of gorgeous beaches. It is extremely popular with vacationers for the excellent snorkeling and surfing opportunities in the area. The Tallow Beach in Arakwal National Park is easily the most beautiful beach here – the white sand stretches to your left and right as far as the eyes can see, with the crystal-clear sea in front of you. And behind you there’s nothing but untouched nature for miles and miles!

The Golden Horn, Croatia

The Golden Horn is Croatia’s most famous beach featured in practically every tourist advertisement for the country. And for good reason – this sandy beach has such a unique shape that a single photo is enough to intrigue even those who hate summers.

The shape of the Golden Horn is constantly changing, due to winds and tides. But some things remain the same – the sand will always be soft and the sea around you will always be spectacularly blue. This beach is on Croatia’s Brač island, and it’s just one of dozens worth exploring in the area.

Anywhere on Bora Bora

It would be unfair to select just one beach from Bora Bora when all of them are so spectacularly stunning. No matter where you are on this island you feel like you’ve stepped right into a fairytale, and you never want to leave. And if we’re being perfectly honest, if you’re truly experiencing Bora Bora you’re not even sitting on the beach – you’re jumping into the sea straight from your villa on the water. Which is especially refreshing straight after a hike !

This popular tourist destination in French Polynesia is best known for its luxurious resorts and turquoise sea. The mild climate makes it a great vacation spot practically year round – Bora Bora winter (June, July, August) is the high season for tourism!

Stunning Small Towns And Villages

Quaint houses and cobblestone alleys hold a charm you just can’t experience in big cities with busy streets. And that’s exactly what you will see in the most beautiful small towns and villages!

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Rothenburg is a medieval town in Bavaria, Germany. It’s best known for its medieval old town, which appears unaffected by the passing of time. The town is encircled by a 14 th century wall that is spectacularly undamaged, with medieval gates at town entrances.

This small town is incredibly picturesque, which makes it very popular with tourists. There are bus tours nearly every day – especially in the summer – that will take you to Rothenburg and back, and which are a great way to explore this charming place. Keep in mind that it takes about 15 minutes to walk from one end of Rothenburg to the other – there’s not a lot to do and see here, other than to admire the picturesque houses.

Jaffa, Israel

Jaffa is an ancient port town in Israel, best known for its picturesque streets. Walking through the cobblestone alleys truly feels like you’ve stepped back in time, but in a good and charming way. The contrast between the ancient buildings in Jaffa and the modern skyscrapers of Tel Aviv is truly astounding.

In fact, Tel Aviv grew out of the ancient port city, which just makes it even more intriguing. Jaffa’s proximity to one of the most modern metropolises in the Middle East makes it a great base for further exploration of the area – spend your days roaming around the modern streets of Tel Aviv, but head to this historic town in the evening for a truly unique experience.

Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia is the southernmost city in Argentina and on the planet, which technically makes it the End of the World. And if that’s not enough to intrigue you, Martial Glacier should do the trick. It’s only 7 kilometers from downtown Ushuaia, with numerous hiking trails that offer incredible panoramic views of this charming city.

The nature outside the city is spectacular and exceptionally colorful throughout the year. And it gets even better – Ushuaia is also popular for cruises to Isla Yécapasela, which is commonly known as ‘Penguin Island’ because of the colonies. So, not only can you go to the End of the World, but you can also watch penguins and take a cruise to Antarctica from there!

Bran, Romania

Bran is a small village in Romania internationally famous for the Bran Castle, more commonly known as Dracula’s Castle. It’s associated with Dracula because of Bram Stoker’s namesake novel, but what’s funny is that there’s zero evidence that Stoker ever knew about Bran Castle. Plus, the fortress from the novel and the one in this tiny Romanian village bear no resemblance at all.

Nonetheless, the myth continues in the 21 st century, and a myriad of tourists flocks to the Romanian village to explore the fortress of the notorious vampire. It doesn’t hurt that the castle is in an idyllic setting with beautiful forests and mountains surrounding the quaint village.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Chefchaouen is a Moroccan city famous for being blue. Most buildings are in various shades of blue, which creates intrigue and attracts tourists. What’s best is that nobody knows exactly why everything’s blue, but there are numerous theories.

The town truly looks like something out of a fairytale, and it’s exceptionally Instagrammable. But that’s not the only reason to visit Chefchaouen. Its proximity to Tangier and Ceuta make it a great base for exploring Morocco , while the hundreds of hotels in town ensure there’s a spot for every tourist that visits. Chefchaouen is also a popular shopping destination because you can get a lot of stuff there that’s not available in the rest of the country!

Best Mountain Views On Earth

Are you craving some spectacular mountain views to add to your bucket list? Make sure that it has at least one of the following places!

Matterhorn, Switzerland

Or anywhere in Switzerland , really! With more than 15,000 mi² of the Alps, Switzerland is easily one of the best destinations in the world for mountainous tourism. And Zermatt village is the most popular spot in the country for it. It lies at the foot of the Matterhorn and offers spectacular lodging where you can enjoy views of this majestic mountain through a glass wall, from the comfort of your hot tub.

Matterhorn is popular for skiing, snowboarding, Alpine climbing, mountain biking and pretty much anything else you could do on a mountain any time of the year. It’s also featured on the delicious Toblerone chocolate, which might be the reason why everyone knows the shape of this spectacular mountain.  

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Tanzania’s dormant volcano is one of the most impressive sights on the African continent. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the topographically most prominent peak on the planet. It’s also a very popular climbing destination in the Kilimanjaro National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What makes the volcanic massif even more attractive is that it’s surrounded by untouched nature. The snowy peak stands tall in the midst of vast plains and it’s surrounded by mountainous forest that’s full of various mammals. Some of them are endangered, which really makes this place one of the most unique spots on our planet.

Uetliberg, Switzerland

Uetliberg mountain peak is nowhere near as impressive as Matterhorn or even remotely as scary as Denali. But it does offer some of the best views you will experience in your life, since on a clear day you can see nearly the entire Lake Zurich.

This mountain peak is maybe half an hour away from downtown Zurich, and it offers sprawling views of the city and lake below. And if the panoramic vistas just don’t cut it for you, there’s always one of the dozen or so hiking trails to keep you entertained!

Denali, Alaska

Denali is an alpinist’s dream. The highest mountain peak in North America draws the bravest and most experienced climbers, and not even all of those make it back. The success rate for climbing Denali is only about 50%, and more than 100 alpinists have died attempting to get to the top.

But you don’t have to reach the summit to enjoy the views. You can be as just as amazed at lower altitudes, or if you just spend some time in the Denali National Park. The untouched nature here in Alaska is absolutely breathtaking, even if you’re not admiring it from the top of such a dangerous mountain.

Kirkjufell, Iceland

Kirkjufell is a popular mountain in Iceland. It’s not a big mountain – the height of 463 meters can’t even begin to compare to the tall peaks of Switzerland. However, this gorgeous mountain is one of the few places in the world where you can experience Aurora Borealis and for that it certainly deserves to be listed among the best mountain views in the world. The dramatic shape and idyllic coastal location make this one of the most popular attractions in Iceland.

 If Kirkjufell looks familiar, it’s probably because you already saw it in Game of Thrones. It was featured in seasons 6 and 7 as the “arrowhead mountain” – you wouldn’t just be able to admire to Northern Lights here, but you could also experience some scenes from the famous TV show!

Jungfraujoch, Switzerland

Yes, it’s another mountain in Switzerland, but I can’t help myself! It is the top destination in Europe (and wider) for mountainous tourism, and Jungfraujoch is one of the most stunning mountains in the country. It is home to Top of Europe, which features the highest altitude post office on the continent.

Jungfraujoch is popular for skiing, snowboarding, Alpinism and mountaineering. And if you’re not really an adventurous person, Top of Europe features a restaurant and a bar where you can enjoy a more hedonistic experience. The Sphinx Observation deck offers breath-taking mountain views, while the Ice Cave below the main deck promises you an unforgettable experience.

Huayna Picchu, Peru

Huayna Picchu is one of the most famous mountains in the entire world. It rises over the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu , which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet.

There’s a trail up the side of the mountain that takes you to the temple and terraces on top, which are absolutely mesmerizing. The views of the lost city from the top are out of this world, and certainly something you’re not going to forget for a while. However, the trail to the top is steep and exposed at times and it can be quite challenging even for experienced hikers. It’s particularly dangerous between November and April because it gets slippery, but it still doesn’t take much more than an hour to get to the top.

Many people also hike in the long way or visit on a longer trip to Peru , because there is so much to see in this beautiful country.

Stunning National Parks

Our planet is full of gorgeous untouched nature and most of it is within national parks. Add a couple of the following destinations to your bucket lists for some of the best views of your life!

 Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park, Australia

Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park in Australia is home to Ayers Rock (Uluru), which is a massive sandstone rock formation. What makes this giant rock special is its age – Uluru and Kata Tjata began to form nearly 550 million years ago, which is honestly just hard to fathom.

The sight of this monolith is spectacular, especially during sunset. There are loads of tourist-friendly experiences in the area that will set up a romantic dinner or a picnic for you, so that you can admire it in all its glory.  

Yosemite, California

Yosemite is thought to be the prettiest national park in the US. Famed for the Sierra Nevada mountains and the giant sequoia  trees  , California’s best national park is certainly a must for everyone who visits the state.

And it’s a US national park after all, so it doesn’t just wow you with the beautiful nature. It also boasts Yosemite Village, which features lodgings, restaurants, cafes and even art galleries and museums for a truly enriching experience.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon National Park is easily one of the most famous spots on the planet. Nearly six million people flock to Arizona to see the Grand Canyon every year, making this one of the most popular tourist spots in the States.

It took nearly six million years for the Colorado River to carve out the Grand Canyon! But what many people don’t know is that we have president Roosevelt to thank for this astonishing sight. He was one of the largest proponents of preservation of the Grand Canyon, and visited the area frequently to admire the beautiful vistas.

The national park is more than just that one famous spot. There’s lots of great hiking trails worth exploring, a bunch of camping spots for the perfect night under the stars and even bicycle trails on the South Rim. You can even ride a mule if you want!

Zhangye National Geopark, China

The Zhangye National Geopark is one of the most beautiful nature sites in China. It’s best known for the colorful rock formations commonly called “rainbow mountains”, which are an astonishing sight.

China’s rainbow mountains are an extremely rare sight, with only a couple other places in the world boasting the same phenomenon. What’s special about Zhangye Daxia is that there’s so many different peaks in the geopark, it’s insane. With so many different shapes, sizes and patterns, it’s truly a feast for your eyes.

Most Unique Places In The World

There are some places on our planet that are so surreal they feel out of this world. If you want to see something different from everything else you’ve experienced so far, add a few of the places below to your bucket list!

Angel Road, Japan

Image courtesy of Tetsushi Kimura

Japan is home to many gorgeous and unique places, but Angel Road is perhaps the most intriguing one. It is a sandbar that connects mainland Shodoshima with three smaller islands. So, what’s so unique about it?

Well, the 500m sandbar is only visible twice a day, when the tide is low. When the water level rises, Angel Road disappears entirely and you’d never know it was there. It is possible to cross it if you get there on time – legend has it that if you manage to walk the Angel Road, you can make a wish and it will come true.

Spotted Lake, Canada (BC)

Image courtesy of Marcia O’Connor

The Spotted Lake in British Columbia is one of the most famous lakes in the world. It is a salt lake richly concentrated with various minerals that appear as ‘spots’ on the lake. What actually happens is that a lot of water evaporates in the summer, revealing the various mineral deposits. The color of the ‘spot’ depends on which mineral is dominant in the area.

That’s another cool thing about this unique lake – if you were to walk past it during fall, you wouldn’t notice anything out of the ordinary. Except maybe for the fence that surrounds the lake, to prevent people from getting too close.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale means ‘cotton castle’ in Turkish, and it’s an apt name for the fascinating sight in Denizli. Pamukkale is a UNESCO World Heritage spot where calcite-filled waters worked thousands of years to create tiny blue ‘pools’. The ‘pools’ are in fact mineral basins formed from calcium deposits.

It’s a surreal sight and it’s without a doubt one of the most interesting spots on the planet. Plus, the travertine terraces are only a part of magic in this area – they’re adjacent to the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis, which is virtually the reason why the entire area is under UNESCO protection.   

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Unless you’ve lived under a rock for the past century, you’ve heard of Mount Rushmore – the massive sculpture of four American presidents (Roosevelt, Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson) carved into a mountain. The iconic monument is in Keystone, South Dakota and it draws millions of people to this location every year.

Mount Rushmore is not the only site of its nature – there are other monuments carved into the cliffs out there, but very of them are as famous as the American one. In fact, there’s a Crazy Horse (Native American war leader) memorial just minutes away from the sculpture of four American presidents, but it’s been a work in progress since 1948.

Giza Necropolis, Egypt

You didn’t think we’d forget to include the pyramids, did you? The Giza Necropolis is a historic site famous for the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, which might just be the best-known archaeological sites on the planet. They are absolutely mesmerizing, since their sheer size is something you can’t really comprehend until you’re standing right in front of them.

And you can enter all three of the Great Pyramids, as long as you buy for a ticket. But who wouldn’t spring for an entrance fee, when they’ve already made it all the way there?!

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is a spectacular blend of history and gorgeous nature that attracts a myriad of tourists to central Turkey every year. It’s best known for the cone-shaped rock formations that are found in Monks Valley. The best way to admire these unique rocks is to go on a hot air balloon ride over the valley, which nearly 2000 people do every day.

This is the only place in the world where hundreds of hot air balloons fly almost every morning, allowing thousands of people to admire the enchanting scenery. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is certainly one for the bucket lists!

Lake Hillier, Australia

By Yodaobione – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=95475591

This saline lake on the Middle Island of Australia’s Recherche Archipelago is one of the most famous sights in the country. It is best known for the pink color that looks exceptionally beautiful. It’s often confused with the Pink Lake that, contrary to its name, is not actually pink in color.

Lake Hillier is on the very edge of the Middle Island, divided from the Southern Ocean with a long and thin shore. It’s safe to swim in the lake despite the high saline content, but it’s not actually allowed without the approval of Western Australia Department of Environment Conservation.

African Renaissance Monument, Senegal

Image courtesy of John Karwoski

The African Renaissance Monument is a massive statue in Dakar, Senegal. And I do mean massive – the monument is 52 meters tall, which makes it one of the tallest statues in the world. What makes this sight even more impressive is that it lies on top of one of the twin hills, which makes it appear even taller.

The copper statue was built in just two years, and it’s been drawing tourists to Dakar since 2010. The monument represents an African family facing North-West, which symbolizes Africa leaving obscurantism and instead moving towards the light. 

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World

Time to dust off your passport.

There are so many amazing places around the globe to see, we couldn't possibly include them all in just one list. But, these breathtaking destinations are definitely worth bumping to the top of your travel bucket list–whether you're looking to relax on a beach, get off the grid or explore a new international city—these are the most breathtaking locations to consider.

Zhangye Danxia Geopark, China

Geology lovers and avid Instagrammers alike will be drawn to the otherworldly hues of the "Rainbow Mountains." The colors were formed by the layering of sedimentary mineral deposits over millions of years, but it's hard to look at the flowing reds, yellows, and oranges and not feel like you're witnessing magic.

Venice, Italy

If traversing the canals with a be-striped gondolier sounds unbearably touristy, stick to the sidewalks and spectacular arched bridges to get your fill of this truly unique, wildly romantic floating city.

Banff National Park, Canada

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Head west from Melbourne on this coastal drive to see everything from the famous 12 Apostle rock formations, to koalas in Great Otway National Park as well as the charming seaside town of Lorne.

Machu Picchu

This World Heritage site is easily the most famous spot in Peru, and for good reason. The ancient terraced city’s astounding architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains will leave you breathless (as might the nearly 8,000 foot elevation.)

Pamukkale, Turkey

Put every infinity pool you’ve ever seen to shame with these natural, snow-white hot springs overlooking the nearby city of Denizli. On top of the picturesque soak, Pamukkale is also home to the impressively preserved ruins of the ancient Roman spa-city Hierapolis where you can bathe like an emperor among the submerged centuries-old columns.

Japan in Cherry Blossom Season

While Japan is beautiful year-round, the few weeks each spring when cherry trees across the country explode with blossoms is a particularly pretty time to visit.

Pitons, St Lucia

These two volcanic mountains are one of the most recognizable—not to mention beautiful—features on this Caribbean island. Enjoy the Pitons from the pristine white sand beach at Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort .

Marrakesh, Morocco

Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh has changed little since the Middle Ages. You could spend days here wandering around maze-like alleyways discovering the city's colorful souks, palaces and gardens.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

With turquoise lagoons, coral reefs and overwater bungalows, this small island in the South Pacific is basically heaven on Earth.

Oia, Santorini, Greece

All of the Greek islands are undeniably beautiful, but head to the hillside town of Oia for some of the best views of the bright blue Aegean Sea.

Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Get off the beaten path in this rural district where the rice paddy-terraced mountains and twisting streams will make you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale.

Tamil Nadu, India

Most travelers head to North India for its Mughal palaces and forts, but the Southern state of Tamil Nadu is where most of the country's major Hindu temples are found, including the brightly-colored Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple seen here and the Meenakshi Temple Complex, which is so large it's considered a mini-city.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

If you're looking to get off the grid, head to Chile's Patagonia region for some of the most beautiful mountain views you'll ever see.

Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Located in the center of Beijing, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace of China's emperors for five centuries and is one of the most beautifully preserved examples of ancient Chinese architecture.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

There are so many beautiful places in Italy it's hard to pick just one—but the Amalfi Coast's idyllic hillside towns, like Positano, bump it to the top of our must-see list.

Krabi, Thailand

Located on southern Thailand's west coast, this province's coastline is dotted with limestone cliffs and hundreds of islands just offshore in the Andaman Sea, making it one of the world's most popular beach vacation destinations.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Each year starting in the end of November and peaking in early December, fields of bright purple Russell Lupins bloom across New Zealand's South Island. One of the most beautiful spots to go Lupin-spotting is in Fiordland National Park, home to the equally gorgeous Milford Sound.

Bagan, Myanmar

This ancient city in central Myanmar is made up of thousands (yes, thousands) of Buddhist temples and pagodas. One of the prettiest views is from above—we recommend going for a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Before you can swim in these beautiful blue-green waters located near Grand Canyon National Park, you have to hike ten miles to get there. Trust us, it's totally worth the trek.

Lyndsey Matthews is the Destination News Editor for AFAR; previously she was a Lifestyle Editor across all of Hearst Digital Media's brands, and a digital editor at Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure .

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

Todd Plummer is a Boston based journalist covering culture and lifestyle. He is a seasoned entertainment reporter, travel writer, and is an alumnus of McGill University and St. John’s University School of Law. 

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25 breathtaking places and experiences for 2023

Looking for your next adventure? You’ll find it on our annual list of the world’s best destinations for travelers.

Travel inspiration is everywhere you look. The question is where to go next. Here’s our annual list of superlative destinations for the year ahead—places filled with wonder, rewarding to travelers of all ages, and supportive of local communities and ecosystems. Reported by our global editors and framed by five categories ( Community , Nature , Culture , Family , and Adventure ), these 25 destinations for 2023 are under the radar, ahead of the curve, and ready for you to start exploring.

Community: Where conservation benefits everyone

Discover Karpathos, Greece, a surprising and sublime spot in the Dodecanese Islands , where women-led ventures are leading the charge in sustainable tourism. Spend a long weekend in Milwaukee, Wisconsin , a vibrant Great Lakes city that celebrates its cultural community as much as its breweries. Experience how long-held traditions and contemporary perspectives intersect, with Indigenous tourism outfitters in Alberta, Canada . Board a new high-speed train that makes lesser known regions of Laos accessible to tourists and brings economic opportunities to locals. Head to Ghana to explore Black heritage and hang out with a fashion-forward crowd in the capital, Accra. ( Learn more about how these Best of the World destinations support their communities. )

Nature: Escapes to wild, beautiful places

Marvel at the biodiversity of Botswana —as well as the programs to rehabilitate endangered species, create wildlife corridors, and develop community-owned tourism projects. Linger in the   Scottish Highlands , where a rewilding movement is aiming to restore the original landscape and native flora and fauna. In Slovenia , a longtime leader in sustainable tourism, set off on new gastrotourism biking routes that visit farms, vineyards, cheesemakers, and other food producers. Big Bend National Park   brings to life the frontier legend of Texas—but the landscape will also surprise you. In the Azores ,   applaud   award-winning sustainability programs that conserve the natural wonders of this volcanic archipelago known for whale watching and thermal springs.   ( Delve into our best destinations for nature lovers. )

Culture: Places where history and heritage rule

Visit King Tut’s new home in Egypt at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum and see Luxor’s Avenue of the Sphinxes. Tap into the creative energy of Asia’s top film festival and sip craft beer in Busan, South Korea , the nation’s second largest city. Make a pilgrimage through history along Italy’s Appian Way , Europe’s ancient “superhighway.” Explore culture and history—with a side of Low Country cuisine—at the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Caroli na . See one of the world’s largest assemblages of stone statues at Longmen Grottoes , a UNESCO World Heritage site in Henan Province, China.   ( Here’s how to visit these Best of the World destinations .)

Family: Inspiring journeys for all ages

In Switzerland , ride the rails to quaint Alpine towns for chocolate, hiking, and skiing. Help save the turtles in Trinidad & Tobago , one of the most important leatherback turtle rookeries in the world. In San Francisco, California ,   gather around a campfire with Golden Gate views at Presidio Tunnel Tops and hike the urban Crosstown Trail.   Go birdwatching in the avian paradise that is Colombia , the enchanted land of Disney’s Encanto.   Visit the playing grounds of a storied soccer team in Manchester, England —and be inspired by the city’s art scene as well.   ( Explore more of these family-friendly destinations .)

Adventure: Adrenaline-pumping outdoor excursions  

Trek to Choquequirao, Peru ,   an isolated Inca site that’s under the radar—but soon to be more accessible. In New Zealand , the country that invented bungee jumping, rekindle your sense of adventure post-pandemic. Get your adrenaline rush in less visited areas of the popular adventure state of Utah . In Austria , hike the cross-country Bergsteigerdörfer network of mountaineering villages to sample local culture. Finally, add Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico , to your itinerary. Its protected waters, supported by National Geographic’s Pristine Seas initiative, hold one of the largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays in the world.   ( Dive deeper into these adventure trips. )

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50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 8, 2024

While writing this post about the most beautiful places in the world that we’ve visited, I did a Google search to compare what we think is beautiful to what the Internet thinks.

Most articles of other beautiful places stated “ photos courtesy of Getty images ” or photos courtesy of some other generic stock photography supplier. We actually spotted some of our photos in some of these lists – used without permission of course

So since people are using our stuff all anyway, we thought we’d write a list of beautiful places on earth that we’ve seen with our own. eyes, using our own images.

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Places in the World

These are the places in the world that literally took our breath away when we saw them for the first time. I hope you enjoy the most beautiful places in the world…That we’ve been to.

1. Cappadocia, Turkey

We had seen the photos of Cappadocia before taking our first hot air balloon ride in Central Turkey but a photo doesn’t do justice to the beauty of Cappadocia’s landscape. Cappadocia is on our list of the best historical places in the world as well.

Seeing the hot air balloons soaring above the fairy chimneys and its lunar landscape felt like a dream. Cappadoccia is our number one pick out of all the beautiful places in the world that we visited.

Be sure to stay in a cave hotel when you do go to Cappadocia, it’s heavenly.

• Read about our balloon flight in Cappadocia
• Our Cappadocia Cave Hotel Tour

2. Santorini, Greece

Santorini truly lives up to its reputation as a beautiful destination. It’s one of the most romantic places we’ve ever been and our favorite place to visit in Greece. Staying in a luxury cave hotel in Oia was a dream come true. Santorini is definitely the star of the Greek Islands and for good reason.

As I sat in the infinity pool overlooking the caldera, I felt as if there was no other place the epitomizes paradise as much as Santorini, Greece.

• The Very Best Things to do in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini: Best Hotels and Towns
• Santorini Photography Guide
• Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience
• The Best Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece

3. Lake Louise, Canada

Each time Dave and I visit Lake Louise in Banff National Park we are reminded of why we always tell people it is the most beautiful place in Canada. With Victoria Glacier plunging into the turquoise waters of this glacier lake, Lake Louise is the perfect natural Canadian setting. Read more: The Best Things to do in Banff

The entire area of Banff is picture perfect and you’ll be mesmerized with each scene you encounter. We had an epic game of pond hockey on Lake Louise i n the winter and it was just as beautiful in the summer. In fact, we like it better in the winter because there are no crowds!

• Canoe Lake Louise, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Banff
• The 52 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide
• 12 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

4. Maldives

The sapphire blue waters of the Maldives are like nothing we’ve ever seen.

Secluded private islands house luxury hotels with over the water bungalow. The sand is soft and white as snow creating the perfect island paradise escape.

• The Best Things to do in the Maldives
• Watch our video – The Beauty of the Maldives

5. Antarctica

Whenever people ask us what our favorite destination is, Dave always answers Antarctica. The reason? Because it is one of the most beautiful places to photograph on earth.

The different shades of blue ice and snow layer the landscape. Massive ice. formations the size of buildings drift through the deep blue water and the skies are crisp and clear. There is no place in the world quite like Antarctica.

• Beautiful Images of Antarctic Ice
• Things to do in Antarctica
• How to Pack for an Antarctic Cruise

6. Serengeti Plains, Tanzania

While Dave loves Antarctica, I (Deb) love Tanzania. And no place is as beautiful as the Serengeti.

The wildlife is outstanding, but the sunsets and landscape of great plains of Africa are second to none.

Every beautiful picture that you see of those African sunsets really are that gorgeous!

• A Tanzania Safari
• African Safari Animals in Photos
• What to do in Tanzania

7. Sapa, Vietnam

It has been well over a decade since we visited Sapa in Vietnam, but it’s striking scene will always be etched in our minds. While hiking through the plunging rice terraces in high mountains on the border of China, I felt as if each turn was a picture in a National Geographic photo story.

• Things to do in Vietnam from North to South
• Cu Chi Tunnels of Vietnam

8. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Before visiting Positano, I thought the Cinque Terre was the most beautiful place in Italy. But when I saw the plunging coastal cliffs of the Amalfi Coast as we drove to Positano, I was floored by its dramatic views.

The coastal views are spectacular and piece-de-resistance is getting to enjoy a glass of bubbly as we overlooked the colorful buildings overlooking the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

• Top Stops on the Amalfi Coast
• The Most Romantic Cities on the Italian Coast

9. Exuma Cays, Bahamas

Flying from Nassau in a small twin-engine plane offered incredible views of white sand beaches dotting the gin blue waters of the Exuma Cays in the Bahamas . There are 365 islands and atolls waiting to be explored with secluded beaches and crystal clear waters calling your name!

• Exuma Cays – Dream Trip to the Bahamas
• Thunderball Grotto in Exuma Cays – What you Need to Know

10. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi has become one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, but I’ll never forget seeing it for the first time in 2000. Located in the south of Thailand, Krabi is an island paradise with countless karst islands jutting out of the South China Sea.

Popular beautiful places in southern Thailand are Railay, Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi.

• Rock Climbing Krabi
• Amazing Things to do in Thailand
• Thailand Travel Tips

11. Bagan, Myanmar

Bagan was the first of the great and famous ancient ruins that we ever visited. This temple complex in Myanmar is filled with more than 2000 pagodas.

Sitting atop a high pagoda overlooking the range of temples was one of the most breathtaking scenes we had ever witnessed. Our hearts are breaking for the people in Myanmar and travel is not advisable there right now. But we hope that they can come out of this crisis soon and we can show them how much the world loves them.

• Amazing Bagan Ruins of Myanmar
• Best of Myanmar

12. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

For years we had seen pictures of this fairytale castle and didn’t know where it was. It wasn’t until we traveled to Bavaria in Germany last summer that we finally saw it with our own eyes, and it did not disappoint. Read more: Most Beautiful Castles in Germany

This castle is so perfect, Walt Disney modelled his Disney Castle after it. It is located just 90 minutes from Munich.

• Best of Bavaria
• 14 Amazing Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen
• Best Things to do in Munich, Germany

13. Gobi Desert and Mongolian Steppe

While driving through Mongolia during the Mongol Rally, I couldn’t get over the vastness of the landscape.

I know that sounds strange to say, but the Mongolian Steppe is so wide open, that even the skies feel bigger here than anywhere else in the world.

• Tips for Driving the Mongol Rally
• Mongolia in Photos

14. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Here you’ll find wildlife unlike anywhere else on earth due to their isolation. The diverse landscape ranges from lush forests to isolated beaches and arid deserts.

We fell in love with the beauty of this unique little corner of the world.

• 27 Photos to Transport you to the Galapagos in Photos
• What it’s LIke on a Galapagos Tour

15. Tombstone Mountains Yukon

While driving the Dempster Highway of Yukon Canada, we commented on how much it looked like Mongolia.

Not a lot of people visit the Yukon, but if you do, you will agree that it is one of the most beautiful, lush and diverse. landscapes on earth.

Drive from Inuvik in the Northwest Territories to Dawson City for a great road trip and adventure!

• Driving the Dempster Highway
• The Sour Toe Cocktail – Dawson City’s Dead Toe Cocktail

16. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw the Giant’s Causeway. There are other basalt formations around the world, but none seem as symmetrical as here.

The stone steps are so perfect, that it is almost possible to believe the legend that the Giant, Fionn McCool laid these stones to create a link to Scotland .

They look exactly like patio stones that a giant would lay.

• The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway
• Things to do in Northern Ireland
• Northern Ireland Travel Guide

17. Petra, Jordan

While walking along the 2km long Siq to Petra we had no idea what to expect.

The narrow gorge path was filled with beautiful scenes, ruins and formations but it was when we turned the corner to view the Petra Treasury that I let out a gasp. It was so beautiful.

We had been to many ancient cities by this time and didn’t think we could be surprised by beauty anymore, but Petra caught us off guard.

Petra excited us and made us remember how travel can still surprise and delight.

• Petra Jordan by Day
• 13 Exciting things to do in Jordan

18. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Living close to Niagara Falls , we always compare waterfalls around the world to the one in our own backyard. But there is no comparison between the two. Iguazu Falls is in the middle of a jungle.

It is wild and untamed and is an impressive set of 275 waterfalls plunging into a canyon that is 2.7 km long!

Standing on the boardwalk engulfed by the waterfalls and jungle was one of the most incredible scenes we had ever seen!

• The Best of Iguazu Falls
• Getting Soaked at Iguazu Falls

19. Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa has many beautiful places to visit, but there is something special about the beauty of Cape Town. This city is framed by the towering Table Mountain creating the most unique cityscape we’ve ever laid eyes upon.

It almost looks like someone has dropped a giant background behind the picturesque waterfront. With beaches, colourful colonial architecture, and a gorgeous seaside, this city has it all and it is gorgeous.

• The Very Best of Cape Town
• Things to do in South Africa
• 28 Reasons to Visit South Africa

20. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza can be seen from all over Cairo. They look like a mirage jutting up from the desert. When I first saw them while driving from the airport to our hotel, I didn’t think I was actually seeing the pyramids. That couldn’t be them, could it? It was!

The pyramids have never lost their mystique and allure and seeing them with our own eyes was a dream come true.

• 8 Must See Egypt Attractions
• The Red Pyramid of Egypt
• Egypt in Photos

21. Antelope Canyon, United States

You can’t take photography tours to Antelope Canyon anymore, but you can still see them.

The draw of this canyon is to witness the short window where the sun shines through an opening once per day to create a waterfall of light illuminating the layered rocks in this impressive cavern. It is truly a wonder of the world. Check out Antelope Canyon in Photos

22. The Himalayan Mountain Range, Nepal and Bhutan

We have seen a lot of mountains in our time and they are all beautiful, but there is something extraordinary about the world’s highest mountain range.

While trekking to Everest Base Camp, we actually commented that you almost feel that you could reach out and touch the heavens. Nothing compares to the beauty of the Himalayas.

• Trek to Everest Base Camp
• Everest Base Camp Tips

23. Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

We had always wondered if the Himalayas were as beautiful as we remembered and then when visiting Bhutan, we were reminded just how striking they are.

We trekked deep into the mountains for views just as impressive as Everest, but even short climbs like this one to Tiger’s Nest Monastery was absolutely beautiful.

• 18 Things to do in Bhutan
• Bhutan Trek to Laya
• Himalayas in Photos

24. Ilulissat, Greenland

Many people think that Greenland is just one big slab of ice. But Greenland is filled with color and beauty. Nowhere did we see that more than when hiking out to the world’s most active calving glacier in Ilulissat.

The rainbow-colored houses of Illulisat make way for the deep green hues of the Arctic Tundra leading towards Margerie Glacier where beautiful and massive icebergs crash in the sea.

There is nothing like seeing the power of mother nature up close and personal.

• Incredible Greenland the Final Frontier
• Greenland – Where Ancient Culture Meets the Outside World

25. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is stunning. A cruise through the endless scene of limestone islands surrounded by turquoise and emerald green waters is a must when visiting Vietnam.

It was while hiking from the Cat Ba Cave to a high lookout that we were totally taken aback. When we looked down to see the scene of junk boats surrounded by karts, we knew, we were in someplace special.

• Ha Long Bay or Bai Tu Long, How Do you Choose

26. Twelve Apostles, Australia

Australia has some incredible places to visit, but I think its most beautiful destination is the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road.

We hiked for four days along the dazzling coast before reaching the giant sentries standing guard in the sea. Take a helicopter tour to really take in its beauty.

• The Great Ocean Walk
• 23 Greatest Places to visit in Australia

27. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro was one of our greatest adventures and seeing Furtwangler Glacier with our own eyes was unbelievable. We didn’t notice its beauty until we started our descent, because all the way up, we were looking down at our feet!

As I watched Dave cross its path, I felt tears well in my eyes because of the immense beauty before me.

As the sun rose, the ice turned to a glowing shade of pink that we will never forget. It’s too bad I didn’t have my camera raised to take a photograph, but I did capture it on video.

• Watch our video on YouTube
• How Hard is it to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

28. Milford Sound, New Zealand

New Zealand is one of our favourite destinations on earth and the South Island has one of the most diverse landscapes in the world! You can see a lot in a short time.

Milford Sound in Fjordland National Park has some of the highest sea cliffs on earth rising 1,200 meters above the water. A cruise of Milford Sound is one of the top things to do in New Zealand.

Sheer rock faces rise up from the blue waters blending into the perfect blues skies dotted with fluffy clouds.

• 37 Awesome Things to do in New Zealand
• Cruise Around Milford Sound – Our video

29. Victoria Falls, Zambia

I know I have already included a great waterfall of the world by mentioning Iguazu, but Victoria Falls needs to be on this list as well. It is the world’s largest waterfall plunging down in one continuous curtain for 1.7 km. Seeing from a helicopter is a must. From above is the best way to really see its scope.

• Dream Trip -Things to do in Victoria Falls
• Watch the best of Victoria Falls

30. Lake Nakuru, Kenya

The Masai Mara may be Kenya’s top draw, but it was Lake Nakuru that we really fell in love with the beauty of Kenya. Known for the flamingos and pelicans that frequent its alkaline shores, Lake Nakuru is a picturesque location in Africa. It’s also one of the best places to see rhinos in Africa.

• Kenya’s Incredible Lake Nakuru
• 27 Greatest Places to visit in Africa

31. Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

Iceland is known for its waterfalls and none are quite as famous as Seljalandsfoss. It is has been featured in so many movies including the recent Netflix comedy, Eurovision. Be sure to go behind the falls for this view.

• Not to Miss Iceland Waterfalls
• 13 Unique Places to Visit in Iceland

32. Costa Navarino, Greece

We had never even heard of Voidokilia Beach before visiting Costa Navarino, but when we saw this perfect horseshoe beach, we couldn’t believe that such a beach existed.

You can bicycle or hike up to a high lookout to see the stunning beach that looks exactly like the Greek letter Omega.

Costa Navarino – Ancient History & Natural Beauty Greek Food – A Complete Guide to the Best Greek Cuisine Watch the Video: The Best of Costa Navarino

33. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland is one of our favorite destinations on earth. It also has some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. It was difficult to choose what was the best and most beautiful of Ireland, so we thought we’d go with the most famous, The Cliffs of Moher. If you go at sunrise or sunset, you’ll avoid the crowds and experience amazing skies!

• 21 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland
• 34 of the Best Things to do in Dublin, Ireland

34. Norway Fjords

Our Norway in a Nutshell cruise took us through one beautiful scene after another. Just when we thought the cliffs couldn’t get higher we’d turn a corner and there’d be another massive mound before our eyes. The reflections in the waters made for incredible views.

• Norway in a Nutshell – Scenic Train Rides to Fantastic Fjords
• Trolltunga Hike – Trekking to Norway’s Most Famous Landmark
• Watch the video tour – Beautiful Norway Fjords

35. Rio de Janiero, Brazil

Rio is an exciting city to visit, but when going up to the top of Christ the Redeemer , or taking a helicopter tour over the city, you really witness just how striking the coast is.

The beaches are some of the best in the world with famous names like Ipanema and Copa Cabana. The endless white sand is framed by the giant Sugarloaf and Two Brother’s mountains making for an epic scene.

I think Rio is the most beautiful city on earth, especially when you take its ocean and mountainous setting into consideration.

• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
• Sugarloaf Mountain Views in Rio Video
• The Very Best of Rio video

36. Grand Canyon, USA

I’m not going to lie. When visiting the Grand Canyon, I wasn’t expecting much. I thought it would be a cheesy tourist trap, but it lives up to the hype! There is a reason the Grand Canyon is featured in so many movies , it is spectacular. A road trip through California and Arizona brought us to this place, and I am so glad that we saw it with our own eyes. Read: The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona

• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon
• Arizona Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary
• The Quintessential California Road Trip Itinerary
• Route 66 – America’s Historic Highway
• Best Places to visit in the USA

37. Huacachina, Peru

Most people think of the Middle East when picturing deserts, but our first real desert experience was in Peru, and it blew our minds. We didn’t know that sand dunes could be so high! Staying in the desert oasis and climbing up to the top of the sand dunes was amazing. We were overwhelmed with the endless shadows rolling before our eyes.

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru
• What Expect when Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru
• Torres del Paine National Park – 5 Days in Patagonia

38. South Dakota Badlands

Who knew that South Dakota has so much to offer. We were invited on an Instagram trip to the state a few years ago thinking we’d have trouble finding interesting photos to capture. It turned out that South Dakota is photogenic at nearly every turn. There’s more to it than Mount Rushmore. The Badlands are truly spectacular read all about it here.

• 19 Wondrous Pictures of South Dakota
• Things to do in South Dakota – 10 Not to Miss Attractions
• A Video tour of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse

39. Maui Bamboo Forest

Most people will say the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Japan is one of the most beautiful places in the world. But we haven’t been there. However, we have been to many other bamboo forests throughout Southeast Asia. None of them compare to Maui’s Bamboo Forest.

Located along the Pipiwai Trail along the Hana Highway there are other beautiful things to see including high cascading waterfalls. But the bamboo forest is really an incredible site.

• 17 Fantastic Road To Hana Stops
• Where to Stay in Maui
• 22 Unique Adventures in Maui
• 26 Best Things to do in Maui

40. Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is popular for diving and snorkelling, but seeing from above was the most beautiful way to experience it. The green coral reef dotted the waters of the coral sea. With hundreds of islands and atolls stretching over 344,400 square kilometers (133,000 square miles) it is one of the great places to fly over in the world.

• 18 Great Things to do in Queensland
• 23 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia

41. Isle of Skye

Driving the North Coast of 500 showcased so many beautiful places in Scotland.But it was when taking a detour to the Isle of Skye that we managed to view one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its fairy pools have long attracted visitors, and we were excited to see the Old Man of Storr.

• North Coast 500 – The Ultimate Trip Guide to Scotland’s Epic Drive
• Dunnet Head, Scotland: Panoramic Views, WWII Bunkers, and a Lighthouse

42. Vik, Iceland

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Iceland it is difficult to choose. I mean, the waterfalls are endless, the hot springs are so inviting and the lava fields and volcanic coast are picture-perfect. How do you choose? It’s not easy but Reynisfjara Beach on the coast of Vik is so often featured in movies and tv series it must be special.

The black sand beach, the basalt columns, and the enormous sea stacks are out of this world. It’s often stormy and moody creating an ominously beautiful scene.

• 13 Unique Places To Visit In Iceland
• The Blue Lagoon in Iceland – Is it Worth the Visit?

43. Meteora, Greece

Greece deserves its own “beautiful places to visit” list, but for now, I must include this awe-inspiring view. The Monasteries of Meteora date back to the 9th century but the monoliths were formed over thousands of years. Located in central Greece, these isolated monasteries sit atop giant pillars jutting out of the lush valley. This is so beautiful it was used as the setting for the city in the clouds in the Game of Thrones.

• Meteora Monasteries of Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos
• Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece

44. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Canada has many picturesque fishing villages, but nothing quite compares to Lunenberg in Nova Scotia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is so strict that residents and businesses cannot change the colours or designs of their houses.It’s a good thing too, because this is the most beautiful town in Canada. (in my opinion).

• The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary
• Nova Scotia Pictures that Will Make You Want to Visit Right Now
• Explore the Nova Scotia South Shore – Halifax to Yarmouth

45. Mount McKinley, United States

Alaska is North America’s final frontier and there are striking scenes at every turn. But it is Mount McKinley in Denali National Park that takes the cake. Seeing it from the ground is impressive, but flying up to see it from a bird’s eye view is out of this world.

• Best Things to do in Alaska
• Places to Visit in Alaska
• How to Pack for An Alaskan Cruise

46. Zanzibar, Tanzania

After climbing Mount Kilimanjaro we hopped a flight to the paradise island of Zanzibar. It was after leaving Stone Town for the beaches of Nungwi that we fell in love with the beauty of this island.

When the tide goes out to reveal layers of colour on the ocean floor it reveals the deepest shades of green. When the tide is in, the turquoise water is just as beautiful as it crashes against the pure white sand.

• Read: Discover The Best Beaches in Zanzibar

47. Li River, China

The Li River in Yangshuo China is one of the most picturesque scenes we’ve ever witnessed.

Taking a bamboo raft down the Li River really allowed us to take in the beauty of the surrounding karst formations that make this enchanting part of China so famous.

• Bamboo Raft the Li River
• Why go Off the Beaten Path in China
• Great Things to do in China

48. Fish River Canyon, Namibia

Most people suggest the Namib Desert and sand dunes of Sossusvlei. But while cycling through Namibia, we had our heads down until reaching Fish River Canyon. With a night off to relax and take in the view, I’ll never forget overlooking the endless ravine spanning 100 miles before our eyes.

• Namibia Travel Guide

49. White Desert, Egypt

Massive white formations dot the desert landscape. of Western Egypt, creating a surreal scene. We stayed overnight in a Bedouine camp surrounded by monoliths resembling mushrooms, camels, and hawks. We were surprised to see that when we touched the rock, it was actually made of chalk. As the sun went down the sky exploded in colours creating one of the most beautiful desert scenes we had ever witnessed.

Read more: White Desert of Egypt

50. Pinnacles, Borneo

Oh, how we would love to go back and photograph the pinnacles. But. we wonder if we could do the hike today! This two day trek takes you to the middle of Gunung Mulu National Park in Malaysian Borneo to see the most beautiful display of pinnacles we’ve ever seen.

Like so many places we mention on this list, the Pinnacles don’t seem real. When looking down upon them, they seem like a painting in the jungle. The sharp limestone edges peek out of the green forest like a dream.

• The Pinnacles of Borneo, an Adventure in Sarawak
• Great Things to do in Borneo – Malaysia’s Wild Jungle Island

And these are the most beautiful places in the world that we’ve seen. Where have you been on earth that is beautiful? We’d love hear from you to help plan our future travels.

Save this to Pinterest for future travel planning

• Beautiful Cities in Europe
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 41 Beautiful Places in Canada To Visit Right Now
• 27 Greatest Places to Visit in Africa
• Places to Visit in Kyoto – My Favorite City in Japan
• 26 of the Best Places to Visit in Barcelona
• Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta Canada
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada

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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15 thoughts on “50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been”

These are really some of the most beautiful places on earth. Wish I could visit some of these places before I die.

There is so much beauty in the world and 50 of the most beautiful places to visit are only the tip of the iceberg. From the majestic Alps in Europe to the stunning beaches of Thailand and the tranquil islands of the Caribbean, there are incredible sights to behold throughout the world. Regardless of what kind of landscape you prefer, there is a perfect getaway out there for everyone.

I am especially impressed by the possibility of flying in a hot air balloon in this place. It is very cool when you soar smoothly over historic cave houses, along with more than a hundred other balloons of the same kind. It is a beautiful sight when the morning sun sanctifies the earth and the balls, it makes an unforgettable impression.

Fabulous list of some of my favorite places. i live in cape town for 6 years and would back there in a heartbeat.. even as my heart longs for the crystalline waters of the greek islands

Hi Dave and Deb,

Amazing article! Glad you shared this beautiful article on beautiful places in the world to travel. And i am pretty impressed with the photographs you have in this article, they more tempting and natural. I would definitely gonna visit most of these places in future, especially egypt, krabi (thailand) and also vietnam as its pocket friendly. Also gonna recommend this blog to my travel blogger friend. Keep sharing such beautiful articles.

Cheers, Abhay

This article (and its photos) make me want to travel right now! There’s so much beauty in the world, and we will get to travel and see it again. I really hope all of these places have had a much-needed rest during the pandemic and will have new rules/regulations to make travel more sustainable in the future. Thanks so much for sharing… updating my bucket list now!

Santorini is a beautiful city with ancient structures. Nice article. Thanks for sharing

The serengeti is one of the most amazing places in the world. The animals, the sunsets, the space and sense of really being in the wild. I love it cant get enough. Some amazing places on here. I need to travel

As a traveler and photographer amateur, I find your recommendations very useful. Many of them I try to put into practice always (but not always is possible) Cheers!

Hi, Amazing collection in one post, I wish i want to travel above place one day. Thank you for sharing .

This is amazing – I’m bookmarking to add all these places to my bucket list. I’ve been to a few but can’t wait to travel to all the rest, especially Antarctica! Thanks for sharing these stunning destinations!

Super. I couldn’t get myself to go through this on my phone. Had to see the beautiful shots on the larger screen of my computer. Thanks for putting all this together. It so encourages me to travel the world on my bicycle.

Beautiful article and some of the best places to visit.

Wonderful blog. Amazing travel destinations. I will definitely visit these places once in my life. Thanks for hsaring this informative blog.

First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed in a movie screen! Beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing these beautiful places with us even though its only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit one out of these many wonderful places!

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.”

Bucket List: 16 of the Most Beautiful Places in the World

With so many stunning and unique locations that span the planet, it is no surprise that many of us have bucket lists devoted to exploring some of the most beautiful places in the world.

Even though there is no definitive definition of what makes a place truly beautiful, these select sites around the globe always seem to captivate, take one’s breath away, and make for an unforgettable experience. From ocean breezes and mountain tops to ancient city ruins and dense forests, each place has its own unique beauty that makes it stand out from all the rest.

Hạ Long Bay (Vietnam)

Hạ Long Bay is located in the northeast of Vietnam and an hour away from Hanoi; this majestic destination consists of thousands of jagged limestone islands emerging out of a bright emerald sea, forming a stunning landscape like no other. It’s not difficult to see why it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994, as its breathtaking beauty never fails to leave you mesmerized and longing for more.

Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia)

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in the heart of Croatia. The park has 16 interconnected lakes along pathways and bridges featuring cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation. Whether you take a leisurely stroll through the park’s trails or opt for an exciting adventure touring its unique caves and lucent turquoise waters, you’ll be left with warm memories that will last a lifetime.

Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe)

Victoria Falls, located on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, has thrilled visitors for centuries. At nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls has some of the most amazing waterfalls in the world. It is also home to numerous adventure activities and gorgeous views, making it an ideal destination for thrill seekers and photographers. From bungee jumping off a bridge over the Zambezi River to white water rafting through Batoka Gorge, adventure lovers will enjoy visiting Victoria Falls.

Zhangjiajie National Forest (China)

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China is one of the world’s most beautiful natural places to explore. Its stunning scenery takes on a mystical quality with its stacked rocks, deep ravines, and lush forests. With its 4,000 pillar-like mountain peaks reaching 3,000 feet above sea level, these gorgeous views have become popular among tourists after being featured in the movie Avatar .

Kenai Fjords, Alaska (USA)

In the Kenai Peninsula of Alaska, Kenai Fjords National Park is a mountainous terrain with deep fjords situated 120 miles south of Anchorage. During a visit to Kenai Fjords, you can explore serene settings teeming with wildlife like humpback whales, sea lions, seals, and more than 29 species of birds. From hikes through nature trails and majestic snow-capped peaks to kayaking crystal blue waters filled with marine life, Kenai Fjords, Alaska has no shortage of adventure.

Often considered one of the most beautiful places in the world, Seychelles is made up of 115 islands , providing a truly captivating underwater oasis. Its breathtaking shorelines and sugar-white sands offer a relaxing, natural retreat; while fishing boats remind of the archipelago’s diverse culture. With its year-round warm climate, snorkeling, lovely beach resorts, and luxury hotels, add Seychelles to your bucket list!

Hallstatt (Austria)

Hallstatt, a picturesque Austrian village wedged between two lakes and surrounded by the Austrian Alps, is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The tiny fairytale village charms visitors from around the world with its traditional wooden cottages, Baroque-style architecture, and cobblestone paths.

Cliffs of Moher (Ireland)

Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are an impressive sight to behold, stretching 5 miles and reaching a staggering 700 feet high. The air is sea-scented, the green hills stunningly contrasted by a deep blue sea, with creamy seabirds soaring above. Looking out to sea from the top of the steep rocks offers breathtaking views as far as Galway Bay and the Aran Islands in one direction and even towards Northern Ireland on clear days.

Avenue of the Baobabs (Madagascar)

The Avenue of the Baobabs in Madagascar is a one-of-a-kind sight. Standing vertically against the horizon, this set of baobab trees has been estimated to tower at around 80 feet, with ages of possibly 800 years. Most of them are fat and smooth as if they had seen a lifetime’s worth of stories.

Their branches stretch out from their trunks and reach high into the sky, creating an unforgettable experience for anyone who passes by. Long regarded as a sacred site for Madagascar’s people, it goes without saying that any visit to this legendary site will be unlike any other.

Machu Picchu (Peru)

Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu is a stunning sight. The Inca civilization constructed it around 1450 AD as an underground city, and remains an exciting mystery. You can explore its terraces, temples, and complexes that reveal an intriguing past. From the ancient citadel’s renowned Sun Gate, you can take in stunning views of mist-shrouded mountains and lush green valleys. Machu Picchu is truly a remarkable place to visit.

Pamukkale (Turkey)

In southwestern Turkey, Pamukkale is one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit. This stunning landscape is known for its cascading white terraces from mineral-rich natural springs. The terraced basins filled with thermal water have formed over time, creating an excellent site called the “Cotton Castle” due to its similarity to a small fortress made of cotton billowing in the wind. You can relax in the thermal waters or explore an ancient Roman spa at Hierapolis , built alongside Pamukkale thousands of years ago.

Patagonia (Argentina & Chile)

Patagonia is an increasingly popular travel destination for those seeking opportunities for adventure and exploration. Patagonia is located primarily in Argentina and Chile and features some of the most unique landscapes on the planet. From glacier-capped mountains to ancient forests, you can find all kinds of incredible sights in this rugged terrain. Popular activities include trekking, horseback riding, boat tours, fishing, and more.

Banff National Park (Canada)

Banff National Park, located in Alberta, Canada, offers stunning scenery and diverse wildlife experiences, making it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush valleys, tranquil lakes, and thundering waterfalls, Banff National Park offers hiking trails that take you through its most incredible landscapes.

Amalfi Coast (Italy)

The Amalfi Coast, in southern Italy , is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world. With its towering cliffs dotted with colorful villas, gorgeous beaches, vineyards, and picturesque fishing towns, it’s hard not to be swept away by its beauty and charm. From savoring the fresh seafood on a terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea or taking in breathtaking views from atop the hillsides, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences on the Amalfi Coast.

Great Barrier Reef (Australia)

The Great Barrier Reef, located along the coast of Australia, is truly a sight to behold. Often seen as one of the most beautiful places in the world, this natural wonder offers many breathtaking views. From lush coral gardens, richly-colored sea life, and warm tropical waters, the sweeping beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is an experience unique to Australia that stretches over 1,400 miles.

Santorini (Greece)

Santorini is a popular bucket list destination with its white and blue Cycladic buildings, sparkling crystal-clear waters, black sandy beaches, and volcanic landscape; Greece is a popular bucket list destination. Its romantic sunset views from Oia village will take your breath away with its panoramic ocean backdrop. This Greek island can be explored by boat during an unforgettable adventure through hidden bays and nearby islands.

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Featured Image Credit: [@Mahara/DepositPhotos]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

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Everyone is looking to leave the country this summer.

Delta Air Lines has released its second annual list of the most-searched summer travel destinations for 2024 — and the most in-demand spots are international.

According to Delta search data in the US from Nov. 1, 2023, to March 18, 2024, for travel between May and August 2024, the top 10 list had numerous unsurprising tourist destinations — but also some more unique spots topping the chart.

London, Paris and Rome are the always-popular destinations that topped the list again this year, while Dublin, Barcelona and Vancouver, Canada, were newly in demand.

Searches for all of the top 10 international destinations increased more than 150% from 2023 — but one stood out more than the rest.

Athens, Greece, had the biggest surge in interest, with a whopping 248% increase in searches compared to last year.

Though the Greek city still came in at fourth place overall, it had a significantly higher surge than all the other destinations compared to 2023.

Here is the full list of Delta’s 2024 most-searched summer destinations:

• London, England
• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Athens, Greece
• Cancun, Mexico
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Tokyo, Japan
• Dublin, Ireland
• Barcelona, Spain
• Vancouver, Canada

Meanwhile, when it comes to domestic travel, the most-searched destinations — with the exception of Delta Hubs — included Las Vegas, Orlando, Miami and Honolulu, which Delta suggests is due to an interest in “sun-drenched getaways” and major summer sporting events.

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The 22 most beautiful beaches in the world.

These stunning stretches of sand are bound to take your breath away.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

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Appreciate nature's beauty at these picturesque shores.

Few vacation spots are as synonymous with relaxation as beaches. From tranquil options set near iconic sights to rugged spots that feel worlds away from reality, there are plenty of incredible choices across the globe for a seaside escape. To help you decide which picturesque coastlines to prioritize, U.S. News compiled this selection of the world's most awe-inspiring beaches. Whether you crave a leisurely afternoon of lounging atop powdery sand or an active day filled with hiking or water sports adventures, you'll instantly feel at ease while visiting these gorgeous beaches.

Whitehaven Beach: Whitsunday Island, Australia

Located off the coast of Queensland on the largest of the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach mesmerizes visitors with its bright white silica sand and turquoise water. When they're not snapping photos of their surroundings, beachgoers can swim in the clear water or walk to noteworthy spots like Hill Inlet – a shallow inlet on the northern end of the beach – and Chance Bay, which is a quieter area south of the beach that overlooks Pentecost Island. Keep in mind, though, this 4-mile-long stretch of sand is only accessible by boat, helicopter or seaplane from Hamilton Island (the most popular inhabited island in the Whitsundays) and Airlie Beach on the mainland. Consider staying at Hamilton Island's five-star qualia resort for luxurious waterfront accommodations. The hotel staff can assist with booking excursions to Whitehaven Beach, as well as scuba diving tours of the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef .

Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach, Oregon

If your perfect beach vacation spot features postcard-worthy topography and lots of solitude, look no further than Cannon Beach. In this Pacific Northwest town about 80 miles northwest of Portland , you'll discover nearly 4 miles of shore with jaw-dropping rock formations jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. Head to the center of the beach between Ecola Creek and Tolovana Park to gaze at Haystack Rock, a 235-foot-tall sea stack known for its vibrant tide pools and puffin colony. You can even build a fire on the beach to relax beside while watching the sun set. When you need a break from the beach, walk to downtown Cannon Beach to browse its art galleries, boutiques and eateries. Or, retreat to one of the town's inns, lodges or resorts. Two traveler-approved options within steps of the beach include the Stephanie Inn and The Ocean Lodge.

[Read: The Best Oregon Beaches .]

Horseshoe Bay Beach: Bermuda

Visit Horseshoe Bay Beach to put a unique spin on your next beach getaway. Situated on Bermuda 's South Shore, this pink sand beach – made of a blend of crushed coral – is one of the island's most popular stretches of sand. Families come here to splash in its calm turquoise water and build blush-colored sandcastles. Meanwhile, active travelers love exploring its hidden coves, trekking its trails to Warwick Long Bay , and enjoying water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding (loaner equipment is available for a fee). Horseshoe Bay Beach's proximity to Gibbs Hill Lighthouse also makes it a prime spot to unwind after you climb the 117-foot-tall structure. Don't forget to save time for a snow cone or rum swizzle (Bermuda's national drink) from the on-site Rum Bum Beach Bar before retiring for the evening at the nearby Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club , one of the area's top beach resorts .

[See: The Most Beautiful Pink Sand Beaches Around the World .]

Mohegan Bluffs: New Shoreham, Rhode Island

What the beach at Mohegan Bluffs lacks in easy accessibility it more than makes up for in natural beauty. Located at the base of its 200-foot-tall namesake, this Block Island shore offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and – on clear days – New York's Long Island. Upon arrival, pause to admire your surroundings and read about the bluffs' ties to the Indigenous Manissean people. Then, take the 141 steps down to the sand to sunbathe or swim. When you do climb back to the top, you can walk to Southeast Light to get an up-close look at its 19th-century lighthouse, then hop on a bike to explore the island. The lighthouse and beach are both stops on the self-guided Block Island Bicycle Tour. Travelers can end the day with a stay at the Spring House Hotel or the 1661 Inn, two boutique properties with spectacular ocean vistas.

[Read: The Top East Coast Beaches .]

Siesta Beach: Siesta Key, Florida

Regularly lauded for having one of Florida's best beaches , Siesta Key – which is located less than 7 miles southwest of Sarasota – boasts three gorgeous shorelines, including Siesta Beach. Here, you'll find colorful lifeguard stands sitting on soft sand made almost entirely of quartz, which gives the sand its pure white appearance and keeps it cool to the touch even on the hottest Florida days. Plus, Siesta Beach offers volleyball courts, a playground, concession stands and beach wheelchairs, among other amenities, making it ideal for everyone from families to fitness buffs. When you're ready for a change of scenery, venture a few blocks north to Siesta Key Village to shop, grab a drink or bite to eat, or listen to live music. For lodging, reserve a vacation rental or a room at a boutique hotel like Tropical Beach Resorts .

[Read: The Top Beach Chairs .]

Reynisfjara: Iceland

Though you may not think of Iceland as a beach vacation destination, its abundance of volcanoes sets the stage for an otherworldly beach experience. The country is home to several black sand beaches made from volcanic ash, but the most striking is Reynisfjara in South Iceland . At this desolate beach, you'll discover jet-black sand, an enormous cave, giant offshore rock formations and a series of stacked basalt columns that will all take your breath away. Plus, the beach offers proximity to Vík, a seaside village known for its Icelandic Lava Show – the world's only opportunity to safely observe molten lava – and outdoor adventures like glacier hikes and ice cave treks. If you time your visit right, Reynisfjara and other black sand beaches can make a great spot to see the northern lights in Iceland . Accommodations by Reynisfjara are limited, so consider making a daytrip from popular hotels like The Retreat or the Silica Hotel, which both overlook Iceland's world-renowned Blue Lagoon and sit about 30 miles southwest of Reykjavik .

[See: The Most Exotic Black Sand Beaches in the World .]

Hidden Beach: Marietas Islands, Mexico

This beach on Mexico's Marietas Islands – off the country's western coast – is truly a hidden gem. Only accessible by boat from tourist hot spots like Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, Hidden Beach wows visitors with its soft sand, crystal-clear water and one-of-a-kind location. Upon arrival, beachgoers must swim or kayak through a long water tunnel to reach the secluded beach, which sits within an exposed cave reportedly used for bombing drills during World War I. The unique layout makes the beach incredibly photogenic, as well as a haven for all kinds of wildlife. Birders can look for blue-footed boobies from the sand, while snorkelers should keep their eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles and even humpback whales. Following your visit, travelers can unwind back on the mainland at a chic all-inclusive resort like Hotel Mousai or IBEROSTAR Selection Playa Mita .

[Read: The Best Beaches in Mexico .]

The Baths: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Head to The Baths in the British Virgin Islands if you crave awe-inspiring vistas everywhere you turn. Located on Virgin Gorda, this stretch of sand is one of the world's most beautiful white sand beaches – and it's easy to see why. Granite boulders tower above the beach and shelter rock pools and caves that you can explore on foot. Follow the path of steps and rope handrails to get to Devil's Bay, a prime place for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. Or, spend the bulk of your time climbing The Baths' massive boulders and cooling off in one of the beach's grottoes. If you're not visiting The Baths on a Caribbean cruise – many of which offer shore excursions to Virgin Gorda when stopping in the British Virgin Islands – choose the luxe Rosewood Little Dix Bay as your on-island home away from home.

[Read: The Best Caribbean Beaches .]

Anakena: Easter Island

For a truly unique backdrop while sunbathing and swimming, visit Anakena on remote Easter Island. On the island's main beach, you'll find white coral sand, swaying palm trees, and eight broken and intact moai statues. The archaeological treasures sit atop two ahu (stone altars) set near the Pacific Ocean. Contemplate the statues' mysterious origins from up close – according to oral tradition, they mark the arrival of Polynesian settlers, the island's first inhabitants – then head down to the beach to relax on the beautiful sand and in the calm turquoise water. Once you've worked up an appetite, order a tuna empanada or a bowl of poe (a sweet pumpkin- and flour-based pudding) to enjoy picnic-style before exploring other parts of Rapa Nui National Park, which occupies roughly 40% of the island. Although Easter Island accommodations are limited, you'll have a few traveler-approved options to choose from, including Nayara Hangaroa and explora Rapa Nui.

[Read: The Top Beach Hats .]

Navagio Beach: Zakynthos, Greece

Nicknamed Shipwreck Beach because of the shipwrecked vessel that washed up onto its shore in the 1980s, Navagio Beach boasts a breathtaking setting on the northwestern coast of the Greek island of Zakynthos (also called Zante). What's left of the boat, which sits in the middle of the pebbly beach, is surrounded by vertical cliffs overlooking the turquoise Ionian Sea. Beach activities are limited to swimming and sunbathing. However, Navagio Beach's isolated location – which is only accessible by boat from Porto Vromi – means you'll likely see other noteworthy sights, such as the mesmerizing Blue Caves, on your way to and from the shore. Most Navagio Beach daytrips include hotel transfers from tourist areas like Planos (or Tsilivi) and Zante Town, so plan on staying in one of these locations. Traveler favorites include the Lesante Classic Luxury Hotel & Spa and TUI BLUE Caravel.

[Read: The Top Beaches in Greece .]

Papakōlea Beach: Big Island, Hawaii

Prepare to be wowed by the rare sands that cover this Big Island beauty. One of only four green sand beaches known to exist, Papakōlea Beach is a treat for the eyes. To reach the beach, which sits south of the Mauna Loa volcano on Mahana Bay, you'll have to hike nearly 3 miles down from its parking lot. Though the trek can be challenging, the unique setting is well worth the effort. You'll discover vivid green sand made from olivine deposited during volcanic eruptions, plus impressive gray cliffs and clear blue water. (Note, however, that there are no on-site amenities available at the beach.) After a few hours of lounging – swimming is discouraged due to the strong undertow – check out nearby attractions like the black sand Punalu'u Beach and Kula Kai Caverns. There are limited lodging options nearby, but the towns of Waimea, Kailua-Kona and Hilo are home to dozens of top-notch properties. If you're looking for luxury, base yourself in Waimea at a high-end hotel like the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii .

[Read: The Top Hawaii Beaches .]

Tulum Ruins Beach: Tulum, Mexico

This beach situated beneath the ruins of Tulum's famed archaeological site provides jaw-dropping views of El Castillo (a cliffside Mayan castle) and the Caribbean Sea. Descend the steps by the castle to get to the stunning white sand beach of Playa Ruinas and swim in its aquamarine waters. To rub elbows with fewer tourists, arrive right when the attraction opens in the morning. Keep in mind that an entrance fee of 85 Mexican pesos (about $4) per person applies. Once you've gotten your fill of the beach and its famous ruins, head to El Gran Cenote to snorkel or peruse the shops, restaurants and bars scattered throughout downtown Tulum . Then, hang your hat at a luxurious waterfront property like Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa or Jashita Hotel . Both sit around 10 miles northeast of the beach.

South Dune Beach: House Harbour Island, Quebec

Canada may not seem like an obvious choice for a beach vacation , but South Dune (Dune du Sud) Beach will sway you to think otherwise. Located on House Harbour Island (also called Île du Havre aux Maisons), one of 12 islands that make up the Magdalen Islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this beach stands out for its towering red cliffs. Not only do the cliffs provide a gorgeous contrast to the gulf's blue water and the shore's white sand, but they also help shelter beachgoers from the wind, making the beach ideal for a stroll. Plus, you'll have access to picnic tables, should you wish to bring some food to enjoy by the water. Be sure to arrive during low tide so you can explore the cliffs' caves, and don't forget to visit the nearby Cape Alright lighthouse. For lodging, consider Domaine du Vieux Couvent, a charming former convent with around a dozen cozy rooms.

Mayflower Beach: Dennis, Massachusetts

The New England haven of Cape Cod is home to dozens of beautiful beaches, but few impress visitors like Mayflower Beach. At this Mid-Cape beach in the small town of Dennis, beachgoers will find amenities like a picnic area and a boardwalk, as well as plenty of space for beach games. But what sets this shore apart from others is what's exposed at low tide. When the water level drops, tide pools are available for kids to play in. Additionally, tidal flats appear, enabling visitors to walk for miles in ankle-deep water. Those who need a break from the sun can catch a performance at The Cape Playhouse – also in Dennis – or tour the Edward Gorey House in Yarmouth Port. Two top properties located within 15 miles of the beach include The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club and Wequassett Resort and Golf Club .

[Read: The Best Cape Cod Beaches .]

Railay Beach: Thailand

Travel to Thailand's Railay Beach area for incredible scenery and plenty of amenities. Overlooking the Andaman Sea from its perch on this peninsula in southern Thailand , this beach destination's four shores feature massive limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water and clean white sand. Head to Railay Beach's northern stretch of sand (known as Ton Sai Beach) to rock climb, or venture to Railay East for a quiet spot to catch a colorful sunrise. If your main objective is to get in the water, you can check out Phra Nang Beach, a southern shore with shallow, calm water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. For those who crave a little bit of everything, there's Railay West. This beach provides countless opportunities for sunbathing, swimming and rock climbing, plus it sits close to restaurants, shops, bars and accommodations. Stay at Railay West's Rayavadee for five-star digs by the sea.

Marinha Beach: Portugal

Your jaw will instantly drop the moment you arrive here. Situated within southern Portugal 's Algarve region, Marinha Beach (or Praia de Marinha) boasts a hard-to-reach location alongside limestone cliffs. Getting to the beach requires traversing staircases and steep slopes down to the shore. Though this means Marinha Beach isn't suitable for travelers with mobility limitations, its remote location helps prevent overcrowding, meaning you can snap plenty of unobstructed photos. Soak up some sun on the sand, then go snorkeling in the clear water (but remember to bring your own gear, since rentals are not available on-site). If you visit during low tide, you can also walk to additional beaches, sea caves and the famed M-shaped rock formation. After exploring the beach, travelers can sign up for a boat tour to see more sights from the water or unwind at the upscale Vila Alba Resort, which sits about a mile northeast.

Baker Beach: San Francisco

Within San Francisco 's protected Presidio area, Baker Beach offers easy access to some of the city's best views. From the mile-long shore, visitors will enjoy panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Lands End , the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge . Head to the beach to sunbathe on the clean golden sand (keep in mind that the northern end is clothing-optional), or bring bait and tackle for a day of fishing. Baker Beach's position beneath towering serpentine cliffs also makes the shore a prime spot for hiking, so be sure to save time for a trek on the California Coastal Trail, one of several trails in the Presidio. Although most of the city's top hotels are located in the downtown area, a few noteworthy lodging options sit within 5 miles of Baker Beach, including the sophisticated Hotel Drisco Pacific Heights .

[Read: The Best Beaches in California .]

Grace Bay Beach: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Grace Bay Beach , a 3-mile-long white sand beach in Turks and Caicos , is incredibly picturesque thanks to its lack of seaweed and rocks. Plus, its position by Grace Bay makes it a terrific option for water activities. Venture a mile offshore to look for parrot fish, reef sharks and more while snorkeling around the barrier reef. Or, stay close to shore to swim in the calm, shallow water. Travelers can enjoy additional water sports (think: paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing) in the surrounding Princess Alexandra National Park by renting equipment via local outfitter Big Blue Collective. Resorts at Grace Bay Beach are easy to find, so plan on staying at a property with direct beach access, such as Seven Stars Resort & Spa or Point Grace .

Anse Source d'Argent: La Digue, Seychelles

Featuring massive rocks, soft white sand, clear blue water and lush tropical vegetation, Anse Source d'Argent is a feast for the eyes. It sits on the island of La Digue in the Seychelles , off the eastern coast of Africa. In either direction, you'll notice gigantic granite boulders perfectly positioned between the water and swaying palm trees. Follow the lead of countless filmmakers and photographers by capturing the beauty of this beach on camera before stretching out on the sand or dipping your toes in the calm water. Aim to arrive during low tide when the water is below your knees and more sand is exposed. Reaching the beach requires passing through L'Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation that charges an entrance fee of 100 Seychellois rupee (about $7) per nonresident. Lodging is limited on La Digue, so consider taking the ferry from the larger island of Mahé, where the highly regarded Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is located.

South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida

This tropical district on Florida's Atlantic Coast is world-renowned for its glamourous clientele, vibrant nightlife and powdery white sand. Although it is technically part of the greater Miami Beach area, South Beach is set apart by its Art Deco architecture evident in everything from the beachfront lifeguard towers to the high-rise buildings along the famed Ocean Drive . Lummus Park – equipped with sand volleyball courts, children's playgrounds and restroom facilities – flanks the crystalline shores. Situated on the northernmost corner of the park, The Betsy South Beach hotel offers luxury accommodations just a few blocks from the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall , where travelers will find opportunities for top-notch shopping, dining and people-watching.

Carmel Beach: Carmel, California

This laid-back beach town nestled along California's Central Coast harbors a dog-friendly swath of sand lined with trails and perfect for a beach fire. Carmel Beach is also known for its strong swell patterns ideal for surfing – but not so much for swimming, as riptides are common. Visitors who venture inland are treated to a charming village lined with boutiques, eateries and European-style architecture, plus a vibrant artist colony showcasing an array of work from local painters, sculptors and artisans. The historic La Playa Carmel hotel is located within walking distance to both the beach and the downtown district.

[Read: The Top Beach Wagons .]

Clearwater Beach: Florida

Families flock to this beautiful coastline – located on a barrier island about 25 miles west of Tampa – for its plethora of aquatic activities, waterfront restaurants and spacious sunbathing spots on sugar-white sands. Must-see attractions like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and dolphin watching cruises keep travelers of all ages entertained for days on end. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Clearwater Beach , make sure you end the day by watching a picture-perfect sunset at Pier 60 . Beach parking can be a pesky (and pricey) problem that a resort with direct beach access – such as the SandPearl Resort – can help guests avoid (although resort and parking fees apply).

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Beaches in the U.S.
• The Best Islands in the World
• The Best Beach Bags
• Cheap Tropical Vacations Around the World
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Beach Vacations , Tropical Vacations , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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12 Cheapest Countries in the World To Travel More and Spend Less

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Expensive destinations do not always translate to the best travel experiences; any avid traveler knows this. If well-planned, traveling on a small budget can offer memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

The first step to traveling on a budget is choosing a cheap destination. It isn’t easy to pull off a budget trip in some countries, and that is just it. Luckily, even when most parts of the world are grappling with inflation, some countries remain cheap and manage to offer unique experiences to tourists for very little money.

If you want to get value for every coin you spend on travel, add these cheap countries to your travel bucket list. From accommodation, food, moving around, tours, and entrance fees to tourist spots, these destinations ensure your money stretches far. 

While flying to Thailand can be expensive, other services such as accommodation, dining, and activities will cover up the cost. To maximize your experience, fly into Thailand but combine your trip with Laos, Cambodia, or Vietnam, all of which are also cheap countries that you can travel to by train from Thailand.

Once you get transportation out of the way, the experience of exploring Thailand can be unforgettable.

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here

 From tropical beaches to lush jungles and bustling cities like Bangkok, Thailand is a heaven every traveler should experience. There is so much to see and experience in the country at no or low cost; it is no wonder it is the most visited country in Southeast Asia and is now very popular among digital nomads and backpackers. 

While the country offers many tourist attractions, some unmissable sites include the Grand Palace, the Big Buddha temple in Phuket, and the Mo Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park.

Read also:  UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Accommodation is among the highest traveling expenses, but Sri Lanka has many choices, including budget options. Besides, you will like the fact that many of the activities in Sri Lanka have modest entrance fees. From the ancient city of Anuradhapura to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, you have a high chance of saving money exploring Sri Lanka. 

Take advantage of Sri Lankan natural beauty, which includes popular attractions like Ella, Yala National Park, and the beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna. If you are into active adventure, go hiking in the hills, surfing on the coastlines , whale watching in Mirissa, or on a safari in the country’s national parks.

Read also:  Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale

India is truly a land of many offerings, with rich cultural diversity, warm hospitality, and a diverse landscape. As if the diversity were not good enough, your money will go far when traveling in India. 

There are many budget accommodations you can choose from when visiting India. Besides, the culinary scene is rich but incredibly affordable. Whether you choose to go with classic favorites like curry and biryani or street foods like samosas and chaat, you can enjoy a hearty meal for close to nothing.

There are so many experiences to enjoy without breaking the bank, including exploring the stunning forts and palaces of Rajasthan, the Taj Mahal, and the ancient city of Varanasi.

India is also a destination where you can go on a wildlife safari without spending a fortune. If a safari is on your bucket list, make sure you add Ranthambore National Park to your Indian itinerary.

Read also:  Must-Visit Cities in the World

When you think of visiting Indonesia, you are likely thinking of Bali, which almost always features on lists of the best places to visit in the world. However, there is more to see and experience in Indonesia, thanks to the over 17,000 Indonesian islands. 

Stunning beaches , giant komodo dragons, volcanoes , and vast mountain ranges—Indonesia offers so many experiences at very pocket-friendly prices.

Some of the most Instagrammable experiences are super affordable. From swinging on the Ubud swings to visiting Waterbom in Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Borobudur Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Prambanan Temples, and Ijen Crater, there are endless things to enjoy in Indonesia.

Read also:  Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Bulgaria is a great destination to consider if you are looking for a budget European escape . The country offers gorgeous beaches, historic towns, lively cities, and ancient ruins , all for far less money than most European countries. 

Beyond the history-steeped Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, there is so much you can do, such as lounging on the gorgeous sandy beaches of Varna, hitting the trails of the Vitosha Mountains, or exploring the Ancient Temple of Philippopolis.

You may also want to skip the expensive ski towns in the rest of Europe and head to Bansko, a picturesque ski town in Bulgaria that offers ski runs for both beginners and experts.

Read also:  Visa-Free Countries

Situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Turkey is a melting pot of cultures and an excellent choice for any traveler looking to get value for their money. With stunning architecture , a next-level culinary scene , bustling markets, and pristine beaches, Turkey has much you can experience without breaking the bank.

For starters, food is incredibly cheap in Turkey, whether you stick to street food, eat at restaurants, or get groceries from open markets.

When it comes to exploration, you can choose to soak in the colorful and bustling Istanbul, go window shopping at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest markets in Europe, tour the Blue Mosque, or head to dreamy Cappadocia.

Read also:  Secret Romantic Getaways

Jamaica should be your top choice if you are looking for a cheap destination in the Caribbean. Whether sunbathing at the famous Seven Miles Beach, hiking the Blue Mountains, river rafting on the Martha Brae River, or exploring Dunn’s River Falls, there are diverse ways to enjoy Jamaica’s beautiful nature.

Jamaican cuisine is a top draw for travelers, and luckily, it is very affordable. Whether you eat in local eateries, from street food vendors, or roadside stalls, traditional Jamaican foods like jerk chicken, ackee saltfish, and patties are almost always reasonably priced.

Read also: Incredible Hidden Gems Across the World

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the most visited countries by American tourists, and it’s pretty obvious why. With white sand beaches, lush rainforests, and pleasant all-year-round beaches, the country is a little paradise for nature lovers .

If you want to save on food, prioritize local delicacies such as mangu, sancocho, and empanadas, which are typically affordable, especially in local eateries.

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here 

Many of the Dominican Republic’s top attractions are affordable. Whether you go to public beaches in Punta Cana or Los Haitises National Park, the Dominican Republic offers a wealth of nature experiences for cheap. 

Read also: Incredible Natural Wonders Across the Globe

Jungle lodges, volcanoes, thick-canopy forests, and a coastline on both the Caribbean and the Pacific make Costa Rica a serious catch when it comes to budget-friendly destinations that have so much to offer tourists.  

Costa Rica is home to stunning national parks like Manuel Antonio, Arenal Volcano, and Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. These parks typically charge entrance fees ranging from $10-20, a worthwhile investment considering their stunning biodiversity and natural beauty.

Furthermore, Costa Rica is constantly being rated as one of the best places to retire, thanks to its breathtaking nature and stress-free, slow-down lifestyles—all at low prices. 

Read also: Amazing Wildlife Sanctuaries

If you are a budget traveler, there are so many things you can do and experience in Egypt. History buffs will especially have a memorable experience touring the Pyramids of Giza and the many other historical sites in the country. 

Luckily, you will not have to worry about accommodation as there are many budget and mid-rage options to consider. 

The cost of food is also very low in Egypt, especially if you stick with vegetarian meals, street foods, and local options.

Traveling by train across Egypt is filthy cheap. If you are on a budget, skip flights and travel by train from Cairo to Aswan or Cairo to Luxor, which are the country’s most sought-after cities. 

Some unmissable spots, especially for history buffs, include Abu Simbel Temples, the Egyptian Museum of Cairo, Luxor Temple, Valley of Kings, and Giza Necropolis. All are breathtaking but cheap to explore. 

Read also: Rediscovered Ancient Cities

Philippines

The Philippines has something for every type of traveler, but what stands out is that the budget experience can still be comfortable enough. And yes, it is easy to score hotel deals in luxury hotels, especially during the low season. 

If you are into island life and coastal escapes, you do not want to miss out on Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao. These tropical paradises offer public access to beaches, waterfalls , caves , and lush landscapes waiting to be explored.

While Palawan is truly a scene out of a fairytale, it remains reasonably priced. When in Palawan, visit Kayangan Lake, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Barracuda Lake, Las Cabanas Beach, and Twin Lagoon.

Read also: Awesome Paradise Islands

Known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, Vietnam is a country of great diversity and many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

It is a great budget travel destination, especially because accommodation is cheap even in larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

There is so much to experience in Vietnam, including ancient temples, historic sites, traditional villages, the lush rice terraces of Sapa, and the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc Island.

What stands out even more is how budget-friendly luxurious experiences are. Consider exploring Halong Bay, kayaking at Phong Nha & Paradise Cave, visiting the Mekong Delta or exploring Lan Ha-Ha Bay. These activities would have cost an arm and a leg in another country but remain pocket-friendly in Vietnam.

Read also:  Iconic Places

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Rachel is a content writer interested in creating engaging narratives on travel, home management, personal finance, and parenting. When free, you can catch her writing for her personal blog, flawlesshorizon.com,  watching TikToks, or exploring hidden gems in her city.

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Live Science

The 9 most beautiful places in the world

Posted: December 30, 2023 | Last updated: April 30, 2024

The most beautiful places on Earth

Despite ills such as pollution, climate change, ecological disasters and the destruction of many wild places, Earth is a beautiful place. From waterfalls and islands to forests and mountains, our planet boasts myriad natural wonders that can amaze even the most jaded observer. But it also boasts equally dazzling human-made wonders, like picturesque cities and unique architecture.

Our list of the 10 most beautiful places in the world is subjective, but we think it is eclectic enough to capture the diverse beauty of our planet. If you were to point a camera at any of the places listed here, you'd get a breathtaking image.

SANTORINI, GREECE

The whitewashed, blue-capped houses of the Greek village of Fira are typical of the many picturesque villages of modern-day Greece. But these particular houses, along with those of Fira's sister city Oia, are perched impossibly on the ridge of a caldera and command a bold, panoramic view of the surrounding Aegean Sea. 

The caldera is the remnant of the ancient island of Thera, now called Santorini. Situated in the southern Aegean Sea and forming the southernmost of the Cyclades group of islands, Santorini is a volcanic island located 120 miles (200 km) southeast of the Greek mainland. It is famous for its rugged landscape, towering cliffs displaying distinct and colorful geologic layers, volcanic beaches, romantic sunsets and 360-degree view of the deep-blue Aegean Sea. 

Santorini is also famous for the catastrophic volcanic eruption that occurred 3,600 years ago, during the height of the Minoan civilization, according to the World History Encyclopedia. The eruption destroyed much of the island, spewing a massive cloud of ash and debris into the air, creating a water-filled caldera and breaking the island into several separate islands. The eruption also destroyed the ancient village of Akrotiri, the most famous Minoan settlement outside Crete. First excavated in 1967, it is now a well-known archaeological site, some of it partially reconstructed but much of it, like Pompeii, still preserved under a thick layer of ash. The site is famous for its well-studied frescoes, or wall paintings, which depict fishermen, boats, dolphins and well-manicured Minoan ladies of high rank. 

Santorini is a major tourist destination, and the archaeological site of Akrotiri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND

The Isle of Skye has a long history of appearances in songs, stories, novels and poetry. Novelist and poet Walter Scott used the picturesque location as the setting of his epic poem "The Lord of the Isles," and Sir Harold Boulton's romantic ballad "The Skye Boat Song" tells the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie's flight from the Scottish mainland to Skye after his defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746. It is unclear where the name Skye comes from, but some sources, such as the Gazetteer of Scotland, claim it comes from the old Norse word "sky-a," meaning "cloud island," likely in reference to the fog that often enshrouds the island. 

Skye is the largest and northernmost of Scotland's Inner Hebrides, a group of islands located on the country's west coast. The island is roughly 50 miles (80 km) wide from east to west and is made up of a hodgepodge of moors, blue lochs, windswept coastline, fields of heather, stark medieval castles and craggy mountains. Its climate is wet, windy, cool and frequently overcast. But when the sun breaks out, the island is aglow with rainbows, sparkling lochs and some of the most beautiful coastal vistas in the British Isles. "In a country famous for stunning scenery, the Isle of Skye takes top prize," according to the Lonely Planet travel guide. 

North of Portree, the island's main town, is a cluster of pinnacle-like rocks known as the Old Man of Storr. Farther north is Kilt Rock, a sheer coastal cliff of sedimentary and igneous rock that draws a constant stream of sightseers, many having come to see Mealt Falls, a cascade that drops 164 feet (50 m) straight down to the water. Near the top of the list of jaw-dropping attractions, however, is Spar Cave, a cathedral-like sea grotto filled with calcium carbonate formations. It was a major tourist attraction during Victorian times and continues to draw adventurous hikers. All of these can be viewed at the official Isle of Skye tourist site. 

HUASHAN, CHINA

"Shan" is Mandarin for "mountain," and  hua  means "splendid" or "magnificent." Huashan, a towering mountain located near the city of Huayin in China's Shaanxi province, about 74 miles (120 km) east of Xi'an, lives up to its moniker. 

It consists of five separate peaks, the tallest of which, South Peak, rises to 7,070 feet (2,155 m). The mountain is composed primarily of Mesozoic-era granite upthrust as the result of geologic faulting over millions of years, according to UNESCO. This created the sheer rock faces that characterize the mountain and plunge precipitously to the valley below. The surrounding flora is rich and varied. Mosses, lichens and shrubs characterize the understory, while several species of pine clinging precariously to steep rock faces and sheer cliffs form the overstory. 

Taoists, who are practitioners of the ancient Chinese religion of Taoism, have cherished Huashan for centuries, and it is considered one of China's most sacred mountains. Several Taoist temples dot the mountain's slopes and peaks. The earliest temple, the Shrine of the Western Peak, dates back to the second century B.C.

The mountain is also a major tourist destination. Many people from around the world venture to climb the South Peak, an ascent to the top of the mountain that some have dubbed the "most dangerous hike in the world." The initial ascent is easy enough; it begins relatively flat but gradually transitions to stone steps, which then give way to a wooden plank that hugs the mountainside with a series of chains for handholds. The dangerous trail is only about 1 foot (0.3 m) wide and is known as the "plank walk in the sky." 

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," a name that references its famous castles, cathedrals, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and medieval squares and bridges. It is home to 1.3 million people. 

The area around Prague is a region known as Bohemia, which has been settled for many millennia, first by Paleolithic peoples and much later by the Celts. But Prague did not acquire the rudiments of a city until the ninth century A.D., according to Encyclopedia Britannica. During the medieval period, the city grew in size, scope and renown, becoming a major city of political and cultural influence in the 14th century. In 1348, the Holy Roman emperor Charles IV founded Charles University in Prague, the first such center of learning in central Europe. And during the latter Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, Prague played a major role during the Reformation, a period of intense religious ferment that gave rise to Protestantism. Under the influence of Catholic Church critics like Jan Hus, Prague became a hotbed of opposition to Roman Catholicism. 

The Vltava River runs north to south as it meanders through the city, passing such famous landmarks as the Prague Astronomical Clock, the Vysehrad Museum and the famous Charles Bridge, a medieval stone bridge that links Prague's Old and New Towns and is famous for its Baroque statuary of prominent saints. 

Perhaps the most picturesque of Prague's buildings, however, is Prague Castle, which sits atop a hill and dominates the city's skyline. It was built in the ninth century and was expanded upon over subsequent centuries. Today, it is the official residence of the president of the Czech Republic. 

In 1992, Prague's historic city center was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List.

JÖKULSÁRLÓN, ICELAND

The first thing you notice about Iceland's largest glacial lagoon is the dazzling blueness of the water. It has a crystalline quality that is mesmerizing and otherworldly. Brilliant white icebergs, broken off of the nearby glacier, float about, resembling clouds drifting in the sky. 

Jökulsárlón, translated as "glacial river lagoon," is Iceland's deepest lake, plunging 813 feet (248 m) below the surface, according to Earth Observatory, a NASA-affiliated site. It covers a surface area of 7 square miles (18 square km) and borders the coast, so at high tide, Atlantic Ocean water spills into the lagoon. Jökulsárlón is part of Vatnajökull National Park, located near the town of Hofn in the southeast part of the country. The park derives its name from Vatnajökull glacier, which is Iceland's largest ice cap and the second-largest ice cap in Europe, after the Severny Island ice cap in Novaya Zemlya, Russia. 

Jökulsárlón formed fairly recently, between 1934 and 1935, when meltwater from Vatnajökull glacier rushed into the lagoon, forming a lake. It has been expanding ever since. Today, the expansion of Jökulsárlón is accelerating as a result of climate change. 

The lagoon is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Europe, Asia and the United States. They come to see the icebergs, the wildlife and the amazing vistas, especially Vatnajökull glacier, which rises to 3,000 feet (910 m) and provides a dramatic backdrop to the striking blue lagoon. A plethora of seabirds — including terns, skuas, gulls and puffins — call the area home, and seals are frequent visitors to the lagoon. 

Jökulsárlón and the surrounding area became part of Vatnajökull National Park in 2008. The Park is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, AUSTRALIA

Flanked on the south by the tempestuous Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is Australia's most scenic highway. It passes by some of the country's most amazing vistas and natural landmarks, and is on Australia's National Heritage list, a list of places deemed to be of outstanding historical, natural and cultural significance to Australia. 

The Great Ocean Road runs along the southeast coast, from Torquay in the east to Allansford in the west. It covers a length of 151 miles (243 km) and parallels the southern edge of the continent for most of the way, though it occasionally deviates to cut inland and zigzag around a landform or natural formation. The entire route takes about 9.5 hours, and tourists typically spend three days doing the drive. 

The road winds through coastal scenery for most of its length, running along cliff tops, skirting beaches and coves, and passing through rainforests and by waterfalls. Highlights include the Otway rainforest canopy, which takes visitors high up through the canopy of a myrtle beech ( Nothofagus cunninghamii ) forest, and the Grotto, a stretch of limestone coast that has been eroded into fantastical shapes and formations. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction, however, is a series of limestone sea stacks called the Twelve Apostles. These rock formations were part of the mainland 20 million years ago but have eroded over time and now form pinnacles just offshore. 

The idea of creating the Great Ocean Road grew out of a desire to commemorate the Australian soldiers who died during World War I, according to SBS News, an Australian news site. Construction of the road began in 1918, after a survey crew laid out the route the previous year. Many members of the construction crew were servicemen who had returned from the war and needed jobs. The road was constructed piecemeal, and it was completed in 1932.

In 1881, the famous British general Charles "Chinese" Gordon thought he had stumbled across the biblical Garden of Eden — literally. He claimed it was on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, now known as Praslin in the Republic of Seychelles. 

Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands nearly 1,000 miles off Africa's east coast. The islands are the epitome of postcard perfect: Stately palm trees sway above pristine white beaches and brilliant turquoise water. 

Most of the islands are granite, according to One Earth Philanthropy, a non-profit environmental group, although several islands are also coral atolls. The Aldabra Group of islands includes Aldabra Island, which is the world's second-largest raised coral atoll and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the endemic Aldabra giant tortoise ( Aldabrachelys gigantea ), which, like the Galapagos giant tortoise, is an example of island gigantism, an evolutionary process whereby certain island-dwelling animals grow to very large sizes. 

Seychelles is a major tourist destination with numerous nature preserves and marine parks. 

ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

A cold, windswept island chain in the north Pacific Ocean is hardly the first location that springs to mind when contemplating the world's most beautiful places. But the Aleutian Islands, located between 51° and 55° N latitude, is a special place that defies all expectations and assumptions. Though beset by fierce winds, thick fog and heavy rainfall, the islands have mystical charm. A haven for seabirds and marine life, the islands are a wonderland of rugged volcanoes and snowcapped peaks surrounded by a vast expanse of deep blue ocean. 

The Aleutians form the northern extension of the Pacific Ring of Fire, extending in an arc westward from the Alaskan Peninsula for 1,200 miles (1,900 km) to the Russian Kamchatka Peninsula. The Aleutians consist of more than 70 islands, including 14 large volcanic islands, 55 smaller islands and several islets. They are located where the Pacific Plate sinks below the North American Plate, creating an active subduction zone. Here, the molten lava bubbles up to the surface, and several of the islands contain active volcanoes. A group of scientists recently proposed that the Aleutian Islands are the interconnected vents of a much more massive underwater caldera, Live Science previously reported. 

Unalaska is the best-known island in the chain and the only one with a permanent population. Attu Island, the westernmost of the Aleutian Islands, is a premier destination for bird-watchers, containing countless resident and migrant seabirds and numerous nesting sites and colonies. Attu Island is also famous for its role in World War II: In May 1943, American and Japanese forces clashed in a bloody month-long battle that culminated in an Allied victory and the withdrawal of Japanese forces from the island chain. 

MACHU PICCHU

Machu Picchu is an ancient city that sits high up in the mountains, surrounded by gauzy wisps of cloud. The extreme altitude and surrounding backdrop of the vegetation-clad slopes of the Andean foothills lend the air an ethereal quality.

Machu Picchu is located in the Andes mountains of southern Peru, in the craggy heights above the Urubamba Valley, also called the Sacred Valley. Archaeologists think Machu Picchu was constructed in the mid-1400s under the direction of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, the ninth ruler of the Inca. The city was built as a citadel for Inca royalty and was occupied for nearly a century until it was abandoned around the time of the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. It contains numerous palaces, residences and stone temples, including the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows, and is surrounded by expertly made stone walls. The nearest modern city, Cuzco, is 50 miles (80 km) to the southeast.

After its abandonment, the citadel fell into disuse, and as thick vegetation closed in around the site over the centuries, it was reclaimed by the jungle. Although it was well known by the local populace, American explorer Hiram Bingham brought it to international attention in 1911, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

Today, Machu Picchu is not only one of the most important archaeological sites in South America but also a major tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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This Colorado Mountain Town Has the Most Beautiful Flower Field in the U.S.

Some of the world's most spectacular flower fields are found in the tiny mountain town of Crested Butte, Colorado.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Danica Bona, Sweet Tea Studios/Courtesy of Gunnison Crested Butte Tourism

Of all the signs of spring — birdsong, spring training, green grass — none can quite compare to the return of flowers . Be it a bouquet from the farmers market or a field of colorful blooms, flowers usher in the arrival of warm weather, bidding farewell to winter with the bob of their head.

It is perhaps appropriate that the most beautiful flower fields in the U.S. (and the second most beautiful in the world) are located in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, where snow tends to linger. Crested Butte, Colorado, a tiny town nicknamed the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado ,” has long been a shining example of the state’s natural, high-alpine blooms. The annual Crested Butte Wildflower Festival , which runs for 10 days every July, showcases the colorful bounty.

The flower field ranking was facilitated by PremierInn.com and used eye-tracking software to record what images participants’ naturally lingered on. The longer participants looked at an image, the higher the flower field’s ranking. In the end, the Daisy Flower Field in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park topped the charts, capturing participants’ gaze for an average of 3.89 seconds. Just behind the daisies of Chile was an image of the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival and Monet’s Garden in Giverny , which both had an “average fixation length” of 3.46 seconds and tied for second place.

Unlike Monet’s Garden, which is cultivated, the flowers showcased at the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival are completely wild. The blooms can be found anywhere from just outside town to 11,000 feet above sea level. It doesn’t hurt that the backdrop is dominated by peaks in the Rocky Mountain Range and accented by stands of aspen trees. The flowers range from delicate snow lilies and fairy slipper orchids to dwarf larkspur and Colorado blue columbines, the state flower. 

To see the fields of wildflowers of Crested Butte, you have to hike from town and into the alpine — a journey that only adds to the experience (and wonder) of stumbling upon a field of colorful blooms. The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, which runs July 12-2, 2024, proudly showcases the area's blooms through led hikes and over 200 workshops, including talks on the role of pollination, conservation , flowers as food, and photography and painting classes.

The top 10 most beautiful flower fields, according to the eye-tracking study, include one other U.S. destination, the Bluebonnet Fields in Ennis, Texas which was ranked No. 8 on the list. 

1. Torres del Paine National Park Daisy Flower Field, Chile

=2. Monet's Garden at Giverny, France 

=2. Crested Butte Wildflower Festival, U.S.

4. The Butchart Gardens, Canada 

5. Mainau Island, Germany 

6. Wild Lupins Lake Tekapo, New Zealand 

7. Kaas Plateau, India 

8. Bluebonnet Fields in Ennis, U.S.

9. Hallerbos Bluebell Forest, Belgium 

10. Hitchin Lavender Farm for Sunflowers, United Kingdom