top 1000 places to visit

GoNOMAD Travel

Inspiration and links to plan your trip.

1000 Places to See Before You Die: A Travel Cheat-Sheet

Patricia Schultz Presents A New, Special Edition of the Popular Book, 1000 Places

When 1,000 Places to See Before You Die was first published in 2003, it pioneered the concept of the travel book as both a wish list and practical guide, inventing what we now know as bucket list travel and becoming the world’s bestselling travel book of all time with more than 3.5 million copies in print.

Iconic and oversize, weighing in at over six pounds with over 1,000 color photographs and 544 pages, the book is designed to be a mesmerizing showcase of the best the world has to offer, inspiring joy, curiosity, and awe in every traveler and in any dreamer whose Instagram feed is filled with pictures of places near and far.

While retaining the scope of Schultz’s vision and journalistic authority, this deluxe edition has been totally reconceived for the photographic format and features 100% new material. Whereas the original book included practical information such as where to stay and dine, this new book focuses on immersing the reader in gorgeous scenery—Patricia chose more than 1,000 color photos to express what it’s like to visit each location—and shares the must-do activities and must-visit sites for every destination.

From the Metéora of Greece to the Mergui Archipelago of Myanmar and 998 other places across the planet, the deluxe edition of 1,000 PLACES TO SEE BEFORE YOU DIE is a transporting read for travelers and armchair travelers of all ages.

Excerpt: Thailand’s Idyllic Islands

Floating Gems:

Thailand is blessed with a bevy of beach-fringed islands—each distinct from the next. Phuket(right) and Samui were some of the original Thai sensations to arrive on the scene in the 1970s, followed by Koh Phi Phi Leh (and the larger Koh Phi Phi Don; Koh means “island”) when it was used as the setting for The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Those islands originally known for inexpensive digs and full-moon parties have grown up and now boast beaches lined with exclusive resorts and first-class spas, although others have retained something of their early kick-back vibe. Those with airports (Phuket, Samui) facilitate travel time, while many can be reached via ferry from Krabi or Samui. However you arrive, you most likely won’t want to leave.

The backpacker brigade first stumbled upon Koh Samui in the 1970s and the island changed considerably once word got out. An airport was built in 1989, and Western tourists, drawn by talk of dazzling beaches, started to frequent a growing number of upscale hotels.

Now Koh Samui continues to develop as one of Thailand’s most cosmopolitan island getaways. But it’s an exceedingly versatile slice of holiday heaven, with luxury villas, hip yoga and meditation retreats, and laid-back beach bars that still exclude Samui’s original counterculture vibe.

Nestled on the west coast is the Inter-Continental Samui Baan Tailing Ngam Resort , which opened during Koh Samui’s pre-airport days on some of the island’s best real estate and is still the island’s ritziest property (its privileged with great sunsets). From its terraced guest rooms and seven pools, the resort offers uncommonly lovely views of some of the small islands and jungle-clad outcroppings scattered across the Gulf of Thailand.

They are part of the Ang Thong Nationa Marine Park, a popular destination for world-class diving and snorkeling that encompasses 42 islands. The largest uninhabited key, Koh Pha Ngan (7 miles north and accessible by daily boat runs), continues to draw budget travelers and scuba lovers the way Samui once did, though it’s also showing signs of a more upmarket future.

Farther north, tiny Koh Tan offers the best approximation of Koh Samui’s former gays as a shoestring travelers haven.

Long sweeps of white beaches encircle Koh Samui, while the middle of the island remains dense with coconut plantations. Coconuts were once a mainstay of the local economy when 2 million fruits were shipped to Bangkok every month. The trade is now greatly reduced, but the coconut is still used widely in Koh Samui’s increasingly sophisticated restaurants.

The elegant Zazen on Bo Phut Beach combines ocean views, a romantic ambiance, and European-Thai fusion food. Try the crispy sea bass in a green curry cream or silky smooth lemongrass creme brulee. The restaurant’s accompanying Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa features Asian minimalist decor and a beachfront location.

Where: 300 Miles/480 km southwest of Bangkok

Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort: Tel 66/77-420-9100; www.samuizazen.com .  Cost: from from $245; dinner $75

Best Time: Dec.-Apr. to avoid monsoon rains

Phuket is the country’s biggest and busiest with the ultimate list of options

Koh Tao attracts those who come to dive—newbies can get certified—and won’t break the bank

Koh Pha Ngan is still the place for partygoers, but a low-key vibe can still be found on the other side of the island

Koh Yao Yai and its little sister, Koh Yao Noi, promise a more quiet and idyllic setting with stunning views.

About the Author

Patricia Schultz is the author of the #1 New York Times bestsellers 1,000 Places to See Before You Die and 1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die. A veteran travel journalist with over 30 years of experience, she’s written for Frommer’s, Berlitz, and Access travel guides, as well as the Wall Street Journal, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel Weekly, where she is a contributing editor. Her new book, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die (Deluxe Edition): The World as You’ve Never Seen It Before , was published by Artisan Books on October 29, 2019. Her home base is in New York City, but good luck finding her there!

Follow along on Patricia’s travels by following her on Facebook and Instagram at @1000placestoseebeforeyoudie.

For more information, visit 1000places.com .

• Latest Posts

• Secret Flying: The Upsides of “Error” Flights - January 15, 2020
• Loneliness During Solo Travel - January 9, 2020
• 1000 Places to See Before You Die:A Travel Cheat-Sheet - December 24, 2019

2 thoughts on “ 1000 Places to See Before You Die: A Travel Cheat-Sheet ”

is there a list form of the ‘1000 places’ so that we can track our travel places? thank you..

Patricia Schultz told us that they no longer have that because it’s too hard to keep it up to date and they add and subtract places on an ongoing basis.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

‘1,000 Places to See Before You Die’: Adventure Travel Bucket List

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

The original bucket-list travel book gets a fresh new look. Tons more images, new places, and new adventures refresh ‘1,000 Places to See Before You Die’ for 2019.

With 3.5 million copies sold in the 16 years since it first hit bookshelves,  “ 1,000 Places to See Before You Die ” stands as the best-selling travel book ever.

And last month, Artisan Books released an all-new spin on author Patricia Schultz’s famous work. Still carrying the same title, this compendium of sights and activities from around the globe offers up a photo-heavy list of travel inspiration.

We compiled six adventure-focused passages from Schultz’s book. Hopefully, it gives you some ideas for how to spend your vacation time. And for more ideas, find the new “1,000 Places to See Before You Die” on Amazon now.

All text and images excerpted with permission from “ 1,000 Places to See Before You Die” by Patricia Schultz (Artisan Books).

6 Adventure Travel Places to See Before You Die

Aqaba and wadi rum / jordan: red sea diving and desert canyons.

The waters off Aqaba boast some of the Red Sea’s most pristine dive sites. But this ancient port city is also known as the gateway to nearby Wadi Rum (left), a majestic desert moonscape where parts of David Lean’s Lawrence of Arabia were filmed.

• Snorkel or dive along Aqaba’s 15 miles of shoreline to see fields of technicolor coral.
• Camp in Wadi Rum with a local outfitter to enjoy the light and color at dawn and dusk and the stars at night.

Sipadan / Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia: Epic Diving in the Celebes Sea

Part of the Semporna Archipelago off the coast of Borneo, tiny Sipadan sits atop a submerged volcano in a protected conservation zone. With a cap of 120 visitors a day, no overnight accommodations, and 12 dive locations, this speck in the Celebes Sea appears on every diver’s dream list.

• Keep an eye out for green turtles and hawksbill turtles, various species of shark, barracuda, and manta rays.
• Book overnight accommodations on the islands of Mabul and Kapalai for great shore and boat diving on Sipadan, minutes away by speedboat.
• Make the short sail to the Kapalai sandbar, for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the islands of Mataking and Sibuan.

Lake Malawi / Malawi: God’s Aquarium

Lake Malawi is 365 miles long and 52 miles wide, making it the third-largest lake in Africa, and the second deepest (at 2,300 feet). The clear, warm water teems with more species of tropical fish than any other lake on earth, including more than 800 species of neon-colored cichlids.

• Blissfully remote Likoma Island, on the eastern shore, home to some of the friendliest people you’ll meet, who are ready to teach you to snorkel and sail.
• Likoma Island’s 1903 Anglican church, which rivals Winchester Cathedral in size.

High-Country Hiking / Bernese Oberland, Switzerland: Walking on Top of the World

With its 1,553 miles of trails, the Bernese Oberland is Switzerland’s most popular choice for hiking, thanks to its idyllic scenery that rejuvenates both body and soul. The ravines of Kandersteg are a rambler’s paradise. Head for the cable car that lifts walkers to the historic Gemmi Pass or to Lake Oeschinen (left), one of Switzerland’s most striking natural wonders.

• Take the railway or cable car to Mürren, the highest year-round inhabited village in the canton.
• Ride Mürren’s cable car to the Schilthorn’s 9,742 foot summit, Piz Gloria, for panoramic views from the revolving restaurant made famous by the James Bond thriller On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
• Take a high-country hike from Birg down to quaint Gimmelwald.
• Ride the rails to Jungfraujoch to visit the Eispalast (Ice Palace), then return via Grindelwald for high-terrain hiking.

The Blue Voyage / Bodrum and Antalya, Turkey: Sailing the Turquoise Coast

Whether chartered by a group or individually rented by the cabin, a wooden gulet, a traditional two-masted diesel-propelled boat, is the perfect way to explore the coast from Bodrum to Antalya (left). The waters are a luminous blue that gave rise to the phrase mavi yolculuk, or “blue voyage.” The boats take in Greco-Roman and Lycian ruins, sun-drenched beaches, and an uninhabited island reportedly given to Cleopatra by Mark Antony.

• Most cruises cast off from Göcek, Fethiye, or Bodrum, a whitewashed seaside resort whose harbor is dominated by St. Peter’s Castle, one of the finest examples of Crusader architecture in Turkey.
• Tour the Museum of Underwater Archaeology in St. Peter’s Castle, to view historic wrecks and treasures.
• Take a 1-day sail from Bodrum to Gökova Körfezi for lunch in a secluded cove.

The Drakensberg Mountains / KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga, South Africa: A Journey to Middle Earth

Believed to have inspired the setting for the Lord of the Rings cycle, written by South African–born J. R. R. Tolkien, the Drakensberg Mountains offer opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, bird-watching, golfing, fishing, and exploring countless sites where ancient rock art dates back 3,000 years.

• The Blyde River Canyon (below), a 15-mile-long gorge, the third largest in the world by some measures.
• Fugitives’ Drift, a national heritage site, to learn about the region’s conflict-filled history on a guided tour.
• God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon’s lookout point.

Adam Ruggiero is the Editor in Chief of GearJunkie and host of the GearJunkie Podcast. He cut his teeth as a freelancer, and then news reporter for the site in 2015.

Along with founder Stephen Regenold and Editorial Director Sean McCoy, Ruggiero graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Journalism. He was the recipient of the 2022 Outdoor Media Summit “Editor of the Year” award, and regularly co-hosts the industry’s “Gear Guide” at both summer and winter Outdoor Retailer trade shows.

In addition to accurate and impartial news reporting, and compelling, original storytelling, his interests include camping in all climates and conditions, track cycling and bikepacking, all forms of fitness, the resplendent majesty of coffee, and sports of every kind.

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Get adventure news and gear reviews in your inbox!

Join Our GearJunkie Newsletter

Gear Top Stories Deals

Introducing Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travel List

We've all got a list of places that we want to see for ourselves: places friends have enthused about, places we've read about, dreamed about. This is our list. It's the 500 most thrilling, memorable, downright interesting places on this planet ranked in order of their brilliance. COVID-19 has resulted in travel restrictions that may have clipped your wings through 2020, but now is the perfect time to plan ahead so you're ready for your next adventure when it's safe to hit the road again. These are the places we think you should experience; there are sights that will humble you, amaze you and surprise you. They'll provoke thoughts, emotions or just an urgent need to tell someone about them.

Here are the top 10 travel experiences from Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travel List . We hope this will inspire many more travel wish lists of your own. 

Order your copy of the book to see all 500 incredible destinations.

1. Explore the enigmatic ‘lost city’ of Petra

The treasured Unesco Heritage Site of Petra is the must-see ultimate experience on our list. Once nearly lost to the outside world, the sandstone city is now one of the most loved places on the planet, voted in as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World by popular ballot in 2007. Spread over some 102 sq miles (264 sq km), Petra was constructed by the ancient Nabataeans, a civilisation of crafters and merchants, and made for a grand trade route stop-off between Arabian oases. But generations later, after the city was abandoned, it was known only to the Bedouin who made the caves their home. The iconic Treasury, looming 128ft (39m) high is most visitors' first sight of the city, reached after a winding journey through a narrow water-etched slot canyon. Rediscover the city's eternal air of mystery in the early morning or the hours before closing when it's at its most atmospheric.

2. See the islands that changed the course of science - the Galápagos

A thousand kilometres from mainland South America, life on the Galápagos follows different rules. Cormorants can't fly. Iguanas can swim. Tortoises live nearly 200 years. The islands are famed, of course, as the place where Charles Darwin developed his ideas on evolution by natural selection. The process is more obvious here than elsewhere on Earth, since animals that otherwise look alike diverge subtly from island to island, depending on their environment. You'll find blue-footed boobies performing cartoonish mating dances, creeping colonies of iguanas, penguins zooming underwater, and fur seals lounging on volcanic rocks. Even 200 years after Darwin's journey on the HMS Beagle, visitors continue to be astonished by the archipelago's stunning diversity. Ecotourism is central to everything on the 17 islands of the Galápagos National Park - the airport is made from mostly recycled materials and runs on wind and solar power, and each municipality has a strict sustainability plan.

3. Take some life lessons from the Aṉangu at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

At sunset, when its wavy walls blaze gold, Uluru looks like a ship on fire in a desert sea. Rising to 1142ft (348m), the sandstone monolith seizes your eyes from miles away. It's easy to see why it's a sacred site. The Aṉangu people, the area's original inhabitants, believe it's still home to spirit ancestors like the python woman Kuniya and the hare-wallaby people, the Mala. But it's become an icon to all Australians, a symbolic heart beating in the country's Red Centre. Until 2017, visitors were allowed to summit Uluru, which went against the wishes of the Aṉangu, who worried about degradation and climber injuries. There are dozens of far more rewarding things to do - join a ranger-guided walk past sacred waterholes; spot kangaroos hopping through the spinifex; and learn about the Aṉangu at the cultural center, where there is a fantastic display on tjukurpa, the creation period.

4. Experience life in the slow lane on the Okavango Delta

AThis beautiful wilderness is one of Africa's most compelling safari destinations. Each year, the floodwaters of the Okavango River arrive from the Angolan highlands and expand this unique ecosystem to almost 7722 sq miles (20,000 sq km), sustaining vast quantities of wildlife. Along with 4WD safaris, visitors can explore by powerboat and traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). As the mokoro is poled silently through the shallow reed-lined channels you are immersed in the environment, hearing every bird and animal call, witnessing the mightiest of elephants crossing your path and the smallest of frogs clinging to the grass. With development and visitor numbers in the delta strictly regulated to protect the environment, the Okavango is one of the most exclusive destinations on the planet. But for adventurous souls who can handle a 4WD and don't mind camping, there are affordable options within the delta's Moremi Game Reserve.

5. Sniff out geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone stinks. And it has no manners at all. The rotten-egg whiff taunts your nostrils; your ears are assaulted by a vulgarity of belches, burps and farts. But then, what do you expect when you're exploring the largest geothermal area in the world? More than 500 active geysers spout in Yellowstone's enormous, steaming landscape - Old Faithful being the most famous. And there are hot springs to visit - from the bloodshot eyeball of Grand Prismatic to the travertine shelves at Mammoth. The wildlife is perhaps an even bigger draw. This is like North America's answer to an African safari, although here the Big Five creatures are bison, bighorn sheep, elk, bear and wolf. Watching shaggy bison warming up by a thermal pool, catching sight of a grizzly bear across a meadow, or visiting in winter to glimpse wolf prints in the snow - all are quintessential Yellowstone experiences.

6. Emulate a pilgrim's journey to astonishing Lake Bled

It started with the pilgrims from afar who came to worship at the photogenic island church, it continued with the lakeside sojourns of 19th-century royalty and then of former Yugoslav President Tito who had a villa on the shores - and today, tourism to Slovenia's Lake Bled shows no signs of slowing. This blue-green body of water with a white church on a green island, abutted by a terracotta-roofed castle and backed by snow-daubed Julian Alps, is Slovenia's premier crowd-puller. The lake measures just 1.2 by 0.9 miles (2km by 1.4km), so walking or cycling around it is an easy 4 miles (6km). Hire a pletna (gondola), dive beneath the glass-like surface and stay over in one of many beautiful shoreside properties. Slovenia has won praise for eco-initiatives like ecologically designed Garden Village Bled, where a stream snakes through a collection of tree houses and glamping tents.

7. Marvel at the astounding power of Iguazú Falls

Marking the boundary between Argentina and Brazil, the Río Iguazú flows languidly through the jungle before plunging over a basalt ledge with such sudden, furious force that the planet's most awe-inspiring waterfalls are the result. On the Argentinian side, a boardwalk leads through jungle vegetation replete with butterflies and squawking parrots, passing a series of increasingly impressive falls until finally the Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat) comes into view. A visit is a jaw-dropping, visceral experience, and the power and noise of the cascades - a chain of hundreds of waterfalls nearly 2 miles (3km) in extension - live forever in the memory. Sunlight shines through the spray, creating multiple rainbows as the falling water ricochets up off the river below. The exhilarating cool mist, the high decibel roar and the thundering vibrations of crashing water remind you in no uncertain terms of the power and splendor of nature.

8. Find Hindu heaven at the temples of Angkor

A monument to human ingenuity and devotion, the temples of Angkor have an ability to inspire awe that rivals many of nature's contributions to this list's top 10. And so they should - Angkor Wat, the most famous of Angkor's sites, is a representation of Mt Meru, center of the universe and abode of Hindu gods. Imagine the wonderment of the ancient Khmer as they entered Angkor Wat for the first time: crossing the vast moat, peering up at the 180ft (55m) central tower, gazing at intricately carved bas-reliefs. Beyond Angkor Wat are more than 1000 temples and shrines, including Ta Prohm, its towers gripped by the jungle, and Bayon with its giant stone faces. The temples are the perfect fusion of creative ambition and spiritual devotion, and a point of pilgrimage for all Cambodians. Avoid the crowds with a visit in the wet season for (hopefully) that perfect Angkor sunrise.

9. Strike out on the salt of the earth at Salar de Uyuni

Imagine this: you're standing in the middle of the sky. Clouds above. Clouds below. Blue all around. That's what it's like at Salar de Uyuni, the world's biggest salt lake, after rain. The thin layer of water turns the utterly flat salt surface into a vast mirror. The horizon disappears and you seem to float. That's only one of the brain-bending experiences you'll have visiting these 4085 sq miles (10,582 sq km) of salt, high in the Bolivian altiplano. When the lake's dry, the white cracked immensity feels like a desolate, sun-scorched post-apocalyptic landscape. In the dry season you can visit the lake's two islands - Isla Incahuasi and Isla del Pescado - craggy husks of land sprouting with cacti. See too the geyser fields with boiling mud and sulfur steam. Several of the eerie high-altitude lakes, turned aquamarine from high mineral content, are home to flocks of flamingos.

10. Take a classic teahouse trek around Nepal's Annapurna Circuit

Nepal offers golden temples, charming hill villages, jungle wildlife watching, and the incredible walk around Nepal's Annapurna massif, which has long been considered one of the world's great treks. The scenery is mesmerising and the sense of journey is psychologically satisfying, starting in rice paddies and climbing through yak pastures before crossing the mighty snow-bound Thorung La pass. It's everything a good trek should be - challenging, majestic and inspirational. And at the end of the day some of Nepal's best lodges offer hot meals, apple pie and pots of milky tea. However, it's the side trips that make this a truly great trek, notably up to high-altitude Tilicho Lake or to the village of Ngawal, where terraces offer views of snowcapped peaks just across the valley. Build in a couple of extra days, shake off the crowds, and take your time - this is not scenery to rush through.

Discover 490 more ultimate travel experiences

The second edition of Lonely Planet's bestseller presents an all-new ranking of the greatest places to visit on Earth, reflecting the travel tastes and trends of today's world. Decided by our global family of writers, editors and industry experts, and packed with insightful commentary, awe-inspiring photos and over 200 new entries, this is a must-have coffee table book for explorers and armchair travelers.

The World’s Greatest Places of 2021

100 extraordinary destinations to explore

Accra, Ghana

A hub for creativity and culture.

A rare sight at the South Pole

Arouca, Portugal

Bridging the gap.

A cruising renaissance

Perpetual motion

Leaning into literary roots

Action-packed metropolis

Striking a delicate balance

Benguerra Island, Mozambique

Supercharged eco-luxury.

Readying for visitors

Big Sky, Montana

The great wide open.

Bodrum, Turkey

Riviera on the rise.

Cáceres, Spain

A multitude of cultural riches.

New vantages on unique treasures

Cannes, France

Sea and be seen.

Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique

Doubling down on conservation.

Christchurch, New Zealand

Rebuilding from rubble.

Coimbra, Portugal

Fresh claims to fame.

Committed to conservation

Rocky Mountain high

Desaru Coast, Malaysia

A beach escape.

Bringing the world together

A refined reopening

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Worth the journey.

Gold Coast, Australia

Surfers’ playground.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Four centuries and counting.

Design District, London

An affordable artistic incubator.

Luxury on the water

Gyeongju, South Korea

Historic gem.

Renewed life in the Old Quarter

Giving old spaces new purpose

Ho Chi Minh City

Tastes of vietnam.

Hokkaido, Japan

Northern exposure.

Lone Star stunner

Hudson Valley, New York

Brick by brick.

Indianapolis

Bottle service.

Island of Hawaii

Volcanoes and vistas.

Jaipur, India

Astronomical haven.

Jasper, Alberta

Canada’s cabin capital.

José Ignacio, Uruguay

Relaxed getaway.

Khao Yai National Park, Thailand

Leave no trace.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

On the wild side.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Artisanal escape.

La Paz, Mexico

Laid-back vibes at the seaside.

Lake Khovsgol, Mongolia

Untold depths.

Lake Kivu, Rwanda

Solar-powered exploration.

Excess and innovation

Lijiang, China

A launch point for adventure.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

A culinary capital.

Loire Valley, France

Chez leonardo.

Los Angeles

Hollywood’s next act.

Safeguarding tradition

An ever changing archipelago

Marrakech, Morocco

A place of beauty.

Expanding on a legacy

Mendoza, Argentina

Serving culinary excellence outdoors.

Napa Valley, California

Restoring wine country.

Negev Desert, Israel

Desert cultivation.

New Orleans

Big easy does it.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Active nature.

New York City

Back in business.

North Goa, India

Dressed up on the coast.

Northland, New Zealand

Legendary experiences.

Nuuk, Greenland

Pioneering capital.

Odense, Denmark

Fairy-tale city.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

An oasis in the wetlands.

The magic continues

Osaka, Japan

Munch to do

The royal treatment

Patagonia National Park, Chile

Sustainable investments.

Philadelphia

Artistic growth.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Idyllic paradise.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Rising design destination.

Quito, Ecuador

Heritage hub.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Abuzz with openings.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Monument to the southwest.

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

A rare pilgrimage.

São Vicente, Cape Verde

Music in the air.

Sarasota, Florida

The growing gulf coast scene.

Savannah, Georgia

Revitalized riverfronts.

Visions of the future

Siargao, Philippines

Sicily, Italy

History by the seaside.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Wildlife and wonders.

Superlative city-state

Southern Carpathian Mountains, Romania

Returning to nature.

A reinvigorated downtown

Harborside stunners

Culture and quiet

Talkeetna, Alaska

Mountain majesties.

Tallinn, Estonia

Cruising and perusing.

Gearing up for the Games

Tuscany, Italy

Uffizi on tour.

Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia

Salt-flat homestays.

Venice, Italy

Future-proofing an icon.

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Respite and renewal.

Wadi Dana, Jordan

Eyes in the sky.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Reveling in art.

Culture you can bank on

Audience editors: Samantha Cooney, Annabel Gutterman, Soo Jin Kim, Kat Moon and Kimberly Tal

Copy editors: Helen Eisenbach, Mark Hokoda, Anny Kim, Megan Rutherford, Sarah Rutledge, Jennifer Schiavone 

Designers: Jennifer Panzer and Jennifer Prandato

Digital producers: Paulina Cachero and Nadia Suleman

Editors: Jennifer Duggan, Merrill Fabry, Brekke Fletcher, Dan Macsai, Cate Matthews, Brittany Robins, Lily Rothman, and Karl Vick

Photo editors: Kim Bubello and Thea Traff

Reporter-researchers:   Leslie Dickstein, Mariah Espada, Alejandro de la Garza, Nik Popli, Madeline Roache, and Simmone Shah 

Video editor: Erica Solano

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things To Do Before You Die

The world is full of wonder and if you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore! Check out my ultimate travel bucket list – 100 unmissable places to visit before you die. How many can you tick off?

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

There are so many incredible places to see on this planet… but sometimes a bit of extra inspiration doesn’t hurt.

From incredible landscapes that make your eyes pop and your jaws drop, to incredible architecture – here is the ultimate travel bucket list. 100 places to see before you die.

After all, nothing says it better than this cool travel quote from Ray Bradbury.

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

They don’t call it Grand for nothing. The Grand Canyon is a huge, steep canyon, located in Arizona , carved by the Colorado River.

Let’s talk measurements for a second so you can get an idea of the scale of this natural wonder. 446km long and 29km wide.

I’m guessing that it’s already on your list of things to see before you die. If you’re up for the challenge, you can go and hike the whole thing … or simply see the scale of its beauty from one of the many lookouts.

These are especially beautiful to watch the sunrise and sunset from, so make sure you check the times before you go!

2. See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

A series of dancing lights that charge the night sky in pinks, greens, yellows and purples – seeing the Aurora Borealis is the ultimate travel bucket list item.

Cool northern lights-spotting destinations include Iceland , Norway , Alaska and northern Canada.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

he Giant’s Causeway is a stone formation made up of 40,000 basalt columns, located just off the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland.

While scientists say that the formations were the result of a volcanic eruption, legend has it that the columns were a causeway built by a giant so that Scottish and Irish giants could meet and fight. I’m going to go with the latter – much more believable.

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

One of the US’s best-known national parks, Bryce Canyon is a collection of giant natural amphitheatres in southern Utah and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. 

Designated a National Park in 1928, Bryce Canyon now receives nearly 2.5 million annual visitors to marvel at its red, orange and white rock formations.

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

Walking through the weird curved formations of Antelope Canyon , it’s difficult to believe that it’s not man made.

It’s not. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located in Page, Arizona. Formed by the erosion of sandstone from the flash floods that occur in the area, it’s a must for any avid traveller. 

Photographers come from far and wide to get a glimpse of this beautiful orange, red and yellow canyon and the magical light filtered through the canyon’s shaped walls.

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

The striking Reynisdrangar basalt columns on the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach are one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders (they have tough competition).

The columns were formed by volcanic activity – the same kind that created the Giant’s Causeway mentioned above.

Legend has it that they are three trolls, frozen in time by the sun’s rays. Sound familiar? That’s because Tolkien used the legend in his world-famous story The Hobbit.

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is just incredible. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the northeast of California it’s well-known as one of America’s most beautiful travel destinations.

Want to know where to travel before you die? Start with Yosemite.

Granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers – it’s no wonder that the famous photographer Ansel Adams loved it – and I bet you will too.

8. The Dead Sea, Israel / West Bank / Jordan

We all know that you can float on The Dead Sea. This curious natural wonder is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. It’s not actually a sea, despite its name, it’s a lake on the borders of Israel, the West Bank and Jordan .

The banks of the Dead Sea are over 400m below sea level, making them the lowest point in the world on dry land.

The easiest way to visit The Dead Sea is by taking a short-ish bus journey from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, alternatively you can rent a car and drive, though booking onto a tour makes things even easier.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is no secret. Another place that’s arguably being loved to death, it’s enduringly beautiful.

The bay, which is located in Northeast Vietnam, stretches over 1500 square kilometres and is scattered with over 1600 islands and islets.

Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and rainforest-topped islands and a favourite among beauty-seekers.

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

When it comes to bucket list places to visit, The Jeita Grotto is often forgotten about. It’s a set of two separate but interconnected limestone caves, located in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley in Lebanon. 

It can only be entered by boat as it channels an underground river, but once inside, visitors can see the incredible rock formations, and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

11. Acropolis, Greece

The Acropolis in Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a hill in Athens, which contains many ancient (and remains of) buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Acropolis is a greatly important symbol of Greek history, architecture and spirit and visiting it should have a prime spot on your travel bucket list.

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Take whatever you’ve heard about Angkor Wat, times it by 100 and yet it will still blow you away. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is just straight up incredible. 

Angkor Wat is a mystical complex of temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Angkor Wat also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world at 400 square kilometres – it’s made up of hundreds of incredible and awe inspiring temples and ruins.

If you need any more reason to believe you need to visit this special place, it even features on the country’s flag!

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sounds like something that deserves a place on your bucket list right? Right.

But what exactly is Chichen Itza? Well only the biggest archaeological city of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilisation, located in the Yucatán State, Mexico .

Its huge pyramid, El Castillo, is the centre of the ancient city. Both were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, everybody raves about it… but you know what? That’s because it is incredible. Machu Picchu is the old Inca City, located on top of a 2500m mountain in the Cusco region of Peru, just above the Sacred Valley.

Forgotten by the Western world for centuries, it was rediscovered by intrepid explorer Hiram Bingham. Machu Picchu was crowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (of course).

IMHO Machu Picchu is the best archaeological site in the South American continent, and definitely deserves to be at the top of your South America bucket list .

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Who hasn’t dreamt of jetting off to see the mysterious Pyramids of Giza ?

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the outskirts of Cairo Egypt. The complex contains 3 pyramids, a Great Sphinx Sculpture and several cemeteries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Egypt’s world-famous pyramids were built as a tomb for the pharaohs and their queens.

Now they’re one of the most recognisable (and photographed) structures in the world –  I fell head over heels for them after a recent visit to the country.

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument, located in Wiltshire, England. I’ll be completely honest, I’ve never really got why everyone goes so nuts about them… but I can never resist a cheeky detour when I’m on my way to Glastonbury Festival.

The 4 metre high collection of stones were constructed over time between 2500 and 5000 years ago, and are now one of the seven Wonders of the World. Druids and Pagans still use the site to celebrate important occasions such as the summer solstice.

17. The Colosseum, Italy

How about adding the largest amphitheatre ever built to your list of 100 places to see before you die? Yep, thought so.

The Colosseum is an old amphitheatre in the middle of Rome – it was built to hold up to 80,000 spectators.

Although over the years it has been partially ruined by earthquakes, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Rome, recognisable from around the world.

18. Bagan, Myanmar

Catapulted from a place very few people had heard of to one of the recent year’s travel hotspots, Bagan is a beautiful place. The ancient city in Myanmar is nicknamed the temple town, as it is home to 2,229 remaining temples and pagodas.

Most of these have been restored or preserved by UNESCO, and many contain incredible statues and carvings of Buddha – worth a visit in themselves. 

Head to the site early in the morning in the evening – you’ll see the most incredible Bagan sunrises and sunsets – preferably by hot air balloon.

19. Taj Mahal, India

Is it the most photographed building in the world? It’s certainly the best-known mausoleum.

The Taj Maha l is a white marble mausoleum, built in 1648 at the command of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, to remember his late wife.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the ornate Taj Mahal is a beautiful symbol of India and needs to be on any bucket list 100.

20. The Great Wall of China, China

China’s most famous landmark, The Great Wall of China is testament to the incredible building skills of civilisations past.

The “Great Wall” is actually a number of walls that run along the historical Northern borders of China, that were built to protect the Chinese against invasions from Eurasia.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it is the longest wall in the world – it’s even visible from space.

21. London, United Kingdom

London needs no introduction. This cosmopolitan capital is crammed with cool things to do and places to see and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Dating back to Roman times, London is now home to a whopping nearly 9 million people… including the Royal Family.

Head here to see some of the world’s most famed attractions – Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and so many other pretty places to see in London , not to mention some of the most striking street art in the world and a plethora of brilliant restaurants.

Aside from tourist hot spots, London is filled with cool neighbourhoods well worth taking the time to explore – take Hackney, Shoreditch, Croydon, and Clapham, for example.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love – there’s a lot more to Paris than snuggling up for a cosy tete a tete with your other half.

Famed for its culture, art, cuisine and fashion, Paris has something for everyone – which explains why it’s on pretty much every bucket list 100 out there.

Whizz around between beautiful spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Treat yourself to some fancy accommodation and enjoy one of Europe’s most opulent cities.

23. Florence, Italy

Another one of Europe’s cultural hotspots, Florence is well-known for being the birthplace of beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.

Art lovers will rejoice in Florence, with magnificent works by Michaelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci on display at the Uffizi Gallery. 

But that’s not all there is to this dreamy Italian spot – the food is impeccable, the city is filled with family-run trattorias and gelato hotspots. Prepare to spend half your time eating, and the other half snapping photos.

Planning a trip? Check out the many world-famous Italian landmarks Florence boasts, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the Palazzo Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens. Then hop in a car to discover the rest of Tuscany on a road trip.

24. Rome, Italy

Ahh Rome , what a city. Every time you think you have seen it all, Rome comes up with something else to surprise you.

Full of architecture, art and ancient ruins, it’s known worldwide for its fashion and designer boutiques. Head to the Colosseum for some history, the Vatican for some culture and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Don’t even get me started on the sheer number of brilliant eateries either…

25. Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a dream. This gorgeous city is known across Europe for its baroque art and architecture, and its musical and intellectual legacy. 

Some of Vienna’s most well known attractions are the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, a complex of palaces.

Viennese cafe culture is also one of the best in Europe, so much so that UNESCO popped it on their intangible cultural heritage list. Head into one of Vienna’s very many cafes for a Viennese coffee and a slice of schokotorte.

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford is one of the UK’s most famous cities, thanks to its prestigious university (I studied there and it was just as incredible as you would imagine).

With the university dating back to the 11th century, Oxford is full of so many things to do – old architecture, beautiful scenery and tasty cuisine.

Head to Oxford to see the Museum of Natural History, the Oxford Botanic Gardens, and of course its prestigious university and its colleges.

27. Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s evocative capital is an unforgettable experience – there’s no way I’d leave it out of my pick of top 100 bucket list destinations. It’s been a while since I’ve visited but the sights and sounds of the city will always stay with me.

Gorgeous 16th-century architecture and vintage American cars , music and dance – not forgetting the delicious cuisine and daiquiris!

When you’re here, head to the Revolution Museum, Morro Castle and Old Havana, to see the best bits. It’s no wonder that Hemingway loved it – pop into El Floridita , his favourite bar.

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may NOT be Brazil’s capital but it makes up for it with culture, looks and fun.

The first time I visited Rio, I was fresh-faced and 18 – several (and I mean several) years later, I’m just as in love with Rio as when I first clapped eyes on it.

This vibrant capital city is best known for its architecture, forest topped mountains and golden beaches. Some of Rio’s best sights are the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

29. Venice, Italy

Venice might be sinking but we still love it. In truth, it’s difficult to leave Venice out of any list of must-see travel spots, BUT it is suffering from serious overtourism, so you might want to skip it in favour of somewhere quieter.

Full of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, there are very few roads in Venice, mostly canals, with boats and gondolas to transport people. The best places to see are the Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge – just magical!

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is more than relaxed marijuana laws and chilled out coffee shops. Home to an impressive array of world-class museums, beautiful canals, gorgeous architecture and history.

Start by visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, walk along the canals and spend some time exploring the city by bike.

Dutch food might not be much to write home about, but they sure know a thing or two about sweet things – make it your mission to scoff as many poffertjes and stroopwafel as possible. A bucket list travel must.

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The Iguazu Falls are waterfalls on the Iguazu River that border Misiones, the Argentinian province, Paraná, the Brazilian state and Paraguay. At 82 metres high and the chain of falls nearly 3km long, they are the largest waterfalls system in the world.

Think the view can’t be better? Wait until you hear their astoundingly loud roar – sight and sound – it’s almost deafening, and an absolute thrill.

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, in southern Africa. 

Described by CNN as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the water at the Victoria Falls drops a staggering 108m, and is the largest curtain of water in the world.

The easiest way to visit is to fly to Livingstone, the nearest airport – from there it’s around 11km to the falls via a taxi.

Or, if you would really like to treat yourself (I approve), view the falls from above during a helicopter flight over the natural landmark. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

The Niagara Falls are a set of three impressive waterfalls that border Ontario, Canada, and New York State in the US. The three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, all fall at the southern end of the Niagara gorge, and have a total height of 51m.

As the most famous falls in the world, Niagara is something that you’ve got to see. If you’re feeling brave, jump on one of the boat tours which take you up close and personal to the falls.

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

The Ban Gioc–Detian Falls are a set of two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River, on the border of China and Vietnam.

The main waterfall is the Detian waterfall, and the other waterfall is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, with the cumulative drop being a whopping 60m.

You can hop on a boat, which will take you on a river tour close to the falls for an extra-special experience.

35. Palouse Falls, USA

The Palouse Falls is a waterfall on the Palouse River, 6km up from the meeting with the Snake River, in southeast Washington in the United States.

The falls consist of an upper falls and a lower falls, which are drops of 6.1m and 60m respectively. Bring your hiking boots and set off on one of the numerous trails around the top and the bottom of the falls.

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

Shoshone Falls is a waterfall on the Snake River in Southern Idaho. Known as the ‘Niagara of the West’, the falls are 65m high (which is actually higher than Niagara) and flow over a 300m wide rim.

Formed over 14,000 years ago, the Shoshone Falls attract up to 300,000 vehicles per year, and are definitely worth a spot on your ultimate bucket list. Bring a picnic and grab a spot in one of the designated areas for a fabulous day out.

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Blue Nile Falls is a waterfall on the Blue Nile River, located in the north of Ethiopia. Known as ’Tis Abay’ in Amharic, meaning ‘great smoke’, the Falls are approximately 40 metres high, consisting of four streams.

This beautiful waterfall is one of Ethiopia’s top tourist attractions – just get ready for a hike to get the best views of the falls.

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

It’s hard to pick one waterfall from Iceland for our list, but Gullfoss can’t be missed. Gullfoss, meaning ‘Golden Waterfall’ is a waterfall located in the Olfusa River canyon, in Southwest Iceland.

The name comes from the golden colour of the waterfall in certain light – the result of sediment in the water.

The total height of Gullfoss is 32 metres and the longest drop is 21 metres. The beautiful waterfall offers brilliant views and we recommend going to see it on a sunny day, as there’s a big chance of seeing a rainbow shimmering over the falls.

Otherwise it’s a spectacular place to see the Northern Lights in the winter.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

The McWay Falls are a waterfall that flows from McWay Creek in picture-perfect Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park onto a beach in Big Sur on the west coast of California.

The image of the 24m McWay Falls cascading onto the beach is one of Big Sur’s most iconic and something you can’t miss. The hike to the falls is rather easy and boasts some of Big Sur’s best views.

40. The Maldives

The Maldives are a set of South Asian islands, located in the Indian ocean. Made up of 26 atolls, ring shaped coral reefs together containing over 1000 coral islands.

People come from far and wide for The Maldives’ beautiful islands, luxury accommodation, azure waters, and colourful marine life.

If you love beaches, watersports or simply soaking up the views of one of the most beautiful places on this planet, the Maldives should be on your list.

41. Vava’u Islands

The Vava’u islands are a set of islands, one large and 40 small, located in Tonga in the South Pacific. Neiafu, the capital of these islands, is a gorgeous destination well worth exploring – make sure to visit the striking St Joseph’s Cathedral.

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

This tropical paradise has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and beautiful sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and Humpback whales – a wildlife lover’s paradise!

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

Known as the ‘supermodel’ of the Greek Islands, it is instantly recognisable by its whitewashed buildings with blue roofs, multicoloured cliffs, beautiful sunsets and dazzlingly sapphire coloured waters.

There’s so much to do in Santorini including exploring Akrotiri’s ruins and chilling on Kamari’s black sand beach. You might have to battle the crowds, but it’s totally worth it.

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific, Northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Being Tahiti’s most famous island, it is popular with the luxury crowd thanks to its fabulous hotels.

Bora Bora is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, which is fabulous for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

44. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia, popular among backpackers travelling Southeast Asia but also with a luxury side, full of beautiful beaches, incredible food , culture scenery and wildlife.

Known for its surfing, yoga , diving and great resorts, the ‘essence of Bali’, and its traditions have stolen the hearts of many visitors.

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

An archipelago in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is known as both a beach lover’s shangri-la and an eco-wonderland. Built on volcanic rock, the coastline is as ragged as it is beautiful.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this paradise is full of pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and stunning wildlife. Apparently, even the sharks are friendly.

46. Maui, USA

Maui is an island which is part of the state of Hawaii, known for its natural beauty. It is Hawaii’s second-largest island, at 1,883 square kilometres. 

Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, Maui is famed for its world-famous beaches, the Iao Valley, humpback whales, and the marvellous sunset and sunrise from Haleakala. 

There are so many things to do in Maui with kids , as there are for a couple travelling alone.

47. Big Sur, USA

Big Sur is a stretch of California’s central coast. Forever linked with beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Big Sur tops the list of many literary lovers’ travel bucket lists – but there’s more to its appeal than that.

Driving through Big Sur on a Highway 1 road trip is very popular, with beautiful places to stop and look out, such as Bixby Bridge and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the picturesque McWay Falls (see our pick of top 10 waterfalls for your bucket list) meets the sandy shore and drifts into the Ocean.

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, located off the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Ko Samui is home to lush rainforest, coconut palms and some of the most spectacular beaches in Thailand, such as Bang Por, Choeng Mon and Taling Nam, which is incredible for watching the sunset on.

49. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a province of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It is home to some of the best beaches and islands in Southeast Asia, such as Railay Beach , with incredible rock formations making it a climbers paradise, and the Phi Phi Islands, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that Krabi is at the top of most visitors’ lists of things to see when they’re in Thailand.

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is a desert located in Chile , South America and is one of the most surreal places on the planet.

The desert covers a 1000 square km area of land and is one of the driest places on Earth. Mars-like valleys, brightly coloured lakes, swarms of flamingos and the Southern hemisphere’s largest geyser field – if you’re heading to the Atacama desert, you’d better prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out my guide to road-tripping in the Atacama Desert.

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

The Bolivia Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) are located in the Potosí province in the southwest of Bolivia – not far from the Atacama Desert.

At 10,582 square km and placed 3,656m above sea level, they are the largest salt flats in the world. This incredible natural wonder was originally caused by the transformations of several prehistoric lakes, which are now covered by a few metres of salt crust.

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in Patagonia, Chile. It is known for its beautiful mountains, blue icebergs and glaciers, and lush vegetation.

If you’re fit enough to take on the challenge, hiking the five day W trail should be on your list of things to do before you die – feeling even more adventurous? The 8-day O trek is for you.

The stunning Torres, after which the park is named, is the main attraction of the park, and over 250,000 visitors come to marvel at them every year. It’s honestly one of the most incredible places I’ve visited and well worth the hype.

53. Lake District, UK

The Lake District i s a mountainous area in Cumbria, in the north west of England, whose mountains, lakes and forests stretch over a huge 2,362 square km.

Boasting plenty of hikes and ways to reconnect with nature, this is a popular holiday destination for British tourists. 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and also the deepest and longest bodies of water in England – most definitely worth a trip.

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chả is a rural district located at the bottom of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the northwest of Vietnam, in the Yên Bái Province.

It is home to incredible landscapes and perfectly-landscaped rice paddies – the Mù Cang Chả Rice Terrace has been recognised as one of the most unique landscapes in Vietnam, stretching across 22 square km of the mountainside.

Seeing the bright green paddies in real life is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Vietnam.

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in Namibia, and encompasses part of the Namib Desert.

The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest desert, and Namib-Naukluft is the fourth-largest game park in the world. Wonderful creatures such as snakes, hyenas and geckos reside in the stunning signature red and orange sand.

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

The Paro Valley is a lush valley located in western Bhutan. The historic town is full of culture, history and sacred sites, and the wide and richly vegetated Valley is one of Bhutan’s must-see sights. 

If you’re visiting the valley, you have to make a stop at Paro Taktsang which is tucked into the side of a cliff. It’s nicknamed the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist Temple and known one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.

57. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Full of beautiful old Italian villas, farms, wineries and lush vegetation, it’s a beautiful location to visit. As I’ve already mentioned, Florence, the capital of the region, is filled with so many things for art-lovers to do.

Though it’s the gently rolling hills and green vineyards that make up a stunning landscape worthy of a postcard and a spot on your bucket list. Other must-visit towns include Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti, Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

Uluru (previously known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone rock formation, located in the north central region of Australia, that rises 350 metres up away from its surrounding land.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Uluru is home to beautiful waterholes, springs and rock caves.

One of Australia’s indigenous tribes most sacred sites, you can no longer hike onto the rock itself, but can still soak up its spiritual presence from up close.

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, located in the region of Liguria in Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is full of colourful houses and vineyards and a beautiful blue harbour.

I’m betting it’s one of the most photographed places in Italy, but once you go, you can easily see why. Gorgeous views, even better wine, and a chilled-out pace of life – what’s not to love?

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the free-standing bell tower of Italy’s Pisa Cathedral. Built in 1372 at 56 metres tall, the tower is famed for its unintended tilt – the result of the soft ground on which it was built.

Head to the tower, take the obligatory selfie (or three – don’t miss the one where you pretend to push it over!) but don’t forget to explore the rest of this charming city, which is surprisingly quiet once you get away from the big sights.

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

The Golden Gate Bridge is a 1,280m suspension bridge that links San Francisco with Marin County in Western California. Built in 1937 for a huge $35 million, since opening it has become an icon of San Francisco and the most photographed bridge in the world.

Hike through the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge Park to the bottom of the bridge for a different view of this iconic bridge.

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower, located on the Champ de Mars, in Paris, France. The engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed the tower and then his company built it in 1889.

With a total height of 324m, the instantly recognisable Eiffel Tower is synonymous with the city of love. Head up to the top for amazing views out over the city.

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil . Built in 1931 by four men, Landowski, da Silva Costa, Caquor and Leonida, the 30 metre symbol of Rio sits atop of the Corcovado Mountain, looking over the city.

You can access the statue via a tough hike through the Tijuca rainforest, or via a tram or collectivo.

Whichever way you get there, the view of the city spread out below and of the statue itself is one of Rio’s real highlights.

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial group of islands in Dubai , United Arab Emirates, located on the Jumeirah coast. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do before you die, but it’s well worth the trip.

Taking 5 years to build from 2001 to 2006, the Palm is now full of luxury hotels, restaurants and residences. In keeping with Dubai’s reputation for glitz and glamour, a trip to The Palm Jumeirah is one for the luxury-lovers among you.

The island is also home to arguably the best water park in Dubai – spend a day cooling off and seeking thrills at the Atlantis Aquaventure.

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St Basil’s Cathedral is located in Red Square, Moscow, Russia. Built in 1561, this world-famous and colourful landmark was inspired by the flame from a bonfire rising into the sky.

Officially called ‘The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat’, this 48m high building is a totally bonkers but beautiful creation that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is an arts venue, located at Bennelong Point in the middle of the Sydney Harbour, Australia. Built in 1973, the Opera House became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The picturesque sail design of the house with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind it is the iconic image of Sydney and a must-do on your Australia bucket list.

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of ‘Lady Liberty’, located on Liberty Island in the harbour in New York City.

The statue shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and a book with roman numerals of the date of the US Declaration of Independence.

Designed by Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated to the US people from France in 1886.

The statue used to be the first sight of New York for those sailing into the city in days gone by, the boat trip to see  the statue is no less striking today.There is so much to enjoy in New York with various attractions, shopping and rooftop restaurants in New York .

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

Big Ben (a nickname for the clock on the Elizabeth Tower), is a tower at the end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.

Ever since it was built in 1859, it has been a British cultural icon, and is the most prominent symbol of London and the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is currently undergoing renovation works, but you can still take a peek at the Houses of Parliament below.

Want an extra-special view? Take one of the numerous boat cruises that float down the Thames for picture opps without the crowds.

70. Empire State Building, USA

The Empire State Building is a skyscraper, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City (between West 33rd and 34th streets to be precise).

The 102 storey building is not only a work office, but also has a viewing deck at the top where visitors can see the whole of the city.

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City, and was designated the status of a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Book your ticket and get whisked up to the top for spectacular views out over the city.

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, is the highest mountain on Earth at 8,848 m, with the border between China and Nepal running across its summit.

Since it was first climbed in 1953, Mount Everest has attracted keen climbers from all over, with two main climbing routes, one starting in southeast Nepal and the other in the north of Tibet in China – do you dare to rise to the challenge?

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

Mount Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain , is a mountain in the Andes in Cusco, Peru.  

With its highest peak at 5,200m, Vinicunca is full of desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks and lots of alpacas!

Though South America isn’t short on a hike or two, this one comes with close-up views of the multi-coloured mountains and its picturesque surroundings.

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Matterhorn is located in the Swiss Alps. At 4,478 m, it is one of the largest mountains in Europe and the Alps. Surrounded by glaciers, the Matterhorn is an incredibly beautiful site, with an almost symmetrical peak.

Skilled mountaineers can climb to the top of the mountain, but even if that’s not you, we pretty much guarantee you’ll be blown away by views of the mountain up close.

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a mountain in Patagonia, located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field near El Chaltén on the border of Argentina and Chile .

First climbed in 1952, today it still remains one of the most challenging climbs on Earth with its highest point at 3,405 m.

Not quite up to the challenge? You can hike to the base of the mountain from El Chalten without too much difficulty.

75. K2, China / Pakistan

K2, also known as Mount Godwin Austen, is the second highest mountain in the world, at 8611 metres high, located on the border between China and Pakistan.

Not many dare to climb K2 as it is so dangerous. K2 is sometimes called the ‘Savage Mountain’, with a terrifying one out of four climbers never making it back.

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town in South Africa . The mountain is just over 1,085 metres tall and 3km from either side.

Visitors either hike up to the top or get the cable-car up (hint: do the hike, it’s awesome). Once at the top, the sweeping views of the city are incredible.

Cape Town is often chosen as one of the most spectacular cities in the world, and the views from Table Mountain give you a good idea why.

77. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada’s national playground. Forming part of the Rockies National Park, Canada’s first national park, Banff’s highest peak is Bonnet Peak at 3,235 m.

The beautiful snow capped mountains surrounded by lush green forests and charming lakes are too tempting not to explore – doing so should be on your list of things to do before you die.

78. Mount Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan is a mountain range is the Anhui Province in Eastern China, with its top height reaching 1,864 metres. Mount Huangshan and its surrounding area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, lush vegetation and incredible views.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Mount Huangshan is known as ‘the loveliest mountain in China’. Even more reason to see it with your own eyes.

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in north west Africa. Their highest peak is Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres high and located in Morocco.

Its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks and traditional Berber villages make trekking in the Atlas Mountains a fantastic experience.

The Atlas Mountains are a relatively short trip from Marrakech and well deserving of a detour from the charming city.

80. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc (meaning ‘White Mountain) is located in the Graian Alps, which run between France and Italy.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and in Europe at 4,808m, and is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, snowboarding and skiing.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can hike up and ski or board down in the summer months – beware, the hike up is pretty tough.

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

Yellowstone Super Volcano is located in the ethereal Yellowstone National Park , in the northwest of Wyoming, US.

Known for its super-volcanoes, crazily coloured lakes and ever-faithful geysers, Yellowstone might well be the US national park highest on your list of things to do before you die (though maybe Yosemite beats it to the first spot).

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Popocatépetl Volcano is an active volcano located in the Mexico, Puebla and Morelos states in Central Mexico.

At 5,426m high, it is the second-tallest peak in Mexico. You can visit the park surrounding the volcano from Mexico City – bear in mind that it is an active volcano, so you should check before you set out.

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples, in Campania, Italy. The 1,280m volcano is best known for its eruption in 79AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and being the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

However, despite the risk, the sight of the beautiful volcano standing tall over the city of Naples is truly amazing. You can undertake the hike to the top independently, or go on a guided hike to take advantage of the local knowledge.

84. Mount Etna, Italy

Mount Etna is a volcano between Messina and Cantania, in Sicily, Italy. At 3,330m high, it is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and Italy’s highest peak south of the Alps. Although it is one of the world’s most active volcano sites, in 2013 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty.

It’s a tough trek to the top, but the views once you get there are worth the sweat.

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on Honshu Island, in the Southwest of Japan. At 3,770 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Japan.

The mountain is one of Japan’s sacred sites – it’s not unusual for people to make a pilgrimage trek to the top.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, UNESCO has also recognised 25 locations within the Mount Fuji locality to be sites of cultural interest – meaning there’s plenty for you to do when you tick this one off your bucket list.

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones, located in the Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania, Africa.

At 5,895 metres above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s best-known adventure spots and the hike to the top is a once in a lifetime experience.

87. Mauna Loa, USA

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located in Hawaii, United States. It’s considered to be the Earth’s largest volcano with an impressive 75,000 cubed km volume.

Although Mauna Loa has been erupting for at least 700,000 years and still erupts today, the eruptions are very fluid and tend to be non-explosive, so it is a very safe area to visit.

It’s a tough hike, even by Hawaiian standards, but when else will you get to climb the world’s largest volcano?

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia, and is part of the Tengger massif, a volcano complex.

Sitting in the middle of a plain of sand, the beautiful 2300m volcano provides visitors with unparalleled views, which can be reached by taking a 2 hour walk to the top. Head up at night to catch sunrise at the top – an unforgettable experience.

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a dormant volcano near Reykjavík, Iceland, that covers 3,270 square metres and is 213m deep.

Opening to tourists in 2012, it is the only volcano in the world where you can take a lift down into the magma chamber. Such an incredible sight is totally deserving of a spot on your bucket list.

90. Mount Helen, USA

Mount Helen is an active volcano located in Skamania County in Washington State, United States – less than 100 miles away from Seattle. Mount St Helens is well known for its ash explosions and flows of gas and volcanic matter, especially during the notorious 1980 eruption.

The huge volcano is located in the Cascade Range which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a group of 452 active volcanoes dotted around the rim of the Pacific, all prone to eruption.

There are more than 200 miles of trails in the surrounding area – allowing you to see a different side of the volcano on two feet.

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, Africa, that neighbours the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

It is famous for its wonderful animals and wildlife, including African leopards and Kenyan cheetahs, Masai lions, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and over 470 species of bird. It is perfect for the animal lover.

Heading on a safari into the Masai Mara is one of the most popular travel bucket list ideas – when are you going to tick it off yours?

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest is a rainforest that expands over Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, in South America.

The whole thing encompasses a huge 7 million square kilometres, and is home to 16,000 species of 390 billion trees, 2.5 million insect species and 2,000 mammal and bird species.

Eco-friendly luxury lodges, steamer boat cruises, incredible hikes – the only problem you’ll have when it comes to planning your trip to the Amazon is how much you can fit into the time you have.

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

The Serengeti is a region in Africa, expanding over northern Tanzania and in the south of Kenya, over 30,000 square kilometres.

The Serengeti is renowned for its large lion population, including 70 large mammal species, such as buffalos and gazelles, and 500 bird species, as well as a range of surroundings with everything from swamps to grasslands.

Book a safari for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of islands located in the Pacific Ocean over the Equator, such that the islands are in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.

The islands are well known for their wildlife that are unique to just them, including giant tortoises, Galapagos finches and penguins, Galapagos hawks, fur seals and blue-footed boobies.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the islands in their full glory on a several-day boat tour.

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast in Queensland, Australia.

The reef system, which stretches over a nearly 350,000 square kilometre area, comprises over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, this colourful place is home to millions of creatures, including dolphins, whales, fish, turtles and birds. 

On a sourer note, the Great Barrier Reef is being destroyed due to climate change, so who knows how much longer it will be around for? This beautiful place deserves a top spot on your list of things to do before you die.

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island is a 390 square kilometre island, located in the middle of the Flores Sea and part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this beautiful island is home to many species, including Javan deer, water buffalo and the 3km long Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth.

Komodo Dragons are notoriously dangerous but spying them in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park might not be South Africa’s best-known safari destination (that title has to go to Kruger), but it’s the one I loved the most.

Tucked away in the beautiful Addo region in the Eastern Cape, the Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Seven (the big five plus Southern Whales and Great White Sharks) thanks to its ocean territory.

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

The Danum Valley is located in Sabah Forest, Borneo, Malaysia . The 438 square kilometre Conservation Area is known for its Bornean orangutans, gibbons, 270 species of bird and the rare East Sumatran rhinos.

People come from all over to see these special creatures, and it is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list.

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia. The island is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo, the Tammar Wallaby and Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, which are all native to the island, as well as non-native creatures such as sea lions and koalas.

Visit the island to experience its wild and rugged beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities galore.

100. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a savanna in Southern Africa that extends for over 900,000 square kilometres over Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

The Kalahari Desert is home to hundreds of exotic species of animals including brown hyenas, meerkats, the Kalahari lion, and many species of reptiles and birds.

A trip to the Kalahari is like stepping into another universe – one that will provide you will snaps (and memories) you’ll never forget.

There we are, 100 places for your travel bucket list. How many have you ticked off?

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

• 100 Places to Visit in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss
• 100 Places to Visit in South America – The South America Bucket List
• UK Bucket List Ideas 

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest!

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

20 Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Embark on an Epic Journey Through Westeros

The 10 Most Beautiful Valleys in the World

15 Best Girls Trip Ideas – Fabulous Girls Trip Locations for a Fun Getaway

Where to Find The World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls (And How to See Each One)

I alway love these kinds of lists. But “100” is an arbitrary number. Better to list the top things and get a list as long or short as it turns out to be. A few conspicuous omissions from the list: Antarctica; Madagascar’s Spiny Forest; slave forts of Ghana; underground stone-carved churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; the palace complex and surrounds in Bangkok; and maybe the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. List should include a section on tribal people and unique cultures such as the tribes of the Omo Valley in SE Ethiopia and the Inuit of Canada, etc.; famous scenic train trips; best rivers & fjords to navigate. Nevertheless, a fun list! Have seen 61 of these, plan to see 15 still on my list. 23 others are nice but I don’t plan to see. 4 of them I have no interest in. (Been to a number of the countries the items are in, but not to see the listed items.)

Thanks for the suggestions – some really interesting ones there – if we update the piece, we’ll be sure to take your additions on board.

Colosseum is in Italy, not Greece (number 19), though it does mention Rome.

Great spot – obviously a typo slipped in there. Clearly meant to say Italy as I reference Rome 4 times in the para.

Um. Yosemite, then out to Hwy 395 in the Eastern Sierra of CA.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Get recommended reads, deals, and more from Hachette

By clicking ‘Sign Up,’ I acknowledge that I have read and agree to Hachette Book Group’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use

Site Preferences

Use code MOM24 for 20% off site wide + free shipping over $45

1,000 Places to See Before You Die (Deluxe Edition)

The World as You've Never Seen It Before

Contributors

By Patricia Schultz

Formats and Prices

This item is a preorder. Your payment method will be charged immediately, and the product is expected to ship on or around October 29, 2019. This date is subject to change due to shipping delays beyond our control.

Also available from:

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million

Description

Named a Best Gift Book/Best Travel Book of the Year by the New York Times , Entertainment Weekly , Associated Press, House Beautiful, Business Insider, The Daily Beast, Forbes, Fodor’s, The Points Guy, Seattle Times , and more

“This is the comfort food of travel books. . . . This book will sweep you off your feet.” — New York Times Book Review

“Gorgeous . . . breathtaking . . . spectacular.” — Publishers Weekly

Patricia Schultz curates the world. When she published the original 1,000 Places to See Before You Die , she created not only a new kind of travel book but also a new way of thinking about our experiences and interests.

Now Schultz captivates our hearts in the same compelling way her original book spoke to our minds. Moving from eloquent word to breathtaking image, she takes us on a visual journey of the best the world has to offer, and as we turn the pages and pore over these images, we feel it all: joy, curiosity, awe, passion, nostalgia (if we’ve been there), inspiration (because we want to go), and a profound and transforming sense of how lucky we are to live in a world filled with such beauty and wonder—to see tributaries of mist curling over the Great Wall, elephants grazing on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, the sun setting on the wild coast of Donegal, masked whirling dancers at a festival in Bhutan.

The book itself is a thing of beauty, an oversize feast of more than 1,000 all-new photographs and 544 pages, every spread and page designed to showcase these mesmerizing photographs and hold just enough of Schultz’s lively text that we know why it is we’re looking at them. It is a perfect gift for every traveler, every fan of the original, every dreamer whose Instagram feed is filled with pictures of places near and far.

• Pictorials (see Also Photography
• Subjects & Themes
• “This is the comfort food of travel books. . . . This book is meant to inspire wanderlust in anybody who needs an actual getaway. If you’re living in a bubble, this book will keep you there. If you’re not, this book will sweep you off your feet, gently.” — New York Times Book Review “Ever swoon over a travel book before? Get ready to get giddy.  1,000 Places to See Before You Die —the world’s bestselling travel book of all time . . . by globetrotting journalist Patricia Schultz—has now been extravagantly reimagined in a dazzling new deluxe edition. And what a treasure pleasure it is. The hefty, luxuriously oversize, hardcover coffee-table  tour de force  is visually riveting. More than 1,000 gorgeous color photographs are designed on 544 pages. Schultz’s engaging words weave together a tapestry of descriptions. . . . There are surprises galore, fresh finds, plenty of ‘aha’ discoveries. This book will be a popular holiday gift choice for both intrepid adventurers and armchair travelers—and nearly every vacationer in between.” —Forbes “The ultimate travel bucket list. . . a must have.” —House Beautiful  “If you want to elicit oohs and aahs, get someone this book. . . . Stunning.” — The Daily Beast   “[This new deluxe edition] finally gives every single destination the lavish visual treatment it has always deserved. The oversized 1,000 Places to See Before You Die: The World as You’ve Never Seen It Before is a feast of fantasy in coffee table proportions. . . . [There are] 1,000 reasons the book’s new edition makes for a beautifully inspiring addition to our library.” —Frommers “Both the information and the presentation — more than 1,000 color photos pack the 532 thick, glossy pages — are a vast departure from the no-nonsense original [edition of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die ]. . . . The packaging is undoubtedly prettier, but the DNA of the book remains the same. It’s the ultimate travel wish list.” — Chicago Tribune “This edition by Patricia Schultz adds stunning, full-color photography to every locale, making the book even more inspiring and dazzling.”  — Seattle Times “One of the most comprehensive world travel guides available today. . . . Cure your vacation planning woes and prepare for the trip of a lifetime as you journey through this 544-page full color travel guide to the world’s most desirable destinations.” —Jetset “Amazing handpicked photos of some of the most beautiful places in world. The book itself . . .  is oversize eye candy—compelling us to pack our bags and head out to explore.” — The Times of Northwest Indiana  “Full of breathtaking photographs and must-sees.” — TheLadders.com   “ The gorgeous third edition of veteran travel journalist Schultz’s destination compendium takes a much more visual approach than previous renditions . . . . Each of the places is illustrated with a breathtaking photograph. . . . This spectacular coffee-table book will inspire readers to add more destinations to their bucket lists.” —Publishers Weekly “The original bucket-list travel book gets a fresh new look. Tons more images, new places, and new adventures refresh 1,000 Places to See Before You Die for 2019.” — Gear Junkie “A visual extravaganza! You can’t turn a page without wanting to jump on a plane and go!” — Dylan Thuras, cofounder of Atlas Obscura “This photographic version of the all-time classic travel book taps into our need to let go of our over-scheduled lives and serendipitously wander, to open the book and effortlessly travel where the pages want to take us.” —Samantha Brown, host of PBS’s Places to Love “For the past decade and a half,  1,000 Places to See Before You Die  has been inspiring travelers across the globe, with dreams of journeys far and near. And thanks to this latest edition, those dreams are going to be in full-color now. Author Patricia Schultz and her team have added stunning photos to the text, for all 1,000 of the places visited (and sometimes multiple photos, in the case of larger destinations such as London). It makes for an even more inspirational jaunt around the planet, one that both avid and armchair travelers will relish. Brava!” —Pauline Frommer, publisher of Frommer’s guidebooks and Frommers.com “This new photo-driven edition of  1,000 Places to See Before You Die  is a beautiful, easily digestible book that’s perfect for any person looking for some travel inspiration. As a world traveler myself, I was able to read this book and add quite a few places that I’d never heard of before to my bucket list!”  —Brian Kelly, founder and CEO of the Points Guy  

You May Also Like

Newsletter Signup

Patricia Schultz

About the author.

Learn more about this author

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

10 Incredible Trips Under $1,000

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Want more expert tips and vacation inspiration? Subscribe to SmarterTravel on YouTube!

These days, finding vacations under $1,000 seems like a tall order. But it’s far from impossible. There are plenty of places, and types of journeys, that fit the bill. To help kickstart your travel planning, here’s a roundup of spectacular getaways that let you keep your trips under $1,000 per person—or sometimes even per couple.

Paris, France

At press time, winter flights to Paris from San Francisco or New York City were available for less than $350 round-trip on Priceline . To save money on accommodations, you can sleep in a hostel dorm room for as little as $20 per person, per night, or book an Airbnb room in someone’s home for a similar nightly rate. Alternatively, most hostels have no-frills private rooms that don’t cost too much more per person than a bed in a dorm.

If you’re a member of HomeExchange , you can take a two-week vacation to Paris with your whole family, and accommodations would run you just $150 total (the cost of an annual membership on the site). Et voila! A full French vacation for ridiculously little.

When it comes time to eat, pick up a baguette, a slab of brie, charcuterie meats, and a bottle of inexpensive but delicious local wine. Then find a place at Champs de Mars or in Bois de Boulogne, spread out a blanket, and enjoy a memorable pique-nique. Street vendors and outdoor markets offer cheap but delicious fare throughout the city. As for getting around town, the Metro is easy and affordable, and there are few better cities for walking than Paris.

Luckily, Paris boasts loads of free and timeless attractions, including Jardin du Luxembourg , Jardin des Tuileries , the Musée d’Art Moderne , and the Fragonard Perfume Museum . Admission to the Louvre is just 15 euros. And strolling through the fancy boutiques of the Champs d’Elysee, the art stalls of Montmartre, the bridges over the Seine, or the romantic scenery of the Left Bank all cost absolutely rien.

Check Prices for Hotel Joke – Astotel in Paris

Japan doesn’t exactly top most people’s mental lists of places to vacation affordably—but it’s possible to find surprisingly cheap flights there from the West Coast, including some for less than $500 round-trip on sites like JustFly . (Avoid the spring and fall high seasons for lower fares.)

If you’re not opposed to sleeping in a capsule hotel—hostel-like facilities with tiny private rooms and shared bathrooms—you can nab nightly rates around $50. And if you’re willing to put in some elbow grease, like cleaning or gardening, some hostels let you stay for free .

Are you a fan of sushi or ramen? Good. Eating in Japan will be easy and cheap. And Japan’s version of dollar stores are the famous “100-yen” shops, where you can also pick up meals.

Getting around Japan is a bit trickier on a budget. Avoid taxis and high-speed trains, unless saving time is more important than saving money. You can buy a Japan Rail Pass for about $275 per week, which will grant you access to some, but not all, of the country’s high-speed trains.

A Grutt Pass —less than $20—buys you affordable access to many of Tokyo’s museums and temples. Many of Japan’s other museums are free or almost free.

(More interested in traveling to Southeast Asia? Use frequent flyer miles to get there. “Once your tickets are taken care of,” says Gary Leff, who cofounded InsideFlyer and runs the popular View From the Wing blog, “you want to fly far away to where costs are low. That way you can stretch your dollars without feeling like you’re stretching your dollars. Indulgences like spa treatments can cost around $35 an hour if you go to the better local places in Bangkok, and meals, lodging, and transportation are comparatively cheap.”)

Check Prices for Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku in Shinjuku

If it’s a quieter vacation you’re after, take a trip to Finland—a country that has “silence, please” as one of its slogans. Flights from New York to Helsinki were $320 in mid-September, a lovely time of year to visit, though airfare is often even cheaper in January, if the cold never bothered you anyway.

Finland is famous for its natural attractions, so if that’s your thing, you’ll find campgrounds around the country, offering accommodations that cost less than $30 per night. Otherwise, stick to hostels or Airbnb rentals , where you can book a night’s sleep for as little as $20 per night.

Buy a Helsinki Card (less than $80 for a three-day card), which covers all your public transportation needs, entrance fees to popular attractions, and bus and boat sightseeing tours. Buffets are a great way to get a lot of food for not a lot of money in Finland—for about $15 you can load up on traditional all-you-can-eat fare, helping you stick to your goal of keeping your trip under $1,000.

Check Prices for Anna Hotel in Helsinki

Portugal is one of Europe’s most affordable countries for travelers. Lisbon’s hotels and restaurants are markedly less expensive than those in other iconic European cities—and you can slash your travel expenses even more by staying at a hostel or family-run inn called pensão .

Those looking to keep their vacations under $1,000 should keep in mind that the most affordable time to visit Portugal is outside of its summer high season. These months are also less crowded, though the weather remains lovely through much of spring and fall. And even winter offers warm-ish days; January is the cheapest time to fly into Lisbon, though it’s not a stretch to find mid-September flights there from New York for around $325 round-trip.

Portugal offers plenty of worthwhile free attractions, including churches. Many of the country’s museums are free on Sundays and occasionally at other times as well; check in advance to find out when. The country has 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, with generally affordable admission fees.

Portuguese transportation options, including buses and trains, are efficient and budget-friendly. It’s also easy to get around on foot or by rental bike as well. Add all this up, and you’ve got a European slam dunk for those who refuse to let their strict $1,000 budget interfere with having an amazing vacation.

(Tip: Whenever you’re in Europe, EasyJet is a fantastic way to get from city to city or country to country—the company offers flights from $40 all over the continent.)

Check Prices for Ibis Lisboa Saldanha in Lisbon

Puerto morelos, mexico.

Fly into Cancun—round-trip fall fares from Houston were less than $180 in a recent search—and head 15 minutes south to Puerto Morelos, where great beaches and affordable food await.

Velas Condos offers accommodations for two starting around $60 per night, or stay at Posada Amor from just $43 per night. You’ll be close to one of the world’s great dive sites, so pack bring your own snorkeling equipment or rent a set for $8 , then prepare yourself for the dazzling underwater sights.

While you’re here, go ahead and skip the touristy restaurants. Instead, walk or take a cab to where the locals eat and enjoy full meals of tacos, burritos, and pizzas for less than $10.

(If you prefer the Baja California side of Mexico, the Black Bass Lodge in Punta Abreojos rents rooms for less than $150 a night. The property is known for offering legendary surfing and fishing adventures.)

Check Prices for Posada Amor in Puerto Morelos

Los angeles, california.

Even if you’re not driving in from elsewhere on the West Coast, Los Angeles can make for an affordable vacation. The City of Angels offers an official list of 100 free things to in Los Angeles , which includes some truly rich cultural experiences, like the Getty , the Broad , the California Science Center , and the Griffith Observatory (yes, of La La Land fame), as well as some more fun touristy things, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame .

It’s not difficult to find round-trip flights from New York City to LAX for less than $270; pair that with a two-night stay at a property like the Westin Los Angeles Airport , the Westin Pasadena , or the Westin Long Beach (all around $170 per night), and you’ve got yourself a dynamic couples’ vacation under $1,000, especially if you stick to cheap eats and the aforementioned free activities. At prices like these, even a family vacation is more affordable.

Check Prices for The Westin Long Beach in Long Beach

West virginia.

You may have never considered taking a trip to West Virginia—but you should. Especially if you’re on the hunt for the best vacations under $1,000. And especially if you’re a fan of riding rivers.

A resort called Adventures on the Gorge offers the chance to raft Class IV rapids during an all-inclusive vacation under $1,000. Less than $600 gets you two nights in a cabin, plus most meals, a half-day of stand-up paddleboarding, a zip-line canopy adventure, and a full day of rafting Lower New River’s wild rapids.

In early June, American Airlines flies from Washington Dulles to Charleston, West Virginia, for around $340. But nearly half of the United States population is within driving distance of the Mountain State, so it’s a great option for a budget-friendly road trip—especially when the trees turn vivid colors in the fall and the waterfalls roar.

Along the gorgeous 180-mile Route 60 Midland Trail is a beachy, laid-back restaurant called Tricky Fish , serving up tasty seafood entrees for less than $15. On Interstate 64, Kenova’s Famous Griffith Pumpkin House is a vintage attraction that gets decked out with more than 3,000 jack-o-lanterns come October, and admission is free.

Check Prices for Adventures on the Gorge – Lodging in Lansing

When you think of all-inclusive vacations under $1,000, Hawaii probably doesn’t come to mind first. But a round-trip flight from LAX to Honolulu or Kahului can actually cost as little as $350, while high-quality hotels like Honolulu’s centrally located Aqua Skyline at Island Colony —housed in Waikiki’s tallest building—offer sweeping ocean views, not to mention nightly rates starting as low as $109. Add up the flight and a two-night stay, and Hawaii starts to reveal itself as one of the most attractive vacations under $1,000 for couples.

More interested in staying on the Valley Isle? The Aston at Maui Banyan has rates starting around $170 per night, plus a swimmable beach within easy walking distance, two pools, a tennis court, and guest rooms with kitchens and laundry machines, helping to keep their guests’ trips under $1,000.

Tip: Both hotels listed above offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals that make it even easier to keep vacations under $1,000. Book on either of those days of the year and get 30 percent off the properties’ best available room rates.

Check Prices for Aston at the Maui Banyan in Kihei

When you’re looking for vacation packages under $1,000, don’t rule out cruises. There are plenty of ocean journeys that fit the bill, especially if your embarkation port is within driving distance of your home, allowing you to avoid shelling out for airfare. As a result, you can turn any cruise deal that you find into an all-inclusive vacation under $1,000.

At press time Princess Cruises was offering Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale starting at just $299 per person, as well as autumn trips to Canada and New England from New York City starting at $537 per person. These prices include all meals, select beverages, and a wide range of entertainment from theater productions to Zumba classes.

Or you can consider a cruise aboard one of the Maine Windjammer Association ’s ships, which are perfect for solo travelers and start at $675 per person, a rate that includes lodging, all meals (including a lobster dinner), a daily hors d’oeuvres-packed happy hour, and the chance to steer the vessel.

To find great prices on cruises, and for your best chance at booking all-inclusive vacations under $1,000, plan to sail when kids are in school, or wait for last-minute deals when cruise lines are looking to fill empty cabins.

A Volunteer Vacation

Your travels shouldn’t just be about you. Ideally, your explorations should leave the places you visit—and the planet as a whole—better, not worse.

Enter International Volunteer HQ, a volunteer organization that has helped more than 100,000 travelers improve more than 50 places around the world , including Colombia, Croatia, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Fiji, and Nepal.

If you’re trying to plan trips under $1,000, this is a wonderfully meaningful way to do it. IVHQ’s journeys start from just $180 for a full week (plus a registration fee of $299). A weeklong program in Lima, Peru, for example, costs around $480, while a similar setup in the Philippines costs around $560.

The price includes lodging, food, airport transfers, and an orientation event to help you succeed in your volunteer work, which might involve teaching kindergarten, childcare, animal care, or construction work. Participants have the weekends free to explore their host countries at leisure.

The trick here is to get affordable airfare to wherever you’ll be headed, so don’t hesitate to call the airlines or a travel agency to help you find the best deal. To keep your vacation under $1,000, research the high and low seasons for travel in your desired destination; you’ll find cheaper fares if you fly at a time when most tourists aren’t visiting. See The 10 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare for guidance on where to search for flights.

What to Wear on Your Next Trip

Women’s fall outfit with mustard accents and expensive coat, shop the look.

Double Breasted Alpaca Blend Coat

Editor Slingback

Knotted Strap Faux Leather Tote

Turtleneck Ribbed Top

Kick Crop Work Pant

Women’s fall dark dress outfit with brown bag.

Power Gemstone Stud Earrings

Paisley Satin Midi Puff Sleeve Dress

Cadence Bag

Chenille Longline Cardigan

Western Boot

Men’s casual travel outfit for the fall.

Water Resistant Fleece Lined Hooded Jacket

Flannel Sunday Shirt

Slim Fit Chino Premium Pants

Arroyo Sneakers

Men’s cool jacket from everlane outfit for the fall/autumn.

Double Weave Gingham Check Button-Down Sport Shirt

Stretch Washed Chinos

Nylon Weekender

ReNew Short Parka

Chavito Chukka Boot

Women’s jumpsuit and anti-theft purse outfit.

Tie-Waist Cotton Jumpsuit

Tassel Earrings

Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag

Strappy Sandal

Women’s super stylish yet casual fall dress outfit.

14k Pearl Swing Hoop Earrings

Ribbed Mock Neck Maxi Dress

Foldover Crossbody

Oversized Rib Knit Cardigan

Men’s Peach/Navy Outfit for Mexico

Cotton Short-Sleeve Henley

Solid Boardwalker Shorts

Men's Travel Wallet

Leather Belt

Men's Wool Runners

Men’s jacket with umbrella outfit for the fall.

Windproof Umbrella

Pocket Waterproof Parka

Flecked Cotton-Blend Sweater

Tellis SUD Modern Slim Fit Stretch Twill Pants

Feathercraft Grand Boot

Women’s amazon-based summer dress outfit.

Cotton Crochet Hat

Beach Dress with Pockets

Quad Nail Polish

Ankle Wrap Summer Sandals

Women’s casual outfit for a trip to africa.

Denim Shorts

Bengali Headband

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Tropical Vacations Under $500, Including Airfare and Hotel
• The 7 Cheapest Caribbean Islands to Find Your Paradise
• 7 Affordable Off-the-Beaten-Path Beach Vacations

Follow Avital Andrews on Twitter  @avitalb  or on  Facebook .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Porto to Lisbon: 7-Nt, Small-Group Portugal...

Indus Travels

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

We use cookies and related technologies to personalize and enhance your experience. By using this site you agree to the use of cookies and related tracking technologies.

1000 s of Stories

5 must-do’s in the 1000 islands, 1. visit alex bay.

It’s easy to see why Alexandria Bay is one of the most popular 1000 Islands destinations. Perfect for family vacations, couple’s retreats, and weekends with friends, it’s not just one unique experience, it’s hundreds. Enjoy unparalleled views of the St. Lawrence River on a boat cruise. Explore Boldt Castle , golf on exquisitely manicured greens, or satisfy your need for speed on a go-kart course. Add incredible dining and a luxury stay and you have the Thousand Islands getaway of a lifetime.

2. Tour the Antique Boat Museum

Browse the largest collection of antique and classic boats in North America at the Antique Boat Museum . An unforgettable experience for boat enthusiasts and aspiring sailors alike, the museum goes well beyond providing a history of boating. It offers the chance to row a St. Lawrence skiff in French Bay, an exclusive tour of George Boldt’s two-story houseboat, and a speedboat ride through the St. Lawrence River islands in a triple cockpit runabout!

3. Explore the Outdoors

When it comes to natural beauty and wildlife, the 1000 Islands region has the best of it. The naturally beautiful region offers plentiful opportunity for outdoor recreation. From wild, boat-access only islands with sandy beaches to shoreline campsites and densely wooded trails, you will find something unique every time you venture outdoors. And, with several  NYS Parks  in the region, you can explore freely on preserved public lands while still enjoying the added benefits of bathhouses, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Want to get up and close and personal with unique wildlife in the region? Walk the trail system at the NYS Zoo at Thompson Park and experience a variety of species native to the Empire State including mountain lion, lynx and elk!

4. Discover Sackets Harbor

The Village of Sackets Harbor is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing riverside escape. Relive history at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield, browse a wide selection of local boutiques, or reel in something big from the public or docks. Dine al fresca at a riverside restaurant, or embrace the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a local coffee shop. It’s the kind of place you picture when you think of cozy Bed & Breakfasts and ice creams by the river.

5. Live Like a Local

Enjoy a local’s vantage of the Thousand Islands when you visit Clayton, NY . Once a major shipbuilding port, this small riverside community now holds much of the history of the St. Lawrence River. Visitors are drawn by the stunning 1800s’ architecture, excellent fishing, and a very active community. Dine at delicious waterfront restaurants and dance to live music by the river on warm summer nights. And, though the year-round population is small, their knack for hospitality is unparalleled!

Things to Do in Stavropol, Russia - Stavropol Attractions

Things to do in stavropol, explore popular experiences, top attractions in stavropol.

Other Top Attractions around Stavropol

What travelers are saying

• Stavropol Botanical Garden
• Prozritelev and Prave Stavropol State Museum
• Victory Park
• Svetomuzikalny Fountain
• Historical Park Russia - My History
• The Central Park
• Zooexotarium
• Cold Springs

• United States

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: $19.49 $19.49 FREE delivery: Wednesday, May 1 on orders over $35.00 shipped by Amazon. Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com

Return this item for free.

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

Buy used: $13.11

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a service we offer sellers that lets them store their products in Amazon's fulfillment centers, and we directly pack, ship, and provide customer service for these products. Something we hope you'll especially enjoy: FBA items qualify for FREE Shipping and Amazon Prime.

If you're a seller, Fulfillment by Amazon can help you grow your business. Learn more about the program.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die (1,000 Places to See in the United States & Canada Before You) Paperback – Illustrated, November 29, 2016

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Part of series 1,000 Places to See in the United States & Canada Before You
• Print length 1200 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Workman Publishing Company
• Publication date November 29, 2016
• Dimensions 5.25 x 1.75 x 7.5 inches
• ISBN-10 0761189432
• ISBN-13 978-0761189435
• See all details

Frequently bought together

Similar items that may ship from close to you

Editorial Reviews

About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Workman Publishing Company; 3rd edition (November 29, 2016)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 1200 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0761189432
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0761189435
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.72 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.25 x 1.75 x 7.5 inches
• #10 in Canadian National Parks Travel Guides
• #25 in General Canada Travel Books
• #268 in Tourist Destinations & Museums Guides

Videos for this product

Click to play video

1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die (REVIEW)

Vickie Bunny

About the author

Patricia schultz.

Patricia Schultz is author of the #1 New York Times bestseller 1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die. A veteran travel journalist with 25 years of experience, she has written for guides such as Frommer's and Berlitz and periodicals including The Wall Street Journal and Everyday With Rachael Ray. She also executive-produced a Travel Channel television show based on 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Her home base is New York City. Learn more at 1000Places.com

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

8 Best Places To Travel In May 2024

Wondering where to travel in May? These top destinations in May are amazing during this month, from The Bahamas to the UK and beyond.

• Explore Munich in vibrant May weather, which is not crowded like during the Oktoberfest season. Enjoy beer culture in peaceful beer gardens.
• Brighton in the UK offers amazing weather in May, perfect for festivals and beach exploration without the summer crowds.
• Enjoy comfort in the Algarve's pleasant May weather and explore beautiful beaches without peak season crowds.

The transition between seasons is always exciting, and May, which is right between winter and summer, might just be the perfect time to explore many of the world's most beautiful places.

Temperatures are beginning to get better, and summer crowds haven't checked in yet, which means travelers can enjoy the scenery, the cultural attractions, and the art, without rubbing shoulders with every other tourist.

From some of the beautiful cities in Italy to add to your bucket list to a handful of the most beautiful destinations in the US , plenty of places guarantee unforgettable adventures in May. Here are eight of the best places to travel to in May 2024.

7 International Vacations That Take No Planning At All

8 munich, germany, springfest, beer culture, quiet streets, and comfortable weather.

Munich, which is officially the most walkable city in the world , is one of the most vibrant cities in Germany. The city of Munich offers lots to do and see and is among the world's best May destinations, thanks to its incredible beer culture, which tourists can enjoy exploring at this time of the year. Beer has always been an integral part of the city's lifestyle, and nothing could beat gathering in one of its incredible beer gardens .

May is also when the SpringFest happens, which may scare away some tourists because the city's world-famous Oktoberfest gets so crowded. However, SpringFest doesn't get that crowded, and vacationers will definitely have fun.

Generally, the weather in May is very comfortable in Munich and the streets are also quieter and calmer than in the summer months.

7 Brighton, UK

Amazing weather, great beaches, and fun festivals.

An incredible blend of historical architecture, modern amenities, sandy beaches, and breathtaking countryside makes Brighton an ideal destination not to miss on the bucket list. May is when the weather starts to become much more comfortable to explore beautiful attractions, such as the Palace Pier and the Lanes .

The Great Escape Music Festival , which allows the public to appreciate more than 500 up-and-coming artists from different parts of the world, happens in May. Moreover, tourists can also attend the Brighton Fringe , England's biggest art festival, which comes with over 500 fun events to watch in the city's theaters, pubs, and unique spots, running between May 3 and June 2.

6 The Bahamas

Beautiful weather, fewer crowds, amazing beaches.

There are plenty of experiences in this part of the world, from the best cruises in the Bahamas to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

Winter (between late November and April) is when the island nation is busiest. However, visitors can avoid crowds by choosing to visit in May, which is also when temperatures are most comfortable.

Cable Beach, Gold Rock Beach, Half Moon, and Pink Sands Beach are some of the most gorgeous beaches in the Bahamas to enjoy at this time of the year.

5 Algarve, Portugal

Comfortable weather and beautiful beaches that you can explore without crowds.

Whether spending a perfect day in Portugal's Algarve or visiting the city for the weekend, this European destination is beautiful and full of fun adventures for any type of vacationer.

May not only brings comfortable temperatures for enjoying the great outdoors but also comes with fewer crowds without rubbing shoulders like in the peak season (June through September).

One of the best things to do in the Algarve is to explore its beautiful beaches, and there is no better time than May. Spend time in Praia de Marinha , which is one of the most pristine beaches in Europe, and Praia de Camilo , another spectacular stretch of sand.

When exploring Praia de Marinha , spare some time for Benagil Cave, a famous sea cave located only 10 minutes away.

8 International Vacations For Less Than $1,000 A Week

4 catalonia, spain, splendid weather, fewer crowds, and amazing events.

From visiting the National Museum of Art to seeing the Sagrada di Familia's Construction, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona , which is great to explore in May, but there is more to Catalonia than its vibrant capital. Girona, which is known for being featured in the world-famous Game of Thrones , as well as Costa Brava and Tarragona are equally stunning.

Visiting Catalonia in May offers a lot of advantages, including splendid weather and fewer crowds. Furthermore, there are plenty of fun events to attend at that time of the year.

Try some of the tastiest vermouths at the Vermut & Soul Festival , which happens between May 3 and 5. The event features delicious food, drinks, music, and fun activities. One can also attend the Gargar Festival , which gives visitors a chance to marvel at the breathtaking street art in Penelles.

8 Trending Bucket List Destinations (& Cheaper Alternatives)

3 the grand canyon, usa, the temperatures are cool, crowds are thinner, and the travel cost is lower.

The Grand Canyon , one of the most beautiful national parks in the US , is famous for its unique geological features, rugged landscape, and incredible wildlife, which attract over 4 million travelers every year . Arizona's crown jewel is among the best places to travel in May 2024.

The summer heat can be unbearable, which is why exploring just before the summer season is a great way of making the most of one's trip to the canyon. The crowds are also thinnest at this time of the year, which gives tourists a chance to enjoy the trails and the scenic overlooks without many people hoping to enjoy the same adventures.

Surprisingly, the Grand Canyon is one of the US destinations to plan a vacation for less than $1,000 , and one can spend $1,174 for one week on average and as low as $509 on a budget .

The Grand Canyon is stunning, but Bryce Canyon , which is underrated, makes a perfect alternative national park getaway in May. The snow is almost all gone and the temperatures, in the 60s during the day, are perfect for enjoying the beautiful trails.

2 Paris, France

Mild weather, spring blossoms, fewer crowds.

The City of Love is famous for many things, including the Seine, which is among the most scenic rivers in Europe , the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre . Paris offers some of the most fun experiences in May, thanks to the mild weather, which makes it comfortable to explore the city's popular attractions as well as hidden gems.

The crowds are also thinner, and tourists will mostly experience quieter streets than in the peak summer season. This is also the time to see the cherry blossoms, and Jardin des Plantes in the city's 5th Arrondissement is the perfect spot for this adventure.

A trip to the French capital can't be complete without experiencing some of the best dinner cruises in Paris . Also, try some of the most unforgettable dining adventures in Paris .

10 Things To Buy In Paris If You're Visiting For The First Time

1 florence, italy, pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lots of things to do.

Florence, one of the best destinations in Europe for romantic city breaks , is among the best places to travel to in May, thanks to pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of things to do.

This is the time the blooming flowers transform Boboli Gardens into a scenic fairytale; it's a feast for the eyes. Another must-have experience is strolling under the wisteria archway in Bardini Gardens .

Top Things to Do in Stavropol, Russia

Places to visit in stavropol, explore popular experiences, top attractions in stavropol.

Other Top Attractions around Stavropol

What travellers are saying

• Stavropol Botanical Garden
• Prozritelev and Prave Stavropol State Museum
• Victory Park
• Svetomuzikalny Fountain
• Historical Park Russia - My History
• The Central Park
• Zooexotarium
• Cold Springs

The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

T O BORROW from the poet Mary Oliver, what will you do with your few wild and precious vacation days? Now’s the time for figuring that out—and after looking at the latest travel trends, notable openings and immersive itineraries, we’ve got ideas. On this list of the 10 places we’re most excited about visiting this year, you’ll find spots still refreshingly free of tourist crowds but also new reasons to love the blockbuster destinations you thought you already knew. Whatever your preferred style of travel—from island-hopping by canoe in the Land of 10,000 Lakes to following your stomach around one of South America’s most exciting culinary hubs—we’re confident something here will unlock an urge to pack up and go.

The pandemic might have brought Belmond’s swanky Eastern & Oriental Express train to a temporary halt, but the luxury travel company used the downtime to refresh the train’s wood-paneled cabins with wickerwork and Malaysian embroidery, and brought Taiwanese chef André Chiang on board to steer restaurants that will feature a fusion of Southeast Asian cuisines. The train’s new routes, which launch in February, spotlight Malaysia’s wildly diverse landscapes. Excursions include Vespa tours around historic George Town, beach breaks on jungle-cloaked Langkawi island and treks in the rainforests of Taman Negara to spot hornbills, tapirs, and—for the very lucky—Malayan tigers. Fresh hotel openings in Kuala Lumpur, a food-mad city that just launched its first Michelin guide, make for an excellent excuse to linger before heading to the train station. Homegrown brand Else Retreats opened its first boutique hotel in the 1930s Lee Rubber Building in Chinatown, and the Park Hyatt will soon take over the top floors of Merdeka 118, the second-tallest tower in the world.

Lamu, Kenya

Kenya’s wildlife-rich safari parks remain its main draw, but new developments in Lamu, a palm-tufted island just off the country’s northeastern coast, offer sunseekers a pleasingly culture-packed and hushed alternative to the big-ticket resorts of Mombasa and Zanzibar. Global highfliers weathered the pandemic in the whitewashed luxury villas of Lamu’s ritzy Shela village, but the new Jannah Lamu, a scattered collection of suites by Kenya-raised designer Anna Trzebinski, makes the cobblestoned Old Town, East Africa’s oldest Swahili settlement, newly enticing. The recently launched NaiSabah, a traditional Omani dhow boat with three staterooms and a breezy deck decorated with intricate woodwork, offers multi-night itineraries around the Lamu archipelago, promising days packed with beach picnics, diving expeditions and nature walks. Finally, the Lamu Museum, which reopened last October after a year-long refurbishment, delivers a dose of cultural and historical context to this fascinating one-time trading hub—and a welcome respite from all that sunshine.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

The “Black Summer” bush fires of 2019-2020 destroyed half of its wildlife habitat, but in the years since, Kangaroo Island—9 miles off Australia’s southern coast—has bounced back. Nicknamed Australia’s Galápagos, this 1,700-square-mile speck of land is once again one of the best places to encounter wild koalas and kangaroos, along with penguins, whales, platypuses and wallabies. Two new lodges come staffed with seasoned guides who take the guesswork out of finding these creatures. Sea Dragon, a boutique hotel planted atop 250 acres of sea-facing land, reopened in 2023 with stargazing and bird-watching walks as well as new safari-style expeditions. Southern Ocean Lodge, which burned down entirely, reopened in December in a lair-like seacliff aerie, offering sunrise run-ins with wild sea lions and sunset sessions fueled by local wines and forest truffles. New trails on the island include a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the aptly named seaside granite formations of Remarkable Rocks and the first sections of the planned 23-mile-long Dudley Peninsula Trail, beginning at the historic Cape Willoughby Lighthouse.

Kyushu, Japan

Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, has long drawn in-the-know visitors from mainland Asia. But lately a supersize dose of new tourism projects has made its night markets, temples and onsen (hot springs) more widely accessible. Last year saw the opening of Hoshino Resorts’ budget-friendly OMO5 in the buzzy city of Kumamoto, as well as the glass-wrapped Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka. This year, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki opens in a former orphanage for atomic bomb survivors, and indie upstart Takasaki Stay allows for more-comfortable visits to the nearby, laid-back Goto Islands. Kyushu’s Tourism Organization also launches four new itineraries focusing on local cuisine, ceramics and nature. Densha otaku (train geeks) will celebrate a new 5-hour sightseeing route launching in spring and serving seasonal bento boxes alongside views of the hissing volcanoes and rocky coastlines between Fukuoka’s Hakata Station and Beppu, Japan’s seaside onsen hub.

Kansas City, Mo.

Given the zeitgeist, it would be understandable to think Kansas City made this list because of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. But the city was set to deliver the goods long before it became a fixture of gossip columns. CPKC Stadium, one of the few soccer stadiums in the world built for a top-division women’s team, the Kansas City Current, will open in March, doubling as a venue for concerts, festivals and farmers markets. In other athletic firsts, KC will host pickleball’s inaugural PickleCon in August, with 100 courts devoted to the unstoppable sporting fad. Rock Island Bridge, a waterfront highline, will soon connect Kansas and Missouri with a string of bars and cafes. The outdoors-oriented will also be able to canoe or kayak in the Kansas River below. Pennway Point, a downtown entertainment district opening this spring, will feature a beer garden, a BBQ joint, live music and a Ferris wheel. Those looking for the city’s famous smoked meat and jazz can rest easy that even under the celebrity spotlight, the soul of the city remains intact.

Prague, Czech Republic

“Prague never lets you go. This dear little mother has sharp claws,” wrote Franz Kafka. And, judging by the tourist numbers, those claws have reach. This year ushers in a new reason, however, to visit the much-loved city. Kafka’s hometown is marking the 100th anniversary of the Czech-born, German-speaking Jewish writer’s death with events across the city. Beginning in March, Prague City Tourism will offer literary walking tours, and a vintage tram will carry bibliophiles to sites where the author lived and worked. In May, the Museum of Czech Literature unveils a new exhibition featuring multimedia installations, letters written by the author and early editions of his books. All summer, the Jewish Museum will host Kafka-focused film screenings in Josefov, Prague’s historic Jewish quarter, while a mobile app called “Searching for Odradek,” a reference to a Kafka protagonist, will help re-create the Prague Kafka knew. Finally, the Goethe-Institut, a German cultural center, will be putting on a string of readings and theatrical productions. And when the Kafkaesque existential dread gets to be too much, the city’s legendary pubs await.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula may be dismissed by some as a haven for spring breakers, but this year brings proof that there’s much more to the state of Quintana Roo than all-inclusive resorts. SHA Wellness Clinic, known for specialized longevity treatments, opens a branch this month in the town of Costa Mujeres. Architect Fabiano Continanza designed the slopes and spirals of the retreat’s building as a nod to the shape of the DNA molecule. An hour south, the Riviera Maya Edition hotel at Kanai just opened in a 620-acre nature reserve, its neutral-hued décor suggesting a sense of urban cool teleported deep into the jungle. Last month’s ribbon-cutting of a new airport in Tulum adds more fuel to that town’s decadeslong boom, but its quiet side still thrives at new boutique sites like XELA Tulum, a once-private villa renovated into a minimalist hotel. Near the border with Belize sits Bacalar, a diminutive town hugging a 26-mile-long translucent lagoon. Big chains like Banyan Tree have announced plans to move in soon, so get there before they do and check in to the new Boca de Agua hotel, crafted by Frida Escobedo, who was recently tapped to design a forthcoming contemporary art wing at New York’s MoMA.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

In Buenos Aires, an often-lauded culinary scene is shining brighter than ever. The neighborhood of Belgrano presents a handy introduction to two core elements of daily life in Argentina: fútbol and meat. After a match at El Monumental, South America’s largest stadium, dine at Corte Comedor’s modern parrilla (or grill) with hard-to-find cuts of beef, succulent veggies and charcuterie from sister spot Corte Charcuteria. In the art-gallery-packed neighborhood of Villa Crespo, head to Chuí, which offers a surprisingly varied plant-based menu, or Julia, a 22-seater specializing in colorful French-leaning fare. In Chacarita, try the newcomer Ácido, which takes inspiration for its menu—plus its delightfully kitschy china—from grandmothers everywhere. At MN Santa Inés, in the low-key barrio of La Paternal, chef Jazmín Marturet plays with recipes developed during trips to Asia and Latin America. And for travelers who follow the stars, the grand finale awaits at the art-on-a-plate adventure on offer at Aramburu, granted two Michelin stars in November. Buen provecho.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.

You can still drink straight from many of the 1,200 lakes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, the million-acre liquid maze just shy of the Canadian border. Often navigated via multiday canoe camping trips, this boreal wilderness grants its 250,000 annual visitors time on solid ground, too, in rustic lodges and on extensive island hiking trails. With mining interests eyeing the region, every tourist visit this year plays a pivotal role in the area’s conservation. Start yours with a drive along the Gunflint Trail, a 57-mile national scenic byway leading to the Boundary Waters. At midpoint, grab a cardamom roll from Loon’s Nest Coffee, opened in the fall of 2023, before joining a guided paddle with one of the many locally run outfitters. Come nightfall, check in to the freshly updated Gunflint Lodge, or upgrade your campsite with a mobile sauna delivered to your patch of woods by spa operators Sisu + Löyly. In the morning, wake up with the loons—and dunk your cup straight into the deep-blue water to hydrate.

Balearic Islands, Spain

Spain’s Balearic Islands are ditching their dance-all-night rep for something more Zen. Think fewer foam parties, more meditation circles. Ibiza, once synonymous with shot-slinging nights, now appeals to mindfulness mavens, a metamorphosis on full display at the Mirador de Dalt Vila, a Relais & Châteaux hotel aimed squarely at relaxers, not ravers. In Mallorca, Richard Branson’s new Son Bunyola hotel ditches the island’s DJ parties in favor of scenic cycling and languorous afternoons in the 92-foot-long pool. Rafael Nadal’s ZEL hotel beckons with a restaurant serving Mediterranean and Basque fare and a pro-approved gym. On the island of Minorca, protected status keeps a short leash on development, so newcomers focus on renewing existing properties rather than bulldozing and building. Take the island’s latest outpost, Son Vell, an 18th-century Venetian-style manor turned into a 34-room hotel featuring yoga classes, al fresco movie screenings and, best of all, not a thumping bass line within earshot.

Contributors: Kiera Carter (Kansas City), David Farley (Prague), Adam H. Graham (Kangaroo Island and Kyushu), Jacqueline Kehoe (Boundary Waters), Jordi-Lippe-McGraw (Balearic Islands), Suchi Rudra (Buenos Aires), Chris Schalkx (Malaysia and Lamu) and Michaela Trimble (Quintana Roo)

Stavropol - 10 attractions to visit!

Travel and respect, explore and smile, be curious and kind. have wild trips, top 10 attractions to visit in stavropol and around.

General info 1. Stavropol State History Museum 2. Stavropol TV Tower 3. Stavropol Drama Theater 4. Cosmonauts Alley 5. Stavropol Central Park 6. Prozritelev and Prave Museum-Estate 7. Stavropol Art Gallery 8. Victory Park 9. Museum of the Stavropol Territory Natural Heritage 10. Stavropol Zoo

A trip to Stavropol

Stavropol State History Museum - Top attractions in Stavropol -1

The Stavropol State History Museum is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia. This museum presents a comprehensive collection of artifacts and displays that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. Located in the heart of the city, the Stavropol State History Museum offers visitors a captivating journey through time. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the 19th century, adding to the overall charm of the experience. Inside, visitors can explore various exhibitions that cover different aspects of Stavropol's history. From archaeological finds to art exhibits, there is something for everyone. The museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 100,000 items, including ancient artifacts, documents, weapons, and artwork. One of the highlights of the Stavropol State History Museum is its collection of items related to the Cossacks, a prominent group in the history of the region. Visitors can learn about the traditions, lifestyle, and significance of the Cossacks through interactive displays and informative exhibits. The museum also frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new to discover. These exhibitions often focus on various historical periods or themes, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the region's past. In addition to its impressive collections, the Stavropol State History Museum also offers educational programs and workshops for both adults and children. These programs aim to engage visitors with the history and cultural heritage of Stavropol through interactive experiences. Overall, the Stavropol State History Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Stavropol, Russia. With its vast collection, informative exhibitions, and educational programs, it offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday !

Stavropol TV Tower - Top attractions in Stavropol -2

The Stavropol TV Tower, located in Stavropol, Russia, is one of the top attractions in the city. Standing at a height of 211 meters, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Constructed in 1974, the tower not only serves as a broadcasting facility but also doubles as an observation deck for tourists. Visitors can take an elevator ride to the top, where they can enjoy unparalleled views of the city and its surroundings. From the observation deck, one can marvel at the city's architectural landmarks, such as the Stavropol State Drama Theater, the Cathedral of the Twelve Apostles, and the Palace of Culture and Sports. On a clear day, the distant Caucasus Mountains can also be seen, adding to the beauty of the panorama. The Stavropol TV Tower is not only a great place for sightseeing but also offers various amenities for travelers. It houses a restaurant and a cafe, where visitors can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views. There are also gift shops where tourists can purchase souvenirs to commemorate their visit. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to capture memorable moments, the Stavropol TV Tower is a must-visit attraction in Stavropol, Russia. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of the city from this iconic landmark.

Stavropol Drama Theater - Top attractions in Stavropol -3

The Stavropol Drama Theater is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia. Located in the heart of the city, this theater is renowned for its captivating performances and remarkable architecture. Established in 1920, the Stavropol Drama Theater has a rich history and is considered a cultural gem in the region. The theater showcases a diverse range of productions, including classical plays, contemporary dramas, musical performances, and even experimental shows. Visitors to the theater can expect exceptional acting, powerful storylines, and stunning stage design. The talented ensemble of actors take pride in delivering compelling performances that captivate and engage audiences of all ages. The theater building itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate detailing and a grand facade. Inside, the auditorium is designed to offer excellent views of the stage from all angles, ensuring an immersive theater experience. To enhance the overall experience, the Stavropol Drama Theater also provides English subtitles for certain performances, allowing international visitors to fully appreciate the artistry on display. Whether you are a theater enthusiast or simply looking for an entertaining evening in Stavropol, the Stavropol Drama Theater is a must-visit attraction. Immerse yourself in the world of performing arts and witness the exceptional talent that this theater has to offer. Don't miss the opportunity to be enthralled by the innovative productions and cultural experiences at this popular Stavropol landmark.

Cosmonauts Alley - Top attractions in Stavropol -4

Cosmonauts Alley is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia, and a must-visit for space enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the city, this unique attraction celebrates Russia's achievements in space exploration. At Cosmonauts Alley, visitors can explore a pathway lined with larger-than-life statues and monuments dedicated to the cosmonauts who have contributed to Russia's space program. The statues depict famous astronauts and their spacecraft, including Yuri Gagarin, the first human to travel to space. The alley also features informative plaques providing interesting insights into the lives of these cosmonauts and their remarkable space missions. It is a great place to learn about the history of space exploration in Russia and the scientific advancements made by its cosmonauts. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the alley, admiring the artistic statues and taking memorable photographs. The atmosphere is serene and peaceful, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Cosmonauts Alley is easily accessible and located close to other popular attractions within Stavropol, making it convenient for tourists to plan their visit. Nearby, visitors can explore other notable landmarks such as the Stavropol Regional Museum, Victory Park, and the Cathedral of the Assumption. A visit to Cosmonauts Alley in Stavropol is a unique opportunity to pay homage to the pioneers of space exploration and gain a deeper appreciation for the fascinating world beyond our planet. Make sure to include this attraction in your itinerary when visiting Stavropol! To rent a car at the best price for Stavropol, check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Stavropol Central Park - Top attractions in Stavropol -5

Stavropol Central Park, located in the heart of Stavropol in Russia, is one of the top attractions for tourists visiting the city. Spanning over 120 hectares, this picturesque park offers a range of entertainment and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. Nature lovers will be captivated by the beautiful landscapes, lush greenery, and colorful flowerbeds found throughout the park. Take a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained walking paths and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding environment. For more adventurous spirits, there are designated areas for cycling, rollerblading, and jogging, providing a perfect opportunity to stay active while enjoying the park. Families with children will find plenty of fun-filled attractions within Stavropol Central Park. The park boasts a large playground with various swings, slides, and climbing frames, ensuring that kids can burn off energy and have a blast. Additionally, there is a small amusement park with thrilling rides and games that will delight the little ones. To satisfy your hunger, the park offers a range of dining options, including cafes and restaurants where you can grab a quick snack or indulge in a leisurely meal. Venues also provide outdoor seating, allowing visitors to relish their food while basking in the park's serene atmosphere. Moreover, Stavropol Central Park is home to cultural and entertainment events throughout the year, such as concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. These events add vibrancy and excitement to the already bustling atmosphere, ensuring there is always something new to discover while visiting. In summary, Stavropol Central Park is a must-visit destination when exploring Stavropol in Russia. Its picturesque landscapes, recreational facilities, and family-friendly attractions make it a perfect spot for a day of relaxation and fun. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of this top tourist attraction in Stavropol.

Prozritelev and Prave Museum-Estate - Top attractions in Stavropol -6

Stavropol art gallery - top attractions in stavropol -7.

Stavropol Art Gallery is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia, catering to art lovers and enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the city, the gallery showcases a wide range of art collections, spanning from classical to contemporary works. The gallery is renowned for its extensive collection of Russian art, including paintings, sculptures, and other forms of artistic expression. Visitors can explore masterpieces by famous Russian artists, as well as lesser-known but equally talented local artists. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, bringing in new and diverse artworks regularly. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse range of styles and techniques on display, providing a comprehensive overview of Russian art through various time periods. The gallery's knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide insight and information about the artworks, making for an enriching and educational experience. The architecture of the gallery itself is also worth noting, with its elegant design and spacious exhibition halls. The tranquil atmosphere creates a conducive environment for visitors to immerse themselves in the art on display, enabling a deeper connection with the artworks. Whether you are a seasoned art connoisseur or simply appreciate the beauty of creative expression, a visit to Stavropol Art Gallery is a must. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Russian art and discover the rich cultural heritage of Stavropol.

Victory Park - Top attractions in Stavropol -8

Victory Park, located in the vibrant city of Stavropol, Russia, is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. The park holds great historical significance as it was established to commemorate the victory of the Soviet Union in World War II. Here are some key highlights and attractions of Victory Park: 1. Monument to the Victorious People: The park proudly displays a colossal monument dedicated to the brave soldiers and citizens who fought and sacrificed their lives during the war. The monument symbolizes the strength, resilience, and collective spirit of the Soviet people. 2. Eternal Flame Memorial: The Eternal Flame Memorial, another poignant feature of Victory Park, serves as a tribute to the fallen heroes. It is constantly lit to honor the memory of those who gave their lives for the country's freedom. 3. Arch of Triumph: Standing tall at the entrance of Victory Park, the Arch of Triumph is an impressive architectural masterpiece. It is designed in a classical style, reminiscent of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Visitors can capture stunning photographs while passing through this grand symbol of victory. 4. Military Equipment Exhibition: The park houses a fascinating exhibition of military equipment used during the war. Tanks, artillery, and aircraft are on display, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the machinery that played a pivotal role in the Soviet Union's victory. 5. Landscaped Gardens and Walkways: Victory Park also offers lush green gardens and beautifully landscaped walkways. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, relax in the peaceful atmosphere, and admire the well-maintained floral displays. The park is an ideal place to unwind and reconnect with nature. 6. Memorial Alley: A solemn and serene memorial alley within the park pays tribute to the fallen soldiers. It features rows of memorial plaques with the names of the local heroes who bravely fought during the war. Visitors can respectfully observe and pay their respects to these courageous individuals. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a place of tranquility, Victory Park in Stavropol offers an enriching experience for all. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and honors the valor of the Soviet people. Visit this top attraction to immerse yourself in the city's history and pay tribute to the heroes who shaped the nation.

Museum of the Stavropol Territory Natural Heritage - Top attractions in Stavropol -9

The Museum of the Stavropol Territory Natural Heritage is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia. With its rich collection and informative exhibits, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural history of the region. Located in the heart of Stavropol, the museum showcases an extensive array of specimens and artifacts that highlight the diverse flora, fauna, and geological formations found in the Stavropol Territory. The exhibits are meticulously curated, providing visitors with an immersive experience and a deeper understanding of the region's natural heritage. One of the main highlights of the museum is the collection of taxidermy animals, which includes native species like bears, wolves, and various bird species. The realistic displays allow visitors to get up close to these magnificent creatures and learn about their habitats and behaviors. In addition to the taxidermy animals, the museum also features an impressive collection of fossils and minerals found in the Stavropol Territory. Visitors can explore the ancient history of the region, discovering fossils of long-extinct creatures and marveling at the beautifully preserved minerals. Visiting the Museum of the Stavropol Territory Natural Heritage is an excellent way to learn about the unique natural features and ecosystems of the region. The museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike, catering to individuals of all ages and interests. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the natural world, this museum is a must-visit attraction in Stavropol.

Stavropol Zoo - Top attractions in Stavropol -10

Stavropol Zoo is one of the top attractions in Stavropol, Russia. Located in the southern part of the country, this zoo offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages. Covering an extensive area, the Stavropol Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world. Visitors have the opportunity to see over 600 species, including various mammals, birds, reptiles, and even rare and endangered animals. Some of the zoo's highlights include lions, tigers, giraffes, monkeys, and a fascinating collection of exotic birds. Beyond the impressive animal exhibits, the Stavropol Zoo features beautifully landscaped gardens, walkways, and picnic areas, making it an ideal place to relax and soak in the natural surroundings. The well-maintained facilities provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors. Moreover, the zoo offers educational programs and interactive experiences such as feeding sessions and animal shows, allowing visitors to learn more about the wildlife and conservation efforts. There is also a children's play area, where kids can enjoy various activities and games. Whether you are visiting Stavropol with your family, friends, or even on a solo trip, the Stavropol Zoo is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of animals, and create lifelong memories in this captivating attraction. Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you! We are always happy to improve and we hope you have appreciated our list of the top 10 places to visit at Stavropol :)

Here you can find a list of destinations in Russia , each with a link to the page with detailed description about their top 10 tourist attractions: Moscow: top 10 attractions Saint Petersburg: top 10 attractions Sochi: top 10 attractions Kazan: top 10 attractions Ekaterinburg: top 10 attractions Vladivostok: top 10 attractions Kaliningrad: top 10 attractions Murmansk: top 10 attractions Krasnodar: top 10 attractions Irkutsk: top 10 attractions Rostov sul Don: top 10 attractions Nizhny Novgorod: top 10 attractions Veliky Novgorod: top 10 attractions Samara: top 10 attractions Krasnoyarsk: top 10 attractions Voronezh: top 10 attractions Ufa: top 10 attractions Sochi: top 10 attractions Omsk: top 10 attractions Perm: top 10 attractions Saratov: top 10 attractions Tver: top 10 attractions Vladikavkaz: top 10 attractions Stavropol: top 10 attractions Tula: top 10 attractions Chelyabinsk: top 10 attractions Volgograd: top 10 attractions Petrozavodsk: top 10 attractions Yaroslavl: top 10 attractions Kemerovo: top 10 attractions Tomsk: top 10 attractions Novosibirsk: top 10 attractions Kirov: top 10 attractions Barnaul: top 10 attractions Ulan-Ude: top 10 attractions Nizhny Tagil: top 10 attractions Magnitogorsk: top 10 attractions Kostroma: top 10 attractions Ryazan: top 10 attractions Syktyvkar: top 10 attractions Voronezh: top 10 attractions Yaroslavl: top 10 attractions Astrakhan: top 10 attractions Kaluga: top 10 attractions Orenburg: top 10 attractions

Contact [email protected] for any queries on a travel itinerary, advices about a trip report or to organize sailing holidays in Italy. Site Map - Privacy