top 10 tourist destinations countries in the world

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. 

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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 World's Most Visited Countries

• France is the world's most visited country with 89 million tourists.
• In 2019, 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were recorded around the world.
• Tourism accounts for 12% of Spain's economy.

The World Tourism Organization recently reported that international tourism is continuing to grow and is "outpacing the global economy". In 2019, 1.5 billion tourist arrivals were recorded around the world, a 4% increase on 2018's figures. The Middle East is currently the fastest-growing region for international tourism, but European countries such as France, Spain and Italy remain the most visited. Find out the top 10 world's most visited countries below:

10. United Kingdom: 36 million tourists

In 2019, the United Kingdom welcomed 36 million tourists to its towns and cities. London is the country's most visited city, with approximately 12 million visitors each year. Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester are also popular city destinations. Tourism produces around USD 131 billion for the country and provides over two million jobs. American residents are the most frequent visitors, followed by those who live in France. Some of the UK's most popular tourist attractions include Big Ben, the Tower of London and Stonehenge .

9. Thailand: 38 million tourists

Thailand has been a popular tourist destination for decades thanks to its white-sand beaches, delicious cuisine and hot weather. Bangkok , Thailand's capital, frequently holds the top spot as the world's most visited city. It attracts around 22 million visitors each year. The 1,430 islands of Thailand draw in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, some of the islands are heralded as being some of the best in the world. Thailand's most popular spots include Railay Beach, Koh Phi Phi and The Grand Palace of Bangkok. 

8. Germany: 39 million tourists

Germany is famous for its beer, sausages and picturesque castles. The country welcomes around 39 million tourists each year, with approximately 13 million visiting Berlin, Germany's capital city. Tourism in Germany generates two million jobs for its residents and contributes over 4% towards the country's GDP. 

7. Mexico: 41 million tourists

Mexico , located in the southern part of North America, is rapidly becoming a favorite tourist destination. People from all over the world are visiting the vibrant country to enjoy the pristine beaches, explore the deep history and culture, and discover UNESCO World Heritage sites. Over the last decade, tourism has significantly contributed to Mexico's employment and economy. In 2019, the government announced a six-year strategy to boost tourism and improve conditions for workers within the industry. Some of the country's most visited destinations are Cancun, Mexico City, and Playa del Carmen. 

6. Turkey: 46 million tourists

Located on two continents, Turkey offers a unique blend of East and West. Edged by the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, Turkey has an abundance of stunning coastlines and charming resorts. Tourists also enjoy visiting Turkey's capital, Ankara as well as the resort-city of Antalya. It was reported that over 15 million vacationers visited Antalya in 2019. Antalya is popular thanks to its proximity to beaches and remnants of Turkey's rich history. Famous tourist attractions in Turkey include the Blue Mosque , Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sofia Museum. 

5. Italy: 62 million tourists

Italy has culture, history and cuisine in abundance, making it a very popular tourist destination for people all around the globe. Italy has a varied landscape that suits all traveler types; there are snow-covered peaks, sprawling vineyards and glittering coastlines. Not to mention the beautiful cities like Rome, Naples and Florence. There are 50 UNESCO World Heritage sites dotted throughout the country showcasing the best of Italian history. Some of Italy's best-loved attractions include the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum and the Pantheon.

4. China: 63 million tourists

China , the third-largest country in the world, is in the world's top five tourist destinations because of its natural landscapes, expansive history and delicious cuisine. Tourism in China is a growing industry that is becoming a significant part of the country's economy. In 2018, tourism contributed 11.04% of China's overall GDP, which increased a further 1.2% in 2019. Famous attractions include The Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square . 

3. United States: 80 million tourists

Tourism is one of the United States ' biggest contributors to the country's GDP. The industry supports over 7 million jobs, and in 2017, tourism generated USD 1.6 trillion in economic output. Cities such as New York, Las Vegas and Los Angeles experience high numbers of tourists all year round, with New York being the most visited city in the country. Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Japan and China are the top five countries that make up the majority of US tourism. 

2. Spain: 83 million tourists

Spain is the second most visited country in both the world and Europe. Tourism accounts for 12% of Spain's economy and provides 13% of jobs. The majority of tourists who visit the country come from Europe; it is the warm weather, pristine beaches and bustling cities that attract millions of vacationers. Some of Spain's most famous landmarks include La Sagrada Familia , Park Güell and Alhambra. 

1. France - 89 million tourists

Attracting over 89 million tourists each year, France is the world's most visited country. Paris, France's capital city, draws in around 17 million tourists a year; 7 million of those visit the Eiffel Tower. Tourism in France represents 9.7% of the overall GDP and provides 2.9 million jobs. The majority of France's visitors come from other European countries, with over 12 million coming from the United Kingdom. Disneyland, the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral are some of France's most visited attractions. 

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Best of the Best Destinations

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

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

Dominican Republic

Playa del Carmen

New York City

The World's Most Popular Tourist Destinations

By Ryan Craggs

France: 82.6 million visitors

What to see in France

France, the most popular tourist destination in the world, doesn't really need explication; the country's wonders are many, with sites like the Eiffel Tower and Sacre Coeur in Paris, but beautiful vineyards and beaches outside the capital span from the English Channel to the Mediterranean. (Pictured here? A beach in Barneville-Carteret.) Whether you venture to the Riviera, or stick closer to the capital , the country's famed wine, cuisine, and culture might make you wonder why you'd ever go home.

United States: 75.61 million

What to see in the U.S.

New York and Los Angeles get the most attention around the world, but there's plenty more to see . Inland, the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park (pictured) and Yellowstone National Park offer unprecedented immersion in nature, while a drive out to Key West or along the Pacific Coast Highway will remind you that this country is massive, varied, and teeming with more to see and do than you could fit into two lifetimes.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Spain: 75.56 million

What to see in Spain

Spain's most beautiful beach isn't on the the shores of Barcelona, a party-centric island like Ibiza, or even the revered Costa del Sol. You'll find it up north on San Sebastián , along with some of the country's finest cuisine. And if you're looking for culture, Madrid's world-class museums, like the Prado and Reina Sofia, and vibrant nightlife will keep you occupied for days on end.

China: 59.3 million

What to see in China

The most populous country in the world is both enormous and full of people—but it's also a cultural haven, marked by the Forbidden City and Great Wall in the capital, Beijing; the bustling East-meets-West of Shanghai; and the over-the-top opulence and coastal beauty of Hong Kong . That doesn't even begin to touch the other developing mega-cities, like Guangzhou, or the history you'll find even in the most remote parts of the nation.

Italy: 52.4 million

What to see in Italy

The epicenter of the Western World remains as popular and notable as ever, but for a variety of reasons. Forever eternal, Rome offers living history in every nook, trattoria, and ancient ruin , while the chic rival Milan serves as the modern capital of fashion and wealth. That'd be enough for most countries—but the romantic charm of Venice's canals, Florence 's David , and the sheer depth of beauty found throughout Tuscany and Liguria keep visitors coming back for more.

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Ultimate travel list: Lonely Planet's top 10 sights in the world

Aug 17, 2015 • 6 min read

Is the list of places you’d like to visit becoming a little unwieldy? Ours was – which is why we’ve whittled them down from thousands to a definitive rundown of the planet’s most unforgettable sights.

Not only that, we’ve made the bold move of ranking them in order of brilliance, based on a highly complex formula of expert recommendations, community feedback and oracle-like intuition.

The result? You can peruse the full 500 at length in Lonely Planet's ultimate travel list , but to whet your appetite, here’s the top 10.

1. Temples of Angkor, Cambodia

When all the votes were counted, the no.1 sight in the Ultimate Travel list was the undisputed champion by some margin: it won 36 percent more votes than the very closely fought second and third places.

As the world’s greatest temple to the Hindu god Vishnu, Angkor Wat might seem a bit off the grid in Buddhist Cambodia , but this magnificent monument is the greatest treasure of a Hindu kingdom that once stretched as far as Burma, Laos and southern China. Even in a region as richly gifted with temples as Southeast Asia, Angkor is something out of the ordinary – a literal representation of heaven on earth, hewn from thousands of sandstone blocks and carved floor-to-ceiling with legends from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas.

Even better, Angkor Wat is the crowning glory in a complex of more than 1000 temples, shrines and tombs that forms a virtual city of spires in the jungles of northern Cambodia.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Second place in our list goes to a natural wonder stretching for more than 3000km up the northeastern coast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef hardly needs an introduction. But here are some facts: this is the world’s largest network of coral reefs, with 400 types of coral and 1500 species of fish. Some 30 kinds of whales, dolphins and porpoises have been spotted here, along with six species of sea turtles and 17 kinds of sea snake.

The reef is under threat from rising sea temperatures, but for now it’s a psychedelic underwater playground for divers and snorkellers.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

Just a handful of votes separates second and third spot. But they could not be more different... Gawping down at Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate after a lung-busting four-day hike along the Inca Trail is a rite of passage for travellers to Peru . But it’s not the outrageously dramatic Andean setting, nor the way that the city clings to impossibly precipitous slopes that makes Machu Picchu so mind-blowing – it’s the fact that no-one really knows what happened here.

You can wander wide-eyed around the mysterious mountain metropolis in a liberating knowledge vacuum, forming your own ideas.

4. Great Wall of China

Every country has its must-see monument – in China , that monument covers most of the country. The Great Wall of China is not just one wall but an awe-inspiring maze of walls and fortifications stretching for an astonishing 8850km across the rugged landscape of the north of the country.

It’s a myth that you can see the Great Wall from space, but when confronted by the sight of this endless structure stretching off into infinite distance, it seems almost impossible that this wouldn’t be true. A few rugged souls trek the entire length of the wall, but even if you pick just one section, you’ll be humbled by its aura of indestructibility.

5. Taj Mahal, India

How do you achieve architectural perfection? Start with acres of shimmering white marble. Add a few thousand semiprecious stones, carved and inlaid in intricate Islamic patterns. Take a sublime setting by a sacred river, in jewel-like formal gardens. Apply a little perfect symmetry, and tie up the whole package in an outlandish story of timeless love. And there you have the Taj Mahal .

Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj has been attracting travellers to India for centuries. Ironically, the emperor spent his final years incarcerated in Agra Fort by his ambitious son, with just a view of the Taj to remind him of everything he had lost.

6. Grand Canyon National Park, USA

Stand before this vast rent in the earth’s crust and you’re looking down at two-billion years of geologic time. That fact does something funny to the human brain. Lit by flaming sunsets, filled with billowing seas of fog and iced with crystal dustings of snow, the mile-deep, 277-mile-long Grand Canyon is nature’s cathedral. You’ll feel tiny yet soaring, awed yet peaceful, capable of poetry yet totally tongue-tied.

7. Colosseum, Italy

There’s nothing like a feisty Roman monument to rev up your inner historian, and the Colosseum performs brilliantly. A monument to raw, merciless power, this massive 50,000-seat amphitheatre is the most thrilling of Rome ’s ancient sights. Gladiators met here in mortal combat, and condemned prisoners fought off wild beasts in front of baying, bloodthirsty crowds. Two millennia on, the hold it exerts over anyone who steps foot inside is as powerful as ever.

8. Iguazú Falls, Brazil-Argentina

The Guaraní name for the point where Río Iguazú plummets over a plateau just before its confluence with the Río Paraná is a great understatement: Big Water. Big? These falls are mind-bogglingly mighty: tourist boats that ply the foaming plunge pools below look like matchsticks. Boardwalks also get you thrillingly close. The whole thing is glimpsed through a stretch of subtropical rainforest forming a 55,000-hectare national park replete with wildlife, including jaguars.

9. Alhambra, Spain

The palace complex of Granada’s Alhambra is one of the most extraordinary structures on the planet, perhaps the most refined example of Islamic art anywhere in the world, and the most enduring symbol of 800 years of enlightened Moorish rule in medieval Spain. From afar, Alhambra’s fortress towers dominate the Granada skyline, the sheer red walls rising from woods of cypress and elm, set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada’s snowcapped peaks. Inside is a network of lavishly decorated palaces and irrigated gardens, which are the source of scores of legends and fantasies.

10. Aya Sofya, Turkey

Church, mosque and museum in one, Aya Sofya is a structure unlike any other on the planet – defying easy categorisation just as it defied the rules of architecture when it was built almost 1500 years ago. The man behind it all was Byzantine Emperor Justinian I: he demanded a cathedral to eclipse the wonders of Byzantium’s sister city, Rome, and moreover, one that would mimic the majesty of the heavens on earth. He got his wish, and Aya Sofya still dominates the skyline in modern-day Istanbul .

The countdown doesn’t stop there – check out the top 11-20 in our ultimate travel list for more unmissable sights and perhaps a few surprises. View the complete list of the 500 best sights on the planet in our new title Ultimate Travel, which is available now in  Lonely Planet's shop and where books are sold.

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Protect Your Trip »

The world's 51 best tourist attractions.

Organize your travel calendar to include these must-see places around the world.

(Getty Images) |

Fully experience and appreciate the most memorable spots on your next adventure.

Great Pyramid of Giza: Giza, Egypt

Eiffel Tower: Paris, France

Hollywood Sign: Los Angeles, California

Berlin Wall Memorial's East Side Gallery: Berlin, Germany

La Sagrada Familia: Barcelona, Spain

Grand Palace: Bangkok, Thailand

Mount Fuji: Shizuoka, Japan

Tower of London: London, England

The Strip: Las Vegas, Nevada

Neuschwanstein Castle: Bavaria, Germany

Ubud: Bali, Indonesia

Burj Khalifa: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Statue of Liberty: New York, New York

Oriental Pearl TV Tower: Shanghai, China

Colosseum: Rome, Italy

The Matterhorn: Zermatt, Switzerland

Blue Mosque: Istanbul, Turkey

Victoria Harbour: Hong Kong

Library of Celsus: Ephesus, Turkey

Times Square: New York, New York

Buckingham Palace: London, England

Leaning Tower of Pisa: Pisa, Italy

Forbidden City: Beijing, China

(Courtesy of The Trustees of the British Museum) |

Rosetta Stone, British Museum: London, England

(Courtesy of Disneyland) |

Disneyland Resort: Anaheim, California

Tulum: Mexico

Gyeongbokgung Palace: Seoul, South Korea

(Courtesy of Matt Stroshane & Disneyland) |

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida

Iguazu Falls: Brazil and Argentina

Vatican City

Sydney Opera House: Sydney, Australia

Mount Everest: Nepal and Tibet

Petra: Jordan

Mona Lisa: Paris, France

Terra Cotta Warriors: Xi'an, China

Borobudur Temple: Java, Indonesia

Mount Kilimanjaro: Tanzania

Jemaa el-Fna: Marrakech, Morocco

Christ the Redeemer: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Great Wall of China: China

Taj Mahal: Agra, India

Meiji Shrine: Tokyo, Japan

Table Mountain: Cape Town, South Africa

Niagara Falls: New York and Ontario, Canada

Zócalo: Mexico City, Mexico

Angkor Archaeological Park: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Galápagos Islands: Ecuador

Tokyo Disney Resort: Urayasu, Japan

Acropolis: Athens, Greece

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco, California

Navy Pier: Chicago, Illinois

You might also be interested in:

• The World's Best Places to Visit
• The Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World
• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State
• Vacation Ideas for Every Type of Traveler

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More From Forbes

The 25 top world destinations to visit in 2022 according to national geographic.

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Guests enjoy the highest Via Ferrata in North America at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, at 12,999 feet, in ... [+] Summit County, Colorado.

Profiling inspiring places, communities and experiences around the world, the new list of “ Best of the World 2022 ” travel destinations from National Geographic celebrates the new, the different and the influential as the pandemic transforms how travelers see the world and what they value most.

For its 2022 list, National Geographic's editorial teams around the world have selected 25 top destinations that are divided among five categories: Nature, Adventure, Sustainability, Culture and History, and Family. They include a number of World Heritage sites in honor of UNESCO’s 50 years, national parks and wildlife, outdoor activities, green travel and multi-generational adventures and journeys. 

From the ‘next great safari destination’ in Caprivi, Namibia, and the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, to the ancient tea mountains and traditions of Yunnan, China, and the new Seine River bike trail in France, this year’s list explores inspiring locations.

“While the pandemic stalled many of our travel plans for nearly two years, our appetite for new and impactful journeys has only grown,” said George Stone, executive editor of National Geographic Travel. “In many ways, the pandemic provided a moment for travelers and communities around the world to reflect and regroup on how we explore the world.”

These are National Geographic’s 25 ‘must-see’ destinations for 2022, with partial descriptions. For more information, visit NatGeo.com/BestoftheWorld .

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Elephants from Caprivi Strip, Bwabwata, Kwando, Mudumu National Park, Namibia

The Caprivi Strip in Namibia: A narrow finger of land that juts toward the east in the extreme north of the country, is a green, wildlife-rich territory. The presence of the Okavango, Kwando, Chobe and Zambezi Rivers creates an ideal habitat for numerous animal species.

Lake Baikal, Russia: Baikal is so vast and deep that many locals call it a sea. Covering some 12,200 square miles, the massive lake is a natural wonder.

But it’s also in serious trouble. Although deemed a  UNESCO World Heritage site , it suffers ongoing pollution, the recent weakening of government protections and new threats such as large-scale tourism development.

Visitors can help safeguard the lake and its varied landscapes — including tundra, steppe, boreal forest and virgin beaches — by volunteering with  Great Baikal Trail Association , a nonprofit environmental group creating a hiking route around the lake. 

Tent camping under a rising Milky Way in Voyegeur's National Park in Minnesota.

Northern Minnesota: Turn off the lights and multiple thousands of stars sparkle in the night sky of this remote region bordering the Canadian province of Ontario. It has has little to no light pollution and residents are determined to keep it that way.

The  Heart of the Continent Dark Sky Initiative  is a cross-border effort underway to create one of the largest dark-sky destinations on the planet.

Belize Maya Forest Reserve: The race to preserve one of the largest remaining tropical rainforests in the Americas got a big boost recently when a coalition of conservation partners led by the  Nature Conservancy bought 236,000 acres of tropical forest in northwestern Belize to create the  Belize Maya Forest Reserve .

Along with saving some of the most biodiverse forests in the world, the new protected area — which is contiguous with the neighboring  Rio Bravo Conservation Management Area  — closes a huge gap in a vital wildlife corridor that runs from southeast Mexico through Guatemala and into Belize.

Victoria, Australia: Drive the Great Ocean Road to find green shoots of regeneration popping up across Australia where bushfires in 2019 and 2020 burned some 72,000 square miles of land. The disasters led to the deaths of nearly three dozen people and more than one billion animals.

Best For Adventure

Bike trail along canal in Normandy, France.

Seine River Bike Trail, France: La Seine à Vélo  is a new cycling trail worthy of painter Claude Monet, whose house and famous water lilies in  Giverny  are on the route. The 270-mile Paris-to-the-sea path, opened in October 2020, also offers lesser known masterpieces such as the colorful street art of the Canal Saint-Denis in  Paris .

On the trail’s 15 stages, bikers pass through protected natural areas, including Normandy’s  Grande Noé Bird Reserve , located along a major migratory flyway. 

Nepisiguit Trail, New Brunswick, Canada: A turtle-shaped rock near Nepisiguit Falls in the Canadian province of  New Brunswick carries with it the legend that once the turtle (named Egomoqaseg, or ‘rock like a moving ship’) is completely out of the water, it will be the end of the world for the Mi’gmaq people.

The falls are a stop along a millennia-old First Nations migration route that has been developed into the longest back-country hiking trail in the Canadian Maritimes.

Running for 93 miles along the Nepisiguit River, the rugged  Sentier Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail  follows ancient portage pathways used by the nomadic Mi’gmaq. 

The Nepisiguit Trail is a 150 kilometer back-country, wilderness hike that follows the historic ... [+] Nepisiguit River from its source.

Costa Rica: Stretching across  Costa Rica  from the Caribbean to the Pacific, the Camino de Costa Rica  is a 174-mile-long window into life far off the well-trod tourist path. The 16-stage hiking route mainly follows public roads as it passes through remote villages and towns, Indigenous Cabecar lands and protected natural areas. 

It’s designed to spark economic activity in rural districts. Local families, nonprofits, and a network of micro-entrepreneurs such as  Ecomiel  honey producers, the woman-owned  Finca El Casquillo  organic farm and  La Cabaña  sustainable coffee micro-mill, provide most of the trail’s lodging, food, tours, and other hiker amenities.

Freediver swimming among the non-poisonous jellyfish of Jellyfish Lake in Palau.

Palau: Swim with sharks. To help protect Palau’s culture and environment from the negative impacts of tourism, when you arrive the stamp in your passport will include the Palau Pledge, which all visitors must sign, promising that “the only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away.”

Some 80% of the nation’s waters — recognized by  National Geographic’s Pristine Seas project  as one of the richest marine ecosystems on the planet — is preserved as the  Palau National Marine Sanctuary . At 183,000 square miles, the no-take sanctuary is one of the world’s largest protected marine areas, safeguarding 700 species of coral and more than 1,300 species of fish, including a dazzling variety of sharks.

Arapahoe Basin, Colorado: One must climb the Rockies, North America’s highest  via ferrata, for unparalleled views of the Continental Divide .   Arapahoe Basin ’s “iron way”— a climbing route comprising metal rungs and cables — begins at the base of granite Rocky Mountain cliffs and ascends nearly 1,200 feet to a 13,000-foot summit.

A glance below reveals a weathered Colorado landscape dotted with green moss, pink and purple flora and rock gardens created by the cliffs themselves, the fallen chunks varying in size from pebbles to Volkswagen Beetles.

Best For Culture And History

A picture shows items of concern to Ainu collected by the first Ainu Diet member, displayed at the ... [+] Kayano Shigeru Nibutani Ainu Museum in Biratori Town, Hokkaido.

Hokkaido, Japan: Two recent museums will teach visitors in Hokkaido, Japan’s wildly scenic and northernmost main island, about the Ainu, Indigenous people from the northern region of the archipelago. The museums are the  National Ainu Museum and Park  at Upopoy and the  Kayano Shigeru Nibutani Ainu Museum .

Marginalized since the late 1800s, Japan’s Ainu were granted legal protections in 2019. Visitors can discover the timely, sustainable-living lessons of the Ainu, whose spiritual beliefs are rooted in respect and gratitude for nature. Just 30 minutes to the southwest, you can soak in nature at  Noboribetsu Onsen , Hokkaido’s premier hot springs resort in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park . 

Jingmai Mountain, Yunnan, China: This place offers a perfect cup of tea. Located in the remote southwestern corner of China’s Yunnan Province, the region which was a starting point of the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road, is one of the oldest cultural landscapes in the country and slated to become one of the newest UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2022. 

The Ancient Tea Plantations of Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er collectively form the world’s largest ancient, artificially-cultivated tea plantation, featuring about 1.13 million tea trees, the oldest of which is 1,400 years old.

Tin Pan Alley, London: Despite pushback from punk and rock purists, the remix of  Denmark Street , former hub of the British music industry, promises to hit all the right notes. Once lined with music publishers, recording studios, rehearsal rooms, and dimly lit clubs, the tiny street nicknamed  London ’s Tin Pan Alley helped launch the British punk rock movement and legendary figures such as David Bowie, Elton John and the Rolling Stones. 

Now this iconic slice of history is being revived as part of Outernet London, the West End’s new $1.2 billion entertainment district.

Procida island harbour, Gulf of Naples, Italy.

Procida, Italy: The island city has been selected as the  Italian Capital of Culture 2022 , with the theme La cultura non isola  (Culture does not isolate), which now seems particularly on point. Located 40 minutes southwest of  Naples  via high-speed ferry, city officials plan to use their year in the spotlight to illustrate the importance of culture, particularly in times of uncertainty.

Procida 2022 will run cultural programming such as contemporary art exhibitions, festivals and performances over 300 days to encourage responsible travel throughout the year.

Atlanta, Georgia: At the forefront of social change, this unique American city is the cradle of the civil rights movement, the home of Coca-Cola and of hip-hop culture shaping global culture. 

Easily accessible on foot or by bike via the  BeltLine’s Eastside Trail , the  Old Fourth Ward  neighborhood blends nightlife and dining venues with historic highlights including the  Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park  and the  Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum .

SUSTAINABILITY

Ecuador Cobalt, a winged Parakeet at Napo Wildlife Center, Yasuni National Park, Quechua, Ecuador.

Parque Nacional Yasuni, Ecuador: In recognition of the global importance of the Amazon, France is leading the fight against deforestation in eastern Ecuador’s  Yasuní National Park , designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1989.

The 4,000-square-mile park, home to mahogany trees, sweet  guabas , anthuriums, palms and hypnotizingly green ferns, is the first of five pilot sites in the French-funded  TerrAmaz program , a four-year initiative launched in late 2020 to support sustainable development and safeguards biodiversity in the  Amazon rainforest  of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

Yasuní — considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth — shelters an astonishing assortment of creatures such as anteaters, capybaras, sloths, spider monkeys and about 600 species of colorful birds. In the Napo and Curaray rivers flanking the park, visitors can watch for the Amazon river dolphin, an endangered and enigmatic species.

Ruhr Valley, Germany:  Mining and steel production once dominated the densely populated  Ruhr Valley in  Germany ’s western state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Today, the region is repurposing former slag heaps (mounds of mining waste) and post-apocalyptic industrial sites as parks and open-air cultural spaces. 

The most famous is the World Heritage site of Zeche Zollverein  (Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex), home to an outdoor swimming pool, ice rink and walking trails and part of the wider  Emscher Landscape Park , an east-west system of green spaces and corridors covering nearly 175 square miles.

Łódź, Poland: Named a UNESCO City of Film since 2017 for its rich cinematic culture,  Łódź , a city of 700,000 in central  Poland , was a major textile manufacturing center in the 19th and 20th centuries. Now Poland’s Hollywood is flipping the script on its industrial past to create a greener future.

In recent years, Łódź has embraced new ecological technologies such as using pre-RDF (refuse-derived fuel) and biomass energy to heat homes. Nearly one-third of Łódź is green space, ranging from new pocket parks to the 2,977-acre  Łagiewnicki Forest .

In the city’s old industrial areas, factories are being reborn as parks, cultural centers, residences and retail spaces. The trendiest spot on the cultural map is  OFF Piotrkowska , a buzzing art, design, dining and club district housed in a former cotton mill. 

Hikers and balsamroot on Dog Mountain Trail, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Washington.

National Columbia Gorge Scenic Area, Oregon/Washington: It’s the largest National Scenic Area in the U.S., straddling the Oregon-Washington border and comprising 293,000 acres of public and private lands along the Columbia River Gorge.

The area attracts more than two million visitors a year. A nonprofit alliance is helping to reduce tourist impact on local nature and culture. This collaboration has become a model for other regions building a sustainable tourism economy.

Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique: A conservation success, the park, established in October 2020, is one of Mozambique’s newest national parks. It sits on the country’s mountainous border with Zimbabwe and is home to Mozambique’s highest peak, Mount Binga (elevation: 7,992 feet). It was once flush with elephants, lions, and other large animals whose images appear in ancient rock art created by the ancestral San people.

While poaching during decades of civil unrest decimated wildlife populations, small numbers of elephants remain as do at least 42 other species of mammals and a dazzling variety of plant and avian life. Chimanimani is one of   Africa’s great parks rebounding from war.

Best For Family

The Hungarian Parliament and the Chain Bridge in Budapest at sunset.

Danube River Cruise: Boating on the Danube can seem like traveling through a realm of fairy tales with its scrolling views of castles, medieval towns and stately palaces that help to bring European history to life. The river twists through 10 European countries (Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine) and most Danube cruise itineraries include stops in at least four of those, with special family sailings featuring kid-friendly onshore activities.

Granada, Spain: Built as a palace-city by 13th-century Nasrid sultans — rulers of the longest-lasting and final Muslim dynasty on the Iberian Peninsula — the  Alhambra  (“red fort”) is considered the Moorish architectural jewel of Europe. The almond-shaped profile of this UNESCO World Heritage site rests on a hill above Granada, one of Spain’s most picturesque cities.

The mathematical wizardry on display here is particularly fascinating for families: Intricate mosaics, arabesques (a repetitive, stylized pattern based on a floral or vegetal design) and  muqarnas  (ornamental vaulting) make the Alhambra a masterpiece of geometric beauty and a colorful classroom for age-appropriate exploration of math concepts, such as shapes, symmetry, proportion and measurement.

Bonaire: Bathed in dazzling sunlight, a turquoise sea, palm trees, white beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, Bonaire is an idyllic tropical destination. Compared to many other Caribbean islands, Bonaire — population 21,000 — is quiet and still relatively wild and unspoiled.

Off its coast lies one of the oldest marine reserves in the world, the  Bonaire National Marine Park , a reserve encompassing 6,672 acres of coral reef, seagrass and mangrove vegetation where divers and snorkelers can spot up to 57 species of coral and more than 350 different fish species.

Participants in the fourth International Antalya Yoruk Festival with their donkeys in Antalya, ... [+] Turkey.

Lycia, Turkey:  The nomadic Yörüks,   (literally, “walkers”) originally from different Turkic groups that ranged from the Balkans to Iran, once roamed the plateaus of the Turkish riviera. Now settled down, they have kept many of their thousand-year-old customs alive. 

In the historical Lycia region in southwestern  Anatolia , Teke Peninsula, Yörüks live a semi-nomadic life with their tents, kilim rugs, herds, shepherd dogs and transhumant traditions, set against a mountainous, Mediterranean backdrop full of olive trees.

In recent years, tour companies have started to merge the marvels of Lycia with Yörük life. Families can trek parts of the famous  Lycian Way amd visit ancient sites such as Patara, Xanthos, or Letoon.

But it’s the children who have the most fun as they experience Yörük culture by making syrup with pomegranates, cooking local pastries, milking goats or taking part in the olive harvest.

Eastern Shore, Maryland:  The history of the Underground Railroad flows through the waterways, wetlands, swamps and tidal marshes of Dorchester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This is where the secret network’s most famous “conductor,” Harriet Tubman, was born enslaved, grew up and honed the skills such as trapping, hunting, and using stars to navigate that she used to escape to freedom in Pennsylvania.

She then returned 13 times to rescue more than 70 enslaved friends and family. Her heroic story is told at the  Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center , one of the more than 30 stops along the 125-mile  Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway .

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The 10 most popular holiday destinations around the world – and when to visit each one

These are the global hotspots for tourists, according to united nations world tourism organization’s rankings, article bookmarked.

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Debating booking a last minute holiday to a tried and tested destination? You aren’t alone. Holidaymakers flocked in their millions last year to overseas countries with the greatest allure in culture, cuisine and cost.

According to the  United Nations World Tourism Organization ’s rankings, the tourism giants that commanded the industry in 2022 welcomed an estimated 450 million tourists; the most-visited destinations spanning Europe , North America and South America .

Ongoing disruption to travel since Covid-19 has seen a serious decline in international tourist arrivals since 2019, but the provisional data for 2022 shows levels are on the rise, climbing to nearly  63 per cent  of pre-pandemic levels in the first nine months of last year.

European countries dominate the top 10, with seasonal periods of snow and sunshine huge selling points for diverse summer and Christmas holidays as travel trends start to mend.

Here are the countries that topped the list and the best time to visit them, from charming Austria to the sunny shores of Spain .

Read more on Europe travel :

• How Kefalonia went from sleepy to sophisticated
• France travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go
• The best hotels in Barcelona: From beach stays to Las Ramblas views

10. Austria

Yearly visitors (2022): 26.2 million

Austria welcomed the 10th most international visitors in 2022, the landlocked country’s fairytale villages and richly cultural cities understandably enticing tourists. With alpine resorts full with festive charm, lake districts great for glacial swims and hiking paths through ancient woodland regions, it's easy to embrace nature in Austria. Find the birthplace of Mozart, Sound of Music bus tours and summer concerts in Salzburg, a heritage of royal Habsburgs and a Unesco-listed centre in the capital, Vienna, and the delights of the Wachau Valley wine region on the Danube River fruitful with vineyards, castles and monasteries. Even better, Austria is only a train ride away from London and Vienna can be reached in just a day – what’s not to love?

When to visit

Austria’s versatile climate sees hot summers from June to August that city dwellers tend to escape. Alternatively, comfortable springs with highs of 21C in Vienna and the east accommodate hiking and days spent lakeside, with gastronomy and arts festivals taking place in May. Christmas markets and winter sports are at their best come November, with skiing on the Alpine pistes ideal until April.

Yearly visitors (2022): 27.8 million

Just shy of 28 million tourists explored Greece’s party islands, ancient cities and rustic hilltop villages last year. From the glamour of the Cycladic Islands – such as Santorini , famed for its electric blue and white stone churches and luxe vibe – to the earthy Ioanians like Kefalonia and beach-strewn Dodecandese (including Kos), island hopping between tranquil bays and ports buzzing with tavernas are a must on a Greek holiday itinerary . On the mainland, history buffs will be enamoured with the ode to mythology and archaeology in Athens , best viewed from a rooftop bar with views of Acropolis Hill while indulging in fresh fish, souvlaki and taramasalata.

The warm, breezy shoulder seasons of early spring and autumn in April and September bring reliable daily highs in the low 20Cs, a welcome refuge from the sweltering highs of summer – especially in Athens . Some of the top islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, close accommodation in late autumn and winter.

Yearly visitors (2022): 28.5 million

Germany , with its world-class cuisine, museums and nightlife, has consistently ranked in eighth or ninth place for international tourist arrivals for the last four years. The traditional atmosphere of timbered medieval towns in Bavaria meets the hip urban hub of Berlin’s nightlife, budget hostels and historical echoes (the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie). It’s craft beer and folk music in Düsseldorf, carnivals in Cologne , and cake and thermal spas in the dense valleys of the Black Forest. A popular way to tour the country is to take the Romantic Road to baroque palaces, castles and alpine meadows.

Between April and October is the best time to visit Germany , with shoulder spring seasons and the height of the summer warmth bringing the best weather. In late April and May, beer gardens open and flowers bloom in front of limited crowds; in late September, Oktoberfest beer festival takes over in Munich . If it’s the enchanting Christmas markets you desire, there’s a chance of snow in November and December.

Yearly visitors (2022): 31.2 million

In the top 10 for the first time since 2019, the UK greeted over 30 million tourists to England, Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland . Adventures await with wild swimming , coasteering and hiking plenty in rural Snowdonia and the Lake District, and family-friendly breaks to Cornwall’s fine sand beaches and stately homes built to shine in the rain. Think casual fish and chip meals in quirky Brighton , fancy afternoon teas or evenings spent at the Michelin-class restaurants that pepper London , Manchester , York and beyond. If a road trip is more your speed, take the North Coast 500 ring road to the Scottish cultural centres of Aberdeen and Inverness for the ultimate drive. There’s a reason the Brits are clinging on to staycations.

The UK’s weather is predictably unpredictable, but from May to September visitors to the British Isles have the best chance at being welcomed to warm, dry days and the occasional late 20Cs. July and August are peak months for tourism, weather and festivals, but remote beaches and metropolitan cities can be enjoyed whatever the weather – yes, even during the frigid winters.

Yearly visitors (2022): 38.3 million

With its balmy palm-fringed beaches, Mayan ruins and exuberant hospitality, it’s no wonder Mexico is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. The dynamic Mexico City is bursting with colour, movement and flavour. Leafy parks, street food churros, the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan and lucha libre wrestling matches entertain amid colonial towns, handwoven craft stools and cacti-dotted deserts. On the east coast, the Quintana Roo region’s white beaches and turquoise waters have made Cancun and Riviera Maya a holidaymaker’s haven of all-inclusive resorts, while Jalisco’s fusion of mountains and rugged coastline is a surfer’s haven of high swells, thatched roof hostels and ceviche lunches.

Generally, the best time to holiday in Mexico is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures are bearable and rainfall is low. However, this is high tourist season, so look out for elevated prices and fully booked accommodations.

Yearly visitors (2022) : 49.8 million

Who could resist embracing la dolce vita ? Not the nearly 50 million international visitors in 2022. Famed for its cuisine, ancient sites and romantic aura, Italy fuses iconic foods with distinct fashion, art and architecture. The capital, Rome , is filled with Vespa-laden cobbled streets, operas, and landmarks such as the Colosseum and Pantheon (plus the Vatican City microstate). The shimmering beach islands of Sicily and Sardinia, the sophisticated shores of Lake Garda and Como and the cypress tree-lined wine country of Tuscany are also jewels in the versatile Italian landscape.

The Italian climate welcomes year-round, as hot summers spent on the beach meet lively Easter celebrations and a fusion of snowsports and cultural delights including museums and music in winter. In the south, high summer temperatures can get uncomfortable, so head to the vineyards during the shoulder seasons of late spring or autumn for enjoyable averages of 24C.

Yearly visitors (2022): 50.5 million

Cosmopolitan Istanbul’s intoxicating charm can be found in street markets, opulent mosques and must-see sights like the decadent Topkapi Palace come wrapped up in a delicious cuisine of rich Turkish breakfasts, spiced kebabs and sweet filo pastries. Alternatively, the Cesme peninsula is ideal for some quality beach time and a traditional blue cruise on a wooden gulet boat is a highlight of internationally beloved resorts in Alanya. For Greco-Roman ruins, visit Ephesus’s Library of Celsus theatre or head to the skies via hot air balloon to see towering volcanic rock formations in Cappadocia .

Turkish summers are hot and humid, with average highs of 36C, and winters are often cold and wet – especially in Istanbul and Bodrum – making the spring and autumn months of May and October the ideal time to take in all that Turkey’s coastal delights and vibrant cities have to offer.

Yearly visitors (2022): 50.9 million

With its vast scale and so many states to choose from, there’s an experience for everyone in the USA. Viva  Las Vegas  for a nightlife that welcomes party animals or visit Golden State  California’s  eco-cafes for a health gurus paradise. You’ll find neon lights, Broadway shows and a soaring skyline in  New York , wine tasting in  Napa Valley  and prolific national parks like Yellowstone down each coast on an American adventure. That’s not forgetting the sports scenes of baseball, basketball and the NFL, golden beaches and thrilling  theme parks  in the “land of the free”.

The vast scale of the United States means most climates are encompassed within its 50 states. Think ever evolving seasons in deserts in the southwest and the tropics in Hawaii . March to June is tornado season in the Midwest and from June to November, hurricanes are common on the Atlantic coast. Come summer, California’s beaches and music festivals (such as Coachella ) come alive; in winter, Colorado’s snowy slopes and New York’s Christmas magic in Central Park welcome thousands.

Yearly visitors (2022): 71.7 million

A whopping 71.7 million people visited  Spain’s shores last year, making it the second most popular holiday destination in the world. A favourite with the Brits, the idyllic Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Ibiza are hotspots for beautiful beaches, super clubs and quaint mountain towns. City breaks to Barcelona’s Catalonian art museums and the architectural marvel of the Sagrada Familia meet Madrid’s hip neighbourhoods, such as Chueca, and the history-packed (and usually scorching) Seville , and the wonders don’t stop there. Thousands partake in tomato fights in Buñol during August and there’s a red wine fight in La Rioja during June. You can’t say Spain doesn’t have character.

Spain's cities and islands vary massively in climate between seasons – the Canary Islands tend to stay a mild 24C year-round while the Balearics face cold winters. If you can, avoid the high sunny season of July and August when prices soar, and crowds descend on the beaches and uncomfortably warm cities. Spring brings mild and pleasant temperatures and more reasonable prices to the Mediterranean coast.

Yearly visitors (2022): 79.4 million

Taking the top spot for the most popular holiday destination worldwide,  France  saw 79.4 million visitors in 2022. From the history of the D-Day landings and Unesco-listed Mont St Michel in  Normandy  to  Paris,  the city of love, home to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Louvre museum, and the  Alps,  a playground for  skiing , hiking and mountain biking, it’s no shock France is the leading the way. Whether its weekend wine tasting in Burgundy or enjoying the fizz of champagne in a  Loire Valley  chateaux, there’s always something new to be found. Even better, the proximity of our Gallic neighbours means the delights of the Cote d’Azur seaside towns and coastal  campsites  in Brittany are just a train ride away.

The largest country in Western Europe has Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, with hot summers and mild winters. In the summer, southern beaches buzz with crowds and Bastille Day is celebrated nationally on 14 July. During French winters, snow coats the cool mountain regions (and lasts for up to six months of the year), ideal for snowsports trips and cosy chalet stays.

Read more on the best Paris hotels

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Top 10 Most Visited Countries in the World: Best Tourist Country in 2024

Updated On Apr 23, 2024

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Top Countries with Most Tourism

• United States
• United Kingdom

Every year, huge populations of people across the world pack their bags and set off to explore diverse cultures, stop by the historical monuments, and embrace the breathtaking sceneries of the most visited countries in the world.

According to the World Economic Outlook Report, the tourism sector in the global economic recovery grew by 2.9% in 2024 and by 3% in 2023. Using data from the Global Tourism Organization, the most popular tourist attractions in the world are composed together in this blog.

From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Basílica de la Sagrada Familia in Spain to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it is evident that every country has a distinct range of experiences and attractions that entice tourists from all over the world. Here is a compiled list of the world’s most visited countries with France topping the chart with 89.4 Million Arrivals:

Planning to travel this year? Worry not, take a look at Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling Abroad - GetGIS

It should come as no surprise that France is the most popular travel destination in the world, consistently topping travel charts. Paris, the most well-known city on earth, and the coasts of southern France are popular summer travel destinations for Europeans. Travelers can enjoy much of what this 89.4 million-person nation, Spain has to offer, from the breath-taking French Riviera to the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Tourists love local specialties like bouillabaisse, escargots, and coq au vin. For the best bread and pastries, a trip to any boulangerie (or bakery) in the nation is highly recommended. Not to be overlooked is the well-known French wine, which is a must-try for all wine lovers. But what really makes France unique is its joie de vivre, a certain je ne sai quoi that makes an impression on guests and draws them back time and time again.

Places to Visit in France

Spain is one of the countries most visited by tourists with almost 83.7 Million arrivals annually. It is famous for its rich heritage, vast culture, and affordability. The vibrant locals, delicious food, fine wine, breathtaking architecture, and lively atmosphere are just a few of the reasons why tourists swarm Spain.

In addition to the aforementioned reasons, Spain is a well-liked travel destination for places of worship. Hikers, cyclists, and organized tour groups all enjoy visiting the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great, known as Camino de Santiago, which is housed in the cathedral of Santiago deCompostela.

Places to Visit in Spain

3. united states.

The United States offers a wide range of attractions to its tourists world-wide. One of the most popular tourist destinations worldwide is New York City, which is home to the Statue of Liberty, one of the most well-known tourist destinations in the world. The Grand Canyon, Disney World, the Las Vegas Strip, and the National Mall in Washington, D.C., are a few more well-liked US travel destinations.

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International, the busiest airport in the world with almost 94 million passengers annually, is also located in the United States. The United States is a multicultural country with large national parks and energetic cities that draw tourists from around the world as well as locals and business travelers.

Places to Visit in United States

Want to fly to the US? Get to know the Visa process: The US Tourist Visa Requirements: How to Apply for the Visa?

China undoubtedly is one of the world's most visited countries due to its vast business dealings and diverse cultural exchange. It's very fascinating to see how China draws the tourists together along with good food, historical sites, and ancient cities. With the Great Wall of China, China’s tourism industry further skyrocketed.

Beijing, the nation's capital, is home to many hidden gems with a distinct local flavor and rich cultural legacy. Hiking Mount Emei, climbing the world's tallest Buddha statue, and farming in Yangshuo are all included in the China itinerary.

Places to Visit in China

It is frequently asserted that Italians are superior, and this may be the case. Why else would people all over the world adore and know Italian food so well? It is undeniable that Italy is among the most sought-after travel destinations for a multitude of reasons. Italy boasts about having the historical and the UNESCO heritage sites that include the Leaning Tower of Pisa(leaning at an angle of 3.9 in the southwest), Iconic Venice city, and Historical Rome.

Italy has a prestige effect because of its rich literary heritage, operatic style, historic buildings, and artistic culture. One of the world's wonders, the Colosseum, is located in Italy and is the main draw for tourists traveling there.

Places to Visit in Italy

Turkey has recently witnessed a boom in the tourism industry with a welcome of 51.2M people towards its stunning springs, mud baths, Turkish hammams(steam baths) and the rich spa sector. And the best part? All these amenities are offered to the tourists at an affordable price compared to other countries across the globe.

Setting apart Turkey’s health and wellness offerings, Turkey boasts of having quaint landscapes, delicious food, and amazing memorials of historic culture. From the rock formations of Cappadocia and Turkish Riviera of Antalya to the breathtaking beaches of Marmaris. There is no doubt that Turkey belongs to the top ten tourist countries in the world.

Places to Visit in Turkey

Mexico attracts around 45 million international tourists in 2024 and sits comfortably in the list of the top 10 tourist countries in the world with a drastic growth rate of 9%. The country is famous for its cultural heritage, affordable cuisines, and artsy culture.

Mexico's capital city, Oaxaca, with its vibrant markets and cultural festivals, is the most popular tourist destination due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. Other popular beach spots preferred by tourists include Puerto Escondido, Bacalar, and Isla Holbox. Mexico’s food diversity is another big hit, with dishes like Chilaquiles(lightly fried corn tortillas topped with spicy salsa), enchiladas , and huevos rancheros.

Places to Visit in Mexico

8. thailand.

Thailand bags the record of appearing on the most tourist visiting country in the world almost every year with an arrival number of 39.8M in 2024. Thailand draws tourists close with an outstanding number of beaches, cheap stays, and party surroundings. But, Thailand is also home to numerous temples and palaces that showcase their cultural heritage.

Thailand Pad thai is an iconic dish which is celebrated by almost every tourist who gets to taste them. Other famous foods in Thailand include Khao Soi, Tom Yum Goong, and Gaeng Daeng. Some of the notable landmarks in Thailand are Bangkok, Koh Lanta, Chiang Mai, and Krabi.

Places to Visit in Thailand

Germany is yet another beautiful country and one of the world’s most visited countries with structured towns, and prominent murals throughout the nation. Berlin, being the capital city, is home to more than 3.5 million people with its artsy, heritage rich neighborhood. The honor of the most popular destination in Germany goes to Bavaria which boasts of its fairytale-like resemblance of the enchanting castles and breathtaking scenery.

Tourists enjoy exploring the Cologne Cathedral(pictured above) under the night sky, Pergamonmuseum, Black forest, and Nymphenburg Palace. Other remarkable landmarks include Berlin Wall Memorial, Harz National Park, Neuschwanstein Castle, Moselle Valley, and other remnants of iconic cultural events. Travelers enjoy the diversity of food in Germany, especially their incredible beers, Sauerbraten, Sausages, and all types of mustard delights.

Places to Visit in Germany

10. united kingdom.

The United Kingdom, shortly called UK, is undeniably one of the most popular and most visited countries in the world, and it's obvious to say why. With its picturesque architectural premises, lush green fields, and elegant castles, the UK draws a lot of tourists every year. It is home to some of the global famous destinations like the Tower Bridge, London that is pictured above, Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, and many other stunning spots.

The capital city, London, attracts several tourists annually with its rich cultural heritage, art and monumental museums, and many other iconic landmarks. The tourists can also experience multiple cuisines of the UK with famous dishes like Yorkshire pudding, fish & chips along with roasted chicken, and Shepherd’s pie.

Places to Visit in United Kingdom

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Which Country Attracts You the Most? Plan Your Travel with GetGIS

This concludes our list of the Top 10 Most Visited Countries Worldwide for 2024. There are a variety of opportunities available when you travel the world, including fantastic climates, abundant natural resources, and high living standards. However, here's an intriguing twist: these are the world's most visited nations.

However, what is surprising is that each of these locations has something unique to offer, leaving you to wonder which one, in terms of earning a living, actually merits your attention. If you need help organizing your upcoming trip, GetGIS can handle it all just for you!

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28 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024

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

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

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

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

1. Eiffel Tower, Paris

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in India

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jordan

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions at the Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tanzania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Cambodia

16 Countries That Travel The Most (And Their Top Destinations)

A s more people become more interested in places different from their countries of birth, there has been an increase in international travel. Whether it’s for work, school, adventures, or other reasons, there are certain countries around the world that travel the most. This is an interesting thing to study, especially since most people traveling from one place are usually headed for the same destination. This piece aims to inspire travelers by revealing the top countries that travel the most according to the latest outbound travel report by Research and Markets and also reveal the destinations they mostly travel to.

UPDATE: 2023/07/10 20:42 EST BY REENA JAIN

Countries That Travel The Most (And Their Top Destinations)

As mentioned in the UNWTO study, the first half of 2023 saw a revival in international travel, and the same pattern is anticipated for the months ahead. Two more countries that travel the most and spend the most on international tourism have been added to the list to reflect current trends.

The happiest country in the world , Finland, also deserves to be on this list for spending a lot on outbound travel. The Finnish people like exploring their own country as the nation is full of natural beauty, history, stunning water bodies, and modern marvels, but they prioritize traveling to different international destinations. Sweden is the most popular foreign travel destination for them followed by Estonia, Spain, and Norway.

From eateries where travelers can try tasty cuisine to fun and exciting activities and attractions that leave visitors amazed, there is so much to do and see in Denmark . Yet, residents travel to neighboring countries for leisure and to explore new international destinations. As mentioned in GlobalData’s report, there is a steep rise in international tourism in Denmark. And Danish residents travel the most to other European countries, specifically Sweden, Spain, Germany, France, and Italy.

Even though China has eased some of its COVID restrictions and is moving toward a tourism recovery, outbound travel has recovered more quickly than inbound travel to the area. Although China has countless beautiful beaches, mountains, islands, cities, and many natural and modern wonders , Chinese people also love to travel abroad. They prefer visiting nearby Japan, Thailand, and Korea for a short international trip, though other popular destinations include the Philippines, Thailand, and the United Kingdom.

According to GlobalData's report , outbound travel from Canada in 2022 increased by 312% to reach 22.3 million, the highest number since 2019. Although Canada is full of fantastic destinations, Canadians, after the pandemic, prefer to spread their wings and travel to distant regions, particularly in the United States, Thailand, Indonesia, and Europe. However, the majority of Canada's top ten international travel destinations are in the United States.

Following the Japanese government's decision to lower its travel warning for 34 countries and territories, Japan's outbound market is regaining strength, with an increasing number of people traveling abroad. According to data from Japan's Immigration Service Agency, there were 1045.7% more Japanese tourists abroad in February 2023 than in the same month in 2002. Furthermore, South Korea, the United States, Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan are among the top international destinations for Japanese travelers.

Singapore is a traveler's dream destination with numerous breathtaking natural beauties as well as of man-made marvels . However, the people of this lovely nation also look for chances to travel to nearby countries for a short trip and faraway destinations for a long break. According to the e-Conomy SEA 2022 report , 52% of Singaporeans intend to travel abroad in 2023, an increase of 13% from 2022. And the majority of them spend three to four days on vacation in Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan, which are their preferred international vacation destinations.

Since restrictions were lifted, outbound travel in Austria has continued to skyrocket. It now seems more people are trying to get out of the country than ever. For Austrians, Croatia is the favorite destination for outbound travel, although Italy and Germany are also favorite destinations for according to Statista’s outbound tourist numbers for Austria in 2021 .

Switzerland

There are plenty of interesting things to enjoy in Switzerland , but that does not stop millions of people from leaving the country every year and spending their vacations in European destinations. In 2019 before the pandemic, approximately 19.8 million people traveled abroad, and their favorite destinations are France and Germany.

Related: Switzerland Vs Austria: Which Has The Better Alps?

Italy has everything a person needs, from a destination, from archaeological sites to beautiful beaches and delicious food , and while those are popular among Italian travelers, they also love to travel abroad and check out some of their favorite destinations. In July, outbound travelers from Italy amounted to 3.2 million, and Romania was the country’s most beloved travel destination. Spain and France, however, are popular destinations among Italian travelers.

France has been responsible for the most outbound travels from Belgium. In 2019, approximately 4.5 million trips originating from Belgium landed in France, and although the number may have reduced, one can still expect this trend as more people resume outbound travel.

Russian outbound travel may be on a downward trend, but it remains a country with huge outbound tourism numbers. In 2022, Turkey was the main place of interest for Russian outbound travelers , and the UAE is also popular among Russian travelers.

The Netherlands

Before the pandemic hit, outbound trips from the Netherlands in 2019 were 22 million, and even though the country may not recover its previous number till 2024, the Netherlands remains one of the countries where people travel the most. Wellness travel is popular among travelers from the Netherlands; Germany is the country’s favorite destination, while Spain and Belgium are also popular among Dutch travelers.

United Kingdom

The Royals , castles, museums, and delicious food are not enough to keep people in the UK from being among the top outbound travelers in the world. In 2019, the country saw an outbound tourism number of 84.7 million, and according to GlobalData , this number is set to reach 86.9 million by 2024, and Spain remains the favorite holiday destination for UK travelers.

Being the most visited country in the world does not mean people in France just sit around and let other people do the traveling. They also travel in huge numbers, and French people typically prefer to visit other European destinations such as Spain, the U.K., and Germany.

Related: Want To Know A Secret? Here Are Some Strange France Facts

Germany’s numerous natural and man-made attractions have made it one of the most visited countries in the world, but it has not prevented people from traveling to other destinations for more experiences. In 2019, German travelers took up to 99.5 million trips abroad , placing the country at the top of the list of outbound tourism worldwide. Even though the pandemic reduced global travel, outbound tourism in Germany remains on the high side. German travelers love destinations in the Baltic Sea, although Spain and Italy also rank among the top destinations for German travelers.

United States

Inbound travel in the US is high as the country has some of the world’s most sought-after attractions. Americans, however, also love visiting other destinations in the world, which is why outbound tourism in the country is on the high side, making it the country that travels the most. US travelers love Europe and the Caribbean, but Mexico has remained at the top of the US favorite destination list as it received approximately 24 million US travelers as of September 2022.

The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

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

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

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

Douro Valley, Portugal

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

Shark Bay, Australia

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

Paracas, Peru

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

Algarve, Portugal

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

Paris, France

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

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

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

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

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

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Adam Turner , CN Traveller

Connor Sturges , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

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

Death Valley, California

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

Provence, France

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

Bayon, Cambodia

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

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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

Angel Falls, Venezuela

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

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

Grand Canal, Venice

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

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

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

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

Lake Eyre, Australia

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

Bali, Indonesia

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

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

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

Atacame Desert, South America

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

Mount Fuji, Japan

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

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

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

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

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

The Scottish Highlands

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

Pamukkale, Turkey

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

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

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

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

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

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

Mount Cook, New Zealand

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

Gordes, Provence

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

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

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

The Faroe Islands

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

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

Jodhpur, India

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

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

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

Svalbard, Norway

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

Copenhagen, Denmark

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

Lamu, Kenya

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

Wulingyuan, China

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

Redwood National Park, California

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

Havana, Cuba

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

Kyoto, Japan

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

Marrakech, Morocco

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

Ischia, Italy

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

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

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

The Philippines

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

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

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

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

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

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

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

Blue lagoon, Iceland

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

Cape Town, South Africa

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

The Grand Canyon, USA

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

Cenotes, Mexico

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

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

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

The Maldives

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

Peyto Lake, Canada

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

La Digue, Seychelles

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

Yellowstone National Park, USA

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

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21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

T+L Backpack Quiz

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

Best Countries For Tourism in the World

Here is the list of 79 best countries for tourism in the world, 1. india - the land of diversity.

Situated in South Asia, India is a country with deep cultural roots and a rich heritage. A great country for budget travel, India is popular for its forts and palaces. You can visit India to find yourself through yoga, to lose yourself in the mountains of Himalayas, to be mesmerised by the ancient temples. The crowded bazaars, blaring traffic, filmy music, the colour, the noise and not to forget, the chaos will leave you all amazed and overwhelmed. Best Time : December - March

2. Thailand - The Gateway to Southeast Asia.

Thailand, a dreamy beachside paradise, is a country that has managed to retain its cultural integrity in spite of being a major tourist destination. One can find everything here - from pristine beaches to dense forests, ancient monasteries to coral reefs, from Buddhist monks to floating markets and finally the fragrant and rich food to treat your taste buds. Best Time : November - March

3. Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven For Honeymooners

Known For : Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Diving in Maldives Snorkelling in Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelagic state situated in the Indian Ocean known for its luxurious water villas. A tropical haven of white sand beaches, the Maldives is located in the south of Sri Lanka and is ideal for an adventure, honeymoon, or leisure holiday. Imagine having a room on a pier jutting out from the shore with a glass floor under which manta rays and reef sharks can be seen swimming, and step out from your overwater bungalow to the view of turquoise water.

Best Time: December to April

103 Maldives Attractions

4. Singapore - The Quintessential Cosmopolitan

Known For : Gardens by the Bay Sentosa Island Universal Studios Singapore

Best described as a microcosm of modern Asia, Singapore is a melting pot of culture and history, and an extravaganza of culinary delights. Officially known as the Republic of Singapore, it is both a city and a country located in Southeast Asia. One of Asia's most visited destinations, Singapore is best described as an amalgam of a fast-paced life and an off-the-back-street inheritance.

Best Time: January to November

270 Singapore Attractions

Vietnam in south-eastern Asia is arguably one of the most beautiful countries on the continent. Known for its natural beauty and abundance of natural attractions such as the vast paddy fields, limestone islands in Halong Bay or the massive cave system in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, the country provides quite an unmatched experience. Add to that the ever-delightful authentic Vietnamese cuisine which is fast gaining popularity around the world and you have a wholesome experience like no other. Best Time : Spring (February to April) and Autumn (August to October)

6. Sri Lanka - A Land Like No Other

Sri Lanka is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean known for its spectacular beaches, thousand-year-old Buddhist temples, an abundance of wildlife, and rich archaeological history. The plethora of water sports, breathtaking sunsets, sprawling tea gardens and of course, mouth-watering Sri Lankan food, are sure to make you fall in love with this gorgeous place.  Best Time : December - April

7. Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius, or the Republic of Mauritius, is a multi-cultural island nation located about 2,000 kilometres from Africa in the Indian Ocean and southeast of Seychelles. With palm-fringed beaches, aquamarine waters, imposing mountains and lush national parks, Mauritius is popular for a honeymoon as well as family holidays.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

8. Indonesia - Where Culture Meets Nature

Indonesia is a kaleidoscope of taste, sight, sound, and smells bottled up in the world's largest archipelago. Spread out over a mind-boggling 17,000 islands, the country offers a vast melange of experiences begging to be sampled by visitors from across the world. Ranging from the smouldering volcanoes of central Java to the verdant expanses of Bali's rice terraces, from Jakarta's sprawling luxury malls to the untouched marine biosphere of Rajah Ampat and the lush rainforests of Borneo, Indonesia is ripe for adventure for the eager tourist.  Best Time : April - September

9. New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand lies to the southwest of the Pacific Ocean and promises breathtaking landscapes adorned with picturesque coastlines and the mightiest mountains. One of New Zealand's highlights is its opportunities for adventure activities as well as its nice blend of museums, art galleries and heritage sites. Best Time : December - February

10. Bhutan - The Happiest Country in All of Asia

The ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’ – Bhutan nestles in the mountainous regions of the Eastern Himalayas and is one of the cleanest countries in the South Asian territory. A remote kingdom that still clings to its Buddhist culture but embraces modernisation, Bhutan is a land with monasteries, traditional architecture, beautiful valleys, snow-clad mountain views and lush greenery. Being landlocked, the country enjoys a significant tourist influx from its neighbours, Tibet and India. Best Time : March to May, September to November

11. Australia - Land Down Under

Home to the Great Barrier Reef and iconic beaches and surf spots, Australia is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and lovers of beach getaways. Popularly known as the land of Kangaroos, Australia is both the smallest continent and the largest island country in the world. An evergrowing multicultural marvel, the country is famous for its beautiful blend of cosmopolitan cities, wild and enchanting outbacks, thriving wildlife and mesmerising beaches along the eastern coast. Best Time : Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

12. Malaysia - Truly Asia

A potpourri of all things Asian, Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia. An intriguing blend of diverse wildlife, idyllic islands, magnanimous mountains, rainforests, and rich culinary landscape makes it one of the most visited tourist places in Asia.  Best Time : December - March

13. Nepal - On Top of the World

A hub for the adventure-lovers and home to Mt. Everest, the world's tallest peak, Nepal is a Himalayan country sandwiched between India and China. The mighty snow-capped mountains here such as Annapurna, Mount Everest, Manaslu, and Kanchenjunga are home to some of the best trekking trails in the world. It is also a major religious hub with its many pilgrimage sites for the followers of Buddhism and Hinduism like the Pashupatinath Temple and the Boudhanath Stupa. To make things better, the crime rates are very low, making it a very safe travel destination. Best Time : September - Late November

14. Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

Seychelles is an island nation, located in the Indian Ocean close to the east of Africa. Known for its breathtaking beauty, It is an archipelago of 115 islands, 45 of which are granitic islands, while 74 are coralline islands. Its capital and largest city is Victoria. Popular as the island of love, Seychelles’ surreal beauty makes it a popular luxurious honeymoon destination. The most visited islands of Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

15. United Arab Emirates - The Centre of Culture and Modernity

Once known for its fishing-based economy, today, UAE is much more than vast deserts and ancient forts. Immersed in its rich Emirati culture, the UAE is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world offering touches of modernity with its ever-expanding infrastructure. From its traditional souks to palm-shaped islands, glittering huge malls, luxurious hotels, grand architecture and theme parks, the country offers you a complete package to relax, rejuvenate and be adventurous, all at the same time. Best Time : October - April (Winters)

16. Turkey - A Land of Culture with Modern Twist

Settled on the border of Asia and Europe, Turkey is an archive of Islamic Middle East impact and the influence of Christian European West. Turkey at present represents a modern and westernised culture that exists along with its more exotic and esoteric side hidden from outside world. Explore the dual sides of the country with the natural panoramic landscape, historic places, fertile valleys, huge mountain ranges, rugged coastline and quaint villages.  Best Time : April - June (Spring) and October - November (Autumn)

17. Jordan - The Land of Mesmerizing Beauty

Also known as the 'Lawrence of Arabia', Jordan is a spectacle of a destination. Jordan is packed with grand structures and hints of old civilisations. Petra, a city in Jordan, is said to be over 2000 years old. Apart from the old civilisations, another important aspect is the biblical evolution of the society that is evident in some of its structures. Hospitality is a very important part of the culture and thus, everywhere you go, you will receive a very warm welcome. Best Time : March-May and Mid-September to Mid-November

18. Philippines - Gateway to hidden beaches and exotic islands

The Philippines is a nation studded with a myriad of islands in south-east Asia. It is home to many fantastic beaches, coral reefs and churches. It is also a very popular tourist destination offering plenty of options for tourists regarding nature, wildlife, adventure, entertainment and nightlife. The people are very warm and affable, and they will not hesitate to go an extra mile to see a smile on your face. Best Time : November - April

In just forty years, this Gulf state has grown from one of the poorest countries in the Gulf to the richest in the world. Mainly functioning on oil and natural gas revenue, Qatar is developing at breakneck speed, and everything from universities to shopping malls, 5-star hotels to football stadiums (in preparation for the 2022 World Cup) are springing up along the desert floor. Best Time : October-December

20. Cambodia - A Country Rich in Heritage & Natural Beauty

Cambodia is a country steeped in history. In spite of years and years of struggle, the country has emerged today as a nation with an infectious spirit seen in its people and a tourism business that is flourishing. Home of the famous Angkor Wat and numerous other temples, this country is intoxicating in its beauty, to say the least. Apart from the historical and the cultural, Cambodia is also urbane, boasting of beautiful Phnom Penh, its capital, and tonnes of restaurants serving delicious cuisine.  Best Time : November - January

21. Greece - All-Time Classic

Surrounded by crystal blue waters all around, Greece has 2000 islands among which only 160 are inhabited. It has everything that a traveller could ask for, starting from history and culture, huge mountains, golden beaches and ancient ruins. Along with the history, the culture in music, food and festivals is strongly held up high here. One can delve into the ancient times with splendours like Acropolis and Parthenon . Best Time : March - April (Spring) and September - October (Autumn)

22. Hong Kong

Known For : Victoria Harbour A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong, officially known as the Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China is a burst of culture and colour. Housing 18 districts, Hong Kong is one of the most heavily populous regions in the world and the city with the most number of skyscrapers in the world. A major port and shopping hub, Hong Kong is the land of an iconic skyline, delectable cuisine, and protected lush nature reserves. Best Time : October to early December (Autumn)

Best Time: October to December (Autumn)

337 Hong Kong Attractions

23. Oman - Gateway to the Charming Arab World

Oman is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Though there is no diversity in religion here, you will find a variety of tranquil landscapes and sceneries. The beauty of the emerald beaches, the rich Arab history in the ancient forts, the lush green mountains, unique wildlife and endless deserts will give you an Arabian adventure unlike any other country in the Gulf Coast. Best Time : November-February

Kenya is located along the eastern coast of the African continent. It is a large country that is a hotbed for tourists. Although it is largely known for its safaris, there is also a lot more to Kenya, such as Nairobi, which is its commercial capital. Wildlife, heritage sites, highlands and valleys -- the country truly has it all. Best Time : Late June to October

25. Saudi Arabia - Hub of Temples and Mosques

Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an Arab country located in Western Asia and constituting most of the Arab Peninsula. Most of the citizens are Muslims, and freedom of religion is restricted by the laws of the country. Only Muslims are respected in the country but, people are very helpful and friendly towards tourists. The rich history, vast stretches of deserts, forts, mosques and temples spread throughout the country will fascinate you. Best Time : November - February

26. Switzerland

Switzerland is a land of stereotypes – expansive greenery, picturesque landscapes, chocolate, cheese, and watches. Switzerland’s lush green vistas are so perfect that they seem to be plucked out of a postcard. It truly is one of the most beautiful places on Earth – soaring Alpine mountains, medieval churches, a bucketful of fresh air, disarming landscapes, and green fields you would endlessly want to run through. It is one of those few places where everything runs on time, the chocolate is fantastic, the countryside is breath-taking and everything is as perfect as a dream! Best Time : Mid-December - Mid October

France is an irresistible assortment of picture perfect landscapes, cultural foible, remarkable fashion sense, historical bequest and of course gastronomic adventures. Basking in the glory of Mother Nature, France offers distinct geographical features from rolling countryside and majestic mountains to stunning white sand beaches and sun-drenched vineyards. With its dash of contemporary finesse and lavish lifestyle, this country will leave you in absolute awe. Best Time : March-May and September - November

28. England - Amalgamation of Royalty and Culture

One of the most popular countries in the world, England is located in Europe. It is also the dream destination for a lot of people for its beauty and grandeur. With a great history behind it, it has a rich heritage and culture. The English countryside is one of the most peaceful places in the country. The most famous historical sites include the old castles on the countryside, Roman sites and the royal palaces. Each city in the country has its own charm. Best Time : July - August

29. Germany - The Land of Festivals

A country of superior intellect and rich culture, Germany offers its travellers a well-rounded experience of beautiful architecture, beautiful countryside, fun-filled festivals and the most brilliant, lip-smacking cuisine. Every time is a good time to visit - be it in Summer/ Spring when the country is blooming and shrouded in colour or Fall/Winter when everything is serene, calm and covered in snow. The air is infectious and always full of anticipation and festivities. Best Time : March to August

30. Scotland - An amalgamation of Culture, Nature and Music

Scotland, a part of the UK, is located in northwestern Europe and is one of the most important countries in the continent. When one thinks of Scotland, the chequered kilts and bagpipes come to mind. However, there is a lot more to the country. From the lush green highlands to the coastal blue waters, from fine Scotch whiskies and brilliant food, you can experience all. Scotland also has a long history, and its magnificent castles can vouch for that. Best Time : May - September

Italy is a country situated in Europe with 20 regions, each having its own glorious history, culture and traditions. It is the place where the Renaissance started and the place which gave the world Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Marco Polo and Christopher Columbus. The icing on the cake is the delicious food that you get to eat here. Best Time : December - March

32. Croatia

Located in Eastern Europe, Croatia is a coastal country that is not only beautiful to look at but also offers a variety of things to do for tourists. There is history interspersed with architecture, great opportunities for swimming, Balkan wine, some of the best seafood and more. The most regularly visited cities here are Dubrovnik and Zagreb, its capital. It also encompasses several islands that are breathtakingly beautiful. In a nutshell, this country offers pretty much everything under the sun for a great vacation. Best Time : April-May; September

Egypt is a country that brings to mind the exotic. Beautiful pyramids, mysterious mummies and lots of gold. That is what everybody perceives Egypt as. But it is so much more. There is Cairo, its most famous city, the river Nile, desert adventures, its temples and mosques and the general aura of history rooted in the culture that pervades the entire country. Best Time : September-April

34. United States of America - The Hub of Diversity and Opportunities

Occupying a huge chunk of North America, the United States of America or USA is a Pandora Box full of surprises for all kind of travellers. From crowded mega-cities to serene small towns, breathtaking natural beauty, man-made wonders, and fast-paced, exciting and ever-changing environs, the country will leave anyone awe-inspired with its vividness. Best Time : March-May; September - November

35. Morocco - The Exotic Land of Spices & Stories

Morocco is a country in North Africa. It is blessed with abundant natural beauty and is one of the top destinations for tourism. Majestic mountains standing tall in the distance, cities that are ancient, sprawling deserts and more characterise this country. Famous attractions here include the medina in Marrakesh, the Fort Kasbah of the Udayas, the dozens of souks and the Jemaa el-Fnaa. It is a truly beautiful country, with lots to offer to every kind of tourist. Best Time : March-May

36. Malta - The Island of Legends

Known For : Upper Barrakka Gardens HMS Maori Lascaris War Rooms

The island state of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea and falls south of the Italian island of Sicily. Temples, fortresses, sandy beaches, cliffs, and jutted coves is what makes this small island nation worth visiting, coupled with thrilling activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, and a long and fascinating history going back to the days before Christ.

Best Time: April to June

21 Malta Attractions

37. Austria - The Land of Music and Arts

Basking in the glory of natural beauty, Austria is one of the most prominent attractions of central Europe. Rooted in its deep imperial culture, the country offers much more beyond the scenic beauty including neo-classical architecture, the craze for music, popular cafes, and the thrill of sports like skiing. From the rustic backdrops to colourful mismatched houses, Austria is a place to relax, savour and appreciate the culture of the country of many years of making. Best Time : June-August, September and October

38. Netherlands - The Land of Tulips

Amongst one of the most developed and progressive nations of the world, the Netherlands offers an immersive and enriching travelling experience. With the most exquisite flowers blooming in the summer, refreshing showers in the fall, snowfall and nostalgia in the winter and the most colourful landscapes in the spring, the Netherlands has something to offer to everyone. From markets to gardens to the most absurd museums and shops, this country gives a 360-degree experience to its tourists, of a culture and lifestyle so diverse that it always stays with the traveller. Best Time : Spring and Autumn

39. Laos - The Land of Serenity and Bountiful Nature

Sitting cosily in Southeast Asia, the Republic of Laos is a landlocked country with a sparse population. Known for its spectacular landscape, the country comprises lofty mountains, lush jungles, glistening rice fields and tea leaves covering the mountain surface. The remote tribal villages, ancient Buddhist caves, rich cultural heritage, cafe culture in cosmopolitans, elegant colonial architecture and peaceful stupas add to the charm of this land of lotus-eaters. Best Time : November - February

40. Japan - Home To Great Architecture & Great Food

Japan, located in Eastern Asia, is a sovereign nation. It is well known for its bustling cities, imperial palaces, national parks and lots of beautifully constructed temples. Tokyo, the capital of the country, is a much-visited tourist destination, home to tonnes of skyscrapers. There is a lot to do in Japan, from adventure sports to relaxing at the beach and discovering the real beauty of Japanese architecture. Best Time : March-May

41. South Africa - Where Natural Beauty Abounds

South Africa is a country that is as well known for its wildlife and safaris as it is for its beaches and Winelands. It has been given the name of 'Rainbow Country', as it is very culturally diverse. South Africa has a lot of big, popular cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg, which in turn have a lot to offer to tourists. It shares its northern borders with countries like Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The country has also been listed as one of the most megadiverse nations in the world, regarding its biodiversity. Best Time : May - September

42. Czech Republic - The Land of Art, Music and Beer

The Czech Republic is a small country with a big package, offering something for its every visitor. Evolved as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, this country exhibits its enriched culture through its magnificent castles, museums, cathedrals, medieval towns and lying at its heart, the culture-crammed capital city, Prague. Often tagged as 'city of a thousand spires', Prague is adorned with incredible architecture, rustic cobblestone streets, noteworthy churches and medieval bridges. The city is also a haunt for night birds, offering fine dining, old breweries, zesty jazz clubs and buzzing markets. Best Time : May - October

43. Bahrain - Concoction of liberalism, diversity and prosperity

Known For : Arad Fort Reef Island Al-Khamis Mosque

The Kingdom of Bahrain is a Middle-Eastern island nation, an archipelago of thirty-three islands bordering Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This desert island is a diverse society that brings immigrants from all the other six continents to live together harmoniously, boasting of a high standard of living and development, with sky-kissing million dollar buildings as well as two artificial islands. It is known for its petroleum reserves, offshore banking and tourism. Bahrain's biggest yearly event - Bahrain Grand Prix F1 race is held in the month of April each year. Best Time : February to April and October to December

Best Time: December to March

25 Bahrain Attractions

44. Brazil - Living the Carnival life

Brazil, the largest country in Latin America and the fifth largest country in the world is a land of great diversity, be it in culture, geography or ecosystems. From the wilderness of the great Amazon rainforests and sun-kissed tropical beaches to the Grand Carnival celebration in Rio, the country has it all. Visit the colonial-era towns in the state of Minas Gerais, blend in the culture of Bahia or visit the futuristic capital city of Brasilia. The plethora of options available in the country actually encapsulates the visitors in their charm. Best Time : November-March; June-September

45. Israel - Where the History Comes Alive

Israel is considered a Holy nation bordered by Jordan, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. It is also home to Jerusalem ( the birthplace of Lord Jesus). It has a vibrant history and culture. It has ties to diversified religions, and this makes it an interesting place to visit for travellers. It is also a highly modernised country, and the regions are divided into cities which are further sub-divided into towns.  Best Time : December - April

46. Belgium - French and German Cultures Amalgamated

Chocolates, beer, laces and porcelain are what you think of when you hear Belgium. All of this holds true, but there is a lot more to explore in this small country. Rich in art and culture, Belgium has a fine heritage with many monuments in various cities of the country. Being the centre of EU and NATO, the country holds a lot of prominence among other countries. From long beaches in the north to the highlands in the south, the country offers you everything. Best Time : Mid-April to Mid-October

47. Bahamas - An Ocean of Gorgeous Landscapes

Known For : Grand Bahamas Paradise Island Bimini Island

The Bahamas offers over 700 islands waiting for visitors to explore. It is considered to be one of the most popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. This Paradise of beaches is located 50 miles off the east coast of Florida and is heaven for beach lovers. The Bahamas provides the quintessential island experience, gorgeous beaches and numerous tours and activities. The breathtaking scenery and pleasant weather are one of the few reasons to plan a vacation to the Bahamas.  Best Time : December-February

Best Time: Anytime except the month of September

11 Bahamas Attractions

48. Kuwait - A Wonderful Mix of The Ancient & The Modern

Located at the top of the Persian Gulf, Kuwait is a country that has often been well-known for being rich in oil. Its neighbouring countries include Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq. Kuwait City is the capital of the country and is famous for its modern architecture. Kuwait includes modern-day skyscrapers as well as ancient, beautifully built mosques, so it truly is a mix of modernity and ancient times. Best Time : November - April

49. Spain - An explorer's paradise

With amazing beaches and super fun nightlife, Spain is considered to be one of the most exotic countries in Europe. It is not just known for its beaches, but also its snowy mountains and deserts. The country is historically rich with the third rank in the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. It is also famous for the numerous festivals taking place. Spain is also architecturally marvellous with Islamic, Catholic and Renaissance architectural designs. Best Time : Spring and Fall are the Best Seasons to Visit Spain

50. Canada - The Epitome of Ethnic Diversity

Canada is the second largest country in the world, and it continues to attract tourists with its diversity, hospitality and magnetic. beauty. Whether you are a daredevil or a nature lover, Canada has something for everyone. It is considered to be one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. Blessed with all of its natural attractions, it is the ideal place for fishing, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, etc. making it every adventurer's paradise.  Best Time : March-May and September - November

51. Lebanon

Lebanon lies in the Middle East and is a sovereign. It is often called the Lebanese Republic. It shares its borders with countries like Syria, Israel and Cyprus. Lebanon is actually supposed to be the smallest country in the entire continent of Asia. It has a wonderful coastline that you can never get tired of and even boasts of a popular city - fashionable Beirut. Lebanon is home to a cuisine that we have all sampled at some point, in several different versions - Lebanese cuisine.  Best Time : June - September

52. Ireland - The Mythical Island of Europe

Located in northwestern Europe, the island of Ireland is famous for its ancient rocks and great legends. Apart from the natural beauty of the beaches, lakes, mountains and limestone deserts, the country is also known for its numerous festivals. It is also known as the Emerald Isle as it is rich in poetry, prose, painting as well as tourist literature. With proper warmth and hospitality, Ireland is very popular among tourists. Best Time : Summer (June-September)

53. Hungary - A fusion of traditional and modern Europe

Currently among the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world, Hungary offers a unique amalgamation of traditional European culture and modern-day practices. Here, you can take a trip through quaint, rural villages and enjoy a thriving nightlife in Budapest, both within a distance of a few miles. With a capital city regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, Hungary is home to several World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Biosphere reserves and the second largest thermal lake in the world.  Best Time : April - September

54. Tanzania - The Canvas of Natural Beauty

Tanzania is one of the most ethnically, linguistically, and religiously diverse country in Africa. The people of Tanzania with their smiling faces and infectious spirits would give you a warm welcome. Tanzania continues to attract people with its beautiful ebony carvings and marvellous textiles. This country is the proud owner of Africa's tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro. Tanzania proudly flaunts its natural beauty whether it's the animals, the landscapes, the beaches or its coral reefs. Best Time : July-October, December-March

55. Portugal

With a rich culture, eccentric cities and an exquisite countryside, Portugal is among the best value destinations in Europe. The landscape is exceedingly diverse as one can see it changing as they travel from green mountains in the North to rocky cliffs and waterfalls in the Centre to the desert-like landscape in Alentejo and laidback beaches in Algarve. Surfing is another activity Portugal is sought after for. Portugal is the place to be if you desire the best of European landscapes and culture in one spot. Best Time : Summer (July-August)

56. Jamaica, Jamaica - The Land Rich in History and Natural Beauty

Known For : Waterfalls Seven Mile Beach Ras Natango Gallery and Garden

Jamaica, the fourth largest island country in the Caribbean Sea is a tropical wonderland. Its warm weather is one of its many qualities making it an ideal destination especially for those who want to escape the cold. Its sun-kissed beaches with their crystal clear waters and white sands attract many visitors. Adventure lovers swoon at the country's water sports. Snorkelling, scuba diving, and surfing are some of the actvities visitors ot for.  Best Time : Mid-December through April

Best Time: November to December

8 Jamaica Attractions

57. Poland - The Country With a Quiet Charm

Poland is a country in Eastern Europe, filled with big castles and ancient museums. It is a country that is rich in history and proud of it. Apart from the bustling cities like Warsaw and Krakow, Poland also offers unspoilt natural beauty in the forms of lakes, wooded areas, rivers and hills. It is as we mentioned, a historic destination on account of Poland being central to World War II. Memorials and synagogues abound in this country for a walk back in time.  Best Time : March to May and September to November

58. Mexico - Cradle of civilizations

Mexico is a land of great cultural, ethnic and geographical diversity. Be it hiking in the rugged desert landscaped in the North or basking in the lush green tropical settings, the country has it all. From the historic ruins of the Mayans and Aztec in Chichn Itz and Teotihuacn to the beautifully preserved colonial cities of Puebla and Campeche, the country never ceases to amaze its visitors which flock from all over the world. Best Time : November to March

59. Denmark - The Scandinavian gem

Danish pastry is synonymous with the country of Denmark. Other major attractions are fairy tales, football matches and the statue of the bronze mermaid sitting on a rock that looks over the city. With a long and interesting historical background, Denmark is rich in culture and heritage. Now, it is one of the most modern and developed nations in Europe and holds in store for you the best itineraries for travel lovers. Best Time : Mid-June to Mid-August

60. Brunei - A Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures

Known For : Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque Kampong Ayer

The Nation of Brunei, also known as Brunei Darussalam or the ‘Abode of Peace,’ is a small country located in Southeast Asia. Wedged in the island of Borneo next to the Malaysian state of Sarawak, this oil-rich country is also bordered by the South China Sea. With an interesting culture, spectacular architecture, and matchless biodiversity, Brunei is a bucket-list destination that can be visited on an impulse! Best Time:  January to May

Best Time: January to May

18 Brunei Attractions

61. Sweden - For the experimental traveller

Known for its breath-taking landscapes, exotic dishes and notoriously eccentric culture, Sweden is indeed amongst the most diverse countries on the planet. Offering a 360-degree experience that includes both thriving city life and an exotic ride through the countryside, the country is a delight for both mountain lovers and beach junkies. With a rich history, astounding architecture and the most incredible sights, Sweden is a traveller's paradise. Best Time :  June - Mid August

Peru is a counry in South America. More than anything else, it's known for its lush Amazon rainforests as well as the ancient city of Machu Pichu. The country offers a lot of trekking opportunities for adrenaline junkies or those who wish to revel in the beauty of nature. Peru is also known for its variety of festivals that are celebrated with a lot of pomp and joy and which can last for days. The population is culturally diverse, just like the landscapes. Best Time : June - September

63. Iceland

Amongst the most coveted travel destinations, Iceland is one of the most surreal and magnificent countries in the world. Located close to the Arctic Circle, it offers amazingly dramatic and breath-taking landscapes and exotic natural phenomena. Summer is the best time to visit, owing to the mild temperatures and a plethora of available activities from hiking fjords to playing golf at midnight. However, no time is a bad time to visit this spectacular snow-covered country. Best Time: September to March and June to August

64. Uruguay - An Oasis of Peace

Uruguay is a country located in South America surrounded by Argentina nad Brazil on sides. The country is rich in flora and fauna and you will get to see the most amazing beaches here. Over half of the country's population lives in the capital city Montevideo making it the most populated city in the country. The celebrations and festivals are considered to be the main attractions of Uruguay. From legalising the production and use of marijuana to being one of the most literate countries in the world, Uruguay offers you experiences of all kinds. Best Time : Spring( October-November)

65. Chile - The Land of the Poets

Chile is home to poets like Pablo Neruda and Isabella Allende. There are plenty of places to visit in Chile from the urban boulevards of Santiago, the Andean foothills and the Atacama Desert, the Pacific coastline and the National Parks, the guanaco and the glaciers. It is known to be the distinction of being the longest country in the world as also the narrowest - it is 4300 km long and just 175 km wide. Chile happens to have the world's largest swimming pool. Its Atacama desert is the driest place on earth. Chileans are friendly and hospitable. It is an ethnically diverse country which gives it vibrant culture and a multitude of flavours. Best Time : October-March

66. Timor-Leste

Known For : Dili Atauro islands Baucau

Timor Leste, also known as East Timor is a small country located northwest of Australia and east of Indonesia. A world in its own self, Timor Leste gives you the uninhibited version of things otherwise subverted in other locations. There is something so utterly challenging in its mountains and untouched reefs that pushes the visitor to explore more. AsiaÕs newest country offers some of the worldÕs last great off-the-beaten-track adventures. Best Time: April to July

Best Time: May to November

6 Timor Leste Attractions

67. South Korea - The land where Technology and Nature Goes Together.

Situated in South East Asia, South Korea is warm and welcoming with a rich heritage and culture. The capital city offers many other cultural and artistic attractions, such as the Museum of Art, the Seoul Fortress, and other old tombs. South Korea is not only rich in lakes, mountains, forests, and sanctuaries but also is the largest market for innovative cosmetics. Korea is also known for its excellence in cosmetic surgery. For shoppers, South Korea offers Korean antiques, artwork, traditional arts and crafts, clothing and accessories. Best Time : Spring (April - June)

68. British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

Known For : The Baths Rhone Marine Park (Salt Island) Fallen Jerusalem National Park

An overseas territory of Britain, British Virgin Islands is nothing but beautiful and an enchanting place to be. With still a major chunk of the islands untouched, this archipelago features all the gorgeous things from rolling green hills, verdant mountainous landscape, reef-lined sparkling beaches and popular shipwrecks. Best Time:  September to November

13 British Virgin Islan Attractions

Known For : La Citadelle Labadee Jacmel

Haiti is an exceptionally beautiful country located on the Hispaniola island in the Caribbean between the North Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean sea. A multitude of monuments, rugged mountain peaks, waterfalls, turquoise beaches and lush green vegetation dot the country's diverse landscape. Head to this fascinating country to discover its rich cultural heritage and be overwhelmed by the remarkable positive energy that runs within its residents. Best Time: November to March

Best Time: November to March

11 Haiti Attractions

70. Colombia - The Land Of Many Lives

Known as the Gateway to South America, Colombia is one of the most culturally and geographically diverse countries in the world. Blessed with a rich cultural heritage and a variegated mixture of flora and fauna, Colombia caters to all kinds of visitors. Visit the historical Bogota or treat yourself to the eternal spring of Medellin, immerse yourself in the exuberance of Cali or simply head for a trek in the Andes and the Amazon. Best Time : December - March

71. Argentina - Eclectic Argentia

Argentina, the second largest country in Latin America is blessed with vast and varied landscapes that range from rugged peaks of the Andes to the glaciers in Patagonia and grasslands of the Pampas, making it a scenic retreat for all kinds of travellers. Be it exploring the mesmerising beauty of its natural wonders, breathing in the air of Buenos Aires and dancing to the tunes of Tango or tasting some of the finest wines in Mendoza, Argentina is a country worth your admiration. Best Time : March-May for Buenos Aires, December - March for Patagonia

72. Taiwan - The Charming Land of History & Architecture

Taiwan is a little island that lies towards the east of China. To its northeast lies Japan and the Philippines are towards the south. Taiwan is very well-known for urban cities such as Taipei, its capital as well as hot springs resorts and beautiful Chinese temples. The nation also boasts of some beautiful landscapes. Cycling along the highway with the Pacific ocean on one side of you is just one of the ways in which you can bask in Taiwan's beauty. Best Time : April - May; October - December

73. Dominica- Land of Natural Treasures

Known For : Cabrits National Park Kalinago Barana Aute Trafalgar Falls

The raw and rugged beauty of nature will sway away your breath; such is the very essence of the Caribbean Island of Dominica. Brimming with all sorts of natural assets from thick forests and thick forests and looming volcanic peaks to snaking mountain streams and pristine lakes, this country is a dream for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Best Time: February to April

Best Time: February to May

9 Dominica Attractions

74. Zimbabwe - Your Dose of Adrenaline

Zimbabwe is the country of wonders. Known to be every adrenaline junkie's dreamland, this country has a lot to offer.Despite the struggles it has faced, Zimbabwe is still one of the most popular tourist locations in Africa. Zimbabwe proudly displays its rare blend of music, art, and dance. One cannot help being mesmerized by its beautiful landscapes, captivating art, and exotic wildlife. This majestic wonderland doesn't fail to give its visitors a thrill of a lifetime while making sure that the experience is worth every penny. Best Time : May-August

75. China - China: A Land of Mysteries and Beyond

China or officially known as the People’s Republic of China is a country nestled in Eastern Asia housing world’s largest and about one-fifth of the population. The country is one of the world’s four great ancient civilisations dazzling world with its deep-rooted culture, classic cuisine, kung fu, fine silk, pagodas, paintings, porcelains, Ming vases and tea. China never failed to amuse the people around the world with their key attractions including the Great Wall of China, Terracotta Warriors and the Forbidden City.  Best Time : March - April (Spring), September - October (Autumn)

76. Azerbaijan - The Land of Fire

Georgia is the most visited  country in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Georgia is a destination that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. The city's architecture reflects its complex past, with a mix of medieval, neoclassical, and Soviet-era structures. Ideal Duration : 7-10 days for exploring Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kazbegi; longer for exploring the wine region and mountains Best Time : May to September (Warmer months) Accommodation Cost (per night in USD) : Dorm bed: $10-20 Budget: $30-60 Mid-range: $80-120 Luxury: $150 and above Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD) : Budget: $10-20 Mid-range: $30-50 Visa Policy for Indians : eVisa available Visa Policy for Other Nationals : eVisa or Visa on Arrival for many countries Getting In : Tbilisi International Airport (TBS), Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) Getting Around : Marshrutkas (minibusses), trains, taxis, rental cars

77. Georgia - Caucasus Charms, Stories of History

5 Attractions

78. Armenia - A Journey into the Heart of the South Caucasus

Slovenia, a European gem nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, enchants with its natural splendor and picturesque towns. Ljubljana, the capital, exudes old-world charm alongside a vibrant arts scene.

79. Slovenia - Green Wonders, Alpine Delights

This post was published by Rohit Shroff

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20 countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations.

In this article, we shall discuss the 20 countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations. To skip our detailed analysis of the global tourism industry in 2024, go directly and  see 10 Countries That Have The Potential To Be Major Tourist Destinations . 

Global Tourism Industry Outlook: Key Trends

According to World Tourism Barometer by the WTO, international tourism ended 2023 by reaching 88% of pre-pandemic levels, with more than 1.3 billion people engaging in outbound travel. The release of remaining pent-up demand, enhanced air and rail connectivity, and a robust recovery of Asian markets and countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations is expected to catalyze a complete recovery by the end of 2024. According to a report by Deloitte, there are five major trends which are expected influence the travel industry in 2024, one of them being the meteoric rise of automated bookings. Although automated bookings are hardly a new phenomenon in travel, they are expected to skyrocket in 2024 and beyond, with the online booking market expected to reach $833 billion by the end of 2025 from $432 billion at the end of 2022. Closely related to this trend is an increased use of mobile phones, with the report citing that more than 70% of the global consumer base uses smartphones to make travel reservations. Furthermore, more than 72% of bookings take place within 48 hours of the first Google search. Thus, major players in the travel industry like Booking Holdings Inc. (

NASDAQ: BKNG ), Airbnb Inc. (

NASDAQ: ABNB ), and Expedia Inc. (

NASDAQ: EXPE ) are divesting greater investments in targeted advertisements to effectively engage with the consumer's attention. Furthermore, these companies realize the short window they have to efficiently retarget customers with appropriate display ads based on prior activity and engagement.

Thirdly, corporate travel is looking at a strong resurgence in 2024 and is expected to reach more than 95% of pre-pandemic levels by the second half of 2024, although gains are decelerating. With macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds disrupting operations in countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations, business leaders are relatively much more stringent with travel spending in 2024. Although they recognize the significance of trips in fostering client relationships and facilitating cross-vertical collaboration, costs still emerge as a significant concern. More than 86% of corporate travel managers cite airfare as one of the biggest factors affecting companies' lack of willingness to travel. Despite this, US corporate travel spending is still expected to cross pre-COVID levels by the end of 2025.

According to McKinsey , more than 71% of consumers expect travel companies to offer personalized solutions and interactions, with more than 76% of consumers reporting frustration when this demand is not met. Thus, in a bid to win over the market, companies are ensuring that their interactions with consumers are tailored to their unique needs and preferences. Furthermore, it is also essential that advertisements target consumers' prior interactions, making consumer data invaluable for companies. Lastly, skyrocketing interest rates and elevated costs in countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations have made it incredibly expensive to upgrade hotel and airline experiences. In a bid to navigate macroeconomic headwinds, companies are making continued investments in back-office technology and generative AI which may enhance operational efficiency and better align resources to demand.

As companies continue to capitalize on these trends, investor sentiment around major travel stocks continues to rise. One way to gauge increasing investor interest in the travel industry is by evaluating the performance of prominent travel-focused ETFs like Amplify Travel Tech ETF (NYSE:AWAY), which gives investors direct access to technology-focused equities within the global tourism industry. The ETF seeks investment results which mirror total return performance of the Prime Travel Technology Index NTR, and as of April 25, has more than 31 holdings including major players like Booking Holdings Inc. (

NASDAQ:BKNG), Airbnb Inc. (

NASDAQ:ABNB), and Expedia Inc. (

NASDAQ:EXPE). In the last one year, the fund is up by more than 19.12% as of April 25. Another major travel-focused ETF is the Harvest Travel & Leisure Index ETF (TSE:TRVL), which provides investors with exposure to the growth trends in the travel industry driven by structural, demographic forces in countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations . With more than 30 equities under management including prominent players like Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), Marriot International Inc. (

NASDAQ: MAR ), and Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (

NYSE: HLT ), the fund is up more than 6.93% year-to-date as of April 25.

Travel in the Metaverse: An Analysis

According to a report by McKinsey, the global travel industry is incredibly well-positioned for a virtual disruption. As the metaverse - a collective space wherein physical and virtual dimensions converge to generate a more immersive, interactive experience - becomes cheaper and faster to implement, if driven by proactive advertising and virtual events, could provide for a $20 billion opportunity by 2030, even in countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations . As innovative formats become more common, new economic models are coming to the foreground. The travel experience of the future is expected to neither be completely online nor be a solely physical experience. Instead, companies across the world like Booking Holdings Inc. (

NASDAQ:EXPE) are gearing for a more hybrid orientation, with virtual events, edutainment, and inspiration carefully balanced and integrated with physical destinations. One major way in which companies are dealing with this complexity is by implementing a traveler-first mentality. By empathizing with their target tourist, companies are able to better identify opportunities to integrate relevant virtual aspects.

During the pandemic, there was substantial global gravitation towards virtual concerts with significant surges in consumer demand, spending, and audience numbers. In 2020, the metaverse made up for a mere 0.1% of all live-music spending; by 2021, this figure has multiplied by ten-fold. According to the report, virtual events could make up for more than 20% of revenues by the end of the decade, owing largely to increased audience capacity at a fraction of the cost. With the metaverse expected to revolutionize multiple aspects of the global economy especially with regards to countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations , travel is no exception, with virtual events promising enormous potential for the industry as a whole. However, in the short-term, opportunities may be fairly limited for a select key touchpoints, namely travel inspiration, events, and edutainment. End-to-end travel experiences are still further down the road.

Our Methodology

To compile our list of the 20 countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations,  we decided to create Insider Monkey's Tourism Potential Index by considering a conference paper from the 28th World Business Congress at the University of Cyprus. The paper used the Delphi technique to run a predictive analysis of future tourism and hospitality scenarios in different states. The paper identified three primary metrics through which the tourism potential of a particular country can be gauged, namely infrastructure and development, cultural heritage and attractiveness, and security. We decided to integrate this study with another research by Bloom Consulting, which measures the nation brands of countries in order to predict the international perceptions and reputation countries may have over a specific time period. Hence, to create Insider Monkey's own tourism potential index, we decided to consider four primary metrics, namely infrastructure and development (25 points), cultural heritage and attractiveness (25 points), security (25 points), and international perception and reputation (25 points).

Firstly, we decided to use the index in our article on the 40 Least Visited Countries in the World  in order to shortlist 100 countries with low tourism numbers. In order to determine the tourism infrastructure in each country, we decided to use the index in our articles 30 Most Walkable Cities in the World and Top 20 Countries with the Best Roads in the World . In order to determine cultural heritage, we decided to use our article on the 35 Best Destinations in the World for Cultural Tourism . To determine security, we looked at the index in our article 30 Safest Countries in the World in 2024 . Finally, in order to determine international perception and reputation, we decided to use Bloom Consulting's predictive analysis of nation brand value in the coming years.

We created primary rankings for each metric by listing the top 50 countries in each of the four areas, namely infrastructure and development, cultural heritage and attractiveness, security, and international perception and reputation. As expected, there was significant overlap amongst all four primary lists. Then, we assigned points to each country based on their relative position in each primary list. For instance, if a country ranked number 1 on a list, it received 25 points. If it ranked second, it received 24.5 points, and so on. We then tabulated the total number of points scored by each country out of 100 to arrive at a cumulative score for each entry. We then ranked each entry based on these cumulative scores, from lowest to highest.

By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a similar consensus approach we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years ( see the details here ). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional looking for the best stocks to buy you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders.

20. Albania

Tourism Potential Score: 60.4

There are various reasons which suggest that Albania has the potential to become one of the top tourist destinations. The country is home to beautiful landscapes, as well as some cultural heritage spots that have been identified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

19. Romania

Tourism Potential Score: 63.6

While visiting Romania, one can engage in a wide range of outdoor activities at any time of the year, including hiking, dog-sledding, and biking. This increases its chance of becoming a major tourist destination in the future.

18. El Salvador

Tourism Potential Score: 69.2

Initially, El Salvador was not considered to be a safe country; however, over the years, the country has been making efforts to improve its safety situation. The country is known primarily for its beautiful coastline and plenty of volcanoes, and thus makes our list of countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations.

17. Mauritius

Tourism Potential Score: 60

Mauritius is considered to be an extremely safe country for tourists since the crime levels are low. It is known to be one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. The people of Mauritius are known to be extremely friendly and warm.

Tourism Potential Score: 61.4

In recent years, the tourism infrastructure has developed greatly in Kenya, which includes the development of hotels and adventure activities for tourists. The country is mainly known for its wilderness and national parks, and thus makes our list of countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations.

Tourism Potential Score: 71.8

Despite its history of political conflict, Iran has the potential to become a travel destination in the near future. The country is home to various ancient cities including Persepolis and Hamedan. Additionally, it also offers a multitude of activities to its visitors, like skiing and sunbathing.

14. Tanzania

Tourism Potential Score: 73.6

The National Tourism Policy in Tanzania aims to promote the livelihood of people by developing sustainable tourism practices and encouraging quality tourism. Additionally, the people of Tanzania are known to be extremely hospitable and warm.

Tourism Potential Score: 75

Even though Zambia is one of the most-visited countries, it has the potential to become a major tourist destination in the coming years. The country is primarily known for Victoria Falls and National Parks.

12. Botswana

Tourism Potential Score: 76.2

Botswana is known for its diverse and unique wildlife experience, which includes lions, elephants, cheetahs, and zebras. Botswana consistently makes efforts to protect its wildlife, which may attract many tourists in the coming years.

11. Namibia

Tourism Potential Score: 79.8

Namibia is one of the safest countries in Africa and is slowly working towards developing and expanding its tourist infrastructure including tour operators and hotels. The country is also home to extremely diverse landscapes, and hence makes our list of countries that have the potential to be major tourist destinations.

Click here to continue reading and see 10 Countries That Have The Potential To Be Major Tourist Destinations . 

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Disclosure: None. 20 Countries That Have The Potential To Be Major Tourist Destinations is originally published on Insider Monkey.

I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: From Nepal to Kosovo, here's how countries are celebrating Pride

• Main content

Money latest: Higher food prices and shortages warning - as new Brexit checks begin this week

Britons could face higher food prices as new post-Brexit border fees are introduced this week, industry figures have warned. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment or submit a consumer dispute or money problem in the box.

Monday 29 April 2024 07:29, UK

• Higher food prices and shortages warning - as new Brexit checks begin this week
• Council fences off wonky Waitrose billboard - not realising it was a marketing stunt
• Potato prices expected to rise further as 'spudflation' continues

Essential reads

• Money Problem : 'A company isn't abiding by written warranty for dodgy building work - what can I do?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches
• The world of dark tourism - what is it, is it ethical and where can you go?
• Calculate how much your take-home pay will change this month with national insurance reduction

Ask a question or make a comment

Every Monday we get an expert to answer your money problems or consumer disputes. Find out how to submit yours at the bottom of this post. Today's question is...

I had a company coat the exterior of my house with a rubberised paint product in November 2022. The original cost was £3,280 - though there was a discount. This came with a written 10-year warranty. The product started to fail after five months (peeling off). I first contacted them one year ago, on 3 April 2023, and the company keeps fobbing me off, blaming bad weather for not resolving issues. They don't come round when they say they will. What can I do? Robert Anderson, 77, Scotland

We asked consumer disputes expert Scott Dixon, from complaintsresolver.co.uk , to pick up this one...

This falls under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 which states that any faults found within the first six months are considered to have been there at the point of purchase (or in this case, application).

You are entitled to one free repair under S49 Consumer Rights Act 2015 which states that every contract to supply a service is to be treated as including a term that the trader must perform the service with reasonable care and skill.

Traders can only have one crack at the same fault - if that fails, you are entitled to a refund/replacement.

You have two options: make a warranty claim/pursue a remedy under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

How did you pay for it? If you paid (even just the deposit) by credit card, you can make a S75 claim against the credit card provider who is jointly liable under S75 Consumer Credit Act 1974.

If the trader is unwilling to remedy it, seek at least three quotes from other traders to price putting the job right. You can get another trader to remedy the job and invoice the original trader for the work. 

I know what you're thinking: what happens if they refuse to pay?

Options and next steps

If all else fails, you can take your case to the small claims court.

Before you file a claim, send screenshots to the company of the court papers setting your case out and demanding a refund within seven days. Tell the company that if they fail to do so, you will lodge a claim in the small claims court.

You will find details of this online here . It is a relatively easy, inexpensive route and is designed for disputes such as this. Court fees are based on the amount of money you want to claim.

This may resolve the dispute. If it does not, you can proceed and file the small claim papers online.

Another option is to file for their bankruptcy as a creditor, which is free. It effectively freezes their bank accounts and credit lines and locks their business down until it is resolved. You can find an SD1 form to do this here . 

I have done this before and it works like a charm. You need to send any documents by recorded delivery. This is a last resort if you cannot resolve your dispute.

I would also report this firm to Trading Standards. Ensure that you point out that they are deliberately selling products and carrying out defective work without due care and skill, which is fraudulent and illegal. You have proof of this so make sure you provide it.

Finally, leave reviews online too.

Money team note : We got in touch with the company involved, who said they had agreed to recoat the building at no cost but that dry days were needed before and after to fit the product in line with the manufacturer's guidelines. They said they had contacted Mr Anderson last week. We decided not to name the company as it is a small business - but we'll follow up this case in summer.

This feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about. Submit your dilemma or consumer dispute, leaving your name and contact details (without these we may not be able to feature your question) in the form above, by emailing [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog". Alternatively, WhatsApp us  here .

Britons could face higher food prices, and even empty supermarket shelves, as new post-Brexit border fees are introduced this week, industry figures have warned.

A maximum charge of £145 will apply on imports of plant and animal products, such as cheese and fish, entering the UK through the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel from Tuesday.

"The fundamental change is huge to the nation's food supply," Nigel Jenney, chief executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC), told the Money blog when we first covered this story in January.

"I would certainly expect to see price rises because these costs simply couldn't be absorbed by the industry."

James Barnes, chairman of the Horticultural Trades Association, said this month that the policy "feels like it is constructed on the back of an envelope at best" and that the charges would "undoubtedly increase costs" and increase the likelihood of empty shelves in supermarkets.

He said as well as higher prices and a more limited variety of products available in UK shops and restaurants, "we now might begin to observe a decline of EU businesses trading into the UK, simply because they have been priced out".

The new rules explained

The new rules, known as the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM), are intended to protect biosecurity by imposing controls on plant and animal products considered a "medium" risk. These include five categories of cut flowers, cheese and other dairy produce, chilled and frozen meat, and fish.

From 31 January, each shipment had to be accompanied by a health certificate, provided by a local vet in the case of animal produce, and, from Tuesday, shipments will be subject to physical checks at the British border.

There is also the prospect of delays caused by inspections of faulty paperwork, which could derail supply chains that rely entirely on fast turnaround of goods.

The policy has been delayed multiple times and earlier this month the Financial Times reported that the government would not "turn on" the checks this week because border systems were not fully ready. The government said this was not true - but indicated they would initially focus on higher-risk products.

The fee will be charged per type of product imported, and will vary from £10 to £29 depending on the risk products present. It will be capped at £145 for mixed consignments.

A government spokesperson said this was "within and at the bottom end of the range which we consulted with industry on".

They added: "The charge is designed to recover the costs of operating our world-class border facilities where essential biosecurity checks will protect our food supply, farmers and environment against costly disease outbreaks entering the UK through the short straits."

The fees will not apply to goods brought into the UK for personal use, the government said.

EU business 'could stop trading with UK'

Marc Forgione, director general of the Institute of Export and International Trade (IEIT), said there was another risk beyond price rises and potential shrinkflation.

He told the Money blog earlier this year: "There is also a concern that has been raised with me by some UK-based businesses that their suppliers in the EU will frankly take a view that it's too complicated to deal with these changes and withdraw from the market."

Mr Forgione said that over time the UK will have "the most efficient border in the world", due to digitisation and the BTOM's assessment of goods based on risk, but it will create friction for EU businesses where there was none.

What has the government said?

A spokesperson told us when we first covered this story in January: "We remain committed to delivering the most advanced border in the world.

"The changes we're bringing in will help keep the UK safe, while protecting our food supply chains and our agricultural sector from disease outbreaks that would cause significant economic harm."

A Waitrose billboard that appeared to be sitting askew was fenced off by a London council over safety fears. 

But it turned out there was no need - as the supermarket had intentionally made the billboard wonky in a nod to its falling prices.

"Thanks for the swift action but while our prices are falling rapidly, our billboard certainly isn't! #noneedforbollards," the retailer wrote in a tongue-in-cheek post on X. 

The billboard had been put up on Lindore Road, in Wandsworth, southwest London.

Wandsworth Council later confirmed to The Guardian that the barriers had been removed.

It said it was "alerted to this unusual advert by a concerned member of the public" and decided it "better not take any chances with public safety so put up some barriers to be on the safe side". 

Leading potato grower Albert Bartlett has warned of rising potato prices and a lack of supply.

Many potato varieties will likely face shortages in the coming months and the nation will see "spudflation" take hold, it said. 

Potato growers have been warning of a major shortage in the autumn due to persistent wet weather this spring. 

They have been dealing with the wettest 18 months since 1836 - and there is no end in sight at present. 

Last year also saw a poor harvest due to the wet autumn, which made it difficult for machinery to access potato drills. 

Planting of this year's crop has been delayed across much of northern Europe due to the bad weather. 

In March, it was reported that Asda, Morrisons, Tesco and Sainsbury's could suffer from potato shortages caused by the poor harvests. 

You can read more here on how potato prices have soared.

We're back for another week of consumer news, personal finance tips and all the latest on the economy.

This is how the week in the Money blog is shaping up...

Today : Every week we ask industry experts to answer your Money Problems . Today, a Money blog reader is in a dispute with a building firm seemingly refusing the abide by a 10-year warranty.

Tuesday : This week's  Basically...  explains everything you need to know about swap rates - which impact mortgage deals. 

Wednesday : We speak to one of the most renowned chefs in the country and get his Cheap Eats in Norfolk.

Thursday :  Savings Champion  founder Anna Bowes will be back examining the pros and cons of another type of savings account, and the best rates available.

Friday : Sunna Van Kampen will take us down another supermarket aisle to help us shop healthier for less - and we're launching a brand new mortgage market feature.

Running every weekday, Money features a morning markets round-up from the  Sky News business team  and regular updates and analysis from our business, City and economic correspondents, editors and presenters -  Ed Conway ,  Mark Kleinman ,  Ian King ,  Paul Kelso  and  Adele Robinson .

You'll also be able to stream  Business Live with Ian King  weekdays at 11.30am and 4.30pm.

Bookmark  news.sky.com/money  and check back from 8am, and through the day, each weekday.

The Money team is Emily Mee, Bhvishya Patel, Jess Sharp, Katie Williams, Brad Young and Ollie Cooper, with sub-editing by Isobel Souster. The blog is edited by Jimmy Rice.

By Jess Sharp , Money team

My journey into the world of manifestation (the belief that you can attract success in your life through positive affirmations and visualisation) has taken me places I never thought I'd go.

Like woods in Edenbridge, where I stood meditating under a tree in the pouring rain. I don't yet know where my journey will end (I've been hoping for an engagement ring but my boyfriend hasn't yet seen my visualisations), but it started with a conversation with Jamie Greenlaw-Meek, one of many people who say manifestation has transformed their lives.

"About a year ago, there was something happening and I thought we just need two grand to cover the expense," Jamie, a former dancer from London, told me. "The following day £2,000 landed in my account."

It sounded like a coincidence to me, too.

But Jamie was adamant. His husband calls him "the master manifester" because of his "ability to bring in money".

"It's happened on so many occasions, like four, five times," he said. "I've become very clear on what I want and the amount of money I need and literally it can be within 24 hours that I get a phone call for a job and it's almost identical to what I asked for money-wise."

When I asked the now-psychic where the £2,000 actually came from, he said it was payment for a modelling job he had been offered.

"With manifesting you don't get caught up in the how, and often it comes in ways that you don't expect," he added, explaining it could come as the result of a claim after being in a car crash.

"It's not always coming in the way that you think but money is out there for us to take in the world. It's just having the confidence to receive it and we are worthy of it."

"Even if it is a placebo effect, does it matter?" he said.

The 43-year-old also believes he manifested his husband Fiongal after being diagnosed with cancer. While going through treatment and dating "a lot" of people, he decided to take matters into his own hands, or rather his own head, and started visualising his perfect partner.

"I decided to spend a good couple of weeks getting really, really, super clear in my mind what this person looked like. Then I started creating lists asking about personality traits, and all the things that I wanted that person to be," the former dancer said.

"The day I got the all clear from cancer I randomly met my husband and when I look at the list of the things I asked for, he pretty much ticks every single box. I really, really believe that is because I got super clear on what I wanted and I put that out to the universe to bring to me."

Jim Carrey and manifestation

If you think this is a new practice, it isn't. Jim Carrey was doing it back in the 90s. He famously wrote himself a $10m cheque for "acting services rendered" and dated it years in advance. Then in 1995, he was told he was going to make the exact amount for filming Dumb and Dumber.

The idea shot up in popularity again in 2006 after Rhonda Byrne published her self-help book The Secret.

Since then, it has hit every inch of the internet and has resurfaced on TikTok with videos posted under #manifesting accumulating a huge 13 billion views.

I tried to learn manifesting - I felt like an idiot

After hearing Jamie's story and seeing the idea was popular with so many people, I thought it best to try to learn manifestation myself. I mean, who wouldn't want money landing in their account and a work promotion from the universe?

As I stood in the woods, in the pouring rain, being told to imagine roots growing from the soles of my feet, I felt like an idiot.

I was soaking wet (of course I had forgotten a coat with a hood) and while my mind kept wandering through thoughts about being cold, if I'd hit traffic on the way home and how dirty my white trainers were getting, a gentle, soothing voice kept bringing me back to what I was supposed to be thinking about.

"How we are all connected, how the trees and plants produce oxygen that we breathe, and we breathe out carbon dioxide which they need to survive."

While some people focus their manifestation practices on being grateful to the universe, Tansy Jane Dowman believes we need to get "out of our heads, into our bodies", connect with nature and find our true selves before we can practice it successfully.

My meditation in the woods was just one part of a six-hour workshop run by Tansy, which aimed to send me off with a clearer vision of what I truly desired.

Tansy charges anywhere from £25 to £580 for her courses, which range from one-on-one sessions and an online six-week programme, to forest bathing workshops and weekend-long nature retreats.

But some courses have popped up online which cost more than £1,000.

Tansy started practising manifestation in 2018 after going through a difficult period in her life. She eventually quit her job in events management and started teaching others how to do it successfully.

"The way I manifest is not to focus on material wealth or gain. I would ask my clients what an abundant life means to them in terms of feelings, experiences, connections, people and places," she explained.

"The more authentic you are, the more of a beacon you become for those things to find you."

After spending time walking in the rain and meditating under a tree, Tansy and I sat in her dining room and explored some of the happiest moments in my life and the feelings I experienced. It became clear I like feeling accomplished, needed and excited.

We also spoke about challenging times, but the conversation focused on the positives, like how I had overcome them and what I had learned.

"It's so important to bring in your values with manifestation because sometimes we can get really confused with what we want, with social media especially," she told me.

Throughout her house, Tansy has a number of "abundance boards" proudly on display - some she has made with her children, others are from her annual January tradition of setting out her desires for the year.

"I've had some really wonderful goosebump things happen to me. I did a board at the beginning of 2020... I put a picture of a microphone on it. I just thought I really like that image and I didn't immediately place any meaning onto it," she said.

"Then as the world was shutting down for lockdown, I did a press event and I met a lady who worked for Wellbeing Radio and she wondered if I would be interested in trying out as a presenter."

She explained that some people will be very specific with their desires, like selecting a photo of the exact car they want, or the perfect house, but that isn't how manifestation works. There needs to be an element of trust in the universe giving them what they attract.

As we created my abundance board, which Tansy describes as being like a "personal algorithm", she told me to select images and words from heaps of magazines that called to me intuitively.

As you can see from the picture below, mine calls for being "financially fabulous", travelling, getting engaged (coughs loudly in earshot of boyfriend) and living stress-free.

And while I'd love a big cash injection, Tansy explained to me that money is "only a stepping stone to a feeling" and, ultimately, I'm aiming to create an emotion with it.

Manifesters more likely to go bankrupt

While all the manifestation believers I spoke to said there was no downside to the practice, a researcher has been looking into whether it really does pay off.

Based in Australia, Dr Lucas Dixon (who specialises in consumer psychology) created a scale from one to seven to rank a person's strength of belief and found those who practice it are more likely to have been victims of fraud and declared bankruptcy.

He said there was a "danger" that manifesting could become harmful if taken to an extreme level.

He found those who believe in manifesting tend to think more positively and have a confident attitude when it comes to success, and while that can be helpful in business, it can also cause them to take unnecessary risks.

"They weren't more objectively successful in terms of having higher income or higher education attainment," he said.

"We also found that they are more likely to believe in get-rich-quick schemes, more likely to take higher risks... to have risky financial investments and more likely to have investments in cryptocurrency rather than traditional stock."

Using the scale he created, Dr Dixon found those who have "very strong beliefs", ranking at a seven, were 40% more likely to have gone bankrupt.

"The danger comes in a couple of different forms," he said, explaining that a "worst case scenario" could see people getting into financial difficulty by being encouraged to "just look at the positives".

"Someone might say it's not harmful because it is really just thinking positively but I think even that can be harmful because of what you might call an opportunity cost," he said.

"You're spending time, energy and money doing something that doesn't have a lot of evidence behind it. We found it does make you feel good but you don't need to pay thousands to do it."

Okay, so back to me...

I did my manifestation course about two months ago, and I have done as I was instructed - my abundance board is up in sight inside the flat, and I often have a cup of coffee in front of it.

But, so far I'm still using a credit card, the most travelling I've done has been to work and back and there is still no rock on my finger. I have been given an annual pay rise, though, and would say I am less stressed.

Perhaps believing that I'm just doing my best and there's a chance that I'll be rewarded for that one day, eventually, in the future, maybe, is making me feel better... who knows?

Each week, Money blog readers share their thoughts on the subjects we've been covering, and over the last seven days your correspondence has been dominated by these topics...

• Iceland's new slogan
• Rising mortgage rates
• Giving kids cash for grades

Iceland's new catchphrase

We learnt on Monday that Iceland had dropped its tagline "That's why mums go to Iceland", replacing it with "That's why we go to Iceland".

The move was made to reflect the store is for everybody, said brand ambassador Josie Gibson. Readers were split - with some feeling so strongly that they're prepared, they suggest, to sacrifice those frozen Greggs steak bakes forever...

I previously contacted Iceland about their slogan because I didn't think it did single dads justice, as dads can go to Iceland too. Their response was that people understood that it's not just mums that go to Iceland. It's about time they changed the message. Dave T  

Neither I, my wife or my children will shop in Iceland again due to this stupidness and woke attitude. To hell with you [Iceland boss] Richard Walker. John  

Banks hike mortgage rates

This week we reported that high street lenders such as Halifax, TSB, NatWest, Barclays, Leeds Building Society, HSBC and Coventry had all hiked mortgage rates. 

You said...

With house prices at already extortionate levels, now mortgage rates rising again, is there any hope for first-time buyers? Honestly, the situation is so bleak, people may need to consider other countries. GenZ 

Why would this happen? So many young couples struggling to get on the property ladder. I live in Dorset - a one-bedroom flat costs from £230,000. In Scotland, one can get a beautiful two-bed house for that price. Feel sorry for all couples living down in the South. Need huge deposits. Barbs

Why are they called high-street banks? Most banks in my town have closed. Martin J

Parents offering cash for good grades

A lot of views came in after our feature exploring the positives and negatives of parents incentivising good school grades with cash...

We had scores of comments on this - with a fairly even split...

We did it for our son at GCSE time. We think it made a difference of about a grade on most subjects. Got a two-grade lift on maths. Cost us £350. Thought it was good value as it has taught him how things work in the world. Andy

The whole world is built on a reward system which symbolises access to money commensurate with effort and excellence. The Nobel prize goes with a cash reward! Tom Deggs

Employees are offered incentives for achieving targets, so why not offer kids incentives for better grades? Claire228 

But others had concerns...

I think it puts too much pressure on kids who are under enough pressure at exam time. Parents should encourage their kids to do the best they can, not add to their stress levels. Emma

Children should value their education without it being monetised. My parents expected my brother and I to have the motivation, maturity and self-discipline to work hard for our GCSEs. We both achieved all As and A*s. Eliza 

When I was at school, from 1964-83, my parents never gave me money for good exam results, because "I should want to do well for myself". No matter what my grades were, they said that they would be proud of me if I had tried my best. Cash kills self-motivation. Nicola B 

National insurance was cut this month, for the second time this year, from 10% to 8% on employee earnings between £12,570 and £50,270.

The change, announced by the chancellor in his March budget, impacts around 27 million payroll employees across the UK - starting this pay day.

The cut is worth almost £250 to someone earning £25,000 a year and almost £750 for those earning £50,000.

Use our tool below for a rough guide to what tax changes can be expected for most people, as there are other variables not included which might affect how much tax you pay including being in receipt of the blind person's allowance or the marriage allowance. It also assumes you are not self-employed and are under pension age...

There are also national insurance cuts for the self-employed. This includes the scrapping of Class 2 contributions, as well as a reduction of the rate of Class 4 contributions from 9% to 6% for the £12,570 to £50,270 earnings bracket.

These will impact nearly two million self-employed people, according to the Treasury.

While many campaigners welcomed the national insurance announcement last month, they pointed out that the tax burden remains at record high levels for Britons - thanks in part to the threshold at which people start paying income tax being frozen, rather than rising with inflation.

The money story of the week has been mortgage rates - with a host of major lenders announcing hikes amid fears the Bank of England may delay interest rate cuts.

Swap rates - which dictate how much it costs to lend money - have risen on the back of higher than expected US inflation data, and concerns this could delay interest rate cuts there. 

US trends often materialise elsewhere - though many economists are still expecting a base rate cut from 5.25% to 5% in the UK in June.

The reliable Bloomberg reported this week: "Still, while some economists have since scaled back their predictions for BOE cuts, most haven't changed expectations for a summer move.

"Analysts at Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs Group, Capital Economics and Bloomberg Economics are all among those still anticipating a shift toward easing in June."

The publication also quoted Sanjay Raja, chief UK economist at Deutsche Bank, as saying: "Markets have superimposed the US cycle on the UK, but the US and UK are on very different tracks.

"The UK is coming out of technical recession. Inflation is falling more convincingly. Pay settlements are following inflation expectations. And crucially, real policy rates in the UK will be higher than in the US."

None of this reassurance changes the fact that financial markets, which dictate swap rates, are pricing in delays.

This week's hikes came from Halifax, BM Solutions, TSB, NatWest, Virgin, Barclays, Accord, Leeds Building Society, HSBC and Coventry.

This is what average mortgage rates looked like as of Thursday...

The next Bank of England decision on rates comes on 9 May - and pretty much no one is expecting a cut from the 16-year high of 5.25% at that stage.

The Money blog is your place for consumer news, economic analysis and everything you need to know about the cost of living - bookmark news.sky.com/money.

It runs with live updates every weekday - while on Saturdays we scale back and offer you a selection of weekend reads.

Check them out this morning and we'll be back on Monday with rolling news and features.

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