forbes 30 best bucket list trips

27 Top-Rated Bucket List Destinations

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

What's on your bucket list? You know, that record you keep of all the places you have to see before you die? Or maybe it's a list of the spots you need to visit in the next few years.

Whatever your time span, heading on a bucket list trip is even more thrilling than taking a regular vacation. At the end of your holiday, you can cross that location off your "must-sees" and add a new one to the mix.

Whether you're hoping to go on safari in Africa , visit one of the world's greatest natural wonders (i.e. The Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Canyon, or Niagara Falls), or tour a historic city like Rome or Paris, the world is your proverbial oyster — all you need to do is open it and explore.

Can't decide where to head next? Plan your sightseeing with our list of the best bucket list destinations in the world.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

2. the maldives, 3. africa on a safari, 4. the taj mahal, agra, india, 5. paris, france, 6. the amazon rainforest, brazil, 7. santorini, greece, 8. bali, indonesia, 9. bora bora, french polynesia, 10. the pyramids of giza, egypt, 11. the great wall of china, china, 12. dubai, united arab emirates, 13. iceland to see the northern lights, 14. new york city, usa, 15. venice, italy, 16. angkor wat, cambodia, 17. niagara falls, canada, 18. grand canyon, usa, 19. australia to snorkel the great barrier reef, 20. tokyo, japan, 21. tahiti, french polynesia, 22. iguazú falls, argentina, 23. rome, italy, 24. the dalmatian coast, croatia, 25. cinque terre, italy, 26. galápagos islands, ecuador, 27. new orleans, usa, map of bucket list destinations.

It's hard to see a picture of Machu Picchu without wanting to jump right in. The vibrant green grass, majestic craggy peaks, and remarkable stone ruins are breathtakingly beautiful. No wonder this magical spot has been dubbed one of the top places to visit in the world .

This archeological masterpiece was once an Inca City (in the 15 th and 16 th centuries). Today, it's one of the most phenomenal of all the UNESCO World Heritage Sites , and one that millions have placed at the top of their bucket lists for good reason.

Not surprisingly, Machu Picchu is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Peru . To get here, you'll have to plan your visit well. Entry is only permitted twice a day (in the morning or afternoon), and you'll have to either hike along the famed Inca Trail or take a bus from the nearby town of Aguas Calientes for access.

Most visitors stay in historic Cusco , the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, for easier access to the site. The swanky, five-star Palacio Nazarenas, a Belmond Hotel is your best bet for a luxurious stay in Cusco.

It's easy to picture Nirvana when you're staring at an unblemished Maldivian shore. Topping the list of the most beautiful islands in the world , this lush wonderland is literally the stuff of dreams and one of the most bucket-list-worthy destinations.

A romantic archipelago (it's made up of over 1,000 islands), the Maldives are set just off the coast of Sri Lanka . The area features the most crystalline turquoise water gently lapping sugar-white sandy beaches. Below the waves, you'll find fish of all shapes and colors darting about, while on shore, tall, waving palm trees sway in the warm breeze.

Add a few luxurious overwater bungalows to this scene, and you've found a version of paradise even the greatest writers couldn't make better. You'll also understand why it's been deemed one of the best honeymoon destinations , especially if you're traveling in January. Tons of Hollywood A-listers and others with deep pockets flock to this exotic locale to ring in the New Year.

Families are more than welcome to visit the Maldives, and large luxury bungalows make it easy to house your entire crew, but if you're looking for a romantic getaway for couples, this serene spot should top your list!

Who hasn't added an African safari to the top of their bucket list vacations? Guaranteed to be a trip of a lifetime, it's no wonder so many people crave this incredible experience. A safari is thrilling, awe-inspiring, and picturesque, especially when conducted in one of the world's most phenomenal landscapes.

Whether you're hoping to catch sight of the "Big Five" (lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos) in Kenya, bounce along in a jeep through Kruger National Park , or soar through the air in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park , an African safari won't disappoint.

With so many fantastic game reserves (including many in Namibia, South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania), you'll have plenty of places to choose from when booking your trip.

Not a fan of sleeping rough? Ramp up the luxury at one of these stellar safari lodges in South Africa .

Craving a more intimate and unique animal encounter? Head to one of the best places to visit in Tanzania (on Mafia Island , to be exact) to swim with whale sharks (from January through March, or October through December).

The Taj Mahal was built in the mid-1600s by Shah Jahan in memorial to his third wife — it's said she made him a deathbed promise to build her the most beautiful of structures. He definitely fulfilled his duty! Well, over 20,000 workmen finished this duty for him, and it took them over 17 years to complete this top bucket list destination.

Today, this magical marble mausoleum is one of the most recognizable (and captivating) buildings on the planet. The Taj Mahal is also one of the most famous sites in all of India . Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, this ornate masterpiece lies amid almost 17 hectares of an immensely gorgeous Mughal garden, on the banks of the sparkling Yamuna River .

Not surprisingly, it's been deemed one of the New Seven Wonders of the World .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Agra

Europe's most revered city of love, Paris has so much more to offer than its iconic Eiffel Tower . You'll find some of the world's best stores selling clothes so fashionable they haven't yet hit the North American market. The restaurants serve food so divine, you'll crave seconds (and sometimes thirds).

Famous Paris attractions like the Arc de Triomphe and Panthéon beckon photographers, while museums such as the Museée du Louvre and Musée d'Orsay beg history buffs to while away hours within their lavish halls.

Hold hands while wandering the banks of the Seine , enjoy a café al fresco on the Champs-'Elysée , and take a few moments to reflect while traipsing within the hallowed walls of the Cathédral Notre-Dame . You certainly won't be bored while sightseeing on this bucket list vacation.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris

All becomes right with the world when you putter down the mystical Amazon River in Brazil. Beside you towers the incredible Amazon Rainforest, chock full of wildlife so beautiful, it will take your breath away.

A chorus of birdsong guides you along, while monkeys swing from nearby vines and sloths slowly climb their way to a better view. Snakes, turtles, and jaguars are also set to make an appearance, if you're patient enough to spot them.

To experience the Amazon's splendor first-hand, you'll need to board a boat from Manaus to the Encontro das Aguas (the point at which the Rio Solimões meets the Rio Negro). From here, you can join a boat tour through the heart of the rainforest.

It's hard not to feel nature's pulse here, providing life to the planet through its essential ecosystem. Known as the "planet's lungs," the Amazon rainforest is responsible for 20 percent of the world's oxygen.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brazil

You'll be hard-pressed to enjoy a more romantic sunset experience than that found in Santorini . Whether you visit the picturesque capital of Firá or watch the sun descend over the sparkling water in front of beautiful Oia , stepping foot on Santorini is akin to walking into a postcard. This is an ideal honeymoon or bucket list destination for couples.

The iconic pearly white, blue-domed buildings are made even lovelier by colorful blooms. It's as if an artist was set loose upon each home with only the most tasteful of colors. A bright teal door here and a vibrant yellow wall or red gate there add just the right pop to a perfect natural backdrop.

Set upon jagged cliffs jutting out from the most turquoise of seas, Santorini's towns are flanked by narrow, winding streets and terraced homes that butt into each other at all angles. Walking through the area, you may find yourself unwittingly tramping upon someone's roof.

• Read More: Best Beaches in Santorini

A tropical paradise tops our list of the best bucket list vacation spots. Indonesia's most romantic destination, Bali is a wonderland bursting with natural gems so beautiful, they'll leave you breathless, and people so friendly, you'll want to invite them home.

While Bali likely conjures images of soft, white sand gracefully meeting the watery embrace of turquoise waves, this isle has much more to offer than its spectacular beaches . That's not to say you'll want to skip the beach — you won't! Trust us, they're phenomenal.

Bali's heart, though, can be found farther inland, in its verdant rice paddies, craggy volcanoes, and lush tropical jungles. Tigers, orangutans, elephants, and Komodo dragons roam these less populated areas.

Ancient temples and a monkey forest grace the village of Ubud , while resort towns like Seminyak and Nusa Dua will round out that beach holiday you were expecting. They contain luxury resorts and hotels that are perfect for families and couples, as well as shops and restaurants.

Luckily, the island is small enough that you can see most of its towns and popular tourist attractions in one trip.

One of the top bucket list travel destinations in the world, Bora Bora sets the bar high for an ideal beach vacation. A utopia set in the heart of French Polynesia, this fabulous archipelago is all turquoise waters; soft white sand; and lush, volcanic peaks. It's going to be almost impossible to beat the islands' spectacular beauty.

It's easy to see why Bora Bora has become a popular honeymoon destination. With lagoons to explore, coral reefs to snorkel, and rainforests to hike, there's no shortage of romantic and exciting things to do in this tropical wonderland. Plus, some of the world's best beaches are found on these idyllic shores.

Peppered with high-end resorts featuring private huts standing on stilts above the water, visitors are rewarded with an unforgettable and utterly relaxing vacation. If you're hoping for sunny skies, low humidity, and fun festivals, the best time to visit Bora Bora is during summer (June through August).

Read More: Most Beautiful Islands in the South Pacific

Cairo plays host to one of the world's most recognizable World Heritage Sites, the iconic Pyramids of Giza . While the most famous of these incredible structures include the Sphinx , Pyramid of Khafre , Pyramid of Menkaure , and the Great Pyramid of Khufu , the site is peppered with other archeological masterpieces you won't want to miss.

The farther you wander through this top bucket list destination, the more interesting things you'll find at what is now the sole example of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World . These unique marvels include tombs, mini pyramids, and The Solar Boat museum , which boasts a remarkably preserved ceremonial solar barque.

Those who favor adventure (and don't suffer from claustrophobia) will enjoy an intimate journey into the bowels of the Great Pyramid of Khufu. Since this is one of the best tourist attractions in Egypt , expect to share the site with hoards of travelers if you're traveling during peak season (December through February).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Things to Do in Cairo

The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and China's most popular tourist attraction . It winds its way through 15 provinces and boasts portions that date back over 2,000 years. Millions of tourists have added it to their bucket lists for centuries.

Walking the Wall's entirety would be a massive feat, as it stretches from the fortresses of Shanhaiguan in the east to the Jiayuguan Pass in Jiayguan in the west. It also includes towers to climb for fabulous views. We're talking months of exploring on foot for those who'd like to see the whole thing.

The best base for exploring the wall is the bustling city of Beijing . From here, visitors can join guided tours and ride a cable car. Day trips to the Badaling Pass section of the wall are also easy when launched from Beijing.

You will never explore a more opulent part of the desert than Dubai. A bucket list destination for those who love to shop, eat, and admire futuristic architecture, this one-of-a-kind Middle East haven is so unique, you'll have to see it to believe it.

Giant skyscrapers like the famed Burj Khalifa stretch to the clouds, shopping malls serve as entertainment destinations where you'll find everything from stores to restaurants to massive aquariums to indoor ski slopes. Here, you'll also find man-made islands featuring their own beaches and luxury resorts so swanky, you'll feel regal.

While you're here, be sure to make the most of the city's cultural highlights, like the historic Al Fahidi Quarter , the Jumeirah Mosque , and Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House .

Fancy a more authentic Middle Eastern shopping experience than the high-end stores found in Dubai Mall? Head to the Souks of Deira , situated on the north bank of Dubai Creek . Wind your way through the streets of the various markets selling wares ranging from fish to gold to spices.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

As one of the 7 natural wonders of the world , witnessing the aurora borealis is one of life's greatest pleasures. Whether you catch sight of a delicate green glow or are privy to vivacious crimson lines streaking across the horizon, this wonderful spectacle is breathtaking and unforgettable.

To see them, though, you'll need to be patient. The northern lights are as unpredictable as the weather, so you'll have to budget in a few days to make your viewing attempt.

Iceland is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the northern lights . While you can likely see them at any point of the year, the best time to see the most spectacular shows happen between mid-October and early April. At this time, the night skies are at their darkest, which presents a remarkable contrast.

Fairbanks , Tromsø , and Yellowknife are three other great places to catch Mother Nature's spectacular light show.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

New York is one of the most exciting bucket list places to visit. It's also one of the most popular.

With so many diverse and interesting attractions (i.e. The Empire State Building , Metropolitan Museum of Art , Central Park , and Guggenheim Museum ), it's no wonder people keep returning to this cosmopolitan mecca.

No matter your interests, be it eating, dancing, shopping, or theatergoing, Manhattan has something (or likely many "somethings") to whet your appetite. Want to visit an exhibit like one you've never seen? Taste samples at the Museum of Food and Drink , try your hand at espionage at Spyscape , or practice a bit of magic at the Houdini Museum.

Read More: Best Free Things to Do in New York City

There's something magical about Venice. Between the intricate canal system, beautiful stone bridges, and harmonious singing of the gondoliers, there's a unique vibe in this Italian city that can't be found elsewhere.

A boat ride along the aptly named Grand Canal rewards visitors with an intimate look at the highlights of Venetian architecture lining its banks — from historic churches to ornate palaces like the Doge's Palace (a.k.a. Palazzo Ducale), which you'll want to spend at least a couple of hours exploring.

Piazza San Marco is one of the main attractions in Venice and serves as a meeting place for locals, but mainly tourists. It's home to the famous and intricate St. Mark's Basilica , but it's so crowded (and filled with pigeons) that you won't get a true glimpse of the city's heart.

Perhaps the best way to tour Venice is by getting lost, which is easy to do. Only then will you stumble upon some of the local's favorite haunts, as well as the small, winding alleyways that present so much charm.

Bringing the family on your bucket list vacation? Great idea! Check out these top things to do in Venice with kids .

Read More: Top-Rated Beach Destinations in Italy

The remarkable Angkor Wat is so vast, you'll need more than one (or even several) visits to see it all. This massive Hindu temple is surrounded by a large moat, adding to its impressive stature. Built in the 12 th century by the Khmers, this World Heritage Site serves as the veritable heart of Cambodia .

It's also the largest religious structure in the world and one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia . Set upon over 400 acres of land within a jungle, the temple was dedicated to the gods Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu. Angkor Wat's main towers were created to symbolize the peaks of Mount Meru (a place Hindus believe to be home to the gods).

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is between December and February, when the temperature is comfortably in the 20s Celsius. Be warned, though, this is also the most popular time for tourists, so you'll have to elbow your way through the crowds.

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

One of the Natural Wonders of the World (it's often referred to as the "New 8 th Wonder of the World), Niagara Falls is impressive even if you aren't a fan of waterfalls. Over 3,100 tons of water crash over the falls every second, creating a mist that covers visitors who board the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Cruise to get a closer look. It's easy to see why this has been voted one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world .

The small Canadian town of Niagara Falls provides the best viewing spot. As a result of its heavy visitor population, the town is quite touristy. It boasts carnival-type arcades, an aquarium, sky wheel, Odditorium , wax museum, and Ripley's Believe it or Not! Museum . You'll also find a ton of restaurants and plenty of hotels to choose from.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada

An area of immense natural beauty, it's no wonder the Grand Canyon tops so many vacation bucket lists. No photograph can do this spectacular place justice. You just can't fathom the landscape's innate beauty, the deep orange of the rock, or the canyon's immense size without seeing it in real life. No wonder it's one of the most famous attractions in the United States .

Touring the Grand Canyon can be done from multiple locations, but the most popular is by entering the Grand Canyon National Park 's South Rim. This is also where you'll find many of the park's best hikes .

You can get here quite easily from nearby cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix .

Once you're here, you'll be amazed, and we guarantee you'll snap about a zillion pictures. Catch the canyon in the light of the sunrise or sunset, and you'll swear you've witnessed the most gorgeous spectacle of your life.

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is generally the spring and fall, but this is a year-round attraction that you can work into your itinerary any time of year.

Snorkeling Australia's Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible experiences you'll ever have. A magical underwater world welcomes adventurers to this incredible locale. Bursting with color and teeming with life, this impressive coral reef spans 2,300 kilometers from the tip of Queensland to the southern town of Bundaberg .

A World Heritage-listed area, the Great Barrier Reef is home to a rich ecosystem filled with everything from the smallest zooplankton to tropical fish to marine mammals like dugongs and dolphins.

A truly peaceful experience, swimming around the magical reef is a gift. Whether you choose to scuba dive or snorkel, you'll experience only the quiet sound of fish nibbling on coral as you roam about this vast marine playground, being constantly amazed by the beauty on display before you.

Sadly, global warming has been bleaching (and killing) large sections of this reef (especially in the north), so if you're planning to go, you should book a trip to this popular bucket list travel destination soon. And whatever you do, don't touch the coral.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in the Whitsunday Islands

There's no question that Tokyo earned its position as the best city to visit in Japan . A heady mix of old and new, this vibrant place offers tourists a chance to explore phenomenal attractions , eat delicious (and healthy) food, and enjoy a range of entertainment.

From watching sumo wrestling to attending festivals to cheering on various sports teams to tapping your toes to live music, there's no lack of fun things to do in Tokyo.

The best time to visit is in either fall or spring, depending on whether you want to be present for the breathtaking show of blooming cherry blossoms. The city gets uber crowded at this time, but the blossoms are beautiful enough to cause goosebumps of excitement.

Hoping to see Mount Fuji ? You're not alone. This bucket-list destination is easy to get to from Tokyo , especially if you choose to book a private tour.

Read More: Best Cheap Places to Travel in March

Slightly livelier than its laid-back neighbor, Bora Bora, Tahiti offers travelers the same beautiful azure lagoons, lush mountainous landscapes, and lively coral reefs, with a little more excitement thrown in.

In Papeete , the island's capital, you'll find plenty to help you while away the hours you're not spending on the beach. An impressive mix of French and Polynesian cultures, the city boasts great restaurants, popular resorts, spas, museums, and plenty of places to shop.

Outside the city, visitors are greeted by cascading waterfalls, sheltered lagoons, and beautiful valleys. Book a 4WD tour of the island, learn to dive in a lagoon, or board a whale-watching tour boat (between July and October).

Read More: Best Black Sand Beaches in the World

The glorious Iguazú Falls gives Niagara Falls a run for its money. Set on the border between Argentina and Brazil , this amazing spectacle leaves visitors awe-struck. A massive chain of hundreds of waterfalls spanning nearly three kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of South America's most impressive sites.

The thunderous sound of water overpowers visitors as it crashes over the edge from between 60 and 80 meters high. They can be enjoyed from Devil's Throat , a nearby viewing spot based at the bottom of the falls, as well as from the lush rainforest in Brazil's Iguaçu National Park and Agentina's Iguazú National Park.

Read More: Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World

Rome is home to some of Europe's most recognizable landmarks, like the Colosseum , Pantheon , and St. Peter's Basilica . While these tourist hot spots are unmissable, this beautiful city has so much more to offer, including mouthwateringly good gelato on almost every street corner.

An outstanding mix of past and present, Rome boasts haunted ruins (i.e. the Roman Forum ); iconic churches (i.e. the Basilica of St. John Lateran ); and modern restaurants serving the freshest, most delectable food.

Wandering the city's winding cobblestone streets is a treat, with spectacular prizes popping out when you least expect them. From ornate fountains (i.e. the Fontana dei Fiumi) to sprawling Baroque plazas (i.e. Piazza Navona ) to designer clothing boutiques, there's always something to amaze.

Read More: Top-Rated Museums and Palaces in Rome

Taking a cruise along Croatia's captivating Dalmatian Coast is a must-do for any traveler. From atop the Adriatic Sea's translucent, azure water, visitors can catch the most picturesque views of the coast's phenomenal attributes. From jagged limestone cliffs to ancient walled towns to hilltop palaces and spectacular ports, there's so much to see from the water.

On land, you'll find an endless list of things to do, such as, visiting charming island villages, dining on fresh food along the Stradun in Dubrovnik , or exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Diocletian's Palace in Split or the Stari Grad plain on lovely Hvar . Then there are the beaches. Oh, those marvelous beaches . Be sure to pack a towel and sunblock, as you'll want to stay all day.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Croatia

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Croatia

There's a reason stores in Cinque Terre (a.k.a. "Five Towns") sell so many postcards — it's insanely gorgeous. This northwestern region of Italy embodies the type of beauty that makes visitors gasp when they first catch sight of it. It's literally impossible not to be awed by the area's loveliness.

A national park spotted with five villages that would make Crayola proud, this Italian paradise is the stuff of dreams. Cliff-top houses perch above sparkling blue water with a vibrant green backdrop of lush and rugged mountains. It's hard to find a more beautiful setting. No wonder the entire area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The locals' laid-back vibe is contagious, making you want to do nothing but eat pasta (or pizza) and gaze out at the Ligurian Sea. Walking along cliff-top trails or wandering the crooked and narrow streets through quaint villages tops the list of things to do in Cinque Terre .

It's easy to reach from Milan and Florence , making this a perfect day-trip destination for both cities.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Milan

If you want to feel small, head to the Galápagos Islands, a paradise so remarkable, you'll feel Mother Nature's presence with every barefoot step. An extensive archipelago of volcanic isles located about 600 miles west of Ecuador , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Ecuador .

A bucket list destination for nature lovers across the globe, this untouched gem is one of the best places in the world to view wildlife in their native habitat. Its main draws include: chances to witness turtles nesting on pristine beaches ; spying on penguins frolicking on Bartolome Island ; and wiggling your toes into fine, red sand.

If you're a fan of the water, head to Devil's Crown , an underwater volcanic cone teeming with life. This is one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world .

You're not alone if attending Mardi Gras in New Orleans tops your vacation bucket list. One of the most famous (and outrageous) festivals in the world, it's one of the top tourist attractions in Louisiana .

If your goal is to witness the eclectic floats, vibrant parades, and jazzy music in person, be sure to time your visit well. The best time to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras festivities is from February through May.

As for visiting the best tourist attractions in New Orleans, you'll need to set aside at least a couple of days. With everything from horse-drawn carriage rides to steamboat cruises to shopping on offer, there is a slew of stellar things to do in New Orleans .

Let your stomach guide you to the French Quarter , where you'll find Cajun dishes so tasty, you'll beg for seconds. The buildings you walk by burst with historic Southern charm, ready to be photographed in all types of light. Keep wandering to soak up the live music serenading Bourbon Street before settling in for a show at a neighborhood jazz club.

There's so much energy in New Orleans that you may leave feeling more tired than when you arrived — that won't matter a bit since your vacation was packed with fun.

More on Canada

Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 14, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Travel Bucket List Ideas

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

1. Iguazu Falls

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

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

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

2. Amalfi Coast

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

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

3. Maldives

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

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

4. Petra Jordan

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

• Watch our visit to Petra on YouTube

5. African Safari

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

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

6. Churchill Polar Bears

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

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

7. Santorini Greece

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

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

8. Kayak and Camp in Antarctica

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

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

9. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp

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

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

10. Cappadocia, Turkey

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

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

11. Himalayas of Bhutan

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

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

12. Great Wall of China

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

• The Great Wall of China – Mutianyu vs. Badaling

13. Machu Picchu

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

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

14. Great Barrier Reef

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

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

15. Pyramids of Giza

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

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

16. Gobi Desert of Mongolia

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

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

17. Galapagos Islands

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

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

18. Mount Kilimanjaro

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

• Read more: Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

19. Bagan, Myanmar

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

• Read More – The Incredible Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

20. See the Northern Lights

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

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

21. Mexico Cenotes

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

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

22. Rome’s Colosseum

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

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

23. Christ the Redeemer – Brazil

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

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

24. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam

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

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

25. Have Champagne at the Eiffel Tower – France

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

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

26. Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls – Zambia

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

• Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls, Zambia

27. Soak in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland

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

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

28. Explore the Canals of Venice – Italy

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

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

29. Spy the Sun Stream at Antelope Canyon – USA

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

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

30. Hike Through Meteora – Greece

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

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

31. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

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

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

32. Leaning Tower of Pisa – Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• 17 Fabulous and Fun Things to do in Dubai

35. Go Sandboarding in Huacachina – Peru

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

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru

36. Cross the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo

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

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

37. Golden Temple – India

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

• Golden Temple of Amritsar – India’s Shining Star

38. Road trip to the Grand Canyon

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

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

39. Amazon River – Peru

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

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

40. Marvel at the Glaciers of Greenland

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

• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

41.Swim with Whale Sharks

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

• Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun – A Massive Adventure

42. Hornblower at Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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

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

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

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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

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About The Planet D

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for curating a great list.

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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.

Related Articles

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

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

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

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

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

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

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

2. See The Northern Lights

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

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

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

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

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

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

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

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

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

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

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

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

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

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

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

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

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

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

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

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

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

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

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

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

11. Acropolis, Greece

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

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

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

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

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

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

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

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

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

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

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

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

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

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

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

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

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

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

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

17. The Colosseum, Italy

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

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

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

18. Bagan, Myanmar

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

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

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

19. Taj Mahal, India

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

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

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

20. The Great Wall of China, China

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

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

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

21. London, United Kingdom

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

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

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

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

22. Paris, France

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

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

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

23. Florence, Italy

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

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

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

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

24. Rome, Italy

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

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

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

25. Vienna, Austria

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

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

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

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

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

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

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

27. Havana, Cuba

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

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

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

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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

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

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

29. Venice, Italy

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

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

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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

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

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

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

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

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

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

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

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

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

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

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

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

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

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

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

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

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

35. Palouse Falls, USA

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

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

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

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

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

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

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

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

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

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

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

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

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

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

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

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

40. The Maldives

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

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

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

41. Vava’u Islands

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

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

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

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

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

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

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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

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

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

44. Bali, Indonesia

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

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

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

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

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

46. Maui, USA

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

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

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

47. Big Sur, USA

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

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

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

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

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

49. Krabi, Thailand

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

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

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

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

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

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

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

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

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

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

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

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

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

53. Lake District, UK

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

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

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

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

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

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

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

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

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

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

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

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

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

57. Tuscany, Italy

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

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

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

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

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

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

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

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

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

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

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

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

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

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

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

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

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

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

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

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

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

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

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

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

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

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

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

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

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

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

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

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

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

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

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

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

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

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

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

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

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

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

70. Empire State Building, USA

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

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

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

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

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

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

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

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

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

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

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

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

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

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

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

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

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

75. K2, China / Pakistan

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

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

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

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

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

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

77. Banff National Park, Canada

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

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

78. Mount Huangshan, China

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

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

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

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

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

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

80. Mont Blanc, France

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

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

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

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

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

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

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

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

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

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

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

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

84. Mount Etna, Italy

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

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

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

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

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

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

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

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

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

87. Mauna Loa, USA

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

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

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

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

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

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

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

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

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

90. Mount Helen, USA

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

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

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

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

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

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

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

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

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

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

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

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

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

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

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

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

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

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

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

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

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

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

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

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

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

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

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

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

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

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

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

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

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

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

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

100. Kalahari Desert

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

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

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

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

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Travel Bucket List: 100 Best Places to Visit & Destination Ideas

If you’re anything like me, then there is nothing better than waking up in a new place and enjoying the best adventures that are a world away from your normal routine. These ultimate experiences around the globe are what I have found to be the best of the best, and I hope these ideas inspire you to add a destination or two to your travel bucket list (and to start checking them off!).

If you need even more motivation than just these traveling bucket list ideas, check out my 200 travel quotes for inspiration.

Travel Bucket List Ideas: Ultimate Trip Destinations & Places to Visit

1. hike to the top of piaynemo in raja ampat.

Indonesia is filled with beautiful scenery, but for me none was more picturesque than the view from the top of Piaynemo Island in Raja Ampat. Pulling up to the small dock on the island, there was a set of stairs heading straight up into the forest.

These 318 steps (I counted!) were strenuous in the humid heat, but the view from the top was worth every single one. From the peak you can see an iconic karst island seascape, small islands surrounded by a dozen shades of brilliant turquoise. This million dollar view wasn’t my only reward, so was the fresh coconut juice waiting for me at the bottom.

Read More:   Raja Ampat Bucket List: 7 Things to Do

2. Pull an All-Nighter in Ibiza

Ibiza, an island off the coast of Spain, is notorious for its parties but also boasts crystal clear water and lux beaches. So experience the best of both worlds by staying up all night in the club and then drifting to the beach to see one of the islands infamous sunrises. Big-name DJs, and festivals are frequent on the island, and there are a wide variety of accommodation and food options, from high to low end. Your time will fly in this incredible destination.

• From Ibiza: Full-Day Sailing Tour to Formentera
• Ibiza: Town Highlights Tour by Bike
• Ibiza: All-Inclusive Sunset Boat Trip

3. Spend the Night in Jordan’s Wadi Rum Desert

Wadi Rum is 720 square kilometers of heart stopping desert landscape, where a maze of sheer-sided sandstone and granite monoliths rise up from the valley floor. Touring Petra Archaeological Site and floating in the Dead Sea were absolutely unforgettable experiences in Jordan , but spending the night in the vast Wadi Rum Desert was an adventure.

In this UNESCO desert you can ride camels along the same path as Lawrence of Arabia, run down the soft sand dunes and sleep inside of a tent in a small Bedouin-run camp surrounded by sandstone rocks. It is the ultimate adventure!

Get booking information for these top rated camps: Luxury: Wadi Rum Night Luxury Camp , Moderate: Obeid’s Bedouin Life Camp , Budget Wadi Rum Camp > Bedouin Lifestyle Camp

4. Take the Walk of Faith at Tianmen Mountain in China

In the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park you will find a 196-foot long see-through glass path that stands over 4,000 feet above sea level. This adrenaline-producing walkway clings to the side of the Tianmen Mountain. A stroll along this path is only for the most adventurous, who will marvel at the crystal-clear view below their trembling feet.

5. Feed the Swimming Pigs of Exuma

Somewhere out there in the Outer Exuma Islands is Big Major Cay, a small island ruled by pigs—that’s right, actual pigs! It is in fact one of the biggest attractions on this island. The pigs will swim out to your boat as you approach the island and depending on how friendly they are on the day they will hang around, swim with you guys and have some of your lunch as well.

If you are pressed for time, there is a closer piggy island called White Bay. I booked the half-day tour there with Exuma Water Sports and it was GREAT! For the full day tour that includes a nurse shark swim check out this tour: Swimming Pigs & Tour – Morning Excursion with Transportation

The swimming pigs tend to come out to play when the midday sun cools down a bit. There are myths and stories of how the swimming pigs of the Bahamas got there. Some people believe that they survived a shipwreck while others think that they were left there by pirates who intended them to be a future meal but never came back. Whatever the case, they are interesting swimming companions and one of the most unique ideas on this list.

Read More: Pig Beach: The Bahama’s Swimming Pigs of Exuma Island and the Best Bahamas

6. See the Great Pyramids at Giza

The Great Pyramids at Giza have had a firm hold on the western imagination for generations… and with good reason. They are a true marvel to behold! The Pyramids were created as tombs for various pharaohs, and their consorts, to ensure transcendence into the afterlife. And thanks to the many artifacts the ancient Egyptians left within their tombs, we now have an incredible insight into their epic history. Still, there is nothing quite like seeing them up close… especially on camel back.

Read More: UNESCO Bucket List: 100 Top World Heritage Sites to See

7. Swim in Jellyfish Lake in Palau

Jellyfish Lake in the Micronesian country of Palau is home to millions of jellyfish that are deemed relatively harmless since their sting is so light. It was still frightening for the first five minutes to be surrounded by jellyfish, some brushing up against my body. But, after the panic dissipated, this was one of my all-time favorite bucket list travel adventures.

Read More: Swim in Jellyfish Lake in Palau

8. Sleep in an Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora

You’ve seen the photos of a string of bungalows perched atop the azure waters below. A memorable trip to Tahiti’s Bora Bora must include a night in one of these overwater hideaways where you can wake by diving into the warm water and go to sleep to the sound of the swish of the water beneath you. One of the most luxurious ones you will find is at the Four Seasons .

9. Marvel at Guyana’s Kaieteur Falls

Venture into the Amazon rainforest to see Kaieteur Falls in Guyana, the world’s widest single-drop waterfall. Kaieteur Falls is one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls with an immense volume of water from the Potaro river plummeting down a cliff at a height of more than 700 feet in the Kaieteur National Park. Located in Guyana’s Potaro-Siparuni region, the waterfall nestled in the Amazon rainforest is the closest you can get to pure nature when compared with other well-known waterfalls. As you watch the more than 350-foot-wide waterfall plunge from the edge of the steep rock face, you will be in awe of the beauty and power of nature.

Read More: Guyana’s Kaieteur Falls: One of South America’s Best Waterfalls

10. Walk Through Indonesia’s Tegalalang Rice Terraces

If you’ve seen pictures from Bali, you’ve probably seen a few of these stunning green rice paddies. They are some of the island’s most popular destinations for travelers, and they don’t disappoint!

The traditional Tegalalang Rice Terraces are just about half an hour north of Ubud, in the Tegalalang Village. The whole community pitches in to maintain the paddies’ complex irrigation system, which is centuries old. They also let tourists in to wander much of the terraces for free.

Read More: Bali Points of Interest: 1-Day Itinerary in Indonesia’s Popular Cruise Port

11. Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Take your life list to another level and trek through the dense rain forest of Uganda to get a close encounter with the mountain gorillas of the jungle. The fact that these species are on the brink of extinction and you need to travel to faraway lands to see them adds to the experience. A great place to see them is at Bwindi Forest National Park .

12. Drive Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway

The Million Dollar Highway is a 25 mile section of U.S Route 550, from Silverton to Ouray in Coloraado. It was initially built in the 1880s, and offers one of the most thrilling road experiences. The highway is part of the San Juan Skyway that snakes its way through the San Juan mountains passing through Dolores, Telluride and Durango.

You will go up and down three mountain passes – the Coal Bank Pass, the Molas Pass and the Red Mountain Pass during a ride on this route. All three have an elevation of more than 10,000 feet (3000 m) each. In certain areas, watch out for steep drops, hairpin bends and absence of guardrails. Keep your eyes on the road during the tricky sections, and admire the stunning vistas during the easy portions of the drive.

Of course you can drive your own car along this adventurous route, or a more unique idea is to do as I did and make the ride even more thrilling in a sporty Polaris Slingshot !

13. Tour a Monastery at Meteora in Greece

Greece is not all about white buildings with blue rooftops and delicious Greek food . There is so much more to explore. Like, the Meteora monasteries. Meteora, meaning “suspended in the air” in Greek, is a magical complex of six active monasteries that are strategically built on natural sandstone pillars, some that rise up to thirteen hundred feet in the air.

Perched on the pinnacles of the Thessaly region, worshippers came to this world heritage site to discover peace and absolute isolation. Many years ago, access to these monasteries was strenuous, using handmade ladders and baskets with a pulley system to hoist the monks and their goods up — this was a system that had long been abandoned by the time I had arrived!

You can admire the Meteora Monasteries from afar, but also take the opportunity to tour the interiors and get a glimpse into a monk’s lifestyle one thousand years ago.

You can attempt to navigate to Meteora on your own or for an easier option book a tour: 2-Day Trip to Delphi and Meteora from Athens .

14. Cruise through Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay

Just three-and-a-half-hour drive from the bustle of the city of Hanoi lays a peaceful set of 1,600 islands and islets, Halong Bay. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been the backdrop to many movies, including the Oscar-winning Indochine. Spend a day or a week cruising through the green-topped limestone islands and emerald waters on an ancient-style junk boat.

Read More: Halong Bay Day Trip: The Best Vietnam Junk Boat Cruise Book a Tour: Halong Bay Islands and Caves: Full-Day Tour from Hanoi or Halong Bay 2-Day Cruise with V’Spirit Cruises

15. Sleep in an Ice Hotel in Sweden

Each year in the village of Jukkasjärvi, in northern Sweden, the IceHotel is built from natural ice and snow. It is an art exhibition as much as a hotel, where the canvases span from floor to ceiling. Spend the night in one of their negative-five-degree rooms, where you will be surrounded by artistically chiseled ice. It’s a bonus that there is also a chance of seeing the Northern Lights from their location on the bank of the Torne River.

16. Marvel at the Taj Mahal

This incredible towering structure is a tribute to one of the greatest love stories of all time. Emperor Shan Jahan built it as the burial tomb for his favorite wife after her death in the 17 th century. It is perfectly symmetrical, built of white marble from around the world, and detailed with semi-precious stones. Due to his obsession with symmetry two identical mosques flank each side of the Taj Mahal itself and it is surrounded by lush green gardens. It is not hard to see why it is one of the seven wonders of the world.

I got to see it while on a luxury train ride through India aboard the Palace on Wheels !

17. Go Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia tides cause 160 billion tons of water flow through the Bay of Fundy twice a day, which feeds into the Shubenacadie River. This surge of seawater creates a once-in-a-lifetime adventure like no other, tidal bore rafting . It’s a wild ride where you will zip through up to 10 foot waves, they will crash over your motorized raft drenching you from head to toe or submerging you completely. If you have only one adventurous thing you do in Nova Scotia, this is it!!

There are many companies that have Tidal Bore Rafting. River Runners , Shubenacadie River Adventures and Fundy Tidal Bore Adventures are amongst the most popular, plus have great reviews.

Read more: A Nova Scotia Adventure: Tidal Bore Rafting the Bay of Fundy Tides

18. Take a Gondola in Venice

At one time this truly iconic activity was the only way to get around Venice. Although today there are more than one way to see the city, taking a gondola in Venice remains the most magical. As you drift along waterways with a lover, friend, or group you will pass under stone bridges and by gorgeous ancient buildings, palazzos and churches to discover corners of Venice only accessible by water. This is one of the more common ideas that is still a once in a lifetime experience in one of the world’s most picturesque city’s.

19. See the Sunrise at Borobudur Temple in Indonesia

You will need to begin your day in the wee hours of the morning (we woke up at 3:30am!) to catch the sunrise over Borobudur Temple , but it will be worth it. The historical UNESCO World Heritage site is set on a mountaintop in the central Java area of Indonesia , amidst volcanoes and lush forest. It is the world’s largest Buddhist temple, with over 500 Buddha statues scattered around the site.

Climbing to the top of 95-foot high pyramid is like a pilgrimage in itself, providing an inner peace and enlightenment. Beware that the ascent of this monument can be difficult, but there are several terraces to explore along the way, each one giving a different perspective.

Read More: 3 Sacred Indonesian Places to Visit in Yogyakarta

20. Climb Half-dome in Yosemite

This challenging hike is well-worth the effort to one of the world’s most iconic precipitates. The summit raises nearly 6000 feet above the Yosemite Valley, with the last 400 feet of the summit being assisted by metal cables. Needless to say this not for the faint of heart but it always exceeds expectations!

21. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Petra in Jordan

The ancient city of Petra was carved into the rose colored sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans as early as 312BC. There are over 30 incredible sites spread over 60 square kilometers, from temples to tombs to elaborate buildings. No Trip to Jordan would be complete without a stop here.

Three days a week visitors can attend Petra at Night , where over 1,500 candles light the mile trek from the Siq to the Treasury, an elaborate two-story tomb. A group of roughly two hundred people will walk through the narrow rock fissures that are lit by candlelight. Walking through the Siq at night is a very mysterious experience. But, don’t miss Petra by day too.

During the day, you can wander way beyond the iconic Treasury building and explore trails that will pass by the Street of Facades, the Theater, countless tombs and through the Arch.

Read More: Explore Petra Archaeological Site in Jordan Book a Tour: Private Tour: Petra Day Trip including Little Petra from Amman

22. Hike the Cinque Terre in Italy

Savor every moment of the Cinque Terre region by hiking from each charming village to the next and if you have time, staying at lovely guesthouses along the way. The path is well-maintained, well-marked, and affords truly astounding views of one of Italy’s most picturesque landscapes. You will discover various sections of the trail wind through fog covered mountains to only moments later reveal the sparkling Mediterranean coastline below! It’s a must-see and here’s everything you need to know about hiking Cinque Terre .

23. Explore the Silent City of Mdina in Malta

Mdina is the old capital of Malta and referred to as the “Silent City”. It’s not to hard to understand why. There are limited cars that can enter to immaculate town, mostly owned by the approximately 300 residents. This contributes to the peaceful atmosphere as you stroll through the narrow cobbled streets admiring the shuttered windows and a handful of quaint shops.

For a special evening, dine at The Mdina Restaurant , which specializes in Mediterranean and local cuisine, like the Stuffat Tal-Qarnit , a traditional stew consisting of octopus cooked in red wine, raisins, apples and roasted walnuts.

It’s easy to get around on your own or book one of these two tours: Mdina: Full-Day Tour with Lunch or Mosta, Crafts Village, Mdina & Valletta Full-day Tour .

24. Climb Africa’s Mount Kilimanjaro

Standing at over 19,000 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak. The once-in-a-lifetime trek to the summit will have you hiking through lush rainforests, over glaciers, and across the Tanzanian landscape, plus traveling through four different climatic zones. It takes roughly six days to reach what has been called “the roof of Africa,” where the stunning view will be worth the challenge. This is one of the most popular ideas on people’s  Things to do Before You Die  lists!

25. Climb to the Peak of Sigiriya Rock in Sri Lanka

Sigiriya is an ancient palace built in 480 AD, located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. This  UNESCO World Heritage site  is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, well-preserved frescos, and twelve hundred different anxiety-producing levels of stairs to reach the summit. These steps will bring you to the sky palace that sits atop the rock, a royal residence built sixteen hundred years ago.

Read More: Climb to the Peak of Sigiriya Rock in Sri Lanka

26. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef stretches for more than 1,200 miles, running parallel to the Queensland coastline. It is the world’s largest coral reef system with over 2,900 reefs, 1,500 fish species, 400 types of coral, and 900 remote islands. Scuba divers flock here to glide with hundreds of manta rays, marvel at the colorful sea fans, and swim with schools of blackfin barracudas.

27. Kayak with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

Between mid-June to September one of Canada’s most incredible wildlife display happens — the beluga whales come to town. More than 50,000 of these sociable creatures patrol the Arctic in Northern Manitoba, and the Hudson Bay coastline sees the world’s largest population.

Nicknamed ‘melon heads’ these majestic, fluorescent white creatures will mesmerize as much as baffle you as they swim right up to your kayak. I glided along while whales swam underneath and next to me, a couple babies even came right up to the boat to inspect my GoPro .

Read More: Kayaking with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

28. Walk the Spanish El Camino de Santiago de Compostela

El Camino de Santiago  was originally a pilgrimage leading to Santiago de Compostela, to the tomb of the apostle St. James. Now, scores of people on a personal journey walk this five-hundred- mile network of routes across Spain and Europe. Whether the motivation is spiritual or adventurous, many choose to take this month long challenge.

29. Experience Istanbul’s Call to Prayer at the Blue Mosque

Five times a day throughout the streets of Istanbul you can hear the trilling call to prayer, also known as ezan. During this time the voice of the bellowing muezzin, the man who calls the Muslims to prayer from a minaret, can be heard over the loud- speakers at different mosques in the city. One of the best locations to witness this is while sitting on the benches between the  Blue Mosque  and Hagia Sophia as a quavering musical battle begins.

Read More:   Experience Istanbul’s Call to Prayer at the Blue Mosque

30. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel that stands 2,430 meters above sea level in the mountain forest of Peru. Getting to this ancient city can be done by train, bus, or a four-day Inca trail trek along the same paths that the Incans did years ago. People choose the challenging hike not only to see other ruins along the way, but for the sense of pride when reaching this UNESCO World Heritage Site by foot.

31. Swim with Whale Sharks in Cancun

Don’t let the name “whale shark” scare you, these enormous fish are gentle giants. During the warm season, hundreds migrate to the waters of the Caribbean Sea. A boat ride from Cancun will take you to a place where you can swim with several of the largest fish in the world that grow up to sixty feet long and can weigh over forty thousand pounds. It is a thrill to be face to face with their gigantic mouths that can extend five feet when open. You can get up close and personal with a Cancun Whale Shark Tour .

Read More: Swim with Whale Sharks in Cancun

32. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal

At over twenty-nine thousand feet, Mount Everest soars above Khumbu in northeastern Nepal. Though a rare few attempt to reach the summit, the trek to Everest Base Camp at 17,590 feet is still a challenging adventure and an achievable goal for the rest of us. Along the way the stunning Himalaya views, hospitability of the village people, and spectacular glimpse of its peak will take you aback.

33. Go on an African Safari

There are plenty of places in Africa to go on safari, but mine was done in Tanzania with the Shadows of Africa tour team. For four days we explored the surreal Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks. Though we missed out on spotting the big five, because of the elusive rhino, it was still one of the most memorable travel bucket list adventures on my list of things to do before you die.

Read More: African Safari in Tanzania: The Ultimate Itinerary and Tour

34. Walk the Great Wall of China

Even if you’re not up for tackling the entire 1800-mile length of the Great Wall, taking the opportunity to walk even a section will give you a boundless appreciation for one of mankind’s greatest engineering feats. The beauty of the surrounding landscape is astounding as you meander along the ancient border of China and Mongolia. You will pass over steep mountain ranges, thick vegetation, and see dots of villages in the distance. As you walk along remember that it was built as early as the 7 th century- a truly impressive achievement!

35. Ride in a Vintage Car in Havana

For more than 50 years Cuba has lived in seclusion from the western world, so entering Havana feels like you are being truly transported back in time. Riding around in one of the beautiful vintage cars still on the road is a quintessential Cuban experience. You will fly by turquoise waters, and grand, ethereal buildings in various states of repair. But hurry before the hordes of tourists get there, and for good measure pop in a classic Cuban Cigar for the ride.

Read more: Havana Bucket List: 40 Things to Do In Cuba’s Capital

36. Attend the Kentucky Derby

It isn’t just the world-class horses that set the Kentucky Derby apart from other horse races, it’s the spectacular hats. Let your inner Southern Belle emerge, and don your most dramatic bonnet while watching what has been called the “greatest two minutes in sports.”

37. Watch the Florence Sunset over the Arno River

There is a rumor that when the Germans were retreating, they were under strict orders from the Führer himself NOT to destroy the Ponte Vecchio Bridge. That is how beautiful this structure is, even today.

Lined with souvenir shops and high-end jewelers, this medieval work of art is something you have to cross at least once when in Florence. Be warned, it gets a little hectic because of the amount of human traffic it sees! After the chaos and shopping, simply walk to the next bridge over to watch the sun set over the Arno River as it illuminates the Ponte Vecchio Bridge in all its splendor.

Don’t forget to make a quick stop at Gusta Pizza beforehand to get a take out pie to bring to the river!

38. Shop the Souks in Morocco

The Souks in Morocco are nothing if not lively. The colorful stalls are filled with a myriad of patterns, details and countless aromas. You can buy anything from tapestries, to leather, and spices. And even if shopping isn’t your thing, the souks in Morocco are a must-see cultural experience. You will be graced with glimpses of the daily lives of the Moroccan locals. Just remember, if you are shopping don’t be afraid to haggle! It is all a part of the experience.

39. Visit Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania

High above the valley of Romania, in the principality of Transylvania, there lies an unusual castle that is said to have once been occupied by Count Dracula himself. You will find the gothic Bran Castle near the town of Brasov, which has long been linked to this ancient vampire, though Dracula probably won’t be there when you arrive. There is a mystical atmosphere surrounding  Bran Castle ; it looks like the perfect setting for a vampire novel, perched on top of a hill and filled with dozens of tunneled stairs, dark wood paneling, and stark white walls.

Read More:   Visit Dracula at Bran Castle in Transylvania, Romania

40. Climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris

If you think the city of Paris is beautiful from street level, you will be astonished to see it from the heart of the Eiffel Tower. There are three levels of the tower but the views from the top are truly breathtaking. The top level can be reached by lift, or steps depending on your preference. Did you know that every 7 years the tower is painted three different colors? Lighter at the top and darker at the bottom to give the tower the illusion of extra height. See for yourself if it is as tall as your imagined with this bucket list experience.

41. Bicycle (or Walk) Across the Golden Gate

Even though it happens often for me, driving over the Golden Gate bridge still is impressive. But, what is even more thrilling is taking a bicycle ride or a walk across San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge . You can bring your own bike or easily rent one nearby. Blazing Saddles is a reputable company that will take you on an 8-mile guided bike tour that includes a ride across the bridge or choose to do a self-guided trip ( booking information here ). Just be sure to abide by the laws of the bridge for bikes and pedestrians.

Book a Tour: Cycle The Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Ticket

42. Go to Mardi Gras in Louisiana

Mardi Gras is often dubbed the “Great Show on Earth”, and with good reason. It is truly madness… but of the best kind! Several parades are held leading up to the main event, Fat Tuesday, which typically falls from early February to early March. On the day of, the French Quarter comes alive with people from around the globe for the parades, ceremonies and parties. Locals even liken the event to their version of Christmas, and spend the year leading up to it painstakingly preparing their costumes or floats. So don’t be afraid to don your own costume for this incredible experience. The locals love it when you do!

43. Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is a salt lake over thirteen hundred feet below sea level, making it the lowest elevation on Earth. Nestled between the  country of Jordan  to the east and Israel to the west, the unusually high salt concentration (8.6 times saltier than the ocean) causes a natural buoyancy that makes people float. Many people use this oasis as a chance to aimlessly drift while reading a newspaper.

Read More:   Float in the Dead Sea

44. See the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are mysterious twists of multicolored lights that can only be seen in a handful of locations in the world, mostly in the Arctic Circle. To witness them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience whether you do it while relaxing in a thermal spa in Iceland, cruising on a yacht through Alaska, or night dogsled-ding in Norway. Check out the  Aurora Zone  for help.

45. STAY IN A TUSCAN VILLA IN ITALY

This travel bucket list goal was definitely inspired by the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. There are plenty to choose from, but just a few kilometers South of Siena you will find  Villa Pippistrelli , a luxury Tuscan farmhouse located on the  Monstegliano  estate. This charming house is everything you’d expect from a Tuscan villa. It may be old in years, but the villa has been restored with present-day conveniences and elegant interiors while still keeping its rustic 17th century Tuscan feel.

Read More:  Stay in a Tuscan Villa in Italy  and if you are in the city check out the  Florence Bucket List: 40 of the Best Things to Do

46. CROSS THE SALARDE UYUNI IN BOLIVIA

Blanketing more than forty-five hundred square miles, the Salar de Uyuni is a flat salt dessert that seems to go on infinitely. It is the remains of a lake that once covered the southwestern corner of Bolivia, but is now a vastness of white that plays an optical illusion on you. During the wet season, the shallow water that collects acts as a mirror of the sky, showing reflections of the sky and clouds, making the world seem endless. In the dry season, you can walk or drive across it, taking goofy photos that play with the lack of perspective created by the continuous sheets of hexagonal tiles.

47. Volunteer at a Elephant Rescue in Thailand

In Northern Thaila n d , an hour from Chiang Mai ‘s city center, I spent a memorable day volunteering at the Elephant Nature Park . This is a special place where there was an eclectic bunch of Asian Elephants; some old, some young, some blind, some injured from working in the logging industry, some abused and some rescued from the circus. Not only will you be able to feed these majestic creatures, but you can also take them down to the river for a bath.

Want to know more about visiting an elephant rescue? Read about my experience: Bathe Elephants at a Rescue in Thailand and if your elephant volunteer travels take you to Chiang Mai, check out my Bucket List of 18 Things to Do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

48. Hot Air Balloon over Cappadocia

See the surreal landscape of Cappadocia from high above in a sky dotted with colorful balloons. Cappadocia is the land in central Turkey known for its fairy chimneys (rock formations), rolling vineyards, and troglodyte dwellings that are best seen from three thousand feet in the air. Butterfly Balloons can take you up up and away.

49. Hike the Active Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala

Just like skiing and mountaineering is a part of the culture of the Swiss Alps, volcano hiking is huge chunk of the culture in Guatemala. The country has 37 officially named volcanoes, three of which that are still active. And you can hike up one.

The Volcano of Pacaya is one of the most accessible volcanoes in Guatemala, which makes it very popular. You will be sharing the trail with many others. This, along with the food stands that you will find on different segments of the trail and the marshmallows you will get to toast on the heat of the volcanic rock, make the experience much more fun. Bring some graham crackers and chocolate if you want to make your marshmallow a s’more!

Read More:   Guatemala’s Pacaya Volcano Hike: What to Expect

50. Go to the City Where Your Family Comes From

This is always a truly incredible experience whether it is near or far. Maybe you will finally be able to put your eyes some elements of a story your family members have talked about for years or perhaps you will have an opportunity to meet family you didn’t even know you had. You never truly know what you will find on a genealogical trip because no two trips are ever the same! One thing is for sure though you will feel a sense of connection with your roots. Bonus points if you bring another family member to share the experience with.

51. See Mount Rushmore

Located in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is famous for the sculpted heads carved into its granite, featuring former iconic presidents of the United States: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. It is so impressive that most people have it included in their travel bucket list – and you should have it on yours, too!

52. Admire the Blue Flames at Ijen Volcano

Of all the thrilling volcanoes in the world, Ijen Volcano in Indonesia’s East Java is among the most gorgeous to view from up close. It is particularly loved for its acidic volcanic crater lake, the largest of its kind in the world, which is piercingly turquoise in its coloring.

53. Step Inside the Forbidden City

Do what the ordinary people during Ming Dynasty sadly could not do, and step inside the Forbidden City to discover the rich history one of the most significant palaces in the world holds within its premises.

54. Ogle the Golden Temple

The Golden Temple is one of the most sacred locations for Sikhs. It is also among the numerous bucket list places to visit in India, visitors frolicking to the site to admire the fully golden dome.

55. Take in the View from Burj Khalifa

As the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is quite the spectacle to view on the ground level. However, to enjoy even more spectacular views, you ought to head to the top of the building where one of the highest outdoor observation decks in the world exists. On a great day you may even see Iran in the distance.

56. Take an Alaskan Cruise

Something that may still not come across often as epic traveling bucket list ideas is to embark on an Alaskan Cruise. Why do it when you can tour the Caribbean Sea or Antarctica instead? I’d say because it’s an incredible mix of wild animals and blue glaciers for you to discover from up close, and the cruises come packed with amazing excursions to take part in on the shore.

There are so many great things to do in Alaska , and by taking a cruise you will get to see a lot of them!

57. Attend La Tomatina Festival in Spain

If you’re in Spain in late August of any year, then La Tomatina Festival must get on your bucket list! It’s a really fun festival where you simply need to throw others with tomatoes – and expect to be covered in tomatoes yourself. Don’t wear your best clothes for the event, but definitely bring your fun loving attitude with you.

58. Be Intrigued by Stonehenge

Believed to be constructed sometime between 3000BC and 2000BC, this English marvel is another must for any travel bucket list. Stonehenge is seen as a cultural icon of sorts and is one of the most significant sites to set foot on in all of the United Kingdom. Although there is no one confirmed theory of why it was built, although it’s mostly seen to have been a burial site, it’s so important – and fun to see – as it is the most architecturally sophisticated stone circle in the world that dates back to prehistoric times.

59. Attend Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

Although you can also see some gorgeous cherry blossoms in Washington DC, around South Korea, and some places in Europe, there’s really no beating being in Japan during the cherry blossom season. Tokyo is dubbed the best place in the world for viewing cherry blossoms, and not without reason, with Kyoto being another top spot in particular. However, you can see cherry blossoms just about anywhere in mainland Japan.

60. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Yes, while you can get a quirky shot posing with the Leaning Tower of Pisa on the ground, you might actually have a more fun experience by climbing up its nearly 300 steps to get to the top.

For more information check out our article: Leaning Tower of Pisa: Insider Facts for Your Visit

61. Climb the Mount Fuji

For the Japanese, climbing to the top of Mount Fuji is one of their most sacred traditions. It’s an incredibly strenuous hike up, but of course comes with amazing views from high up. Although just getting a picturesque shot of Mount Fuji from a distance is on many travel bucket lists, Mount Fuji itself is also one of the greatest bucket list places to visit in Japan.

62. Discover Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Not only is Al-Masjid an-Nabawi , Mosque of the Prophet, the second largest mosque in the world, it is also the second holiest Islam mosque to set foot on. Prophet Muhammad himself built this mosque, and it is absolutely among the biggest bucket list destinations for anyone with interest in touring different religious sites in the world.

63. Marvel at Iguazu Falls

Bordering Brazil on one side and Argentina on the other, the Iguazu Falls have Niagara Falls paling in comparison. It is the world’s largest waterfall system, consisting of 275 falls altogether. Quite impressive to see indeed!

64. Explore the Jeita Grotto

Located in Beirut, these two interconnected limestone caves referred to as Jeita Grotto are the longest caves you’ll find in the Middle East. Although it ultimately did not get chosen as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature (which the above mentioned Iguazu Falls has an honor of being!) it is still a wondrous creation of nature.

65. Discover the Magnificent Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple of significance within the city of Angkor, the former capital of Khmer Empire. It was built at the start of the 12th century, and is essentially seen as the peak of Khmer architecture. Although the city was abandoned in the 16th century, Angkor Wat has remained a majorly significant religious site to date.

66. Discover the Remains of the Berlin Wall

Although it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing place to visit, the Berlin Wall – or what’s left of it – is one of the most significant sites detailing the times of the Cold War. For that reason alone, it deserves to be placed on any travel bucket list, and Berlin is such a cool place to visit in general that you’ll want to go there one day anyway, so why not have the Berlin Wall included in that itinerary?

67. Witness the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem

Also known as Western Wall, this is the holiest place for the Jewish people after Temple Mount, to which they only have restricted access these days. It was built before AD by Herod the Great, and just like Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Saudi Arabia, is a must visit for anyone interested in discovering important religious sites, and especially to those with a direct religious connection to the Wailing Wall.

68. See the Pamukkale Hot Springs

Not only are these hot springs in Turkey believed to contain numerous healing properties, they are absolutely stunning to see in person. Not to mention, the tale goes that even Cleopatra herself has bathed here once upon a time!

69. Walk the Las Vegas Strip

Even if gambling isn’t your thing in the slightest bit, walking at least a portion of this 4.2 mile strip is a sight to see as many of the world’s largest – and flashiest – hotel and casino complexes reside on both sides of the Strip. It is a significant piece of street in one of the most iconic tourist areas in the world.

70. See a Show at the Sydney Opera House

While the Sydney Opera House is primarily famous for its external architectural qualities, it’s totally worth catching a show if you’re in the area. It is so large it can house half a dozen venues and theaters, largest of which is the Concert Hall that can seat up to 2,679 people at once. Besides opera, you can also see symphony concerts, popular music shows, dance performances here, and even film screenings in the smaller theaters.

71. See the Wildlife on the Galapagos Islands

Although at first thought you might not consider the wildlife on Galapagos Islands anything special due to only a few certain species living there, where the secluded island wins is in how pristine its environment is. More than that, its specialness lies in how clearly the islands can showcase how natural selection operates. Thus, while the amount of species may be limited, visiting the wildlife here is bound to be more unique than embarking on a safari.

Read More About the Galapagos Islands:

• See the Blue-Footed Booby Mating Dance in the Galápagos Islands
• See Galapagos Penguins in the Wild

72. Explore Sensoji Temple

Located in Tokyo’s Asakusa District, this Buddhist Temple is among the most colorful you can find in Tokyo. Beyond its gorgeous architecture, it is one of the most important temples in Tokyo as well as its oldest one.

73. Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

With thousands of glow worms lighting up the grotto ceilings, hopping on a boat to explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is perhaps even more magical than seeing the starriest of night skies. As this experience is unique to New Zealand, you really have no choice but to add this on to your bucket list destinations.

74. Explore Brazil’s Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park  is an incredible site to visit especially during the rainy season when the rain fills up the rolling sand dunes with small lagoons. The national park is especially popular among the ecotourists, and is home to four different endangered species.

75. Get Splashed at Niagara Falls

Now, while I may have said above that Niagara Falls pales in comparison to Iguazu Falls, they’re not a world famous waterfall for no merit. This ancient waterfall may not be the largest but it is the fastest-moving one, and witnessing its water flows can be quite the spectacle.

76. Hike on the Rainbow Mountain

Peru’s Vinicunca , aka Rainbow Mountain, is one of the most distinctive hikes you’ll ever embark on, thanks to the mountain’s unique coloring. It’s especially interesting as its unique striped features were actually hidden under thick layers of snow until just a few years ago, although even today the stripes are caught in their full beauty only outside of the rainy season.

The Rainbow Mountain is on our  Cusco Peru Bucket List that has the best things to do in Machu Picchu’s gateway city.

77. Hike to Christ the Redeemer of Brazil

Even if you’re not the least bit religious, this Art Deco statue placed on a mountain above Rio de Janeiro is a must see. It’s pretty glorious to see from numerous angles, including from the ground below. It should only take an hour or two at most of your time to hike up and find yourself standing right at the roots of the statue.

78. Relax at Blue Lagoon

One of the many reasons people flock to Iceland, this geothermal spa is beautifully blue and an incredibly relaxing place to spend a couple of hours in. The Blue Lagoon itself is manmade, using a nearby geothermal power station’s waters, which have been proven to help with psoriasis symptoms especially.

79. Sail to the Statue of Liberty

Undoubtedly among New York City’s most iconic attractions, seeing the Statue of Liberty on a boat ride may be the most fun way to get close to it. By joining a cruise to the statue, you’ll get to enjoy seeing how NYC looks from a boat.

80. Visit Santorini in Greece

Although there’s numerous gorgeous places to visit in Greece, Santorini in particular seems to top many bucket lists. It offers a display of authentic and charming architecture, plus a whole lot of stunning views, and even with the magnetic pull it has on travelers, it’s managed to stay quite true to traditions.

If you do decide to visit read this first: Santorini Bucket List: 30 Best Things to Do on the Greek Island

81. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Once you’ve made your way to London, don’t just run past Buckingham Palace after snagging a quick photo of it, stay to watch the changing of the guards – in fact, time your visit to Buckingham Palace so that you don’t miss it! It’s one of the most iconic and popular ceremonies in the world, and worth seeing at least once.

To learn more, read  A Guide to Changing of the Guard at London’s Buckingham Palace

82. See your reflection at Salar de Uyuni

If you want to see the biggest and most magical salt flat on the planet, you’ve got to go visit Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. It’s intriguing to see any day of the year, but especially just after it’s rained, as the thin layer of rainwater stuck on the salt flats turns the whole site into a huge mirror.

83. See the Dragons on Komodo Island

Sadly, they may not look like the dragons in fairy tales and fantasy movies, nor do they hold the same powers, but they’re a rare and intriguing animal to witness in the wild. They do also have the title of the world’s largest lizard going for them! And you can visit them on Komodo Island .

84. Tahiti in French Polynesia

Besides offering those dreamy overwater bungalows and fun snorkeling opportunities, Tahiti is a great destination also for its dramatic mountains and gorgeous waterfalls. You’ll also find yourself falling in love with the local cuisine and culture, I bet.

85. Visit The Maldives

Similarly to Tahiti, The Maldives are another hot spot for those longing to go on a once-in-a-lifetime romantic holiday by the turquoise waters. The overwater bungalows of The Maldives are possibly the most famous ones in the world, and besides an incredible marine life to discover underwater, it’s not only romantic but a truly tranquil travel destination.

86. Stand in Times Square in New York City

Times Square is the most famous spot in all of New York City to stand in. It’s pumped up with billboards and neon lights, and you’ll absolutely find yourself marveling at all that after dark.

87. Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine

Although the original Meiji Jingu Shrine was unfortunately destroyed during World War 2, another one was quickly built in its place. It is dedicated to Emperor Meiji, modern Japan’s first emperor, although you won’t find his grave here. The Meiji Period is notable for its modernization of Japan. As an additional plus, this shrine is located in the middle of a forest, for that extra layer of serenity and beauty.

88. Visit Pompeii

Only ruins remain of Pompeii , which was destroyed in 79 AD during Mount Vesuvius’ eruption. Even so, it remains a spectacular display of Ancient Roman times, and thanks to all that ash, the remains of Pompeii have actually remained exceptionally preserved to date.

89. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

One of the most significant monuments and religious sites for Christians, especially Catholics, this magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica  is also the largest church in the world. It’s also a burial site for previous popes, and unless you’ve got a ticket in advance, you may end up waiting hours to get in.

90. Visit the Acropolis of Athens

The most iconic mainland Greece item to add onto your travel bucket list is the ancient Acropolis. It is an incredibly popular destination to visit and is an amazing representation of the Ancient Greek times.

91. Visit the British Museum

Among the oldest museums in the world is the massive British Museum , where you can find awesome collections from many different cultures including Egyptian, Etruscan, and European. And the best bit? It’s free to enter!

92. Visit the city of Lhasa and the Potala Palace

Located in Tibet, Lhasa is famous for its numerous historical attractions with roots in Buddhism, including the Potala Palace , which used to be the winter palace for Dalai Lamas for over three centuries. This palace is also one of the most famous spiritual sanctuaries you can find on the globe.

93. Tour the Colosseum in Rome

The impressive Colosseum is Italy’s most visited attraction, and while it’s quite extraordinary to view from the outside alone, to get the most out of it, you’ll of course want to walk through it and discover bits of Ancient Roman times.

94. Visit the Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona

This magnificent canyon is one of the biggest natural wonders in the world. Although it is actually not the deepest or widest canyon you could come across, it is indisputably significant in displaying natural history. Plus it’s simply gorgeous to visit. For an extra bucket list worthy experience, take a helicopter ride into the grand canyon !

95. Visit the Grand Palace

At the heart of Bangkok you can find a complex of buildings forming the famed Grand Palace . Since the late 18th century, it has been the residence of kings of Siam, and kings of Thailand today. It’s considered special for its style of architecture, and one of its main attractions is the 14th century Emerald Buddha.

96. Visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba

Formerly a mosque and currently operating as a cathedral, this Andalusian site , built as early as the 8th century, is most famous for its influential and ambitious style of Islamic religious architecture. Stepping inside of its doors feels as if you’ve been transferred way back in time.

97. Visit the Louvre Museum

Besides just having the famous Mona Lisa in its collection, Louvre in general has one of the most diverse art collections in the world, dating back as far as 11,000 years ago. Formerly a royal palace, its interiors are quite spectacular to walk through.

98. Visit Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia

This magnificent and ambitious Roman Catholic minor basilica is not only absolutely stunning, also unique for the fact that it has actually still not finished building. Despite that, it was consecrated just a little over a decade ago, and is popular to visit for its truly iconic display of Gaudi’s distinctive architecture style.

While you are there, make sure to work on your Barcelona Bucket List !

99. Visit the Sistine Chapel

Once you’ve finished ogling at the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, make your way to the Vatican Palace, particularly into its Sistine Chapel . The palace in general is intriguing to explore through, but the Sistine Chapel is something else. It is famous for its frescoes painted by Michelangelo, including the absolutely amazing The Last Judgment piece. Here is also where the process of selecting a new pope takes place.

100. Visit the Summer Palace in China

Also often called the Imperial Garden Museum, the Summer Palace is significant for the preservation of Chinese national heritage. It is a stunning and iconic site to visit in Beijing, even if not quite as famous as some other ones.

101. See the White House

The White House is of course the most iconic presidential office and residence in the world, not to mention a rare opportunity to view a head of state’s private residence. Although you’ll get the best out of the visit by knowing historical key points in advance, it’s worthwhile to tour the White House and learn more of its rich history.

102. Visit Versailles

The glamorous Versailles is possibly the best example of French Baroque style of architecture – it most certainly is the most lavish one. It’s beautiful throughout, but one of its most unique points is the Hall of Mirrors, complete with 357 mirrors.

103. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is known for its many canals, which offer a gorgeous backdrop to its already beautiful historic city center. The city center is easily walkable, making its canals accessible to you; alternatively, hopping onto a boat and touring through the canals on water can be quite a fun experience as well.

104. Walk around on Mont Saint-Michel

Located in front of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is a tidal island famous for its abbey, which remains a significant pilgrimage site for Christians in the West since the middle ages, until today. It’s a beautiful abbey structure, with plenty of historical and cultural heritage to go around.

105. Walk on Giant’s Causeway in Ireland

Formed through a volcanic fissure eruption in ancient times, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland’s north coast is famous for its 40,000 or so basalt columns interlocked with each other. It’s a distinctive and picturesque slice of nature to walk on.

106. Tour Chichen Itza of Mexico

This archaeological site is a must add to any travel bucket list, especially among those with interest in discovering Mayan ruins or similar sites. There are 26 different Mayan ruins to discover between Old Chichen and Chichen Itza, each with a story to tell.

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46 thoughts on “Travel Bucket List: 100 Best Places to Visit & Destination Ideas”

Regarding gorillas in Uganda – it’s much easier to climb up to the same mountains on Rwanda side!

Thanks for the tip!

Wow, that’s one heck of a bucket list! I’ve been to many of these places, but so many more than I want/need to go! As soon as I knock one off, I end up adding several more. So many places, so little time.

Same for me! There are just too many amazing places in the world.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Amazing Guide! Best places to visit around the world in a single blog!

There are many beautiful destinations await for us. I planned to travel aboard and I bought a new camera and can’t wait to hangout with great views!

What a great list! Thanks for this post!

It’s as if you were in my mind when you wrote this. I feel like you wrote down my actual bucket list. I didn’t know about that pig island though, definitely adding that one!

Hi Annette, again I’m so amaze with the choices of your travel list. Your one of the best!

Wow! It looks like the ultimate bucket list for any traveler. I would prefer visiting Wadi desert (Jordan) as my first one in this list.

thank you for some great ideas and inspiration.

Thank you for this post!! There is so much travel inspo contained here and I’m so excited to revise my list of potential 2020 travel destinations!

Mdina ❤️❤️❤️

This list is amazing! I hope I get the chance to visit even half of these places. The Dead Sea has been on the list since forever!

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List is very interesting! No wonder that trek to Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal is on the list. Obviously, mountain regions of Nepal offer great hikes and climbs. Travelling through the mighty Himalayas, you can feel like visiting the ultimate kingdom of the world. After all, the Himalayas lodge Mount Everest, the highest elevation on our planet.

Would love to do Raja Ampat and Jordan, as soon as travel opens up again ;) thanks for the inspo, it’s a great list with hidden spots!

Nice post, Thanks for sharing

thank you for sharing this useful information, this really helps. this is like reading an entire book and I can utilise this entire knowledge into my personal growth.

So many great things on this list! I’ve done quite a few on the list but still have a long way to go. My #1 bucket list item right now would probably be seeing the Pyramids in Egypt!

I love a good bucket list – and there are so many great ideas on your list! Visiting Sigiriya and hiking along Cinque Terre in Italy were fabulous experiences and I hope to dive the Great Barrier Reef before climate change impacts it forever.

Pamukkale Hot Springs are so high on my bucket list. I would love to visit Jordan too. This is a great list, thank you for sharing :)

Hot air ballooning in Turkey is one of my most favorite things I have done in all 78 countries I’ve visited. It’s a must experience for sure. So many more to add to my list. Thanks!

Checked 19 out of this list. Still plenty left to explore :) The world keeps flooding my never-ending to-do list

19 is still a good number. And I bet all those adventure are fun

Thanks, Annette, for such a great list. I loved that your list includes so many new places for me that are unfamiliar. Often, these lists are pretty typical. I added so many places to my personal list. The jellyfish in Palau sounds particularly intriguing. I find them to be beautifully scary creatures.

How do you determine where you are going to go next? Do you plan years in advance or one year to months to days in advance?

I actually don’t plan it a year in advance. Sometimes I go on a spontaneous trip or a month in advance planning.

I’ve done a large amount of these, but there are still so many more that I want to do! I’m doing most of the eastern/southern Africa ones next year as I’m spending a few months exploring 10 different countries.

Great list! Thanks for sharing. I’m copying some items from this list to my bucket list especially Camino de Santiago.

I’ve done sixteen on this list, but mine is a very different list of things that I want to see and do. The three places we have in common are Angkor Wat, St Peter’s and the Sistine Chapel. I don’t think great white sharks and whale sharks are on many people’s lists?

16? Wow, that’s amazing

Amazing list. Am glad to have done a few of these things and ticked them off but there are many more that need to be followed through. Wadi Rum for instance as well as EBC might get crossed off soon

Hi really nice article is given by you explained very well and proper explanation with image. i got a lot of idea from this post thanks for sharing the post and keep tough with us

thanks for such an amazing and informative blog

I read multiple articles and this is certainly one of the best and productive content I found. Thanks for sharing the useful article.

It’s really amazing places and destinations for travel

Thanks for the list we have been to some of these places such as Ha Long Bay and the Taj Mahal but so many more to visit. Enjoyed the article.

Wonderful article! Highly appreciate for putting in so much effort. This place will surely be on my upcoming bucket list. Waiting to have the best experience!

Thanks for such an amazing Bucket list! Many more places to visit have been added now by going through this!

Glad to hear that. Would be lovely to hear about your travel stories too.

Thank you very much for sharing those information. I got important information from here. Those are helpful information.

This extensive list of 100 best places to visit and destination ideas is an absolute treasure trove for avid travelers and dreamers alike. It covers a wide range of breathtaking locations, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems around the globe. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, cultural experiences, or adventurous escapades, this list has it all. It’s filled with wanderlust-inducing descriptions and stunning visuals that transport you to far-off lands. From the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat to the vibrant streets of Tokyo, each destination is unique and promises unforgettable memories. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey of exploration and make your travel dreams a reality!

Thank you so much.

Great Bucket List

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I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

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Forbes - 2024 Bucket List Trips For Every Kind Of Adventure And Active Travel

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I have spent a lot of time in mountains all around the world, from the Rockies to Himalayas to Andes, and I have never seen a more beautiful mountain landscape than Italy's Dolomites, a geological example so unique it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking and skiing here are exceptional as well, but the beauty of mountain biking is that the options are endless, and suitable for all abilities. You could spend a week on wide track jeep roads, you can tackle the gnarliest single track, and you can do it all by fully human power or e-bike.

The options include one of the world's epic single day rides, the famed Sellaronda, a loop that climbs four high passes. You can do different day bike tours, or go town to town—fabulous towns—or valley to valley. Depending how you measure ski resorts, the Dolomiti Superski network of lifts and trails is either the first or second largest interconnected system in the world, and many of the lifts and gondolas run in summer too, creating an entire another level of MTB options for those who prefers not to do a ton of uphill. Basically, you cannot run out of options while in one of the most beautiful landscapes on earth, the region has the most extensive network of refuges (mountain restaurants) in Europe, and the food in general is excellent, from hearty comfort dishes to Michelin stars . Similarly, the lodging runs the gamut from staying in refuges to Realis & Chateaux luxury properties. Endless variations, none of them bad.

Go With: Surprisingly, given the number of high-end road bike tour operators in the market, no one has really done the same thing with mountain biking, and specialists for this tend to be highly regionalized local operators, Fortunately, there is just this here,  Dolomite Mountains , an Italian company focused on all things Dolomites, skiing, hiking, biking and climbing. They do not have any scheduled MTB trips (they do for skiing and hiking) but they have several  sample itineraries  you can check out, and then they design and guide a trip just for you and your group, with excellent guides and at more reasonable prices than this kind of thing is in most other places, regardless what level of luxe you opt for. I've traveled with them multiple times, and I'd choose them again.

Read the full article here.

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Bucket List: The 12 Best Road Trip Routes In The World

• Road trips offer freedom and flexibility, allowing travelers to explore at their own pace and stop as long as they want. No schedules or time constraints to worry about.
• The world is full of incredible road trip routes, from scenic coastal drives to traversing challenging mountain passes. There are options for every type of traveler.
• Some of the top road trip routes include Route 66 in the US, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Ocean Road in Australia, Trollstigen in Norway, and the Ring Road in Iceland. These routes offer amazing views and unforgettable experiences.

Traveling by train, like enjoying an adventure on Amtrak's epic sleeper train routes around the world , can be a comfortable way to explore a destination (and multiple, at that!). However, there's far less freedom when traveling by rail because passengers are limited to the time constraints and stops on the journey. What's better than rail travel for folks with wanderlust hoping to be free from the clutches of time limits? Road trips, of course!

Going on a road trip is an amazing way for travelers to discover the world at their own pace; explorers can go wherever their hearts desire and stop for as long as they wish without having to worry about schedules. Moreover, there are countless options for road trip routes that range from scenic coastal drives to traversing rugged mountain passes and immersing oneself in the culture and history of an area (or an entire country, in many cases).

For aspiring roadtrippers looking to see the world, here are the top ten best road trip routes around the globe to add to the bucket list. From the breathtaking vistas of Scotland's North Coast 500 to the remote and challenging terrain of Pakistan's Karakoram Highway, these amazing bucket list road trips offer unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring views for those who crave adventure on the open road.

UPDATE: 2023/11/30 12:40 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Who's Up For A Drive? These Are Some Of The Most Beautiful Routes To Take

This list covers a number of the most beautiful road trips in the world (in other words, the best!). However, there's always room for more! As such, this article has been updated with two new bucket list road trip routes, both in the US and the most beautiful to embark on ASAP. From Route 66 across the Western United States to the Blue Ridge Mountain Drive, there are endless places to travel by vehicle. Have fun!

Related: Road Trip Bucket List: 12 Major Cities To Stop At Along Route 66

Route 66, United States

Welcome to the wild west: route 66 is the perfect desert adventure.

One of the most famous road trips in the world is Route 66 in the United States. Not only has this iconic road-inspired movie like Cars , but it also boasts endless scenery, history, and communities worth stopping in for the night. Most notably, Route 66 offers tons of epic stops and spans over 2,400 miles across states like Arizona, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico and ends in Los Angeles, California.

This is undeniably one of the best driving ideas for a road trip itinerary and should keep everyone occupied from mile one to 2,488. Moreover, Route 66 boasts an eight-state coverage, with something to see and do at nearly every turn. However, much of this route goes through desert landscape, so make sure and bring plenty of water!

• Distance : 2,448 miles
• Time to Drive: 10 days (minimum) , but 2 weeks is an ideal timeframe

The Blue Ridge Parkway, United States

This road trip route is known to be the most scenic drive in the united states.

Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most stunning drives in the United States and arguably North America. Here, people can embark on a 469-mile adventure through this famous mountain range, traveling through states like Virginia and North Carolina. Moreover, the Blue Ridge Parkway detours into places like Shenandoah National Park and the Smoky Mountains National Park system. This makes it a perfect choice for mountain lovers and hikers, plus it is a pretty scenic route from start to finish.

It's also worth noting that while on this road trip route, you will drive through countless towns, including Linville Falls, Blowing Rock, Boone, Sparta, Roanoke, Virginia, Bryson City, Mouth of Wilson (Grayson Highlands State Park), West Jefferson, and so on.

• Distance: 469 miles
• Time to Drive: ~9-10 hours

The Blue Ridge Scenic Highway through North Carolina is another epic US road trip route in this region!

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Coastal views and cliffside driving make the great ocean road a top road trip.

Covering a distance of 413 miles, The Great Ocean Road is a picturesque coastal route that starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford, near Warrnambool, located on the southeastern coast of Australia.

Constructed by Australian soldiers in remembrance of their fallen colleagues, the road is renowned for its scenic beauty, with stunning oceanic views, cliffs, and rainforests. Exploring this road with its gorgeous scenery is one of the best things to do in Australia.

• Distance: 413 miles
• Time to Drive: ~9.5 hours

Trollstigen, Norway

Get ready to turn (a lot) in norway while driving trollstigen.

Trollstigen, which translates to the "Troll's Path" or the "Troll's Road", is a mountainous road located in western Norway, running from south to north from Sylte in Fjord Municipality to Åndalsnes in Rauma Municipality. It is approximately 20 kilometers long and contains 11 hairpin turns that ascend the steep mountainside, with gradients as steep as 10%.

The road was built between 1925 and 1936 and has since become a popular tourist attraction due to its breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, earning a spot on many lists of the world's most scenic drives. Even though it is not included as one of the things travelers should not miss out on in Norway because it's a bit off the beaten path (and tourists without a car will have to rent one), it provides a breathtaking experience for road trip fans.

• Distance: 31 miles
• Time to Drive: ~1-2 hours

Ring Road, Iceland

Also called route 1, this route offers glaciers, volcanoes, hot springs, and falls.

The Iceland Ring Road, also referred to as Route 1 or simply the Ring Road, is an 828-mile-long highway encircling the entire island country of Iceland. The road provides access to some of Iceland's most popular tourist spots, such as volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls.

Completed in 1974, the Ring Road has emerged as a major tourist attraction in Iceland, offering visitors stunning vistas of the country's diverse landscapes and unique geological formations. Several charming towns and villages in Iceland (other than Reykjavik) dot the road, providing essential services and accommodations to travelers. From Icelandic culinary adventures to marveling at Iceland's unique beaches , Iceland's Ring Road is worth the bucket list because it promises a deep exploration of the entire country.

• Distance: 828 miles
• Time to Drive: Approximately 6 days in summer and 12 days in winter , at a minimum

The Garden Route, South Africa

190 miles of beaches, mountains, lagoons, and forests.

Located on the south-western coast of South Africa, The Garden Route is easily one of the most scenic drives in the world; it's a 190-mile-long scenic route between Mossel Bay and Storms River, passing through a range of breathtaking landscapes such as lush forests, pristine beaches, towering mountains, and tranquil lagoons.

As a popular tourist spot, The Garden Route offers visitors an array of attractions and activities throughout the journey, making it an ideal road trip destination. Drive down this road and discover what South Africa is really like .

• Distance: 190 miles
• Time to Drive: 2-3 hours (but it's recommended to take a few days to complete it and appreciate the sights along the way)

Amalfi Coast, Italy

High-class living and mediterranean views make the amalfi coast an upscale road trip choice.

The stunning Amalfi Coast is a 31-mile road that winds along the southern coast of Italy, connecting the cities of Sorrento and Salerno. The road passes through a series of charming coastal towns, such as Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi, each with its own unique character and attractions.

The narrow, winding road features hairpin turns and steep drops, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and cliffs. Travelers can stop at scenic overlooks, indulge in local cuisine, and explore historical sites and cultural attractions.

• Time to Drive: ~2 hours

A82, Scotland

Catch a glimpse of the lochness monster on scotland's a82 route.

In Scotland, the A82 is a major road that spans approximately 167 miles from Glasgow to Inverness, passing through some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes, such as Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Loch Ness.

Initially constructed in the 18th century as a military route to the Highlands, it has become a vital transport link and popular tourist route. The A82 goes through several towns and villages, including Fort William, the gateway to Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the UK.

• Distance: 167 miles
• Time to Drive: ~3 hours (but it's better to take one's time to enjoy the stops and views along the way)

Related: Discovering The Beauty Of The Palisades Parkway: A Road Trip Adventure In Northern New Jersey

The Karakoram Highway, China/Pakistan

Peaks, glaciers, and valleys from kashgar, china to islamabad, pakistan.

The Karakoram Highway, also known as the Friendship Highway, is one of the best travel routes for road trippers on this list for those who crave adventurous terrain. The route spans over 1,300 kilometers from Kashgar in China to Islamabad in Pakistan. The road traverses through some of the most remote and rugged terrain on earth, including the Karakoram mountain range, which houses some of the world's highest peaks, such as K2, the second-highest mountain in the world.

The construction of the Karakoram Highway was completed in 1986, and it is recognized as a remarkable engineering feat involving the construction of numerous bridges and tunnels through some of the planet's most challenging terrain. The highway provides breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys while also providing an opportunity to experience the culture and history of the region.

• Distance: 810 miles
• Time to Drive: ~4-5 days (but travelers can spend longer if they wish to take their time)

Related: From Canyons To Wildflowers: Discovering Anza Borrego On A Scenic Road Trip

The North Coast 500, Scotland

Castles, cliffs, pubs, and water views in the scottish highlands.

The Scottish Highlands is a picturesque region in Scotland that boasts natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and historical landmarks. Many scenic routes and roads are scattered throughout the area, offering visitors breathtaking views of the region's unique culture and history. However, none are quite as enchanting as the North Coast 500 drive, which easily earns its place among the world's best road trips for its scenery alone (and the quintessential Scottish pubs en route!).

One of the best road trips in Scotland (or indeed the UK overall) is the North Coast 500, a 516-mile road trip showcasing some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. The journey begins and ends in Inverness, taking travelers through small villages, historic towns, dramatic mountain ranges, and rugged coastlines. There are plenty of ancient castles, scenic overlooks, and traditional Scottish pubs to stop and enjoy along the way.

• Distance: 516 miles
• Time to Drive: ~ 8 hours 30 minutes

The Overseas Highway, Florida Keys, USA

This is the drive between the florida keys and miami beach.

The Overseas Highway , located in the Florida Keys of the USA, is a 113-mile-long road that connects Miami to Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States. The highway spans a series of islands, providing awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Originally built as a railroad track in the early 20th century, it was later converted to a highway to connect the Keys' islands. Today, the highway is one of the best road trips in the world for coastal scenery, passing through several towns and villages, including Islamorada and Marathon, each with its own unique attractions and activities.

• Distance: 113 miles
• Time to Drive: ~4 hours one-way

Related: From Waterfalls To Wildlife: Exploring The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway On A Road Trip Adventure

The Atlantic Road, Norway

This route in norway makes its way to the little island of averøy.

The Atlantic Road in Norway is a 5.2-mile road that runs along Norway's coast, connecting the mainland to the island of Averøy with eight bridges. It passes through some of Norway's most stunning coastal landscapes, offering views of the open sea, rugged cliffs, and tiny islands.

This road is an engineering marvel, completed in 1989, as it required the construction of several bridges and causeways in one of the most challenging marine environments in the world. The Atlantic Road is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery to those visiting Norway.

• Distance : 5.2 miles
• Time to Drive: ~10 minutes

This road is short but sweet; however, if travelers want to extend it, they can drive the whole of the super scenic Route 64 ( Route 64 includes the Atlantic Road ). Doing so will add around an hour and 15 minutes to the journey.

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Travel bucket list ideas:

100 Bucket list destinations & places to visit

Multiple countries

What is a ‘bucket list destination’? By our definition, it’s somewhere you would go specifically to see a world-renowned, must-see ‘bucket list’ attraction – like Niagara Falls or the Taj Mahal. Alternatively, a bucket list destination is a place you go to to just experience the atmosphere and/or beauty of the destination itself – like Prague, Cartagena or Sicily. Mostly, it’s a combination of these, offering a unique, enthralling and unforgettable complement of attractions, tours, activities & events that demand a visit at least once in a lifetime.

Here’s our round-up of the world’s greatest bucket list destinations we think you should visit, along with the main reasons we think you should go. How many have you been to?

From Matt: Some of the bucket list destinations below don’t have guides yet – bear with me, they’re coming soon…

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

Destination guide

World-class culture, fashion, music, and food – London has it all in spades. Combining a palpable sense of history with a vibrant cosmopolitan edge, this global metropolis has something for everyone.   

Traditionalists will love the royal landmarks and slew of legend-heavy heritage buildings that date back centuries. Hipsters will find inspiration in the gritty East End – a hotbed of galleries, nightclubs, funky restaurants and street markets.     

In terms of the sheer number of bucket list experiences in one place – nowhere even comes close. And yes, it rains, but the majority of London’s best bucket list experiences can be enjoyed equally whatever the weather; be it an international art museum, or a pint in a cosy 500-year-old pub.

Ile-de-France, France

Paris is, quite simply, one of the world’s great capital cities. It’s famed for its harmonious golden stone architecture, its majestic monuments, its world-class museums and art galleries, and its intellectual pedigree as the home of the Enlightenment. More than anything, though, Paris embodies a unique lifestyle.   

Glamorous and seductive, this is a dynamic, lived-in city whose inhabitants have perfected the French  art de vivre – it’s a flaneur’s paradise, a place to enjoy strolling around the streets, window shopping, absorbing market banter, eating at bistros and people-watching on café terraces.  

Provence, France

Provence is France’s Mediterranean dreamland, where it’s almost impossible to avoid magnificent landscapes of sunflowers, lavender, vines, cypresses and olive groves – scenes that are dreamily familiar thanks to once-local artists such as Van Gogh or Cezanne.

Beyond its beauty and artistic heritage, the region also excels in outstanding Roman and medieval monuments; cool cities full of hip boutiques, superb restaurants and cafés; and a world-class summer festival scene. It’s a place to go wine tasting, to cycle or hike through some of France’s loveliest countryside, or to gallop on horseback through flocks of pink flamingos.

French Riviera

Cote d'Azur, France

Money, glamour and bombshell looks: the yacht-magnet, beach-club-trimmed Cote d’Azur aka French Riviera still lives up to the hype as a playground for the world’s elite.

Home to fabled luxury hotels, triple-starred Michelin restaurants, world-class art museums, hedonistic beaches and celebrity-haunted clubs – as well as the glitzy Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix – everything here feels A-list.

But alongside the razzle-dazzle, this stretch of coast in the South of France also offers breathtaking natural beauty and the same bohemian, Mediterranean joie de vivre that attracted Matisse, Picasso and company in decades past.

With year-round sunshine, it’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a family holiday, with plenty to entertain kids of all ages.

Tuscany, Italy

It’s not difficult to see why Tuscany is one of Italy’s (indeed, Europe’s) most popular holiday destinations. The region has it all: treasure-filled art cities and postcard-pretty hill towns, a long sandy coastline, high mountains and gently rolling hills plus superb food and wine with a thriving restaurant scene.

Even leaving aside Florence , there’s enough art to keep culture vultures busy for weeks, while outdoors-y types can dive into a whole range of activities.

Add a plethora of fabulous hotels (from agrotourism stays to boutique heritage boltholes and five-star grand dames set in converted castles), and you have all the ingredients of an unforgettable, soul-enriching holiday.

Veneto, Italy

La Serenissima is one of the world’s great romantic destinations, a unique and exotic city built on water by architects who looked to Constantinople, Cairo and Aleppo rather than Rome or Florence.

Home to some of the world’s finest painters – Bellini, Titian, Tintoretto – barely a church is without a masterpiece. Yet so spectacular is the city with its narrow calle (streets) and quiet campi (squares), polychrome marble palaces and gondola-dotted canals, it’s a pleasure just to wander and observe.

What’s more, Venice is no mere floating museum; the Biennale and Punta della Dogana contemporary art centre add a thoroughly 21st-century vibe.

Marmara Region, Turkey

This important, layered city has seen a series of dramatic reincarnations, beginning life as Byzantium (founded c. 660 BC), before being renamed Constantinople in AD 330 (eastern capital of the Roman Empire).

The city finally became known as ‘Stamboul’, or Istanbul, during the Ottoman era, which began in the 15th century when it was captured by the 21-year-old Sultan Mehmed II (aka “Mehmed the Conqueror”), ushering in an era of lavish Sultan-led rule.

In the course of its deliciously rich 1,800-year history, Istanbul has been the capital of three empires. Here East meets West head-on, in a mesmerising, evocative city that its people have always considered the centre of the world.

Yet Istanbul is not just about sightseeing and museums; right now it has as much urban buzz and excitement as any place on earth. Besides making a bold name for itself in art, music, fashion and design, the city is modernising at a breathtaking pace.

The people are lovely, the food is a delight and the city is one of the top shopping destinations on the planet.

Peru is a land of jaw-dropping desert, mountain and rainforest landscapes, dotted with some of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Americas. The food is fabulous, the people friendly and travel is great value; though roads can be rough and distances long.

The country’s west – where the Nazca lines are found – is dune-rolling desert; the centre rises to glacier-covered Andean peaks with fabulous hiking. To the east, the mountains drop into lush foothills teeming with wildlife – this is where Machu Picchu and the ruins of the Inca Empire are situated. Beyond is the giant Amazon rainforest.

Visits inevitably pass through Peru’s capital and international travel hub, Lima which has some fascinating Spanish colonial buildings and some of the best restaurants in Latin America.

India's Golden Triangle

Delhi , Jaipur and Agra – the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’ – lie at the heart of many Indian cultural tours and form the backbone of most first-time visits to India. These three destinations pack in most of India’s most bucket list experiences and all of its unique cultural essence.

Delhi, the capital, presents two distinct faces: Raj-era New Delhi boasts neat tree-lined boulevards and most of the best hotels, while Old Delhi distils a frantic, earthier atmosphere and is dotted with medieval monuments.

Agra is synonymous with the iconic Taj Mahal while Jaipur is the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, an exotic desert state hosting massive forts and exquisite palaces. A few hours from Jaipur is the Ranthambore National Park, one of the best places in India to see wild tigers.

There are good transport links between the three destinations, but for a real treat, take the luxury Mahajaras Expres s train which shuttles you between the main stops in blissful comfort, as you stare out at India’s uniquely exotic and evocative scenery.

Lazio, Italy

Rome has been on history’s front page for more than 2,000 years; it’s a city of marvels that has seen glory, greatness and triumph – and excess, murder and decadence – in equal measure. Yet despite its dazzling wealth of ancient, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture, the Eternal City is no museum piece.

A thriving and modern metropolis among venerable treasures, Rome boasts a hip, 21st-century art scene, world-class theatre, outstanding shopping, superb cuisine and, of course, gelato. One of Europe’s most exciting capitals, Rome is a shining example of la dolce vita ; its many piazzas alive with al fresco bars and restaurants.

New York City

New York, United States of America (USA)

Tourists call it the Big Apple, New Yorkers call it the Capital of the World and that audacity, energy, wealth, power, humour and cosmopolitan pizzazz makes the ‘city that never sleeps’ one of the most exciting destinations on Earth. Few places rival its skyline views, culture and dynamism.

Relieved of much of its previous street crime, New York now inspires city-loving travellers of all ages and tastes, who thrill to its sights, sounds, museums, arts scene, and shopping. It’s unique in the sheer density of skyscrapers crammed into Manhattan and its heritage as a magnet for ambitious immigrants.

Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona, United States of America (USA)

The 277-mile-long Grand Canyon, with a max width of 18 miles and a maximum depth of (only) over a mile, is not the deepest canyon – both Colca Canyon in Peru and Kali Gandaki Gorge in Nepal are more than twice as deep. But the drama of the landscape and the multi-coloured geology of this extraordinary geological phenomenon is unsurpassed.

The gorge, cut over 2 billion years by the Colorado River, resides within the 1.2-million-acre Grand Canyon National Park – the US’s second most visited park.

Helicopter flights are a thrilling way to see it, but other great ways to experience the canyon are viewing platforms, self-driving routes, white-water rafting on the Colorado River and hiking one of the many superb trails.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

Bucket List Experience

You hear the Falls long before you see them: the roaring cascade of water plummeting down a 50m gorge at a rate of millions of litres per second. The world’s second-largest – but arguably most famous – waterfall is jaw-dropping in its scale and intensity.

The roadside viewpoints offer prime viewing, but there are several other great ways to experience the Falls. Boat trips take you right up to the torrent, and into the foaming spray. Spectacular short helicopter flights offer a unique panoramic view of the scale and surrounding scenery (nervous flyers should head to the top of the nearby Skylon Tower instead).

You can also descend down via old tunnels to extraordinary viewpoints and caves behind the Falls themselves.

Good for age: 4+

Catalonia, Spain

Vibrant, confident, cosmopolitan – few cities in Europe can touch Barcelona for sheer style and exuberance. A progressive cultural and fashion scene is offset with a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, long sandy beaches and boat-filled marinas.

There are world-class museums, venerating Spanish artists such as Picasso and Miro, though its perhaps best known for its fluid-looking, ornate ‘Modernista’ architecture pioneered by the incomparable Gaudi.

Barcelona also takes its food and drink very seriously – with plenty of chic, experimental cuisine served across tapas bars, gastronomic restaurants and hip concept cafes, not to mention a lively all-night bar scene.

This colourful, beautiful metropolis will delight whether you’re 18 or 80.

Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango is the largest inland delta in the world: a maze of grasslands, indigenous forests, islands, channels and lakes covering 17,000 square kilometres that teems with all the big game and spectacular birdlife (more than 400 species). Even if you’re not a twitcher, the feathered creatures here are captivating.

The variety of ecosystems in the Okavango make it a fascinating place to safari; one might spot an elephant swimming, see a malachite kingfisher diving, or bump into a lioness.

Thanks to the Botswana government policy of high-revenue, low-volume tourism, there are very few camps or tourists. Nearly all are based near water, on the mainland – in private concessions or in the Moremi National Park – or on islands, and the real draw of the Okavango is the unique water-based safari opportunities it provides: mokoro (dugout canoe) or speedboat excursions through channels and papyrus reedbeds.

Walking (a real treat near water) and night safaris (when cats mostly hunt and nocturnal creatures come out) are only permitted in private concessions – so not the Moremi National Park.

Even flying into the Okavango on a small plane is one of the best things about the holiday; the views over the vast areas of water are breathtaking.

Masai Mara & Serengeti

Alongside the neighbouring Serengeti just south in Tanzania, the Maasai Mara is Kenya’s finest game reserve and the best place in East Africa for a Big Five safari.

The scenery is spectacular, fringed by an escarpment, dotted with hills, and split by the Mara River, inhabited by those famously enormous crocodiles. Big skies, grasslands stretching to the horizon, acacias silhouetted in the sunset – it’s the stereotypical African scenery most safari-goers dream of.

When the remarkable wildebeest migration passes through its 1,800 square kilometres (from August to October), grasslands heave with millions of wildebeest and zebra – and big prides of lion, as well as hyena, leopard and cheetah, enjoying the moving feast. It’s a great spectacle, but being among the creatures is like being in a big herd of cows – only millions of them. If they’re not there, it’s still brilliant.

There is no better way to see the vast expanse of wilderness than from the air – particularly in a floating balloon, at dawn. Expensive, yes, but worth the splurge.

The best way to feel the wild is to be on foot – not permitted in the main reserve. For bushwalking, stay in a neighbouring conservancy and walk with a Maasai. You’ll also be able to visit a village to learn about how man, cattle and wildlife have adapted to live alongside one another – and see the ‘ adumu ’, the famous traditional jumping dance.

The main drawback – it’s uncomfortably touristy. Everyone wants to come here – in high season there will be as many vehicles as animals.

Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Islands

Dalmatia, Croatia

Dubrovnik, often described as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, has to be one of the world’s most glorious fortified towns.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik is probably Europe’s best example of a late medieval walled city, its architecture and fortifications remarkably well-preserved.

The pedestrian-only Old Town of the former independent Republic of Ragusa (1358-1808) is packed with proud aristocratic buildings, a testament to its past as a wealthy seafaring state.

Aside from outstanding architecture, it offers blissful seascapes, decent pebble beaches, excellent fish restaurants and some of Croatia’s most luxurious hotels.

Touted as the new Riviera, this picturesque and culture-rich hotspot manages to seduce and accommodate everyone from trendsetters and celebrities to honeymooners and cruise ship passengers.

Central Greece, Greece

Beyond the obvious attractions – yes, the Parthenon does live up to the hype – Athens has a multitude of unpredictable charms. There are Byzantine churches beside fashionable bars, outdoor cinemas squeezed between apartment blocks and rock concerts in ancient amphitheatres.

The loud, laidback birthplace of democracy has emerged from a tough decade of economic austerity with a renewed creative energy. And the irrepressible locals still know how to party. Some things here will never change – like 300 days of sunshine a year and a 50-kilometre coastline – and they don’t cost a thing.

Marrakech-Safi, Morocco

Note from Matt: Please do still consider travelling to Marrakech and the Atlas mountains, despite the devastation caused by the earthquake. The local people are heavily dependent on tourism and will suffer further if tourists stop visiting. Marrakech sustained some damage, but the souks and Jamaa el-Fnaa are still open and buzzing and the spirit of the people is unbowed. Indeed, according to people I know who have been recently, it’s quite inspiring to see how they are fighting back in the face of adversity…

Morocco’s former capital blends buzzing street life with atmospheric architecture and vibrant Arab culture, suffused with a liberal sprinkling of French influence – which adds up to an exotic,  intoxicating and entirely unique holiday destination.

Known as the Red Rose city, thanks to the dusky pink hue of its buildings, Marrakech is best known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medina (Old City), which is packed with souks and completely encircled by five-metre thick walls, built a thousand years ago.

Visitors can expect beautiful boutique hotels set in old riads, a flourishing food scene and a vibrant shopping experience.

Madrid Region, Spain

Maybe it’s the bright sunshine that lights up the city’s majestic plazas for most of the year – even in winter – but Madrid always seems to have that feel-good factor.

Some visit Spain’s capital for its three world-class art museums – the Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen – but most simply come for the exceptional food, great boutique shopping and vibrant nightlife. Indeed, there are few world capitals where it’s so easy to slip into the local way of life.

This is one place where even the best-laid sightseeing plans are likely to go astray.

North Holland, Netherlands

With 65 miles of Golden Age canals lined with handsome gabled houses and criss-crossed by photogenic bridges, the Dutch capital is perfect for lazy boat tours, romantic wanders or gentle bike rides.

For the culturally inclined, world-class art awaits in the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. For those of a less high-brow disposition, big draws are the many inviting cafés – some old-fashioned, others trendy – and a nightlife as lively and decadent as you want it to be.

The city is very digestible in a weekend; you can stroll from one side to the other in half an hour.

Andalusia, Spain

One of Europe’s most popular year-round holiday destinations, Andalusia has it all: long sandy beaches, spectacular mountains, national parks of extraordinary biodiversity, and fascinating cities that more than recall the centuries when Andalusia was the wealthy, sophisticated capital of Moorish Spain.

After decades in the doldrums, it’s found its mojo again: alongside its World Heritage Sites, pretty White Villages and passion for traditional fiestas, flamenco, sherry and horses, you’ll find a dazzling array of new contemporary art museums, boutique hotels and restaurants. Lively invigorating and full of sunshine, Andalusia promises you’ll never be bored.

Loire Valley

Loire Valley, France

Most people come to the lush valleys and hills of the Loire to visit the fairytale chateaux – more than a thousand of them, earning a 280km swathe of the Loire Valley a UNESCO World Heritage Site listing.

What’s less well known is that this family-friendly region, often dubbed the ‘garden of France’ for its vast agricultural output, has rich, fertile soils that produce superb local food and wine, and support some of the world’s finest decorative gardens. It’s a region of idyllic landscapes – peppered with a fascinating troglodyte (cave) cultural history – and authentic French villages.

The famous ‘ La Loire à Vélo ’ route allows you to see and experience at leisure by bike.

Greek Islands

Greek Islands, Greece

With more than 2,000 to choose from, there’s a Greek island for every mood, budget or occasion.

From the cliff-hanging hamlets of volcanic Santorini to the glamorous five-star resorts of Mykonos, the ancient ruins of rugged Crete to the traditional medieval villages of Chios, each island has its own distinct character. But all share pristine beaches, brilliant sunlight, a laid-back lifestyle where time slows to a crawl, and that quintessential, undefinable ‘Greek Island’ experience that’s impossible to get anywhere else.

Drift off to the sound of cicadas, eat fresh lobster with sand between your toes, stay up all night dancing beneath the stars – these classic islands are a place to instantly unwind.

Editor: Individual Greek island guides coming soon – stay tuned…

Recognised as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence harbours an estimated one million works of art, some 70 museums and more than 60 churches crammed into a compact plain surrounded by on three sides by hills.

The city’s small size (pop. 365,000) makes it simple to navigate, while its 11 million annual visitors guarantee a constant buzz, although during peak season, the sheer volume of tourists can seem overwhelming.

This being Tuscany, food and wine are of primary importance, and there are restaurants galore, from authentic, family-run trattorias to outposts of gourmet, new-wave Tuscan cuisine. Florence is also famed for its fashion brands: Pucci, Gucci and Ferragamo all started here. With so much to see, this capital of culture merits multiple visits.

Western Cape, South Africa

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town is a melting pot of diverse cultures and ideologies with a fascinating past. While it attracts visitors year-round, the city is at its most seductive in summer when locals and tourists come out to play.

It offers dramatic landscapes, glorious beaches of golden sand, and a kaleidoscope of multicultural entertainment attracting everyone from outdoor adrenaline junkies to nightlife-loving party animals.

But where Cape Town truly excels is in its culinary adventures, with world-class restaurants and street markets to explore, alongside terroir-driven wines from the nearby Cape Winelands.

Sensual and sultry Havana is the coolest city in the Caribbean. Her salty Spanish colonial streets fizz with music, her art shines a light on revolutions, and her architecture – a handsome jumble of Spanish villas, churches, art deco towers, and baroque mansions line promenades, tight historic streets, and her famous winding ocean-facing road, the Malecón.

Go for the live music, dance, art, the new bars and restaurants, and the Cuban wit, and to witness the last bastion of communism in the western hemisphere. Havana is enigmatic, energetic, maddening, and safe, and is perfect for couples, families and history-curious folk.

New South Wales, Australia

Sydney has matured in recent years to become one of the world’s most dynamic and glamorous cities.

Blessed with a magnificent harbour, great beaches and a semi-tropical climate, Australia’s biggest metropolis delights with superb food and drink, world-class shopping, pristine scenery, big skies and effervescent, friendly people.

It’s a mecca for outdoor activities and adventures, and the ideal base for exploring the other wonders of this marvellous country. The big drawback? You won’t want to return home.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Long before David Livingstone named them for his Queen, the locals living on either side of the Zambezi River called the Victoria Falls ‘ Mosi-oa-Tunya’ ; ‘the smoke that thunders’. And rightly so, for visiting in late summer – with the Falls in full spate – is a deafening, soaking and humbling experience. Stretching for almost a mile across the Zambezi River, the falls plummet more than 100m into the Bakota Gorge – twice the height of Niagara Falls.

While the Falls are downright impressive,  it’s the area’s array of activities – from Big Five game drives and white-water rafting, to helicopter flips and bungee jumping – that has turned the area encompassing Livingstone (Zambia) and Victoria Falls town (Zimbabwe) into Africa’s adventure playground.

Central Thailand, Thailand

Bangkok is one of South East Asia’s most complex and contradictory cities. Gritty but glamorous, lively but laid-back, the Thai capital is a hive of frenetic street activity with traffic gridlock that grinds the place to a halt for hours.

It’s home to the region’s best fine dining restaurants, as well as tasty street food stalls, sleazy girlie bars and sleek cocktail spots. It’s the address for retro hipster markets and posh designer stores, lofty luxury hotels and charming B&Bs.

Perhaps surprisingly, it’s also a tranquil haven dotted with tropical gardens and glinting temples.

Whatever your penchant, Bangkok’s almost certainly got it covered.

Rio de Janeiro

Southeastern Region, Brazil

No city has a setting more beautiful than Rio, nor a population more devoted to the enjoyment of life. Locals ( cariocas ) call Rio simply ‘A Cidade Maravilhosa ’ (The Marvellous City), and are too transfixed by its beauty – and their own – to do anything other than enjoy themselves, staying up late to party and rising early in the golden morning light to swim or surf in the cool ocean. It’s the ultimate destination for healthy hedonists – hang glide, surf or hike by day and party all night.

Beyond the beach, though, there is culture here too if you know where to look – some great art and architecture, some interesting museums and the notorious favelas; for nature lovers, the city is surrounded by hummingbird-filled rainforest.

The biggest draw of all though is, of course, Rio’s world-famous Carnival – like a pilgrimage to Mecca, everyone should see it at least once.

Asia’s most cosmopolitan city dazzles like no other, with its pretty puzzle of mountains and harbour, malls and markets, high-rises, temples and trams.

The landscape constantly amazes, while the pace of life is relentlessly exciting day and night – Hong Kong doesn’t so much tick boxes as fill them out in technicolour.

Superb food and shopping are two of Hong Kong’s main draws, but don’t come expecting the bargains of yesteryear from the city’s famous markets.

However, Hong Kong’s million-dollar harbourside views won’t cost you a bean, and the five-minute hop across Victoria Harbour on the iconic Star Ferry is the perfect introduction to the city.

Turkey's Turquoise Coast

Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Turkey’s holiday heartland is a swathe of mountain-backed coastline blessed with spectacular beaches, verdant uplands and a profusion of classical ruins, not to mention world-renowned cuisine.

Good roads and public transport make it easy to range widely and independently across this beautiful area, one perfectly suited to outdoor activities ranging from trail walking to canyoning, paragliding to kayaking.

From busy resorts like Bodrum to somnolent seaside paradises like Kekova, there’s something for beach lovers, culture vultures, outdoor enthusiasts and young families alike.

This little Central American country is half the size of Virginia yet it packs in a continent’s worth of landscapes. There are dramatic mountain ranges studded with smoking volcanoes, wild beaches pounded by rolling surf and fringed with coral reef and pristine, bird-trilling rainforests.

More than ten percent of the country’s landscapes are protected. You’re coming here for the wealth of wildlife – from vast schools of hammerhead sharks gathering over reefs at Cocos Island, to the turtle-wriggling beaches of Tortuguero and the jaguar-prowled forests of the Osa Peninsula. See it all on canopy walkways and zip-lines, kayaking or white-water rafting down rainforest-choked rivers, or hiking to see waterfalls.

The Chinese capital sits at the heart of the national consciousness as its political, cultural and emotional nexus.

A vast city, Beijing is best known for its ancient temples, palaces and proximity to the Great Wall of China, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a thriving contemporary art scene, walkable old neighbourhoods with stylish cafes and boutiques, and a culinary safari of regional Chinese delicacies.

A megacity in the making, vast malls and skyscrapers are juxtaposed with a shrinking number of charming traditional hutong (historic residential alleyways) and backstreet lanes.

Greater affluence and an increasingly youthful vibe have created a diverse dining and nightlife scene, while mall shopping is a well-catered-to pastime for Beijingers.

Mayan Riviera

With talcum-powder fine beaches, coral reefs, Mayan temples set in hummingbird-filled jungles and clear-water rivers teeming with life, the Maya Riviera mixes exotic beachside luxury with romantic light adventure.

It’s great for couples: with strings of romantic, low-lit beachside hotels, where you can sip cocktails in the Jacuzzi to the sound of lapping waves and trilling cicadas. With big resorts with toddler-friendly pools and waterslides, and a legion of carefully-curated adventure parks it’s good for families too.

And there’s plenty of adventure – with forests littered with astonishing Mayan ruins, reef and cave dives, snorkelling with whale sharks or manatees, creek kayaking, zip-lining and hikes through pristine rainforest.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The city-state of Dubai is the most populous of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), located on the south coast of the Arabian Gulf.

Yet it’s a total one-off; from audacious architecture and shiny mega-malls to busy Dubai Creek and its glittering gold souk, this cosmopolitan Arabian hub is a shrine to excess like no other. By day, it’s all about soaking up the sunshine on the city’s many long, golden beaches and splashing in the turquoise sea.

After dark, you’ll be losing yourself in the souks and haggling for carpets, feasting on Arabic food, and enjoying the balmy nightlife. Casual diners can snack on shawarma wraps and sip fresh mango juice, while luxe-loving jetsetters can savour degustation menus by internationally-renowned chefs, and drink cocktails at some of the world’s best hotels.

Dubai for families

By many standards Dubai is an exceptional place – when they do something here it’s usually either the biggest in the world, or a world first. Perhaps not surprising then that few, if any, cities can rival Dubai for a family holiday.

Hotels are exceptionally family-friendly, with plenty of bed and bedroom configurations, kids’ meals, space for play and facilities galore (including kids’ clubs). Then, there’s a prevalence of good weather, golden sand beaches and waterparks – a heady mix for any kid.

Even a trip to the shopping mall – usually an occasion of dread for the little nippers – can yield skiing, ice skating, giant aquariums, waterfalls, cinemas, oversized toy shops and more in Dubai’s mega shopping malls  slash entertainment centres.

Last, but not least, there there are a ridiculous number of specialist family attractions and activities on offer. Here’s our round-up of some of the best.

Kanto, Japan

One of the world’s busiest and most-populated cities, Japan’s capital can be quite a culture shock for first-timers. In places, it’s overrun with crowds, concrete and high-rise, yet you’ll also find quiet neighbourhoods, sprawling parks, and traditional gardens.

There’s cutting-edge tech and ever-changing fashions, but also a fondness for the traditional ways that underpin society – you’ll see that in the way people bow. It’s become cliched to say Tokyo is where old meets new – but it’s true.

Here you can still (and must) experience the unique traditions of Japan: stay in a ryokan (a traditional inn), feast on a kaisheki-ryori dinner, partake in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony (regaled in a kimono), and perhaps, even, train to be a samurai (or a ninja).

And it’s absolutely true that Tokyo is one of the great culinary capitals – you could dine out on something different every night for a month and still have barely scratched the surface.

Los Angeles

California, United States of America (USA)

It may be home to Hollywood and Beverly Hills, but the City of Angels is more than just a la-la land of celebrities and Real Housewives.

This vibrant metropolis manages to check all the cosmopolitan capital boxes, from a buzzy art scene to top-notch dining.

Of course, it’s not all metro-fabulous here, and LA’s near-perfect natural setting between ocean, mountains and desert is a dream for outdoor adventurers – and who couldn’t love the weather?

But at the heart of it all is Hollywood , the economic wheel that keeps this celebrity drop-top rolling on.

For nature in the raw, nowhere on earth compares to Iceland. Pocked by volcanoes, rocked by tectonic forces and coated in vast ice sheets, this strange volcanic island offers a smorgasbord of wild, weird experiences.

In a single day, you could find yourself hiking onto a glacier, strolling across a black sand beach, delving into a frozen ice cave, descending into a petrified lava tube or chilling out in a geothermal lagoon under the flickering lights of the Northern Lights Aurora Borealis .

Iceland is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurous travellers: savour every second.

New Zealand's South Island

South Islands, New Zealand

Remote, windswept and thinly populated, New Zealand’s South Island isn’t the obvious candidate for international tourism celebrity.

But for many people who live in the post-industrial cities of Western Europe and North America, this place is a primordial playground where you can ski, snowboard, hike, kayak and bungee jump to your heart’s content. The only factories here are wineries, breweries and Queenstown – a place devoted entirely to carefree fun.

The fact that most Kiwis are terribly nice makes travelling here even more pleasant. Strip away the backpacker veneer, however, and you’ll find a much more complex and intriguing destination coloured by compelling Maori culture.

And for nature and outdoor adventure, there are few places, if any, that can match it.

Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark

A compact, sexy, urban retreat, Copenhagen is arguably the most stylish, progressive and tastiest of all the Nordic capitals.

Copenhagen stands out on the cultural front. Spend afternoons gazing at Gothic churches, browsing ultra-modern design shops, or taking in a clutch of cutting-edge modern art and design museums, before spending long evenings in quiet cafés and laidback jazz clubs.

It’s also become a foodie capital – the wildly experimental Noma, voted the world’s best restaurant – has spawned an exciting culinary scene of worldwide acclaimed restaurants, alongside farmers’ markets and a strong local produce movement.

A network of canals begs to be explored by boat or kayak, while castles, royal gardens and Viking exhibitions, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich and varied past, enthral every visitor. Indeed, whatever your interests, sophisticated, culture- and character-filled, foodie Copenhagen never disappoints.

San Francisco

San Francisco often gets second billing to its celeb-filled sister down south, but the stunningly-pretty bayside city full of Victorian manses and fog-shrouded, steeply-sloping streets packs plenty of charm. What started as a boomtown during Gold Rush days has emerged as one of the US’s most vibrant and interesting metropolises.

From brand-name attractions (the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz) and artsy offerings (museums and galleries galore), to diverse neighbourhoods conveying their own hyper-local style – not to mention the innovative chefs fuelling (arguably) the State’s best culinary scene – it’s easy, as Tony Bennett croons, to leave your heart in San Francisco.

San Sebastian

Basque Country, Spain

San Sebastian – also known as Donostia – has the charm of an elegant, aristocratic beach resort, mashed up with some of the best fine dining in the world. With 18 Michelin-starred restaurants in total – the most stars per square kilometre of anywhere outside of Kyoto – foodies come flocking from all over the globe to taste its boundary-pushing cuisine. There are hundreds of informal, laid-back bars, too, nearly all serving glorious pintxos (the Basque of tapas, skewered on toothpicks) late into the night.

The setting is pure enchantment: three beautiful beaches (including the enormous city centre La Concha and Zurriola, the Basque country’s top surfing beach) framed by emerald mountains facing the rolling Atlantic. It’s a gateway to the Basque Country, too – home to rolling green countryside, fishing villages, wineries and historic buildings so dramatically set that they were used in Game of Thro nes .

San Sebastian is a city of great character, with an active, as well as an indulgent, side: try surfing, paddle a kayak or SUP to the pretty wooded islet of Santa Clara, or cycle the invigorating coastline.

Scottish Highlands

Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom (UK)

The Highlands is a land of tartan-clad myth and legend: a dramatic, mountainous region, twice the size of Wales, slashed with jagged lochs and peppered with gnarled castles.

It’s a magnet for history buffs, a world-class adventure playground and a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts: magnificent stags roam across mist-shrouded moorland while golden eagles soar overhead.

There are wild, deserted beaches to tramp and empty roads snaking through forest-fringed glens sprinkled with whisky distilleries – perfect road-trip territory.

And for the end of the day, there are cosy castle hotels where you can tuck into wild venison or salmon from the rushing rivers.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Northern Territory, Australia

Uluru, the world’s largest rock monolith, is synonymous with Outback Australia. Alongside the Sydney Opera House, it is perhaps Australia’s most iconic sight.

But The Rock is at the centre of a living cultural landscape known as the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a vast area of desert containing several other major draws – the domes of Kata Tjuta, Walpa Gorge and The Valley of the Winds. A few hours away, in neighbouring Watarrka National Park, is another extraordinary natural phenomenon – Kings Canyon.

It’s the place to come to experience the Australian outback, Crocodile Dundee-style. As well as admiring the jaw-dropping geology, you can sleep out in swag bags, sample bush tucker, dine under a billion stars and spot kangaroos.

Now under the control of its traditional owners – the ‘Anangu’ – the park offers a unique opportunity to experience and learn about the planet’s oldest living culture – the indigenous Aboriginal people. The local Anangu people offer a variety of excellent tours and activities – from guided walks to didgeridoo lessons and dot painting workshops.

Port Douglas

Queensland, Australia

Tropical North Queensland is a global eco-tourism hotspot, blessed with two of the world’s greatest natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient rainforests of the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park .

While most tourists looking to experience them head for backpacker-central Cairns, those looking for a more upscale, genteel base could no better than Port Douglas, Queensland’s smartest beach destination. The swanky, cosmopolitan town is home to upscale restaurants and shops, spas, swish hotels and a yacht-filled marina, and has increasingly become both a culinary and wellness destination.

It’s the ideal base from which to explore both reef and rainforest. It’s also a great place to experience and appreciate indigenous Aboriginal culture. The local Kuku Yalanji people have lived in the Daintree area for over 50,000 years and offer excellent and authentic guided forest walks, art classes and food gathering excursions.

Kansai, Japan

No longer Japan’s capital, but still very much the country’s traditional heart, Kyoto wears its past with pride.

More than 1,000 years as Japan’s political, spiritual and cultural centre have left an incredible legacy of World Heritage temples, shrines and palaces.

Shop for traditional crafts, splurge on the most sublime Japanese cuisine, stroll in pristinely-manicured gardens and spend the night at a historic inn. You might even spot an enigmatic geisha or two. Kyoto is where old Japan still lives and breathes.

Central Anatolia, Turkey

Cappadocia is a fantasy land where the soft rock has weathered into a profusion of arches, caverns and eye-popping protuberances that resemble gigantic mushrooms or massive meringues.

The locals have followed nature’s example, hollowing the volcanic stone into homes, barns, fresco-painted Byzantine-era churches, and even so-called underground cities, enormous warrens where whole communities once sheltered from raiding Saracens and Mongols.

Of particular appeal to the culturally curious and to walkers alike, Cappadocia has in recent years acquired a wealth of architecturally distinctive and delightful hotels.

The natural beauty and culture of this World Heritage Site can now be experienced in levels of comfort and sophistication not associated with Turkey’s steppe interior.

St Petersburg

Northwestern Region, Russia

From Matt: despite Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we’ve left Russian content up on our site. There’s no reason you can’t add Russia to your travel bucket list for future visits. The war, and Putin, won’t last forever, and then we hope you go back. There are many innocent Russian people whose livelihoods depend on tourism, suffering greatly too from the actions of this evil dictator and his cronies.

Peter the Great’s exquisite maritime imperial capital has dazzled visitors since its founding in 1703; the city’s wide boulevards, spectacular churches and glittering palaces forming a backdrop to 400 years of Russia’s turbulent history.

Seismic events have left their mark on St Petersburg, most particularly the revolutions of 1917, which took place in the city’s streets and squares, and World War II, in which the city survived a gruelling 900-day siege, resulting in the deaths of over one million of the inhabitants through starvation.

Originally designed as a ‘Window on the West’, St Petersburg continues to fulfil that role today. This most European of Russian cities has always been characterized by dynamic change and a restless energy that inspired Russian intellectuals and politicians throughout its existence, as it still does today.

Russia’s vibrant cultural capital attracts creative minds of all kinds, and a programme of renovation in the city centre has seen world-class art galleries, restaurants and bars opening up, alongside super-stylish hotels.

More than three decades after the Wall fell, Berlin still seems to be in a perpetual state of flux and this extraordinary dynamism shows through in the city’s innovative fashion, culture and arts scenes. Before you can say ‘uber-hip’, your favourite boutique, gallery or nightclub has shut, moved or reopened as something else.

Berlin’s reputation as a den of decadence is well deserved, but there’s so much more to this cosmopolitan, history-laden capital. You’ll find some of the world’s finest museums, sophisticated cuisine, inviting green spaces and an incredible tapestry of buildings historic and modern – testimony to a rich, tumultuous past.

Finnish Lapland, Finland

Knowing it’s the home of Santa would normally be enough to get any kid (and maybe even some of us adults) excited about a holiday here, but Lapland is no one-trick playground.

One of Europe’s last great wilderness areas, Lapland is a vast panorama of lakes, moors and coniferous forest – an outdoor adventure paradise. Santa aside, visitors come for the snowy thrills: husky dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice skating, and ice slides. You can also learn to build igloos, sleep in igloos, (luxury ones if you don’t fancy the real thing), and dine and sleep in restaurants and hotels made from ice.  Every bucket list winter activity is here, and more.

Don’t discount summer though for excellent hiking, biking, fishing and even husky dog sledding – on wheels. The lack of urbanisation, with associated artificial lighting, also makes it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights at their glorious best.

Whenever you go, be sure to experience the local specialty: a smoke sauna, followed by a (freezing?) dip in a lake. (Warning: the kids may opt out of this one, especially if you follow strict Finnish tradition and take off all of your clothes).

Also look out for the colourful local Sami people, who still follow traditions dating back centuries, living a sustainable lifestyle in perfect harmony with this harsh environment and its wildlife.

Amazon, Peru

The Amazon Basin covers an area half as big again as India and with as great a variety. And like the Himalayas or the Sahara, it is the landscapes which overwhelm – huge waterfalls tumbling off table-top mountains, black, coffee-with-milk and blue rivers so wide you cannot see the far bank, fragrant cloud forests covered in wispy moss. While the Amazon is fabulous for bird life, it is not a safari destination. Larger animals are almost impossible to see in the dense forests.

Visits vary enormously – from stays in jungle lodges as easy and comfortable as a Southeast Asian beach hotel, to full-on expeditions – depending on the hub location you choose. The Amazon is suitable for all ages and all levels of fitness, though in general, any visit will involve some adventurous activity – short hikes, swimming in rivers or lakes and sitting in launches – often on hard seats.

Campania, Italy

Naples, a vibrant city in southern Italy, is a captivating mix of history, culture, and gastronomy. It boasts iconic landmarks like the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as the stunning Royal Palace of Naples. The city is renowned for its mouthwatering pizza, lively street markets, and vibrant street life.

This small island city-state in Southeast Asia is dynamic and cosmopolitan, yet known for its efficient infrastructure, diverse cultural heritage, and modern skyline. Home to the world’s best zoo and the astonishing man-made super trees .

This effusive, vibrant city, overflowing with incredible food & drink, lined by golden beaches, is Israel’s pulsating heart. It’s also the gateway to some special, unique experiences – history-laden, tumultuous Jerusalem, the Dead Sea and Masaba.

Central Hungary, Hungary

Straddling the Danube River, Hungary’s capital is best known for its local custom of thermal bathing – notably at the Art Deco Szechnyi Baths – and its lively ‘ruins bars’ scene. The magnificent Hungarian Parliament is a show-stopper.

Sicily, Italy

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily captivates visitors with its unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, picturesque beaches and traditional Italian culture. As you’d expect, cuisine is delicious, and the hospitality warm and welcoming.

Nevada, United States of America (USA)

The over-the-top, irrepressible entertainment capital of the world fizzes with thrilling casinos, dazzling shows, and vibrant nightlife. With world-class dining, luxury resorts and endless entertainment options, it’s a true playground for adults.

Agoraphobes take note; Namibia is probably not for you. But if you love wildlife and wide-open spaces, pristine landscapes and towns in a time warp, then this quiet corner of southern Africa should be top of your list.

You won’t need more than a night in Windhoek, the capital city, and from there the country is your sandy seductive oyster: south to the ancient dunes of Sossusvlei , west to the quirky seaside town Swakopmund, or north to the game-rich plains of Etosha and verdant rivers of the Zambezi region.

It’s wild, welcoming and one of the most affordable destinations in Africa.

Bavaria, Germany

This jewel box of splendid architecture has it all, from fascinating history to haute couture and world-class art, and a beguiling, endearing culture enriched by cavernous beer halls, traditional Bavarian garb and incomparable oompah bands. In October it hosts the world-famous, irrepressible and irresistible Oktoberfest .

Lisbon Region, Portugal

One of Europe’s oldest capitals, Lisbon is also one of the most charming and genuine, emerging as a hip and affordable destination after years in the shadows.

There’s more than Fado clubs and cute trams in the ‘City of Seven Hills’: Lisbon offers outstanding historic monuments, intimate winding lanes, enchanting views and the river Tagus, lined with cafés and promenades, bathed in radiant light.

The food and wine, shopping and exuberant nightlife are superb. Sandy beaches for surfing, swimming or sunbathing are a short hop away, while seaside Cascais, the fabled resort of Estoril, and romantic Sintra make unforgettable day trips.

Uppland, Sweden

Stockholm never fails to charm with its unique mix of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication; from the historic cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the thriving art scene and world-class museums. Highlights include the ABBA Museum and boat and kayaking around the archipelago of over 30,000 islands.

Miami's South Beach

Florida, United States of America (USA)

A 25-mile sliver of land just offshore from Miami that’s home to golden beaches, superb food & drink, and a feast of stunning Art Deco architecture  – all infused with a beguiling Cuban-inspired vibe. It’s also a great base for thrilling air boating & alligator spotting in the wilds of the Everglades .

Bergen (& Fjordland)

Western Norway, Norway

This centuries-old fishing port, filled with beautifully restored, centuries-old wooden houses, has long bewitched visitors, from Vikings and Hanseatic merchants to modern-day travellers. It’s  also the main gateway to exploring Norway’s magnificent fjords.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Nearly 3km wide and 80m high, and with enough water to fill 36 Olympic swimming pools every minute, the Iguazu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina, are one of the world’s great natural wonders.

As are their rainforest surroundings – protected by two national parks covering over 2,200 sq km of sub-tropical Atlantic coastal rainforest and with some of the highest biodiversity on Earth.

Alongside the main attraction, there’s plenty to do and see – from rainforest hikes to white-water rafting, and a string of gorgeous falls-side hotels and true rainforest retreats.

Krong Siem Reap

Northwestern Region, Cambodia

Cambodia’s most visited city is home to the spectacular Khmer temple city of Angkor Wat and dozens of other dazzling ruins buried deep within the jungle. But it’s no tourist honeypot – it’s charming and wonderfully atmospheric too.

With its unique tapestry of ancient history, culture, and natural wonders, Egypt is a country – and a bucket list destination – like no other. It’s a captivating land of mystical allure that unfolds like a living museum.

But if you’re interested in a trip that ticks off all the bucket list sights relating to the ancient Egyptians, you need to plan on (at least) three stops.

First Cairo, Egypt’s capital, home of the incredible Pyramids of Giza, and the astonishing new pyramids and tombs being constantly discovered in nearby Saqqara. The world-renowned Egyptian Museum here holds a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including those found in the tomb of the boy pharaoh Tutankhamun.

Second, 700km to the south is Luxor, home of the extraordinary tomb-filled valleys, and the colossal temples at Karnak.

Third, further south still, exotic Aswan, your staging point for visiting one of the world’s greatest ancient sites at Abu Simbel, the Temple of Ramasses II.

Cruises down the legendary Nile river, in the footsteps of the great pharaohs, will take in all the major stops. Most visitors will fly from Cairo to Luxor, then cruise to Aswan, but you can cruise all the way from Cairo. You can also cruise from Aswan to Abu Simbel across the beautiful and less-crowded Lake Nasser. Wherever you start from, it’s an unforgettable odyssey watching Egypt’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes slowly unfold.

The Czech capital is a city of bold innovation in cuisine, the arts and sport, yet its winding old streets host Gothic spires, Renaissance castle halls and baroque facades speak to an eternal quality of art pervading everyday life. It’s especially known for classical music; Dvorak was from here, Mozart a frequent visitor.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

The exotic ‘Spice Island’ is home to a beguiling mix of Swahili, Persian, Omani and African cultures, in a setting of dreamy postcard-perfect white sand beaches. Oh, and there’s pristine, world-class diving and snorkelling too.

A magical Middle Eastern mix of ancient sites, sublime scenery, enchanting eco-lodges, spas and superb diving. It’s most famously home to the lost city of Petra, and the salty waters of the enigmatic Dead Sea .

This alluring, spiritual land of ancient temples, lush tea plantations, delicious aromatic cuisine and pristine beaches is tropical paradise meets cultural splendour – a delight for both cultural and adventure travellers. Highlights include the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and swimming with blue whales.

This uber-romantic city of former imperial splendour – headlined by the magnificent Schonbrunn Grand Palace – is an architectural marvel oozing a rich cultural heritage. It’s a mecca for fine arts, classical music and world-class opera.

Hawaii, United States of America (USA)

This idyllic archipelago is a lot more than a tropical paradise with azure waters and swaying palm trees. Dramatic scenery, volcanoes, seas filled with marine life make for an adventurers paradise; the aloha spirit and exuberant Polynesian culture make it uniquely unforgettable.

Myanmar (formerly Burma)

This enchanting country, with its endearing but outrageously superstitious people, is a land like no other. Filled with timeless landscapes, soaring temples, and saffron-robed monks, it has a unique and rich culture that permeates every aspect of life that you can’t help but fall in love with.

From the emerald paddy fields of the Mekong Delta to the mystical limestone karsts of Halong Bay, this endlessly interesting, utterly enchanting country invites you to explore its breathtaking landscapes, savour the world’s tastiest street food, and immerse in its poignant history. A captivating blend of ancient traditions, warm hospitality, and rich culture.

Antarctica, Argentina

To many, Antarctica is the ultimate cruise prize, for the wildlife, the incredible scenery and the sheer remoteness. You’ll be surrounded by mountains, some of them 8,000 feet high, their peaks and ridges softened by snow.

On fine days, the sky is an unfiltered cobalt blue. Vast, blue-white icebergs in dramatic shapes are strewn across the freezing sea. Penguins bustle about their business, seals bask on the rocks and whales feed in plankton-rich waters.

Stepping ashore is an incredible feeling, as is kayaking slowly through the ice. Some companies allow camping on the ice and even skiing, while others offer underwater drones and even tethered hot air balloons.

More immersive itineraries also visit South Georgia to see the enormous colonies of king penguins and follow in the footsteps of Shackleton, while others visit the Falklands, for its concentration of wildlife and military history.

Adult price: £Varies

Good for age: 13+

Duration: Min 10 days

Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

A visit here is a life-changing experience. You’ll see wildlife that exists nowhere else, from prehistoric-looking iguanas to penguins, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises and sharks. Extraordinary wildlife encounters take place against a backdrop of ancient volcanoes, jagged lava rocks, cacti and beaches of powdery white.

Nestled among the Himalayas, this mountain kingdom beguiles with its untouched beauty and serene spirituality. A land where Gross National Happiness triumphs over GDP, it offers immersive cultural encounters, ethereal monasteries, happy monks and breathtaking landscapes.

This exotic island of curious creatures, vibrant cultures, and untamed landscapes offers an unforgettable journey off the beaten path. A biodiversity hotspot, it’s best known for its charismatic lemurs and soaring baobab trees, though sadly the magical rainforest is being cut down at an alarming rate.

Amalfi Coast

Perched along Italy’s mesmerizing coastline, just south of Naples, this heart-stoppingly beautiful coastline is a unique tapestry of dramatic cliffs, colourful towns with tangled old streets, cascading bougainvillea, and azure water. It’s quintessential la doce vita .

A dreamscape of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, with a laid-back island culture. Peppered with luxurious resorts and indulgent spa retreats, it’s no wonder it’s a haven for romance – if you can’t afford the price tag.

New Orleans

Louisianan, United States of America (USA)

A sensory feast for the soul, incomparable New Orleans is a city of historic neighbourhoods adorned with colourful facades, culinary delights including the famous gumbo and beignets , and the intoxicating rhythms of jazz emanating from every street corner. The highlight is the annual Mardi Gras, held end of February – one for the bucket list.

Bali, Indonesia

This tiny Indonesian island is a unique colourful tapestry of natural wonders, emerald rice terraces, Hindu temples and mystical traditions that never fail to capture the soul of anyone who visits. Many go to seek spiritual serenity; others for exceptional surfing and vibrant nightlife in the main towns.

Patagonia, Argentina

Covering the southern tip of South America, this is a land of untamed grandeur and awe-inspiring landscapes. Expect snow-capped peaks, shimmering glaciers, and windswept plains that stretch to the horizon. Hike through the legendary Torres del Paine, witness the thunderous Perito Moreno Glacier, or see it all on a cruise.

Washington DC

Washington DC, United States of America (USA)

The heartland of American democracy and political power is a city that echoes with historical significance and impresses with landmarks. The venerable White House, Capitol and National Archives Museum – home of The Constitution – are here, alongside the 21 world-class museums of the Smithsonian.

Banff National Park

Alberta, Canada

To experience the magnificence of North America’s Rocky Mountains, there’s no better place than this wilderness of jaw-dropping beauty. It’s a symphony of emerald lakes, towering glaciers, and rugged peaks, best appreciated by driving the Icefields Parkway, riding the Rocky Mountaineer or hiking the many alpine trails.

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming, United States of America (USA)

Nestled in the heart of America’s untamed wilderness lies this gasp-worthy landscape of geothermal wonders, thunderous cascades of waterfalls and pristine forests. The star attraction is Old Faithful, but the US’s top national park is a trove of natural treasures.

Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China

One of China’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites and tourism attractions, the incredibly life-like terracotta warriors (and military horses) were commissioned in the 3rd century BC by Emperor Qin Shihuang to guard his monumental underground mausoleum on the advent of his death.

First unearthed by accident near Xi’an in 1974, to date more than 6,000 life-size warriors have been found – each unique – with an estimated 2,000 more yet to be excavated. The thousands of life-sized warriors are set in infantry formation in three vast covered pits.

Adult price: £17

Good for age: 8+

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30 Bucket list trips to do in a lifetime

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Frequently asked questions, what is a bucket list.

A bucket list is a collection of goals, dreams, and aspirations that you hope to achieve or experience before you die. It often includes travel destinations, personal milestones, and unique experiences.

Why is it called bucket list?

The term ‘bucket list’ is derived from the phrase ‘kick the bucket’, which is an English expression for dying. The idea is that a ‘bucket list’ is a compilation of things someone wants to do, see, or achieve before they die. The concept was popularized by the 2007 film The Bucket List , where two terminally ill men set out to do a list of things before they pass away.

What is a bucket list trip?

A bucket list trip refers to a journey that you consider a high priority to undertake and accomplish in your lifetime. This trip is often considered a dream vacation/holiday or adventure, incorporating multiple destinations or activities that hold significant personal meaning to you, or represent a long-held aspiration.

What is a travel bucket list?

A travel bucket list is a list of destinations and experiences you dream of visiting and accomplishing in your lifetime. It will include places around the world and activities unique to those destinations, reflecting your own unique personal desires for adventure, cultural immersion, and world exploration.

What are the most popular things to do on travel bucket lists?

We recently ran a survey of 2,000 Brits and asked them. Top of the list was seeing the Northern Lights , followed by a US road trip, a safari in Africa , a visit to the Great Barrier Reef , cruising Norway’s fjords and Niagara Falls .

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Of Course There’s A Safari On Forbes’ Best Bucket List Trips

07 oct 2022 by tayla in lifestyle , south africa , travel , world.

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[imagesource: Micato Safaris]

There’s definitely a sense of fatalism in the air these days.

The sense that “life is too short” is prominent after the COVID-19 shutdowns, with natural disasters and the quickly worsening effects of climate change and war also serving as warnings that we never know what’s coming next.

In that sense, where a bucket list trip has always been scheduled for ‘someday’, many are realising that someday is now or possibly never.

Award-winning travel journalist Larry Olmsted has compiled a bucket list for Forbes . Atop the list is a southern African safari which he calls the “epitome of the Bucket List concept”:

…because unlike most of the others, I can’t imagine a personality that would not be wowed. It’s for everyone, and it is truly something you need to experience in your lifetime.

Who could hate this?

Image: Micato Safaris

The publication mentions the classic safari locations in East Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania, but highly recommends South Africa, or South Africa and Botswana :

South Africa has a lot more non-wildlife appeal—wine country, amazing food, beaches, golf, classic luxury trains—and Cape Town is one of the world’s great cities. Southern Africa is easier to get to and has better luxury safari lodges and much better luxury non-safari hotels and resorts.

There is an acknowledgement that Botswana has the very best concentration of pure wildlife viewing and some of the best lodges among the eight marquee African safari countries.

East Africa is worth visiting for the annual great migration across the Serengeti – “one of the earth’s premier natural wonders” – as well as the unique gorilla trekking in Rwanda.

Other notable travel ideas on the list include an ever-exclusive trip to Bhutan:

Image: David Lazar/Getty Images

Nestled in the mountains between India and China, the Buddhist nation is often referred to as “The Last Shangri La” or “Paradise Found”.

The fact that it is so hard to get to, so expensive to see, and so stunning in multiple ways, makes it a once-in-a-lifetime must-see destination:

It has been less than half a century since Bhutan first decided to allow tourism at all, and since then it has been tightly controlled to prevent overcrowding and over development, a policy known as “High Value, Low Volume.” It makes it an expensive place to visit, especially since they tacked on a $200 a night sustainability fee for foreign travelers.

Image: iStock

There is also a required minimum daily spend, which can be hotel, meals, tours guides and such, and a visa is required before you can buy plane tickets, which is important because you can only fly there on the national carriers ( see the national tourism site for more info ).

The country uses Gross National Happiness to measure its national success, instead of money-driven metrics found in most other countries, so you’re bound to come home a little wiser and happier.

Also, fitter, if you decide to traverse the world’s highest mountain range, the Himalayas, full of gorges and waterfalls, and the famously photogenic cliffside monasteries.

Bhutan has only just reopened to international travel on September 23 and is ready for visitors.

As well as a place with something for everyone, a fairytale trip to Tuscany :

Image: Tourist Journey

There are so many amazing hilltop villages and cities, large and small, each unique in character, plus all the vineyards (it’s where the Chianti region lies), plus the less visited coastal section, plus the gateway city of Florence, just so much to see and do—and eat—that it’s a place you could visit again and again without repeating.

Sienna, Montalcino, Monteriggioni, and Lucca are the recommended top spots, often skipped over by tourists and brimming with wine and fairytale vibes.

The nice thing about Tuscany, Olmsted notes, is that it is one of the more accessible trips, with options for those with a limited budget, extremely deep pockets, or everything in between.

I’m keen on a little travelling now, how about you?

[source: forbes ]

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Forbes Feature! World’s Best Bucket List Trips

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An aerial view of the Maldives. PHOTO COURTESY OF PATRICIA STONE/@GLOBAL_ADVENTURESS INSTAGRAM

Where: The Maldives

Chosen By:  Patricia Stone is the founder of  Global Adventuress . She’s traveled to 170 countries and shares her handpicked favorites at unique destinations. Her award-winning site has been featured in the  Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle,  Toronto Star  and  USA Today.  Follow her on Instagram @global_adventuress.

Why:  The Maldives  is a tropical escape like no other. This paradise lies on the equator southwest of  Sri Lanka and India, spanning 500 miles north to south across the Indian Ocean. The Maldives archipelago of 27 ring-like reef formations surrounded by lagoons was created by volcanic activity long ago. These atolls look like pearl necklaces with 1,192 small coral islands. Only 190 are inhabited by locals and over 200 are resort islands.

What used to be a billionaire’s getaway is now affordable for budget travelers. Pack some patience, and you can take the slow boat to dozens of local islands with white sand beaches, swaying palm trees and the bluest waters you’ll ever see. Go off-season (July to September) when rates are low, and you’ll find you have beaches all to yourself. Independent travel is new here, so plan ahead.

A classic Maldives resort. PHOTO COURTESY OF PATRICIA STONE/@GLOBAL_ADVENTURESS INSTAGRAM

Stay in a guesthouse on a local island and get to know the Maldivian way of life. On Mahibadhoo, stay for as low as $20 at Zala’s  Liberty Guest House  on a white-sand beach with a coral reef. Enjoy meals like chicken, curry and rice, grilled fish with  roshi  bread for $10 per person. Don’t miss the free breakfasts, and buy local fruit and snacks for lunch to save money. There’s even a dive center on-site. Other local islands to consider include Maafushi, Fulidhoo and Guraidhoo. Or stretch your budget and stay at a  luxury resort  for a night or two.

There are plenty of free things to do. Bring your gear and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Some places offer water equipment for free. Get off the grid, relax on the beach, read a book. Shop around to find a good price for a snorkel or fishing trip or a boat trip to private sand banks ranging between $25-50 per person.

When it comes to getting around, take the public ferry or traditional dhoni to local islands for as little as $1. Timetables can change, so be sure to check the  schedules . Or save time and go by speedboat; tickets start at $29 each way.

Tropical bliss in the Seychelles. PHOTO COURTESY OF PATRICIA STONE/@GLOBAL_ADVENTURESS INSTAGRAM

Where: The Seychelles

How to Save: The Seychelles  is a group of 115 granite, mountainous and coral islands off the coast of East Africa. This Indian Ocean oasis presents intimate hideaways with pristine beaches, blue waters, coral reefs and nature reserves encircled by verdant palms. Expect abundant wildlife including one of the largest tortoises in the world, the giant Aldabra.

Visit one or all these three islands: Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and you’ll discover tucked away, peaceful places to get away from it all. Select from a range of  small hotels and guesthouses . Stay at  Le Relax on the beach for $100 or enjoy mountain views from  Casa Dani  for $50. Or go all out and indulge and retreat to the exclusive private  North Island  where Prince William and Kate Middleton honeymooned.

Buy fruit, breadfruit chips and grilled fish at Victoria market on Mahé. Taste Seychellois Creole food like the octopus curry at  Chez Jules.  Try the traditional Satini salad and Ladob dessert with bananas in coconut milk.

Hiking in the Seychelles. PHOTO COURTESY OF PATRICIA STONE/@GLOBAL_ADVENTURESS INSTAGRAM

Island hop across the 16 islands. Cycle the island of La Digue and find your favorite beach enclosed by giant boulders. Hike to the highest peak, Morne Seychellois for panoramic views. Snorkel at the Ste Anne Marine Park. Walk around Moyenne Island and find pirate’s graves. Relax on beaches like Beau Vallon or Anse Source d’Argent. Visit Praslin’s Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-designated nature reserve. Walk under giant palms and learn about the indigenous  coco de mer , and if you’re lucky, you’ll see a black parrot. Dive with hawksbill turtles or sail and spot dolphins.

Island hop on  Cat Cacos  for as low as $16 per person one way or take the interisland public ferry. Most islands have a public bus to get around, and on small islands like La Digue you can rent a bicycle.

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Bucket List Places to Visit During Your 30s

Your travel bucket list during your 30s (and beyond!) will probably look a little different to your 20s. By now, most of us will replace the faster pace backpacking days of our 20s with a desire to explore the unique destinations of the world, and hopefully with a little more cash to splurge on travel. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply have a case of travel wanderlust, this list of 30 bucket list places to visit during your 30s is bound to provide bucket-loads of inspiration!

Total Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List:  19/30

Travel Bucket List Experiences

1. spot wildlife on safari in africa.

Even if you’re not an animal lover, spotting ‘the big five’ in the wild on safari will be an experience of a lifetime. Spend your days in an open air jeep tracking and anticipating the next lion, elephant or zebra, and lazy evenings watching epic sunsets with a sundowner drink.

For a first time safari, you can’t beat South Africa with the big five animals, accessible safaris and accommodation ranging from DIY camping to luxury lodges.

For the best wildlife spotting opportunities and a more rugged feel, visit Tanzania or Kenya where you may be lucky enough to witness the great migration crossing the plains and rivers.

For an epic self-drive safari adventure, check out  Namibia where you can experience surreal desert scenery, game reserves and adventure activities at your own pace.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: Yes

Read More: Namibia Self-Drive Safari Itinerary

2. Soar Through the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon

There’s something totally romantic about setting off at dawn to float through the air in a hot air balloon, admire the scenery from above, and finish with a champagne breakfast.

Excellent places to experience a hot air balloon include Cappadocia in Turkey with its famous fairy chimneys (photo above), the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania where you can spot the great migration from above (see Bucket List Item #1) and Bagan in Myanmar where you can float above ancient pagodas (see Bucket List Item #21).

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: No … possibly not ever, terrified of falling out of the sky

3. Chase the Northern Lights

Watching the northern lights dance across the sky is a classic bucket list experience. Rug up warm and stay up late and you might just be lucky enough to see otherworldly bursts of colours light up the sky in all shades of blue, green, pink and purple.

The northern lights are best seen in far north destinations including Norway, Iceland, Alaska and northern Canada from around September to April when the lights are long and dark.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: Yes … technically, although the lights weren’t bright

Read More: Visit Yellowknife, Canada’s Northern Lights Capital

4. Float in the Dead Sea 

There’s only one way to describe the feeling of floating in the Dead Sea, and that’s surreal. Or in the infamous words of Notting Hill, surreal but nice.

The Dead Sea is actually a salt lake, and is one of the saltiest water bodies in the world at around 10x the salinity of ocean. As you walk into the Dead Sea, you’ll be gently lifted by the salt and can float with zero effort. For a free spa experience, cake yourself in mud, dry off in the sun, and then rinse in the therapeutic waters for baby soft skin.

The Dead Sea is bordered by Jordan and Israel, is accessible from either country, and is at the lowest elevation on earth.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in Jordan

5. Take an Alaskan Cruise

Cruises … some people love ‘em, some people hate ‘em, some people think they’re a little naff. But there’s no doubting that you’ll get the most out of Alaska’s rugged scenery and diverse wildlife from the deck of a ship.

On an Alaskan cruise, you can experience glaciers, visit small towns, spot bears and other wildlife, go kayaking, hike in Denali National Park, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.

The Alaska cruise season runs from late April to September, when the weather is the most pleasant. If you want a chance to witness bears fishing for salmon, visit during the warmest (and busiest!) months of July and August.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List:  No

6. Go Wine Tasting

Now that you’re in your 30s, spend a relaxing and classy week wine hopping around one of the world’s beautiful wine regions. (Or party like a 21 year old on a boozy wine tour, no judgement here!)

Wine tasting is both picturesque and fun. Plus, by the time you’ve reached your 30s you’ve hopefully developed a more sophisticated pallet and appreciate the good stuff.

An awesome thing about wine tasting is that most people can indulge close to home or, if you prefer, you can visit a premier wine region on the other side of the world.

The world’s best wine tasting destinations include the Napa Valley USA, Marlborough New Zealand, Margaret River Australia, Bordeaux France, Tuscany Italy and Cape Town South Africa.

You can even try one of the world’s lesser known wineries, like Red Mountain Winery in Inle Lake, Myanmar … no guarantees about taste though!

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: Yes … several times over!

Read More: 20+ Beautiful Wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada

7. Take a Multi-Day Hike Through the Desert 

The African desert somehow manages to be both barren and incredibly beautiful at the same time. While you can experience the desert from your jeep or car, you’ll be much more immersed in nature and removed from daily life if you explore the desert on foot.

Namibia is the perfect country for taking a multi-day guided hike through the desert, without forsaking creature comforts and with just a little luxe. For something really special, join the Tok Tokkie Trails three day / two night hike through the breathtaking Namib Desert where you sleep under the stars but with eco-luxe comforts, three course meals with drinks and a hot bucket shower.

Read More: Tok Tokkie Trails Hike, Namibia | Trans-Kalahari Walk, Namibia

8. Travel Solo

The AF travelling solo in a favela overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The thought of travelling solo may feel a little uncomfortable and even daunting at first. But travelling solo is actually one of the most liberating and empowering experiences you’ll ever have. Plus, if you feel a little lonely, it’s pretty easy to make friends by rocking up to the local bar, especially if you’re in a tourist area!

Dip your toes into solo travel by taking a relaxing weekend trip near home. Once you’re more comfortable, why not take your dream trip that none of your friends are down for?

9. Fly First Class or Business Class

Yeah yeah we know, flying is expensive enough as is, and it’s really just a means to an end. However, if you want to take a literal reading of the phrase ‘it’s about the journey not the destination’, then you HAVE to indulge in a long-haul first class or business class flight at least once in your life.

Forking out for luxury travel is beyond most of us. The most cost effective way to travel first or business class is to save up your flight or credit card points and splurge on an upgrade. Champagne here you come!

Travel Bucket List Destinations

10. drive the ring road in iceland.

Iceland is a country of incredible natural beauty, with active volcanoes, rugged mountains, soaring glaciers, the blue lagoon, spectacular waterfalls, the northern lights, stunning hiking trails … the list goes on.

The best way to see Iceland is to hire a car and drive the Ring Road. The Ring Road circles the entire country and is around 1300 km / 800 miles. While it’s possible to drive the Ring Road in a couple of days, it’s best to take a week or two to explore the natural wonders that Iceland has to offer.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: No

11. Step Back in Time in Havana, Cuba

Havana-oh-na-na, half of my heart is in Havana-oh-na-na. Yup, as the song goes, Havana will absolutely capture your heart with its time warp feel, friendly locals and complex revolutionary history.

Havana is one of the best preserved Spanish colonial cities in all of Latin America. The city is packed to the brim with colourful and slightly dilapidated colonial buildings, grand palaces, ancient forts, narrow alleyways and classic cars. Havana is equal parts chaotic and laid-back, but always vibrant and welcoming.

Read More: 30 Awesome Things to Do in Havana, Cuba

12. Get Adventurous in Patagonia

Patagonia is a rugged and remote wilderness region in southern Chile and Argentina, and is one of the most beautiful areas in the world.

The highlights of Patagonia include quiet solitude, magnificent glaciers, mountain peaks, scenic lakes, epic multi-day treks, whale watching and horse-back riding. Life is tough.

13. Take a Boat Trip Around the Galápagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador are an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean, which are famous for their unique wildlife and landscapes.

These islands are a bucket list destination for good reason: the Galápagos Islands is home to endemic species that you’ll find nowhere else in the world, including species of giant tortoise, iguana and sea lion. The wildlife of the Galapagos has absolutely flourished and evolved with little human presence and no major predators. In fact, the Galápagos Islands made a major contribution to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution.

A popular way to explore the Galápagos Islands is to take a multi-day cruise around the islands. Galapagos National Park regulates the number and type of boats to minimise the impact on the environment.

14. Drive Around New Zealand in a Campervan

New Zealand’s scenery is nothing short of drop dead stunning. (Yes, I grew up in NZ. No, I didn’t know how beautiful it was. Yes, I mainly complained about long car trips and windy roads.)

New Zealand’s South Island is famous for its dramatic mountains, stunning lakes and incredible scenery at every turn. Conversely, the North Island is home to beautiful beaches, geothermal and volcanic activity and National Parks.

New Zealand is one country where it really is about the journey and not the destination. Hire a campervan to make the most of NZ’s spectacular scenery, and park up to sleep in some of the most beautiful spots on earth.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: No … several trips around NZ but none in a campervan!

15. Take an Epic USA Road Trip

It’s an oldie but a goodie. Hire a car, grab a map, plan a rough route and set out for an epic road trip adventure across the diverse nation that is the U-S-of-A.

There’s something for everyone here. Drive the classic Route 66, California’s Pacific Coast Highway or the Hana Highway in Hawaii, explore the beautiful National Parks of Utah and Colorado, check out the fall foliage on the East Coast, get acquainted with the Deep South or invent your own adventure!

16. Journey Through Russia on the Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian Railway is an overland train adventure across Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok of epic proportions. At over 9,200 kilometres / 5,700 miles and around 6 days non-stop, this is no walk in the park.

Better yet, take a rest from the monotony of the train and have a few exploration stops along the way. Popular stops include beautiful Lake Baikal, historic Yekaterinburg, industrial Kazan, bustling Moscow, and an extension to cosmopolitan St Petersburg.

Alternate trains routes are the Trans-Mongolian route which cuts from Ulan Ude in Russia to take in Mongolia and Beijing, and the Trans-Manchurian route that goes further through Russia before crossing Chinese Manchuria to Beijing.

17. Visit all 7 Continents

For the hardcore traveler, explore the four corners of our incredibly diverse world or, in this case, the 7 continents: Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia (or Oceania), Europe, North America, and South America.

Each of the world’s continents has unique cultures, history, landscapes and peoples, and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Ticked Off The AF’s Bucket List: No (and possibly not ever … have visited 6/7 but the thought of crossing the treacherous Drake Passage to reach Antarctica gives me a serious case of hives)

18. Visit One New Country Every Year

Next country on The AF’s bucket list … Spain. Believe it or not, I’ve visited over 40 countries but Spain is not one of them!

Now that you’re a frequent traveler, it can be tempting to return to your favorite haunts where you have a sense of familiarity. Before your get too comfortable, why not maintain that spirit of adventure and wanderlust by committing to visit a new country every year. The world is your oyster after all!

Travel Bucket List Monuments

19. trek around the lost city of petra in jordan.

That moment where you catch your first glimpse of the magnificent Petra Treasury peaking through the soaring canyon walls of the siq will be one of the most memorable travel experiences of your life.

Petra was the ancient Nabatean capital for centuries from around the 4th century BC. The city was largely lost to the world after being destroyed by an earthquake, until it was discovered by a British explorer in 1812.

Petra is now a massive archeological site and is remarkably well preserved. It’s full of architectural gems like the famed Treasury and Monastery, a Roman theatre, extravagant tombs, a colonnaded street, plus many temples and other structures.  

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Petra, Jordan

20. Explore the Temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia

The temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia are some of the most impressive temples you’ll see in your life. Angkor Wat was built as a Hindu temple in the 12th century, and was converted into a Buddhist temple later that century. In fact, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world,

While most famous for the eponymous Angkor Wat, the Angkor Archeological Park is actually a massive area with over 1000 temples dating from the 9th to 13th centuries.

21. Visit The Magical Temples of Bagan in Myanmar 

Bagan is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site where the countryside is dotted with hundreds of magical pagodas and stupas (aka temples).

Amble around the countryside exploring temples on a bike, take a hot air balloon over the temples at dawn, or simply relax along the river soaking in the serenity.

Read More: 10 Day Myanmar Itinerary

22. Soak in the Romantic Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a majestic white marble mausoleum which was commissioned by an emperor in the 17th century to house the tomb of his favourite wife.

Incredibly romantic and of grand proportions, the Taj is one of the most beautiful and impressive buildings in the entire world, and is absolutely a travel bucket list destination.

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, India, around 220 kilometres / 135 miles from Delhi. While you’re there, don’t miss the imposing Agra Fort and Itmad-un-Dahlan, aka the ‘baby Taj Mahal’.

23. See the Churches of Lalibela Ethiopia

Lalibela in northern Ethiopia is home to magnificent medieval rock-hewn churches that were made in the 13th century. Each church was carved underground from a single massive piece of rock. Impressive indeed.

24. Marvel at the New World Wonder Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan civilisation, and is one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’. Chichen Itza is easily accessible from the boho-beach town of Tulum Mexico .

The highlight of Chichen Itza is the Pyramid of Kukulcan with its mathematically correct proportions. The pyramid has four faces, with 91 steps on each face, and 1 top step, adding up to 365 days of the year.

Read More: Best Things to do in Tulum, Mexico

25. Walk the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a series of wall like fortifications winding up and down China, which were built to protect the country over many centuries starting from around 700BC.

The Great Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and stretches to around 22,000 kilometres or 13,000 miles. The most accessible sections of the wall are near Beijing.

Travel Bucket List Accommodation  

26. swim off your overwater bungalow.

Our row of villas at Mirihi Island Resort, Maldives!

A common feature on travel bucket lists is to stay in a luxury overwater villa. Imagine waking up each day to the water softly lapping against your private balcony, swimming directly from your room with tropical fishes, and watching the sun go down directly over the water.

You’ll find some of the best overwater bungalows in the world in the Maldives and Tahiti. They don’t come cheap at often over $1000 / night, but this is one trip that you’ll absolutely remember for a lifetime.

Read More: Stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the Maldives 

27. Stay in a 5* City Hotel

At least once in your life, indulge yourself by staying in a luxury city hotel. Start your day with a full buffet breakfast, explore the city by day and retreat at night to room service, plush robes and 1000 thread count sheets.

28. Go Luxury Glamping

Glamping at Elephant Camp, Victoria Falls, ZImbabwe

Yup, that’s right. Glamping. Not camping. Aka, ‘glamorous camping’. Now before you scoff at that, picture this: a sturdy canvas tent with a comfy queen size bed, fully functioning bathroom, little luxe touches, delicious meals shared with other guests and often a beautiful outlook over nature. And no putting up your own tent!

Glamping has long been the flashpacker’s way of going on safari in Africa. However, these days glamping is popping up all over the globe, from New Zealand to India . In fact, there may even be glamping near you!

Read More: Namibia Travel Guide

29. Rent Out a Villa with Friends

As you get older  more experienced, one of life’s absolute pleasures is spending quality time with good friends and family. Why not make a holiday of it and rent out an entire villa for your group?!

While this may sound a little indulgent, renting a villa can actually be surprisingly good value. For beach bums, check out the laid-back luxe villas in Bali, Indonesia. For wine buffs, why not rent a castle style villa in the Tuscan countryside.

30. Camp with the Bedouins in the Desert

Bedouins are nomadic Arabic people who live in the deserts of the Middle East and Northern Africa. Many Bedouins now make a living as desert guides or by running Bedouin camps where you can experience traditional Bedouin life in the desert.

One of the most popular and accessible places to stay in a Bedouin camp is in the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan. The desert is dotted with Bedouin camps tucked away in the dramatic rocks and moon-like scenery.

While you’re at camp, explore the desert wilderness in a Jeep tour or take a romantic camel ride through the desert. At night, experience a traditional Bedouin meal cooked beneath the ground and spot starts in the dark night sky.

Read More:   Stay in a Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum, Jordan

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How to chill wine the scientific way.

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How to chill wine? Yes, there's a scientific approach.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Chilling Wine

Sometimes, what should be an easy mission, like cooking a hamburger, ends up requiring a complex approach. Just read anything on Serious Eats. Fortunately, chilling wine isn’t one of them. Follow a few guidelines and you’ll be sipping at the optimal temperature in no time.

However, not all wines should be chilled to the same literal degree. Why? Because of their chemical composition. The backbone of a white wine is acidity. The structure of a red comes from its tannins. Dessert wines have different amounts of residual sugar. Sparkling holds CO2. All come with degrees of alcohol. Thus, temperature can mute or accentuate a wine based on its components.

Yes, you can and should chill your red wines.

Let’s start with optimal temperature ranges.

Red Wine, Port

While times, they are a changing, common wisdom once advised serving reds at room temperature. But what does that mean? A humid Manhattan studio at mid-day in August? No, thank you. Unless you live in a European castle where your boudoir remains chilly round-year, room temp is outdated. Red wine should be cooled to within 50F to 65 F. Lighter-bodied wines with higher acidity, like Loire Valley Cabernet Franc, prefer lower temps (90 minutes in the fridge). Fuller-bodied, tannic wines such as Bordeaux and Napa Cabernet, taste better warmer (45 minutes in the fridge.) Port should be 60-65F. Red wine that’s too cold tastes dull; too warm, flabby and alcoholic. Like Goldilocks, somewhere in between is just right.

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Rose wine tasting layout. Opened bottle and two glasses with rose wine on a grey background. Top ... [+] view, flat lay, copy space for text

White, Rosé and Sparkling Wine

Whites always need a chill to lift delicate aromas and acidity. Like reds, fuller-bodied wines like Chardonnay from Burgundy and California, shine between 50F and 60F. Dessert wines like Sauternes fall into the same range. Lighter, fruitier wines work best colder, between 45F and 50F (2 hours in the fridge). That includes most Italian whites like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. Rarely should wine be colder than 45F, unless it’s a hot day and you’re serving porch pounders. Sparklers, however, need to be cold because CO2 dissolves better (stays trapped) in colder liquids; that means 40F to 50F. Vintage and prestige cuvée Champagnes can be served at the top end due to complexity and weight; basis Prosecco, at the bottom end.

How to Chill Wine

Advance Planning. This rule applies to most everything in life. Stick your picks in the fridge and remove an hour (white) or two (red) before dinner.

The Freezer . We’ve all done it. Loaded bottles into the icemaker as friends grew ambitious with their consumption, only to forget and find an icy explosion the next morning. While quality may not diminish at such extreme temperatures, one risks creating a mess. When the water content in wine freezes, it expands and can push the cork out in part or full, or even crack the bottle. This allows the egress of oxygen, which starts the clock on oxidation. If you use the freezer, set a timer for 30 minutes or resolve to drink mimosas at breakfast.

Bottle of champagne in cold ice cubes bucket.

The Best Way to Chill Wine Quickly . Slip the bottle into an icy salt bath. No, don’t nab grandma’s Epsom salts. The table version will do. Grab a bucket or container and add water and ice. Ice absorbs heat from the water, helping bring the temperature down. But add salt, and the temperature and freezing point decreases, thereby lowering the melting temperature of the ice to below 32 degrees. Translation: brined ice water is far colder than simple ice water, allowing for rapid chilling of rosé in fifteen minutes or less.

The internet also advises pouring a glass of wine into a Ziplock bag and placing it in an ice bath. But, if you can’t wait 15 minutes for the bottle that you’d resort to putting alcohol in a baggie, maybe you’ve got a different problem.

Lauren Mowery is the founder of Azure Road, a digital publication devoted to sustainable stories in culinary, travel, and lifestyle pursuits.

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Florida bucket list: 65 fun things to do, places to visit from the Keys to the Panhandle

Our picks include world-famous attractions and hidden treasures, with destinations spanning from the panhandle to central florida and key west..

Summer is the perfect time to explore Florida and to help we have updated our annual bucket list of the best things to do and places to visit in the Sunshine State. The travel experts at Tripadvisor recently unveiled the winners of their 2023 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best "Things to Do" Awards , and you'll find the top picks from Florida on our list as well, plus many more fun options.

Our picks include world-famous attractions and hidden treasures, with destinations spanning from the Panhandle to Central Florida and Key West. From charming beach towns along the Atlantic coastline to those nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, there is something for everyone. Our bucket list of 65 essential things to do and places to visit features contributions from USA TODAY Network staff members based in communities throughout Florida. So go ahead and enjoy exploring the Sunshine State!

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• Play in the sugary soft sand at Siesta Beach, recently ranked the second best beach in the U.S. by Tripadvisor, and among the most popular attractions in Sarasota County .

Bucket list: Discover Sarasota's 100 best restaurants, fun things to do, places to visit

2. Bring the kids, bring the dog, bring an appetite, then sit back and enjoy the music at  Boxi Park , an Orlando-area eating and entertainment venue on Lake Nona built from shipping containers.

3. Canoe or kayak down the  Great Calusa Blueway .

4. Dine on authentic Spanish and Cuban cuisine at  Columbia, the oldest restaurant in Florida . Then explore surrounding Ybor City, the historic cigar manufacturing neighborhood that has been home in recent decades to many of Tampa’s top restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

5. Dinner and a show don't get much better than in  downtown Sarasota , which is home to a vibrant restaurant scene and theater district with nearby luxury hotels including a Ritz-Carlton and Art Ovation.

6. Drive through  Lion Country Safari , a four-mile preserve in Loxahatchee that’s roaming with some of the nation's largest wild herds (think rhinos, giraffes and zebras). There’s an adventure park onsite as well, offering children’s rides, water slides, animal feeding and a safari tour boat.

7. Eat, drink and play on the 26-acre  St. Pete Pier . It's equipped with everything from a splash pad and nature walk to waterfront restaurants such as Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille , which is named after the main character in over 20 novels by bestselling Sanibel Island author Randy Wayne White.

8. Sip Florida's best beer at Hell 'n Blazes in downtown Melbourne. The brewery's Huggins Hefeweizen was named the best beer in Florida in 2023. If that leaves you wanting more, traverse the Space Coast Beer Trail and visit all the breweries on the Launches and Lagers list to earn your very own mission patch.

9. Enjoy a fantastic meal in a setting you’re unlikely to find anywhere else when you visit the iconic  McGuire's Irish Pub  in downtown Pensacola. With more than $1 million stapled to the ceilings and walls throughout the original 1927 old firehouse filled with themed rooms, no two visits will be the same. You can also get the same great food at their newest location in Destin.

10. Even if you’re one of those classy folks who eschew theme parks, it’s hard to resist the allure of  Walt Disney World : traipsing around the World Showcase at Epcot, shopping and dining at Disney Springs, meeting the Na’vi in Pandora at Animal Kingdom, stepping into the movies at Hollywood Studios and ending your night under the fireworks at Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom.

11. Experience Florida culture with a  swamp buggy race  in Naples.

12. While in Naples, visit the Revs Institute ― one of the 10 best auto museums in the world.

13. Explore the mangroves with an  airboat ride  out of Everglades City.

14. Feed the giant, snappy tarpon at  Robbie’s,  an Islamorada marina that features a restaurant and funky artisan marketplace. They’ll cook your catch here and delight you with island-y merch. 

15. Find your particular brand of fun along the 2.5-mile  Tampa Riverwalk . It's dotted with restaurants, bars and hotels plus an aquarium, hockey arena, performing arts center, children’s museum and a public waterfront park.

16. Float down the  Ichetucknee River  on a tube, kayak or canoe, where the crystal-clear water is 72 degrees, regardless of the weather.

17. The Brevard Zoo consistently lands on lists Best Zoos in the United States . The rest of the country has realized what we've known all along. Take the Treetop Trek and zipline over monkeys and other critters. Kayak by past giraffes, rhinos and lemurs in Expedition Africa, or just wander the trails and discover what (or who) is waiting around the corner.

18. Get lost in the lush wonderland that’s the  Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden  in southern Coral Gables. More than a stretch of manicured greens and lakes, this is an 83-acre garden that has only diversified in flora since its founding in 1938. 

19. Get your prehistoric reptile fix and see all the gators, from babies to 14-footers, including the blue-eyed, white leucistic alligators at  Gatorland  in Orlando.

20. Go shelling on  Sanibel Island .

21. Go to the  St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge . Gateway to the Panhandle Section of the Great Florida Birding Trail, it's where you can see as many as 250 different species throughout the year.

22. Grab a rumrunner to go from  The Jetty Lounge  – with a floater on top if you're feeling adventurous – and take a walk among the fishermen along the South Jetty. Watch the waves crash inside the Fort Pierce Inlet and possibly catch a glimpse of curious manatees or dolphins.

23. Grab unexpected views of Miami and Biscayne Bay from the eastern steps at the  Pérez Art Museum Miami  downtown. Sure, you can take in the same view from the terrace at Verde, the PAMM’s waterfront eatery. But you can also buy a cortadito at the Verde café stand and find a quiet space on the steps. Look all around. You’ll feel as if you’re viewing the metropolis from the deck of a boat. 

24. If you’re coming to Pensacola, and you should, you’ve got to do it on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when you can almost always watch a free  Blue Angels  practice show from June to October as they perform their mind-blowing maneuvers from NAS Pensacola.

25. Just about any Saturday, a parking lot under the bridge that carries I-95 over the St. Johns River in Jacksonville becomes the  Riverside Arts Market , where visitors can buy original arts and crafts, locally grown produce and the best kettle corn in the state.

26. Look a reticulated giraffe in the eye from the elevated platform at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens’  Savanna Blooms Overlook . 

Jacksonville bucket list: 25 things to see, places to go on Florida's First Coast

27. Meet Superman, Ryan Reynolds, Taylor Swift, Shaq and Jimmy Fallon – or at least take a picture with them – at  Madame Tussauds,  “the world’s greatest wax museum,” in Orlando.

28. No trip to St. Augustine is complete without a walk down  St. George Street , which is lined with shops and restaurants and sunburned tourists.

29. On a clear day, take in the view from the 22nd floor observation deck of the  Florida Capitol .

30. Pack your skateboard, bicycle, running shoes, volleyball, dog and/or child and spend the day or several nights at  Bradenton Riverwalk , which also includes a splash park and playground along with restaurants, bars and a couple of waterfront hotels.

31. Regardless if you’re interested in viewing 16th European paintings in its Museum of Art, exploring the first-of-its-kind Circus Museum or simply relaxing on the Ca' d'Zan terrace overlooking Sarasota Bay, there are lots of fun and educational activities at  The Ringling, which was founded by Florida’s famed circus magnate John Ringling in 1927. He also established the nearby shopping and dining destination St. Armands Circle. 

32. Road trip to Key West and have your photo taken at the Mile Marker 0 sign before having a few drinks at the nearby  Green Parrot Bar .

33. Savor super fresh seafood while dining on the docks of  Star Fish Company  in the historic commercial fishing village of Cortez, which is located on north Sarasota Bay in Manatee County by Anna Maria Island. 

34. See a sunset at the  Naples Pier  – and clap with the crowd when the sun goes down.

35. Swim with the manatees in Crystal River, which recently made Tripadvisor's list of Top 10 Experiences in the U.S.

36. Shop, sip, eat, repeat, then check out the world’s most comprehensive collection of works by  Louis Comfort Tiffany at the Morse Museum  in Winter Park.

37. Sip a frothy milkshake at the vintage  Robert Is Here  fruit stand in Homestead, a favorite stop for travelers headed south to the Florida Keys. Your options are deliciously tropical: guava, mamey, mango, papaya and others. Founded in 1959, the place is thoroughly Old Florida.

38. Spend the day window shopping or a night of eating and bar hopping in Panama City's historic  St. Andrews , which includes the St. Andrews Marina and is regularly the site of music events, farmer's markets and more.

39. Have a drink and listen to live music at St. Pete Beach landmark Jimmy B’s, one of our favorite beach bars in Florida .

40. Spend quality time in each of the three adorable cities found on charming Anna Maria Island, which stretches for seven miles off the coast of Manatee County just south of Tampa Bay and includes many of our favorite restaurants .

41. Stay the afternoon or perhaps a few nights on Charlotte Harbor at  Fishermen’s Village , which offers restaurants, a resort and marina on the site of a pier that held fish houses.

42. Take an off-road safari among African wildlife in the heart of Tampa via  Busch Gardens ’ amusement and animal park, which also includes thrill rides such as Tigris, which opened in 2019 as the tallest launch coaster in Florida.

43. Take in glorious views of the iconic red  Jupiter Lighthouse  and inlet waters from any of the restaurants and bars perched on the shore across the waterway. Terrific options include the laid-back Square Grouper Tiki Bar (which also has a Fort Pierce location), the fancier eateries at the Charlie and Joe’s at Love Street complex and the beloved Jetty’s and U-Tiki Beach restaurants. 

44. Venture to the Flagler Museum in Palm Beach . Whitehall, a 75-room, 100,000-square-foot Gilded Age mansion was built by Henry Flagler as a wedding gift for his wife, Mary Lily Kenan Flagler.

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45. There are lots of places to go ziplining in Florida, but  Crocodile Crossing , the course that runs over the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, may be the only one where visitors glide over a pit of hungry gators.

46. Tour the  Edison & Ford Winter Estates  in Fort Myers.

47. Visit  Wakulla Springs State Park  located south of Tallahassee, home of the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs, and take a boat ride to watch for manatees, birds, alligators and more. 

48. Walk the grounds of Tallahassee's  Mission San Luis de Apalachee , a reconstructed Spanish Franciscan mission, to see what life was like in the 17th century.

49. Walk the wilds of Central Florida and get up close with nature at the  Circle B Bar Reserve , a 1,200-acre nature park nationally renowned for its alligator activity. 

50. Wander through the  Norton Museum of Art , a work of art itself after a $100 million makeover in 2019. You’ll be welcomed by an 85-year-old banyan tree and a giant, pop-art typewriter eraser (by artist Claes Oldenburg). Inside the West Palm Beach institution, find world-class displays and walk below an Insta-worthy Persian Sea Life Ceiling. That's 600-pieces of underwater life recreated in Chihuly glass.

51. Watch the manatees at  Blue Spring State Park  in Orange City, about 30 minutes west of Daytona Beach in Volusia County. When temps dip in January, it’s prime time for manatees at the park, an occasion celebrated at the annual Blue Spring Manatee Festival on Jan. 22 and 23 at nearby Valentine Park.  

52. Watch the water of the  Indian River Lagoon  explode with bioluminescent light during a stand-up paddle board or kayak adventure on a moonless summer night, with tours leaving from Titusville and Merritt Island.

53. Witness history in the making by viewing a rocket launch from the beach, anywhere from Indialantic to the Canaveral National Seashore, then spend an afternoon at  Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex .

54. You can't be in Gainesville and miss a football game and some tailgating in "The Swamp," the University of Florida's Ben Hill Griffin Stadium home to the  Florida Gators  and almost 90,000 roaring fans.

55. You don’t have to be a Harry Potter fan to fall in love with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at  Universal Studios  and Islands of Adventure; and while at Islands of Adventure, don’t miss Jurassic World and the thrilling VelociCoaster.

56. Stop in Tallahassee during football season to catch a Florida State University Seminoles game and don’t miss the kickoff with Osceola riding out on Renegade to plant the spear on Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium.

57. Late in the summer, the water in the rivers and ocean along the Space Coast sparks with light. It's a magical experience when viewed from a paddle board or kayak. Check out the "Things to Do" section at visitspacecoast.com for links to multiple companies that offer guided tours.

58. Commune with the astronauts at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex on Merritt Island. The interactive children's area, the iMax movies, the bus tours and Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex all are amazing. And if the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is guaranteed to move you to tears.

Brevard Bucket List: 35 things to do on the Space Coast this summer or anytime

59. Visit “The World’s Most Famous Beach” in Daytona Beach where you can swim, fish and even drive along 23 miles of coastline.

60. During the summer, take in a Minor League Baseball game and watch the Tortugas take the field at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach.61. While the Daytona 500 takes place once a year, the Daytona International Speedway is open year-round with guided tours and a museum paying tribute to the history of racing. It's a must-see for any race fan.

62. If you've ever dreamed of swimming with the dolphins, check out Marineland Dolphin Adventure in St. Augustine where you can interact with marine life one-on-one.

63. Also, consider swimming with the dolphins at The Dolphin Research Center "dolphinarium" on Grassy Key.

64. Take the Little Havana food and walking tour in Miami , which recently topped Tripadvisor's list of best Food & Culinary Experiences.

65. Catch a sunrise on an Atlantic beach and a sunset on a Gulf Coast beach on the same day. End that day with dinner and drinks at one of these waterfront restaurants .

Wade Tatangelo  is Ticket Editor for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, and Florida Regional Dining and Entertainment Editor for the USA TODAY Network. He can be reached by email at [email protected]. Support local journalism by  subscribing .​​​​​​