World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

Bali, one of the best travel destinations

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

Traveler in Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Argentine Patagonia Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Campania, Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast road

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

Beach sunset in Cancun

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Cenote Zaci, Mexico

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

Close up of Golden Gate Bridge

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

San Francisco houses

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in autumn Canadian side

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls boat tour

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

Bison at the Great Prismatic Spring

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Old Faithful Geiser erupting, Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

snorkle Destinations: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef from above

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

White washed houses in Santorini

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Santorini houses

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

Florience center, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Il Duomo, Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite Falls

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

St. Lucia Les Pitons

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

St. Lucia boats

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai skyscrappers

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Dubai beach

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Llamas in Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

Sydney Harbor with boats

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Sydney Opera House in the evening

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon from observation point

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Family in the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

Landmark Temple Gates in Bali

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

New York City Manhattan

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

New York City Broadway

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff Lake Louise

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Kayaking in Banff National Park

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

Sunset in the Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Maldives overwater bungalows

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Sagrada Familia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Barcelona Park Guell

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in the winter

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Mountain goats at Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

Akihabara Tokyo

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Sensoji temple , Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket boats

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Phuket temple

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

Rome, Colosseum

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Rome Spanish Plaza at dawn

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

Modern bridge London

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

London in the spring

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Tahiti bungalows during sunset

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

Rocky beach in Maui

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Maui cave

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora overwater bungalows

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Bora Bora Island

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

Paris from the Arc de Triumph

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Paris Montmartre at dawn

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

Milford Sound

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

South Island, New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

By CNT Editors

Goa India

There are three great lists annually in  Condé Nast Traveler,  all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say  our editors,  we mean  CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners   here .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Cholula Puebla Mexico

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-­style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo Vicente Coast

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard Norway

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

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Goa India

My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay South Africa

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

Scottsdale Arizona

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Tuscany Val Graziosa

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

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Best of the Best Destinations 2024

Best of the Best Destinations

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

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

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The 55 Most Beautiful Places in the World

From cloud forests to glacial lakes, these destinations are the world's best sights to see.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

top 10 travel spots in the world

There are never-ending reasons to travel, but many go to seek those awe-inspiring moments that stop them in their tracks, searching for the sights that will stay with them forever. Every day, travelers find those experiences among the ruins of Machu Picchu or at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.  

From sky-blue lakes in Canada to sandstone beaches in Seychelles, beauty abounds in every corner of the Earth. Focusing largely on national parks , mountains, beaches, deserts, and other natural wonders , we’ve compiled the world's most beautiful places to inspire your next dream destination. 

Join us for a journey to some of the most beautiful places in the world, like the red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the abundantly colorful Great Barrier Reef.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

There's no better way to experience Patagonia's rugged natural beauty than in Torres del Paine National Park . The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to its namesake granite towers (the park's name is an amalgam of the Spanish word for “towers” and the Tehuelche word for “blue”), as well as sparkling lagoons and otherworldly glaciers.

Bagan, Myanmar

It's hard to truly grasp the magnitude of Bagan Archaeological Zone , dominated by thousands of temples, pagodas, and stupas. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site on a bike (or e-bike to cover even more ground). For an eagle's-eye view, take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise to see the temples scattered across the lush landscape.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Costa Rica

This magical, misty, and well-preserved cloud forest in northwestern Costa Rica is the ultimate template for sustainable ecotourism. Along with its sister cloud forest, Santa Elena Reserve, Monteverde is a practically untouched paradise home to thousands of plant, animal, and bird species (including the radiant quetzal), visible from jungle paths and nail-biting steel bridges hanging over the canopy.

Anse Source d'Argent, Seychelles

Pinpointing the most beautiful Seychellois beach is like splitting hairs, but Anse Source d'Argent gets extremely high marks for its sugar-white sand framed by dramatic granite boulders and sparkling aquamarine water. The sweet shoreline is relatively secluded from the resort crowds on La Digue Island.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Offering some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, the Grand Canyon truly merits the term "breathtaking." The vast geologic wonderland, one mile deep and up to 18 miles across, displays countless layers of colorful rock and practically hypnotic vistas.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls spans the Zimbabwe and Zambia borders. "The smoke that thunders," as it is known to locals, and its surroundings, are hubs for white-water rafting, helicopter rides, big-game safaris , and other thrilling adventures.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Whitehaven Beach is arguably one of the loveliest shores in the world. Part of Australia's Whitsunday Coast, the star attraction is remarkable for its amazing combination of pure silica sands and vivid blue-green waters.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

On a dirt road near Madagascar's west coast is a stretch of enormous baobab trees, all that remains of a once-dense forest. The centuries-old giants are especially magnificent cast in the light of a sunrise and sunset.

Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia

The world's largest salt flat covers 4,000 square miles of the Bolivian Altiplano. In the dry season, it's an endless white sheet of salt tiles made all the more dazzling by clear, sunny skies. From December to April, however, regular rains create a mirror effect that merges lake and sky. No matter when you see it, Salar de Uyuni is one of the most captivating sights on earth.

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam

With hundreds of jungle-covered karsts springing out of emerald green waters, Hạ Long Bay is a photographer's dream. Hop on a boat or kayak to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site 's beautiful islands and surreal cave systems.

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Lake Atitlán in the Sierra Madres offers a combination of Indigenous culture, waterside serenity, and yoga bliss. Cross the gorgeous crater lake by boat and explore various pueblos, shop local markets for Mayan crafts, and sleep in treehouse accommodations .

Le Morne Brabant, Mauritius

A freestanding basaltic mountain hulking over a bright blue-green Indian Ocean lagoon certainly makes spectacular scenery. When viewed from above, the surrounding sand and silt form an optical illusion that appears to be a massive underwater waterfall at this mythic place. Thanks to its isolation and near-inaccessibility, Le Morne sheltered people who escaped enslavement during the 18th and early 19th centuries.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From rocky shorelines shrouded in mist to conifer-cloaked mountainsides, Acadia is a wild place of sea, stone, and forest. Visitors flock here to hike, fish, climb, camp, and experience the end-of-the-world feel in New England's only national park.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The mighty Okavango, the largest inland delta in the world, is a vast network of winding waterways and animal-attracting lagoons. Navigating through reed-studded channels in a mokoro (traditional canoe) and spotting hippos, leopards, and elephants is one of the world's great travel experiences for nature lovers.

Railay West Beach, Thailand

Dmitrii Guldin / Getty Images

On the Railay peninsula's west side, Krabi's famous karsts meet a simply stunning jade-green lagoon. The vertical cliffs block access from the Krabi mainland, making Railay reachable only by boat, adding to its incredible appeal.

Maasai Mara, Kenya

This famed wildlife preserve (next door neighbor to the Serengeti) is one of the world's most enchanting ecosystems . The Mara's golden grasslands stretch to the horizon, interrupted by graceful acacia trees and rumbling throngs of wildebeest and zebra — and their stalking predators.

Cat Island, The Bahamas

Cat Island is a secret nirvana hiding in plain sight in the Bahamas . Sparsely developed and off the main tourist track, Cat Island is resplendent in miles of nature trails and wondrous pink-sands sprawling under the Caribbean sun.

Zhangye National Geopark, China

Distinct rolling bands of orange, cream, yellow, brown, and russet against jagged mountain peaks make this geological anomaly in Gansu, China look like a psychedelic scene on Mars.

Glencoe, Scotland

The Scottish Highlands are filled with astonishingly scenic glens, but Glencoe is perhaps the most famous (and infamous, due to a brutal 17th-century massacre). Today the valley is a haven for hikers, mountaineers, and whiskey lovers — the 19th-century Ben Nevis Distillery is a short drive away.

Mount Kōya, Japan

The Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi founded this mountaintop temple town in 819. Today, the sacred and serene place is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and contains more than 100 temples, including head temple Kongobuji, featuring gorgeous gilded sliding doors and ceilings carved with flowers. Within the ancient complex is a mausoleum and cemetery surrounded by a cedar forest with old growth trees up to 600 years old.

Dead Sea, Jordan, Palestine, and Israel

Name aside, the Dead Sea is a lake and one of the world's saltiest, at that (in fact, the saline water has such a high density that it keeps bathers afloat). Set between Jordan, Palestine, and Israel at the Earth's lowest elevation, it's known for its beautiful clear and tranquil waters (nearly 10 times more saline than the ocean) and surrounding mineral formations, sandy beaches, nature preserves, natural pools, and waterfalls.

Zion National Park, Utah

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Glorious Navajo Sandstone cliffs, rainbow-colored canyons, and incredible biodiversity make Zion one of the most popular (and most scenic) national parks in the U.S.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Dominated by a 3,000-square-mile ice cap of the same name, Vatnajökull is a chilly, Icelandic wonderland of caves, craters, glacier-filled calderas, and waterfalls. Perhaps the most famous falls is Svartifoss, surging over hexagonal lava-rock columns.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale's electric-blue thermal pools and white travertine formations, naturally formed by slowly crystallizing calcium carbonate, make for gorgeous vacation photos.

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Hawaii

Nā Pali translates to "the cliffs" in Hawaiian, a deceptively simple name that might not fully prepare travelers for the epic glory on view. The staggering coastline is too rugged and vertical for road access, so the only way to see it is by boat, air, or seriously intense hiking trails.

Table Mountain, Cape Town

Ascending iconic Table Mountain tops the list for most travelers in Cape Town. Adventurous hikers can go on foot, but there's also an aerial cableway that gently sweeps up to the 3,563-foot summit. Either way, the top offers insane panoramic views of the South African capital and the Atlantic.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Built nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Incan citadel whose engineering ingenuity and head-spinning views rival the extraordinary beauty of its Sacred Valley setting.

Lucerne, Switzerland

Picture a serene alpine lake fringed with soaring Alps. Now add in a walkable medieval town and you've got the setting for this long-popular Swiss destination . Don't miss Mount Pilatus (via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway) and the Rigi for nature trails and a famous viewpoint overlooking three lakes.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

The Blue Ridge Parkway may lack Highway 101's ocean scenery, but it trades Pacific views for peaceful Appalachian beauty. Stretching 469 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Shenandoah National Park , the 45 MPH, no-trucks route winds past overlook after overlook, letting road-trippers marvel at the mountains' dreamy blue hue.

Pulau Tioman, Malaysia

This isn't a tropical island getaway with a wild party scene or string of upscale resorts. Pulau Tioman is more of a floating nature preserve, with local character and a strong sense of environmental conservation (coral rehab and sea turtle preservation are major focuses for the island's Juara Turtle Project ). The island, off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the South China Sea, is popular for its dive sites, shipwrecks, and tropical rainforest.

Damaraland, Namibia

Damaraland region is an almost-mystical vision of red-earth desert plains, flat-topped mountains, petrified forest, and well-preserved ancient Bushmen rock paintings. Though it looks like a scene from Mars, Damaraland is rich in wildlife, home to lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and the critically-endangered black rhino.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Altogether, the 275 cascades on the Argentina -Brazil border form a mind-blowing, panoramic waterfall. The overwhelming sight, combined with the sound and energy of water rushing at up to 450,000 cubic feet per second in the rainy season, is pure magnificence.

Matira Beach, French Polynesia

The South Pacific calls up many visions of spectacular beaches . Bora Bora 's Matira Beach gets singled out for its miles of pearly white, flour-fine sand and breathtaking bright turquoise lagoon.

Cirque de Gavarnie, France

Cirque de Gavarnie is a popular hiking destination in the Pyrenees, and one of its most beautiful. Called "the colosseum of nature" by Victor Hugo, the Cirque is a ring of sheer granite mountain walls enclosing a picture-perfect green valley. It's astounding even before you add in three-tier Gavarnie Falls pouring over a 922-foot drop.

Shark Bay, Australia

Shark Bay: where the red earth of Australia's westernmost point meets the teal waters of the Indian Ocean. The bay is home to one of the largest and richest beds of seagrass in the world, as well as stromatolites — rocky-looking, cauliflower-shaped microbial reefs and some of the oldest life forms on Earth.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Lofoten archipelago bursts dramatically out of the Norwegian Sea. Between the jagged peaks and steep slopes are quaint fishing villages, secluded coves, scenic backpacking and biking trails, and dreamy white-sand beaches.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Flanked by the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, Los Cabos ' symphony of natural features — desert, mountains, sea, and plenty of sunshine — and yes, raucous party scene, have made it one of the most popular vacation destinations in North America. Its cobalt blue waters are a hub for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and whale watching.

Taormina, Sicily

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Taormina has all the elements for a gorgeous Mediterranean destination : ancient ruins, a charming old town, and a setting backed by Mount Etna, an active volcano you can summit by foot.

Dal Lake, India

The snow-capped Zabarwan Range rise above Kashmir's romantic Dal Lake, a long-time Himalayan escape for Indians fleeing the south's heat. During the summer, veranda-clad cedar houseboats bob along the lake's western edge while floating markets and brightly-painted taxi boats drift by.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The world's largest barrier reef is an unrivaled experience for snorkelers and divers. The sensational underwater world is made up of 2,900 individual reefs, 900 islands, and a mind-boggling diversity of marine life.

Fairy Meadows National Park, Pakistan

Near the foot of the world's ninth-highest mountain (Nanga Parbat), Fairy Meadows offers sublime mountain scenery and wildlife, including brown bears, markhor, and Himalayan ibex. Be forewarned: The road to get there has been dubbed the second deadliest road on the planet by the World Health Organization. To get to Fairy Meadows, you’ll have to be escorted by locals, in groups of six people at a time. 

Wulingyuan Scenic Area, China

Thousands of tapering quartz sandstone formations spiral skyward in this 100-square-mile stretch of karst terrain. Beneath the towers lie valleys, streams, waterfalls, caves, natural bridges, and dense green forest.

Banff National Park, Canada

Canada's oldest national park showcases the majesty of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Banff is known for its staggering peaks, dense pine forests, hot springs, animals (grizzlies, bighorn sheep, and moose all call the park home), and almost eerily azure glacier-fed lakes, such as the postcard-perfect Peyto Lake.

Wadi Rum Reserve, Jordan

Wadi Rum is a stunning red-desert landscape filled with canyons, dunes, mountains, springs, archeological sites, and stone archways (brave hikers can cross the largest, Burdah Rock Bridge, which is more than 200 feet above the ground).

Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, New Zealand

Glaciers carved this awe-inspiring valley , leaving behind craggy peaks with sheer drops into glistening waters. Part of UNESCO World Heritage Site Te Wahipounamu , Milford Sound is blessed with waterfalls, rainbows, rainforest, and a diversity of wildlife — everything from black coral to bottlenose dolphins, with seals and even penguins in between.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Blissfully isolated 217 miles off the Brazilian mainland, this lovingly-preserved archipelago offers pristine beaches and clear waters abundant in marine life perfect for world-class snorkeling.

The Algarve, Portugal

Surrounded by the Atlantic to the south and west, Portugal's Algarve region looks and feels like a wild respite. Wind-sculpted cliffs and headlands frame big, sandy beaches popular with surfers and dotted with secret coves and grottoes.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Solitary Mount Kilimanjaro is one of Africa's most stunning icons, rising more than 19,000 feet from coffee and banana farms up to snowy volcanic peaks. Along the way, hikers trek through distinct climate zones, from rainforest to high-altitude desert to the arctic-like summit (aka "the roof of Africa").

Mount Fuji, Japan

Both an active volcano and an icon of serenity, Mount Fuji is one of the world's most magnificent sights. You can hike to the sacred landmark's summit for sweeping views or simply gape at it from Lake Kawaguchi and elsewhere in the beautiful Five Lakes region . Head to the spa town of Hakone in winter to pair crisp Fuji views with steaming hot springs.

Li River, China

The Li River carves through the lowland farms and jagged karst terrain of northwestern Guangxi, creating some of China's most picturesque scenery (the area is so pretty, it appears on the 20 yuan banknote). A four- to five-hour river cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the most popular way to experience Li River, though travelers wanting more autonomy can rent bamboo rafts or hike — the natural moon-shaped arch of Moon Hill makes a glorious lookout.

Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como has been one of Italy's most popular vacation spots since the time of the Roman emperors. This unabashedly high-rolling resort area still attracts a posh crowd with its lush gardens, cinematic palaces and villas, and sun-soaked alpine shores. Take the funicular to the tiny village of Brunate for an amazing panorama.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Like so many of Earth's most stunning sights, Crater Lake is the result of earth-altering, volcanic forces. Its 1,943-foot depth makes it the deepest lake in the U.S. , filled with mesmerizingly deep blue waters fed by rain and snow. View its perfection from hiking trails, boat tours, and the 33-mile Rim Drive around the caldera. (Keep in mind, some attractions like boat tours and the scenic Rim Drive close for the winter season.)

Big Sur, California

Makito Umekita/Travel + Leisure

Even considering California's 840 miles of monumental coastline, it's hard to rival the beauty of Big Sur . Thick redwood forest, foggy canyons, and rocky cliffs tumbling into the Pacific define this area (the name refers to both the town and the coastal region), made all the more famous for its freewheeling NorCal vibes and Old Hollywood history.

Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee

With half a million acres split by Tennessee and North Carolina, this famous park 's wondrous mountain scenery encompasses hardwood forests, steep-sided ravines cut through by rivers and streams, and brilliant wildflowers in bloom from spring to fall. Hikers have 150 trails available to them, from the Appalachian Trail’s Charlies Bunion hike to the more challenging Rainbow Falls route.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The scenery alone — waterfalls, calderas, misty bamboo forests — makes Volcanoes National Park a worthy contender of any travel list. The mystical setting is all the more special for hosting buffaloes, birds, golden monkeys, and the elusive mountain gorilla.

Best of the world: 35 destinations for 2023 and beyond

Watching the sunrise at Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA

From epic landscapes and cultural reawakenings to conservation initiatives and family favourites, National Geographic Traveller ’s Best of the World list is back with 35 destinations that should be on your radar for 2023. Across five categories — adventure, culture, nature, family and community — our list highlights some of the most exciting and exceptional experiences on the planet, with 25 entries selected by the global editors of National Geographic Traveller  and an additional 10 from the UK edition.

Introducing the categories: 

3. Adventure

4. Community

Skyline of Busan, South Korea at dusk

Skyline of Busan, South Korea at dusk

1. Appian Way, Italy The revival of Europe’s ancient ‘superhighway’ is a pilgrimage route through history

If all roads lead to Rome, this ancient highway built 2,300 years ago was the mother of them all. Stretching for 360 miles from the heart of Italy’s capital to the port of Brindisi on the Adriatic, the Via Appia (nicknamed Regina Viarum — the Queen of Roads) was trod by ordinary citizens, marching soldiers, and glitterati from the Latin poet Horace to the gladiator-tussling Emperor Commodus.

Neglected after Rome’s fall but never forgotten, the road is undergoing a renaissance as the Italian government seeks to retrace, uncover and restore the ancient cobblestones, transforming the Appia into a walkable route for modern travellers. The goal is a pilgrimage through history, with stops at scenic villages and archaeological sites as well as planned overnight accommodation at the end of each day’s journey. 2. Busan, South Korea From craft breweries to Asia’s top film festival, South Korea’s second largest city is fuelling a cultural boom

Cinema is a communal experience in Busan, Korea’s second largest city, which has hosted one of Asia’s most prestigious annual film festivals for nearly three decades. In 2022 the Busan International Film Festival held screenings in 14 neighbourhood venues across this seaport of 3.4 million people.

Before performances, movie lovers can grab a craft beer or coffee — Busan is celebrated for its artisan brewers of both beans and hops — or stroll through Citizens Park, a redeveloped US military base (the city played a strategic role in the Korean War). Opened in 2014, the park is a 133-acre retreat in the middle of downtown, planted with more than one million trees and shrubs, comprising 97 species in all. 

3. Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China  VR technology is generating renewed interest in one of the largest collections of stone statues in the world at this UNESCO World Heritage site dating from the 4th century

Can ancient artistry from the Tang Dynasty thrive in the 21st-century metaverse? The Longmen Grottoes in China’s Henan Province offer a clue. More than 100,000 figures devoted to the Buddhist religion, primarily sculpted between the fifth and eighth centuries AD, are tucked inside countless caves within limestone cliffs rising above the Yi River. In 2021 Henan TV showrunners used the UNESCO World Heritage site as a backdrop for their acrobatic dance programme Longmen King Kong (the title refers to a Buddhist champion, not a large gorilla). The show’s whizz-bang special effects combined with the spectacular statues became a countrywide sensation.

But the use of high tech at the grottoes isn’t just for entertainment. Archaeologists are using 3D printing to reconstruct damaged statuary, and scientists are applying digital scanning to create a 3D map of the site.

4. Egypt King Tut’s new home at Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum debuts

The debut of King Tut’s magnificent new home on the 100th anniversary of his discovery — and a string of recent archaeological findings — is reigniting global interest in Egypt. Dramatic and modern, Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)  will be located in Giza at the edge of the Pyramids, “the perfect museum in the perfect setting,” says Fredrik Hiebert, the National Geographic Society’s Archaeologist-in-Residence, who started his career in Egypt and is currently supervising National Geographic ’s virtual, multimedia exhibition Beyond King Tut: The Immersive Experience.

“It’s like the Egyptians built another pyramid to display all the golden treasures of Tutankhamun, many of which were hidden in the basement of the [old] Cairo Museum,” he says. “It’s going to become a destination museum and will change the way people visit Egypt.”

5. Charleston, South Carolina South Carolina’s largest city addresses a grimmer aspect of its history with the opening of the International African American Museum

A new year shines a light on an old wrong in Charleston. Known for its Low Country cuisine and walkable urbanism, South Carolina’s largest city addresses a grimmer aspect of its history when the International African American Museum opens on 21 January. The building is located on Gadsden’s Wharf and faces Charleston Harbor, where ships brought 100,000 enslaved Africans in chains to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Nine galleries tell harrowing tales of the Middle Passage and the horrors of plantation life. But they also uncover stories of the triumph of the enslaved and their enduring cultural contributions, including a section devoted to the Gullah Geechee people who live along the Atlantic coast from the Carolinas to Florida and continue some of the African traditions of their ancestors.

6. Vilnius, Lithuania Lithuania’s capital marks 700 years

The Lithuanian capital will be 700 years old in 2023 and it’s throwing its own year-long party to celebrate. Public events will draw attention to a variety of arts, educational and green initiatives, including an invitation to both visitors and locals to help plant more than 100,000 trees around the city and create an urban forest in its Ozas Park. At the Lithuanian National Museum, a new interactive pavilion depicts the city as it was 200 years ago. Spoiler alert: it looks familiar in many respects, thanks to the many well-preserved gothic and Renaissance buildings found in Vilnius’s Old Town. This historic neighbourhood, with its cobblestoned streets, outdoor cafes and collection of baroque churches, is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval centres in Eastern Europe.

7. Hauts-de-France, France A culinary focus sees the northernmost French region celebrate its heritage and terroir in 2023

Food, glorious food… and drink, too. Haut-de-France is the European Region of Gastronomy for 2023 (a label awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts & Tourism). After feasting on its fresh seafood, craft beers and Flemish recipes, you’ll be in little doubt as to why.

This is France’s northernmost region, bordering Belgium, and it’s a place where ‘local’ and ‘seasonal’ were a way of life long before they became menu buzzwords. Think of Maroilles cheese, fresh endives, Chantilly cream, or finger-lickingly gorgeous gaufres (thin, honeycombed waffles traditionally sold outside churches), just for starters.

Today, the heritage and terroir of Hauts-de-France has been taken to new levels by dynamic young chefs and restaurateurs, and culture vultures can work up an appetite exploring the galleries and markets of Lille, or touring a stunning, little-known coastline.

A herd of wild African elephants gather in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

A herd of wild African elephants gather in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. 

8. Scottish Highlands A rewilding movement to restore the original landscape of the Highlands aims to replant and restore native species as part of a countrywide sustainability initiative

The windswept Scottish Highlands are celebrated for their austere beauty, but the sheep-scoured landscapes are in fact the result of human interference. In ancient times, Scotland’s glens and hills were covered by the great Caledonian Forest. But centuries of logging and overgrazing devastated the ecosystem. Now a move to return the Highlands to its original woodlands, by reintroducing former flora and fauna in a process called ‘rewilding’, is gathering steam — with major strides to come in 2023.

The non-profit organisation Trees for Life is opening a centre in Dundreggan to educate the public on the concept of rewilding. Above Inverness, the 23,000-acre Alladale Wilderness Reserve has already planted nearly a million trees, and the Affric Highlands project will start restoring 500,000 acres stretching from Loch Ness to the west coast in a 30-year initiative. 9. Slovenia A longtime leader in sustainable tourism, Slovenia is now developing green gastrotourism biking routes visiting farms, vineyards, cheesemakers and other food producers

Widely recognised for being a leader in sustainable tourism, Slovenia has already cooked up a number of eco-friendly tours under its seven-year-old, countrywide Green Scheme. Now it's added a new item to the menu: the Slovenia Green Gourmet Route. This 11-day, 10-destination food trail is intended specifically for bicyclists.

“Bikers can reach a lot of remote [countryside] to discover that each [cow] pasture will produce a unique cheese,” says Jan Klovara, one of the trail’s developers. The route spans the country, from the capital, Ljubljana, through the Soča Valley, with its Alpine views, to the cave-studded Karst Plateau, and along the Drava and Sava Rivers.

Cyclists use the Slovenian train system to go point to point and their own pedal power to navigate bike-safe rural roads, before sitting down to dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant in cities like Maribor, celebrated for its local and Serbian cuisine. 10. Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA The rugged frontier legend of Texas comes to life in a landscape that’s full of surprises

It’s located in the Lone Star State of legend, yet only 400,000 people visited Big Bend National Park pre-pandemic — nearly 10 times fewer visitors than Yellowstone received, reports Robert Draper, a National Geographic contributing writer. This remote and arid part of west Texas nurtures more cactus species than any other national park, as well as birds such as roadrunners and bright yellow Scott’s orioles, and mammals such as javelina. But encounters with wildlife seem different in the desert. “They remind you that life is at the same time precious and where you least expect to find it,” Draper writes. “Above all, life in the Chihuahuan Desert that comprises Big Bend’s 1,252sq mile expanse is stubborn and easily misunderstood but also impossible to forget.” 11. Azores Award-winning sustainability programmes conserve natural wonders of this volcanic archipelago known for whale-watching and thermal springs

A land born of fire but now engulfed in green, the Azores is working to secure its future. This volcanic island chain in the middle of the Atlantic is an autonomous region of Portugal, located about 1,000 miles off its coast.

With four of its nine islands UNESCO biosphere reserves — and recognised by the World Wildlife Fund as an oasis for 28 whale and dolphin species — the Azores take sustainable tourism seriously. It became the world’s first archipelago to be certified by EarthCheck, an Australia-based international advisory board and green tourism leader that conferred the award in 2019. The Portuguese territory is now focusing on conservation and biodiversity protection, air and water quality, and preservation of Indigenous heritage.

12. Botswana A locally led movement is restoring endangered species, creating wildlife corridors, and developing community-owned tourism projects

The southern African country of Botswana continues to confront a series of threats to its expansive, wildlife-rich national parks and game reserves, ranging from poaching to overtourism. But new anti-poaching efforts, voluntourism and community-based outreach are helping alleviate some of the pressure.

In the Tuli Block, a wilderness on Botswana’s eastern border that holds leopards, brown and spotted hyenas and a large elephant population, rangers are installing advanced technology in the 270sq mile Central Tuli Game Reserve. A Dutch organisation called Smart Parks developed low-power sensors that transmit radio data back to a central station, alerting rangers to poachers and their vehicles or even tracking the movements of animals themselves.

Botswana is also responding to a new generation of visitors. “Since Covid our millennial travellers have become more interested in meaningful human connection,” says National Geographic explorer Koketso ‘Koki’ Mookodi. “Expect to see more craft-based tours and village homestays being planned.”

13. Guyana A new route from British Airways shines a light on one of South America’s smaller nations

Thick Rainforests, sprawling savannahs, magical mountain ranges and epic rivers — Guyana may be one of South America’s smaller nations, but it packs a big punch for nature-lovers, and from March 2023, will be connected by British Airways flights from London Gatwick (via St Lucia).

Go to get truly off-grid. Similar in size to the UK, Guyana is home to fewer than a million people, and river, off-road or air transport are often the only routes into the heart of it all. Natural highlights range from jaguars stalking dense forests to giant anteaters on the savannahs, harpy eagles in the skies and wow-moments like Kaieteur Falls, one of the world’s highest single drop waterfalls (and twice as high as Victoria Falls). The number of eco-tourism experiences and community-run lodges is growing, too. 14. Tanzania Citizen science is playing a part in Tanzania’s new conservation drive

The evolution of sustainable travel is underway in Tanzania. No longer content with staying at environmentally friendly lodges or visiting local community groups, a new generation of travellers is getting hands on with conservation and following scientists into the field thanks to the advent of citizen science travel. 

At the forefront of the trend is Asilia Africa with its pioneering Usangu Expedition Camp, which opened in June 2022 and is set in the lush wetlands of Ruaha National Park. Patrolling the park in safari vehicles powered by molasses, guests play an active role in protecting wildlife by assisting field researchers, planting camera traps and building the park’s photo library of lions, leopards and rare African wild dogs. The citizen science approach has proved so successful that Asilia will replicate the experience at its sister camp, set to open in June 2023, in Nyerere National Park.

Hiking outside Queenstown, New Zealand

Hiking outside Queenstown, New Zealand.

15. New Zealand The country that invented bungee jumping rekindles adventure excitement post-pandemic

The country that brought you bungee jumping is bouncing back from the pandemic. On New Zealand’s South Island, a re-energised Queenstown is again welcoming adventure travellers from all over the world. They come to this lakeside town of some 15,000 for skiing, as well as year-round hiking in the deservedly named Remarkables range. But bicycles should be generating the most excitement. By 2025, the Queenstown Trails Trust aims to complete a network of recreational and commuting bike lanes and paths that will link up workplaces, schools and other urban spaces. The network’s shining star: an 80.7-mile biking route called the Queenstown Trail, one of New Zealand’s Great Rides. Starting on the shore of Lake Wakatipu, the ride pedals east from Queenstown to Gibbston.

16. Choquequirao, Peru An adventurous trek to the remote sister site of Machu Picchu is becoming more accessible

One of the most remote Inca sites in the Peruvian Andes, the ruins of Choquequirao are reserved for the hardy few who put in the effort to reach it. Those who make the trek to the sprawling complex can do so only on foot, zigzagging up and down steep paths for 18 miles to reach its 10,000-foot elevation, suspended between the high Andes and the jungles below.

But change is coming to rock the ‘cradle of gold’, the meaning of Choquequirao in the Quechua language. New infrastructure plans are expected to boost visits to Machu Picchu’s sister city.

Pre-pandemic, Machu Picchu had more than 1.5 million visitors annually, according to Peruvian tourism officials. Choquequirao counted fewer than 9,500. To increase accessibility, the Peruvian government has committed to spending $260 million (£231.12 million) to build a cable car spanning three miles between the town of Kiuñalla and the archaeological site.

17. Utah, USA This popular adventure state is boosting its lesser-trafficked areas to combat overtourism

With five national parks and eight national monuments, Utah is an adventurer’s ultimate playground. But outdoor lovers tend to visit only a small and iconic group of destinations, such as Zion National Park. Now the Utah Office of Outdoor Recreation has created an innovative grant programme to help fund new outdoor recreation projects throughout the state, including the Zion National Park Forever Project.

In Zion, known for its dramatic narrow canyons and towering sandstone cliffs, work began in 2022 on a new visitors centre on the park’s east side. The hope: to draw some of Zion’s annual five million visitors away from the crowded main south entrance and popular trails like Angels Landing. In addition to the sustainable visitors centre, plans include 30-plus miles of new mountain biking trails and 40 miles of hiking trails outside the east entrance.

18. Austrian Alps The cross-country Bergsteigerdörfer network of 36 mountaineering villages focuses on local life and culture.

To save a mountain range, it sometimes takes a village. Since 2008 an association of high-altitude hamlets located in Central Europe’s Eastern Alps have banded together to promote their small communities to the world’s adventure travellers interested in mountain hiking, biking and climbing, as well as winter sports like cross-country skiing and ice climbing.

Called the Bergsteigerdörfer, or the ‘Mountaineering Villages’, the network is concentrated primarily in Austria’s western states, including Tyrol and Carinthia, with additional member towns in Switzerland, Germany, Italy and Slovenia. The Bergsteigerdörfer works to protect villages’ culture and traditions while preserving mountain landscapes from overdevelopment. Rejecting large-scale tourist projects like sprawling ski lodges and peak-scaling cable cars, the Bergsteigerdörfer villages, now numbering 36, put greater emphasis on green or sustainable mountain tourism.

19. Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico The ‘Galápagos of Mexico’ protects one of the largest aggregations of sharks and oceanic mantas in the world

Some 300 miles off the southern tip of Baja California Peninsula lies a national park steeped in superlatives. Revillagigedo National Park, a 57,000-square-mile Mexican marine reserve, is North America’s largest fully protected underwater park. It offers sanctuary to the continent’s greatest concentration of tropical marine megafauna, from hammerhead sharks to humpback whales, earning it the nickname ‘the Galápagos of Mexico’. And the waters surrounding its four main islands are fast becoming a mecca for scuba divers.

“The park is one of the few places, if not the only place on the planet, that you can have intimate interaction with giant oceanic mantas,” says marine biologist and underwater filmmaker Erick Higuera. He says the mantas, which can weigh up to 3,600 pounds and attain a wing span of 27ft, seem to like the feel of the divers’ oxygen bubbles on their bellies. The bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the park’s waters also show curiosity toward humans and will often swim up to and investigate divers.

20. Sierra Sur, Oaxaca, Mexico Oaxaca’s epic trail gains in popularity for visitors seeking Indigenous connections

Oaxaca is celebrated for its folk art and vibrant cuisine, but there’s more to be sampled in this subtropical Mexican state than black pottery and moles. Travellers searching for meaningful and respectful cultural exchanges with members of the 16 recognised Indigenous peoples are lacing up their hiking boots to venture into the agrarian heart of the Oaxacan interior on foot.

Growing in popularity is the Copalita Trail, a five-day adventure walk from the state’s southern Sierra Madres to its Pacific coast, stopping to camp, swim, and break bread in Zapotec villages. Because the trail is remote, with few intersecting roads, there is no opportunity to leave it and must be done with a guide. The journey begins in Oaxaca City where a bus brings hikers deep into the mountains. Over the next four days, hikers descend from the slopes past thick pine forests, down through coffee and bamboo plantations and into jungles, before floating down the Copalita River to arrive on the golden sand beaches near Huatulco.

21. Bhutan The reopened Trans-Bhutan Trail traverses 250 miles across the Himalayan kingdom

After using the pandemic downturn to reflect and rebuild, Bhutan officially reopened its borders in September 2022. As a mountainous country vulnerable to climate change, Bhutan is famously committed to sustainable, ‘low volume’ tourism that benefits the local community. The increased Sustainable Development Fee of US$200 (£180) per person, per night will be put to good use funding healthcare and education for Bhutan’s citizens, planting trees, and preserving the country’s cultural heritage.

Enticing pilgrims to the Himalayan kingdom is the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail, which has reopened for the first time in 60 years, allowing hikers and bikers to traverse the length of the country. The track connects previously remote communities, spreading the economic benefits of tourism while sharing entirely new insights into Bhutanese life.

Kayakers explore Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes, Greece

Kayakers explore Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes, Greece

22. Dodecanese Islands, Greece This Greek archipelago balances growing popularity with sustaining its ancient traditions

Off the Turkish coast, the Greek islands of the Dodecanese cast an alluring spell stemming from their rocky beauty and feisty history. A cast of conquerors — Romans, Ottomans and Italians — left their fingerprints on everything from the architecture to the food, but today’s invaders come not for fortune, but for selfies, at such better-known Dodecanese islands as Leros, Patmos or Kos.

But now less trafficked parts of the archipelago like Karpathos, located halfway between Crete and Rhodes, must balance between the economic need for tourism and the environmental stresses caused by it. In this arid, hilly land of milk and honey, many families keep bees and make their own butter and cheese. Karpathos’s lonely white churches, timeworn towns and ancient traditions may draw adventurous visitors fleeing the more crowded Cycladic islands of Mykonos and Santorini, but the island’s water scarcity and lack of recycling capacity pose challenges.

23. Milwaukee, Wisconsin A smaller, less expensive Great Lakes city you shouldn’t miss

Wisconsin’s biggest and liveliest city combines a blue-collar, back-thumping energy with a close-knit creative community that’s turning heads beyond the Great Lakes. (Having a winning NBA team, the Bucks, doesn’t hurt either.)

Like the 450 motorcycles displayed inside its Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee is revving its engines in 2023. Riverside promenades are being built along its three waterways (the Milwaukee, Kinnickinnic and Menomonee Rivers), and the buzzy Deer District rises from a former field of vacant lots, with hotels, concert venues and the Bucks arena. Meanwhile traditional neighbourhoods are getting fresh development projects, such as the planned arts and cultural centre in Bronzeville focused on African American art.

24. Alberta, Canada In the Canadian Rockies, Indigenous voices connect travellers to undiscovered histories

Alberta is celebrated for its natural wonders like the Athabasca Glacier and Banff National Park, both high in the Rocky Mountains; its wide-open prairie vistas; and the glass-and-steel modernity of cities like Calgary and Edmonton. But there are different perspectives to consider in this Canadian province, part of a rethinking about how Indigenous stories are told across all of North America.

“[Travellers] who seek us out want to reconnect and refocus,” says Brenda Holder, a Cree/Iroquois guide who leads visitors on walks and workshops in the woods near Sundre, Alberta, to examine the medicinal plants her people rely upon.

Alberta’s Aboriginal sites offer touchstones into the province’s pre-European past. Visitors to Elk Island National Park, located just east of Edmonton, encounter cultural history dating back 8,000 years through guided hikes, hands-on interpretive programmes featuring prehistoric stone tools, and Cree crafting workshops.

25. Laos A new high-speed train is making more of Laos accessible

The Covid pandemic closed the borders of many tourism-dependent countries including Laos. But the Southeast Asian country known for its emerald-green vistas of the Upper Mekong got a boost in domestic travel with the December 2021 inauguration of a Chinese-financed and -constructed bullet train christened the Lane Xang, Laos’ ancient name meaning Kingdom of a Million Elephants. Originating in Kunming, China, the train’s 260-mile route within Laos starts at the border town of Boten and barrels through 75 tunnels and across 167 bridges, before terminating in the capital Vientiane.

The train’s promise: expanding tourism among the Lao themselves, who can now easily explore their country’s multifaceted heritage, including the old imperial capital, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

26. Ghana The hottest destination for Black heritage travellers in West Africa is also a vibrant creative hub

With Covid restrictions relaxed, many travellers are once again taking up an invitation that Ghanaian president Nana Akufo-Addo had extended pre-pandemic to people with African heritage: to return to this West African country, explore their African roots and connect with its citizens. The journeys, popularised by celebrity travellers such as Danny Glover and Chance the Rapper, were often emotional ones as visitors confronted the physical remnants of the slave trade along Ghana’s coast.

“More than a return, it’s a remembering,” says National Geographic photo editor Melissa Bunni Elian, who journeyed to Ghana last spring. Elian notes that Ghana has a “strong pan-African spirit. You’ll hear afrobeats everywhere, from the taxis to the grocery store, but also reggae, Haitian zouk, American hip-hop.”

27. Nova Scotia, Canada Canada puts a spotlight on its unique Acadian culture

The parishes of southern Louisiana have long been associated with the Acadians, France’s settlers in the New World. But the first Acadia lay further north, centred in Canada’s Atlantic Maritime provinces like Nova Scotia. French immigrants first arrived in the 1630s, only to be routed 120 years later by Britain during the French and Indian Wars (1754-1763). Beginning in 1755, ‘le Grand Dérangement’ (The Great Expulsion) saw Acadians forcibly resettled in British colonies or repatriated to France, and then to Louisiana. Allowed to return to Nova Scotia in 1764, the Acadians have defended and retained their unique culture and French language into this century. The twice-a-decade World Congress of Acadians takes place in 2024 here in the rural municipalities of Clare and Argyle.

28. Aboriginal Australia Greater Aboriginal rights go hand-in-hand with a new wave of Indigenous experiences

This year Australians will cast their vote on whether to enshrine an Aboriginal voice in the country’s constitution. The historic referendum takes place against a backdrop of greater recognition of Aboriginal rights, with vast swathes of land handed back to Traditional Owners, and the country’s first truth-telling commission underway in Victoria.

As the cogs of government churn, a new wave of experiences owned and led by Aboriginal Australians are helping travellers delve deeper into history, culture and cuisine. Found at the end of the Great Ocean Road is Budj Bim Cultural Landscape —newly inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2019 and the first in Australia to be listed for its Aboriginal cultural value — where visitors can explore the world’s oldest eel farms with Gunditjmara guides.

Wax palms in Colombia’s  Cocora Valley

Wax palms in Colombia’s  Cocora Valley.

29. San Francisco An urban trail and a new recreation area with stunning Golden Gate views get top marks from families

In San Francisco, city kids can learn that becoming a trail hiker doesn’t necessarily mean a trip into the wild. The recently completed Crosstown Trail meanders across the city diagonally, from its southeastern corner at Candlestick Point to its northwestern tip at Lands End, winding through gardens, up hills and across urban streets for nearly 17 miles.

Along the way, the trail skirts the Presidio. This 1,491-acre military post turned popular national park offers stunning Golden Gate Bridge views and in July celebrated the opening of the 14-acre Presidio Tunnel Tops. Designed by one of the same firms behind Manhattan’s High Line, the new site is set on top of concrete freeway tunnels and buzzes with a plastic-free nature play space, food trucks and campfire talks.

30. Trinidad and Tobago One of the most important leatherback turtle nesting sites in the world emphasizes the importance of sea turtle conservation programs

Consider that sea turtles survived the dinosaurs, but might not survive this century. Kids eager to help save the turtles — and encounter hundreds of them as well — can head to Trinidad and Tobago. With loggerheads, greens, leatherbacks, hawksbills and olive ridleys (five of the seven species of sea turtles) swimming off its shores, this Caribbean nation is a mecca for turtle tourism.

Nesting sites are found on both islands, with leatherbacks the most numerous — during the nesting season between March to August, an estimated 6,000 to 10,000 turtles mass on the nation’s shores. Trinidad’s Grande Riviere beach, on the island’s north coast, is the densest leatherback nesting ground in the world.

Turtle-watching programmes led by approved guides generate revenue to help save these creatures, which are under assault from climate change, habitat loss and plastic pollution.

31. Colombia The enchanted land of Encanto has birding, Indigenous cultures and alluring coasts and mountains

Colombia’s boisterous birdlife is as colourful and tuneful as Encanto, the hit Disney animated film set in this biodiverse South American country. More than 1,900 different birds (almost 20% of the world's avian species) live here, in places like the Perijá Mountains, making Colombia the richest roost for birdlife on the planet.

Where can families flock with them? The Northern Colombia Birding Trail, for birders both extreme and more casual, explores the country’s range of habitats. Tours with the National Audubon Society use 4X4 vehicles to visit the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the planet’s highest coastal mountain range, as well as beach-blessed Tayrona National Park on the Caribbean coast. Visitors can spot species including the crested quetzal, Santa Marta parakeet, and the sickle-winged guan. Colombians and Wayuu Indigenous peoples work along the route as bird guides.

32. Manchester, UK This mecca for football fans is growing as an arts and culture hub

In 2023 Manchester launches a number of attractions to encourage its post-pandemic revival. The year’s centrepiece is the spring opening of the Factory International, a new £186 million downtown cultural space designed by Rem Koolhaas’s architectural firm. Named after the local record label that made hometown bands Joy Division and New Order globally famous, the Factory will become the permanent home of the Manchester International Festival. The city’s biannual, cutting-edge arts jam showcases the best in theatre, opera and music for all ages.

The year also marks the reopening of the reimagined Manchester Museum, which features new galleries focused on Chinese, South Asian and British Asian culture and a specially designed inclusive, family-focused Belonging Gallery that showcases how humans, plants and animals thrive together. Also coming into its own is the National Trust’s new ‘sky park’ on the Castlefield Viaduct, a walkable Victorian-era railroad bridge.

33. Switzerland A precision rail network leads to quaint Alpine towns for chocolate, hiking and skiing

On any given day, Switzerland’s transit network carries 6.6 million riders in a country of only 8.7 million people, tempting families on holiday with some unique trips on its famously punctual trains featuring spectacular mountains, classic cookies and even a Wonka-esque chocolate tour.

The Gotthard Panorama Express begins on a Lucerne steamboat crossing the city’s famous lake before boarding a train in Flüelen for a trip to Switzerland’s Italian-influenced south. A cookie train from Berne to Lucerne stops for a nibble at the Kambly bakery where kids can bake their own cookies and design a biscuit tin to take home. A chocolate train departing from Montreux starts with chocolate croissants and hot chocolate served onboard, stops in Gruyères to explore its medieval old town and world-famous cheese, and winds up in Broc for a tour of the Maison Cailler chocolate factory.

Making it all sweeter is the Swiss Family Card, a rail pass that allows anyone under the age of 16 to ride either free or at a 50% discount.

34. Bath The only double-listed World Heritage Site in the UK is developing new attractions

Bath may be one of the UK’s most visited cities, but it hasn’t been resting on its laurels in recent years. After a £5.5m renovation of its Roman baths in 2011, and becoming a double-inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 — one of 11 European spa towns — the Bath World Heritage Centre opened in May 2022, featuring interactive exhibits and displays about Bath’s history, Georgian architecture and unique geology.

But the city founded as Aquae Sulis by the Romans is not just about its ancient past. In September, Cleveland Pools, Britain’s oldest lido, reopened after decades of neglect. Situated by the River Avon, the Grade II*-listed outdoor swimming pool dating back to 1815 was restored after an 18-year campaign to restore it.

And the £20 million Bath Abbey Footprint project, which saw a complete restoration of the medieval abbey church, has neared completion with its new Discovery Centre.

35. Wicklow, Ireland A multi-million pound treetop walk is just part of the Irish garden county’s new appeal

Wicklow is Ireland’s ‘garden county’ — similar in size to England’s Cotswolds and crammed with mountain trails for hikers and bikers, stately Palladian mansions, wild waterfalls and an underrated coast. As of this year, it’s also home to Ireland’s tallest slide and an exhilarating new walkway that gently ramps up to immerse visitors in the tree canopy itself.

Beyond the Trees Avondale is a revamped experience at Avondale Forest Park. The fully accessible canopy walk opens up birds’ eye views of an estate with over 100 tree species, while the swirling, 12-storey slide is the centrepiece of a wooden structure shaped like a giant pint of Guinness (the whoops you hear spraying about inside are from adults and kids alike).

Published in the December 2022 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)  

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  • Travel and Adventure

PlanetWare.com

18 Best Places to Visit in the World

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

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

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

Mt. Cook, New Zealand

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

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

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

Machu Picchu

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

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Peru

Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Roman Forum

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

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

A lush tropical beach on Maui

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

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

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

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

Cheetah in the Masai Mara

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

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

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

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

Lupin blooming at Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

Istanbul

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Istanbul

Stone faces, Angkor Wat

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

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

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

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

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

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali

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

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

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

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

Tower Bridge in London

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in London

Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty

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

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

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

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

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

The Eiffel Tower

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

Old Montreal in summer

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

The Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline

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

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

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

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

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

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Marrakesh

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

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Marrakesh

Cartagena's walled city

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gran Canaria landscape

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

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

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

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

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

Hong Kong at sunset

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

The 60 most beautiful places in the world 2024

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

Scattered along Scotland's west coast this chain of isles is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Think...

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

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

With endless rows of vines tumbling down hillsides and birds of prey swooping along the riverside at first glance you'd...

Douro Valley, Portugal

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

The most westerly point on mainland Australia is this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded before Captain Cook...

Shark Bay, Australia

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

A small seaside town in the Ica region of Peru Paracas is where the desert meets the sea. A trip to the area isnt...

Paracas, Peru

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

The redcliff coastline and pristine whitewashed Moorish villages that dot the southwestern region of Portugal have...

Algarve, Portugal

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

With its striking architecture grand boulevards worldclass art jewelbox patisseries and classic places to stay this is a...

Paris, France

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

Vietnamese for peace Hòa Bình province is located in the north of the country and is home to hill tribes including the...

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

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

Offradar Milos has some of the best beaches in the Aegean without the buzz of Mykonos or Santorini. Moonlike Sarakiniko...

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

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

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The most extreme continent on earth is also the coldest windiest driest and most inhospitable to forms of life. Pristine...

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

Known as the hottest place on earth Death Valley reached a record temperature of 53°C in 2019. Its a vast area of...

Death Valley, California

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

In summer endless fields of lavender in bloom turn the Provençal landscape purple. At the end of the season when the...

Provence, France

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

Monks at Bayon temple

Bayon, Cambodia

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

The famous three peaks of the National Park are among Wyomings most recognisable sights the Grand forming the highest...

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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

The worlds highest waterfall with 3212ft cascades is located in the UNESCOprotected Canaima National Park and was the...

Angel Falls, Venezuela

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

A gateway to the East Kyrgyzstan has natural beauty. Unspoilt pine forests rocky ridges and rolling jailoos  are typical...

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

The 12500ftlong canal runs straight through the centre and has inspired numerous artists including Canaletto Monet and...

Grand Canal, Venice

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

Hwange has a greater diversity of mammals than any national park in the world and is the largest natural reserve in...

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

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

A third of Mongolia is covered in desert and while its the 18thlargest country in the world its three million...

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

This salt lake constitutes the lowest point on the continent. Normally dry due to evaporated water with its saltdeposit...

Lake Eyre, Australia

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

Minutes from scooterbuzzing Ubud are artsy lowkey villages vivid green rice paddies lush forests and vast jungles. Bali...

Bali, Indonesia

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

East Sussex England

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

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

On a route made famous by revolutionary Che Guevara who kicked off his motorcycle journey in Buenos Aires head down to...

Atacame Desert, South America

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

Fujisan the tallest peak in Japan is a sacred mountain and symbol. On a clear day it can be seen from Tokyo but one of...

Mount Fuji, Japan

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

The largest city in Rajasthan is filled to the brim with buzzing bazaars sacred lakes and gilded royal palaces  the...

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

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

The Namib Desert is the oldest in the world and in the middle of its vast Skeleton Coast are endless miles of stone and...

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

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

Its a few hours from buzzing Edinburgh not far from the Cairngorms to the start of the eastern Highlands. Stretching...

The Scottish Highlands

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

Meaning cotton castle in Turkish this natural wonder is made up of layers of white travertine terraces of iceblue spa...

Pamukkale, Turkey

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

Stretching over eight countries  France Switzerland Monaco Italy Liechtenstein Austria Germany and Slovenia  the Alps...

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

This archipelago of five islands  Bazaruto the largest Benguerra Magaruque Santa Carolina and the smallest Bangue  was...

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

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

Six turquoise waterholes lie within the salty plains of Ojos del Mar in the Tolar Grande region of Bolivia. Inhabited by...

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

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

Home to the tallest mountain in New Zealand the AorakiMount Cook National Park part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage...

Mount Cook, New Zealand

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

One of the Luberon's most striking hilltop hamlets Gordes stands tall on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau. With views...

Gordes, Provence

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

Easily one of the Canadian Rockies most recognisable landmarks Emerald Lake is located within Yoho National Park in...

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

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

The selfgoverned group of 18 volcanic islands makes up this remote archipelago where sheep outnumber humans. Grasslined...

The Faroe Islands

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

Modern highrise buildings meet period architecture in retro Hong Kong one of the most densely populated cities in the...

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

The magical walled Blue City is a tangle of winding medieval streets. The monumental 15thcentury Mehrangarh Fort which...

Jodhpur, India

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

The Navajo name of this slot canyon translates to ‘the place where water runs through rocks and the narrow ravine is an...

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

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

This Arctic archipelago about a threehour flight north of Oslo has one of the harshest environments on the planet....

Svalbard, Norway

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

The forwardthinking capital of Scandi cool appeals to foodies design junkies and a cool young crowd. With its...

Copenhagen, Denmark

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

The old town of Lamu on the Indian Ocean island of the same name was established in the 14th century. Now a UNESCO World...

Lamu, Kenya

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

More than 3000 narrow quartzsandstone pillars make up Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in the Hunan...

Wulingyuan, China

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

Home to the worlds tallest trees Redwood National Park north of San Francisco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part...

Redwood National Park, California

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

The crumbling façades of this island nation's capital keep bringing in waves of travelling artists rum fanatics and...

Havana, Cuba

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

Considered to be the cultural centre of Japan Kyoto is awash with ancient temples and shrines serene teahouses and...

Kyoto, Japan

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

The kaleidoscopic city may best be known for its market life spice sellers and ancient medinas but its reimagined riads...

Marrakech, Morocco

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

A quick ferry ride from Naples the island of Ischia  famed for its thermal spas and unshowy local life  is a tumble of...

Ischia, Italy

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

Bondi Icebergs might easily be the most famous pool in the world. The Olympicsize structure has been standing on the...

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

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

The Philippines has more than 7000 islands  about 5000 of which are uninhabited  where roughly 175 languages are spoken....

The Philippines

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

About 20 minutes outside Kyotos city centre is the atmospheric Arashiyama bamboo forest. Arrive at around 7am to avoid...

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

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

The incredible pink lakes here make up part of the protected nature reserve of Ría Lagartos Biosphere on Mexicos Yucatn...

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

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

The Avenue of the Baobabs Madagascar

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

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

Blue Lagoon Iceland

Blue lagoon, Iceland

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

Eager to spot a waddle of penguins in the wild There's no need to save up for the ultimate excursion to Antarctica ...

Cape Town, South Africa

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

Colorado River in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, USA

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

Inside view on IkKil Cenote close to Chichen Itza Mexico

Cenotes, Mexico

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

A road poising through the desert of Joshua Tree as sunrise

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

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

Maldives

The Maldives

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

Peyto Lake in Canada

Peyto Lake, Canada

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

Argent Beach on La Digue Island Seychelles

La Digue, Seychelles

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

Grand Prismatic Spring Yellowstone National Park Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park, USA

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

I've traveled to all 7 continents. Here are the most breathtaking places I've visited on each one.

  • I've traveled to all seven continents and have seen some unbelievably gorgeous places .
  • I'll never forget seeing the towering mountains in Alaska's Wrangell St.-Elias National Park.
  • From the aquamarine water to the animals, the Galápagos Islands are a breathtaking location.

Insider Today

Growing up in a small town in Montana, I only hoped for a day I could hop on a plane and see some of the sights I'd read about in my favorite books.

I certainly never believed I would travel to all seven continents.

But as I got older, I was fortunate enough to find a flexible career in travel and meet a husband who was just as interested in seeing the world as I was.

After visiting all seven continents, here are the most breathtaking places I've visited on each one.

Africa: The Sahara Desert

top 10 travel spots in the world

I love the Sahara Desert so much that I've visited it twice. Camping in the desert and seeing the Milky Way after stepping out of a Berber tent is a memory I'll never forget — every star seemed close enough to touch.

I felt as though I was in a time capsule after enjoying a night by a campfire with the sound of drums, eating traditional tagine (a Moroccan stew with couscous), and riding a camel to my tent.

Endless dunes and the ever-shifting landscape mean you're always experiencing something new, and every view is different than it was the day before.

Antarctica: The Antarctic Peninsula

top 10 travel spots in the world

Kayaking among blue icebergs and friendly penguins in the Antarctic Peninsula offered an experience that simply can't be replicated anywhere else.

The abundance of wildlife and scenery that can only be described as otherworldly made it one of my favorite destinations of all time.

Just when I thought the continent couldn't get any more beautiful, we rounded the corner on our ship to find a new, seemingly untouched corner with pristine glaciers and sleeping seals.

Cliffs and glaciers line the shores in monochromes of black and white, and it's almost impossible to take a bad photo of this barren land.

Asia: The Himalayas

top 10 travel spots in the world

There's something special about being at the top of the world. When my now-husband and I hiked up to Everest Base Camp — where climbers start their ascent up Mount Everest — we encountered impossibly high peaks and stunning scenery.

Not only was it a physical challenge, but it was an emotional one as well. Visiting Nepal has been a major highlight for me because of the beautiful scenery.

The mountains are unimaginably large, and just when you think you've seen the most beautiful view of the trek, another impossibly large peak looms above you.

Australia: Uluru

top 10 travel spots in the world

Compared to Australia's major cities , few people make it to the Australian Outback. In my opinion, however, it's the best part of the continent.

We took a bike trip around Uluru, which was an excellent way to get an idea of the scale and importance of this site, which is sacred to the Aboriginal people.

The most unforgettable part of our trip? The sunsets bathing this famous rock with shades of pink and purple. Along with the red dirt that the area is known for, Uluru looks like a scene made for a photograph.

Europe: Florence, Italy

top 10 travel spots in the world

I was fortunate enough to live in the Florence region of Italy for a year, and I didn't come close to exploring all of the gems this city has hidden away.

I would often pop into a random church to find works by Botticelli or Donatello, and I spent days wandering the streets in search of the perfect scoop of gelato.

Many evenings, I'd wander to Piazzale Michelangelo to catch a sunset view of the entire city from above. From that angle, Florence looked like a work of art itself as the colors of dusk spread over the buildings.

Florence ages like a bottle of fine Chianti — every time I return, I'm reminded of how special it is.

North America: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

top 10 travel spots in the world

One park in Alaska that took me by surprise was Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. As someone who's visited 26 national parks to date, I had written this one off as a side stop on our road trip.

However, when I visited, I was in awe of the towering mountains, herds of caribou running throughout the tundra, and endless opportunities for photography.

The best way to see this ginormous landscape is from the air — I recommend taking a bush plane ride to get the full scope. Seeing the towering mountains covered in glacial ice is still one of my favorite memories I've made traveling.

South America: The Galápagos Islands

top 10 travel spots in the world

The Galápagos Islands are a must-see location for any animal lover. Once you arrive, you're basically guaranteed to see wildlife everywhere you look, whether it's on land, in the air, or underwater.

From hilarious boobies to playful sea lions and ancient tortoises, I got personal, one-on-one interactions with some of nature's most intriguing creatures.

Just be sure to stay at least 6 feet away from the animals at all times, as mandated by Galápagos National Park .

Combined with aquamarine water, rugged coasts, and surprisingly beautiful beaches, the Galápagos Islands are a place you need to see to believe.

top 10 travel spots in the world

  • Main content

Introducing Lonely Planet's Ultimate Travel List

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

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

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

1. Explore the enigmatic ‘lost city’ of Petra

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

5. Sniff out geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

7. Marvel at the astounding power of Iguazú Falls

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

8. Find Hindu heaven at the temples of Angkor

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

Discover 490 more ultimate travel experiences

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

top 10 travel spots in the world

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From left: Cabo Rojo arch in Puerto Rico; students performing in traditional Mongolian attire at the Flaming Cliffs

The 23 Best Places to Travel in 2024

Our expert travel writers circled the globe to find the next-best destinations to explore—and why to go now.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Puerto Rico beckons with beautiful waters, like those at Peña Blanca beach; the colorful cityscape of Aguadilla

Puerto Rico

Why Now: After rebounding from a series of devastating earthquakes in 2019 and 2020—and Hurricane Maria in 2017—this U.S. territory (read: no passport required for Americans) quickly became one of the hottest destinations in the Caribbean. Although it has long been a favorite with surfers, 36 years have passed since Puerto Rico hosted the sport’s world championships. But in February, the Atlantic town of Arecibo, an hour west of the capital city of San Juan, welcomed the 2024 International Surfing Association’s World Surfing Games, the final qualifier in the run-up to the Summer Olympics , putting its shores’ serious swells back on the map. It’s easier to get there now, too. In recent months, three affordable carriers have begun nonstop service to San Juan—Avelo Airlines, from Philadelphia and New Haven, Connecticut; JetBlue, from Raleigh, North Carolina (and from Tampa, Florida, to Aguadilla, on the west coast, not far from the low-key surf scene in Rincón); and Spirit, from Fort Myers, Florida. Southwest is expected to join the bandwagon with direct flights from Austin, Texas, starting March 9.

Adventure Intel: In sunny San Juan, Surf with a Pro offers everything from beginner lessons to guided tours of breaks at Playa El Escambrón and Isla Verde. For a different kind of paddling, take a short flight from the capital to the charming island of Vieques to kayak the glowing waters of Mosquito Bay, a natural reserve offering one of the brightest bioluminescent displays in the world. Pirate Bio Bay Tours leads groups in clear-bottomed kayaks. Vieques is also an idyllic place to stay for a couple of nights; its white-sand beaches are always stunning. Or keep to the mainland and head for the interior: at El Yunque National Forest, you can hike past waterfalls and ancient petroglyphs to take a dip in the swimming hole at El Hippie. The Ritz-Carlton San Juan, closed since Hurricane Maria hit, is slated to reopen in the beachfront Isla Verde zone in late 2024. Or opt for a more local, artsy vibe at the year-old (and already award-winning) Don Rafa Boutique Hotel in Miramar. Can’t decide? Travel the island’s entire 110-mile coastline at your own pace via the Puerto Rico Sunshine Route, stopping at any number of gorgeous beaches, like eastern Fajardo, secluded Aguadilla, and the pink salt flats of Cabo Rojo.

Local Tip: La 8 Surf Shop, known locally as La Ocho, across from the San Juan beach Escambrón, rents boards and will give you advice on where to go, says Surf with a Pro founder Alejandro Moreda. After surfing, “Get yourself a mofongo, a traditional dish made from fried plantains,” at cozy La Casita Blanca. — Megan Michelson

A women walks down a desert trail at Arizona’s Saguaro National Park.

Greater Tucson, Arizona

Why Now: Saguaro National Park was recently certified as one of nine Urban Night Sky Places around the world, and Kitt Peak National Observatory recently reopened with a revamped overnight observation program. The region’s already awesome trail system has expanded, letting hikers into a previously private, geologically rich slice of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Adventure Intel: The first time I visited Tucson , my rental car sat unused. The city’s 137-mile Chuck Huckelberry Loop makes it possible to bike the entire metro area, and satellite lanes extend to more than 40 parks. There are also hundreds of miles of singletrack. Rent wheels from Transit Cycles and saddle up at the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort to explore the Starr Pass Trail System’s mix of smooth and technical terrain. Hiking options are equally endless and now include an eight-mile network in a boulder-strewn section of Texas Canyon Nature Preserve, an hour’s drive east of the city. The Colossal Vail 50/50 ultra race, held on the Arizona Trail between Saguaro National Park and the Santa Rita Mountains, was put on runners’ radars by the Native-produced documentary Run to Be Visible ; in 2023, the race hosted a record number of Indigenous participants, and it will celebrate its tenth anniversary this year.

Local Tip: Moniqua Lane, owner of the Downtown Clifton Hotel, prefers to forgo hikes in the crowded western section of Saguaro in favor of adjacent Tucson Mountain Park. Her favorite route is the three-mile out-and-back Hidden Canyon Trail. — Jen Murphy

Swimmers frolic in the waves of New York’s Camp Hero State Park.

New York State Parks

Why Now: New York State Parks and Historic Sites—a 360,000-acre network of beaches, forests, lakes, campgrounds, trails, and other natural and cultural attractions—is celebrating its 100th anniversary with 100 activities. Participate in as many as you can during the yearlong Centennial Challenge for the chance to win prizes like a multi-season Empire Pass to New York parks (a $205 value). Activities range from hiking to camping at one of more than 8,500 campsites.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Adventure Intel: The park system encompasses a variety of beautiful landscapes, from the Allegheny Mountains in the west to the beaches at Camp Hero State Park in the east. Among the best known is the 24,000-plus-acre Minnewaska State Park Preserve, home to the Shawangunk Mountains (a.k.a. the Gunks in climbing circles). In 2023, the park’s historic 2.8-mile High Point Carriage Road opened following a 14-month renovation, easing access to Minnewaska’s forested interior. Hikers, bikers, and cross-country skiers can now enjoy 35 miles of carriage paths and 50 miles of trails. New to the area are Wildflower Farms, a 65-cottage resort, and Inness, an inn with 12 guest rooms, 28 cabins, and an organic farm on 220 acres. Both properties are less than ten miles from the park’s main gate.

Minnewaska State Park mountain biking trails

Local Tip: “Park at Lake Minnewaska and cycle out on Castle Point or Hamilton Point Carriage Road,” says Gregory Kanter, a guide and an employee at the outfitter Rock and Snow, in New Paltz. “You ride out on one and come back on the other, and you’re on a cliff top the whole time, looking straight down into the Hudson Valley.” — Ryan Krogh

A group of hikers stretch out atop Divide Peak in Denali National Park, Alaska, with an incredible view over the peaks.

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Why Now: A landslide halfway up Denali Park Road—the primary route bisecting the six-million-acre park and preserve —cut off access to the terminus community of Kantishna in 2021. While construction of a bridge over the problem area continues, the only way into Camp Denali is a 55-minute flight that departs near the park’s entrance and includes a scenic flyby of North America’s highest peak. Which is why this is the year to capitalize on the lack of crowds.

Adventure Intel: Fly into Kantishna and you’ll be privy to gravel grinding, bear viewing, and hiking that visitors who explore via vehicle can’t reach. You can still stay at Camp Denali; its 19 cabins are tucked among boreal forest west of the landslide and afford awesome views of the mountain. Even before it became marooned, the camp had exclusive rights to offer naturalist-guided hikes into the wilderness to spy grizzlies, caribou, and wolves. But the atmosphere was different back then, with abundant visitors and tour vans. “Being the only ones on the road and the only people in the backcountry has been a marvel,” says co-owner Jenna Hamm. “We can park in the middle of it and take half an hour with a spotting scope.”

Local Tip: Technically, you can bike into Camp Denali. “I’ve seen intrepid bikepackers ride the road from the east, walk their bikes along the gravel bar below the landslide, and then continue west,” says Hamm. — Tim Neville

The pristine waters off Virgin Gorda are ideal for snorkeling.

British Virgin Islands

Why Now: Hurricanes Irma and Maria obliterated every major marina in these islands in 2017. But parks and ports are flourishing again, an inaugural sailing adventure is up and running, there are new places to stay, and legendary watering holes have reopened.

Adventure Intel: The Nomada at Sea , a 62-foot catamaran based in Nanny Cay, Tortola, has begun welcoming up to ten passengers for weeklong trips around the islands. Stops may include Anegada Island, famous for fresh lobster and an array of beaches to explore. Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, where surrounding landforms stifle swells but the trade winds blow unabated, is a paradise for wing foiling, kiteboarding, and windsurfing. For après, hit the Bitter End Yacht Club, established in 1969. The well-regarded resort was flattened in the storms, but after a four-year renovation, it’s as good as new and has retained its inclusive vibe, appealing to sailing bums and superyacht owners alike. The club’s second-floor mariners’ lounge offers 180-degree views of North Sound, and its two marina lofts are the only over-the-water bungalows in the BVI. The Bitter End plans to add more accommodations in 2024. Elsewhere, on Jost Van Dyke, the swim-in Soggy Dollar Bar has reopened. And throughout the islands, nature reserves have healed. Head out for a trail hike at Sage Mountain National Park in Tortola and snorkel among the reefs off Anegada, where marine life has returned.

Local Tip: “Mount Sage, the highest point in the islands at 1,780 feet, includes the only true rainforest we have, and it bounced back extremely quickly after the hurricanes,” says Mervin Hastings, a guide at Eco Adventures BVI. “Thetrail to the summit has reopened, so you can enjoy views across the islands.” — Kelly Bastone

Cafe tables with umbrellas are set up alongside Berlin’s Spree Riverfront.

Why Now: There’s no fest like a German fest, but things will get über exciting when one of the continent’s largest sporting events, the UEFA European Football Championship, kicks off across ten German cities in June. The tournament features 24 teams and begins in Munich, which also serves as the departure point for a new cycling route in upper Bavaria.

Adventure Intel: Looking to feed off the energy of two ecstatic fan bases? Head to Munich to catch three-time champion Germany’s opening bid against a proven Scottish squad. (The Viktualienmarkt beer garden, with some of the country’s best schweinebraten mit sauerkraut, is worth a visit, too.) Also, don’t miss the city’s whopper of a climbing gym: the German Alpine Club’s Climbing and Bouldering Center, with 60,000 square feet of walls, boasts some 500 routes, a few as high as 80 feet. If the Bavarian countryside exerts more pull, sightseeing on two wheels is never a bad idea. The new 115-mile Blue Rider route skirts Lake Starnberg and Lake Kochel, in a region with more than 100 miles of hiking trails. Alternatively, ride the 173-mile Hop Loop north to Ingolstadt, spinning past castles like Nymphenburg Palace and cooling off in Lake Radersdorf.

Local Tip: Jana Meier Roberts, a Munich-based graphic designer, recommends taking a dip in the Isar River near Praterinsel before heading to the Muffathalle Biergarten. “The food there is superior to most Munich biergarten food. From there you can walk to the Deutsches Museum to finish the night at the rooftop bar.” —T.N.

Surfers in Jupiter, Florida

Florida’s Brightline

Why Now: This high-speed train debuted in September, carrying passengers the 156 miles from Orlando to Miami in 3.5 hours. An eco-friendly mode of transportation, the trains run on clean biodiesel.

Adventure Intel: The Brightline is the first private rail line in the U.S. in 100 years, with stations centrally located in six cities along the route. From these you can Uber or even bike to the coast. Embark in Orlando, the northern terminus, and make your first stop Boca Raton. It’s just two miles from sandy public beaches. Check out Red Reef Park, home to hundreds of species of fish and an easy place to snorkel. Aventura Station, north of Miami, is just 4.5 miles from Oleta River State Park; there you can rent a paddleboard and cruise through a mangrove forest. At the railway’s southern terminus in downtown Miami, hail a rideshare for the 40-mile drive south to Biscayne National Park . From the park’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center, join the Biscayne National Park Institute’s guided kayak trips to Boca Chica Lighthouse, for views of the Miami skyline, or through remote seagrass canals. Camp at Boca Chita Key—its sites are the best in the park. For an adventure closer to the station, head ten miles south to Key Biscayne and walk with peacocks in Crandon Park or relax on the two-mile-long beach in the shade of coconut palms.

Local Tip: “Check out Tam Tam, an amazing Vietnamese restaurant two blocks from the Miami station,” says Eric Barton, a Miami-based cyclist and foodie. “Like all the best restaurants, it has a karaoke machine in the bathroom. Get the wings. They’re incredibly crispy and covered in a caramel fish sauce.” — Graham Averill

Two mountain bikers explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, on New Zealand’s South Island.

New Zealand’s South Island

Why Now: United Airlines started offering nonstop service from San Francisco to Christchurch, on the South Island , a year ago, putting this place of superlatives within easier reach of American travelers. Cementing its reputation as an adventure mecca are new cycling and hiking trails—notably the latest installment of its Great Walks hikes—while the burgeoning culinary hub of Arrowtown is shining a spotlight on a compelling food and wine scene. Dozens of new lodges have opened, including two from high-end adventure collective Eleven. And on the multimillion-dollar Pounamu Pathway project, a collaboration between the Poutini Ngai Tahu people and the Weta Workshop (the company behind the visual effects for the Lord of the Rings movies), visitor centers highlighting Maori history are opening on the west coast.

Adventure Intel: The 38-mile Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track, a three-day hike along the south coast, is slated to be designated New Zealand’s 11th Great Walk in October. The loop’s two backcountry lodges already attract 3,500 hikers a year; the track’s new status is expected to double that number, so reserve now for prime trekking season (October to April). In Queenstown, the ten-mile Wharehuanui Trail is on schedule to be completed by year’s end. It will connect the suburb of Arthurs Point, where Cargo Brewery’s new brew hall will open in June, to the mining burg of Arrowtown, hipper than ever thanks to Ayrburn Farm, a historic site repurposed as a gastro hub. Ayrburn recently opened a wine and cocktail bar; a pizzeria, butcher shop, and bakery are in the works. For a biking and hiking combo, sign up for Adventure South NZ ’s new multi-activity itinerary up north: you’ll bike the 124-mile Great Taste Trail, hike in both Abel Tasman and Queen Charlotte National Parks, and visit craft breweries, wineries, and farmers’ markets. If it’s angling you’re after—New Zealand is considered the trophy-trout capital of the world—two legendary fishing lodges are now run by Eleven: the four-room Cedar Lodge on the Makararoa River, and the six-cottage Owen River Lodge in the Nelson Lakes district. And on the west coast, two of the 186-mile Pounamu Pathway’s four connected towns—Mawhera (Greymouth) and Hokitika—have opened museums with amazing light and sound displays; the towns of Awarua (Haast) and Kawatiri (Westport) will open similar experiences in mid-2024 and late 2025, respectively.

Local Tip: For Philip Wyndham, general manager of Adventure South NZ, the 34-mile Lake Dunstan Trail in Central Otago is a favorite for cycling: “It traverses rocky bluffs on cantilever bridges above the Clutha River, and huge rideable swing bridges span chasms. The trail finishes at the historic gold-rush town of Clyde, where I grab a post-ride beer at Olivers Brewery.” —J.M.

A woman on a yoga platform starts her dawn practice at Mongolia’s Three Camel Lodge.

Why Now: The Mongolian government has declared 2024 the year of tourism, with ambitions of attracting one million visitors and working to establish the first-ever direct flight between the U.S. and the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. New lodges and cultural tours make it more feasible to discover the nation’s immense wilderness, along with honored traditions like horse racing and eagle hunting.

Adventure Intel: Pioneering tour operator Nomadic Expeditions now has two camps of traditional ger (yurts). Three Camel Lodge is in the southern Gobi Desert, where I stayed last fall to explore the Flaming Cliffs—one of the world’s greatest fossil sites—and nearby Singing Dunes. Then there’s Three Eagle Camp, in the westernmost Bayan-Ulgii province (hop a 90-minute flight from the capital), home to some 200 Kazakh eagle hunters. Nomadic Expeditions’ Mongolian-American founder, Jalsa Urubshurow, launched the Golden Eagle Festival here 25 years ago, and trips to the festival in October, and lead-up events in September, spotlight the ancient form of falconry. In the northern region of Selenge, the year-old Yeruu Lodge offers kayaking and horseback riding and is a convenient base to experience the Naadam Festival, a competition of horsemanship, archery, and wrestling held each July.

Local Tip: Observing that Mongolian meals are heavy on meat, paleontologist Minjin Bolortsetseg says that when she craves vegetables, she goes to Agnista, a vegan restaurant in Ulaanbaatar, close to the University of Science and Technology. —J.M.

A man rides a mountain-bike trail outside Park City, Utah.

Park City, Utah

Why Now: These days, people of all abilities can better enjoy Park City Mountain Resort, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in February. For 26 years, the National Ability Center —a Park City nonprofit focused on adaptive outdoor recreation—ran its winter operations out of a double-wide trailer at the base of the resort. But in October, the NAC opened the 9,400-square-foot McGrath Mountain Center, adjacent to the First Time chairlift, to offer more high-quality accessible space for its participants.

Adventure Intel: The NAC is best known for its alpine-skiing and snowboarding programs (instructors teach 4,000 lessons annually), but adaptive athletes can also sign up for nordic skiing and sled hockey in the winter, mountain biking and watersports in the summer, and more. The center’s 26-acre Park City Ranch, just east of town, has a 25-room, ADA-approved lodge, access to 56 miles of outstanding trails, an equestrian facility, and a climbing gym. Additionally, Park City’s free bus system offers door-to-door paratransit service.

Round Valley mountain biking trails

Local Tip: “My favorite activities are hiking and biking the Round Valley trail system with my husband, a former Paralympian, and our three kids,” says Tracy Meier, the NAC’s chief program and education officer. “There are both paved and dirt trails offering incredible views of the mountains.” —M.M.

A panoramic view of Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Michigan’s Lower Peninsula

Why Now: The Detroit Riverwalk, the city’s crown jewel, now connects to nearby Belle Isle, the southern terminus of the nearly completed 2,000-mile Iron Belle Trail. The statewide project, with hiking and biking paths to the Upper Peninsula, is over 70 percent ready following new route additions in 2023. Up north, Traverse City celebrated the advent of a lakeside loop 30 years in the making, and new lodgings opened in the state’s renowned national lakeshore.

Adventure Intel: The expansion of the Detroit Riverwalk—a 3.5-mile riverfront promenade voted one of the nation’s most beautiful—means easier access to Belle Isle, a 982-acre park. In the food and brew hub of Traverse City, the four-mile Boardman Lake Loop lets you bike, fish, and kayak just minutes from downtown. Thirty miles west, on the beach at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the 150-year-old Sleeping Bear Inn is being revitalized and is expected to open this summer with eight rooms. Off the northern tip of the peninsula, no-cars-allowed Mackinac Island is home to one of my favorite Midwest cycling routes, the M-185 lakefront loop. Park near mile marker one and ascend the 200 stairs to the Milliken Nature Center at Arch Rock, opening this spring. And stargazers, take note: Beaver Island is in the final stages of becoming the state’s first Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Local Tip: “Many rides, runs, and hikes start at Detroit’s Eastern Market,” says Todd Scott, of the Detroit Greenways Coalition. “Cutter’s is my go-to for a cold beer and pub grub in a relaxed environment that typifies Detroit.” — Stephanie Vermillion

Sunrise at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho

Why Now: Craters of the Moon, protecting the largest lava field in the lower 48, is celebrating its 100th anniversary with new and updated trails to welcome visitors. The preserve is also a designated International Dark Sky Park and the perfect spot to witness two large meteor showers, in August and December.

Adventure Intel: Imagine 750,000 acres of crusty lava with exposed fissures, craters, and lava-tube caves. The seven-mile Loop Road is a popular path to viewpoints and hikes up cinder cones (small dormant volcanoes). While most of the 500 caves are closed to protect native bats, you can get a free permit to explore 800-foot-long Indian Tunnel, where stalactites cover the ceilings and lava flows left tidemarks on the walls. Strike out on the four-mile Wilderness Trail, which passes Big Cinder Butte and rises 700 feet from the valley. With a free backpacking permit, you can keep going after the trail ends, following the 52-mile-long Great Rift—a crack in the earth’s crust preserved by lava. Craters also has some of the darkest skies in the park system. Show up in mid-August for the Perseid meteor shower or in mid-December for the Geminids—both promise up to 100 streaks of light per hour.

Local Tip: Ted Stout, author of Craters of the Moon, says that one of his favorite campsites is inside Echo Crater: “The incredibly high walls create a natural amphitheater that blocks the wind, and you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the amazing night skies.” —G.A.

A large wave crashes on the beach at Makena Beach in Maui, Hawaii.

Maui, Hawaii

Why Now: For years, the Hawaii Tourism Authority talked about embracing a more regenerative approach that promotes locally owned, Native-led outfitters and properties. On Maui, these goals are now paramount in the wake of August’s devastating fires.

Adventure Intel: The island is still healing after the loss of life caused by the blazes. Historic Lahaina remains off-limits to tourists as residents rebuild, but the rest of Maui is open , and many businesses need tourism dollars to survive. One of the biggest ways to help is by choosing locally owned restaurants, accommodations, and guiding outfits. As Kevin Shenk, owner of Helewai Eco-Tours, says, “There’s no better way to connect with a place than through its people.” His company’s two-mile Honolua Ridge Hike on the west side educates visitors about island ecology while providing them with stunning views. At the doorstep of Haleakala National Park , Kula Lodge—one of Maui’s few independent hotels—has been refreshed by new owners. Continue a local-focused itinerary by joining a hike of Haleakala Crater with Humble Tours, or rent a mountain bike at Maui Cyclery in Paia or Krank Cycles in Makawao or Kahului and tackle the 6.8-mile Haleakala Maui Skyline Trail. And offer to volunteer: you might harvest at Hua Momona Farms or plant taro at Na Mahiaio o Keanae. Both distribute food to those in need. GoHawaii also just launched the Malama Hawaii dashboard in partnership with Kanu Hawaii, which allows visitors to search for and sign up for volunteer experiences online and find ways to donate to nonprofits. Local Tip: Skip Starbucks and get your caffeine fix at Akamai, a local coffee franchise, says Riley Coon, director of sustainable tourism at Sail Trilogy. —J.M.

Taking a dip in the Caribbean waters surrounding Panama’s San Blas Islands

Why Now: Panama’s new Sustainable Network of Rural and Community Tourism project connects travelers with locals in the country’s most far-flung forests and along its coastlines. Last year Panama also kicked off its 1,000 Kilometers of Trails initiative—a push to create over 600 miles of land and water paths by 2030—with 18 miles open to trekkers around the dormant El Valle stratovolcano. Copa Airlines eases the way with direct flights to Panama City from Austin, Texas, Baltimore, Toronto, and Montreal.

Adventure Intel: Squeezed between the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea, amid one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, Panama is wild with flora and fauna—more than 10,000 species. During a one-week trip, I accompanied sea turtle conservationists on moonlit beach walks and floated the Teribe River between Naso villages on a traditional balsa raft. Hiking is another Panama staple, notably the 16-mile round-trip trek up 11,400-foot Baru , Panama’s highest peak. Myriad marine animals are on view in the diving hub of Bocas del Toro. And the adults-only Nayara Bocas del Toro recently added treehouse digs and scuba, snorkel, and surf lessons.

Local Tip: George Hanily, executive director of the conservation group ANCON, recommends that birders book a stay at Los Quetzales Ecolodge and Spa in the Cerro Punta highlands. “It’s the easiest place in Central America to spot the spectacular resplendent quetzal,” he says. “You will find lovely cabins and trails.” —S.V.

Croatia’s “Eye of the Earth” spring

The Balkans

Why Now: Construction of the final segments of the Trans Dinarica Cycling Route , linking eight Balkan countries, is wrapping up. All 1,250 miles are expected to be fully connected by July, offering new opportunities to visit national parks and heritage sites across this little-visited region.

Adventure Intel: Born from years of collaboration, the Trans Dinarica is designed to lead travelers off the beaten path, through fairy-tale forests and small villages between Slovenia’s Soca Valley, on the Italian border, and Lake Ohrid, a Unesco World Heritage site on the Albanian–North Macedonian border. If you want to DIY, plan to ship your bike and to ride between 25 and 40 miles per day, with anywhere from 1,600 to 3,200 feet of elevation change, says Jan Klavora, one of the project’s masterminds. Suggested stops include a stay at Hisa Franko in Kobarid, Slovenia, whose Michelin-starred restaurant serves farm-to-table meals; Rijeka, Croatia, where you can dine on fresh fish beside the Adriatic Sea; and Lake Skadar, Montenegro, home to abundant carp and eel and some of Europe’s last pelicans. There are also easy detours to national parks like Montenegro’s Durmitor and Serbia’s Tara, both in the Dinaric Alps. Want help planning? Ljubljana-based Visit GoodPlace leads a nine-day gourmet food and cycling tour and a 15-day mountain-biking tour through Slovenia and Croatia. Or book Sarajevo-based Green Visions ’ eight-day highlands mountain-bike traverse through Bosnia and Herzegovina. For inexpensive flights to the region, check out Ryan-air’s routes into Croatia and Albania.

Local Tip: Bojan Senkinc, a Croatian guide with Promotiv Travel Outdoor, recommends exploring the Velebit Mountains, renowned for their cliffs, caves, and panoramas of the Adriatic. The Trans Dinarica passes through the Velebit, where recent rewilding efforts have bolstered populations of chamois, red deer, wolves, and lynx. — Delilah Friedler

A walk amid Madagascar’s massive baobabs

Why Now: Daunting logistics have long deterred travelers from visiting the world’s fourth largest island, but new internal flights and conservation-focused lodges are making this otherworldly place more accessible. And trust me: it’s worth it to experience mind-blowing safaris and activities like kayaking and kitesurfing in some of the world’s most gorgeously multihued water.

Adventure Intel: I’ve visited Africa more than a dozen times, and Madagascar has truly unbelievable biodiversity and adventure potential. In the northeast, Masoala National Park protects the island’s largest remaining rainforest and endemic species like the red ruffed lemur. I stayed at the park in one of Masoala Forest Lodge’s seven treehouses. Co-owner Pierre Bester is a fanatical kayaker and partnered with Wild Expeditions , a collective of owner-run African safari camps, to offer 10- and 11-night paddling expeditions between his lodge and its new two-story Crusoe’s Cabin, on an island off Cap Masoala. Namorokoa National Park in the northwest is also incredible, notably for its tsingy limestone pinnacles, towering baobab trees, ancient burial sites, and 100-plus bird species. The nonprofit Wildlife Madagascar is opening a tented camp midyear to give travelers a better base to roam from. Off the west coast, luxury property Miavana opened a kitesurfing school on Nosy Ankao, with helicopter trips to far-flung sites like the Red Tsingy Reserve.

Local Tip: Bester sends strong paddlers from Crusoe’s Cabin to a sacred point where the Malagasy ask their ancestors for blessings. A local guide meets them and shares insight about beliefs and taboos. “It’s a humbling and spiritual experience,” Bester says. —J.M.

Summer at Campfire Ranch Wash Gulch, in Crested Butte

Why Now: The Centennial State continues to woo travelers with improved adventure options. The first thing that caught our eye was San Juan Mountain Guides’ Million Dollar Trek , which debuted last year as a five-day hut-to-hut hike; from July through September, you can head out from Ouray and overnight at three full-service backcountry lodges. It’s never been easier to plan an EV-powered road trip through Colorado’s most beautiful places: in 2024, you’ll find charging spots on 14 of the state’s 26 Scenic and Historic Byways, with more on the way. On June 1 and 2, don’t miss the new Outside Festival (brought to you by Outside Inc., this magazine’s parent company) in Denver’s Civic Center Park. It will feature headline musical acts, a films and ideas summit, climbing walls, and gear demos.

Adventure Intel: Populus , the country’s first carbon-positive hotel, is on track to open in downtown Denver this summer with a distinctive design: its white exterior and windows are meant to look like notches in an aspen tree. The southern Colorado town of Trinidad is quietly becoming a hot spot for gravel cyclists; it hosts September’s Rad Dirt Fest race, with three courses through the Spanish Peaks. Hikers are heading to Fishers Peak State Park for its new 16-mile round-trip trail to the eponymous 9,633-foot summit. (Note: the top of the trail is closed from March until August for raptor nesting, so bring your binos if you’re a birder.) From Trinidad it’s about two hours to Great Sand Dunes National Park , where the startup Ramble recently installed 25 spacious campsites, with kitchens and shared showers, and a stargazing area with hammocks. Rent a sandboard while you’re at it. Ramble is also opening a campground near Mesa Verde National Park later this year. Other new stays around the state include the Campfire Ranch Wash Gulch in Crested Butte; it requires a four-mile approach in winter, but the payoff is incredible ski touring and summer hiking. Campfire Ranch also operates a campground, open from May through October, on the Taylor River in nearby Almont; there are sleeping bags, coolers, and tents for rent. The staff will teach you how to set up camp, and a concierge can organize fly-fishing and mountain-biking outings. In Aspen, the 68-room Mollie Hotel opened in December with a rooftop pool; from there it’s a ten-minute walk to Aspen Mountain, which expanded its terrain by more than 20 percent over the winter, with 26 new chutes and trails, the majority expert-level.

Local Tip: Sam Degenhard, founder of Campfire Ranch, sends intermediate-to-advanced mountain bikers to Doctor Park , northeast of Almont. “It’s a Colorado classic, with eight miles of flowy downhill,” he says. “Afterward, get green chile tamales at Teocalli Tamale.” —M.M.

An adaptive cyclist heads up one of the new Gateway Trails in Old Fort, North Carolina.

Old Fort, North Carolina

Why Now: A former manufacturing town on the edge of Pisgah National Forest, Old Fort was down on its luck until the local community started building mountain-bike routes. The Gateway Trails were the first to open, in 2022. And thanks to a $2.5 million grant, the G5 Trail Collective will construct 42 miles of flowy singletrack in the next few years, nine of which are already done. The burgeoning system has boosted the economy; in the past two years, 13 businesses have opened, including a number of breweries, the Old Fort Bike Shop, Mountain Top Shuttles, and Gogo’s Cinnamon Rolls.

Adventure Intel: My son and I love to hammer downhill laps on the new trails, and there’s an easy gravel climb directly out of a trail hub with bathroom facilities. In the backcountry, I like to ride the months-old Bernard Mountain Trail , where a lonely ascent rewards you with three miles of sidecut singletrack dropping almost 1,000 feet. I’m also excited about the new three-mile Lower Heartbreak Trail , which connects with existing routes to form an 11-mile adventure from Blue Ridge Parkway at the base of Mount Mitchell that drops more than 3,400 feet to the edge of Old Fort.

Bernard Mountain Road multi-use trail

Local Tip: Jason McDougald, founder of the G5 Trail Collective, raves about Abbiocco, the new pizza truck at the Whaley Farm Brewery. “It’s the real deal,” he says, “run by a chef from Asheville who imported the pizza oven from Italy. There’s always pepperoni on the menu, but go with one of the seasonal pies, like the fall pizza with butternut squash and pine nuts.” —G.A.

The Seven Stars pub, south of Liverpool, England

Why Now: Whether you go for football on the telly or a full English brekky on the terrace, pubs are an integral part of life in the UK. Yet recent economic pressures have threatened the beloved institutions: in 2022, an average of 32 closed every month. However, the campsite-booking company Pitchup is pairing with country pubs that have scenic grounds where campers can spend the night. “Pubs are landmarks in their own right,” says Pitchup founder Dan Yates, who notes that such reservations searches on the site were up 10 percent from 2022. “Being able to sleep at one offers a truly one-of-a-kind camping experience.” For pub owners, campsite fees are a vital new revenue stream, and most guests enjoy the food and drink as well.

Adventure Intel: Currently, 128 pubs offer a place to either pitch your tent or park your trailer. (Use its  pub campsite filter  to get pub listings.) Prices average $40 per night and usually include amenities like Wi-Fi and a hot shower. I’ve got my eye on the Ring, a 19th-century stone building on Wales’s rugged Anglesey peninsula, just off the stunning 870-mile Wales Coast Path.

Local Tip: At the George in Gloucestershire, walk the nearby 17-mile Jubilee Way and then dig into the “banging carvery,” as one reviewer put it. The Gaggle of Geese, in the Dorset hamlet of Buckland Newton, is nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; you might spend time on the premises playing with pygmy goats or testing the pins on its skittles alley (a lane for bowling, not a pathway lined with candy). — Tom Vanderbilt

Northern lights over Nunavik, northern Quebec

Quebec, Canada

Why Now: NOAA recently predicted that the current solar cycle, which began in 2019 and will run until 2030, is likely to peak from now until October. What does that mean for those of us who travel to witness the wonders of the night skies? More chances to see a bright aurora borealis.

The latitude of northern Quebec’s Gyrfalcon Islands falls within the auroral oval—a ring above the geomagnetic poles where more activity happens—making it a good area for sightings, says Shawn Dahl, of NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center. A Native-run expedition that combines sky gazing with wildlife watching is one of the better ways to make the most of your time in these remote reaches, while two small-town destinations along the Saint Lawrence River offer new opportunities to explore the province’s under-the-radar outdoor settings.

Adventure Intel: In 2022, James May and Jonathan Grenier, Inuit guides from the small northern Nunavik town of Kuujjuaq, started Ungava Polar Eco-Tours . In August and September (the best months for the northern lights, according to Dahl), they offer a half dozen seven-day adventures on six-mile-long Tiercel Island in the Gyrfalcon archipelago, just below the Arctic Circle. You’ll explore by foot, fat bike, ATV, and boat—the latter of which requires experience in this corner of Ungava Bay, where the tidal range can be as much as 63 feet. Sightings of birds and seals are guaranteed, but there are also walruses, a variety of whales—minke, humpback, beluga, and orca—wolves, foxes, and polar bears. Guests are housed in insulated fiberglass domes that can withstand bumps by a disgruntled beast and winds up to 155 miles per hour. May and Grenier harvest caribou, musk oxen, arctic char, Canada geese, and berries throughout the year, and send their bounty to the renowned Quebec chef Kim Côté, who prepares traditional Inuit meals for guests. If you can’t make it to the wilds of northern Quebec, two destinations along the Saint Lawrence have ample dark skies, stunning scenery, and attractions with affordable overnight accommodations. Attitude Nordique , a year-round adventure park in Baie-Comeau, has a new zip line and suspension bridge, plus kayaking, climbing, and canoeing, as well as beachfront lodging and campsites. On the river’s southern shore, in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, gaze at the heavens from one of seven Panora seaside pods, each with a hot tub and deck. The property is just 27 miles from Gaspésie National Park, known for its hiking and an abundance of moose and caribou.

Local Tip: When the aurora borealis—known as aqsarniit by the Inuit—appears, Grenier recommends whistling. “In our culture, they teach us that when you whistle at the lights, they move even more,” he says. “It brings a joyful mood.” — Stephanie Pearson

Hikers amble through Valley of the Winds in Australia’s Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park.

Australia’s Red Centre

Why Now: Located smack-dab in the middle of the country’s outback, the Red Centre is climbing the ranks of many travelers’ lists. A flourishing LGBTQ+ festival in Alice Springs is drawing enthusiastic crowds, while visitors interested in Indigenous tourism now have easier access to Uluru, the iconic sandstone formation, thanks to direct Virgin Australia flights from Melbourne and Brisbane to Ayers Rock Airport, 20 miles from the site.

Adventure Intel: Alice Springs is the final destination of road-tripping drag queens in the 1994 film Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, and each spring the outpost hosts the four-day FabAlice festival . This year it expects 25 percent more revelers—upwards of 5,000 people—to celebrate the cult classic’s 30th anniversary, with performances, a parade, and other gatherings at the new Priscilla Bar at Lasseters Hotel Casino (featured in the movie). Hikers will head out for a trek at Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which includes the Priscilla’s Crack lookout. Uluru, 200 miles southwest, is a different kind of mecca—Aboriginals believe that the distinctive formation was created by their ancestors. To see more of the region, sign up for Indigenous-operated 100% Finke River Culture and Adventure’s five-day cultural-immersion tours across the Red Centre, which include treks to sacred sites and evenings around a campfire eating Aboriginal cuisine.

Kings Canyon Rim Walk near Alice Springs

Local Tip: Alice Springs may be remote but it doesn’t lack worldly fare: Stuart Ord, volunteer chair of FabAlice’s board, recommends dining at the Alice Vietnamese Restaurant. You can also find Turkish, Chinese, Korean, and Italian eateries in town. —D.F.

Lobster for lunch is nearly a given during Maine’s summer season. Although harvested year-round, more are pulled from offshore waters between June and December.

Why Now: The Pine Tree State is on a roll, with an expansion at its largest ski resort, the ongoing renaissance of once down-and-out mill towns, and the opening of hotels close to outdoor recreation. Did we mention the solar eclipse on April 8? A swath of Maine will be in the path of totality.

Adventure Intel: Sugarloaf Mountain has increased its terrain by 10 percent; additions include 12 trails, a high-speed quad, and, this summer, a lift-served mountain-bike park. Saddleback Mountain cut the ribbon on a midmountain restaurant with a ski-up bar and views of Rangeley Lake; the resort is also expanding its network of lift-accessed singletrack. Portland’s new Longfellow Hotel is a mile from the terrific restaurants of the Old Port, while in nearby Biddeford, a revitalized former textile town with its own buzzy dining scene, an 1850s mill is now the 33-room Lincoln Hotel. To the north, in Skowhegan, the River Fest, held in August, will highlight the ongoing downtown River Park project, with an adjustable wave for surfing and paddling. (Borrow kayaks and other gear from Skowhegan Outdoors.) Way north, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is a certified Dark Sky Sanctuary, and its visitor center, set to open on August 17, tells the story of the area through the eyes of the Penobscot and other local Native tribes.

Local Tip: Brian Catapang, co-owner of the Magnus on Water restaurant in Biddeford, says, “Pick up a cold-brew at Time and Tide Coffee on Main Street—it’s so good we use it in our espresso martinis—before heading to Fortunes Rocks, the best surf spot around.” — Meg Lukens Noonan

Yellowstone National Park’s Grand Prismatic Spring

Wyoming’s Yellowstone Highway

Why Now: Part of the historic Yellowstone Highway is turning 100. The anniversary celebrates my favorite two-lane ribbon of asphalt anywhere in the world, which cuts 300 miles from Shoshoni through an especially scenic section of Wind River Canyon before continuing into Yellowstone National Park and then Grand Teton National Park. The trip is all the better this year when you factor in the new planetarium, with one of the state’s largest telescopes, near Yellowstone’s south entrance, new park trails, and a new zip line and new bike-park features at the two ski resorts in Jackson Hole, where the highway ends.

Adventure Intel: Fly into Casper on a one-way ticket and rent a four-wheel drive (to return later in Jackson). Then head west 100 miles to Shoshoni, the start of the Yellowstone Highway, and drop a line in Boysen Reservoir, teeming with trophy-size trout and walleye. Continue north to Thermopolis via the 34-mile Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway , flanked by 2,500-foot-high rock walls and the Bighorn River that carved them. Hot Springs State Park, which has added and updated six miles of hiking and biking trails, has a thriving bison herd and a free bathhouse where you can soak in a 104-degree mineral spring. Hit the highway again, and in three to four hours you can be kayaking across high-alpine Yellowstone Lake with the naturalist guides at Shurr Adventures . Or cruise south toward the Tetons for the climbing and hiking around Jackson Hole. It’s pricey, but I like to crash at the Cloudveil, right on the Town Square. (The Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa is aiming to reopen in late May, too.) Pro tip: for the best views of the Town Square or Snow King Mountain, request a room facing Center Street. Last September, I ventured onto Snow King’s new zip line; with a 36 percent grade, it’s the steepest in North America. In June, the resort will open a $5 million mountaintop planetarium. At Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, while traversing the via ferrata, I watched construction workers put the finishing touches on the Grand Teton Skywalk, at 10,450 feet. This summer, the resort’s bike park will debut a new jump line codesigned by pro freerider Cam Zink; après at the renovated Spur Restaurant and Bar at the base of the mountain. Hikers, take note: four-legged friends will finally be allowed on the gondola.

Local Tip: “Grab a trail map from the chamber of commerce and check out the awesome trails on the high points overlooking Thermopolis,” says Dusty Lewis, owner of the outfitter Rent Adventure. “If you’re worried about the climbs, they’re e-bike-friendly. And a spicy blackened burger from One-Eyed Buffalo Brewing always hits the spot.” — Katie Jackson

top 10 travel spots in the world

The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

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

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

Lamu, Kenya

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

Kangaroo Island, Australia

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

Kyushu, Japan

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

Kansas City, Mo.

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

Prague, Czech Republic

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

Quintana Roo, Mexico

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

Buenos Aires, Argentina

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

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minn.

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

Balearic Islands, Spain

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

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

The 10 Best Places to Visit in 2024

Protect Your Trip »

Best islands in the world for 2024.

Sprawling beaches , rich cultures and untouched pockets of wilderness are just a few alluring characteristics of the best islands in the world. According to experts and U.S. News readers, each of the beautiful islands listed here boasts a little something extra that keeps travelers enchanted – whether it's impressive coastlines, immersive experiences or the ease of getting there. Use this list to start planning your island getaway, then cast your vote below to help us rank next year's list.

Whitsunday Islands

South island, new zealand, galapagos islands, turks & caicos, kaua'i.

top 10 travel spots in the world

This Philippine archipelago's 1,700-plus islands and islets entice adventure seekers and beach bums alike. Here, island hoppers can swim in the exceptionally clear Kayangan Lake in Coron, tour the lagoons of Bacuit Bay in El Nido and kayak through caves on the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Those who prefer to vacation at a slower pace can lounge on serene beaches overlooking limestone formations or catch a glimpse of marine life on a snorkeling tour. While Palawan's dry season (November through May) is the best time to visit, it's also the most popular. Plan your accommodations and tours in advance.

top 10 travel spots in the world

A popular Mediterranean cruise stop, this Italian island has garnered international allure with its subtropical climate, sprawling beaches and a culture steeped in tradition. Sardinia's Costa Smeralda boasts 12 miles of powdery sand and shallow turquoise water, along with plenty of luxurious resorts and quaint villages. Meanwhile, those who want to soak in some culture, as well as sunshine, can visit Cagliari, the island's hilltop capital, to explore museums, historic churches and an ancient Roman amphitheater. Visitors should save time to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle through one of Sardinia's many festivals, its distinctive cuisine and its own language (Sardo).

top 10 travel spots in the world

This surprisingly cheap tropical destination is revered for its coastline and often serves as a post-safari oasis. Sitting 22 miles off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar's fine sand beaches paint an idyllic picture, and its clear waters make for great snorkeling excursions. But visitors would be remiss to skip out on exploring the island's heritage. UNESCO-honored Stone Town showcases Zanzibar's collision of African, Indian, Arabic and European cultures through its architecture, cuisine and markets.

top 10 travel spots in the world

You've heard the adage that the best places are often the most difficult to reach, and that certainly rings true for this African island, situated about 500 miles east of Madagascar. While it takes nearly 24 hours to reach Mauritius from the U.S., this island's calm beaches and natural beauty welcome travelers who don't mind a journey. Plus, its cultural diversity makes it like nowhere else on Earth. Spend your days exploring waterfalls, mountains and geological wonders, or while away the hours on palm-fringed beaches. No trip is complete without exploring local cuisine and sega music, which is recognized by UNESCO for its important heritage.

top 10 travel spots in the world

This popular honeymoon spot is more than a hideaway for amorous duos. Oenophiles can savor top-notch vino during a winery tour . Meanwhile, history buffs can explore the remains of Ancient Thira and Akrotiri. Plus, the Greek island's volcanic setting gives travelers the chance to admire unique red and black sand beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, before hiking to the top of the caldera for awe-inspiring views of whitewashed villages and blue-domed churches. After taking in their surroundings, visitors can stroll through the famous cliffside village of Oia, which features multiple restaurants, shops and stunning sunset panoramas.

top 10 travel spots in the world

If ring-tailed lemurs come to mind when you think of Madagascar, there's a good reason. This Indian Ocean island off the east coast of Africa is home to more than 100 species of lemurs, along with rare frog, bird, chameleon and plant species that make it one of the most biodiverse places in the world. Beyond its wildlife, this vast island (it's nearly the size of Texas) attracts visitors with its scenic national parks and reserves and pristine beaches. Get lost in the otherworldly limestone formations at Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, or venture off-shore to the beaches and resorts on Nosy Be.

top 10 travel spots in the world

With its white sand beaches, forested nature trails and ancient ruins, Cyprus appeals to a wide array of travelers. Beach lovers can head to Nissi Beach to swim in its crystal-clear water, while history and architecture enthusiasts can admire the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. This Mediterranean island is home to both Greek and Turkish descendants, giving it a wealth of culture and a unique cuisine full of wine, slow-cooked meat and lots of halloumi cheese. Work up an appetite with a hike through Cyprus' jagged mountains or a walk around the town of Paphos – the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite.

top 10 travel spots in the world

When you're not surfing or sipping tropical cocktails in your overwater bungalow , explore Tahiti's striking natural wonders, including the white sands of Plage de Toaroto and the cascades at Faarumai Waterfalls. Looking for more adventure? Hop on a boat and head to Tahiti's sister island, Moorea, to hike breathtaking Magic Mountain. Then, return to Tahiti to explore the shops and markets in the bustling Papeete, French Polynesia's capital. No visit would be complete without traveling roughly 10 miles east of central Papeete to the lesser-known Papenoo Beach, where you can lounge on the gorgeous black sand shore.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Head to this beautiful collection of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia, to enjoy a laid-back vacation filled with swimming, sunbathing, sailing and lots of snorkeling. The Whitsundays' proximity to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef makes it an excellent place to base yourself when visiting iconic sights like Heart Reef. When you're not exploring above or beneath the water's surface, sink your toes into the soft white sand at some of the best beaches in the world. Admire the incredible scenery at Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island or hike to the top of Passage Peak on Hamilton Island.

top 10 travel spots in the world

A dream Bora Bora vacation includes days spent lounging on Matira Beach, boat trips through clear aquamarine waters and four-wheel-drive tours through the French Polynesian island's lush forests. Gazing at extinct Mount Otemanu from above during a helicopter tour or from below in the lagoon is a must. Adventurous travelers should also save time for swimming with sharks and stingrays. Although this destination is already pricey, vacationers should save up to splurge on an overwater bungalow for a once-in-a-lifetime Bora Bora experience.

top 10 travel spots in the world

New Zealand's South Island is the place to go if your ideal island vacation has less to do with lounging on a beach and more to do with having an adventure. On the larger of New Zealand's two main islands, you'll discover ice blue lakes, towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, pristine glaciers and lush forests waiting to be explored. Start your trip hiking or boating through Fiordland National Park on the island's southwest side. Then, sign up for a bungee jumping excursion in Queenstown before heading east to the Otago Peninsula, where it's common to spot wild animals like penguins and albatrosses.

top 10 travel spots in the world

A 21-square-mile British territory in the Atlantic Ocean, the small but breathtaking Bermuda features hidden coves, pink sand beaches , friendly people and a relaxing atmosphere – all of which draw vacationers in droves. Easily accessible from the East Coast, Bermuda offers posh stores and restaurants, as well as several picturesque golf courses. The island boasts the world's highest concentration of golf venues per square mile. When travelers are not hitting the links, shopping or sunbathing, they can admire St. George's colonial architecture or snorkel at Horseshoe Bay Beach or Tobacco Bay Beach.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Composed of nine lush islands in the Atlantic, the Azores have grown in popularity over recent years (and are accessible via direct flight from New York City). These Portuguese paradises are perfect for hiking, whale watching and eating fresh seafood. Choose to visit the largest island of São Miguel for its lakes and charming downtown, the smaller island of Flores for its waterfalls and jagged coastline, or the picturesque island of Pico for its towering volcano. Regardless of which unique island you pick, you'll find a relatively untouched setting that exudes authenticity and promotes sustainability.

top 10 travel spots in the world

In the nearly 200 years since Charles Darwin discovered this natural wonderland about 600 miles west of mainland Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands have yet to lose their magic. Countless birds, iguanas and tortoises roam this archipelago, and herds of sea lions and sharks swim in the surrounding waters. Bring your hiking shoes so you can make your way to the islands' sky-high rock formations and Sierra Negra Volcano, home to the second-largest crater on the planet. While the Galápagos are certainly not your typical beach getaway and you won't find many luxury resorts, you can still enjoy relaxing beaches like La Lobería and Tortuga Bay.

top 10 travel spots in the world

This South Pacific archipelago's white sand shores offer fantastic scenery, but there's more to Fiji than what you'll see from your beach chair. You can hike to hidden beaches on the Mamanuca Islands, peruse the boutiques of Suva or venture beneath the surface and snorkel with the islands' colorful fish. Plus, Fijians are known for their warmth and close-knit communities, and the islands offer unique cultural experiences like firewalking ceremonies and tastings of a traditional plant-based beverage called kava. Just be sure to bring a small gift, or sevusevu, to present to the community you're visiting.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Just uttering the name of this island chain in the Atlantic Ocean conjures images of tropical sun, fine sand and drinks in hand, but there are also plenty of action-packed activities to enjoy in this popular beach destination. Escape the crowds of Nassau and head to Harbour Island for its pink sand beaches or the cays of Eleuthera for its prime surfing. And as the islands are home to the third largest fringing barrier reef in the world, underwater cave systems and crystal clear water, snorkeling and diving excursions are not to be missed.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Located off Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, Hvar is as beautiful and energetic as it is historic. With many of the island's top attractions located within Hvar Town's centuries-old medieval walls, you should make a beeline here as soon as you arrive. Touring St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Fortica Fortress are must-dos, but don't forget to set aside time for wandering through Hvar's romantic cobblestone streets. When you need a history break, head to Dubovica Beach to cool off in the glittering Adriatic Sea or take a day trip to the nearby Pakleni Islands. In the evening, unwind with a drink at one of Hvar's many bars and nightclubs.

top 10 travel spots in the world

With breathtaking mountains and pointed pagodas, it's no wonder why Bali is home to the "gates of heaven" (at Lempuyang Temple). On this Indonesian island, you can tour ancient sacred sites like the waterfront Uluwatu Temple and Tirta Empul, where you'll see worshippers praying in a large pool. You should also save time for exploring Bali's photogenic rice terraces and simply lounging on resplendent stretches of sand like Sanur Beach and Geger Beach before bedding down at a five-star resort in Jimbaran or Nusa Dua.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Home to one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, the Turks and Caicos Islands are a diver's paradise. Visit the Bight Reef to see hundreds of colorful fish near the shore, or head to Smith's Reef to swim with stingrays and turtles. Above the surface, this network of dozens of named islands and cays plays host to a bevy of luxurious hotels and picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing or horseback riding. Families should spend time in Taylor Bay's shallow, crystal-clear water, while others will want to check out Grace Bay's beautiful white sand and adjacent restaurants.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Renowned for its stunning resorts and sun-drenched stretches of sand, Mallorca is a popular summer beach getaway for Europeans. Beyond its nearly 300 beaches, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands also lures visitors with its natural wonders (think: caves and mountains) and enchanting towns and villages. If you can tear yourself away from the sand, you'll find the capital of Palma de Mallorca is chock-full of history and vibrant city life, with attractions like Palma Cathedral and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, bustling markets and shaded gardens.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Malta is ideal for those who want to take a step back in time. The ancient city of Mdina dates back to A.D. 60 and features narrow streets, stone gates and well-preserved city walls, while Valletta offers 16th-century wonders such as St. John's Co-Cathedral and Casa Rocca Piccola. That's not to say that Malta can't compete with other islands' beaches. Golden Bay, situated on Malta's northwest coast, is one of the region's most popular shorelines, and on Gozo, Malta's sister island, Ramla Bay is popular for its unique red sand. And when the sun goes down, St. Julian's offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

top 10 travel spots in the world

This dreamy Thai island in the Andaman Sea balances cosmopolitan flair with rugged beauty. Here, you'll find white sand beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi sidled up next to mountainous rainforests and towns full of ornate Buddhist temples, such as Wat Chalong. For the best views of the sea, venture to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point of the island, or sign up for a boat tour. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the shopping, dining and rollicking nightlife scene in Patong.

top 10 travel spots in the world

Kaua'i is the oldest and most rugged of the Hawaiian archipelago. Adventure seekers will love hiking Waimea Canyon's crested buttes and gorges, while the Napali Coast beckons to photographers with its 17 miles of dramatic cliffs and gorgeous ocean vistas. Those who would rather spend their vacation swimming and sunbathing on Hawai'i's tranquil beaches should head to the shorelines of Po'ipu Beach Park and Hanalei Bay, both of which typically offer calm waters. Think about renting a car to easily get around this unique island, and make sure to bring your best walking shoes or hiking boots, as some of Kaua'i's most beautiful sights are only accessible on foot.

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2024 Solar Eclipse: The 13 Best Places to See the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

image of a total solar eclipse

The 2024 solar eclipse is less than one month away, making it the ideal time plan exactly how you’ll see the incredible event. On April 8, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. The natural phenomenon, known as a total solar eclipse, happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face. According to NASA , there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, making it all the more important to catch this one. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to experience the eclipse.

What exactly is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

image of a total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do people safely watch a total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the total solar eclipses last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the solar eclipse path

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

Map of a total solar eclipse

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where are the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse?

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Aerial image of Mazatlan Mexico

Mazatlán, Mexico.

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Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for four minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

A soccer stadium in Torreon Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for four minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

An image of Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country.

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

A lake in a park in Arkansas

Russellville, Arkansas.

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience four minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau Missouri

Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

An image of Carbondale Illinois on a partly cloudy day

Carbondale, Illinois.

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience four minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

The campus of Indiana University in Bloomington Indiana

Bloomington, Indiana.

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m. Indianapolis, the state’s capital, is another good city to watch the eclipse, but totality will last for less time, about three minutes and 47 seconds.

Cleveland Ohio on a cloudy day

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m, which will last for just under four minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

a lake in Erie Pennsylvania

Erie, Pennsylvania.

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for three minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

image of downtown Buffalo at dusk

Buffalo, New York.

Buffalo, New York, will see three minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

the border between the united states and canada in Niagara Falls

Niagara Region, Ontario.

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for three minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington Vermont

Burlington, Vermont.

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience three minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

A park in Houlton Maine on a sunny day

Houlton, Maine.

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for three minutes and 20 seconds.

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Vote for your favorite roller coaster!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

While theme park rides come in all shapes and sizes these days, nothing beats the adrenaline rush of a well-designed roller coaster. A panel of experts has selected these 20 coasters as the best in the U.S. for offering the most thrilling and unique experiences. Now, it's your turn to decide how they rank. Which roller coaster is your top pick? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, April 22 at noon ET. The 10 winning roller coasters will be announced on Wednesday, May 1. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

While theme park rides come in all shapes and sizes these days, nothing beats the adrenaline rush of a well-designed roller coaster. A panel of experts has selected these 20 coasters as the best in the U.S. for offering...   Read More

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ArieForce One at Fun Spot Atlanta

Photo courtesy of Jack Lathrop

ArieForce One at Fun Spot Atlanta

Fayetteville, Georgia

If you've ever dreamed of rocketing into outer space, AireForce One is the ride for you. This roller coaster boasts the largest zero-G stall in the country and features two zero-G rolls. At 15 stories, tall, the coaster flies over 3,400 feet of track, drops 146 feet, and reaches a top speed of 64 miles per hour.

Fury 325 at Carowinds

Photo courtesy of Carowinds

Fury 325 at Carowinds

Charlotte, North Carolina

Fury 325 is billed as the longest, fastest, and tallest giga coaster in North America. It features a jaw-dropping 190-foot-tall barrel turn and a high-speed S-curve, which pushes it to thrilling speeds of up to 95 miles per hour. At over 1.25 miles long, an average ride time is 3.25 minutes. In fact, this roller coaster is so big that it can't be confined to one state, crossing North and South Carolina state lines. 

GhostRider at Knott's Berry Farm

Photo courtesy of jacoblund / iStock / Getty Images Plus

GhostRider at Knott's Berry Farm

Buena Park, California

GhostRider is not only the largest attraction at Knott's Berry Farm, but also ranks as one of the longest and tallest wooden roller coasters in the world. This legendary ride is 4,533 feet long, 118 feet tall, includes 14 hills, and reaches speeds of 56 miles per hour. Many roller coaster enthusiasts prefer riding the GhostRider at night, when the coaster is shrouded in darkness, making every twist and turn a surprise.

Giant Dipper at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Photo courtesy of Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Giant Dipper at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz, California

The Giant Dipper is 100 years old and has been featured on the big screen in hits including "The Lost Boys," "Us," and "Dangerous Minds." It's also one of the few coasters that the U.S. National Park Service has declared a National Historic Landmark. Some riders hop aboard for the spectacular views of Monterey Bay from the top. Others ride the Giant Dipper to experience its successive dips and fan curves. Either way, the Giant Dipper has a magical draw that has attracted over 66 million riders and counting. 

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT

Orlando, Florida

In typical Disney fashion, the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind experience starts before you even get on the ride. The queue snakes through the Galaxarium, a planetarium-like display that points out fun facts about the Xandar galaxy portrayed in the Marvel comics and movies. On the coaster, you'll join Rocket, Groot, Gamora, and Star-Lord on a reverse-launch mission to save the galaxy. Fully enclosed, this coaster blasts through a sequence of thrilling scenes and also rotates 360 degrees so you don't miss any of the action.

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure takes guests on a thrilling flight through the Forbidden Forest, the grounds of Hogwarts, and beyond. Universal collaborated with Stuart Craig and Alan Gilmore, the respective production designer and art director on the Harry Potter films, to bring iconic scenes to life. The coaster features seven launches, more than any other coaster in the world when it opened, as well as a free-fall vertical drop.

Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Tampa, Florida

Combining the best elements of steel and wooden roller coasters, the hybrid Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is named for a mythical half-lion, half-tiger beast. Taking the place of the park's Gwazi dual-track wooden coaster, Iron Gwazi packs in a lot more adrenaline-pumping thrills than its predecessor, leading off with a 91-degree drop from its 206-foot-tall peak, followed by corkscrews, inversions, and top speeds of 76 miles per hour. 

Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando

Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando

Universal boasts that VelociCoaster, the centerpiece of Jurassic World at the Islands of Adventure theme park, is a "new species of rollercoaster," and 10Best readers agree, voting the high-speed chase through the raptor paddock at Jurassic Park the Best New Theme Park Attraction in 2021. In addition to the thrills of the twisting, turning, and soaring steel coaster — including four inversions and two separate high-speed launches — riders will encounter biting, snapping, and running velociraptors on the hunt.

Lightning Rod at Dollywood

Photo courtesy of Dollywood

Lightning Rod at Dollywood

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Lightning Rod sends thrill-seekers more 20 stories up its lift hill before racing down its 165-foot-drop — an electrifying start to one of Dollywood's most adrenaline-pumping attractions. Themed after a 1950s hot rod, the roller coaster tops out at 73 miles per hour.

Mako at SeaWorld Orlando

Photo courtesy of SeaWorld Orlando

Mako at SeaWorld Orlando

Guests looking for thrills at SeaWorld Orlando will find them aboard one of the park's most popular roller coasters, Mako. Orlando's tallest and fastest coaster gets its name from one of the world's fastest sharks — appropriate for a thrill ride reaching speeds of 73 miles per hour.

Pantheon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Photo courtesy of Digital Vision. / Photodisc Getty Images

Pantheon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia

Pantheon is said to be powered by the strength and speed of five Roman gods. And the gods are surely smiling on this thrill ride, which is the world’s fastest multi-launch coaster. Coming in at 180 feet tall, this roller coaster has a thrilling 95-degree drop and reaches a top speed of 73 miles per hour. If that's not enough, it also has four launches, five air-time hills, and two inversions.

Phantom's Revenge at Kennywood

Photo courtesy of Kennywood

Phantom's Revenge at Kennywood

West Mifflin, Pennsylvania

The 3,365-foot-long track of Phantom’s Revenge at Kennywood brings visitors frighteningly close to another of the park's coasters, Thunderbolt. A hair-raising highlight is the ride's second drop — a 232-foot thriller at 85 miles per hour.

Phoenix at Knoebels

Photo courtesy of Knoebels Amusement Resort

Phoenix at Knoebels

Elysburg, Pennsylvania

This classic wooden roller coaster at Knoebels proves that newer, taller, and faster aren't always better. Phoenix offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, as well as thrills in the form of a double out-and-back layout and speeds of 45 miles per hour.

Steel Vengeance at Cedar Point

Photo courtesy of Cedar Point

Steel Vengeance at Cedar Point

Sandusky, Ohio

When Steel Vengeance debuted at Cedar Point in May 2018, it was the world's tallest and fastest hybrid coaster with the steepest drop (90 degrees), longest drop (200 feet), and most inversions (four). At 5,740 feet, it remains the world's longest hybrid coaster and coaster with the most airtime (27.2 seconds), as well as a guest favorite.

Storm Chaser at Kentucky Kingdom

Photo courtesy of Kentucky Kingdom

Storm Chaser at Kentucky Kingdom

Louisville, Kentucky

At 100 feet tall, Storm Chaser was the first coaster in the country to include a nearly perpendicular barrel roll drop from a 10-story lift hill. The ride's excitement continues with a stall dive, tip-out corner, a slew of airtime hills, and a corkscrew, reaching speeds of 52 miles per hour.

Superman The Ride at Six Flags New England

Photo courtesy of andresr / E+ Getty Images

Superman The Ride at Six Flags New England

Agawam, Massachusetts

Superman is a super coaster. After a quick change into your superhero costume, hop aboard this hypercoaster, which soars high into the air before dropping 221 feet. This coaster flies along 5,400 feet of track and reaches 77 miles per hour for a truly jaw-dropping ride. 

Twisted Colossus at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Photo courtesy of Six Flags Magic Mountain

Twisted Colossus at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Valencia, California

Twisted Colossus is where old meets new, wood meets steel, and traditional thrills meet modern, high-tech innovations. This hybrid roller coaster, perched on the edge of Six Flags Magic Mountain, brings riders through a zero-G roll, a 116-foot drop at 80 degrees, and many hills. The thrills are long-lasting, too. The nearly 5,000-foot-long track makes the Twisted Colossus one of the longest hybrid coasters in existence.

Twisted Timbers at Kings Dominion

Photo courtesy of Kings Dominion

Twisted Timbers at Kings Dominion

Doswell, Virginia

Twisted Timbers is a thrilling hybrid coaster with a 109-foot-tall barrel roll drop, 20 airtime hills, and two more dizzying inversions. The coaster reaches speeds of 54 miles per hour, all while keeping riders twisting in the air. 

The Voyage at Holiday World

Photo courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

The Voyage at Holiday World

Santa Claus, Indiana

The Voyage isn't a typical wooden roller coaster. Riders who embark on this journey experience a feeling of weightlessness for a total of 24.3 seconds and encounter one of the steepest drops of any wooden coaster in the world. The Voyage also holds a world record for including five underground tunnels, which are scattered across 6,442 feet of track on this ride that reaches speeds of 67 miles per hour. 

Wildcat's Revenge at Hersheypark

Photo courtesy of Hersheypark

Wildcat's Revenge at Hersheypark

Hershey, Pennsylvania

The past meets the present on Wildcat's Revenge. Hersheypark added steel to an existing wooden track to come up with an entirely new hybrid ride. This coaster climbs to the dizzying height of 140 feet, hits 62 miles per hour, takes riders through four inversions, and drops at 82 degrees. The coaster also boasts the world's largest underflip for even more thrills. 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Derek perry.

Derek Perry

Derek Perry is the Communications Director for the...   Read More

Derek Perry is the Communications Director for the world's largest ride enthusiast group,  American Coaster Enthusiasts.  Derek first joined ACE as a kid with his parents and twin brother on a roller coaster-riding road trip after unexpectedly being at a park the same day as an ACE event. In addition to his love of travel, he is one half of  The Perry Twins , a DJ and music production duo with his brother, Doug. They have written, produced and remixed many songs, including their original songs that topped Billboard Magazine’s dance chart. He has been lucky to combine his love of amusement parks with traveling for DJ gigs and has ridden over 1,200 unique roller coasters around the world and share their adventures on  Instagram ,  Facebook  and  TikTok .

Derek Perry

Francis Dominic

Francis Dominic

I sleep more in planes than I do my own bed....   Read More

I sleep more in planes than I do my own bed. Probably visiting your local theme park! I am an emotional Aries, with a big love of fantasy-romance books, and continually immersing myself in film and television. I love to live life in color because the world can use a lot of it. And I live it unapologetically! It's okay to continually choose yourself!    Connect with Francis on Instagram . TikTok and Twitter . 

Francis Dominic

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Jamie Davis Smith

Jessica Gardner

Jessica Gardner

Jessica Gardner, aka  Jessica The Theme...   Read More

Jessica Gardner, aka  Jessica The Theme Parkette , is a Los Angeles-based theme park aficionado who shares her tried-and-true travel tips, fun facts, and coaster appreciation as @themeparkette on  TikTok  and  Instagram . She is the co-host of the American Coaster Enthusiasts’ official podcast, “ Ride With Us ” and “ The Theme Parkettes ” podcast. Jessica is also a working actor whose credits include the hit shows NCIS, Grey's Anatomy, Grace and Frankie, Modern Family, How I Met Your Mother, and many more. 

Jessica Gardner

NikkyJ is a theme park super fan, Author of The...   Read More

NikkyJ is a theme park super fan, Author of The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide, the founder and owner of ThemeParkHipster.com , a wishful Food Critic, coffee enthusiast, and a lover of life! She currently resides in Orlando, Florida where she enjoys spending time with her husband and two little girls while discovering the beautiful attractions of Florida. You can watch her on  YouTube  or listen to her podcast.

Nikky J

Robb Alvey is the owner of ThemeParkReview.com ,...   Read More

Robb Alvey is the owner of ThemeParkReview.com , started in 1996 and one of the longest running and largest theme park fan sites with over 3 million followers. Robb travels to theme parks all over the world each year including Europe, Asia, Australia, and all around the Americas, has visited hundreds of different parks and ridden about 2,000 different roller coasters. His background in theme parks started as a cast member for Disneyland when he was 17 years old and has continued more than 30 years later.

Robb Alvey

Robert Niles

Robert Niles

Robert Niles is the founder and editor of Read More

Robert Niles is the founder and editor of ThemeParkInsider.com , an online consumers' guide to the world's leading theme and amusement parks, read by more than 400,000 people each month. It has been named the top theme park site on the Internet by Forbes and Travel + Leisure magazines and was a Webby Award finalist and winner of the Online Journalism Award, presented by the Online News Association and the Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. Robert is a former Walt Disney World cast member and has worked as a reporter, editorial writer, columnist and website editor for several newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times and the Orange County Register.

Robert Niles

Taylor Bybee

Taylor Bybee

Taylor Bybee is the founder of Coaster Studios, a...   Read More

Taylor Bybee is the founder of Coaster Studios, a roller coaster and theme park youtube channel with over 200,000 subscribers. Taylor has ridden over 1,000 roller coasters now across all 6 habitable continents, constantly scouting the latest and greatest thrill rides. Coaster Studios has been around for over 10 years now, providing a wide variety of high quality videos within the amusement industry, including reviews, analyses, vlogs, documentaries, and more.   Taylor can be followed on Twitter @coasterstudios and on Instagram via @coaster_studios.

Taylor Bybee

Victoria Wade

Victoria Wade

Victoria is a writer for the esteemed theme park...   Read More

Victoria is a writer for the esteemed theme park hipster and has been visiting theme parks for over 20 years. Sharing updates on all the thrills is her one true love. You can find her opinions of all things theme park related on her Twitter , TikTok , and Instagram .

Victoria Wade

10Best Editors

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

10Best Editors

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A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

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The sun flares at the edge of the moon during a total eclipse.

By Katrina Miller

On April 8, North America will experience its second total solar eclipse in seven years. The moon will glide over the surface of our sun, casting a shadow over a swath of Earth below. Along this path, the world will turn dark as night.

Skywatchers in Mexico will be the first to see the eclipse on the mainland. From there, the show will slide north, entering the United States through Texas, then proceeding northeast before concluding for most people off the coast of Canada.

Why eclipses happen is simple: the moon comes between us and the sun. But they are also complicated. So if you’ve forgotten all of your eclipse facts, tips and how-to’s since 2017, we’re here to explain it for you.

But before we dive in, there is one thing to know that is more important than anything else: It is never safe to look directly at the sun during an eclipse (except for the few moments when the moon has fully obscured its surface). At all other times, watch the event through protective eye equipment . Read on to learn about how to watch an eclipse safely.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon orients itself between Earth and the sun, shielding the solar surface from our view.

In cosmic terms, it is unusual that this happens: the moon is about 400 times smaller than the sun, but it is about 400 times closer to us. That means that when these two celestial bodies are aligned, they appear to be the same size in the sky.

What other types of eclipses are there?

Annular solar eclipses occur when the moon is farther from Earth and appears too small to completely shield the sun’s surface. Instead, the outer part of the solar disk remains uncovered — a “ring of fire” in the sky.

Partial solar eclipses happen when Earth, the moon and the sun are imperfectly aligned. The moon only obscures a chunk of the sun. There will be two in 2025.

Earth can also get between the moon and the sun, creating a lunar eclipse. This can be observed once or twice a year .

How dark will it be during the eclipse?

In any given place along the eclipse path , the event will last around two hours or more.

The event will commence with a partial solar eclipse, as the moon takes a small bite out of the sun’s edge, then consumes more and more of its surface. According to NASA , this can last anywhere from 70 to 80 minutes.

The phase of the eclipse where the moon has completely blocked the sun’s surface is called totality. This is the only time the event can be viewed with the naked eye.

The length of totality varies by location. In April, some places will experience this phase for more than four minutes; others, for only one to two minutes.

During totality, the sky will get dark as night and the temperature will drop. Wispy white strings of light from the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will suddenly be visible. Lucky viewers may even spot a thin, reddish-pink circle around the edge of the moon. That’s the chromosphere, an atmospheric layer below the sun’s corona. Its color comes from the presence of hydrogen throughout the layer.

After totality, the sun will slowly peek out from behind the moon again — another partial eclipse that will last the same amount of time as the first one. The moon will recede until the sun is back to normal brightness in our sky.

How can I watch the solar eclipse safely?

In general, avoid looking directly at the sun without special equipment to protect your eyes. Inexpensive options for watching the eclipse include paper solar viewers and glasses. If you are using equipment purchased for a past solar eclipse, make sure to inspect it. Toss anything with scratches or other signs of damage.

According to NASA , it is not safe to look at the sun through any optical device while using paper glasses or viewers. To watch the eclipse through cameras, binoculars or telescopes, buy a special solar filter.

The only time you can view a solar eclipse with the naked eye is during the moments of totality. Once the moon begins to reveal the surface of the sun again, return to watching the event through protective equipment to avoid injury.

What happens if I look at the eclipse without protection?

In general, staring directly at the sun, even for a few seconds, can cause permanent damage to your eyes . This can range from blurry or distorted vision to something even more serious, like blind spots. Because there are no pain receptors in the retina, you won’t feel it while it’s happening.

The same is true during an eclipse — except during the brief moments of totality, when the moon has hidden the face of the sun. At all other times, use protective eye equipment to view the event.

What do I do if I can’t find eclipse glasses?

If it’s too late to get glasses or viewers, there’s always a do-it-yourself option: a pinhole camera to indirectly experience the eclipse. You can create one using cardstock , a cardboard box , a kitchen strainer or even your fingers . These designs project an image of the eclipse onto the ground or some other surface that is safe to look at.

Where are the best places to watch the eclipse?

The total eclipse will sweep across large portions of Mexico, the United States and eastern Canada. For the most dramatic show, it’s best to experience the eclipse along the path of totality , which is where the moon will completely blot out the sun.

The Path of the Eclipse

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will cross North America from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada. Viewers outside the path of the total eclipse will see a partial eclipse, if the sky is clear .

top 10 travel spots in the world

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

top 10 travel spots in the world

Viewers near Mazatlán, a beach town on the Pacific shoreline of Mexico, will be the first place to experience totality on North America’s mainland. Various sites in Mexico along the eclipse’s path will experience the longest duration of totality — as long as four minutes and 29 seconds.

Cities across the United States, including Dallas, Indianapolis and Cleveland, will most likely be hot spots for the upcoming eclipse. Other notable locations include Carbondale, Ill., which also saw totality during the solar eclipse in 2017; small towns west of Austin, Texas, which are projected to have some of the best weather in the country along the eclipse path; and Niagara Falls, if the skies are clear. Six provinces of Canada are in the path of totality, but many of them have a very cloudy outlook.

When does the eclipse begin and end?

The show begins at dawn, thousands of miles southwest of the Pacific shore of Mexico. The moon starts to conceal the sun near Mazatlán at 9:51 a.m. local time. Viewers near Mazatlán will experience totality at 11:07 a.m. for four minutes and 20 seconds.

Then the moon’s shadow will swoop through Mexico, crossing over the Texas border at 1:10 p.m. Eastern time. Totality in the United States will start at 2:27 p.m. and end at 3:33 p.m. Eastern time.

Canadians will experience the solar eclipse in the afternoon for nearly three hours. The eclipse concludes beyond Canada’s boundaries when the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean.

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How long will the eclipse last?

The duration of totality depends on how far a given location on Earth is from the moon. Places with the longest totality are closest to the moon and farther from the sun. The speed of the lunar shadow is slowest over spots with the longest totality.

In April, the longest period of totality will occur over Durango, a state in Mexico, for a total of four minutes and 29 seconds. Along the centerline, the location of shortest totality on land is on the eastern coast of Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, for about two minutes and 54 seconds. But totality is even shorter along the edges of the total eclipse path; in some places, it lasts less than a minute.

How fast does the eclipse move?

Solar eclipses may seem to happen slowly, but the moon’s shadow is racing across the surface of Earth. Exact speeds vary by location. Eclipse calculators estimate the shadow will move between about 1,560 and 1,600 m.p.h. through Mexico, and more than 3,000 m.p.h. by the time it exits the United States. The eclipse will reach speeds exceeding 6,000 m.p.h. over the Atlantic Ocean.

When was the last total solar eclipse in the United States?

According to the American Astronomical Society , total solar eclipses happen once every year or so, but they can only be viewed along a narrow path on Earth’s surface. Many occur over water or other places that can be difficult to reach. A given location will experience totality once in about 400 years.

But some places get lucky: Carbondale, a college town in southern Illinois, saw the total solar eclipse in the United States on Aug. 21, 2017, and will experience another one this April. San Antonio experienced an annular eclipse last October, and is also in the path of totality for this year’s eclipse.

Do other planets experience solar eclipses?

Yes, any planet in our solar system with a moon can experience a solar eclipse. In February, a Martian rover captured Phobos , one of the red planet’s moons, transiting the sun.

The moons on other planets, though, appear either smaller or larger than the sun in the sky . Only Earth has a moon just the right size and at just the right distance to produce the unique effects of totality.

How will things on Earth change during the eclipse?

As the eclipse approaches its maximum phase, the air will get cooler, the sky will grow dimmer, shadows will sharpen and you might notice images of crescents — tiny projections of the eclipse — within them. Along the path of totality, the world will go dark while the moon inches toward perfect alignment with Earth and the sun.

Animals will also react to the solar eclipse. Bees stop buzzing , birds stop whistling and crickets begin chirping. Some pets may express confusion . Even plants are affected, scientists found after the solar eclipse in 2017 . They have diminished rates of photosynthesis and water loss similar to, though not as extreme as, what happens at night.

What if I can’t get to the path of totality?

Viewers in locations away from the eclipse path will see the moon partially blot out the sun, though how perceptible the effects are depends on the site’s distance from the centerline. (The closer you are, the more remarkable it will be.) Still, it won’t be quite like experiencing the eclipse during totality.

Remember that you should always wear protective eye equipment while watching a partial eclipse.

If you can’t make it to the path of totality but still want to experience it, many organizations are providing live video streams of the eclipse, including NASA and Time and Date . The Exploratorium, a museum in San Francisco, will also offer a sonification of the eclipse and a broadcast in Spanish.

What have we learned from solar eclipses?

In the 1800s, a French astronomer discovered the element helium by studying the spectrum of sunlight emitted during an eclipse. These events also allowed the first scientific observations of coronal mass ejections — violent expulsions of plasma from the sun’s corona — which can cause power outages and communication disruptions on Earth. Scientists also confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which says that massive objects bend the fabric of space-time, during a solar eclipse in 1919.

And there is more to discover. This April, NASA plans to fly instruments on planes to capture images of the solar corona, and launch rockets to study how the drop in sunlight during an eclipse affects Earth’s atmosphere. A radio telescope in California will try to use the moon as a shield to measure emissions from individual sunspots .

The public is joining the fun, too. During the eclipse, a team of ham radio operators will beam signals across the country to study how solar disturbances can affect communications. Some people along the path of totality will record sounds from wildlife . Others will use their phones to snap pictures of the eclipse to help sketch out the shape of the solar disk .

An earlier version of this article referred imprecisely to eclipse on other worlds. Some appear larger than the sun in sky, they are not all partial eclipses.

How we handle corrections

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

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