World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked
Chrissy - 22. August 2022
The planet is simply too big, a challenge that everyone has encountered. There are so many breathtaking locations worth visiting, but there is not nearly enough time to do so. We've put together a comprehensive list of the top 30 most beautiful places on Earth to help you choose your next travel destination. We have everything you need, whether you're seeking for beach vacations or large city adventures!
Feel free to keep us posted on what you think of our list. Which places have you visited, and can you recommend them? Which ones are you still dying to see?
30. Argentine Patagonia
Perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy nature or have an adventure. In the Andes, you can discover glaciers, absorb the soothing silence of the forests and enjoy the clear skies.
There are many places you should definitely visit on your trip to this region, but here are a few suggestions nonetheless: Mount Fitz Roy is a must-see, the Cave of the Hands and the Punta Tombo Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Peninsula Forest Marine Sanctuary are particularly suitable for adventurers. Don't forget your camera, because you will definitely want to capture this beautiful nature forever.
29. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Are you more of a relaxed vacationer? Then you should consider spending a few weeks on the Amalfi Coast, which is located on the Sorrentina right in the Mediterranean Sea. Taking a holiday up there also conveys a high-profile feeling, as a couple of decades ago, the coast was a very popular holiday destination and a way to get away from it all for movie stars of the time.
Hence, if you are craving lots of Italian food and wine, sun, and a historical center, you should definitely visit this area!
28. Cancun, Mexico
There's a reason why so many Americans love to go to Cancun to spend their vacation, and it's never been lost despite all the tourists. The place offers a healthy mix of everything - you can wander through clubs all night long, lie on the beach, and enjoy the amenities of the high life in a luxury hotel.
For foodies, we recommend the huge selection of Mexican delicacies, while adventurers can explore the Mayan ruins and the marine life while snorkeling. You can be sure that you won't get up wondering what to do.
27. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a great city that everyone needs to see because it has a lot more to offer than tech companies. Having everything you need for the perfect holiday, San Francisco is a great place to explore and see sights like the Golden Gate Bridge or watch sea lions relaxing in the sun.
If you're interested in history, you should take a guided tour of Alcatraz, or if you need a short relaxation, you can settle down on a bench in a park and let the impressions sink in. There are many top-class restaurants that you should definitely try as well!
26. Niagara Falls
This natural wonder on the border between Canada and the USA is simply breathtaking. Niagara Falls is one of the largest in the world, and for centuries people have been fascinated by its powerful impression.
To be exact, Niagara Falls are three waterfalls, with many liters of water rushing down every second. We recommend a trip by boat, as this is the most intense experience.
25. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is the first national park to attract several million visitors in one year. Located in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, the park offers colorful hot springs, geysers, and many different species of animals as well as a lake that sparkles just like glass, which is plenty of things you have to see!
If you're looking for the perfect family holiday, this is it, as the park offers many campsites, and children will be thrilled by the elk, wild boar, and bison.
24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
It's been in the news a lot in recent years, and we all know it. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia not only offers a colorful underwater world of corals but is also home to thousands of animal species, making it perfect for snorkellers and explorers.
In total, about 600 islands and almost 3000 individual reefs are part of the large area, so you definitely haven't seen everything after one day. No wonder Australians are particularly proud of this piece of their country.
23. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is known for its stunning snow-white houses, rounded off by dark blue rooftops, making it an idyllic holiday destination. The island's beaches are particularly colorfully decorated, and every picture you see of this place radiates good times. Are you looking for a particularly photogenic place? Then you should definitely visit Santorini and pack your camera.
But there is also a lot to discover here historically, for example, the town of Akrotiri, which was covered with volcanic ash in ancient times and preserved that way. For nature lovers, there are the smaller neighboring islands to discover.
22. Florence, Italy
Do you love art and history? Could you eat pizza and pasta every day? Then Florence is your perfect choice. Many artists lived here during the Renaissance and created some of their most famous works.
Donatello, Michelangelo, and Brunelleschi are just some of the famous names that can now be found in many art museums. You can admire the impressive architecture on a shopping trip, enjoy the city's beautiful gardens and take a break in a cozy café.
21. Yosemite National Park, California
The USA has many national parks to offer, but Yosemite is one of the most beautiful ones. On more than 750,000 hectares, you will find animal species and fascinating fauna. The park has over 4 million visitors per year, and rightly so: you can discover waterfalls like Vernal Fall and Bridalveil Fall but also conquer huge rocks if you like climbing.
But, of course, the park also has a variety of animal species to offer. Whether you like butterflies or lynxes, deer or marmots, you will find everything you need here.
20. St. Lucia
Who doesn't dream of a holiday in the Caribbean? The sun, the clear water, the beach... just the thought of it puts you in a holiday mood. So it's no wonder that St Lucia is on our list of places you definitely have to see. You can relax on one of the natural beaches and lose track of time or explore the volcanic landscape and rainforests.
For those who want to get active, there are opportunities for climbing, hiking, and other sports, while the place has an almost magical effect on people in love, stemming from the delicious food, fancy activities, and enough space for intimacy.
19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Chances are nobody will be surprised by this holiday destination anymore. After all, Dubai is a metropolis with the tallest skyscraper in the world, standing for luxury to the core. The marinas are huge, luxury shops are everywhere, and even hotels are mostly specialized in luxury. But that's not all of it, of course.
If you do get bored shopping, you can spend a day at a water park, lie on the beach or even go skiing! For something to take away from the Arab Emirates, check out the vast desert outside the city.
18. Machu Picchu, Peru
Contrasting with modern Dubai is Machu Picchu, the famous Inca city that is several hundred years old and fascinates many. And rightly so; after all, the place is one of the famous and well-known Seven Wonders of the World and is thus under special protection by UNESCO.
Besides this magical place, there is much more to discover in Peru: For example, you should not miss Funerary Rock and the Temple of the Condor, which, like Machu Pick, are very spiritual places.
17. Sydney, Australia
Of course, Australia has more to offer than just the Great Barrier Reed, including fantastic cities with many sights. In Sydney, you can visit the world-famous opera house, spend a day relaxing on the beach and spontaneously decide between going to clubs or visiting a museum. Sydney has everything you need for a holiday.
Our tip: go to a rugby match or order a so-called Tim Tam, a pastry to go with your coffee. This way, you can experience Sydney a bit like an Australian.
16. Grand Canyon, Arizona
When you see pictures of it, you can't imagine how big the Grand Canyon really is. At 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, it is an absolute wonder of nature that you must see!
It seems that many share this opinion with us because just last year, the Grand Canyon had several million visitors, making it the second most popular national park. The park has now been around for over a hundred years, and whether you are athletically inclined or not, there is something for everyone. You can choose to hike through the gorge or sleep under the stars if you get permission and a lot more.
15. Bali, Indonesia
There is no denying that Bali is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Indian Ocean, which is why it has gained popularity over the past few years. Fortunately, the dreamlike island has not been destroyed by tourism, and we can only recommend it as a holiday.
Take a walk on the beach or lay down by the pool, discover the volcanoes, and visit the temples where you can learn more about the culture of the country.
14. New York City
How could we leave out this absolute icon in our list? In New York, everything is possible, and you definitely won't get bored! For a shopping trip, check out Hudson Yards, a new shopping center right on the Hudson, and for something unusual, we can recommend High Line, a park in the middle of a rooftop in New York.
But New York also has a lot of history to offer, for example, the Empire State Building, Broadway, and of course Times Square. In any case, you don't have to worry about food - unless it's because you can't make up your mind - because the choice is huge!
13. Banff National Park, Canada
Have you ever seen the landscape in Canada? It is simply breathtaking, especially in Banff, where you can look out over a fascinating mountain landscape several thousand meters above sea level. The national park was founded by Banff, a small Canadian town, making it the first in Canada.
Nature is guaranteed to be just as beautiful as it was back then. If you like skiing, you should definitely plan your trip in winter, while in summer, you have the opportunity to go hiking or cycling. If you want a little peace and quiet, you can enjoy nature on a fishing trip.
12. Maldives
Yes, they really are as gorgeous as they look in their pictures. The Maldives should definitely be at the top of your bucket list because the beauty that the beaches radiate at dawn cannot be captured in a photo.
The trip there might be a bit of a hassle, but we promise it's worth it! Not only can you lie on the beach, but explore underwater life by diving, and the food is simply fantastic. Great for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway.
11. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has everything you need! Art, culture, sun, sea, architecture, and relaxation. The food and wine are fantastic, and for football fans, the city's own stadium is a clear highlight of the holiday. Are you interested in architecture? Then you should definitely book a tour to see all the impressive houses designed by Antoni Gaudi.
Of course, Barcelona also has a number of clubs for anyone who wants to enjoy the nightlife and many different shops where you could spend hours shopping. Our tip: The Museo Picasso has many works by the famous artist on display.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park got its name because of the impressive glaciers that characterize it.
In addition, you can admire some completely untouched lakes in the park and take a short hiking tour up the hills, into the valleys, and through the entire landscape.
9. Tokyo, Japan
In Tokyo, two contrasting worlds meet. While the city center is characterized by a fast pace, modern technology, and lights, it also represents a part of Japanese culture and is home to several temples that are definitely worth a visit.
We can also recommend the wide selection of local food.
8. Phuket, Thailand
Not everyone can afford a luxury holiday in Dubai, and that's not a problem at all. If you're down to explore a new country without having to worry about money, you should take a look at Phuket. The island is part of Thailand and can be reached within an hour by plane from Bangkok. The island has a lot to offer: Besides bright white beaches, the food is delicious, the sunsets stunning, and for the best photos, there is a very special place, Cape Promthep. For a fantastic view, climb to the top of the statue of Buddha, and you can overlook the entire island.
If you want to do something good during your vacation, you should visit the Soi Dog Foundation. The shelter actively campaigns against meat trading and takes in street cats and dogs.
7. Rome, Italy
It is common knowledge that Rome is one of the oldest major cities to have existed since antiquity. But that's not all that can be said about Rome. It is also embellished by luxurious shops, while the architecture in Rome is also simply breathtaking. Of course, you shouldn't skip the Colosseum and the Pantheon during your sightseeing but don't limit yourself to them either.
Many of the fountains, frescoes, and paintings in the city were created by celebrities such as Michelangelo and Bernini, and we can only emphasize that you should try everything you walk past. Whether you go to a starred restaurant or a regular one, the food in Rome is simply fantastic. If you want to try the city's specialties, we recommend Suppli and Cacio e Pepe.
6. London, England
London has already been praised many times in literature, and we can only agree with this opinion: There is a lot to see in London, especially for art lovers. Theatre performances of Shakespeare's plays take place regularly in the city, and many of the museums not only offer a fantastic exhibition but are also free!
Of course, a trip to the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace is not to be missed, where you can even admire some of the publicly accessible rooms from the inside.
5. Tahiti, French Polynesia
A combination of French food and wine with warm seawater and beautiful beaches. Sounds dreamy, doesn't it? You'll find it all on the largest of the French Polynesian islands (of which there are over 100), Tahiti.
A trip can be expensive, but all tourists agree that it is worth the experience. On the island, you can go surfing and shopping, relax on the beach or explore some of the smaller neighboring islands.
4. Maui, Hawaii
Many wish for a holiday in Hawaii but are uncertain about which island to relax on. We can highly recommend Maui for a holiday in the sun because the island is just the right size.
In the west and south, you will find many beaches and well-known activities to spend your time. Our tip: Take time for the east of Maui to explore the volcanic landscape of the largest volcano in the world.
3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
You thought Tahiti was the only scenic wonder of the French Polynesian islands on our list? Well, you were wrong. Although Bora Bora is rather small in area, it has a breathtaking landscape to offer. Especially in the tropical forest, there is a lot to discover, but the lagoon that surrounds the island is breathtaking as well.
For a bit of a change from the beach, check out the hike to Mount Otemanu, where you explore part of an extinct volcano several thousand meters above sea level. The underwater world offers you a fantastic view, too, as you can not only see corals while diving, but spot reef sharks, eels, and stingrays as well.
2. Paris, France
Paris is the city of fashion, lights, and of course, love. All this combined with the delicious food, iconic buildings, and historical significance, makes Paris a must-see for everyone.
Of course, you should allow plenty of time to visit all the iconic sights that makeup Paris. However, for a holiday like a local, we recommend a trip to the areas of the city outside the center. We can particularly recommend the 2nd and 18th of the 20 arrondissements, idyllic areas with trendy restaurants, sheltered walkways, and a romantic atmosphere to stay in.
1. South Island, New Zealand
Our last place is not only a region but the whole southern island of New Zealand. The landscape is breathtaking, and there are many different activities for vacationers. For example, there is a 33.5-mile hike that only 90 people can take part in.
It is considered the best hike in the world and leads along Milford Sound, over Lake Te Anau, several hanging bridges, the highest waterfall in New Zealand, and much more.