top 10 best countries to visit

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

The best countries in the world: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Nicholas DeRenzo

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

For years, we’ve asked our readers to tell us their favourite countries in the world via our annual Readers’ Choice Awards . The list continues to capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from the best hotels in the world to the top airlines, cruises, islands, and luggage. This year, you travelled farther and deeper; seeking out remote properties; sailing on smaller, more intimate ships; and prioritising destinations you’ve been waiting years to visit. At least that’s what a staggering 526,518 of you told us in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey. Now, you can use the results to decide where you’re going next. Here are the best countries in the world, as voted by Traveller readers.

All eyes will be on Paris this year, as the city prepares to host the Summer Olympics. Following the reconstruction of Notre-Dame and this year's much-publicised battle with bedbugs, the City of Light is embracing the spirit of reinvention. That means playful design hotel openings, Dominique Crenn’s first restaurant in her home country, renewed efforts to clean up the Seine (with the goal of making it swimmable, no less), and a slew of French Asian artisans and chefs shaking up the cultural scene. Well beyond the confines of the capital, there are new adventures to discover, from the low-key surf scene in Hossegor to a buzzy African-inspired restaurant in Nîmes to a wave of modernist-tinged openings in the perma-chic French Riviera. And much, much farther afield, the overseas territory of French Polynesia made our list of the 24 best places to go in 2024 . The 118-island archipelago, which is reinvesting in its native flora and restoring coral, will play host to the Olympic surfing competitions this year.

18. Sri Lanka

This South Asian nation packs a wallop into a single teardrop-shaped island only slightly larger than the state of West Virginia: Think high-elevation tea plantations that are eye-vibratingly green, national parks where sloth bears and endangered elephants roam, and friendly surf towns that, if you squint, might remind you of Costa Rica or Nicaragua some decades years ago. (May we suggest Ahangama, with its indie-music venues, locavore cafés, and eco-boutiques?) And then there’s the capital city of Colombo, where you can shop for local spices, fly kites along the waterfront, or even charter a yacht. As Sri Lanka has worked in recent years to secure its spot as a global tourism contender, it has faced quite a few challenges, from the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings to the pandemic. Now, it’s looking to regain the trust of visitors with its trademark hospitality and warm nature – not to mention an ever-expanding roster of new hotels and resorts.

17. Austria

Vienna has long been a favourite stop on European grand tours, but despite the city’s Hapsburg-era pomp and splendour, it’s far from a dusty museum piece. Leaders recently announced plans to be carbon neutral by 2040, led by a hyperlocal culinary scene that has welcomed such innovations as a city snail farm and an urban collective that uses grounds from the city’s famed coffee house scene to grow mushrooms. Outside the capital, visitors still flock to alpine ski villages and jewel-box-like Salzburg, but other destinations are bubbling to the surface. Making our Hot List recently is The Cōmodo , an artfully repurposed 1960s health resort on the edge of the country’s largest national park in the mountain village of Bad Gastein. And, this year, the country celebrated its third European Capital of Culture – following Graz in 2003 and Linz in 2009 – the spa town of Bad Ischl, where the healing salt waters have been attracting royalty and other elites since the early 1800s.

16. South Africa

South Africa has always been a favourite first stop on the continent for international travellers, and it’s becoming increasingly accessible thanks to new direct routes. But even if you’ve visited before, you might not recognise the place: joining the illustrious ranks of the country’s famed safari resorts and wineries are a slew of new openings, including a revitalised weekend market in Johannesburg and buzzy beach clubs in the heart of Cape Town. Beyond the wildlife watching that has made South Africa a favourite destination for generations of safari-goers, new adventures await around every corner: Take lessons with the country’s first Black African free-diving instructor, the mermaid-esque Zandile Ndhlovu ; retrace Viola Davis’s footsteps in the filming locations from The Woman King (South Africa stood in for the former West African Kingdom of Dahomey); or collaborate on your own bespoke African-print bomber jacket with local Joburg fashion designer Sebo Marobela.

15. United Kingdom

Thanks to Brexit and a new monarch, it’s safe to say that the United Kingdom hasn’t seen such an intense period of transition since perhaps the Margaret Thatcher era. But despite the changes, most of the things we all know and love about the country are still intact, such as London’s dazzlingly diverse restaurant scene and its wide array of free museums (the National Portrait Gallery reopened its doors last summer after a three-year renovation). History is always being reimagined and remixed in these parts: take, for instance, the landmark Old War Office, which has been transformed into Raffles London at The OWO , or the renovated 1511 Thornbury Castle, where you can now make like a Tudor-era noble and book an overnight stay. Up in the north of England, Yorkshire made it onto our list of the best places to go in 2024, thanks to its emerging culinary scene, and adventures await beyond the borders of England as well – foraging for mushrooms in Wales , tapping into maritime history in Northern Ireland, or hopping between swimmable tidal pools on the coast of Scotland.

14. Germany

With its fairytale castles , charming small towns , and festive Christmas markets , Germany has always loomed large as a tourist magnet, whether you’re exploring it by train, river cruise, or road trip. While the country may seem tradition-bound, it’s also not afraid of trying something new, which might mean immersive art shows taking over unexpected spaces in Berlin or a $120 million, high-tech medi-spa opening in the pastoral North Frisian Islands. There are new contemporary-art-filled places to stay, buzzy neighbourhoods (like Munich’s meatpacking district, Schlachthofviertel), and even an expanding fleet of ultra-eco-friendly, hydrogen-powered passenger trains that emit only steam and condensed water. Of course, the classics are just as beautiful as they’ve always been: when, for instance, you enjoy the healing thermal springs of Baden-Baden , you’re taking part in a millennia-old tourist tradition that dates back to the pre-Roman Celts.

13. Croatia

The secret’s out: this Balkan country may have been off-the-beaten path a decade or so ago, but it’s rapidly gaining in popularity, thanks to increased direct flights, an influx of cruises, and especially the popularity of Game of Thrones . Croatia is feeling the growing pains of its success, with spots like Dubrovnik and Split becoming every bit as overtouristed as Venice or Amsterdam, but there are plenty of areas around the country that reward exploration: dining at family-farm restaurants and sampling local olive oil in Istria , zipping around by speedboat off the coastline of Trogir, road-tripping through vineyards and oyster farms on the Dalmatian Coast, or sailing among the restful Kornati Islands, which are dotted with oak forests, centuries-old churches, and fortified villages. The result? What local Dalmatians call fjaka – that sweet feeling of doing absolutely nothing.

12. Iceland

Long celebrated as a rugged adventure outpost, Iceland is the kind of edge-of-the-world place where your trip just might be interrupted or postponed by a volcanic eruption or mini-earthquakes – but is worth the wait. These days, urban life is just as alive and exciting as the geothermal activity bubbling underground: Think pilgrimage-worthy restaurants (like Ox, a speakeasy-style tasting-menu spot), see-and-be-seen design hotels (The Reykjavík Edition), and a robust roster of new natural wine bars, cocktail lounges, and innovative food halls.

As the Golden Circle becomes increasingly crowded with international visitors taking advantage of IcelandAir’s “stopover” program, the country is gently nudging travellers off the beaten path. The relatively new Diamond Circle, for instance, weaves a 155-mile loop through northeastern Iceland, stopping at waterfalls, mud pits, lava caves, and hot springs . And in 2023, the fan-favourite Blue Lagoon – which boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant of its own, Moss – expanded its footprint with the new Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll, a cosy retreat in a part of the country’s rugged interior that’s so remote even many Icelanders haven’t stepped foot there.

11. Australia

We’ll never stop loving Sydney and Melbourne and the Great Barrier Reef, but the overarching theme for Aussie tourism in the past few years has been a resounding: “But there’s so much more out there!” There’s almost a passing of the baton going on among the country’s creative-minded cities: way out west, Perth enjoyed its status as the country’s fast-growing boomtown, followed by Hobart, Tasmania, which welcomed a game-changing art museum and design hotel. Ready for its big close-up is Queensland’s oft-ignored capital city of Brisbane, which is newly accessible thanks to direct routes from the United States and will see such skyline-transforming additions as the Queen’s Wharf entertainment precinct (with a six-star Rosewood) and a $100-million performing arts venue. And when the first World’s 50 Best Hotels list was released back in September, Brisbane’s modernist-tinged The Calile ranked the highest in the region. On the exact opposite side of the country, Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region made our list of the world’s best places to go in 2024, thanks to increased cruise itineraries to the area and the newly launched Aboriginal Cultural Expedition.

Istanbul has always sat at the crossroads of the world, where the thin ribbon of the Bosphorus divides Asia from Europe, and East from West. It's taken its position to new heights with a game-changing international airport that opened in 2019 and gained fandom among our readers for its modern design and impressive duty-free shopping zone. Returning visitors will find all the things they love about Istanbul still intact, from its minaret-filled skyline to its thrilling food scene, but there are plenty of fresh offerings, including a burgeoning contemporary gallery scene in artsy Karaköy . Farther afield, the Turquoise Coast attracts jet setters with its traditional hammams and party-centric resorts alike, while the surrounding Aegean region has seen an explosion of modern wineries amid its ancient ruins. And speaking of antiquity, there’s a brand new (yet very old) reason to head out east into Anatolia: In 2021, UNESCO inscribed the 8,000-year-old Arslantepe Mound on its list of World Heritage Sites.

9. Switzerland

With its cow-studded green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and glitzy ski resorts, Switzerland is the kind of place that most people think they know. But this country in the heart of Europe is worth another look. Take, for instance, its notoriously expensive largest city, Zürich , which never seems to get enough credit for its progressive outlook, oft-overlooked art and music scenes, and a skyline shaped by staggeringly diverse architectural voices, including Le Corbusier, Santiago Calatrava, and Shigeru Ban. Its Alpine ski towns, with big names like Verbier, Davos, and Zermatt , meanwhile, are expanding their offerings beyond the snow season: The Engadin Valley, home to St. Moritz, has become a warm-weather hot spot, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, electric mountain bikes for rent, and all manner of adventure sports, including paragliding, kitesurfing, and even class-4 whitewater-rapids rafting through Giarsun Gorge. But, of course, the classics still sing. After tackling the country’s rugged terrain, you’ve earned a stay in the new Mandarin Oriental Palace, Luzern, a stunningly remade Belle Epoque grande-dame hotel originally opened in 1906.

Oslo has spent the past several years getting out of the shadow of its grander Scandinavian peers, like Stockholm and Copenhagen, with attention-grabbing openings like the Sommerro Hotel and the new National Museum and buzzy districts like harbour-side Bjørvika, home to the new Munch Museum. But the capital city is a mere gateway for exploring the country and its fjord-filled coastline – recently recalculated as the second-longest in the world after Canada. This year, a must-visit stop is Bodø, the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle, which will see a lineup of cultural events celebrating Sámi culture and the opening of a new hotel made almost entirely out of wood. For the best way to get around these parts, you can’t beat Hurtigruten, a historic coastal ferry company that also doubles as a pleasure cruise line, a cargo vessel, a mail ship, and an expedition outfitter. The beloved institution celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2023 by partnering with renowned Norwegian chefs like Halvar Ellingsen for boundary-pushing onboard menus (think reindeer tartar and elk bone marrow) and introducing new itineraries to Svalbard and the North Cape.

7. Portugal

This Iberian Peninsula country has spent the past decade transforming from a budget-minded underdog destination to a major player that can rival the likes of Spain and Italy. From the start, even as it suffered under a forty-year authoritarian regime and a flailing economy, Portugal was brimming with delights that bordered on sensory overload: the intricate blue-and-white patterns of azulejo tiles, the intoxicating aroma of oven-fresh pastéis de nata, the mournful chords of live fado music, the bracing chill of a crisp vinho verde or the nectary sweetness of a port. With its jaunty yellow trams and hilltop São Jorge Castle, Lisbon is an easy-to-adore starting point for first-timers, but an increasing number of direct flights to Porto are inviting travellers to explore the second city’s contemporary cultural scene and must-try restaurants. And then? Portugal rewards repeat visitors with a choose-your-own-adventure that might include the terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley, the underrated wineries and burgeoning beach towns of the Alentejo region, the surfer havens of the Algarve , and the absurdly scenic hamlets scattered throughout. Now, thanks to new direct flights from the US, even the Hawaii-like volcanic landscapes of the Azores are right at your fingertips.

When the World’s 50 Best Bars list was announced earlier this year, the top spot went to an innovative Barcelona cocktail lounge called Sips, and it shared the top five with fellow Barcelona speakeasy Paradiso, which is hidden inside a pastrami shop in the trendy El Born district. If you’ve spent any time in the country, especially after nightfall, you probably already know this obvious fact: the Spanish know how to party, and they love to do it in style, from the sherry and flamenco bars of Andalusia to the beach clubs of bohemian Formentera to the tapas bars of Barcelona . In an ironic twist, some of the country’s most notoriously party-hardy spots are moving in the opposite direction, shedding their reputations for debauchery to become serious cultural hubs. A new generation of creatives in Mallorca, for instance, are getting back to the land, with homey design hotels and natural wineries, while a host of boutique hotels and Michelin-star restaurants in Marbella is enticing visitors to explore beyond the (admittedly gorgeous) beachfront and into the previously underrated Old Town.

5. New Zealand

Ever since Peter Jackson cast his home country as Middle-earth in the Lord of the Rings film franchise, visitors have viewed this island nation as a place of almost mythical beauty, from the crystalline mountains lakes and sweeping fjords to misty rainforests and geothermal valleys. Culturally diverse Auckland remains the most popular point of entry for international travelers, but new lodges and trails are making it easier than ever before to venture far out into the country’s vast wilderness. Among the most dazzling openings in recent years is Flockhill Lodge, a 36,000-acre high-country sheep station in the Southern Alps that now doubles as an ultra-luxe retreat, while other properties are finding clever ways to honour the land (such as regenerative farming) and especially the country’s Māori heritage. And for something wildly unique, consider a flight on the world’s first winery airline, Invivo Air, which flies between Auckland and Queenstown and includes an eight-step wine tasting at 18,000 feet.

For American travellers, Ireland has always felt a bit like an old cardigan: cosy, easy, and comfortable – the kind of place you can take multiple generations of family members to trace your genealogical roots or to scope out centuries-old castles and fireplace-warmed pubs. But there’s also a decidedly youthful wind whipping across the Emerald Isle. The capital city is emerging as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking tech hubs, nicknamed Silicon Docks for the prevalence of tech giants and startups headquartered along the Grand Canal Dock. This infusion of big thinkers (with big wallets) has blown the dust off the island’s traditionalist culture. Now, in addition to crossing Trinity College’s Long Room off your bucket list, you might also find yourself foraging for nettles and pears with Takingaleaf founder Miceal Murray or sipping whiskey at Teeling, the first new distillery to open within the city in more than 125 years. Beyond the capital, Ireland is dotted with remote hotels and Airbnbs that allow you to spend the night everywhere from an island lighthouse in County May to a Scandi-chic cabin in County Monaghan. And if you’re in the mood for something farther afield, it doesn’t get much more rugged than the Aran Islands, the filming location and inspiration for The Banshees of Inisherin .

Greece is attracting record-breaking tourist numbers, and the crystal Aegean waters are beckoning us back to some of your favourite islands in the world : postcard-perfect Santorini , mythology-steeped Mykonos , and massive Crete , with its reemerging viticultural scene. That roster of dreamy islands is ever-expanding, with more and more visitors venturing out to under-the-radar Paros , car-free Hydra , blissfully secluded Zakynthos, beach-filled Ios, and wild, windswept Tinos . And be sure not to ignore Athens. As it rebuilt itself after a paralysing debt crisis, the ancient city leaned into a scrappy, creative energy that has yielded forward-thinking restaurants, avant-garde galleries, and hip hotels that rank Athens among Europe’s unexpectedly coolest capitals. And for those really looking for an adventure – albeit a slow one – consider a journey into Zagorohoria, a collection of 46 traditional stone villages scattered around the Pindus Mountains in Greece’s rugged northwest. Here, you’re likelier to encounter truffle hunters, bubbling hot springs, and monasteries with Orthodox frescoes than sun-seeking partiers.

As Stanley Tucci ’s popular CNN travelogue proved, there aren’t enough days in the year to uncover all the dolce vita that Italy has to offer. Beyond the hotspots in Florence , Venice , Milan , and Rome , the country is blessed with seemingly infinite villages and underrated cities to explore and fall in love with. Palermo ’s stunningly restored Villa Igiea , for instance, brought the glitterati back to Sicily, which is still riding high off its role in HBO’s The White Lotus , while Bergamo and Brescia – two former rivals who were epicentres of the early pandemic – put aside their differences to jointly hold the title of 2023 Italian Capital of Culture. Of course, one of Italy’s enduring legacies is its world-renowned cuisine, which the government has officially nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. And you don’t have to look far to see what all the fuss is about: Italy is a food lover’s paradise, where you can immerse yourself in the millennia-old Jewish cuisine of Rome, take part in a transformative cooking class in Tuscany, or try something completely new-to-you (like torta al testo ) in landlocked Umbria.

Japan was dealt a bad hand, when its turn at the Summer Olympics fell during an international pandemic. And though they were much-delayed, the Games reminded viewers worldwide what they loved – and missed – about the island nation: the traditions, the design culture, the futuristic innovation. Now that the country has reopened for visa-free tourism, you’ll still find the incredible restaurants, the ultra-relaxing onsens, the Shinto temples, the cherry blossoms, and the impeccably clean and efficient high-speed trains, which run along some of the most scenic rail routes in the world. But there’s always something new popping up in this whizz-bang nation of the future. A buzzy gin scene? Sure. A hilltop castle from 1599 where you can book overnight stays? Check. Oh yeah, new galleries and exhibits on Naoshima Island, ultra-stylish glamping resorts, and a growing roster of sushi bars helmed by female chefs are still a major rarity in this tradition-bound country. And now there are fantastic excuses to venture far out to the country’s extreme north and south: New UNESCO World Heritage designees include the Jomon Prehistoric Sites in the north and a chain of islands in the archipelago’s southwestern stretches that are entirely uninhabited by humans and filled with endangered species.

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

Aug 17, 2015 • 6 min read

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

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

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

1. Temples of Angkor, Cambodia

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

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

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

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

4. Great Wall of China

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

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

5. Taj Mahal, India

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

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

6. Grand Canyon National Park, USA

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

7. Colosseum, Italy

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

8. Iguazú Falls, Brazil-Argentina

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

9. Alhambra, Spain

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

10. Aya Sofya, Turkey

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

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

Explore related stories

Jun 27, 2024 • 11 min read

Uncover the many-layered history of this city that famously bridges Europe and Asia. Here are the top things to see and do when you visit Istanbul.

Jun 21, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Jun 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Jun 3, 2024 • 8 min read

May 31, 2024 • 6 min read

May 17, 2024 • 14 min read

May 15, 2024 • 7 min read

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Travel Babbo

A Family Travel Blog

The Best Countries to Visit (Our 20 Favorite Countries Ranked)

By Eric Stoen on May 13, 2020 • Last Updated May 23, 2024 This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Disclosure here .

Rating Every Country We’ve Traveled To

During the COVID-19 shutdown we were at home and looking for ways to stay entertained, so I asked my wife and kids to rate every country they’ve been to from 1 to 10. I added in my votes and ranked every country that had at least two votes. The goal: come up with a list of the best countries to visit, at least from our experience.

Everyone could vote based on any criteria. In general the ratings were consistent from person to person, but there were some definite outliers – places where one person remembered things differently than the others. In a family of five, you can’t always keep everyone happy. We had some fun discussions when people disagreed!

Our Top 20 Countries (the 20 Best Countries to Visit)

In order to give you family travel ideas, here are our top 20 countries to travel to. Keep in mind that at the time we created this list our girls were 10 and 14 and our son was 12, and they had been to 62 countries. We split our travels between cities and nature and add in frequent cultural activities and cooking classes. We don’t go to a lot of museums or concentrate on history. Likewise we don’t spend full days at the beach or shopping.

Five continents are represented in our top 20. Australia came in at number 21, and our top African country is the Seychelles at 29.

Note that I’m including the average score after every destination.

20. The Netherlands (7.3)

Favorite Places: Amsterdam, the Keukenhof Gardens and the tulip fields throughout the country in the spring.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Amsterdam is usually a 1-2 day layover for us. We love the city but I’ve never written about it.

19. Chile (7.4)

Favorite Places: Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and Easter Island. Santiago is fun for a day or two as well.

Relevant Blog Posts: Spring Break in Patagonia | Chile’s Atacama Desert with Kids | Easter Island with a 6-Year-Old

15 (tie). Antarctica (7.5)

Favorite Places: Antarctica isn’t, strictly speaking, a country, but it’s an amazing place to visit with or without kids. We’ve taken our kids at 8 and 12 and loved everything about it.

Relevant Blog Posts: Antarctica with an 8-Year-Old ; Adventures By Disney Antarctica: A Magical Expedition ; An Antarctica Packing List

15 (tie). Indonesia (7.5)

Favorite Places: Indonesia is mainly about Bali for us, since my daughters love the island, but Borobudur is amazing as well. We want to keep exploring.

Relevant Blog Posts: Bali with Kids | How to Visit Borobudur

15 (tie). Norway (7.5)

Favorite Places: We love Oslo and Bergen, especially in the summer, and the Norway in a Nutshell tour is a great way to travel between them. The fjords are gorgeous as well, and Tromsø in the arctic circle is a good way to experience the midnight sun.

Relevant Blog Post: Oslo with Kids . Most of my Norwegian travels were pre-kids and I haven’t written about them.

15 (tie). Sweden (7.5)

Favorite Places: Stockholm and Gothenburg are both great cities to explore for a few days, but we love the coastal towns and the forests of Central Sweden.

Relevant Blog Posts: Exploring the Magical Forests of Central Sweden | The Icebug Xperience West Coast Trail

14. Turkey (7.6)

Favorite Places: Istanbul and Cappadocia. And we loved our day on a gulet near Bodrum.

Relevant Blog Posts: Istanbul with Kids | An Amazing Trip to Cappadocia with Kids | Bodrum with Kids

13. Switzerland (7.7)

Favorite Places: My wife and I have traveled all over Switzerland pre-marriage and loved all of the small towns – places like Interlaken, Crans-Montana and Luzern – and I recently hiked and biked from Engelberg to Interlaken. With the kids we’ve only explored Zurich on layovers and Lake Lugano on a day trip from Como. Definitely one of the best countries to visit – we just need to plan more Swiss trips with the kids.

Relevant Blog Post: Hiking in Switzerland: Engelberg to Interlaken

12. The Maldives (7.8)

Favorite Places: Six Senses Laamu in the Laamu Atoll.

Relevant Blog Posts: Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives: Our New Favorite Resort Anywhere | A Return to Paradise

11. Canada (7.9)

Favorite Places: Vancouver, Banff and Winnipeg and the surrounding areas. Victoria on Vancouver Island is fun as well.

Relevant Blog Post: Manitoba, Canada with Kids . All of our other Canada trips were before I started writing about our travels.

10. Croatia (8.0)

Favorite Places: Zagreb and Plitvice National Park. We still need to get to Krka National Park and Dubrovnik.

Relevant Blog Posts: Croatia With Kids: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes

9. Brazil (8.3)

Favorite Places: The Amazon Rainforest and the Rio Negro. Manaus is worth a day or two as well. We haven’t been to Rio yet.

Relevant Blog Posts: The Amazon Rainforest with Kids: A Magical (Unplugged) Expedition

7 (tie). Laos (8.5)

Favorite Places: We’ve only been to Luang Prabang and loved it. We need to explore the rest of the country.

Relevant Blog Post: Asia with Kids: A Crazy Three-Week, Six-Country Itinerary

7 (tie). Japan (8.5)

Favorite Places: Tokyo, Kyoto, Naoshima Island and Hiroshima

Relevant Blog Posts: Kyoto to Hiroshima, a 10-Day Journey | 10 Places Not to Miss in Tokyo | Tokyo with Kids Made Easy | Kyoto with Kids | Hokkaido: Adventure in Northern Japan

6. Portugal (8.7)

Favorite Places: Lisbon, Cascais and Sintra. Still haven’t visited Porto or the Douro Valley.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. Definitely one of the best countries to travel to, but our trips have largely been focused around weddings.

5. New Zealand (8.8)

Favorite Places: The South Island. We’ve explored it far more than the North Island, even though we’ve visited Auckland several times.

Relevant Blog Posts: None. We need to go back and see more, and I’ll write about it next time!

3 (tie). Faroe Islands (9.0)

Favorite Places: Torshavn, Tjørnuvik, Saksun, Gjógv, Mykines

Relevant Blog Post: An Amazing Week in the Faroe Islands (with Kids)

3 (tie). France (9.0)

Favorite Places: Paris, Provence

Relevant Blog Posts: The Best Things to Do in Paris with Kids | Tips for Visiting Paris on a Budget | 10 Tips for a Perfect Family Vacation in Paris

2. Italy (9.1)

Favorite Places: Florence, the Dolomites, Venice, Cortona, Cinque Terre, Rome, Lake Como, Ravenna, San Gimignano

Relevant Blog Posts: Florence with Kids: What to Do and Where to Stay | Our Favorite Restaurants in Florence | How to Visit Cinque Terre | Positano Italy (and the Amalfi Coast) | Why You Should Never Do a Day Trip to Florence or Rome | A Week in Florence without Kids | A Perfect Trip to Florence with Kids | Venice in High Season with Kids | Italy Unplugged: A Week in Emilia Romagna | Hiking the Via Francigena Through Tuscany | Kid-Friendly Adventure in Trentino’s Stunning Val di Fassa | Adventures with Kids in the Dolomites: Trentino’s Val di Fiemme | Two Weeks on Lake Como with Kids | A Villa in Tuscany for a Month

1. Greece (9.8)

Favorite Places: Naxos, Paros, Santorini (or pretty much any Greek island in the summer, unless it sees a lot of cruise ships)

Relevant Blog Posts: Naxos Greece: Our Favorite Island | Three Weeks on the Greek Island of Naxos with Kids | A Day Trip from Naxos to Santorini | Paros Greece with Kids

The Best Countries to Visit: Your Turn

What are the best countries to visit from your family’s experience? Do you agree/disagree with our ranking? Would love to hear your thoughts on the best countries to travel to in the comments below.

And I should note that a lot of people are finding this post when Googling “coolest countries to visit”. So I did a separate post on the coolest countries .

Travel Insurance and Credit Cards

We never used to travel with travel health coverage, or even trip cancellation insurance, but we regretted that when my wife broke her knee traveling recently. I write about it here . I highly recommend purchasing insurance – either on an annual basis if you travel a lot, or for individual trips. We went with G1G based on price and what they offer.

And if you don’t have a credit card that earns you miles/points with every purchase, get one! We’ve traveled to a lot of the countries above for free by redeeming miles for tickets. My favorite cards right now are HERE . I highly recommend getting one without foreign transaction fees .

More from Travel Babbo

May 14, 2020 at 11:13 am

This is such an inspiring list! I can’t wait to do some rankings with the kids. Our plans to spend a month in Greece this summer (inspired by your article on Naxos) have been derailed, but seeing it as number one on your list validates our decision to reschedule it as our long trip next summer.

May 14, 2020 at 11:16 am

Our June Naxos plans fell through, but we’re still optimistic about August – if they’ll let Americans in and if the airlines are flying, we’ll be there.

May 16, 2020 at 12:01 am

You have been to some amazing places. Interesting that Europe has scored so highly with all the family.

May 18, 2020 at 8:00 am

We’ve traveled to Europe the most, so maybe there’s a sense of familiarity and comfort, especially for the kids? If I was doing my own ranking there are a lot of non-European countries that would be in the top 20, including Ecuador, India and Tanzania.

November 15, 2020 at 9:06 am

Ecuador is the only country my kids have traveled to and we loved it!

May 17, 2020 at 5:38 pm

No. 1. Jordan. We all had a magnificent time there. Small Country so easy to see everything but every day was something different and a different period of history.

2. Grand Cayman. 7 mile beach is just gorgeous. Easy to get to and clean and friendly.

We had a disaster of a trip to Italy but I’d go back to Venice in a heartbeat.

May 18, 2020 at 7:57 am

I’ve only spent one day in Jordan, in Petra, but it’s at the top of my list to return to.

We haven’t been to Grand Cayman, simply because the Caribbean can be a hassle to reach from California. It’s easier to get to Fiji than Grand Cayman. But I’ll add it to our list!

May 22, 2020 at 2:37 pm

Great list, and so many places I need to visit! I’ll add the Czech Republic, in particular Prague, to the discussion. I love Prague for all of its magical architecture and the ability to walk everywhere. And, so many great little outdoor cafes either right in the center of town or along the canal.

May 22, 2020 at 2:40 pm

Thanks Megan! The Czech Republic actually finished towards the bottom of our list, but for the kids at least that was based solely on one August visit when Prague was very crowded. I think they would like it better if we were to return in the spring or fall. It’s an amazing city, just not fun with too many people. And I want to explore a lot more of the country as well.

May 23, 2020 at 4:58 pm

I absolutely love reading your blogs and post. Thank you. Though my kids are older now, we did go ‘round the world’ with them, with partners and a grandson in 2018. Tokyo to Porto then a week on a small (36 passengers) boat from Dubrovnik to Split, on to BC in Canada then a relax in Santa Monica before home. Every place held something special and was so different to the next. I would say the highlight for us all was Canada- we stayed in a small town called Smithers and the the younger ones did extreme mountain bike riding, fishing, hiking, shooting at the gun range and drives to nearby First Nation sites. Unbelievable. I loved it so much I went back in 2019 and did 5 weeks Canada/Alaska which was out of this world.

May 25, 2020 at 1:04 pm

Thanks Joanne! Your trip sounds amazing – a lot of our favorite places. We still haven’t been to Porto though. And we would love to explore Canada more. I’ll add Smithers to our list.

May 29, 2020 at 3:54 am

Great places.

How wonderful for the children. We are slow budget family travellers and often find ourselves saying that we want our kids to have places to discover on their own. Travelling as a family is truly wonderful and we love it. Maybe it will be the highlight of our lives as parents. Yet, as they get older we find ourselves thinking more of solo or exchange trips for them alone that doesn’t include us plus trips for just the two of us that don’t include them. Like much of parenting it is a tough call…

June 20, 2020 at 12:31 am

Pretty amazed that Greece beat out Italy (and by a large margin) given your love of Florence. What happened to Spain?

June 20, 2020 at 2:59 pm

Spain is roughly halfway down our list. The kids have only been 3 times, and only for a day or two each time.

September 5, 2020 at 10:03 am

You have missed cape Town as other interesting place to visit.

September 6, 2020 at 7:30 pm

1) I love Cape Town. 2) Cape Town is not a country. 3) We have not taken our kids to South Africa so it was not included in our voting.

June 1, 2023 at 12:13 pm

So far, South Africa, Israel and Switzerland have been my favs. Israel is so impactful, obviously, for different reasons. Costa Rica is pretty nice. The U.S. is up there if you think in terms of Kawaii, Hawaii and parts of CA, OR, WA. Austria was great. England was was as well. France nice, but overall, I would put South Africa at the top of the list of all the places we have visited.

November 28, 2020 at 9:26 am

Pointers for Switzerland travel from US for perhaps one full week in the country? Note: We are rather healthy but in our late 60’s. Love your blog and robust sense of adventure and open minds regarding diverse cultures!

November 29, 2020 at 2:26 pm

Hi Scott. I asked my friend Kate in Zurich for suggestions, since she knows Switzerland far better than I do.

Her thoughts: For a week in Switzerland I would suggest taking the train as it’s so easy, safe, and convenient. Plus, you get to see the Swiss landscapes the whole time. Spend a day exploring old town Zürich, the next day take the train to Luzern and explore it overnight. The rest of the week take the train to Lauterbrunnen and spend a few days exploring the beautiful hiking and waterfalls, sleeping in either Wengen, Grindelwald, or Mürren. If there’s extra time, visit Rhinefalls and the cute historic town of Stein am Rhine.

December 4, 2020 at 9:28 am

Have you visited mexico? Was expecting mexico on the list…..I’ve never been there though

December 4, 2020 at 9:43 am

Mexico was halfway down our list. We love San Miguel de Allende, I’m a huge fan of Mexico City, and my wife has a lot of family history in Mexico. But we’ve spent too much time in touristy, less-interesting areas like Los Cabos, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. We need to explore more of real Mexico.

June 1, 2021 at 7:25 am

You should visit Oaxaca and Chiapas…..amazing places

June 1, 2021 at 7:58 am

Of course! On our list.

January 27, 2021 at 4:27 pm

I’ve enjoyed perusing your lists! Since the majority of us aren’t doing much travel these days, our travel group likes to reminisce about our past travel adventures. You’ve done a country list and city list. Next up, consider a favorite experience/activity while traveling. Here’s our top 10 experiences: 1) Safari in the Serengeti & Ngorogoro Crater 2) Antarctica cruise 3) Amazon River cruise and live aboard 4) Diving and snorkeling in Palawan, Philippines 5) Live aboard and diving on the Great Barrier Reef 6) Great White Shark cage diving in Cape Town 7) Visiting Skellig Michael Island in Ireland 8) Southern Alps plane tour in New Zealand 9) Ziplining in Costa Rica 10) Spending the night in a treehouse in Sri Lanka

I would love to hear what you and your family’s top experiences have been. Gives others great ideas for future travel too.

Aloha, Bonnie

January 27, 2021 at 4:55 pm

Thanks Bonnie! I did a post back in 2016 with our favorite activities ( https://travelbabbo.com/ten-cool-kid-friendly-activities/ ) but it could definitely be time to update that with more recent things. I was thinking about having the kids rate hotels too.

May 24, 2021 at 12:21 pm

I have a soon to be 7yo & 2yo, we are trying to decide on where to go next year as a little family holiday and I am determined to take us somewhere that is more than just playing by the pool and beach. This list has given me more destinations to add to the TTT list. I am stuck between Croatia and Naxos in Greece to start off with as they both look amazing!

May 24, 2021 at 12:45 pm

Great! Both Croatia and Greece would make excellent destinations. Naxos will definitely have more beach/pool time, Croatia would be a little more culture and nature.

May 24, 2021 at 6:47 pm

My first thought is, will you adopt me. WOW your kids are lucky and I am sure so well educated. I was happy to see Portugal on your list. A kinda unknown, great value hidden treasure of Europe. And I gotta say, I love the southern coast of Spain. Your list was really fun to read and some never entered my mind and to be honest, one I have to look up as I have no idea where it is. I am excited to see what is coming from you and your family as being retired, it is time to get back to traveling. If you could note somewhere how the traveling would be for senior single female it would be great. Many years ago, I traveled to Isreal and Greece alone (not a senior back then), but I loved it.

May 25, 2021 at 9:40 am

Thanks Tracy! I’m glad you’re inspired! And I definitely need to explore southern Spain more.

I am unable to write about travel from a senior single female perspective as I am none of those, and I only blog from personal experience. There are so many good travel blogs though – if you search around you should be able to find someone who matches you and your travel style perfectly.

June 5, 2021 at 9:03 am

I vote for this location as NUMBER ONE ! ! Without a doubt ……

The Amalfi coast in Italy ! ! ! the most beautiful… people, hotels, food views, …… on and on ! ! !

June 16, 2021 at 8:44 am

Great list! Just a note, it’s Vancouver Island in Canada, not Victoria Island 🙂

June 16, 2021 at 10:37 am

Thank you so much! Change made!

July 23, 2021 at 9:36 am

Nice Post Eric! I am afraid to travel alone and you travel with kids. Hats off to you. Maybe some day I will also travel like you. Great Post Man.

Please visit India some day.

July 23, 2021 at 9:41 am

I have visited India many times, both with and without kids. One of my favorite countries!

February 7, 2022 at 8:44 am

Taiwan is definitely the best. I bet the only reason it’s not here is because they didn’t go. I recommend it!

February 7, 2022 at 9:13 am

We’ve been to Taiwan – you could have done a search for Taiwan on this website, or gone to my About Me page , to verify that. It finished roughly halfway down our rankings. Would love to return.

March 3, 2022 at 8:49 am

Love this list. Having traveled and lived abroad we are excited to return to travel overseas soon with our 9-year old daughter. Having lived in Estonia for four years, I highly recommend it. Very found memories of the people, land and sauna culture as well as the best intact historic city IMHO in Europe without the crowds. Even more memorable at Christmas time as the best uncrowded Christmas market we’ve been to. (birthplace of the Christmas tree as well as Riga, Latvia’s claim to fame). Thanks for your blog.

March 3, 2022 at 12:03 pm

I love Estonia! I’ve traveled around Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania several times, but before the kids were born. Would love to take them.

August 21, 2022 at 10:29 pm

Great list. Italy, Greece, France, Spain and Turkey are my favorites in Europe. Jordan and Israel were also fascinating.

Belize, Costa Rica, Mexico and Ecuador in the Americas.

Botswana, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya in Africa.

Australia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Palau and Japan in Asia/Oceania.

Still high on bucket list: New Zealand, Morocco, Egypt, Portugal, Croatia and Peru. So many places. So little time.

November 7, 2022 at 9:34 pm

“Sad that a beautiful country like INDIA is not in the list” . Especially when Taj Mahal is in seven wonders of world. Rajasthan mighty forts and rich culture. Gold beaches of Goa . Keralas back waters and greenery, Tibet and Kashmir mountains . Thousands of years old temples in Tamilnadu.

November 8, 2022 at 9:44 am

This is a very strange comment. Have you not looked through my website? Have you seen all of the India photos I’ve posted to Instagram? This specific post is based on family voting, and only one of my kids has been to India. But India, and Rajasthan in particular, is one of my favorite places in the world and I have said that many, many times.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Newsletter Signup

Sign up to receive email updates and to hear what’s going on with Travel Babbo!

Privacy Overview

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?

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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 .

More on Arizona

• Visa Application Helpline

Subscribe to our newsletter

Learn how to live a sustainable long-term travel lifestyle.

By signing up, you agree to the our terms and our Privacy Policy agreement.

Top 27 Places to visit in Darjeeling, Explore the Beautiful Hills of Darjeeling

Top 10 things to do when traveling to shimla: shimla travel guide, the ultimate paris travel guidelines for first timers | top attractions & things to do.

Top 25 Best Countries to Visit: Your Ultimate Travel Destination Guide

Exploring different countries is super exciting, especially if you love travel and adventures. Each country has its own special things to offer: cool cultures, amazing nature, awesome buildings, interesting history, and, of course, delicious food!

If you want to discover a new place, this list of the top 25 Best Countries to Visit in the World is perfect for you to start your journey. From awesome places in Europe like Italy and Greece to fantastic spots in Asia like Vietnam, India, and Malaysia , this list has something great from every part of the world.

Get ready to explore because the world is waiting for you!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Top 25 Best Countries to Visit

1. italy: the artistic jewel of europe.

The first on this list of best countries to visit , is Italy, the Artistic Jewel of Europe, a timeless masterpiece that beckons you with its rich history and cultural treasures. This European gem has something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to history buffs, making it a must-visit destination.

You must visit Italy at least once because it offers you an unparalleled blend of history, art, and culture to explore. Its cities, from Rome to Venice, offer a unique blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and culinary delights, making it a captivating destination for all.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Italy: Don’t miss iconic sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. You can explore the Uffizi Gallery, marvel at Milan’s Duomo, and wander through Pompeii’s ancient streets.

Best Time to Visit in Italy: For the best experience, you should plan a visit during spring or autumn. During these seasons, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing and savoring the stunning landscapes!

Best Food You Must Try in Italy: You must indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, from pasta and pizza to gelato and espresso. Explore regional specialties like Neapolitan pizza, fresh seafood on the Amalfi Coast, and rich risotto in Milan, for a true taste of Italy’s culinary diversity. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

2. Germany: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition

The second one of the best countries to visit on this list is Germany, a European treasure that offers you a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. You must visit Germany as this is a country of rich contrasts, from the modernity of its cities to the timeless charm of its villages. It’s a land of diverse experiences, welcoming both history enthusiasts and lovers of contemporary art and culture.

Main Attractions You Must Germany: Germany boasts an array of must-see attractions. You can explore the historic streets of Berlin and Munich, visit the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, and take a step back in time to the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The beautiful landscapes of the Black Forest and Bavarian Alps are perfect for nature lovers!

Best Time to Visit Germany: You should plan your trip for late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities. The Christmas markets in December offer a unique, festive experience.

Best Food You Must Try  in Germany: Delve into German cuisine by savoring dishes like bratwurst, sauerkraut, schnitzel, and pretzels. Don’t forget to pair these hearty meals with a refreshing German beer or sample the local wines. Germany’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its landscape, and there’s something to suit every palate!

3. Turkey: Where East Meets West

The next destination on our list is Turkey, a country where the East meets the West, offering you a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

You should visit Turkey at least once because here, you get to explore a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Undoubtedly one of the best countries to visit, It’s a place where you can witness the influence of both European and Asian civilizations, making it a unique and intriguing destination.

Main Attractions You Must in Turkey : You must visit Turkey’s historical treasures, including the magnificent Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the rock-cut churches of Cappadocia, and the ancient city of Ephesus. You should also explore the stunning landscapes of Pamukkale’s terraces and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia.

Best Time to Visit Turkey: You should plan your visit during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the country. Avoid the scorching summer heat and the chilly winters.

Best Food You Must Try in Turkey: Don’t miss out on trying Turkey’s kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, and the traditional Turkish tea or coffee. Be sure to sample local street food for an authentic taste of Turkey’s culinary heritage!

4. Spain: A Fiesta for the Senses

The next destination on our list is Spain, a vibrant and passionate country known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine. You must visit Spain because it offers you a diverse range of experiences, from the historic cities of Madrid and Barcelona to the tranquil beaches of the Mediterranean.

Additionally, you can feel the fiery energy of flamenco dancing, adding an electrifying touch to your experience in this captivating country. One of the best countries to visit, in Spain, you can immerse yourself in both tradition and modernity.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Spain: Spain is teeming with iconic landmarks. You can explore the historic Alhambra in Granada, take in the surreal architecture of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, and marvel at the ancient Roman aqueduct in Segovia. Don’t forget to savor the beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol and Costa Brava.

Best Time to Visit Spain: To make the most of your Spanish adventure, consider visiting in the spring or autumn. The weather is pleasant, and the summer crowds have dispersed. It’s an excellent time for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoor activities!

Best Food You Must Try in Spain: Spanish cuisine is a gastronomic delight with savory paella, tapas, churros, and delectable seafood dishes that you must try. Be sure to pair your meals with some fine Spanish wine, such as Rioja or Cava, and experience the rich flavors of this vibrant culture through its cuisine.

5. Greece: Mythical Landscapes and Ancient History

The next one on our list of the best countries to visit in Europe is Greece- a country steeped in ancient history, surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean, and offering a captivating blend of culture and natural beauty.

You must visit gorgeous Greece and explore the land of myths and legends, where ancient ruins, such as the Acropolis in Athens and the Palace of Knossos in Crete, coexist with picturesque islands and a warm Mediterranean spirit. It’s a place where you can explore the birthplace of democracy and enjoy stunning seaside landscapes.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Greece: No trip to Greece is complete without visiting iconic sites like the Parthenon in Athens, the ancient city of Delphi, and the white-washed buildings of Santorini. You can also explore the historical treasures of Rhodes and the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora.

Best Time to Visit Greece: You should consider visiting Greece during the late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner. This provides the perfect opportunity to explore the rich history and beautiful landscapes.

Best Food You Must Try in Greece: Greek cuisine is a delight for food enthusiasts. Savor dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, Greek salad, and baklava. Don’t forget to try local specialties like fresh seafood and Greek yogurt. Pair your meals with traditional ouzo or Greek wine for an authentic taste of Greece’s culinary heritage.

6. India: A Mosaic of Cultures

The next destination on our list is India, a country that offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, from its rich history and diverse cultures to its magnificent landscapes and mouth watering cuisine.

One of the best countries to visit, India is a land of contrasts and a melting pot of traditions, where ancient temples and modern cities coexist harmoniously. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in spirituality, explore historical treasures, and savor the flavors of a cuisine that’s as diverse as the nation itself.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in India: You must explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, witness the spiritual fervor of Varanasi, and discover the historical grandeur of the forts and palaces in Rajasthan. Don’t miss the natural beauty of Kerala’s backwaters or the serene Himalayan landscapes.

Best Time to Visit India: The ideal time to visit India depends on the region you plan to explore. Generally, the post-monsoon period from October to March offers pleasant weather for most parts of the country. However, be sure to check the climate for specific regions and experiences.

Best Food You Must Try in India: Indian cuisine is a tantalizing journey of flavors. Savor classics like biryani, samosas, butter chicken, and dosa. Be sure to explore regional specialties, such as the street food in Delhi, spicy curries in Goa, and the delectable sweets of West Bengal. Your taste buds are in for an unforgettable adventure through India’s culinary traditions.

7. Japan: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

The next destination on our list of best countries to visit in Asia is Japan, a land where tradition meets modernity, offering a unique blend of ancient culture, futuristic cities, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Japan is a country of contrasts, where you can explore ancient temples and shrines in Kyoto, experience the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, and immerse yourself in traditional tea ceremonies and sumo wrestling. It’s a place that seamlessly integrates a rich heritage with cutting-edge technology.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Japan: When in Japan, make sure to visit iconic landmarks like Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing, and Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park. Explore the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and the stunning autumn foliage in places like Nikko and Kyoto.

Best Time to Visit Japan: To make the most of your Japanese adventure, you should consider visiting during the spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms or in the autumn (late September to early November) for colorful foliage. These seasons provide a visual feast and comfortable weather for sightseeing.

Best Food You Must Try in Japan: Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its exquisite flavors. You must savor dishes like sushi, ramen, tempura, and takoyaki. Explore local specialties such as okonomiyaki in Osaka, kaiseki in Kyoto, and street food delights in Tokyo. Don’t forget to pair your meals with traditional sake or green tea to complete your culinary journey through Japan.

8. Thailand: The Land of Smiles

The next destination on our list is Thailand, a land of vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine that offers a sensory adventure like no other.

One of the best countries to visit, especially to enjoy beaches and warm weather, you must visit Thailand as it is sure to enchant you with its rich traditions, stunning temples, and bustling markets. It’s a place where you can explore ancient history, lounge on pristine beaches, and sample some of the most delectable street food in the world.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Thailand: When in Thailand, you should make sure to visit iconic sites like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in Bangkok, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, and the temples of Chiang Mai. Don’t miss the serene beauty of the Phi Phi Islands or the lively markets of Chiang Rai.

Best Time to Visit Thailand: The ideal time to visit Thailand depends on the region you wish to visit. Generally, the cool and dry season from November to February is a great time to explore most parts of the country. However, be aware that some regions may experience variations in climate.

Best Food You Must Try in Thailand: If you love Thai cuisine, you must try it at its place of origin! You must savor dishes like pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice, and som tum (papaya salad). You can also explore local specialties like seafood on the Andaman coast, boat noodles in Bangkok, and street food in night markets. Thai food offers a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that you won’t want to miss.

9. New Zealand: Adventure and Nature’s Beauty

The next destination on our list is New Zealand, a land of natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and a rich Maori heritage, making it a paradise for explorers and nature enthusiasts.

One of the best countries because of its breathtaking landscapes, you must visit New Zealand and explore its snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, lush rainforests and crystal-clear lakes. It’s a place where you can experience the thrill of adventure sports, enjoy the tranquility of nature, and immerse yourself in a vibrant Maori culture!

Main Attractions You Must Visit in New Zealand: You must explore New Zealand’s iconic landmarks, such as Milford Sound, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and the glowworm caves of Waitomo. Don’t miss the stunning fjords of Fiordland National Park or the geothermal wonders of Rotorua.

Best Time to Visit New Zealand: The best time to visit New Zealand largely depends on your interests. The summer months from December to February are ideal for outdoor activities, while the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds.

Best Food You Must Try in New Zealand: While in New Zealand, sample local delicacies like green-lipped mussels, lamb, and pavlova. You should also explore the world-renowned New Zealand wines, particularly the Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region. The country’s culinary offerings reflect its diverse landscape and rich cultural influences, making it a treat for food lovers.

10. France: Elegance and Romance

The next destination on this list of best countries to visit in Europe is France, a country that epitomizes elegance, romance, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a dream destination for travelers worldwide.

You must visit France and experience the rich land of art, fashion, and culinary excellence. It’s a place where you can explore world-class museums, stroll along charming streets, and savor exquisite cuisine and wine. The country’s rich history and diverse regions ensure there’s something for every traveler.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in France: Don’t miss the iconic landmarks of France, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Palace of Versailles, and the historic Mont Saint-Michel. Explore the artistic treasures of the Louvre Museum, the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, and the stunning lavender fields of Provence.

Best Time to Visit France: For the best experience, you should consider visiting in the spring or autumn. During these seasons, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes and gardens in full bloom.

Best Food You Must Try in France: French cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its sophistication and flavors. You must savor classic dishes like croissants, coq au vin, escargot, and crème brûlée. Explore regional specialties such as bouillabaisse in Marseille, duck confit in Gascony, and Alsatian tarte flambée. And, of course, pair your meals with some of the finest French wines for an unforgettable gastronomic experience in this culinary haven.

11. Malaysia: A Tropical Paradise with Cultural Riches

The next one of the best countries to visit, especially in Asia, is Malaysia. It is a lovely country of diverse culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a fusion of flavors that make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a mix of experiences.

You must visit Malaysia and experience its vibrant blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous cultures, creating a unique cultural tapestry. It’s a place where you can explore bustling cities, pristine beaches, tropical rainforests, and experience a harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Malaysia: When in Malaysia, make sure to visit iconic sites such as the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur , the historic city of George Town in Penang, and the stunning beaches of Langkawi. You should also explore the cultural diversity of Malacca, the lush Cameron Highlands, and the wildlife in Borneo.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia: Malaysia has a tropical climate, so it’s warm and humid throughout the year. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to February or June to August, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities.

Best Food You Must Try in Malaysia: Malaysian cuisine is a true delight, with a mix of flavors and influences. You must savor dishes like nasi lemak, laksa, satay, and roti canai. Explore regional specialties such as rendang in Kelantan, Hainanese chicken rice in Penang, and seafood in Sabah. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the diverse street food, where you’ll discover a culinary paradise in every bite.

12. Switzerland: Alpine Splendor

The next destination on our list is Switzerland, a country renowned for its stunning Alpine landscapes, precision engineering, and a rich cultural heritage that beckons travelers from around the world.

Known as one of the best countries to visit, Switzerland is a picturesque wonderland that you must explore. This amazing country is an ideal mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. It’s a place where you can explore the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, indulge in world-famous chocolates, and experience a sense of order and tranquility that is second to none.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Switzerland: You must explore the iconic Swiss landmarks like the Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, and the Swiss National Park. Don’t forget to explore the charming cities of Zurich, Lucerne, and Bern, each with its own unique character. Take a scenic train journey on the Glacier Express or the Bernina Express to immerse yourself in the breathtaking mountain scenery.

Best Time to Visit Switzerland: The best time to visit Switzerland largely depends on your interests. Winter is perfect for skiing and snow sports, while summer offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor adventures. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are great for milder weather and fewer crowds.

Best Food You Must Try  in Switzerland: Swiss cuisine is a delightful blend of German, French, and Italian influences. Here, you can try out dishes like fondue, raclette, rösti, and Swiss chocolate. Explore regional specialties, such as rosti in Zurich, Swiss cheese in Gruyères, and pastries in the Engadin. Don’t forget to pair your meals with fine Swiss wines and discover the culinary treasures of this alpine paradise.

13. Canada: Wilderness and Urban Wonders

The next destination on our list of best countries to visit, especially in North America, is Canada. It is a vast and diverse country known for its natural beauty, multicultural cities, and friendly locals, offering an array of experiences for travelers.

You must visit Canada and explore its wide-open spaces, pristine wilderness, and a rich tapestry of cultures. It’s a place where you can explore vibrant cities like Toronto and Vancouver, witness the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, and experience a welcoming and inclusive society.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Canada: When in Canada, make sure to visit iconic sites such as Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, and Old Quebec. You should also explore the multicultural city of Toronto, the coastal beauty of Vancouver, and the historic charm of Quebec City.

Best Time to Visit Canada: The ideal time to visit Canada depends on the region. Summer (June to August) is perfect for exploring most parts of the country, while the fall (September to October) offers stunning foliage displays. If you enjoy winter sports, visit during the snowy months.

Best Food You Must Try in Canada: Canadian cuisine reflects its diverse culture and regional influences. Savor dishes like poutine, butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, and tourtière. Also, don’t miss out on trying out regional specialties like fresh seafood in the Maritimes, maple syrup in Quebec, and wild game in the northern territories. Don’t forget to pair your meals with Canadian craft beer and ice wine for a true taste of the country’s culinary diversity.

14. Mexico: Ancient Ruins and Vibrant Colors

The next destination on our list is Mexico, a country brimming with vibrant culture, ancient history, and a culinary tradition that is celebrated worldwide.

Undoubtedly one of the best countries to visit for a relaxing, beachy vacation, Mexico also offers you a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza to lounging on pristine beaches and savoring the flavors of its diverse cuisine. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in colorful traditions and explore the past while enjoying modern amenities.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Mexico: Don’t miss out visiting iconic Mexican landmarks such as the Mayan temples in Tulum, the historic center of Mexico City, and the lively markets of Oaxaca. Explore the stunning beaches of Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula, and delve into the natural beauty of places like Copper Canyon.

Best Time to Visit Mexico: The best time to visit Mexico depends on your interests. Winter is ideal for beach destinations, while the spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring cultural sites and cities. Be mindful of the hurricane season in some coastal regions during the summer.

Best Food You Must Try in Mexico: Mexican cuisine is a feast for the senses, known for its bold and diverse flavors. You must try out dishes like tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, and chiles en nogada. Explore regional specialties, such as mole in Puebla, ceviche in Baja California, and street food delights in Mexico City. Pair your meals with traditional Mexican beverages like tequila and mezcal to complete your culinary journey through Mexico.

15. Vietnam: History and Scenic Beauty

The next one of the best countries to visit is Vietnam. It is a beautiful country with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a cuisine that’s known for its flavors and diversity.

You must visit Vietnam because it is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism. It’s a place where you can explore ancient temples and pagodas, sail through picturesque limestone karsts in Halong Bay, and savor the taste of street food that’s beloved around the world.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Vietnam: When in Vietnam, you must not forget to visit iconic landmarks like the ancient town of Hoi An, the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Also, explore the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam: Vietnam’s climate varies by region. Generally, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which is from November to April, when you can enjoy pleasant weather for traveling and exploring.

Best Food You Must Try in Vietnam: Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its fresh and flavorful dishes. You must try out the classics like pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls). Also, try out the regional specialties such as cao lau in Hoi An, bun cha in Hanoi, and seafood in coastal regions. Vietnamese cuisine is a culinary adventure that offers a delightful burst of flavors and a rich cultural experience.

16. Maldives: A Tropical Paradise in the Indian Ocean

The next destination on our list is the Maldives , one of the best countries to visit to have the experience of a tropical paradise. This gorgeous country is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a tranquil ambiance that makes it the ultimate escape for sun and sea enthusiasts.

Why You Should Visit Maldives: The Maldives is a picture-perfect destination where you can relax in overwater bungalows, snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs, and experience the epitome of luxury and serenity. It’s a place where you can create unforgettable memories in an idyllic setting.

Main Attractions You Must Visit Maldives: While the Maldives is renowned for its laid-back, beach-centric lifestyle, you must ensure to explore its underwater world through snorkeling or diving. Also, don’t forget to discover the stunning marine life, coral gardens, and the beauty of nature on islands such as Maafushi and the cultural nuances of Malé.

Best Time to Visit Maldives: The best time to visit the Maldives is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather for sunbathing and water activities. Be cautious about the monsoon season, which typically occurs from May to October.

Best Food You Must Try Maldives: Maldivian cuisine is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, coconut, and aromatic spices. Savor dishes like mas huni, garudhiya, and curries. Sample the catch of the day, as well as international cuisine available at luxury resorts. Fresh fruit and coconuts are abundant, making it a tropical culinary experience for every visitor.

17. Morocco: A Blend of Desert and Medina

The next destination on our list is Morocco, one of the best countries to visit to experience a mesmerizing blend of exotic landscapes, vibrant culture, and a rich historical heritage, making it a captivating destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts.

You must visit Morocco because it is a land of diverse experiences, where you can explore ancient medinas, ride camels through the Sahara Desert, and immerse yourself in the lively markets and Moroccan cuisine. It’s a place where you can step back in time while enjoying the conveniences of the modern world.

Main Attractions You Must Visit Morocco: Don’t miss iconic Moroccan landmarks such as the medina of Marrakech, the historic town of Fes, and the blue city of Chefchaouen. Explore the Atlas Mountains, visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and take a camel trek into the Sahara Desert for a magical desert experience.

Best Time to Visit Morocco: The best time to visit Morocco is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is moderate and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summers can be scorching, and winters can be chilly in some regions.

Best Food You Must Try in Morocco: Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the senses, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. Savor dishes like tagine, couscous, kebabs, and pastilla. You must explore its regional specialties such as harira in Marrakech, seafood in coastal towns, and street food delights in markets. Don’t forget to enjoy Moroccan mint tea, a symbol of hospitality, and a wide array of pastries and desserts. Your taste buds will be delighted by the culinary treasures of Morocco.

18. South Africa: Safari Adventures and More

The next destination on our list is South Africa, a country known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of experiences for travelers.

One of the best countries to visit in Africa, South Africa is a land of contrasts, where you can explore breathtaking national parks, experience vibrant cities, and delve into its complex history. It’s a place where you can go on safari to witness the “Big Five” and enjoy modern amenities in a country with a rich cultural tapestry.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in South Africa: you must explore the iconic South African landmarks such as Table Mountain in Cape Town, the historic Robben Island, and the stunning Garden Route. Explore the wildlife of Kruger National Park, the Zulu heritage in KwaZulu-Natal, and the scenic beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Best Time to Visit South Africa: The best time to visit South Africa depends on the region and your interests. Generally, the dry winter months (May to September) are ideal for wildlife safaris, while the summer months (October to March) are great for coastal and cultural experiences.

Best Food You Must Try in South Africa: South African cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors and influences. You have to savor dishes like bobotie, boerewors, bunny chow, and milk tart. Explore regional specialties such as seafood in Cape Town, boerekos in the Karoo, and braai (barbecue) in various regions. Be sure to pair your meals with local wines, particularly the celebrated wines from Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, for an authentic culinary journey through South Africa.

19. Portugal: Coastal Beauty and History

The next destination on our list is Portugal, a country known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a warm, welcoming culture that makes it a delightful destination for travelers.

One of the best countries to visit in Europe, Portugal is a country that offers you a treasure trove of experiences, from exploring historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, to savoring world-renowned wines and enjoying the tranquil beaches of the Algarve. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in tradition while embracing modern comforts.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Portugal: you must not miss iconic Portuguese landmarks such as the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Ribeira, the charming town of Sintra, and the Douro Valley wine region. Explore the coastal beauty of the Algarve, the ancient University of Coimbra, and the cultural diversity of Madeira and the Azores.

Best Time to Visit Portugal: The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot, especially in the south, and winters are generally mild and great for cultural exploration.

Best Food You Must Try in Portugal: Portuguese cuisine is celebrated for its flavors and variety. Savor dishes like bacalhau (salted codfish), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and francesinha (a hearty sandwich). You should also explore regional specialties such as seafood in Lisbon, the famous Porto wine, and the spicy peri-peri chicken in Algarve. Don’t forget to try the local cheeses and indulge in the wines of the Douro Valley. Portugal’s culinary offerings are a gastronomic delight for every traveler.

20. Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice

The next destination on our list is Iceland, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, dramatic landscapes, and a unique blend of geothermal wonders, making it a captivating destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

You must visit Iceland at least once in your lifetime because it is a country that invites you to explore its otherworldly landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geysers. It’s a place where you can witness the mystical Northern Lights, soak in natural hot springs, and experience a culture deeply rooted in Viking heritage.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Iceland: You must visit its iconic Icelandic landmarks such as the Golden Circle, including Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Explore the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, the Blue Lagoon, and the volcanic landscapes of Landmannalaugar. Witness the stunning waterfalls of Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Best Time to Visit Iceland:

The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) is ideal for exploring the highlands and the Midnight Sun. Winter (November to February) is perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights, but the weather can be quite cold.

Best Food You Must Try in Iceland: Icelandic cuisine offers unique and hearty flavors. You must try out dishes like lamb stew, skyr (a type of yogurt), and Icelandic hot dogs. Explore regional specialties such as fermented shark (hákarl), rye bread baked in geothermal springs, and fresh seafood like arctic char and langoustines. Be sure to try the traditional Icelandic schnapps called Brennivin, and experience the local culinary culture with its distinct charm. Your taste buds are in for a distinctive Icelandic culinary adventure.

21. Australia: Down Under Adventures

The next destination on our list is Australia, a vast and diverse country known for its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and a laid-back lifestyle that makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Another one of the best countries to visit, Australia is a land of contrasts, where you can explore bustling cities like Sydney and Melbourne, experience the tranquility of the Outback, and witness the distinctive wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas. It’s a place where you can enjoy both cultural attractions and the great outdoors.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Australia: you must definitely visit the iconic Australian landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, and Uluru. Don’t forget to explore the urban sophistication of Sydney, the artistic flair of Melbourne, and the wilderness of the Daintree Rainforest and the Kimberley region.

Best Time to Visit Australia: The best time to visit Australia depends on your interests and the region you plan to explore. Generally, the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Be mindful of the summer heat and tropical monsoon seasons in some areas.

Best Food You Must Try in Australia: Australian cuisine is a mix of fresh, diverse flavors influenced by various cultures. You just have to savor dishes like meat pies, Vegemite, Tim Tams, and lamingtons. Explore regional specialties such as seafood in Tasmania, Barramundi in the Northern Territory, and coffee culture in Melbourne. Be sure to pair your meals with Australian wines, particularly the world-renowned wines from regions like the Barossa Valley and Margaret River, for an authentic culinary journey through Australia.

22. Peru: Inca Ruins and Amazon Rainforest

The next destination on our list is Peru, a country known for its ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and a culinary tradition that is celebrated worldwide, making it a captivating destination for adventurers and food enthusiasts.

One of the best countries to visit in South America, Peru is a land of contrasts, where you can explore the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, traverse the Andes mountains, and savor the rich flavors of its diverse cuisine. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and history of the Inca civilization.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Peru: You must explore the iconic Peruvian landmarks such as Machu Picchu, Cusco’s historic city center, and the Nazca Lines. Explore the Amazon Rainforest, Lake Titicaca, and the colorful Rainbow Mountain. Witness the condors at Colca Canyon and the bustling markets of Pisac.

Best Time to Visit in Peru: The best time to visit Peru largely depends on the region. The dry season from May to September is perfect for visiting Machu Picchu and exploring the Andes. The shoulder seasons are great for less crowded experiences, while the Amazon is best visited during the rainy season from November to April.

Best Food You Must Try in Peru: Peruvian cuisine is known for its flavors and diversity. Don’t forget to try dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa. Explore regional specialties such as rocoto relleno in Arequipa, cuy (guinea pig) in Cusco, and Amazonian cuisine in Iquitos. Be sure to savor the famous Pisco Sour and enjoy local fruits like lucuma and chirimoya. Your taste buds will be treated to a gastronomic adventure through Peru’s culinary heritage.

23. Indonesia: Tropical Paradise and Cultural Riches

The next destination on our list is Indonesia, a vast and diverse archipelago known for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a culinary tradition that tantalizes the taste buds, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Another one of the best countries to visit in Asia, Indonesia is a land of endless possibilities, where you can explore ancient temples like Borobudur, relax on pristine beaches, and discover a rich tapestry of cultures across its islands. It’s a place where you can experience lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, and an underwater paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Indonesia: Don’t miss iconic Indonesian landmarks such as Borobudur and Prambanan temples in Java, the serene beauty of Bali’s rice terraces, and the Komodo Islands. You should also explore the vibrant city of Jakarta, the cultural heart of Yogyakarta, and the natural wonders of Raja Ampat.

Best Time to Visit Indonesia: The best time to visit Indonesia varies by region and your interests. Generally, the dry season from April to October is ideal for most destinations. Be aware of the rainy season from November to March, which may affect some areas more than others.

Best Food You Must Try in Indonesia: Indonesian cuisine is a culinary adventure filled with rich flavors and aromatic spices. Some of the must-try dishes here are nasi goreng, rendang, satay, and gado-gado. Explore regional specialties such as mie ayam in Surabaya, soto in Jakarta, and Padang cuisine in West Sumatra. Be sure to try traditional Indonesian beverages like teh botol and es cendol, and enjoy exotic fruits like durian and rambutan. Your culinary journey through Indonesia will be a sensory delight.

24. Bhutan: The Land of Happiness

The next destination on our list is Bhutan, a land of pristine landscapes, rich culture, and a deep spiritual heritage that makes it a unique and captivating destination for travelers seeking a Himalayan escape.

One of the best countries to visit to explore untouched beauties of nature, Bhutan is a country that you must visit. Explore its gorgeous snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and ancient monasteries because it’s a place where you can witness the spiritual devotion of its people, experience traditional festivals, and appreciate a commitment to sustainable living.

Main Attractions You Must Visit in Bhutan: the  iconic Bhutanese landmarks you must visit are such as the Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, the capital city Thimphu, and the Punakha Dzong. Explore the serene valleys of Phobjikha and the biodiversity of Jigme Dorji National Park. Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s unique culture by attending a local festival or exploring the traditional architecture of its dzongs and monasteries.

Best Time to Visit Bhutan: The best time to visit Bhutan largely depends on your interests. The spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and colorful flora. The winter months are great for enjoying snowfall in the highlands, while the monsoon season from June to August brings lush green landscapes but occasional rain.

Best Food You Must Try in Bhutan: Bhutanese cuisine is known for its unique flavors and use of chilies. You must try out dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese), phaksha paa (pork with radish), and momo dumplings. Explore regional specialties such as yak meat and butter tea. Be sure to try ara, a local spirit, and enjoy Bhutan’s culinary traditions, which reflect its mountainous terrain and agricultural lifestyle. Your taste buds will be treated to a distinct culinary experience in Bhutan.

25. Netherlands: Canals and Windmills

The final best on our list of best countries to visit, is the Netherlands. It is a lovely country known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene that makes it a captivating destination for travelers.

You must visit The Netherlands and explore this magical land of charming canals, historic windmills, and world-class art. It’s a place where you can explore picturesque cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht, witness the beauty of tulip fields in spring, and enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Main Attractions You Must Visit the Netherlands: The iconic Dutch landmarks you must visit are such as the canals of Amsterdam, the historic Anne Frank House, and the Keukenhof Gardens during tulip season. Also, don’t forget to explore the windmills at Kinderdijk, the historic city of Delft, and the tulip fields in Lisse. Immerse yourself in Dutch art at the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.

Best Time to Visit the Netherlands: The best time to visit the Netherlands depends on your interests. Spring (March to May) is ideal for witnessing the tulip fields in bloom. Summer (June to August) is perfect for outdoor activities, and autumn (September to November) offers milder weather and fewer tourists. Be prepared for cooler temperatures in winter.

Best Food You Must Try in the Netherlands: Dutch cuisine offers a mix of hearty and flavorful dishes. Savor dishes like bitterballen, haring, erwtensoep (pea soup), and poffertjes (mini pancakes). You must also try out regional specialties such as stamppot in the north, Dutch cheese in Gouda, and seafood in Zeeland. Don’t forget to pair your meals with Dutch beer or genever (Dutch gin), and experience the country’s culinary heritage, which reflects its maritime history and agricultural traditions. Your culinary journey through the Netherlands will be a delightful experience.

In conclusion, the world of travel is a realm filled with boundless possibilities and incredible experiences. Among all of these best countries to visit, you are going to witness the extraordinary diversity our planet has to offer. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage, each destination invites you to embark on a transformative journey.

Don’t you also wish to explore and experience all the beauties of nature and culture these unique destinations have to offer?

If you enjoyed reading this article, check out our article on the best cities to visit in the world . Do leave us a comment and share your adventures! 

Related Posts

Malaysia to brunei road trip itinerary & travel guide, maldives travel guide: tourist places, culture & budget breakdown to plan a trip to maldives, the ultimate china travel guide: unlocking china’s splendors, the 20 best things to do in medina: make your pilgrimage even more satisfying.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

These Countries Are the Best for Tourism

• Filters/Sort 0

#15 in Best Countries Overall

Italy is a south-central European country, whose boot-shaped borders extend into the Mediterranean Sea. The country’s historical cities, world-renowned cuisine and geographic beauty make it a popular destination for more than 40 million tourists each year. The nation is home to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest and most active volcano, and houses two countries within its borders – the Vatican and San Marino.

GDP PC, PPP

GDP PER CAPITA, PPP

#17 in Best Countries Overall

A number of independent kingdoms united in 1492 to form the Kingdom of Spain, a cultural patchwork that continues to shape the modern nation’s dynamic identity. Spain comprises much of the Iberian Peninsula, which it shares with Portugal on the southwestern edge of Europe. It also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean and two enclaves in North Africa.

#12 in Best Countries Overall

It is difficult to overstate the influence  France has on the world, both in the past and today. Located in Western Europe, France is one of the world’s oldest countries, and its reach extends around the globe through science, politics, economics and perhaps above all, culture. Starting in the Middle Ages, France evolved through kingdom, empire and finally, into a republic. It was one of the first nations to champion the rights of the individual.

#27 in Best Countries Overall

Located in southeastern Europe, Greece as an independent nation is young, existing since the 19th century. Its civilization, however, is one of history’s oldest and most influential, credited with creating the concept of democracy as well as the ancient Olympic Games, and laying Western foundations in science, the arts and philosophy.

#4 in Best Countries Overall

The Commonwealth of Australia occupies the Australian continent. The country also includes some islands, most notably Tasmania. Indigenous people occupied the land for at least 40,000 years before the first British settlements of the 18th century.

Switzerland

#1 in Best Countries Overall

Switzerland, officially called the Swiss Confederation, is a small country in Central Europe made up of 16,000 square miles of glacier-carved Alps, lakes and valleys. It is one of the world’s wealthiest countries, and has been well-known for centuries for its neutrality.

New Zealand

#8 in Best Countries Overall

British and Polynesian influences course through picturesque New Zealand, an island nation in the Pacific Ocean southeast of Australia . Early Maori settlers ceded sovereignty to British invaders with the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, and European settlers flooded in. Today, 70 percent of Kiwis, a common term for the people of New Zealand after a native flightless bird, are of European descent. A sense of pride has surged among the Maori, the country’s first settlers who now account for about 14 percent, as homeland grievances become more openly addressed.

#29 in Best Countries Overall

Thailand, which translates to “land of the free,” is the only Southeast Asian nation that did not encounter European colonization. Located just above the equator, the nation is wedged into the Indochina peninsula with neighbors Myanmar , Laos and Cambodia and has an arm that extends out to Malaysia .

#34 in Best Countries Overall

Egypt, with vast swaths of desert in its east and west and the rich Nile River Valley at its heart, is site to one of the world’s earliest and greatest civilizations. Its location at the northeast corner of Africa bordering the Mediterranean Sea has made it a cultural and trading center. But its location has also made it a prize to claim by empires and put it at the center of social and religious movements.

#6 in Best Countries Overall

Japan, one of the world’s most literate and technically advanced nations, is an East Asian country made up of four main islands. While most of Japan is covered by mountains and heavily wooded areas, the country’s roughly 126 million people lead a distinctly urban lifestyle. Long culturally influenced by its neighbors, today the country blends  its ancient traditions with aspects of Western life.

Other Adventure Rankings

Here's a look at the data behind our rankings.

Recent Articles

Best Countries

National News

Recommended Articles

Switzerland Is World's Best Country

The 25 Best Countries in the World

Why Switzerland Is No. 1 – Again

Photos: Best Countries Around the World

The Safest Countries in the World

The 10 Most Corrupt Countries

The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World

By Caitlin Morton

Every country in the world has something to offer, from local cuisine to groundbreaking architecture . But actually ranking the most beautiful countries in the world? That's a bit trickier (eye of the beholder, and what not). That’s why we let the World Economic Forum do much of the work for us: Every year, the foundation releases their Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report , a survey that ranks the world’s countries based on various factors, from safety to life expectancy—and yes, even natural resources. 

The latter takes into consideration details like total animal species, the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites , and the amount of protected ecosystems—and 2022’s results are as stunning as ever. We pulled the top 30 countries from the all-encompassing “natural resources” section of the WEF’s report , and then polled Traveler editors for their personal picks (consider them bonus entries, if you will) to put together this list of the world’s most beautiful countries. Get ready to swoon.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Australia ’s natural beauty is unrivaled—from the Great Barrier Reef to the wild isolation of the Outback, to the winelands of Victoria. Witnessing the majesty of Uluru should be on every traveler’s bucket list, whether viewed from above by helicopter or from a distance at ground level during the technicolor sunset. Another must-see? Tasmania . The island state’s mountain wilderness and pristine coastline are remarkably beautiful.

Home to 67 national parks, more than 5,000 miles of coastline, and landscapes ranging from deserts to snow-capped volcanoes, Mexico ranks high on this list for a reason. The state of Oaxaca lays claim to wild, crowd-free beaches and Hierve el Agua, a set of natural rock formations and mineral springs. Down in the southern state of Chiapas, the Sumidero Canyon astounds with 3,000-foot cliff walls, caves, and waterfalls. Mexico also takes great lengths to protect its wildlife: the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve northwest of Mexico City welcomes millions of butterflies every autumn, while the whale sanctuary in El Vizcaino is an important reproduction site for grey and blue whales .

There is no shortage of grandeur in Brazil , whether you’re standing below the horseshoe-shaped falls of Iguazu, kayaking through the incomparable Amazon, or looking out from the peak of Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro . Fernando de Noronha, an archipelago off the northeast coast, features some of the best beaches in the country . Lençóis Maranhenses National Park boasts blindingly white sand dunes juxtaposed against turquoise lagoons. Then there’s the biodiversity—the greatest on the planet, to be exact. It’s not uncommon to spot jaguars, spider monkeys, piranhas, giant water lilies, and mangroves (among several other million species).

The United States of America

You could spend a lifetime exploring the sites of America, all as beautiful as they are diverse. Hawaii’s vertical Na'Pali Coast is easily one of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. Denali National Park in Alaska is worth braving the extreme low temperatures. And perhaps you’ve heard of a charming little tourist destination known as the Grand Canyon ?

China has 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within its borders—the second-most of any country in the world (after Italy, which has 58). Here you’ll find otherworldly landscapes like the Zhangye National Geopark, whose striped, technicolor mountains are basically Mother Nature’s answer to Photoshop. You can also see skyscraper-like sandstone pillars at Wulingyuan Scenic Area, endless fields of yellow rapeseed plants in Luoping County, and multicolored lakes in the Jiuzhaigou Valley—and that’s just for starters.

Home to Himalayan peaks and Indian Ocean beaches, India’s terrain can only be described as breathtaking. Kerala is easily one of the most country’s most beautiful states, with elephants and tigers, lush lagoon networks, and tea plantations. There are incredible stretches of sand even outside of Kerala, like Marina Beach in unsung Tamil Nadu, or Chandipur Beach in Orissa, where tides recede nearly three miles out to sea. The Valley of Flowers National Park is spectacular, as hundred of species of alpine flowers carpet the western Himalayas in chromatic glory.

Oh, Canada. The world’s second-biggest country has almost too much spectacular scenery to single out favorites. But if we had to pick, we’d start with the remote Torngat Mountains National Park, a land of polar bears and caribou, glaciers and fjords, and a stretch of mountains you’re not likely to ever forget. Truly all of the country’s 48 national parks are worth a visit, from Alberta’s serene Banff to Yukon’s extreme Kluane.

One of the crown jewels of Southeast Asia, Indonesia has some of the best islands in the world . First up is the spiritual, sun-kissed paradise that is Bali . It is crowded, yes; but you can still find enclaves of quiet in places like the central region of Tabanan, with its waterfalls, butterfly parks, and UNESCO-protected rice fields. Located off the coast of West Papua, the Raja Ampat Islands are a scuba diver’s dream with blue channels and biodiverse reefs. And don’t forget about the relatively crowd-free island of Flores , complete with white sand beaches and steep green hills.

France is the stuff fairytales are made of, with fields of lavender and castles at every turn. The country’s coastline beckons travelers from all over the world, whether it’s to the beaches of Biarritz, white cliffs of Normandy, or any one of the glitzy towns along the French Riviera . For some truly untouched nature, make a beeline for the island of Corsica; if it’s ski slopes you’re after, head west to Mont Blanc.

Colombia ’s incredible landscape deserves to be recognized, and not just because it contains parts of the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountain range. Tayrona National Park is one of the most picturesque places in South America, with beaches dotted with coconut palms and rainforests sitting nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. The ochre desert meets the aquamarine sea at Cabo de la Vela, a unique cape surrounded by rocky cliffs—it’s hard to get to, sure, but absolutely worth it.

Aside from its world-class beaches (like Playa de Las Catedrales in Galicia, pictured), Spain is home to 16 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. Doñana National Park is home to five threatened bird species, plus scenic marshes and sand dunes. Teide National Park has the tallest mountain in the country (Mount Teide) and third tallest volcanic structure in the world (Pico Viejo).

Japan is at once serene and exhilarating, ancient and unexpected. The subtropical Ogasawara Islands offer pristine beaches, exceptional snorkeling and whale watching, and forests packed with 195 endangered bird species. Solitary Mount Fuji is the country's most iconic landmark, rising above villages and reflecting on lakes’ surfaces. Even the cities here are bursting with natural beauty: see Kyoto ’s scattering of cherry blossoms and Arashiyama bamboo forest, or the calm, grassy parks of Tokyo .

South Africa

South Africa is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, offering easy access to the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) at places like Kruger National Park. Looking for penguins? Boulders Beach is just an hour’s drive south from Cape Town. If you can believe it, the landscapes here are even more diverse than the wildlife, from wildflower-filled Namaqualand to the soaring Drakensberg Mountains to the Blyde River Canyon. Even in urban Cape Town , you need only look up to see iconic Table Mountain and Lion’s Head .

The number of foreign visitors to Thailand has doubled in the past ten years, and it’s easy to understand why. There are literally hundreds of islands offering something for every type of traveler, whether it’s the lush jungles of Ko Kut or the crystal-clear diving waters of Ko Tao. To catch sight of wild elephants and tigers, dramatic waterfalls, and some of the world’s oldest rainforests, venture inland to the wondrous Khao Sok National Park.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There’s nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you’ll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Tanzania is a biodiverse wonderland, but its main draw is undoubtedly the Serengeti—especially if you can visit between January and March to witness the Great Migration . And don’t forget about Mount Kilimanjaro, rising like a magnificent mirage over the vast plains. Another deservedly popular spot is the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast and thriving volcanic caldera known as Africa’s Garden of Eden (assuming the garden had flamingos and zebras). Tanzania also has some 800 miles of Indian Ocean-facing coastline, with the white sand beaches and sapphire waters of Zanzibar generating the most tourism buzz.

Machu Picchu ’s panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, is known for its terraced agriculture and epic birdwatching (find everything from flamingos to giant hummingbirds here). The Paracas Natural Reserve (an easy day trip from Lima) is another ecologically rich area, where Humboldt penguins waddle freely on red sand beaches.

Argentina is one of the most awe-inspiring countries in the world, and not just because of its legendary tango performances. This nation is indeed a natural wonderland—just look at Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia, comprised of jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and massive glaciers . The northwestern part of the country contains some of the Andes and a lot of vicuñas (relatives of the llama). On the Argentina-Brazil border, Iguazú Falls—a collection of 200 falls reaching heights of 200 feet—is easily one of the most stunning sites in South America.

Venezuela is truly a land of superlatives. It has the world’s highest waterfall, for starters; and the 3,212-foot cascades of Angel Falls (that’s 19 times taller than Niagara ), located in the lush Canaima National Park, are by far the country’s most popular attraction. Mount Roraima also dazzles, with vertical cliffs stretching all the way through the clouds. The archipelago of Los Roques has white sand beaches, mangrove swamps, and spectacular reefs and underwater life.

It’s almost unbelievable how biodiverse Ecuador is. The country is a smidge smaller than Nevada, but encompasses pieces of the Amazon, Andes, and Pacific Coast, as well as the entire Galápagos archipelago. We’d argue that the Galápagos Islands are reason enough for Ecuador to land on this ranking, filled with volcanoes, lakes, beaches, and more animal species than we have room to cover here.

Split by the South China Sea, Malaysia is like two countries in one—Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo—with islands thrown in as an added bonus. You’ll find a variety of diverse landscapes throughout this Southeast Asian nation. The Langkawi archipelago has pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush mountains (plus that famous Sky Bridge you’ve definitely seen pictures of). The Cameron Highlands in Pahang are home to stunning tea plantations and butterfly farms. Hoping to spot some wildlife? The Kinabatangan River winds for 348 miles through the state of Sabah, providing habitats for saltwater crocodiles, Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, and more.

Philippines

There are more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, and they easily number among the most beautiful in the world. The Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan encompasses mangrove forests, one of the world’s most impressive cave systems, and an underground river. The Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island consist of an estimated 1,776 grass-covered domes that are mysteriously uniform in shape. The rice terraces of both Banaue and the Philippine Cordilleras provide panoramic views of every shade of green imaginable.

It’s easy to sink into the pura vida (pure life) when you’re surrounded by misty waterfalls , deserted beaches, and protected jungles. In fact, more than a quarter of Costa Rica enjoys some form of environmental protection. Cocos Island National Park, the only island in the eastern Pacific with a rainforest, is a world-class diving destination replete with hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays, sea turtles, and dolphins. La Amistad National Park is another uniquely diverse site, with cloud forests, glacial valleys, and a rare tropical alpine grassland (say that five times fast). It’s also home to Cerro Chirripó, the highest mountain in Costa Rica.

Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City draw tons of tourists every year, but Vietnam is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts (or anyone who simply enjoys a pretty landscape). Ha Long Bay, located in northeast Vietnam , is beloved for its blue waters and spread of limestone islands—all occupied by tropical trees and wildlife. In the northeast, Hà Giang has breathtaking mountain scenery criss-crossed with steep rice terraces and hiking trails. On the southern coast, Ninh Van Bay has great snorkeling and diving . And you can always hop on a quick flight and spend a few days on Phú Quốc, a jungle-draped island off Vietnam’s southwestern coast.

We named Panama one of the best places to visit in 2022 , thanks to its biodiverse jungles, sprawling beaches, and relative lack of crowds compared to neighboring Costa Rica. The Caribbean-facing province of Bocas del Toro is a one-stop shop for both gorgeous beaches and active wildlife—for a truly memorable experience, take a nighttime snorkeling trip through bioluminescent waters right off the coast. A straight shot south from Bocas del Toro, the Pacific Ocean-facing province Chiriquí offers an equally beautiful, but wholly different slice of nature. Here you can hike through cloud forests, swim beneath roaring waterfalls, and witness the panoramic sunrise from the summit of Volcán Barú.

There are plenty of reasons to head to Kenya , and we’re not just talking about its bevy of resorts and safari camps . The Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley is the ultimate place for wildlife spotting , with cheetahs, giraffes, black rhinos, and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. Mount Kenya is the second highest peak (after Kilimanjaro) and one of the most impressive landscapes in Africa, with glacial lakes and forested slopes.

New Zealand

New Zealand is no stranger to breathtaking landscapes, with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and more than 9,000 miles of windswept shores . Just look towards the resplendent fields of pink and purple lupins at Lake Tekapo; or Milford Sound, a mountainous fjord where you can live out all of your Lord of the Rings fantasies. The splendor also extends below the surface to the Waitomo glowworm caves—leave it to New Zealand to make even worms look beautiful.

Landlocked Bolivia is often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, but this South American nation has a staggering amount of natural beauty. The country’s claim to fame is Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat which becomes a giant sky-reflecting mirror during the wet season. Just north of the Chilean border in the shadow of the Andes, Laguna Colorada is a salt lake known for its blood-red waters. And while we’re on the subject of lakes, we’d be remiss not to mention Lake Titicaca—it’s the highest navigable lake in the world (12,500 feet above sea level) and features sparkling blue water, snow-capped mountains, and floating villages.

The United Kingdom

The United Kingdom comprises England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, which explains why its natural sites are so beautifully diverse. In England, be sure to visit the rugged beaches of Cornwall and dazzling bodies of water in the Lake District. Wales is all about epic mountain ranges, namely Brecon Beacons and its surrounding hiking trails. Scotland’s lochs, highlands, and Isle of Skye number among the most beautiful places on the planet. And Northern Ireland has several unique sites to its name, including the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges.

Poised between the Balkans and central Europe, Croatia is a land of limestone caves, undulating fields, and white pebble beaches. The country’s most famous waters are found inland at the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a system of waterfalls, caves, and 16 terraced lakes that cover the entire blue-green color spectrum. The Adriatic Sea coast is truly unrivaled, speckled with more than 1,000 islands surrounded by impossibly clear water. The Dinaric Alps provide even more sublime views and help contribute to Croatia’s overall landscape—the craggy peaks and caverns near the coast transition to rolling farmland in the northeast Hrvatsko Zagorje region.

Situated just outside the Arctic Circle, Iceland has emerged as one of the world’s most desirable tourist destinations. Travelers flock to the island nation by the millions to bear witness awe-inspiring vistas, from towering volcanoes to gushing waterfalls and expansive underground ice caves. Jökulsárlón, the deepest glacial lake in the country, is famous for its floating blue icebergs and gatherings of seals. Down in Vik, the black sands and basalt columns of Reynisfjara Beach are just begging to be photographed.

After soaking up all that Lisbon has to offer, venture outside of Portugal’s capital city to really experience how stunning the country is. The Algarve region is ideal for road trips , where you can pull over and appreciate some seriously gorgeous beaches lines with steep cliffs (we recommend Praia da Marinha ). The Douro River is another must-visit spot, thanks to spectacular views created by the steeply terraced vineyards at the river’s edge—similar to those found in the Moselle in Germany or the LaVaux vineyards in Switzerland. And don’t forget about the Azores , an Atlantic island chain of nine volcanic islands overflowing with hedges of blue hydrangeas .

Chile occupies some of the most pristine landscapes on our planet: the moonlike dunes of Valle de la Luna; the swirling, cerulean surfaces of the Marble Caves; the gurgling geysers of El Tatio. But when you think of Chile, you most likely think of Torres del Paine . The national park is like a microcosm of all the things that make Patagonia such a spectacular place: sky-high mountains, blue icebergs, and mythical lakes galore.

When it comes to sheer natural beauty, few countries in Africa come close to Namibia . The Namib Desert is the country’s shining star, from the otherworldly landscapes of the Skeleton Coast , to the shifting dunes of the Namib Sand Sea, to the eerie, sun-blackened trees of Deadvlei. The Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain, is a granite massif that glows when the sun sets (Brandberg means “Fire Mountain” in Afrikaans). And this is a coastal country, so you better believe there are beaches—namely the stunning Fish River Canyon (the largest canyon in Africa) or the rivers and wetlands in the Caprivi Strip.

Greece may be best known for the the architecture of Athens and coastal scenes of Santorini (if we had a dollar for every Oia snapshot on our Instagram feed…), but there’s a lot more to the country than its immediate associations. Each of the 6,000+ islands and islets offer swoon-worthy vistas, from the cliff-lined beaches of Zakynthos to the epic sunrises in Mykonos. Not a beach bum? Pay a visit to Epirus , the mountainous, forest-filled region in northwestern Greece.

Sri Lanka is one of our favorite travel destinations —a country complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing. Both Udawalawe National Park and Gal Oya National Park contain hundreds of elephants , while Yala National Park is home to the world’s highest concentration of leopards. And tea lovers, this advice is for you: Base yourself at Thota­lagala, a seven-suite hotel near Dambatenne, the world’s most famous tea estate, planted in 1890 by Sir Thomas Lipton (yes, that Lipton).

Norway is the land of glaciers, mountains, the Northern Lights, and fjords—so many fjords . The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord in southwestern Norway are among the most scenic anywhere, with steep rock walls and dense forests. For something a little more unique (and daring), there’s Trolltunga at Hardangerfjord. This protruding rock sits about 2,300 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet and provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. And don’t forget about the Lofoten Islands , sitting pretty off the country’s northwestern coast.

Turkey’s landscapes are varied, breathtaking, and even a tad peculiar. Most of the best vistas are found in Asian Anatolia, like the fairy chimneys and rock pillars of Cappadocia , or the craggy peaks and alpine pastures of the Kaçkar Mountains. In the Aegean region, the frozen waterfalls and stacked pools of Pamukkale ensure you'll never be satisfied with your hotel’s infinity pool again. The Turquoise Coast (or Turkish Riviera) is another prime location, especially if perfect beaches, mountain views, and a Mediterranean climate are what you’re looking for.

In Nepal, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and breathtaking landscapes go hand in hand. Home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains (including Mount Everest , the highest point on earth), the country is famous among hikers and adventure seekers. The Gokyo Lakes comprise the world’s highest freshwater lake system, where vibrant, glacier-fed waters are surrounded by snowy peaks. Chitwan National Park is home to rare populations of rhinoceros and Bengal tigers, while Sagarmatha National Park is the place to see snow leopards and red pandas.

Switzerland

Tucked away in the Alps, Switzerland is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, no matter when you’re visiting. Come wintertime though, it becomes a veritable wonderland , with powdery ski slopes and frozen lakes galore. For the best vantage point of the country’s natural beauty, stay in the village of Zermatt, a ski town so pristine that people actually buy bottles of air from the surrounding mountains (including Switzerland’s iconic Matterhorn mountain). Not a fan of skiing? A summer visit to Switzerland is always a good idea, where Lake Geneva’s picturesque banks and Zurich's badi (natural swimming pools along the lakes and rivers) are waiting to host your next family vacation .

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Nature Travel

15 of the World's Most Naturally Beautiful Countries

These magnificent nations boast breathtaking scenery, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife.

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

What is the most beautiful country in the world? When it comes to the earth's diverse destinations, beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder, but some countries have the upper hand.

From the red rock formations of the American West to the Maldives' pristine white-sand beaches, there are myriad incredible places to visit around the globe. We've narrowed it down to 15 gorgeous spots to start. With majestic mountains, lush vegetation, awe-inspiring waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous coastlines, these countries will wow any traveler.

From massive waterfalls to black-sand beaches , this island country is bursting with beauty. Depending on the time of year you visit , you can experience unique natural phenomena. During the winter months, you can spot the spectacular northern lights dancing over frozen waterfalls and icy landscapes. Come summer, you can hike and then soak in hot springs under the midnight sun.

Between the snowy French Alps, glamorous French Riviera, rolling vineyard- and lavender-covered hills of Provence, and rocky coast of Brittany, is it any surprise France is often considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Plus, those natural wonders provide us with French wine, cheese, and more, so what's not to love?

Made up of thousands of islands, Indonesia has everything from green terraced rice fields to beautiful beaches, dense rain forests, and more. The island of Bali is popular among travelers seeking vistas of intricate temples against a backdrop of crashing ocean waves or rolling hills with a volcano in the distance.

United States

From sea to shining sea, the United States offers endless picturesque landscapes. With the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys , the magnificent Grand Canyon , the snowcapped peaks of Alaska , and the postcard-worthy California coastline , it would take years to fully explore the country's most beautiful places.

When you envision the perfect beach paradise, sparkling aquamarine waters and sugar-white beaches — like those in the Maldives — likely spring to mind. Gaze at the palm tree-lined beaches from a thatched-roof overwater bungalow or dive under the surface to explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life.

Italy is a dream destination. One visit and you'll be so enchanted by its natural beauty, delicious food, incredible architecture, and friendly people that you'll be ready to plan your next trip. It's hard to choose between the vineyard-covered Tuscan hills , the wanderlust-worthy Amalfi Coast, and the soaring peaks of the Dolomites , so we recommend visiting them all.

Switzerland

The breathtaking alpine landscapes of Switzerland — with sparkling lakes and charming villages — make this a must-visit destination, particularly for outdoorsy types who love to hike and ski. In the winter, the country resembles a living snow globe, while summertime reveals green mountains and fragrant wildflowers.

Bamboo forests, relaxing hot springs, iconic Mount Fuji , and tropical beaches — you'll find all this and more on a trip to Japan . Plan your getaway during cherry blossom season to see the country's famous blooms for yourself.

Everyone knows Costa Rica has incredible biodiversity, so nature lovers frequently put this country at the top of their travel list. Pretty beaches, the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest , volcanoes, waterfalls, and tons of wildlife are just a few of the reasons why this is one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the world.

Eight of the world's 10 tallest mountains, including Mount Everest , are in Nepal. The Himalayas are a draw for adventurers hoping to test their climbing skills and endurance. Other visitors can choose to admire these impressive mountains from a distance. Of course, there's plenty more to see here, including wildlife like rhinos, tigers, and more.

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

The Amazon rain forest and Andes Mountains — home to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain — are reason enough to visit Peru, so the delicious ceviche and pisco are bonuses. For something completely different, head to Huacachina — a village set amid the only natural desert oasis in South America.

United Kingdom

London , Edinburgh, and Manchester might overshadow the United Kingdom's abundant natural beauty, but it's well worth venturing outside the major cities. From the cliffs of the Jurassic Coast to the basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway and the dreamy Scottish Highlands , there's plenty to explore in the U.K.

South Africa

South Africa offers a truly impressive array of landscapes, with something for everyone. The diverse terrain features everything from vineyards and Kruger National Park to the mountainous coastline. Explore the natural wonders on a safari for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Another popular safari travel destination, Tanzania is home to the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. The popular Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is home to the iconic eponymous volcano and Serengeti National Park teems with wildlife, including millions of wildebeest who migrate there every year. Tanzania also has a beautiful coastline and stunning islands like Zanzibar.

New Zealand

Outdoor adventure opportunities abound in New Zealand , where you can cruise around Milford Sound's fjords, ski on the North or South Island, check out geothermal phenomena like geysers and mud pools, and admire the country's ancient glaciers.

Related Articles

The 17 Best Countries to Visit in Europe

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

It’s no secret Europe is an appealing continent for country-hopping. Once you’re there, cycle-friendly streets, extensive train systems, and relatively cheap inter-country flights make it highly accessible. Scenery wise, Europe has everything from snowy mountains, lush forests, and glittering beaches to ultra-modern cities, medieval villages, and Neolithic structures. Wherever you go, you can just as easily spend your time immersed in local history, art, and architecture as you can lingering over a four-hour meal, wandering cobblestone streets, or dancing the night (or day) away.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in planning a trip to Europe is deciding where to go. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to our favorite places. The first nine are the obvious contenders; there’s a reason why these countries are frequently talked about—they’re easily reachable, they’re well-adjusted to tourists, and they feature a wide range of activities, experiences, and landscapes. The remaining eight countries represent equally great options for something similar but slightly more off the beaten path (for non-European tourists, at least). Whichever you choose, you'll find something for every type of traveler.

United Kingdom

joe daniel price/Getty Images

With four separate countries—England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland— the U.K . offers a taste of European diversity. From mountains, lakes, and valleys (like the Mourne Mountains , Snowdonia National Park , and the Scottish Highlands ) to rocky coastlines, rolling hills, and pebble-strewn beaches (like Seven Sisters , the Lake District , and the Pembrokeshire Coast ), it’s a hiker’s paradise. Beyond its natural wonders, the U.K. also boasts lots of lively, inclusive cities packed with bustling literary and expat scenes, LGBTQIA+ history, some of Europe’s best comedy, music, and drag festivals, and a culture centered around food and drink.

Whether you’re exploring some of the world’s best cocktail bars or restaurants in Barcelona and Madrid , lounging in the turquoise waters of the Costa Brava or Tenerife , browsing the art of Bilbao , or marveling at the medieval architecture of Seville or Toledo, one thing unites all of Spain —its warm, welcoming people. Known for closing shops to eat lunch with loved ones and later chatting for hours over pintxos and wine at dinner, Spaniards make time to appreciate life and its simple pleasures, and that energy is delightfully contagious. Solo travelers especially will never feel alone here.

Nikada/Getty Images

Contrary to Hollywood portrayals, France is more than high-end fashion, delicious pastries, and top-quality wine—though of course those are prevalent. While you can easily live out your ritzy cinematic montage via shopping on the Champs-Élysées , sunbathing on wind-swept piers in the French Riviera , or touring chateaux in wine country, the affordable ways of experiencing French culture are what make it special. Most museums offer free or discounted hours, cabarets often have cheaper performance nights, some of the best meals come from Paris street vendors or Aix-en-Provence markets, and five euro grocery store wine is better than most table wines.

Getty Images

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, with a partner, or with family, Italy has something for everyone. You can have a city break filled with art and shopping in Milan or Florence or immerse yourself in harrowing history in Pompeii . You can relax on white sand beaches in Sardinia or the Amalfi Coast . You can have an action-packed skiing trip or hiking trip. Whatever you choose to do, there is one thing you can and should explore everywhere, at every opportunity: the country's food and wine scene. Local cooking classes from the village nonna are especially fun.

Although Iceland is slightly harder to reach and could get overcrowded at popular spots like The Blue Lagoon , once you’re here, any hassle is forgotten. There are so many jaw-dropping waterfalls , glaciers , mountains , caves , and hot springs everywhere you look that you’ll forget you’re still on Earth. If you road trip (or travel by horse ) around the Ring Road that circles Iceland’s perimeter, you can also branch off to lesser travelled lava rock fields, fjords, and potential Northern Lights viewing spots. For an extra dose of Icelandic magic scenery, keep an eye out for elf walks .

Stefan Cristian Cioata/Getty Images

An excellent choice for nature lovers, history buffs, and partiers alike is Greece . Islands like Santorini , Crete , and Mykonos attract the most visitors and press, but there are literally hundreds of inhabited islands made for hiking, snorkeling, and dancing in the sun. If you prefer city life on the mainland, Athens is the heart of Ancient Greek history with modern levels of fine-dining and nightlife, and Thessaloniki is rich in Byzantine art and international festivals. To combine history and art all in one experience, visit during the brief public opening times of Ancient Greek theaters to catch a play. 

Jakob Radlgruber / EyeEm / Getty Images

With long, dark winter nights and long, bright summer days, Sweden is prime territory for Northern Lights viewing and Midsummer celebrations, but its friendly locals, buzzy student population, and inviting bakeries make it entertaining year-round. Stockholm is a great gateway city, as it has everything you’d want from an urban hub—museums, restaurants, nightclubs, and a distinct mix of architectural styles—plus easy access to day trips , farther afield Swedish cities, and the equally appealing neighboring countries of Norway and Finland. Always make time to enjoy fika , a daily social hour with friends over coffee and pastries like kanelbullar (Swedish cinnamon buns).

Known for its breweries , meat-heavy meals, exclusive nightclubs and festivals , and eclectic art scene, Germany is often seen as a hipster’s paradise or the perfect backdrop to a rowdy night out. While it is both of those things—especially Cologne with its university life and Berlin with its extensive street food, street art, and prevalence of eerie abandoned spaces—it’s also a country with impressive architecture, meandering scenic drives , an appreciation for literature , kid-friendly attractions, some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and a strong commitment to remembering its darker history . 

The Netherlands

Most people associate the Netherlands with three Ws: windmills, waterways, and weed. While it’s difficult to go anywhere without encountering at least one of those—and you should wander canals and frolic in tulip-covered fields—it’s home to more than just natural and “herbal” beauty. The first country to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption, the Netherlands is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ visitors and hosts queer-celebratory festivals, performances, and events throughout the year. It’s also edam gouda destination for cheese aficionados, with dedicated cheese museums in Amsterdam and traditional medieval cheese markets easily accessible from the capital city.

Evan Schiller/Courtesy of Ballybunion Golf Club

If dramatic scenery and its culturally-ingrained love of alcohol attract you to the U.K., Ireland has both—plus even greener landscapes and even kinder locals. You’ll pay steeply in Dublin, especially for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , but its unique architecture , literary heritage, and theater scene are worth the coin. The best way to see the country, though, is to drive along the western coastline via the Wild Atlantic Way . Accommodation ranges from homestays to full-on castles , and you can traipse woodland waterfalls , befriend Connemara horses, hike the Cliffs of Moher , and hear live music in Galway along the way.

Take everything great about Spain while subtracting the heftier crowds and costs, and you'll get Portugal . In addition to wine and sangria, you can sip on local drinks like port, ginjinha (sour cherry liquor), and vinho verde (green wine) for a few euros a glass, plus intercity train travel and rideshare apps are often cheaper than the bus. Approachability is a big plus, but the highlights are river tours around Porto and the Douro Valley , sampling pastel de nata (egg custard tarts) and pão de deus (coconut bread) in Lisbon , exploring fairytale castles of Sintra , and hopping beaches and coves along the Algarve .

Switzerland

Manuta/Getty Images

As with France, people often associate Switzerland with elaborate indulgences, like fancy ski resorts , the wealthy city of Geneva , and internationally acclaimed dining . While no trip to Switzerland would be complete without a surplus of fondue and chocolate, some of the best experiences in the country are found outside its cities. Hiking and skiing around its lakes , mountains, and parks will give you the chance to get up close and personal with its natural charm, but you don’t even have to be an active traveler to partake: there are also many ways to catch the views by train .

This central European country shares more than just a border with Italy: it also shares a passion for local wines, truffle-laden pastas, mountaintop skiing, and lakeside castles and hiking—and all at a fraction of the price. Capital city, vegetarian-friendly Ljubljana, is completely walkable, with lots of meandering canals and small farmers’ and flea markets even on the coldest of days. If you head to Slovenia’s most popular lake—Lake Bled—during the off season, you can avoid touristy beach parties and instead enjoy a virtually uninterrupted view of crisp, turquoise water shimmering beneath the mountains.

Faroe Islands

It’s hard to find unspoiled nature, but the Faroe Islands get pretty close. Located between Iceland and Norway, this remote sovereign nation offers the same rugged, otherworldly landscapes as its neighbors, but with significantly less foot, car, and boat traffic. If you’re more of an indoor cat, you may want to give this trip a skip, but otherwise suit up with layers and waterproof gear and get ready to fall in love with puffins. Stay with a local if you can—it’s more traditional, more affordable, and you’ll learn more about respecting the ecosystems around you.

Much like Greece, Croatia can impress steadfast city-breakers as much as die-hard nature-chasers. From summer festivals in Split and Dubrovnik to dedicated booze-cruise boats that take you to islands like Hvar and Brač, it has plenty of opportunities to indulge hedonistic tendencies. Equally prominent, though, are chances to rejuvenate on more remote islands , plan a leisurely food crawl , or hike through forest, mountains, and waterfalls at national parks like Krka or Plitvice Lakes .

Czech Republic

If Germany’s castles, scenic road trips, and literary appreciation are as appealing as its vast quantities of alcohol, the Czech Republic offers all of the above but with smaller crowds and, especially outside its capital, significantly lower costs. With its Franz Kafka museum, striking Jewish quarter, and black light theater performances as well as its thriving restaurant , nightlife , and absinthe scenes, Prague is definitely worth a visit, but make sure to take advantage of the extensive domestic train system to take day trips or spend time elsewhere to see some of its best architecture, World War II history, and wine and beer producers.

If you can’t decide whether to go to France, Germany, or the Netherlands, Belgium has elements of all three. It has the excellent chocolate of France, the impressive range of architecture like Germany, and the walkable, canal-filled cities like the Netherlands. Plus, the Belgians are the inventor of frites . The bilingual capital of Brussels is an ideal gateway to other cities and neighboring countries, and with its diplomatic ties, it also offers a great cultural melting pot. Eat at least one meal in Matongé, its African quarter, before traveling out to other cities like Antwerp or Bruges .

The 9 Best Power Adapters for European Travel of 2024

Your Trip to Switzerland: The Complete Guide

October in Europe: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

France Travel Planner for Every Vacation

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

The Essential Guide to Alsace, France: What to See & Do

How to Travel From Amsterdam to Venice by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Germany's Wine Road

Tap Water Safety Information for European Countries

Maps of Northern European Countries Visited by Cruise Ships

10 Best Cities to Visit in Germany

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

Best Places to Honeymoon in March and April

13 European Rivers and Waterways to Cruise

Romantic Getaways in 2019: Go Here, Not There

The Top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

BEST OF THE WORLD

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

This African country is No. 1 for friendliest destination: See who made the top 10

• The world's friendliest countries were determined by a new report from digital financial services company Remitly.
• The company surveyed 3,000 participants from 27 countries on the "agreeableness" trait from the popular Big 5 Personality Test.
• The scores of each country's residents were averaged, with the higher averages deeming the country friendlier.

Traveling to a new country can be nerve-racking , from having a basic grasp of the language to navigating the public transit system.

One thing that can ease the stress of being in a new place is encountering friendly locals, who can make you feel welcome and help if you’re lost.

Digital financial services company Remitly recently determined the world’s friendliest nations in a new report . The company surveyed 3,000 participants from 27 countries on their “agreeableness” from the popular Big 5 Personality Test in April. Participants took a simplified version of the test’s “agreeableness” section and were given a score between 1 and 40, with a higher score meaning they were more agreeable. The scores of each country’s residents were averaged, and the higher the average, the friendlier the country. 

Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

If someone’s personality is concluded as agreeable, they’re friendly, compassionate and empathetic. This is the type of person who prioritizes interpersonal relationships, is warm to others and wants to strike up conversations − all good traits if travelers want to feel comfortable in a new destination. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“A big part of being in a new place is the experience you have with locals, whether it's getting insider tips on the best places to eat, or making long-lasting connections and forging friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Ollie Cassel, head of growth marketing at Remitly, in an email to USA TODAY. “The friendliness of the people you interact with can sometimes make or break your experience.”

Read below to find out the top 10 friendliest countries, according to Remitly.

10. Belgium, 32.5

Belgium is ranked as one of the friendliest countries to travelers. The European nation not only has progressive social policies and low crime rates, but English is easily spoken, which makes it easy to meet locals. 

9. Estonia, 32.58

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more than 1,000 islands, Estonia has friendly locals who are known to be respectful and polite to foreigners. A 2019 survey of almost 14,000 Estonians found that most residents prioritize safety and openness. 

8. Germany, 32.66

There’s a lot of history and culture to uncover in Germany, and its friendly residents help make it a popular European destination. Germans aren’t known for engaging in small talk but will help you out if you’re in need. 

7. Canada, 32.84

Known for their kindness – and love for the word “sorry – Canadians scored high for agreeableness in the Remitly report, which makes it a welcoming destination for travelers. 

6. Australia, 33.13

With friendly, laid-back locals, Australia earned a spot as one of the friendliest countries for travelers, so you can feel good about visiting the Land Down Under. 

5. Sweden, 33.30

Known to have friendly and courteous locals, Sweden earned the spot as the fifth-friendliest nation. It makes sense: The country is often ranked as one of the happiest places in the world . 

4. Mexico, 33.47

Known for having strong family ties and being proud of their heritage, Mexicans are generally friendly and kind to travelers, earning the North American country the fourth spot in the report. 

3. Croatia, 33.50

Scoring the spot for the third-friendliest country, Croatia is highly welcoming for travelers. Croatians are known to be polite and social, so you can feel comfortable asking locals for directions. 

2. Greece, 33.71

The Greeks live by a value known as philoxenia , which translates to “friend of the foreign” and stems from ancient Greek mythology. Essentially, this means the country is especially welcoming and warm to travelers. 

1. South Africa, 34.63

South Africans are known to be friendly, so travelers can expect to encounter many locals saying hello and striking up conversations. Eleven official languages are spoken in the African country, like English and Afrikaans, so you can feel comfortable engaging with residents. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

The 10 Best U.S. Cities to Live in and Visit in 2024

M any factors that make the biggest cities in the United States great places to visit-good weather, world-class museums, and quality restaurants-also make them great cities to live in. Resonance , a consultancy group in real estate, tourism, and economic development, considered these factors as well as user-generated data from social media to create a comprehensive ranking of the best cities in the United States for travelers and residents.

This year, for the ninth annual list, the organization has also partnered with Ipsos for "perception-based data," according to Resonance Consultancy President and CEO Chris Fair. That means "exploring what a city offers versus how it is perceived by the broader population, says Ipsos Executive Vice President, Head of U.S. Corporate Reputation Jason McGrath. "By merging the top-of-mind destinations where people tell us they want to live, work, and visit with the rigorous evaluation of place that Resonance has been conducting for nearly a decade, we have created a more comprehensive evaluation of cities and can better advise destinations on how to strengthen their reputation," he adds.

How the cities are ranked

To determine which cities would be considered for this list, Resonance looked at U.S. cities with populations of more than 500,000. Each city was ranked based on a combination of core statistics and user-generated data from the likes of Tripadvisor and Instagram. Everything comes together for its proprietary Place Power Score.

In previous years, cities were ranked in six categories (People, Place, Product, Programming, Promotion, and Prosperity) but in 2024 they're ordered by three larger pillars: Livability, Lovability, and Prosperity. In addition to Resonance's data, Ipsos surveyed 2,000 adults on these topics, asking three key questions:

Livability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to live in?

Lovability: What are the top three towns or cities you would most like to visit?

Prosperity: Which three towns or cities do you think offer the best job opportunities?

These are the best cities in the United States to live in and visit in 2024, according to Resonance and Ipsos.

1. New York City

Highlighted rankings: Livability (1), Prosperity (1)

Why we love it: New York City has (once again) taken the top spot in Resonance's annual rankings. Make no mistake: Being at the top for the past few years is no easy feat. But the Big Apple has proved its staying power with renovated airports, world-class hotels , and museums enticing people to see the city.

Nowadays, there's a lot to explore in NYC's neighborhoods . Museums like the beloved Met and the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens have undergone renovations and expansions in recent years alongside the introduction of new destinations like the Bronx Children's Museum, the Museum of Broadway, and the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center . Meanwhile, Central Park, the High Line, the Little Island -located on the Hudson near the Meatpacking District-and other outdoor spaces entice you to come outside to relax. Midtown Manhattan has also made a comeback with a revamped Tiffany's, new hotels, and the opening of the Museum of Broadway. Getting here is even easier, too. As Resonance notes, Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and John F. Kennedy International Airport all have new terminals.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to New York.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Highlighted rankings: Livability (2), Prosperity (3)

Why we love it: There's plenty to celebrate in Chicago. The Resonance report notes its summer of world-class festivals, including Lollapalooza and the free Millennium Park Summer Music Series, as well as the 160 breweries. We love the city's dining scene, with noteworthy restaurants including Venteux, a French brasserie from Michelin-starred chef Donald Young, and Bazaar Meat and Bar Mar under chef José Andrés. Live music has also fully bounced back post-pandemic. Check out the Salt Shed, based in a former factory warehouse, to get your fix.

We wouldn't expect any less from a city that's historically been able to thrive in the midst of adversity. More than 150 years ago, the Great Fire destroyed over 2,000 acres of central Chicago and left nearly 100,000 people without homes. But the city hasn't let disaster define it; instead, it's met obstacles with a resilience you need to see for yourself .

"Chicago sees itself, since the fire, as a city able to withstand whatever," Shermann Dilla Thomas, a historian and lifelong resident who offers guided Chicago tours, told Afar . "It also makes us a city that doesn't believe in small plans. After you get a blank canvas, the sky's the limit."

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Chicago.

3. Los Angeles, California

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (2), Lovability (3)

Why we love it: While Hollywood's prowess is the most commonly associated aspect of Los Angeles, the city's restaurant scene in all its richness and diversity is just as intertwined with L.A.'s identity. Vanguards like La Cha Cha Chá, Alma, and even LA Plaza Cocina (a museum and teaching kitchen that honors Mexico's culinary heritage) offer outstanding dining experiences. Museums rank no. 2 only behind NYC, with the Broad, the Grand, and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures all well worth a visit.

Big events are heading this way, too. The city will host some 2026 FIFA World Cup games, the NBA All-Star Game that same year, and the Olympic Games in Summer 2028.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Los Angeles.

4. Miami, Florida

Highlighted rankings: Livability (3), Prosperity (11)

Why we love it: Miami has historically been a meeting point for the Americas, making it a no-brainer that it ranked high on the list. But in this city, diversity goes beyond nationality; the city's allure for the LGBTQ community and ex–Silicon Valley techies gives it a sense of welcome that many people are embracing.

In 2023 Miami moved into the top 10 for the first time, and this year it jumps from sixth to fourth. While it could rest on its open-minded reputation and beachside location to draw people, the city is also putting in the work to stay relevant. A new Waldorf Astoria Hotel is set to open in 2027, the most prominent construction amid a raft of new development.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Miami.

5. Las Vegas

Highlighted rankings: Livability (7), Prosperity (16)

Why we love it: Vegas-a new entry in the top 10-was ranked the second-most lovable city in America, so perhaps it's not surprising it was visited by almost 41 million people in 2023. What happens here might stay here, but its reputation precedes it.

Those visitors have even more options for accommodation and entertainment than ever before, including the $4.3 billion Resorts World Las Vegas (comprising three hotels) and the hotly anticipated Fontainebleau, which is "the largest residential/hotel structure on the strip," according to Resonance, and boasts a casual 36 restaurants. Oh yeah, and then there's The Sphere . And, from 2028, there will be a high-speed train to Vegas from Rancho Cucamonga in the Los Angeles area.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Las Vegas .

6. San Francisco, California

Highlighted rankings: Livability (4), Prosperity (6)

Why we love it: San Francisco has long drawn people and companies alike-Afar included-to the West Coast. Thanks to the Bay Area's world-renowned universities like Stanford and UC Berkeley, San Francisco has one of the most educated and prosperous populations. While the city's lack of affordable housing cannot be ignored, the migration of big companies to lower-taxed havens like Texas and Florida has produced a silver lining in lower house prices and rents .

As Resonance points out, "The city is rolling out the most daring bike and pedestrian infrastructure in America and unlocking the public space potential of places like the Presidio (featuring the new Presidio Tunnel Tops , a 14-acre park built over the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels)."

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to San Francisco.

7. Boston, Massachusetts

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (7), Lovability (9)

Why we love it: Boston is home to more than 75 institutions of higher learning-including Harvard and MIT-giving it the top spot in the University category and a high ranking in the Educational attainment category. But it's not only students who come to Boston. As the oldest large city in America, it draws millions of tourists each year to see historical landmarks along the Freedom Trail , including the USS Constitution and the King's Chapel .

The old city is getting some upgrades, including a 5,000-room increase in the next six years across planned hotels like the 1,055-room Omni Boston Hotel and the Raffles Boston Back Bay Hotel. Things are also cooking in the entertainment realm, with Live Nation's construction of MGM Music Hall at Fenway. This 5,000-seat concert hall, which opened in August 2022, extends the legendary ballpark to accommodate four new levels of event space.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Boston.

8. Washington, D.C.

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (9), Lovability (10)

Why we love it: Unsurprisingly, the nation's capital scores well for its many free museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture and other Smithsonian institutions like the National Air and Space Museum. In addition to all of its exhibitions are many neighborhoods worth exploring -Brookland, NoMa, Shaw, and the LGBTQ-friendly Logan Circle, to name a few-that show the city isn't relying on its history to attract locals and visitors.

What makes D.C. a city worth visiting now is new developments-$9.6 billion of them, says Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. "The city has added new hotels, museums, rooftops, Michelin-rated dining, and more for travelers to explore."

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Washington, D.C.

9. Seattle, Washington

Highlighted rankings: Livability (5), Prosperity (13)

Why we love it: Off in the far-most corner of the Pacific Northwest, the pine-scented idyll of Seattle is one of the country's best-kept secrets, with a high quality of life that comes from continued investment from big tech and (literally) greener pastures.

That commitment to sustainability makes it a big draw for tastemakers and creatives in various fields, many of whom spoke to Afar for our Great American Cities feature on Seattle .

Wondering what you'll get when you arrive? Top-notch boating and hiking, food and drinks, theater and music, and-from next year-a fully opened walkable, bikable waterfront.

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Seattle.

10. Houston, Texas

Highlighted rankings: Prosperity (5), Lovability (14)

Why we love it: "Austin may get the attention, but the promise of the Lone Star State drawing Californians and New Yorkers is quietly being fulfilled in Houston," says Resonance. "In the past year, the metro population swelled above 7 million for the first time ever, and the city today is one of America's most ethnically diverse, with more than 145 languages spoken at home."

It's easy to see why it's so popular. For starters, the food is some of the best in the Lone Star state . Then there are the festivals, including film fests and Juneteenth bashes, and starting next year, the city will be home to the first Ismaili Center in the United States, a space "designed to embody a spirit of openness and dialogue."

Plan your next trip with Afar's Guide to Houston.

To see the full list of the 100 best cities in the United States, visit Worldsbestcities.com.

This article was originally published in 2020 and was updated in June 2024 to reflect new rankings.

These are the best airlines in the world, according to a survey of travelers — see the full list

• Airline ratings company Skytrax has released its 2024 list of the best airlines in the world.
• Qatar Airways took the top spot from Singapore Airlines, 2023's winner.
• No airlines from the US made it in the top 20.

Qatar Airways has reclaimed the title of best airline in the world after losing out in 2023, according to travel industry rating company Skytrax.

Skytrax announced the results of the World Airline Awards, which polled travelers from over 100 countries on their impressions of more than 350 airlines, at a gala on Monday in London.

Once again, airlines from Asia and the Middle East dominated the awards, sweeping the top six spots and taking 12 of the top 20.

European carriers accounted for seven of the top 20 spots, with Turkish Airlines ranked highest in seventh.

No airlines from the US made the top 20 after Delta Air Lines fell one spot in this year's rankings to 21st. Delta was one of only two US airlines to crack the top 50, with United in 42nd.

Here's a closer look at the 20 best airlines in the world for 2024 according to Skytrax:

20. Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)

Saudia , which changed its name from Saudi Arabian Airlines last year, jumped up three spots to finish 20th in this year's rankings.

Saudia is Saudi Arabia's flag carrier and is a member of the Sky Team alliance. It's also one of the few major airlines in the world the not serve any alcohol on board its flights.

19. Etihad Airways

Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways fell six spots in this year's rankings but managed to stay in the top 20 at 19th.

Etihad reintroduced its Airbus A380 fleet and its luxurious The Residence suite after a four year hiatus.

18. Lufthansa

Lufthansa jumped three spots to 18 this year. The German national airline is a member of the Star Alliance and recently introduced its first new aircraft with the long-awaited Allegris cabin .

17. Virgin Atlantic Airways

Virgin Atlantic jumped up five spots to 17th in this year's rankings. The British carrier, co-owned by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Delta Air Lines, is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its founding this year.

16. Vistara

Vistara is ranked 16th for the second consecutive year and remains India's top airline. The carrier, founded in 2013 as a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines, is in the process of merging with Air India .

Spain's Iberia fell one spot to 15th in this year's rankings. The Spanish national carrier is an Oneworld alliance member alongside its International Airlines Group sibling, British Airways.

14. Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways moved up one spot this year to 14th. Fiji Airways is now Oceania's only representative in the top 20 after Air New Zealand fell to 23rd this year.

13. British Airways

British Airways moved up five spots in the rankings to 13th place. BA is the highest-ranked of the International Airlines Group (IAG) carriers, which also include Iberia (15th), Aer Lingus (49th), and Vueling (56th).

British Airways also won this year's award for the world's most family friendly airline.

12. Hainan Airlines

Hainan Airlines dropped one spot to 12th this year. Hainan has consistently been China's highest-rated carrier and the only one of the country's four major airlines not owned by the Chinese central government.

11. Korean Air

Korean Air slipped one spot to 11th place this year. South Korea's largest airline is still awaiting final approval from the US government for its proposed merger with Asiana, which was announced in late 2020.

10. Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss International Airlines jumped two spots in the 2024 ranking to 10th place. Swiss, founded in 2002 following Swissair's bankruptcy, is the highest-ranking member of the Lufthansa Group, which includes Lufthansa (18th), Austrian (28th), and Eurowings (70th).

9. Air France

Air France slipped two spots to 9th place this year despite winning a host of awards, including the world's best first-class catering, best first-class lounge dining, and best airline in Western Europe.

Taiwanese carrier EVA Air moved up one spot to 8th this year. The carrier is a subsidiary of container shipping giant Evergreen Group.

7. Turkish Airlines

In seventh place is Turkish Airlines . It's once again Europe's highest-ranked airline.

6. Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines dropped one spot to sixth this year. The Japanese flag carrier also won this year's award for the world's best premium economy cabin.

5. Cathay Pacific Airways

Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific moved into the top five this year, up from eighth position in 2023. Cathay also took home the prize for this year's best economy-class cabin.

4. All Nippon Airways (ANA)

All Nippon Airways or ANA fell one spot to fourth place this year. Despite that, the Japanese carrier managed to snag awards for the world's best airport services and the best airline staff service in Asia.

3. Emirates

Dubai's Emirates Airline moves into the top 3 this year after spending 2023 in fourth position. Emirates remains the world's largest operator of the A380 Superjumbo, with more than 100 in its fleet.

2. Singapore Airlines

After spending 2023 as the world's best airline, Singapore Airlines is back in second place, a position it also held in 2022 and 2021. Second place is nothing to scoff at. The airline also picked up honors for the world's best cabin staff and the world's best first-class cabin.

1. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways takes the No. 1 spot again after falling second behind Singapore Airlines last year. It's a familiar position for the airline, which also claimed top honors in 2022, 2021, and 2019.

This year, Qatar Airways also won awards for the best business class cabin and lounge.

• Main content

More From Forbes

The 20 best cities to live in the world, ranked in a 2024 report.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

What are the best cities to live in the world? Every year, the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) evaluates cities across the globe for their liveability, releasing the much-anticipated Global Liveability Index 2024 .

The EIU’s report examines 173 cities using 30 indicators divided into several categories, including stability, healthcare, culture, environment, education and infrastructure, then ranks them on a 100-point scale. The aim? To show how comfortable these cities are to live in.

The World’s Best City to Live

For the third consecutive year, Vienna, Austria—a place celebrated for its unmatched blend of cultural richness and essential public services—claims the title of the world’s best city to live.

“This year, Vienna once again got perfect scores (of 100) for four of the five categories, although its score for culture and environment was a less-perfect 93.5, owing to a lack of major sporting events,” Barsali Bhattacharyya, deputy industry director at EIU, told me in an interview.

Vienna has been named the world's best city to live for the third year in a row. Pictured here: St. ... [+] Charles Church "Karlskirche" Church.

Overall, Western Europe remains the world’s most liveable region with eight cities in the top 20. Coming in second on the list—also for the third year in a row—is Copenhagen, Denmark. Zurich, Switzerland ousted Melbourne, Australia to take the third place on the list in 2024 (a position it held in 2022). Compare these results to 2023 and 2022 .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, global trends.

So what do the results say about global liveability? This year’s report reveals a positive trend, primarily driven by significant improvements in healthcare and education in developing nations. However, these gains are somewhat offset by declining scores in several top-tier cities. Geopolitical risks also had an impact on the overall index.

“Global liveability has risen fractionally over the past year but risks to stability remain,” says Bhattacharyya. “High inflation, accompanied by interest rates and other economic headwinds, has led to frequent protests worldwide.”

One surprise in this year’s results, according to Bhattacharyya: “Overall, cities across the developing world have significant strides in improving their liveability standards, while those in rich countries have seen a decline in scores.”

The Best Cities to Live in the U.S.

Again this year, the U.S. didn’t crack the list of top 20 best places to live—but it moved up, with Honolulu taking the top spot as the best U.S. city to live for the second year in a row. Honolulu ranked 23 on the overall list—a two point increase from 2023, when it was number 25 overall. Honolulu performed well due to its robust educational facilities. It also scored strongly on stability as compared to other U.S. cities.

One notable trend in the U.S. is that smaller cities tend to outperform the biggest metropolises. Besides Honolulu at the top, Pittsburgh (number 3), Boston (number 7) and Minneapolis (number 10) made the list of the top 10 places to move in the U.S. “The U.S.’s most populous cities, such as New York (70th) and Los Angeles (58th), have impressive scores for their cultural offerings, but weaker ratings for stability and infrastructure,” says Bhattacharyya.

Across North America, the scores dropped—and housing was a big reason, especially in Canada. Toronto dropped from the top 10 in 2023 to the 12th position for 2024. “The main reason for the decline in North America’s scores in this year’s index is a lower infrastructure score for Canada on account of low housing supply,” says Bhattacharyya. “As in some other advanced economies, Canadian house price growth accelerated markedly during the pandemic, when mortgages were quite cheap. The combination of low housing supply and strong population growth, further driven by high levels of immigration, has led to record-low vacancy rates.”

There were several issues at play in the U.S. “Cities in the U.S. face a few well-established structural problems that affect their scores in our index,” says Bhattacharyya. “Foremost among these is a greater incidence of social unrest, which is often rooted in racial inequalities. Moreover, weak gun-control laws mean that crime is often violent and fatal and undermines social cohesion.”

The coastline of Honolulu, Hawaii, which was named the best place to live in the U.S.

The Biggest Changes

Despite dominating the top 20 with eight cities on the list, Europe faces challenges, recording the largest overall decline due to deteriorating stability scores. A surge in protests across Western Europe—spanning issues from far-right extremism to EU agricultural policies—reflects underlying societal tensions that could threaten future stability.

The biggest leap up the ranks globally was made by Hong Kong, which saw improvements in its score for stability. Hong Kong has also registered improvement in its healthcare facilities over the years. “Although not quite back to its pre-2019 scores, Hong Kong’s political landscape has stabilized, with the risks of disruptions from mass protests now negligible,” says Bhattacharyya. “The national security law and the local regulations introduced earlier in 2024 have restored political stability.”

But there are some drawbacks in Hong Kong, according to Bhattacharyya. “This change in score reflects a huge tradeoff to Hong Kong’s civil society, as evidenced by the city’s plunging score in our separately published Democracy Index.”

Meanwhile, there are stark contrasts in the Middle East and North Africa region. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has significantly impacted Tel Aviv, which has plummeted by 20 places to rank 112th.

On the other hand, Gulf cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have seen major improvements in their liveability scores. “This year, Dubai has joined Abu Dhabi in achieving the highest tier of liveability in our index (i.e. a score of 80 or above). Both cities score highly on stability, infrastructure and education and have seen steady improvements in overall ratings over the past few years,” says Bhattacharyya.

Saudi Arabia also performed well. “In the past few years, Saudi Arabian cities have seen strong investment in domestic infrastructure, education and health in order to become more attractive to foreign tourists and expatriates, and diversify their economies,” says Bhattacharyya. “These efforts have been rewarded with movements up the rankings.”

Read on for the rankings of the best cities to live around the world and in the United States.

A view of traditional houses in the Nyhavn area of Copenhagen, Denmark, which was named the world's ... [+] second best city to live for the third year in a row.

Ranked: The 20 Best Cities To Live in the World

1. Vienna, Austria

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

3. Zurich, Switzerland

4. Melbourne, Australia

5. Calgary, Canada (tied with Geneva)

5. Geneva, Switzerland (tie)

7. Sydney, Australia (tied with Vancouver)

7. Vancouver, Canada (tie)

9. Osaka, Japan (tied with Aukland)

9. Auckland, New Zealand (tie)

11. Adelaide, Australia

12. Toronto, Canada

13. Helsinki, Finland

14. Tokyo, Japan

15. Perth, Australia

16. Brisbane, Australia

17. Frankfurt, Germany (tied with Luxembourg)

17. Luxembourg, Luxembourg (tie)

19. Amsterdam, Netherlands

20. Wellington, New Zealand

Honolulu has been named the best city to live in the U.S. and the 23rd best place to live in the ... [+] world. Here, a surfboard-lined alley off the commercial shopping district of Kalakaua Avenue by Waikiki Beach.

Ranked: The 10 Best Cities To Live In The U.S.

1. Honolulu, Hawaii (overall ranking: 23)

2. Atlanta, Georgia (overall ranking: 29)

3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (overall ranking: 30)

4. Seattle, Washington (overall ranking: 34)

5. Washington D.C. (overall ranking: 38)

6. Chicago, Illinois (overall ranking: 39)

7. Boston, Massachusetts (overall ranking: 45)

8. Miami, Florida (overall ranking: 47)

9. San Francisco, California (overall ranking: 49)

10. Minneapolis, Minnesota (overall ranking: 50)

MORE FROM FORBES:

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.