45 Amazing Destinations Worldwide (Our Favorite Places from 20+ Years of Traveling)

People often ask us what is our favorite destination in the world or what’s the most beautiful place we have been to…

But the more we travel, the more difficult it gets to pick just a few favorite places. There’s just so much beauty in our world…

Nevertheless, in this article, we share some of the very best, most beautiful destinations from over two decades of traveling. Amazing places from all over the world made this list of our favorite destinations. Find out!

Good to know: This list was originally published as 39 of our favorite places worldwide after 15 years of traveling, then updated to 43… In the meantime, we visited so many other amazing destinations that it was high time to update it with a few new favorites. We are still very selective with which places we choose to feature here, so those that make the cut are really special and have left a remarkably memorable impression.

I hope that you will find some new inspiration for your trips in this article. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Scenic Roads in the World

   

In no particular order, here is our selection of the most beautiful destinations from all over the world:

1. Cape Peninsula, South Africa

Cape Town and the entire Cape Peninsula in South Africa is one of our absolute favorite regions in the world. We hardly ever travel to the same place more than once; Cape Peninsula is one of the few places where we gladly make an exception.

Some of the most beautiful places not to miss here are the Cape of Good Hope, the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, the penguin colony in Simon Town, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the Twelve Apostles Road, Table Mountain, and Signal Hill in Cape Town.

How to visit: The Cape Town area is best explored by car. If you are not renting a car, you can also take tours and excursions. Plan at least 3-4 days here, but a week would be better!

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Visit in South Africa & South Africa Itinerary

   

2. Algarve, Portugal

Algarve region in southern Portugal is our newest favorite travel destination in Europe. Talking about visiting places more than once… this is a place we have been to countless times and where we even see ourselves settling one day.

There is just something about Algarve that captures your heart. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and friendly people, Algarve is the best vacation destination you can imagine. Add to this fresh seafood, delicious wine, a wide variety of world-class resorts and restaurants, and affordable prices, and you’ll quickly understand why Algarve has been chosen as one of the world’s leading beach destinations time and again…

The coastal scenery here is absolutely breathtaking and Algarve’s beaches are unbelievably diverse. From long flat white sand shores with sand dunes, remarkable coastal cliffs with sea caves and grottoes, to some of the most impressive wild and rugged beaches of the western Atlantic coast, the coastlines of Algarve will leave even the most seasoned travelers in awe.

Some of the must-sees here include the coastal scenery of Ponta da Piedade, Benagil Cave, and the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. Don’t miss Cape St. Vincent in Sagres, the southwesternmost point of the European mainland. It was known as ‘The End of The World’ before the Age of Discovery and it remains special today.

How to visit: The best way to explore Algarve is by renting a car and driving around. You can make a road trip, but the region is not that big, so it’s also perfectly possible to just stay in one place and take day trips. You can spend a few days here or a few months – there’s so much to experience!

LEARN MORE: Best Places to See & Things to Do in Algarve

   

3. Dolomites, Italy

Italy is one of our personal absolute favorite countries worldwide. Since we live in Europe, we travel there quite often. In fact, I could easily fill this entire article with our favorite destinations from Italy alone… But there are a few places in Italy that I just have to highlight a bit more. One of them is the Dolomites region.

Somehow it took us years to discover one of Europe’s most beautiful mountain regions, the Italian Dolomites… But after the first glimpse, we were hooked and went back to the region time and again.

All I can tell you is that these stunning mountains are worth a trip from the other side of the world!

Over the years, we saw some of the most beautiful mountain destinations in the world; such as Switzerland, Austria, Western Canada, New Zealand, and Norway. But the Dolomites have it all in one place: the azure-blue lakes of Canada, the Alpine scenery of Austria and Switzerland, and the rougher landscapes of Norway or New Zealand… If you love mountains, you’ll love it here!

Some of the most beautiful places are the iconic three peaks Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lake Braies, the whole Val Gardena area, countless mountain passes, Cinque Torri, and jaw-dropping Lake Sorapis.

How to visit: The best way to explore the Dolomites is by going hiking. You’ll need a car to get around, but public transport is also available. If you only have a day, you can also visit some of the easier-accessible areas with an organized tour from various cities in Northern Italy.

LEARN MORE: Best Hikes in the Italian Dolomites & Best Places in the Dolomites

   

4. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming USA is everything you would expect it to be and so much more. This is one of the most diverse National Parks in the United States. Top spot travel where inspiration meets destination!

Yellowstone is a magical place with beautiful landscapes, an incredible variety of wildlife, spurting geysers, colorful geothermal features, deep canyons, lush valleys, and even hot rivers that you can swim in… Definitely, a place you should put on your bucket list!

Some of the main natural landmarks not to miss are the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Old Faithful Geyser, the Yellowstone Canyon, Hayden Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Lamar Valley. But there’s so much more to this incredible place!

How to visit: Yellowstone is best visited by car, but there are also day excursions and multi-day tours available. Here you can find our complete guide to visiting Yellowstone.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone & Yellowstone Itinerary

   

5. Milford Sound, New Zealand

Milford Sound Fjord on the Southern Island of New Zealand is one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. It will take your breath away!

New Zealand is high on top of the most beautiful nature destinations worldwide, and Milford Sound is just one of the many spectacular natural landmarks we visited in New Zealand.

How to visit: Milford Sound can best be visited by boat tour. If you don’t have a car to get there, you can also visit it as a day trip from Queenstown or from Te Anau.

   

6. Mopion Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

A tiny Mopion Island is one of the most unbelievable places we have ever been to. This island can be found near Petit St. Vincent resort-island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in the Caribbean.

We were at Petit St. Vincent for our honeymoon and the resort organized a boat transfer to this tiny island for us. There was nobody else around us the whole day – just the two of us, this tiny umbrella, and the sea. Oh, and the picnic basket with a bottle of champagne, and the snorkeling gear for hours of underwater fun.

Extraordinary experience! But you sure hope that the boat comes to pick you up in the afternoon…

How to visit: If you stay in the Petit St Vincent resort, they can arrange the boat transfer for you. Otherwise, you can only get here by private yacht or by hiring a boat from one of the nearby islands.

   

7. Red Center, Australia

Australia’s Red Center is one of the most unique places in the world. Australian Outback is vast and you’d need weeks and months in order to travel around it. But there is one area that’s worth visiting the most and that’s the area between Alice Springs and Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park.

The Red Center is so much more than just Uluru (formerly known as Ayer’s Rock)! The West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon, and the stunning red rocks of Kata Tjuta are worth the visit just as much!

If you visit just one region in Australia, make it the Red Center, the true heart of this incredible continent!

How to visit: Australia’s Red Center is best explored in a 4×4 car and can be best reached from Alice Springs which has an airport. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can also take organized excursions and multi-day tours.

LEARN MORE: Australia Red Center Itinerary: from Alice Springs to Uluru

   

8. Bruges, Belgium

We live in Belgium and often forget how privileged we are to have some of Europe’s most beautiful cities within such an easy reach. No list of our favorite places in the world would be complete without mentioning Bruges.

If you visit just one place in Belgium, make it Bruges! It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful fairytale towns and one of our absolute favorites.

How to visit: You can easily get to Bruges by car, by train, or by taking a day tour from Brussels or from Amsterdam. In Bruges, the best way to explore is walking, plus taking a boat tour on the canals.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bruges

   

9. Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda is our favorite of the Italian Lakes. It combines the best of Italy in one: stunning mountain scenery, charming towns and villages, history, culture, but also plenty of activities for the whole family.

Some of our absolute favorites include Malcesine, Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, and Riva del Garda. Make sure to drive all around the lake and also take a boat tour around Sirmione. A boat trip on the northern side of the lake is also a must!

If you are visiting Italy in the warmer months, Lake Garda is not to be missed! If you like beautiful nature, quaint little villages, and Italian lifestyle, you will love Lake Garda and the other Italian lakes in Northern Italy.

How to visit: There are many ways to visit Lake Garda: by car, by public transport, by boat, and by taking organized tours. You can come for just a day or spend two weeks here – it’s always worth it! Here you can find some suggestions for the Lake Garda itinerary.

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Places on Lake Garda

   

10. Tromso, Norway

Tromso in Northern Norway was one of those destinations that made me fall in love with winter travel. If you are looking for an incredible winter destination that truly has it all, then look no further!

Tromso is a real winter wonderland with activities such as reindeer and dog sledding, polar fjord cruises, snowmobiling, ice hotel visits or overnight stays, and aurora hunting.

In fact, Tromso’s location right on the Aurora Circle makes it one of the very best places to see Northern Lights in the world! Yes, one of the very best in the entire world! If seeing auroras is high on your bucket list, Tromso is the place to be!

How to visit: Tromso is just a short flight from Oslo and other Scandinavian capital cities. There are also direct flights from some other places in Europe. Once in town, you can walk or take public transportation pretty much everywhere you need. For winter activities outside the city, tour operators offer free pick-up in Tromso.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Tromso in Winter

   

11. Loire Valley, France

The famous Loire Valley is world-known for its stunning castles. If you like to visit some stunning palaces and castles that look straight from a fairytale, then this might just be the perfect destination for you!

Some of the finest castles of the Loire Valley are Château de Chambord, Chateau de Chenonceau, Château de Villandry, Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau, and Chateau d’Usse. Don’t limit your visit to just one castle, the region of Loire with hundreds of castles is worth exploring deeper!

How to visit: The best way to visit the castles is by car. If you want to take it easy, plan at least 3-4 days here. But there are also organized tours available that cover several most popular castles in one day, also as a day trip from Paris.

   

12. Berner Oberland Region, Switzerland

Berner Oberland is one of the most beautiful regions in Switzerland. The mountain sceneries here are out of this world! There are so many beautiful places to visit, charming towns, phenomenal hikes, and countless activities for the whole family… You can spend weeks exploring this region and still not see it all!

We have been here so many times, in summer and in winter, and we go back almost every year again. If you know that we hardly ever go back to the same place twice, this probably says it all. Switzerland is one of the few places in the world where we can visit and revisit again and again.

There are so many beautiful places in the Berner Oberland region that it would be hard to pick our favorites. Here’s a list of some of the nicest places – choose any of these and you can’t go wrong!

• Jungfraujoch, Top of Europe – a must-see, at any time of the year!
• Schynige Platte – a hidden gem of Switzerland
• Grindelwald- First – the best mix of activities and jaw-dropping sceneries. If you only have one day in the region in summer, this is the place to be.
• Oeschinensee Hike – one of the best hikes in the world!
• Interlaken Day Trip – with several suggested 1-day itineraries
• Trümmelbach Falls – underground waterfalls in Lauterbrunnen
• Jungfrau Region in Winter – just as beautiful as in the summer
• Skiing in Wengen – one of our favorite ski resorts

How to visit: Stay in Wengen or Grindelwald for a few days. From there, you can take trains and gondolas to the most popular places. Hiking is the best way to explore the mountains! Interlaken is also a good place to base yourself; it just depends on how much time you have and what you’re planning to do.

   

13. Santorini, Greece

Santorini Island in Greece is like no other place in the world! You’ll instantly recognize its typical whitewashed buildings against the rugged volcanic landscape.

And yes, it truly is as beautiful as in the pictures! Just be aware that you will not be enjoying the romantic sunsets alone – millions of tourists visit Santorini every year.

How to visit: Santorini is a popular stop on many Mediterranean cruises. You can also fly here from Athens and – in high season – from all major European countries.

   

14. Jasper & Banff National Parks, Canada

There are moments when you see a place so special that you know immediately that it was worth the whole trip. The tiny Spirit Island in Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park and the incredibly picturesque Moraine Lake in Banff National Park were such places for us. Wow!

Pictures don’t even do justice to the stunning landscapes of this part of Canada. The beauty of nature will take your breath away!

How to visit: Rent a car and make a road trip. There are so many possible itineraries, but no matter what you decide to do, make sure to include both – Jasper and Banff – in your trip.

   

15. The Azores, Portugal

If you are looking for stunning nature and sceneries that will take your breath away, I cannot recommend the Azores highly enough. This Portuguese archipelago is Europe’s hidden gem!

There are 9 islands in the Azores. The main one that most people visit is Sao Miguel. It’s absolutely amazing and there’s so much to see and do including the stunning Sete Cidades Lagoon and the geothermal area of Furnas!

But our personal favorite was the secluded Flores Island. At the time of our visit, there were less than ten rental cars and two hotels on the island. It felt like we traveled back in time to when tourism wasn’t the thing yet… I’m sure this has changed in recent years, but still – it’s a well-kept secret that not many people know about.

How to visit: You’ll need to fly to the Azores. The best flight connections are from Lisbon, but there are many direct flights to other European destinations as well. Island hopping by plane and sometimes by boat is the best way to discover the various islands. On the bigger islands, it’s best to rent a car and explore on your own. Organized tours are often available as well.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Sao Miguel, Azores

   

16. Arches National Park, USA

Utah is home to some of the world’s most magical natural landmarks. Monument Valley, Bryce NP, Zion NP, Canyonlands NP… I could fill half of this list of amazing travel destinations without ever leaving the state of Utah… But if I have to choose just one, it would be Arches National Park.

With over 2000 arches and the most incredible scenery, Arches National Park is truly one of a kind. Furthermore, from all the most unique nature destinations we ever visited in the world, Arches NP is one of the easiest and most simple to visit.

If you live in the U.S. and remember just one travel idea from this list of our favorite places, let it be Arches! Also because its’ a perfect destination the whole year round.

There’s a lot to see and do in Arches. The absolute must do’s are driving the Arches Scenic Drive and Hiking to Delicate Arch!

How to visit: Stay in Moab hotels as your base for this area including the nearby Canyonlands NP. Arches is best explored by car and hiking. If you want to get off the beaten path, you can also consider 4×4 tours and many other activities (see our guide to the best Moab tours).

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

   

17. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

Iceland is like a whole different planet! I could fill this entire list of our favorite travel destinations with so many amazing places in Iceland.

But if I have to choose just one and one that you can easily visit, it would have to be Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This lake is filled with icebergs coming from the nearby glacier. It’s an ever-changing spectacle and it’s different every time you visit. A true wonder of nature! In summer or in winter, it’s worth a trip to Iceland all by itself!

How to visit: You can get to Jokulsarlon by car or by joining a multi-day tour. Day trips to Jokulsarlon from Reykjavik are also possible. The lagoon itself can be explored by taking boat tours between the icebergs and you can also just walk along the shore.

LEARN MORE: Iceland 4 Days Itinerary – the best of Iceland’s South Coast including Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.

   

18. Venice, Italy

With its medieval palazzos, richly decorated gondolas, hundreds of bridges, canals, and unforgettable romantic atmosphere, Venice is worthy of any bucket list. And so no list of the best travel destinations in the world would be complete without mentioning Venice.

We’ve been to Venice several times and it just never gets boring. Some of the best places to see in Venice are the famous St. Mark’s Square with its Basilica and Campanile, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal. A gondola ride in Venice is also an absolute must!

How to visit: Venice can be reached by car or public transport from other major cities in northern Italy. And because you can see the best of Venice in one day, it’s very easy to include in any Italy trip itinerary. Once in a city, the best way to explore is by walking.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Venice

   

19. Svalbard, Norway

If you are looking for truly unique destinations to visit, then look no further – Svalbard is as off the beaten path and as good as it gets! Just 1.050 km (650 miles) from the North Pole, Svalbard is one of the most remote destinations on the planet.

I visited Svalbard in winter and it was even more special than going in summer, I suppose. Extreme Arctic winter temperatures in combination with vast empty landscapes and few daylight hours, make you appreciate the majestic nature even more… At the same time, Longyearbyen, the main town in Svalbard, is a very lively place with many cozy cafes and contemporary restaurants.

This unique mix is something that cannot be described. You just have to experience it yourself. And you’ll want to go back before you even leave!

How to visit: Despite its remote location, Svalbard is actually very easy to get to. It’s just a 3-hour flight from Oslo and a 1.5-hour flight from Tromso in Norway. Once in Svalbard, you have to take guided tours for everything you (boat tours, snowmobiling, dog sledding, etc.). This is a polar bear country and you should never leave town without a local guide who carries a gun.

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Svalbard

   

20. La Digue, Seychelles

Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean is one of the typical honeymoon destinations. But there is so much more to Seychelles than white sand beaches and luxury resorts!

We went island-hopping in Seychelles and visited several islands in one trip. It was surprising to see how much variety there is and how different many islands are. We saw stunning landscapes with granite boulders and giant palm trees, walked among two-hundred-year-old tortoises, drank coconut milk on the beach, and snorkeled among thousands of colorful fish and turtles in the ocean…

But if I have to choose just one island that I recommend the most, it would be La Digue. It’s easy to visit on your own, has good facilities and infrastructure, and some of the most incredible scenery. There’s also a good mix of activities, beaches, and local culture.

How to visit: La Digue can be easily reached by boat from the nearby Praslin Island or with a sailing tour. Praslin is the second-largest island in Seychelles and has good boat- and air connections to Mahe. Mahe is the main island where the International Airport is located.

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Seychelles Islands

   

21. Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is famous for its tulips and there is no better time to visit the country than in the spring. If you arrive in Amsterdam by plane, make sure to get a window seat as the view over the colorful flower fields is absolutely incredible!

Even the most unromantic person will be impressed by the colorful tulip fields stretching as far as an eye can see.

How to visit: The easiest place to see tulip fields near Amsterdam is Lisse, just next to the famous Keukenhof Gardens. You can get here by car, with a shuttle from Amsterdam airport, with a transfer from Amsterdam, or by joining an organized tour.

LEARN MORE: Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam & Dutch Tulip Fields (Lisse)

TIP: Read also our tips for the best of Amsterdam in one day and a suggested 2-day Amsterdam itinerary.

   

22. Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive man-made structures we ever set a foot on. It’s impossible to imagine the true scale of this wall stretching over the hilly landscapes for thousands of miles. And even when you stand there, you get just a glimpse of it…

If you can visit more remote parts of the wall, you’ll enjoy it more. But even if it’s a busy place, you can usually escape the biggest crowds by taking a longer walk on the wall.

How to visit: The easiest way to visit the Great Wall is by taking a transfer or an organized tour from Beijing. Just do some research before you go, maybe pick a private or a small-group tour, and try to avoid the crowds!

   

23. Deadvlei, Namibia

It’s difficult to find the right words to describe such a remarkable destination as Deadvlei in Namibia. It’s a magical, surreal place that has no equals anywhere else on Earth.

Go before sunrise if you want to have the whole place to yourself as we did. It’s a unique experience to see the desert wake up in the morning.

How to visit: Deadvlei is part of the more famous Sossuvlei area. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to get here, but even then, many people will advise taking a vehicle driven by local guides for the last few kilometers. We drove all the way to Deadvlei in our own 4×4 and it was doable, but we also saw many cars stuck in the sand along the way. You can also visit here with organized tours from Swakopmund or Windhoek.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Visit in Namibia

   

24. Rome, Italy

Rome, the Eternal City, is probably the most beautiful city in the world. I often call it a city-museum: there is so much art and history everywhere you go! And no matter how many times you visit, you’ll always discover something new.

On your first visit don’t miss the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Vatican with St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel, St. Angelo Bridge, and Castel Sant’Angelo.

Make sure to also get a bit off the beaten path in Rome, see some of the best views over the Eternal City, and visit Rome’s underground sites as well!

How to visit: Rome can best be visited on foot or by bike. Stay in the heart of the city center and prepare to walk a lot! Make sure to get skip-the-line tickets for all the main landmarks, or you risk standing in line the whole day (see Rome travel tips for more info).

TIP: Here you can find a very detailed Rome 4-day itinerary that covers all the musts and so much more. We also have itinerary suggestions for Rome in a day and 2 days in Rome.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Rome

   

25. Maroon Bells, USA

Maroon Bells in Colorado are said to be the most photographed mountains in the United States. But no matter how many pictures you have seen, you won’t be prepared for the stunning beauty of the place!

Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and see the incredible reflections on the lake. If you have a few hours to spare, you can also hike to the nearby Crater Lake. This is one of the best day trips in the Colorado Rockies!

How to visit: Maroon Bells are just a short ride from Aspen, CO, and can be reached by car. In high season, you’ll need to take a shuttle bus.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Maroon Bells & Hike to Crater Lake

   

26. Disko Bay, Greenland

Remote and less-visited nature destinations are always among our absolute favorite places in the world! There’s just something so special to discover places that are so totally different than anywhere else you’ve ever been… Disko Bay in Greenland was like that for us!

We visited the town of Ilulissat that is world-famous for its Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It exceeded all our expectations! And we also spent a few days in Qeqertarsuaq on the nearby Disko Island, one of Greenland’s best-kept secrets.

Icebergs higher than cruise ships floating in the ocean, whale spotting from the shore, dog sledding in summer, witnessing a local wedding in Qeqertarsuaq, and watching the stunning midnight sun from our hotel room the whole night – those are just some of our favorite memories from that trip…

How to visit: There are direct flights (+-3hrs) to Ilulissat from Reykjavik or Copenhagen. From there, it’s a 2-hr boat ride to Disko Island. In Ilulissat and Qeqertarsuaq, you can simply walk anywhere you need to be and there are guided tours available as well.

LEARN MORE: Greenland Travel Tips & Our Itinerary

   

27. Li River, China

We were lucky to visit China before the big economic growth changed the country and its people for good. We didn’t know what to expect and were amazed to discover such a rich culture and incredibly beautiful nature.

This trip was long before our pre-blogging days and we don’t remember many practicalities of that trip, but we do remember the places we loved the most. Li River was one of those places that we remember even years later. Absolutely stunning!

How to visit: We visited China with a small-group organized tour and if we ever go back to the more rural areas, we’d go on a tour again.

   

28. Hermanus, South Africa

Hermanus in South Africa is my husband’s favorite place from all our trips. What is there not to love about this spectacular coastline where you can watch dolphins and whales from ashore!

One of our best memories from South Africa is having a picnic and watching dolphins from the spot in this picture.

This is the best place to watch whales in South Africa and one of the best in the world! So make sure to book a whale watching boat tour as well!

How to visit: Hermanus can easily be visited by car or with a tour from Cape Town. Often, you can see whales and dolphins from the shore, but if you want to see them close by, it’s best to take a boat tour.

   

29. Prague, Czech Republic

Without a doubt, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Prague will surprise and enchant you. It’s a city that does not yield to Paris, Rome, or London.

For a long time, Prague was my personal favorite city in Europe. But its popularity has taken its tall and the city has become so crowded… Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful destination, well worth visiting, just try to avoid the peak season!

Some of the nicest places to see on your first trip are the Old Town Square with is famous Astronomical Clock, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle.

How to visit: Prague has a big international airport with direct flights from many destinations. Once in the city, it’s best explored on foot.

   

30. Cape Cross Seal Reserve, Namibia

The sight of more than 100,000(!) seals at Cape Cross seal reserve in Namibia is impressive, to say the least. It’s an unforgettable experience to walk amongst so many wild animals. We have seen many seals in the world, but this place is like nowhere else. Unbelievable!

They say that the sound and the smell is something that stays with you forever. We were lucky to visit on a very windy day and so we missed the smelly part of the experience, but the sound was incredible indeed.

How to visit: Cape Cross Seal Reserve is just a short drive from Swakopmund. You can make a half-day trip or stop here on your way to Twyfelfontein or the Skeleton Coast. As in most other places in Namibia, you’ll need a 4×4 to drive here, but the road is very good.

READ ALSO: Namibia Travel Tips

   

31. Trakai Castle, Lithuania

I couldn’t make any list of our favorite places without mentioning Lithuania, my home country. There are so many great places to see, but first-time travelers usually don’t go much further than Vilnius and Trakai.

Trakai is also one of our favorite places to spend a day and we go there every time we are in Lithuania.

The beautifully restored Trakai Castle is worth a visit, but if you have the chance, make sure to also explore the lake and the whole area around it. To truly appreciate the beauty of this place, you would have to see it from above – the castle is built on an island that is surrounded by lakes and forests as far as the eye can see.

How to visit: Trakai can be easily reached by car or by train. There are also organized tours from Vilnius.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Lithuania

   

32. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Great Ocean Road in Southern Australia is one of the most popular destinations in Australia. More than 20 million tourists more travel to this area every year, and most of them go to see the famous Twelve Apostles.

However, there’s so much more to the Great Ocean Road (GOR) than just this one viewpoint! Make sure to escape the crowds and take your time to explore the beautiful coastline beyond the most famous lookout points. There is so much you can see and do here. Don’t miss the Kennett River Koala Walk – one of the best places to see wild koalas in Australia

How to visit: GOR is in Southern Australia; the closes big city is Melbourne. You’ll need a car to drive this road and stop at its many scenic spots. Alternatively, you can also visit with a tour from Melbourne.

READ ALSO: Best Places to See on the Great Ocean Road

   

33. Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands can be found in the North Atlantic Ocean, between Norway and Iceland. This 18-island archipelago is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and is really close to continental Europe. Yet, it feels like a world apart.

It’s difficult to pick just one or two favorite places here. Don’t miss Saksun village, Vestmanna bird cliffs, Mykines Island puffins, and the capital town of Torshavn. Our favorite place was the area around Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island. Phenomenal scenery!

How to visit: The Faroe Islands are just a short flight away from Copenhagen, Denmark. There are also direct flights from Edinburgh, UK, and Reykjavik, Iceland. Once on the islands, you can see most places by renting a car or by basing yourself in Torshavn and taking organized tours.

LEARN MORE: Faroe Islands Itinerary & Faroe Islands Travel Tips

   

34. Paris, France

No list of the best destinations in the world would be complete without mentioning Paris! Love it or hate it, Paris is a true bucket-list destination that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.

On the first trip, don’t miss the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, a boat ride on the Seine River, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre, and Moulin Rouge. D’Orsay Museum is really nice too and a day trip to Versailles is a must as well!

How to visit: Paris is big and you’ll have to walk a lot. For bigger distances, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus or hop-on-hop-off boat. Metro is the fastest way to get around the city. Check out our tips for visiting Paris and make sure to get tickets for all the main landmarks in advance!

LEARN MORE: Recommended Paris Itinerary (4 Days)

   

35. Terracotta Army in China

No matter how many pictures of Emperor Qin’s terracotta army you had seen, you cannot be prepared for how impressive it is in reality.

This in itself is worth a visit, even if coming from the other side of the world. A must-see if visiting China!

How to visit: The Terracotta Army can be found inside the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum in Xi’an town. Pretty much all China tours will include it in their itinerary. If you are traveling individually, you can also book a guided tour once you are in Xi’an.

   

36. Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, France

There is something about the abbey of Mont Saint Michel that is difficult to put in words. It has incredible views and such a unique atmosphere.

The place is magical at night and crowded with tourists during the day. If you can, try to visit off-season or avoid the crowds by staying the night and exploring the place after the day tourists have left.

How to visit: Mont Saint-Michel is located somewhat remotely and you’ll need a car to get here. There is a big car parking from where you can either walk or take a shuttle to the island itself. If you don’t have a car, you can also visit with an organized day tour from Paris.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Mont Saint Michel

   

37. Taj Mahal, India

We have been to so many places in the world and in most cases, we left longing to go back. India, however, is one of the very few destinations that didn’t have this effect on us. Maybe we should give it a second chance one day…

Anyway, Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, is worth a trip to India all by itself! It’s a fascinating place that has to be experienced first hand. Definitely one for your bucket list!

How to visit: Taj Mahal is located in the town of Agra, about 3-4 hours drive from Delhi. If you are staying in Agra, you can visit individually or take a private tour. And if you are coming from Delhi, you can best take an organized tour.

   

38. Tuscany, Italy

Oh, Italy… We could fill this entire list just with our favorite places to see in Italy… But if you are looking for just one region that encompasses the best of Italy in one place, then you cannot go wrong with Tuscany!

Tuscany truly has it all: the most beautiful landscapes, historical towns, wonderful art, Italy’s best wineries, great food, and (usually) good weather.

Some of the best places to visit are, of course, famous towns such as Florence, Siena, Pisa, or Lucca. But also the Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills and cypress trees and charming medieval towns and villages is a must! One of our favorite smaller towns here is Montepulciano.

How to visit: There are good railway connections between the main towns in Italy. The towns are best explored on foot. If you want to visit the countryside, it’s best to travel by car or take organized tours.

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Towns of Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary

   

39. Burj Khalifa, Dubai

I was a bit skeptical about visiting Dubai with kids as it seemed such an artificial city. In a way, it is. But you just have to admire the vision of the people who turned a small village in the desert into the world metropolis that Dubai is today!

There is so much to see and do in Dubai, but Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world – is definitely not to be missed. It’s hard to imagine what a building of 828 m (2,717 ft) looks like until you stand right under it and look up. Dazzling!

How to visit: You can take an elevator to the 124th floor and also visit the 125th floor of Burj Khalifa (make sure to book your tickets in advance!). Going at sunset gives you the best experience as you can see Dubai at dusk and, if you wait a bit longer, also in the dark. If you want to go even higher, it’s possible to visit the 148th floor as well. Those tickets are a bit more expensive and give you a somewhat different experience, with fewer people around.

READ ALSO: Best Dubai Tours & Interesting Dubai Facts

   

40. Alsace Region, France

Alsace is one of our favorite regions in France. Its charming quaint towns with half-timbered houses, beautiful countryside, vineyards, and regional cuisine make it one of the best destinations in France!

Our favorites are the picturesque town of Colmar and of course Strasbourg. If you can, take a trip through the countryside and also visit some of the most beautiful towns on the Alsace Wine Route such as Eguisheim, Kayserberg, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, or Obernai, to mention just a few.

How to visit: Strasbourg can be easily reached by train from Paris and Colmar is just a short train ride from there. The towns themselves are best explored on foot. For the countryside, you’ll need a car, but there are also many amazing tours available.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Colmar & Strasbourg with Kids

   

41. Mauritius

Mauritius has always intrigued me. This paradise-like island in the Indian Ocean is a popular honeymoon destination, but it has so much more to offer than just its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts.

Despite its rather compact size, Mauritius offers more diversity than I ever imagined. There is so much to see and there is a big range of activities available. Of course, you can just stay on the beach the whole day, but you’d be missing so much. So if you already make the trouble to fly that far, go out and explore!

How to visit: Mauritius has an international airport with direct flights from Europe, India, several African destinations, etc. Once on the island, you can rent a car and explore individually. Taxis are also available, but distances are bigger than you’d think. If you are staying in a resort and just want to take an occasional day trip, you’ll find plenty of tours available.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Mauritius

   

42. Okaukuejo Waterhole in Etosha National Park, Namibia

Why does a waterhole make it to my top destinations list? Okaukuejo in Etosha National Park is not just any waterhole; it’s like watching the National Geographic channel live!

Hundreds of animals come and go all day (and night) long. All you have to do is comfortably install yourself on one of the many benches facing the waterhole and let the African wildlife come to you. It’s not the same as going on safari, of course, but it’s an incredible experience, one that is not to be missed in Namibia!

How to visit: You’ll need a car for Etosha NP. Organized tours are also available. If you can, book at least one night at Okaukuejo Camp.

LEARN MORE: Best Places to Stay in Etosha National Park

   

43. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is one of our favorite destinations in Asia. To me, it’s the best of Asia on a rather small surface, allowing you to get a taste of a very different culture without having to travel around too much.

However, we visited Bali many years ago, before it became crazy popular. So I’m not sure how I’d feel about it today. But in the days when we were there, it was a wonderful mix of pristine nature, rich cultural traditions, and nice beaches and holiday resorts.

How to visit: Bali has a big international airport with direct flights from all over the world. Once on the island, it’s best to hire a private driver to get around. Driving there is hectic and I’d leave it for the locals!

   

44. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Lofoten Islands in Northern Norway is one of the bucket list destinations for any outdoor lover! The scenery here is absolutely amazing. With stunning fjords, steep mountains, and traditional rorbuer cabins dotting the landscape, the Lofoten archipelago is picture-perfect!

You can spend just a few days here or a few weeks and you’ll find plenty of amazing things to see and do in Lofoten. Most popular are, of course, nature activities and especially hiking. But you can also go kayaking, take some boat trips, see wildlife, or visit one of the many museums to learn more about Viking history or the fishing industry in the region.

In the summer, you can experience the magical Midnight Sun here, and in the winter season, you may get lucky to see the Northern Lights.

How to visit: The best way to explore Lofoten Islands is by car, but you can also plan a trip using public transportation. There are several airports nearby, you rent a car or take a bus, choose one or several nice places to stay in Lofoten, and explore. It’s as easy as that.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Lofoten Islands

   

45. Panorama Route, South Africa

Panorama Route in South Africa will always hold a special place in our hearts! There’s a good reason why I wanted to end this list of our favorite places with it.

When I first met my husband, we traveled a lot. However, after extensive traveling for several years, we both had a feeling that we had seen so many beautiful places that it was difficult to get excited about a new destination. We decided to take a break.

After a while, we booked a 2-week trip to South Africa. On the first evening, we were staying close to Kruger NP and a couple of hippos walked into the garden of our hotel, just meters from the table where we were having dinner. The next day we were standing at this viewpoint on the Panorama Route and my husband said something I’ll never forget: ‘just when I thought that we’ve seen it all, South Africa has proven me wrong’.

It was here, at this place, that we knew that we would continue to travel as much as we could, as often as we could, and as far as we could. We now have three kids and don’t travel as often or for as long as we’d want to. Still, we try to make the most of the school holidays, explore the world, and show our kids how beautiful and diverse it is.

READ ALSO: Best Places to See in South Africa

   

So, here is the list of some of our favourite destinations in the world. Of course, this list isn’t complete (or it would have to be 454545 amazing places all over the world). This just scratches the surface of all the amazing destinations we have visited. It was really hard to choose what to feature here and what to leave out.

Either way, I hope that this will inspire you to travel more and to discover new places. And maybe you’ll decide to visit several destinations from our list as well.

One more thing I really want to say. There is always something new to be discovered, no matter how far or how close to your home. But once in a while, you should broaden your horizons and take that trip to another country or even to the other side of the world. It will change you forever!

READ ALSO: Why in the world do you have to travel so far?!

   

Feel free to leave a comment and let us know what your favorite destinations are. We are always looking for new ideas for our next trips!

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