Bucket List Journey | Travel + Lifestyle Blog

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

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

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

Top Travel Bucket List: Best Places to Visit & Destination Ideas for Your Next Adventure

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

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

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

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

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

Annette at Raja Ampat

2. Pull an All-Nighter in Ibiza

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

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

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

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

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

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

Desert Camp Fire at Wadi Rum

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

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

5. Feed the Swimming Pigs of Exuma

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

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

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

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

Swimming Pigs in Exuma

6. See the Great Pyramids at Giza

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

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

7. Swim in Jellyfish Lake in Palau

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

Read More: Swim in Jellyfish Lake in Palau

Jellyfish Lake in Palau

8. Sleep in an Overwater Bungalow in Bora Bora

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

9. Marvel at Guyana’s Kaieteur Falls

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

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

Annette at Kaieteur Falls in Guyana

10. Walk Through Indonesia’s Tegalalang Rice Terraces

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

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

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

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

11. Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

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

12. Drive Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway

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

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

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

Million Dollar Highway

13. Tour a Monastery at Meteora in Greece

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

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

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

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

Monastery at Meteora in Greece

14. Cruise through Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay

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

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

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

15. Sleep in an Ice Hotel in Sweden

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

16. Marvel at the Taj Mahal

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

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

Annette inside the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh, India

17. Go Tidal Bore Rafting in Nova Scotia

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

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

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

YouTube video

18. Take a Gondola in Venice

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

19. See the Sunrise at Borobudur Temple in Indonesia

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

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

Read More: 3 Sacred Indonesian Places to Visit in Yogyakarta

Borobudur Temple Compounds, Indonesia

20. Climb Half-dome in Yosemite

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

21. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Petra in Jordan

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

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

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

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

Colonnaded Street in Petra

22. Hike the Cinque Terre in Italy

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

23. Explore the Silent City of Mdina in Malta

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

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

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

Explore the Silent City of Mdina

24. Climb Africa’s Mount Kilimanjaro

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

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

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

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

Annette at Ancient City of Sigiriya, Central Province, Sri Lanka

26. Dive the Great Barrier Reef

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

27. Kayak with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

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

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

Read More: Kayaking with Beluga Whales in Manitoba

Manitoba

28. Walk the Spanish El Camino de Santiago de Compostela

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

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

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

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

30. Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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

31. Swim with Whale Sharks in Cancun

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

Read More: Swim with Whale Sharks in Cancun

Whale Sharks in Cancun

32. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal

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

33. Go on an African Safari

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

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

African Safari

34. Walk the Great Wall of China

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

35. Ride in a Vintage Car in Havana

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

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

Vintage Car in Havana

36. Attend the Kentucky Derby

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

37. Watch the Florence Sunset over the Arno River

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

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

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

38. Shop the Souks in Morocco

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

39. Visit Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania

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

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

Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania

40. Climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris

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

41. Bicycle (or Walk) Across the Golden Gate

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

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

Golden Gate

42. Go to Mardi Gras in Louisiana

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

43. Float in the Dead Sea

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

Read More:   Float in the Dead Sea

A great view of Dead Sea in Jordan

44. See the Northern Lights

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

45. STAY IN A TUSCAN VILLA IN ITALY

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

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

travel inspiration bucket list

46. CROSS THE SALARDE UYUNI IN BOLIVIA

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

travel inspiration bucket list

47. Volunteer at a Elephant Rescue in Thailand

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

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

Annette as a Volunteer at a Elephant Rescue in Thailand

48. Hot Air Balloon over Cappadocia

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

49. Hike the Active Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala

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

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

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

Annette at Pacaya Volcano in Guatemala

50. Go to the City Where Your Family Comes From

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

51. See Mount Rushmore

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

Mount Rushmore

52. Admire the Blue Flames at Ijen Volcano

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

Blue Flames at Ijen Volcano

53. Step Inside the Forbidden City

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

the Forbidden City

54. Ogle the Golden Temple

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

Golden Temple

55. Take in the View from Burj Khalifa

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

Burj Khalifa

56. Take an Alaskan Cruise

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

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

Alaskan Cruise

57. Attend La Tomatina Festival in Spain

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

58. Be Intrigued by Stonehenge

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

Stonehenge

59. Attend Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

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

Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

60. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

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

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

Leaning Tower of Pisa

61. Climb the Mount Fuji

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

Mount Fuji

62. Discover Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

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

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

63. Marvel at Iguazu Falls

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

Iguazu Falls

64. Explore the Jeita Grotto

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

65. Discover the Magnificent Angkor Wat

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

Angkor Wat

66. Discover the Remains of the Berlin Wall

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

Berlin Wall

67. Witness the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem

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

Wailing Wall in Jerusalem

68. See the Pamukkale Hot Springs

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

Pamukkale Hot Springs

69. Walk the Las Vegas Strip

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

70. See a Show at the Sydney Opera House

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

Sydney Opera House

71. See the Wildlife on the Galapagos Islands

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

Read More About the Galapagos Islands:

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

Wildlife on the Galapagos Islands

72. Explore Sensoji Temple

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

Sensoji Temple

73. Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

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

74. Explore Brazil’s Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

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

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

75. Get Splashed at Niagara Falls

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

Niagara Falls

76. Hike on the Rainbow Mountain

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

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

Rainbow Mountain

77. Hike to Christ the Redeemer of Brazil

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

Christ the Redeemer of Brazil

78. Relax at Blue Lagoon

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

79. Sail to the Statue of Liberty

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

Statue of Liberty

80. Visit Santorini in Greece

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

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

Santorini in Greece

81. See the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

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

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

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

82. See your reflection at Salar de Uyuni

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

83. See the Dragons on Komodo Island

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

Dragons on Komodo Island

84. Tahiti in French Polynesia

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

Tahiti in French Polynesia

85. Visit The Maldives

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

Maldives

86. Stand in Times Square in New York City

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

Times Square in New York City

87. Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine

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

Meiji Jingu Shrine

88. Visit Pompeii

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

Pompeii

89. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica

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

St. Peter’s Basilica

90. Visit the Acropolis of Athens

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

Acropolis Athens

91. Visit the British Museum

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

92. Visit the city of Lhasa and the Potala Palace

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

Lhasa and the Potala Palace

93. Tour the Colosseum in Rome

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

Colosseum in Rome

94. Visit the Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona

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

Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona

95. Visit the Grand Palace

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

Grand Palace

96. Visit the Great Mosque of Cordoba

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

Great Mosque of Cordoba

97. Visit the Louvre Museum

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

Louvre Museum

98. Visit Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia

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

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

Sagrada Familia

99. Visit the Sistine Chapel

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

Sistine Chapel

100. Visit the Summer Palace in China

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

Summer Palace in China

101. See the White House

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

White House

102. Visit Versailles

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

103. Explore the Canals of Amsterdam

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

Canals of Amsterdam

104. Walk around on Mont Saint-Michel

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

Mont Saint-Michel

105. Walk on Giant’s Causeway in Ireland

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

Annette at Giant’s Causeway in Ireland

106. Tour Chichen Itza of Mexico

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

Annette at Chichen Itza of Mexico

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

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

Thanks for the tip!

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

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

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

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

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

What a great list! Thanks for this post!

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

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

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

thank you for some great ideas and inspiration.

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

Mdina ❤️❤️❤️

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

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

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

Nice post, Thanks for sharing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16? Wow, that’s amazing

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

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

thanks for such an amazing and informative blog

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

It’s really amazing places and destinations for travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you so much.

Great Bucket List

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The Ultimate Travel & Life Bucket List – 35+ Adventures Everyone Should Live

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Looking for the ultimate travel bucket list experiences? You just found them!

If I’m not travelling, I’m at home dreaming of travelling . The more experiences I tick off my travel bucket list, the more new adventures I add to it.

Whether you’re at home or on the road, if you’re looking for some travel inspiration, this is the bucket list for you!

I’ve listed some of the most awesome adventures and experiences that you can have around the world, which I believe everyone should live at least once in their lifetime.

So let’s start dreaming and expanding that travel bucket list!

  • 1.1 Scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef
  • 1.2 Learn to surf in Bali
  • 1.3 Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica
  • 1.4 Hike in the mountains of New Zealand
  • 1.5 Go canyoneering in the Philippines
  • 1.6 Trek to Machu Picchu
  • 1.7 Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback
  • 1.8 Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise
  • 1.9 See whales in the wild
  • 1.10 Drive around Havana in a vintage car
  • 1.11 See the Northern Lights
  • 1.12 Ride the Trans-Siberian Express
  • 1.13 Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre
  • 1.14 Hike & see the lakes in Canada
  • 1.15 Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach
  • 1.16 Watch the sunrise over Uluru
  • 1.17 Explore the Great Wall of China
  • 1.18 Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico
  • 1.19 Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal
  • 1.20 Go on a USA road trip
  • 1.21 See the Egyptian pyramids
  • 1.22 Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia
  • 1.23 Cruise in the Norwegian fjords
  • 1.24 Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam
  • 1.25 Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia
  • 1.26 Go skydiving!
  • 1.27 Go on a safari in Africa
  • 1.28 Snorkel with turtles
  • 1.29 Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)
  • 1.30 See the temples in Thailand
  • 1.31 Fly over the Grand Canyon
  • 1.32 Swim in a Wadi in Oman
  • 1.33 Explore the Eternal City
  • 1.34 Get lost in London
  • 1.35 Discover the Lost City of Petra
  • 1.36 Ski in the European Alps
  • 1.37 Go island hopping in Sardinia
  • 1.38 Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia
  • 1.39 Do a zipline adventure!

Hiking to the base of the Catarata del Toro waterfall in Costa Rica

Hiking to the base of the Catarata del Toro waterfall in Costa Rica

35+ adventures everyone should add to their bucket list

Scuba dive on the great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system, composed by over 900 islands and almost 3,000 individual reefs. It stretches over 2,300km and has an area of almost 350,000 square kilometres.

Need I say anything else? Exploring this beautiful underwater world is a once in a lifetime experience that should feature on everyone’s Australia itinerary .

If you don’t like scuba diving you can also snorkel (that’s what I did) and it was still magical. You will be able to see so many different fish and corals; it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

| READ MORE: SHOULD YOU SNORKEL OR SCUBA DIVE ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF? |

Some beautiful corals that you can see when scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia - Photo by Kristoffer Trondsen on Scopio

Some beautiful corals that you can see when scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Photo by Kristoffer Trondsen on Scopio

Learn to surf in Bali

I strongly believe that everyone should try surfing at least once in their life. Surfing isn’t just a sport.

It’s a way of life and a practice that connects you to nature and makes you more aware of those around you. There’s more to surfing than just standing on a board and looking cool.

Bali is one of the most popular surf destinations and one where many beginners start out. Whether it’s Bali , Costa Rica or the Canary Islands , make sure to add a surfing trip to your travel bucket list.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO GO SURFING IN BALI |

Surfing in Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

Me braving the waves and learning to surf in Bali

Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica

I left my heart in Costa Rica . It’s the last trip I’ve recently come back from and I fell in love with the huge variety of natural landscapes, things to do, the tasty food, friendly locals and fun backpacker vibe.

However one thing that stood out was the rainforest in Tortuguero National Park . If you’ve ever wanted to venture into the rainforest, searching for crocodiles and sloths, this is the place to do so.

A small crocodile we spotted during our rainforest canoe tour

A small crocodile we spotted during our rainforest canoe tour

Hike in the mountains of New Zealand

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, then you have to visit New Zealand. Even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s still a must-see for anyone who loves being outdoors.

I only spent one week in New Zealand but, even in such a short period of time, I was able to go on some of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done.

When you pair a smooth hiking terrain with sweeping mountain views, it’s hard to go wrong. You will feel on top of the world, and at times also like you’re adventuring around Middle Earth.

| READ MORE: THE MOST EPIC HIKES IN NEW ZEALAND |

Enjoying the view from the peak of the Sugarloaf, New Zealand

Enjoying the view from the peak of the Sugarloaf, New Zealand

Go canyoneering in the Philippines

I’ve seen my fair share of epic waterfalls in Iceland , Sri Lanka , Costa Rica and Canada . However none of them were as beautiful and fun as Kawasan Falls in the Philippines .

It might be a bit of a touristy attraction, but it’s also an epic spot where you can spend four hours hiking along the river, swimming in it, sliding down natural made water slides and cliff diving from the top of the waterfalls.

If you love being outdoors, admiring nature and enjoy a bit of adrenaline rush, then canyoneering is an experience you have to add to your bucket list.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

Enjoying Kawasan Falls in Cebu Island, Philippines, before the crowds

Enjoying Kawasan Falls in Cebu Island, Philippines, before the crowds

Trek to Machu Picchu

I haven’t had the pleasure to travel to Peru yet. If I had to say what’s at the top of my travel bucket list right now, I’d say Peru and Machu Picchu.

The thought of hiking along the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek and reaching this lost city fills me with adrenaline. Not only for the hike challenge and epic views, but also for the rich culture and history.

Machu Picchu is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it’s a must on anyone’s bucket list!

Exploring Machu Picchu - photo by Jake Cunningham on Scopio

Exploring Machu Picchu – photo by Jake Cunningham on Scopio

Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback

The Australian outback had, without a doubt, the most incredible night sky I have ever seen. During my 3-day Uluru tour we spent two nights camping in the Australian outback, far from any towns or sources of light pollution.

You could clearly see the Milky Way, as well as a million other stars. I lost count of how many hours I spent just looking up at the stars.

There are many places around the world where it gets dark enough to see a beautiful starry sky. However if you want a really special one, the Aussie outback is the one for you.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST |

The Milky Way seen from the Australian outback

The Milky Way seen from the Australian outback

Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise

I’ve done a lot of hikes in the dark with the aim of seeing the sunrise from the peak, but Kawah Ijen in Indonesia was probably the most incredible ( Little Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka is a close second).

Not only is the sunrise from the top absolutely incredible, but at Kawah Ijen you can also see the famous blue flames. A natural phenomenon visible only here, thanks to the high concentration of sulphur gases.

It’s one of those experiences that you won’t forget about.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HIKING KAWAH IJEN |

The sun breaks through and turns East Java pink

The sun breaks through and turns East Java pink

See whales in the wild

There’s something about seeing beautiful animals in the wild that always attracts humans. We usually see them in epic documentaries, and I think it’s only natural wanting to see them for ourselves in real life.

I’ve been lucky enough to see whales in Vancouver, the Azores  and Costa Rica . Whether it’s killer whales or humpback whales, watching these peaceful giants leap out of the water is guaranteed to amaze you.

| READ MORE: WHALE WATCHING IN VANCOUVER, CANADA |

One of the killer whales we saw during our whale watching tour in Vancouver

One of the killer whales we saw during our whale watching tour in Vancouver

Drive around Havana in a vintage car

I absolutely loved Cuba . The combination of colourful architecture and beautiful natural landscapes, as well as friendly locals and tasty food, make it one of my favourites.

There are lots of epic places to see in Cuba, like Vinales and Trinidad , but there’s no denying that Havana is the place that will leave you with a lasting impression.

The colonial architecture and colourful vintage cars are simply something you don’t get anywhere else. Doing a vintage car tour of Havana is an experience you will be glad to have on your bucket list!

| READ MORE: ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN CUBA |

Exploring Havana in our pink vintage Chevrolet

Exploring Havana in our pink vintage Chevrolet

See the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis is a magical natural phenomenon. There is nothing like standing under the night sky, surrounded by snow at -20°C and all of a sudden seeing the sky light up with dancing coloured lights.

They’re a tough show to catch. We spent a week in Lapland and only saw them one night. But they made up for the whole trip and the wait during those cold night.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAPLAND IN WINTER |

Admiring the Northern Lights - photo by Photo by Oren Cohen on Scopio

Admiring the Northern Lights – photo by Photo by Oren Cohen on Scopio

Ride the Trans-Siberian Express

How does the longest train journey in the world sound for an ultimate travel bucket list? The Trans-Siberian Railway Network is over 9,000km and connects Moscow with Vladivostock, in the Russian Far East.

Depending on how many places you stop to see on the way, it can take anywhere between seven days and months, with incredible views all throughout the journey.

Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre

The Sentiero Azzurro in Italy is one of my favourite hikes in the world. This 12km trail connects five coastal towns (known as the Cinque Terre) and has jaw dropping views all throughout.

As you hike along the trail you will have the bright turquoise sea on one side, and the lush green cliffs on the other.

If the natural beauty isn’t enough, as you hike you will also see the cute colourful towns perched on the cliff sides.

It’s a very distinctive view and one I’ve only experienced on this hike. There’s also the added bonus that you can take pizza and gelato breaks throughout the hike!

| READ MORE: HIKING THE SENTIERO AZZURRO IN CINQUE TERRE |

Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Hike & see the lakes in Canada

You’ve probably figured out by now that I love a good hike.

It may not be for everyone, but I do believe being outdoors, surrounded by nature, physically challenging your body is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Canada is amongst the best places in the world to go hiking. The absolutely stunning mountain views and natural landscapes are second to none.

I’ve only been to Vancouver and did some awesome hikes around the city, as far as Whistler , but there are many epic spots I hope to go back to one day.

Hiking in Banff and looking down at that bright turquoise lake must be a breath taking experience.

| READ MORE: THE BEST HIKES IN & AROUND VANCOUVER |

The view from the First Peak of Stawamus Chief, along the Sea to Sky Highway in Canada

The view from the First Peak of Stawamus Chief, along the Sea to Sky Highway

Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach

I left my heart in Brazil. The beautiful landscapes, the epic beaches, the friendly locals and tasty food, Brazil has it all.

But if I had to say what was my favourite moment of my Brazil trip; I would say sitting on the rocks at the end of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, capirinha in hand, watching the sun go down.

It’s a magical sunset over a unique and distinctive panorama. If you’re there during the Brasilian summer, the sun will dip exactly between two rocks, urging the waiting crowd to break into a spontaneous applause.

Watching the sun set from Ipanema and Arpoador

Watching the sun set in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Watch the sunrise over Uluru

If I had to rate the best sunrises of my life, the sunrise I saw at Uluru is definitely amongst them.

Watching the sky turn all shades of red and orange, with the huge outline of the Uluru monolith in sharp contrast with the sky was breath taking.

Most tourists go to Uluru for the sunset, whilst at sunrise there were considerably less people around. The sun rises behind or next to Uluru depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. It’s not something you see every day.

| READ MORE: EXPLORE ULURU & THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK IN 3 DAYS |

Sunrise at Uluru (or Ayers Rock), Australia

Sunrise at Uluru, Australia

Explore the Great Wall of China

They say that the Great Wall of China is the only human construction visible from space. Do you need any other reason for wanting to visit it? How about that it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

As the name suggests the Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications and a huge wall that was built to protect the Chinese empire. It’s one of the most incredible sights you will see.

Sunrise at the Great Wall of China - Photo by Jeet Khagram on Scopio - a must on any travel bucket list

Sunrise at the Great Wall of China – Photo by Jeet Khagram on Scopio

Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico

Chichen Itza is one of the most well preserved Mayan pyramids, as well one of the Seven Wonders of the World. No trip to Mexico would be complete without a trip to Chichen Itza.

Here you can marvel at the skills of the Mayans, who built such an imposing structure thousands of years ago, which lasted through the ages. You can also learn more about this lost civilisation.

But a trip to Mexico isn’t just about Mayan ruins. You can also spend time relaxing on beautiful beaches, discovering some stunning islands like Isla Mujeres, exploring hidden gems in Mexico , or even discovering the best things to do in Cozumel, Mexico .

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza in Mexico

Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal

Continuing on the Seven Wonders of the World trend, I couldn’t compile an ultimate travel bucket list without mentioning the Taj Mahal! I’ve been to India before, but only in the southern region of Kerala .

I would love to go back one day and see the beauty of the palaces and cities in the north, amongst which the Taj Mahal.

It gets incredibly busy during the day (understandably so) so if you can make it there for sunrise, you’ll be able to beat the crowds and enjoy this beauty all to yourself.

Exploring the Taj Mahal in Indian - Photo by Erika Calle on Scopio

Exploring the Taj Mahal in Indian – Photo by Erika Calle on Scopio

Go on a USA road trip

Is there a more iconic road trip destination than the US? The long straight roads, the beautiful desert landscapes, the stunning national parks and the vibrant cities, a USA road trip has it all!

So get your friends together, jump in the car (or van) and set off on an adventure! For many people road tripping around the US is seen as a rite of passage, something everyone should have on their bucket list.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE USA WEST COAST ROAD TRIP |

Enjoying the sunshine in St Pete, Florida

Enjoying the sunshine in St Pete, Florida

See the Egyptian pyramids

I’ve been to Egypt multiple times as a child, but only to the Red Sea for snorkelling trips. I still haven’t been to Cairo to see the pyramids.

It’s one of those must-see bucket list experiences that I still have to live, and hope to do so soon.

Exploring the pyramids in Egypt - Photo by Magomed Shapiev on Scopio

Exploring the pyramids in Egypt – Photo by Magomed Shapiev on Scopio

Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia

Hot air balloon rides are already pretty magical experiences. Now pair it with the surreal landscape of Cappadoccia , and the beautiful pink sunrise sky, and you have a once in a lifetime bucket list experience!

Cruise in the Norwegian fjords

If you’re looking for a spot of incredible natural wonder, then the Norwegian fjords are the place for you. No matter how big your boat is, when you’re cruising through the steep cliffs of the fjords, it will feel tiny.

Cruising through the narrow fjords, with the steep green cliffs towering on three sides, was one of the most awesome experiences of my life. The most famous and scenic fjord is without a doubt the Geirangerfjord.

| READ MORE: CRUISE THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS IN SUMMER |

Cruising into the Geirangerfjord

Cruising into the Geirangerfjord

Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam

Keeping things in a cruising theme, another magical experience you have to have is cruising in Halong Bay in Vietnam.

I haven’t done this myself yet (hopefully soon!) but I’ve seen enough photos and videos of the dramatic cliffs and epic views of Halong Bay to know I want to explore it one day.

You can explore Halong Bay as a day trip or even with an overnight cruise. Waking up in the morning on a tiny boat, and looking out to see the towering mountains of Halong bay must be magical.

2023 Update : In March 2024 I finally got the opportunity to spend 10 days in Vietnam, so obviously doing a 3-day 2-night cruise in Halong Bay was at the top of my Vietnam bucket list.

The weather wasn’t on our side, but I still loved my Halong Bay cruise . Alongside Ninh Binh and Sapa , it was amongst my favourite experiences in Vietnam

Cruising through the limestone formations of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Cruising through the limestone formations of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Cruising through the limestone formations of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia

I’ve said before the sunrise over Uluru was one of the best I’ve ever seen. Probably because I still haven’t seen the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

This temple complex is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It was originally built as a Hindu temple and then got transformed into a Buddhist temple.

After watching the most magical sunrise, you can spend the day exploring the temple grounds and learning about the history and culture of Cambodia.

The beautiful silhouette and reflection of Ankgor Wat at sunrise - Photo by WOO WON JEUNG on Scopio

The beautiful silhouette and reflection of Ankgor Wat at sunrise – Photo by WOO WON JEUNG on Scopio

Go skydiving!

Ever wanted to feel the thrill of jumping out of an airplane and soaring through the sky? Skydiving is a terrifying experience, but one that will get your adrenaline levels pumping.

I personally haven’t done this yet but my best friends did it in Australia and New Zealand .

The thrill is going to be the same everywhere, but make sure to pick a skydiving location with epic views, so you can admire them as you fly!

People skydiving - Photo by Rainer Puster on Scopio

People skydiving – Photo by Rainer Puster on Scopio

Go on a safari in Africa

Searching for the Big Five on a safari was a dream bucket list activity for me for years. Going on a safari in the Tsavo East National Park was a dream come true.

We woke up before sunrise, boarded our jeep and spent the day driving around the African bush. Seeing these beautiful animals in their natural habitat is thrilling to say the least.

| READ MORE: PLAN AN EPIC SAFARI IN KENYA |

Elephant crossing the road during our safari in the Tsavo East National Park.

Elephant crossing the road during our safari in the Tsavo East National Park.

Snorkel with turtles

I’ve had the opportunity to snorkel with turtles in Sri Lanka , in Bali and in the Philippines , and I have to say it’s just as magical every time. I marvel every time at their beauty, even if it’s something I’ve done before.

Even if they tell you it’s a famous turtle spot, there’s never any guarantee that you will actually see them.

Jumping in the sea with my snorkel, and eventually spotting one of these beautiful sea creatures swimming around undisturbed gives me a thrill every time.

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)

Not only seeing elephants, but being able to get close to them, is a dream and bucket list experience for many people. Just make sure that the elephant encounter you plan is ethical, and the elephants are treated well!

In Thailand we had the opportunity to spend a whole day with three elephants. We started off by feeding the elephants, then walked in the forest with them and even bathed with them!

There are many ethical elephant sanctuaries around the world. We went to Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai , and found the elephants there to be treated well.

Seeing how happy the elephants were was a genuinely heart warming experience, as well as an incredibly fun day for us. Doing an ethical elephant encounter should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list.

In also did an elephant safari in Sri Lanka . You can’t get as close to them but here the elephants are completely free and in their natural environment.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO SEE ELEPHANTS IN THAILAND |

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See the temples in Thailand

I’m not much of a history and culture person. When I travel I prefer to be outdoors and do things in nature. However for the temples in Thailand I made an exception.

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the world. With over 40,000 temples dotted all over the country, you are guaranteed to find at least one you will love.

Some of the most famous are in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai , Ayutthaya and Bangkok , but there are many more spread across Thailand.

A temple hopping trip in Thailand is guaranteed to have you marvelling at their architecture and beauty.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLES IN THAILAND |

The front of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

The front of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Fly over the Grand Canyon

They don’t call it the Grand Canyon for nothing! Located in Arizona in the US, the Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world.

The Grand Canyon is almost 1,900 metres deep. With its layered bands of red rock and steep canyon walls, it’s one of the most unique landscapes you will ever see.

There are lots of beautiful viewpoints that overlook it, but if you want to tick something truly unique from your bucket list, then you should definitely fly over it in a helicopter!

It will give you a unique perspective into this natural beauty.

Exploring the Grand Canyon in the USA - Photo by Kenedy Collins-Hanlon on Scopio

Exploring the Grand Canyon in the USA – Photo by Kenedy Collins-Hanlon on Scopio

Swim in a Wadi in Oman

I spent a week in Oman and I was genuinely blown away. I didn’t expect Oman to be so beautiful and have such a variety of landscapes. My personal favourites were the wadis.

A wadi is an Arabic term that refers to a narrow channel, ravine or canyon. We visited Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid and if I had to choose one, I would struggle.

Both wadis are characterised by clear emerald water, surrounded by steep ravine cliffs. Swimming in the fresh water of the wadis, while looking up to the surrounding rocks is something I had never done before.

| READ MORE: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN OMAN |

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

Explore the Eternal City

Visiting Rome , the Eternal City, is something everybody should do once in their life. Walking around the cobbled streets, admiring the architecture and marvelling at the Roman ruins, is something that will stay with you forever.

There are lots of beautiful spots in Rome , where you can get your fill of history and culture, as well as of tasty Italian food!

In Rome you can also visit the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World”.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 EPIC WEEKS IN ITALY |

Enjoying the beauty of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Enjoying the beauty of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Get lost in London

Samuel Johnson once said; “By seeing London, I have seen as much of life as the world can show” .

While I would say there are lots of other beautiful places and things to do in the world (36 according to this bucket list!) I do agree that London is awesome.

London is an incredibly cosmopolitan city. It’s a melting pot of people, cultures and traditions from all over the world. It’s also a beautiful city from an architectural point of view.

There is nothing quite like London. Which is why I think everyone should spend at least two days in London , exploring all that this epic city has to offer.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE LONDON BUCKET LIST |

Girl sitting along the River Thames with Tower Bridge behind her

Chilling by More London Place and enjoying the view over Tower Bridge

Discover the Lost City of Petra

Petra is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen. It’s a huge archaeological site in Jordan , which used to be the capital city of the Nabataeans around 300BC.

It’s known as the “Lost City” as it only became known to the western world when a Swiss explorer re-discovered it.

Walking through the narrow path of the Siq Trail, until it finally opens up and you can admire the Treasury will make you feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.

Don’t just stop at the Treasury though. Petra is a 60 square kilometres site, with incredibly detailed and well-preserved facades built into the rock dotted everywhere. There are also some incredible red desert landscapes.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING PETRA |

The first viewpoint above the Treasury of Petra, Jordan

Enjoying the view over the Treasury of Petra in Jordan

Ski in the European Alps

I may be biased when I say this, but I wholeheartedly believe that the European Alps are the best place in the world to ski.

Whether you chose to ski on the Italian , French, Swiss or Austrian side of the mountains, you’re guaranteed an epic experience.

Nowhere else in the world will you find such a high concentration of slopes for all skiing levels, as well as epic views, great food and fun après ski.

Many of the ski resorts also have passes that allow you to ski from one resort to another, sometimes you can even ski across countries!

Whether you’re an experienced skier or you’re just starting out, skiing in the Alps is an incredible adventure and a must on any Europe bucket list .

Skiing in St Anton am Alberg, Austria

Skiing in St Anton am Alberg, just look at that view!

Go island hopping in Sardinia

This is another adventure that I might be somewhat biased about, but I really believe everyone should visit Sardinia at least once in their life.

I’ve seen a lot of beaches around the world , but I still haven’t found water as clear as the one in Sardinia anywhere else.

In Sardinia you will find white soft sand beaches, rugged pink granite landscapes and incredibly clear turquoise water. You can spend your days island hopping from beach to beach, and swimming in the clear water.

It’s an experience that should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list. Trust me when I say, you won’t forget about it anytime soon.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN SARDINIA |

Relaxing on the nets of the catamaran we cruised in Maddalena Archipelago with at the Cavaliere Beach

Relaxing on the nets of the catamaran we cruised in Maddalena Archipelago with at the Cavaliere Beach

Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia

The Salt Flats of Bolivia have been at the top of my travel bucket list for a very long time now. Driving around nothing but a white desert feels to me like a unique experience, which you can’t really have anywhere else.

I’m hoping to visit Salar de Uyuni during my big South America backpacking trip. I want to go during the rainy season, when you can’t tell where the ski ends and the desert begins.

Do a zipline adventure!

One of the most thrilling adventures you have to add to your travel bucket list is zip-lining. Zipline is an activity where through wires and a pulley system you travel from the top to the bottom of the wires, pulled by gravity.

I went ziplining across the Cetina Canyon in Croatia and around canopy trees in Costa Rica , and both times were extremely exciting, even if different. One was more scenic, whilst the other was close up to rainforest trees.

Soaring high over the ground, admiring the view is a thrilling experience, which every adventure fan will love.

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Final thoughts on my epic travel bucket list

Are there any experiences on your travel bucket list that I haven’t mentioned here? Let me know in the comments below!

I’m always searching for more travel inspiration, and would love to hear about your own travel dreams!

This travel bucket list is based on my own experiences. It’s a compilation of awesome adventures I’ve been lucky enough to live, as well as others I haven’t yet but hope to do so soon.

I hope you find it useful in building your own travel bucket list and keeping that wanderlust alive!

Enjoyed reading my ultimate travel bucket list? Pin it!

Collage of waterfalls in Costa Rica, mountain views in Canada and temples in Japan with text overlay saying

The Boutique Adventurer: Luxury Adventure Travel Blog focussed on Emerging Destinations for those over 35

170 Bucket List Ideas for Travel Lovers to do before they Die

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 19/03/2024

You’ve probably heard of the term ‘kicking the bucket’? Pretty morbid, but it does make you think: what are some of the things you’d love to do before you kick the bucket.

Many bucket list travel ideas feature adventures that seem as though they’re just too good to be true. Sometimes people only think of bucket list ideas as a dream.

Life is filled with all kinds of marvellous things, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be seeking out adventure, no matter where you are in life. It’s just standard human behavior.

Finding inspiration is the easy part; you just need the courage to take the step. This ultimate bucket list ideas for travelers includes all kinds of adventures designed for those who simply want to add a little excitement to their familiar routines. As well as activities that take the meaning of a bucket list to new extremes.

Here are 170 bucket list ideas for those who love to travel.

Paris Louvre museum with pyramid France

  • 170 Bucket List Ideas for Travelers

Table of Contents

1.    Dive At the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

2.    learn a foreign language, 3. cycle over the golden gate bridge, 4. go skiing somewhere glamourous, 5. visit lady liberty, 6. experience the northern lights in iceland, 7. drink at an italian wine bar in montepulciano, 8. fly over the grand canyon, 9. go on an african safari, 10. swim with pink pigs in exuma, bahamas, 11. walk along the great wall of china, 12. look over seattle from the top of the space needle, 14. climb the uk’s highest mountain, ben nevis in scotland, 15. marvel at the hoover dam, 16. visit chichen itza in mexico’s yucatan peninsula, 17. visit the ancient city of petra in jordan, 18. machu picchu in cuzco peru, 19. look over rio from the christ the redeemer statue in brazil, 20. see the colosseum in rome, 21. sit on the diana bench at the taj mahal in india, 22.   see niagara falls from either side, 23. meet someone you love at the top of the empire state building, 24. the amalfi coast in italy, 25. see the pyramids of giza, egypt, 26. watch the sunrise over angkor wat, cambodia, 27. drive the a87 and b roads around the top east side of the isle of skye in scotland, 28. discover an underground cenote in tulum, 29. plan a great american road trip, 30. island hop in indonesia, 31. watch whales in hermanus south africa, 32. take a hot air balloon ride over cappadocia turkey, 33. see the garden of the future in singapore, 34. the mosaics of ravenna, italy, 35. wonder how stonehenge was created, 36. look up at the ceiling in the sistine chapel., 37. make a wish at the trevi fountain in rome, 38. take the southwest coastal drive 300 route in scotland, 39. fly over the grand canyon, 40. take a boat trip in iceland’s iceberg lagoon, 41. see the sydney opera house in australia, 42. climb the sydney harbour bridge in australia, 43. visit the world’s oldest republic, san marino, 44. walk around uluru in australia, 44. climb up gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece in spain, 45. visit the world’s most famous palace – buckingham palace in england, 46. hold up the leaning tower of pisa, 47. go for a swim at bondi beach in australia, 48. look out over paris from the top of the eiffel tower, 49. hear big ben chime, 50. eat in bologna italy, 51. see the the twelve apostles in australia, 52. sail through halong bay in vietnam, 53. go to the opera in verona, italy, 54. see the end of the pilgrimage in santiago de compostela, spain, 55. get naked in a sap in baden baden, germany, 56. see mostar bridge in bosnia, 57. visit all things gaudi in barcelona spain, 58. climb mount fuji in japan, 59. watch the sunset over nyc from the brooklyn bridge, 60. watch the sunrise in paris, 61. watch tower bridge open up over the thames river in london, 62. watch the sunset in santorini, greece, 63. see the limestone cliffs of kotor in montenegro, 64. experience hopewell rocks in canada at low and high tide, 65. see the mona lisa smile at the louvre in paris, 64. visit the rainbow river in colombia, 65. stay in a thai spa, 66. dress up in a kimono or as a warrior in japan, 67. look at the view over london from the top of st paul’s cathedral, 68. watch the sunset from griffith observatory, los angeles, 69. visit hiroshima peace memorial park in japan, 70. visit banff national park in canada, 71. visit the world’s oldest buddhist temple in myanmar, 72. visit everest base camp from nepal or china, 73. see the inspiration for sleeping beauty at neuschwanstein castle in germany, 74. visit edinburgh castle in scotland, 75. see where dracula was imprisoned at corvin castle in romania, 76. see one of the best located castles in the world, lake bled castle in slovenia, 77. visit the acropolis in athens greece, 78. smell the lavender fields of provence france, 79. walk through the gates of fushimi inari-taisha shrine, japan, 80. stand under the arc de triomphe in paris, 81. look out from the highest building in the world in dubai, 82. visit the korean demilitarised zone, 83. visit the parthenon in athens, greece, 84. travel solo, 85. see the hall of mirrors at versailles in france, 86. see the monasteries of meteora in greece, 87. walk the streets of venice in italy, 88. spend the night at the fairmont le château frontenac, 89. see where east meets west in istanbul, turkey, 90. go ice skating on the rideau canal in ottawa, 91. visit st petersburg in russia, 92. see the alhambra in spain, 93. spend at least a weekend in las vegas, 94. drink the us’s best cabernet in livermore california, 95. visit yosemite national park in california, 96. go on the sound of music tour in austria, 97. take the golden circle tour in iceland, 98. watch the sunset in ibiza spain, 99. see the feria de las flores in medellin colombia, 100. have a singing bowl treatment in the himalayas, 101. eat one of the world’s cheapest michelin star meals in hong kong, 102. have a massage in ubud, bali, 103. see the world’s second-biggest canyon in namibia, 104. climb dune 45 in sossusvlei namibia, 105. drink wine in stellenbosch south africa, 106. fly business class, 107. stay in a resort in samoa, 108. take a melbourne tram in australia, 109. go on a borough market food tour in london, 110. get a selfie with a quokka on rottnest island in australia, 111. watch the ads in picadilly circus england, 112. marvel at pompeii italy, 113. see the angel of the north england, 114. cross the rialto bridge venice, 115. feel like an excited kid at miniatur wonderland germany, 116. walk the glassdome at the reichstag berlin germany, 117. walk up the spanish steps italy, 118. visit cologne cathedral (kölner dom) germany, 119. look out through the lattice window at the bridge of sighs italy, 120. have an extremely expensive coffee on piazza san marco (st mark’s square) italy, 121. return to ancient times at the roman forum italy, 122. tell a lie with your hand in the bocca della verita (mouth of truth) italy, 123. have a big night out in new orleans, louisiana, 124. see strasbourg cathedral france, 125. see the magna carta at the british museum england, 126. spend the night at the world’s largest log cabin, 127. see the piazza navona fountains italy, 128. drive on water on the seven mile bridge in florida, 129. see the cathedral of santa maria del fiore italy, 130. visit the berlin wall germany, 131. watch water go backward at saint john’s reversing falls, 132. ride the london eye england, 133. have a beer at eagle’s nest germany, 134. take vaporetto 1 along the canalazzo (the grand canal) italy, 135. see where the normandy landings happened in france, 136. see the hollywood sign, the united states, 137. see berlin from its tv tower, germany, 138. see the terracotta army, 139. walk down las rambla, spain, 140. see inside the forbidden city, china, 141. attend mass at st peter’s basilica, italy, 142. take in the natural beauty of the cliffs of moher, 143. drink guinness in dublin, 144. see a football match at wembley stadium, england, 145. marvel at the bungle bungle range, australia, 146. go to a concert at the o2, england, 147. see the giant’s causeway, ireland, 148. kiss blarney stone, ireland, 149. take a road trip along the ring of kerry, ireland, 150. see where the titantic was built, ireland, 151. visit the great mosque of cordoba, spain, 152. visit the christ the redeemer statue, brazil, 153. take a cable car up sugar loaf mountain, brazil, 154. sunbake on copacabana beach, brazil, 155. fly over victoria falls, zimbabwe & zambia, 156. take a hot air balloon over serengeti national park, tanzania, 157. see the great migration maasai mara national reserve, kenya (or the serengeti, tanzania), 158. see or climb mount kilimanjaro, tanzania, 159. climb or cable car to the top of table mountain, south africa, 160. walk the avenue of baobabs, madagascar, 161. visit tuttenkhaman’s tomb at the valley of the kings, egypt, 162. go on a camel trek in the sahara desert, north africa, 163. ride along the nile river on a feluca, egypt, 164. take a boat trip in the okavango delta, botswana, 165. see the big 5 in the ngorongoro crater, tanzania, 166. gorilla trekking in volcanoes national park, rwanda, 167. visit timbuktu, mali, 168. go shopping in the marrakech medina, morocco, 169. do a cognac tasting in a cognac house in, of course, cognac, 170. drink wine at the cite du vin in bordeaux, france, what are you waiting for when it comes to bucket list travel.

Instead of just putting a thought on hold, get your ideas on paper and make your dreams a reality. If you have the opportunity to do at least one of these activities, don’t think twice about it. Add it to your bucket list and get your adventure started! 

There are many fantastic reasons why you should dive into the world’s largest reef, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, starting with the superb opportunity to swim alongside tropical fish.

great barrier reef

The coral reefs are home to 1,500 different fish species but don’t be surprised if you encounter green sea turtles, jellyfish, and the white-tipped reef shark along the way.

This Australian landmark boasts incredible diving and snorkelling opportunities, with various tour operators taking care of all your equipment needs. Choose how you explore the reef based on your personality and preferences.

great barrier reef from plane

If exploring underwater isn’t your kind of adventure, the coast of Australia is teeming with catamarans and yachts . See the views from above water and catch seabirds soaring above the ocean.

You probably haven’t had enough time to learn a new language while exploring a new country. Apps like Duolingo allow you to learn a new language from the comfort of your couch.

And while it’s never easy learning a new language, it can be so rewarding when travelling to a foreign destination.

Possibly one of the most iconic bridges in America, this spectacular red bridge is picture perfect and fittingly used as the backdrop for many San Francisco postcards.

golden gate bridge san francisco at sunset

It stretches over nearly 2 miles (3.2 km) over the narrow strait connecting San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. And once you’ve arrived, be sure to check out these restaurants in San Francisco .

The bridge was completed in 1937 and was considered an engineering marvel at the time. There are many interesting facts about the Golden Gate Bridge . One of the most fascinating is that the bridge can bend.

san_francisco_golden-gate-bridge

A bridge walk marked the 50th anniversary of the bridge, and the weight of 300 000 people caused the bridge to sag 7 feet under and flatten the arch.

⇒ Interested in heading to California? Check out my posts on Unique Restaurants in San Francisco , Things to do in Calistoga review of the great Solage Spa , visiting Yosemite in One Day , 10 Stunning Sunsets in California and in Yosemite in October and my guide to a Livermore Wine Tasting .

For those of you living in Europe and Canada , skiing might seem like an everyday activity. But for those living in a warmer climate, the magic of snow is ever-present.

Woman skier drinking tea from thermos in open veranda on mountai

Whether it’s the idea of skiing along dreamy slopes or hiding away in a snowy cabin, a winter wonderland vacation is a must.

There’s no need to worry about being a beginner either. Almost all resorts offer ski lessons to teach you the ways of the trails.

Top ski resorts for an icy vacation:

  • Whistler Blackcomb, North America
  • Courchevel, France
  • Zermatt, Switzerland
  • Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
  • Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy
  • Niseko, Japan

solo skier in green jacket looking over snowy mountains

Arguably, the Statue of Liberty is the most iconic landmark in North America. Lady Liberty has her own island within New York City . This copper statue was originally a gift to the United States from France.

The statue’s metal framework was designed by Gustave Eiffel, also responsible for one of the most famous landmarks in France the Eiffel Tower .

statue of liberty island during the day

The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 but holds a tablet inscribed with the date of US independence, July 4 1776. A broken shackle and chains lie at her feet, a symbol of the recent abolition of slavery in the United States.

The statue became a symbol of freedom, particularly as it was often the first sight of the USA seen by incoming immigrants.

statue of liberty

Today, at least 4 million people a year visit the Statue of Liberty. There is no charge for entrance to the monument but there is a cost to take the ferry from Manhattan to Liberty Island. The ferry also stops at Ellis Island.

If you wish to climb up to the crown, paid tickets must be booked in advance.

Book your Statue of Liberty tickets here – including Skip the Queue Options.

statue of liberty face up close

Instead of setting your mind on seeing the Northern Lights, think of the travelling experience as an Aurora hunt. For seeing the Northern Lights , you’ll need long nights and quite a bit of luck. But it’s all made fun with snowmobiles and minibuses trailing through snowy forests in search of the colourful lights.

northern lights iceland

One of the best ways to give yourself the best chance of seeing the lights is to choose your accommodation wisely. I spent one week in Iceland and saw the Northern Lights twice at my hotels so check out my post on the best hotels in Iceland to see the Northern Lights.

best hotels in iceland for northern lights

Montepulciano is quite frankly heaven for wine lovers. This stunning hilltop Tuscan town is ridiculously beautiful and it is just filled with wine. Wineries, red wine, white wine, wine cellars, oak casks, wine shops, wine bars – it really is just wine-tastic! There are so many wineries in Montepulciano.

Italy_Montepulciano_wineries-in-montepulciano.jpg

In addition to all that wine, Montepulciano is also a beautiful hilltop town. It is pedestrianised and full of small steep streets oozing with atmosphere – and some amazing restaurants and wine bars.

Italy_Montepulciano_meuble-ricci-view

The main square of Montepulciano sits right at the top of the town and has a beautiful church and tower.

Read more in my post on the best 12 Best Wineries in Montepulciano and 7 Romantic Tuscany Boutique Hotels .

Massive expanses of gorges, intricate rock formations, and all kinds of ridges leave even the grandest of travellers blown away by the Grand Canyon. Walk to the edges of the formations and experience otherworldly views.

grand canyon

The Grand Canyon is divided into two regions. Visitors can choose to visit the South or North Rim, with the journey between them lasting around 4.5 hours. The Trans Canyon Shuttle runs daily. As well as lookout points, the Grand Canyon is a beloved hiking destination, comprising some of the country’s top trails .

grand canyon

Top Tip: Camping trips, rapid rafting, or spending the night at Phantom Ranch require you to have the necessary permits. During the summer season, these permits can be hard to come by. Once you’ve added the Canyons to your bucket list, it’ll be time to get the plan rolling.

Escaping into the wilderness is something you have to do at least once in your lifetime. It’s a chance to sleep under a blanket of stars while listening to the sounds of nature. Sunrise game drives set the scene for catching the wildlife’s morning ventures, while sunset drives reveal hunting lions and grazing rhinos.

african safari honeymoon packages

But you’ll also come across tented camps that allow you to live off the grid. While these tents are simple, they’re as close to wildlife as it gets.

luxury african safari honeymoon

Whether you’ve set yourself up for seeing the Big 5, hot-air ballooning over the savannah, or witnessing the Great Migration, a safari never disappoints. I highly recommend starting your safari experiences in South Africa . It is perfect for honeymooners or those looking for a safari spa experience.

Because how often do you get the chance to swim in crystal clear waters with adorable swimming pigs? No one knows how these pigs made their way to the island, but some think that sailors brought these animals on board decades ago.

swimming pig in exuma bahamas

There are now around 20 of them wandering along the shores and snacking on treats left by islanders. Embark on a boat trip through to the Exuma Cays, where the piggies greet you.

There’s so much more to Exuma than swimming pigs. Discover secret sand bars, feast on seafood at Eddie’s Edgewater Grill or dance the night away at Chat’n Chill.

The ‘Seven Wonders’ were originally deemed the wonders of the ancient world. Today, a new and updated set of wonders have been created. More than 100 million votes have been cast to determine what should make it onto the list.

great wall of china 2

This ancient series of walls and fortifications were built around 500 years ago in Northern China . Estimates of its length vary greatly from 1,500 kilometres to more than 15,000 kilometres.

There is actually more than one Great Wall of China. The walls are often in bits and not necessarily as magnificent as the photos we often see. There is a huge variety in the state of sections of the wall from the well maintained to very wild portions which have been taken over by nature.

The sections of the wall around Bejing have ancient precedents, some of which are underneath the wall.

Spring and Fall are generally the best times to visit the Great Wall of China. The wall crosses nine provinces and the four most recommended sections to visit are around Bejing.

great wall of china 1

Do check the section that you are planning to visit as there can be large variations in fitness levels needed to visit and walk different sections of the Great Wall of China.

This Seattle icon was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair. The futuristic design was inspired by Space Age aspirations. The Seattle Space Needle is located at Seattle Centre and provides 360 degree views of some of Seattle’s most scenic sights such as Mount Rainier and Puget Sound.

seattle skyline

Today the Seattle Space Needle offers an all-glass floor and an open-air deck. The floor to ceiling glass also offers an outdoor observation deck with open air glass walls and glass benches.

The Oculus is a steel, wood, and glass staircase that connects the all-glass upper deck with a rotating glass floor. This glass floor offers a unique downward view of the Seattle Space Needle.

seattle-sunsets with space needle

There are several different options for tickets. The Seattle City Pass includes the Space Needle. Or pre-book a skip the line ticket.

Sure Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK. But it’s up and back in the day. And I’ve done Kilimanjaro. I’d climbed Snowdon the year before and whilst it was a big day it was manageable.

I really didn’t think climbing Ben Nevis would be that big a deal. I was very wrong.

views from the climb up Ben Nevis

Fort William  is the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom. There is rock climbing, ice climbing in the winter, trekking, canoeing, kayaking – you name it and Fort William probably offers it.

The reason that Fort William has become the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom is that it is home to Britain’s tallest mountain,  Ben Nevis .

guide-ben-nevis

I have written a separate blog post on  climbing Ben Nevis  which I highly recommend you read if you’re interested in taking on the mountain.

The key things to remember are that the weather can change unbelievably fast, it is quite a challenging climb and I highly recommend you go with a guide or in a group.

nevis-hiking-trips

This concrete dam is on the border between Nevada and Arizona . The Hoover Dam was constructed during the great depression in the early 1930s.

things to do in vegas other than gamble

Named after then President Hebert Hoover, it was opened by President Franklin Roosevelt.

In the early 1930s an entire city was built to home the 5000 workers on the dam, Boulder City.

The Hoover Dam created the largest reservoir in the US, Lake Mead. Today, Lake Mead not only supplies water to 3 states and Mexico it is also a popular tourist site. Today, nearly one million people visit the Hoover Dam each year.

aerial view of the hoover dam

The Hoover Dam structure is very art deco and cool – even the toilets! The highlight of visiting the dam is heading down 600 feet and seeing the turbines and learning about how they used water to cool the concrete so it would set faster and a whole bunch of ingenious and amazing things that were done to make this dam work.

The Hoover Dam is a half-day trip from Las Vegas . It takes about one hour to get to Hoover Dam and the total trip is 4 ½ hours.

⇒ Book your Hoover Dam Tour

Chichén Itzá is a Mayan city that once thrived in the 9th and 10th centuries. Now visitors can marvel at the ruins and get a feel for the ancient city life. Within the same area, visit sinking cenotes, temples, and pyramids.

chichin itza yucatan peninsula mexico

Visit the ancient city of Petra in Jordan , once populated by 3,000 civilians, that is nestled along mountains and cliffs. The first view of The Treasury in this pink hidden city is unforgettable as is the view from the top of The Monastery.

jordan-tourist-attractions

Explore the mysterious Incan citadel and experience sensational views from atop the hill. As a UNESCO heritage site and one of the most awe-inspiring destinations globally, travelling to Machu Picchu isn’t cheap nor simple, but it’s more than worth it; after all, it is a bucket list destination.

machu picchu peru

This vast statue of Jesus stands atop Mount Corcovado, dating back to just after World War 1. With 6 million tiles making up the colossal statue, Christ the Redeemer has an aura of uniqueness. And as it’s in a city as popular as Rio, it’s not an activity that’ll require much planning.

christ the redeemer in rio brazil

Damaged by the natural elements, the Colosseum is the largest structure surviving from ancient Rome. A visit to the Colosseum is another item that must be ticked off your bucket list. You’ll also be in one of the most historically rich cities in the world and a foodies paradise.

Rome Colosseum pink flowers

Widely considered to be the most beautiful building every made, the Taj Mahal is located in Agra in India. Legend has it that Shah Jahan’s favourite wife made him promise on her death bed to create the most beautiful mausoleum ever imagined.

taj mahal india reflecting pool portrait

The Taj Mahal was built between 1631 and 1648. Stone masons and artists came from all over India and from as far as Iraq to create the marble building. In addition to the beauty of the white marble the Taj Mahal there are many semi precious stones, carvings and other beautiful details throughout the mausoleum.

taj mahal india reflecting pool

The domes of the Taj Mahal are framed by four minarets. Two red sandstone buildings are also located on either side of the building.

All of these buildings are located in the lovely gardens of the Taj Mahal as well as the stunning reflecting pool.

It is possible to visit the Taj Mahal on a day trip from Delhi. It opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. It is closed on Fridays.

taj mahal india red fort

Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online . Choose your date on line and either a morning or afternoon entry.

Famed for its grand allure, Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most visited landmarks. The land that encompasses the falls is split between Canada and the state of New York , in the United States. It features three waterfalls : Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Niagara-Falls

Horseshoe Falls is the only one of the three that resides in Canada. It’s also the largest.  It drops roughly 57 metres down and is an impressive 790 metres wide.

niagara falls 1

As you can imagine, this famous Canadian landmark is an incredible place to witness the true beauty and power of nature first hand.

⇒ Book a ticket for the observation deck of Niagara Falls .

niagara falls 1 (1)

This 102 story Art Deco building in midtown Manhattan was built over 1930 and 1931. The name comes from the nickname for the state of New York – the Empire State.

empire state building sunrise

The Empire State Building stands 443 metres tall including its antenna. For many years it was the world’s tallest building. Today it has slipped down the list to be the 48th tallest building in the world and is only the 7th tallest building in New York City.

empire state building against blue sky

Many of the landmarks in this post have had major Hollywood careers but perhaps none more so than the Empire State Building. From King Kong to An Affair to Remember to Sleepless in Seattle, this North America landmark is a true star.

empire state building lit up against twilight sky

It is possible to visit the Empire State Building and head up to its famous decks with amazing views over Manhattan and the outer boroughs. Choose whether to head to the 82nd floor or all the way to the 102nd floor.

The idyllic weather, charming streets and natural beauty have been drawing people from all parts of the globe to the Amalfi Coast. The mountainous coast is dotted with magical vacation homes, hotels and restaurants.

Positano on the Amalfi Coast in Italy

Travelling to the coast between May and October provides you with vibey streets, fantastic weather, cultural events and warm waters. Naturally, the streets and beaches are buzzing with tourists, which means that booking accommodation and transportation is absolutely essential.

The coast is the perfect place for spending an extended trip. The area is made up of 13 different municipalities, each deemed a UNESCO heritage site. Exploring each area reveals new towns with different traditions and aesthetics.

The pyramids are one of the most recognizable structures in the world. As well as being a site worth seeing, the history behind them is just as important. They pay a huge tribute to Egypt ‘s Pharaonic rulers and symbolize how strong of a civilization Egypt must have been.

pyramids of giza egypt

Iconic pyramids to visit are the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Menkaure, Pyramid of Khafre and the Sphinx. Surrounding these structures are cemeteries that hold the tombs of queens and a daughter of the Pharaoh.

camels at the pyramids in egypt

Booking yourself a tour is crucial to visit the pyramids. You’ll need a tour guide to share Egypt’s history, the incredible facts, and the construction of the last of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’.

This enormous Buddhist temple is located in the north of Cambodia. As it is spread over 400 acres it is said to be the largest religious monument in the world. It was first built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple.

angkor wat at sunrise

Over the coming centuries Angkor Wat became used less commonly as a place of worship and fell into disrepair. In the 18th century it was rediscovered by a French explorer, Henri Mouhot.

Angkor Wat was built from sandstones and its 15 foot walls protect over 200 acres within the temple. Plus it has a very photogenic moat.

angkor wat at sunrise with lake

Angkor Wat became a UNESCO listed site in 1992 and today receives more than 500,000 visitors a year. The nearest town is Siem Reap, which was pretty much built to support visitors to Angkor Wat.

angkor wat view

The key time of day to visit Angkor Wat is sunrise. However, you will find that the site is extremely busy at this time of day. Most of the tourist buses will pull away as soon as the sun has risen so that visitors can return to breakfast at their hotels. This is the time to stay at Angkor Wat as it becomes quite still and rather magical.

The scenery in this area of the Isle of Skye was absolutely majestic – although of course, it was constantly changing with the weather.

scottish highlands attractions

Depending on the weather your first stop can be  Quiraing   – a very scenic rock formation. There is a walk to the prison but the weather was not on my side so we didn’t risk it.

what to do in scottish highlands

The  Old Man of Storr  is also great for photos and is perhaps the most famous walk on the Isle of Skye as well as its icon. The Isle of Skye is one of the highlights of this Scotland Itinerary 7 Days.

tours to isle of skye from glasgow

Driving along the coast and you’ll then hit the stunning and windy  Kilt Rock  – so named as it does resemble a tartan print. Then head inland to the picturesque  Fairy Glen.

Movies have been filmed here and it does have a genuinely magical feel – and a lot of sheep.

Cenotes are sinkholes that have been naturally created when a cave collapses in on itself. While that may sound like a disaster, it leaves crystal clear waters and limestone formations exposed. You can hop into these cenotes and explore underwater caves that are soaked in beauty.

Tulum underground cenote

Tulum is well-renowned for its cenotes, some of which are open and can be seen above ground, while others are hidden underground.

Adventures to the caves allow travellers with all levels of experience to explore the waters, with expert divers able to travel deep into the caves. Those new to snorkelling can explore the cenotes with experienced guides .

Top tip: Your time in Tulum means you can tick two bucket list items off your list. From Tulum, Chichén Itzá is only a two-hour drive.

If you’ve ever dreamed about exploring a country by car, there’s no better place to start than America. While it might sound like it’s an adventure for hippies, luxury RV rentals provide you with all the creature comforts for a trip around the states.

Namibia_road

Diverse routes take you through National Parks, alongside the Mississippi River, the Florida Keys and funky towns. Each of these routes hold their own unique attractions and spots for sightseeing.

Apart from finding the perfect RV rental, you’ll need to be on the lookout for stopover spots. Various national parks, campsites and RV stopovers allow you to park overnight, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a safe spot to spend the night.

Indonesia and the neighbouring islands attract water babies for all kinds of reasons. Surfers have the opportunity to surf in a world-class destination, while snorkelers couldn’t find a better location for a vacation spent exploring the waters.

Water Palace of Tirta Gangga in East Bali

With around 17,000 islands, you’re spoilt for choice when creating your island-inspired bucket list. Many islanders choose to rent houseboats and spend some time on the water. Others prefer the idea of chartering a boat to explore a number of islands.

bali-rice-fields

Monkey Forest, rice paddy fields, swings in the forest, and volcano hiking trails await back on land. You’ll find that you’re not spending as much money as you would on other vacations. Indonesia can be an affordable destination if you plan on keeping it relatively simple. 

Hermanus is a lovely coastal area of South Africa about a 90-minute drive from Cape Town. It is the home of the Southern Right Whales from June to December which is the best time for whale watching in Hermanus South Africa.

whale-watching-hermanus

The whales migrate from the Antarctic around June for mating and breeding. The area has been recognised by the World Wildlife Fund and Whale Watching Hermanus is one of the 12 best places whale watching destinations in the world.

More Hermanus Cliff Path

This region of South africa is also ridiculously beautiful! And there are more animals to see besides whales – African Penguins – and some jawdropping walks and drives.

Stunning Cappadocia is a national park in the middle of Turkey. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes and its fairy chimneys. Much of Cappadocia looks like another world.

Cappadocia hot air balloon turkey activities attractions

The best way to experience Cappadocia is in a hot air balloon as the sun rises. Not only will you have stunning views of the valleys of Cappadocia, but you will also see the beautiful sight of many hot air balloons dotting the sky.

Cappadocia hot air balloon turkey activities attractions

Gardens by the Bay was my Singapore highlight and is perhaps my favourite landmark in Asia. Sure it is a massive tourist attraction but it is fantastic. I particularly loved the sci-fi trees.

Gardens by the Bay is such a mix of garden meets futuristic design. Most importantly it provides many photo opportunities.

red poppies in the flower dome at singapore gardens by the bay

First up at Gardens by the Bay was the Flower Dome . The domes are the same type of thing you find at the Eden Project in Cornwall . The Flower Dome Singapore is focused of course on flowers and plant life. It is pretty but this one is definitely more of a thrill if you have a green thumb.

One thing I didn’t do which would have been great was to visit Pollen . This is a Jason Atherton restaurant in the middle of the Flower Dome. I love his restaurants and it would have been great to have a meal in the middle of the Flower Dome – next time.

Singapore does a great job of putting fab restaurants in its major tourist sights (see the National Orchid Park).

The world's largest indoor waterfall in singapore gardens by the bay

I far preferred the Cloud Forest Dome at Gardens by the Bay. The Cloud Forest houses a mountain of sorts and features the highest indoor waterfall in the world.

The path essentially takes you to the top of the mountain and you then head down some fantastic stairways to “climb” down the mountain (not a good one if you have a fear of heights as it is very open).

The OCBC Walkway at singapore gardens by the bay

Next up was a walk down to the Supertrees. The Gardens by the Bay Supertrees were my favourites in terms of photography. The key was trying to get the right angle and as always the right light.

The Supertrees look best with a very blue sky behind them. I paid the $8 to do the OCBC Skyway and this was well worth it. This is basically an outdoor bridge between the supertrees and was the best way to get some great shots.

Gardens by the Bay is one site that you definitely want to book ahead as the queues can be massive! This skip the queue ticket covers entry to the Sky Garden, the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest Dome, and the OCBC Skyway.

⇒ Skip the Queue tickets for Gardens by the Bay

⇒ If you’re planning a trip to Singapore check out my post on how to spend One Day in Singapore : Hidden Gems and Classics.

Lovely Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 until 476. As such it has some stunning architecture which has been very well preserved and is home to several UNESCO sites.

Ravenna Italy Mosaics

But best of all Ravenna has mosaics. I had heard about the mosaics of Ravenna and in all honesty I had never been particularly excited about them. Until I visited Ravenna.

Ravenna Italy Mosaics 2

The Basilica di San Vitale, the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and the Galla Placidia Mausoleum all feature what can only be described as jaw droppingly beautiful mosaics over very large areas.

Plus Ravenna is a charming city with lots to explore and some wonderful restaurants.

Built over 5,000 years ago, the stone circle for which Stonehenge is best known was erected around 2,500 BC. Each stone is about 4 metres high, just over 2 metres wide and weighs about 25 tons.

Stonehenge 3

Stonehenge is owned by the Crown but managed by English Heritage and became a UNESCO site in 1986. Today nearly 1 million visitors head to Stonehenge each year and crowds flock to see the Winter and Summer solstices set in each year.

It is possible to visit Stonehenge for free but alas you will struggle to capture a good photo from that distance. The standard tour of Stonehenge involves a 2.6 mile one way circular path with a handset filling you in on the history of Stonehenge.

Stonehenge 1

The tour does bring visitors quite close to Stonehenge so it is possible to get some great photos. As always queues at Stonehenge can be lengthy so you may want to book a skip the line ticket for Stonehenge.

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in Vatican City. The chapel was restored between 1473 and 1481. However, it was between 1508 and 1512 that Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the chapel in what is regarded as one of the most significant artistic accomplishments of all time.

Sistine Chapel ceiling Vatican Rome

Today the Sistine Chapel is where the papal enclave is held. This is the process by which a new pope is selected.

Interior of Sistine chapel the vatican museum Rome finished by Michelangelo

It is not possible to visit The Sistine Chapel on its own – you must have a ticket for the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is actually free to visit once you have a ticket for the Vatican.

⇒ Book your skip the line ticket for the Vatican.

The Trevi Fountain is located at a junction of three roads and was one of the original sources of water in Ancient Rome. A competition was held in the 1700s by Pope Clement XII for a new design for the fountain. Nicola Salvi was awarded the prize.

Trevi Fountain up close at night

The Trevi Fountain was finished in 1762, 11 years after Salvi died. Work on the fountain was completed by four other sculptors. More recently restorations have been conducted in 1988, 1998 and 2013.

water flowing in the trevi fountain

Legend has it that if you throw one coin into the Trevi Fountain you will return to Rome. Two coins mean that you will return to Rome and you will fall in love. Three coins mean you will return to Rome, find love and marry.

The coin is supposed to be thrown by the right hand over the left shoulder for maximum results. In 2016 about USD$1.5 million was thrown into the Trevi Fountain. The money goes to the needy of Rome.

Trevi fountain at night

The Trevi Fountain is free to visit and gets very busy. The hours between midday and 7 pm tend to be the busiest so do try to avoid them. The fountain lights up once the sun goes down which can make for some lovely photos.

Any stories about driving around Scotland normally focus on the justifiably wonderful  North Coast 500  road which runs through the jaw-droppingly beautiful  Scottish Highlands

things to do in dumfries and galloway

The Southwest Coast Drive 300 Scotland route is considerably less well known – but in many ways just as beautiful.

The route is just over 300 miles and is circular so you can start it in many different spots. A good place to start the South West Coast Drive 300 is Lockerbie.

scottish sheep with a black face

The South West Scotland 300 can then be followed to Dumfries and then all along the coast to the Mull of Galloway and back up through Girvan.

Read more about Scotland’s least visited region in my post on 11 Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway.

Both the largest and the longest canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 6,000 feet deep and 18 miles wide. Carved by the Colorado River, the canyon is located in Arizona.

what to do in vegas besides gamble

The Grand Canyon has built up over nearly two billion years. Scientists believe that that the Colorado River established a path through the canyon about 5 to 6 million years ago (give or take a few hundred thousand years).

As the Grand Canyon is so large there are many ways to visit. It is located within a national park and a digital pass for entrance to the park can be purchased online.

The key regions of the park are the South Rim and the North Rim. There is both lodging and camping in the park and options for trekking as well as driving. The majority of the park’s 5.5 million visitors each year head to the South Rim. (The South Rim is open all year round but the North Rim is only open mid-May to Mid-October).

A car is quite important to get around such a large park. There are loads of different options and itineraries as well as different levels of difficulty for treks etc etc – the Grand Canyon park website is a great source of information.

Or do what I did and take a helicopter ride from Las Vegas for a day trip to the Grand Canyon including a visit to the Skywalk (not for those with a fear of heights) and a flight down the Las Vegas strip on the way back.

Iceland’s glacier lagoon Jokulsarlon is jaw droppingly beautiful and quite unlike anything that I had ever seen before. It makes total sense that scenes from James Bond movies have been shot here.

glacier lagoon iceland

Huge blocks of ice break off from the nearby glacier and end up floating in the lagoon. The lagoon isn’t very wide but it is the deepest lake in Iceland at 250 metres.

glacier lagoon iceland 2

The best way to see Jokulsarlon is from one of the zodiac boat cruises which run regularly.

One of the most famous buildings in the world, the iconic Sydney Opera House does not disappoint. One of the 20th century’s most iconic buildings it first opened in 1973 and is a must for any Sydney Itinerary .

This is a live, working building with performances day and night. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House to find out all the backstories and to be able to explore the building. 

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A second great way to visit the Opera house is to attend an opera . Yet again, this is a ticket to book far in advance as tickets for actual opera at the Sydney Opera House tend to sell out fast. 

The third way to experience the Opera House is through food and wine. The Opera House is home to one of Australia’s top restaurants, Bennelong .

If you are looking for something more casual there is no better way to finish off any day exploring Sydney than with a glass of wine at the Opera Bar . Like the fish markets, the Opera Bar is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Australia_sydney_opera-house an Australian landmark

The views from the Opera Bar Sydney are fabulous and the outdoor seating area is massive so no matter how busy it is you should be able to get some kind of seat. The wine list is long and there are lots of food options.

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⇒ Heading to Sydney? Check out my posts on the best Barangaroo Restaurants , the perfect Sydney Itinerary , a day trip to Watsons Bay Sydney and the best weekend getaways from Sydney .

This famous steel bridge first opened in 1932. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is nicknamed the coathanger due to its distinctive shape. Today the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a busy day and night with cars and pedestrians and a critical link between central Sydney and the northern suburbs.

View from hotel Palisades

There are several ways to experience Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll see it from many view points in Sydney, you can easily drive over it or walk both over it or under it.

But the best way to experience Sydney Harbour Bridge is to climb it. Yes, it is expensive. And you can’t take your camera which really hurts. But The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is fantastic.

I wouldn’t recommend it if you are scared of heights though – it is extremely safe and you are clipped in the whole time but it would be tough if you suffered from any type of vertigo.

sydney_the_rocks_palisades-harbour-bridge-view

There are three different options for tickets. The standard is the summit ticket which involves going to the top of the bridge (134m) and then back down in 3 1/2 hours. This involves 1390 stairs.

The express ticket does the same in 2 1/2 hours and is 1000 steps. The sampler ticket is 1 1/2 hours and only includes climbing a small portion of the bridge. 

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The cost may then vary depending on the time of day. Tickets are booked in one-hour slots. Twilight and night are more expensive. I would highly recommend taking the twilight option as the sunsets in Sydney can be amazing. 

San Marino is the oldest republic in the world and it has never been taken over by anyone. This small country of just 61 square kilometres sits on top of a hill and overlooks the Italian countryside.

taly_san_marino_castle-turret

San Marino is home to just 30,000 people but has its own police, its own schools and it doesn’t belong to the European Union. So it isn’t actually Italy strictly speaking but I decided it was okay to put it in this post as it is kind of in Italy.

A hilltop town in Italy is always going to be at least a base level of photogenic. San Marino then has multiple sculptures, is mostly pedestrianized with lovely paved streets, excellent use of flowers throughout the country and amazing views everywhere.

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The highlight of San Marino is walking to the very top of the country and its famous three towers which date back to the 11th century.

Another way to get some fantastic views of the Italian countryside is to take the compact San Marino funicular. The funicular will bring you up into the main square of San Marino.

Find out more about San Marino in my post on things to do in Rimini and nearby.

Uluru or Ayers Rock is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. This large sandstone rock is located kind of in the middle of Australia in the southern end of the Northern Territory. It is 335kms south west of the nearest bit town, Alice Springs.

Uluru is one of the most important indigenous sites in Australia and is sacred to the Aboriginal people. It is also a World Heritage site.

Uluru Ayers Rock Australia

The rock was christened Ayers Rock in 1873 by the surveyor William Gosse. In 2002 and the preferred name of the rock was changed to Uluru.

Uluru is 348 metres high and has a circumference of 9.4kms. Climbing of the rock is no longer permitted. However, there are still several ways to enjoy this famous Australian landmark.

One of the most common ways to experience Uluru is to walk around it on a tour – or if you’re a runner many like to run around it during their stay. It is possible to fly over the rock. Best of all is to plan your day around seeing the rock as different times. As the sun changes position in the sky Uluru appears to take on different colours.

uluru australia

Whilst Ayers Rock can be visited in a serious day trip from Alice Springs an icon of this magnitude deserves at least one sleep over. All types of accommodation is available near Uluru.

La Sagrada Familia is probably one of the first Spanish landmarks you think of when you picture the country. This iconic basilica is truly one of a kind. Designed by the imaginative architect Antonio Gaudi, his signature creative style is on full display.

Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia Barcelona Spain

The construction for the church started in 1882 and still isn’t finished. It’s an ongoing process that isn’t expected to be completed until 2026. The building blends religious elements with natural symbols in an artistic way that will leave you completely mesmerised.

Sagrada Familia receives approximately 4.5 million visitors every year. The number of tickets for sale as well as the entry times is limited. This is definitely a European landmark you want to book a skip the line ticket ahead of your visit.

Tickets can be purchased up to 2 months in advance and are available in 15 minute slots. Once you have entered Sagrada Familia you may stay for as long as you like. Entrance to the towers costs extra.

Home to the Queen of England , Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most well-known palace in the world. The palace was originally known as Buckingham House and was purchased for the queen by King George III in 1761.

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It became the London residence of the British monarchy when Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837. Today Buckingham Palace is home to Queen Elizabeth.

buckingham palace

The highlight of many special occasions in the United Kingdom is seeing the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family gather on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to greet the crowds.

guards on horses outside buckingham palace

⇒ Buckingham Palace is only open to the public between July and October. Visitors can see the  State Rooms and the gardens . If you are visiting at other times of the year the closest you can get is outside the gates (which still allows for some good photos), seeing the free  changing of the guard , or visiting the  Royal Mews .

police outside buckingham palace

⇒ Heading to London? Check out my posts on 13 Unusual Experiences in London , the best London Food Tours , my virtual London Travel Blog , some great Earlsfield restaurants , 14 Things to do in Notting Hill , restaurants near Clapham Junction and Victoria Station restaurants , 16 Famous Landmarks in Europe , a mad hatter afternoon tea party and a day trip to Brighton , 18 Landmarks of London from a local, 15 Places to see Sunsets in London , 9 Places to watch the Sunrise in London , 10 Bridges in London Not to Miss and Cotswolds tour from London options.

This freestanding bell tower is not just a famous monument but possibly one of the most famous buildings in the world. The “lean” is nearly four degrees and is because the foundation of the building is unstable.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The tower began to lean during its construction in the 12th century and unfortunately got worse up to its official completion in the 14th century. By 1990 the lean was 5.5 degrees. Repairs work took place during 1993 and 2001 that corrected the lean-to just under 4 degrees.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not particularly tall at just over 55 metres – I remember being quite surprised at how small it was when I visited. The tower is located in Pisa’s Cathedral Square and also includes Pisa Cathedral and Pisa Baptistry.

Leaning tower of Pisa Italy

If you’d like to go inside the tower and climb up to the top paid entry is required. It is possible to book a skip the line ticket for the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Otherwise there is no charge to see the building from the exterior and to take the famous photo where it looks as if you are holding up the tower!

Bondi Beach is synonymous with Australia. Australia has many beautiful beaches but this is the one that has become the most famous. It is a beautiful big white sand beach. However, it is also only a few kilometres away from the centre of Sydney making it easily accessible.

Sydney Icebergs

It is very easy to visit Bondi Beach. Put on your bathers or cossie (Australia has many words for swimsuits), grab your towel and sunscreen and just head on down. It is as simple as that!

But do promise me that you will swim between the lines and listen to the life guards. Yes this is a very popular beach but like most Australian beaches the tides are strong and there can be animal visitors.

bondi beach sydney

Bondi Beach is as popular with locals as it is with tourists so you’ll be surrounded by both. It is also home to some of the most expensive real estate in Sydney so there are also quite a few good restaurants and bars. For the quintessential Australian brunch don’t miss Harry’s.

The Eiffel Tower is undeniably the most iconic structure in France and the by far, the most photographed, the Eiffel Tower . Standing in sheer wonder, the incredible edifice nestled in Champ de Mars’s centre is the tallest structure in Paris. It stands 324 meters (1,063 ft) tall.

Kicking off the top French landmarks list is undeniably the most iconic structure in France and the by far, the most photographed, the Eiffel Tower . Standing in sheer wonder, the incredible edifice nestled in Champ de Mars’s centre is the tallest structure in Paris. It stands 324 meters (1,063 ft) tall.

view from the eiffel tower

Built between 1887 and 1889 by French engineer Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is made of iron rather than steel. It was built to be one of the main attractions at the Paris World’s Fair in 1889.

Parisians quickly fell in love with The Eiffel Tower and more than 2 million visited in the first year that it was open. The tower symbolised French know-how and industrial genius.

underneath the eiffel tower paris a famous monument in europe

Today nearly seven million people visit The Eiffel Tower every year. The top of the Eiffel Tower which can be visited is at 276 metres. The other key viewpoint is on what is called the second floor which is at 116 metres.

I highly suggest you take an Eiffel Tower summit tour and climb to the very top; there, you’ll be welcomed with panoramic views of the capital. Though the tower is impressive at any time, it becomes magical at night as its lights twinkle and oozes with romance.

As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, Big Ben is to London. Big Ben is actually a nickname that stuck. The name refers to both the clock and the clock tower that sits at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London.

Red phone booth against london landmark big ben in black and white

The tower was completed in 1859. At that time it was the largest and most accurate clock in the world. Big Ben became a UNESCO listed site in 1987.

In August of 2017 Big Ben was silenced. This market the beginning of a four year project to fully repair and restore bot the clock and the clocktower. They also plan to install a lift which should make life much easier for those charged with keeping Big Ben in good condition ongoing.

Westminster bridge and big Ben some of the landmarks of london

The exceptions to the silencing are New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Day. There are no public tours available during the restoration period. However, one clock face can still be seen through the scaffolding.

big ben london at sunrise

Bologna, Italy is popular as a holiday destination for a variety of reasons. The city has historical appeal, housing the oldest university in the western world.

Bologna Church

It also features charming architecture, with over 20 towers dotted throughout the area. As well as numerous grand churches and cathedrals. And some of these historic buildings are home to the loveliest boutique hotels in Bologna.

Although Bologna has a well-preserved historical centre, it still exudes a trendy cosmopolitan character owing to its large student population. Its trendy atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its culinary reputation.

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As the capital city of Emilia-Romagna, it forms part of a region with a food history just as old as its celebrated university.

Find out where to stay in my post on Bologna Boutique Hotels .

These 12 iconic limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. They were originally formed by erosion (they were once cliffs) over 10 million years ago and now stand up to 50 metres high. Unfortunately in 2005, the 12 Apostles became 11 when one collapsed but the name has stuck.

twelve apostles victoria australia

It will take over 4 hours driving from Melbourne to reach the 12 Apostles. However, it is one of the most scenic drives in the world along the justifiably famous Great Ocean Road. The closest town to this Australian landmark is Port Campbell.

There are several ways to enjoy this beautiful natural phenomenon. Take a scenic helicopter flight. Or hike along the Great Ocean Walk which ends at the 12 Apostles. Climb down Gibson Steps (there are 86) to the beach to see them from underneath (check the tides timetable).

twelve apostles at sunset

Halong Bay includes 1600 islands islets which form a range of limestone pillars. Most of the islands are uninhabited and quite untouched by humans. The Bay covers over 43,000 hectares.

halong bay vietnam

The name Halong means descending dragon. Legend has it that dragons where sent to the bay by the gods to protect the Vietnamese from invaders. It is estimated that the limestone in the bay has been forming in different conditions for 500 million years.

It is possible to visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Vietnam ‘s capital Hanoi. However, this can be a long and stressful day where you will spend most of your time on the busiest stretches of the Bay.

halong bay vietnam 1

There are many options for cruises around Halong Bay including overnight cruises. It is also possible to take a kayak to explore Halong Bay although of course that isn’t an option for overnight.

⇒ If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam don’t miss my post on what to do in Vietnam’s tastiest city Hoi An .

Home of Opera and Romeo and Juliet lovely Verona also has bags of Italian charm. It is a very walkable city and easy to get around.

The Arena di Verona is a highlight of any trip to this beautiful city in Italy. Visit during the day to get some great photos. I highly encourage you to book opera tickets before you head to Verona.

I am not the biggest opera fan but attending the opera in Verona in this beautiful amphitheater was a very memorable experience.

verona opera

Climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti for some fantastic views over Verona and enjoy the square where it is located, Piazza Delle Erbe.

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Casa di Giulietta is Juliet’s house. The courtyard area is free to visit but you’ll need to pay if you want to step onto the balcony. Sure it’s a bit cheesy but seeing Juliet’s balcony is a must do in Verona.

For centuries, thousands of pilgrims have travelled on St. James’ Way every year, finally reaching the capital of Galicia and entering the iconic Cathedral. According to tradition, this is the burial place of the relics of James the Apostle, discovered in the 9th century.

santiago de compostela view of cathedral from park

But Santiago de Compostela is very much a living city, with other attractions for travellers, pilgrim or not: countless restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the delicious seafood of Galicia, a UNESCO World Heritage old town centre, daring contemporary art… There’s plenty to do in this city which combines history with a younger modern side.

santiago de compostela cathedral

Enjoy the amazing local octopus and other seafood delights, head to the Sunday mass which pays special tribute to the pilgrims every week and you can even walk the last couple of kilometres of the Santiago de Compostela.

This gorgeous 2000-year-old town lies at the foothills of the wonderfully named Black Forest. Baden Baden Germany has a fantastic location for exploring the region as well as everything from, of course, spas to shopping to a palatial casino within Baden-Baden itself.

baden-baden-spa

Before you head to Baden-Baden Germany do check what is on. The city is well known for the three international horse races it runs each year – as it is for its Christmas markets.

But this German town is most famous for its spas. Indeed, Baden Baden Germany has 12 hot springs and has been welcoming those seeking to relax and reconnect for centuries.

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Today Baden Baden has managed to keep all of those wonderful historical elements but added in more modern spa facilities, fantastic food, modern art and much more.

Find out more about this beautiful German town in my Baden Baden Spa Guide and the best Baden Baden Tours .

Lovely Mostar is most famous for its beautiful old bridge, Stari Most, a UNESCO listed site. Mostar is located in Bosnia Herzegovina (it’s the largest city in Herzegovina) but can also be visited as a day trip from Croatia.

mostar shops and bridge bosnia

The city’s famous bridge was originally built in the 16th century and reaches over the Neretva River. However, the bridge was destroyed during the civil war in the area in 1993. It was rebuilt and declared a UNESCO site in 2005.

This town of light coloured stones is heavily Ottoman influenced and full of market stalls, shops and restaurants.

view from the mosque in mostar bosnia

Casa Batlló is a big and beautiful building in the heart of Barcelona . Designed in 1904 by famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí , it’s considered one of his most famous works of art.

The unique layout of the building is truly mesmerising. It showcases Modern architecture, Expressionist architecture, and Modernisme.

It features unusual tracery, mismatched oval and rectangle windows, protruding balconies, and colourful ceramic tiles. The arched roof has a scaly appearance and has been compared to that of a dragon or a dinosaur. It’s one of the most bizarre and wonderful landmarks of Spain.

Casa Battlo with red flowers

The interior is just as fascinating. It’s worth booking a tour to explore the full package.

Standing at over 3,700 metres, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan . The mountain is located on Honshu Island and is the seventh-highest peak of a mountain on an island in the world.

mount-fuji-japan-famous-landmark

Fuji is an active stratovolcano that last erupted from 1707 to 1708. It is about 100kms from Tokyo , where it can be seen on a clear day. However, clouds and poor visibility tend to block the view. Visitors are most likely to get a good view in the colder months of the year, early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

For five months of the year it has a picturesque snowed top. Mount Fuji is officially open for climbing from early July to mid September. It is not seen as a difficult mountain to climb but is still a strenuous exercise. Climbing the mountain is popular with both locals and tourists.

Mount Fuji has ten different stations. There are paved roads up to the 5th station. There are four different trails to the summit which vary by ascent and descent times. At a minimum most people will be looking at an 8 hour return climb. If possible it is recommended not to ascend and descend in one journey due to the altitude.

japan mount fuji 1

Many climbers try to match their summit time for sunrise. This is normally achieved by spending the night at the 7th or 8th station and then starting out very early. In the summer sunrise can take place as early as 430am.

However, an early start may be preferable to summiting in the middle of the day and finding the mountain covered with clouds and poor visibility.

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It takes about one hour to explore the summit crater of Mount Fuji. However, the mountain has very little shelter so it can be both cold and mean a high risk of sunburn.

⇒ Beautiful Japan is one of my favourite countries to visit. Check out my posts on One Day in Tokyo , 2 Day Itinerary Kyoto , 10 Day Japan Itinerary , 9 Beautiful Japan Famous Landmarks , the best things to do in Kanazawa and what to expect on the Nakasendo Trail.

One simply cannot go to New York without visiting the Brooklyn Bridge . The suspension bridge that spans over the East River connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan is a stunning feature of the New York skyline.

brooklyn bridge at sunrise

Completed in 1833, the magnificent bridge has inspired poets, artists, directors, and songwriters since then. With Frank Sinatra producing the beautiful song, The Brooklyn Bridge, for the film – It Happened in Brooklyn.

brooklyn bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge really is something to look at. Gothic towers with double arches and crisscross steel cables stretch across the bridge. The best way to experience this beauty is with a walking tour over the bridge and don’t forget to explore Lower Manhattan while you’re there.

Book a guided walking tour here

We all know that Paris is the city of love and I can’t think of a more magical place to watch the sunrise. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect sunrise photo, want to spend a romantic morning with a loved one, or you’re just up for an early morning adventure, Paris is the place.

sunrise in paris from the trocadero fountains

The best part about sunrise in Paris is that it’s often the only time you will have the city (almost) all to yourself. Famous landmarks are generally buzzing with excited tourists during the day, which adds to the character of the city.

The city of Paris at Sunrise

But during these glorious early morning sunrises, you’ll feel the stillness of the city just before it comes alive.

Completed in 1894, Tower Bridge is perhaps the most iconic of all of London’s bridges. Let’s start with the fact that it is often confused with London Bridge, best known from children’s nursery rhymes.

London Tower Bridge at Sunset

Tower Bridge is quite beautiful whereas London Bridge is a bit more of a plain Jane. So London Bridge has the brand name fame but Tower Bridge is the supermodel in real life.

The bridge was originally painted in chocolate brown but in 1977 it was repainted in blue, white, and red for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. It looked so fantastic that those colours have remained.

tower bridge one of the bridges in london

Tower Bridge is also famous for the fact that it is both a suspension and a drawbridge – and that it continues to lift every day. The bridge is 244 metres long and is 42 metres above the Thames. It is both a road and a footbridge and 40,000 people cross it every day.

Unsurprisingly, the bridge takes its name its neighbour the Tower of London.

tower bridge with red bus one of the bridges in london

Take a look behind the scenes at the famous bridge and discover areas such as the machinery room, which houses the hydraulic system that allows the bridge to rise for river traffic.

Plan Your Visit to Tower Bridge to see if you can watch the bridge lift – check the website to find out the dates and times for scheduled bridge lifts. Entry to Tower Bridge gets you into the engine room, up to some amazing views, and best of all access to the glass floor if you don’t suffer from vertigo. I highly recommend visiting the bridge for the views and that glass floor. NB: It’s handy to combine visiting Tower Bridge with the nearby Tower of London.

Santorini is one of those idyllic travel destinations people dream about for years. This Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea is a top contender for your travel bucket list, boasting clear blue waters, impeccable beaches, and dramatic views.

santorini sunset with windmill

When it comes to watching the sun go down, Santorini sunsets are arguably the ones to beat. The lava pebbles scattered along the beach glisten under the Grecian sun, and you can bask in the warm sunlight from one of the many cliffside spots on the island.

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I’ve written an entire post on the best spots to see Santorini Sunsets.

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro that is situated between the majestic limestone cliffs of Mt Lovcen and the Adriatic coast. It is extremely scenic – from its location to its small streets to the wonderful views over the city as you hike up the cliff.

walls heading into kotor montenegro

The old city is a UNESCO world heritage site and was built between the 12th and 14th centuries and its city walls have protected the 4 kms of Kotor since that time.

gated walls of kotor montenegro

Wander through the old town, check out the many cats that call Kotor home, climb up to the castle of San Giovanni or take a tour of the bay of Kotor.

The Hopewell Rocks are a series of rock formations that have been uniquely shaped by tidal erosion. Located in New Brunswicks’ stunning Bay of Fundy, they stand between 12 to 21 metres tall and visiting these iconic rocks is one of the best things to do in New Brunswick .

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The bases of the rocks are submerged in water twice a day during high tide. The time span between low and high tide is just over 6 hours. For the full perspective, it’s recommended to visit during both high tide and low tide.

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Hopewell Rocks are visited by millions each year and are one of the best places to visit in New Brunswick. The park is open from Mid May to the middle of October. There is a lot to do – and multiple visits required to really experience Hopewell Rocks.

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I highly recommend visiting Hopewell Rocks New Brunswick at both high tides and at low tide for photos. Both will result in very different shots.

⇒   Hopewell Rocks Tides Table

The easiest way to experience Hopewell Rocks at low tide is to head to the park and walk down the staircase. Once the low tide has been reached it is possible to walk between the rocks and get some nice shots. The appearance of Hopewell Rocks is most dramatic when low tide is at its peak.

⇒  Beat the queue and Book your Hopewell Rocks ticket here

canada_new-brunswick_hopewell-rocks-kayak-view

When you’re in Paris, you’ll certainly not want to miss attending the most visited museum in the world: The Louvre Museum. It first opened in 1793 with an exhibition of 537 paintings, and today, it houses around 38,000 historic objects.

This iconic structure is the world’s largest art museum and is famously known for housing Mona Lisa . The original of this famous painting hangs in the Louvre today and has been since 1804.

Apart from Leonardo Da Vinci’s jaw-dropping painting, you’ll find plenty of other interesting antiques in this mega museum and symbol of Paris.

louvre museum in paris with architectural details and glass pyramids

From Oriental, Egyptian, Roman & Etruscan antiques to the Greek antique section. Aside from antiques and famous paintings, the museum also houses impressive sculptures like the ‘Venus de Milo’.

IM Pei’s iconic glass pyramid was completed in 1989, adding another element to this Parisian landmark.

Louvre Museum at Night Paris

The Louvre Museum receives over 15,000 visitors per day, so I highly suggest booking a skip the line tour to get your spot in this iconic space. Tickets purchased online ahead of time are slightly more expensive than those purchased at the museum. However, you will be given a timed entry ticket and will not have to queue which I think is worth the extra.

Cano Cristales is the name of a river located in a national park in the Meta province of Colombia . The area was off-limits to tourists for many years as it was controlled by Guerillas.

rainbow river with waterfalls in cano cristales

The army has managed to take back control of much of this region and it is now safe for tourists to travel in this region. What makes Cano Cristales Colombia special is its unique flora in the river.

The river appears to turn a rainbow colour during the months of July to November. This phenomenon is at its height in August and September and is absolutely stunning – and unlike anything else I have ever seen.

rainbow-river-colombia

The Rainbow River can only be visited on a tour. Flights to La Macarena take about one hour from Bogota.

Thailand is famous for spas and massage. There are a huge variety of spa options in Thailand from day spas to simple spas to very decadent options.

Kamalaya Koh Samui

My personal favourite spa in Thailand – and in the world – is the amazing Kamalaya on the Thai island of Koh Samui. I like it so much that I have been there three times and will be returning again (I have always covered all of the costs of my stay).

Kamalaya to me is a slice of heaven. From its stunning location to its delightful staff to the amazing food to the phenomenal spa to the private beach to the pools to the gorgeous rooms – I could go. Well, I did – I have written an entire post about how much I love Kamalaya.

Kanazawa in Japan is home to 3 tea houses or traditional districts and they are all top Kanazawa attractions. The largest is Higashi Chaya District or the Geisha Village.

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Apparently, you can dress up in a kimono all over japan – and when I say dressing up this means hair, flowers, and the whole bit. I had my experience in lovely Kanazawa .

Once you have chosen your fabrics, sash, handbag, hair accessories and shoes an expert will dress you. Then it is time for hair to finish off the look.

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Now that you’re dressed up it is time to find a photogenic traditional Japanese background for photos.

For over 1400 years St Paul’s Cathedral has stood at the highest point of the City of London on Ludgate Hill. Do remember the actual City of London is a very small part – more like a suburb – of what the rest of the world thinks of as London so this still holds true.

St Pauls Cathedral

St Paul’s has dominated the London skyline for over 300 years with its famous dome. It is 111 metres high and was the highest building in London until 1963. It is still the highest dome in the world.

St Paul’s has been home to some of the most historic religious events in English history from the funeral of Winston Churchill to the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

st paul's Cathedral from the thames at sunset

The highlight of a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral London is climbing the 560 steps to the top of the Dome and the Whispering Gallery. This circular enclosure provides fantastic views of the inside of the Cathedral. The outdoor viewing platform offers fantastic views of London.

If you’re visiting on a weekday try to time your trip for 5pm when a choral evensong takes place. The church bell’s at St Pauls are rung on Sundays.

milennium bridge london towards st pauls at sunset

Book your ticket for St Paul’s Cathedral online before you go to save time spent in the queue and for a small discount.

While there are numerous places to watch the sunset in LA, Griffith Observatory is by far one of the best sunsets in California. This is because this sunset spot won’t only give you a gorgeous view of the sunset over the pacific ocean, but also the Hollywood sign, the city of Los Angeles and the impressive Griffith Observatory .

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This certainly makes for a romantic setting – so be sure to bring someone special along with you.

griffiths observatory los angeles

Around the world, Hiroshima is eponymous with World War II and atomic destruction. Today, the city strives to promote a message of peace. This is best seen in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The park is situated at the epicentre of the atomic bomb which was the world’s first nuclear attack. The area was once the heart of the city. You can learn more about what happened on that day in 1945 at the Peace Memorial Museum.

Japan Hiroshima Peace Park 1

The skeletal remains of the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall serve as a Hiroshima Peace Memorial. It’s a poignant sight listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The park is a 15-minute tram drive from Hiroshima Station. It’s open year-round, except for the last two days of December, and has a small admission fee.

Japan Hiroshima peace park at night

Banff National Park is a place where you’ll feel an instant connection to nature. Located in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, the region is characterized by mountainous terrain full of dense trees, turquoise lakes, glaciers and icefields. It’s a scene that will truly take your breath away.

banff national park in spring

Lake Louise is one of the most popular points of interest in the park. It features plenty of outdoor activities, like swimming, fishing, and nature strolls and hikes. In winter, the lake freezes over and the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. It becomes one of the country’s most visited ski destinations.

⇒ Book a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus tour of Banff National Park and explore the highlights.

Banff-National-Park

This jaw droppingly beautiful Pagoda sits on top of Singuttara Hill in Myanmar’s capital Yangon. The Pagoda itself is 112 metres high and it stands 170 metres above sea level. Yangon building regulations cap building heights at 127 metres above sea level so Shwedagon Pagoda towers over Yangon.

shwedagon pagoda mynamar

I was genuinely blown away when I visited Shwedagon Pagoda. It is hard to describe the impact of seeing this massive golden pagoda. It is believed that the pagoda is more than 2500 years old and that it is the oldest Buddhist temple in the world.

shwedagon pagoda mynamar cleaning up

Shwedagon Pagoda is also said to contain relics of four previous Buddhas. The stupa is covered with 8688 sheets of gold and is studded with more than 7000 precious gems. It genuinely glows in the sun during the day and is even more impressive at night.

shwedagon pagoda mynamar group of locals and tourists

The pagoda is open from 6am to 10pm. It can be enjoyed at all times of the day. One of the things that I enjoyed most about Shwedagon Pagoda is that it is clearly a living temple. In the couple of hours that I spent there, I saw numerous little ceremonies and events going on. It appeared that there were far more locals than tourists.

shwedagon pagoda mynamar monks

There are four entrances to the pagoda. These require visitors to head up the hill. Each of the climbs up the hill is flanked by many vendors. In hindsight, I wished that I had gone with a guide. There was so much to see and appreciate at the actual pagoda. It would have been fantastic to have someone on hand to explain more.

shwedagon pagoda mynamar at night

Where to begin with the world’s highest mountain? Mount Everest can be approached either from Nepal or China. Most of us won’t climb to the actual summit of Mount Everest but it is very much possible to trek to Everest Base Camp.

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I trekked to Everest Base Camp in 2016 and it was quite an experience. I realised a little too late that I was a bit too old to be sleeping in freezing cold tea houses and dealing with a travel low point in terms of shared drop toilets.

singles travel groups

You can read all about my Everest Base Camp experiences in my day by day EBC trek guide , what Nepal Tea Houses are really like (big hint: they aren’t as cute as they sound), the EBC itinerary which I should have done as well as my Everest Base Camp packing list .

If you don’t want to trek all the way to Everest Base Camp there are quite a few high-cost options such as taking a helicopter to base camp (seriously bad headaches) or taking a helicopter to the Everest View Hotel .

everest base camp trek

Most travellers base themselves in Kathmandu if they’re interested in Mount Everest. So if you would like to get a feel for the world’s highest mountain without the risk of severe headaches then why not take a scenic helicopter flight of the Himalayas from Kathmandu?

For all my complaining, seeing the Himalayas from the air (as well as some of the extraordinary views I saw on the way to base camp) is definitely an experience that you will be delighted you had.

dwarika's resort dhulikhel

Finally, for a luxury experience in the Himalayas check out the beautiful Dhulikhel Resort where you can have breakfast above the clouds in the Himalayas and try singing bowl treatments and more. And don’t miss their brilliant sister hotel in Kathmandu, Dwarika’s , one of my favourite boutique hotels in the world.

⇒ Interested in Nepal? Check out my posts on the Nepal tea house , a full Everest Base Camp packing list , an Everest Base Camp trek itinerary and a day by day Everest base camp trek blog And for post-trek the fantastic boutique hotel Dwarika Hotel Kathmandu , the Dhulikhel Resort and the best places to visit in Kathman du .

This 19th-century castle sits above the village of Hohenschwangau in the southwest Bavarian area of Germany . This German castle is perhaps best known as being the inspiration for the castle in Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

Neuschwanstein Castle exterior against forest

King Ludwig II commissioned Neuschwanstein castle as a retreat and in honour of the German musician Richard Wagner. The King personally funded the castle and intended for it to be his home. The town of Hohenschwangau was his childhood home.

I am not sure exactly what it was that Wagner got out of the deal!

Ludwig commissioned a stage designer rather than an architect to bring to life his vision. Alas, Ludwig only spent 11 nights in the castle before he died and the castle was opened to the public just seven weeks after his death.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter

Today Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany receives over 1.3 million visitors per annum. It is open virtually every day of the year (exceptions are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve and New Years Day) with changes in opening hours depending on the season.

As always I highly recommend booking your ticket online before you go and receiving a confirmed time slot for your visit.

Would you get naked at a spa? Check out my posts on Naked or Clothed – Baden Baden Spa Guide, the best Baden Baden Tour options and One Day in Hamburg – all in Germany.

There can be few castles in the world as magnificent as Edinburgh castle! It perches literally on the top of Edinburgh on Castle Rock. Don’t leave Edinburgh without visiting  Edinburgh castle.  

view over edinburgh

Human occupation of Castle Rock in Edinburgh Scotland can be traced back to the Iron Age. A royal castle first appeared in the 12th century and by the 17th century, this Scottish castle had become a military barracks.

Edinburgh Castle a fantastic castle in europe

Today Edinburgh Castle is the most popular paid tourist attraction in Scotland and the second most popular paid attraction in the United Kingdom with over 2.2 million visitors.

Entrance to Edinburgh Castle

Highlights of a trip to Edinburgh Castle are seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Royal Apartments and the gorgeous little St Margaret’s Chapel. Edinburgh Castle also provides stunning views over Edinburgh.

And at 1pm every day Mons Meg, the cannon at Edinburgh Castle, takes fire.

⇒ Heading to Scotland? Check out my Scotland Itinerary 10 Days , Scotland Itinerary 7 Days , Glasgow Tours , Edinburgh vaults tour , things to do in Dumfries and Galloway , things to do in Ayrshire, my guide to Climbing Ben Nevis , 18 Beautiful Places in Scotland and 9 great Spa Breaks Scotland .

Dracula was said to have been imprisoned in this beautiful castle in Romania. One of the largest European castles, Corvin Castle was built on a hill in the 15th century.

Corvin Castle Romania exterior

The current castle has been somewhat “updated” to what modern architects think of when it comes to 15th-century gothic castles. This Romanian castle has featured in several movies and tv shows and is associated with several legends, mostly concerning Dracula or Vlad the Impaler.

Castle of the Corvin Romania

Corvin Castle is located in Transylvania which is a 6-hour drive from the Romanian capital of Bucharest. The castle is open most days of the year although on Mondays only in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased on arrival.

There are few castles in Europe that can beat Bled Castle in Slovenia when it comes to both location and view. This medieval castle in Slovenia sits on a hill top above the town of Bled and the beautiful Lake Bled.

Lake Bled Castle interior steps

The first mention of the castle was 1011. The towers came in the Middle Ages and the chapel in the 16th century. It is the oldest castle in Slovenia.

Lake Bled Castle atop hill above Lake Bled

Grab a skip the line ticket for Bled Castle to beat the queues. Your ticket will grant you access to the castle and the top tower and its stunning views.

At the centre of this history and allure is the vibrant city of Athens. The Acropolis, one of the most famous landmarks in Europe , shines like a beacon atop a rocky outcrop above the city.

The Acropolis Athens Greece

The Acropolis Greece was built in the second half of the 5th-century B.C as a home for Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Today, it is a reminder of a rich cultural heritage and is a major attraction.

If you want to avoid the crowds then it’s better to arrive at the Acropolis in Athens early (the site opens to the public at 8 am in both summer and winter).

The Meditteranean sun can also reach uncomfortable temperatures so make sure that you pack water, sunscreen and a hat.

The Acropolis Athens Greece

⇒ Book your Acropolis skip-the-line entry ticket and explore the landmark of western civilization.

Lavender fields are to France what cherry blossoms are to Japan – and they have become even more important in the age of social media. I think we have all seen photos of influencers like myself hanging out in lavender fields, often from behind and wearing a hat!

lavender fields in provence

The most famous area of France for lavender is Provence. Lavender begins to bloom at the end of June and tends to be at its peak mid July. This is also when harvesting starts and the fields will be empty by the middle of August so time your visit carefully.

Lavender fields in provence france

There are several lavender farms in Provence which offer tours during the peak season. Some of the best places to visit are the Valensole Plateau, Salut, Notre-Dame de Semanque and Drome.

Fushimi Inari is a Shito Shrine in Kyoto. It is best known for its instagram friendly torii gates – there are thousands of them on a network of trails behind its main buildings. These trails lead into the forest of Mount Inari.

Inari was the Shinto god of rice and Fushimi is the most important of the several thousand shrines dedicated to him. This shrine is said to have been in place even before Kyoto was capital in 794.

Japan Fushimi Inari Taisha 2

The Shrine itself has several structures to see from the Romon Gate to the main hall to the entrance to its famous hiking trail the Senbon Torii. All of the torii gates along the path have been donated by companies and individuals. The donor’s names and dates and inscribed on the gates.

In case you are tempted to purchase the ultimate souvenir, costs for a small sized gate start at 400,000 yen or USD$3,777.00 as I write this post.

Japan Fushimi Inari Taisha 1

It takes about 2-3 hours to walk to the summit of Mount Inari. Fushimi Inari-taisha is always open and there is no entry fee.

The Arc de Triomphe sits at the western end of the Champs-Elysee in Place Charles de Gaulle and in the middle of one of the scariest roundabouts in the world.

french flag under the arc de triomphe

This famous European landmark is a tribute to those who died fighting for France in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary Wars. The names of all French victories, as well as the generals, are inscribed on the arc. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War 1 lies underneath the Arc de Triomphe.

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon. However, it was not completed until 1836. By this time Napoleon had been banished to Elba. He was never able to see the Arc de Triomphe but his remains passed through it on the way to Les Invalides.

Every year the Bastille Day parade on July 14 starts at this triumphal Arch and the Tour de France also finishes here.

Arc de Triomphe Paris

Burj Khalifa is Dubai ’s famous skyscraper. Standing 828 metres high, it’s currently the world’s tallest building. It opened in 2010 and has since become an iconic symbol of the city.

view of dubai buildings from burj khalifa

The two observation decks of the Burj Khalifa are a must-see. As you can imagine, they offer spectacular views. One is located on the 124th and 125th floors of the building. The second one sits on the 148th floor. With an altitude of 555 metres, it’s the world’s highest observation deck.

I visited both levels. As you may expect the cost is higher to visit the 148th floor. To be honest, I didn’t find much of a difference between the two floor choices – I guess it is more about having bragging rights to say that you have visited the top of the tallest building in the world!

gates at top of burj khalifa dubai

Both the floors have indoor and outdoor areas. The viewing deck on 125 is enclosed so it is necessary to go down to the 124th floor to get outside. The 124th floor has a large open air area.

If you do choose to visit the highest point of Burj Khalifa you will also get coffee and snacks included in your visit. And on the 125th floor selfie wings have been painted on the wall for photos.

The whole area is done very well and there are lots of opportunities to purchase souvenirs, get a photo of yourself by a professional etc etc.

Korea has a fascinating war history , and any visitor to the country should definitely look into it. Full or half day tours are offered from Seoul to explore the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) which lies on the border between North and South Korea.

Any visiting of this area outside a tour is not allowed. Visiting the DMZ is one of the most popular day trips in Korea.

korea trip itinerary

Through this unique experience, you will get to learn all about Korean war history. You will also get to see some sites of major interest, such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory, and the Korean War Memorial. These day trips out of Seoul are completely safe and include transport.

It is essential to book your DMZ Korea tour ahead of your visit as they sell out. This one day trip from Seoul is normally an early start with quite a bit of paperwork.

For me, the highlight of the tour was being able to go to the actual border between North and South Korea . The tension in the air is almost visible at the border of the Demilitarized Zone Korea. Soldiers from each side guard the border and are only steps away from each other.

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I actually thought the South Korean border guard was a statue as he was so still! Until I saw the perspiration coming down the side of his face.

There are small huts along the border between North and South Korea. These huts were assembled so that meetings could be held with both sides without either side leaving their country.

Inside the huts are standard meeting tables – and this is your one opportunity to stand in North Korea and have your photo taken!

There are some terrific names in Demilitarized Zone of Korea. The Bridge of No Return was named as such because once you chose which side of the bridge you were going to there was no option to return.

There are so many interesting things to see on this Seoul day trip. The stunning and modern Dorasan train station was created for a border opening and is now virtually never used.

The Freedom House was built for reunions of families from each side – which never took place. The Fake North Korean village with the doors and windows painted on.

⇒ Check out my posts on the best Seoul Day Trips , 8 fantastic Things to do in Incheon , 13 things to do in Myeongdong , my Seoul Itinerary 5 Days , 7 Fantastic Seoul Boutique Hotels and the best things to do in Gangnam .

white lanterns in seoul korea

This was the best thing that I did in Korea – Don’t miss it!

⇒ Do make sure you book the DMZ Tour ahead – this Korea tour sells out fast.

Anyone who visits the Acropolis will also have access to the adjacent Parthenon in Athens with a combination ticket. The archaeological site was originally at the heart of religion while Greece was a powerful empire.

The Parthenon Greece

Although the Parthenon is in ruins, it was a large and lavish building that told of Greek wealth.

The temple was built between 447 and 432 B.C when the Greek Empire was at its height of influence. Over the years, the bold structure stood against earthquakes, wars, looting and fire.

The Parthenon Greece

While it no longer stands complete, the Parthenon is a powerful symbol of ancient Greek culture.

⇒ Book your private Athens full-day sightseeing tour .

I believe that everyone should travel on their own at least once. The notion of travelling solo can be intimidating, but I don’t know of anyone who has regretted it. There is the most wonderful pleasure that comes from only having to answer to your own needs when on the road.

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Plus, I always find that when I travel on my own I meet far more people than I would have if I was with a partner or a group. I also have much longer conversations with waiters, tour guides etc and end up learning far more about a destination.

What once was the official residence of France’s royals – before the French Revolution – is now a jewel of French Baroque architecture and is by far one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe . The Palace of Versailles contains 2,300 rooms of many kinds and is spread over 63,154 m2.

The Palace of Versailles France one of the most wonderful european palaces

Feast your eyes on dazzling chandeliers and the painted ceiling in the Hall of Mirrors; it’s truly remarkable. The palace is surrounded by stunning French gardens designed by the famous landscape designer, André Le Notre. You’ll find sculptures, fountains, and water features dotted throughout the area.

Palace of Versailles France

With nearly 10 million visitors every year, I highly recommend you book a tour to discover Versailles Palace and Gardens to learn more about this incredible French landmark.

There are six operating monasteries in Meteora, a place where time and culture seem frozen in time. Made up of a striking rock formation, Meteora is located in central Greece and is home to a beautifully located group of monasteries.

meteora monastery greece

The sight of clustered religious homes on top of the steep rocks is spellbinding. Although the Monasteries of Meteora Greece look tricky to get to, it is surprisingly accessible. It requires visitors to drive to a parking lot and then hike the trail to the monastery that they wish to visit.

Take the time to soak up the incredible panoramic views from the top and bask in the ambient energy of the spiritual sites.

meteora valley greece

To enjoy this Greek tourist attraction at your own pace, try to plan your route in advance to avoid the crowds and reduce the amount of energy you expend.

⇒ Book a tour of the ancient Meteora Holy Monasteries .

Canals, waterways and bridges are a bit like good bone structure when it comes to making a city beautiful. And Venice has a lot of all three of those. Venice is actually 117 different islands that are linked by 150 canals and about 400 bridges or pieces of pavement.

Gondola in venice

Venice is literally built on water. The base of its buildings go deep into the ground. As the soil is so water logged there is no oxygen in it and thus no decay.

Venice and its delights are best explored on foot or by water. The Piazza San Marco is the centre of Venice and home to the magnificent Basilica San Marco – which also has some fantastic views of Venice (it is where I took the photo below).

View of Venice

Don’t miss the Rialto Bridge, the many Venetian Palaces , the Accademia Gallery and the Bridge of Sighs. Or a trip to the home of beautiful coloured glass Murano.

Doges Palazzo Venice the king of the Venetian Palaces

My personal favourite way to experience Venice is on Vaporetto Line 1. This water bus allows anyone to see Venice from the water (where it is often at its most beautiful), mingle with the locals, and really experience one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City is a 5-star château-style hotel. The large, castle-like building dominates the skyline and towers over the Saint Lawrence River down below.

It was built in the late nineteenth century by the directors of the railway society. They wanted to encourage luxury tourism, or more specifically, influence wealthy travellers to frequent their trains.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in the winter

This historic hotel still operates for its original purpose. If you’re feeling frivolous, book a room and enjoy the full scale of this lavish landmark. Guests have access to the fine dining restaurant, wine bar, bistro, spa, indoor pool, and more.

Having personally stayed at this hotel I highly recommend visiting. It literally does feel like you are sleeping in a Canada landmark. The hotel inside is beautiful and bustling and the rooms are excellent.

⇒ Book a guided visit of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

Istanbul in Turkey is literally where east meets west. This beautiful city is the perfect place to get your feet wet so to speak if you’re keen to explore the Middle East or Africa . This atmospheric city has all the magic of the Middle East and North Africa with a slightly more European feel.

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The Blue Mosque is possibly Istanbul’s most famous attraction. The mosque has six minarets or towers and several domes. It isn’t actually blue – it was named the Blue Mosque because of its beautiful interior tiles – but it is absolutely stunning.

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Two of top places to visit in Istanbul – The Blue Mosque and Hagia or Aya Sofya – are located on the same main square in the Istanbul neighborhood of Sultanahmet. Very convenient.

Hagia Sofya has had several lives. It began as an Orthodox Cathedral and was turned into a mosque. In 1935, Ataturk proclaimed it a museum – although it is still considered by many to be the second biggest cathedral in the world.

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Topkapi Palace is one of my favourite Istanbul tourist attractions. This palace was used between the 15th and 19th centuries and apparently was a hot place to go during the Ottoman Empire.

The Grand Bazaar or Kapali Carsi is the largest covered market in Turkey with over 4,000 shops. This market contains everything you could ever imagine needing.

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO world heritage site and North America’s oldest continuously operating canal. Most famously, in the winter the Rideau Canal freezes over sufficiently to allow for ice skating and it becomes the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink.

These plus beaver tail stands make ice skating on the Rideau Canal one of the top things to do in Ottawa winter. However, visiting the Rideau Canal is one of the must things to do in Ottawa all year round.

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I visited Ottawa in the summer. The canal was filled with boats and the 202km canal is a favourite spot for runners and cyclists. The canal winds through downtown Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa river.

I took a cruise on the Rideau Canal. Most Rideau Canal Cruises start at the lochs near Parliament Hill. It is a very pleasant trip and a guide will provide information about the history and use of the canal.

I found the canal to be most photogenic where it intersects with Ottawa River and there is a nice bridge with locks that works well as a shot with Chateau Fairmont Laurier in the background.

⇒ Book your Rideau Canal Cruise

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The cycling path along the canal is fantastic. I went on a cycling/food tour and we cycled along the canal. It is very flat so nice and easy (Ottawa has over 800kms of cycling paths).

Where it is necessary to dismount those clever Canadians always have a ramp for your bike for the minimum hassle.

canada_ottawa_sunset

Like Venice, St Petersburg is spread across a mix of big and small islands, setting it up for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city itself also has several fairytale like ornate buildings and it is also considered the cultural capital of Russia.

st petersburg russia

Perhaps the attraction for which St Petersburg is best known is the Hermitage Museum. Not only does the Hermitage contain 3 million works of art, but it is also in a beautiful confection of a building and filled with stunning rooms, arches, staircases and more architectural features.

church in st petersburg russia

The beautiful cathedral at the Peter and Paul fortress would also look happily at home on the top of an elaborate cake. However, this cathedral almost looks plain next to the amazing onion-domed Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (also a great name – Alexander 11 was assassinated on this spot).

The lovely River Neva and a series of canals are at the heart of St Petersburg and some of its most beautiful features. Stroll along the waterfronts as the sun sets and see this beautiful city from the water on a cruise.

The Alhambra

The Alhambra in Granada is one of the most famous landmarks in Europe . Its timeline traces back to 889 CE when it was constructed as a small fortress. Then in the 13th century, it was rebuilt to serve as the palace and fortress for the Nasrid dynasty.

Alhambra palace, Granada, Spain one of the european palaces

The lavish Moorish architectural style is on full display throughout the complex. The interior is decorated head to toe with ceramic tiles, ancient calligraphy, ornamented windows, and other intricate detailing. It’s truly a marvel of Islamic architecture and culture.

The Alhambra, one of the Spain famous landmarks

The expansive grounds comprise numerous sites, including the Nasrid Palace, Charle V’s Palace, the Alcazaba, and the gorgeous Generalife Gardens.

The best way to explore the different areas is by booking a skip the line ticket for the Alhambra.

When I first went to Las Vegas I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy it. I am not much of a gambler. However, I quickly found out that Las Vegas is tremendous fun even if you don’t gamble .

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From amazing hotels at good prices to outstanding restaurants to world leading live entertainment, there is so much on the famous Las Vegas strip to keep you entertained. Then add in Old Las Vegas with Fremont Street, the Mob museum, the Neon Musuem and more and you can easily stay more than a weekend.

things to do in las vegas besides gamble

Plus it is easy to take day trips to the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and the Valley of Fire.

When it comes to California wine, most people know the Napa Valley. However, many have not heard of the actual home of California chardonnay, and current home to some of the best Cabernet in the United States, Livermore .

california_livermore_mcgrail-vineyard-view

Just 36 miles from San Francisco , Livermore has some outstanding wineries and very cute towns ready to be explored. Hop on the Livermore Wine Trolley to safely taste some of the best wines in the area and then head to the First Street Wine Company liquor store and tasting bar to enjoy some more.

california_livermore_livermore-wine-trolley-2

Yosemite Park is located in Eastern california in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This national park in California is a 4-hour drive from San Francisco and a 6-hour drive from Los Angeles.

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The beautiful Yosemite Valley is the heartland of Yosemite Park. It is essentially an 8-mile loop full of stunning deciduous trees (particularly beautiful in the autumn) and home to some of the key sights of Yosemite Park including the Half Dome and El Capitan rocks.

california_yosemite_tunnel-view-1

Depending on the time of year of your visit, Yosemite’s famous waterfalls may be in full flow or not. And don’t miss seeing the famous Mariposa trees.

Beautiful Salzburg and its surrounding areas in Austria is where the famous movie The Sound of Music was filmed – as well as where some of the real-life events took place.

austria_salzburg_Hohensalzburg- Fortress

The major scenes for the movie were shot in the city centre, just outside and then further afield. In the city centre is the Palace of Mirabell where the Do-Re-Mi scene was shot and St Peter’s Cemetery was where the tension-filled shots towards the end of the Sound of Music were filmed.

Nonnberg Abbey is not only the oldest female convent north of the Alps it was home to the real Maria AND where the movie was filmed.

austria_salzburg_Leopoldskron-Castle

There are then 3 more locations in the city centre, 3 close by and 4 locations further afield. The best way to see it all is definitely a tour.

This will also provide far more context with stories about the filming itself and insider gossip. Plus when you join the bus trips they tend to play the movie so time to sing.

austria_salzburg_mondsee-cathedral.

As you might expect there are quite a few options when it comes to Sound of Music Salzburg tours .

The Golden Circle tour is Iceland’s most popular day trip. This is generally a full day tour that departs from Reykjavik around 8am and returns at 5pm. If your flight is arriving a bit later you can opt for an afternoon tour  around the Golden Circle.

lake at pingvellir Iceland

The core of the Golden Circle tour is the following 3 activities. The first is Thingvellir Park. The park is a UNESCO world heritage site and holds historical significance – it’s the location where Iceland’s first parliament was held.

Thingvellir National Park is located 40-minutes from Reykjavik and has several attractions. It’s geologically unique, where you can see a continental divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

After exploring the park, it’ll be a 40-minute drive to the Geysir thermal area. “Geysir” is a geyser in the geothermal area along the Golden Circle. Get your cameras ready to snap pictures of bubbling mud pots, springs shooting up boiling water and steaming air from the earth.

Smoke from geysir iceland

Just a quick 10-minute drive from Geysir is one of Iceland’s most iconic falls found in the Hvítá glacial river. Gullfoss is a wide, two-tiered waterfall that cascades down a 32-meter drop. For me, this was the most stunning waterfall in Iceland.

gulfoss iceland in summer

Ibiza is known as the party island of Europe and is famous for its beach clubs, night clubs and music scene. But it is also home to some amazing sunsets.

lighthouse at las salinas ibiza

Whether you want to be larging it up on the famous Sunset Strip or sipping cocktails in a beach bar, watching sunsets in Ibiza is a serene moment. It’s the perfect time to wind down, just before the island gets pumped up and brims with partygoers.

las salinas ibiza

Did you know that Colombia is one of the biggest producers of flowers in the world? They supply more than 60% of the flowers sold in the US.

The prime source of these Colombian flowers is the area around Medellin – a benefit that comes with a climate that has given Medellin the nickname of the City of Eternal Spring.

feria de las flores medellin

Colombia and Medellin’s passion for all things floral comes to a head for one magic week in August each year known as Feria de las Flores Medellin.

feria de las flores medellin winner

The main way the flowers are displayed during this flowers festival is on Silleteros. These wooden contraptions used to be strapped to the backs of the workers. Flower growers and workers often had to carry their masters up steep hills.

pink floral animals on display at the medellin botanical garden

The Silleteros are now used to make jaw-dropping floral displays and floral arrangements that are judged in the competition that is the peak of this flower festival in Colombia.

I had never heard of a singing bowl treatment before I went to Nepal but it was on the spa menu at the beautiful Dwarika’s Dhulikhel where I was staying and even had its own special hut. Plus, the singing bowl expert had to come from Kathmandu so surely it had to be good.

spa waiting area dwarika dhulikhel

The singing bowl treatment started with a chat about blockage areas. He then moved the bowl around my body and then proceeded to use it to massage my back whilst it was ringing.

The Singing Bowl Hut at Dwarika's

It was unusual to have these sound currents whizzing through my body but in an enjoyable way and it made sure I was very in the moment. He finished the singing bowl treatment by putting a large bowl upside down on my head and then banging it.

A unique and memorable experience.

Tim Ho Wan in Hong Kong holds a Michelin star for its amazing dim sum. There are several branches in Hong Kong but I personally visited the location at the Olympic Shopping Centre.

hong kong views

Make sure you arrive early as there will almost inevitably be a queue. Once seated you will receive a sheet of paper and a pencil – no dim sum trolleys here.

tim ho wan hong kong

The food is fast, cheap, plentiful and absolutely delicious. The highlights for me were the BBQ pork buns and the vermicelli rolls.

Ubud is an absolutely gorgeous town in Bali Indonesia. It’s known for its arts and crafts, and as an adventurous hub for those who want to see more than Bali’s beloved boutiques and massage parlours (though it has plenty of those too).

tanah resort aerial swimming pool ubud bali

Ubud is made for yoga and there are loads of yoga studios in town. Combine your workout with some raw food, an area of expertise for Ubud.

Indonesia - Bali - Ubud -Kayon Resorr 1

Once you’re done with your yoga head to one of the many places in Ubud offering massages. You will struggle to find a bad massage in Ubud.

Namibia is a country of jaw-dropping beauty – I was particularly blown away by its extraordinary colours and by its size. This African country reminded me very much of my home country, Australia.

Namibia_fish-river-canyon-view-from-plane-canyon

Fish River Canyon in Namibia is the second biggest canyon in the world – second to the Grand Canyon of course. But its visitor numbers are a lot lower as it takes some effort to get there – and not many people have heard of this stunning canyon.

It is located in the south of Namibia. In addition to being the largest canyon in Africa, it also has a 100 mile long ravine that is up to 27 km wide in some places.

Namibia_fish-river-canyon

There are many hiking trails and walks through Fish River Canyon. It is possible to camp. Or take a small plane over the canyon to really get a sense of its size.

Sossusvlei Namibia is one of the most extraordinary places I have ever been to. It is like being on another planet. Sand dunes for as far as the eye can see.

Namibia_sossusvlei-dune-57-up-close

The colours of Sossusvlei are extraordinary at any time of the day and out of control amazing at sunrise and sunset. This area is a salt and clay pan that is surrounded by high red dunes.

The most famous Dune in Sossusvlei is Dune 45 . Its name comes from the fact that it is at the 45km mark on the road that connects one of the gates and Sossusvlei.

Sossusvlei Namibia travel guide photos

Apparently, it contains 5 million-year-old sand blown in from the Kalahari. Dune 45 Sossusvlei is probably the most photographed of all the dunes as its star shape has one half disappearing at both sunrise and sun.

Sossusvlei Namibia travel guide photos

This is also the most popular Dune to climb. Try to get to Dune 45 Namibia early in the morning to take it on and avoid the crowds.

South African wine is world-renowned. The majority of its wine production and of its wine farms are near Cape Town.

stellenbosch-wine-tasting-tours

There are four main wine areas in South Africa: Constantia , Paarl , Worcester , and lovely Stellenbosch . Stellenbosch is just 50km East of Cape Town. It is located at the bottom of the Stellenbosch mountains and has a Mediterranean climate – dry and warm summers and mild and wet winters.

This is a beautiful region with rolling gentle hills and big skies. The town of Stellenbosch South africa is full of character with its Dutch-style buildings and lots of cute boutiques and coffee shops/cafes. And Stellenbosch is the closest wine region to Cape Town.

best wineries in stellenbosch

But of course, it is all about the wine. And Stellenbosch wine is just fabulous. I am Australian so I love a big rich new world wine thus Stellenbosch wines suited me down to the ground.

Once you turn left, it is very hard to turn right. I am afraid that this saying is quite true, particularly when it comes to long-distance flights. Business-class turns the bus-like experience that is most flights these days into something to look forward to ahead of your trip.

moet chandon bar at emirates business class lounge dubai airport

Business Class doesn’t always cost a fortune. It is amazing how cheap some upgrades can be so do check out all the options when booking a flight. Also, most airlines now offer passengers a chance to use points as well as money.

air france business class a380

For me, the best time to book a business class flight is when travelling long haul. It can turn a horrible experience into something lovely and as you are on the plane for a long time you’ll be able to get your money’s worth.

A small Polynesian country in the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, Samoa has traditionally been the best-kept secret in the Pacific.

Stevenson's Samoa Swimming Pool

Though with ten islands all intensely packed with untamed natural beauty, the secret is definitely getting out about this beautiful archipelago nation.

Amoa Resort Samoa swimming pool

You won’t find mega-resorts or theme parks here, what you’ll find instead are towering waterfalls, postcard-worthy beaches, lava fields, rainforest, lagoons where you can swim with turtles, and an ancient culture – Samoa remains one of the most authentic Pacific societies left in the world today.

Melbourne , Australia often tops the list when it comes to the world’s most liveable cities. And I should know as I was born there and lived in Melbourne for over 25 years.

Melbourne Tram

One of the most iconic images of Melbourne is the green and yellow of the Melbourne Tram. The Melbourne tram system is the largest urban tram network in the world.

melbourne hidden gems

Trams have operated continuously in Melbourne since 1885. Trams run thoughout Melbourne’s city centre where they are the easiest way to get around. And the heart of the city is a free tram zone so you can hop on and off without charge.

Borough Market is one of the oldest and largest food markets in the United Kingdom. Markets have been held on this location since the 12th century.

best-borough-market-tour

However, there is nothing old-fashioned about Borough Market today. Borough Market has a strict policy about the vendors it allows into the market, ensuring all suppliers are of the highest quality. Many of London’s top restaurants source their ingredients at Borough Market at places like the Ginger Pig.

Secret London Food markets tours

The area is also home to some of London’s best restaurants like Roast, El Pastor and Padella. As Borough Market is so large, going on a food tour is a great way to experience the market in a short time frame – and to make sure that you get lots of good samples.

Visiting Rottnest Island in Perth is the most popular day trip in Australia for good reason. It takes less than one hour to get to this beautiful island from Fremantle in Perth.

Perth_rottnest_island_the-basin-2

Once you arrive on this mostly car-free island head to the Rottnest Bakery and stock up on treats for the day. Then hire a bicycle and spend the day exploring some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Perth_rottnest_island_quokka-selfie

However, don’t leave without getting a selfie with Rottnest’s most famous inhabitants – the Quokkas. These little furry guys are like small kangaroos and are native to Rottnest Island. They have never known anything but friendly people with food so they will flock to tourists and allow a selfie to be captured.

Picadilly Circus is located in the heart of London and perhaps best known for its bright neon advertising display. The circus is also home to the Eros fountain. It is very easy to find as exiting Picadilly Circus tube station will bring visitors into the heart of Picadilly Circus.

London - Picadilly Circus during London Lockdown

Picadilly Circus is located very close to several well known parts of London. On one side is Regent Street, filled with some of the most prestigious shopping in London and famed for its beautiful architecture. Shaftesbury Avenue takes visitors into the heart of Soho and Chinatown. And Leicester Square is only a five minute walk away.

This ancient town near Naples is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, with around 2.5 million visitors annually. Pompeii was once a lively city until Mount Versuvius erupted – covering everything in larvae and turning the city into an archaeological site.

pompeii italy

Top attractions to see in Pompeii include the Thermal Baths, Great Theater of Pompeii and Temples. You’ll also get to see preserved artworks and mosaics.

pompeii italy

Taking a guided tour here is highly recommended, as you’ll not only learn about Pompeii’s history but also get to skip most of the queues. If you’d like to discover the ruins on your own, you can easily catch a train from Naples or Rome.

This sculpture which stands over the city of Newcastle is probably the most famous piece of art in England . Created by Anthony Gormley, the statue was erected in 1998 in Gateshead. The Angel of the North is 20 metres high and 54 metres wide and thought to be the largest sculpture of an angel of anywhere in the world.

angel of the north england

The Rialto Bridge is the first one built along the canal in Venice. It began as a wooden drawbridge that permitted sailing ships to travel between St Marks basin and the Piazzale Roma area. In 1588 the Rialto Bridge was re-built in white marble and until 1854 it was the only bridge that crossed the Grand Canal.

rialto Bridge venice

This Venetian bridge is 48 metres long, 22 metres wide and 7.5 metres high. It has three parallel staircases and several small arcades. This area is also well known for the Rialto Market which is open every day apart from Sundays. The market runs from the San Polo area to Rialto Bridge.

Rialto Bridge

Miniatur Wonderland isn’t really a landmark – well it is but it is enclosed and made up of tiny elements. Miniatur Wonderland is the second most popular paid attraction in all of Germany – after the famous Sleeping Beauty Castle Neuschwanstein . This is the largest model railway exhibition in the world.

I appreciate that this doesn’t sound terribly exciting – I thought the same thing. But trust me – you do not want to miss Miniatur Wonderland.

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The model railway was started by twin brothers Gerrit and Frederik Braun in 2004. Even the local tourism board thought that they were both mad.

But they now run one of Germany’s most loved tourist attractions which receive over 18 million visitors every year.

There are more than 15kms of train tracks, 389,000 lights and 263,000 figures in the model railway. Day and night simulations run every 15 minutes.

germany_hamburg_miniatur-wunderland-las-vegas-at

The most extraordinary thing about this Hamburg museum is the level of detail. Check out the apartment buildings in Hamburg. Every little room will have a different person or person doing different everyday activities.

The entire thing is just extraordinary and so interesting – particularly the airport.

The Reichstag is the home of the German Parliament. The building was originally designed by Paul Wallot and was modelled after Memorial Hall in Philadelphia . It was completed in 1894. The building was badly damaged in 1933 by fire, an event that marked the end of the Weimar Republic.

reichstag berlin germany

After the war, West Germany’s parliament moved to Bonn and the building fell to ruin. Restorations began in 1961 and were completed in 1964. In 1990 the building was the site of the official reunification ceremony and in 1991 it was decided that German Parliament would return to the Reichstag.

Between 1995 and 1999 Norman Foster oversaw renovations to the building and construction of the stunning glass cupola. This mirrored cone directs light into the building. The dome itself can be visited via two large steel ramps that take the form of a double helix.

The Spanish Steps date back to 1723. This steep set of steps run between the Piazza di Spagna at the base to Piazza Trinita dei Monti at the top at the eastern end of the old city centre.

spanish steps at sunset

The staircase was designed by Francesco De Sanctis and was originally built to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy and the Trinita dei Monti church to the Holy See and Spanish square. There are 138 steps and they are a mix of curves, straight flights and terraces. Azaleas adorn the Spanish steps from April through to the end of May each year.

spanish steps during the day

As of 2019, tourists were no longer able to sit on the Spanish steps and there are major fines. This new law was brought in to protect the marble of the stairs.

The Cologne Cathedral, also known as Kölner Dom, is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and began construction in the 1200s. The Classical Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary is located on the banks of the Rhine and is an astonishing masterpiece of High Gothic architecture.

Cologne Germany

The cathedral took over six centuries to build and reaches an impressive height of 157 meters. It’s the tallest twin-helical church in the world and is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks.

cologne cathedral germany

To see some panoramic vistas over the city and river, climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform (in the south Tower). Alternatively, book a tour to discover more of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral is open every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

This iconic Venetian bridge was built in 1600 to connect the Doge’s Palace to the prison across the canal. The bridge was constructed to take prisoners who had been sentenced at Doge’s Palace to their cells in the prison. The Bridge of Sighs has a small window. Legend has it that prisoners would sigh deeply when they saw this last glimpse of the outside world and thus the Bridge of Sighs became the name of this bridge in Venice.

Bridge of Sighs and gondola venice

The bridge is made from white limestone and was designed by Antonio Contino, the nephew and apprentice of Antonio Da Ponte, designer of the Rialto Bridge. The bridge is virtually enclosed apart from the two small windows with lattice screens. A stone wall divides the interior of the Bridge of Sighs so that prisoners coming and going would never pass each other.

It is tradition to kiss your loved one on a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs.

St Mark’s Square is Venice’s main square and the only one with the title of Piazza (most of the rest are referred to as Campi or fields). Without question this is one of the most magnificent squares in the world. Yes, a coffee at St Mark’s Square will cost almost as much as your dinner in Venice but it is worth it to sit and sip in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

At the eastern end of the square is St Mark’s Basilica. On the north side of St Mark’s Basilica are two marble lion statues in a small area known as Piazzetta San Giovanni XXIII. Just past the lions is St Mark’s Clocktower which was was completed in 1499.

St Mark's square

A long arcade runs along the north of St Mark’s Square with buildings known as the Procuratie Vecchie or the old procuracies. Today this arcade is filled with shops and restaurants. It is home to one of the two most well-known cafes on the square, Caffe Quadri.

The south side of Piazza San Marco is known as the Procuratie Nuove. This side is also home to shops and restaurants and the second most well known cafe, Caffe Florian.

Cafe Florian venice

The Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill are located in the same archaeological area and it is possible to walk freely between the two. When visiting these Rome monuments you may well feel that you have returned to ancient Rome.

roman forum

The Romans drained this area (it was marshland) to turn it into a city. The Forum was the marketplace of Rome and later a site for criminal trials, gladiator matches and processions.

Today the site is in ruins but at the time it was home to the most important buildings in the ancient city. The oldest monuments within the Roman Forum date back to the first kings of Rome in the sixth century BC.

roman forum

The Forum was abandoned in the Middle Ages. It was not until 1898 that excavations began and this archaeological site was discovered.

Have you seen the classic Audrey Hepburn movie Roman Holiday ? I adore it – and one of my favourite moments in the film is when Gregory Peck shows her character the Mouth of Truth. There are many theories about when the Bocca Della Verita was created. The Mouth of Truth dates back to the first century AD.

mouth of truth rome

This statue is a tall stone disc with a human face carved into it with hollow holes for eyes and a gaping mouth. The belief around the statues is that if you were to stick your hand into the gaping mouth of the Bocca Della Verita and tell a lie it would bite off your hand.

There is nowhere else quite like New Orleans . Known for parties, jazz, creole, drinking in the streets, an atmospheric downtown, beautiful big houses and much more. I would also like to thank them for beignets.

The French Quarter is where most visitors start their stay in New Orleans. Some of the beautiful French style buildings date back 300 years. Bourbon Street is the most famous street in the French Quarter but also check out Royal Street and Frenchmen Street for jazz.

New Orleans French Quarter

Jackson Square is in the centre of the French Quarter and flanked by the impressive St Louis Cathedral. The square is often frequented by artists and there are shops and restaurants nearby.

The lovely Garden District is home to some of the most stunning houses in New Orleans. Take a guided tour or explore the area on foot. Don’t miss First street, Camp street and Prytania street.

New Orleans Church one of the most beautiful cities in united states

Then why not take a cruise on a paddle steamer on the Mississippi River? Cruises tend to run for two hours and are a great way to experience river life and offer some terrific views.

This magnificent Catholic Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. It is over 1000 years old and sits on what was the site of a Roman temple.

Strasbourg Cathedral France

The building of Strasbourg Cathedral took the entire 13th century – something to keep in mind if you are building or renovating yourself! Today it is the sixth tallest church in the world. This is quite incredible considering that the highest structure of the church was built in the Middle Ages.

One of this gothic church’s most famous elements is its astronomical clock. The mechanics of the clock date back to 1842. At half-past 12 every day the movements of the clock’s characters attract the crowds.

Strasbourg Cathedral up close

Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first public museum in the world. The museum covers all fields of human knowledge and entry remains free of charge.

When it opened in 1759 it was intended by Parliament that it would open its doors for “all studious and curious persons”. Today, the British Museum receives over 6 million visitors a year.

exterior of the british museum london landmark

The museum is located in the heart of Bloomsbury in London. It has four wings and 43 columns inspired by Greek temples. It was intended to emulate Greek architecture.

Highlights of any visit to the British Museum include visiting the Reading Room which was completed in 1857 and the considerably newer Great Court, which opened in 2000.

The Great Court is certainly my favourite area of the British Museum. It is a two-acre space enclosed by a beautiful glass room and the Reading Room sits in the middle.

courtyard in the british museum london

The magnificent glass roof is made up of 3,312 individual panels, and no two panels are the same shape. The roof is just over 26 metres above floor level at its highest point, giving a fantastic feeling of space to the area.

The museum is divided into different galleries which are organised by periods of time or locations. As you would expect, the British Museum gets very busy.

Tickets must be booked online whether they are for the general free admission or for paid exhibitions.

Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello is the world’s largest log building. It is a star-shaped structure and was built in the depression of the 1930s in just 90 days. The reason for the urgency was that the developer wanted to open the hotel for Canada day, which is still July 1.

The chateau was once an exclusive private club but is now part of the wonderful Fairmont group of hotels. This is the third Fairmont Hotel in this post and I must admit I am a bit crazy about them.

canada_ottawa_fairmont-montebello-log-cabin

The logs are red cedar and all 10,000 of them were brought in from British colombia by train. I learned that red cedar is also the wood used for totem poles. This is because it is soft and long-lasting – and because red cedars are huge.

canada_ottawa_fairmont-montebello-room

There are 211 rooms at Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello. The hotel is halfway through renovating all the rooms – particularly the bathrooms. I was lucky enough to have a freshly renovated room and it was lovely.

canada_ottawa_fairmont-montebello-marina

There is so much to do at Montebello. Indoor and outdoor activities, a spa, a marina, a golf course – it is impossible to be bored. I used one of the free bikes available and cycled around the entire property which was lovely.

canada_ottawa_montebello-fairmont-indoor-pool

And as if all of that wasn’t enough I have saved my favourite element of Le Chateau Montebello for last. The lobby of the hotel features an amazing six-sided stone fireplace in reception – surrounded by multiple comfortable couches and seats.

⇒ Check Prices and Availability for Fairmont Le Chateau Montebell o

Canada_montebello-fairmont-fireplace

The beautiful Piazza Navona in Rome is home to three stunning fountains. Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumini was constructed for the Pope in 1651. The fountain was designed by Bernini. The centrepiece of the fountain is a tall obelisk which is surrounded by four figures which represent the great rivers of the world: Nile, Ganges, Danube and Rio de la Plata. I was pleased to discover that Australia had been discovered at this time but not explored and thus was left out of the fountain.

Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi

A dove, olive branch and the Pope’s coat of arms can be found at the bottom of the fountain.

Neptune Fountain

Fontana di Nettuno is the second of the three fountains in Piazza Navona. This fountain was built in 1576 by Giacomo della Porto. The Neptune statues were added in the 19th century. The main figure of the fountain is the God of the Water Neptune. Neptune is shown in battle with an octopus.

fontana del moro

The third fountain is Fontana del Moro which is at the southern end of the Piazza.

Ever wondered what it would be like to drive on water? Well, this is the closest you’ll get to experience it. As the name suggests, this bridge stretches 7 miles (11.2 km) over the ocean to Florida Keys.

seven mile bridge

The original structure was built in 1912 and was regarded as a harrowing drive with narrow lanes. With its upgrade in 1982, the longest bridge in the Florida Keys became a breeze to drive over, with enough space to stop and take in the views.

Book a day trip from Miami and experience the bridge

seven mile bridge at sunset

This Renaissance-inspired church is the third-largest in Italy, standing 90 meters wide and 152 meters long. Arnolfo di Cambio was responsible for designing it in 1296, but it was the architect Filippo Brunelleschi who added the cathedral’s prominent dome during the 15th century.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Florence 1

The exterior of the Duomo di Firenze has been done with stunning, colourful marble work. Inside, you’ll find spectacular artworks adorning the ceilings.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Florence

The cathedral is located in the square Piazza del Duomo, and entrance is free. However, you’ll need to purchase tickets to see the other monuments in the square, such as Giotto’s Campanile. 

Overnight on August 12, 1961 the East Germany Army began sealing off the streets and railway lines providing access to West Berlin. A wall was then erected along the sector border.

The 167 kilometre wall encircled West Berlin until 1989. The Berlin Wall fell on November 9, 1989. Germans from both the East and the West crossed the wall and then took hammers to it in an event which was watched all over the world.

Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall didn’t fall cleanly, chunks were left. Local artists began using these to make street art in what has now become known as The East Side Gallery. In 1990, more than 100 artists from over 20 countries decorated what was the last stretch of the Berlin Wall. One of the best ways to see the Berlin Wall today is to hire a bike and ride the Berlin Wall Cycle Route.

The Reversing Falls are created by the collision of the Saint John River and the Bay of Fundy. At low tide, the river empties into the bay which causes a series of whirlpools and rapids.

In between the tides, the Reversing Falls rapids are peaceful and like a lake in appearance. When high tide comes the whirlpools and rapids start up again – but this time they go in reverse! This can generate large waves as well at the highest tides.

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The tide cycle is roughly 12.5 hours. The moon has the largest effect on the rapids. A full moon can produce swings in the water level of 9 metres.

There are several ways to experience the Reversing Falls Rapids. It is very easy to get to the visitor area by car as it is just off the highway.

It is difficult to see the phenomenon clearly from the car park. The visitor center has a Skywalk. I got fantastic views here. And they show a video on the falls for more tide geekiness.

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Or best of all, get up close with this amazing phenomenon of nature on a speed boat.

⇒ The See Sight Jet Boat will take you out to see the Reversing Rapid falls up close in a 45-minute tour. 

What better way to see a London than from the London Eye – nestled in the heart of the city. Choose from one of the 32 capsules to soar above the city, drinking in a 360-degree view of London and the ever-changing skies.

London Eye lit up and the thames at sunset

Rising before the South Bank, the iconic Ferris wheel allows its visitors to catch views of the River Thames, glimpse  Buckingham Palace , and Big Ben. And on a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as Windsor Castle in the distance.

London - Thames as seen from above at night

Sunset rides on the London Eye are especially popular, so don’t forget to book your seat in advance if you want a guaranteed ride during sunset. 

London - souvenirs and the London Eye

If you don’t get a spot on the wheel, why not take a London Eye River Cruise on the River Thames to catch the stunning sunsets.

London - London Eye and south bank during London Lockdown.jpg

Known in Germany as “Kehlsteinhaus” Eagle’s Nest was given to Hitler as a present for his 50th birthday. It is located in the Obersalzberg mountains and overlooks the small town of Berchtesgaden. This was a particularly impressive gift as it is located on Germany’s steepest road. Eagle’s Nest remains an engineering marvel.

eagle's nest germany.

In 1960 Eagle’s Nest was returned to the German government and they turned it into a beer garden and restaurant. There is no mention of its previous owner.

This 3800 metre long waterway splits the city of Venice into two sides. Seen from above, the Grand Canal takes the shape of an S. Ships of over 400 tons used to sail down the Grand Canal in Venice. Beautiful buildings line the canal (one of the first examples of expensive real estate for water views).

Canal view

Four different bridges cross the Grand Canal: The Constitution Bridge (Ponte Della Costituzione), Ponte Degli Scalzi, the Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Bridge. Explore the Grand Canal by crossing these bridges or take a vaporetto through the Grand Canal to get some gorgeous views.

The Grand Canal ends in St Mark’s Square with a stunning view of Saint Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower, the church of Salute, and Custom Point. The houses along the Grand Canal continue to be the most desirable real estate in Venice (and possibly Italy, Europe, and the world)!.

This beach in Normandy is best known for being where some of the most critical battles were fort during the famous Normandy Landings in 1944. The beach was in the American sector and sadly the number of Allied casualties was very high.

omaha beach normandy france

Today Omaha Beach has a war memorial monument and museum. Behind the beach is the American cemetery of Colleville Sur Mer. The nearest town is Bayeux which has further information on the battle including a war museum.

Buses run infrequently to Omaha Beach. It is best to visit via a tour or to have your own car. I can highly recommend visiting Normandy and Omaha Beach as well as the other sites in the region related to the famous Normandy Landings.

The Hollywood sign is perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks in North America and a world wide symbol of the entertainment industry. The sign was originally developed as part of an advertising campaign for a suburban housing development called “Hollywoodland”. It was erected in 1923.

the hollywood sign

The sign is visible from all over Los Angeles. However, it is illegal to get close to the Hollywood sign and it is actually set behind gates and protected by security cameras and park rangers.

If you want to “see” the sign there are two ways to do so. The first is to take a hike in the area around the sign. The second is to see the sign from one of the best viewpoints such as Griffiths Observatory.

Built during the years of the GDR (German Democratic Republic), Berlin Tower stands at 368 metres and is perhaps Berlin’s most visible landmark. Located on Alexanderplatz, it is also the highest building in Europe open to the general public.

The Berlin TV Tower was opened in 1969. At the time, it was an emblem of the superiority of the communist system. After German reunification, the TV Tower came to symbolise the city and its new cityscape.

berlin tv tower one of the landmarks of germany

The viewing tower of the platform is at 200 metres and offers 360 views of Berlin to more than one million visitors a year. The tower of course has a revolving restaurant called Sphere and the Panorama Bar.

During the 1970s, while digging wells on the outskirts of Xi’an, farmers stumbled across what was to be China’s most incredible archaeological find: the Terracotta warriors. Dating back over 2,200 years, this army was designed to guard the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty’s tomb.

terracotta warriors

The Emperor (Quin Shi Huang) built a mausoleum with 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers, 600 horses and chariots, each meticulously designed to ‘guard’ him in the afterlife. Take a walking tour and learn about the history of this eighth wonder of the world.

terracotta army

The Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum is open every day from 8.30 am to 5 pm. ( Psst…it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds ).

Barcelona’s very own Champs-Elysee, this 1.2 kilometre tree-lined boulevard runs through the centre of Barcelona. La Rambla is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants and filled with markets and street artists. The street runs from Port Vell up to Place Catalunya. Don’t miss exploring its many side streets.

La Rambla Barcelona

La Rambla is divided into several sections, each of which has its own character. The top part of La Rambla begins at the Placa Catalunya, named after the Font de Canalates. The saying goes that those who drink from the fountain here always return to Barcelona.

Rambla dels Estudis is the next section and is named after the University which was demolished in 1843. This part of the street is known as Rambla del Ocells or bird Rambla as there are many bird sellers. There are also stores selling guinea pigs, dogs and turtles. This section also includes the Esglesia di Betlem and the Palau Moja.

Heading towards the sea, the bird stores are replaced by florists in the section known as Rambla de les Flors. In the 19th century, this was the only area in Barcelona that sold flowers. If you head off La Rambla you will see the biggest market in Barcelona Mercat de la Boqueria. The end of this section of La Rambla is marked by a Juan Miro-designed square Pla de la Boqueria.

la rambla barcelona

The next section of the street is Rambla dels Catutxins, home to street actors, living statues and cafes. This section also includes the Opera de Gran Teatro Liceu.

The final section is known as Rambla de Santa Monica. This area is home to souvenir stands and art dealers as well as street artists and the contemporary Museum Centre d’Art de Monica.

If you’re looking to get a good view of La Rambla head to the iron statue of Colombus at the Maremagnum Complex.

Located in Beijing, The Forbidden City is an ancient palace and architectural complex composed of over 90 palace compounds, making it the largest in the world. Built in 1406 and officially occupied in 1420, the enormous imperial palace saw through both the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Forbidden City

The complex consists of many buildings and a near 1,000 rooms, each containing well-preserved artifacts and furniture. It paints a detailed picture of what life was like 500 years ago (during the dynastic rule).

The imperial palace covers some 720,000 square meters of property and is protected by a 10-meter high wall with watchtowers. While it could take hours to explore these grounds , some highlights include:

  • The Hall of Supreme Harmony, a 35-meter-tall building housing the royal throne
  • The marble Golden River Bridges
  • The Palace Museum, hosting a collection of art and artefacts

forbidden city bejing china

The grounds’ opening times may vary, from 8.30 am to 5 pm in April to October, and 8.30 am to 4.30 pm in November to March, and it’s closed on Mondays.

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest and most important sites in Christendom. It is believed that the church was built over the tomb of St Peter, the first-ever Pope. Its famous dome is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Rome. The church and dome are actually the work of several artists and architects. Michelangelo was known to have taken the work done previously and unified the vision and design.

rome at sunset

St Peter’s Basilica is the tallest dome in the world and it measures just over 136 metres tall. It is possible to visit the top of the dome and enjoy amazing views over Rome.

detail at st peters

The interior of the church is filled with Baroque and Renaissance artworks. There are literally amazing works of art in every corner.

St Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City which is just to the north of the city centre of Rome.

guards at st peters

As one of Ireland’s most popular attractions and an undoubtedly famous landmark, the Cliffs of Moher is a must-see while visiting the Emerald Isle. Located in County Clare and hugging the Wild Atlantic Way, these sheer, cascading sea cliffs are over 320 million years old. They form part of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

cliffs of moher

Stretching for 14 km and rising 214 meters at their highest point, these cliffs offer spectacular viewpoints. Head to the observation tower, the O’Brien’s Tower, to get the best-unobstructed panoramas of the areas. 

These cliffs, however, offer more than just beautiful vistas. A modern centre was built to improve the visitor experience and provide information about the area’s geology and geography. Here you’ll find many unique bird species that call this place home, such as razorbills, falcons, kittiwakes, and more. 

cliffs of moher 2 one of the famous ireland landmarks

Join one of the fabulous day tours to the Cliffs of Moher and explore the area. Tour buses depart daily from major metros, including Galway, Dublin, and Cork.

Who doesn’t love a good beer? Or even if you don’t, as one of the most famous exports from the Republic of Ireland, the storehouse certainly deserves a visit. The ‘black stuff’, as it’s fondly known, has been brewed in Dublin since 1759. It’s housed in the St. James Gate’s Brewery, the largest stout brewery in the world.

guinness storehouse

It’s a dedicated space to the 250-year-old art of brewing the world-famous beverage. A self-guided tour around the seven-floor brewery takes around 1.5 hours. Head to the Gravity Bar at the top to sample the iconic Irish beer while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

The Guinness Storehouse entrance tickets are around $17 (€15) to $28 (€24) per person. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 2 pm to 9 pm and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

drinking guinness at the storehouse dublin

The Wembley Arch stretches up 134 metres high and is a familiar landmark to all londoners. Wembley is the largest stadium in the United Kingdom, the second largest stadium in Europe and home to English football. However, it still hosts other sports as well as different kinds of entertainment.

wembley stadium

The uniquely named Bungle Bungles are a series of beehive shaped towers made from sandstone and rocks in Western Australia. They are located in Purnululu National Park which is in the Kimberley region in the north of the state.

bungle bungle range

It is believed that the origins of the Bungle Bungles date back 350 million years. They are distinguished by orange and dark grey banding on the towers. And they aren’t small – the Bungle Bungles cover an area of 450 square kilometres.

There are several ways to experience the Bungle Bungle Range. You’ll need a 4WD if you want to do your own driving around the range. There are quite a few walking paths and lots of options for guided walks and tours.

bungle bungles up close

One of the most common ways to experience a landmark so large is to take a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range. It is difficult to get your head around the magnitude of the range from the ground.

There are accommodation options in the park but nothing that fancy. There are some decent cabins at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge .

The O2 started out as the Millenium Dome to celebrate the year 2000. Located in Greenwich in south east London, it was redeveloped in 2007 and is now the biggest entertainment district in London. The O2 arena can host up to 20,000 people and was the first site built purposely for music in London since the Royal Albert Hall. Today, playing at the O2 is a must for all major artists.

o2 stadium london

Located in County Antrim, the Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive landmarks. It’s famous for its odd-looking hexagonal rock columns. There are approximately 40,000 of these basalt columns along 6 kilometres of the Antrim plateau, resulting from an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. There are typically five to seven irregular sides jutting out of the cliff faces.

giants causeway

Legend has it that this strange formation was built by the Irish warrior Finn McCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill) to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner. Finn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so the two giants could meet.

The Giant’s Causeway is an enjoyable place to visit, and there are plenty of day trips and tour options to choose from. Some highlights not to be missed here include the Giant’s Boot, the wishing chair (a natural throne), and of course, the largest of three rock outcrops, the Grand Causeway. And if you’re an avid hiker, there are some incredible cliff-top trails along the causeway.

giants causeway

Access to this landmark is free of charge. There is, however, an entrance fee to the visitor centre.

The Blarney Castle is located in County Cork and is one of Ireland’s most revered historical landmarks. The medieval castle was constructed in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster.

blarney castle

The iconic attraction here is the Blarney Stone, which, according to the legend, can grant you the gift of eloquence if you kiss it. The 600-year-old castle looks like a mystic building from one side and a war-torn hero from the other.

Other highlights here are the stunning, well-manicured gardens of Blarney Castle. While you’re exploring this remarkable green space, be sure to check out the Poison Garden, The Seven Sisters, the Fern Garden, and more.

blarney castle 1

Tourists come from far and wide to give this stone a smooch in the hope of some Irish luck. So, I highly recommend booking a tour to learn about the grounds’ thrilling history and its legends.  

Admission to the Blarney Castle is $21 for adults and $10 for children. Opening times are from 9 am to 5 pm every day.

Situated in County Kerry and part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry has attracted visitors to its unspoilt scenery.

ring of kerry

The 179-kilometre-long circular tourist route takes its visitors around the Iveragh Peninsula and through majestic valleys, rivers, mountains, towns, historic sites, and beaches. The landscape is varied, from the rocky bay of Rossbeigh Strand to the Killarney lakes and mountains.

ring of kerry 1

Hop in your car and head on an unforgettable road trip, or find your seat on a tour to explore the heavenly scenic route. Along the way, stop by some of Ireland ‘s noteworthy sites including, Ross Castle, the Kerry Cliffs, and the Cahergall Stone Fort. And, don’t forget to visit some exquisite beaches and enjoy some of the stunning hiking trails along the way.

Situated in the heart of Belfast, the Titanic Quarter is home to where the notorious Titanic ship was first created. Today, it houses a state-of-the-art Titanic-themed museum to pay tribute to the world-famous cruise liner.

titanic belfast signage

Visitors’ experience at this museum is second to none, with interactive exhibits and world-class art galleries enabling you to explore the world of the Titanic. Here you can uncover the building processes right through to the disastrous events and the underwater remains. Head to the slipway to find some unique souvenirs and to see where the Titanic, and her sister Olympic, were built and first launched.

titanic belfast

I highly recommend you book entrance tickets to explore the fascinating history of the Titanic in this magnificent museum.

Mezquita was once the principal mosque of Western Islam and is still one of the largest mosques in the world. Construction of this mosque began in 785. By 1000 it had reached its current size and had no fewer than 19 aisles. Later renovations resulted in a catholic cathedral being added to the building but it remains a stunning example of Moorish architecture in Spain.

The Great Mosque of Cordoba

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in the world. The colossal statue of Jesus Christ sits 30 metres tall (98 feet) at the top of Mount Corcovado, in southeastern Rio.

The foundation of the statue was laid in 1922 to commemorate Brazil’s centennial anniversary of independence from Portugal . It took nine years to complete and became one of the first landmarks in Brazil.

Today the statue looks down on the city, serving as a protector for all who call Rio home.

The Sugar Loaf Mountain or Pao de Acucar in Portuguese is a peak that sits at the mouth of the Guanabara Bay that flows out into the Atlantic Ocean in Rio.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

The peak rises 396 meters (1299 feet) above the bay, and can be seen from many corners of the city. It is said that Sugar Loaf Mountain got its name from the shape of a refined sugar loaf.

In 1912, a cable car system was installed on the mountain – which at the time was only the third cable car system in the world – taking visitors up to the summit of the mountain.

Once on top, visitors can enjoy the most gorgeous 360-degree views of the entire city. 

If you search for beaches in Brazil, the first thing that’s likely to pop up is a picture of Copacabana Beach with people spread across the beach sunbathing and sipping on drinks in coconuts.

Copacabana Beach

Up until the late 19th century, Copacabana Beach was just a small fishing village covered with sand, dunes, and shrubs. Today it is a booming tourist attraction that lives up to its name of A Princesinha do Mar (Princess of the Sea).

Copa, as it is known by locals, stretches for 4 km (2.2 miles) and is lined with hotels, bars, restaurants, and street vendors. And the gorgeous Sugar Loaf Mountain looms in the background.

On the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, you’ll find this exquisite Natural Wonder of the World, Victoria Falls. Locals fondly refer to the falls as Mosi-oa-Tunya which means ‘the smoke that thunders.’ Demonstrating its immensity and power.

victoria falls by helicopter

The falls can be viewed from vantage points in either country. The waterfalls spray water which creates a mist that nourishes the rainforest-type terrain in the gorgeous surrounding mountains. You’ll be left in awe of this exquisite natural beauty in Africa.

victoria falls microlight

I highly recommend doing both a helicopter ride and a microlight ride to really appreciate the stunning beauty of Victoria Falls. I did both and would do them both again.

Africa boasts abundant wildlife in many regions and a trip to the continent wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the many National Parks. The Serengeti in Tanzania is teeming with animals, including The Big 5, and is a great place to go on safari .

serengeti hot air balloon

One of the most amazing times to visit is during the Wildebeest migration between April and May. Here you’ll see over a million Wildebeest and other antelope traverse the plains in search of pasture. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience so don’t forget your safari camera to capture it all.

Another ideal spot to see the great migration, add the Maasai Mara to your safari itinerary in Africa. The wildebeest that are migrating from the Serengeti head to the Maasai Mara and this is another perfect opportunity to witness the magnificent creatures travelling cross country in large groups.

the migration masai mara

With endless lush African bush and a vast variety of wildlife, this National Park will not disappoint nature enthusiasts. A luxury safari is a great way to experience the park in style. With your guides, you’ll also be able to discover the terrain from a different perspective – on a bushwalk.

This mighty mountain is a must-see African landmark. Along the border of Kenya and Tanzania lies the often snow-capped Mt Kilimanjaro. Standing at 5895 meters (19,340 feet) above sea level, this is the highest mountain peak in Africa.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Many avid hikers attempt to summit the mountain every year, however, this is no easy feat and requires training and endurance. If you’d prefer to marvel at the mountain from the ground, the Kilimanjaro National Park is the best place to do so. Here, you’ll be able to spot wildlife with Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop – it doesn’t get much better than that.

While we’re talking about mountains, South Africa’s Table Mountain deserves a mention. Standing majestically over the city of Cape Town, this iconic flat table-like mountain rises to a height of 1086 meters (3563 feet) above sea level.

capetown table mountain

This popular attraction can be visited and experienced in a number of ways. Either hike to the top (which is what I did) or opt for a ride in the cable car. Once at the top you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. If you don’t want to head to the top of the peak, find one of the many restaurants in Cape Town to have a drink while you admire the mountain. 

An avenue like no other, the Avenue of Baobabs is something to behold. Found on the island of Madagascar you’ll find a collection of visually powerful baobab trees lining a street in Menabe. The trees have been growing for 2800 years and stand at 30 meters (98 feet) tall.

The Avenue of Baobabs, Madagascar

The avenue alone attracts thousands of tourists each year and has helped boost tourism in the area. A great time to visit the avenue is during sunrise or sunset where the orange-pink sky beyond the tall trees makes for a breathtaking scene (and photo).

If you want to visit Tuttenkhaman’s royal tomb, this is where you’ll find it. The Valley of the Kings is exactly what it sounds like, an area dedicated to Egyptian Pharaohs. And here you’ll find the beautifully and elaborately decorated tombs of 63 famous Pharaohs

The Valley of the Kings

Covering an astonishing 8% of the earth’s land area, the Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world. It spans 11 countries in Northern Africa: Morocco, Egypt, Western Sahara, Mauritiana, Chad, Libya, Algeria, Mali, Niger, Sudan, and Tunisia. So plan your trip to the Sahara according to which African countries you’ll be visiting.

Sahara Tunisia

There are a host of activities to keep you busy on the dunes of the Sahara. From camel trekking, quad biking, and desert camping to stargazing under a vast and unpolluted sky. The beauty and tranquillity are endless and a visit to the desert is highly recommended.

Stretching for 6852 km (4258 miles), the Nile River is not only the longest river in Africa but the whole world. Most well known for its presence and impact on Egypt, the Nile actually runs through 11 countries as it flows north towards the Mediterranean Sea.

Felucca on the Nile

The best way to experience the river is with a Nile River Cruise , this way you’ll float down the river comfortably while passing other attractions like temples and pyramids. Other fun river activities include white river rafting, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

As you’ve probably noticed, Africa is not short of exquisite National Parks boasting unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Okavango Delta is no exception to these standards and is one of the most incredible parks to visit in Africa.

okavango delta sunset

The Delta is a tranquil marshland that is home to some of Africa’s endangered species including the African wild dog and the white and black rhinoceros. The swampy green land is also an oasis for hippos and elephants as well as any animals trying to escape the surrounding dry and arid areas.

Located in the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is an amazing geological feature. The caldera landmark was formed when a large volcano erupted and collapsed on itself over two million years ago. The crater itself is 19km (12 miles) wide and has a depth of 600 meters (1968 feet).

Ngorongoro Crater

Along with the impressive variety of wildlife, including the endangered black-maned lion and black rhino, the area is also home to indigenous Maasai people. A culture with a rich heritage and one you’ll be able to learn about if you enjoy a safari in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area where the Crater can be found.

The Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, gorilla trekking. The dense rainforest in the country makes the environment perfect for the gentle giants. Rwanda is home to 1000 mountain gorillas, accounting for half the world population.

gorillas73

This National Park protects 12 gorilla families in the forest and you’ll be able to see these beauties in their natural habitat during a trek in the forest with an expert gorilla tracker. This is a highly unique and memorable experience and shouldn’t be missed if you’re visiting Rwanda.

You’ve probably used the phrase “from here to Timbuktu” to describe a faraway, isolated place, but Timbuktu is an actual place in Mali that can be visited. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is hailed as the intellectual and spiritual centre of Islam in Africa during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Timbuktu 2

You’ll find many fascinating historic and cultural sites to explore in the desert town of Timbuktu, including the Mosque of Sankore and Djinguereber Mosque. It’s only recently started to gain popularity as a tourist destination so you’ll still be able to explore without large crowds.

Just another UNESCO World Heritage Site that Africa boasts is the Medina of Marrakech. A medina is a distinct historical city section found in a number of North African cities and this one in Marrakech won’t disappoint. The Medina is characterized by a marketplace, square riads and traditional houses.

Medina of Marrakech

The Medina revolves around the Djemaa El Fna, the largest mosque in the town. The surrounding colourful market is a treat for the senses, here you’ll find anything from dried fruit and spices to clothing and souvenirs. The market can get especially crowded and overwhelming, so it might be best to opt for a guided tour .

The creation of cognac is much more like making perfume rather than wine or beer. The entire process of making cognac as well as the source of the grapes themselves are all under an appellation. This is absolutely a craft rather than a manufacturing process.

normandin 5

I visited three different cognac houses whilst I was in the region and I would highly recommend doing the same as they were very different experiences. I visited one of the biggest and most well-known cognac houses, Maison Hennessy, one of the few houses that produce its own grapes, Maison Frapin, and own the entire supply chain process and one that is much closer to La Rochelle and whose key point of difference is their blending, Maison Normandin Mercier.

hennessy 6

I’ve visited many museums in my time as a travel blogger so it takes quite a bit to get me excited about one. And I got very excited about the Cite du Vin. Yes, it is all about one of my favourite things in the world, wine, but it is also an extremely engaging museum housed in a jaw-dropping modern building.

cite du vin

Cite du Vin opened in 2016 so it is still relatively new. It is located in the new part of Bordeaux near Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas. The extraordinary building was created by architects Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières.

The building’s unusual shape was created by a desire to evoke the soul of wine between the river and the city. It is also meant to evoke gnarled vine stock, wine swirling in a glass and the eddies of the Garonne River.

The exhibits within Cite du Vin have been designed to please everyone from those who know little about wine to connoisseurs. I am probably somewhere in the middle and I learned a huge amount during my visit. In particular, it was able to close my knowledge gaps in several areas.

cite du vin

You don’t need to wait until you’ve found the perfect excuse for travelling, it’s always the right time to get exploring. Whether you’ve always dreamed of seeing the Seven Wonders, or snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, you can add these travel bucket list ideas on to your list and tick them off as you go along.

Many of these bucket list experiences need planning, so put them on paper and get the ball rolling; there’s no way you can regret visiting any of the places above.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this bucket list ideas post. However, this post does include affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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David Nesselroad

Saturday 18th of September 2021

This is the most entertaining and informative two hours that I have ever spent in my life. I have been to several of these places and that makes it much more real.

The Boutique Adventurer

thanks David! So glad that you enjoyed reading my article!

Saturday 13th of March 2021

Missed a few, New Zealand, apes in Congo, balloons over bagon Myanmar, jars in Vientiane, robbin island South Africa, galapogos islands, penguins anywhere South Africa, Antarctica,Masai Mara, Jerusalem,Tibet potala palace.

These are the some good ones! They will go into the 2nd version - thanks for commenting

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

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The ultimate travel bucket list

By Condé Nast Traveller

Travel bucketlist ideas | Ultimate places to go before you die

The best bucket-list ideas for holidays of a lifetime in the USA, Indonesia, Japan, Argentina, Fiji, France, Iceland and the Caribbean.

Becky Lucas digital editor  'It would have to be getting the chance to witness the Northern Lights whirl across the sky...

Seeing the Northern Lights

Becky Lucas, digital editor

'It would have to be getting the chance to witness the Northern Lights whirl across the sky in Finnish Lapland once again, while lying under blankets in a sleigh pulled by reindeers across a frozen lake. On this occasion, I’d bring an actual camera that could deal with the -22°C temperatures – unlike my smartphone which promptly died every time I got it out of my pocket – because I’d know that the lights’ bright colours are only really visible in photos. Then we’d retreat to sit around a campfire and drink glasses of warm glögg before retiring to our igloo-style Aurora Dome at Harriniva. Come daylight, we’d keep our blood pumping with hair-raising (or freezing) activities such as speeding around on snowmobiles, Nordic cross-country skiing, ice fishing, husky sledding, fat biking and a ride in the world’s only sauna gondola at Ylläs ski resort, finished up with a wallow in the steaming outdoor tub, looking out at the surreally snow-stacked slopes while sporting a thick bobble hat.'

Skydiving in Cape Town     Sophie Knight digital picture editor  ‘Cape Town remains my favourite place on earth  for the...

Skydiving in Cape Town

Sophie Knight, digital picture editor

‘ Cape Town remains my favourite place on earth – for the rugged coastline, hiking trails lined with stunning flora and fauna, vast white-sand beaches and striking views from Table Mountain overlooking the twinkling city lights at dusk. Not forgetting that it’s home to lots of urban wildlife – penguins, baboons and whales are all residents here. The last time I visited, I paraglided from Lion’s Head down to the bay where I was greeted by a humpback whale being circled by squawking gulls. On my next trip I’m hoping to see the city from a higher altitude on a skydive.’

Exploring NEW ZEALAND     Sarah James assistant digital editor  ‘To me this is the ultimate onceinalifetime trip  partly...

Exploring NEW ZEALAND

Sarah James, assistant digital editor

‘To me, this is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime trip – partly because my dream itinerary would take three weeks minimum, and partly because I might have to pull a bank job to pay for it. My ideal route takes in low-key Auckland , adventurous Queenstown and artsy Wellington, as well as some of the country’s wonderful open spaces such as icy, volcanic Tongariro National Park and lush, coastal Abel Tasman National Park. A tour of the Central Otago wine region is pretty high up on the list, as is a nerdy jaunt to Hobbiton. And New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most incredible lodges, such as Scrubby Bay, set on a 4,000-acre farm near Christchurch.’

TOURING THE INDONESIAN ISLANDS     Paula Ellis Art director   'I've had this absolute burning desire to do a tour around...

TOURING THE INDONESIAN ISLANDS

Paula Ellis, Art director

'I've had this absolute burning desire to do a tour around the Indonesian islands for years. I want to see some of the obvious things like the Komodo dragons, but to be chilled, take it easy, and go and see the volcanic-y bits too. I had this perception that it would be really calm and peaceful. But beautiful. And I think the people would be really sweet and friendly. I'm obsessed with ikat silk - the woven fabrics. I know it's touristy, but I would love to go to Borobudur, the big Buddhist temple, too.'

Rick Jordan Senior editor   'As an antidote to my deskbound daily existence and before I'm just too creaky I'd take off...

Icelandic volcanoes and helicopter rides

Rick Jordan, Senior editor

'As an antidote to my desk-bound daily existence, and before I'm just too creaky, I'd take off to the alien landscapes of Iceland for a week of midlife-crisis intrepidness. There's an outfit called Momentum Adventure , which can drop you into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano with an unpronounceable name and land you by helicopter on top of a live one to fry hotdogs on the molten lava. You can also swim in geothermal rivers and go diving between tectonic plates in pure glacial waters. The next day they'll give you the keys to a Polaris buggy. I'm just relearning to drive after years of London-induced road-shyness, so bouncing around across black-sand deserts will put my skills to the test.'

Karin Mueller Senior picture editor   'I've always wanted to revisit an amazing journey through the United States as an...

The USA from coast to coast

Karin Mueller, Senior picture editor

'I've always wanted to re-visit an amazing journey through the United States as an adult, which my parents took me on when I was in my early teens and which left a huge impression on me. At the time, of course, I wasn't able to appreciate many aspects of it in a way I would now. My starting point would be some fun-filled days with friends and family in New York - in style, checking out all the trendiest bars and coolest restaurants, staying at an impossibly glamorous place like The Mercer in Soho or the Gramercy Park Hotel .

Afterwards I would want to soak up the atmosphere of San Francisco for a while, before embarking on an epic road trip: from the golden sands and sunshine of Los Angeles, past the Grand Canyon and the Native American communities of the desert, then to the gritty streets of St. Louis and Chicago . To finish it off, I'd hop over to the Turks and Caicos Islands , staying at Parrot Cay resort, unwinding in luxury.'

Matt Buck Photographic director   'Starting in La Paz Bolivia I would take an epic road trip in a monster truck driving...

Road tripping across South America

Matt Buck, Photographic director

'Starting in La Paz , Bolivia, I would take an epic road trip in a monster truck driving through the mountains on the road to Potosi, and stay at Hostal Colonial before heading to the Salar de Uyuni to drive across the salt flats heading across the border into Chile and the Atacama Desert . I would stay at the ESO Hotel on the Cerro Paranal as seen in Quantum of Solace to star gaze from the Very Large Telescope before heading down through the desert across the Andes and into Mendoza in Argentina for lunch at The Vines Resort & Spa where I will die peacefully from eating too much red meat and red wine.'

Fiona Kerr Features director   North to south through Japan. It's a country I've obsessed about from afar ever since I...

Going north to south through Japan

Fiona Kerr, Features director

North to south through Japan . It's a country I've obsessed about from afar ever since I was given my first origami kit as a kid. Those pretty, pretty papers led me on to the delicate watercolour-like landscapes, the another-worldly culture that veers from blindingly beautiful to brilliantly bonkers - and sushi.

Bullet trains make this epic journey do-ably nippy - if you didn't get off you could ride the whole 1,941 kilometres in just 12 hours. But I'd make it rather more leisurely, starting off skiing (poorly) the perfect powder of Niseko on Japan's most northerly island, Hokkaido, before wiggling down through the classics in Tokyo (for the new Aman hotel) and Kyoto. And to finish? Hop on a flight to the white-sand beaches of the Okinawa islands ('Japan's Hawaii') which reach out down towards the tropics - here, Hoshinoya Okinawa is just the spot to do absolutely nothing.

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Tabitha Joyce

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Tabitha Joyce Deputy digital editor   'I've always wanted to go to Argentina. I'd hang out on the cobbled streets of...

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Grainne McBride Chief subeditor   'I would fly to Japan  and jump straight into Tokyo's hectic neon jumble staying in...

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Paula Maynard Director of operations   'If I could sail which I can't I would drift around Caribbean islands pulling...

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Paula Maynard, Director of operations

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| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Bucket list travel , Homepage popular · April 16, 2023

The ultimate travel bucket list: 50+ epic experiences around the world

Want some inspiration for your travel bucket list? I’ve compiled more than 50 epic things to see, do and experience around the globe that are worthy of being at the top of any travel bucket list.

travel inspiration bucket list

I’ve always been a sucker for a good list, and a travel bucket list is no different. I find that getting your ideas onto paper (or computer haha) help to organise your thoughts, let you prioritise them, and then make decision-making way easier.

Orrrr on the other hand, having a list of 50 epic bucket list experiences around the world might send you into a state of constant analysis paralysis, not knowing where to go next 🙃

Regardless of which way you’re going to go, this incredible travel bucket list is sure to inspire you for your future travels. I’ve listed some of the iconic bucket list experiences, like seeing the Taj Mahal and diving on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, but I’ve also included slightly lesser-known experiences like the world’s fastest rollercoaster, seeing bioluminescence in the ocean, and seeing elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka.

So open up your bucket list journal or Google Doc and start taking notes of which of these epic experiences you want to add to your travel bucket list.

travel inspiration bucket list

Experiences to add to your travel bucket list

Adventure bucket list ideas.

travel inspiration bucket list

Bungy jump or skydive

I feel like there’s no other way to start an ‘ultimate travel bucket list’ post apart from throwing yourself either out of a plane of off a platform tied by the ankles. And even so, I can promise you that I will never do either.

The best place to bungy jump in the world is hands down New Zealand, the original home of the commercial bungy jump since the first one in 1988. These days New Zealand has six different bungy sites to choose from, so add a bungy jump to your New Zealand bucket list.

If jumping from thousands of feet in the sky is more up your alley then choose your preferred landscape and book your trip. Skydive over coral reefs in Australia, man-made islands in Dubai, mountains in Switzerland or tropical rainforests in Hawaii, to name a few.

travel inspiration bucket list

Go paragliding

For a similar thrill of flying without the feeling of falling, try paragliding instead, where you run off a mountain or similar platform and start gliding straight away without any freefall.

Paragliding can be as calm or as adrenaline-inducing as you want it (weather-dependent of course), you can enjoy a gentle float through the sky if you want a chilled experience, or ask your paragliding pilot for the ‘rollercoaster version’ as my pilot called it, where you can experience spins, spirals and strong G-forces as the chute is manoeuvered in certain ways.

I first paraglided in Interlaken, Switzerland, and have since done it twice in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Read more: The perfect five day Switzerland

travel inspiration bucket list

Hike to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

This arduous but rewarding journey tops hiking bucket lists for adventure travellers all over the globe. and for good reason. Trek past Sherpa villages through unforgiving terrain en route to the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, reaching your final destination at an altitude of more than 5000m above sea level.

Soak up the views and enjoy feeling mind-numbingly insignificant while standing at Base Camp, surrounded by rugged peaks and dramatic valleys as far as the eye can see.

travel inspiration bucket list

Go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

Seeing Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes from the dizzying heights of a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is one of the most magical travel experiences in the world.

The balloons go up at sunrise each day throughout the year (weather dependent), but I’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in Cappadocia to give yourself a plan b or c in case your first day is cancelled.

If a hot air balloon is out of your budget or your comfort zone, then you can still enjoy the beautiful display of balloons from one of Cappadocia’s many rooftop terraces.

travel inspiration bucket list

Try a glacier heli-hike in New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is home to more than 2900 glaciers, and you can do a heli-hike on three of the main ones, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on the West Coast and the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

The helicopter flight alone will have you feeling like you’re in a David Attenborough documentary, before landing on the ice and trekking through frozen crevasses and marvelling at bright blue ice formations.

Read more: The best things to do in Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

travel inspiration bucket list

Go diving at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

One of the Natural Wonders of the World, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is certainly up there with the best places to scuba dive in the world. While much of the reef has fallen victim to coral bleaching from warming ocean temperatures as well as damage from weather events, there’s a huge focus on sustainability along the Queensland coast to try and protect and restore the reef.

Head to the outer reef for the most colourful coral and marine diversity, you can spot turtles, manta rays and plenty of vibrant tropical fish.

Read more: Sleeping in an underwater hotel room on the Great Barrier Reef

travel inspiration bucket list

Ski in Whistler

Winter enthusiasts need to add the impressive Whistler ski resort to their travel bucket list, boasting more than 8000 acres of ski terrain just a few hours from Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.

There’s a Whistler experience for everyone, from beginner slopes to expert off piste tours, as well as spa and wellness resorts, snowmobiling trips, snowshoeing trails, sightseeing gondolas and more.

travel inspiration bucket list

Ride a motorbike over the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

Known as one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic roads, the scenic Hai Van Pass runs parallel to the Vietnamese coastline on a 21km stretch of road between Hue and Danang, offering breathtaking views of the South China Sea.

Experiencing the winding roads and hairpin turns by motorbike is a rite of passage for visitors to Vietnam, and it’s a must do for any Vietnam itinerary.

If you prefer four wheels over two, there are also army jeep tours or private luxury transfers available.

Read more: An epic three week Vietnam itinerary

travel inspiration bucket list

Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The Formula Rossa is the rollercoaster version of an F1 car, reaching a top speed of 240km per hour (that’s 149mph) in just 4.9 seconds 🤯 riders have to wear protective goggles to shield their eyes from the sand while they race around the 2.2km track, all while trying to hold onto their stomach!

The rollercoaster can be found at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi which is home to some other record-breaking rides, including the world’s highest rollercoaster loop and an immersive coaster with the world’s first sideways rollercoaster drop.

I’m a bit of a theme park fiend myself, I’m trying to hit all the best theme parks in the world, and I could honestly spend days at Abu Dhabi doing those three epic rides over and over again.

travel inspiration bucket list

Camp at the top of a mountain and wake up to watch the sunrise

An overnight hike to a viewpoint with a sunrise wake up is something for every hiker’s bucket list, and it is sure to make you feel connected to nature like nothing else.

Some of the best sunrise viewpoint hikes are in New Zealand’s South Island , the Dolomites in Italy , or British Columbia in Canada.

Hike the Tatra Mountains in Poland

Lace up your hiking boots

Bucket list events around the world

travel inspiration bucket list

Visit Japan during the cherry blossom season

Japan’s ‘sakura’ season brings literally millions of tourists to see the beautiful pink and white flower displays during their peak, typically from late March through to early April. It’s one of the busiest times of the year to visit Japan but the crowds are worth it, just expect to get up early and venture beyond the main photo spots to be able to get shots without loads of people in the background.

travel inspiration bucket list

See the fireworks at the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day

I’m a sucker for a good fireworks display, and the Bastille Day fireworks in Paris are one of the world’s best! There’s just something about seeing neon colours shoot into the sky, and they’re made even better when combined with a light show on one of the most famous landmarks on the globe, and an epic soundtrack that lines up with the bursts and booms of the pyrotechnics.

Bastille Day is France’s national holiday, held on July 14th every year with a variety of events like parades, concerts, military flyovers and more, but the fireworks alone make it worth visiting Paris at this time of the year. You can see the fireworks from river cruises, hotel terraces or viewpoints, but the best spot is from the Champs de Mar right in front of the Eiffel Tower. It’s totally free to enter but you’ll need to get there hours in advance to get a good spot, we got there at about 4pm and enjoyed a picnic afternoon tea/dinner before the fireworks started at 11pm.

Book your accommodation in advance to ensure you get a decent deal, places get booked up quickly and prices skyrocket closer to the date.

travel inspiration bucket list

Do the Rickshaw Run

If you’re up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Rickshaw Run is an epic road trip not for the faint of heart.

The original Rickshaw Run is a 3500km journey across India in a three-wheeled rickshaw (or as the Rickshaw Run team calls it, a ‘glorified lawnmower’), with no set route, just a departure point and a finish line with a rough guideline of how to get between. Find two friends to join, submit your rickshaw design to have it painted before you arrive, and set off on a crazy adventure, with your fingers crossed for minimal breakdowns (both mechanical and emotional). The Rickshaw Run has recently expanded into Sri Lanka and the Himalayas too.

travel inspiration bucket list

Visit a Christmas market in Europe

Europe’s Christmas markets help make up for the short days and cold temperatures as the continent creeps closer to mid-winter, and for anyone who loves celebrating the festive season, they’re absolutely something that needs to be on your Europe bucket list.

There are Christmas markets all over Europe but some of the most authentic ones can be found in Strasbourg and Colmar in France, Cologne and Nuremberg in Germany, and Innsbruck and Salzburg in Austria. I spent a month last year seeing the European Christmas markets by train , highly recommend!

Read more: Europe Christmas market train itinerary

travel inspiration bucket list

Drink beer at Oktoberfest

The world’s largest beer festival is held annually in Munich, starting in mid-September (I know, false advertising) and ending in early October. Welcoming more than six million people each year, the festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture, with plenty of hearty meals, huge kegs of beer and traditional music on offer.

Read more: Oktoberfest on a budget with Stoke Travel

travel inspiration bucket list

Spend a weekend at Coachella

Topping party-goers bucket lists from all over the globe, Coachella is held in Indio, California over two weekends in April each year with a total attendance of about 750,000 over the six days. The line up is often one of the most awaited announcements each year, with tickets selling out in minutes at each release.

I ticked Coachella off my personal travel bucket list way back in 2012 when I was studying in the USA, and I can honestly say it still stands as one of the best weekends of my life!

travel inspiration bucket list

Go to India for Holi Festival

Holi Festival is a significant event on the Hindu calendar, marking the beginning of spring with a chaotic display of colourful powder being thrown amongst crowds of people, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It’s a bit of an assault on the senses, with vibrant paint sticking to your hair and skin, loud music pumping throughout the cities and towns, and deliciously sweet treats being offered from roadside stalls, but it’s an unforgettable experience nonetheless.

I visited India as a solo female traveller and had a fantastic time with no safety concerns whatsoever, however I have heard that Holi can be a hub for assaults and unwanted attention due to the sheer number of people roaming the streets. If you’re a woman travelling to Holi solo or travelling with other female friends and aren’t super confident about dealing with the risks of crowds, I’d highly recommend going with a group tour like G Adventures or Contiki to feel a bit safer.

travel inspiration bucket list

Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans’ French Quarter is a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment at any time of the year, but during Mardi Gras it’s truly taken to the absolute next level. Weeks of parades, shows and street festivals turn this part of the city into a party paradise, where revellers can dress up in colourful costumes, dance the night away under street lights and catch beads and other ‘throws’ being chucked into the crowd from parade floats.

Mardi Gras’ date changes each year as it’s based on the Christian dates of Ash Wednesday, Lent and Easter, but it’s always in either February or March.

travel inspiration bucket list

Go to Rio for Carnival

For a similar celebration with a South American twist, head down to Rio de Janeiro for Carnival, a massive street festival which boasts the title of biggest carnival in the world. With two million people partying on the streets per day , you can see why this buzzing event is worthy for travel bucket lists.

Attendants can soak up the incredible atmosphere, search for the most elaborate costumes, groove to samba music and join one of the blocos (block parties).

travel inspiration bucket list

Go to Burning Man

Another desert festival to add to your wanderlist is Burning Man, an event dedicated to rejecting capitalism and instead encouraging self-reliance, inclusion and self-expression. Burning Man is a little bit like the ‘Fight Club’ of festivals, never talk about Burning Man, so what happens in the desert kind of stays in the desert!

The mysterious must-do hosts about 80,000 people each year at a temporary city built by its participants each year, with the entire thing packed up at the end leaving no trace behind.

travel inspiration bucket list

Go to Mexico for Dia de los Muertos

The Mexican holiday ‘Dia de los Muertos’, or ‘Day of the Dead’, celebrates the lives of loved ones that have passed away with colourful parades and elaborate ‘ofrendas’ (tributes) welcoming the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living for a quick visit.

While the name sounds morbid, the festival is anything but, with bright flowers, intricate face painting, joyful music and delicious traditional meals all available to enjoy.

travel inspiration bucket list

Spend St Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

Experiencing Dublin’s pub culture should be on your bucket list anyway, but visiting the city for St Patrick’s Day (March 17th) is truly something else. The day honours St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and celebrates Irish culture and heritage with street parades, Irish music, traditional dances and, of course, a lot of pints of Guinness.

Nature & wildlife bucket list experiences

travel inspiration bucket list

Swim with wild dolphins

Experience the ocean’s most playful residents with an up close and personal dolphin swim, where curious wild dolphins will zip and zoom all around you in the water. I’ve had two incredible wild dolphin swims in New Zealand, one in Picton (calmer ocean conditions as it’s in a sheltered area) and one in Kaikoura (rougher conditions but more dolphins), and you can also find ethical wild dolphin encounters in Australia, Hawaii and in some countries in Central America.

Read more: Swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura

travel inspiration bucket list

See the Northern or Southern Lights

With bright rays of green, pink and purple dancing in the sky, the ethereal phenomenon of the aurora is absolutely mind-blowing to see with your own eyes. It’s actually caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, and is easiest to see closest to the magnetic poles.

The Northern Lights (a.k.a. Aurora Borealis ) can typically be seen from places like Finland, Norway and Iceland in Europe as well as northern Canada, whereas the Southern Lights ( Aurora Australis ) are most likely to be seen from southern New Zealand and Australia, although they are rarer to see than their northern counterparts as there’s less land close to the south pole.

Read more: The perfect four day Iceland itinerary

travel inspiration bucket list

Do a safari in Africa

Easily the most sought after animal experience in the world, an African safari is something all wildlife lovers should have on their bucket list. Search for the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards and rhinos – in their natural habitats, as well as spotting other majestic creatures like giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, monkeys and hippos.

There are plenty of safari options in Africa depending on what you’re looking for, from budget-friendly camping trips through to ultra-luxe lodge-hopping with scenic flights or hot air balloon trips.

travel inspiration bucket list

See elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka

While I haven’t been fortunate enough to experience Africa’s wildlife yet, I was able to spend my 31st birthday at a stunning eco-friendly safari lodge in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park , where wild elephants roam the beach right in front of the bar and restaurant.

Uga Chena Escapes is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever stayed (and I’ve stayed at lots of incredible places!) and it was an unforgettable trip, with luxurious cabins complete with free-standing bath tub and private pool, world-class all-inclusive food and drinks, and expert rangers taking you on daily safari drives to spot elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and the elusive leopard.

Read more: A detailed review of the stunning Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka

travel inspiration bucket list

Set foot on Antarctica

One of the most remote destinations on the planet, visiting Antarctica is a top-of-the-bucket-list contender for travellers all over the globe. Antarctica obviously isn’t your classic tourist destination, with harsh weather conditions and vast expanses of nothingness, but the giant icebergs, thriving penguin colonies and unique ecosystem make it worth the trouble to get there.

The most common way to reach the southernmost continent on Earth is by cruise from the South American port of Ushuaia, Argentina, though there are also a limited number of cruises from New Zealand each season as well as a handful of flights from Chile or South Africa.

travel inspiration bucket list

Visit the Gatorade Blue glacial lakes in Canada

The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most mesmerising landscapes of anywhere in the world, where unbelievably blue glacial lakes are bordered by jagged snow-capped peaks and thick pine forests.

I’d recommend getting a campervan and road tripping through Jasper National Park and Banff National Park to make the most of your time in this part of the world. Having your own transport, accommodation and self-catering facilities not only saves money but gives you much more flexibility to get to the main lakes like Louise, Moraine and Peyto outside of peak tour hours, which means smaller crowds and a better experience.

travel inspiration bucket list

Watch stars in an International Dark Sky Reserve

For a truly humbling travel bucket list experience, head into an International Dark Sky Reserve to learn about astronomy, connect with nature, and see the night sky at its absolute best.

While there are many places around the globe where you can enjoy a fantastic display of twinkling stars, there are 21 certified International Dark Sky Reserves which have specific policies in place to minimise light pollution and preserve dark sky tourism.

Some of the most renowned IDSRs are Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand which includes stunning Lake Tekapo, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, Big Bend in the USA and Alpes Azur Mercantour in France.

Read more: The best things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

travel inspiration bucket list

Float in the Dead Sea

Located between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea is almost ten times saltier than the average ocean salt content, making it impossible to sink which is a very strange sensation! The water and mud is packed with minerals, providing therapeutic properties for tourists looking to rest their muscles and rehydrate their skin.

Before you go, make sure you don’t shave any part of your body within the two or three days prior, because if the salt gets into any micro-cuts you’ll be in serious pain.

Read more: The ideal 7 day Jordan itinerary

travel inspiration bucket list

See bioluminescence in the ocean

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon where living organisms emit light, and one of the most common ways to witness it is bioluminescent micro-plankton which lights up when disturbed, like when waves crash on the beach. You can witness in many places around the world including Puerto Rico, the Maldives , Thailand, Mexico and Japan.

Read more: A Maldives solo travel guide

travel inspiration bucket list

Relax in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

This geothermal pool complex in southwest Iceland is just a short drive from Reykjavik’s airport, making it an easy first stop or final destination of any Iceland road trip. The water is mineral-rich, with high concentrations of silica, algae and sulfur, great for a relaxing and rejuvenating break from Iceland’s typically harsh weather conditions.

There’s no denying that the Blue Lagoon is heavily commercialised, with expensive tickets and thousands of visitors each day, so for somewhere a bit lower key you could try the new Sky Lagoon which boasts an infinity-edge pool with ocean views. Dreamy!

Read more: Four day South Iceland road trip itinerary

Food & drink bucket list experiences

travel inspiration bucket list

Eat croissants in a Parisian park or square

Paris has a bit of a reputation for not meeting travellers’ expectations, but after five visits to the City of Lights and Love, I stand by the fact that it’s in my list of all-time favourite cities. I adore French cuisine (and by that I mean pastries, bread and cheese), I know a little bit of the language, and I feel like everyone’s life would be happier if they had beautiful squares and parks to spend their lunch break at.

Search the local boulangeries (bakeries) to find the ultimate croissant or pain au chocolat, then head to Place des Vosges, Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Tuileries to enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness.

travel inspiration bucket list

Learn local recipes at a Vietnamese cooking class

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in local cuisine than by taking part in a cooking class, and Vietnam’s fresh ingredients, flavoursome herbs and spices, and budget-friendly prices, make it the perfect place to try your hand at cooking up local dishes.

Most cooking tours will take you through a bustling market before heading to the kitchen to make things like rice paper rolls, bánh mi and phở from scratch.

Read more: How to spend three weeks in Vietnam

travel inspiration bucket list

Go winery-hopping in Napa Valley

Whether you’re a vino aficionado or a newbie to the wine world, a winery tour is always a brilliant way to get an understanding of a region’s culture. The Napa Valley in northern California is a wine country boasting more than 400 wineries, ranging from small, family-owned boutique suppliers through to commercial giants bottling some of the most popular wines in the USA.

travel inspiration bucket list

Do a food tour in Bologna, Italy

As the gastronomic hub of Italy, and one of the stand-out culinary capitals in the world, Bologna is a must-visit destination for any foodie traveller. Easily visited with a day trip from Florence , Bologna is best explored by food tour with a passionate local guiding you around the city’s best eateries.

On my recent visit I did a food tour with local legend Mattia from Delicious Bologna , and it was genuinely one of the best food days of my life. We tried cheese, cured meats, aged balsamic vinegar, local wine, multiple varieties of pasta, fresh gelato and more! The Emilia-Romagna region, where Bologna is located, is famous for its top-notch ingredients and local artisans, so you’re eating the best food, in the best food region, in one of the best food countries. Divine!

Read more: 50+ epic things to see and do in Italy

travel inspiration bucket list

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is the ultimate gastronomic experience, and it’s something you can tick off your bucket list in cities all over the world. To get a coveted star a restaurant has to be the crème de la crème in terms of food quality, service, presentation and atmosphere, and many are booked out weeks or months in advance by connoisseurs wanting to get a taste (literally) of their award-winning dishes.

travel inspiration bucket list

Dress up for a fancy high tea in London

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the quintessential British of an afternoon tea of club sandwiches, scones and, of course, tea, in a fancy tea room.

London has plenty of iconic tea rooms to choose from, including the luxurious Ritz London, Claridges or Savoy, or go for a more modern and Instagrammable experience at Sketch London or Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley.

Landmarks to add to your travel bucket list

travel inspiration bucket list

See the view from the Burj Khalifa

Standing at a staggering height of 828 metres, the tallest building in the world is Dubai’s Burh Khalifa. Head up to the observation deck on the 124th floor for panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline and the desert beyond.

The structure is equally, if not more impressive from ground level, and you’ll probably feel a little dizzy when looking up towards the building from right below. Don’t miss the free fountain shows that run in front of the Burj Khalifa each evening.

Read more: What to do with three days in Dubai

travel inspiration bucket list

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings on Earth, Agra’s Taj Mahal is an Indian icon and somewhere you have to have on your travel bucket list. Sunrise is the best time to visit, when the fog lifts and soft sunlight illuminates the white marble mausoleum.

As you can imagine, the Taj is packed with visitors every second of the day, so your only chance of getting the main photo spots with no one in the background is to line up super early and boost to them as soon as you get through security.

I was travelling solo in India and you can’t take tripods into the Taj Mahal complex, so I decided to book a local photographer who was an expert at snapping the best photos. The Taj opens 30 minutes before sunrise and we got there 30 minutes before that to be close to the front of the line. Because I was with a local guide we got to go through the ‘locals’ line which is faster and we were the first ones through the security gates! We headed straight to the famous Diana’s Bench to get a few good shots with literally no one in the background before moving on quickly to other spots, and we were always finished before the next people caught up.

travel inspiration bucket list

Wander around the Ancient City of Petra

Jordan’s ancient city of Petra is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site that was once the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, between the 4th century BC and 2nd century AD. It’s home to an incredible network of ancient tombs, temples and houses, carved into orange sandstone cliffs, and is one of the top bucket list experiences for those travelling to the Middle East.

Walk 2km through the winding gorge known as the Siq to reach Petra’s main monument, the Treasury (locally known as Al-Khazneh ), a towering temple at 39 metres high. But the treasures don’t stop there, I’d recommend venturing further into the city and climbing the 850 steps to the Monastery, equally as impressive with less crowds. Just maybe don’t do it in the middle of the day in August like I did, or you might die from exhaustion!

Read more: Solo female travel in Jordan

travel inspiration bucket list

Spend a day exploring Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a giant temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with more than 70 temples and other religious buildings set amongst 400 square kilometres of Angkor Archaeological Park.

It was built in the 12th century by a Khmer as a tribute to the Hindu god Vishnu, before being converted to a Buddhist temple in the 14th century. It was abandoned in the 15th century and unused until it was rediscovered in the late 19th century, these days hosting millions of visitors from all over the world each year.

Book a local guide to take you on a proper tour and teach you all about Khmer history and culture while you admire the temple ruins.

travel inspiration bucket list

Hike up to Machu Picchu

The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most important archaeological sites, built into the steep mountains of Peru’s Andes in the 15th century. With sacred temples, stone houses and agricultural terraces still standing at 2430m above sea level, the UNESCO-listed site is an incredible example of the Inca civilisation’s impressive engineering skills that were well before their time.

Travellers can make the pilgrimage to Machu Picchu along the famous 42km Inca Trail hike, or there are taxi/bus/train combos available for those not so keen on the walk.

Other epic experiences for your travel bucket list

bernina express train in switzerland

Explore Europe by train

Sure, flights between European hubs might be crazy cheap, but if you’re travelling for an extended period with lots of stops along the way, chances are a train journey will be more comfortable, scenic and probably cheaper overall, and it’s way better for the environment.

I recently spent two months in Europe visiting 23 cities in 11 different countries using a Eurail Pass , which saved me more than €1400 compared to point-to-point tickets and significantly more compared to buying last minute flights in the lead up to Christmas.

Some noteworthy trains in Europe are:

  • The Glacier Express and Bernina Express in Switzerland (they’re both part of the country’s Grand Train Tour )
  • The Flåmsbana and Bergen Railway in Norway
  • The West Highland Line in Scotland
  • The Cinque Terre train in Italy
  • The Santa Claus Express in Finland

Read more: The most beautiful train journeys in Europe

travel inspiration bucket list

Road trip around New Zealand and Australia

I might be biased because this is my corner of the world, but you’d be hard-pressed to find better road trip destinations than New Zealand and Australia.

New Zealand boasts a superb range of scenery within easy driving distance, from paradise beaches to magical fjords to glacial lakes flanked by snowy mountains. You could easily spend months here and never get bored, but a few weeks per island is enough to give you a taste of what Aotearoa has to offer.

Australia on the other hand is much, much bigger and would require the better part of a year to see all the main spots, but a shorter trip could still have you ticking off bucket list destinations like the tropical coast of Queensland, Tasmania’s unspoiled national parks, Western Australia’s dreamy beaches and the buzzing cities of Sydney or Melbourne.

  • The ultimate New Zealand South Island road trip
  • A detailed guide to travelling Australia
  • Bucket list experiences in New Zealand
  • Bucket list experiences in Australia

travel inspiration bucket list

Go on a working holiday

Leisure trips are loads of fun, but nothing compares to actually moving abroad to work and live. Your options for working holidays will depend on your passport and visa requirements, but some popular options are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, UK, France and Argentina.

Living abroad can be daunting, but it’s one of the best ways to meet new people, open your eyes to other ways of living, and hone your independence and problem solving skills.

travel inspiration bucket list

Watch a show on NYC’s Broadway or London’s West End

Witnessing a live performance of award-winning musicals like Wicked, Hamilton or the Book of Mormon is a must-do for any theatre geeks, and there’s a seemingly endless selection to choose from in entertainment hubs like Broadway, the West End or Las Vegas.

travel inspiration bucket list

Sail a yacht around the Mediterranean

If spending your days swimming in crystal clear bays and your evenings sipping happy hour cocktails at beachfront bars sounds like an absolute dream for you, book your next trip to the Mediterranean for a spot of island hopping around Greece or Croatia.

I sailed through Croatia’s islands with the legends at Medsailors a few years back and loved it so much that I’m heading to Greece in a few months to do their tour there next!

Read more: Why you should sail Croatia with Medsailors

travel inspiration bucket list

Visit the place where your parents/grandparents were born

If your parents or grandparents were born elsewhere to where you grew up, you should definitely have their home country on your travel bucket list for a future trip.

If they’re still around then consider taking them with you for an unforgettable family experience, if they can’t travel then be sure to bring home a memento of your trip, and if they’re no longer with us then consider doing some family research to find a particularly special place to visit or distant friends or relatives to meet when you’re there.

travel inspiration bucket list

Drive Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California

The road trip of all road trips, driving Route 66 is an 3940km (2448 mile) drive from the Windy City (Chicago) through to the famous ocean pier of Santa Monica in coastal California. This historic highway passes through eight states, via vintage diners, iconic roadside motels and a number of National Parks you could stop at on the way.

travel inspiration bucket list

Stay in an overwater bungalow

As far as bucket list accommodation goes, an overwater bungalow probably tops the list for millions of travellers around the world. Everyone wants to know what it’s like to get out of bed and jump straight into the ocean direct from your private bungalow’s deck.

The Maldives and French Polynesia are probably the most famous destinations for overwater bungalows, but you can find some more affordable options in Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Fiji.

I stayed in a basic but beautiful overwater bungalow in Vietnam for less than $65USD per night, including breakfast! I think it’s probably the cheapest overwater bungalow in the world, and it’s called Naomi Resort in Phu Quoc.

Read more: The best things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

travel inspiration bucket list

Fly first class

See how the 1% travel by booking yourself a seat in first class for an extra special treat. First class tickets are unsurprisingly super expensive, but if you’re smart with your loyalty points and travel plans, you might be able to get a crazy cheap first class experience.

I recently flew first class on Emirates (!!!) from Sri Lanka to the Maldives, spending less than $115USD on the flight. I paid for the rest with Emirates Skywards miles which I had accumulated from a few years of travel, but I was never super loyal to the airline and didn’t have a points credit card. This particular flight is just a very cost-effective way of flying first class, it’s only 1h 50m (in my case even shorter due to a pesky tailwind) but you get all the epic Emirates first class benefits of fancy champagne or port, Arabic coffee, a three course meal, lie flat seat, a privacy door and top-notch service.

travel inspiration bucket list

Learn a new language through immersion

There’s no better way to learn a new language than to throw yourself in the deep end and just move to a non-English-speaking country, where you’re forced to communicate in a foreign tongue.

If you studied French or Spanish at high school, why not move to Europe or South America for six months and see how quickly you can pick it back up? Or if you’re brand new, I’d recommend booking in to some beginner classes in your new destination to help you hit the ground running with things like introductions, directions and basic conversation.

travel inspiration bucket list

Backpack through Southeast Asia

It’s a backpacker rite of passage to head to the budget-friendly region of Southeast Asia and spend a few months exploring in elephant pants, eating banana pancakes, and considering never returning to an actual desk ever again.

Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam are an easy trifecta if you have at least a few weeks, and if you’re staying for longer you could add on unspoiled landscapes in Laos, hectic cities in Malaysia and the cultural melting pot of Singapore, or venture slightly further to the dreamy islands in Indonesia or paradise beaches in the Philippines.

travel inspiration bucket list

Volunteer to support local community and environment

Give back while you’re out seeing the world with a trip that involves volunteering your time and skills. There are loads of volunteering options around the globe, as well as small group tours like Intrepid and G Adventures that often include an element of volunteering or some kind of community service in their trip itineraries.

Just be aware of the ethics around how to volunteer in the right way, like not doing anything you’re unqualified for (e.g. building houses when you have no idea what you’re doing), avoiding any multi-day volunteering programmes involving children unless you’re a trained educator or medical professional, and not participating in anything where wild animals are held captive or used for entertainment purposes.

Some good examples of ethical volunteering opportunities are marine conservation programmes, turtle hatching and protection, beach clean ups, shelters for dogs and cats, teaching English if you’re qualified, or helping NGOs with things like social media, marketing and admin if you’ve got the correct permits to work and are providing additional support rather than taking away a job that a local should be paid for.

Wowza, if you’ve made it to the end of this insanely long travel bucket list then I’m impressed! With all that in mind, what is at the top of your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

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21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

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

travel inspiration bucket list

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

T+L Backpack Quiz

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

Forever Lost In Travel

Travel Inspiration: Your Ultimate Global Bucket List

Disclosure: Advertising and affiliate services, including Amazon Associates, help the cost of running my blog. Clicking ads or making purchases through affiliate links may, at no additional cost to you, earn me a small commission. I appreciate your support .

travel inspiration: Maldives

Right now it feels like we’ll never travel again. The end is unfortunately not in sight. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be dreaming about future trips, gap years, backpacking trips and vacations around the world. In fact, now might be as good a time as any to really work on that travel bucket list you’ve wanted to make for a while. And I’m here to help you out so you don’t have to think too hard. Travel inspiration by the boat load, listed by region so you can drool over some of the best places on the planet you really don’t want to miss.

I have been working towards an Africa trip for some time. But where to start. Africa is huge and has such varied cultures and experiences. From the Northern countries to South Africa there is a ridiculous amount of amazingness in between. I’m not going to lie, a big part of your Africa travel inspiration is going to be animal focused. And why not? Some of the coolest animals on the planet are here. People pay big bucks to see these incredible creatures in the wild. And thank goodness for more responsible and sustainable tourism. Still, do your research and make sensible decisions when traveling to Africa to make sure your experience is the best one it can be.

Chefchaoene, Morocco, the ultimate city of travel ispiration

  • Release your inner Indiana Jones at The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
  • Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Cross the Sahara Desert on a camel, Morocco
  • Hike Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
  • See penguins at Boulders Beach, South Africa
  • Visit Chefchaouen e , the Blue City, Morocco
  • See gorillas in the wild, Rwanda/Uganda/Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Have an eerie visit to Kolmanskop ghost town, Namibia
  • Hike Table Mountain, South Africa
  • Go on an African Safari to see the Big 5, Kenya
  • Visit the childhood home of Queen’s Freddie Mercury, Zanzibar
  • See lemurs in Madagascar
  • Take a tour through the medinas of Marrakech or Fez to buy souvenirs, Morocco
  • Stay at the incredible Giraffe Manor, Kenya
  • Hold your breath and cage dive with Great White sharks, South Africa

lemurs in Madagascar

My personal experience with Asia has been fantastic. I love visiting Asia as it’s so different from anywhere else. The largest continent holds some of my favorite foods and the places I have been most in awe of. Please make sure to expand your trip beyond only South East Asia, but that’s a good start. I spent two years living in China teaching English and that was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Asia will take you to the edge of your comfort zone and beyond, but push through and let the little things go and you will do just fine. I’ll let you in on a secret, I think it’s my favorite region I’ve traveled to so far and the source of a lot of my travel inspiration.

Travel inspiration: Halong Bay cruise

  • Walk part of the Great Wall of China
  • Get up stupid early to see Angkor Wat at sunrise, Cambodia
  • Take an overnight cruise on Halong Bay, Vietnam
  • Go dragon spotting on Komodo Island, Indonesia
  • See the Terracotta Warrior army, Xian, China
  • Get mobbed by bunnies on Rabbit Island, Japan
  • Stay in an underwater room in a top notch hotel , The Maldives
  • Hike around the rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam
  • Layer up and visit Harbin for the ice festival, China
  • Go to the top of the Petronas Towers, Malaysia
  • Drink a Singapore Sling at The Raffles Hotel , Singapore
  • Another early start to visit the Taj Mahal, India
  • Walk around taking pictures of Cherry Blossoms, Japan
  • Cycle around the countryside from Yangshuo, China
  • Swim with whale sharks, Philippines
  • Go Kart around the streets of Tokyo, Mario style, Japan
  • Stand in line for your picture at Heaven’s Gate, Indonesia
  • See Orang-utans in Borneo
  • Find a Thai island to relax on for a few days, Thailand
  • Attend Bagan Balloon Festival, Myanmar

Taj Mahal, India

My home continent. I grew up in the United Kingdom and lived there into my twenties. I feel at home in Europe. It’s different without being too different. Comfortable without being too comfortable. Each country has its own unique culture and style but there’s a familiar undertone in a lot of places you might go. This is the one continent where you might be able to knock off the highest number of countries in one trip. Heck, you’d be able to visit multiple countries in a day no problem. But don’t let the country counting take over your travel inspiration. Slow down, appreciate the history and take advantage of the cafe culture of a lot of European countries where you can sit and watch the world go by.

Travel inspiration for bibiliophiles: Bran Castle, Romania

  • Marvel at the Colosseum, Rome Italy
  • Spend Christmas with Santa Claus in Lapland, Finland
  • Try not get to get “sucked” in at the eerie Transylvanian Bran Castle (Dracula’s castle), Romania
  • Search for Nessie at the infamous Loch Ness , Scotland
  • Get your perfect Instagram pose with the tulip fields in Lisse, Netherlands
  • Have a pint of the black stuff at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse, Ireland
  • Stroll across the historic Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic
  • Respectfully visit Auschwitz concentration camp, Poland
  • Relax and be calm in the Fjords of Norway
  • Visit Moscow’s Red Square
  • Stand in awe of the giant stones of Stonehenge, England
  • Have pint or seven at Munich’s annual Oktoberfest, Germany
  • Climb the Eiffel Tower for amazing views of Paris, France
  • Step back in time to Chernobyl, Ukraine
  • Run through fields in the Swiss Alps Julie Andrews style, Switzerland
  • Rent a car and drive the Golden Circle, Iceland
  • Navigate the roads to get to Positano on the Amalfi coast, Italy
  • Get your Game of Thrones on in Dubrovnik, Croatia
  • Don your red dress for a trip to Santorini, Greece
  • Visit the historic city of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Positano, Amalfi Coast - the quintessential travel inspiration spot

Middle East

Hot, dry heat. Deserts. Conservative countries. That’s often most people’s idea of the Middle East. But the region of the world with some of the most ancient cities and religions is also a fascinating one that shouldn’t be missed. There’s more to the Middle East than camel trekking and high buildings (although they are not to be missed). Immerse yourself in the cultures, the food and the beauty of buildings that will give you unbelievable travel inspiration. And for goodness sake don’t forget to cover up – both as a sign of respect in a lot of places, and to protect yourself from the often oppressive sun.

Petra Jordan

  • Bathe in the thermal waters of Pamukkale, Turkey
  • Visit the famous archaeological site of Petra, Jordan
  • Enjoy sky high views from the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, UAE
  • Visit one of the oldest cities of the world, Damascus, Syria
  • See the balloons floating among the rock formations of Cappadocia, Turkey
  • Stare into the “door to hell”, Derweze, Turkmenistan
  • Visit the otherworldly looking Socotra Islands, Yemen
  • Explore the holy capital of Jerusalem , Israel
  • Float in the Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel
  • See the incredible mosaic like buildings of Iran

You can't think of travel inspiration without thinking of Cappadocia

North America and the Caribbean

I have for the sake of ease combined North America and the Caribbean for the purpose of this travel inspiration bucket list. North America is my adopted home. I have now lived in Canada for 10 years. Coming from Europe where I can probably visit 4 countries in a day easily, it’s unfathomable to think that I can drive for over 2 days non-stop and still not get from one side of Canada to the other. It makes domestic trips and vacations to the United States a lot more appealing, and easier. There’s a plethora of truly stunning National Parks here and the landscapes of North America and the Caribbean are so diverse that you might never need to visit another continent and still run out of time to see everything you want to here.

Niagara Falls, Canada

  • Stare into the Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
  • Continue your world wonders theme at Niagara Falls, Canada
  • Visit the incredible Chichen Itza, Mexico
  • Scout out beautiful old cars in Havana, Cuba
  • Strain your neck looking up at the incredible Rocky mountains and visit the town of Banff, Canada
  • Drive Route 66 through the United States of America
  • Ride horses on a beach and in the water in Jamaica
  • Get lost for hours in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, Canada
  • Go snorkeling with the stingrays in Grand Cayman
  • Drive the Road to Hana, Maui, USA
  • Meet some swimming pigs at Pig Beach, Bahamas
  • See Las Coloradas (the pink lakes), Mexico
  • Get up close with polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba in Canada
  • Party like it’s 1999 at Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago
  • Gawp at the sheer size of the trees in Redwood National Park, USA
  • Experience Day of the Dead, Mexico
  • Go on the goldrush trail to Barkerville, BC in Canada
  • Fly over the big blue hole in Belize
  • Get your camera ready for Antelope Canyon, USA
  • Stay in an isolated cabin/hotel like this one in Whitehorse and witness the Northern Lights, Canada

Pig Island, Bahamas

South America and Central America

Funnily enough I haven’t made it to South or Central America yet. Which actually makes this travel inspiration bucket list the real deal because it’s my list. Places I have wanted to visit and will hopefully get to soon. South America is not the most obvious choice of travel destination when you grow up in Europe, but now I’m Team North America it makes getting to South and Central America a much more feasible option. Much like my Africa list, this one started to get a little animal-experience heavy until I reminded myself I needed to branch out. But since the continent is home to one of the world’s most incredible ecosystems , it’s hard not to think about South and Central America and conjure up a few cute looking animals.

Bolivia's salt flats

  • Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru
  • Incredible wildlife spotting on the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
  • Marvel at the giant heads of Easter Island, Chile
  • Help sea turtles in Costa Rica
  • Take a trip to the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
  • Visit the salt flats in Bolivia
  • See the impressive Iguazu Falls, Argentina
  • Hike up to the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
  • Stand in both hemisphere’s at the “middle of the world”, Ecuador
  • Visit the beautiful Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena, Colombia

Oceania and Antarctica

Antarctica is a travel inspiration unto itself, and has been incredibly high on my list for a while, but it only made sense to group in Oceania and Australia here too. I was lucky enough to visit the land down under a few years ago and it only made me realize that country is more vast than I could ever have imagined and that I need to go back. But why stop there? There are so many beautiful unspoiled island nations in the Southern Hemisphere that make me think packing carry on only could actually be done. Since I’d be happy to sit by these pristine beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters for weeks on end I wouldn’t need much with me. It might take a while to get there from the North, but it’s worth the effort I promise.

The ultimate travel inspiration trip: Antarctica

  • Gaze out over the Blue Mountains, Australia
  • Visit the Shire at Hobbiton, New Zealand
  • Mail a postcard at the underwater Post Office, Vanuatu
  • Get a quokka selfie at Rottnest Island, Australia
  • Go snorkeling/diving in the beautiful waters of Samoa
  • Kayak around the ice of Antarctica
  • Enjoy a glass of wine or two on Waiheke Island , New Zealand
  • Straddle the International Date Line in Fiji
  • Brave the black flies to see Uluru in Australia
  • See penguins up close in Antarctica

Hobbiton New Zealand, travel inspiration for Lord of the Rings fans

Travel inspiration bucket list

Dream big and travel often. For me that’s the key to being happy. I am never happy unless I’m planning a trip. And if I’ve already decided where to visit you can be sure I’ll soon be zooming out on that map to find somewhere else close by that I can fit in at the same time. I love making lists and I love traveling, so a bucket list is my perfect rainy day activity. Create your own today and make your travel inspiration a reality.

If you’ve enjoyed this post leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. What’s top of your travel bucket list? Tell me about your travel inspiration.

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23 thoughts on “Travel Inspiration: Your Ultimate Global Bucket List”

That is an amazing 105 travel moments! We all can’t wait to get back and discover more interesting places. Travelling will never be the same as of the moment – unless the world has discover a vaccine for the COVID-19 virus.

So much work went into this! I would love a Singapore Sling at Raffles right now!

Wow that’s a great list..I loved it ..so many things that I still have to do. Thanks for sharing

This is an amazing list! I love that you sorted it by continent!

I need to add some of these places to my bucket list!

Love love love. This is an AWESOME bucket list. Can’t wait to start crossing some of these off!

I LOVE your lists! Makes me realize the many things I haven’t done, despite being someone who travels a lot. Africa is my next big pursuit. I was supposed to go to Egypt this past March , but canceled. Hopefully I can start wittling away at that continent and then move on to Asia!

Wow!!! Your list is impressive! Thanks, very inspiring !!!

I absolutely love how you sorted this post! There’s so many things to do around the world, where to start?!

As an Aussie, so glad to see that Uluru is on here! It is an Australian icon and so worth being on all bucket lists! I currently live in Canada and are so glad the Rockies made it to the list! They are amazing and my favourite place in the country! Great list! I hope you get to tick off everything!! x

Great list! I’m desperate to start traveling again!

Wow I love this list, so many amazing ideas! I would love to visit Petra and the pyramids but also desperate to go on Safari! I love how you have sectioned these my areas of the world – super helpful. We live in Bangkok and are happy to say we have done a few of these, but that underwater room looks amazing!

So I thought I had seen the world and after going through this list I just realized I’ve only experienced five of these things! Looks like a lot to catch up with haha. I’d personally add eating dim sum in Hong Kong, clubbing in Shanghai, and auditioning for a k-pop label in Seoul to this list!

I think we’re going to need more of the story about that audition lol 🙂

A good bucket list, a lot of them are on mine too. Hopefully we get to travel again, soon.

Wow! You just doubled the length of my travel bucket list! 🙂 I agree that so far Asia has been my favorite continent to explore, but I hope to make it to more places especially in South & Central America. I definitely agree that the Great Wall needs to be on this list. It is truly incredible. I’ve already been once, and it is still on my bucket list to go back again! Thanks for the inspiration. We definitely need it right now to stay sane and hopeful. 🙂

Wooow this is amazing. So many places and so many things to do. Hopefully things will go back to normal soon and we can go back to travelling again and start ticking off our bucket lists. Great post 🙂

One of my top bucket list items have always been to go to Japan and eat! Last year I finally went and had loads of sushi and ramen. I’m a big foodie, and I cannot wait to go back for more 🙂

Hey, that’s a great bucket list. Probably I should also write my bucket list down. What a great idea and I found already some more points for my list 🙂

GREAT list!!! Mario Karting through Japan sounds like a blast, I didn’t know that was a thing! You have inspired me want to sit down and write my own. Thank you!!!

Love this! I am slowly building my bucket list up too, I want to see the great migration in Kenya.

Adding some of these to my bucket list, particularly those under Middle East

Oh wow, I love this bucket list! I have already ticked off some of these places/activities, but after reading this post, I have also added a lot more to my list! 😊

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travel inspiration bucket list

What is a 'bucket list'?

A bucket list is a collection of goals, dreams, and aspirations that you hope to achieve or experience before you die. The term ‘bucket list’ is derived from the phrase ‘kick the bucket’, which is an English expression for dying.

A travel bucket list is your personal list of destinations and experiences you want to of visiting and accomplish in your lifetime.

travel inspiration bucket list

How to make a travel bucket list

As you browse the site, anything that makes you go ‘wow’ – add it to your ‘travel bucket list’ by clicking the ‘ADD’ buttons.

Then next time you want to plan a bucket list trip, you’ll have inspired ideas ready at hand to plan around.

travel inspiration bucket list

Our bucket list recommendations

Look for the orange ‘Bucket List’ labels to know what our writers say you absolutely must not miss.  Everything else is a nice-to-do if you have the time or interest.

Together, we can make travel FOMO a thing of the past.

travel inspiration bucket list

Find what you want, fast

Unlike other travel websites, you can search our recommendations and filter by your preference. It’s a huge time saver.

Want recommendations in a certain country or continent? That’s cultural or adrenaline-fuelled? Suitable for kids under 12? No problem – filter on it!

travel inspiration bucket list

The 'How' & 'When'

When you land on a bucket list travel adventure, our writers then advise on when and how to do it, who to go with, & where to stay nearby.

Use their destination guides and simple itineraries to plan your trip.

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Destinations that will leave you Breathless. Plans to make it happen

Travel bucket list: Skydiving?

TRAVEL BUCKET LIST Template + Guide (Free Fillable PDF)

Do you have SO many epic travel ideas swirling through your mind? Follow this guide to finally build your travel bucket list!  You’ll also find a free travel bucket list template that’s interactive, inspiring and USEFUL, too.

Finally build a travel bucket list you’ll love, filled with incredible trip ideas you’ll actually take!

How to create your travel bucket list with template

ABOUT the Free Travel Bucket List Template

Step 1. brainstorm your travel bucket list ideas.

  • WHAT To See and Do
  • WHO To Go With
  • Step 3. PRIORITIZE Your Favorite Travel Ideas … so They Happen
  • NEXT STEPS: Planning Trips on Your Travel Bucket List

Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links to excellent travel-related products. This means that if you use the links below to make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

I love fillable PDF templates to easily save and update my brilliant thoughts. So, I thought you might, too! And they work as traditional printables too, of course.

Here’s how to use my free travel bucket list template to capture your epic travel ideas:

  • Start at the back. My travel bucket list template actually works in reverse, with the brainstorming pages at the back. This puts your pretty, cleaned-up lists at the front. If you follow the steps in this post, it’ll guide you from the back of the template to the front.
  • Brainstorm by map and list. You have options! If you like brainstorming with a simple list, use the large boxes to capture travel ideas and notes. Like visuals? As a travel bucket list printable, you can use your favorite markers to color-code the maps on the brainstorming pages.  
  • Transfer priority trips to the front. Once you have your list of top travel ideas, move through pages 3 to 1 (yup, in reverse). List your “top 3 to see” by season, destination type, and travel companion. You can also add your own categories and plenty of notes. Then, decide on your top 6 to see first, and list those on page 1 to keep them front and center.

When you’re done, post your travel bucket list ideas somewhere you’ll see it often.

Priorities change over the years. Since this is a fillable PDF, it’s super easy to update your travel bucket list template as you actually GO to your bucket list destinations! 

Subscribe to Epic Travel Plans’ monthly newsletter and GET THE TRAVEL BUCKET LIST TEMPLATE ! A free, 6-page fillable PDF to capture your top travel ideas in one place. 

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Introducing: The ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List Template EBOOK

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List Template ebook

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List Template ebook will help you understand WHY you travel, and why past trips worked or didn’t. You’ll consider WHERE in the world you all want to go, with suggestions to get you started. Then, explore travel ideas based on types of activities, your potential travel companions, and your timing options.

Each chapter starts with space to brainstorm all of your amazing ideas and ends with a summary form to capture your highlights, making it easier to prioritize your “best of the best.”

Finally build a travel bucket list you’ll love, filled with incredible trip ideas you’ll actually take.

How To Create a Travel Bucket List You’ll LOVE, With Trips You’ll TAKE

To create a travel bucket list you’ll actually use, you need to go a bit deeper than places on a napkin or pins on a map. Here are the three basic steps to building a useful travel bucket list:

  • Brainstorm : Capture every trip idea you have, all in one place. Include any specific reasons for why you want to take each trip, like specific activities, sights or events that inspired the idea.
  • Organize : Group your trip ideas in a way that makes sense to you. Geography is a typical way to organize trip ideas. But it’s also helpful to group them by who you’d want to go with, when you’d want to go, or types of things you’d want to do.
  • Prioritize : Choose the top trips you want to take first. Include a variety of trip ideas you can take throughout the year, with different companions and trip lengths.

Let’s build that list!

travel inspiration bucket list

Brainstorming for your travel bucket list template is about getting down in one place ALL the trips you might ever want to take. It’s the start of your travel bucket list. After brainstorming bucket list travel ideas, we’ll make that list digestible and actionable. So, don’t worry about that here. This is the time to just let your dreams wander!

Pinterest is a fun and easy way to discover and collect amazing images of inspiring places. Like the Walkways of Mount Tianmen in China, or “wow” waterfalls hidden throughout the United States. It’s also a helpful platform to save details about those destinations. If you’re looking for some inspiration, take a look at my Pinterest boards !

Here are posts specifically to inspire your travel bucket list:

  • Virtual tours : These interactive 360-degree videos and images are absolutely incredible at making you feel like you’re right there . Explore epic cities, waterfalls, national parks, historic sites, crazy adventures and animal encounters around the world.
  • Romantic getaways : These posts are packed with stunning hotels, resorts, spas and cabins perfect for romantic getaways. But most are also fantastic for solo getaways or getaways with friends, too.
  • Trips with Mom and trips with Dad : As adults, we sometimes forget to prioritize travel with our aging parents. Find incredible experiences to enjoy both near and far, while you can both enjoy them. 

Now, I love my lists … hand-written (I know; I’m so old-school). So, I’ll print out my handy travel bucket list template, grab my favorite colored pens (I LOVE erasable pens !), and make my list while relaxing on the couch and sipping coffee. Then I’ll come back to my fillable PDF travel bucket list template to save a prettier version of my thoughts.

If you create beautiful bullet or junk journals, this is perfect content for that.

travel inspiration bucket list

3 FUN Ways To Brainstorm for Your Travel Bucket List Template: 

  • Make a list of every destination you can think of that you’d like to visit one day. Then group them by location (like by continent) so it becomes a little more digestible. Either move them around (like in my travel bucket list template PDF) or color-code them in your journal.
  • Use the mind-mapping technique to create a web of travel ideas. This is more visual than a list, and pretty fun, too. First, write out the names of each continent you’d like to visit and circle them with different color pens. Then draw lines to connect those circles with names of places on that continent you want to visit. Add colorful doodles to pretty up your web.
  • Get a map you can mark up. A marked-up map is the ultimate visual for brainstorming your travel bucket list. The best way is to get a beautiful map you can put up on a wall (check out this one on Etsy by HappyPlaceArt ). But, a small map that tucks into your journal works great, too. Mark up your destinations with a simple marker, a brilliant legend, or tacks (for the wall one, obviously!).

And remember to jot down a few notes on WHY that destination is important to you.

Also, include a variety of travel ideas. Don’t forget those smaller trips and nearby destinations you’ve been meaning to visit. Weekend getaways can be epic, too!

Once you have a decent amount of travel bucket list ideas, it’s time to organize and prioritize them. If you don’t organize them, your list will be overwhelming … and likely depressing by how many you’re not planning.

travel inspiration bucket list

Step 2. ORGANIZE To Make Your Travel Bucket List Digestible

Dreaming of where to travel to next

Once your travel bucket list template is PACKED with epic travel ideas, it’s time to make it DIGESTIBLE. I love organizing and grouping ideas; but if you don’t, don’t worry! This step is actually really fun – because it’s figuring out the BEST way to experience those awesome travel destinations.

As we go through this section, make notes in the brainstorming section of your travel bucket list template.  These are your contenders for your priority trip ideas.

travel inspiration bucket list

WHAT To See and Do: “Top 3 To See” by Category

This is a fun way to start organizing that travel bucket list: Consider your “top 3 to see” by destination type. You’ll find this section on page 3 of the free travel bucket list template.

I actually prefer going through these categories without looking at my brainstorm. It’s a great way to see if you missed something. But, you can also pick from your list of travel ideas to see which ones rise to the top, or get you most excited.

Of the categories below, which places make your “top 3 to see”:

  • Nature’s epic sights: Maybe Arizona’s mighty Grand Canyon, Ireland’s mystical coastlines, or an African safari. Or the Great Barrier Reef, Galapagos Islands or the Amazon Rainforest. Swimming in the Blue Lagoon?
  • Brilliant feats of man: Like Jordan’s Petra, Peru’s Manchu Picchu, or Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Or maybe Paris’ Louvre, the Taj Mahal or Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world?
  • Specific cities, sites or cultures: Is there a specific city or historic site you’ve always wanted to see? Maybe a cultural experience you want to discover for yourself? A Broadway play, or Washington D.C. A wine tour through Italy or a retreat in a Japanese monastery high up in the mountains. The ultimate walking tour of your favorite movie.
  • Concerts, championship games, or adventurous sports: The Rolling Stones. Dallas Cowboys on a Super Bowl run, or BlizzCon in Anaheim. Sky-diving over Victoria Falls, heli-skiing in the Rocky Mountains, or caving in Italy. What excites you? 
  • Road trips: One of the best ways to experience many travel destinations is by road trip. Along jaw-dropping coastlines. Through the Scottish Highlands or Swiss Alps. Stopping at many historic sites that only war history buffs like you know about. Some train rides fit here, too, like the one from Beijing to Moscow. Is there a cross-country trek you’ve been itching to take?
NEW!  The ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List EBOOK will help you create a bucket list you’ll love, filled with trips you’ll actually take!

WHO To Go With: Companions Worthy of Your Travel Bucket List

Dream mother-daughter trip to Salzburg, Austria

Some travel companions make (or break) a travel destination. 

While you might LOVE visiting an ultra-romantic destination with your partner, you might HATE touring historic sites with him or her. And while one travel destination might be awesome with your best friend, it might be kinda awful with your mom.

Think about who you’d love to travel with (or who you’d realistically travel with), and what would be EPIC to experience with that person. Your partner. Mom or dad. Sister or brother. Best friend or group of best friends. 

What about solo travel? Have you dreamed of going somewhere but haven’t found that perfect travel companion? Or maybe you’d just really love exploring on your own? If the thought of traveling solo terrifies you, consider an organized small-group tour. My sister and I toured SE Asia with Intrepid Travel and loved it.

Here are some examples of what I mean:

  • Glamin’ it up in Los Angeles: I never really wanted to visit Los Angeles. Sure, Pretty Woman had me intrigued. But since I’m not really into Hollywood or fashion, it just never hit my mental travel bucket list. And then my sisters-in-law were going … who are definitely into Hollywood and fashion. THEY made this trip A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Plus, staying right on Rodeo Drive helped too, of course. 
  • Hiking phenomenal canyons: Now that I’ve seen epic canyons in the United States , the person I’d most want to go back with is my brother. Staying right inside Zion Canyon or on the edge of Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Hiking among fantastical hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and in the narrows of Antelope Slot Canyon. Of everyone I know, he’d appreciate these destinations the most. 
  • Gracing European palaces: Although I’m enthralled with European history and architecture, visiting Austria’s regal palaces and gardens with my mom is a forever-treasure. This was my sister’s dream mother-daughter trip and I got to tag along. Find some inspiration AND practical tips to finally take your dream mother-daughter trip . 

Check out page 2 of the travel bucket list template to record travel ideas specific to your favorite travel companions.

WHEN To Go: Ideal Timing for Those Bucket List Travel Ideas

Many people don’t think much about how seasons affect their travel bucket list. Other than when to avoid traveling, like in summer or at Christmas when prices quadruple. For many travel destinations, it’s enough to know that late spring and early fall will have decent weather, cheaper prices, and most touristy things open.

But certain travel experiences are BEST had at specific times of the year. Like Japan’s cherry blossoms and Holland’s tulips in mid April. Germany’s Oktoberfest that’s actually in late September to early October. 

And then, of course, are schedules for the specific concert, game or exhibit you want to see. Or the one and only Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop.

When you think about the places you want to see, what makes that place EPIC in your mind? Which season (or specific month, week, day) is best to experience it? Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter? 

Now take your favorite experiences that depend on season, and record them at the top of page 3 in the travel bucket list template.

travel inspiration bucket list

Step 3. PRIORITIZE Your Travel Bucket List Template … So They Happen

Now the magic happens! We’ll take all of your amazing trip ideas and create a “best of the best” list of those you want to take first. Then we’ll post your list where you can see it. So you plan those trips, take those trips, and cross those trips off your list!

WHERE To Go FIRST: Your Top 6 in the Travel Bucket List Template

Travel bucket list fillable PDF template

Of all the trip ideas you wrote down, which are you most excited to take?  Which ones make your top 6 to see first ?

Getting to the top 6 destinations on your travel bucket list should feel a bit like budgeting. You know … like how financial advisers tell you to save: a third for short-term; a third for medium-term; and a third for long-term. But too many people only plan for those retirement-type trips, and end up not taking any trips.

If you prioritize your top 6 trips based on small/medium/gigantic, you have a shot of actually getting to all of them sooner rather than later. (So you can redo your travel bucket list next year!) Just think about it. If you include that weekend house-boating trip you’ve been meaning to take with your best buds, it suddenly becomes a priority. And then you put in the effort to make it as epic as possible.

So when you’re filling in the first page of the free travel bucket list template, consider including your top 2 local, top 2 national, and top 2 international trips.

Now, I think it goes without saying, but … also let yourself go with the flow. When one of my best friends was going to Seattle for a wedding, she asked if I’d go, too. Seattle wasn’t on my travel bucket list, but we had an INCREDIBLE time. You might find a “wow” moment in a surprising destination.

So, just make sure your travel bucket list doesn’t prevent you from taking other epic trips. Even planners can be spontaneous!

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NEXT STEPS: Plan Trips in Your Travel Bucket List

Now that you’ve worked through the travel bucket list template, check out my 3-step trip planning process.

What makes my trip planning process special is that it helps you define what’s most important to YOU … and then keeps it as the inspiration throughout the trip planning process.  And there’s another great fillable PDF template all ready for you.

The key first step of my trip planning process is defining the experience you’re looking for. That special something that’ll make you say, “Now THAT was a fantastic trip!” This experience becomes your compass in every decision you make.

Once you find your compass, so many trip planning decisions become clear. 

How To Plan a Trip You’ll LOVE: 

  • Step 1: Define YOUR perfect experience
  • Step 2: Build your itinerary and book
  • Step 3: Count down with your ULTIMATE checklist

You might also like  How To Pick BETTER Accommodations and How To Plan a ROAD TRIP You’ll Love .

With all your momentum of working through the travel bucket list template, why not start planning one or two trips?! Then when you get the time or urge to go, you have one of your top travel bucket list ideas all ready and waiting for you.

Check out the ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List EBOOK! Create a bucket list you’ll love, filled with trips you’ll actually take!

travel inspiration bucket list

You may also like:

  • How to PLAN a ROMANTIC GETAWAY
  • CABIN PACKING LIST for Romantic Getaways
  • TIPS for Traveling with AGING PARENTS
Enjoyed this post? Please SHARE with your FRIENDS!

How to create your travel bucket list with template

Featured photo credit (view from plane): Brannon Naito from Unsplash .

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The Trends in Travel

Trips that travel dreams are made of

An African safari. An Amazonian adventure. A European fine-dining pilgrimage… Add these once-in-a-lifetime experiences (and more) to your 2024 wish list

Search by destination, accommodation or landmark

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We’ve all got one: a travel wish list of the dream destinations we long to see. And now’s the time to give yours a rewrite. Because whether you’re after intrepid adventure, the finest of dining or the party of a lifetime, 2024 has more incredible experiences than ever in store—these are the ones to tick off now.

A safari in a volcanic crater

travel inspiration bucket list

There are safaris, and then there are safaris in the Ngorongoro Crater . The world’s largest caldera, the rim is 2,000 feet high and has its own climate; while the floor of the crater holds a grassy wildlife ecosystem teeming with more than 30,000 creatures including lions, leopards, zebras, jackals, and virtually every wild animal you should see at least once in your life. Across the Serengeti plains of Tanzania , safaris support local economies and conservation initiatives, so consider a safari camp or lodge that’s involved in a community development project, such as building schools or health clinics.

Nostalgic kicks on Route 66

travel inspiration bucket list

Road-tripping made a comeback in the wake of the pandemic, and Route 66—the 2,400-mile artery through the heart of the U.S.—is as wish list-worthy as it gets. Start in Chicago (skip pizza in favor of the sneaky-good Polish food), linger in Santa Fe (don’t miss the sprawling Meow Wolf art installation), and get your Americana fix at the string of recently restored diners, gas stations, and motels on the “Mother Road” that snakes all the way to Santa Monica . It’s a journey that’s somehow both nostalgic and timely. 

The best party of your life at Carnival  

travel inspiration bucket list

At Rio Carnival, you can now party with a purpose. Yes, the world’s most iconic festa is still a bucket list-worthy eruption of vibrant colors, costumes, parades, dancing, samba, dancing, and more dancing. But a recent shift towards inclusivity and sustainability makes Carnival even more compelling, such as more prominent roles for Afro-Brazilian and LGBTQ+ performers. Support local communities by engaging in cultural tours, workshops, and samba schools that focus on the history and significance of Carnival, offering deeper insights into the festival’s roots.  

travel inspiration bucket list

A cultural guide to Rio de Janeiro

Beaches, batidas and samba beats in Brazil’s buzzing capital

Beauty and blossoms in Japan  

travel inspiration bucket list

A bucket list, at its core, is about squeezing the most out of life in the limited time we have. This matches the ethos of the Japanese cherry blossom—or sakura— season, which symbolizes the fleeting beauty of life. Pay your respects to the Yasaka Shrine, deep in the historic district of Kyoto , where a large weeping cherry tree is dramatically illuminated at night. Then walk the Philosopher’s Path (lined with cherry trees) to reflect on where you’ve been, where you are, and all the adventures you have still in store. 

Chase the northern lights  

travel inspiration bucket list

Timing is everything. This is never truer than when seeking the northern lights. And right now, the timing is excellent. The aurora borealis shines brightest at the peak of an 11-year solar cycle, and happily, scientists now expect this in 2024. ( See our special report here. ) You’ll find a good base of operations at Yellowknife , capital city of Canada’s Northwest Territories, aka the “Aurora Capital of the World,” which has very little light pollution and boasts 240 nights a year where the show is visible.  

travel inspiration bucket list

Your ultimate guide to the northern lights

Where, when and how to see the greatest show on earth

Wild colors in the Amazon

travel inspiration bucket list

The Amazon is a vital ecosystem facing environmental peril. Visiting it (responsibly) can support conservation efforts, and the time to do it is now, given the risks of deforestation and species extinction. From the lush green rainforest canopy to the scarlet macaw to the pink river dolphin, you will find stunning biodiversity that (literally) does not exist anywhere else on the planet. Peru ‘s port city of Iquitos makes an ideal hub for exploration, providing easy access to the rainforest via the Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve . 

Fine dining and outdoor adventure  

travel inspiration bucket list

When a chef on FX’s The Bear needs to learn the world’s deepest culinary secrets, for inspiration, he travels to the waterfront city of Copenhagen, Denmark , to taste all the things. You can do the same. The cultural capital’s many Michelin-star restaurants focus on local and sustainable ingredients, such as Geranium ’s edible clam shells, or Noma ’s “The hen and the egg” where you cook the egg at your table (get in fast to experience it, as Noma closes at the end of 2024). None of this is cheap, but that’s why it’s on the wish list. Be sure, too, to experience the city’s boundary-pushing style: from its trendsetting boutiques, to the local penchant for cold plunges at harbor-front swimming area Kalvebod Bølge ( pictured above ).

travel inspiration bucket list

Jeff Wilser

Jeff Wilser is the author of seven books, a frequent traveler (living in 24 countries in the three years to 2020), and a contributor to  The New York Times ,  GQ , and  Fast Company . 

travel inspiration bucket list

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The world’s most popular travel bucket list experiences

Many items on the average person’s bucket list are travel related. whether it’s flying across the world to an exotic location or soaking up history in a european city, there are so many different destinations, attractions and experiences to satisfy even the deepest wanderlust..

With travel now back to normal for many countries after a few years with restrictions in place, there’s more opportunity to get back out there to explore and tick off things from your bucket list, whether that be travelling far away or keeping things closer to home.

To reveal the most popular travel bucket list items, we looked at global search volumes for over 115 travel bucket list items, including visiting all 50 US states, experiencing an African safari , trekking Mount Everest, and unwinding and soaking up the sun in tropical destinations including Bora Bora and the Maldives .

We’ve revealed the world’s top travel bucket list items below.

The Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

Visiting the  Maldives   topped the list as the most popular bucket experience overall, with 121 countries searching for this experience the most. Whether it’s wanting to visit with a partner and have a honeymoon to remember, or travelling with friends to have a relaxing break in paradise, there are plenty of ways travellers can enjoy the Maldives. With gorgeous white sandy beaches, tropical blue waters and dreamy sunsets, it’s easy to see why so many people want to experience this the most in their lifetime. 

Getting splashed at  Niagara Falls  takes second place; the group of waterfalls border  Canada  and the State of  New York  in the USA, offering a breath-taking sight many dream of visiting. Travellers can experience the vast waterscape up close, with boat trips taking passengers to the base of the waterfall, providing a truly immersive experience. 

One for art lovers, a trip to the  Louvre  to see the iconic Mona Lisa is the third most searched bucket list item, with people from all around the world hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous painting for themselves. The painting by Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most instantly recognisable pieces of art in the world, drawing in countless visitors each year. 

Ranking in fourth and fifth respectively is visiting Bora Bora and climbing the Statue of Liberty. These are quite different experiences, with South Pacific Island Bora Bora offering travellers a serene sanctuary to unwind and relax as they enjoy the bright white sandy beaches and laid-back island lifestyle. This topped the list as the most searched bucket list experience for Hungary, the Maldives and  Aruba . Climbing New York’s iconic Statue of Liberty rounds off the top five and was the most searched bucket list ambition in  Peru  and Colombia. Visitors can climb to the very top, which affords incredible views of the Manhattan skyline – although it takes a staggering 350 steps to reach the tallest point, so comfortable shoes are a must. 

The  UK  is home to two of the top 20; visiting Stonehenge and Big Ben both take 7th and 14th place. Stonehenge, the prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, is a protected site attracting thousands of visitors each year who want to see the historic monument for themselves. Over in the country’s capital, Big Ben, located alongside the river Thames, is one of the must-see sights for tourists visiting the city. 

The Top 20 Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences

Europe’s Top Travel Bucket List Experiences 

Following global trends, Europeans were also searching to visit the Maldives, featuring at the top of 28 countries’ bucket lists, including Austria,  Italy  and  Norway . Although Europe plays host to many beautiful beaches, Europeans appear to be yearning for more exotic shores, travelling much further to experience a Maldives slice of paradise. The second most popular travel bucket list item for those in Europe was to visit  Cinque Terre , a string of old colourful seaside towns along the Riviera coastline. The eye-catching houses nestled along the coast are certainly a sight to behold and bring lots of tourists to Europe  each year. Seeing the Mona Lisa rounds off the top three in Europe, with art fans hoping to admire the brushstrokes and beauty of Da Vinci’s masterpiece in person.

The UK’s Top Travel Bucket List Experiences 

  • Visit the Maldives 
  • Visit Bora Bora
  • See the Mona Lisa 
  • See the Northern Lights 
  • Visit the Taj Mahal 

Like 120 other countries, the UK’s top bucket list item was visiting the Maldives, with Brits hoping to jet away and enjoy days basking in the sunshine, cooling off in gorgeous blue waters and enjoying sunset drinks. Following in second place is visiting Bora Bora, another incredibly beautiful destination where travellers can enjoy a few days in a state of relaxation as they unwind in paradise. In third place was seeing the Mona Lisa, with art lovers wanting to see this masterpiece in real life. Rounding up the top five was seeing the Northern Lights and visiting the Taj Mahal. Whilst the  Northern Lights  can be seen from a handful of countries, a lot of travellers head to Iceland or Sweden to see the impressive ethereal display light up the night sky.

Topping the list for 30 states including Colorado, Nevada, Texas and Utah, a visit to Mount Rushmore ranks as the top bucket list destination for Americans. The impressive sculpture of four U.S presidents is carved into Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills region of South Dakota and attracts swarms of visitors each year. 

Following behind in second is the  Kentucky Derby , with nine states including Delaware, New Hampshire and Vermont wanting to experience this the most. Usually held on the first Saturday in May each year, the horse race is known for being the fastest two minutes in sports and is the first leg of the American Triple Crown; the perfect experience for a thrilling weekend away. 

Visiting  Yosemite  features as the top item for five states, securing its place as one of the top bucket list experiences in the US. Nestled within  California ’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the national park is home to the iconic Bridaveil fall and granite cliffs of El Capital and Half Dome, framed by immense and ancient sequoia trees. 

Four US states had the exotic Maldives location as the top of their bucket lists. With crystal blue waters and gorgeous sandy beaches, the idyllic island location is drawing the eye of adventurous Americans looking to explore outside of their home country. 

The United States of America’s Top 5 Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

  • Visit Mount Rushmore 
  • Visit the Kentucky Derby
  • Visit Yosemite
  • Visit the Maldives
  • Visit the Museum of Modern Art
  •   Visit the  Las Vegas  Strip

Asia’s Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

Visiting the Maldives also topped the list amongst Asian countries, with residents hoping to make it across to the beautiful islands one day. In second place was visiting the Burj Khalifa, the famous skyscraper found in  Dubai . Known for being the world’s tallest building, it’s certainly a bucket list must see for those hoping to visit the UAE. Visiting Bora Bora was the third most popular travel bucket list item, followed by seeing Times Square in New York City. 

Africa’s Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

The Maldives was once again the most popular travel bucket list item for people living in the African continent, with an impressive 45 countries searching for it the most. In second place was the Burj Khalifa, with five countries searching for visiting Dubai’s skyscraper the most. Rounding off the top three is seeing the Mona Lisa, with three countries searching for a visit to this impressive piece of art in person.

Oceania’s Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

13 countries in Oceania have a visit to the Maldives at the top of their list, followed by a trip to Bora Bora where travellers can soak up the sun whilst exploring small but beautiful islands and then catch incredible sunsets overlooking the ocean at the end of the day. In third place was climbing the Statue of Liberty, with residents in Guam hoping to take a trip to New York City to experience this iconic attraction and the views over Manhattan. 

South America’s Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

At the top of  South America ’s bucket list is visiting the Maldives with the tropical destination sitting at the top of six countries' travel bucket lists, including Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. Visiting Bora Bora, climbing the Statue of Liberty and seeing the Mona Lisa all ranked in second place for this continent, making them popular choices for travellers looking to explore different attractions. 

North America’s Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences 

The Maldives reigned supreme once again as the most popular travel bucket list experience with 20 countries, including Canada, Jamaica,  Barbados  and the United States hoping to one day visit the beautiful islands. In second place was seeing the Mona Lisa, with travellers looking to take a trip across to Europe to see the incredible piece of art with their own eyes, and no doubt hoping to enjoy more of what Paris has to offer. 

Methodology 

Google search demand for various 119 bucket list items were analysed in 219 countries across the world to ascertain the top bucket list items for each nation. As this is a travel bucket list, bucket list items within the local country were excluded. In the US, American bucket list items were  included, but ones local to each state were excluded.

If these popular bucket list experiences have left you inspired to create your own list, perhaps including a trip to the Maldives, a European city-break or a road trip exploring the gorgeous scenery of the Italian coastline, we hope this list has awoken your wanderlust.

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We want to inspire you to see the world and experience more sustainable and better traveling. By creating a bucket list we are sure that you are on your way to fulfilling your dreams.

Create the bucket list of your dreams! Make sure you visit all the places of your dreams

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I doesn't matter if you want to go skiing around the world, take a swim with turtles or maybe climb the highest mountains. We are certain that if you write your bucket list down the chance you reach your goals gets so much higher!

Inspiration to your bucket list

Here are a few ideas to help you create the perfect travel bucket list:

  • Visit a new country every year
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Greece or Rome
  • Visit all seven continents
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over a national park
  • Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives
  • Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Visit the Great Barrier Reef and snorkel with sea turtles
  • Take a scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps
  • Visit the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia
  • Road trip along Route 66 in the United States
  • Visit the Great Wall of China
  • Walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain
  • Experience the Northern Lights in Iceland or Sweden
  • Visit the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and Yosemite National Park
  • Take a gondola ride through Venice's canals.

Remember, a bucket list is a personal and evolving collection of experiences, so feel free to add or subtract items that align with your personal interests and passions.

Why should you have a travel bucket list?

Having a travel bucket list can provide you with a sense of adventure and excitement, as well as a sense of purpose in your travels. It can also help you prioritize and plan your trips, and serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for future travels. Furthermore, having a travel bucket list allows you to challenge yourself to explore new destinations, try new experiences and make meaningful memories that can last a lifetime.

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These New Airports Are Making Bucket-List Destinations More Accessible

By Jessica Puckett

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The most difficult leg of a trip—especially on long international journeys —is making that last flight connection or lengthy ground transfer to your final destination. Those final couple hours in transit, when the effects of jet lag are rearing up and patience is running thin, can be laborious and time-consuming, but are often necessary in order to reach some of the world's most remote destinations .

Now, a new crop of well-located airports seek to make some of these historically out-of-the-way regions more accessible to international travel. Forget about the shuttle bus or puddle-jumper flight: these eight new airports—which have either just opened or are currently under construction–will make it that much easier than ever to reach bucket-list destinations around the world.

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Previously, most international travelers flew into Cancún and drove two hours in order to reach Tulum.

Tulum, Mexico

Thanks to the new Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport, it is easier than ever for international travelers to reach the seaside escape of Tulum , one of Mexico's most popular tourist hubs. The airport officially opened to domestic flights in December 2023 and will welcome international airlines beginning March 28, 2024. Multiple routes from American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit will launch throughout the year. Previously, travelers would typically need to fly into Cancún and drive about 80 miles south to access Tulum, a two-hour road trip that the new facility will mercifully eliminate for many passengers.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

In November 2023, Cambodia inaugurated a brand new airport in Siem Reap , the gateway city to Angkor Wat, the UNESCO-listed ancient temple complex that’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The new airport, which replaces an older Siem Reap facility built in the 1930s, is about 25 miles east of the Angkor Wat temple complex. That’s further away from the archeological site than the original airport, which sat just over three miles away, but the new airport will make it easier for more tourists to access Angkor Wat . Thanks to its size, it can handle larger planes used on nonstop international flights and accommodate up to seven million passengers annually, with plans to grow that capacity to a whopping 40 million people per year by 2040.

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The new Amalfi Coast airport opens this July, with the first flights operated by the Spanish airline Volotea.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Starting this summer, visiting the candy-colored buildings perched high above the azure waters of the Amalfi Coast will be less of a headache for travelers. That's because the popular tourist spot in Southern Italy is finally getting its own commercial airport. The town is converting what used to be a military airport, and later a private airport, to a facility to be used by everyday travelers. The first flights are set to take off on July 11 and will be operated by Spanish airline Volotea, with routes from Nantes, France, and Cagliri, Sardinia , according to CNN . However, the complete renovation is not scheduled to be complete until 2026, and other airlines and routes will be added along the way.

Nuuk, Greenland

In one of the country’s most significant moves to enhance tourism , Greenland is debuting a major expansion of the airport in its capital city, Nuuk. The new airport’s runway will be double the size of the old one—big enough to handle nonstop flights from destinations in North America and Europe . That means much more simplified travel for international visitors, who would previously have to transit through the small town of Kangerlussuaq. The new terminal building is expected to be operational by May 2024, with the full facility up and running by the end of November.

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Dominica's first international airport is scheduled to complete construction by 2026.

The “Nature Island” of the Caribbean— Dominica —started construction on its first international airport in late 2023. It’s set to be one of the island’s largest construction projects ever. When it’s completed by 2026, the new airport will replace the current regional facility that has just three gates. By contrast, the international airport is slated to serve more than 20 airlines from the Caribbean, Europe, and North America, each of which will be able to fly directly to Dominica, the country’s prime minister said in 2022 , making it easier for far-flung tourists to access the island without needing to make a connection.

Dominica is one of our Best Places to Go in North America & the Caribbean in 2024 , part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

Western Sydney, Australia

‌A second airport in Australia’s capital is set to bring a host of advantages when it starts operations in 2026. The Western Sydney airport, also called Nancy-Bird Walton airport, is currently being constructed further inland from Sydney's current airport. For locals who live farther on the outskirts, that means not having to trek all the way into eastern Sydney to catch your flight. For visitors, the airport’s location on the western edge of the city will be an ideal gateway for travelers wanting to explore the nearby Blue Mountains National Park , known for its striking cliffs, waterfalls, and unique sandstone formations. Plus, it could mean less crowded airport spaces, too. The facility on the opposite side of the city will also take some capacity pressure off of the current Sydney airport: Western Sydney airport will be able to handle 10 million passengers a year when it launches.

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The Chinchero airport will serve as an international gateway to Machu Picchu, but it is not without its controversies.

Peru's Sacred Valley

For the more than 1.5 million travelers who visit Machu Picchu every year, a simpler transit option will be available starting in 2026: Chinchero airport, located smack dab in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Currently, international visitors to Machu Picchu usually must fly into Lima and connect to Cusco, which doesn’t accommodate many international flights and sits about 46 miles away from the archaeological site. They then must take a train the rest of the way. Chinchero airport will be able to serve nonstop flights from North America and major cities throughout South America and act as a direct gateway to Machu Picchu. The project is not without its controversies , however. Critics of the Chinchero airport say its construction is endangering ancient Incan archaeological sites, as activists voice concerns that the noise pollution from the planes and subsequent traffic will cause irreparable damage to the fragile environment.

Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan

The Himalayan Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan has announced it’s building a second international airport as part of an ambitious project to create a brand new modern city from scratch. The sustainable community, called Gelephu Mindfulness City , will see the construction of a new 1,000-square-kilometer economic and tourist hub near the current town of Gelephu, which sits on the country’s southwestern border with India . In addition to the new international airport, the large city will feature a new university, spiritual and cultural centers, and healthcare facilities. Although there is not yet a set date for the completion of the airport, when it opens it will be an important new option for tourists wishing to explore the southern and western regions of Bhutan, home to attractions like Royal Manas National Park and Phrumsengla National Park.

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    Drink a £500 bottle of Champagne. Make a piece of jewellery. Create a bespoke suit. Become a self-made millionaire. Fly in a private jet. Rent a private island. Hire a personal shopper. Give back to charity. Your Summer Bucket List - Incredible Things to Do in Summer.

  19. Trips that travel dreams are made of

    A bucket list, at its core, is about squeezing the most out of life in the limited time we have. This matches the ethos of the Japanese cherry blossom—or sakura—season, which symbolizes the fleeting beauty of life.Pay your respects to the Yasaka Shrine, deep in the historic district of Kyoto, where a large weeping cherry tree is dramatically illuminated at night.

  20. TheTravel

    Inspirational travel destinations, must do bucket list ideas and all in one guides. Everything you need for your next trip. ... 7 Scenic Canyon Road Trips To Add To Your Arizona Bucket List See the canyons of Arizona, like Marble, Sabino, and the Grand Canyon South Rim, on these scenic canyon road trip itineraries!

  21. The 24 Best Places to Go in 2024

    Launching in 2023 and opening in stages, the first to debut will be Māwhera/Greymouth in mid-December 2023, followed by Kawatiri/Westport in February 2024, Awarua/Haast in mid-2024, and lastly ...

  22. 25 Beautiful Cities Around the World to Add to Your Travel Bucket List

    25 Beautiful Cities Around the World to Add to Your Travel Bucket List. Story by Hadley Mendelsohn. • 3h. 1 / 26. ©kan wang - Getty Images. Forested national parks, idyllic seaside towns, and ...

  23. The Importance of a Dream Travel Bucket List

    A travel bucket list is a personalized compilation of the best places, experiences, and activities that an individual or group aspires to visit or accomplish in their lifetime.

  24. Bucket List Seekers

    Welcome to Bucket List Seekers - a couple travel & bucket list blog where you'll find tons of travel bucket list ideas, the best couples getaways, and inspiration for romantic destinations all over the world. We're here to help couples like you to travel together and plan once-in-a-lifetime bucket list adventures!

  25. The world's most popular travel bucket list experiences

    The Most Popular Travel Bucket List Experiences. Visiting the Maldives topped the list as the most popular bucket experience overall, with 121 countries searching for this experience the most. Whether it's wanting to visit with a partner and have a honeymoon to remember, or travelling with friends to have a relaxing break in paradise, there ...

  26. Travel Bucket list

    Inspiration to your bucket list. Here are a few ideas to help you create the perfect travel bucket list: Visit a new country every year. Explore the ancient ruins of Greece or Rome. Visit all seven continents. Take a hot air balloon ride over a national park. Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives.

  27. Travel Inspiration Ideas

    Destination travel inspiration and ideas for an adventure in Europe, Australia, Asia and more. Plan your trip using our travel lists from around the world! ... Bucket List, Travel Inspiration · January 29, 2024. 2024 Bucket List: 13 Hottest Destinations to Visit This Year! Destinations, Japan, Travel Inspiration · June 24, 2023.

  28. These New Airports Are Making Bucket-List Destinations More Accessible

    In November 2023, Cambodia inaugurated a brand new airport in Siem Reap, the gateway city to Angkor Wat, the UNESCO-listed ancient temple complex that's one of the most popular tourist ...

  29. Top 15 Bucket List Destinations

    Many people have a travel bucket list, or list of places to see before they die. Some seven in 10 Americans embrace the concept of such a list, and among those, two in five disclose a deep desire ...