World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

Bali, one of the best travel destinations

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

Traveler in Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Argentine Patagonia Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Campania, Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast road

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

Beach sunset in Cancun

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Cenote Zaci, Mexico

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

Close up of Golden Gate Bridge

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

San Francisco houses

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in autumn Canadian side

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls boat tour

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

Bison at the Great Prismatic Spring

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Old Faithful Geiser erupting, Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

snorkle Destinations: Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef from above

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

White washed houses in Santorini

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Santorini houses

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

Florience center, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Il Duomo, Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite Falls

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

St. Lucia Les Pitons

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

St. Lucia boats

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai skyscrappers

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Dubai beach

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Llamas in Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

Sydney Harbor with boats

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Sydney Opera House in the evening

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon from observation point

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Family in the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

Landmark Temple Gates in Bali

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

New York City Manhattan

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

New York City Broadway

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff Lake Louise

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Kayaking in Banff National Park

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

Sunset in the Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Maldives overwater bungalows

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Sagrada Familia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Barcelona Park Guell

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in the winter

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Mountain goats at Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

Akihabara Tokyo

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Sensoji temple , Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

Phuket boats

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Phuket temple

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

Rome, Colosseum

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Rome Spanish Plaza at dawn

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

Modern bridge London

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

London in the spring

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Tahiti bungalows during sunset

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

Rocky beach in Maui

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Maui cave

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora overwater bungalows

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Bora Bora Island

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

Paris from the Arc de Triumph

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Paris Montmartre at dawn

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

Milford Sound

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

South Island, New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

Best of the World: 35 incredible places to discover in 2022 and beyond

Hollow rock is an iconic coastal formation on the north west of Lake Superior by the border of Minnesota.

If you’re looking for inspiration, editors from National Geographic Traveller titles around the world have picked the planet’s 35 most exciting destinations for travel in 2022. Five categories — Adventure, Culture and History, Nature, Family and Sustainability — frame unforgettable experiences that reveal the beauty and diversity of the world around us. The pandemic may have changed when, where, and how we travel, but there’s no doubt that we’re excited to pack our bags and hit the road again.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington, is the US’s largest National Scenic Area. 

SEVEN SUSTAINABILE DESTINATIONS  

1. Chimanimani National Park, Mozambique Support conservation efforts in a biodiverse wonderland

Located on Mozambique’s mountainous border with Zimbabwe, Chimanimani National Park, established in October 2020, is home to Mozambique’s highest peak, the 7,992ft Mount Binga. It was once flush with elephants and lions, whose images appear in ancient rock art created by the ancestral San people.

Decades of poaching and civil unrest decimated wildlife populations, but small numbers of elephants remain, as do at least 42 other species of mammals and a dazzling array of plant and avian life. In two recent biodiversity surveys alone, 475 plant species and 260 bird species were identified, along with 67 amphibian and reptile species, including one frog and one lizard thought to be new to science.

From National Geographic Travel US (Maryellen Kennedy Duckett)

2. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon/Washington Mindfully wine and dine in the US’s largest National Scenic Area

The US’s largest National Scenic Area is probably not where you think it is: it straddles the Oregon-Washington border and comprises 293,000 acres of public and private lands along the Columbia River Gorge. With Mount Hood nearby, the area attracts more than two million visitors annually. To help reduce tourist impact on local nature and culture, a nonprofit alliance has kick-started a collaborative movement that has morphed into a best-practice model for building a sustainable tourism economy.

Columbia Gorge Tourism Alliance initiatives include the visitor education programme Ready, Set, Gorge , and the East Gorge Food Trail , a network of farms, historic hotels, wineries and other homegrown experiences.

3. Ruhr Valley, Germany Be surprised by art and nature in a former industrial zone Mining and steel production once dominated the densely populated Ruhr Valley, in Germany’s western state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Today, the region is repurposing former slag heaps and post-apocalyptic-looking industrial sites as parks and open-air cultural spaces. The most famous is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zeche Zollverein ( Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex ), home to an outdoor swimming pool, ice rink and walking trails.

Zollverein is part of the wider Emscher Landscape Park, an east-west system of green spaces and corridors covering nearly 175 square miles. Rent a bike in Essen for a car-free Ruhr Valley trip along cycling routes, many of which follow former railway tracks, or explore on foot via the 96-mile-long Hohe Mark Steig , a trekking trail opened in 2021.

From National Geographic Traveler Germany (Franziska Haack)

4. Yasuní National Park, Ecuador Learn what’s at stake in a threatened, biodiverse paradise

In recognition of the global importance of the Amazon, France is leading the fight against deforestation in eastern Ecuador’s Yasuní National Park, which was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1989. The 4,000sq-mile park — home to mahogany trees, sweet guabas , anthuriums, palms, and hypnotisingly green ferns — is the first of five pilot sites in the French-funded TerrAmaz programme. This four-year initiative, launched in late 2020, supports sustainable development and biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.

Considered one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, Yasuní shelters an astonishing array of creatures, such as anteaters, capybaras, sloths, spider monkeys and about 600 species of bird.

From National Geographic Traveler Latin America (Karen Alfaro)

5. Łódź, Poland Focus on a factory town turned sustainable-living leader

Named a UNESCO City of Film in 2017 for its rich cinematic culture, Łódź, a city with a population of around 700,000 in central Poland, was a major textile manufacturing hub in the 19th and 20th centuries. Now Poland’s Hollywood is flipping the script on its industrial past to create a greener future.

Łódź is a leader in sustainable living, embracing innovative ecological solutions, such as using pre-RDF (refuse-derived fuel) and biomass energy to heat homes. In 2021, the city partnered with the European e-commerce delivery platform InPost to significantly reduce CO₂ emissions and traffic in the city centre by installing 70 parcel locker locations and electric car-charging stations.

From National Geographic Traveler Poland (Martyna Szczepanik)

6. Adelaide, Australia On track to become the world’s next National Park City

Following the lead of London, which became the world’s first National Park City in 2019, metropolitan Adelaide, Australia is vying to become the second. Already named the third-most-livable city on the planet in The Global Livability Index 2021, South Australia’s cosmopolitan, coastal capital is working to become cooler, greener, wilder and more climate-resilient through rewilding projects, such as creating more butterfly-friendly habitats (the city has some 30 threatened butterfly species), studying the possibility of bringing the platypus back to the River Torrens after a 140-year hiatus, and awarding community grants to plant tens of thousands of trees across South Australia.

7. Grenoble, France Green Capital of Europe for 2022

With two rivers running through it and magnificent mountain ranges on the doorstep, Grenoble — Europe’s Green Capital for 2022 — is a big draw for eco-conscious, all-action, outdoorsy types. If canyoning and paragliding are your thing, you’ll fit right in. But the Capital of the Alps has cultural depth, as well, embodied in the Museum of Grenoble , stuffed with works by masters such as Monet, Canaletto and Klee, as well as a dynamic contemporary art scene.

Thanks to its university — the third-largest in France, with a reputation for excellence in microelectronics, nuclear physics and political studies — Grenoble nurtures clear-thinking problem-solvers. Crammed into a valley, the city would suffer from overcrowding and pollution were it not for its sustainable urban plan, combining cycle lanes, pedestrian streets, speed limits and efficient public transport.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Emma Gregg)

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Fishermen at the Saint George branch of the mighty Danube River, Dobruja, Romania.

SEVEN FAMILY JOURNEYS  

1. Danube River Take a cruise through storybook land

Boating the Danube can seem like travelling through a realm of fairytales, with its scrolling views of castles, medieval towns and stately palaces that help to bring European history vividly to life. The river twists through 10 countries, and most Danube cruise itineraries include stops in at least four of those, with special family sailings featuring child-friendly onshore activities.

School lessons focusing on Middle Ages feudalism take on vivid dimensions when exploring Veste Oberhaus in Passau, Germany, one of the largest surviving castle complexes in Europe. Ages-old Hungarian equestrian traditions come alive on a southern Hungarian ranch, where fearless csikós , or mounted herdsmen, ride standing upright, balancing on the backs of two galloping horses.

From National Geographic Traveler Romania (Maryellen Kennedy Duckett) Go with Nat Geo: Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions offers an 8-day Danube River Cruise to enjoy the European Christmas markets this winter

2. Eastern Shore, Maryland Discover the marshlands that shaped Harriet Tubman

The history of the Underground Railroad flows through the waterways, wetlands, swamps and tidal marshes of Dorchester County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This is where the secret network’s most famous ‘conductor’, Harriet Tubman, was born enslaved, grew up and honed the skills — such as trapping, hunting and navigating by the stars — she used to escape to freedom in Pennsylvania. She then returned 13 times to rescue more than 70 enslaved friends and family. Her heroic story is told at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center, one of the more than 30 stops along the 125-mile Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway .

3. Bonaire Dive into one of the oldest marine reserves in the world

Dazzling sunlight, a turquoise sea, palm trees, white beaches and a laid-back atmosphere: Bonaire ticks all the boxes for an idyllic tropical destination. But compared to many other Caribbean islands, Bonaire (population 21,000) is quiet and still relatively wild and unspoiled. And off its coast lies one of the oldest marine reserves in the world.

The Bonaire National Marine Park was established in 1979 and has been on the provisional UNESCO World Heritage List since 2011. The reserve encompasses 6,672 acres of coral reef, seagrass and mangrove vegetation. Bonaire’s healthy reefs are a magnet for divers and snorkellers who can spot up to 57 species of coral and more than 350 different fish species.

From National Geographic Traveler Netherlands (Barbera Bosma)

4. Granada, Spain   Marvel at the geometric beauty of the Alhambra

Built as a palace-city by 13th-century Nasrid sultans — rulers of the longest-lasting and last Muslim dynasty on the Iberian Peninsula — the Alhambra (‘red fort’) is considered the Moorish architectural jewel of Europe. The almond-shaped profile of this UNESCO World Heritage site rests on a hill above Granada, one of the most picturesque cities in Spain.

But it’s the mathematical wizardry on display here that’s particularly fascinating for families. Intricate mosaics, arabesques (a repetitive, stylised pattern based on a floral or vegetal design) and muqarnas (ornamental vaulting) make the Alhambra a masterpiece of geometric beauty — and a colourful classroom for age-appropriate exploration of maths concepts, such as shapes, symmetry, proportion and measurement.

From Viajes National Geographic Spain (Manuel Mateo Pérez)

Go with Nat Geo: Ready to plan your trip? Spend eight days exploring the rich culture and heritage of Granada with Nat Geo Expeditions

5. Lycia, Turkey Learn about nomadic life in the sunny Mediterranean

The nomadic yörüks , originally from different Turkic groups that ranged from the Balkans to Iran, once roamed the plateaus of the Turkish riviera. Most of the yörüks (literally ‘walkers’) have now settled down — but many of their thousand-year-old customs are alive and well. Located in the historical Lycia region in southwestern Anatolia, Teke Peninsula is one of the spots where yörük culture remains strong. Teke yörüks live a semi-nomadic life with their tents, kilim rugs, herds, shepherd dogs, and transhumant traditions, set against a mountainous, Mediterranean backdrop full of olive trees. In recent years, tour companies have started to merge the marvels of Lycia with yörük life.

From National Geographic Traveler Turkey (Onur Uygun)

6. Nottinghamshire, UK Robin Hood country gets a revamp

Fresh from an exciting £30 million revamp, the 400-year-old Nottingham Castle has thrown open its sturdy wooden gates again and is bigger than and better than ever. The highlight is a permanent new exhibition dedicated to Robin Hood and his fellow Nottingham rebels, with the focus on interactive fun including storytelling and ballads in a mocked-up forest clearing, as well as longbow-firing, digital archery competitions and sparring with Little John in the beautifully designed gaming spaces.

Throw in some caves to explore, along with vast grounds in which to run amok, with family trails, seasonal events and a fantastic new family adventure playground, and you have all the makings of brilliant day out combing fun and learning in equal measure.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Rhonda Carrier)

7. Hadrian’s Wall, UK The UK re-frames its ancient Roman frontier as its big attraction

A simultaneous celebration of the ancient and new, this UNESCO-listed structure — which was begun in AD 122 and formed the north-west frontier of the Roman empire for nearly 300 years — marks its 1,900th birthday in 2022 with a year-long festival of special events and activities. Think live outdoor performances, historic reenactments, sunset music sessions, an illuminated garden, thought-provoking outdoor art installations, compelling talks and even a Roman Big Birthday Bash. And all this spread across the entire 73-mile length of this coast-to-coast route, in all three counties that it crosses: Northumberland, Cumbria and Tyne & Wear. And, this year, the region gets a big injection of cash: £30m in government and charity funding to improve transport links and upgrade visitor centres.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Rhonda Carrier)

A golden-fronted woodpecker eats a papaya in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize.

SIX PLACES TO DISCOVER NATURE  

1. Belize Get a front row seat to tropical wildlife

Nature scored a big win recently in the race to preserve one of the largest remaining tropical rainforests in the Americas. In April 2021, a coalition of conservation partners, led by the Nature Conservancy , purchased 236,000 acres of tropical forest in northwestern Belize to create the Belize Maya Forest Reserve. Along with saving some of the most biodiverse forest in the world from denuding and development, the new protected area, which is contiguous with the neighbouring Rio Bravo Conservation Management Area (RBCMA), closes a huge gap in a vital wildlife corridor that runs from southeast Mexico through Guatemala and into Belize.

2. Northern Minnesota  Turn off the lights in dark-sky country

Thousands upon thousands of stars dazzle above northern Minnesota. This remote region bordering the Canadian province of Ontario has little to no light pollution, and residents are determined to keep it that way.

The Heart of the Continent Dark Sky Initiative is a cross-border effort to create one of the largest dark-sky destinations on the planet. Two of its biggest pieces are in Minnesota: Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), the world’s largest International Dark Sky Sanctuary at more than a million acres; and neighbouring Voyageurs National Park , the state’s first International Dark Sky Park. Both wild places received dark-sky certification in 2020 and Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park , which adjoins BWCAW, earned International Dark Sky Park status in early 2021.

3. Namibia Point yourself to the next great safari destination

Namibia evokes images of deserts, immense dunes and parched mountains. But the Caprivi Strip, a narrow finger of land that juts out toward the east in the extreme north of the country, is a green, wildlife-rich territory, thanks to the presence of the Okavango, Kwando, Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, which create the ideal habitat for numerous animal species.

During the second half of the 20th century, the area was the scene of intense military activity. Remote and difficult to access, it was the ideal corridor for various armed groups. After Namibia gained independence in 1990, peace — and wildlife driven away by fighting — gradually returned.

From National Geographic Traveler Italy (Marco Cattaneo)

4. Lake Baikal, Russia Trail-build at the world’s biggest freshwater lake

Baikal is so vast and deep that locals regularly refer to it a sea. Covering around 12,200sq miles and with an average depth of 2,442ft, the massive lake is a natural wonder. It’s also in serious trouble. Despite being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, ongoing pollution, the recent weakening of government protections, and new threats, such as large-scale tourism development, caused the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) to deem the environmental World Heritage Outlook of Lake Baikal of ‘significant concern’ in 2020.

Visitors can help safeguard the lake and its wide array of landscapes — including tundra, steppe, boreal forest and virgin beaches — by volunteering with Great Baikal Trail (GBT), the nonprofit environmental group creating a hiking route around the lake.

From National Geographic Traveler Russia (Victoria Meleshko)

5. Victoria, Australia Spot unique Australian wildlife along the Great Ocean Road

Green shoots of regeneration are appearing in Australia, where some 72,000sq miles were burned during the 2019-2020 bushfires, leading to the deaths of at least 34 people and more than a billion animals.

Playing its own role in these rejuvenation efforts, Wildlife Wonders , in Victoria’s Otways region, is a new wildlife sanctuary with a mission. Tucked away off the Great Ocean Road amid lush ancient forest and waterfalls, it’s the brainchild of Brian Massey — the landscape designer of New Zealand’s Hobbiton experience — who, alongside botanists, scientists, zoologists, and environmental specialists, has crafted a sinuous wooden path that winds through the refuge and blends seamlessly into the landscape.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Connor McGovern)

6. Kent, UK Bison in the Kent countryside and rewilding success stories nationwide

When Kent Wildlife Trust and the Wildwood Trust set out to hire the UK’s first bison rangers in early 2021, more than 1,000 applications flooded in. Successful candidates Tom Gibbs and Donovan Wright have an exciting task ahead: in spring 2022, they’re managing the reintroduction of four European bison, bred by the European Endangered Species Programme, to Blean Woods near Canterbury, an ancient reserve of coppiced chestnut, birch and oak.

Hunted to extinction in Britain thousands of years ago, bison are forest architects: by rubbing against trunks and eating bark, they cause weak trees to tumble, allowing multiple plant and animal species to thrive. Once the hefty foursome has settled in, Donovan — who previously led Big Five walking safaris in Africa — will use his skills to help visitors respectfully approach them on foot.

Downtown Atlanta as seen from the city’s Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia, US.

EIGHT CULTURAL EXPERIENCES  

1. Atlanta, Georgia Be inspired by a southern US city rising to meet the moment

At a time when voting rights are in contention in the United States, Atlanta is flexing its cultural and political muscle through two formidable voter empowerment organisations: The New Georgia Project and Fair Fight Action , both founded by Atlanta-based political leader and activist Stacey Abrams.

Being at the forefront of social change isn’t new, says city native Bem Joiner, co-founder of the creative agency Atlanta Influences Everything . “Atlanta’s ‘special sauce’ is its three Cs: civic, corporate and cultural. We’re the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement, the home of Coca-Cola and our hip-hop culture shapes global culture. There’s nowhere else quite like Atlanta.”

2. Hokkaido, Japan Find the flip side to anime-filled Japan

Marginalised since the late 1800s, the indigenous Ainu people from the northern region of the Japanese archipelago, were finally granted legal status in Japan in 2019. But while the country’s new Ainu Promotion Act recognises and bans discrimination against the Ainu — who now reside mainly on Hokkaido, Japan’s wildly scenic and northernmost main island — it does little to directly help them, indigenous activists say. That could change in the future, however, as more Japanese and international visitors travel to Hokkaido to learn about Ainu culture at Upopoy , the new National Ainu Museum and Park complex, opened in 2020.

3. Procida, Italy Connect with Italy’s Capital of Culture

Chosen pre-pandemic, the theme of Procida’s winning bid as the Italian Capital of Culture 2022 — La cultura non isola (Culture doesn’t isolate) — now seems particularly on point. The island city, located 40 minutes southwest of Naples via high-speed ferry, plans to use its year in the spotlight to illustrate the importance of culture, particularly in times of uncertainty.

Procida 2022 plans to spread cultural programming — such as contemporary art exhibitions, festivals and performances — over 300 days to encourage responsible travel throughout the year, and to avoid a mass influx of summer visitors. In the spotlight as a symbol of the inclusive theme is the island’s Palazzo d’Avalos , a Renaissance palace-turned-prison, built in 1500 and closed in 1988.

4. Tin Pan Alley, London Make some noise in the birthplace of British punk rock

Despite pushback from punk and rock purists, the remix of Denmark Street, former hub of the British music industry, promises to hit all the right notes. Once lined with music publishers, recording studios, rehearsal rooms and dimly lit clubs, the tiny street, nicknamed London’s Tin Pan Alley, helped launch the British punk rock movement and legends like David Bowie, Elton John and the Rolling Stones. In recent years, the music had all but died, save for Denmark Street’s surviving guitar shops. Now this iconic slice of music history is being revived as part of Outernet London , the West End’s new £1bn immersive entertainment district.

5. Jingmai Mountain, Yunnan, China Be transported by tea          

One of the oldest cultural landscapes in China is slated to become one of the country’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2022. The Ancient Tea Plantations of Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er, which collectively form the world’s largest ancient artificially cultivated tea plantation, features over one million tea trees, the oldest of which is 1,400 years old.

Located in the remote southwestern corner of China’s Yunnan Province, the region was a starting point of the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road. This 11th-century network of routes was named for its primary purpose: trading Chinese tea for Tibetan horses (60kg of tea equalled one horse).

From National Geographic Traveler China (Yi Lu, and Regina Zhuoqing Li)

6. Oslo, Norway Fjord City gets a marvellous make-over

Fjord City, an urban renewal project reimagining of Oslo’s waterfront, is making the city’s cultural sites and scenic, 62-mile-long Oslo Fjord more accessible to all. The massive transformation, slated to be finished by 2030, has so far moved highways underground and repurposed industrial sites to create a seamless transition between the city and the fjord. A pedestrian- and wheelchair-friendly promenade stretches nearly six miles along the new-look harbourside, which is bookended by the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art to the west and the Oslo Opera House to the east, where visitors can walk on the sloped roof to look out over the water.

7. Rome, Italy A hip new chapter for the Eternal City

They call it the Eternal City, but that doesn’t mean Rome is stuck in the past. For starters, a hit squad of cult international hotel chains has parachuted in post-pandemic, choosing to set up in residential areas where tourists rarely tread. Soho House opened in autumn 2021 behind the train station in the San Lorenzo district. On that same, eastern side of the city is The Hoxton, Rome , which has already brought London chic to the elegant Parioli district.

Closer to the centre, the W Rome opened in November just off Via Veneto, aiming for a dolce vita vibe. On the other side of the Tiber is perhaps the most exciting of all: Mama Shelter Roma , in the Prati district, which occupies two modernist former office blocks, both listed buildings.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Julia Buckley)

8. Cairo, Egypt A grand museum opening, a film launch, and more, put Cairo in the spotlight

Egypt’s capital will shine under a bright spotlight in 2022. Hollywood is releasing a much-anticipated adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile , featuring an all-star cast that includes Kenneth Branagh and Gal Gadot. It also marks 100 years since Howard Carter discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb; Jean-François Champollion deciphered the Rosetta Stone, unlocking the meaning of hieroglyphs; and the country celebrated semi-independence from British Rule.

Linking them all is the hotly anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum . Slated to be the largest museum in the world dedicated to one civilisation, this mega-sized, £600m complex, located two miles from the Giza pyramids, will exhibit the complete contents — around 5,000 items — of King Tut’s tomb.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Emma Thomson)

New Brunswick, Canada. 

SEVEN ADVENTURE DESTINATIONS  

1. New Brunswick, Canada Tackle the longest backcountry trail in the Canadian Maritimes

The Nepisiguit Falls, in the Canadian province of New Brunswick, are one of many stops along a millennia-old First Nations migration route, which has been developed into the longest backcountry hiking trail in the Canadian Maritimes. Running 93 miles along the Nepisiguit River, the rugged Sentier Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail follows ancient portage pathways used by the nomadic Mi’gmaq. The route begins at sea level at Daly Point Nature Reserve in Bathurst and ends at Bathurst Lake in Mount Carleton Provincial Park , home to 2,690ft Mount Carleton, the highest peak in the Maritimes. To promote respect for the relevance of the trail to the Mi’gmaq people, the route’s restoration, completed in 2018, incorporates Mi’gmaq language and culture.

2. Costa Rica Go on a coast-to-coast trek

Stretching across Costa Rica from the Caribbean to the Pacific, El Camino de Costa Rica is a 174 -mile window into life far off the well-trod tourist path. The 16-stage hiking route primarily follows public roads as it passes through remote villages and towns, Indigenous Cabecar lands, and protected natural areas. It’s designed to spark economic activity in rural districts. Local families, nonprofits, and a network of micro-entrepreneurs, provide most of the lodging, food, tours and other hiker amenities available on the trail, such as Ecomiel honey and La Cabaña sustainable coffee.

From National Geographic Traveler Korea (Maryellen Kennedy Duckett)

Go with Nat Geo: Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions has a 10-day expedition cruise to discover the secrets of Central America from Costa Rica to Panama

3. River Seine, France   Cycle a new scenic route from Paris to the English Channel

La Seine à Vélo is a new cycling trail picturesque enough for French painter Claude Monet himself, whose former house and famous water lilies in Giverny are on the route. But the 270-mile Paris-to-the-sea path, which opened in October 2020, offers lesser-known masterpieces too, such as the colourful street art that brightens the Canal Saint-Denis in Paris.

Along the trail’s 15 stages, bikers also pass through protected natural areas, including Normandy’s Grande Noé Bird Reserve, located along a major migratory flyway. While rolling across Normandy, they can visit the ruins of Jumièges Abbey , founded in 654, and take a Benedictine monk-led tour of Abbaye Saint-Wandrille , a centuries-old working abbey.

From National Geographic Traveler France (Gabriel Joseph-Dezaize) 4. Arapahoe Basin, Colorado Reach a Rocky Mountain high For unparalleled views of the Continental Divide, one must climb hand over foot up North America’s highest via ferrata . A climbing route comprised of metal rungs and cables, Arapahoe Basin’s Iron Way begins at the base of granite Rocky Mountain cliffs and ascends nearly 1,200ft to a 13,000ft summit. A glance below reveals a weathered Colorado landscape dotted with green moss and pink and purple flora, and rock gardens created by the cliffs themselves, their fallen chunks varying from pebble- to car-sized. Climbers scale the cliffs using the metal rungs while also gripping the rock or wedging a foot into a crack for leverage.

From National Geographic Travel US (Shauna Farnell)

5. Palau   Go shark diving in the Pacific

Step off the plane at Palau International Airport and the stamp in your passport will include the Palau Pledge , which all visitors must sign, promising that ‘the only footprints I shall leave are those that will wash away’. The 59-word eco-pledge was drafted by and for the children of this remote western Pacific archipelago to help protect Palau’s culture and environment from the negative impacts of tourism.

Some 80% of Palau’s waters is preserved as the Palau National Marine Sanctuary. At 193,000sq miles, the sanctuary is one of the world’s largest protected marine areas, safeguarding more than 700 species of coral and 1,300 species of fish, including a dazzling array of sharks.

From National Geographic Traveler India (Maryellen Kennedy Duckett)

Go with Nat Geo: Ready to plan your trip? Snorkel and kayak Palau's pristine seas with Nat Geo Expeditions

6. Taghazout, Morocco Enjoy the ride in one of North Africa’s best surfing spots

With waves, dunes and ramps to ride and a traditional souk to explore, finding an active pursuit in Morocco’s surf capital, Taghazout, is no problem. A favourite of European backpackers and surfers, the former fishing village on the country’s southwestern Atlantic Coast isn’t under the radar anymore (there’s a Hyatt Place resort and the luxury Fairmont Taghazout Bay opened in July 2021), yet it remains charmingly laid-back and local. Surf season is October to April, when a consistent northwest swell creates quality waves at reef, point and beach breaks such as postcard pretty Panorama, a sheltered, sandy-bottom break ideal for beginners.

7. Peru A new UNESCO listing for Chankillo

Six hours north of Lima, in Peru’s largely undiscovered north, stand 13 time-worn mounds spread across a hillside like the ridged backbone of a dinosaur. More than 2,300 years old, these towers form the oldest astronomical observatory in the Americas and in July 2021 were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Thor Heyerdahl mentions them in his classic travelogue Kon-Tiki , but hypotheses about their use weren’t formalised until 2007. Located in the already-archaeological-rich Casma-Sechín river basin, this pre-Incan 300-metre-long chain of towers allowed the sun-worshipping inhabitants to observe the sunrise and sunset and calculate the exact date to within one or two days — staggering for the time — to plan their planting and harvesting seasons, as well as religious festivals.

From National Geographic Traveller UK (Emma Thomson)

Read more from  Best of the World: 35 incredible trips for 2022 and beyond

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A group of travelers cycling along the colorful Nyhavn riverfront in Copenhagen, Denmark, overlaid with a golden Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best logomark

Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2024

Every year, we award travelers’ favorite destinations, hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world, based on reviews and ratings collected over 12 months. So our Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winners are decided by you: real travelers from all over, sharing real opinions and stories.

The 2024 winners are a celebration of everything we did last year—all the places we discovered and all the times we just said “yes” to new adventures. We'll reveal the winners by category throughout the year, so keep checking back for the latest.

To learn more about how winners are chosen, visit our awards policy page .

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The 22 best places to travel around the world in 2022: where to go next.

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Where to travel in 2022? What are the best places to travel during Covid? Where should I travel next? These are the questions that everyone is asking now that international travel is coming back to life, thanks to the loosening of travel restrictions in many destinations around the world and a pent-up demand for all those far-flung vacations that were put on hold during the pandemic. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council , travel numbers will reach pre-pandemic levels in 2022, the CEO of Expedia predicts that this summer will be the busiest travel season ever and the airlines are encountering unparalleled demand.

Note: This story is from 2022. To read about the best places to travel right now, see “The 23 Best Places To Travel Around The World In 2023, Chosen By The Experts”

Every year, I round up the best places to visit. This year, in honor of Women’s History Month in March, I tapped into a handful of women travel experts and influencers to find out the destinations that they have on their radar around the globe for 2022. The choices for where to go in 2022 range from cutting-edge urban capitals to dreamy Caribbean islands to African destinations worthy of a bucket-list vacation.

Tanzania—one of the best places to travel in 2022.

One thing to remember, though: The world is still in a state of flux. So if you’re planning a trip anywhere these days, you should check travel restrictions for the destination you are hoping to visit and consider warnings from the State Department and the CDC . And even if you decide not to plan a trip right now, consider this your ultimate travel bucket list for 2022—and beyond.

Want to stay closer to home? For more ideas of where to travel in America, check out “The 22 Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2022.”

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Best covid-19 travel insurance plans, best places to travel in 2022: mexico.

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Where to Go: Mexico City

Chosen By: Nneya Richards is a speaker and travel blogger at ’N A Perfect World , a curated intersection of travel, food, fashion and geopolitics inspired by the global-citizen lifestyle of the millennial. Nneya aims to empower young people, especially those of color, to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.

Why: A long time destination for notable creatives like Joan Didion and Jack Kerouac, Mexico City is experiencing a resurgence on the travel scene in 2022 with in-the-know travelers flocking there for its vibrant food, art and nightlife. “Mexico City is the kind of place you visit once and immediately start planning how you’re going to relocate,” says Richards. “While Americans have continued going to Mexico during the pandemic, travel has been more escapism. People looked to get away from city life when they traveled. Nightlife, restaurants, theatre, the pulses of cities were shuttered. As the world re-emerges, Mexico City has this in spades.”

One of the best places to visit in the city, Bosque Chapultepec is undergoing a major renovation this year. “President Obrador is hoping to make it the biggest and largest cultural center in the world, adding an aquatic center, skate parks and updating the soccer fields,” says Richards.

When it comes to travel in Mexico City, Richards recommends taking a Xochimilco floating gardens tour . “You might think the colorful music and booze-filled rides through the canals of the Xochimilco floating gardens only attract tourists—but you’d be wrong,” she says. “When I posted on my insta-stories, friends from Mexico City replied, “Yes! That’s the way to do Mexico City!”

Also on her radar: a hot air balloon over the Teotihuacan pyramids and a Temazcal ritual performed by a shamana in your hotel. “Life in Mexico City seems to really be lived, composed of a series of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that become a way of living,” says Richards. “As a New Yorker, I get it. Bucket-list living.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: The Caribbean

A rooftop pool at the O2 Beach Club & Spa in Barbados.

Where to Go: Barbados

Chosen By: Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, founder of Jet Set Sarah , where travel, fitness and style meet.

Why: “I love Barbados (I’m half Bajan),” says Greaves-Gabbadon. “I am looking forward to returning in 2022 to enjoy some familiar favorites (a fish cutter from Cuz's food truck on Pebbles Beach is definitely a priority) and new-to-me places such as the O2 Beach Club & Spa .”

The South Coast of Barbados is traditionally known for barefoot hotels, but now this gorgeous region is seeing a spike in luxe hotels and restaurants, including the Sea Breeze Beach House, Sandals Barbados and O2 Beach Club, where you'll find three pools (including one of the only rooftop pools on the island), six dining experiences, seven bars, a teen lounge and a spa with panoramic ocean views. The resort tapped Caribbean designer Michelle Leotaud to give 02 a true sense of place.

The South Coast’s culinary scene is buzzing, too. The open-air Worthing Square Food Garden is a new street food hall with live music and 20 pop-ups serving global flavors from sushi to jerk. Foodies can also head to new Buzo for pizza, Cocktail Kitchen for light bites or Champers for waterside dining. New cocktail bars include Tabú, Mimosa , Chill Bar & Café and Tiki Bar, which has amazing sunset views. Also not to be missed: the beachfront Barbados Boardwalk , with pools and stunning views of the open sea.

Grenada's Grand Anse Beach.

Where to Go: Grenada

Chosen By: Diane Bair (@dianebairtravel), travel writer and author of more than two dozen books on travel, outdoor adventure, and wildlife.

Why: “My goal is to eventually visit every island in the Caribbean, but darn you, Grenada! You keep enticing me back,” says Bair. “Snapshot moments—like paddling a clear kayak in an aqua lagoon while nibbling a local chocolate bar—sum up what is amazing about this three-island nation.”

Bair says she encounters something new and terrific on every visit. “Besides the burgeoning bean-to-bar chocolate business (five chocolate factories), Grenada’s food scene is a vibrant mashup of fresh seafood and aromatic, locally grown nutmeg and other spices,” says Bair. Dining hotspots include The Aquarium , La Luna and Rhodes Restaurant . “Any foodie worth the label should discover Grenadian specialties, like oildown (a breadfruit stew with meat and coconut milk) and lambie (conch),” she says. “Sample those, and more, at the Dodgy Dock at True Blue Bay Resort , which feels like a lively island version of a church supper.”

Grenada will celebrate Spicemas 2022 (Carnival) this August, a sure sign that festivities are revving up again. And ferry service is once again available to Grenada’s sister islands Carriacou and Petit Martinique. Besides stellar beaches (Carriacou’s Paradise Beach was recently named best in the Caribbean), Grenada claims bragging rights to the first underwater sculpture park in the world. “Recently renovated, the park features 82 life-size sculptures, modeled after local people. Snorkeling or diving alongside them is always a joy,” says Bair. “Waterfalls and rainforest also make this destination a slam-dunk for me.”

If you’re inclined to add to your time in paradise with some feel good deeds, Grenada’s newly launched Voluntourism initiative is something to check out. And more good news: “Grenada’s Simple Stays program highlights 16 affordable accommodations, making it easy for more travelers to experience this incredible island,” says Bair.

Nneya Richards in Martinique—one of the top travel destinations for 2022.

Where to Go: Martinique

Why: “Do you guys look at Rihanna’s Crop Over looks every year and promise that one year you’ll do a Carnival? If you’re not quite bold enough for a full-on Crop Over and want to ease into Carnival life, head down to Martinique,” says Richards.

“This beautiful island’s annual Carnival is the perfect place for you and your tribe to do your first Carnival, as it’s the only one that’s really participatory: there are no barriers separating the spectators and marchers,” she says. “Everyone is encouraged to participate and everyone does.”

Martinique was recently named the top emerging destination in the world by Tripadvisor—and it’s no wonder. Beyond Carnival, travelers will love exploring Martinique’s verdant mountains and spectacular white and black sand beaches. Some big news for the island: UNESCO recently named the entire island a World Biosphere Reserve (the second UNESCO distinction for the island). Another tip from Richards: “This year JetBlue has well priced flights there.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Canada

A panorama along Bow River Parkway in Alberta's Banff National Park.

Where to Go: Alberta, Canada

Chosen By: California Chaney, global travel writer, DJ, photographer and editor at Fathom . Follow along on her travels at @californiastarchaney or californiachaney.com

Why: Alberta holds wonder around every bend and corner, from the spectacular Canadian Rockies to the Badlands to the culturally rich cities. Perfect for travelers with passions for learning and the expansive outdoors, Alberta offers a wide variety of festivals and museums, rich and interactive history, exquisite provincial parks, delicious cuisine with small batch spirits and an impressive number of daylight hours to maximize time. In early July, the sun rises before 5:30 and sets close to 10 p.m.

Explore the newly expanded Metis Crossing , an interpretive destination offering immersive and authentic Indigenous Métis experiences. For city culture, the Edmonton Queer History Project has launched its new interactive website and walking tours that map 27 historically significant landmarks. For those who like to travel slow, Vacations By Rail has routes through the Rockies and the cities. “It’s the most spectacular way to truly experience the Rocky Mountains and unplug while taking the scenic route, winding through the mountains and valleys with luxury sleeper cars, dinner on board and cozy nooks to get lost in the passing scenery,” says Chaney.

For adrenaline, cycle the windy and scenic Bow Valley Parkway between Banff and Lake Louise. Chaney also recommends taking a river tour with Urban River Adventures , which “leads trips to the secluded islands in the North Saskatchewan River with overnights in geodesic glamping tents.” Dine in a 360° Dome , surrounded by panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies and a 132-year-old castle or join a “ peak nic ”—part interpretive-guided hike, part backcountry cooking lesson and part gourmet picnic. Some other tips: “The Dark Sky Festival in the fall hosts under the illuminated sky,” says Chaney. “While the winter is all about being in the mountains, the summer is focused on Alberta’s bounty of cerulean-blue lakes and cascading rivers.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Central and South America

Peggy Bree in Huacachina, Peru.

Where to Go: Huacachina, Peru

Chosen By: Peggy Bree, a part-time digital nomad from Toronto, has been working remotely and traveling since she was 23. She is a remote project manager, podcast host of Branding Gems and the owner of Blank Room (find everything here ). Follow her on Instagram for her faith, digital nomad and brand/business life.

Why : Peru is known for Machu Picchu, but 200 miles south of Lima and 10 minutes from the busy city of Ica, you’ll find the latest place to explore: Huacachina, an arid coastal desert town that is home to the world’s second highest sand dune. “This is a new find that people should flock to when they think of Peru. A true oasis in the desert,” says Bree. “There is just no other place like this one—it’s a hidden gem of a find where I fell in awe of the change of scenery.”

Adventurers come here from all over the world to check out 3,860-foot Cerro Blanco’s desert thrills, from riding dune buggies to sand boarding. “The Jeep rides are so fun and adventurous. Imagine a wild ride with no roads and no set direction,” says Bree. “You can also just look over the desert in deep thought—whatever floats your boat. Personally, I had such a grand time just in reflection of how beautiful Huacachina is.”

Whatever you do, be sure to wake up early. “You’ll have the oasis to yourself before the tourists come,” says Bree. “The sunrise and sunset view is also a gem.”

Placencia beach in Belize.

Where to Go: Belize

Chosen By: Stephanie Vermillion , a travel journalist and photographer covering stories at the intersection of culture and adventure for publications like Outside Magazine, National Geographic and Travel + Leisure . Follow her work and adventures on Instagram .

Why: Home to mystical Maya sites, wondrous aquatic habitats and lush national parks, Belize is one of Central America’s most biodiverse countries, touting tropical jungles, wildlife reserves and cascading flora and fauna. “There’s a reason Belize is buzzing this year: new hotels like sustainable glamping oasis Hills and Valley promise the ultimate Central American immersion, while a host of new nonstop flights make getting here a breeze,” says Vermillion. “But these tourism additions are merely supporting characters in my ultimate reason to visit Belize right now: connection. It’s something we all crave after two odd years of paused travel; it’s also where Belize shines.”

“There’s connection to wildlife via dive and snorkel trips along the awe-striking Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The new Marriott Autograph Collection property Alaia Belize , the country’s first and only luxury resort to offer PADI dive certification, gets you outside your comfort zone and into the heart of the Caribbean Sea action via its onsite dive shop,” she says.

The Belize Tourism Board is increasingly building pathways for travelers to connect with and support indigenous communities, especially on the southeast coast of Belize, where a blend of culture and adventure provides a perfect getaway for culture enthusiasts, thrill seekers and beach lovers. The charming laid-back villages and seaside communities of Dangria and Hopkins are the cultural heart and pride of the Garifuna people, who invite visitors to join in cultural dances and musical drums at Lebeha Drumming Center and delicious exotic foodie indulgences at the female-owned Tugucina Gloria . Belize is home to the world’s only jaguar preserve in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, spectacular jungle vistas, ziplining and waterfall rappelling in the Mayflower Bocawina National Park . And then there’s Placencia, the traditional Kriol (Creole) fishing village, which is known locally as “Barefoot Perfect.” It’s the ideal location to enjoy 16 miles of unspoiled beaches.

Galapagos sea lions sunbathing at the beach of Espanola island in the Galapagos Islands.

Where to Go: Ecuador

Chosen By: Katie Jackson has somehow made a living as a full-time travel writer since 2015 when an African safari turned into seven years of living out of a suitcase. In between trips, she can be found recuperating in Montana. She shares her adventures, and misadventures, on IG @katietalkstravel .

Why: In January, Jackson had the pleasure of sailing on Hurtigruten’s first Galapagos Islands expedition . “I returned with a newfound appreciation for wildlife, especially for birds, which I never thought would happen,” she says.

Also in January, the president of Ecuador established a new reserve that will triple the size of the Galapagos Islands’ protected area. It will extend all the way to Costa Rica, effectively creating a superhighway for fragile marine life. Among the unique species travelers can only see—or perhaps better said, encounter—in the islands are marine iguanas (the only seafaring iguanas), Galapagos tortoises (who can live to be 150 years old) and Darwin’s famous finches (essential to the theory of evolution).

“There’s nothing comparable to the thrill of snorkeling alongside utterly adorable—and equally playful—sea lions,” Jackson explains. “They were so curious and comfortable around us. One even hopped aboard our ship and tried to be a stowaway.”

Of course, mainland Ecuador—one of the most bio-diverse places on earth—is also worth checking out, whether your ideal destination involves volcanoes, rainforests, beaches or all three. Then there’s Quito, the first city to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated high in the Andes at an elevation of 9,350 feet, it’s also the highest constitutional capital in the world.

Jackson says she has heard phenomenal things from her travel writer friends about Mashpi Lodge : “It has won numerous industry awards and boasts a sky bike, an open-air cable car and a hummingbird garden.” She’s also eager to try Zazu —a Michelin-star worthy Relais & Chateaux restaurant in Quito. “The chef handpicks the fishermen he sources from and uses produce grown in his personal greenhouse.”

A pool at the Met Hotel in La Paz.

Where to Go: La Paz, Bolivia

Chosen By: Canela Ugalde, cofounder of How To La Paz , experience designer for Salar Art+Travel and gallery owner.

Why: While the Salar de Uyuni salt flats remain Bolivia’s top tourist attraction, La Paz—the city that touches the clouds and is the gateway to this natural wonder—has proven to be much more than a mere stopover. “Before the pandemic, La Paz was well under way to becoming the region’s top destination,” says Ugalde. “I truly believe we are picking the ball right up where we left it and coming out stronger than ever.”

New hotels, restaurants and experiences are popping up that reflect the culture’s values: authenticity and uniqueness. “ Met Hotel is a good example—a hotel built during the pandemic,” she says. “It will honor different cultural aspects of contemporary Bolivia. The hotel doubles as an art platform for local artists, which focuses on giving the visitor a taste of Bolivia through its architecture, design and cuisine.”

Other projects on the horizon that will be delivering unforgettable and unique experiences include the Panorama Hotel and Casa Gastón. “These will be one-of-a-kind spaces, unlike any other place you’ve ever visited, where you’ll feel the sense of wonder that only the Salt Flats can offer,” says Ugalde.

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Europe

Le Comptoir at The Ritz Paris.

Where to Go: Paris

Chosen By: Lindsey Tramuta is a travel and culture writer based in Paris and the author of the bestselling book The New Paris and the newly released The New Parisienne . Follow her on Instagram .

Why : “This city is super resilient,” says Tramuta. “You have this reawakening of the city, which is really beautiful.” For starters, there was the recent opening of the Hôtel de la Marine museum. “It’s extraordinary—it was closed to the public since the 1800s,” says Tramuta. “And its new museum restaurant, Mimosa by Michelin-starred chef Jean François Piège, is also a huge new reason to visit.” More cultural highlights: the reopening of the Musée de la Chasse et de La Nature (“super eclectic and super funky,” says Tramuta) and the new Bourse de Commerce art museum. And everyone’s talking about the reopening of Samaritaine , the Art Deco and Art Nouveau department store. “Even if you’re not necessarily in the market to shop for anything, architecturally it’s worth seeing, both outside and inside,” says Tramuta.

Tramuta also notes that there’s a lot of buzz happening at the Ritz Paris . “François Perret, their extremely talented pastry chef, has opened Le Comptoir , which is a dedicated pastry shop and tea salon where you can go and try pastries exclusive to this space—and it’s beautiful.” More big news from the Ritz includes the opening of the new astrologically inspired Ritz Bar and the upcoming reconcepting of the Ritz Club Spa.

Some other new culinary hotspots on Tramuta’s radar include Jugaad (“a terrific modern Indian restaurant”) and La Petite Epicerie de la Tour , a gourmet grocer from La Tour d’Argent, one of the most iconic restaurants in the world. “If you don’t want to take the time or the money to eat at the restaurant, you can have a taste of it here,” says Tramuta.

Another noteworthy development in Paris is the extraordinary extension of all of the bike lanes. “It really changes the way we navigate the city, and from a traveler’s perspective, it means that the pedestrian and the bike rider are all kings of the road,” says Tramuta.

Calton Hill in Edinburgh.

Where to Go: Edinburgh and Fife, Scotland

Who : Emily Goldfischer, London-based writer, hotel lover and founder of the website hertelier .

Why : A five-hour direct flight from the East Coast of the United States, those looking to dip their toes back into travel can look no further than Edinburgh and Fife in Scotland. “You’ll fall in love with the compact, hilly and history-filled capital of Edinburgh and the stunning peninsula of Fife, considered the Hamptons of Scotland but better known as the birthplace of golf,” says Goldfischer.

The big news in Edinburgh is St. James Quarter , a hub of shops, restaurants and hotels like the W Edinburgh (which will add a contemporary twist to the ever-changing skyline) and Roomzzz (a boutique living experience). Other Edinburgh hotel news includes The Gleneagles Townhouse (opening in St. Andrew Square) and 100 Princes Street Hotel (a bold statement by Red Carnation set to breathe new life into one of the city’s more important addresses). “You will be spoiled for choice of ways to spend a few glorious days,” says Goldfischer. “Edinburgh is perfect for strolling and there’s a burgeoning food scene with amazing farm-to-table options.” Check out Edinburgh’s first food hall, the Bonnie and Wild Scottish Marketplace , and the new Johnnie Walker Princes Street , which brings to life the story of the brand and its makers.

Beyond the city is Fife, a 50-mile drive along the Scottish coastline. “St. Andrews is perhaps the most glorious of all the towns in Fife, with its West Sands Beach, a two-mile stretch made famous from running scenes in the 1981 movie, Chariots of Fire ,” says Goldfischer. Its seven golf courses include Old Course (where the British Open will be held in 2022) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (founded in 1754 and considered the birthplace of golf). “Even if you have no interest or never played golf, don’t miss the Himalayas , a manicured 18-hole undulating putting course that changes every week,” says Goldfischer. “Stay at the Old Course hotel , home to the only Kohler spa outside the U.S. and a Mecca for golfers.”

A view of Porto in Portugal.

Where to Go: Portugal

Why: Once the most underrated country in Western Europe, Portugal is now on every traveler’s radar—and for good reason. It’s more affordable than neighboring Spain and France, its home to the world’s first demarcated wine region and its comfortable climate makes it a year-round destination.

“In April, my girlfriend and I are sailing to Portugal on the maiden voyage of Celebrity Beyond , captained by Kate McCue, America’s first female cruise ship captain,” says Jackson. “It’s our second trip to Portugal since August—we can’t seem to stay away.”

New nonstop flights from the U.S. on Azores Airlines mean it’s never been easier to reach Madeira , a stunning subtropical archipelago off the coast of Africa and basically Portugal’s answer to Hawaii. Thanks to new nonstop flight service from United, Americans can also conveniently island hop in the Azores , where dolphin and whale watching is practically an Olympic sport. Other Insta-worthy beaches can be found in the always-sunny Algarve , or if you’re a surfer, in the north, where the world’s largest standing wave attracts surfers from as far away as Australia.

For the past few years Jackson’s home-away-from-home in Portugal has been Onda Pura Surf Center in Porto . “Their local instructors—who speak perfect English—had me catching waves in the very first class.”

As far as accommodations go, booklovers will think they’ve died and gone to heaven in Obidos at The Literary Man whose collection includes more than 65,000 titles. In Lisbon, all the buzz is about the newest hotel, The Ivens , and its culinary offerings including a crudo bar, gastro bar and Rocco , an elegant Italian restaurant complete with a red carpet entrance.

Rooftop with a view at Six Senses Rome.

Where to Go: Rome

Chosen By: Laura Itzkowitz , a Rome-based travel writer.

Why: With a treasure trove of artistic, cultural and architectural wonders, Rome is coming back to life in 2022—and then some. “In addition to welcoming a handful of exciting new hotels, including Six Senses Rome , the Eternal City is creating new museum and pedestrian walkways that will give visitors an up-close view of the Sacred Area of Torre Argentina , the ancient site where Julius Caesar is believed to have been assassinated,” says Itzkowitz.

Set in a palazzo in the center of ancient Rome, just blocks away from the Fontana di Trevi, the new Six Senses is the brand’s first property in Italy and will have an emphasis on wellness and sustainability, from local, seasonal food to interiors from designer Patricia Urquiola. One of the highlights is the rooftop terrace, showcasing 360-degree views of Rome.

Other big news for the Eternal City: “Last year, the Mausoleum of Augustus —the world’s largest circular tomb—reopened to the public after an €8 million restoration,” says Itzkowitz.

Big Ben and Westminster Bridge in London.

Where to Go: London

Chosen By: Melissa Klurman —travel expert and contributor at Reader’s Digest , The Points Guy and Travel Awaits .

Why: “It’s been more than two years since I was in Europe, a length of time I couldn’t have imagined pre-pandemic,” says Klurman. “And I’m excited to cross the pond again and visit London, one of my favorite cities, which is easy to visit in 2022 since Great Britain no longer has Covid-testing requirements for entry.” One big highlight in 2022: the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. There will be royal watching and events and, in June, a weekend of pageants and parades worth a special visit.

“In addition to lots of royal excitement, there are some creative new theatrical offerings I’m excited to explore, including outdoor Shakespeare at the Globe and museum exhibits like the Van Gogh Self-Portraits at the Courtald Gallery,” says Klurman, who is also looking forward to taking advantage of GoCity passes, which are completely digital now. “So we can pop into iconic spots like Tower of London without having to spend our time queuing.”

Where to stay: The Nhow London on the fringes of trendy Shoreditch launched during the pandemic and is now primed for its first fully active summer. This is a hotel for design lovers, which is evident as soon as you step into the lobby and spot the 10-foot-tall statue of a rocket-ship Big Ben trailing tennis balls or the Day-Glo green centerpiece bar where you can grab a craft cocktail or a pint any time of day or night. Up in the rooms, the theatrically lit halls feel like you've stepped onto a London street with brightly painted doors resembling the entrances to British homes, complete with large brass knockers. Rooms sport fun details big and small from hanging bowler hat lamps to wall-size portraits of British Kings in the, ahem, throne room, to get you fully in the mood for a Royal Jubilee summer.

Barcelona with a view of La Sagrada Familia.

Where to Go: Barcelona

Chosen By: Alyssa Ramos, founder of My Life’s a Movie and a solo female travel blogger, content creator, entrepreneur and social media influencer who travels the world full-time and seeks to showcase unique destinations through her unique photography style and honest, detailed travel tips. Her motto is “Dreams Don't Work Unless You Do.”

Why: “There’s just something about Barcelona that attracts everyone and draws them in like a moth to a flame,” says Ramos. “Even the way the name rolls off your tongue is alluring, and once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave. I know this for a fact because I’m now based there, and even when I have an epic travel lineup, it’s still hard for me to pry myself away.”

Barcelona welcomes all types of travelers, from solo to couples, and even pets—Spain now considers dogs part of the family. When you’re visiting Barcelona, you’ll want to try some local cuisine; Ramos’s top recommendations are Bar Cañete or 7 Portes for paella, and Bar del Pla or Cerveceria Catalana for tapas. “If you’re looking for fun bars, Paradiso and Dr. Stravinsky are some of the most famous in the world,” says Ramos. “But there’s also some local secret spots that are less touristy, like Somnia .”

While the Gothic Quarter (or Barri Gòtic) and El Born are most popular for tourists to stroll along the many cobblestone streets, also check out Eixample for a local vibe, as well as Gràcia. “La Barceloneta, the main beach area, is a lot of fun with its many restaurants and chiringuitos (little bar/restaurants right in the sand), but if you walk further north, there’s also a strip of restaurants that turn into day clubs then night clubs,” says Ramos. “My favorite is Carpe Diem .”

Rooftops are also a glorious thing in Barcelona, and you can go up to most of them as long as you order at least a drink. “ Ohla and GHotel are a couple of my favorites, and Ayre Hotel is most famous but nearly impossible to get a reservation (it overlooks La Sagrada Familia),” says Ramos. “After you’ve seen all the main sites and neighborhoods, you can keep exploring by doing a hike up to Montjuïc or even Tibidabo, the castle-looking church you can see atop a massive hill from anywhere in town.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Africa and the Middle East

Female Rangers in Mghahinga National Park in Uganda.

Where to Go: Uganda

Chosen By: Christine Chitnis is a writer, photographer and author of four books, including Patterns of India . She is currently at work on her fifth book, Patterns of Portugal. Follow her colorful interpretation of life at @christine.chitnis .

Why: Uganda shares the Virunga Mountains with Rwanda, and thus the same quality of gorilla trekking experiences can be found in Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. Luckily for travelers, permits are more than half the cost of permits in Rwanda.

The great ape experience doesn’t have to end with gorillas. Uganda has many parks for chimpanzee trekking, the Kyambura Gorge being one of the more unique. Located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can trek a family of 32 chimps in a sunken forest by morning and go on a cruise safari down the Kazinga Channel River, where sightings of elephants, buffalo, alligators, hippos are seen from this unique vantage point.

“I recently traveled with Go2Africa as I wanted to explore the intersection of travel and conservation in East Africa,” says Chitnis. “The country is brimming with impactful conservation work by inspiring leaders like Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka of Conservation Through Public Health and Praveen Moman, founder of Volcanoes Safaris , a pioneering great ape tourism company that couples world-class lodges with community-minded initiatives including a women-run coffee cooperative, a wetlands restoration project and the construction of a community center in a local village.”

Another thing not to miss in Uganda: a private island on the Nile River. Wildwaters Lodge sits on a rainforest reserve on 16 protected acres and is an adventure seeker’s paradise with access to white-water rafting, horseback riding, ziplining and more.

Where to Go: Zanzibar and Tanzania

Why: Tanzania is an ideal African country to visit, from safaris in the Serengeti where you can see the Big 5 (leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino) to the crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar. “If you’ve never done a safari before, prepare to be awestruck by the amount of animals you’ll see from the safety of your safari vehicle,” says Ramos. “Now is a really great time to go to Tanzania, because with the lack of tourism, the amount of animals has drastically increased.”

“After long game drives, you’ll then retire to fabulous glamping lodges, many of which are in the actual parks,” says Ramos. Some new places for 2022 to put on your radar: andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge (which has an ideal location for experiencing the thrilling river crossing and vast herds of the Great Migration) and Usangu Expedition Camp (where you can have a hands-on conservation experience at the first tourism operation in the wild and uncharted Usangu wetlands of Ruaha National Park).

“If bucket-list checks or personal challenges are your thing, I’d highly recommend going for the Mount Kilimanjaro climb,” says Ramos. “I did it for International Women’s Day one year with an all-female group, and it was absolutely amazing.”

A quick flight or ferry will get you to the exotic island of Zanzibar. “But before you head off to enjoy the many tantalizing beaches, be sure to stop in Stone Town to learn about the dark history of the island, and how the slave trade markets originated there,” says Ramos. “One of my favorite boutique hotels in the entire world is located in Zanzibar; it’s called Tulia and it has its own jungle waterslides, plus an entire garden where they source their produce for the restaurant.”

On the balcony of Singita Lebombo, overlooking the N’wanetsi River.

Where: South Africa

Chosen By: Hannah Freedman, a former travel editor and current content strategist for Travel + Leisure . Follow along on her trips at @hfreed11 on Instagram and @awaywithhannahj on TikTok.

Why: With history, culture, awe-inspiring animal sightings, bustling cities and a stunning wine region, South Africa is the best of all worlds. It even brings the romance. “I recently visited South Africa for my bucket list-worthy honeymoon and it was truly the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a transformative trip you’ll never forget,” says Freedman. Plus, South Africa just recently relaxed its Covid testing requirements, making it easier for vaccinated travelers to visit.

United offers direct flights between New York City and Johannesburg, making Joburg a good place to start your journey. Get a history lesson by visiting the Apartheid Museum (which reopens following Covid shutdowns April 1), the Mandela House and the Hector Pieterson Museum . Then continue in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela with a stay at the Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa . “You’ll feel a world away from the chaotic city streets thanks to its manicured garden grounds and multiple pools,” says Freedman. In addition to Mandela living at the property for six months, other notable past guests include the Clintons, Will Smith and even Oprah.

“Of course, you can’t visit South Africa without spending a few days in Kruger National Park,” advises Freedman. And a stay at all-inclusive Singita Lebombo or Singita Sweni is just the way to see epic wildlife and sleep in style. The two properties are right next to one another on a private concession of 33,000 acres within the park. “Singita has thought of every last detail to make this place a serious spoil,” says Freedman. “The wildlife is next level, the guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and the rooms are stunning.” The best animal encounter she experienced? Swimming at the on-site pool when a wild elephant came right up to munch on a nearby tree and steal a drink of water.

Round out your adventure with a last stop in Cape Town and the Winelands. Hike up Table Mountain for incredible city and ocean views and then head to Boulders Beach to spot the iconic penguin colony. For a luxe stay that includes plenty of culture, check in at estate-turned-boutique-property Ellerman House . “The private art collection here alone is worth it,” notes Freedman. The Winelands are just a 45-minute drive from the city, making it an easy day trip. Freedman recommends visiting Babylonstoren for delicious farm-to-table food with your wine and Delaire Graff Estate for romantic vista views.

Sunset over Wadi Rum in Jordan, one of the top places to travel in 2022.

Where to Go: Jordan

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller .

Why: If you’re looking to dip your foot into solo travel in the Middle East, Jordan is the destination to do it. Over the past year, Jordan has heavily invested in repaving highways and improving access to tourist sites. “Plus, to better meet the needs of solo female travelers in Jordan , there are more women-led and women-operated tour guides and experiences,” says Kingsman. Whether you join a group trip or set off driving in Jordan on your own, your journey should start in Amman. “Amman is a whirlwind,” says Kingsman, who spent her days weaving in and out of the bustling sidewalks.

As you leave the city, head south to the Dead Sea, where you can float in the lowest point on Earth. “Insider’s tip, though,” Kingsman notes, “Don’t get the water in your mouth. Just trust me on that.” Another tip: “You might want to go sooner rather than later, as the Dead Sea is predicted to disappear in the next few decades.” If you’re interested in the Holy Land, just a short drive from the Dead Sea, you can visit the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ .

But of course, you can’t leave Jordan without heading to the desert. “If you’ve never camped under the stars, Wadi Rum is the place to do it,” says Kingsman, who suggests staying at Captain’s Camp , where you can experience sleeping in a cave, eating authentic Jordanian BBQ and getting in a dance battle with the staff. Then, in the morning, visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World: Petra. “Make sure to get an early start at Petra,” says Kingsman. “It can get hot in the middle of the day, so bring water and walking shoes.”

Best Places to Travel in 2022: Asia and Oceania

Jessica Nabongo in Kyoto, Japan. Image from her forthcoming book, "The Catch Me If You Can. "

Where to Go: Kyoto, Japan

Chosen By: Jessica Nabongo , travel expert, writer, photographer and author of The Catch Me If You Can , which goes on sale June 14 and will be available wherever books are sold; pre-order it now on Amazon or your preferred retailer.

Why: “Tokyo is such an important city for so many things, but what Kyoto does is show you the heart of Japanese culture,” says Nabongo, who lived in the ancient capital for one year. According to Nabongo, 2022 will be a great time to visit. “When Japan does open its borders, there will be a narrow window of time to see Kyoto without the crowds before visitors start coming back,” she says.

Even though borders have been closed, Kyoto has not stopped moving forward. New hotel openings include the luxurious Hotel the Mitsui , The Shinmonzen and the Marufukuro Hotel (in the old Nintendo headquarters building). Throughout the pandemic, the city of Kyoto also made a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2050, and initiated steps to curb overtourism in the city, including developing a consulting arm of the tourism board to provide tech support and social media training in the hopes of building awareness of less-visited stores and neighborhoods to reroute crowds away from high-volume areas.

Kyoto City is looking forward to a new point of view on tourism in 2022 and beyond. The Kyoto City Tourism Association installed live cameras around the city’s hotspots, including the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Nishiki Food Market, so that locals and tourists alike can check the congestion levels before venturing to those areas.

“Kyoto’s history as the ancient capital shines through, too. The city has a beautiful golden palace called Kinkaku-ji that makes for a super interesting visit,” says Nabongo. “And the food scene is incredible; you’ll find cool izakayas everywhere. If you’re looking to do a cultural deep-dive of Japan, Kyoto is the place to do it.”

V Villas Phuket in Thailand.

Where to Go: Phuket, Thailand

Chosen By: Content creator Shelbi Okumura of Bucket List Bums . Follow her on @bucketlistbums .

Why: “Thailand was one of the first destinations in Southeast Asia to open back up to tourists, and that early buzz now has everyone wanting to visit,” says Okumura. “Phuket particularly seems to be on everyone’s bucket list, and for good reason. It caters to everyone from high-end luxury travelers to backpackers on a budget.”

Travelers to Phuket in 2022 will experience the vibrancy of the island with fewer crowds, and starting April 1, without the requirement for proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours prior to travel via three entry schemes, including Test & Go, Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine (AQ).

“There’s so much to see and do on the island—remote beaches, sunset bars, cheap eats, high-end restaurants, offshore islands and so much more,” says Okumura. “It’s the perfect place to start (or end) a week of island hopping in Thailand.”

Phuket offers options for all types of travelers looking to experience its pristine sea glass–colored water, and the island’s luxurious side is finally getting the attention it deserves. The new V Villas Phuket offers a curated selection of villas with private pools and one of the newest rooftop bars, AKOYA Star Lounge , serving craft cocktails and 360-degree ocean views. Phuket Old Town is a cultural hub for distinct street art, street vendors and live music at the Sunday night market, inventive eateries such as farm-to-table Torry’s Ice Cream and daring night performances at the Junkyard Theatre , which recently launched a weekly Saturday night show.

The Melbourne skyline with bathing huts in the foreground.

Where to Go: Victoria, Australia

Chosen By: Oksana St John is a travel writer and founder of an award-winning sustainable travel blog, DrinkTeaTravel.com . Together with her husband, Max, she’s on a mission to explore the world in a responsible way. You can follow their journey on their blog and see behind the scenes of their travels on Instagram and YouTube .

Why: “After being closed to international tourists for almost two years, tourism in Australia is coming back in full force in 2022 and if you are looking to escape the crowds while visiting, then Victoria is the place to go,” says St John. Victoria —the state that’s home to Melbourne, once called the “Paris of the South”—is welcoming a number of new accommodations and local experiences. A few standout hotel openings for 2022 include the Ritz Carlton Melbourne (the tallest hotel in Australia, complete with a sky check-in on level 79), Peppers Richmond (set on the historic Bridge Road in Melbourne’s lively inner-city suburb) and the Shangri-La Hotel, Melbourne (part of a stunning new development, Sapphire by the Gardens).

Want to check out the city’s insider spots? The best way to do it is on a tour with Hidden Secrets Tours. “There is always more to discover and make new memories each visit,” says founder Fiona Sweetman. “You just have to know where to look.”

If you only have a few days to spare, take a day trip from Melbourne to Phillip Island. “Stay in the charming Oak Tree Lodge , have a fabulous meal overlooking the ocean at The Cape Kitchen , go for a hike at Cape Woolamai and don’t miss the Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach,” says St John. If you have a bit more time, go on a road trip along the Great Ocean Road, or if you are fit, join the 12 Apostles Lodge Walk with the Australian Walking Company . “You’ll stay in environmentally conscious luxury accommodation, eat fabulous locally sourced meals and enjoy a foot spa at the end of each day,” says St John.

Cap off your visit with a few days in the Yarra Valley, Victoria’s lush wine country just an hour outside of Melbourne. “Enjoy a stay in a picturesque setting and pop by some cellar doors for a taste of great Australian wines. Don’t miss a stop at De Bortoli and try their comprehensive tasting menu perfectly matched with a selection of local cheese,” says St John.

Some other can’t-miss Victoria experiences include Alba , a new luxurious thermal spring and spa coming to the Mornington Peninsula. Grampians Peak Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime 13-day hike, complete with new roofed huts and campgrounds available for booking this spring. And at Sea Bounty Mussels in Portarlington, guests can harvest mussels fresh from the farm and have them cooked on the boat for a truly bespoke experience.

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCES ‘BEST OF THE WORLD 2023’ LIST, UNVEILS 25 EXTRAORDINARY PLACES AND COMMUNITIES TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP

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best trip of the world

WASHINGTON (Oct. 26, 2022) – As travel continues to make a roaring return in 2022, National Geographic today unveils its annual list of the 25 inspiring destinations for the renewed travel landscape to help individuals get a jump on planning for the year ahead.

For 2023, Nat Geo’s “ Best of the World ” is themed around travel destinations and experiences that leverage the benefits of tourism to strengthen their local communities and environments, both natural and built.

Nat Geo’s “Best of the World” list for the year ahead celebrates destinations and travel experiences that illuminate our beautiful world and the diversity of communities and people within it, grouped by category: Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature.

New this year, however, is a Community category, designed to be inclusive of healing and heritage journeys, community-led conservation efforts, ways for travelers to give back, and locations doing groundbreaking work in eco-tourism, sustainability and inclusive travel. The goal is to spotlight destinations where people make places better for locals, the environment and visitors, and to showcase homegrown, rooted, locally relevant and engaged places to visit.

In total, the 2023 list honors educational journeys for all generations ( Family ); exciting activities in breathtaking places ( Adventure ); explorations of history and heritage ( Culture ); escapes to wild, beautiful places ( Nature ); and healing journeys, community conservation, giving back, sustainable places and more ( Community ).

“We have experienced so many changes and disruptions in the way we explore over the last few years, so with this year’s list, we really wanted to get back to identifying positive stories about destinations and communities,” said Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Travel. “With our team of travel experts and editors, we took a deeper dive into places all over the globe that are providing experiences that are unique and beneficial for both locals and travelers: locations where visitors ultimately sustain and support—not damage—the destination’s environment and community. We also worked hard to provide lesser-known gems on the list, equally inspiring alternatives to destinations that have become overcrowded (think Choquequirao vs. Machu Picchu in Peru).”

“Best of the World’ is Nat Geo’s annual love letter to the most incredible places in the world, both near and far,” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s Editor-in-Chief. “We couldn’t be prouder to shine a light on these 25 extraordinary places that most inspired us this year, and which we know will define travelers’ itineraries for years to come. From craft breweries and Asia’s top film festival in Busan, South Korea, to women-led Indigenous tourism in Alberta, Canada, and the densest leatherback turtle nesting ground in the world in Trinidad and Tobago, this year’s list reminds us that there is still so much out there to explore and experience.”  

The list was created, researched, reported and written in collaboration with National Geographic Traveler ’s international editorial teams, which serve millions of readers through their magazines and websites in more than a dozen offices around the world.

The “Best of the World 2023” list is available online now at NatGeo.com/BestOfTheWorld , where readers will be transported to each destination through spectacular photography and reporting.

National Geographic’s “Best of the World 2023” list:

Culture Appian Way, Italy Busan, South Korea Longmen Grottoes, Henan Province, China Egypt Charleston, South Carolina

Nature Scottish Highlands Botswana Slovenia Big Bend National Park, Texas Azores

Adventure  New Zealand Choquequirao, Peru Utah Austrian Alps Revillagigedo National Park, Mexico 

Community Dodecanese Islands, Greece Milwaukee, Wisconsin Alberta, Canada Laos Ghana

Family Trinidad and Tobago San Francisco, California Colombia Manchester, UK Switzerland

About National Geographic Media: Nat Geo Media is a worldwide digital, social and print publisher, operating in over 170 countries, with several print and digital products and over a half billion followers on social media. We inspire curious fans of all ages through bold and innovative storytelling about people, places and projects that shape our world, and enable our fans to connect, explore, engage with and care about the world. For more information, visit  nationalgeographic.com , find us on the National Geographic app or visit us on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  LinkedIn ,   Pinterest  and  TikTok .

Media Contacts: Caitlin Holbrook, [email protected] , (716) 225-0502 Anna Kukelhaus, [email protected] , (202) 258-8020 Janean Ruttner, [email protected] , (909) 677-8989 Natalia Colon, [email protected] , (407) 484-1026

100 Best Places on Earth – The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

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updated 13.12.2023

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This isn't just a travel bucket list; it's a gateway to experiences so profound and diverse that they promise to reshape your understanding of beauty, culture, and adventure. From the majestic peaks of Patagonia to the hidden alleyways of Kyoto, each destination on this list has been chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for the unique story it tells. Rough Guides, your trusted travel companion, goes beyond the usual tourist trails to bring you authentic, tailor-made experiences that resonate with your personal travel aspirations.

1. Bhutan - a tiny country leading the way in sustainable tourism

  • 2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

3. Ethiopia - the sunken churches of Lalibela

  • 4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

5. Taj Mahal - one of the new Seven Wonders of the World

6. victoria falls - the world’s widest curtain of water.

Hidden in the Himalayas, with all the matchless scenery you’d expect, the tiny country of Bhutan is staggeringly beautiful. Piercing peaks and plunging valleys fold into its borders, where you can climb to mountaintop monasteries, hike through ancient forests and horseback ride over lush green plains, while local guides give a real insight into the country’s living spirituality.

Bhutan has been quietly forging its own path for centuries. Now, it’s leading the way in sustainable tourism. With at least sixty percent forest cover, Bhutan takes environmental conservation seriously. It’s already carbon negative, and while the target to become the world’s first fully organic nation by 2020 has been pushed back, they are still actively working on it.

Preservation is priceless, and travellers to this enchanting nation will leave with a real sense of what a privilege it is to experience Bhutan’s natural, cultural and spiritual riches.

You may have heard of Bhutan’s now-famous compulsory tourist tariff, which sees foreign visitors paying a minimum of $250 per day just to visit. But what you may not know is this includes all accommodation, food, transport and a local guide – and it also grants you access to one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine corners. A tailor-made trip ensures you get to see exactly what you want to see and travel the way you prefer - a specific route, selected hotels, particular activities, it's all possible when you go tailor-made.

Punakha-Dzong-Bhutan-shutterstock_1144214126

Monks in Bhutan

2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

While the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, has long lured visionary types to its bohemian neighbourhoods, it’s slipped under the tourist radar for years. That may have something to do with its turbulent recent history: although Georgia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, there followed a period of civil war, violence and ethnic tensions.

Over the past decade, however, a new generation has reignited Tbilisi’s cultural scene through a mix of local art galleries, exhibition spaces, music venues, concept stores and creative hubs. A growing crop of industrial- style hotels is springing up across the city, many set in Soviet-era factories and publishing houses. The food scene is thriving, too – innovative chefs have taken the helm in the kitchens of new restaurants, where they reimagine traditional Georgian cuisine with a modern twist. The revolution is underway. Read more about why Georgia is the ultimate adventure destination .

Where to stay

Enjoy a stunning view from the Terrace Boutique Hotel , located a short walk from the Tbilisi funicular.

Discover the wine region on a full-day tour from Tbilisi . Visit beautiful towns, taste plenty of Georgian wine and find out more about the traditional winemaking process.

Tailor-made travel

Planning to visit Georgia for a holiday? Talk to our carefully selected local expert to create and book your perfect trip to Georgia.

tbilisi-georigia-shutterstock_633064421

Tbilisi in Georgia

An enigmatic and utterly beguiling country, Ethiopia has endless intrigue. From its unique, highly sociable cuisine – the basis of which is injera , a spongy sourdough pancake, piled high with piquant curries and stews and shared between friends – to its ancient language and curly Amharic script, there’s very little that’s familiar about this place, and your trip will be all the better for it.

Ethiopia is a largely Orthodox Christian country, and its religious festivals and structures are something to behold. The sunken churches of Lalibela , hand-carved out of the red rock below ground some nine hundred years ago, are an astonishing feat of engineering. Come January, the network of tunnels and staircases that connect all eleven churches fill up with thousands of worshippers dressed in white, celebrating the birth of Christ with a twelve-hour mass.

Exploring Ethiopia with your own guide and at your own pace will help you really discover this fascinating country. A local expert working for a local tour operator can help to plan and book your ideal trip .

lalibela-ethiopia-shutterstock_1385052038

Lalibela in Ethiopia

4. Gorges du Verdon - the 'alternative Grand Canyon'

The breathtaking beauty and majesty of the Gorges du Verdon – also known as the Grand Canyon du Verdon – almost matches that of its American cousin, albeit on a much smaller scale. Peppered with spectacular viewpoints, plunging crevices up to 700m deep, and glorious azure-blue lakes, this area of Provence in France is absolutely irresistible. The river falls from Rougon at the top of the gorge, disappearing into tunnels, decelerating for shallow, languid moments and finally exiting in full, steady flow at the Pont du Galetas at the western end of the canyon. Alongside is the huge artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix, which is great for swimming when the water levels are high.

Moustiers-Ste-Marie is the loveliest village on the fringes of the gorge, occupying a magnificent site near its western end. Set high on a hillside, just out of sight of both canyon and lake, it straddles a plummeting stream that cascades between two golden cliffs. A star slung between them on a chain, originally suspended by a returning Crusader, just adds to its charms.

If you're planning to stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Hotel La Bonne Auberge features a large terrace and garden, as well as a swimming pool in an excellent location in town.

Visit the gorge as well as the lavender fields on a day trip from Nice . Particularly suited for those short on time or without their own transportation, this day tour allows you to discover the area while returning back to Nice the same evening.

If you're thinking of visiting Provence and the Gorges du Verdon – get in touch . Rough Guides has paired with experienced local tour operators in France to offer fully customisable trips, like this from Paris to Provence itinerary .

Gorge of Verdon

Gorges du Verdon in France

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Simply the world’s greatest building, Shah Jahan’s monument to love does not disappoint. Volumes have been written on its perfection, and its image adorns countless glossy brochures and guidebooks; nonetheless, the reality never fails to overwhelm all who see it, and few words can do it justice. A workforce of some twenty thousand men from all over Asia completed the Taj Mahal in 1653 after twenty years of toil, and it is undoubtedly the zenith of Mughal architecture in India .

Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore described the Taj Mahal as “a teardrop on the face of eternity”, and though its layout follows a distinctly Islamic theme, representing Paradise, it is above all a monument to romantic love. Shah Jahan built the Taj to enshrine the body of his favourite wife, Arjumand Bann Begum, better known by her official palace title, Mumtaz Mahal (“Chosen One of the Palace”). The emperor was devastated by her death, and set out to create an unsurpassed monument to her memory – the result is sublime.

There are endless accommodation options in Agra , from where most travellers start their Taj Mahal visit. Our favourites include Tajview IHCL SeleQtions with stunning views and the Grand Imperial - Heritage Hotel .

Planning to explore the Taj Mahal on your own? Get your skip-the-line access tickets to the Taj Mahal beforehand to enjoy a hassle-free visit.

To see the Taj for yourself, drop us a line . Our tailor-made trips service will pair you with a local expert based in India to plan and book a fully customisable tour of India, like this sample itinerary to explore the Golden Triangle .

 The Taj Mahal on the south bank of the Yamuna river, Agra, Uttar Pradesh © Yury Taranik / Shutterstock

Taj Mahal in sunset

Along with Mount Everest and the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls – or Mosioa-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”) – ranks as one of the world’s seven natural wonders. No matter how many pictures you’ve seen beforehand, nothing can prepare you for the awe-inspiring sight and deafening sound of the falls. The world’s widest curtain of water crashes down a huge precipice, producing clouds of spray visible from afar, before squeezing into a zigzag of sheer-sided gorges as a torrent of turbulent rapids, carving its way to the Indian Ocean well over 1000km away.

Their dramatic setting on the Zambezi river – on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border – has also made Victoria Falls the undisputed adventure capital of Africa. There’s an array of adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer, from whitewater rafting and bungee jumping to zip-lining and bodyboarding. Less touted are the stunning wildlife-viewing opportunities

Victoria Falls affords: the national parks that line the serene banks of the Upper Zambezi are home to large mammals, such as elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe and leopard, as well as a variety of antelope and more than 410 bird species.

Read more in our First-timer's Guide to the Victoria Falls .

Ilala Lodge is your best bet if you want to be as close to the Falls as possible. Occupying lovely grounds, the lodge has stylish rooms, a small pool and an excellent restaurant. Best of all, though, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance; from the hotel’s terrace, you can see clouds of spray rising from the Falls.

There are endless opportunities to explore the area: from a guided walking tour over sunset cruises to exploring the local entertainment and food scene .

Victoria Falls waterfall Zambezi river

Victoria Falls

Find more travel inspiration in our book The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth 2020 .

Header image: Yana Zubkova/Shutterstock

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How to Plan an Around the World Itinerary in 8 Steps

Last updated on January 5, 2024 by Shannon

You’re planning an around the world trip . Congrats! My one-year trip turned into a decade of wandering and it transformed my life . My own one-year trip itinerary took me through 15 countries and countless experiences—but narrowing down my dream countries to just 15 was hard.

In my world travel route, I planned the itinerary to pass through Agra for the Taj Mahal.

After so many years on the road—and after several round the world trips since that first one—I have some hard learned advice for anyone planning their own route and building their own trip around the world. If you’re planning a world trip, it’s usually a long-term route of at least a few months and up to a year around the world, or more.

These are eight ideas—eight steps really—to help narrow your travel itinerary down to those stops along your route that will fit your budget, highlight the most memorable places to you, and make sense for the trip you’ve always dreamed of taking.

Table of Contents

1. Make an itinerary bucket list for the entire world.

Great Wall of China on RTW trip itinerary

The inspiration phase of planning your round the world trip itinerary is one of the most fun. Maybe you already have a laundry list of places you hope to cram into your world trip itinerary. Or perhaps you’ve nailed down a few key experiences but you’re open to more inspiration. You should absolutely start with a long bucket list of locations all over the world, because weather and route might automatically strike a few off the list for you.

If you’re curious for more travel ideas, browse the  best travel books sorted by destination , or search for long-reads and podcast recommendations on my Destination Travel Guides . Use these books and resources for inspiration on not only places to add to your round the world route, but activities, too.

Perhaps you read The Devil’s Picnic and subsequently add Paris to your list for that stinky but toothsome Époisses de Bourgogne cheese, or you add Bhutan because of its intriguing portrayal in The Geography of Bliss (that’s what has it on the itinerary for my next around the world trip!).

Books and podcasts are a phenomenal way to expand your idea of what is possible on your trip.

Once you have a list of dream destinations for your travel itinerary, highlight up to five that are your absolute priorities—these will become the bedrock of your around the world trip. The rest of the places on your list will slot in around those stops based on timing, weather, and more.

How granularly you plan is personal—some travelers leave with a precise list of destinations and timelines, while others plan the first couple of months of their round the world trop.

My three key travel destinations:

For my first year, I had three key activities on my list. The first was diving the Great Barrier Reef —that’s why my trip started in Australia . The second was meeting my cousin in India and backpacking north from Mumbai together for two months before ending our time together at a volunteer placement in Nepal . The third was time-sensitive as I had always dreamed of attending the Edinburgh Fringe Festival , which takes place every August in Scotland.

Later, when I traveled with my 11-year-old niece for six months in Southeast Asia , I led her through some basic Google searches so that she could see what was on offer. We planned our joint world trip itinerary together centered around her three biggies: an ethical elephant encounter , ziplining somewhere, and visiting Angkor Wat .

2. Pick a direction around the world.

Napping on long-term round the world trip

From your home country, your travel itinerary will take you either east to west, or west to east around the world. Backtracking is not ideal—it’s expensive, causes more jet lag, and is bad for the environment. Use this strategy whether you use a round the world ticket (which requires this stipulation) or if you book flights as you travel.

Pros and cons of traveling east:

  • Science says this direction is harder on your body and produces more jet lag . The short of it is because you are losing time when you fly through time several zones, but your body actually prefers cycles slightly longer than 24 hours, not shorter.
  • You’ll need to become a pro at minimizing jet lag so you don’t lose several days to it in each new location.
  • If you’re planning a very long RTW trip, perhaps 18 months or more, and your itinerary creeps around the world, then you will likely not notice the difference much.

Pros and cons of traveling west:

  • As noted, your body actually prefers days that run longer than 24 hours, so your internal clock has a much easier time adding hours into your day. This means fewer nights adjusting and staring at the hotel ceiling at 3am.
  • Your body can do at least two hours of time zone jumping in this direction without having a noticeable effect on you, so it’s ideal to slowly hop west around the world. And if you’re crossing the Pacific from the U.S., your largest time zone change will likely occur at the beginning of your trip, so you can then enjoy more relaxing travel for the many months afterwards.

How I decided my world trip direction:

I was lucky that two of my key experiences could bookend my trip. Scotland and Australia are not close, so it was easy to plan many of my other dream destinations to fill the space between these countries.

Since I planned to leave the U.S. in November, it was easy to surmise that starting my trip in Australia, which was entering summer, made the most sense. Then I would make my way west toward Scotland for Edinburgh Fringe, handily skirting both winter in Europe and summer in Asia.

3. Find creative overland routes.

taking a train on my trip around the world to get around thailand with my niece

Whew, you now have a list of dream destinations for your world trip and a direction of travel. Now it’s time to fill in the space in your itinerary. And you’ll do that by using local transportation, which is a lot more fun than flying—you’ll see more of the country and culture, and you’ll have richer travel experiences .

Go back now to those handful of key destinations from your bucket list that. These are the foundational bedrocks of your world trip itinerary. These dots on the map should lend a rough overview of a route. If they don’t, if one is just an outlier that makes it hard to see logical jumps, narrow your list down to four, and see if that helps—if you truly love the idea of an experience, but it doesn’t fit this trip it might make a great trip on its own in a couple years time.

Now, your world trip itinerary needs the details, and those usually come from visiting clusters of bordering countries—you’ll be crossing overland among many of these destinations. (For that to work, however, check visa restrictions for your nationality as some countries require visas in advance, or don’t allow crossings at certain borders).

Popular routes ( backpacking Southeast Asia , for example), have only a few restrictions and those are easily handled online, or in the days before your border crossing.

Start dotting the map with the countries that are very close to your bedrock destinations. That looks like this: If trekking in Nepal is a bedrock item, and India’s Golden Triangle and Sri Lanka were both on your dream list, then it makes sense to add them into your route, since you’ll definitely be in the region.

My creative overland routes:

As I planned my itinerary, a dear friend announced she wanted to meet me in Florence, Italy in June. That became another bedrock item with a firm date, so I now had a time I had to leave South Asia and head to Eastern Europe.

Nearby Croatia was on my tentative list, and I had a friend in Bosnia , so both of those became stops on my itinerary that helped give it shape. Prague hadn’t been on my list, but I decided to move north through Eastern Europe after leaving Bosnia.

I filled in adventurous stops that would take me from my friend in Italy in June to Scotland in August—plenty of time for rafting in Slovenia , finding charming towns in Czech Republic , biking Amsterdam like a local, and walking through the Lake District of England first!

Research activities in countries you’re considering.

If there are countries nearby your “must-visit” locations, use a site like GetYourGuide to research the types of activities you could see and do if you visited these adjacent destinations as well. I like checking out the day tour sites more than a guidebook at this stage because it’s a very quick overview of the must-dos in each location.

4. Research festivals in your favored locations.

Festivals are an important part of your round the world trip planning itinerary

Local festivals around the world are amazingly full of life, culture, and fun. It’s a huge letdown when you learn too late that you missed a major religious and celebratory festival by just a few days. And it’s also a shock if you arrive thinking it’s shoulder season but you really arrived during Brazil’s carnival.

Plan your route to coincide with the dates of festivals that seem most fun for you (this is especially important for trips with kids, because they love the excitement, colors, and foods at these types of events. You’ll need to book accommodation early depending on the event, so that may take some flexibility from your world travel route, but it’s worth it.

Here are a few favorite annual festivals that many travelers plan around: La Tomatina in Spain in late August; Holi the Festival of Colors  in India around early March; Thailand’s Songkran Water Festival often falls within April and its Loy Krathong Lantern Festival falls in late October or early November.

Festivals around the world I sought out:

When my cousin told me should could only meet in India in February, and I knew we’d be there for two months, I went into planning mode to decide where we should celebrate Holi the Festival of Colors . It was a real highlight of my trip and I am so glad our world travel itinerary allowed us to experience this incredible Indian festival.

Then, of course, was the Fringe Festival —that was one of my bedrock destinations so it was definitely on the planned route.

5. Play Tetris with locations to fit your travel budget.

plan a RTW itinerary that fits your travel budget

I stuck to an amazing year-long world travel budget that came in under $20,000. The only way I could do that was by carefully planning my time to favor budget-friendly countries, and then add in high-cost countries in smaller supply.

Research each of your dream destinations ahead of time because some places you might assume are budget actually cost more than you imagine (a safari in Africa is not cheap, nor is accommodation in much of Africa, but visiting a dream destination on the continent is worth it). Japan may be in Asia, but it’s pricey, too. Central America and Mexico are easy on your budget, as are parts of South America.

How I made my RTW travel budget work:

Australia , England, Scotland, and Ireland were mega expensive and represented three of my eleven months on the road. India and Nepal were, by far, the cheapest places (even cheaper than backpacking Southeast Asia ), and it was actually difficult to go over budget during the three-and-a-half months that I backpacked South Asia.

I spent the other months in Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe, two regions that are in the discount to mid-range. All told, I was able to easily average $50 a day, even though some days in Europe topped $100.

6. Plan around weather trends.

planning my rtw trip to start in Australia, where i could dive and swim

On your trip, research destinations ahead of time and plan according to your own weather preferences. While it’s not likely you will hit every destination in your preferred season, you should know when monsoon season makes a paradise island unenjoyable, or when blizzards will thwart a planned ski trip.

Research using this great rundown of shoulder season locations around the world, and this European shoulder season list , and this very cool map of a a sample round the itinerary featuring perfect weather in every location.

Why I chased summer around the world:

I planned my trip itinerary to chase summer around the world. As a native Floridian, my tolerance for heat is higher than most others, and I deeply enjoy warmth. A year of summer was lovely.

Whether your around the world trip chases summer or snow—and note it’s way easier to pack for long-term travel when you can leave behind thick jackets and boots—you’ll want to pack effectively using packing cubes .

I have probably 20 packing cubes after 15+ years of travel—cubes of all shapes, sizes, and uses to fit every trip. This eight-pack starter set is well-priced, durable, and will give you a worthy introduction into the sheer magic of packing cubes.

7. Consider how you will fly.

Flying on a RTW trip can make your itinerary more doable but more expensive.

When planning your itinerary, you have to consider more than just major long-haul flights. On my travels, I research local budget airlines too, and I always have a good idea of which regions of the world offer affordable puddle-jumper flights. If you’re considering buying round the world tickets , read my insider tips and advice first!

Southeast Asia has AirAsia and Vietjet, among others. Europe has many budget carriers: Vueling, Ryan Air, and EasyJet. And JetStar has good flight deals in South Asia. By checking for budget airline routes, I know that I can easily visit more countries in a region if there are sub $100 flights around the area. (Tip: this is an amazing interactive map of low-cost airline routes ).

My transportation choices:

I priced out my year on the road and found it was cheaper to combine overland travel with local carriers than it would have been to buy a RTW ticket up front. I also have a guide to how I find good flight deals , since I never buy round the world airfare.

Generally, flights are likely necessary unless you plan an entirely overland route around the world , but flights are harmful if you solely rely on this form of transportation, so truly consider how you can incorporate other options, such as buying a Eurail ticket in Europe, or a Greyhound bus ticket to travel down the east coast of Australia.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

8. Remove some destinations from your world trip itinerary.

Remove some destinations on your trip itinerary.

There is no wrong way to plan your route around the world, and there is no perfect number of places that you can visit in a year—it all depends on what you’re looking for on your trip. And no matter how carefully you plan, you will love some places, feel mediocre toward others, and perhaps even leave early from a few. You won’t know until you set out which type of places and experiences best fit your long-term travel style.

But please keep in mind that the pace of short-term travels is very different from a multi-month trip. Create a route that travels slowly, avoids the dreaded travel-fatigue , and includes destinations you have long dreamed of visiting. To do that, you now need to take a critical eye to your trip and trim the fat.

Is there something you added it because it seemed fun and was moderately close, but it wasn’t a bedrock item? Or perhaps it’s a location you love the idea of so much that you know you will plan a trip there in the future if you skip it now. Snip those from your world travel itinerary right now and you will be shooting me an email of thanks once you’re on the road.

The countries I cut from my around the world trip:

The best advice other travelers gave me when I asked for itinerary advice in a travel forum was to remove an entire leg of the trip. I had hoped to backpack Scandinavia between my time in the Czech Republic and Amsterdam, but long-term travelers assured me that I would be grateful for wiggle room in my itinerary by that stage of my trip (nine months into it).

Plus, they accurately pointed out that I just couldn’t swing these very expensive countries on my limited travel budget.

Turns out that I burned out a month before reaching Czech Republic and camped out in Slovenia for an extra two weeks—if I had been dead-set on Scandinavia, I would have never had time to do that while still making it to Edinburgh Fringe in time! (And let’s not even think about what Scandinavia would have done to my travel budget!).

If you’re overwhelmed about planning the nitty-gritty details on a months-long trip around the world, know that a rough route suffices. All you truly need before you leave home is logistics for the first couple of weeks—you can easily sort out the rest on the road. I promise.

Really, I promise. It seems scary but I swear to you that you will be grateful for flexibility once you land, and that it’s completely possible to plan the smaller details as you go. Moving between countries and regions was infinitely easier than I had anticipated before my first round the world.

Your Next Steps for Planning an Around the World Itinerary

Research places around the world and assemble a dream list of locations. That’s really the first step and should be a lot of fun.

While my travel books selections are a starting point, you can also peruse guidebooks for inspiration. I always buy a Lonely Planet or Rough Guide for my first planned destination (and then I swap it along the way for each new country), and before my first round the world trip I checked out a stack of 25 guidebooks from my library. Do your research and dream big before you even begin selecting an itinerary and paring down your list of destinations.

This is my core page compiling resources on How to Travel the World and here are a few other pages sharing advice specifically for long-term travel planning.

  • How Much Does it Cost to Travel the World
  • How to Save for Travel
  • Free Destination Travel Guides
  • Best Credit and Debit Cards for Travel
  • How to Pack for Long-Term Travel
  • How to Pick the Right Travel Insurance

How to Travel the World

Free resources and first-hand advice on how to plan long-term and round the world travels.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

The Best Train Trips in the World: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards

By Todd Plummer

The Best Train Trips in the World 2023 Readers Choice Awards

Ah, the allure of train trips . Adventurers and the eco-conscious are drawn to this glamorous, old-world mode of exploration for the impeccable slow-travel vibes, but there’s also something to be said about the perspective found onboard a train; you’re experiencing the landscape and scenery in a way that you can’t experience in any other mode of travel. A train trip often brings you where everyday roads cannot, whether it’s through untouched Malaysian jungles on the revamped Belmond Eastern & Oriental itineraries relaunching in 2024, or high into the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. For our 36th annual Readers’ Choice Awards —which capture the travel experiences our readers love best, from hotels and airlines to cruises , islands , and luggage —we called on all of you to rank the best of the best rail journeys out there. Here, dear readers, is how the dice fell.

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

If youre interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu  Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to...

20. Inca Rail, South America

If you’re interested in taking a train to Machu Picchu (and unless you’re a mountain goat, we suggest you do), Inca Rail offers a level of convenience that is difficult to match—and it’s also worth mentioning that the First Class service is priced more accessibly than other luxury operators servicing the same route. While on board, you can expect a tasty menu prepared with organic ingredients grown right in the Sacred Valley, live Peruvian music, ample windows through which you can admire the staggering Andean scenery, and a spacious Observatory Lounge complete with open-air balcony. For fresh and frothy Pisco sours this good, this is one train that’s well worth the price of admission.

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spains iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train which over the...

19. Transcantabrico Gran Lujo, Spain

Take in all the sights and flavors of Spain ’s iconic northern coastline on this luxurious sleeper train, which over the course of a week makes its way between San Sebastián and Santiago de Compostela. You’ll enjoy on-board cuisine that celebrates each of the distinct regions through which this train passes, from Galicia to Basque Country. A unique aspect of this train is that it remains stationary overnight, allowing for late-night excursions and explorations that are uncommon on other sleeper train experiences.

Its been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the worldit takes eight hours to traverse the 180mile...

18. Glacier Express, Switzerland

It’s been said that the Glacier Express is the slowest express in the world–it takes eight hours to traverse the 180-mile journey–but boy, do the views here invite a slow journey. Connecting the resort towns of Zermatt and Saint Moritz, the train provides an up-close perspective of some of this mountainous country’s most iconic natural features, including the Matterhorn, Piz Bernina, and the Rhine Gorge (dubbed Switzerland’s Grand Canyon). Book in Excellence Class and you’ll be served Champagne at your seat, followed by a six-course meal complete with wine pairings.

Image may contain Vehicle Transportation Train Locomotive Train Track Railway and Rail

17. The Canadian, Canada

Take in every mile of the vast Canadian landscape from The Canadian , a special sleeper service offered by VIA Rail, the country’s national rail carrier. Keep in mind that this train is more about sightseeing from the cars than actually getting off and doing anything. But if you’re traveling in the comfort of Prestige Class—with your own private cabin, private washroom and built-in TV screen monitor with video selection—you’ll be perfectly content to take in the journey from the privacy of your very own picture window.

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The Ghan Train Australia

16. The Ghan, Australia

Completed in 1929, The Ghan runs through the heart of the Australian continent , from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north. It may have only started running its current route in 2004, but its history dates to the 19th century, its name harkening to the Afghan camel trainers and riders who first helped chart a course through the country’s interior. The three-day all-inclusive journey sees the train lilting its way through Australia’s Red Centre with diverse landscapes passing by. Travel through the expansive ridges of the MacDonnell Ranges, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Simpsons Gap, and visit the opal town of Coober Pedy.

JR Kyushu 363

15. JR Kyushu 36+3, Japan

This train’s unusual name derives from Kyushu being the 36th-largest island in the world, and there being three key stakeholders on this journey: the passengers, the local community, and the rail company, JR Kyushu. It isn’t a sleeper train, instead offering a series of weeklong roster of one-day itineraries around the perimeter of Kyushu–a do one, do them all, or do as many as you like situation–but the journey is no less enriching for it. The inside feels like a ryokan, featuring immaculate woodwork made from local techniques, comfortable furniture, and a mix of private and communal spaces. It’s a gorgeous way to get off the beaten track on this gorgeous Japanese island, packing in a number of stops and towns into a single day of productive–yet comfortable–sightseeing.

train interior. Belmond Eastern  Oriental Express

14. Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train, Southeast Asia

The E&O is the stuff of train enthusiasts’ legends, and in February 2024, this storied train will at long last resume service after its pandemic-era pause–sort of. The train’s journey originally connected Singapore and Bangkok, but as of the new year will offer journeys through the jungles and coastlines of Malaysia, but all originating in and returning to Singapore. It isn’t the classic E&O route, but these new itineraries will offer deeper explorations of Malaysia than ever before, including guided snorkeling on Langkawi and excursions to Taman Negara National Park. Despite the new itineraries, the train still has all the old world touches that people love: Order a Singapore Sling in the Bar Car, take it to the outdoor viewing platform as the Malaysian jungle rolls on by, and you just might forget what year we’re living in.

Image may contain Building Architecture Arched Arch Bridge Bridge Arch Vehicle Transportation and Train

13. Northern Belle, Europe

It’s all about the food—and the scenery, too, but mostly about the food—onboard this lovingly restored 1930s train , which zig-zags its way across the English, Scottish and Welsh countrysides. Each of the journeys on offer are day trips, so they require less of a time (and money) commitment than other luxury trains. But what the Northern Belle lacks in length she more than makes up for in quality: The meal services are exquisite, offering fine dining crafted mostly from U.K. suppliers, so you can enjoy classic British fare as the heaths, meadows, and dales roll on by.

Image may contain Wood Flooring Hardwood Restaurant Interior Design Indoors Floor Cafe Furniture Room and Table

12. The Maharajas' Express, India

There are luxury sleeper trains, and then there are luxury sleeper trains like the Maharaja’s Express , where a greeting of marigold garlands and rose petals showered at your feet kicks off the journey before your personal butler escorts you to your room. The Junior Suite rooms are surprisingly spacious, especially by train travel standards, and come with full-sized closets, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TVs. Both of the on board watering holes–the Safari Bar and the Raja Club–have plenty of chairs, comfy sofas, books and board games. Each day of the itinerary includes special opportunities to experience India through the train’s luxurious and singular perspective: like an early-morning champagne breakfast on a private hillside overlooking the Taj Mahal.

Belmond Royal Scotsman. train interior

11. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

It’s about the journey, not the destination, right? Nowhere is train travel more indulgent—or convenient!—than on Belmond’s Royal Scotsman , which departs from and arrives at Edinburgh’s Waverley Station. With only 40 guests onboard, the train circumnavigates the heart of the Scottish Highlands, passing such landmarks as the Kyle of Lochalsh and Cairngorms National Park. There’s even a dedicated spa carriage, where the specialists are trained to synchronize their motions with the natural lilts and tilts of the train. If that’s not luxury, we’re not sure what is.

Belmond Hiram Bingham

10. Belmond Hiram Bingham, A Belmond Train, South America

Named after the U.S. explorer who supposedly “discovered” Machu Picchu in 1911, the Belmond Hiram Bingham train line is as grand as the man’s claims. The round-trip journey connects the city of Poroy (just west of Cuzco) to the Lost City and Sacred Valley of Machu Picchu. The Belmond Hiram Bingham turns on the turn-of-the-20th-century charm, from gleaming polished wood and brass surfaces to lavish meals and accommodations, which offer plenty of space to stretch out: the perfect setting for viewing the mountains and rivers zooming past the window.

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Terminal Train Train Station and Subway

9. Golden Chariot, India

Experience a mix of Southern India’s greatest hits and lesser-explored destinations on board the iconic purple and gold Golden Chariot , which connects the Indian states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry. All itineraries depart from Bengaluru, with options for both three-night and six-night journeys. This train’s strength is its access to off-beat attractions than what you’ll find on the well-worn Golden Triangle, such as the ruins of Hampi. With sparse crowds, and a comfortable train to retreat to at the end of each day, it’s an approach to India that captures all the magic this country has to offer.

Image may contain Transportation Train Track Railway Rail Vehicle Train and Locomotive

8. Golden Eagle Danube Express, Europe

A pioneer in luxury trains for three decades, Golden Eagle is perhaps best known for its Silk Road and Trans-Siberian routes, but the Danube Express unlocks an approach to Southern and Eastern Europe which is no less breathtaking and engaging. The “Castles of Transylvania” route from Istanbul to Budapest is particularly unique–spend all day learning about Vlad the Impaler’s history through guided tours, then spend all night luxuriating in the comfort of the bar car or in the privacy of your room. It’s a combination of Europe’s best cities and most dramatic natural landscapes that is hard to experience in one go any other way.

Rocky Mountaineer

7. Rocky Mountaineer, North America

Traveling in a coach outfitted with picture windows and glass-dome ceilings means that a Rocky Mountaineer journey leaves no sight unseen as you traverse the dramatic scenery between Vancouver , British Columbia and Banff or Jasper, Alberta. Sample local Canadian beer, wine and snacks as you kick back and enjoy the ride. The staff’s friendly service and animated storytelling help bring the landscape to life. It’s personal touches like those which keep travelers coming away from this trip amply satisfied time and time again. Since it was founded in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has transported more than two million guests, making it the largest privately-owned premium tourist train in the world.

Image may contain Vehicle Transportation Train and Locomotive

6. Rovos Rail, Africa

This extravagant railway has been traveling throughout Africa for over thirty years. The experiences start before you even board—when departing from Pretoria, Rovos Rail travelers are granted exclusive access to a private lounge, where Champagne and canapés greet them—and a strict “no cellphone” rule is maintained for your own good. Enjoy the moment(s) provided by this line, which range from cozy digs to formal-attired evenings, as well as full-sized, freestanding clawfoot tubs in the most grand compartments. All Rovos Rail journeys include off-train cultural, historical and safari excursions so guests can experience all the wonders that Southern Africa has to offer. The three-night Cape Town journey is a classic, but if you’re feeling extra adventurous and have a few more nights to spare, opt for the newer fifteen-day “Trail of Two Oceans” itinerary, originating in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, crossing Zambia, traversing a sliver of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and concluding in Lobito, Angola.

Belmond Andean Explorer

5. Belmond Andean Explorer, A Belmond Train, South America

Weaving through the Peruvian Andes at 14,000 feet, the Belmond Andean Explorer transports passengers between Arequipa and Cusco on one- and two-night journeys. There are just thirty-five cabins on board, each outfitted with alpaca wool blankets and handwoven fabrics for an authentic yet luxe feel. Two dining cars and two bar cars serve the whims of every guest with bites like alpaca tortellini and (of course) champagne. The train also makes excursions to Lake Titicaca , where guests can learn about local customs, visit Incan ruins, and take in breath-taking views.

Belmond British Pullman

4. British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The British Pullman ’s experience is magical no matter where you’re seated. Once you depart London , you’ll embark on a journey through the bucolic British countryside, touring cities and towns like Cambridge, York, and Canterbury along the way. The restored carriages date back to the 1920s and 1930s, so expect Art Deco touches, polished interiors, and classically prepared multi-course meals—this is the same train line that has served British royalty and government officials for years, after all.

train interior

3. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Year after year, the world’s most iconic locomotive continues to be a standard-setter in luxury. Of course, the decadent interiors are a fantasy of 1920’s Art Deco design, but it’s the impeccable service that keeps this train firmly ensconced in a class of its own. Bags are whisked off from the platform and magically reappear in your cabin, no glass ever runs empty, and the beds seem to make themselves anytime you step outside of your cabin. By day you can revel in the scenery of French countrysides and Swiss mountain scenes, and by night, the formal dress code feels anything but stuffy—in fact, playing dress up and making your way to the Champagne bar is, we think, one of the coolest experiences anyone could have on a train. For 2023, this over-the-top train is getting even more luxe updates, including eight new suites, two of which are original 1920s and 30s carriages carefully restored by expert French craftsmen and designers–so there’s no time like the present to book that bucket-list trip.

Palace on Wheels Train

2. Palace on Wheels, India

India’s best-known train, the Palace on Wheels , offers a number of trips that range from a couple days to week-long excursions. Embarking from New Delhi through the Land of Kings, trips take you through the famed Pink City of Jaipur, in Rajasthan, where guests are greeted by majestic UNESCO sites like the Amer Fort as well as 16th century palaces. You can also visit Agra, home to the Taj Mahal and the perfect stop for a tour of some of the country's most iconic sites. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisine in well-appointed, colorful carriages decked out in Indian textiles.

Seven Stars Kyushu

1. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan

Train lovers consider this opulent Japanese locomotive among the most spacious and comfortable of them all. Every inch of Seven Stars' Kyushu train—from the beds, to the bathroom sinks, to the woodwork, to the porcelain dinner plates—is handmade by Japanese artisans, and the service is simply exquisite, with each journey limited to a positively intimate twenty passengers; but it’s not just about the onboard experience with Seven Stars. These four-day, three-night trips travel a circuit around the island of Kyushu, making stops at the region’s best shrines, onsens, porcelain studios, and more, so you truly feel like you’re exploring an authentic side of Japan , far away from the more obvious tourist tracks.

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2 of the top 10 must-see travel experiences in the world are in the U.S., Google data says

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Luxury travel company Kuoni recently released its list of the world's top must-see travel experiences.

To rank the experiences, Kuoni looked for events that occur no more than twice a year and had the most Google searches.

In the top 10 must-see travel experiences based on Google searches, only two are in the U.S., with two more U.S. experiences being a part of the top 20.

No.1 must-see travel experience: Manhattanhenge

New York City's Manhattanhenge is the most searched-for travel experience — the NYC event had over 1.3 million annual Google searches.

The rare event occurs when the Sun appears between the city's grid as it's low in the sky and setting, according to the American Museum of Natural History . The "Manhattanhenge Effect" will occur between May 29 and July 13 this year.

According to the museum, some of the best places to view the Manhattanhenge are from Manhattan's east/west thoroughfares and to get the best view, it recommends finding a spot as far east as possible.

The best streets to see the Manhattanhenge include 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, 42nd Street, and 57th Street.

Top 10 must-see travel experiences in the world

  • Manhattanhenge, New York City
  • Venice Carnival, Italy
  • Rio Carnival, Brazil
  • Day of the Dead, Mexico
  • Chelsea Flower Show, U.K.
  • Golden Week, Japan
  • Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, USA
  • Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland
  • Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
  • Obon Festival, Japan

The No. 2 must-see travel experience in the world is the Venice Carnival in Italy, with over 1.2 million annual searches.

The Venice Carnival takes place every year just before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday — this year the the carnival took place from January 27-February 13.

The annual event is known worldwide for its captivating masquerade masks and costumes.

The carnival began in the 1100s and lasted for several centuries before it was outlawed in the 1700s. Eventually, in 1979, the Italian government brought back the festivities, according to Venice Events .

In 2025, the carnival is set to take place from February 22 to March 4.

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Test your endurance on the world's 10 best treks

Joe Bindloss

Sep 14, 2021 • 11 min read

A walker on the Routeburn Track rising high above Lake Mackenzie.

Supersized landscapes along New Zealand's Routeburn Track © Philip Lee Harvey / Lonely Planet

Ask ten experienced hikers to nominate the best treks in the world and they'll give you ten different answers. Some treks are epic because of the scenery. Some are epic because of the almost superhuman levels of effort and endurance required to reach the end point. For some trekkers, it's all about the destination; for others, it's the journey and the camaraderie along the trail.

But the world's top treks all have one thing in common–a sense of mission that transforms the simple act of walking into a life-affirming expedition. With this in mind, we've compiled our own list of the world's top treks, from jungle trails to breathless tracks through the mountains of Nepal . All require a sturdy pair of lungs and a fit pair of legs, but the experience of trekking is its own reward; we promise you'll still be talking about these hikes decades later!

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Patagonia landscape

Top Tips for Trekkers

Before you load up your backpack with trekking socks and Kendal mint cake, give some thought to the infrastructure on the route you plan to conquer. Some treks require total self-sufficiency, sleeping under canvas and purifying water as you go; other routes have refuges or rustic teahouses every step of the way. Here are some of the key considerations: 

  • Travel light: every extra gram will weigh you down on the trails; if it isn't essential, leave it behind.
  • Respect your feet: boots offer more support, but all-terrain trainers are lighter and dry more quickly after a soaking.
  • Protect your knees: trekking poles can help control the knee-crushing descents that are a feature of pretty much every trek.
  • Climb slowly : Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can kill, so ascend slowly and take rest days to acclimatize on any trek above 2,500m in elevation. 
  • Heed the weather: when treks go wrong, it's normally because of the weather, so check the forecasts; if conditions look bad, stop somewhere safe and sit it out, rather than pushing on over the next pass.
  • Be prepared: don't launch straight from the sofa to the summit–warm up with gentler walks, hikes and runs to get your body used to the exertion.
  • Plan ahead: many trekking routes require a permit and advance booking for lodges and camp sites; for some routes, you need to book months ahead.

Panoramic view of Mount Everest from Kala Patthar with two tourists on the way to Everest base camp.

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Best trek for: would-be mountaineers

Distance: 80 miles (130km) round trip Duration: 2 weeks Level:  moderate

Climbing to 18,193 feet (5,545m) at its highest point, the 2-week trek to Everest Base Camp is Nepal 's best-loved trek, with 8849m Sagarmatha (Mt Everest) rising ahead like a petrified giant. Tracing winding river valleys and the creaking mass of the Khumbu glacier, this mighty mission visits mountain monasteries, soaring lookouts and precariously balanced Sherpa villages, with gruelling days of altitude gain that will test your muscles and endurance to breaking point. 

It's not all hard work though. The trekking infrastructure is unparalleled: porters and guides wait on arrival at Lukla's tiny mountain airstrip, cosy teahouses provide warm beds and nourishing plates of dal bhat (lentils and rice) along the entire route, and side trails open up a mountain playground of summit ascents and high pass crossings for a taste of real mountaineering. Sure, the trails are mobbed in season, but the sense of camaraderie amongst trekkers is hard to beat.

The golden rule, however, is respect the altitude. Acute mountain sickness is a risk if you rush, so take it slow and steady and pause for the recommended rest days to let your body catch up with the elevation.

A woman with a backpack stands on a hilltop along the GR20 trail with rocky mountain peaks visible beyond her

2. GR20, Corsica, France

Best trek for: people who love challenges Distance: 104 miles (168km) round trip Duration: 15 days Level: difficult

This character-building slog through Corsica is legendary for the diversity of landscapes it traverses, and for the level of grit it requires from trekkers who brave its rugged trails. There are forests, granite moonscapes, windswept craters, glacial lakes, torrents, peat bogs, maquis, snow-capped peaks, plains and névés (stretches of ice formed from snow) to conquer, and the tough terrain weeds out all but the most dedicated hikers. 

Created in 1972, the GR20 links the town of Calenzana, in the Balagne, with Conca, north of Porto Vecchio, but the thrills don’t come easy. The path is rocky, uneven and frequently steep, with crossings over rickety bridges and exposed scrambles over slippery rock faces and loose, skittering scree–all part of the fun! You'll be drawing water from springs and sleeping in rustic mountain refuges, but two weeks later, you'll be able to tell the world you conquered Europe's toughest trail.

Machu Picchu

3. Inca Trail, Peru

Best hike for modern-day explorers.

Distance: 20 miles (33km) round trip Duration:  4-5 days Level:  moderate

The 20-mile (33km) trail to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was used for centuries before it was brought to global attention when explorer Hiram Bingham 'discovered' the route in 1911. Today, the secret is definitely out; the trail to Peru 's most famous ruin is packed with backpackers, but with giddying views of high cloud forests and Machu Picchu waiting ahead like a beacon, we suspect you won't mind.

The trail climbs to 7,972 feet (2,430m) from the Sacred Valley , winding its way up, down and around mountains, and crossing three high passes en route. As a consequence of its popularity, the number of hikers permitted each day is restricted to just 200 people to protect Peru's not so lost 'lost city'. The result is a more tranquil experience for those fortunate enough to get permits, but hikers should still take extra care to make sustainable choices when visiting .

Kilimanjaro

4. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Best trek for: snow in the tropics Distance: 23–56 miles (37-90km) Duration : 5–9 days Level: moderate

Okay, it's the favorite trek of fundraisers everywhere, and an almost obligatory trip for visitors to East Africa, but the week-long ascent of Africa's highest mountain is still an epic undertaking. From the moment you first spy its misty prominence rising above the dusty plains, you'll know that Kilimanjaro simply has to be climbed. Lions and elephants may mill around at its base, but the summit is snow-capped and desolate, and lofty enough to bring a risk of altitude sickness at 19,340 feet (5,895m).

There are seven recognized routes to the top, and trekkers can complete the ascent in anything from 5 to 9 days, with longer treks being recommended to reduce the risk of AMS. The final stage usually starts before dawn, reaching the summit as the first light of morning erupts across a vast sweep of African savanna. In practice, nearly two thirds of trekkers opt for the Marangu (6 days) or Machame (7 days) routes on the south side of the mountain.

Nā Pali Coast

5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Best trek for: sea views Distance: 11 miles (18km) each way Duration: 2 days Level: moderate

When asked to pick the best treks in the US, most reach for hikes along the rim of the Grand Canyon, or the mobbed trails that climb to the summits of El Capitan and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park . However, we prefer to choose something a bit more off-piste. Linking Keʻe Beach and the Kalalau Valley on the north shore of Kauaʻi , the beautiful Kalalau trail follows a towering cliff wall dripping with tropical foliage to reach an overnight stop at a splendidly remote Hawaiian beach.

The route along the Nā Pali Coast starts out easy, but gets progressively more challenging on steep dirt paths; the reward comes in the form of elemental views over primordial valleys, thundering waterfalls, secluded beaches and the churning waters of the Pacific Ocean. There's a definite Lost World feel, and a bit of caution is required, as people have fallen from the track or been washed away by sudden flash floods.

Colourful Buddhist prayer flags above Leh

6. Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh, India

Best trek for: spontaneous trekkers Distance :50 miles (80km) Duration:  6-7 days Level:  moderate

Fewer people trek on the Indian side of the world’s mightiest mountain range, but those that do are rewarded with views to rival anything in Nepal, Tibet or Pakistan. There are spectacular treks all over the Indian Himalaya, from the breathless Goecha La trek in Sikkim to pilgrimage treks to remote mountain temples in Uttarakhand and Kashmir , but for our rupee, the best trekking country of all is in lofty Ladakh , crossing high-altitude deserts in the rain-shadow of the high Himalaya.

The Markha Valley trek strains for a week across a wonderfully desolate moonscape, circling south from Leh through the jagged ridges that flank the south bank of the Indus River before emerging near the famous Buddhist gompa (monastery) at Hemis . Best of all, no complex planning is required; you can reach the trailhead by bus from Leh, crossing the river in a dangling basket and stopping at whitewashed teahouses in timeless Buddhist villages along the trail.

shutterstockRF_367597793.jpg

7. Routeburn Track, New Zealand

Best trek for: fans of big landscapes Distance: 20 miles (32km) Duration: 3-4 days Level:  moderate

New Zealand ’s South Island is as alpine as you can get without actually being in the Alps, and the 3-day Routeburn Track is one of the best ways to cross this pristine natural wonderland. This is a trail for fans of big vistas and open skies, following glacier-carved fjords, truncated valleys and rugged ridges through the plunging landscapes of two stunning national parks: Fiordland and Mt Aspiring.

The preferred route runs from the Routeburn Shelter (north of Queenstown) to Milford Road, with overnight stops in spectacularly located campgrounds. Highlights include the views from Harris Saddle and Conical Hill, and chilly dips in spring-fed mountain tarns. The main challenge for this popular hike is securing a place among the limited numbers who are allowed at any one time–make bookings well ahead through the NZ Department of Conservation's Great Walks booking site .

View from the crater rim of Mount Rinjani

8. Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia

Best trek for: early risers Distance: 15 miles (24km) Duration: 2 days Level: moderate

There simply has to be a Southeast Asian volcano hike on the list, and for our money, it's Indonesia's Gunung Rinjani . While Lombok 's blissful beaches simmer at sea level, the island climbs to a breathless height of 12,224 feet (3,726m) at the summit of this enormous lake-capped volcano, which still periodically rumbles into life, most recently in 2016.

Trekking to the summit of Gunung Rinjani is up there with hiking the Himalaya as one of Asia's favorite adventures. To make the best of the views, the final push to the top starts in the dark, in order to gain the crater rim as first light pushes back the gloom, revealing the crater lake and its sinister cinder cones like a lost valley of the dinosaurs.

Girl trail running in Chamonix around the Chesery lake (Lac des Cheserys). In the background many mountains are visible.

9. The Haute Route, France-Switzerland

Best trek for: yodellers Distance: 125 miles (200km) Duration :14 days Level: difficult

Leading from Chamonix in France through the southern Valais to Zermatt in Switzerland , the 2-week-long Walkers' Haute Route trek traverses some of the highest and most eye-popping scenery accessible anywhere in the Alps. Hiking here is a summertime endeavour, tracing a different course to the famous winter Haute Route for ski-tourers. Every stage will test your endurance, with ‘pass hopping’ that demands a high level of fitness on many sections of the walk.

So why put your body through all this exertion? The mountain views, obviously! Some days pass through yodel-worthy alpine meadows, while others struggle over glacier-carved outcrops guarded by mountain giants. And with this being northern Europe, the infrastructure along the way is excellent, with hotels, gites d’etape (rest shelters), auberges (inns) and mountain refuges dotted all along the route. You'll appreciate a warm bed and a hot meal as you tackle over 46,000 feet (14,000m) of elevation gain.

Torres del Paine National Park

10. The Torres del Paine Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

Best trek for :photographers Distance: 85 miles (136km) Duration: 9 days Level:  difficult

Many visitors to Chile 's Torres del Paine National Park draw up short when they see the scale of the terrain and opt for the shorter 'W Trek', but we recommend following the full 9-day 'O Trek' circuit, to soak up the sheer variety of landscapes in this magnificent wilderness reserve. As you follow the trail from Las Torres, you'll pass some of the world's most photogenic vistas: crystal-clear rivers, sculpted mountains, open grasslands, old-growth forests, deep and silent lakes and the icy tongue of Grey Glacier.

That's a lot of variety per trekking mile, but you need to plan ahead as only 80 trekkers are permitted on each section of track at any given time, and camping sites and refugios are in heavy demand. Make bookings with the companies operating the lodges and camping areas months in advance if you hope to secure a slot during the busy November to March trekking season.

You might also like: 8 of the world's most epic hikes Trekking to K2 base camp in Pakistan: everything you need to know See gushing waterfalls and hidden hot springs on these 13 top Iceland hikes

This article was first published in November 2010.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated September 2021

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25 Best Road Trips in the World – That We’ve Taken

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 11, 2024

We’ve taken a lot of the best road trips in the world during our travels. We’ve done everything from epic road trips lasting 6 weeks to one-day scenic drives that cover spectacular scenery. We’ve done them all and here are the best road trips Dave and I have done around the world.

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips in the World

Thanks  Johnny Jet  and  Chris McGinnis  for giving us the idea to make this list. It was during their Twitter chat about road trips that we realized, “wow, we’ve driven most of the ultimate road trip destinations on earth!” So without further adieu, let’s take a look at road trips around the world that we have done by country or continent.

Road Trips in the USA

There’s no doubt about it, the United States is one of the best road trip destinations in the world. Many of the best road trips in the world are located right in the United States. We’ve been lucky enough to drive along most of the East and West Coasts of the country and here are a few of our favorite routes.

1. Route 66 – Arizona

Route 66 is the road trip of dreams. We have all listened to that beautiful song by Nat King Cole and fantasized about driving Route 66 one day. And we had the chance. It lives up to the hype. Albeit, only portions of it are worth driving.

Much of the 3,940km route is abandoned and decrepit as it was forgotten when the highway system was put in place, but there are parts that have been turned into national scenic byways in Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico, and Arizona . We have driven many different portions of  Route 66 , but you can drive this entire route from Chicago to California.

For more another great US Road trip not on this list check out:  The Ulitmate 10 Day Arizona Road Trip ,

  • Duration: 1 Day for portions to 2-3 weeks
  • Highlights of Route 66: Best portions are in Arizona , New Mexico, Missouri and Illinois.
  • Read more at:  Route 66 Road Trip – Cruising The Main Street of America

2. Pacific Coast Highway – California

It’s the most epic drive in the United States. The drive starts in Monterrey and weaves down Highway 1 to Los Angeles . Make sure to stay the night in Monterrey or Carmel by the Sea . There is great kayaking in the marine reserve of Monterrey and Surfing in Carmel. Read more: Big Sur Road Trip – The Best Viewpoints

It’s a beautiful coastal highway with long stretches of beaches, impressive sea cliffs, and legendary stops where movie stars and billionaires have hung out for decades to escape the hustle and bustle of California cities. And definitely take time to stay at one of the best places to stay in California (Mark Zuckerberg stayed here) the Ventana

  • Duration: 2-4 Days
  • Highlights of Pacific Coast Highway – The Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Carmel by the Sea, Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and Pfeiffer Beach.
  • Read more at  California Road Trip and Where to Camp in Big Sur

3. San Francisco to LA –  National Parks Route

This is the epic American route. Don’t just drive in a straight line from San Francisco to Los Angeles, go everywhere in between. This road trip takes you through four different states and showcases the best of America’s National Parks and cities.

It takes you through the most rugged and beautiful landscapes of America and you visit the most exciting cities in the country. Read more: Things to do in Yosemite National Park

  • Duration: 2 Weeks
  • Highlights of San Francisco to Los Angeles – Grand Canyon , Vegas, Antelope Canyon, Zion National Park, Yosemite National Park
  • Read More:  Make the Most of Antelope Canyon Photography Tour

4. Hana Highway – Maui Hawaii

It’s just a short drive, but everyone who goes to Maui raves about the Hana Highway. This (mostly) single lane road is a day trip that spans the North Coast of the Island from Paia to Hana.

It twists and turns and you cross 59 bridges during the 2-3 hour drive (one way) there are many scenic stops along the way, but the real beauty begins after Hana when you reach  Haleakala National Park . This is one of the top things to do in Maui , so if you plan a trip, make sure to rent a car and drive the road to hana.

  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Highlights of the Hana Highway : Bamboo Forest, Painted Eucalyptus Trees, 7 Sacred Pools, Waterfalls, Scenic Views
  • Read More: Road Trip to Hana and Beyond

5. 17 Mile Drive – California

It may be a short road trip, but it is a goodie. You can take an entire day exploring 17-Mile Drive at Carmel By the Sea. If you are looking for a different way of road tripping, try e-biking instead of going in a car. A road trip doesn’t have to be always in a car, we’ve included cycling Africa as one of our best road trips we’ve ever done! Read more: Photography Guide to Big Sur Coastal Drive, California

  • Duration: a few hours to 1 day
  • Highlights of 17 Mile Drive: Ghost Tree, Bird Rock,  the Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, John Denver Memorial, Beaches, Links at Spanish Bay, Pebble Cove.
  • Read More : The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and The Best Viewpoints
  • Best California Road Trip

6. Miami to Key West

It took Dave and me a few tries to finally make it to Key West. We have driven from Canada to Central Florida many times, but only ever made it as far as Daytona and Orlando .

We had flown into Miami before but never did a road trip to the Florida Keys. When we finally rented a car and made our way to the famous ocean highway to the southern tip of the United States. We felt like we entered a different world. Key West is like being in the Caribbean without having to stamp your passport. Check out these Facts about Florida

It’s only a day trip from Miami to Key West, but we suggest taking your time to explore the Keys on the way down.

  • Duration: 1-day return trip to 1 week for exploring.
  • Highlights of Key West Road Trip – Marathon Key, Hemingway’s House, Key Largo , Dry Tortugas National Park, snorkeling, underwater museum, Seven Mile Bridge, Southernmost Point , Islamorada Florida Keys , & Where to Stay in The Florida Keys
  • Read More: Miami to Key West Road Trip – Best Florida Keys Itinerary

7. Lake Superior Circle Tour – USA and Canada

Road trips can take many forms and we circumnavigated the world’s largest freshwater lake by motorcycle. The Lake Superior Circle Tour is one of the epic motorcycle routes in North America, but it’s also fabulous in a car and makes for an amazing road trip.

From the sandy shores of the southern shore to the rocky high sea cliffs of the wild north, this is an unexpected route through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconson, and Minnesota. Travel through small-town USA, historic treasures and the wild abandoned North of Ontario, this road trip is magnificent.

  • Duration: 4 days to 2 weeks.
  • Highlights of Lake Superior Circle Tour – Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Terri Fox Memorial, Beautiful coast, three different states and one province in Canada
  • Read More:  The Best of the Lake Superior Circle Tour
  • See all of the best places to visit in Michigan for your next road trip.

Canadian Road Trips

Canada is our favourite country for road tripping and in our humble opinion, the best road trips in the world are located in our home country. From both coasts to the far north, through high altitude of the Rocky Mountains and along the shore, you will see it all in Canada.

8. Icefields Parkway – Alberta

Alberta’s Icefields Parkway is often considered one of the top road trips in the world! And with good reason. There are so many things to see along the way. There is one spectacular scene after another.

Starting in Banff, the road trip takes you north along Highway 1 through the Rocky Mountains. It spans two of Canada’s most beautiful National Parks. Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. See our full drive here.

There are scenic lookouts galore where you can go hiking or to simply take in the view of mirror lakes reflecting jagged snow-capped mountains. A highlight is stopping at the Athabasca Glacier for a snowcat tour of this gigantic piece of ice and to take a walk on the Icefields Sky Walk. Continue on to Jasper where you can explore more of Alberta’s rugged and remote areas. Suggested hotel Fairmont Jasper and Fairmont Lake Louise

  • Duration:  1-3 Days
  • Highlights of the Icefields Parkway: Bow Lake, Columbia Icefields Skywalk, Athabasca Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise
  • Read more about Banff:  The Rocky Mountaineer,   Where to Stay in Banff

9. Dempster Highway – Yukon

For the ultimate road trip adventure, there’s not a lot that compares to the Dempster Highway. You can drive to the Arctic on the Dempster Highway and that is exactly what we did.

This 736 km road stretches from the far Arctic in Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, to Dawson City in the  Yukon. It crosses the equator through the most beautiful landscape in the world. You’ll see caribou, grizzley bears and other wildlife on along the way and it is simply spectacular.

  • Duration:  2-6 days
  • Highlights of the Dempster Highway:  Crossing the Arctic Circle, Innuvik, Dawson City, Eagle Plains, Tombstone Mountains
  • Read More:   Drive to the Arctic, Yes you Can

10. Fundy Trail – New Brunswick

The province of New Brunswick houses one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Canada. Famous for the Hopewell Rocks, we drove along the Bay of Fundy Parkway and witnessed giant sea cliffs plunging into the sea.

There are secluded and isolated beaches, it crosses through the Fundy National Park where you can hike to waterfalls and lookouts and it drives along one of the longest undeveloped coastlines in North America.

It is home to the world’s highest tides where you can walk out for miles on the ocean floor. Take your time to drive along this stretch of road that houses some of the most spectacular scenery on earth.

  • Duration:  3 – 4 Days
  • Highlights of the Fundy Trail : Hopewell Rocks, Saint Stephen’s Sea Caves, Fundy National Park, Cape Enrage, Town of Alma, Covered Bridges. 
  • Read More:  Things to do in Saint John, New Brunswick

11. Cowboy Trail – Alberta

If you love getting away from it all and having a rip-roaring adventure, the Cowboy Trail is for you. This is one of our favourite road trips we’ve ever done. Following the route through Southern Alberta is easy, well marked and filled with activities and beauty. There is something to see every single day and this trip will surprise you.

From the lunar landscape of the badlands to where the great plains meet the Rocky Mountains, you’ll be driving through the varied landscapes that will take your breath away.

  • Highlights of the Cowboy Trail: Dinosaur Provincial Park, Crows Nest Pass, Bar U Ranch, Waterton Lakes National Park, Hoodoos of Drumheller
  • Read more:  Full Itinerary – Alberta Road Trip, Where to Stay in Banff

12. Cabot Trail – Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail is one of Canada’s Ultimate Scenic Highways. Located on  Nova Scotia’s  Cape Breton Island, it is filled with sea cliffs, coastal hikes, beaches, and untamed wilderness. You’ll see moose on the Skyline walk, whales on kayaking and scenic boat trips and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of St. Lawrence explore the best scenic stops in the country.

  • Duration: 2-5 Days
  • Highlights of the Cabot Trail: Skyline Trail, Alexander Graham Bell’s house, Uisge Ban Waterfall Hike, North River Kayaking, Ingonish Beach, Middle Head Trail, Boat Tours, whale watching and wildlife.
  • Read More:  11 Not to be Missed Stops on the Cabot Trail

13. Sea to Sky Highway – British Columbia

Canada is known for its multiday road trips since the country is so massive, but the Sea to Sky Highway is an excellent short road trip from Vancouver. The Sea to Sky drive is only about 90 minutes from Vancouver to Whistler, but there are many sights to see along the way this mountain road.

We suggest taking at least two days and spend the night in Squamish. Squamish has some of the best rock climbing in the world at Big Chief, there are world-class kite surfing and backcountry hiking. It also has fantastic dining options.

On the way to Whistler (home to the 2010 Olympics), there are scenic lookouts, waterfalls, hiking trails and adrenaline sports like bungy jumping, skydiving and scenic flights) Read more at Sea to Sky Highway Stops – What to See From Vancouver to Whistler

14. Sunshine Coast – British Columbia

A 90-minute ferry ride from Vancouver takes you to the start of the Sunshine Coast drive at Gibsons Landing. The beloved Canadian TV Series, The Beachcombers was filmed here for 20 years! You may also like These Best Places to Visit in British Columbia

The Sunshine Coast takes you through a gorgeous coastal drive, historic towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It has some of the best mountain biking and hiking in the country with well marked trails and few crowds.

It’s a wonderful road trip taking you on several ferries, over bridges and along the coast. The entire loop goes through the towns on the Sunshine Coast to Vancouver Island.

  • Duration: 1 week Highlights of the Sunshine Coast: Gibson’s Landing, Smuggler’s Cove, Historic Powell River, Rockwater Resort, Secret Cove, Lund, Desolation Sound
  • Watch our video of our Sunshine Coast Road Trip

The Best European Road Trips

5. wild atlantic way – ireland.

It’s the longest Coastal Route in the World and Ireland has done an incredible job at marketing it as the best road trips on earth. During our many trips around Ireland, The Wild Atlantic Way is a standout. Starting in Dublin , we made a b-line for the west coast of Southwest coast of Ireland from Cork to the  Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal .

The Wild Atlantic Way runs 2500 km up the Western Coast of Ireland. There are so many things to see and do on this route. Every day offers spectacular views of enormous sea cliffs, incredible beaches, and unique culture . This is a road trip that packs a huge punch with a road that goes along the entire west coast of Ireland. Read more: 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland

  • Duration: 2-4 weeks
  • Highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way: Cliffs of Moher, Skellig Michael, Mizen Head, Poulnabrone Dolmen, Slea Head Drive, Aran Islands
  • Read more about this Road Trip :  Tips for Driving the Wild Atlantic Way 

16. North Coast 500 – Scotland

The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to America’s Route 66. With legendary castles, extraordinary coastal scenery, and famous whisky distilleries lining the winding single track lanes, the North Coast 500 is the ultimate drive for travel lovers.

At 500 miles long it is a touring route around Scotland’s northern coast, starting in Inverness. A Highlithg was most certainly Duncansby Head’s Seastacks

  • Duration: 5 Days to 2 Weeks
  • Highlights of the North Coast 500:  Inverness, Duncansby Head, Loch Ness, Distilleries, Dornoch Castle, Smoo Caves, Ullapool, Klinlochewe Viewpoint, Applecross, Baelnabach. Eilean Donan Castle
  • Read More:  The Essential Guide to the North Coast 500

17. Amalfi Coast – Italy

I think the best road trip in Europe is the Amalfi Coast . We fell in love with that drive from Sorrento to Ravello. There is a reason this drive along the most stunning sea cliffs on earth has been used in so many movies.

The towns and lookouts along the coast are something out of a fairytale. They are just gorgeous. We pulled off to the side of the road to look at the luxurious island of Capri. We saw yachts sailing along the coast, and we were ein awe at the height of the seacliffs. It is truly spectacular.

  • Duration:  2 days to a week
  • Highlights of the Amalfi Coast  – Positano , Amalfi Town, Ravello, Sorrento, Beaches, Grottos, Capri, Hiking and Waterfalls. 
  • Watch it:  Watch our video of our Amalfi Road Trip
  • Check out our post :  The Best Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

18. Causeway Coast – Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is so amazing for driving and its star attraction is the Causeway Coast. The Causeway Coastal Route is filled with stop after stop of amazing sights and scenery.

It’s a much shorter route than the Wild Atlantic Way and it can be done in just a couple of days, but we recommend giving at least 4 days to explore this coast because there is so much to see.

We actually took 9 days to drive around Northern Ireland and it was perfect. Highlights include the Giant’s Causeway, Carick a Rede Bridge, The Dark Hedges and Belfast

  • Duration: About a Week
  • Highlights of the Causeway Coast – Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, Belfast, Game of Thrones. 
  • Read more:  Best things to do in Northern Ireland

19. Bavaria – Germany

Driving through the Bavarian Alps will take your breath away. Our road trip through the Alps started in Munich where we made our way to some of Germany’s most iconic sites.

Take a trip through fairytale castles and the highest peaks of Germany for one of the most memorable drives on earth. Go to the Olympic town of Garmish-Partenkirken, tour the world’s oldest monastery and brewery and hike through the picturesque landscape filled with rivers, valleys, lakes, and mountains.

  • Duration: 2  Weeks
  • Highlights of Bavaria : Neuschwanstein Castle, Berchtesgaden ,  Weltenburg Abbey, Danube Gorge, Munich , Nuremberg, Volkach wine region, Alpspix
  •   The Best of Bavaria  
  • Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen
  • Things to do in Munich

20. Ring Road – Iceland

The Ring Road Route 1 of Iceland circles the entire country offering drivers the chance to explore every nook and cranny. People normally drive the route in 10 days to 2 weeks, but to really explore Iceland properly you should take longer. We drove around the island in a counterclockwise directly from Reyjavik Vik and then turning north to see the rest of Iceland.

You can camp or stay at hotels along the way. We drove counterclockwise around the 1,322 km (821 miles). With magnificent glaciers, mountains, hot springs, an untamed coastline, and fascinating culture, The Iceland Ring Road is definitely one of the best road trips in the world.

  • Duration: 2 Weeks
  • Highlights of the Ring Road:  Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Skogafoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Horseback Riding Skagafjörður Region, Myvatn Geothermal Area, Kirkjufellsfoss
  • Read more:  18 Photos of Iceland’s Mind-Blowing Beauty and 30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland

The Best International Road Trips

21. south island – new zealand.

The best way to get around New Zealand is by driving independently. We traveled the South Island two ways, on a bus with the Flying Kiwi which was affordable and a great way to see the highlights, but once we took more time to explore with our own camper van, that’s when the true road trip in New Zealand began.

Just follow the roads in a circle around the South Island island to explore all there is to see and do. New Zealand has a diverse landscape in a very little area. You’ll be mesmerized by the changing landscape before your eyes at each and every turn. Be sure to drive the Milford Road to see the incredible Milford Sound.

There are glaciers, mountains, lakes, and amazing adventures to be had. Read all about it on 46 Top Things to do in New Zealand

  • Duration: 4 Weeks
  • Highlights : Queenstown, Milford Sound, Abel Tasman, Lake Tekapo, Kaikoura, Pancake Rocks
  • Read more about New Zealand:  33 Reasons to Visit New Zealand

22. Great Ocean Road – Australia

Australia is an amazing country to take a driving tour. The Great Ocean Road is probably the most scenic road trip in the country. The route is more than 600km (400 miles) and drives along sea cliffs, jungles, and out to amazing beaches. Some of the top beaches for surfing are located along this route.

If you can, get out and hike because that is where you really get to witness the spectacular coast. We did the Great Ocean Walk – A Beautiful Way to Experience the Twelve Apostles and it was truly a memorable experience.

  • Duration:  1 – 3 days
  • Highlights  – Twelve Apostles, Bells Beach, Koalas of Kennet River, Otway National Park,
  • Read more:   Great Ocean Walk to the 12 Apostles

Overland Europe to Asia

23. mongol rally – 12 countries/2 continents.

It’s the mother of all road trips and the most epic road trip we have ever taken. We hit the open road for six weeks traveling overland from England to Mongolia. iI you are up for the adventure of a lifetime, this is a must.

The Mongol Rally is on many a bucket list and it lives up to the hype! The Mongol Rally is a charity rally starting in London, England and ending in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Read more: 38 Best Things to do in London, England In 2023

You choose your route and take as long as you want to get there. Take your time to get to know the people, and to experience some of the most remote regions on earth.

You just have to raise a certain amount of money for charity and buy a car that used to be donated to the country, but now must be shipped back when you finished.

Or if you have loads of time, return in back around in a different route!

  • Duration – 3-8 weeks
  • Highlights – 15 countries, 2 continents, endless possibilities – Siberia, The Mongolian Steppe, Prague, Brussels , Kyiv, Kazakhstan, it all really depends on the route you choose to take.
  • Countries include England , France, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Tip of Austria, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia.

Africa Road Trips

24.  garden route – south africa.

I always thought the Garden Route of South Africa sounded a little tame, the name sounds like we’d be driving through Botanical gardens. I had visions of sipping tea in manicured gardens as we overlooked the ocean, but this road trip is filled with amazing adventure, striking coastlines, wild animals, incredible nature, and world class wine and dining.

The Garden Route is the southern half of the Durban to Cape Town road trip that we took, and we highly recommend doing the entire thing. South Africa has it all in one of the most exotic and beautiful places on earth. From Gorgeous coastal views, whale watching, jungles and caves. There is so much to see. This is a year round route so hop in your car and go any time.

  • Highlights – Great White Shark Diving, Cango Caves, Big 5 Safari, Ostrich Farm, Microlight over Durban, Cape Town
  • Read More:  Awesome Things to do in South Africa

25. Cairo to Cape Town –  Entire Coast of Africa

We said early that road trips take many forms, so we wanted to include this one as well. This is more than a cross country road trip, it’s a cross-continent road trip!

Even though we did it by bicycle, you can drive an SUV or motorcycle down the Eastern side of Africa. 12,000 km takes you through some of the most fascinating countries on earth.

Landscapes and cultures vary drastically as you start in the desert landscape of Egypt’s Middle East and the Islamic culture of Sudan. It’s then into the great plains, jungles, and wildlife of Eastern and Southern Africa that takes you all the way down to the Southern point of the continent. Wow!

You can drive this epic route down Africa going through 9 countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Botswana, Zambia, South Africa.

  • Duration: 3 – 4 months
  • Highlights : 10 countries, 3- 6 months, the possibilities are once again endless…Pyramids of Egypt, Blue Nile, Victoria Falls, Safaris, Chobe National Park, Addis Ababa, Nubian Desert of Sudan, Cape Town South Africa
  • Read more:  We cycled the Continent of Africa

Road Trip Planner Apps

  • Road Tripping Apps – Going on a Road Trip Check out these driving route planners and travel apps to make the most of your trip.
  • Apple Maps:  We used Apple Maps recently from Florida to Toronto and found it to be better than Google Maps. It offered more options for avoiding traffic than Google.
  • Road Trippers:  Road Trippers is a popular one that is free for shorter road trips offering 7 waypoints. If you upgrade to the paid subscription you get 150 points to pin on your route.
  • Waze:  Dave os a huge fan of Waze, even for daily commutes. It’s a social-riven app that lets you know of collisions, traffic, police radar and gas prices.
  • Spotify:  Okay, this isn’t a route planning app, but it is a must for road tripping. We have our tunes for each part of the day sectioned on playlists.
  • To get started we use our  Ultimate Road Trip playlist  and then as the day goes on we end with our mellow mix.

Travel Tips for Road Trip Planning

We have taken a lot of road trips, and the best times we have had were when we were prepared.

We aren’t saying that you can’t stray from your route, but have what you need ready in case of an emergency or any unplanned hiccups.

I know a lot of this is common sense, but if you go through the checklist, it will make for fewer headaches when you are on the road.

Route Planning and Maps

Plan the route on your road trip planner,  but have a hard copy map with you as well. In many places, you are going to drop cellular coverage and will have to rely on good old fashioned map reading.

Have car chargers for your electronics . Most cars have a USB charger, but we find we need more than one. We love the dual USB charger, we have even charged our drone in our car while on a road trip.

Car Insurance

Insurance : If you are renting a car, check with your insurance company to see if it covers rentals, if not make sure you get insurance.

Our American Express Platinum Card also covers all insurance if we rent our car through our credit card in the same name that the rental is in. Check with your credit card company to see if you are covered for everything.

We nearly always get the extra coverage because we don’t want the hassle of having to go through our insurance should something happen.

If there is a fender bender, we just hand over the keys and don’t worry about a thing. but it is more money, so be prepared.

If you enjoyed this post, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning. 

So there you have it. The best road trips ever! (that we have taken) There are other road trips on our list. Like Let us know if you have a suggestion, we are always adding to our list.

Read other road trip itineraries destinations around the world

  • Tasmania Road Trip
  • Ultimate Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina Road Trip
  • Tips for Driving from England to Mongolia
  • Mongol Rally Gear Guide

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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72 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the World – That We’ve Taken”

I was very excited after reading about Road Trip. I like this part “It’s the longest Coastal Route in the World and Ireland has done an incredible job at marketing it as the best road trips on earth” very much because I have never here about it. Thanks for writing about road trip. I also write a blog on it but it is nothing in front of your Article.

I would have never thought about the Mongol Rally until I saw this. That is an awesome trip out of so many I honestly don’t know how to pick a favorite. Thanks so much for all this good information to have.

I loved reading about your road trip experience around the world. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Arizona is my one of the favorite places. hope, i’ll go there in future. thanks for sharing this amazing post with us.

So many fantastic road trips – so much to be discovered! We have done a lot in the USA, and especially loved our California road trip that included 5 national parks and we REALLY LOVE Colorado – you two would love a southwest Colorado road trip !

The view of the Arizone road 66 is awesome.It stars attracting me,haha

OMG! These places are really so amazing. I always love to travel whenever I’ve chance to visit. Also, I want to say that these roads are beautiful to see. You’ve counted the most beautiful place from all over the world. In this article all pictures are mindblowing. Thanks

When i “grow up” i want to to atleast half of this 🙂 🙂 Thanks for sharing.

Really a great list of road trips. Love to do one of these road trips. Thanks for sharing.

Amazing post! I’ve only been to a few of these road trips in past four years. Now it looks like I have many more to add to my bucket list. Pictures are gorgeous! Thanks for the list.

Wow, what a great list of the trips. It is nice and informative.

Can any one give me a perfect travel plan to visit Amalfi Coast – Italy. May i know the monsoon time of Amalfi Coast.

You can check out our blog here. We are planning on updating it with more information, but it gives you the highlights here. https://theplanetd.com/things-to-do-in-amalfi-coast-italy/

Thanks for sharing a great post!

Great post, we have to go back to Canada for a while next year and planning a few road trips out west. We’ve seen much of the world the last 5 years but really haven’t seen much of Canada.

We did our own version of the Garden Route a few years back, crossing the mountains into the Karoo and then across the Swartberg pass to Prince Albert. The best road trip we’ve done.

Fantastic list of imagination I love road trips very much. I feel more close to nature Maybe in my next trip I’ll think about one of them and over time I’ll try it all Thank you I’m constantly following up on your advice

Looks like you have not traversed the entire Route 66 so let’s do it. When do you want to go?

Thank you all for your responses. Greatly appreciated.

I’ve done the road 66 with my best friends and laugh a lot, I really need to make much more road trips it was so a good experience, loved it! I’ve written an article also about Road trips

I’d add the Corniche, the drive along the French Riviera coastline from St Tropez to Cannes, past and then on to Juan Les Pins, Antibes and Nice, a really brilliant drive.

Awesome article and inspiration, thanks Dave and Deb! I agree with you on the South African Garden Route (also the trans-Karoo is spectacular…and many more in our beautiful country). One more to try out if you haven’t is Namibia – that country was MADE for gravel travel roadtripping! From south to north, the desert scenery turns to bush and lush riverine country in the north – and NEVER gets ugly, boring or repetitive. An outstandingly beautiful and safe country to travel. PS our names are also Dave and Deb 🙂

hey Dave and Deb, In search of freedom and liberty, I quit my job and started my business. Hope this venture of mine goes successful. If that happens, the first thing that I am gonna do is spend a nice and a long vacation with my family. you guys are amazing. keep travelling and keep sharing.

regards, Dhruv K. Mangukia

Amazing photos, great list of Road trips. You guys done a great job. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Thabks sharing the awesome travel Skills

I think Ireland will be one for us soon ? Headed to the US soon but no roadtrip one this trip!

Another nice but short road-trip is from Lisbon to Faro at the west-coast of Portugal. I did this last year with a friend and it was awesome! Although the weather wasn’t that good we saw a lot of beautiful bay areas. forests and hidden cliffs!

Wow these are all epic, I would love to do some of these road trips – fantastic post!

really a very good list.. thanx for sharing

Great list! I’d love to take one of these road trips one day. Thanks for sharing..

Love your site!!! We me and my wife are getting ready for a European roadtrip in a mobile home do you have any expirience or tips of that? All our best Annika & Daniel Majak

We haven’t done a European mobile home trip, but we did have a campervan in New Zealand. just have a great time, be flexible and enjoy the campgrounds. We’ve stayed at a few campgrounds in Europe and they are excellent! They’re often close to cities and some even have shuttles.

I have almost finished 2500km walk around Ireland, doing both the Coastal walk, and the Wild Atlantic way, the published distance is a bit missleading, you would have to go back and forth on every sign poated road for the WAW to be 2500. That said , it is spectacular.

That is great that you have walked nearly all around Ireland. The official Website for the WAW also says 2500 km. That’s their claim to fame, the longest coast driving route int he world. Pretty awesome. I didn’t measure the exact km we did from bottom to top, but it was pretty much 2500 km as well. We definitely did a lot of back and forth and around different bays and lochs, so that probably explains. If you go in a direct line, it definitely cuts km off:)

Awesome and interesting post.

Massive list!! You guys have done on a lot! Currently doing a massive road trip to Mongolia, inspired by the mongol rally. But i like to take some more time then 3-8 weeks 😉

One good roadtrip that you guys ‘should’ do is the Transfagarasan in Romania. 90 km both ways and very scenic!

Love your website!!! Arnoud

That’s a good idea. We’d like to do it again but take a few months. There’s so much to see and so many different routes. The Mongol Rally was a blast, but longer would be better. Thanks for the suggestion about Romania. We drove through Romania during the Mongol Rally, but I’m not sure if we went that route. Cheers!

Would do any of these at the drop of a hat. Road trips are such a fun, classic way to see the world 🙂

They are a great way to see the world aren’t they?

Some incredibly beautiful places…… all the pics in this post are worthy of becoming wallpaper on my laptop……. I will make at least a couple of these my laptop wallpapers!!

Some of these are still on the bucket list, and while the LA to SF is one of the shortest it is one of my favorite! So many people think California is just LA and don’t take the time to spend the extra couple days to enjoy the AMAZING drive up the coast. Carmel might just be one of my favorite little towns on Earth!

Great list! I’d love to take one of these road trips one day. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you Sanjana. You would love any one of these road trips. We definitely did.

Amazing photos, great list of Road trips. Though I’m a hiking lover but you did succeed in encouraging me to try road trips. I don’t know how to drive and my parents never taught me. Maybe I can ask my parents to drive for me and explore all of this area.

Glad we could entice you to give road trips a try. We love hiking too. The great thing about a road trip, is you can take time off to go for a hike. The car gives you freedom to do whatever you like. I think your parents would love a road trip too!

Taking note, as a few of these are in the works. And guys, Norway has fabulous road trips, especially along the long coast. Just sayin’. 🙂

Thanks Sophie! Have a great time road tripping! I would love to go to Norway, hopefully one day soon, that is one long coas.t We’ll be sure to rent a car!

The Cairo to Cape town trip looks exciting. Is the route generally safe?

Dave & Deb, having just made the legendary road-trip along California’s Highway One, I’m eager to do more, and like the look of the drives that you included here. Another one of our favorites has been exploring the Dalmatian coastline in Croatia, and then crossing into Montenegro and Albania too. Love your captures, particularly those from Hawaii and Dark Hedges,.

They sound like awesome road trips, thanks for sharing! WE havne’t been to Montenegro or Albania, I smell another road trip on the horizon! Thanks for the compliment regarding the photographs. It’s pretty easy to be inspired by such beautiful destinations.

Some great exciting road trips, im from New Zealand and have yet done a South Island road trip, although many of my friends have and say it is amazing!

Thank you! You’ll definitely have to get that South Island road trip in, it’s amazing!

I have done a few of these road trips that you mentioned, but nothing to the level that you guys have done. The pictures are fabulous. Your mention of the Route 66 road trip brought back memories to me. I made a cross country road trip of the USA where most of it was on Route 66 when they were still building the interstate highway system, so most the the route was still there. I am so glad that I did because a lot of that is gone now and I have memories that cannot be duplicated today. I am intrigued with Canada and would love to take a trip across the southern portion. I would also enjoy such a trip by train and leave the driving to them. I heard there is such a great trip available.

Hey Bob, that would have been amazing. We only gave it an honorable mention because we haven’t done the entire thing. We felt that we couldn’t properly say we’ve done Route 66 when we’ve only done portions. Now to do the whole thing, that would be amazing. I’d love to do it on a motorcycle. You would love visiting Canada, In the summer, it’s beautiful. A road trip through the Rockies is outstanding.

Loved doing road trips in South Africa and in South Island New Zealand where the blues are the most gorgeous hues we have ever seen! Next time, do try the Route 62 from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth in South Africa – the towering cliffs just come at you! Also you two will love the east coastal drive in Sri Lanka – although hugging the east coast, the route also takes you inland through some rugged terrain with elephants. Lovely images – thanks for inspiring us.

Sounds fantastic! Thanks for the recommendations. You could spend a lifetime doing road trips around the world and barely scratch the surface. We didn’t get to explore much of the Eastern Sri Lankan Coast, another reason to go back!

South Island, New Zealand is very beautiful place in world. Really I like this place very much. Anyone can be more delighted to come here.

These all look amazing. I was on the Hana Highway many years ago, and would love to go back. Having lived in Alberta in the 70’s (and dating a couple of cowboys!), I’d love to go back and do the Cowboy Trail

thanks for this compilation. It will now be on my bucket list before I turn 60. 10 years to go. Keep exploring guys !

Fantastic photos guys. Very sharp! I’ve done a road trip from LA through to Arizona, Utah and Nevada. It was our first time in America and I did this with my husband and young son. Also, we drove from Berlin to London. I’m not sure that you would call it a road trip per se, but I think driving through 5 independent countries and then crossing the British Channel should surely count LOL! Nice post guys. 🙂

Hi Victoria, Thanks for the compliment. Sounds like you’ve done some awesome road trips. I call Berlin to London a road trip for sure. Anytime you drive and travel, it’s a road trip to me! Love it!

Wow, what a great list of road trips! Some wonderful photos too. Really like the bamboo forest. I’ve only done a couple road trips that you have listed…Page to Antelope Canyon being one of them. I actually did a little video if your readers are interested: http://www.mikesroadtrip.com/antelope-canyon

Thanks Mike, that bamboo forest is pretty incredible eh? I’ll definitely check out the video, thanks for sharing.

Would love to do every single one of the road trips you mentioned above. Especially the Mongol Rally would be something I´d love to do. My aunt and uncle did it a couple of years ago and they fell in love with the landscape in Mongolia. If you have a chance you should do a road trip in Southern France. The Lavender Route is a great route where you will drive along one of the largest canyons in Europe and you will drive past the famous lavender fields.

Your Aunt and Uncle are right. The landscape of Mongolia is so beautiful, we both really want to go back. We’ve actually done Southern France, I should have included that one! We went from Paris through the South of France, into Spain and then over to the Cinque Terre in Italy. You’ve reminded me that I will have to add it to this list when I get a chance.

Great list!! We are currently driving the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland! Also headed to the Causeway Coast. Love the Lake Superior Circle Tour (Duluth/Superior is our home town!!!) and loved the Road to Hana. Nothing like a great road trip.

Have an amazing time on the Wild Atlantic Way! It’s incredible isn’t it? And enjoy the Causeway Coast,try to stay over night at the Giant’s Causeway to see it in the morning or at sunset without all the tour buses there. Totally worth it.

Great post with amazing photos!

Thanks Johnny! And thanks for the inspiration it was #TravelSkills that got me thinking about putting all the road trips together!

I’ve only been to a few of these road trips, looks like quite a few more I would need to add to my bucket list – gorgeous pics!

Thanks Noel, I’m glad we could inspire you with a few ideas:)

Fantastic list of imagination I love road trips very much. I feel more close to nature Maybe in my next trip I’ll think about one of them and over time I’ll try it all Thank you I’m constantly following up on your advice

Thanks Noel even I am glad to know this Thank You very much

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No matter their age and the challenges that come with it, you’ll never regret traveling with your child.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

In my child-free 20s, I was teaching in Los Angeles and saving my pennies so that I could backpack abroad during my summers off. My love for travel started then — riding in the back of a pickup truck from Latacunga to the Quilotoa Loop in Ecuador, marveling at the size of China’s Great Wall as I traversed it at Mutianyu, and wandering the snowy alleys of Takayama, Japan, in search of incredible ramen. 

Looking back, I see what a wildly charmed decade of my life that was. And once I had children — two daughters, now 10 and three — I was determined to keep some of that charm around. You’d be hard-pressed to find a mother who thinks travel with kids is easy , but ease isn’t the goal, is it? For me, the fun is in discovering who you are in a new place, among new people, learning about cultures around the world, and going for something even if it scares you a little. I love seeing who my daughters are when they’re out of the comfort of their home: inquisitive, brave, flexible, and outgoing.

So, take the trip, whether it’s near or far. Here are 25 incredible places for a mother-daughter vacation.

Monteverde and Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

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There may be no better place in the world to zip line than in the forest of Monteverde. During our tour at Selvatura Park , we couldn’t see the opposite end of our zip line because of the thick clouds blanketing us, so we flew through a magical gray, trusting we’d make it to the other side.

Try a nighttime tour in the nearby wildlife refuge to spot animals like sloths, kinkajous, toucans, tarantulas, and vipers. Then, make your way approximately three hours west to the beach town of Tamarindo — great for surfing lessons (the tide is low and ideal for beginners), leatherback turtle sightings (which nest here from October to May), and beautiful sunsets. It’s also a fantastic place to snorkel.

Sedona, Arizona

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The red-rock peaks of the American Southwest are stunning, and Sedona is my favorite place to experience them. Known for its vortexes, or places of more intense earthly energy, Sedona is also the place to feel the earth’s vibrations. You can tackle easier hikes with children of all ages, like the creekside Baldwin Trail that offers views of Cathedral Rock (which is a vortex). Boynton Canyon (another vortex) is a gorgeous playground for nature lovers; drive in for a hike here (about 20 minutes from town center), or stay right in the canyon at Enchantment Resort , where meals and pool time come with stellar views of the canyon. If your daughter is 16 or older, Mii Amo spa is a primo place to indulge in a self-care vacation.

Puerto Rico, Caribbean

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On tropical walks in El Yunque National Forest , you are surrounded by lush vegetation, wild fauna, and waterfalls, making Puerto Rico yet another destination for mother-daughter pairs wanting to recharge in nature. Leap into a swimming hole to cool off, or book a zip-line tour to get your adrenaline going as you soar through the forest canopy. Then, get to one of the three bioluminescent bays in Lajas, Fajardo, or Vieques for a kayaking trip illuminated by glowing dinoflagellates. Just wandering the streets of Old San Juan, snacking on piraguas (shaved ice), is fun enough.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Lake Tahoe is the ultimate alpine lake, its shores speckled with world-class ski slopes , casinos, and forested hiking trails. In the winter, my daughter goes ice skating or takes a ski lesson at resorts like Palisades Tahoe or Northstar . And you’re never too young for some après-ski — a bloody mary in the midday sun for adults, and hot chocolate for the young ones after a couple hours on the mountain.

In the summer, tube down the Truckee River (you can DIY it or go with an outfitter ) and spend lots of time in the woods. Try Tahoe East Shore Trail (three miles) for a paved walk right along the water, or pick from many paths in local-favorite Emerald Bay State Park . For lakeside fun, picnic and play at Pope Beach on the south shore or Kings Beach on the north shore. If the kids paddleboard or kayak , gear up for that on Tahoe’s crystal-blue waters.

North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

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It's hard to have a bad day in Hawaii, but the most serene days might be those spent on Oahu’s North Shore . Long protected from major development, there are no malls or modern complexes here, so come for respite and wildly gorgeous waters. Turtle Bay Resort is a great accommodation option close to the white sand of Kawela Bay. Snorkel at Three Tables, Shark’s Cove, Turtle Bay, or Kuilima Cove — the latter two are best for beginners. Hike through lush rain forest to Waimea Falls, then save time for quintessential (and kid-friendly) local snacks. Roadside fruit stands are bright with lychees, rambutans, and guavas. Matsumoto Shave Ice and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa are required eating on the island.

The Mighty Five, Utah

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Traversing Utah's "Mighty Five" — Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion national parks — makes for one of the grandest road trips in the U.S. Some people even try to visit one park a day for a scenic, five-day adventure. Pack solid hiking gear, tons of snacks, and all your energy to tackle great trails and scramble wild rock formations. Or, just visit a couple of the parks to reduce the driving. In Zion, a smooth-running shuttle system makes getting to trailheads easy; try The Watchman or Emerald Pools trails here. In Arches, do the Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch hikes. In Canyonlands, find the iconic Mesa Arch. Capitol Reef is great for watching the sunset and spotting petroglyphs. And in Bryce Canyon, observe incredible hoodoo formations from Rainbow Point or along Queen’s Garden Trail.

Banff, Canada

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Banff impresses with its turquoise alpine lakes, geothermal springs, and accessible glaciers. Stay at the castle-like Fairmont Banff Springs — perhaps the most majestic property I’ve ever slept in — so that you can return to excellent on-site restaurants and cozy beds after each long excursion. A hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is life-changing; from Lake Louise, you pass through a dramatic glacial valley to a 1927-built structure about 3.5 miles in. House-made soup or biscuits and jam await your arrival. The next day, soothe your muscles at Banff Upper Hot Springs , or explore the shops and eateries of Banff and Lake Louise villages. Kayaking on Moraine Lake or Emerald Lake are other must-dos while you're in the area.

Mendocino County, California

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Come here to spend time under California’s singular redwood trees and to revel in the beauty of the Golden State’s coastline. A ride on the historic Skunk Train (it's a remnant of a retired rail system used for logging) will take you through the woods. Otherwise, explore the sites on foot with a walk on the two-mile loop trail in Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve . Then, hunt for sea glass at Glass Beach and enjoy gorgeous sea views and wildflowers as you wander in Mendocino Headlands State Park .

Machu Picchu, Peru

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Hiking to the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and an epic experience for a teen. While the Inca Trail is long — 26 miles — and sometimes steep, it’s not an insurmountable task when done over multiple days, which is the typical method. Book an expedition with a recommended outfitter that guides you for four days and three nights (or more), and get ready for spectacular views. Watching the sunrise over the ruins — set nearly 8,000 feet above sea level — is a bonding experience that will be tough to top.

Mayakoba, Mexico

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This eco-resort destination is easily reached via Cancun and has a wondrous setting, where blue waters, white-sand beaches, and mangroves meet. There are four luxury properties here, and all are ideal for a relaxing and a tropical mother-daughter getaway. Should you want to venture off the property, take a motorboat to a neighboring hotel (you’re sure to see tons of bird species en route), book an excursion through your concierge to a local cenote, or take a day trip to the Mayan ruins at Tulum.

Sun Valley, Idaho

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Known for its magical winters, this mountain resort 's fresh powder draws boarders and skiers of all levels. Book lessons for your littles on Dollar Mountain, or enjoy the atmosphere at a slower pace with a snowshoe session, cross-country ski adventure, or horse-drawn sleigh ride. There's also plenty to do in warm weather, from hiking and biking to fishing (try nearby Redfish Lake) and rafting. Don’t miss the free-admission outdoor symphony performances (usually in August) or the burgers at Grumpy’s , a local institution.

Nairobi, Kenya

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Giraffe Manor caught my eye years ago, and I’ve talked about it with my daughters ever since. Set in a suburb of Nairobi, this 12-room boutique hotel is also a Rothschild giraffe sanctuary — the immense creatures are known to stick their heads into your bedroom window for a snack. From there, we’d move on to a multiday safari experience in the Masai Mara National Reserve , where game drives regularly include elephant, buffalo, and wildebeest sightings.

East Ireland to West Ireland

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Dublin is a fantastic starting place for a mother-daughter driving tour of Ireland — catch an Irish dance and music show, cross the River Liffey via the Ha'penny Bridge, then start your adventure through stunning Irish countryside. (My eldest daughter and I joined Adventures by Disney for an epic itinerary in the country when she was just five years old). Her favorite stops were mine, too: picking flowers around the Rock of Cashel, shopping in Kilkenny, sleeping at Dromoland Castle in County Clare, and walking along the Cliffs of Moher, where puffins are often spotted. But an early evening visit to Rathbaun Farm was the ultimate highlight. We made biscuits from scratch with the farm owners, fed baby sheep, and ate a home-cooked Irish meal to the tune of a live pianist.

Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara, Japan

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Japan’s renowned rail system makes traveling within the country easy and pleasant (read: great with kids, who are nearly always enthralled with a train ride). Spend a few days in Tokyo, snacking in underground food halls and joining the fray that is Shibuya Crossing. Our family adores Japanese artists Yayoi Kusama and Hayao Miyazaki, so a mother-daughter Tokyo visit would include visits to the Yayoi Kusama Museum and Ghibli Museum . Then, take a train to Kyoto (a bit over two hours), where you can spend days strolling historic temples like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera and shopping for handicrafts in the zigzagging Chawan-zaka, or "Teapot Lane." At some point, take the 45-minute train ride to Nara Park, where you can feed the protected (and sacred, according to Shinto beliefs) deer that reside there.

Greater Portland, Oregon

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Start in Portland, fueling up at Pine State Biscuits and shopping at the gem that is Powell’s City of Books . After a day or two in town, head to two incredible natural features: Multnomah Falls (tackle the eponymous 2.3-mile out-and-back trail here) and Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (the 4.4-mile trek to Dry Creek Falls is great). Next, you can drive the 35-mile Hood River Fruit Loop past farm stands and vineyards with wild views of Mount Hood. Or, if everyone’s over 21, head back to Portland, then south for wine tasting in Willamette Valley .

London, England

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Even at a young age, kids can (and love to) identify iconic sites around the world. In London, listening to the chime of Big Ben is a thrill, as is walking Tower Bridge and riding the London Eye. If your child is a theater buff, don’t miss a show at Shakespeare’s Globe , then stroll the Thames and see what adventures arise. Make a reservation for Sketch , a teahouse known for its stylish pink interior and egg-shaped restroom pods. And, of course, if your kid is a Harry Potter fan, stop for photo ops at Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station.

Paris, France

My eldest daughter can’t wait to visit Paris, and we have a loose itinerary ready. Requisite stops include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Musée d'Orsay, home to must-see works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. A food tour along the cobbled streets of Montmartre will highlight artisanal cheeses and chocolates, plus pastries (and wine for mom). Feasible day trip destinations include Versailles for a palace stroll, Giverny to visit Monet’s garden, and the Loire Valley for castles and biking. And we won’t leave without a cruise along the Seine , an incredible way for kids to see the city.

Beijing, China

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My kids love dumplings, so we’d make the trip to Beijing just to eat this dish on every possible corner. In many shops here, cooks stuff and crimp dumplings behind glass walls or windows, and watching their artistry — and the speed with which they do it — is mesmerizing. Between meals, visit the Forbidden City (completed in 1420), Summer Palace (restored in 1886), and Great Wall (what you see today dates back to the 17th century). A tween or teen can really appreciate the details and age of these structures, and that they’re a window into the country’s past. The most popular Great Wall exploration point is Mutianyu, located about a 1.5-hour drive from Beijing.

Mexico City, Mexico

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This metropolis is a haven for art lovers and ideal for teens who like exploring urban landscapes. Tour Frida Kahlo’s house , be entranced by Diego Rivera’s gargantuan murals — the one in the National Palace is impressive, looming nearly two stories high — and visit the exhibits in the Palace of Fine Arts . The Museum of Modern Art and Museo Jumex are other top attractions. In between art walks, eat tacos. A taco tour by Club Tengo Hambre is fit for foodies of any age. Other kid-friendly musts include a meal at Panadería Rosetta , churros at Churreria El Moro , and a half-day trip to the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan .

New York, New York

Watching a story unfold on stage is a true pleasure, and where better to do so than Broadway? Any child, tween, or teen with a knack for performance will be thrilled to see a show (or three) in New York . Follow that up with other classic New York experiences , from walks in Central Park and the High Line to a pizza tour to a ride on the Staten Island Ferry for Statue of Liberty views. Watch the chess players in Washington Square Park, wander the aisles of Strand Book Store , and eat a giant cookie from Levain Bakery before leaving town.

Vancouver, Canada

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Two words: Stanley Park. Locals and tourists constantly cross paths here, drawn to the sprawling outdoor space’s beauty and varied activity options. With younger kids, ride the miniature train at Stanley Park Railway , visit the Vancouver Aquarium (set in the park), or play in the many playgrounds and splash areas here — there’s even a giant public pool with waterslides and bay views. My daughters also delighted in themed afternoon tea at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver , as well as crossing suspension bridges at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Lynn Canyon Park , both in North Vancouver. A quick ferry ride to Granville Island brings you to a great food hall. And if you have the time, spend a day and night on Victoria Island and/or in Whistler, the gorgeous mountain town less than two hours north of Vancouver.

Venice, Italy

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This trip could be all about gelato, pasta, and pizza — the primary food groups of the young, no? Dine on these delights as you stroll or people-watch alongside Venice’s famous canals, then board a gondola to see the city from the water. Take time to get lost in the narrow, colorful roads of Burano. Next, enjoy the incredible examples of Italian architecture at St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. A kid-friendly cooking class would even let you bring a bit of Italy home, in a way.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Biking in Copenhagen is a must — it’s how lots of locals get around, and an unbeatable way to explore this coastal city. Pedal the harbor for great water and neighborhood views (the whole route is about eight miles), making a special stop at the colorful Nyhavn canal district. If you’re feeling energetic, do the nearly 20-mile Six Forgotten Giants route, which gets you into Copenhagen’s suburbs as you "hunt" for fantastic wooden sculptures by local artist Thomas Dambo. And spend a day in Tivoli Gardens ; this one-of-a-kind amusement park, open since 1843, offers rides for all ages and stunning gardens.

Seattle and Whidbey Island, Washington

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This Pacific Northwest duo provides easy urban and wilderness possibilities. Take in the city from the observation deck of the Space Needle, then eat your way through Pike Place Market; we always stop at Piroshky Piroshky for a savory handheld pie and Beecher’s Handmade Cheese for samples. In the summer, cool off in the splash area of Jefferson Park or even the Seattle Center International Fountain. And after your city adventure, stay a couple of days on Whidbey Island, where you can play or go whale watching on beautiful beaches, take forest walks, or enjoy berry picking at a local farm. The seafood here is unmissable, too.

Austin, Texas

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At five years old, my first daughter could see the appeal of this city. We admired the pink granite of the state capitol building, then spent hours in Zilker Metropolitan Park (home to the Austin City Limits Music Festival ), where activity possibilities include a ride on a miniature electric train , strolling the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum , and cooling off in Barton Springs Pool — it’s a whopping three acres in size and fed by natural springs. Look for peacocks in Mayfield Park, and pick a way to get out on Lady Bird Lake, be it kayak, canoe, SUP, or river cruise. Then, sample incredible Tex-Mex cuisine at stops like Torchy’s Tacos and La Mancha and top-notch barbecue at local favorites like Interstellar BBQ or Franklin Barbecue .

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Time travel: the best hotels for luxury watch shopping around the world.

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From Switzerland and France to Japan and Germany, explore the best hotels for luxury watch shopping in Europe.

Shopping for a new luxury watch? Wind your way through the world’s ultimate travel destinations for browsing elite timepieces. We’ve rounded up a guide to the best new hotels in each region — along with the chic watches you’ll be inspired to buy while you’re there.

If you’re a Cartier, Chanel or Van Cleef & Arpels fan, head straight to Paris, which all three luxury watchmakers call home. Stay at the glittering Le Grand Mazarin (rooms from $730 per night), a brand-new hotel named, of course, after the 19-carat pink diamond once the star attraction of the French crown jewels and located two blocks from the Seine in the artsy Marais neighborhood. It’s the latest project from Maisons Pariente, a family-run luxe hotel firm run by the namesake property developer Patrick and his two chic daughters. The interior is fittingly opulent, all custom tapestries and leopard-print chairs, a typically maximalist flourish from Martin Brudnizki. (His latest NYC project was the equally Gallic Fouquet’s Barrière hotel in Tribeca.)

Le Grand Mazarin in Paris offers rooms from $730 per night.

SWITZERLAND

A person walking in a pool with a large ceiling at Six Senses Switzerland.

If you make it to Switzerland, don’t miss Audemars Piguet’s Hôtel des Horlogers (from $450 per night) property, right next to its headquarters. Fans of other brands, whether Blancpain or Breguet, might consider another ultra-luxe spot that just debuted deep in the Alps. The 45-room Six Senses Crans-Montana (from $1,400 per night) is intended as a year-round property. Sure, you can ski in and out from the runs in the surrounding pine forests of the Valais, but come summer, there are ample other outdoorsy appeals, like paddleboarding and water skiing on the neighboring lakes. All that, plus a Seve Ballesteros-designed 18-hole course, where the Omega European Masters is held each year, is nearby.

The Bellustar in Tokyo offers rooms from $525 per night.

The latest addition to Tokyo’s sky-scraping skyline is a new five-star property in Shinjuku, The Bellustar (from $525 per night), housed in the topmost floors of a mixed-use building. A rarity in Tokyo, its 97 suites are roomy, capping off at 3,000 square feet. Spend a few days here if you’re a Grand Seiko collector; it’s a chance to experience the reassuringly particular approach to luxury that defines Japan. Expect minimalist, muted-tone rooms paired with a huge assortment of on-site food and drink options — the views of Mount Fuji from the Sushi Jin-È space on the 45th floor are Insta catnip.

The Bulgari Hotel in Rome offers rooms from $1,700 per night.

Watchmakers are increasingly operating their own hotels, but few brands best Bulgari for a commitment to hospitality. It partnered with Marriott more than 20 years ago to open a series of hotels for fans of its brand, who are keen to immerse themselves in 24/7 bejeweled luxury. After roaming the world to open sites everywhere from Dubai to Bali, Bulgari Rome (from $1,700 per night) has finally come home. This year, it unveiled a 114-room spot in the Eternal City, barely a five-minute walk from the store on Via dei Condotti where the brand opened a boutique in 1905. Interiors are fittingly posh — checkout the multicolored marble bathrooms — and make sure to have an aperitivo on La Terrazza, its rooftop bar.

Raffles London offers rooms from $1,000 per night.

It might have been founded by a German and is now run from Switzerland, but where did that oh-so-proper brand, Rolex, start? Where else, but London? This fall, the British capital’s about to welcome the splashiest hotel debut there in decades: Raffles London (from $1,000 per night) at The OWO, a $1.7 billion, six-year reimagining of the Old War Office, which opened in 1906, just one year after founder Hans Wildorf created his iconic company. Stay in one of the 120 plush rooms here now to channel a throwback glamour — the Granville suite was named in honor of Britain’s answer to Mata Hari, Christine.

The Rosewood Munich offers rooms from $640 per night.

Germany is often overlooked as a luxury destination. But the opening this month of the newest Rosewood property, in Munich (from $640 per night), aims to draw attention to the country’s upscale offerings, including connoisseur-favored watches from Nomos Glashütte, the Saxony-based brand founded in the wake of the country’s reunification. A passion project for British-based interior designer Tara Bernerd, the Rosewood’s vibe is bold and elegant. The 132-room spot is a repurposing of two old buildings, including a palace (don’t miss the historic staircases); social spaces are arranged around a central courtyard, a typical Munich touch.

Shop the watches

Van Cleef & Arpels Pierre Arpels watch in 18-k white gold with diamond, $16,000 at London Jewelers

Van Cleef & Arpels Pierre Arpels watch in 18-k white gold with diamond, $16,000 at London Jewelers

Breguet Classique 9068 watch in 18-k white gold with diamonds, mother-of-pearl and sapphire, $28,000 at London Jewelers

Breguet Classique 9068 watch in 18-k white gold with diamonds, mother-of-pearl and sapphire, $28,000 at London Jewelers

Omega Seamaster 300 Co-Axial Master Chronometer in stainless steel, $7,400 at London Jewelers

Omega Seamaster 300 Co-Axial Master Chronometer in stainless steel, $7,400 at London Jewelers

Blancpain Villeret Quantième Phase de Lune watch in steel with diamonds, $15,900 at London Jewelers

Blancpain Villeret Quantième Phase de Lune watch in steel with diamonds, $15,900 at London Jewelers

Bulgari Serpenti Seduttori watch in stainless steel, $5,050 at London Jewelers

Bulgari Serpenti Seduttori watch in stainless steel, $5,050 at London Jewelers

Rolex Day-Date 36 watch in 18-k Everose gold with aventurine and diamonds, price upon request at London Jewelers

Rolex Day-Date 36 watch in 18-k Everose gold with aventurine and diamonds, price upon request at London Jewelers

Nomos GlashütteTetra Die Fuchsteufelswilde watch in stainless steel, $2,080 at London Jewelers

Nomos Glashütte Tetra Die Fuchsteufelswilde watch in stainless steel, $2,080 at London Jewelers

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Le Grand Mazarin in Paris offers rooms from $730 per night.

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The 13 best walking shoes for travel in 2024.

Discover your ideal pair for every type of adventure and terrain.

The Best Walking Shoes for Travel

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Every trip involves some amount of walking, whether across a large airport, down winding cobblestone streets on a tour or along a rocky nature trail. You always want to be prepared with the right shoes to tackle any short stroll or long walk so painful feet don't ruin your vacation plans.

The best walking shoe will be different for every traveler, depending on your shoe preferences and needs. Those with flat feet may need more arch support, for example, while other travelers may be in search of a stylish shoe that's still comfortable. For tips from podiatrists on how to select the best shoe for you, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Whatever type of walking shoe you seek, here are some of the top recommendations from experts and consumer reviews to make your travels comfortable.

Women's

Best sneakers overall: asics gel-contend.

  • Jump to expert insights ↓

Best Slip-on Sneakers: Vans Slip-On Shoe

Best sandals: ecco yucatan sandal, best loafers: cole haan loafers, best sustainable: allbirds wool runners, best for hiking: merrell moab 3, best water shoes: chacos z/ sandals, best for support: hoka bondi 8, best color variety: brooks ghost 15, best for extended sizes: new balance fresh foam x 1080.

  • Jump to traveler insights ↓
  • Best White Sneakers: adidas Grand Court 2.0 Sneaker

Best for Women: Naturalizer Morrison Sneaker

Best for men: orthofeet edgewater stretch.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

ASICS Gel-Contend in black against white background.

Courtesy of ASICS

What makes them stand out: These shoes are ideal for travelers and runners alike, offering all the cushioning and support you need while on the go. The jacquard mesh top of the shoe makes the ASICS Gel-Contend particularly breathable and flexible. The shoes are designed to support your feet and absorb impact as you run or walk, with the brand's rearfoot GEL technology, AmpliFoam midsole and OrthoLite sockliner for cushioning.

These walking shoes come in options for men, women and children of various ages, as well as more than a dozen colors, and the price is hard to beat for such a quality shoe. Other popular ASICS running shoes include the Gel-Excite and Gel-Venture .

What our editors say:

They are super comfortable. I wear them for all of my trips and they are durable. Plus, they go up to a women's size 12 with options of both narrow and wide for people like me with big wide feet. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

I love ASICS for just straight-up sneakers. They're comfortable and last forever. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $70 or less

Vans Slip-On Shoe in black against white background.

Courtesy of Vans

What makes them stand out: The iconic Vans Slip-Ons are easy to dress up or down for any occasion, making them a versatile option to toss in your carry-on . The uppers come in many different materials and designs, from classic black perforated leather to a floral textile design to a leopard canvas print. These slip-on shoes have supportive padded collars, rubber waffle outsoles and elastic side accents. You'll find a large range of sizes for both women and men.

I'm a big fan of the Vans Slip-On Shoes. I wore them for years on trips throughout Europe and on various weekend getaways. – Erin Evans

What makes them stand out: If you're headed somewhere warmer and want to give your feet space to breathe, opt for a sandal style. The ECCO Yucatan Sandal, with versions for women and men, uses various materials to make a supportive walking shoe. Cushioning is provided by the lightweight sole and EVA footbed; there's also a leather upper, neoprene lining and rubber outsole to give you a good grip. Color options range from a bright chili red or light blue to more neutral shades like gray or black.

What our contributors say:

These are my go-to sandals for summer trips to Europe, the Caribbean or any other destination. They are super lightweight and they're comfy right out of the box. I like the way the rubber bottoms grip any surface (including slick rocks), and I appreciate the added stability of the adjustable ankle straps, especially when navigating cobblestone streets or hiking trails. I've owned at least 15 pairs over the years (in nearly every color) and will continue to buy them as they are the only sandals I can wear all day with no fatigue. – Gwen Pratesi , Travel Contributor

Price: $140 or less

Cole Haan Loafers (women's) in gold against white background.

Courtesy of Cole Haan

What makes them stand out: If you prefer a fashionable loafer to a sneaker, especially for any business travel, Cole Haan's various loafer options are a great choice. The Women's ØriginalGrand Platform Venetian Loafers have an elevated platform wedge outsole with FlowerFoam (at least 25% dandelion rubber) and come in colors such as gold or black. For men, consider the classic Men's 4.ZERØGRAND Loafer, made with a TPU outsole and deep rubber flex grooves. The layers of foam in Cole Haan loafers can provide your feet with all-day comfort, and the uppers are made from stylish leather.

I love the blend of comfort and versatility in these loafers. They are comfortable for long days of exploring and work well on a variety of surfaces, from airports to cobblestone streets. I really appreciate that the style can be dressed up, paired with business attire for a work meeting or worn casual with jeans. – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $220 or less

Allbirds Wool Runners (men's) in gray against white background.

Courtesy of Allbirds

What makes them stand out: Allbirds Wool Runners, designed for both men and women, get their name from the soft merino wool that the upper and heel lining are made from. The thermoregulating material is sustainably sourced using regenerative agriculture and carbon-reducing practices; it also makes for a cozy, itch-free fit around your foot. These lace-up sneakers are especially useful for cool weather vacations, but the similar Allbirds Tree Runners are a great lighter option for warm climates.

My Allbirds Wool Runners are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. They require zero breaking in and look great with a bunch of different outfits. I've worn them through multiple airports and to tour around big cities all day. They are like walking on a cloud, and I never have any foot pain! You can wear them with or without socks, and they are machine-washable, which is the cherry on top. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Price: $98 or less

Merrell Moab 3 (men's) in olive against white background.

Courtesy of Merrell

What makes them stand out: These shoes have received plenty of accolades for being durable hiking shoes, especially because they're designed to handle rugged terrain. The Merrell Moab 3 has laces, webbing and a mesh lining all made from recycled materials. The rubber heel and toe cap are designed to protect your feet, while the outsole gives you traction and the Merrell Air Cushion technology absorbs impact. Extra ankle support provides stability when you're navigating uneven terrain. What's more, the contouring footbed offers maximum comfort and the leather on these shoes is gold-rated (which means it's been responsibly sourced; the designation is the highest rating from the Leather Working Group).

I can't emphasize enough how comfortable these shoes are. I've brought them on several trips, including a few weeks in New Zealand, and while I love them for hikes, I just as often find myself putting them on to go for a casual walk in the city. I also love that even though they're lace-up, I can pretty much always just slip them on without using my hands. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $120 or less

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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Chacos Z/ Sandals (women's) in blue and black design against white background.

Courtesy of Chacos

What makes them stand out: You can't really go wrong with any pair of Chacos sandals, as they're all fairly similar and built to last. These versatile, durable sandals are perfect for adventure travel and water activities, as the rubber outsoles give you traction in various types of terrain and the contoured arch support cradles your feet.

Chacos have adjustable straps that wrap around your feet, but you can choose from different strap widths based on your preference. Some Chacos, such as the ZX/2 and Z/2 styles, have a toe loop for a bit more support, while the ZX/1 and Z/1 sandals do not have one. Another consideration is how much cushioning you want: Unlike the Classic options, the Cloud styles are equipped with cushioning.

I've had my pair of ZX/1 Cloud Chacos for years and they're my favorite hiking sandal. They're durable, comfortable and stylish, and they're especially handy when water-based activities are involved. For example, my Chacos were perfect for walking along the rocky bottoms of the cenotes (swimming holes) I explored on a recent trip to Mexico. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $105 or less

HOKA Bondi 8 (women's) in sand color against white background.

Courtesy of HOKA

What makes them stand out: Treat your foot to the ultimate cushioning with a pair of HOKA Bondi 8 sneakers. This mesh style has a higher bed of plush cushioning than other HOKA shoes, with an extended heel design for balance and a lightweight OrthoLite foam sockliner. Multiple parts of this shoe are made from recycled materials, and the American Podiatric Medical Association grants its Seal of Acceptance. You have your pick of myriad colors and sizes in both men's and women's.

HOKA shoes are the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned. They are great whether you're running a 10K or running around all day sightseeing on vacation. I've had several pairs, my favorite of which is the Women's Bondi 8. I love the fun colors, too! I also like supporting them because they intentionally work on reducing their environmental impact. – Sharael Kolberg , Travel Contributor

Price: $165 or less

Brooks Ghost 15 (women's) in black and white against white background.

Courtesy of Brooks

What makes them stand out: These beloved running shoes are named for the director of product management at Brooks, who was known for going on nighttime runs, but they're also a great option for walking and sightseeing. The air mesh upper is made from recycled materials, while the midsole has a soft, lightweight cushioning. Sizes range from 5 to 13 for women and 7 to 15 for men. You can also choose from four width sizes between narrow and extra wide – not to mention dozens of color combinations.

These are running shoes but I wear them everywhere, from half-marathons to surviving Disney and Universal. Seriously, I wear them 90% of the time I step outside. – Leilani Osmundson

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 (men's) in black against white background.

Courtesy of New Balance

What makes them stand out: New Balance is a brand often recommended by podiatrists for its high-quality shoes for walking and running. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 – the latest version of which is v13 – has an impressive range of sizes to accommodate travelers. Width choices include narrow, standard, wide or X-wide. The men's sizing runs from 7 to 16, while women's sizes span 5 to 13. This shoe is breathable and supportive with an air mesh upper and a Fresh Foam X midsole. This shoe also has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association because it promotes good foot health.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers recommend this shoe if you're on your feet all day or doing a lot of walking and running, saying the comfort and quality are unmatched. Some also say the shoes provide good arch support for flat feet.

Best White Sneaker: adidas Grand Court 2.0 Sneaker

adidas Grand Court 2.0 Sneaker (women's) in white against white background.

Courtesy of adidas

What makes them stand out: For a classic white sneaker that you can wear for a variety of occasions, these adidas tennis shoes are a great option. Your feet are cushioned by a Cloudfoam Comfort sockliner, and the rubber outsole gives you good traction. The synthetic leather upper is made partly from recycled materials as well. Choose from several different colors for the stripes on the sides of these white shoes.

I panic-bought these white sneakers to go with various outfits before a trip to Europe. Even though I had no time to break them in, they were instantly comfortable. These white sneakers lasted for miles as I walked all around London for days, and they matched well with everything. The exterior is easily wipeable whenever they get a little dirty. I couldn't believe how immediately comfortable they were and how I got no blisters or sore feet as I wore them on my trip. They're now one of my go-to everyday shoes as well for running errands. – Erin Evans

Naturalizer Morrison Sneaker in white against white background.

Courtesy of Naturalizer

What makes them stand out: These simple sneakers are a staple for many travelers, as they come in various sizes, widths, colors and materials. Whether you choose white leather or gray suede, the Naturalizer Morrison Sneaker is a casual and practical lace-up shoe for women that's still fashionable. In addition to its nonslip outsole, the inside is designed to meet the contours of your feet while you're on the go.

I got them on a Thursday and wore them around New York City that entire weekend with no blisters or breaking in needed. So far they've held up well and are really comfy. – Elizabeth Von Tersch , Senior Editor

Price: $99 or less

Orthofeet Edgewater Stretch in black against white background.

Courtesy of Orthofeet

What makes them stand out: These athletic shoes for men are specifically designed to protect sensitive feet and relieve pain for men with a number of orthopedic conditions. The Orthofoot Edgewater Stretch comes with orthotic insoles that have a removable arch support as well as a slip-resistant rubber outsole and an ergonomic, well-cushioned sole. The roomy toe box and stretchy fabric upper are especially useful for travelers with wide feet or foot problems such as bunions. There's an inclusive size range, with four width options from standard to XX-wide.

Travelers appreciate: Reviewers say the excellent design of these sneakers creates a cloud-like walking experience, with many calling the Edgewater Stretch the most comfortable shoe they've ever owned.

Price: $145 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

No matter where in the world you want to go, your travels will likely involve some amount of walking as you explore new cities and natural wonders.

"The dirty little secret of travel, especially air travel, is the true amount of walking involved just getting to the destination," says board-certified podiatrist Ernest L. Isaacson, of Paragon Podiatry . "For instance, airports are cavernously large, and it's not unusual to walk a mile or more just to get to the gate after spending what can seem like an eternity in a long security line."

If you don't bring the right footwear, walking can become painful, limiting what you're able to do on your vacation.

"Investing in high-quality shoes ensures durability, support, and overall foot health during your travels," says Maggie Trevillion, founder of Callen Olive, a luxury leg and foot skincare brand, and podiatrist at Walk This Way Podiatry . "Quality shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of exploration, offering better cushioning, stability and traction. They can help prevent foot fatigue, blisters and other discomforts, allowing you to explore your destination with confidence and gusto."

Quality walking shoes are important for more than just your feet, too: "Wearing proper walking shoes with adequate cushioning and support helps to distribute the body's weight evenly, reducing the strain on our feet, ankles, knees and hips," according to Daniel Pledger, podiatrist and founder of ePodiatrists .

When weighing your options, Trevillion recommends looking for the following features:

  • Comfort , including cushioning and arch support
  • Breathable and durable material , with features like sturdy outsoles
  • Lightweight build , for easy packing
  • Traction , with rubber or multidirectional lug soles to give you a good grip
  • Versatility , so you can use one pair of shoes in different environments

Pledger emphasizes the importance of arch support in your walking shoes. "This helps to maintain the natural alignment of the foot and reduces the risk of arch-related problems like plantar fasciitis," he says. He also recommends a well-cushioned midsole to absorb the impact as you walk; a supportive heel counter for stability; and a flexible outsole, which will allow for natural foot movement.

Follow your instincts as you try on shoes. "The shoe that feels most comfortable in the store is probably the best shoe, whatever style that may be," Isaacson says. "And if it's not comfortable in the store it's not going to magically conform to the foot in the bag on the way home."

With so many shoe brands on the market, your choice will ultimately come down to personal preference and foot characteristics. There is no one shoe that will work for every foot.

Pledger's patients, for example, offer consistent positive feedback for shoes from New Balance, ECCO and Merrell. Even still, "I would caution against blindly following brand recommendations without trying on the shoes and assessing their fit and feel," Pledger says.

Trevillion also recommends ECCO and New Balance, adding that KEEN and Salomon also have great options for challenging terrain. These brands are all praised by travelers worldwide, but don't be discouraged if the shoes that work for others just don't fit your shoe preferences. At the end of the day, you're the one who has to wear them, so try out different options if you need to and discover what features suit you best.

When searching for your perfect walking shoe, look at the following:

  • Outsole: This is the bottom of the shoe that will have direct contact with the surface you are walking on. It should be flexible and shock-absorbing. A sturdier outsole will provide more stability for a variety of pavements.
  • Insole: This is the interior bottom of the shoe. You'll want a comfortable fabric to prevent your foot from rubbing, as well as cushioning and support.
  • Midsole: This is the area inside the shoe where the arch of your foot rests. Having a strong foundation here is key for foot alignment and proper support.
  • Upper: This refers to the fabric and construction of the portion of the shoe that will cover the top and sides of your foot. The fabric type will determine breathability, durability and if it will repel water.
  • Heel cup: This is the area where your heel sits inside the shoe. It should be secure for walking and may have additional cushioning for shock absorption.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler who knows well the importance of a comfortable walking shoe. Having weathered blisters and other foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes to hike up a mountain or explore the streets of Europe, she now makes sure to pack her Merrell and Allbirds sneakers each time she travels. Kendall wrote this article with the help of personal experience, extensive research and recommendations from experts.

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5 Best Places to Travel in the World in 2024

Published on march 7, 2024 at 6:26 am by insider monkey staff in news.

This article looks at the 5 best places to travel in the world in 2024. If you wish to check out our detailed analysis on global travel gems, you may go to the 2 5 Best Places to Travel in the World in 2024.

5. Seoul, South Korea

Insider Monkey Score: 38

Avg. Daily Travel Budget: $111

Overall Climate: Humid continental: hot summers, cold winters; occasional typhoons

Seoul, ranking 5th, presents a high-energy urban experience seamlessly woven with traditional Korean culture. This city is renowned for its technological advancements, safety, and dynamic culture, alongside a climate that offers four distinct seasons. From ancient palaces and bustling markets to cutting-edge design and cuisine, Seoul caters to all ages with its blend of history and modernity. Infrastructure developments continue to enhance its accessibility and convenience. Seoul is celebrated as one of the best places to travel in the world in 2024, embodying a fascinating mix of the old and new, making it a must-visit for every global traveler.

Tartu Estonia Saimaa Finland Rajasthan India Hội An Vietnam Seoul South Korea 30 Most Educated Cities In The World 20 Biggest Oil Producers in the World 5 Best Places to Travel in the World in 2024 Show more... Show less

best trip of the world

#1 AI Stock to Buy Now (not NVDA)

Published on march 7, 2024 at by insider monkey staff.

Hi, I’m Kelly Brown… host of today’s urgent stock market update.

I work for one of the largest independent financial publishers in the world – representing over 1 million people in 148 countries.

We’re independently funding today’s broadcast to address something on the mind of every investor in America right now…

Should I put my money in Artificial Intelligence?

Here to answer that for us… and give away his No. 1 free AI recommendation… is 50-year Wall Street titan, Marc Chaikin.

Marc’s been a trader, stockbroker, and analyst. He was the head of the options department at a major brokerage firm and is a sought-after expert for CNBC, Fox Business, Barron’s, and Yahoo! Finance…

But what Marc’s most known for is his award-winning stock-rating system. Which determines whether a stock could shoot sky-high in the next three to six months… or come crashing down.

That’s why Marc’s work appears in every Bloomberg and Reuters terminal on the planet…

And is still used by hundreds of banks, hedge funds, and brokerages to track the billions of dollars flowing in and out of stocks each day.

He’s used this system to survive nine bear markets… create three new indices for the Nasdaq… and even predict the brutal bear market of 2022, 90 days in advance.

Click to continue reading…

50-year Wall Street Insider Names #1 stock for AI “Tidal Wave”

Published on march 1, 2024 at by insider monkey staff.

So you can see why CNBC’s Jim Cramer has said he’s learned to never bet against Marc.

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The best gifts for women who love travel and adventure

From the practical to the inspired, these picks are ideal for the woman who likes to explore the world—but she’ll definitely be able to use them at home, too. 

The best gifts for women who love travel and adventure really depend on their travel style and where they’re headed. There is no shortage of travel gift ideas, so we narrowed down a list of presents we think any adventurer would love.

The top gifts for women who like to travel

We broke down our gift ideas for women based on popular categories like usability, uniqueness, tech, and more.  

Useful travel gifts  

Practical gifts are always a hit with the world traveler who likes to keep things streamlined.

An Aeropress coffee maker

AeroPress Coffee Maker - Go  

Check the price on   Amazon

There’s no need to drink watery hotel room coffee or otherwise give up a good cuppa while traveling when you gift her with this compact coffee maker optimized for use on the road. The plunge-style AeroPress Go makes it a cinch to brew one to three cups of American or espresso-style coffee wherever you are and even comes with a microwaveable cup and lid that’s easy to clean and pack along as well as 100 filters and a stirrer.  

Unique travel gifts  

Surprise the adventure traveler in your life with something she might never have known she needed–unique travel gifts are all the more fun because they add some whimsy and serendipity to even a standard trip.

best trip of the world

C heck the price at   Sunchill

Road-tripping to watery destinations is all the more fun when you have this packable float along to enjoy with friends and family. Designed by boaters looking to maximize time on the water, the Sunchill’s sleeping bag-sized design is compact and lightweight (18 pounds), made with high-tech netting even dogs can’t damage and inflates for use within 90 seconds. And there’s no weight limit, so you can float with the whole family, too.  

Travel Clothing

  The right layers and quality outerwear to keep you warm when you need it are staples in every savvy traveler’s wardrobe. Read on for a few key travel clothing essentials she’ll be thrilled to add to her collection.  

A green Fjallraven jacket

Expedition Pack Down Hoodie  

C heck the price at   REI

Here’s another piece that packs down super tiny while overperforming on functionality. Swedish brand Fjällräven’s Expedition Pack Down Hoodie is all you’ll need to weather most outdoor fun in fall, winter and spring, with an extra cozy hood and the ability to pack down into its own pocket for a compact carry. This hooded, down jacket comes in a fun range of colors, too, including yellow and red, so you can select the right one for her personality.  

Travel luggage  

Whether she travels with a carry-on bag only or is heading out on longer adventures with more stuff in tow, a good piece of luggage can make or break a trip.  

A teal Osprey backpack

Downburst Women's 24 by Osprey

C heck the price at   Osprey

Every adventure traveler needs a good daypack, whether for hiking in the hills or hitting the pavement exploring a new city. And Osprey’s Downburst Women’s 24 daypack has a completely waterproof main compartment and quick-dry external materials that make it weatherproof for all the fun. For more hardcore adventurers, this pack even has a whistle on the sternum strap, an ice ax, and a trekking pole loop. There are also two side pockets for keeping bottles within easy reach while you’re walking.  

A red July suitcase

July Checked Trunk

Check the price at July  

Set off on longer journeys in style with this checked trunk in tow, and nothing needs to get left behind. Trunks just have that homey appeal while making it easy to bring all your favorite things with you. Other features include spinner double-wheels to make the trunk easy to push and a strap compression system for getting more inside. With a capacity of 95 liters and a weight of just 13.2 pounds, you’re getting serious space for the size.

Tech for travel  

A little tech goes a long way when it comes to making travels away from home smoother and more comfortable.  

A black Beis travel mirror

Beis Light up Travel Mirror  

Check the price at   Beis

Hotel mirrors can wreak havoc on makeup application, as any frequent traveler can attest. So, make her life a little easier away from home with this handy LED   travel mirror that lights up evenly. It has a rechargeable battery, so she can charge it with a USB cable, and it weighs just over half a pound.  

A pair of black Bose headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Any serious traveler knows how much better you can sleep on a plane without the thrumming roar of the engines interfering. And that’s where a quality pair of noise-canceling headphones come in. These Bose beauties have excellent sound quality and a streamlined design that’s more comfortable than other over-ear options. They come with a 90-day risk-free trial, too, so she can make sure they’re the best ones for her adventures.  

At-home travel gifts for her  

Who doesn’t love a gift that reminds them of their world travels and gets delivered to their front door? The joy is in the journey (even when it’s just home for the day), with the gift ideas below for women who like travel and adventure.  

Universal Yums

Check the price at   Universal Yums

Even when she’s not off on another trip, invite her to travel via her tastebuds to a different country every month when you send a taste of the world to her door with this subscription box of inspired global snacks. Egg yolk popcorn from Taiwan, oatmeal coconut cookies from Eastern Europe or cookie dough truffles from Sweden–she’ll be surprised and transported by whatever arrives.  

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