On a blank page, the cursor blinks. The world seems huge, almost too big to be true. Where do you even start? This isn’t just a question for writers; it’s the most important question for all travelers. You feel a pull, a desire for something new and different—the smell of spices in a busy souk, the quiet of an old temple, or the lively beat of a city that never sleeps. This feeling is what makes us want to travel to the best places on our amazing planet.
For more than ten years, I’ve been chasing horizons, collecting passport stamps like badges of honor, and building a life full of experiences, not just things. I’ve learned that travel isn’t just about checking things off a list; it’s about how it changes you. It’s about knowing where you fit into a bigger story. This isn’t just another list. This is a carefully planned trip that takes you to the best places to visit that will give you not only beautiful views but also deep experiences. This world travel guide is the first step on a journey that will change your life. We’ll visit old ruins, cities that look like they belong in the future, natural wonders, and cultural centers. These are the must-see places and international vacation spots that you have to see.
So, get your bags ready (we’ll talk about that later), open your mind, and let’s go on a trip to the 20 places that will change how you see the world.
A Walk Through Time in Kyoto, Japan
Why You Should Go There
When you walk into Kyoto, you step into a postcard from Japan’s past. Tokyo is full of futuristic energy, but Kyoto moves at a more graceful, thoughtful pace. There are 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, impossibly beautiful gardens, and geishas walking through the historic Gion district in this city. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a must-see on any trip to Japan. Kyoto is magical because it keeps old traditions alive in a modern world.
Best Things to Do
- Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Let the tall bamboo stalks take you to a different place. The way the light comes through is just otherworldly.
- Go to Fushimi Inari Shrine: Walk through the thousands of red torii gates that go up the mountainside.
- Visit Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion): This beautiful Zen Buddhist temple is covered in gold leaf and looks perfect in the pond around it.
- Walk through Gion at night: This is your best chance to see a geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geiko) on her way to a meeting.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Get a bike. Kyoto is a pretty flat city, and the best way to see its hidden streets, smaller temples, and canals at your own pace, away from the crowds of tour buses, is to ride a bike.
2. Rome, Italy: The Eternal City’s Timeless Appeal
Why You Should Go There
Rome is more than just a city; it’s a huge museum in the open air. A puzzle that is 3,000 years old can be found in every corner. From the grand Colosseum, where gladiators once fought, to Vatican City, the spiritual center of the Catholic world, the air is full of history. It’s a crazy, passionate, and intoxicating mix of ancient history, world-class art, and a lively street life based on the simple joys of la dolce vita. Rome is one of those classic “international vacation spots” that everyone should go to at least once.
Best Things to Do
- Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill: Go back to the center of the Roman Empire. To avoid long lines, buy your tickets well in advance.
- Go to Vatican City: See St. Peter’s Basilica and the amazing works of art in the Vatican Museums, ending with Michelangelo’s stunning Sistine Chapel ceiling. (For more information, read our guide on “Navigating Vatican City Like a Pro.”)
- Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain: The story goes that this will guarantee your return to Rome.
- Get lost in Trastevere: This lovely neighborhood with its ivy-covered buildings, cobblestone streets, and real trattorias is a great place to have a leisurely dinner.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Get up early. For real. Seeing the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon at 6:30 AM with only a few other people is a very different, almost spiritual experience than seeing them in the middle of the day when there are a lot of people around.
The Maldives: A Unique Piece of Paradise
Why You Should Go There
The Maldives is the place to go if you want to get away from it all and live in a screensaver. This chain of more than 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean is the very definition of a tropical paradise. Think of bungalows over the water, water that is so turquoise it looks impossible, and powdery white sand beaches. It’s the best place to go for romance, relaxation, and getting away from the noise of the world. Even though it’s known as a luxury destination, its stunning beauty makes it one of the best places to visit for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Best Things to Do
- Stay in an overwater villa: It’s an unforgettable experience to wake up and dive right into the warm ocean from your own deck.
- Snorkel or dive with marine life: The Maldives has some of the most colorful coral reefs in the world, full of turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
- Go on a traditional sunset fishing trip: catch your own dinner and have the resort’s chef cook it for you.
- Do nothing at all: Get a hammock, a book, and just enjoy the peaceful beauty.
Travel Tip from a Local
You might want to go in the shoulder season, which is April, May, October, or November. There might be a few short rain showers, but prices will be much lower and there will be fewer people than during the peak dry season.
The Lost City of the Incas is Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley in Peru.
Why You Should Go There
The ruins of Machu Picchu are mysterious and beautiful, and they sit high in the Andes Mountains. There is something mysterious and spiritual about this Incan citadel, which was abandoned in the 16th century and hidden from the world for hundreds of years. The trip through the Sacred Valley, with its lovely villages and terraced hillsides, is just as beautiful as the place you are going. It’s a pilgrimage for people who love history, hike, or want to find God.
Best Things to Do
- Hike the Inca Trail: The famous four-day trek is a must-do for adventurers. You can see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate at sunrise. (You can book up to a year in advance!)
- Explore the ruins at your own pace: walk around the temples, houses, and agricultural terraces, and be amazed by the Incas’ amazing stonework.
- Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: This will give you a stunning view of the whole complex. There aren’t many tickets, so make your reservation early.
- Visit the Sacred Valley: Before going to Machu Picchu, check out the markets in Pisac and the fortress in Ollantaytambo.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Get used to it the right way. To avoid getting sick from the high altitude, spend at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (which is lower than Cusco) before going to Machu Picchu. Like the locals do, chew coca leaves or drink coca tea. It really helps.
Paris, France: The City of Love and Light
Why You Should Go There
You don’t just go to Paris; you experience it with all your senses. It’s the saying that is 100% true. The romance of the Seine, the artistic legacy of Montmartre, the grand ambition of the Champs-Élysées, and the simple pleasure of a perfect croissant from a corner boulangerie. There is a lot of art, culture, fashion, and food in Paris. It is a must-see on any European trip and is always one of the top travel destinations for a reason.
Best Things to Do
- See the icons: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre (where the Mona Lisa is), Notre Dame Cathedral (even watching it being restored is moving), and the Arc de Triomphe are all must-sees.
- Love the art: Spend a day at the Musée d’Orsay to see Impressionist masterpieces, and then get lost in the bohemian streets of Montmartre.
- Picnic along the Seine: For the most Parisian experience, get a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine.
- Watch people from a sidewalk café: In Saint-Germain-des-Prés, order a “café crème” and watch the world go by.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Buy a “Navigo Découverte” pass that lets you ride the metro and buses as much as you want for a whole week (Monday through Sunday). If you plan on doing a lot of exploring, it’s much cheaper than buying individual tickets.
6. The Adventure Capital of the World is Queenstown, New Zealand.
Why You Should Visit
Queenstown is a playground for people who love adventure. It is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by the beautiful Southern Alps. This is where bungee jumping for fun started, and the options that get your heart racing haven’t stopped since. But it’s not just exciting; it’s also a place of stunning natural beauty, with unspoiled landscapes that were used as the setting for much of The Lord of the Rings.
Best Things to Do
- Bungee Jump: Jump off the old Kawarau Bridge or the very high Nevis Bungy.
- Take a ride on a jet boat: go fast across the turquoise Shotover River.
- Hike or bike: The trails around Queenstown are some of the best in the world. You can do everything from easy walks by the lake to hard climbs up mountains like Ben Lomond.
- Go on a day trip to Milford Sound. This beautiful fjord is often called the “eighth wonder of the world.” (For more ideas, check out our Guide to New Zealand’s South Island.)
A tip for travelers from someone who knows
You should go to a Fergburger, but not during peak hours, like 3 PM, to avoid the long lines. There is a reason why it is a Queenstown institution. Devil Burger next door is a good choice if you want to avoid crowds.
2: 7. A Symphony for the Senses in Marrakech, Morocco
Why You Should Visit This Place
Marrakech is a city that is both intoxicating and chaotic, and it is also completely magical. The Djemaa el-Fna is the center of it all. At night, it turns into a huge open-air theater and food market with snake charmers, storytellers, and acrobats. The medina is full of busy souks, hidden courtyards (riads), and the smell of spices and leather.
Best Things to Do
- Get lost in the Medina’s souks. The markets are like mazes where you can haggle for lanterns, leather goods, spices, and carpets.
- See Djemaa el-Fna at night: Get a seat at a rooftop cafe that looks out over the square to see the show before you go down to the food stalls.
- Stay in a traditional riad: these lovely guesthouses with courtyards inside are a quiet place to escape the city’s noise.
- Take it easy in the Jardin Majorelle: This beautiful cobalt blue villa and botanical garden, which used to belong to Yves Saint Laurent, is a work of art.
A Travel Tip from an Insider
Always be ready to say “no, thank you” (la, shukran) in a polite but firm way. The shopkeepers and guides can be very pushy. When you know where you’re going in the medina, it’s easier to find your way around.
8. The Jewel of the Aegean: Santorini, Greece
Why You Should Go There
The Greek Islands’ supermodel is Santorini. It’s a dream place to visit because of its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages that cling to the rim of the caldera, and famous sunsets. The island’s unique geology makes for a stunning visual display, thanks to a huge volcanic eruption. Oia and Fira are the two main villages, and they have the beautiful views you’ve seen on Instagram. It’s without a doubt one of the best places to visit for couples and photographers.
Best Things to Do
- Watch the sunset in Oia: This is the best thing to do in Santorini. Get there early because it gets very crowded.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: This 10-kilometer (6-mile) walk along the edge of the caldera has stunning views at every turn.
- Visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri: This Minoan Bronze Age settlement, which was preserved in volcanic ash like Pompeii, is a very interesting historical site.
- Relax on a beach that isn’t like any other: Go to the Red Beach or the black sand beaches of Perissa and Perivolos.
A travel tip from an insider
If you want to get away from the crowds in Oia, go to Imerovigli. It has the same beautiful views of the caldera and whitewashed buildings, but it’s much quieter and more relaxed. It’s great for a romantic dinner with a view that doesn’t stop.
9. The Great Migration in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Why You Should Go There
Seeing the Great Migration in the Serengeti is a way to see nature’s raw, wild power. Over two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles run across the plains every year looking for new places to graze. They have to deal with predators at every turn. The Serengeti is one of the best places on Earth to see wildlife, even when the animals aren’t migrating. The “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) are all over the place.
Best Experiences
- Go on more than one game drive: The best times to see animals are in the early morning and late afternoon, when they are most active.
- Go on a hot-air balloon safari at dawn: It’s a truly magical and unforgettable experience to float silently over the wide plains as the sun rises.
- See a river crossing (seasonal): The Grumeti and Mara Rivers’ dramatic crossings are the best part of the Great Migration show.
- Go to a Maasai village: Find out about the Maasai people’s culture and traditions. They have lived with wildlife for hundreds of years.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Choose a safari company that is well-known. The most important thing for a successful safari is to have a good guide. They know a lot about the park and how animals act, which is very helpful. Don’t skimp on this part of your trip. For more information on how to travel in an ethical way, check out our post on “How to Be a Responsible Tourist.”
10. The Edge of the World: Patagonia, Chile, and Argentina
Why You Should Go There
Patagonia is a place of superlatives. This huge, wild, and sparsely populated area at the southern tip of South America is a great place for hikers, climbers, and anyone who is in awe of nature’s power. Imagine jagged granite peaks, huge glaciers, and lakes that are so blue they look like they can’t be real. You can really feel small in the face of nature’s beauty here. Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina are the two best parks.
Best Things to Do
- Hike the “W” Trek in Torres del Paine: This well-known multi-day trek takes you to the base of the famous granite towers, the French Valley, and along Glacier Grey.
- See the Perito Moreno Glacier: In Argentina, you can watch and listen as huge chunks of ice break off this glacier, which is always moving forward. You can even walk on it in the snow.
- Go to El Chaltén: This is the starting point for hikes to Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. It’s known as Argentina’s trekking capital.
- Drive along the Carretera Austral in Chile: This famous road is the best way to see the beautiful, untouched landscapes of Patagonia.
Travel Tip from an Expert
Patagonia’s weather is known for being very unpredictable. You can really feel all four seasons in one day. No matter what time of year it is, you need to pack layers: a base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and an outer shell that is waterproof and windproof.
This isn’t the end of the journey. Our world travel guide goes on with ten more must-see places that every traveler should see.
A Place of Legends: Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Picture thousands of limestone karsts and islands, covered in thick green plants, sticking out of bright green water. That is Ha Long Bay. The best way to see this UNESCO World Heritage site is to take an overnight cruise. You’ll wake up to the peaceful beauty of the bay. Kayaking through secret lagoons and exploring huge caves like Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) are things you have to do.
12. Nature’s Raw Power at Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Argentina
Iguazu Falls is a beautiful sight that is on the border between Brazil and Argentina. It’s a network of 275 separate waterfalls that is wider than Victoria Falls and taller than Niagara. The Brazilian side has amazing panoramic views, while the Argentinian side lets you get up close and personal, especially at the loud Devil’s Throat.
13. The Soul of a Kingdom: Angkor Wat in Cambodia
Angkor Wat is the biggest religious monument in the world and the heart and soul of Cambodia. This huge temple complex, built in the 12th century, is a great example of Khmer architecture. Seeing the sunrise over its famous five towers is a pilgrimage in and of itself. Don’t just visit Angkor Wat; check out the whole complex, which includes the jungle-covered ruins of Ta Prohm (the “Tomb Raider” temple) and the strange stone faces of Bayon.
14. The Concrete Jungle is in New York City, USA.
The city that never sleeps is a symbol of modern culture. New York City is a city full of energy and contrasts. From the bright lights of Times Square to the quiet paths of Central Park, there is always something going on. You can see the Statue of Liberty for free by taking the Staten Island Ferry, go to world-class museums like the Met and MoMA, and eat your way through the city’s many neighborhoods. It’s the best place to go on an international vacation in a city.
15. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef: A World Underwater
The world’s biggest coral reef system is full of color and life. With so many kinds of fish, turtles, dolphins, and sharks, it’s a diver’s and snorkeler’s dream come true. The best way to see the outer reef and the cleanest corals is to take a boat from Cairns or Port Douglas. Going to the reef is also a strong reminder of how important it is to protect nature.
16. The Lost City Carved in Stone in Petra, Jordan
Seeing the Treasury of Petra for the first time after coming out of a narrow slot canyon called the Siq is one of the most magical things about traveling. The Nabataeans carved this ancient city right into rose-red cliffs, and it is an amazing feat of engineering and art. You should be ready to walk a lot to see the huge site, which includes the impressive monastery.
17. Egypt’s Cairo and the Pyramids of Giza: Sounds of the Pharaohs
The last remaining wonder of the ancient world should be on every list of the best places to visit. The Pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx show how smart and powerful the ancient Egyptians were. Cairo is a busy, chaotic city with a lot of energy. The Egyptian Museum (or the new Grand Egyptian Museum) is full of treasures that will take you back in time.
18. Mexico City, Mexico: A lively cultural center
Mexico City is amazing. This huge city is a great place to go for food, art, history, and culture. Visit the Templo Mayor, which is next to the Zócalo, to see the ruins of the Aztecs. Then go to the Frida Kahlo Museum (the Blue House) to see the huge pyramids of Teotihuacan just outside the city. Finally, eat a lot of amazing street tacos.
19. The Canadian Rockies are a beautiful wilderness in Canada.
The Canadian Rockies’ Banff and Jasper national parks have some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the world. Think of turquoise glacial lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, lots of wildlife (bears, elk, moose), and amazing drives like the Icefields Parkway. This is a great place for people who love the outdoors to hike, kayak, and just be amazed by nature.
20. Lisbon, Portugal: The Coolest Coastal Capital in Europe
Lisbon is a fascinating city with its seven movie hills, historic tram 28, sad Fado music, and amazing food scene. It’s just as charming as many of its Western European cousins, but it’s cheaper. Walk around the narrow streets of the Alfama neighborhood, eat a pastéis de nata (or five) in Belém, and spend a day in the fairytale palaces of Sintra.
Bringing the World Home: Travel Tips You Can Use in Your Daily Life
The best thing about travel is that it gives you a new point of view. The things you do in these “must-see” places can have a big effect on your life back home. Here are some useful suggestions for how to bring the spirit of travel into your daily life.
Embrace “Flâneur” in Your Own City (Inspired by Paris)
The French word flâneur means “to walk around without a purpose to see life.” You don’t have to be in Paris to do this. Once a week, take a different way to work, walk through a neighborhood you don’t know well, or just sit on a park bench for 20 minutes without your phone. When you’re not in a hurry, you’ll be amazed at what you find.
“Pura Vida” is a Costa Rican phrase that means “pure life.”
“Pura Vida” (pure life) is a way to say hello and goodbye in Costa Rica. It’s a reminder to live a simple, stress-free life and focus on what really matters. If you’re feeling stressed, take a deep breath and ask yourself, “Is this ‘Pura Vida’?” This is a simple phrase that can help you let go of little things that bother you and enjoy the moment.
The Art of Simplicity: What a Japanese Garden Can Teach Us (Kyoto-Inspired)
A Japanese Zen garden shows how beautiful space, simplicity, and intention can be. Put this into action in your life. Get rid of the clutter in a drawer, a room, or even on your computer. Make a small, quiet space in your home where you can think. You make room for peace and clarity by getting rid of the things that aren’t important.
Building Community, One Meal at a Time (Inspired by Italy)
In Italy, meals are sacred social events that can last for hours. They are about more than just eating. Try to have meals that mean more to you. Put away your phones, invite friends over for a simple, home-cooked meal, and really listen to each other. One of the best things you can do for your health is to help build this sense of community.
Your Must-Have Checklist for Traveling the World
It can be hard to plan a trip to one of these top travel destinations. This is a quick list to help you get started.
Making Plans and Reservations
- Passports and Visas: Make sure your passport is valid (most countries require it to be valid for at least six months), and look into visa requirements well in advance.
- Flights and Places to Stay: Use tools that compare flights and book a place to stay based on recent reviews.
- Travel Insurance: You have to have it. Get full protection for medical emergencies, canceled trips, and lost luggage.
Smart Packing
- Pack light: Take everything you think you’ll need and put half of it back.
- Universal Adapter: This is something that every traveler should have.
- First-Aid Kit: Include things like pain relievers, bandages, and any medications you take.
Safety and Health
- Vaccinations: Talk to your doctor about any vaccinations you need or should get before you go.
- Emergency Contacts: Have both digital and paper copies of your embassy’s contact information and emergency numbers.
- Be Aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Travel that is good for the environment and people
- Support Local: Hire local guides, eat at local restaurants, and shop at local markets.
- Cut down on trash: Bring a shopping bag and a water bottle that you can use again.
- Respect Culture: Learn a few words in the local language and be aware of how people dress and act in that culture.
Your Next Adventure Is Waiting
People who don’t travel only read one page of the book of the world. This world travel guide is a call to action. Each of these “must-see” places promises a different kind of adventure and discovery, whether you’re interested in the ancient wonders of Egypt, the natural beauty of Patagonia, or the romantic streets of Paris.
There are an endless number of “best places to visit” lists, and they are all very personal. But this is where you should start. It gives you a spark to get you interested and push you to learn more about the amazing variety our planet has to offer. The best journey isn’t to a place but to a new way of looking at things.
So, where are you going first? In the comments below, tell us about your dream vacation spot from this list or one of your own.
https://diolichat.rw/travel/destinations
Source Links & Further Reading
For more detailed planning and inspiration, we recommend these authoritative travel resources:
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre: For detailed information on the cultural and natural significance of sites like Angkor Wat, the Serengeti, and Petra, visit whc.unesco.org
- Lonely Planet: An invaluable resource for practical travel advice, destination guides, and forums. www.lonelyplanet.com
- National Geographic Travel: For stunning photography, in-depth articles, and unique travel ideas. www.nationalgeographic.com/travel
- The U.S. Department of State—Travel Advisories: For up-to-date information on safety, visas, and entry requirements for U.S. citizens. travel.state.gov
- Official Tourism Board Websites: Always check the official tourism site for your destination (e.g., visitgreece.gr for Greece, jnto.go.jp for Japan) for the most accurate information.
