×

The top best places in the world

Explore the best places our world has to offer. From world wonders, famous national parks, must-do hikes, impressive cities to the world's best-known festivals. Set your preferences to slim down the list.
Photo gallery 📷
Check top cities
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
When do you go?












How does it work?

Greece - attraction - Acropolis Museum

Acropolis Museum [Greece]

Trace the evolution of ancient Athens through original artifacts, open architectural spaces, and direct sightlines to the Acropolis itself.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €10 to €20 [theacropolismuseum.gr]
Greece - unique site - Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis of Athens [Greece]

Ascend the rocky plateau to encounter iconic temples and sweeping vistas, where the city’s ancient and modern layers converge in one glance.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €30 to €60 [thisisathens.org]

AfrikaBurn [South Africa]

Build and explore a temporary community in the desert, where art installations and creative expression shape a unique participatory event.
Organized yearly: in April - May
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [southafrica.net]
Duration: 7 days
Kyrgyzstan - national park - Ala Archa National Park

Ala Archa National Park [Kyrgyzstan]

Ascend from forested riverbanks to icy summits, where marked trails and varied terrain make this park a practical base for mountain exploration.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD15 to 40
Spain - unique site - Alhambra

Alhambra [Spain]

Trace the legacy of Granada’s rulers by moving from ornate halls to tranquil gardens, each space revealing a different layer of history.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €35 to €60 [spain.info]
Peru - national park - Amazon Rainforest

Amazon Rainforest [Peru]

Navigate tangled waterways and humid forest trails where rare species, shifting light, and constant sounds define every moment in the world’s largest rainforest.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD60 to 120 [peru.travel]
Brazil - attraction - Amazon Theatre

Amazon Theatre [Brazil]

Step into a gilded auditorium where European architecture meets rainforest history, offering performances and guided tours in the heart of Manaus.
Best time to go: May - November
Daily cost: €4 to €40 [machupicchu.org]

Ambergris Caye [Belize]

Swim off wooden piers, ride through sandy lanes, and spend evenings where the reef meets a busy waterfront village.
Best time to go: November - April
Netherlands - city - Amsterdam

Amsterdam [The Netherlands]

Navigate a dense network of waterways, visit renowned art collections, and encounter a diverse mix of neighborhoods after dark.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €60 to €100 [numbeo.com]

Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) [The Netherlands]

Join thousands of music fans and professionals as Amsterdam transforms into a global hub for electronic sounds, panels, and late-night parties.
Organized yearly: in October
Daily cost: €120 to €220 [numbeo.com]
Duration: 5 days
Venezuela - unique site - Angel Falls

Angel Falls [Venezuela]

Stand beneath the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall, where rainforest trails and river journeys reveal a landscape shaped by ancient geology.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD50 to 120 [venezuela.travel]
Cambodia - unique site - Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat [Cambodia]

Witness intricate stone carvings and shifting light as you move through galleries and courtyards that reveal the scale of Khmer ambition.
Best time to go: November - March
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [tourismcambodia.org]
Nepal - hike - Annapurna Circuit

Annapurna Circuit [Nepal]

Traverse deep gorges, arid plateaus, and high passes, encountering a mix of cultures and scenery that shifts with every stage of the journey.
Best time to go: February - May, September - November
Duration: 12 to 21 days
Distance: 160 to 230 kilometers
Netherlands - attraction - Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House [The Netherlands]

Step through narrow corridors and hidden rooms to understand the daily realities of life in wartime Amsterdam from a personal perspective.
Best time to go: March - May, September - December
Daily cost: €16.50 to €23.50 [annefrank.org]

Anse de Grande Saline [Saint Barthélemy]

Arrive early to experience open space, minimal shade, and a relaxed atmosphere where clothing is optional and the sea is often lively.
Best time to go: October - May

Anse Dufour [Martinique]

Swim in clear, gentle waters beside small boats, and spot turtles grazing on seagrass just meters from the shore.
Best time to go: November - April

Anse Lazio [Seychelles]

Swim in clear water and relax under takamaka trees, with easy access to food stalls and dramatic rock formations at each end.
Best time to go: April - November

Anse Mamin [St. Lucia]

Wander a secluded stretch lined with palms and explore remnants of plantation ruins before relaxing in calm, shallow waters.
Best time to go: November - May

Anse Vata [New Caledonia]

Stroll along a lively waterfront where city life meets the sea, with easy access to water sports and evening gatherings.
Best time to go: March - November
New Zealand - hike - Aoraki - Mount Cook Village Walks

Aoraki - Mount Cook Village Walks [New Zealand]

Walk beneath New Zealand’s highest peaks on accessible trails, crossing rivers and moraines with constant views of glaciers.
Best time to go: September - April
Duration: 1 to 2 days
Distance: 25 kilometers
New Zealand - national park - Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park [New Zealand]

Hike beneath New Zealand’s highest mountains, where glaciers, icefields, and clear night skies create a dramatic alpine environment.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [doc.govt.nz]
United States - national park - Arches National Park

Arches National Park [the USA]

Walk beneath stone spans and explore a maze of sculpted formations in Utah’s high desert.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [nps.gov]
United States - attraction - Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago [the USA]

Browse renowned collections spanning centuries, then pause in quiet courtyards or admire the cityscape from the museum’s modern wing.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD32 to USD40 [artic.edu]
Greece - city - Athens

Athens [Greece]

Navigate dense neighborhoods where ancient relics meet modern grit, discovering archaeological sites, lively markets, and a layered cityscape shaped by history and daily life.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €40 to €60 [numbeo.com]

Ati-Atihan Festival [Philippines]

Move with the beat as Kalibo’s participants, painted in soot, dance through the streets in a rhythmic homage to indigenous roots.
Organized yearly: in January
Daily cost: €30 to €90
Duration: 9 days

Auckland Lantern Festival [New Zealand]

Experience illuminated lanterns, traditional music, and regional snacks as Auckland’s parks transform for Lunar New Year celebrations.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: USD50 to 100
Duration: 4 days
Poland - attraction - Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum

Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum [Poland]

Reflect on the realities of twentieth-century history while walking through original camp structures and thoughtfully curated exhibitions.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD20 to 40 [auschwitz.org]

Bacuit Bay [Philippines]

Paddle or boat between dramatic rock formations and small islands, with clear water and endless options for exploration.
Best time to go: November - May
Myanmar - unique site - Bagan Temples

Bagan Temples [Myanmar]

Cycle dusty tracks at dawn to witness thousands of brick monuments scattered across the plains, each revealing centuries of Buddhist devotion and artistry.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD20 to 50 [myanmar.travel]

Baisakhi [India]

Join farmers in Punjab as they mark the harvest with communal meals, temple visits, and energetic folk dancing.
Organized yearly: in April
Daily cost: USD27 to 87 [incredibleindia.org]
Duration: 1 day
Montenegro - hike - Balkan Trail

Balkan Trail [Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro]

Traverse a multi-day path linking mountain communities, passing through high pastures and experiencing the region’s changing landscapes and cultures.
Best time to go: April - June, September - October
Duration: 5 days
Distance: 75 kilometers

Balos Lagoon [Greece]

Reach a remote lagoon where shallow waters shift in color, and the landscape feels untouched except for the occasional wandering goat.
Best time to go: April - October
Canada - national park - Banff National Park

Banff National Park [Canada]

Hike above turquoise waters, spot elk and bears in open meadows, and experience the Rockies’ dramatic seasonal changes.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [pc.gc.ca]
Thailand - city - Bangkok

Bangkok [Thailand]

Navigate a city of contrasts, from bustling markets and hidden waterways to high-rise vantage points above the skyline.
Best time to go: October - March
Daily cost: USD15 to 30
Spain - city - Barcelona

Barcelona [Spain]

Experience a city where Gaudí’s designs, city beaches, and bustling food halls create a distinct rhythm between sea and street.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €80 [numbeo.com]

Bastille Day [France]

Join crowds gathering for parades and nighttime displays, as public spaces fill with music, celebration, and a sense of shared French identity.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: €50 to €120 [france.fr]
Duration: 1 day
China - city - Beijing

Beijing [China]

Navigate a city where ancient dynastic sites meet modern government, with daily life unfolding in narrow lanes and sprawling urban districts.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD25 to 45 [english.visitbeijing.com.cn]

Belle Mare [Mauritius]

Start the day with a walk along a broad, east-facing shore where the sun rises over quiet sand and locals exercise at dawn.
Best time to go: May - December
Germany - city - Berlin

Berlin [Germany]

Move between neighborhoods marked by history, sample diverse food scenes, and explore a city where past and present constantly intersect.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €75 [numbeo.com]

Berlin Pride [Germany]

Celebrate diversity with colorful processions, parties, and advocacy events that transform Berlin’s streets into a space for visibility.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €70 to €140 [numbeo.com]
Duration: 10 days
Germany - attraction - Berlin Zoological Garden

Berlin Zoological Garden [Germany]

See one of Europe’s oldest zoos, where diverse animal habitats and conservation efforts unfold in the heart of Berlin.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €16 to €25 [berlin.de]
Türkiye - unique site - Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque [Türkiye]

Step inside a living place of worship where blue-hued ceramics and filtered light shape a contemplative, ever-active spiritual space.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €18 to €45 [goturkiye.com]
Russia - attraction - Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre [Russia]

Attend a performance in a venue where acoustics, ornate interiors, and a storied repertoire create a distinct cultural experience.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €30 to €500 [bolshoi.ru]

Bondi Beach [Australia]

Experience Sydney’s most famous stretch, where city life meets the ocean and the promenade buzzes with activity year-round.
Best time to go: September - May
Italy - attraction - Borghese Gallery

Borghese Gallery [Italy]

Wander through intimate rooms filled with dynamic sculptures and paintings, then step outside to landscaped parkland ideal for a midday break.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €16 to €20
Indonesia - unique site - Borobodur

Borobodur [Indonesia]

Climb ancient terraces at dawn to see intricate carvings and panoramic views, tracing centuries of Buddhist pilgrimage in a single morning.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [indonesia.travel]

Boryeong Mud Festival [South Korea]

Dive into mud-based activities along the coast, where travelers mix with locals in playful competitions and open-air concerts.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: €55 to €95 [english.visitkorea.or.kr]
Duration: 10 days
United Kingdom - attraction - British Museum

British Museum [the UK]

Wander through galleries that reveal the complexity of human history, from Egyptian relics to world-spanning cultural treasures.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €0 to €22
Indonesia - national park - Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park [Indonesia]

Climb volcanic ridges before dawn, watch mist swirl over ancient calderas, and encounter Tenggerese traditions in remote highland settlements.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD30 to 70 [indonesia.travel]
United States - attraction - Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo [the USA]

Wander extensive grounds to observe diverse animal species in immersive environments, with seasonal exhibits and family-friendly activities.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: USD40 to 60 [bronxzoo.com]
Belgium - city - Bruges

Bruges [Belgium]

Wander cobbled lanes, cross arched bridges, and discover quiet courtyards that reveal Bruges’ preserved cityscape beyond the main squares.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €85 [visitbruges.be]
United States - national park - Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon [the USA]

Descend into a maze of colorful spires and follow winding paths along the edge of a vast natural amphitheater.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [nps.gov]
Hungary - city - Budapest

Budapest [Hungary]

Cross iconic bridges, soak in historic baths, and explore nightlife in a capital where grand architecture meets everyday local scenes.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €25 to €50 [numbeo.com]
Argentina - city - Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires [Argentina]

Wander neighborhoods where European architecture meets local traditions, sample diverse cuisine, and experience a city that never truly sleeps.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD25 to 45 [turismo.buenosaires.gob.ar]
Austria - attraction - Burgtheater

Burgtheater [Austria]

Attend a German-language performance or join a backstage tour to experience the traditions and architecture of Austria’s national theater.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €7.50 to €64 [burgtheater.at]

Burning Man [the USA]

Immerse yourself in a self-reliant community, where art installations rise from the dust and daily life depends on preparation and mutual aid.
Organized yearly: in August - September
Daily cost: USD50 to 150 [burningman.org]
Duration: 9 days
Uganda - national park - Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park [Uganda]

Trek through tangled forest trails to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, surrounded by misty slopes and ancient trees.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD60 to 100 [ugandawildlife.org]
United Kingdom - national park - Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park [the UK]

Traverse pinewoods alive with wildlife, climb granite peaks above the clouds, and spot herds of reindeer grazing on high tundra.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [visitscotland.com]
Egypt - city - Cairo

Cairo [Egypt]

Navigate a city of contrasts, where ancient tombs and minarets rise above crowded streets and the pulse of daily life never slows.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD20 to 40

Calgary Stampede [Canada]

See rodeo competitions, try fairground snacks, and join crowds in cowboy hats for concerts and parades across the city.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: USD85 to 180 [calgary.ca]
Duration: 10 days
Spain - hike - Camino de Santiago de Compostela

Camino de Santiago de Compostela [Spain]

Follow centuries-old paths through varied countryside, passing through small towns and fields on a journey shaped by tradition and camaraderie.
Best time to go: April - July, September - October
Duration: 30 to 35 days
Distance: 780 kilometers

Camps Bay [South Africa]

Relax on white sand with mountain views, then wander to nearby restaurants as the sun sets behind the Atlantic horizon.
Best time to go: September - April
Venezuela - national park - Canaima National Park

Canaima National Park [Venezuela]

Navigate ancient sandstone mesas and open plains, encountering waterfalls and remote indigenous communities in a landscape shaped by water and wind.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD85 to 150

Canggu Beach [Indonesia]

Join a youthful crowd for surfing, sample a wide range of food options, and experience a lively social scene along the shore.
Best time to go: March - October

Cannes Film Festival [France]

Observe the film industry converge on the Riviera, where exclusive screenings and high-profile events draw global attention and limited public access.
Organized yearly: in May
Daily cost: €80 to €150 [numbeo.com]
Duration: 12 days
South Africa - city - Cape Town

Cape Town [South Africa]

Climb coastal peaks, wander through layered districts, and experience a city where natural drama and urban life meet at every turn.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD30 to 60
United Kingdom - hike - Cape Wrath Trail

Cape Wrath Trail [the UK]

Navigate untamed Scottish landscapes where navigation skills, solitude, and self-sufficiency are essential for crossing rugged, unmarked ground.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 10 to 14 days
Distance: 200 kilometers

Caribana Festival [Canada]

Dance to steelpan bands, watch vibrant processions, and taste island food during North America’s largest celebration of Caribbean culture.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: USD95 to 200 [destinationcanada.com]
Duration: 3 days

Carnevale di Ivrea [Italy]

Witness a unique orange-throwing spectacle, where locals in historic dress reenact a centuries-old rebellion through a dramatic street battle.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: €30 to €80 [italia.it]
Duration: 5 days

Carnevale di Viareggio [Italy]

Watch elaborate floats parade along the coast, with satirical designs and lively crowds transforming the waterfront into a moving gallery.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: €50 to €120 [turismo.intoscana.it]
Duration: 10 days

Carnival of Barranquilla [Colombia]

Immerse yourself in days of music, dance, and costume as the city’s neighborhoods host one of Colombia’s most iconic celebrations.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: USD25 to 60 [colombia.travel]
Duration: 4 days

Carnival of Rio de Janeiro [Brazil]

Join crowds moving through city avenues as samba schools perform, drummers lead processions, and neighborhoods erupt in spontaneous street celebrations.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: USD60 to 120
Duration: 5 days
Colombia - city - Cartagena

Cartagena [Colombia]

Walk centuries-old ramparts, explore narrow alleys, and watch daily life unfold between the sea and stone buildings.
Best time to go: November - May
Daily cost: USD25 to 50 [colombia.travel]
United States - attraction - Cedar Point

Cedar Point [the USA]

Experience a day of high-speed attractions and classic amusements along a lakeside peninsula known for its record-breaking rides.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD45 to USD125 [cedarpoint.com]
France - attraction - Centre Pompidou

Centre Pompidou [France]

Navigate a building where escalators cross the façade, galleries showcase contemporary works, and city panoramas reward those who reach the top.
Best time to go: January - June, September - November
Daily cost: €15 to €20 [centrepompidou.fr]
Brazil - national park - Chapada Diamantina National Park

Chapada Diamantina National Park [Brazil]

Trek through rugged plateaus and discover hidden caves, crystal pools, and panoramic views shaped by centuries of erosion.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 70
United Kingdom - attraction - Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo [the UK]

Observe animals in carefully designed environments while following winding paths that highlight global biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 40 [chesterzoo.org]
United States - city - Chicago

Chicago [the USA]

Walk along the lakeshore, sample iconic foods, and explore neighborhoods defined by music, art, and bold design.
Best time to go: April - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [numbeo.com]
Mexico - unique site - Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza [Mexico]

Walk among monumental ruins and carved stone, tracing the legacy of ancient astronomers and ceremonial life.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD50 to 90

Chinese New Year [Malaysia]

Feel the city transform with fireworks, temple visits, and family gatherings that fill homes with festive energy and symbolic dishes.
Organized yearly: in January - February
Daily cost: USD35 to 70
Duration: 15 days
Nepal - national park - Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park [Nepal]

Ride through tall elephant grass and forest, encountering rhinos and crocodiles, then visit indigenous communities along the park’s edge.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [tourism.gov.np]
Botswana - national park - Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park [Botswana]

Watch elephants gather at the water’s edge and drift past hippos on a river cruise through a landscape shaped by seasonal floods.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 100 [botswanatourism.co.bw]
Brazil - unique site - Christ the Redeemer Statue

Christ the Redeemer Statue [Brazil]

Ascend to the summit of Corcovado for a close look at the iconic statue and sweeping cityscapes stretching from rainforest to Atlantic coast.
Best time to go: April - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70

Christmas Markets [Germany]

Browse handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats in illuminated town squares, surrounded by the scents and sounds of winter festivities.
Organized yearly: in October - December
Daily cost: €70 to €120 [germany.travel]
Duration: 24 days

Chuseok (Korean Harvest Festival) [South Korea]

Experience Korea’s major holiday through traditional meals, ceremonial rituals, and a rare glimpse of local customs in homes and villages.
Organized yearly: in September
Daily cost: USD35 to 90 [english.visitkorea.or.kr]
Duration: 3 days

Clearwater Beach [the USA]

Swim in warm Gulf waters, watch dolphins offshore, and gather at dusk as the sun drops behind a lively pier lined with street performers.
Best time to go: September - May
Ireland - unique site - Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher [Ireland]

Stand at the edge of Ireland’s western coast and watch seabirds wheel above dramatic rock faces carved by centuries of relentless ocean weather.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €20 to €60 [cliffsofmoher.ie]

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival [the USA]

Navigate expansive grounds dotted with art and stages, where fashion, music, and desert heat shape the festival’s daily rhythm.
Organized yearly: in April
Daily cost: USD150 to 250 [visitcalifornia.com]
Duration: 6 days
Italy - unique site - Colosseum

Colosseum [Italy]

Stand beneath towering arches and imagine the roar of crowds, as the scale and design of ancient Rome’s arena come into sharp focus.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [coopculture.it]
France - attraction - Comédie-Française

Comédie-Française [France]

Attend a performance in a historic venue where tradition, language, and stagecraft define the experience for theater enthusiasts.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €10 to €40 [comedie-francaise.fr]
Denmark - city - Copenhagen

Copenhagen [Denmark]

Navigate a capital defined by its bike culture, innovative architecture, and neighborhoods that blend royal history with cutting-edge creativity.
Best time to go: March - October, December
Daily cost: €60 to €100
Mexico - national park - Copper Canyon

Copper Canyon [Mexico]

Ride the famous train or trek remote trails through a vast canyon system, encountering indigenous culture and sweeping vistas.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD40 to 100 [gob.mx]
Peru - city - Cusco

Cusco [Peru]

Navigate steep cobbled streets lined with Inca walls, then acclimatize before heading deeper into the Sacred Valley or beyond.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD15 to 30 [peru.travel]
Ethiopia - unique site - Danakil Depression

Danakil Depression [Ethiopia]

Experience a surreal landscape of shifting colors, extreme heat, and active geology where local salt caravans still cross the desert.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €70 to €150 [ethiopia.travel]
India - city - Delhi

Delhi [India]

Navigate layered neighborhoods, taste diverse cuisines, and explore relics from empires that shaped the capital.
Best time to go: September - March
Daily cost: USD15 to 30 [incredibleindia.org]
United States - national park - Denali National Park

Denali National Park [the USA]

Travel deep into Alaska’s interior to spot wildlife and experience vast, open landscapes dominated by North America’s tallest peak.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 90 [nps.gov]
Iceland - unique site - Dettifoss

Dettifoss [Iceland]

Stand at the edge of a thunderous waterfall and feel the ground tremble as glacial waters plunge into a dramatic ravine.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: €30 to €70 [visiticeland.com]

Dia de los Muertos [Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico]

Witness families honoring ancestors with intricate offerings, candlelit graveyards, and public art that transforms city streets into spaces of remembrance.
Organized yearly: in October - November
Daily cost: USD25 to 70
Duration: 2 days

Dia de los Reyes Magos [Spain]

Witness the arrival of the Three Kings with processions, gift-giving, and traditional pastries marking Spain’s main winter celebration for families.
Organized yearly: in January
Daily cost: €50 to €110 [spain.info]
Duration: 1 day

Diani Beach [Kenya]

Swim in clear waters, try water sports, and unwind along a stretch where modern comforts meet a relaxed coastal rhythm.
Best time to go: June - October, December - February
Ireland - hike - Dingle Way

Dingle Way [Ireland]

Circle the Dingle Peninsula on foot, experiencing shifting seascapes, traditional culture, and the rhythm of rural life along the Atlantic edge.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 7 to 9 days
Distance: 179 kilometers
United States - attraction - Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom [the USA]

Discover themed lands blending live animals and immersive storytelling, with opportunities for close-up encounters and adventurous rides.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €119 to €184 [disneyfanatic.com]
France - attraction - Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris [France]

Experience immersive lands, meet iconic figures, and navigate attractions designed for families and fans of animated worlds.
Best time to go: March, May - June, September - November
Daily cost: €60 to €120
United States - attraction - Disneyland Park

Disneyland Park [the USA]

Step into a world of detailed environments and beloved characters, with rides and parades designed for all ages.
Best time to go: January - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD104 to USD164 [disneyland.disney.go.com]

Diwali [India]

Walk through neighborhoods lit by thousands of diyas, share sweets with locals, and watch fireworks light up the night.
Organized yearly: in October - November
Daily cost: USD20 to 50 [incredibleindia.org]
Duration: 5 days
Qatar - city - Doha

Doha [Qatar]

Navigate a city where modern architecture meets curated art spaces, with neighborhoods shifting from business districts to cultural enclaves in minutes.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [visitqatar.qa]
Italy - hike - Dolomites Alta Via 1

Dolomites Alta Via 1 [Italy]

Move from alpine lakes to rocky passes, staying in rifugi and witnessing the region’s shifting light and dramatic geology.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 10 to 12 days
Distance: 150 kilometers
Italy - hike - Dolomites’ Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Dolomites’ Tre Cime di Lavaredo [Italy]

Circle iconic rock formations on well-marked trails, encountering wildflower meadows and stark stone landscapes at every turn.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: 10 kilometers
Palestine - unique site - Dome of the Rock (Qubbat aṣ-Ṣaḵra)

Dome of the Rock (Qubbat aṣ-Ṣaḵra) [Israel and Palestine]

Stand on the Temple Mount and take in intricate tilework, geometric patterns, and the spiritual gravity of a site central to three faiths.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD20 to 50
South Africa - hike - Drakensberg

Drakensberg [South Africa]

Climb into high-altitude terrain with steep ascents, unpredictable weather, and the chance to see ancient rock paintings in remote caves.
Best time to go: March - May, October - November
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Distance: 1,000 kilometers
United Arab Emirates - city - Dubai

Dubai [UAE]

Navigate a metropolis defined by dramatic contrasts, from glass towers and luxury malls to old souks and vast stretches of sand.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD50 to 100 [visitdubai.com]
United Arab Emirates - attraction - Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo [UAE]

Walk beneath a massive suspended tank and encounter diverse marine life, including sharks and rays, in immersive underwater environments.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €50 to €100 [thedubaiaquarium.com]
Ireland - city - Dublin

Dublin [Ireland]

Trace the city’s literary legacy through bookshops and pubs, then relax in green spaces surrounded by Georgian architecture and busy streets.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €50 to €80 [numbeo.com]

Eagle Beach [Aruba]

Stroll a wide expanse of pale sand, spot nesting sea turtles in season, and rest beneath the shade of iconic, wind-shaped trees.
Best time to go: all year round
United Kingdom - city - Edinburgh

Edinburgh [the UK]

Climb steep streets between medieval closes and Georgian avenues, then pause for sweeping views and a calendar packed with cultural events.
Best time to go: March - October, December
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [visitbritain.com]
Netherlands - attraction - Efteling

Efteling [The Netherlands]

Navigate winding paths and themed worlds inspired by folklore, where detailed settings and creative attractions appeal to all ages.
Best time to go: April - October, December
Daily cost: €40 to €56 [efteling.com]
Egypt - attraction - Egyptian Museum

Egyptian Museum [Egypt]

Survey a vast collection of ancient objects, including royal burial goods and statuary, in a building that has defined Egyptology for generations.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: €30 to €55 [newegyptianmuseum.com]

Eid al-Fitr [Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Djibouti, Pakistan, Qatar and UAE]

Experience citywide celebrations as communities mark the end of Ramadan with shared meals, gifts, and a spirit of generosity.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD70 to 150 [visitdubai.com]
Duration: 3 days
France - unique site - Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower [France]

Ascend a landmark structure for sweeping city views and a close look at 19th-century engineering.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: €40 to €80 [toureiffel.paris]

El Cotillo Beaches [Spain]

Watch Atlantic waves break on rugged shores, then move between calm lagoons and open surf favored by experienced wind and kite surfers.
Best time to go: March - October

El Nido [Philippines]

Join boat trips to secret beaches and lagoons, surrounded by vertical limestone walls and clear, shallow water.
Best time to go: November - May

Elia Beach [Greece]

Find space to stretch out on a wide beach, with clear water and distant views, plus plenty of facilities for a comfortable day.
Best time to go: April - October
Namibia - national park - Etosha National Park

Etosha National Park [Namibia]

Watch herds gather at waterholes on vast plains, where the shimmering Etosha Pan creates dramatic backdrops for Namibia’s most accessible wildlife encounters.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: €30 to €70
Germany - attraction - Europa-Park

Europa-Park [Germany]

Experience a variety of rides and immersive settings, with zones inspired by European countries and entertainment for all ages.
Best time to go: March, May - September
Daily cost: €64.50 to €160 [europapark.de]
Nepal - hike - Everest Base Camp Trek

Everest Base Camp Trek [Nepal]

Reach the foot of Everest by following a classic route through high-altitude villages, glacial valleys, and the heart of Sherpa country.
Best time to go: February - May, September - November
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Distance: 130 kilometers
United States - national park - Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park [the USA]

Paddle through slow-moving waters, encounter rare wildlife, and navigate a subtropical wilderness shaped by seasonal flooding.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD25 to 60 [nps.gov]
United Arab Emirates - attraction - Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi [UAE]

Ride high-speed coasters and explore automotive exhibits in an indoor park dedicated to racing culture and Italian engineering.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €85 to €95 [ferrariworldabudhabi.com]

Festa della Repubblica [Italy]

Join Italians in commemorating the republic’s founding, with public ceremonies and a major parade through the heart of the capital.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €40 to €90 [numbeo.com]
Duration: 1 day

Festa della Sensa [Italy]

Experience Venice’s centuries-old ritual as decorated boats glide across the lagoon, marking the city’s historic bond with the sea.
Organized yearly: in May
Daily cost: €50 to €120 [italia.it]
Duration: 2 days

Festa Junina [Brazil]

Experience rural-inspired festivities with quadrilha dancing, corn-based treats, and locals gathering around bonfires in decorated town squares.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: USD40 to 90
Duration: 30 days

Fête de la Bière [France]

Sample regional beers alongside locals, with traditional music and hearty food creating a festive, convivial atmosphere unique to eastern France.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €51 to €121 [france.fr]
Duration: 3 days

Fête de la Chanson [France]

Listen to heartfelt performances in small spaces, where the focus is on poetic storytelling and the nuances of the French language.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €85 to €295 [france.fr]
Duration: 3 days

Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste [Canada]

Join locals for music, fireworks, and public gatherings that highlight French-Canadian traditions and community pride.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: USD68 to 147 [quebecoriginal.com]
Duration: 1 day
New Zealand - national park - Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park [New Zealand]

Journey through vast, wet landscapes shaped by ice and rain, encountering remote valleys and wildlife on foot or by boat.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [doc.govt.nz]
Namibia - hike - Fish River Canyon

Fish River Canyon [Namibia]

Descend into a vast chasm, navigating boulder fields and dry riverbeds while camping under open skies and tracing ancient watercourses.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 5 to 7 days
Distance: 90 kilometers
Argentina - hike - Fitz Roy Trek

Fitz Roy Trek [Argentina]

Follow well-marked trails beneath dramatic spires, passing through dense woodland and open valleys with frequent weather changes.
Best time to go: October - April
Duration: 4 to 5 days
Distance: 40 kilometers

Flamenco Beach [Puerto Rico]

Walk a broad, sheltered bay with soft sand and shallow entry, passing rusted tanks that hint at the island’s layered history.
Best time to go: November - August
Italy - city - Florence

Florence [Italy]

Trace the legacy of artists and architects, cross the Arno on historic bridges, and watch craftspeople at work in hidden studios.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €50 to €90 [numbeo.com]
China - unique site - Forbidden City

Forbidden City [China]

Move through a labyrinth of palaces and gates, observing the spatial order and decorative detail that defined China’s dynastic power center.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €20 to €35
Ecuador - national park - Galapagos

Galapagos [Ecuador]

Walk among fearless animals on stark lava fields, snorkel with sea lions, and witness evolutionary adaptation in real time across isolated islands.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: USD60 to 120 [galapagos.gob.ec]
Italy - attraction - Gardaland

Gardaland [Italy]

Experience a range of rides and immersive environments designed for all ages, with Italian twists on classic amusement park experiences.
Best time to go: April - June, September - October
Daily cost: €44 to €59
Singapore - attraction - Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay [Singapore]

Stroll among towering vertical gardens and explore biodomes that showcase rare plant species from different global ecosystems.
Best time to go: January - November
Daily cost: €20 to €40 [gardensbythebay.com.sg]
United States - attraction - Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium [the USA]

Observe marine life from around the globe, including massive tanks and interactive exhibits that highlight aquatic ecosystems.
Best time to go: January - May, September - November
Daily cost: €50 to €70 [georgiaaquarium.org]
United States - attraction - Getty Center

Getty Center [the USA]

Stroll through galleries of European art, then relax in landscaped gardens overlooking Los Angeles and the Santa Monica Mountains.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: USD0 to 20 [getty.edu]
Belgium - city - Ghent

Ghent [Belgium]

Join locals at canal-side terraces, climb medieval towers, and find vibrant street art tucked between centuries-old facades in Ghent.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €50 to €75 [numbeo.com]
Japan - attraction - Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum [Japan]

Step into the creative world of Studio Ghibli with original sketches, playful installations, and screenings unavailable elsewhere.
Best time to go: January - June, September - November
Daily cost: €7 to €8 [ghibli-museum.jp]

Gion Matsuri [Japan]

Navigate Kyoto’s grid as enormous wheeled floats roll past, accompanied by traditional music and centuries-old customs throughout the month.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [kyoto.travel]
Duration: 31 days
Mongolia - national park - Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park

Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park [Mongolia]

Traverse shifting dunes and hidden canyons, encountering wildlife adapted to the extremes of Mongolia’s southern desert.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80
Colombia - attraction - Gold Museum

Gold Museum [Colombia]

Trace the evolution of metalworking and ceremonial traditions by viewing intricate gold pieces and contextual exhibits spanning centuries of indigenous cultures.
Best time to go: June, August - September, December - March
Daily cost: €1 to €5 [bogota.gov.co]
United States - unique site - Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge [the USA]

Walk or cycle across this engineering landmark, where shifting weather and sweeping views connect city energy with the open ocean.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD30 to 80 [nps.gov]
India - unique site - Golden Temple

Golden Temple [India]

Join pilgrims circling a shimmering shrine, pausing for reflection and sharing a meal in the world’s largest free dining hall.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD15 to 35 [incredibleindia.org]
France - hike - GR10

GR10 [France]

Traverse the full length of the French Pyrenees, moving between isolated valleys, shifting climates, and distinct mountain cultures from Atlantic to Mediterranean.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 40 to 50 days
Distance: 1,000 kilometers
France - hike - GR20

GR20 [France]

Tackle rugged ascents and exposed ridgelines across Corsica, where demanding trails reveal wild landscapes and a fiercely independent island identity.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 15 to 16 days
Distance: 180 kilometers

Grace Bay Beach [Turks and Caicos Islands]

Swim in clear water steps from amenities, with easy entry to reefs and a long shoreline favored by travelers seeking convenience.
Best time to go: October - May
Spain - attraction - Gran Teatre del Liceu

Gran Teatre del Liceu [Spain]

Attend a performance or guided tour in a venue known for its acoustics, lavish décor, and central position on Barcelona’s main boulevard.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €10 to €300 [liceubarcelona.cat]
United States - unique site - Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon [the USA]

Descend into a landscape of ancient rock and shifting light, where every viewpoint reveals new depths and colors.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [nps.gov]
United States - national park - Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park [the USA]

Descend into immense geological formations or gaze from the rim as shifting light reveals the canyon’s depth and color.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [nps.gov]
United States - hike - Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim [the USA]

Descend from forested rim to the Colorado River, crossing stark layers of stone before climbing back into cooler pine forests above.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Distance: 34 kilometers
Egypt - attraction - Grand Egyptian Museum

Grand Egyptian Museum [Egypt]

Encounter Egypt’s antiquities in a new setting designed for large-scale displays, interactive exhibits, and direct sightlines to the pyramids.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: €45 to €90

Grape Harvest Festival (Vendimia) [Argentina]

Celebrate the grape harvest with open-air performances, regional tastings, and a coronation that honors Mendoza’s winemaking legacy.
Organized yearly: in February - March
Daily cost: USD40 to 90 [argentina.gob.ar]
Duration: 10 days
Australia - unique site - Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef [Australia]

Swim above vibrant coral systems teeming with fish, turtles, and rays, or explore sandy cays scattered across the world’s largest reef.
Best time to go: May - November
Daily cost: €50 to €150 [australia.com]
Nepal - hike - Great Himalaya Trail

Great Himalaya Trail [Nepal]

Undertake a demanding journey linking Nepal’s farthest corners, crossing isolated valleys and high passes through ever-changing terrain.
Best time to go: February - May, September - November
Duration: 150 to 160 days
Distance: 1,700 kilometers
Saudi Arabia - unique site - Great Mosque of Mecca

Great Mosque of Mecca [Saudi Arabia]

Join millions of pilgrims in a spiritual center defined by ritual, monumental architecture, and centuries of religious tradition.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €60 to €90
Australia - hike - Great Ocean Walk

Great Ocean Walk [Australia]

Walk parallel to dramatic cliffs and wind-battered beaches, with each turn revealing new perspectives on Victoria’s wild southern edge.
Best time to go: September - May
Duration: 8 days
Distance: 104 kilometers
Egypt - unique site - Great Pyramid of Giza

Great Pyramid of Giza [Egypt]

Gaze up at a geometric marvel that has endured for millennia, then step inside to experience the narrow, echoing corridors within.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD25 to 60 [egymonuments.gov.eg]
China - unique site - Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China [China]

Hike along rugged sections where the wall snakes across hills, offering changing perspectives on both landscape and military ingenuity.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD20 to 50
Spain - attraction - Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao [Spain]

View bold modern art inside a landmark building, with outdoor sculptures and river views enhancing the museum’s dramatic presence.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €15 to €18 [guggenheim-bilbao.eus]
Iceland - unique site - Gullfoss

Gullfoss [Iceland]

Watch glacial waters drop in two dramatic stages, sending mist into the air as they carve through a rugged river gorge.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €130 [visiticeland.com]
Malaysia - national park - Gunung Mulu

Gunung Mulu [Malaysia]

Journey into a UNESCO-listed landscape of towering karst spires and vast caverns, where nightly bat flights animate the dusk.
Best time to go: February - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [mulupark.com]
Vietnam - hike - Ha Giang Loop

Ha Giang Loop [Vietnam]

Ride or hike winding roads that cut through remote highlands, passing cliffside hamlets and valleys carved by centuries of subsistence farming.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Duration: 3 to 5 days
Distance: 350 kilometers
United States - hike - Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven)

Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven) [the USA]

Climb a steep, stair-stepped route along a narrow ridge, often shrouded in mist, with sweeping views over Oahu’s windward coast.
Best time to go: March - November
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Distance: 3.5 kilometers
United States - national park - Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park [the USA]

Ascend above the clouds for dawn colors, then descend into a vast volcanic landscape dotted with rare Hawaiian plants.
Best time to go: January - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [nps.gov]

Hanami Cherry Blossom Festival [Japan]

Time your visit for peak bloom to join locals in parks, where shared meals and drinks celebrate the brief beauty of cherry blossoms.
Organized yearly: in March - April
Daily cost: €50 to €120 [japan.travel]
Duration: 1 to 2 weeks
Vietnam - city - Hanoi

Hanoi [Vietnam]

Wander narrow alleys, sip coffee by the water, and experience the layered history of Vietnam’s capital.
Best time to go: September - April
Daily cost: USD15 to 30 [vietnam.travel]

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival [China]

Explore a city transformed by monumental ice art, illuminated installations, and subzero activities unique to China’s far northeast.
Organized yearly: in January - February
Daily cost: USD40 to 90 [chinatravel.com]
Duration: 30 days
Switzerland - hike - Haute Route

Haute Route [Switzerland]

Cross high passes and ancient glaciers on a demanding trek linking Chamonix and Zermatt, relying on mountain refuges for overnight stays.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Distance: 180 kilometers
Cuba - city - Havana

Havana [Cuba]

Walk from crumbling mansions to lively squares, tracing the city’s contrasts as locals gather along the coast and music drifts through the air.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD25 to 40 [cubatravel.cu]
Austria - national park - Hohe Tauern

Hohe Tauern [Austria]

Traverse glacier-fed valleys and high passes, encountering diverse habitats from wildflower slopes to snow-capped summits.
Best time to go: June - September
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [hohetauern.at]

Holi [India, Mauritius and Nepal]

Navigate lively crowds as locals throw color and water, turning city squares and rural lanes into playful, chaotic celebrations.
Organized yearly: in February - March
Daily cost: USD25 to 60 [welcomenepal.com]
Duration: 2 days
China - city - Hong Kong

Hong Kong [China]

Ride double-decker trams, eat at bustling dai pai dong, and cross the harbor for panoramic city views and diverse neighborhoods.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [numbeo.com]
Peru - national park - Huascarán National Park

Huascarán National Park [Peru]

Ascend into thin air among snow-capped summits and crystalline lagoons, where Andean condors soar above ancient Inca routes and wildflower meadows.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD30 to 60 [peru.travel]
Peru - hike - Huayna Picchu

Huayna Picchu [Peru]

Climb a steep, exposed trail above Machu Picchu for sweeping views and a close look at Inca engineering perched on a knife-edge ridge.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 5 to 2 hours
Distance: 2.5 kilometers
Hungary - attraction - Hungarian State Opera House

Hungarian State Opera House [Hungary]

Attend a performance or tour lavish interiors featuring gilded balconies, ornate ceilings, and a renowned acoustic design.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €6 to €100 [opera.hu]
Brazil - unique site - Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls [Argentina and Brazil]

Walk trails and catwalks to witness hundreds of cascades thundering through lush forest, with wildlife and mist enveloping both Argentina and Brazil and Argentina and Brazil.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 80
Argentina - national park - Iguazu National Park

Iguazu National Park [Argentina]

Stand at the edge of roaring cascades, trek through lush jungle, and watch for colorful birds darting between ancient trees.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD35 to 70 [argentina.gob.ar]
Peru - hike - Inca Trail

Inca Trail [Peru]

Follow a centuries-old route through shifting ecosystems and past ruins, culminating in a sunrise arrival at the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 4 days
Distance: 43 kilometers
Myanmar - national park - Inle Lake

Inle Lake [Myanmar]

Glide by boat past villages on stilts and floating gardens, observing daily life and rare waterbirds in a highland basin.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD30 to 50 [myanmar.travel]

Inti Raymi [Peru]

Experience a reenactment of ancient sun worship, where actors and crowds gather at Cusco’s ruins for a day of symbolic offerings.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: USD30 to 70 [peru.travel]
Duration: 1 day

Ipanema [Brazil]

Join locals at distinct beach sections, enjoy mountain-framed sunsets, and sample street food along the lively waterfront.
Best time to go: April - November
Israel - attraction - Israel Museum

Israel Museum [Israel]

Examine ancient manuscripts, archaeological finds, and modern artworks in a campus that balances historical depth with creative expression.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD15 to USD20 [imj.org.il]
Türkiye - city - Istanbul

Istanbul [Türkiye]

Cross continents by ferry, navigate crowded markets, and trace centuries of shifting empires in a city layered with daily contrasts.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €30 to €50 [goturkiye.com]
Canada - national park - Jasper

Jasper [Canada]

Cycle quiet roads, paddle emerald waters, and stargaze in one of the world’s largest accessible dark sky reserves.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [pc.gc.ca]
Palestine - city - Jerusalem

Jerusalem [Israel and Palestine]

Walk through ancient gates into neighborhoods where centuries-old traditions, diverse communities, and religious rituals intersect at every turn.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD30 to 60
Bhutan - national park - Jigme Dorji National Park

Jigme Dorji National Park [Bhutan]

Trek beneath towering Himalayan summits, soak in natural hot springs, and encounter nomadic life in Bhutan’s largest protected area.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD70 to 150 [bhutan.travel]
United States - hike - John Muir Trail

John Muir Trail [the USA]

Travel deep into the Sierra Nevada, crossing high passes and remote valleys where granite walls and clear lakes shape every mile.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 10 to 14 days
Distance: 347 kilometers
Iceland - national park - Jökulsárgljúfur

Jökulsárgljúfur [Iceland]

Hike through a dramatic gorge where thundering waterfalls, lava formations, and stark cliffs create a landscape shaped by powerful geological forces.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €30 to €70 [visiticeland.com]
Jordan - hike - Jordan Trail

Jordan Trail [Jordan]

Traverse the length of the country on foot, linking remote valleys, mountain ridges, and small communities over weeks of continuous hiking.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Duration: 40 days
Distance: 650 kilometers
Switzerland - hike - Jungfrau Region Hikes

Jungfrau Region Hikes [Switzerland]

Experience a network of trails weaving through deep valleys and high meadows, with frequent train access and views of the Bernese Alps.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 5 to 7 days
Distance: 500 kilometers
Australia - national park - Kakadu

Kakadu [Australia]

Cruise wetlands at sunrise, watch for birdlife, and explore rock galleries that reveal millennia of human presence.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD60 to 110 [parksaustralia.gov.au]
United States - hike - Kalalau Trail

Kalalau Trail [the USA]

Follow a rugged path along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, traversing lush valleys and steep cliffs to reach isolated sands at trail’s end.
Best time to go: March - November
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Distance: 35 kilometers

Kalapathar Beach [India]

Stroll beneath overhanging trees and volcanic stones, where gentle waves and solitude define this remote Andaman shoreline.
Best time to go: October - April
New Zealand - hike - Kepler Track

Kepler Track [New Zealand]

Climb from lakeside forest to exposed ridgelines, experiencing dramatic shifts in landscape and weather over a well-marked circuit.
Best time to go: September - May
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Distance: 60 kilometers
Tanzania - unique site - Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro [Tanzania]

Ascend through shifting climate zones, from rainforest to arctic tundra, and experience the stark beauty of Africa’s highest peak.
Best time to go: June - October, December - March
Daily cost: USD250 to 400

King’s Day [The Netherlands]

Join locals as cities and villages erupt in music, open-air sales, and spontaneous gatherings to mark the Dutch monarch’s birthday.
Organized yearly: in April
Daily cost: €40 to €80 [holland.com]
Duration: 1 day
Australia - hike - Kings Canyon Rim Walk

Kings Canyon Rim Walk [Australia]

Climb to a high rim for sweeping views, then descend into a sheltered gorge where rare plants thrive in permanent shade and water.
Best time to go: March - November
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: 6 kilometers
Indonesia - national park - Komodo National Park

Komodo National Park [Indonesia]

Walk dry island trails among giant lizards, snorkel over vibrant reefs, and rest on rare pink-hued beaches between rugged headlands.
Best time to go: April - December
Daily cost: USD60 to 150 [indonesia.travel]
Poland - city - Krakow

Krakow [Poland]

Absorb centuries of layered history, from medieval halls to vibrant nightlife, in a city where every district tells a different story.
Best time to go: March - October, December
Daily cost: €30 to €50 [krakow.pl]
Russia - unique site - Kremlin and Red Square

Kremlin and Red Square [Russia]

Cross a vast open square framed by monumental architecture, encountering the heart of Moscow’s political and cultural life in one sweep.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €25 to €70 [russiatourism.ru]
South Africa - national park - Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park [South Africa]

Drive for days through changing landscapes, encountering elephants, big cats, and a remarkable variety of birds and mammals.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD60 to 120
Malaysia - city - Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur [Malaysia]

Navigate a city where modern towers rise above bustling markets, and neighborhoods reveal Malaysia’s diverse urban identity.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD20 to 35
Japan - hike - Kumano Kodo

Kumano Kodo [Japan]

Walk historic routes through dense woods and remote hamlets, encountering shrines and traditional inns along the way.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 5 to 10 days
Distance: 170 kilometers

Kumbh Mela [India]

Navigate vast tent cities and witness millions gather for ritual bathing at India’s sacred river junctions.
Organized yearly: in October - April
Daily cost: €20 to €60 [incredibleindia.org]
Duration: 48 days
Sweden - hike - Kungsleden

Kungsleden [Sweden]

Experience remote wilderness as you cross open fells and birch woods, passing through Sweden’s most dramatic mountain scenery north of the Arctic Circle.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 25 to 30 days
Distance: 440 kilometers
Austria - attraction - Kunsthistorisches Museum

Kunsthistorisches Museum [Austria]

Browse collections spanning ancient to Renaissance art in a palatial setting designed for the imperial collections of the Habsburgs.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €16 to €20 [khm.at]
Japan - city - Kyoto

Kyoto [Japan]

Discover centuries-old rituals, stroll through atmospheric lanes, and experience a city where tradition shapes the everyday.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [kyoto.travel]

La Feria de Abril [Spain]

Experience Seville’s week-long fair with traditional music, horse-drawn carriages, and locals gathering in private tents for food and dance.
Organized yearly: in April
Daily cost: €40 to €90 [spain.info]
Duration: 6 days

La Mercè [Spain]

See Barcelona’s streets fill with castellers, fireworks, and open-air performances blending local tradition with contemporary urban culture.
Organized yearly: in September
Daily cost: €50 to €100 [spain.info]
Duration: 5 days
Bolivia - city - La Paz

La Paz [Bolivia]

Descend from dizzying heights into a city where neighborhoods cling to canyon walls and public transport floats above the chaos.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD15 to 30

La Tomatina [Spain]

Prepare for a massive tomato battle in Buñol, where thousands gather to hurl fruit and navigate slippery streets during this one-hour event.
Organized yearly: in August
Daily cost: €85 to €180 [spain.info]
Duration: 1 day
United Kingdom - national park - Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park [the UK]

Walk beside deep waters framed by steep hills, climb rocky summits, and visit villages that inspired poets and painters.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80

Langkawi Beach [Malaysia]

Relax beneath dramatic cliffs, ride above treetops for panoramic island views, and browse for bargains in a setting shaped by nature.
Best time to go: November - March

Lantern Festival [Sierra Leone, Singapore and Taiwan]

Experience illuminated streets and intricate lanterns as communities mark the lunar new year’s end with parades, crafts, and lively gatherings.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: USD40 to 90 [eng.taiwan.net.tw]
Duration: 1 day
Australia - hike - Larapinta Trail

Larapinta Trail [Australia]

Experience the heart of Central Australia, where ancient geology and sparse vegetation create a landscape shaped by heat, wind, and time.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Distance: 223 kilometers
Peru - attraction - Larco Museum

Larco Museum [Peru]

Browse extensive galleries of ancient pottery and jewelry, then relax in a tranquil courtyard surrounded by flowering bougainvillea.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: €10 to €12 [museolarco.org]
Peru - hike - Lares Trek

Lares Trek [Peru]

Traverse remote valleys dotted with traditional communities, sharing trails with herders and crossing high passes surrounded by glaciated peaks.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Distance: 33 kilometers
United States - city - Las Vegas

Las Vegas [the USA]

Experience dazzling nightlife, catch headline performances, and use the city as a gateway to stark desert landscapes.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD60 to 120 [numbeo.com]
Iceland - hike - Laugavegur Trail

Laugavegur Trail [Iceland]

Experience Iceland’s varied interior on a route linking wild landscapes, where each day brings new terrain and the challenge of self-sufficiency.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 4 to 6 days
Distance: 55 kilometers
Myanmar - unique site - Laykyun Sekkya Buddha

Laykyun Sekkya Buddha [Myanmar]

Stand beneath one of the world’s tallest Buddha images, then explore the surrounding grounds dotted with intricate sculptures and panoramic views.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD20 to 50
Denmark - attraction - Legoland Billund

Legoland Billund [Denmark]

Navigate a world constructed from millions of LEGO bricks, ride coasters, and discover playful zones designed for all ages.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: €47 to €70 [legoland.dk]
Brazil - national park - Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park [Brazil]

Walk across shifting white dunes and swim in freshwater pools that appear after the rains, surrounded by a stark, surreal landscape.
Best time to go: January - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 90
Peru - city - Lima

Lima [Peru]

Sample coastal cuisine, walk along dramatic cliffs, and explore neighborhoods that reveal the city’s layered history.
Best time to go: September - April
Daily cost: USD20 to 40 [peru.travel]
Portugal - city - Lisbon

Lisbon [Portugal]

Ride steep streets between neighborhoods, pause at scenic overlooks, and notice how daily life unfolds beneath pastel buildings and patterned sidewalks.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €40 to €65 [numbeo.com]
United Kingdom - city - London

London [the UK]

Navigate a vast metropolis where every district offers distinct flavors, green spaces, and a mix of old and new at every turn.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 100

Long Beach [Canada]

Experience open Pacific swells, scattered logs, and misty forest trails where surfers and hikers share the wild coastline of Vancouver Island.
Best time to go: March - October
Canada - hike - Long Range Traverse

Long Range Traverse [Canada]

Navigate unmarked terrain by map and compass, crossing bogs and ridges in a landscape shaped by wind and wildlife.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 6 to 10 days
Distance: 35 kilometers
Spain - attraction - Loro Parque

Loro Parque [Spain]

Observe diverse wildlife in carefully designed enclosures, including rare birds and marine species, set within lush landscaped grounds.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €44 to €132 [loroparque.com]
United States - city - Los Angeles

Los Angeles [the USA]

Explore diverse neighborhoods, hike urban hills, and spot pop culture landmarks in a sprawling city of contrasts.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD50 to 100 [numbeo.com]
Argentina - national park - Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares National Park [Argentina]

Watch massive icebergs calve into blue lakes, trek to remote mountain vistas, and experience the raw scale of southern Patagonia.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [argentina.gob.ar]
Colombia - hike - Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida)

Lost City Trek (Ciudad Perdida) [Colombia]

Navigate humid rainforest and remote valleys to reach archaeological ruins, encountering indigenous communities and challenging climbs along the way.
Best time to go: December - March
Duration: 4 to 6 days
Distance: 44 kilometers
South Korea - attraction - Lotte World

Lotte World [South Korea]

Navigate interconnected rides, entertainment zones, and shopping arcades, with attractions operating year-round regardless of weather.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: €40 to €50 [adventure.lotteworld.com]
United Arab Emirates - attraction - Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi [UAE]

View art and artifacts spanning civilizations beneath a latticed dome, with galleries arranged to highlight global connections and shared histories.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €17 to €17
France - attraction - Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum [France]

Move through vast halls housing works from ancient civilizations to 19th-century Europe, with highlights that draw global crowds.
Best time to go: January - June, September - November
Daily cost: €17 to €30 [louvre.fr]

Loy Krathong [Thailand]

Release decorated baskets onto waterways as Thais honor water spirits and let go of misfortune under the year’s brightest moon.
Organized yearly: in November
Daily cost: €25 to €70
Duration: 1 night
Luxembourg - city - Luxembourg City

Luxembourg City [Luxembourg]

Navigate steep lanes between ancient stone defenses and modern districts, discovering a city where languages, cuisines, and architecture intersect at every turn.
Best time to go: March - December
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [numbeo.com]
Türkiye - hike - Lycian Way

Lycian Way [Türkiye]

Trace rugged headlands and mountain slopes, discovering remote beaches and archaeological sites scattered along turquoise shores.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 10 to 15 days
Distance: 540 kilometers
Peru - unique site - Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu [Peru]

Arrive at dawn to see stone ruins emerge from the mist, surrounded by steep green peaks and the sound of distant river currents.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [peru.travel]
Spain - city - Madrid

Madrid [Spain]

Navigate a capital city where world-class galleries, historic landmarks, and sprawling parks shape the urban experience.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €50 to €80 [numbeo.com]

Madrid Orgullo (MADO) [Spain]

Celebrate diversity in Madrid with street parties, concerts, and a vibrant parade centered in the city’s LGBTQ+ district each summer.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €40 to €100 [esmadrid.com]
Duration: 10 days
United States - attraction - Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park [the USA]

Navigate a park of storybook settings and family-friendly rides, with daily parades and character encounters throughout the day.
Best time to go: January - May, September - November
Daily cost: €139 to €199
Peru - national park - Manu National Park

Manu National Park [Peru]

Descend from misty mountains to lowland jungle, observing macaws at mineral-rich cliffs and tracking monkeys through dense, ever-changing habitats.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: USD60 to 130 [peru.travel]
Costa Rica - national park - Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park [Costa Rica]

Follow easy paths to hidden coves, spot monkeys in the trees, and swim in calm waters framed by jungle and rocky headlands.
Best time to go: November - May
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [visitcostarica.com]

Maracas Bay [Trinidad and Tobago]

Taste local street food after a swim, watch surfers ride the waves, and take in panoramic views from the winding approach road.
Best time to go: January - May, November

Mardi Gras [the USA]

Join crowds along parade routes, catching throws and music, as New Orleans transforms with elaborate costumes and street celebrations.
Organized yearly: in February - March
Daily cost: USD70 to 150 [neworleans.com]
Duration: 1 day
Russia - attraction - Mariinsky Theatre

Mariinsky Theatre [Russia]

Experience world-class productions in a historic venue renowned for its acoustics and connection to Russian performing arts.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €7 to €200 [mariinsky.ru]
Morocco - city - Marrakech

Marrakech [Morocco]

Absorb the sensory overload of a city where gardens, markets, and historic quarters converge under the Atlas foothills.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €25 to €45 [visitmorocco.com]
Kenya - national park - Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara National Reserve [Kenya]

Travel across vast plains where lions hunt, Maasai herders graze cattle, and seasonal migrations shape the rhythm of life.
Best time to go: June - October
Daily cost: USD120 to 250 [kws.go.ke]

Matapalo Beach [Costa Rica]

Walk for miles on nearly empty sand, passing scattered logs and watching pelicans skim the surf in a peaceful setting.
Best time to go: November - May

Matira Beach [French Polynesia]

Swim in calm, shallow water along a broad stretch of sand, with easy entry and a relaxed, open setting popular with locals.
Best time to go: May - October
Switzerland - unique site - Matterhorn

Matterhorn [Switzerland]

Stand beneath a sharply defined summit, surrounded by glaciers and ever-changing light, as climbers and hikers test their limits.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €70 to €130 [myswitzerland.com]
Switzerland - hike - Matterhorn Circuit

Matterhorn Circuit [Italy and Switzerland]

Complete a full circuit around the Matterhorn, crossing into Italy and Switzerland and Italy and Switzerland while navigating rugged terrain and isolated hamlets.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 5 to 7 days
Distance: 140 kilometers

Maya Bay [Thailand]

Visit a sheltered cove surrounded by vertical limestone walls, where visitor numbers are limited to protect the marine environment.
Best time to go: November - April
Australia - city - Melbourne

Melbourne [Australia]

Ride trams to diverse neighborhoods, hunt for street art, and sample global cuisines in a city known for its creative energy.
Best time to go: September - April
Daily cost: €36 to €60
United States - attraction - Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metropolitan Museum of Art [the USA]

Explore expansive galleries featuring artifacts and artworks from ancient civilizations to contemporary pieces, all under one roof.
Best time to go: January - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 50 [metmuseum.org]
United States - attraction - Metropolitan Opera House

Metropolitan Opera House [the USA]

Attend a performance in a venue known for its acoustics and architecture, with productions ranging from classic operas to modern works.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: USD50 to 500 [metopera.org]
Mexico - city - Mexico City

Mexico City [Mexico]

Immerse yourself in sprawling neighborhoods, sample diverse cuisine, and explore layers of history in one of the world’s largest cities.
Best time to go: October - June
Daily cost: USD20 to 40
New Zealand - hike - Milford Track

Milford Track [New Zealand]

Journey through lush valleys and over a mountain pass, encountering frequent rain, towering cliffs, and abundant waterfalls.
Best time to go: October - April
Duration: 4 days
Distance: 53.5 kilometers
Chile - unique site - Moai of Easter Island (Rapa Nui)

Moai of Easter Island (Rapa Nui) [Chile]

Walk among enigmatic monolithic figures scattered across windswept grasslands, tracing the island’s ancient rituals and enduring cultural traditions.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD70 to 120 [chile.travel]
Ghana - national park - Mole National Park

Mole National Park [Ghana]

Join guided walks to waterholes where elephants gather, and scan open savanna for antelope, baboons, and birds.
Best time to go: November - March
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [ghana.travel]
United States - attraction - Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey Bay Aquarium [the USA]

Watch marine life in dynamic tanks that replicate coastal habitats, with daily feedings and educational programs for visitors.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD50 to 70 [montereybayaquarium.org]
Canada - city - Montreal

Montreal [Canada]

Move between distinct districts, taste global cuisines, and join crowds celebrating art, music, and food in every season.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 80 [numbeo.com]
Russia - city - Moscow

Moscow [Russia]

Navigate vast boulevards and ornate metro stations, where imperial history and modern ambition collide in Russia’s restless capital.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD30 to 50 [numbeo.com]
Nepal - unique site - Mount Everest

Mount Everest [Nepal]

Follow winding trails through remote valleys, pass prayer flags and stone stupas, and witness the world’s highest peak from rugged vantage points.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 150 [welcomenepal.com]
Japan - unique site - Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji [Japan and Japan]

Ascend Japan and Japan’s highest mountain for sunrise views, or circle its base to experience lakes, forests, and the changing moods of the landscape.
Best time to go: June - September
Daily cost: €60 to €120 [japan.travel]
Tanzania - hike - Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro [Tanzania]

Climb Africa’s highest peak, crossing five ecological zones from lush forest to barren summit, with each day revealing new terrain.
Best time to go: June - March
Duration: 5 to 10 days
Distance: 70 to 100 kilometers
Tanzania - national park - Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park [Tanzania]

Ascend through rainforest, moorland, and arctic summit zones, experiencing dramatic altitude shifts and panoramic views from Africa’s rooftop.
Best time to go: June - October, December - March
Daily cost: USD100 to 150 [tanzaniaparks.go.tz]
United States - unique site - Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial [the USA]

Stand beneath carved stone visages and trace the intersection of art, history, and landscape in the pine-covered hills.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD30 to 50 [nps.gov]
Morocco - hike - Mount Toubkal

Mount Toubkal [Morocco]

Climb steep switchbacks to North Africa’s highest point, passing through stark landscapes and high-altitude villages before reaching sweeping summit views.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Distance: 18 kilometers
United States - hike - Muliwai Trail

Muliwai Trail [the USA]

Climb out of Waipi’o Valley through dense rainforest, then cross wild plateaus before descending to a secluded bay on Hawaii Island.
Best time to go: March, May - November
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Distance: 18 kilometers
India - city - Mumbai

Mumbai [India]

Walk the city’s seaside curve, spot film shoots, and admire architecture from a century of rapid change.
Best time to go: October - March
Daily cost: USD15 to 30 [maharashtratourism.gov.in]
Germany - city - Munich

Munich [Germany]

Join locals in historic taverns, wander grand plazas, and use the city as a launch point for exploring southern Germany’s landscapes.
Best time to go: March - December
Daily cost: €50 to €90 [numbeo.com]

Muri Beach [Cook Islands]

Paddle between small islands in calm, shallow waters, with easy swimming and a lively atmosphere close to local food stalls.
Best time to go: April - October
France - attraction - Musée d’Orsay

Musée d’Orsay [France]

Survey 19th-century art in a former railway terminal, with natural light illuminating canvases and sculpture from a pivotal era.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €16 to €20 [musee-orsay.fr]
Chile - attraction - Museum of Memory and Human Rights

Museum of Memory and Human Rights [Chile]

Reflect on Chile’s recent past through personal stories and multimedia displays documenting the struggle for justice and remembrance.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €0 to €20 [mmdh.cl]
United States - attraction - Museum of Modern Art

Museum of Modern Art [the USA]

View influential works of modern and contemporary art, then unwind in light-filled spaces designed for reflection and discovery.
Best time to go: January - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD25 to 30
New Zealand - attraction - Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa [New Zealand]

Engage with national stories, innovative installations, and cultural artifacts in a museum designed for exploration and learning.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: NZUS$35 to NZUS$75 [tepapa.govt.nz]
Brazil - attraction - Museum of Tomorrow

Museum of Tomorrow [Brazil]

Explore interactive displays on climate, society, and innovation inside a striking building overlooking the bay’s edge.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €4 to €8 [museudoamanha.org.br]

Myrtle Beach [the USA]

Play a round on sprawling greens, stroll busy piers lined with rides, and stay steps from the Atlantic in beachfront towers.
Best time to go: March - November

Nacpan Beach [Philippines]

Walk between two parallel beaches lined with palms, where the sand stretches far and the crowds are thin.
Best time to go: November - May

Natadola Beach [Fiji]

Swim in calm waters, ride horses along the shore, or enjoy easy access to nearby amenities without sacrificing the open beach feel.
Best time to go: May - October
United States - attraction - National Air and Space Museum

National Air and Space Museum [the USA]

Trace the evolution of aviation and space exploration through interactive displays and original vehicles that shaped history.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: Free [airandspace.si.edu]
China - attraction - National Centre for the Performing Arts

National Centre for the Performing Arts [China]

Attend performances or explore the striking architecture of this cultural venue set amid tranquil water features in central Beijing.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €5 to €140 [en.chncpa.org]
United Kingdom - attraction - National Gallery

National Gallery [the UK]

View works by renowned artists in a setting that traces the evolution of Western painting from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: Free to Free [nationalgallery.org.uk]
Mexico - attraction - National Museum of Anthropology

National Museum of Anthropology [Mexico]

Survey Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations through iconic artifacts and detailed dioramas in an expansive, purpose-built museum.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: €5 to €10 [mnh.inah.gob.mx]
China - attraction - National Museum of China

National Museum of China [China]

Survey the breadth of Chinese history from prehistoric times to the present through curated artifacts and thematic exhibitions.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD 1 to 5 [en.chnmuseum.cn]
South Korea - attraction - National Museum of Korea

National Museum of Korea [South Korea]

Survey galleries spanning prehistoric relics to modern art, with detailed displays that trace the peninsula’s cultural evolution.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €0 to €10 [museum.go.kr]
United Kingdom - attraction - National Museum of Scotland

National Museum of Scotland [the UK]

Engage with Scotland’s story through hands-on galleries that blend local heritage, science, and innovation under one roof.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €0 to €0 [nms.ac.uk]
Taiwan - attraction - National Palace Museum

National Palace Museum [Taiwan]

View dynastic Chinese art and artifacts, including rare ceramics and calligraphy, in a collection spanning thousands of years.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD5 to 10 [npm.gov.tw]
South Korea - attraction - National Theatre of Korea

National Theatre of Korea [South Korea]

Attend performances ranging from traditional masked drama to experimental choreography in a venue dedicated to performing arts.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €15 to €50 [ntok.go.kr]

Navagio Beach [Greece]

Arrive by boat to a cove enclosed by cliffs, where a rusted wreck sits on white pebbles and the sea glows electric blue.
Best time to go: April - October
Germany - unique site - Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle [Germany]

Approach a hilltop palace framed by mountain scenery, then tour lavish halls inspired by myth, legend, and royal imagination.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €90 [neuschwanstein.de]
United States - city - New York City

New York City [the USA]

Navigate crowded streets, sample food from every continent, and find quiet corners in a city that never pauses.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD90 to 140

New York City Pride [the USA]

Celebrate identity and activism with street parties, performances, and a massive parade weaving through Manhattan’s neighborhoods.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: USD80 to 200
Duration: 30 days
United States - unique site - Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls [Canada and the USA]

Feel the roar and spray from observation decks or boat rides, where the river plunges dramatically between two countries.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD60 to 120 [niagarafallsusa.com]

Notting Hill Carnival [the UK]

Follow vibrant processions, sample street food, and experience the rhythms of calypso and reggae in London’s largest annual street event.
Organized yearly: in August
Daily cost: €110 to €170 [visitbritain.com]
Duration: 2 days

Nungwi Beach [Tanzania]

Experience a busy northern coast where traditional boatyards meet lively evenings, and conservation projects offer a glimpse of local wildlife.
Best time to go: June - February
Portugal - attraction - Oceanário de Lisboa

Oceanário de Lisboa [Portugal]

Observe sea life from multiple oceanic regions as you move through immersive exhibits designed to replicate diverse aquatic environments.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €19 to €25 [oceanario.pt]
Japan - attraction - Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium [Japan]

Observe marine life from the Kuroshio Current, including giant rays and deep-sea creatures, in expansive underwater galleries.
Best time to go: October - June
Daily cost: €15 to €20 [churaumi.okinawa]

Oktoberfest [Germany]

Sit at communal tables, sample regional brews, and take in the spectacle of Munich’s massive folk festival with locals and visitors alike.
Organized yearly: in September - October
Daily cost: €90 to €180 [oktoberfest.de]
Duration: 16 days

Ölüdeniz Beach [Türkiye]

Swim in calm, sheltered water or launch a tandem paraglide from nearby cliffs for aerial views of the lagoon’s shifting blues.
Best time to go: April - October
Japan - attraction - Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan [Japan]

Descend through multi-level exhibits showcasing diverse aquatic environments, from Arctic seas to tropical reefs.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €17 to €20
Norway - city - Oslo

Oslo [Norway]

Navigate a city where ferries link green islands, contemporary buildings line the waterfront, and public art shapes daily urban life.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €70 to €120 [visitnorway.com]
Norway - attraction - Oslo Opera House

Oslo Opera House [Norway]

Climb the sloping exterior for panoramic city and fjord views, then explore the interior’s blend of performance spaces and public art.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: USD20 to 70 [operaen.no]
Australia - hike - Overland Track

Overland Track [Australia]

Journey through Tasmania’s wilderness, crossing high passes and deep forests, with each day offering new terrain and changing weather.
Best time to go: September - May
Duration: 6 to 7 days
Distance: 65 kilometers
United States - hike - Pacific Crest Trail

Pacific Crest Trail [the USA]

Experience a continuous journey from desert to alpine, crossing three states and countless landscapes shaped by weather and elevation.
Best time to go: April - July, September - October
Duration: 120 to 180 days
Distance: 4,265 kilometers

Pahiyas Festival [Philippines]

Walk past homes adorned with colorful rice wafers and farm produce, celebrating Lucban’s gratitude for a successful harvest.
Organized yearly: in May
Daily cost: USD25 to 50
Duration: 1 day
France - attraction - Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier [France]

Tour lavish interiors where ballet and opera unfold beneath chandeliers and painted ceilings in a landmark of Parisian performance.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €10 to €35 [operadeparis.fr]
Mexico - unique site - Palenque

Palenque [Mexico]

Venture through dense forest to discover ornate temples and royal tombs enveloped by tropical growth.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD25 to 50
Finland - national park - Pallas-Yllästunturi

Pallas-Yllästunturi [Finland]

Traverse treeless highlands and rolling tundra, breathing some of the world’s purest air and watching the landscape shift with the seasons.
Best time to go: May - September, November - March
Daily cost: €20 to €60 [luontoon.fi]
Panama - unique site - Panama Canal

Panama Canal [Panama]

Watch massive vessels rise and fall as they transit between oceans, witnessing the scale and precision of a world-changing waterway.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD30 to 60 [visitpanama.com]
Brazil - national park - Pantanal Matogrossense National Park

Pantanal Matogrossense National Park [Brazil]

Travel by boat or on foot through seasonally inundated plains teeming with visible wildlife and ever-changing water levels.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD40 to 90

Paradise Beach Tulum [Mexico]

Stroll beneath palms, explore ancient ruins overlooking the coast, and stay in small hotels that blend into the natural landscape.
Best time to go: November - April
France - city - Paris

Paris [France]

Cross iconic bridges, explore diverse neighborhoods, and experience a city where art, food, and daily life converge at every corner.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: €50 to €90
Greece - unique site - Parthenon

Parthenon [Greece]

Stand beneath monumental stonework and intricate carvings, observing the enduring craftsmanship that has defined Western architecture for centuries.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €25 to €60
Chile - national park - Patagonia National Park

Patagonia National Park [Argentina and Chile]

Traverse open grasslands and river corridors, encountering herds of wildlife and expansive views shaped by wind and ice.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD45 to 75 [conaf.cl]
United Kingdom - hike - Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Pembrokeshire Coast Path [the UK]

Trace a rugged coastline with frequent ascents and descents, encountering wildlife and tidal inlets that demand careful planning.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 10 to 15 days
Distance: 299 kilometers
United Kingdom - hike - Pennine Way

Pennine Way [the UK]

Traverse exposed high ground and remote moors, where unpredictable weather and long distances between settlements test endurance.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 16 to 19 days
Distance: 429 kilometers
Germany - attraction - Pergamon Museum

Pergamon Museum [Germany]

Encounter iconic objects like the Ishtar Gate and explore galleries devoted to civilizations from Mesopotamia to the Islamic world.
Best time to go: February - November
Daily cost: €14 to €24 [smb.museum]
Jordan - unique site - Petra

Petra [Jordan]

Enter a labyrinth of sculpted sandstone where tombs, temples, and stairways reveal the ingenuity of a lost desert civilization.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD100 to 150 [visitjordan.com]
Vietnam - national park - Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park [Vietnam]

Venture into vast caverns, wade through subterranean streams, and hike forested slopes above a landscape riddled with sinkholes.
Best time to go: February - August
Daily cost: USD25 to 50
Spain - national park - Picos de Europa

Picos de Europa [Spain]

Traverse steep trails through misty valleys, passing grazing livestock and limestone spires that rise abruptly from the landscape.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €40 to €90 [spain.info]

Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival [Taiwan]

Release a glowing lantern into the night above Pingxi’s hills, joining crowds sending hopes skyward in a fleeting, communal ritual.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: USD57 to 111 [eng.taiwan.net.tw]
Duration: 1 day

Pink Sands Beach [The Bahamas]

Stroll along a pale pink shoreline where soft sand and mild waves attract couples, photographers, and those seeking quiet mornings.
Best time to go: November - April

Playa Conchal [Costa Rica]

Swim in clear, gentle waves and search for colorful fish just offshore, with sand made from millions of tiny shells underfoot.
Best time to go: November - May

Playa d’en Bossa [Spain]

Experience a lively atmosphere where music spills onto the sand, with easy options for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and late-night parties.
Best time to go: April - October

Playa de Ses Illetes [Spain]

Walk along a slender spit of sand surrounded by shallow water, with anchored boats and distant views of Ibiza on the horizon.
Best time to go: March - October

Playa del Carmen [Mexico]

Mix city energy with beach time, walk to shops and cafés, and catch boats to nearby islands from the busy waterfront.
Best time to go: January - February, April, June, October - November

Playa Uva [Colombia]

Rest under palms on a quiet stretch of coast where gentle waves and minimal development create a low-key escape.
Best time to go: November - April

Playa Zipolite [Mexico]

Experience a relaxed, clothing-optional beach where strong waves, simple lodgings, and a free-spirited crowd set the tone.
Best time to go: November - May
Croatia - national park - Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes [Croatia]

Traverse a network of footbridges and forested trails linking clear lakes and waterfalls in Croatia’s most iconic inland park.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €30 to €70 [np-plitvicka-jezera.hr]
Croatia - unique site - Plitvice Waterfalls

Plitvice Waterfalls [Croatia]

Follow marked trails past tiered waterfalls and vibrant pools, observing native wildlife and dramatic limestone formations.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €35 to €70 [np-plitvicka-jezera.hr]
Spain - attraction - PortAventura Park

PortAventura Park [Spain]

Ride high-speed attractions and explore themed areas inspired by global destinations, with entertainment options for all ages.
Best time to go: March - June, September - October, December
Daily cost: €50 to €80 [portaventuraworld.com]
Spain - attraction - Prado Museum

Prado Museum [Spain]

View masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco in an institution renowned for its extensive collection of European art.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €15 to €24
Czechia - city - Prague

Prague [Czechia]

Navigate a capital defined by its hilltop castle, winding river, and distinct districts that reveal different sides of Czech history and daily life.
Best time to go: March - October, December
Daily cost: €30 to €50 [prague.eu]

Praia do Sancho [Brazil]

Descend ladders through rock crevices to reach a sheltered bay, ideal for snorkeling and observing birdlife on the cliffs.
Best time to go: March, August - December
Italy - hike - Puez-Odle Altopiano

Puez-Odle Altopiano [Italy]

Traverse a high limestone plateau, discovering rare flora and expansive vistas above the more traveled Dolomites valleys.
Best time to go: June - September
Duration: 4 to 6 days
Distance: 20 kilometers

Punta Uva [Costa Rica]

Float in warm, shallow water beneath overhanging trees and snorkel above reefs alive with tropical fish and sea fans.
Best time to go: July - August, November - May

Pushkar Camel Fair [India]

Roam among herders, browse animal markets, and catch acrobats and musicians performing in Rajasthan’s holy town.
Organized yearly: in October - November
Daily cost: €30 to €70 [incredibleindia.org]
Duration: 14 days
France - attraction - Puy du Fou

Puy du Fou [France]

Watch large-scale reenactments and walk through immersive settings that reconstruct eras from Roman Gaul to the 20th century.
Best time to go: April - June, September - October
Daily cost: €35 to €91 [puydufou.com]
Mexico - unique site - Pyramids of Teotihuacan

Pyramids of Teotihuacan [Mexico]

Climb broad stone pyramids and trace ceremonial avenues in a vast pre-Hispanic metropolis north of Mexico City.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD20 to 50 [gob.mx]
Uganda - national park - Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park [Uganda]

Spot lions lounging in fig trees, cruise past hippos and buffalo, and explore volcanic craters teeming with birdlife.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD85 to 130 [ugandawildlife.org]
Ecuador - city - Quito

Quito [Ecuador]

Climb through a city perched above 2,800 meters, where sudden weather shifts and dramatic vistas define every walk between neighborhoods.
Best time to go: January - September
Daily cost: USD15 to 40 [ecuador.travel]

Radhanagar Beach [India]

Swim in clear shallows and rest under dense greenery, where the natural setting feels untouched and the pace remains unhurried.
Best time to go: November - March
India - national park - Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park [India]

Drive past ancient ruins and rocky hills, where tigers and leopards patrol open grasslands dotted with lakes and banyan trees.
Best time to go: October - June
Daily cost: USD60 to 120 [incredibleindia.org]

Rasfari Beach [Jamaica]

Sleep in simple huts, swing in hammocks, and enjoy a low-impact stay with minimal crowds and basic comforts.
Best time to go: November - May
Iceland - city - Reykjavik

Reykjavik [Iceland]

Wander through neighborhoods where murals meet modern architecture, pause in steamy pools, and watch daily life unfold along the waterfront.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD60 to 100 [visiticeland.com]
Netherlands - attraction - Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum [The Netherlands]

Trace the evolution of Dutch art and history through rooms filled with paintings, sculpture, and decorative objects from every era.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €20 to €25 [rijksmuseum.nl]
Brazil - city - Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro [Brazil]

Take in dramatic landscapes, iconic city beaches, and neighborhoods where music, street art, and daily life blend seamlessly.
Best time to go: April - January
Daily cost: USD30 to 60 [numbeo.com]

Rio de Janeiro New Year’s Eve [Brazil]

Stand among millions on the sand, watch midnight fireworks over the Atlantic, and observe locals offering flowers to the sea.
Organized yearly: in December
Daily cost: USD50 to 90
Duration: 1 day
Ethiopia - unique site - Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela [Ethiopia]

Descend into hand-carved sanctuaries where centuries-old rituals unfold in a labyrinth of stone, echoing with spiritual devotion.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD35 to 70 [ethiopia.travel]
Italy - city - Rome

Rome [Italy]

Move between eras as you cross busy squares, explore archaeological sites, and find quiet corners in a sprawling metropolis.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €50 to €90 [turismoroma.it]

Roskilde festival [Denmark]

Camp with thousands and experience diverse music, communal living, and a non-profit ethos at Denmark’s largest open-air festival.
Organized yearly: in June - July
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [visitdenmark.com]
Duration: 8 days
New Zealand - hike - Routeburn Track

Routeburn Track [New Zealand]

Ascend through ancient forest to high alpine basins, with sweeping views and clear streams marking each stage of the route.
Best time to go: October - April
Duration: 2 to 4 days
Distance: 32 kilometers
Denmark - attraction - Royal Danish Theatre

Royal Danish Theatre [Denmark]

Attend a live performance in one of Denmark’s premier venues, known for its acoustics and diverse repertoire across multiple stages.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 120 [kglteater.dk]
Belgium - attraction - Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium [Belgium]

View diverse collections spanning centuries, from Flemish primitives to contemporary works, in a series of interconnected museums.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €10 to €15 [fine-arts-museum.be]
United Kingdom - attraction - Royal National Theatre

Royal National Theatre [the UK]

Attend performances in a contemporary complex known for diverse programming and a commitment to developing new theatrical voices.
Best time to go: February - November
Daily cost: USD15 to 75
Canada - attraction - Royal Ontario Museum

Royal Ontario Museum [Canada]

Navigate expansive halls featuring ancient relics, natural wonders, and global artifacts in a blend of old and new architecture.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: USD23 to 30 [rom.on.ca]
United Kingdom - attraction - Royal Opera House

Royal Opera House [the UK]

Experience world-class music and dance in a historic venue that blends tradition with innovative productions in central London.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 150 [roh.org.uk]
Singapore - attraction - S.E.A. Aquarium

S.E.A. Aquarium [Singapore]

Watch thousands of aquatic species glide past immersive tanks, highlighting the complexity and fragility of ocean ecosystems.
Best time to go: January - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 45 [rwsentosa.com]
Nepal - national park - Sagarmatha National Park

Sagarmatha National Park [Nepal]

Follow ancient footpaths through high valleys, passing prayer flags and stone villages as you approach the world’s tallest summit.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [welcomenepal.com]
Spain - unique site - Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Familia [Spain]

Step inside a basilica where organic forms and colored light create a shifting atmosphere, reflecting decades of ongoing construction.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €40 to €70 [spain.info]
Bolivia - unique site - Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni [Bolivia]

Cross the world’s largest salt flat, where geometric surfaces stretch to the horizon and seasonal rains turn the ground into a reflective lake.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD40 to 90
Peru - hike - Salkantay Trek

Salkantay Trek [Peru]

Cross beneath the shadow of Salkantay Mountain, moving from icy heights to lush jungle, with changing scenery at every stage of the journey.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 4 to 5 days
Distance: 74 kilometers
Uzbekistan - unique site - Samarkand

Samarkand [Uzbekistan]

Experience a city where diverse empires left their mark in grand architecture and a blend of cultural influences.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €25 to €60 [uzbekistan.travel]

Samui Beaches [Thailand]

Choose from a patchwork of sandy stretches, each with its own character, from quiet coves to lively resort areas lined with palms.
Best time to go: November - April
United States - attraction - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo [the USA]

Walk shaded paths to see rare and endangered species, with opportunities for behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD65 to 85 [sandiegozoo.org]
United States - city - San Francisco

San Francisco [the USA]

Ride historic streetcars, walk steep streets, and explore neighborhoods where diverse communities shape daily life.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD70 to 130 [numbeo.com]
Brazil - city - Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo [Brazil]

Navigate a vast metropolis known for its diverse culinary scene, contemporary galleries, and neighborhoods with distinct cultural identities.
Best time to go: March - September
Daily cost: USD20 to 45 [numbeo.com]

São Paulo Gay Pride Parade [Brazil]

Walk with massive crowds through the city’s main avenue, surrounded by music, political banners, and a visible sense of community.
Organized yearly: in June
Daily cost: €25 to €70
Duration: 1 day
United States - hike - Sawtooth Wilderness

Sawtooth Wilderness [the USA]

Venture into Idaho’s rugged backcountry, where sharp summits and clear lakes reward those willing to travel far from roads and crowds.
Best time to go: June - October
Duration: 7 to 14 days
Distance: 1,200 kilometers
Germany - national park - Saxon Switzerland

Saxon Switzerland [Germany]

Scramble up rocky spires, cross stone bridges, and gaze down at the Elbe winding through a labyrinth of cliffs.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €40 to €80 [saechsische-schweiz.de]
Iceland - unique site - Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss [Iceland]

Walk behind a tall waterfall and experience the landscape from a hidden vantage, surrounded by open fields and spray.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €20 to €60 [visiticeland.com]
Italy - hike - Sentiero Azzurro (Cinque Terre)

Sentiero Azzurro (Cinque Terre) [Italy]

Follow a narrow route linking five coastal settlements, with steep ascents and sea views shaped by centuries of human cultivation.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Distance: 12 kilometers
South Korea - city - Seoul

Seoul [South Korea]

Navigate a metropolis where tradition and innovation intersect, from historic quarters to panoramic city hikes and late-night food stalls.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 60 [english.visitkorea.or.kr]
Tanzania - unique site - Serengeti Migration

Serengeti Migration [Kenya and Tanzania]

Witness the seasonal movement of immense animal columns across open grasslands, punctuated by dramatic crossings and predator encounters.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD250 to 350
Tanzania - national park - Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park [Tanzania]

Witness the spectacle of migrating herds and predators on open grasslands, where seasonal movement shapes every aspect of life.
Best time to go: January - March, June - October
Daily cost: USD100 to 180 [tanzaniaparks.go.tz]

Seven Mile Beach [Cayman Islands and Jamaica]

Try paddleboarding, eat at beach shacks, and find both quiet corners and busier stretches along a famously long beach.
Best time to go: July, November - April
China - city - Shanghai

Shanghai [China]

Move between historic riverside promenades, neon-lit towers, and neighborhoods where international flavors and local trends collide.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: USD35 to 65 [meet-in-shanghai.net]
China - attraction - Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland [China]

Explore reimagined Disney attractions and locally inspired experiences across expansive grounds tailored for Chinese visitors.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €65 to €112 [shanghaidisneyresort.com]
China - attraction - Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum [China]

View curated collections of Chinese art and antiquities, emphasizing craftsmanship and artistic traditions across dynasties.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €3 to €5 [shanghaimuseum.net]

Shark Bay [Australia]

Visit a unique marine environment where ancient life forms thrive and rare wildlife, including dugongs, can be seen in shallow waters.
Best time to go: March - November

Sharm El Sheikh [Egypt]

Snorkel among vibrant marine life, stay in large hotels, and stroll lively walkways lined with shops and restaurants.
Best time to go: October - April
United States - attraction - Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium [the USA]

Observe aquatic species from rivers, oceans, and lakes, with daily presentations and hands-on learning stations for all ages.
Best time to go: January - June, September, November
Daily cost: USD37.70 to USD40.95
Ethiopia - national park - Simien Mountains

Simien Mountains [Ethiopia]

Ascend dramatic ridges, share trails with endemic primates, and gaze across deep valleys carved by ancient geological forces.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD50 to 100
Singapore - city - Singapore

Singapore [Singapore]

Navigate a city where diverse neighborhoods, efficient transport, and green spaces intersect, offering distinct local flavors and city views at every turn.
Best time to go: February - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [visitsingapore.com]
Singapore - attraction - Singapore Zoo

Singapore Zoo [Singapore]

Observe wildlife in naturalistic habitats, with opportunities for close-up experiences and educational presentations throughout the day.
Best time to go: February - October
Daily cost: USD37 to 50 [wrs.com.sg]
United States - attraction - Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain [the USA]

Ride a wide range of high-adrenaline attractions, from looping coasters to themed areas inspired by comic book heroes.
Best time to go: February - May, September - November
Daily cost: USD55 to USD135 [sixflags.com]
United States - attraction - Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History [the USA]

Examine specimens from Earth’s past and present, with immersive exhibits on geology, biodiversity, and human origins.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: Free
United Kingdom - national park - Snowdonia

Snowdonia [the UK]

Ascend dramatic mountains, explore abandoned industrial sites, and experience a landscape where local culture shapes daily life.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €40 to €80 [visitwales.com]
Bhutan - hike - Snowman Trek

Snowman Trek [Bhutan]

Endure long days over challenging terrain, entering seldom-visited valleys where small communities live amid some of the Himalaya’s most demanding landscapes.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Duration: 25 to 30 days
Distance: 356 kilometers
Norway - national park - Sognefjord

Sognefjord [Norway]

Travel by boat or road beneath towering cliffs, exploring small villages and orchards along the shores of Norway’s longest fjord.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: €40 to €90 [visitnorway.com]

Songkran Water Festival [Thailand]

Join crowds in a nationwide water celebration marking the Thai New Year, where splashing and playful chaos take over city streets.
Organized yearly: in April
Daily cost: €20 to €60
Duration: 3 days
Namibia - unique site - Sossusvlei

Sossusvlei [Namibia]

Climb ochre dunes at sunrise and cross cracked clay pans dotted with ancient trees, experiencing the silence of the world’s oldest desert.
Best time to go: April - September
Daily cost: USD70 to 130

South Beach [the USA]

Admire bold architecture, people-watch along busy promenades, and experience a nightlife scene that pulses late into the night.
Best time to go: September - April
United Kingdom - hike - South West Coast Path

South West Coast Path [the UK]

Cover a vast and varied coastline, with frequent elevation changes and shifting terrain requiring stamina and attention to daily logistics.
Best time to go: March - November
Duration: 30 to 40 days
Distance: 1,014 kilometers

St. Patrick’s Day [Ireland]

Join crowds lining the streets for processions, music, and communal gatherings that mark Ireland’s national holiday in every town and city.
Organized yearly: in March
Daily cost: €40 to €120 [ireland.com]
Duration: 1 day
Vatican City State - unique site - St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica [Vatican City]

Climb to panoramic views or linger beneath soaring vaults, taking in the interplay of art, faith, and architectural ambition.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €25 to €70 [vatican.va]
Russia - city - St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg [Russia]

Absorb the city’s grandeur as you cross bridges and explore museums, where art and history are woven into every street and square.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €30 to €55 [visit-petersburg.ru]

Starfish Beach [Panama]

Wade in clear, waist-deep water where starfish are easily spotted, making this a favorite for relaxed swimming and nature viewing.
Best time to go: November - May
Russia - attraction - State Hermitage Museum

State Hermitage Museum [Russia]

Navigate vast galleries filled with masterpieces and decorative arts in a sprawling riverside complex.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD15 to 25
United States - unique site - Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty [the USA]

Ferry out to this enduring symbol, climb inside its pedestal, and look back at the dense sprawl of New York.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [nps.gov]
Sweden - city - Stockholm

Stockholm [Sweden]

Navigate a capital built on islands, where ferries connect districts and centuries-old buildings stand beside contemporary galleries and shops.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €50 to €80 [visitstockholm.com]
United Kingdom - unique site - Stonehenge

Stonehenge [the UK]

Contemplate ancient ritual and astronomical purpose as you circle enigmatic monoliths set in open grassland under shifting English skies.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [english-heritage.org.uk]

Summerfest [the USA]

Plan for long days by the water, with a changing roster of performers and easy access to local food and shaded seating.
Organized yearly: in June - July
Daily cost: USD70 to 130 [summerfest.com]
Duration: 11 days

Sundance Film Festival [the USA]

Watch premieres in intimate venues, navigate shuttle routes, and spot filmmakers in a mountain town transformed by cinema.
Organized yearly: in January
Daily cost: USD85 to 200 [visitutah.com]
Duration: 10 days
India - national park - Sundarbans

Sundarbans [Bangladesh and India]

Navigate narrow waterways and shifting mudflats, where tigers, crocodiles, and fishing villages coexist in a vast tidal wilderness.
Best time to go: October - March
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [incredibleindia.org]
Switzerland - national park - Swiss National Park

Swiss National Park [Switzerland]

Experience Switzerland’s only true wilderness, where marked trails lead through pristine landscapes and encounters with marmots or golden eagles are common.
Best time to go: May - October
Daily cost: €25 to €60 [myswitzerland.com]

SXSW (South by Southwest) [the USA]

Navigate overlapping schedules of talks, screenings, and concerts, with lines and networking defining the pace of downtown Austin.
Organized yearly: in March
Daily cost: USD90 to 200 [austintexas.org]
Duration: 10 days
Australia - city - Sydney

Sydney [Australia]

Catch ferries between neighborhoods, walk coastal trails, and take in iconic architecture set against a dramatic natural harbor.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [numbeo.com]
Australia - unique site - Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge [Australia]

Ascend above the harbor for sweeping city vistas, or cross on foot to experience Sydney’s skyline from a unique urban vantage point.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD15 to 60 [sydney.com]
Australia - unique site - Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House [Australia]

Attend a performance or simply admire the sculptural silhouette that defines Sydney’s waterfront and draws visitors to its cultural core.
Best time to go: all year round
Daily cost: USD60 to 100 [sydneyoperahouse.com]

Sziget Festival [Hungary]

Spend days and nights on an island in the Danube, moving between concerts, art zones, and pop-up parties from across the globe.
Organized yearly: in August
Daily cost: €55 to €110
Duration: 7 days
Taiwan - city - Taipei

Taipei [Taiwan]

Navigate a dense urban landscape where efficient transport, diverse neighborhoods, and endless food stalls make exploring effortless and rewarding.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD25 to 50 [eng.taiwan.net.tw]
India - unique site - Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal [India]

Arrive at dawn to see changing light on a mausoleum built for remembrance, where every detail is designed for visual harmony.
Best time to go: July - March
Daily cost: USD30 to 60 [incredibleindia.org]

Tamarindo Beach [Costa Rica]

Learn to surf on forgiving waves, explore a range of shops and restaurants, and watch the sky turn orange each evening.
Best time to go: November - August
Australia - attraction - Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo [Australia]

See native and exotic species in open enclosures, join keeper talks, and enjoy panoramic city views from a hillside zoo.
Best time to go: February - November
Daily cost: €30 to €50 [taronga.org.au]
Colombia - national park - Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park [Colombia]

Swim in sheltered bays, walk shaded jungle paths, and discover remnants of ancient settlements along the Caribbean coast.
Best time to go: November - March
Daily cost: USD30 to 70 [parquesnacionales.gov.co]
New Zealand - hike - Te Araroa Trail

Te Araroa Trail [New Zealand]

Undertake a months-long journey across the country, linking beaches, forests, farmland, and mountains in a single continuous trail.
Best time to go: October - May
Duration: 100 to 120 days
Distance: 3,000 kilometers
Italy - attraction - Teatro alla Scala

Teatro alla Scala [Italy]

Attend a performance or tour the ornate interiors where generations of musicians and audiences have shaped Italy’s operatic legacy.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €15 to €250 [teatroallascala.org]
Argentina - attraction - Teatro Colón

Teatro Colón [Argentina]

Attend an opera or ballet in a venue renowned for its ornate interiors and exceptional sound, central to Argentina’s performing arts.
Best time to go: March - May, September - November
Daily cost: €23 to €70 [documentosboletinoficial.buenosaires.gob.ar]
Italy - attraction - Teatro di San Carlo

Teatro di San Carlo [Italy]

Sit beneath crystal chandeliers in one of Europe’s oldest opera houses, renowned for its acoustics and historic productions.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €20 to €150
Spain - national park - Teide National Park

Teide National Park [Spain]

Walk across stark volcanic terrain beneath Spain’s highest peak, observing rare flora and dramatic color contrasts at altitude.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €15 to €40 [spain.info]
China - unique site - Terracotta Warriors

Terracotta Warriors [China]

Stand before ranks of excavated warriors, each distinct, revealing the scale and detail of ancient funerary customs.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €30 to €70

Tet [Vietnam]

Mark the Vietnamese New Year as homes fill with offerings, streets bloom with flowers, and cities pause for reunions and rituals.
Organized yearly: in January - February
Daily cost: USD40 to 90 [vietnam.travel]
Duration: 7 days
Denmark - attraction - The Blue Planet

The Blue Planet [Denmark]

Walk beneath swirling schools of fish and observe aquatic life from Nordic rivers to tropical reefs in Denmark’s largest aquarium.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD25 to 40 [denmark.dk]
Australia - hike - Three Capes Track

Three Capes Track [Australia]

Walk along exposed headlands and through coastal forest, with each section offering expansive views and a sense of southern latitude.
Best time to go: October - April
Duration: 4 days
Distance: 48 kilometers
Austria - attraction - Tiergarten Schönbrunn

Tiergarten Schönbrunn [Austria]

Observe animals from around the world in the world’s oldest operating zoo, set within the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace.
Best time to go: February - June, September - November
Daily cost: €27 to €29 [zoovienna.at]
China - hike - Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge [China]

Navigate steep switchbacks above the Jinsha River, where sheer drops and distant peaks create a sense of scale that never fades.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Distance: 28 kilometers
Guatemala - unique site - Tikal

Tikal [Guatemala]

Arrive early to climb ancient pyramids above the canopy, listening for howler monkeys and watching mist lift over Maya ruins.
Best time to go: November - May
Daily cost: USD45 to 80 [visitguatemala.com]
Denmark - attraction - Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens [Denmark]

Ride vintage attractions, enjoy evening light displays, and experience concerts or festivals in a central Copenhagen park dating to 1843.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €21 to €66 [tivoli.dk]

Tofo Beach [Mozambique]

Surf consistent waves, meet fellow travelers in laid-back bars, and dive with marine giants just offshore.
Best time to go: January - March, May - October
Japan - city - Tokyo

Tokyo [Japan]

Navigate a metropolis of contrasts, from ancient temples to futuristic neighborhoods, where every district offers a distinct experience.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD50 to 85 [gotokyo.org]
Japan - attraction - Tokyo DisneySea

Tokyo DisneySea [Japan]

Navigate a park inspired by oceanic myths and legends, featuring unique attractions and elaborate set pieces.
Best time to go: March - June, September - December
Daily cost: USD75 to 150
Japan - attraction - Tokyo National Museum

Tokyo National Museum [Japan]

Browse extensive collections spanning prehistoric pottery, Buddhist sculpture, and seasonal displays from across Japan.
Best time to go: June, September - April
Daily cost: €7 to €10 [tnm.jp]

Tomorrowland [Belgium]

Dance with thousands at an electronic music spectacle known for its intricate stage design, themed areas, and international DJ lineups.
Organized yearly: in July
Daily cost: €85 to €150 [visitflanders.com]
Duration: 6 days
New Zealand - hike - Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tongariro Alpine Crossing [New Zealand]

Cross a dramatic volcanic plateau, passing steaming vents and vividly colored lakes in a landscape shaped by recent eruptions.
Best time to go: October - May
Duration: 6 to 8 hours
Distance: 19.4 kilometers
Türkiye - attraction - Topkapi Palace Museum

Topkapi Palace Museum [Türkiye]

Move through layered courtyards and ornate chambers that once housed sultans, royal relics, and the machinery of empire.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €18 to €32 [topkapi-palace.org]
Canada - city - Toronto

Toronto [Canada]

Navigate a dense urban core, sample food from every continent, and find green escapes along the lake’s edge.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD60 to 110 [numbeo.com]
Chile - hike - Torres del Paine Circuit

Torres del Paine Circuit [Chile]

Complete a demanding loop around iconic peaks, crossing windswept passes and camping beside rivers, with wildlife and shifting light throughout.
Best time to go: October - March
Duration: 7 to 10 days
Distance: 130 kilometers
Chile - national park - Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine National Park [Chile]

Trek beneath jagged peaks and along glacial lakes, where shifting weather and dramatic scenery challenge and reward every visitor.
Best time to go: October - April
Daily cost: USD55 to 90 [conaf.cl]
Morocco - hike - Toubkal Circuit

Toubkal Circuit [Morocco]

Complete a demanding circuit linking isolated villages and mountain passes, with changing scenery and overnight stays in traditional guesthouses.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Duration: 6 to 8 days
Distance: 100 kilometers
France - hike - Tour du Mont Blanc

Tour du Mont Blanc [France]

Circle Western Europe’s highest massif, crossing borders and high cols while encountering varied alpine scenery and mountain refuges along the way.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 10 to 12 days
Distance: 170 kilometers
United Kingdom - unique site - Tower Bridge

Tower Bridge [the UK]

Watch the river open beneath you or ascend to glass walkways, discovering the mechanics and views of London’s most recognizable bridge.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD30 to 60
United Kingdom - unique site - Tower of London

Tower of London [the UK]

Step inside thick stone walls to encounter royal intrigue, ceremonial regalia, and centuries of power struggles on the Thames’ edge.
Best time to go: March - June, September - October, December
Daily cost: USD60 to 90
Italy - unique site - Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Tre Cime di Lavaredo [Italy]

Hike beneath sheer rock faces and across high meadows, with changing light and weather revealing new perspectives at every turn.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €25 to €60 [dolomiti.org]
Norway - hike - Trolltunga

Trolltunga [Norway]

Undertake a long, exposed hike to a narrow rock tongue suspended above a vast valley, surrounded by stark wilderness.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 10 to 12 hours
Distance: 28 kilometers
Madagascar - national park - Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park [Madagascar]

Traverse narrow walkways above jagged stone forests and peer into canyons where rare birds and lemurs find refuge.
Best time to go: April - November
Daily cost: €60 to €120 [madagascar-tourisme.com]
South Africa - attraction - Two Oceans Aquarium

Two Oceans Aquarium [South Africa]

Observe aquatic life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, with close-up views of endemic fish and underwater habitats.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: €12 to €18 [aquarium.co.za]
Italy - attraction - Uffizi Gallery

Uffizi Gallery [Italy]

Move through grand halls lined with masterpieces, tracing the development of European art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque.
Best time to go: September - June
Daily cost: €20 to €30 [uffizi.it]
Australia - national park - Uluru-Kata Tjuta

Uluru-Kata Tjuta [Australia]

Walk the base of Uluru at sunrise, hear Tjukurpa stories, and watch changing colors sweep across the land.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [parksaustralia.gov.au]
United States - attraction - Universal Islands of Adventure

Universal Islands of Adventure [the USA]

Immerse yourself in themed islands with cutting-edge attractions, interactive experiences, and detailed environments inspired by popular stories.
Best time to go: January - March, May, September - November
Daily cost: €119 to €179 [shadesofgreen.org]
Japan - attraction - Universal Studios Japan

Universal Studios Japan [Japan]

Immerse yourself in cinematic worlds with high-energy attractions, interactive shows, and pop culture icons.
Best time to go: February - May, September - December
Daily cost: €60 to €140 [usj.co.jp]

Up Helly Aa [the UK]

Watch locals in elaborate costumes march through Lerwick, culminating in the burning of a replica longship to mark the end of winter.
Organized yearly: in January
Daily cost: USD70 to 130 [visitscotland.com]
Duration: 1 day
Colombia - national park - Valle de Cocora

Valle de Cocora [Colombia]

Wander beneath towering palms in a lush valley, following muddy tracks through misty pastures and rolling Andean foothills.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD20 to 45 [colombia.travel]
Netherlands - attraction - Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum [The Netherlands]

Follow Van Gogh’s artistic development through themed rooms, viewing iconic canvases alongside sketches and personal correspondence.
Best time to go: March - October
Daily cost: €19 to €25 [vangoghmuseum.nl]
Canada - city - Vancouver

Vancouver [Canada]

Cycle seawalls, watch clouds gather over peaks, and experience a city where urban life and nature are always in view.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD60 to 100 [tourismvancouver.com]
Canada - attraction - Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver Aquarium [Canada]

Observe local and exotic sea life, with educational programs and open-air exhibits set within Stanley Park.
Best time to go: March - October, December
Daily cost: USD39.95 to USD55.20

Varkala Beach [India]

Descend from dramatic cliffs to a narrow strip of sand, where wellness seekers and travelers gather for sunsets and sea breezes.
Best time to go: October - March
Sweden - attraction - Vasa Museum

Vasa Museum [Sweden]

Stand beneath a salvaged shipwreck, examining detailed woodwork and displays that reveal the story of Sweden’s ill-fated Vasa vessel.
Best time to go: January - November
Daily cost: €17 to €22 [vasamuseet.se]
Vatican City State - attraction - Vatican Museums

Vatican Museums [Vatican City]

Wander through interconnected halls showcasing centuries of artistic achievement, culminating in the ceiling frescoes that draw travelers from around the world.
Best time to go: February - June, September - November
Daily cost: €17 to €30 [museivaticani.va]
Iceland - national park - Vatnajökull

Vatnajökull [Iceland]

Experience vast icefields, shifting glacier tongues, and steaming geothermal vents in Europe’s largest national park, home to diverse microclimates.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: €30 to €60 [visiticeland.com]
Italy - city - Venice

Venice [Italy]

Travel by boat or on foot through a city built on water, where each neighborhood offers a distinct rhythm and atmosphere.
Best time to go: March - June, September - October
Daily cost: €60 to €100 [numbeo.com]

Venice Beach [the USA]

Watch skaters and bodybuilders perform, browse murals and vendor stalls, and soak up a creative, unconventional atmosphere.
Best time to go: September - June

Venice Carnival [Italy]

Immerse yourself in a world of elaborate costumes, masked gatherings, and ornate events that fill Venice’s streets and palaces each winter.
Organized yearly: in February
Daily cost: €50 to €100 [veneziaunica.it]
Duration: 10 to 12 days

Vesak [Sri Lanka]

Walk city streets lined with glowing lanterns and witness acts of generosity as Sri Lankans commemorate the Buddha’s life.
Organized yearly: in May
Daily cost: €15 to €50 [srilanka.travel]
Duration: 2 days
United Kingdom - attraction - Victoria and Albert Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum [the UK]

Explore objects of craftsmanship and innovation, from textiles to ceramics, in galleries that celebrate creativity across centuries.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: USD0 to 20 [vam.ac.uk]
Zimbabwe - unique site - Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls [Zambia and Zimbabwe]

Feel the spray on your skin as you walk rainforest trails, then peer into the gorge where the Zambezi plunges between two countries.
Best time to go: February - October
Daily cost: USD50 to 100 [zimbabwetourism.net]
Austria - city - Vienna

Vienna [Austria]

Absorb a city where daily life unfolds among monumental buildings, layered history, and a deep-rooted tradition of public spaces and the arts.
Best time to go: March - November
Daily cost: €50 to €90 [wien.info]
Austria - attraction - Vienna State Opera

Vienna State Opera [Austria]

Attend a performance or take a guided tour to experience the acoustics, stagecraft, and architectural details of this renowned opera house.
Best time to go: March - January
Daily cost: €13 to €500 [wiener-staatsoper.at]
Cuba - national park - Viñales National Park

Viñales National Park [Cuba]

Cycle or hike through fertile valleys framed by steep mogotes, visiting traditional farms and exploring extensive underground cave systems.
Best time to go: November - April
Daily cost: USD30 to 70 [cubatravel.cu]

Vivid Sydney [Australia]

Wander through illuminated precincts, attend talks by innovators, and see Sydney’s skyline transformed by large-scale digital art.
Organized yearly: in May - June
Daily cost: USD70 to 150 [australia.com]
Duration: 23 days
Rwanda - national park - Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park [Rwanda]

Climb steep slopes through dense bamboo to observe gorilla families, with misty volcanoes rising above a patchwork of terraced fields.
Best time to go: June - September, December - February
Daily cost: USD85 to 150 [visitrwanda.com]
Chile - hike - W Trek

W Trek [Chile]

Experience a condensed route linking the park’s most famous sights, with varied terrain and reliable refugios for shelter each night.
Best time to go: October - April
Duration: 4 to 5 days
Distance: 80 kilometers
Jordan - national park - Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum [Jordan]

Cross vast desert expanses on foot or by jeep, camping under stars among sculpted rocks and learning from local Bedouin guides.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: USD40 to 90

Waikiki Beach [the USA]

Paddle traditional canoes, learn to surf gentle breaks, and take in city-meets-volcano scenery from a lively, urban beach.
Best time to go: April - October
United States - city - Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. [the USA]

Tour world-class museums, walk among national landmarks, and explore neighborhoods shaped by global cultures and politics.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD50 to 90 [numbeo.com]
Canada - hike - West Coast Trail

West Coast Trail [Canada]

Navigate slippery boardwalks, cable cars, and beach crossings, where logistics and timing are shaped by tides and weather.
Best time to go: May - September
Duration: 5 to 7 days
Distance: 75 kilometers
United Kingdom - hike - West Highland Way

West Highland Way [the UK]

Experience Scotland’s changing landscapes, from wooded valleys to open moor, with reliable waymarking and a mix of wild and serviced stretches.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 6 to 8 days
Distance: 154 kilometers

White Beach [Philippines]

Swim in clear, shallow water and stroll a lively beachfront lined with shops and restaurants, especially popular at sunset.
Best time to go: November - April

White Nights Festival [Russia]

Experience St. Petersburg’s endless twilight with world-class performances and riverside celebrations during the city’s brightest season.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €40 to €90 [russiatourism.ru]
Duration: 3 months

White Sand Beach [Vietnam]

Relax on soft, pale sand with gentle shallows, ideal for those seeking a peaceful spot away from busier stretches.
Best time to go: November - April

Whitehaven Beach [Australia]

Arrive by boat to walk on pure white sand and swim in clear water, surrounded by shifting patterns of turquoise and blue.
Best time to go: May - October
Israel - attraction - Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem [Israel]

Reflect on personal histories and collective memory through exhibits that document the Holocaust’s impact on individuals and communities.
⚠️ Currently not safe to visit
Daily cost: €0 to €20
United States - national park - Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park [the USA]

Watch thermal features erupt and wildlife graze in open valleys, exploring a vast volcanic plateau shaped by fire and water.
Best time to go: May - September
Daily cost: USD30 to 70 [nps.gov]
United States - national park - Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park [the USA]

Climb beneath towering rock faces, wander through ancient forests, and witness seasonal waterfalls in California’s Sierra Nevada.
Best time to go: April - October
Daily cost: USD40 to 80 [nps.gov]
United States - hike - Yosemity Half Dome

Yosemity Half Dome [the USA]

Climb steep switchbacks and use fixed cables to reach a broad summit, with sweeping views over Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.
Best time to go: April - October
Duration: 10 to 14 hours
Distance: 23.2 kilometers
South Africa - attraction - Zeitz MOCAA

Zeitz MOCAA [South Africa]

Experience cutting-edge exhibitions in an architecturally transformed space dedicated to 21st-century African creativity.
Best time to go: September - May
Daily cost: USD10 to 15 [zeitzmocaa.museum]
China - national park - Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park [China]

Wander through a maze of vertical cliffs and lush valleys, where mist and foliage create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: €70 to €130 [chinahighlights.com]
United States - hike - Zion Narrows

Zion Narrows [the USA]

Wade through cool water between sheer sandstone cliffs, navigating shifting currents and narrow passages deep within Zion National Park.
Best time to go: April - June, September - November
Duration: 12 to 14 hours
Distance: 8 kilometers
United States - national park - Zion National Park

Zion National Park [the USA]

Hike narrow river corridors and ascend steep trails for views of towering cliffs and sculpted rock amphitheaters.
Best time to go: March - June, September - November
Daily cost: USD40 to 70 [nps.gov]
Switzerland - city - Zurich

Zurich [Switzerland]

Balance urban efficiency with leisure as you move from business centers to lively neighborhoods and tranquil waterside escapes.
Best time to go: June - August
Daily cost: €70 to €110 [zuerich.com]

We 💚 feedbackDo you like this overview of top highlights?

Share this page with a fellow-backpacker. Did you spot a mistake, or you have any tip for improving, please let me know!


🙋‍♂️ Give feedback