Top 20 Places to Travel Around the World

The best travel list gives you choices, not a single kind of vacation: our 20 picks span cities, coastlines, wildlife destinations, and places where the landscape is the main event. Use the short descriptions to spot what fits your interests, then narrow your choices by season, travel time, and budget.

1. Kyoto, Japan: Temples, gardens, and historic streets.
2. Tokyo, Japan: Neighborhoods, food, design, and museums.
3. Seoul, South Korea: Palaces, markets, and contemporary culture.
4. Bangkok, Thailand: Street food, temples, and river life.
5. Hanoi, Vietnam: Old Quarter walks and memorable meals.
6. Siem Reap, Cambodia: A base for visiting Angkor’s temples.
7. Paris, France: Art, architecture, and café time.
8. Rome, Italy: Ancient sites and lively neighborhoods.
9. Barcelona, Spain: Architecture, beaches, and city energy.
10. Lisbon, Portugal: Hillside views and waterfront walks.
11. Istanbul, Türkiye: Historic landmarks and bustling bazaars.
12. Marrakesh, Morocco: Markets, gardens, and distinctive architecture.
13. Cape Town, South Africa: Mountain scenery and coastal outings.
14. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Wildlife-focused travel.
15. Petra, Jordan: Rock-cut architecture and desert surroundings.
16. Machu Picchu, Peru: Andean scenery and Inca history.
17. Patagonia, Chile and Argentina: Hiking and dramatic landscapes.
18. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Beaches, viewpoints, and music.
19. New Zealand’s South Island: Mountains, lakes, and road trips.
20. Grand Canyon National Park, United States: Immense views and trail options.

For a shorter trip, one city such as Paris, Tokyo, or Lisbon gives you plenty to do without changing hotels repeatedly. If you have more time, a regional route can pair complementary stops—such as Rome and other Italian destinations—while leaving room for slower days.

If you want hiking or wildlife, start with Patagonia, the Serengeti, or the Grand Canyon, and look into seasonal conditions and access before settling on dates. For culture and food, build your days around a few priorities in cities like Kyoto, Istanbul, or Marrakesh rather than trying to see everything at once.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating plan around the experience you want.

You don’t have to cross an ocean for a memorable landscape, and a national park trip can work well when you want to focus on the outdoors. Our Top 10 Must-See U.S. National Parks + Fast Facts digital travel guide is another starting point if you’re weighing U.S. park ideas alongside these worldwide destinations.