destination of world travel

World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

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

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

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

30. Argentine Patagonia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

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

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

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29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

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

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

28. Cancun, Mexico

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

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

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

27. San Francisco, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

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

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

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

26. Niagara Falls

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

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

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

25. Yellowstone National Park

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

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

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

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

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

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

23. Santorini, Greece

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

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

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

22. Florence, Italy

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

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

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

21. Yosemite National Park, California

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

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

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

20. St. Lucia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

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

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

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

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

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

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

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

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

17. Sydney, Australia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

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

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

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

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

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

15. Bali, Indonesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

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

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

14. New York, New York

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

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

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

13. Banff National Park, Canada

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

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

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

12. Maldives

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

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

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

11. Barcelona, Spain

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

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

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

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

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

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

9. Tokyo, Japan

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

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

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

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

8. Phuket, Thailand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

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

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

7. Rome, Italy

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

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

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

6. London, England

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

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

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

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

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

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

4. Maui, Hawaii

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

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

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

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

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

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

2. Paris, France

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

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

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

1. South Island, New Zealand

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

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

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

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

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

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

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The Best Destinations in the World: The Gold List 2022

There are three great lists annually in  Condé Nast Traveler,  all of which have changed due to the events of the last two years: the Readers’ Choice Awards , which you, our beloved audience, select; the Hot List , which compiles the new and notable of the previous year; and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences our editors carry in their hearts. This year, when we say  our editors,  we mean  CNT ’s entire global crew, working in locations from California to Beijing ; we’ve also expanded the parameters of the list to include not just the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in years past, but also the destinations we treasure. The Gold List is, more than ever, made by humans for other humans—something we need more than ever in this day and age. Here, our favorite destinations in the world.

Read the complete set of Gold List winners   here .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Puebla, Mexico

I love when I can feel familiar with a new place in 48 hours. In Puebla , Mexico’s historic, fourth-largest city, all the spots you want to hit are walking distance within its center, itself a tidy sprawl of bright pink and yellow villas and small plazas. That includes food markets for a crispy cemita (a schnitzel-­style sandwich with all the fixings); the gilded Capilla del Rosario and the city’s famed talavera, or ceramic houses; I stayed for close to an hour watching the row of artisans hand-paint and hand-fire their mugs, plates, and vases at Uriarte Talavera. Before the pandemic, tourism was just starting to happen here, and the city was in that sweet spot of supporting a new breed of traveler, like with the artisanal-inspired Cartesiano hotel, but without muting any of its essence for international business. I liked that I had to use my shoddy Spanish with barkeeps and store owners. And that sitting in those plazas meant a front-row seat to daily Poblano life: vendors selling sliced cucumber spices with cayenne, old-timers playing dominos. Puebla felt like a special somewhere on the verge of discovery in a country with pockets already turned over to the masses. My guess with all that’s happened this past year is that it still does. —Erin Florio

Rio de Janeiro

If you were to hook the city of Rio de Janeiro up to a cardiogram, the needle would swing off the page. The city thrums with live samba and bossa nova at all hours of the day; the bustling streets, bookended by the dramatic rise of granite monoliths on one end and the pounding waves of the Atlantic on the other, have a pulse all their own. It's easy to feel this when you're amid throngs of colorfully clad cariocas —I feel it most swaying to the live music at Pedra do Sal on Monday nights, or when, perched in the leafy hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa, I hear people in neighborhoods below lean out their windows to cheer when Flamengo scores a goal. It's a complicated city, with plenty of issues—insecurity, corruption, inequity, to name just a few—but there's a premium on joy and celebration that isn't reserved for Carnaval . There are few places in the world where you know you couldn't possibly be anywhere else, and whenever I hear the whole of Arpoador beach break into applause as the sun sets in summer, I'm reminded that Rio is one of them. —Megan Spurrell

Alentejo, Portugal

I call the road to the sea through Portugal’s Alentejo region the place where the beatniks read Pessoa; you can imagine Kerouac breezing through its small hotels, surf camps, and villages scattered with craft shops, markets, and bohemian bars. For me it’s a place of happiness. There are boutique hotels like São Lourenço do Barrocal and Dá Licença and olive groves, cork oaks, and infinite horizons. The road ends at Vicentine Coast National Park, a wild, protected coastline in southern Europe. A paradise for surfers , it has electrifying sunsets, but the icy waters stop it from ever getting too crowded. —David Moralejo

Svalbard, Norway

Arctic Svalbard —whose capital, Longyearbyen, is the world’s northernmost town—is like nowhere else I’ve been. On the one hand, it’s a deep-nature Scandi fantasy of snowmobiles, Northern Lights, ski-touring along glacial valleys, and surprisingly smart boutiques with stacked wine cellars. But there’s also a compelling strangeness to this international settlement, where no one is born and no one dies. There are the Soviet mining towns with their Lenin busts, whether abandoned or (even weirder) still working; the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which preempts a coming apocalypse; it’s advisable to leave Longyearbyen with a shotgun, in case of polar-bear attack. As much as a destination, it’s a journey into the heart of the climate crisis, with academics from across the world doing game-changing research here. I’m itching to go again—to escape but also to think and connect, which is what happens in all the best places. —Toby Skinner

My first trip to Goa as a college student was wrapped in dreams of homemade chorizo and reliving moments from the cult Bollywood coming-of-age film Dil Chahta Hai . Many trips and feni cocktails later, Goa remained a respite for my city-weary bones. The state straddles its multicultural past and present, trading up ’60s hippie markets for hipster boutiques while keeping its old-world Indian and Portuguese traditions intact. Simple fish-curry plates, aunties doing an impromptu jig to fado, old-timers squabbling over their favorite Goan soccer club, and the right freshness of bread coexist with edgy global menus, alt-music gigs, and all that is artisanal and arty. The ocean changes color from one season to the next, the multi-color sunsets never repeat, and like many travelers, I continue to return and find my salve in sunshine, sea, and susegad —the quintessential Goan idea of the slow, easy, and good life. —Diya Kohl

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Plettenberg Bay is South Africa's summer playground, and I, a Capetonian, would drive the 186-mile coastal path along the scenic Garden Route each year to join the fun. The bohemian seaside town sits atop a sheltered bay, where a jumble of hipster coffee shops, seafood restaurants, and kitsch boutiques tumble down onto fynbos-covered cliffs—where a slew of new hotels like The Robberg Beach Lodge sit beside grandes dames like The Plettenberg Hotel . Pretty young things like to celebrate the end of matric student exams, where hedonism sweeps across the bay, while dolphin and whale watches come during the languid, warm winter months. Venture just outside Plett to find the luxury Tsala Treetop Lodge , a manicured Gary Player golf course, indigenous Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, the Plett Polo Club on the Kurland Estate, and a host of animal sanctuaries to meet cheetahs, elephants, and monkeys. But above all, come for the glorious golden beaches. Central Beach—dotted with bars—surfy Lookout Beach, and the eerie, mist-covered sands of Robberg Nature Reserve. Search hard enough and you might stumble on a sand dollar—the symbol of Plettenberg Bay, thought to bring eternal luck. —Isabella Sullivan

When I can’t take another minute of winter, I head to Scottsdale. As, historically, do the day-drinking spring breakers and the far less rowdy snowbirds. Recently, though, the Valley of the Sun has come into its own, claiming its stunning desert setting and Southwest culture in new ways. If I’m bringing the kids, the 1929 Frank Lloyd Wright–designed grande dame The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (on the border of Scottsdale and Phoenix), is my place. It has sprawling grounds and seven pools, one with a legitimate waterslide, and just underwent a much-needed facelift. Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort , terraced into the side of its namesake adobe-hued mountain, has my favorite spa in town. Its adults-only pool on weekends and easy access to sunrise hiking give me plenty of excuses to leave the kids at home. Solo or with family, I can always bank on sunshine, a great exhibit at Phoenix’s nearby Desert Botanical Garden, and excellent Sonoran-style Mexican food. —Rebecca Misner

Val Graziosa, Italy

I am a frequent traveler to Val Graziosa, a valley near the Pisan mountains and a part of Tuscany relatively unknown and terribly beautiful. Here there is Monte Pisano—“ che i Pisan veder Lucca non ponno, ” the poet Dante said, a small group of mountains that hides Lucca from Pisa and makes it impossible for the Pisan locals to see the city of Lucca. There are olive trees everywhere, producing the best olive oil on Earth in a splendid countryside. I love to walk around the surroundings of Montemagno—please read the book Maledetti Toscani, by Curzio Malaparte, and you will understand a lot about Italians from this region. I love to go to the grocery store in Patrizia for a glass of wine (the one and only épicerie of the village) and then to Certosa di Calci, a 14th-century monastery, and one of the many secret beauties in my crazy country of Italy. —Maddalena Fosati

Chiang Mai, Thailand

When I first went to Chiang Mai, I intended to stay a couple of nights and ended up staying more than a week; for me, that trip is a reminder of travel at its most impulsive and impetuous: the freedom to move on when you feel like it. There’s no beach pressure here, and inland Thailand always feels more interesting than the obvious hits of the beachfront. And, away from the beaches, there's the sense of a modern Thai city where young creatives are carving out a contemporary aesthetic, with the energy that a large student population gives a city. —Rick Jordan

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• BEST OF THE WORLD

Destinations on the rise for 2021

25 amazing places to inspire future journeys and remind us why we love to travel.

A diver explores the coral reefs around Lord Howe Island. The volcanic isle, located in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand, has more than 60 dive sites, including Ball’s Pyramid—the world’s tallest sea stack.

The world is full of wonders—even if they’re hard to reach. While the pandemic has brought our journeys to a standstill, it has not quieted our curiosity. Ahead of a new year—with the promise of a return to travel—we are eager to share these 25 timely tales of timeless places that will define our future itineraries.

Reported by the global editors of National Geographic Travel and framed by five categories (Adventure, Culture and History, Nature, Family, Sustainability), these superlative destinations speak of resilient communities, innovative conservation efforts, and thrilling opportunities for future explorations.

The joy of travel comes from the unexpected. Now is the time to dream of your next journey and lay the foundation for your next trip. We hope our list of the new year’s most important places will inspire you. We look forward to seeing you out in the world soon!

In 1912, an eruption of the volcano Novarupta formed the caldera and crater lake at the summit of Mount Katmai, in Alaska’s Katmai National Park and Preserve.

Katmai National Park, Alaska

In the shadow of the volcano.

There are no roads into Katmai. Most of the nearly 5 million acres of this combined national park and preserve are designated wilderness where no hunting is allowed. The only way in is by boat or float plane.

For many travelers to the park—limited in number even before the pandemic— Katmai is where to visit a 1.2-mile-long fishing hole that serves the largest concentration of brown bears in the world. Thanks to the Bear Cam and Fat Bear Week it has become famous.

For archaeologists such as Laura Stelson, who explored here in the footsteps of a 1910s expedition sponsored by the National Geographic Society, the park is a site to study 9,000 years of human history. The longstanding Indigenous communities that lived in the area were displaced and re-established after the massive 1912 eruption of the Novarupta, the largest volcanic paroxysm of the 20th century. Stelson hopes one day to find the right technology to scan what lies beneath the pumice and other rock that covers this otherworldly landscape about 290 miles southwest of Anchorage .

( Related: Find six otherworldly destinations on our planet . )

“Katmai is a very unique place with all these different types of landscapes presented in one single park,” says Stelson. “You have coastal beaches. You have tundra. You have spruce forest, mountains, volcanoes, and you have this weird desert. So there’s just a lot of environmental diversity and diversity of experiences.”

Wildlife lovers can swim alongside Dominica’s resident sperm whales, but only with an accredited tour operator that follows strict animal-welfare protocols.

Caribbean adventure tourism helps fuel this island’s climate resiliency

The weathered mountains running down the spine of Dominica formed a natural shield, largely protecting the eastern Caribbean island, called Waitukubuli (“tall is her body”) by the Indigenous Kalinago, from colonial intrusions and overdevelopment. Left alone to thrive were leafy rainforest and a thrill-seeker’s dream collection of natural marvels: nine active volcanoes, 365 rivers, towering waterfalls, black sand beaches, and blistering-hot geothermal features like Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole with water temperatures nearing 200°F (93.3°C).

What Dominica’s formidable volcanic terrain couldn’t block is global climate change, which is worsening the effects of hurricanes. Warmer ocean temperatures supercharged Hurricane Maria , whose direct hit on the island in September 2017 caused catastrophic landslides and critically damaged nearly every man-made structure.

( Related: Discover more big-time adventures on the island where nature rules. )

Post hurricane, nature rebounded, residents rebuilt, and the government resolved to make Dominica the world’s first climate-resilient nation. It requires not only hurricane-proof buildings but also a diverse economy , including a tourism sector that attracts more high-end spenders and an agricultural system that grows a variety of fruits and vegetables eaten locally. Adventure tourism plays a huge role in the climate resiliency push by creating jobs and an economic incentive to restore and protect Dominica’s greatest natural resource—its wild side.

Ready to book your trip? Snorkel Dominica’s crystal-clear waters with Nat Geo Expeditions.

Perito Moreno glacier, located in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park, is one of the only glaciers in the world that is growing instead of shrinking. It forms part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field—the Earth’s third-largest reserve of freshwater.

Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina

Where to hike a kingdom of ice.

Along the turquoise shores of Lake Argentino, the town of El Calafate gets its name from the thorny plant whose berries infuse cocktails and regional beers. However, its proximity to Los Glaciares National Park has placed the town on the tourist map as the gateway to the kingdom of ice in southern Argentine Patagonia .

There, near the border with Chile , the 1,722-square-mile park encompasses subantarctic forests that preserve habitats for species such as the guemal, puma, rhea, condor, guanaco, and the calafate plant. But the park’s main draws are the nearly 300 glaciers that cover almost half of the park surface. The most popular and accessible, three-mile-wide Perito Moreno glacier, stands almost 200 feet above the surface of Lake Argentino. Huge masses of ice spectacularly calve from its face with thunderous roars. It’s possible to hike with crampons on the glacier to find swaths of electric-blue color among waterfalls, crevices, ice caves, underground rivers, and extravagant ice formations.

( Related: Saddle up for stellar views and gaucho culture in Patagonia .)

This frozen desert is part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, the third largest expanse of continental ice in the world, after Antarctica and Greenland . After exploring the frigid ends of the Earth, visitors return to a boat waiting on the lake to celebrate their adventures with a shot of whiskey and chips of ice. —Erick Pinedo, Nat Geo Traveler Latin America

Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus mountain range, Svaneti is home to some of the most isolated villages in Georgia. Many of the watchtowers pictured above were built during the Middle Ages to protect against marauding armies.

Svaneti Region, Georgia

A remote land of warm welcomes.

Located in the shadows of 15,000-foot peaks, the Svaneti region in northwest Georgia ’s Caucasus mountains may seem forbiddingly inaccessible. The rugged landscape bristles with medieval stone towers that doubled as dwellings and defense posts. These fortresses attest to a time when Svan families fought fiercely to hold possession of their lands in small villages and lofty settlements such as Ushguli. Protected as the Upper Svaneti World Heritage site , Ushguli is one of Europe’s highest inhabited communities, at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level.

Due to its remoteness, Svan culture evolved over the centuries in isolation from the rest of Georgian lands, developing a unique oral-only language and traditions such as ritual beard cutting and blood feuds. Once infamous for lawlessness, the region is recognized today for its welcoming spirit. “Georgia is famous for its hospitality, but Svaneti is Georgian hospitality times 10. Parties, toasts, and alcohol are the order of the day,” says Michał Głombiowski, a travel writer and photographer from Poland who frequently visits Georgia.

( Related: This mega-trail offers hikers nearly a thousand miles of forest and mountains .)

While still far off any beaten path, Svaneti now is accessible to intrepid adventurers via the Upper Svaneti section of the Transcauca sian Trail , an ambitious long-distance trail network project ultimately aiming to connect Georgia, Armenia , and Azerbaijan . Trekkers with enough lung capacity to tackle a four-day, high-altitude hike from Mestia, the regional capital, to Ushguli are treated to cool vistas of serrated peaks by day and warm receptions in Svan guesthouses at night. —Martyna Szczepanik, Nat Geo Traveler Poland

A crowd mills around the “Black Wall Street Mural” in Tulsa’s Greenwood District, soon after its unveiling in June 2018. Racial violence devastated this once thriving Black-owned business district, but a cultural and economic revival is underway.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

A hub for discussions on race in the u.s..

Greenwood Rising , the name of Tulsa’s new “Black Wall Street” history center, aptly describes the groundswell of support for sustainable socioeconomic transformation in the Oklahoma city’s Historic Greenwood District—site of one of the worst incidents of racial violence in the United States’ history.

Beginning on May 31, 1921, white terrorists destroyed the prosperous district in an 18-hour assault, murdering some 300 Black residents and erasing nearly 35 blocks of Black-owned homes and businesses. To commemorate the 100th anniversary—and tell the story of the once vibrant community—the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission is building Greenwood Rising (expected to open in fall 2021) and is hosting speakers, concerts, and other special events throughout the year.

( Related: Remembering “Red Summer,” when white mobs massacred Blacks from Tulsa to D.C. )

The history center is designed to be a catalyst for revitalizing Greenwood and for confronting and ending systemic racism across the U.S., says Phil Armstrong, project director of the Centennial Commission.

“There’s a real sense in Tulsa and throughout the country that we are much better than this,” Armstrong says. “Greenwood Rising will be a launching pad for continuing the discussion of racial trauma and reconciliation, and the entire historic district will be a place where people can come to learn, acknowledge implicit bias, and personally commit to enacting real change within their own spheres of influence.”

The only Native American site designated both a UNESCO World Heritage site and U.S. National Historic Landmark, Taos Pueblo is one of the country’s oldest continuously inhabited communities.

Pueblo Nations, New Mexico

Surfacing native american voices in the american southwest.

In New Mexico, monuments to oppressors of Native Americans—such as Spanish conquistador Don Diego de Vargas—are toppling, as some activists call to honor Po’pay, organizer of the 1680 Pueblo Revolt . The uprising ousted the Spanish from Pueblo Indian homelands. Although Spain regained control in 1692, the revolt is credited with ensuring the long-term survival of Pueblo culture.

A statue of Po’pay represents New Mexico in the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center in Washington, D.C. At home, Po’pay’s enduring legacy is evident in the state’s 19 Pueblos, including Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Each Pueblo is a sovereign nation and living community with distinct traditions. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) in Albuquerque is the starting point for exploring the Pueblos—online via a Virtual Culture Guide and in-person when it’s safe to resume group tours and celebrations.

Michael Lucero, IPCC’s guest experience manager and member of San Felipe Pueblo, calls the center’s resources the “lens” through which visitors can better appreciate the richness of Pueblo life. “When you step foot on a Pueblo, you’ll start connecting the dots,” Lucero says. “This is where we feel safe and connect with the Earth.”

( Want more stories from New Mexico? Visit our travel guide. )

In Guam, a local Chamoru dance group performs a blessing at the U.S. Naval Cemetery, in April 2017.

Revisiting Magellan’s legacy in the Pacific

The 500th anniversary of the first circumnavigation of the globe isn’t exactly a cause for celebration on Guam , a U.S. territory and largest of the Mariana Islands. During a three-day stopover in March 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan killed Indigenous Chamoru people and erroneously labeled the Marianas Islas de los Ladrones (Islands of Thieves).

A Spanish naval vessel will stop in Guam in March 2021, as part of a commemorative voyage retracing the world-circling route launched by Magellan in 1519 and completed by Spanish navigator Juan Sebastián Elcano in 1522. For the Chamoru today, the arrival of the anniversary expedition is an opportunity to tell their story, one whose chapters include the Magellan encounter, Guam’s colonial history, and the realities of living at what’s dubbed the U.S. military’s “tip of the spear” in the Pacific.

( Related: Guam’s ecological fate is in the hands of the U.S. military .)

Guam’s complex story is reflected in the Chamoru language, which features Spanish, English, and Japanese words. Young Chamorus are increasingly learning to embrace their culture, says Chamoru author and activist Michael Bevacqua .

“Chamoru is an Indigenous memory,” adds Bevacqua, who teaches free language lessons and encourages fellow Chamorus to voice their choice for the future of their island’s political status—whether statehood or independence. “To me, being able to speak Chamoru and pass it on is at the core of our culture and the identity of our people.”

Donggung Palace overlooks the serene waters of Wolji Pond in Gyeongju, Republic of Korea.

Gyeongju, Republic of Korea

This ancient korean kingdom still glitters.

Named Korea ’s Culture City of East Asia 2021, Gyeongju is more commonly known by its nickname: “the museum without walls.” The city, located at the southeast corner of the Korean peninsula, is home to an astonishing abundance of archaeological sites, thanks to a nearly thousand-year reign as capital of the ancient Korean kingdom of Silla (57 B.C. to A.D. 935).

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Gyeongju Historic Areas are a captivating collection of Buddhist art from this golden age. Among the treasures: temple and palace ruins, stone pagodas, rock carvings, a superb eighth-century statue of Buddha, and about 150 Silla nobility burial mounds, some up to 75 feet high.

( Related: How did South Korea prevent a COVID-19 disaster? )

Gold, silver, and gilt-bronze crowns, jewelry, and other glittering artifacts excavated from the tombs are displayed in the Gyeongju National Museum’ s “Silla the Kingdom of Gold” exhibit. Virtually tour the exhibition hall for an inside look at the lavish lifestyles of Silla royalty. —Bo-yeon Lim, Nat Geo Traveler Korea

The elegant Plaza Nueva (or Plaza de España) is a central gathering point in the Basque capital of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country, Spain

Jazz and legends in a basque cultural capital.

In the interior of Spain ’s tradition-rich Basque Country, one city claims the cultural crown. Vitoria, also known by its Basque name of Gasteiz, was historically a commercial and cultural crossroads due to its prime position on the shortest route connecting the medieval kingdom of Castile with northern Europe.

Now, Vitorians continue the tradition of welcoming outside influences by hosting emerging and legendary jazz artists—such as trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, whose Vitoria Suite album pays tribute to the city—during the international Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival held each July. A bronze statue honoring Marsalis stands in the gardens of La Florida Park, Vitoria’s green lung and part of a ring of parks giving Vitorians more square feet of green space per inhabitant than any other Spanish city. Urban nature conservation efforts coupled with a commitment to sustainable transport—a large part of the population travels by bicycle or tram—earned Vitoria-Gasteiz the title of European Green Capital in 2012.

( Related: This is how the Basques became an autonomous community within Spain .)

Planet-protecting Vitorians are equally passionate about preserving tradition, particularly in the historic quarter. The Gothic majesty of the Cathedral of Santa María tops a hill overlooking the centuries-old district. On streets that bear the names of medieval artisans’ guilds, locals throng bars and restaurants, sampling the habit-forming Basque version of tapas, known as pintxo . A plaza at the southern end of the old town is the site every August of an unusual celebration that honors the patron of the city—and the plaza’s namesake— la Virgen Blanca (the White Madonna). During the festival, a crowd gathers here to watch an effigy of a Basque villager, known as Celedón, whiz down a zip wire with his open umbrella to kick off the party. On reaching a balcony, Celedón magically “becomes” a real person who then encourages the crowd to enjoy the revels. —Sergi Ramis, Viajes National Geographic (Spain)

The picturesque countryside of Tonglu has inspired Chinese artists and writers for centuries, including the famed painter Huang Gongwang.

Tonglu, China

A chinese landscape made famous in paintings lands its first art fest.

Completed in 1350, “ Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains ” is a touchstone of traditional Chinese shanshui , or landscape painting—a flowing visual journey along the Fuchun River and mountains that, when fully unrolled, extends more than 22 feet long.

Painter Huang Gongwang, one of the Four Masters of the Yuan dynasty, lived in seclusion alongside the Fuchun River, in Tonglu, for three years before completing this handscroll masterpiece. Ever since, tranquil Tonglu—tucked in the mountains of eastern Zhejiang Province, 168 miles southwest of Shanghai —has been a source of inspiration for generations of Chinese artists and writers.

In 2021 Tonglu is once again in the art spotlight. The first Tonglu Art Triennale, originally scheduled for autumn 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic to spring 2021, will display modern art installations in fields and along the river—and, the hope is, boost rural tourism. Festival curator and director Fram Kitagawa, founder of Japan’s Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, says the very word “Tonglu” embodies the spirit of the event.

He explains, “At this season, the fog on the Fuchun River and the clouds in the mountains are intertwined with each other, which is very similar to the Chinese landscape painting I knew when I was young.” —Yi Lu, Nat Geo Traveler China

A female moose wades across a lake in Isle Royale National Park, Michigan.

Isle Royale, Michigan

Wolves and moose roam this lesser known u.s. national park.

Nature runs wild on Michigan ’s untamed Isle Royale, a best-kept secret of a national park in the northwestern corner of Lake Superior. The 45-mile-long wilderness island is only 18 miles from the shores of northeastern Minnesota , yet frequent fog banks, fierce storms, and choppy waters can make it seem edge-of-nowhere remote.

Along with causing numerous shipwrecks in the late 1800s to early 1900s, the hazardous waters surrounding Isle Royale shaped the island’s unique ecosystem. The park has only 18 mammal species (compared to more than 40 on the mainland), many of them descendants of the hardy animals who were able to swim here in summer or cross the frozen lake in winter.

( Related: See why Isle Royale National Park is a camper’s paradise .)

Since 1958, scientists have been observing Isle Royale’s most famous residents, wolves and moose, in the world’s longest predator-prey study. When only a single wolf pair remained in 2018 , a multiyear relocation plan began to restore the population, helping keep moose numbers in check and boosting the resiliency of the entire ecosystem.

Moose sightings are frequent, as are haunting loon calls. Less seen or heard are humans. The isolation and solitude mainly beckon seasoned backpackers, kayakers, and canoeists who arrive equipped to navigate Isle Royale’s roadless backcountry and inland lake paddling route, Chain of Lakes.

Brazil’s Cerrado, South America’s largest savanna, is a haven for the seven-banded armadillo and hundreds of other species.

Cerrado, Brazil

This brazilian wilderness may be the closest thing we have to a ‘jurassic park’.

Environmental victories in the Brazilian Amazon don’t always turn out to be a good thing for its lesser known biome neighbor, the Cerrado. South America ’s largest savanna, the Cerrado covers nearly a quarter of Brazil’s land surface and is extraordinarily biodiverse. But it is increasingly vulnerable to deforestation due to soybean farming and cattle ranching driven from the Amazon . More than 40,000 square miles have been destroyed in the past decade alone.

The Brazilian Campaign for the Defense of the Cerrado (“No savanna, no water, no life”) is sounding the alarm about the pressing need to save this endangered wonderland. Several of South America’s major rivers—including São Francisco, Paraná-Paraguay, and Tocantins-Araguaia—begin here, and 5 percent of the planet’s plants and animals are found here.

( Related: Brazil’s wildfires may destroy the world’s largest tropical wetland .)

The Cerrado’s dizzying variety of life includes more than 10,000 species of plants (nearly half of which exist nowhere else) and Jurassic Park –size creatures: boarlike tapirs that can top 650 pounds; rare giant armadillos weighing up to 110 pounds; and giant anteaters, threatened with extinction in Brazil, that can weigh more than a hundred pounds. Equally outsized is a giant palm tree called buriti , nesting site for some of the 850-plus bird species and a main food source for many other wild things that call the Cerrado home.

Mount Lidgbird rises over the lagoon at Lord Howe Island, Australia. Only 400 visitors are allowed at any one time to experience the natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lord Howe Island, Australia

A ‘last paradise’ in the tasman sea.

Being off the path to anywhere helped Lord Howe, a tiny island in the Tasman Sea, stay human-free until the 18th century. Today, only 400 visitors (slightly more than the permanent population) are permitted at any one time, helping protect one of Earth’s most isolated ecosystems in what locals rightfully call “the last paradise.”

While less than seven miles long and just over a mile at its widest, Lord Howe is the largest in an eponymous World Heritage -listed chain of islands, remnants of an underwater volcano that erupted millions of years ago. Surrounding the island is Lord Howe Island Marine Park , home to the southernmost coral reefs on the planet, more than 500 fish species, and a who’s who of protected and threatened marine species, including the whale shark, great white shark, and hawksbill turtle.

( Related: Explore the southernmost coral reef in the world .)

The island’s Protecting Paradise Program takes a holistic approach to biosecurity, enlisting the help of community volunteers and technology to remove destructive invasive species ( most recently rodents ) and protect endemic ones like the critically endangered Lord Howe Island Phasmid, or “walking sausage,” a big-as-your-hand stick insect thought to be extinct until 2001.

The aurora borealis swirls over Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories.

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Northern lights shine here 240 nights a year.

The story of Yellowknife , capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, reads like an adventure novel. Sitting at the edge of the Arctic , on the banks of the Great Slave Lake, and surrounded by wild taiga, the city of 20,000 came into being when gold was discovered in the area in the 1930s.

Gold mining was the main industry in Yellowknife for decades, and when the last of the local gold mines was closed in 2004, the city was already busy mining diamonds: In 1991, geologists found one of the richest diamond deposits on Earth here.

The Dene people have stewarded and traveled this land for thousands of years. Today, in the face of global challenges like COVID-19, climate change, and environmental degradation, the Dene find freedom in the land, says Catherine Lafferty, a Yellowknives Dene Nation author whose latest book, Land-Water-Sky/Ndè-Tı-Yat’a , is the first penned under her Dene name, Katłıà.

( Related: These tips will give you the best shot at experiencing the northern lights. )

“Going out on the land is one way to find peace and solace, to reconnect and to heal,” says Lafferty, who was raised in Yellowknife and writes about Indigenous injustices in northern Canada . “The land helps us to remember what is important. It is there that we can find happiness in the simplicities of nature’s gifts.”

Future visitors to Yellowknife can experience some of these gifts during nights lit by the aurora borealis shimmering over the boreal forests and countless small lakes outside the city. —Ondřej Formanek, Nat Geo Traveler Czechia

Totem poles in Vancouver’s Stanley Park are rich with meaning for several First Nations peoples from British Columbia’s west coast. Each carving refers to a real or mythical event.

Indigenous British Columbia, Canada

Where nature and first nations connect.

Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia , is home to more than 200 distinct Nations . Amid the global reckoning on race, learning about Indigenous B.C. as a family is a springboard for talking with kids about timely issues such as cultural appropriation and racial stereotypes.

With an Indigenous history that spans some 10,000 years, the province is a perfect place to embark on authentic Indigenous travel experiences hosted by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Vancouver and Vancouver Island are among the most convenient places for families to learn about Indigenous culture. The island alone has more than 45 Nations and the city offers some kid-friendly urban options, such as Talaysay Tours’ “Talking Trees” walk in Stanley Park.

( Related: How First Nations-led protests in Canada sparked a conservation movement .)

On the 90-minute forest ramble, Squamish and Shíshálh cultural ambassadors share knowledge passed down through the generations to help visitors understand how First Nations people across southern British Columbia use the land for food, medicine, and technology.

“We do not see ourselves as separate from the land,” says Candace Campo, co-owner of Talaysay Tours and a member of the Shíshálh Nation. She explains that in the Shíshálh language, they have a saying: “ Nuchutmulh , [which] means ‘we are one’ and connected to all living things.”

Ready to plan your trip? Spend four days exploring the rich wildlife and culture of Haida Gwaii with Nat Geo Expeditions.

The Rocket Garden at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, on Florida’s Cape Canaveral, includes Saturn, Juno, and Mercury-Redstone rockets.

Space Coast, Florida

A launchpad for wonders both in the sky and in waters below.

With all systems go for U.S. astronauts to rocket into orbit via NASA’s new Commercial Crew program, Florida ’s Atlantic shoreline east of Orlando is again at the center of space exploration. The 72-mile stretch, known as the Space Coast, includes launch facilities at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center .

At the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (open with COVID-19 restrictions), families can watch scheduled blast-offs of SpaceX and Boeing spacecrafts and walk among gigantic rockets towering over a hundred feet high. A different sort of giant, the lumbering West Indian manatee, plies the waters of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge , surrounding the space center.

Tour company Florida Adventurer leads kayaking trips in the 140,000-acre refuge. By day, kayakers are treated to glimpses of manatees and dolphins. At night (June to September or later), the refuge’s Indian River Lagoon hosts an otherworldly underwater show, called bioluminescence, courtesy of billions of light-producing plankton.

( Related: Learn more about Florida’s Space Coast and its wildlife haven . )

“On bioluminescence tours, kids see light zigzagging in every direction under the water,” says Florida Adventurer owner Josh Myers. “During the day, a manatee could pop up next to their kayak and squirt water at them. Those moments are life-changing for kids, inspiring them to learn more about what lives in the water.” —Ivan Vasin, Nat Geo Traveler Russia

When completed in 2021, the England Coast Path will link existing stretches, like the South West Coast Path (Cornwall’s Atlantic coast, pictured here), with newly minted paths to create a 2,800-mile coastal trail.

England Coast Path, U.K.

An epic walk to remember.

A colossal undertaking reaches fruition in 2021 as the England Coast Path —the world’s longest seafront walking trail, stretching nearly 2,800 miles—is unveiled in its entirety.

How does a small nation successfully vie for this global title? The answer lies in England ’s geography: peer closely at a map of Great Britain and you’ll see the land meets the water in an uneven zigzag of estuaries, inlets, and promontories. That rugged seascape—awash with secretive coves, windswept bluffs, and welcoming port towns—has been intrinsic to shaping the nation’s fortunes and character. And the new England Coast Path aims to bring this prized patrimony to the people and, in so doing, protect the landscape for generations to come.

( Related: Walking in Wales reveals legends and landscapes of imagination . )

While the project was partly inspired by the opening of the 870-mile Wales Coast Path in 2012, England has a long history of coastal hiking. In the 1970s the 630-mile South West Coast Path was established as a National Trail. The England Coast Path absorbs such existing stretches and has created dozens more from scratch for a total of 67 sections. Landowners, residents, and conservationists were consulted to harmoniously enact the landmark ruling of 2009 that legally opened up England’s whole coastline to the public for the first time.

Each segment of shore has a different character. While some stretches offer unspoiled rural scenery, others have been carefully curated. Opened in September 2020, the 40-mile segment dubbed “ Cumbria’s Hidden Coas t ,” winding from Whitehaven to Millom in the country’s northwest, is dotted with art installations and adrenalized activities. Meanwhile, in the southeast, a trail christened “ England’s Creative Coast ” links artworks and plots out a digital geocaching tour across Sussex, Kent, and Essex. —Maria Pieri, Nat Geo Traveller UK

Ready to book your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions has a 16-day cruise around the ancient isles of England, Ireland, and Scotland.

A Hungarian csikós (a traditional horse herdsman) shows off his equestrian skills at Hortobágy National Park.

Hortobágy, Hungary

Cowboys and cranes in europe’s wide-open plains.

The broad spaces of Hortobágy National Park are nature-made for social distancing. Covering nearly 200,000 acres of the Great Hungarian Plain in eastern Hungary, the expansive World Heritage site preserves the largest remaining native grassland in Europe as well as pastoral traditions dating back millennia.

Poor soil for farming helped keep Hortobágy’s mosaic of alkaline marshes, meadows, pastures, and loess-steppe vegetation intact. Free from plowing and significant development, this puszta (barren land) flourished. The resulting rich grassland ecosystem, protected since 1973, provides critical habitat for some 340 bird species, including tens of thousands of winged fall migration travelers, such as gray geese and common cranes, that make the park one of central Europe’s best birding locations.

Hortobágy isn’t strictly for the birds, though. A few hundred shepherds and cowboys, called csikós , still roam the wavy grass, giving families a rare look at centuries-old animal husbandry traditions. Horse-drawn carriage tours pass by herdsmen and their puli dogs, an ancient Hungarian breed with a coat like a mop, and racka sheep, famous for their corkscrew horns. Tours typically feature demonstrations of big-thrill rodeo skills—like galloping while standing on the backs of two horses—by daring csikós dressed in their flowing, blue-and-black traditional folk wear.

( Related: Discover one of Europe’s most underrated wine regions .)

Also home on the Hortobágy range: one of the largest populations of endangered Przewalski’s horses . Some 300 wander the park’s Pentezug Wild Horse Reserve . Although the reserve isn’t open to the public, the add-on safari ride from Hortobágy Wild Animal Park rolls closely past the grazing animals—untamed residents of Hungary’s wild, wild east. —Tamás Vitray, Nat Geo Traveler Hungary

Founded in 1211, Brasov is a gateway city to the wildflower meadows and wooded mountains of rural Transylvania.

Transylvania, Romania

Finding the real in a land famous for fantasy.

One of the side effects of Dracula —the Gothic horror novel by Irish author Bram Stoker—was that it transformed Transylvania, a perfectly real Romanian region, into a mythical realm, a “cursed spot, from this cursed land, where the devil and his children still walk with earthly feet!” as the writer put it.

Since Stoker had never seen the place himself, he craftily compiled information for his 1897 novel from books written by British travel writers. He got some of the details right: the “robber steaks” (grilled beef kebabs called rablóhús ) and national dish mămăligă (a cornmeal porridge); sweet Golden Mediasch wine; descriptions of the folk wear; the roadside crosses; and the culturally complicated mix of Magyars, Saxons, Székelys, and Wallachians.

( Related: Peek inside the fortress known as “Dracula’s Castle.” )

What Stoker missed is what Transylvania should be known for: its pastoral, old-Europe feel. Cosmopolitan Cluj is a base for exploring rural Transylvania’s wildflower meadows, storybook castles, and cobbled-lane villages. For families increasingly tethered to technology, a future farm stay here would be a chance to unplug, to spend time instead traveling by horse-drawn cart, hiking in the wooded Carpathian Mountains, and helping with chores like milking sheep, collecting eggs, and piling haystacks.

Transylvania’s bucolic charms have long captivated the Prince of Wales, whose foundation funds local architectural heritage preservation projects. “It’s the timelessness of it which is so remarkable,” the future king says in the travel documentary Wild Carpathia, “almost out of some of those stories one used to read as a child.” —Catalin Gruia, Nat Geo Traveler Romania

Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions offers a four-day extension to Transylvania on its Lower Danube River cruise.

A group of traditional Aztec dancers perform during Crush Walls 2019, a popular street art festival in Denver, Colorado. Originating in central Mexico, the dance honors ancestors and represents different relationships with the Earth, animals, time, and customs.

Denver, Colorado

A green giant of a city in the american west.

Despite financial challenges related to COVID-19, Denver is powering forward with its goal of achieving 100 percent renewable electricity by 2030. Among the latest forward-thinking initiatives are 125 miles of new bike lanes by 2023 and solar gardens to be “planted” on municipal parking lots, rooftops, and vacant land in 2021.

“Investments in Denver’s clean energy economy will strengthen our community and address multiple concerns including our carbon footprint,” says Grace Rink, executive director of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency . Along with producing clean energy for public buildings, vehicle charging stations, and nearby low-income neighborhoods, the gardens will grow jobs and a paid training program during construction.

Connecting climate action and sustainability to economic prosperity and social justice has helped Denver earn the coveted LEED for Cities Platinum Certification . To encourage business owners to join the effort by putting eco-friendly solutions to work, Colorado ’s capital offers free, customized sustainability plans through Certifiably Green Denver . Thanks to the program, nearly 2,000 Denver businesses are creating greener, more efficient operations that use less water and energy, and produce less air pollution and waste.

( Related: Discover the best of Denver with top 10 tips .)

“We’re so fortunate to live in this beautiful place,” says Adam Schlegel, co-founder of Chook , a Certifiably Green restaurant that champions sustainable food practices, “and with that fortune comes the responsibility to protect it.”

Divers explore a bounty of amphora from a fifth-century B.C. shipwreck—the first to be open to the public in Greece—in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades.

Alonissos, Greece

Mediterranean haven for seals—and a deep dive into an ancient shipwreck.

Called “the Parthenon of shipwrecks,” the eerie remains of the ancient Peristera shipwreck recently opened as the first underwater museum in Greece accessible to recreational divers. Located below the surface in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades , the site is thought to hold cargo from a large Athenian barge that sank in the fifth century B.C. Limiting human activity in the 873-square-mile marine park—established in 1992, primarily to save the endangered Mediterranean monk seal —helped keep archaeological looters at bay, preserving the wreck site and its bounty of intact, two-handled wine jars.

( Related: How Greece is rethinking its once bustling tourism industry .)

To explore the submerged museum in person, you’ll need to be able to dive to depths of 80 feet or more on a guided tour (slated to resume in summer 2021). Or, visit the information center on the small island of Alonissos and embark on a virtual reality tour of the wreck —no swimming required. —Lakshmi Sankaran, Nat Geo Traveller India

Since 2005, the Loango Gorilla Project has been studying a population of critically endangered western lowland gorillas in Loango National Park, Gabon.

More than 11 percent of this African country is national parkland

Elephants and hippos walk undisturbed on the beaches of Gabon —“Africa’s last Eden,” according to National Geographic explorer-in-residence Mike Fay —where more than 11 percent of the country is national parkland encompassing white-sand shorelines and inland forests.

Not all of Gabon’s 13 national parks are readily accessible. But Loango alone offers a variety of landscapes, vegetation, and wildlife, as well as the waterside Loango Lodge . One of this standout park’s highlights is an encounter with critically endangered western lowland gorillas . One group per day of four people maximum is allowed to try and find them, with no guarantee of success. In Pongara, one of five national parks protecting important sea turtle habitat, the beachfront Pongara Lodge offers close-up views of nesting leatherbacks, November to March, and migratory whales and dolphins, June to August.

( Related: Here are 17 unforgettable African safaris .)

Thanks to global investment in the country’s transportation networks, visiting Gabon—where an estimated 80 percent of the landmass is still covered by forest—is expected to become easier in the future. A sustainable development strategy also promises to expand ecotourism responsibly, helping ensure the country’s wildest places stay wild. —Barbera Bosma, Nat Geo Traveler Netherlands

The crystalline waters of New Caledonia harbor more than 9,000 marine species, including stingrays.

New Caledonia

Where marine life frolics in the south pacific.

Humpback whales, green sea turtles, dugongs—all congregate in the welcoming waters of New Caledonia . This French territory comprises a group of islands set like jewels in the southwest Pacific Ocean, some 900 miles off the east coast of Australia.

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008, New Caledonia’s lagoons represent one of the most extensive reef systems in the world, with pristine waters and more than 9,000 marine species. In 2014, the government created the 500,000-square-mile Coral Sea Natural Park , which extends well beyond the UNESCO site. Christophe Chevillon, senior manager at the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy , says the establishment of the Coral Sea park was “a notable and critical step for the conservation of New Caledonia’s waters as well as the protection of the last virgin coral reefs in the world.”

Now, the territory has taken further steps to ensure the long-term sustainability of its unique marine sanctuary. Fishing, nautical sports, and boats carrying more than 200 passengers are forbidden in large parts of the park, while some areas are banned from any human activity at all, except scientific research. A coral farm will open on Lifou island to restore reefs damaged by tourism in the past.

( Related: Can new science save Australia’s dying coral reef? )

Inland, the government is promoting ecotours and a new law aiming to ban all disposable plastic products by 2022. Tourism is strictly regulated in provincial parks, and the Giant Fern Park —a must-see in the tropical rainforest on the main island—is divided into zones for walking and biking while others are left to nature. —Marie-Amélie Carpio, Nat Geo Traveler France

CopenHill, billed as one of the cleanest waste-to-energy plants in the world, doubles as a year-round ski slope and hiking path in Copenhagen, which is aiming to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025.

Copenhagen, Denmark

A cosmopolitan capital creating sustainable solutions that pay off.

The widespread inequalities unmasked by the COVID-19 pandemic have ignited global interest in making cities more resilient, equitable, and healthy. In other words, a city like Copenhagen , on track to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025.

“In Copenhagen we insist on green solutions because they pay off,” the city’s Lord Mayor Frank Jensen says in We Have the Power to Move the World , the sustainable transport guidebook for mayors produced by C40 , a network of cities committed to addressing climate change.

“Copenhagen’s green transformation goes hand in hand with job creation, economic growth, and a better quality of life,” he says.

Denmark ’s capital has long targeted sustainability. The city has a very efficient public transportation network, and all its buses are transitioning from diesel-fueled to electric.

CopenHill , a waste-to-energy power plant burning 70 tons of waste per hour, produces clean energy for 60,000 families, while heating 120,000 homes. In 2019, CopenHill opened its outdoor play areas to the public: a rooftop green space, including hiking trails and a year-round ski and snowboard slope, and a stacked-block facade climbing wall.

Planet-friendly urban planning—such as the web of cycling paths that more than 60 percent of residents use to pedal to work and school every day—has resulted in Copenhagen having five times more bicycles than cars. A tour on an electric bike easily takes in the city’s most well-known places, from Nyhavn , a former industrial port now lined with restaurants and bars, to Rundetaarn , a 17th-century astronomical observatory housing exhibitions. It’s no surprise that bike-centric Copenhagen was chosen to host the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in July 2022. —Marco Cattaneo, Nat Geo Traveler Italy

Ready to plan your trip? Nat Geo Expeditions offers a 10-day Scandinavian cruise that departs from Copenhagen.

The vibrant German university town of Freiburg holds a weekly farmers’ market in front of its historic cathedral and implements a number of best practices in sustainable living.

Freiburg, Germany

This german university town is schooling the world on the best green practices.

Germany ’s vibrant university city of Freiburg readily embraces sustainable living. Mainly known as the gateway to the Black Forest, Freiburg is remarkably green, both in appearance and in action. Woodland covers more than 40 percent of the urban area. Renewables, such as solar, biomass, wind, and hydroelectricity, power the city, which converts its trash into biomass energy. Walking, biking, e-buses, and trams are the main modes of transportation, boosting chances Freiburg will meet its goals of cutting CO2 emissions in half or more by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

( Related: In Germany, industrial sites are now artful enclaves .)

Best practices in green infrastructure—including cooperative housing with rooftop solar panels, urban gardens, and incentives for living car-free—were baked into Freiburg’s Vauban district, developed on a reclaimed brownfield site. Recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable city quarters, Vauban was shaped by a citizen-led vision of an ecological, self-organized, and socially just neighborhood. Completed in 2016, Quartier Vauban has grown into Freiburg’s most densely populated district, demonstrating that if cities build sustainably, people will come. —Werner Siefer, Nat Geo Traveler Germany

Related Topics

• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• CULTURAL TOURISM
• WILDLIFE WATCHING
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

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100 Best Places on Earth – The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

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

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

• 2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

3. Ethiopia - the sunken churches of Lalibela

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monks in Bhutan

2. Discover Tbilisi's reignited cultural scene

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

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

Where to stay

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

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

Tailor-made travel

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

Tbilisi in Georgia

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

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

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

Lalibela in Ethiopia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gorges du Verdon in France

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

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

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

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

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

Taj Mahal in sunset

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

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

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

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

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

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

Victoria Falls

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

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Best Places In The World To Visit

Here is the list of 33 best places in the world to visit, 1. paris, france - the city of lights.

Known For : Eiffel Tower The Louvre Notre Dame

Paris, the enchanting 'City of Lights', captivates with its blend of history, art, and romance. Its cobblestone streets lead to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. By night, the Seine River reflects shimmering illuminations, echoing the city's luminous spirit. An epicenter of culture and elegance, Paris remains an eternal muse for visitors from around the globe.

Best Time: June to August

58 Paris Attractions

2. London, England - London: The heritage of England

Known For : Tower of London British Museum London Eye

London, the heart of England, stands as a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and innovation. From the regal Buckingham Palace and the echoing bells of Big Ben to the modern Shard piercing the skyline, the city embodies the nation's heritage. Cobblestone streets, iconic red buses, and the River Thames intertwining its fabric, London offers an immersive journey through centuries, celebrating the essence of English tradition while embracing the future.

Best Time: April to September

53 London Attractions

3. Pamukalle, Turkey - Pamukalle-The City of Minerals

Known For : Pamukkale Natural Park Travertines Hierapolis

Pamukkale, located in Turkey, is often referred to as the 'City of Minerals'. Famous for its terraces of gleaming white calcium deposits, these natural thermal springs look like frozen waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. The therapeutic waters, rich in minerals, have drawn visitors for centuries, seeking rejuvenation and solace. With ancient ruins of Hierapolis nearby, Pamukkale offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth, making it a mesmerizing destination.

Best Time: September

10 Pamukalle Attractions

4. Dubai, UAE - A Megacity That Never Stops Growing

Known For : The Dubai Mall At the Top Burj Khalifa Dubai Fountain

Dubai, a jewel in the UAE's crown, stands as a testament to ambition and innovation. Rising from desert sands, its skyline boasts architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa, piercing the heavens. Luxury shopping malls coexist with historic souks, offering a blend of tradition and modernity. As a city that never stops evolving, Dubai dazzles with its opulence, technological feats, and a vision that ceaselessly pushes the boundaries of urban development.

Best Time: November to April

126 Dubai Attractions

5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza, standing tall on Egypt's desert plains, are enduring symbols of ancient marvel and mystery. Built as grand tombs for pharaohs, these monumental structures have for millennia captivated imaginations with their scale and precision. The Sphinx, silent guardian of the pyramids, adds to the enigma. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is not just a journey through sand and stone, but a leap back in time to a civilization's zenith.

6. Maldives, Maldives - A Tropical Haven

Known For : Stay in an Overwater Bungalow Diving in Maldives Snorkelling in Maldives

The Maldives, an archipelago of over a thousand islands, emerges from the Indian Ocean as a tropical haven. Each atoll, with its aquamarine waters and powdery white sands, paints a picture of paradise. Overwater bungalows offer uninterrupted vistas of endless horizons, while vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface teem with marine life. For those seeking solitude and luxury embraced by nature's beauty, the Maldives is the quintessential retreat.

Best Time: December to April

103 Maldives Attractions

7. Bangkok, Thailand - Of street food, skyscrapers and unending nights

Known For : Grand Palace Chatuchak Market Wat Pho Bangkok

Bangkok, the pulsating heart of Thailand, is a blend of modernity and tradition. Skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, while the scent of sizzling street food fills bustling alleyways. By night, the city transforms, with markets illuminating streets and rooftop bars offering panoramic city views. From the sacred spaces of the Grand Palace to the frenzied energy of Khao San Road, Bangkok delivers a whirlwind of flavors, sights, and unending nights of revelry.

Best Time: Late November to Mid Jaunary

129 Bangkok Attractions

8. Prague, Czech-Republic - A Historical and Cultural Excursion

Known For : Prague Castle Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) The Clementinum and the National Library

Prague, the heart of the Czech Republic, offers a mesmerizing journey through time. Its cobblestone streets, lined with Gothic and Baroque masterpieces, echo with tales of emperors and artists. The iconic Charles Bridge connects centuries of history, while the astronomical clock ticks away in Old Town Square. Serving as a canvas of architectural splendor and cultural richness, Prague promises an immersive historical and cultural excursion for every wandering soul.

Best Time: April to October

50 Prague Attractions

9. Great Barrier Reef, Australia - Nature's Biggest Marvel

Known For : Green Island Heart Reef Hayman Island

The Great Barrier Reef, stretching along Australia's northeast coast, is nature's most magnificent masterpiece. As the world's largest coral reef system, it boasts a kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant coral formations. This underwater wonder, visible even from space, offers a mesmerizing dance of colors and shapes. A sanctuary for biodiversity, the reef stands not only as an iconic symbol of Australia's natural beauty but also as the planet's most splendid marine marvel.

Best Time: June to November (Spring)

6 Barrier Reef Attractions

10. Santorini, Greece

Known For : Watch Sunset at Oia Hike from Fira to Oia Skaros Rock

Santorini, perched atop the Aegean Sea, is Greece's postcard-perfect gem. Its iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches cling to steep cliffs, offering breathtaking sunsets over the caldera. The island's volcanic past has sculpted unique beaches with red and black sands, while its villages brim with history and charm. A haven for romantics, Santorini's enchanting landscapes and azure waters create an unforgettable tableau of Mediterranean beauty and allure.

Best Time: Apr-Oct

55 Santorini Attractions

11. Sydney, Australia - The complete Australian experience

Known For : Sydney Opera House Sydney Harbour Bridge Royal Botanic Gardens

Sydney, Australia's gleaming harbor city, delivers the quintessential Australian experience. Framed by the iconic Sydney Opera House and the sprawling Harbour Bridge, it's a vibrant blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty. From the golden sands of Bondi Beach to its bustling markets and cosmopolitan nightlife, Sydney encapsulates the spirit of Down Under. Offering both urban allure and natural wonders, it's a destination that captures the heart and soul of the continent.

Best Time: December to February.

44 Sydney Attractions

12. Phuket, Thailand - Where Summer Beach Fashion Truly Comes Alive

Known For : Big Buddha Bangla Road Phuket Old Town

Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is the epicenter of summer beach fashion. Its golden sands and azure waters serve as a runway for sun-seekers, each flaunting vibrant swimsuits, breezy sarongs, and chic sun hats. Amidst the backdrop of swaying palms and beachfront bars, fashion truly comes alive, reflecting the island's effervescent spirit. Here, sun-kissed days are not just about relaxation; they're a stylish statement of tropical elegance and flair.

Best Time: November to February

124 Phuket Attractions

13. Florence, Italy - The City of Character

Known For : Galleria dell’Accademia The Ufizzi Gallery Ponte Vecchio

Florence, Italy's artistic heart, is often described as the 'City of Character'. Birthplace of the Renaissance, its streets and squares are adorned with masterpieces from giants like Michelangelo and Botticelli. The Duomo's iconic dome dominates the skyline, while the Uffizi Gallery holds treasures of unparalleled beauty. Beyond art, Florence offers intimate cafes, Tuscan flavors, and a timeless ambiance, making it a destination where history and passion come alive in every corner.

Best Time: Throughout the year

42 Florence Attractions

14. Barcelona, Spain - The Paris of Spain

Known For : Sagrada Familia Las Ramblas Park Guell

Barcelona, frequently hailed as 'The Paris of Spain', radiates with architectural splendor and cultural dynamism. The whimsical creations of Gaudí, from the iconic Sagrada Família to the vibrant mosaics of Park Güell, define its skyline. Narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter, bustling markets like La Boqueria, and the sun-kissed beaches of Barceloneta collectively capture its unique spirit. Barcelona seamlessly blends ancient charm with avant-garde flair, mirroring the romantic allure of Paris in its own Iberian style.

Best Time: May to August

47 Barcelona Attractions

15. Mauritius, Mauritius - Indian Ocean's Island Paradise.

Known For : Black River Gorges National Park Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel Scuba Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, emerges as the quintessential island paradise. Its powdery white beaches merge seamlessly with cerulean waters, providing a haven for sun-worshippers and water enthusiasts alike. Verdant mountains and sugar cane fields punctuate its landscape, while a rich tapestry of cultures defines its soul. From Creole rhythms to spicy curries, Mauritius offers a delightful blend of nature and heritage, embodying the very essence of tropical allure.

Best Time: July to October (winter)

146 Mauritius Attractions

16. Hong Kong, Hongkong

Known For : Victoria Harbour A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong, a dynamic metropolis, melds East and West in a vibrant tapestry of culture, commerce, and cuisine. Its iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, stands sentinel over bustling harbors and tranquil green mountains. From the aromatic alleyways of Temple Street Night Market to the serene trails of Lantau Island, Hong Kong offers a rich blend of urban energy and natural beauty, encapsulating the very essence of contrast and harmony.

Best Time: October to December (Autumn)

337 Hong Kong Attractions

17. Bali, Indonesia - An idyllic retreat

Known For : Tanah Lot Uluwatu Bali Swing

Bali, nestled within the vast Indonesian archipelago, stands as an idyllic retreat for souls seeking tranquility and enchantment. Its landscapes, where verdant rice terraces merge with sun-drenched beaches, create a tapestry of natural beauty. Ancient temples, the gentle hum of Gamelan, and the intricate dance performances narrate tales of tradition and spirituality. From the bustling streets of Seminyak to the serene vibes of Ubud, Bali promises a rejuvenating escape into a tropical dream.

Best Time: April, May, June and September

300 Bali Attractions

18. Amsterdam, Netherlands - Heritage and history, parties and parks, food and fresh beer

Known For : Rijksmuseum Van Gogh Museum Vondelpark

Amsterdam, the jewel of the Netherlands, offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Its winding canals are lined with historic houses, reflecting centuries of heritage. By night, the city pulses with lively parties and the hum of conversation. Sprawling parks provide serene escapes, while bustling markets and cozy cafés tantalize with sumptuous food and freshly brewed beer. Amsterdam is a celebration of contrasts, where tradition mingles effortlessly with contemporary delights.

Best Time: March to October

47 Amsterdam Attractions

19. Seychelles, Seychelles - The Honeymoon Paradise

Known For : Anse Lazio Snorkeling in Seychelles Sunbathing in Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago nestled in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, is often heralded as 'The Honeymoon Paradise'. Its pristine beaches, fringed by swaying palm trees and granite boulders, set the stage for romance. Crystal-clear waters shimmer under the tropical sun, while secluded coves offer intimate moments of tranquillity. A sanctuary for love and serenity, Seychelles is where newlyweds find their idyllic beginning amidst nature's most breathtaking canvases.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

96 Seychelles Attractions

20. San Francisco, Usa - The Golden State's City of the Golden Gate

Known For : Golden Gate Bridge Alcatraz Island Fisherman's Wharf

San Francisco, perched on the edge of California's coastline, is fondly known as the 'City of the Golden Gate'. Its iconic red bridge stretches majestically across the bay, while its hilly streets offer panoramic views of the Pacific. From the historic charm of cable cars to the bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco melds traditions with innovation. A cultural melting pot, it embodies the Golden State's spirit of diversity and progressive thinking.

Best Time: September to November

256 San Francisco Attractions

21. Mumbai, Maharashtra - The City of Dreams

Known For : Elephanta Caves Marine Drive, Mumbai Juhu Beach

Mumbai, the bustling heart of Maharashtra, is often hailed as the 'City of Dreams'. Its skyline, a blend of colonial architecture and modern high-rises, tells tales of aspiration and evolution. From the vibrant lanes of Colaba to the serene Marine Drive promenade, Mumbai pulsates with energy. As the home of Bollywood and a melting pot of cultures, it promises a tapestry of experiences, where dreams take flight amidst its chaotic yet charismatic embrace.

Best Time: October to February

114 Mumbai Attractions

22. Kolkata, West Bengal - The city of Joy

Known For : Victoria Memorial Fort William Kolkata Belur Math

Kolkata, nestled in West Bengal, is fondly termed the 'City of Joy'. A cradle of literature, arts, and revolution, its streets echo with tales of heritage and hope. Trams rumble past colonial edifices, while the aroma of roshogolla and street food fills the air. From the historic Howrah Bridge to the vibrant Durga Puja celebrations, Kolkata radiates a warmth and cultural depth, offering a soulful embrace to every visitor.

Best Time: October to March

79 Kolkata Attractions

23. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andean mountains of Peru, is a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual significance of the Inca civilization. Overlooking verdant valleys and shrouded in mist, this ancient citadel reveals a tapestry of stone terraces and temples. A journey to its enigmatic ruins offers a window into a bygone era, while challenging the physical and elevating the spiritual dimensions of those who tread its paths.

24. The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, a majestic chasm carved by the Colorado River, stands as a testament to nature's unparalleled artistry. Spanning over 277 miles in Arizona, its layered red rock formations tell tales of Earth's ancient past. As sunlight dances across its vast expanse, visitors are left in awe of its sheer magnitude and raw beauty. A visit promises both a humbling perspective and an indelible imprint on the soul.

25. New Zealand - The Land Where Adventures Wait

New Zealand, often dubbed the 'Land Where Adventures Wait', beckons with its juxtaposition of rugged landscapes and serene vistas. From the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the otherworldly geothermal terrains of Rotorua, it's a haven for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Each corner of this island nation offers a unique dance of earth, water, and sky, promising unforgettable experiences for every intrepid soul.

26. Colosseum, Rome

The Colosseum in Rome, an enduring symbol of ancient grandeur, stands as a testament to the Roman Empire's architectural prowess and its thirst for spectacle. Once echoing with the roars of gladiators and spectators alike, this colossal amphitheater, with its arches and worn stones, evokes tales of bravery, drama, and human endeavor. A visit transports one back in time, offering a poignant glimpse into the heart of ancient civilization and its vast cultural tapestry.

27. Bora Bora, French-Polynesia - A colossal cosmos encircled by a mystique lagoon

Known For : Matira Beach Water Sports in Bora Bora Land activities

Bora Bora, situated in French Polynesia, is a colossal cosmos of vibrant blue hues and lush greenery, encircled by a mystique lagoon and barrier reef. Renowned for its turquoise water and luxury overwater bungalows, this tropical paradise effortlessly marries natural splendor with opulence. Each glimpse of its pristine beaches and silhouettes of Mount Otemanu on the horizon invites visitors into a realm of serene beauty and timeless allure.

Best Time: May to October

3 Bora Bora Attractions

28. Iceland - For the offbeat traveller

Iceland, a realm of stark contrasts, beckons the offbeat traveller with its fiery volcanoes and glacial landscapes. From the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights to the geothermal springs of the Blue Lagoon, it offers an otherworldly escape. Its rugged terrains, dotted with waterfalls and geysers, promise an experience unlike any other. For those seeking paths less trodden and nature in its rawest form, Iceland is the ultimate destination.

29. New York City, Usa - The City that Never Sleeps

Known For : Statue of Liberty Times Square Empire State Building

New York City, often dubbed 'The City that Never Sleeps', pulsates with unyielding energy. Its iconic skyline, punctuated by skyscrapers like the Empire State and One World Trade, stands as a beacon of ambition and dreams. The bustling streets, from Broadway's glowing marquees to Central Park's tranquil paths, tell tales of millions. A melting pot of cultures, arts, and ideas, NYC promises a perpetual dance of experiences, keeping its promise of sleepless wonder.

275 New York City Attractions

30. Costa Rica - Abundance of Natural Beauty

Costa Rica, a gem nestled between two oceans, is synonymous with an abundance of natural beauty. Rainforests teeming with vibrant flora and fauna stretch towards pristine beaches, where waves beckon surfers and sun-seekers alike. Majestic volcanoes rise against the horizon, and hidden waterfalls punctuate dense jungles. With its commitment to sustainability, Costa Rica not only offers a visual feast of biodiversity but also stands as a testament to harmonious coexistence with nature.

31. British Virgin Islands - The Gem of Caribbean

Known For : The Baths Rhone Marine Park (Salt Island) Fallen Jerusalem National Park

The British Virgin Islands, nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, emerge as a gem of turquoise waters and sun-kissed sands. This archipelago, comprising over 60 islands and cays, offers secluded bays, vibrant coral reefs, and verdant hills. Sailors drift lazily from one isle to another, seeking the perfect mooring spot, while beachcombers revel in the pristine shores. Reflecting the laid-back Caribbean spirit, these islands promise an untouched paradise for wanderers and dreamers alike.

13 British Virgin Islan Attractions

32. Amalfi, Italy

Amalfi, nestled along Italy's rugged southern coastline, is a tapestry of sunlit cliffs and azure seas. This historic maritime town, with its maze of narrow alleys, boasts centuries-old architecture and bustling piazzas. Lemon groves scent the air, while vibrant bougainvillea drapes over stone walls. With its serene beaches and iconic cathedral, Amalfi perfectly captures the charm and romance of the Mediterranean, offering a slice of Italian paradise to every visitor.

33. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, located in the heart of Cambodia, stands as a testament to the Khmer Empire's architectural brilliance and spiritual devotion. This sprawling temple complex, with its intricate carvings and grandeur, is both a symbol of national pride and a UNESCO World Heritage site. As dawn breaks, its iconic silhouette against the rising sun offers a moment of serenity and timelessness, inviting travelers to step back into a golden era of Cambodian history.

Are there more best places in the world that we missed out? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was published by Vrinda Movva

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Leningrad Oblast

• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 7 Get around
• 12 Stay safe

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Leningrad Oblast is a region of Northwestern Russia named for the old name of its principal city, Leningrad, now known as Saint Petersburg . It borders Pskov Oblast to the southwest, Estonia and the Gulf of Finland to the west, Finland to the northwest, Karelia and Lake Ladoga to the north, Vologda Oblast to the east, and Novgorod Oblast to the south.

• 59.56841 30.122892 1 Gatchina — this small city is Leningrad Oblast's largest after Saint Petersburg and boasts a magnificent palace, which is part of Petersburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site network
• 59.365379 28.219712 2 Ivangorod — the Russian half of a city split in two at the fall of the USSR, across the river is Narva and two big medieval castles stare each other down from each city across the Narva River, the new border of Russia and Estonia
• 61.03928 30.12907 4 Priozersk — a popular dacha town with a big medieval Karelian castle
• 59.945 31.034722 5 Shlisselburg — a small town with an island fortress that is on the UNESCO World Heritage List
• 59.998936 32.2958 6 Staraya Ladoga — an incredible gem of a sleepy village, this is the first capital of Russia, founded in the 8th century, which was for its first 200 years one of the most important ports in Eastern Europe ; boasts some very old churches with twelfth century frescoes painted by Russian Master Andrei Rublev and Russia's first kremlin, built by the first Russian Tsar, the Rus Viking Rurik
• 61.108333 28.858333 7 Svetogorsk — a town only miles away from Finnish border
• 60.710556 28.749722 9 Vyborg — a very attractive city with a big Swedish castle on the Karelian Isthmus near the border with Finland

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Virtuoso Travel Week reveal: Current hot travel spots are cool weather destinations

The Las Vegas summer temperatures soared - like an Olympic pole-vaulter - over the 100-degree mark during 2024 Virtuoso Travel Week. The luxury travel network’s unflappable executive Misty Belles revealed data on travel to the Paris Games and why vacation destinations in chillier climes are the new “hot spots.”

“Heat waves in Western Europe sent travelers looking for ‘cool-cations’ in more mild-weather destinations such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Canada and Iceland,” said Belles, Virtuoso Travel’s vice-president of global public relations.

The collective “planet” journeyed to Travel Week, though, creating, in the interconnected, air-conditioned Aria, Bellagio and Vdara Hotels, a village of 4,700 Virtuoso travel advisors, hoteliers, cruise directors, CEO’s and executives, and tourism board officials from 97 counties comparing notes and booking trips. Discerning travelers turn to the collective negotiating power of Virtuoso’s collaborative travel network to enhance luxury planning and to book custom, exclusive itineraries.

“Virtuoso is the network for you if travel is important to you and you want to customize your trip with someone who specializes in you. Virtuoso’s advisors provide advice, access, advocacy, accountability, value, time savings and trust,” Belles explained.

Belles, a regular on NBC’s “Today Show,” pointed out the attitudes of travelers have evolved.

“Travel for ‘self-care’ evolved to booking trips out of ‘self-preservation.’ It is more urgent. There is so much flying at us so quickly there days, so take time to make sure you are worrying about yourself, too. It may be a ‘silver bullet wellness’ concept such as specialized sleep programs at a spa resort. How do I improve my rest? How do I meditate? Or change my diet?”

Belles is glad the post-pandemic phrase “revenge travel” has evolved to the more joyful “revelry travel.”

“Fun, joy, awe, and wonder are how you want to feel when you travel. And people who formerly embraced travelling ‘at any cost’ now travel ‘at all costs.’ The ‘bucket list’ has become the ‘F-it List,’” said Belles of the duplicitous rhyming phrases. “It’s the old ‘just do it’ mentality. How do you want to live and celebrate your life and feel alive? Is it bungy jumping in New Zealand? Is it attending a Formula One race? Is it flying to a Taylor Swift concert or the Olympics? It's passion-led travel: living in the moment and celebrating your life.”

Virtuoso survey data revealed “curiosity and exploration” as an emotional driver of how travelers want to feel, which determines what they want to do. When a traveler shares how they want to feel, a Virtuoso advisor designs an experience.

Gen Z and millennials are outpacing the older generation and significantly increasing travel, according to Virtuoso’s data. “They are twice as likely to seek an adrenaline rush and are prioritizing ultra-luxe hotels, business class seats and luxury cruising,” Belles said.

Allora…andiamo! What are the largest growth areas for travel this fall? The decidedly cooler Canada is hot: Up 168%, with Japan not far behind. Visits to St. Barths are up 155%. Globally, the top countries for fall travel are the USA, Italy, France, Mexico and the United Kingdom – a ranking matched almost exactly by U.S. travelers. Greater China is also getting a lot of visitors this fall.

If you are looking for (relative) value, Virtuoso reports the prices in Toarmina, Sicily (home of “The Godfather” and HBO’s “White Lotus,” are down 22%. Napa, California is uncorking wine country visits at 19% less; and Amsterdam’s rates are down 11%. The price of visiting the Aloha State is down 8%.

Costs have risen for holiday travel to the Caribbean; Mexico and Morocco.

Slovenia, Portugal and Croatia, Montenegro and Guatemala are alternate, less crowded destinations.

In between Virtuoso’s rousing receptions, posh presentations, many meetings and international networking, some odds-and-ends statistics spilled out, such as the stat that a U.S. election-year doesn’t decrease travel, but chops growth by 10%. And while a woman is running for president, plenty of “wander women” are on the move, too: 71% of solo travelers are women, with 47% of them divorced or separated. Nothing is stopping them, or Virtuoso travelers, from their “F-it List!’

Contact Michael Patrick Shiels at  [email protected]   His new book: Travel Tattler – Not So Torrid Tales, may be purchased via  Amazon.com  Hear his radio talk show on WJIM AM 1240 in Lansing weekdays from 9 am – noon.

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As our Travel Advisor specializing in Disney Destinations (Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani and Adventures by Disney), you’ll play a crucial role in curating unforgettable, customized trips to the most enchanting Disney destinations. From Walt Disney World and Disneyland to Disney Cruise Line and beyond, you’ll leverage your in-depth knowledge to transform ordinary getaways into extraordinary experiences that leave our clients awestruck.

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12 epic around-the-world cruises that will check off all your bucket list travel destinations

Imagine the joys of traveling seamlessly from one bucket list country to another without packing and unpacking, switching hotels, boarding countless flights, or even doing laundry.

Think it's a fantasy? It's actually a world cruise, the nirvana of many oceangoing devotees. As a bonus, most of these around-the-world voyages include enviable perks, like precruise hotel stays, alcohol, shipboard credit, exclusive-access shore excursions — and, yes, laundry service.

Retired, taking a job hiatus or working remotely? A world cruise is a safe, easy and exhilarating way to score a global adventure beyond compare. You might even make new lifelong friends sharing similar interests.

So, pull out your travel wish list and find an itinerary for those coveted destinations.

Here, you can learn more about what's involved in an around-the-world cruise and drool over 12 terrific choices across a range of fares for an incredible monthslong voyage at sea.

What is a world cruise?

Never mind the moniker, a world cruise might visit several continents but not circumnavigate the globe. Cruise lines usually designate one ship (a few offer two) to sail about 100 days or longer — some even sail more than 200 days — without repeating ports.

World cruises traditionally start in January and end around April or May. They sail round-trip from one American city, such as San Francisco or Miami, or offer a choice of starting points on both coasts, making access easy.

What to know about world cruises

With so few world cruises available, book far in advance. Bookings open roughly two years in advance, and some small-ship cruises sell out within hours. You'll need the extra time to make arrangements to leave your home for months. For that reason, this story will focus on 2026 world cruises.

Related: Hot cruises you'll need to book at least 1 year in advance — maybe even 2!

Around-the-world cruise cost

Such lengthy sailings cost plenty. The lines with bigger ships offer the lowest fares, although extra fees for what's not included (such as shore excursions and alcohol) can add up quickly. If contemplating a big-ship voyage, read the inclusions carefully, as they vary among lines.

Luxury vessels bundle many costly amenities into the fare, like business- or first-class plane tickets and luxury hotel stays, and charge the most. They also deliver fine dining, pampering service, glam surroundings and impressive special events. (Silversea Cruises has previously rented out an entire island to entertain its world-cruise guests.)

Thus, expect considerable price differences. Count on spending about $20,000 per person minimum to score an entry-level accommodation on the bigger ships and approximately $80,000 to $90,000 per person for an ultraluxury vessel.

Note that for the poshest lines, "entry-level" might mean a spacious, elegant suite with a veranda. For other lines, the most basic cabin is a small, windowless room.

Read on to discover where you can sail to in 2026 on a world cruise.

World Voyage

Thanks to an overwhelming response to its previous world cruises (2025 is currently sold out), Azamara announced the itinerary for 2026 aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward.

Azamara Onward is the newest ship to join the Miami-based line's four-vessel fleet. The ship's size provides an intimate experience and allows it to call on small towns bigger ships can't access.

For 2026, the 155-night, 36-country voyage begins in Miami and ends in Barcelona, with visits to exciting locales in Ecuador, Chile, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Dubai, Greece and others.

Along the way, world cruisers can sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine; explore the unspoiled beaches and lush parks of Tauranga, New Zealand; and take in the diverse landscape and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.

The itinerary will include a presailing welcome party, exclusive cultural events, concierge service and other upscale perks.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $85,822 per person for an inside cabin.

World Cruise

If luxury and unparalleled personal service are important to you, consider Crystal 's 2026 world cruise aboard Crystal Serenity .

The beloved upscale line went bankrupt and stopped sailing in 2022. However, luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent acquired it and brought it back to life with a $150 million glow-up, starting with 740-passenger Crystal Serenity.

With renovated expansive suites, an array of social areas and nearly one staff member per guest, Crystal Serenity offers ultimate comfort, quality and personalization. Every cabin comes with a butler ready to assist with reservations, laundry and any other needs you have during your global odyssey.

Beginning in Los Angeles and concluding in Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), the world cruise spans 135 nights with visits to 27 countries. The cruise kicks off with a welcome celebration, and guests can enjoy themed onboard and shoreside events and gala dinners throughout the sailing.

Exciting destinations along the way include Fiji, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Egypt and Greece. Passengers can savor the unspoiled beaches of Fiji, enjoy street food in Sri Lanka's capital city and celebrate like a Greek god on Mount Olympus, among other events.

Custom excursions and pre- and post-cruise tours organized by Abercrombie & Kent are available along the way (for an additional cost).

Departs Jan. 11, 2026. Prices start at $69,120 per person for an ocean-view cabin.

Cunard Line

Explore the world aboard Queen Anne, Cunard's first new ship in 12 years. The 2,996-passenger vessel debuted in May 2024 and will host one of two Cunard world cruise sailings in January 2026. (Queen Mary 2 will also carry travelers across the globe in 2026.)

Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage will span 116 nights and begin and end in Hamburg, Germany. Along the way, guests can explore historic churches in the Old Town of Lubeck, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site; visit traditional Thai and Buddhist temples in Penang, Malaysia; and spy leopards, rhinos and lions at a wildlife reserve in Durban, South Africa.

Passengers will enjoy spectacular new elements on this ship. The vessel's main pool area, The Pavilion, is topped with a gorgeous retractable glass roof that's not just a showpiece. The functional structure will keep poolgoers dry on rainy days.

The 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 sails round-trip from Southampton, England, on a 108-night world cruise . During the journey, passengers can witness firsthand the maritime marvel of the Panama Canal, explore the pristine Bay of Islands in New Zealand and tour the tombs of Egypt's ancient kings, among other memorable experiences.

If you're seeking the most luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences on board either ship, book Princess Grill or Queens Grill suites. Fares include outstanding amenities such as private dining rooms, coffee and specialty tea service, priority boarding, and a private outdoor lounge area.

Queens Grill suite passengers receive butler service, too. However, many lovely inclusions, such as white-gloved servers presenting complimentary daily tea, are available for all guests.

The world cruise aboard Queen Anne departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $17,999 per person for an inside cabin.

The world cruise aboard Queen Mary 2 departs Jan. 11, 2026. Prices start at $18,789 per person for an inside cabin.

Holland America

Grand World Voyage

Holland America 's 132-night Grand World Voyage on the 1,432-passenger Volendam cruises round-trip from Fort Lauderdale. The enticing itinerary ventures far from Florida to must-visit cities such as Tokyo, Mumbai, Singapore and Istanbul. The ship will also traverse the Panama Canal.

Many included overnights allow opportunities to dive deep into local cultures and experiences. Spend extra time in Rio de Janeiro; Papeete, French Polynesia; Sydney; Safaga, Egypt; and Singapore.

On board, relish music venues like BBC Earth in Concert, where a live orchestra plays before a huge backdrop of spectacular wildlife footage. Step One Dance Company presents works by noted choreographers. Count on a buzzy casino, fine dining at specialty restaurants and a professionally staffed fitness center.

Departs Jan. 4, 2026. Prices start at $30,354 per person for an inside cabin.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers something a little different with its 2026 World Cruise — a choice of three embarkation ports. Passengers can board in Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; or Barcelona. They will return to the same port they left from. The 2,550-passenger MSC Magnifica is the home base for the 118-night journey.

The itinerary features port calls at 47 destinations across 33 countries in Europe, South America, the South Pacific, Australia and Asia. Among the cities you'll explore are Barcelona; Cartagena, Colombia; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Auckland; Tokyo; Penang, Malaysia; and Aqaba, Jordan (the port for Petra).

Spend your port days exploring New Zealand's Waitomo Caves, ogling at Jordan's ancient site of Petra, and wandering through the historic streets of Melaka and George Town's central old quarter in Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Departs Jan. 5, 6 and 7, 2026 (depending on your embarkation port). Prices start at $17,922 per person for an interior cabin.

Oceania Cruises

Around the World Cruise

Travelers can explore the world in style on Oceania Cruises ' newest vessel, the lovely 1,200-passenger Vista . It will sail a whopping 179 nights round-trip from Miami for the line's 2026 world cruise , calling at 101 ports in 43 countries.

Cruisers will also have additional world cruise options for shorter and longer versions of this sailing. You can choose a 119-night cruise departing from San Diego or a 196-night voyage departing from Los Angeles. (The latter technically begins in late 2025.)

Prepare to tear up any bucket list on a cruise this long. You'll start off sailing to a handful of ports in Mexico and the Caribbean, venture to the Brazilian Amazon, explore more of South America, and then head off to Africa and Asia. Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Latin America and Europe round out the itinerary before Vista returns to Miami.

Oceania Cruises is renowned for fine dining. Expect to eat and drink exceptionally well on board.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $63,099 per person for a veranda cabin.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises promises an unforgettable journey on its 113-night world cruise sailing from Fort Lauderdale (or Los Angeles, as an alternative embarkation port) on the 2,000-passenger Coral Princess.

World cruisers can visit 28 countries with 52 destinations across six continents. Exciting ports of call include Lisbon; Fiji; Naples, Italy; Hong Kong; and Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia. With late-night stays in 13 ports of call and a Hong Kong overnight, you can relish multiple opportunities to wine, dine and enjoy the nightlife ashore.

Beyond onboard activities typical of a Princess sailing (cooking and dance classes, enrichment programs, and musical productions), passengers can enjoy special activities unique to this voyage. Among them are themed deck parties and special entertainment reflecting the history and folklore of the countries you visit.

You can also expect outdoor movies and onboard wellness features such as a spa and fitness center.

From Fort Lauderdale: Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $26,959 per person for an interior cabin.

From Los Angeles: Departs Jan. 21, 2026. Prices start at $27,389 per person for an interior cabin.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Navigate the World

World cruises prove perpetually popular on this ultraluxe line. They often sell out in the blink of an eye.

For 2026, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 154-night world cruise on the 700-passenger Seven Seas Mariner will sail round-trip from Miami. This journey will be the line's longest sailing, visiting 77 ports in 41 countries across six continents. The itinerary includes port calls in Guatemala, French Polynesia, Indonesia, India, Mozambique and South Africa. Count on visiting 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Robben Island in South Africa.

For all its around-the-world cruises, Regent piles on primo inclusions. First-class flights, unlimited shore excursions, luggage service, an open bar and a visa package are among countless amenities.

If you want to plan beyond 2026, Regent is one of the first cruise lines to announce its 2027 world voyage aboard Seven Seas Splendor . The 127-night sailing departs from Miami and ends in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 10, 2026. Prices start at $94,999 per person for a veranda suite.

The 2027 world cruise departs Jan. 11, 2027. Prices start at $81,799 per person for a veranda suite.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Ring of Fire

While most world cruises circumnavigate the globe, this itinerary sails around the Pacific. You can explore Busan, South Korea's Beomeosa Temple, with a rich heritage that dates back over 1,300 years. Snorkel the sapphire waters of Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Ogle at the dichotomy of Hong Kong's modern buildings and historic communities.

You'll find many pinch-me moments on Seabourn 's 128-night, 14-country Ring of Fire world cruise in 2026. It takes place on board the 450-passenger all-suite Seabourn Sojourn and sails the long way from Los Angeles to Vancouver, British Columbia. You'll visit 63 destinations, including seven overnights at Auckland; Melbourne, Australia; Hong Kong; and other exciting cities.

On the ultraluxurious vessel, you can expect exclusive VIP celebrations, like a Caviar in the Surf party. (Note that complimentary Champagne and caviar flow freely on board, too, adding to the happy vibe.)

There's much to love about Seabourn Sojourn. Its intimate size allows truly personalized service from a polished, attentive crew. Seabourn Square, a living room-like venue, is a magnet for affable passengers who quickly make new friends. Count on superb dining and 24-hour room service among a slew of upscale amenities.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $86,999 per person for an ocean-view cabin.

Related: Extremely decadent things you can do on a luxury cruise vacation

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises ' 2026 world cruise aboard the ultraluxurious, 596-passenger Silver Dawn takes a different approach. It's designed to visit far-flung and remote ports, often out of season, to avoid the touristy crowds.

This 139-night around-the-world cruise sails from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon and explores 70 ports in 37 countries. Count on visiting enchanting medieval cities, including Dubrovnik and Hvar in Croatia and Kotor in Montenegro. Wonderfully remote port calls to rarely visited destinations such as Easter Island, with its mysterious moai statues, and Nukualofa, Atuona and Fakarava (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) in French Polynesia tempt travelers to come aboard for the long haul.

Silver Dawn is a wowser with a game-changer spa , all-suite accommodations, tux-clad butlers for all passengers and complimentary caviar service anytime, anywhere. Expect many fare inclusions, such as business-class flights, shore excursions and private transfers.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $87,900 per person.

The Three Oceans

Silversea also offers an 80-destination world cruise for 2027, also aboard Silver Dawn.

Departing from Los Angeles for a 148-night voyage , the ship will visit 35 countries and five continents before ending in Copenhagen. The itinerary features 80 port calls, more than any sailing in Silversea's history, and it will also include 20 new destinations for the line.

Passengers can enjoy extended time in select ports with 11 overnight calls in Honolulu; Cairns, Australia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Cape Town; and Bordeaux, France, among others.

The Three Oceans cruise departs Jan. 8, 2027. Prices start at $78,900 per person.

Viking World Journeys

Imagine the joy of ticking many bucket list boxes on Viking World Journeys, Viking 's 120-night world cruise on board the 930-passenger Viking Sky in 2026. Book quickly; availability is extremely limited, with many suites and penthouses already sold out.

The Los Angeles-to-London voyage visits 25 countries and 53 ports. The cruise takes a southerly route around Africa, across the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia and through the Pacific islands (including several stops in Australia and New Zealand) before it swoops up to Hawaii and terminates in California.

Palm-tree ports are plentiful, including Moorea, French Polynesia; Bay of Islands, New Zealand; and Ho Chi Minh City. You'll cross many seas, such as the Tasman, Arafura and Timor, and take your pick of a plethora of possible excursions, including a visit to a Balinese Hindu temple in Indonesia and a tour of the ancient Elephanta Caves in India.

Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $54,995 per person for a veranda cabin.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Gatchina in Leningradskaya Oblast' Destination Guide Russia

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Gatchina in Leningradskaya Oblast', Russia

Safety Score: 4,4 of 5.0 based on data from 9 authorites. Meaning please reconsider your need to travel to Russia.

Travel warnings are updated daily. Source: Travel Warning Russia . Last Update: 2024-08-13 08:21:03

Delve into Gatchina

Gatchina in Leningradskaya Oblast' with it's 89,761 habitants is a city located in Russia about 382 mi (or 615 km) north-west of Moscow, the country's capital town.

Current time in Gatchina is now 04:15 AM (Thursday). The local timezone is named Europe / Moscow with an UTC offset of 3 hours. We know of 4 airports closer to Gatchina, of which one is a larger airport. The closest airport in Russia is Pulkovo Airport in a distance of 16 mi (or 26 km), North. Besides the airports, there are other travel options available (check left side).

There are two Unesco world heritage sites nearby. The closest heritage site in Russia is Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments in a distance of 27 mi (or 43 km), North. In need of a room? We compiled a list of available hotels close to the map centre further down the page.

Since you are here already, you might want to pay a visit to some of the following locations: Saint Petersburg, Velikiy Novgorod, Narva, Simpele and Parikkala. To further explore this place, just scroll down and browse the available info.

Local weather forecast

Todays local weather conditions & forecast: 22°c / 71 °f.

Friday, 30th of August 2024

23°C (73 °F) 18°C (65 °F) Broken clouds, gentle breeze.

Saturday, 31st of August 2024

25°C (77 °F) 21°C (69 °F) Sky is clear, moderate breeze, clear sky.

Sunday, 1st of September 2024

25°C (76 °F) 20°C (69 °F) Overcast clouds, gentle breeze.

Hotels and Places to Stay

Address 0,9 mi Ul. Gor'kogo 21 188300 Gatchina Russia

Checkout: 14:00 - Checkin: 10:00 Reception Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00 Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Stolitsa Boutique Hotel

Address 1,2 mi Ul. Chkalova 21a 188304 Gatchina Russia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00 Reception Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00 Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from this area

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Tours-TV.com: Gatchina Palace

Published: December 25, 2014 Length: 04:06 min Rating: 0 of 5 Author: ToursTV Com

The Gatchina Palace was built by architect Antonio Rinaldi (1766-1781). It is the only one of country side palaces of St. Petersburg built in chateau-castle style. Russia : Leningradskaya oblast'....

Attractions and noteworthy things

Distances are based on the centre of the city/town and sightseeing location. This list contains brief abstracts about monuments, holiday activities, national parcs, museums, organisations and more from the area as well as interesting facts about the region itself. Where available, you'll find the corresponding homepage. Otherwise the related wikipedia article.

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These are the most popular locations in Russia on Tripmondo.

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9 Best Places to Retire on the East Coast

Retirees can choose from four seasons or year-round summer on the Atlantic Coast.

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The East Coast of the U.S. offers a range of places to retire, from the north for those who enjoy the changing seasons to the mid-coastal states for milder weather and then south to Florida where the temperatures are warm year-round.

While each state has its own set of attractions, living near the ocean is a major allure for most who want to spend their golden years on the East Coast. Many retirees also enjoy the history of the towns and cities, some dating to the 1600s.

The cost of living varies with differences in home prices, utilities, and property, sales, and income taxes. Each state designs its own tax structure, including levies on income and inheritance — an important consideration for many retirees. Availability of health care, senior living facilities, activities, entertainment, and transportation also figure into the selection of a retirement destination.

With input from local experts and personal experience, here's a list of the best places to retire on the East Coast.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

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“Port St. Lucie is proud to be the sixth-largest city in Florida, with nearly 250,000 residents calling our vibrant community home,” Port St. Lucie’s mayor, Shannon Martin, tells Travel + Leisure . “Nestled on the beautiful Treasure Coast, our city serves as the economic heartbeat of the region ... We're consistently ranked among the best places to live in the nation, celebrated for our ethnic diversity, high homeownership rates, and as a top retirement destination,” she adds, also touting the city's low crime rate. “For more than a decade, we’ve ranked as the safest large city in Florida and one of the safest in the nation.”

Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, about 110 miles north of Miami, Port St. Lucie is home to more than 20 miles of pristine beaches , most with free admission and parking plus convenient amenities. With a free nature and wildlife digital pass, wildlife spotting, hiking trails, and botanical gardens are accessible. Museums, art galleries, workshops, and performances are among the cultural opportunities in the area. A number of senior living developments are available, too, and the average home value, according to Zillow, is $401,544.

Florida has no state income tax , so pensions, IRA and 401(k) income, and Social Security are not taxed, an advantage over most other states. There’s no inheritance or estate tax, and both property and sales taxes are comparable to the national average.

St. Simons, Georgia

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The largest barrier island in Georgia’s Golden Isles , St. Simons is located on the coast, about 85 miles south of Savannah. “St. Simons Island is a wonderful place to raise a family and retire. We count ourselves blessed to live here,” says Jennifer Klonoski, community relations director at Magnolia Manor , a retirement community.

For Frances Woods, a retiree and Magnolia Manor resident, it's the “beautiful beaches, shops, activities, golf courses, wonderful restaurants, bike trails, great entertainment, and friendly people” that drew her to St. Simons Island. And according to Emilyn Clark, a seven-year Magnolia Manor resident, “Retirement on St. Simons Island is like living in a small neighborhood. All the residents are very friendly."

Niche ranks St. Simons as the second-best place to retire in Georgia. The retiree-friendly state does not tax Social Security. Other types of retirement income (interest, dividends, capital gains, royalties, pensions, and annuities) are taxable, but there’s a deduction of $65,000 per person for residents 65 and older (and a $35,000 per person deduction for those who are 62 to 64).

Georgia has no estate or inheritance taxes, and homeowners ages 62 and older may qualify for homestead exemptions on property taxes for their primary residence. Sales and property tax rates are considered moderate.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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“ Myrtle Beach is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a vibrant place to live with 14 unique communities offering a quality of life that’s hard to beat. With 60 miles of beautiful coastline, a mild climate year-round, and a thriving local economy, it’s no wonder families choose to call Myrtle Beach home,” says Karen Riordan, Visit Myrtle Beach president and CEO.

Here, visitors and locals are treated to world-class golf, plenty of dining and entertainment options, and welcoming Southern hospitality. “Visitors are often so enchanted by Myrtle Beach’s charm that they decide to make this beautiful place their permanent residence,” Riordan adds.

Considered a retirement-friendly state , South Carolina does not tax Social Security . Other types of retirement income are taxable, with a $10,000 deduction, at a marginal state rate of three percent. Property taxes are some of the lowest in the country. South Carolina does not levy estate or inheritance taxes .

Niche notes a median home value of $287,900 in Myrtle Beach. From private homes to high-rise condos, the city offers a range of places to live at a variety of price points.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

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“The charm of this coastal community is among the many reasons retirees choose to relocate to Carolina Beach,” says Carolyn Glaser of Intracoastal Realty, who also calls out the destination's near-perfect weather, beautiful beaches, quaint marinas, oceanfront seafood restaurants, and 11-acre freshwater Carolina Beach Lake, which is ideal for fishing. “A nature lover's paradise, Carolina Beach State Park hosts the county's highest elevation hiking trail, as well as a marina and campsites.  Hundreds of resident and migrating bird species make Carolina Beach's Fort Fisher State Recreation Area their home, as do loggerhead turtles that nest on the island annually.”

In other words, you won't have to leave the island to find activities that cater to all interests. Visitors, especially the grandchildren, will find plenty to do, from the Carolina Beach Pier to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher to the world-famous Britt's Donuts Shop.

“Low property and sales taxes, as well as a growing but affordable housing market, make Carolina Beach a desirable and prudent destination for retirees,” Glaser says. A relatively tax-friendly state for retirees, North Carolina exempts Social Security retirement benefits from income taxes. Other forms of retirement income are taxed at the North Carolina flat rate of 4.75 percent, and the state’s property and sales taxes are both moderate.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

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"Virginia Beach offers retirees coastal tranquility and endless recreational options,” says Nancy Helman, director of Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The destination’s beautiful beaches, state parks, and biking trails, coupled with its inclusive neighborhoods and thriving arts and culinary scene, set the stage for retirees to enjoy a truly fulfilling and enriching lifestyle."

Virginia Beach’s three-mile boardwalk features a separate bike path, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. There’s also the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts , a local theater, and art galleries.

While Social Security income is not taxed in Virginia, other types of retirement income, like pensions and IRA and 40l(k) withdrawals, are taxable with a deduction of $12,000 for seniors. Property and sales tax rates in Virginia are low, and most cities and towns offer property tax relief for retirees over the age of 65, with the amount based on income and property value.

According to BestPlaces , the cost of living in Virginia Beach is about five percent higher than the national average. As the site reads, “Homeowners can find various housing options, ranging from single-family homes to luxurious condominiums — while renters also have access to more attractive deals nowadays.”

Surf City, New Jersey

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Located on Long Beach Island, Surf City is a town with year-round and summer-only residents. Marcus Pinto , a full-time resident, realtor, and principal with Compass, commented on the area’s sense of community and thriving art, culture, and restaurant scenes: “Surf City is a super-walkable town. You’re one block from the beach and one block from the bay. With residents living here year-round, there are more places to dine, shop, and things to do.”

Pinto predicts Long Beach Island could be the next Blue Zone . “I play pickleball with residents well into their 80s — they're healthy, active, and keeping up with much younger players.” Pinto also points out the island is accessible, just one mile from the New Jersey mainland.

According to Niche , the median home value in Surf City is $884,000. Social Security in New Jersey is not taxed, and state income taxes are low for any retirees with income from retirement accounts and pensions below $75,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers. However, property taxes in New Jersey are some of the highest in the country.

Lewes, Delaware

Located where the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet, Lewes is a scenic ferry ride from Cape May , the southernmost point of New Jersey. With a walkable downtown, a summer farmers market, restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops, Lewes is a welcoming community with a population just over 3,000 and a median home value of $676,000 according to HomeSnacks .

T+L spoke to Grace Hoinowski of home building company Schell Brothers , who mentioned Delaware’s tax advantages and overall low cost of living have been attracting new residents, including remote workers and retirees. “The area was once seasonal, but over the past 10 years, more visitors have become full-time residents. The growing neighborhoods mean more services, amenities, restaurants, medical specialists, and improved infrastructure,” Hoinowski notes. She also points out the area’s Native American history, walkable downtown, proximity to the beach, and vintage Victorian homes.

Delaware is a tax-friendly state for retirees. It's one of just four with no state or local sales tax, and it has some of the country’s lowest property tax rates. In addition, seniors over the age of 65 may qualify for some property tax relief, depending on their income and the value of their property. There’s no estate or inheritance tax, and Delaware does not tax Social Security benefits. Income from pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s is partially taxed.

Stony Brook, New York

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Located on the north shore of Long Island, along the Long Island Sound, Stony Brook is an appealing town for retirees. In Stony Book’s Village Center, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame celebrates Long Island’s music heritage, and the Stony Brook Grist Mill, dating to the 18th century, recognizes the area’s history. The Long Island Museum features art, history, and displays of early carriage transportation. Stony Brook University is part of the community, a benefit for retirees for health care and cultural opportunities.

Niche states the median home price in Stony Brook as $576,800. The Long Island Sound beaches are beautiful — and yes, stony rather than sandy. A two-hour ride on the Long Island Rail Road takes residents to Penn Station in Manhattan for the theater, restaurants, museums, and other entertainment. An hour’s drive east, the wineries of the North Fork welcome visitors for tastings, and farms provide fresh seasonal produce.

New York does not tax Social Security income , a plus for retirees in the otherwise high tax state. In addition, income from pensions and retirement, while taxable, is exempt for up to $20,000 a year. Property and sales taxes are high in New York, and the state levies a tax on estates.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Located on New Hampshire’s coast, Portsmouth offers a historic downtown, beaches, parks, museums, nightlife, and a scenic waterfront. The city, settled in the early 1600s, is listed as a “Distinctive Destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, notable for its “stimulating mix of historic buildings, sidewalk cafes, great restaurants, art galleries, jazz clubs, and distinctive artisans’ boutiques.”

Niche calls the city one of the best places to live in New Hampshire, with a median home value of $594,000.

Local realtor Barbara Dunnington tells T+L that Portsmouth is a lovely city, popular with retirees who enjoy summer concerts, the theater, restaurants, and exploring the area’s history at Strawbery Banke Museum, with guided tours of historic homes.

According to Dunnington, “Portsmouth is a great place to live, but property in the area is expensive, and rents are high.” For retirees who find Portsmouth affordable, the city offers a vibrant, walkable downtown, a lively waterfront, and a variety of cultural opportunities.

While there's no state tax on personal income from salaries, Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts, New Hampshire does have some of the highest property taxes in the U.S., according to SmartAsset . There's a five percent tax on interest and dividends greater than $2,400 ($4,800 for joint filers), but this is being phased out by January 2027, with declining rates until then. New Hampshire also has no sales, estate, or inheritance taxes.

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These are the top 10 destinations for Labor Day travel

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Aimee Picchi

Updated on: August 19, 2024 / 3:56 PM EDT / CBS News

A popular U.S. destination for Labor Day travel is becoming even more desirable as an end-of-summer season vacation spot.

Seattle is the nation's top Labor Day weekend destination, according to AAA booking data, which found that the city jumped 30% in popularity this year for domestic travelers after also topping the list in 2023. 

Overall domestic travel is up by 9%, according to AAA booking data, while the cost of taking trips within the U.S. is down 2%. 

Americans traveling by car can expect to see savings on gas costs. The typical cost for gasoline now stands at about $3.50 a gallon, compared to the national average of $3.81 over Labor Day weekend a year ago. Overall demand for gas is down, driven in part by the pandemic enabling remote work, which has changed driving habits.

Fewer Americans are planning to travel internationally over Labor Day weekend this year compared to 2023, according to AAA data. While the cost of domestic trips are down slightly, the cost of international travel has jumped 11%, according to AAA.

As far as international destinations, countries in Europe are the most popular vacation spots for American travelers. Eight of the top ten international destinations booked through AAA are European cities. 

What is the best time to travel on Labor Day?

Airports and roads will start to get busy beginning on Thursday, Aug. 29, ahead of the Labor Day weekend. Roads are expected to be most congested in the afternoon and early evening on Thursday and Friday, according to Inrix, which provides transportation insights and data.

If you're traveling on Thursday or Friday, aim to hit the road in the morning to avoid traffic jams, experts say. If you aren't taking off until Saturday, it's best to wait until the afternoon to depart. 

"Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers," Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at Inrix, said in a statement. "Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations, and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day." 

Traffic is expected to be heaviest in the afternoon on Sunday and on Labor Day, Monday, September 2.

Here are the top 10 domestic and international destinations for Labor Day travel. 

Top 10 domestic destinations

• Seattle, WA 
• Orlando, FL
• Anchorage, AK 
• New York, NY 
• Boston, MA 
• Las Vegas, NV 
• Denver, CO 
• Chicago, IL 
• Juneau, AK 

Top 10 international destinations

• Vancouver, BC, Canada 
• Rome, Italy 
• London, England 
• Paris, France 
• Dublin, Ireland 
• Amsterdam, Netherlands 
• Barcelona, Spain 
• Athens, Greece 
• Mexicali, Mexico 
• Edinburgh, Scotland 

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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Disney, Universal Florida theme parks in Labor Day weekend plans? Your travel forecast is here

Labor Day weekend is on the horizon, which means an unofficial close to the summer season. Why not spend spend it with Mickey Mouse, Harry Potter or a pack of penguins?

Always celebrated on the first Monday in September , this year's Labor Day will be Monday, Sept. 2. And one of Florida’s most touristy cities is in  AAA’s list of the top Labor Day destinations in the U.S. this year.

For wanting to spend the three-day weekend at Disney World, Universal Studios or any of Florida's theme parks, here's what to know about traveling and what the weather forecast will look like.

What are the top travel destinations for Labor Day weekend? Orlando ranks high

“According to AAA booking data, overall domestic travel over Labor Day weekend is up 9% compared to last year, while the cost to travel domestically is down 2%,” AAA’s Labor Day travel trends report says.

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Orlando unsurprisingly ranked high on AAA’s list of the top 10 most popular Labor Day weekend destinations in the U.S. for 2024, in second place, right behind Seattle, Washington.

Here’s AAA’s list of the top 10 most popular Labor Day weekend destinations in the U.S. this year:

• Seattle, Washington
• Orlando, Florida
• Anchorage, Alaska
• New York, New York
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Denver, Colorado
• Chicago, Illinois
• Juneau, Alaska
• San Francisco, California

Where are Florida's main theme parks located?

Before you head out on your road trip, make sure you know where you're going. From Orlando to Tampa, here are the official addresses for each of the top theme parks in Florida:

Walt Disney World:

• Magic Kingdom - 1180 Seven Seas Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• EPCOT - 200 Epcot Center Drive. Lake Buena Vista, FL 32821
• Hollywood Studios - 351 South Studio Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
• Animal Kingdom - 2901 Osceola Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure - 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

SeaWorld Orlando - 7007 Sea World Dr., Orlando, FL 32821

Legoland Florida - 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - 10165 McKinley Dr., Tampa, FL 33612

What is the busiest travel day this Labor Day weekend?

According to AAA’s Labor Day weekend travel outlook for 2024, you should avoid driving on Thursday and Friday evening. And if you’re planning to travel home on Sunday, the earlier you leave, the better.

“INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, says car travelers should avoid the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, as those times will be the most congested,” AAA’s report said. 

“Drivers should hit the road in the morning unless they’re leaving on Saturday when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon. Travelers returning on Sunday and on Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic in the afternoon.”

Here are the best and worst times to travel by car this Labor Day weekend, according to AAA and INRIX:

• Thursday, August 29 – Before 11 a.m.
• Friday, August 30 – Before noon, after 7 p.m.
• Saturday, August 31 – After noon
• Thursday, August 29 – 1 p.m. through 7:30 p.m.
• Friday, August 30 – 2 p.m. through 6 p.m.
• Saturday, August 31 – 8 a.m. through 11 a.m.
• Sunday, September 1 – Before noon
• Monday, September 2 – Before 10 a.m.
• Tuesday, September 3 – After 1 p.m.
• Sunday, September 1 – 2 p.m. through 8 p.m.
• Monday, September 2 – 11 a.m. through 8 p.m.
• Tuesday, September 3 – 8 a.m. through noon

What will the Florida weather forecast look like?

Watches and warnings:

Labor Day falls during the busiest months of the Atlantic hurricane season and just days away from the historical peak of the season. The National Hurricane Center on Wednesday was  monitoring two tropical disturbances  in the Atlantic.

So what does that mean for the holiday weekend's weather? Hot and rainy throughout the state. Here's what the forecast look like in Orlando and Tampa, where the state's theme parks are housed:

Orlando weather

• Friday : A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Sunny, with a high near 92. East wind 5 to 10 mph
• Saturday : A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
• Sunday : A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
• Labor Day:  Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Southeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tampa weather

• Friday : Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. Sunny, with a high near 94. East wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
• Saturday : Showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. High near 93. East wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
• Sunday : Isolated showers and thunderstorms between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 p.m. High near 93. East southeast wind 5 to 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
• Labor Day:  Showers and thunderstorms. High near 93. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Tampa, Orlando, Central Florida weather radar

Tips and tricks on how to make the most out of a rainy day at disney world, universal.

Don't let this holiday weekend's forecast make you gloomy.

Whether you're purposely venturing out in the midst of a hurricane or accidentally coming across light rain on your Florida amusement park trip, here's 11 tips and tricks on how to make the most of your stormy day:

• Check weather apps before you leave for park outing
• Wear waterproof shoes to parks
• Ditch the umbrella, opt for raincoats or ponchos
• Pack some extra plastic bags to store belongings
• Take advantage of the indoor rides, attractions
• Check out the shops, get a rainy day treat
• Speaking of eating, try to plan out meals or make reservations
• If there's ever a time to ride a water attraction, go for it
• No lightning or just a drizzle? Still get in line for outdoor rides
• Bring a change of clothes just incase
• Make alternative plans if you can at nearby locations

Contributing: Cheryl McCloud , USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida