In such a great, big world, it’s hard to narrow your plans down to the ten most beautiful places. Every continent, country, and major city or town has some sort of claim to fame, doesn’t it? Still, we took some time to weigh it all in the balance and came up with the top ten regions or cities that need to be at the top of your list. Let’s see if you agree!
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Vietnam is a wonderful place to visit for countless reasons. The people are hospitable; the scenery is showstopping; and the vacation itself often ends up being affordable. But, Halong Bay often tops people’s lists because the scenery is incomparable. The bay is teeming with pristine beaches, verdant islands, an impressive network of caves, and ample opportunities to enjoy relaxing watersports – be it kayaking, swimming, diving, or a beachside BBQ.
Santorini, Greece
If the thought of a waterside retreat got your heart pumping, then we simply must add Santorini to the list. We’re talking clear blue waters and silky soft sands. Whereas in Vietnam, you can keep things simple and be one with nature, you can embrace more of a luxe experience in Santorini. The island is teeming with world-class resorts with plush bedding, infinity pools that look out over the Aegean Sea, and satisfying meals at every turn. If you’re looking for an island escape, Santorini simply must be at the top of the list.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Santorini is white and pristine, while the Amalfi Coast is bursting with color. Yet, it still has similar offerings. With towns and villages like Sorrento, Capri, Positano, Amalfi, and Pompeii, you can’t go wrong. The way the ancient buildings are built into the cliffs is a marvel – and they really come to life at night when they’re glittering with starlight. Here, again, you’re going to enjoy some of the best meals of your life, along with magnificent hikes and evening strolls along the Mediterranean Sea.
Malin Head, Ireland
Speaking of sea cliffs, Ireland knows a thing or two about that, too. The Cliffs of Moher almost always rank at the top of everybody’s list. But, for something further off the beaten path, you might head north to Malin Head. It’s the furthest north you can go in the Republic of Ireland and, boy, is there a change in the atmosphere when you’re standing somewhere that beautiful. You’ll look out over the water and feel like you’re at the edge of the earth. Then, when it’s time to move on, you’re in close proximity to Giant’s Causeway – another marvel in the Irish Sea.
Edinburgh, Scotland
With the Celts on our minds, let’s sail over to Scotland. Known for its rugged beauty up north in The Highlands, we really feel that Edinburgh deserves the shoutout on this list. It’s an ancient city with glimmering misty streets – packed full of history at every corner. You can walk the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to The Palace of Holyroodhouse. You can wander ancient cemeteries like Greyfriars Kirkyard – rumored to have inspired some of J.K. Rowling’s writings. Then, when you’re ready for some of that rugged beauty up in Braemar or Inverness, all you have to do is hop on a train and enjoy the scenery as you make your way north. Scotland’s train system is known to be very efficient, so you’re in for the stress-free time of your life.
Paris, France
This one won’t come as a surprise. There’s a reason lovers flock to Paris year after year. The sunsets are truly pink and, as the evening light falls sweetly on the beautiful buildings, apartments, and monuments, all you can do is reach for your lover’s hand and another sip of red wine. Whether you stroll along the Seine, wander in and out of the spectacular gardens and palaces, or just sit in a cafe and watch the world go by, you’ll quickly agree that Paris is one of the most beautiful places in the world – with or without that magical pink light.
Banff, Canada
If, instead of city living, you’re looking for wide, open expanses of land, we must head over to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. For whatever reason, the skies are bluer, the trees are greener, and the lakes glisten like no other. You can hike here, camp here, rent a lovely little log cabin here, and enjoy a multitude of water sports. It’s rare to have easy access to the Canadian Rockies like this – filled with lush valleys, glaciers, forests, meadows, and rivers. It sounds a bit like a fairytale forest, doesn’t it? For fresh air and a gentle reminder of how powerful nature is, Banff National Park should definitely make it to your shortlist.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Let’s take that majesty and wonder, but seek it under the sea. As the world’s largest coral reef system with over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, it’s hard to imagine something this expansive even exists. Yet, it’s not just its size that makes it a standout – it’s also bursting with colors way outside our imaginations. The vivid reds against the backdrop of the coolest blues make for a stunning contrast. Flynn Reef, in particular, is often touted as the most colorful. It’s teeing with coral gardens, clownfish, Angelfish, and more friendly fellas looking to wave hello.
Kyoto, Japan
We suppose people snorkel because you can’t find that sense of peace and quiet anywhere on dry land. Yet, Kyoto comes pretty close. It’s surrounded on three sides by low and undulating mountains, meaning there are spectacular views at every turn. But, the reason people come here is because of the healing waters. If you’re able to book into a ryokan for a couple of nights, a traditional Japanese Inn, you’ll experience the authenticity of the area and have easy access to something truly transformative – the onsens. These hot springs are geothermically heated underground by the volcanic activity of the land and, boy, will your entire body feel entirely relaxed by the time you step out.
Bergen, Norway
We were tempted to hop over to Reykjavik, Iceland, and continue the theme of geothermal hot springs. But, let’s take a turn east and head to Norway, instead. We particularly like Bergen because the harbor town, itself, is lovely with all those colorful timber buildings lining the water. But, it has another big selling point: easy access to a cruise down the fjords. You can book just a day trip aboard a cruise ship and take in the wonder and majesty of those steep sea cliffs, crashing waterfalls, and diamond-like glaciers. Then, when you get back to Bergen, head to the seafood market down by the harbor for some of the freshest seafood this side of heaven.
Ready for the Wonder of It All?
The world is a wonder. And, even if we traveled our whole lives, we probably still wouldn’t be able to see it all. Plus, sometimes, certain places just stick in our hearts and we keep going back.
We hope one of these places steals your heart and beckons you back, year after year. But, before you get packing, be sure to check out our library of destination guides so we can help you plan the perfect itinerary and check several bucket list items off your list. And, until we meet along the banks of the River Seine, we wish you smooth and easy travels.
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