Go to the Maldives
The Maldives in the Indian Ocean is the most enchanting place on the global list. As Paton describes, ‘With its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it’s no wonder that this tropical haven is at the top of travel dreams.’
Sarakiniko Beach, Greece
Milos, which is not on everyone’s radar, has some of the best beaches in the Aegean without the crowds of Mykonos or Santorini. Sarakiniko, like a moon, is made up of mounds of undulating bone-white volcanic rock that form one of the island’s most mesmerizing bays.
Get splashed at Niagara Falls
The amazing Niagara Falls comes in second place. The thundering waters at the border of Canada and the United States never fail to mesmerize visitors, providing an unforgettable bucket list experience, says Paton. There are multiple viewpoints to witness the roaring waters of Horseshoe Falls. One of the best ways to experience the falls is on a boat tour like the Maid of the Mist.
Bora Bora in French Polynesia
Bora Bora, another tropical paradise, is a must-visit destination for travelers. Its overwater bungalows, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning lagoon attract visitors seeking an idyllic getaway, says Paton.
See the Northern Lights
Witnessing the ethereal Northern Lights dance across the Arctic skies is a natural spectacle that ranks high on the bucket list for many adventure seekers, Paton shares. Some of the best locations to see them include Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Greenland, and Finland.
Taj Mahal in India
Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most iconic architectural marvels in the world and has been drawing visitors to Agra, India for hundreds of years. It’s a testament to eternal love and architectural brilliance, Paton explains.
Swiss Alps
Snow-covered mountains, charming towns, and flower-strewn meadows make the Swiss Alps a year-round fairy-tale destination. Visit in the winter for world-class skiing (and après-ski fondue and drinks) in locales such as St. Moritz and Zermatt, home to the craggy Matterhorn. During the warmer months, you can either hike through the verdant valleys of Swiss National Park or attend vibrant festivals in the foothill town of Montreux. No trip is complete without a visit to the Jungfrau Region, regardless of the time of year. where you can stroll through idyllic mountain villages like Grindelwald and Mürren or take the Jungfrau Railway to reach Europe’s highest railway station.
Rome
When you visit Italy’s capital city, prepare to visit a few must-see landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon, off your bucket list. In Vatican City, travelers can view some of Italy’s greatest treasures, such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Once you get your bearings, peruse some of Rome’s lesser-known museums, art galleries, and boutiques, or head to Janiculum Hill for panoramic views of the city. The Eternal City is always a popular destination, but with the Catholic Jubilee happening in 2025, it’s possible to anticipate increased crowds and book accommodations and airfare well in advance.
Machu Picchu
This UNESCO-listed Peruvian wonder is not for the weak-hearted, but it is often referred to as a life-changing adventure. Machu Picchu is comprised of well-maintained agricultural, residential, and religious structures that were built by the Incas in the mid-15th century. Although the Inca Trail’s four-day hike (which involves climbing to an elevation of roughly 8,000 feet) is challenging, the reward of arriving at the site during sunrise is well worth the effort. This popular trail has a limited number of daily reservations available. Visitors have the option to choose from a variety of less-traveled trails or take a PeruRail train to the mountain base for an easier way to reach the top.
Maui
Whether you’re driving along the Road to Hana or enjoying a bird’s-eye view of Maui’s lush coastline on a helicopter tour. Snorkeling with sea turtles or relaxing on white or black sand beaches, you’ll find that this Hawaiian island is unlike any other tropical destination. Haleakal National Park is a must-see destination, boasting one of the world’s largest dormant volcanic craters and surreal sunrises. You should also attend a traditional luau for a dose of local culture and a taste of Hawaiian specialties like poi, poke, and klua pig.
Tanzania
A top-tier safari destination, this East African country attracts wildlife enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of the Big Five in Serengeti National Park. The lion, the rhino, the leopard, the elephant, and the buffalo. If you can afford it, stay in one of Tanzania’s swoon-worthy tent camps that take glamping to another level. Tanzania has 21 other national parks in addition to Serengeti, including one that is devoted to Africa’s tallest peak, Kilimanjaro. You’ll be tempted to spend your entire trip exploring Tanzania’s inland terrain. It’s important to include some recovery time on the white sand beaches of remote islands like Zanzibar and Pemba.
Petra
The architectural majesty of Jordan’s prehistoric Nabataean city can be traced back to the fourth century B.C. Once you traverse a narrow canyon (the Siq). And when the magnificent Treasury comes into view, you’ll instantly see why Petra is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The trip is worth it just to see this well-preserved and intricate mausoleum. Still, you’ll want to continue on to Petra’s other impressive structures, all skillfully carved from sandstone, including the Street of Facades, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs. Once you’ve seen all the sights during the day, return to Petra at night, when the Siq and the Treasury glow with the light of 1,500 candles.
South Island in New Zealand
At every turn, New Zealand’s South Island is filled with magnificent landscapes, from dramatic mountains to spectacular fjords. Hiking through the mountains of Fiordland National Park or admiring them from a boat on Milford Sound/Piopiotahi are both available here. At night, travel to the University of Canterbury’s Mount John Observatory to gaze at the starry skies. Queenstown is a popular destination for bungee jumpers, and you can also indulge your inner daredevil there. In the Marlborough region, enjoy delicious sauvignon blanc or explore the best-known glaciers in New Zealand, Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, on the west coast of the island.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
This beautiful archipelago can be found in the Coral Triangle, an area that lies between Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines. Famous for being one of the most biodiverse marine habitats in the world, Raja Ampat is as beautiful below sea level as it is above it. Come for days spent snorkelling among rainbow-colored fish and bright coral reefs, or keep your head above water to see the birds – hornbills, cockatoos, sea eagles, to name a few. This place is a haven for anyone who loves nature.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Experience your fairytale fantasies by visiting this dream-like destination. The place is enchanting due to its lunar-like rock formations, where erosion has created intriguing sculptures that resemble mushrooms or towers. Travelers can explore by foot or take a hot air balloon to witness its beauty from above.
Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher
It would be a crime not to include the Emerald Isle on this list. The Cliffs of Moher is a sight that never goes away – a majestic expanse of towering rocks above the roaring Atlantic. This is a popular spot, so be prepared for crowds or go during the evening when the sun sets and the shadows provide a more dramatic display.
Egypt’s Valley of the Kings
Every corner in Egypt is filled with new visual delights, including pyramids, temples, and lost cities. The Valley of the Kings is one of these delights; it is a deep valley where tombs were carved into the rock faces for Egyptian pharaohs and nobles for nearly 500 years.
The Baobabs Avenue in Madagascar
The Avenue of the Baobabs is a road that is lined with towering, majestic trees and is one of the most recognisable scenes in Africa. Often referred to as ‘upside down trees’, these beautiful species are long, tall trees (some around 800 years old), with spindly branches topped with leaves that resemble up-turned roots. Attend during sunset, when the trees create long shadows in the golden light.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland
Scattered along Scotland’s west coast, this chain of islands is one of the country’s most beautiful places to visit. Think shimmering white-sand beaches, sparkling seas, and crowd-free hinterlands – it’s one of the UK’s last remaining secrets, and for good reason.
Paris, France
With its striking architecture, grand boulevards, world-class art, jewel-box patisseries, and classic places to stay, this is a city that never sleeps. Its unrivaled food scene is best experienced by stumbling upon corner bistros down cobbled streets.
