12 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Add to Your Bucket List
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If you’re building a bucket list of must-see places, it can be hard to know where to start. So, to inspire your travels, we’ve carefully compiled this rundown of global hot spots. From beautiful European cities to beguiling islands and beyond, these are locations no one would want to miss out on.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is off the east coast of sun-drenched Queensland and offers almost 1,500 miles to explore. Swimming in the warm water is a pleasure in itself, but you can also don a mask and snorkel to see an incredible array of marine life. Colorful fish in all shapes and sizes and gorgeous underwater gardens made from living corals are just the start.
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Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World
Bali, Indonesia
Getting to Bali from places like the US and Europe can take some time, but this beautiful Indonesian island is worth it. There are breathtaking views at every turn, and even the so-called spirit houses left out as offerings by the locals are as pretty as a picture. As well as top-class surf, swimming, and sunbathing beaches expect tumbling rice terraces, intricate temples, cascading waterfalls, natural hot springs, and resorts for every budget.
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Santorini, Greece
If you only have time for one Greek island, make it Santorini. The landscape is picture postcard Greece, with white Cycladic buildings topped with royal blue domes contrasting against nature’s bounty. Take a boat trip around the island for the best perspective, and don’t miss the spectacular sunset at Oia Village.
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Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a city unlike any other, thanks to the artistic endeavors of the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. His legacy is a dazzling display of buildings dotted across Barcelona. Seven comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including Casa Batlló, Parque Güell, Casa Mila, and Sagrada Familia, his masterpiece.
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Read also: European Cities With the Most Beautiful Architecture
The Maldives, Indian Ocean
The Maldives are surely the definitive honeymoon destination, and with well over 1,000 islands in the chain, there’s a deserted white sand beach for everyone. Deluxe accommodation is one of the islands’ main draws, not least the overwater bungalows you can couple up in. The islands also offer super snorkeling and scuba diving, water sports, glorious scenery, and every luxury you could imagine.
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Read also: Top Tropical Destinations
New Zealand
Though New Zealand is an entire country, it’s a compact one and an absolute dream to drive around. So it is possible to see the main highlights in a couple of weeks, though longer is better if you can spare more time. The nation is like a microcosm for the whole planet, with intricate fjords, frozen glaciers, sun-kissed beaches, rolling vineyards, towering volcanoes, subtropical forests, friendly locals, and intriguing indigenous culture.
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Read also: Iconic Places in the World
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most stunning coastal locations. The waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea sparkle in every color, from cobalt blue to turquoise, and the rugged cliffs make the perfect viewpoint. While touring the area, you can discover traditional fishing villages, stylish resorts, rolling vineyards, local trattorias, and breathtaking beaches.
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Read also: Most Beautiful Beach Towns in Europe
Venice, Italy
Venice stands out even in a country packed with bucket list destinations and some of the most beautiful places on the planet. The city built on canals is a wonder to behold, unlike anywhere else. Watching life go by on the Grand Canal – and the smaller network of waterways surrounding it – is delightful, as is wandering the city’s labyrinth of charming lanes.
Then there’s the magnificent St Mark’s Square, possibly the world’s most appealing piazza. Plus, there’s pizza and pasta to top it all off.
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Read also: Most Stunning Coastal Drives
Machu Picchu, Peru
The fabled Lost City of the Incas, shrouded in mystery and mist, tends to rank highly as a bucket list destination. As well as three square miles of abandoned remains to explore, the uphill trek means visitors also have a challenge to overcome. The hike is 25 miles, or 40 kilometers long, and takes around four days due to the elevation involved.
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Read also: Beautiful Small Towns Across the Globe
Banff National Park, Canada
If you visit only one place in Canada, Banff National Park is arguably the most serious contender. Majestic views of the Rocky Mountains await, as well as shimmering mirror lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys. Follow the hiking trails for the most jaw-dropping views and the best chance of encountering local wildlife. Species to spot include moose, wolves, cougars, elk, and black or grizzly bears.
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Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
Galápagos Islands, Pacific Ocean
The Galápagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador are a magnet for fans of nature and adventure. There are 19 islands in all, and each is a treasure trove for flora and fauna. No better place exists on earth to see evolution in action, whether you explore on land or below the ocean’s surface.
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Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations
Paris, France
Paris in springtime is the stuff of legend, but the City of Light is an ideal destination at any time of year. Cruise the Seine in spring, dine outdoors during summer, wander through the parks in fall, or cozy up in a cafe during winter. It’s the ultimate city of romance for many, with architecture, art, shopping, and more to explore in every arrondissement.
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Read also: Impressive UNESCO Heritage Sites
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Georgia Konidari is a nationally syndicated writer and the creator of World Wild Schooling, a digital platform dedicated to travel. She is on a mission to explore the globe and share her experiences with fellow travelers. She is regularly featured on MSN, the Associated Press Wire, and more. You can follow Georgia on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and YouTube.
