20 Must-See Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List
Once you get the taste of wanderlust and experience the unparalleled freedom and joy that traveling the world brings, you’ll be hooked. The excitement and thrilling feel you get from exploring new and exciting places is something that is only cured by one thing – more travel. If you’re like most people, once you have a case of the wanderlust, you’ll be hooked forever!
Do you have a bucket list? No matter how many places you want to see or where you want to go, having a bucket list is a fun way to keep dreaming of your next adventure! Whether you’ve created a list of local attractions and places to visit, or have a list of far-off exotic places to explore, usually you find yourself adding more and more destinations to the list. If you’re looking for your next adventure, or just want to add some unforgettable places to your bucket list checklist, then check out our guide to the 20 must-see destinations around the world to add to your bucket list.
Asia
Petra, Jordan
Petra is one of those destinations where you’re not sure if it’s a dream or reality. Stepping on the soft red sands of Petra is a dream come true for so many people. You’ll be transported to a time long gone, an ancient civilization that has yet somehow stood the test of times. Nicknamed the ‘lost city’, the area of Petra draws thousands of people every year to walk around the incredibly preserved remains of this amazing civilization. You’ll be amazed as you walk through the tall red rocks and emerge to witness the magnificent structure and culture of this lost civilization.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is considered the cultural heart of Japan. One of the best times to visit Kyoto is during the spring season where the lovely cherry blossom trees are blooming, bringing bursts of pink color throughout the country.
Experience the calming peace at the plethora of temples throughout the city, find serenity in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains, and immerse yourself into the culture and food of the friendly Japanese people.
Taj Mahal
You can’t look up India without coming across a picture of the Taj Mahal. Built in the 1600s, it took over 17 years to complete by more than 20,000 workers! The entire structure was created and built by Shah Jahan in memorial to his third wife. In 1983 the site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the most famous and popular site in all of India. People from all across the world travel here to pay respect and marvel at the immense glory that is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The Great Wall of China
With over 13,000 miles of wall, it may not be on your list to walk the whole thing however it should definitely be on your list to walk part of it! If you’re close, then it’s definitely worth the visit. There are many ways to enjoy the Great Wall of China – by walking on it, taking a helicopter tour, or even exploring it by cable car. Take an adrenaline-pumping slide down the steep incline after your walk for an extra fun adventure.
Bagan, Myanmar
Going to Myanmar is like stepping into a fairytale storybook. The landscape is dreamy – full of soft rolling hills, a dewy mist that sweeps the land, and thousands of Hindu and Buddhist temples across the land. If you’ve ever seen a picture of Bagan, then you’ve probably seen the picture of the iconic hot air balloons.
Take an adventure of a lifetime and see the countryside from this birds eye view for some of the best views of sunrise and sunset in the world.
Africa
Serengeti
The Serengeti is a vast natural oasis and game reserve that is home to some of the most majestic animal species in the world. While many people only get to see a lion, hyena or giraffe in captivity at the zoo, here the animals roam free and wild. Visiting the Serengeti is one of those bucket list items, especially for animal enthusiasts that will leave an impression of a lifetime.
Get up close and personal to the Big Five animals during a safari, visit local villages to receive an education about traditional cultures, and learn about the customs and traditions of this beautiful land.
The Great Pyramids of Giza
Cairo is home to one of the most iconic World Heritage Sites of all time; the Pyramids of Giza. As the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the World, the incredible structures that make up the Pyramids are feats in and of themselves.
Not only is it mind-boggling to imagine ancient Egyptians building these structures all by hand, but the fact that they’re still standing and all the secrets they hold is fascinating. Seeing the Sphinx and the three pyramids that make up the Great Pyramids is definitely a bucket-list item worth adding to your list.
North America
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is hands-down one of the purest and most beautiful natural oasis in the United States. Located close to Jackson Hole, Wyoming the national park attractions millions of visitors every year. The Grand Teton mountain range looms majestically in the distance, beckoning people to come out and explore the natural beauty that surrounds the mountain range. It’s an amazing place to camp under the stars, disconnect from the fast-paced world and reconnect with oneself and nature.
The Grand Canyon
There aren’t many places in the world that elicit amazement and an awe-inspiring reaction than the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is so vast and grand that it’s impossible to capture its beauty in words or even a photograph. This is one of those bucket list destinations that truly brings perspective to life and makes you stop and take it all in. As one of the most famous attractions in the United States and North America, millions of people each year trek to the edge of the rim to get a glimpse at the magnitude of the Grand Canyon.
Havana, Cuba
Havana Cuba will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. If you’re looking to feel like you’re in the 1950s, then this needs to be at the top of your list. A time-capsule of a country, Cuba has preserved the way of life from back in the day with its architecture and historical cars that are still operational today. Full of vibrant flavors, people, and culture, the island of Cuba offers a great awakening for all who visit. Put on your dancing shoes, grab a mojito or Cuban cigar and you’ll find yourself transported to another world.
New York City, New York
Welcome to the city that never sleeps! New York is a hub of excitement and entertainment and you’ll surely never find yourself bored in this thriving metropolitan city. Visit some of the most iconic structures in the United States like the Statue of Liberty and Time Square. Go watch a Broadway performance of some of the classic musicals like Phantom of the Opera or CATS. Or spend your time eating your way through the different boroughs and neighborhoods that make up the bubbling melting pot of New York City.
Alaskan Cruise
One of the best ways to explore and witness all the beauty that is Alaska is on a cruise line. Take a cruise from Seattle or Vancouver and witness some of the most gorgeous and jaw-dropping views in the world. Float by Alaskan glaciers, look for wildlife, and get cuddly and cozy on the cruise. Unlike straight driving, you’ll be able to see some beautiful hidden spots along the route that will make it totally worth the trip.
Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
The Cape Cod area of Massachusetts has been a summer destination for people for decades. If you want that quintessential New England beach vibe, then Martha’s Vineyard is your go-to spot. The casual sea-side vibe, the soft white sand, the lighthouses, and the remote location of the island makes it desirable for people looking to escape reality for a while. Dip your feet into the Atlantic Ocean, try your hand at lobster, and soak up the summer rays in Martha’s Vineyard.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Aloha from Hawaii! While Hawaii is always a popular destination, Honolulu may take the cake as a draw to most people around the world. You’ve got to visit Hawaii at least once in your life! Do all the must-do things here like tan on Waikiki Beach, visit Pearl Harbor and learn about the history of WWII, and sip intoxicating mai tais until the sun goes down on this mesmerizing tropical paradise island.
South America
Galapagos Islands
Just off the coast of Ecuador in South America lies another location you should add to your bucket list. The Galapagos Islands became famous thanks to Naturalist, Charles Darwin, and his study of the mammals and marine life that occupied the island and its surrounding area.
For hundreds of years people have been intrigued by this volcanic island and its wildlife population. Hop on a boat from mainland Ecuador and experience the mysterious island for yourself; you may even find some of Darwin’s creatures he studied lie the yellow-belly finch and the blue-footed booby!
Machu Picchu, Peru
This masterpiece of an ancient Inca City is one of the most inspiring and moving UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. People from all over the world travel to the northern peaks of Peru to get a glimpse of this immaculately preserved city for their own eyes. This 15th and 16th century village is accessible via two ways – either hiking the infamous Inca Trail which is usually a multiple day excursion or to take the bus/train from the nearest town of Aguas Calientes.
Europe
Provence, France
Two words: lavender fields. Gosh, the rows and rows of lavender in the Provence area is dreamy. The area is known for their lavender and their wine. Get lost in the sweet smells of lavender and taste your way through this region of France. It’s definitely a must-see for those who also happen to be in other parts of France for a few days. You’d definitely want to clear your schedule for this one!
London, England
Going to London is a bucket list destination for so many people. London in and of itself is teeming with history. Soak in the history at some of the sites like the Old Round Theater from Williams Shakespeare day, sleuth around Baker Street at the Sherlock Holmes museum, or snap a picture with Big Ben himself! Overall, London offers so many great options for those looking for charm, history and modern conveniences.
Paris, France
If you’ve never been to Paris, you should add it to your list. Not only is Paris one of the most popular destinations in France but it’s also one of the most popular destinations in Europe! Paris, the city of love, has so much to see, do, and eat. Take a walk along the cobblestone streets; ride down the Seine River in a scenic river boat cruise. Teeming in history and culture with places like the Arc de Triomphe, Musee du Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral as well as the exquisite cuisine bring people to this romantic city from all around the world.
Australia
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
If you’re into snorkeling and aquatic adventures then you’ve got to add visiting the Great Barrier Reef to your bucket list! Snorkeling among Australia’s colorful Great Barrier Reef is one of the most incredible experiences you can have while down under. As a World Heritage area, the Reef is home to some of the most beautiful fish, marine creatures, and underwater foliage in the world.
Whether you decide to scuba or snorkel through the Reef you’ll see colorful fish, giant sea turtles, and bright underwater foliage on your adventure. If this destination is high on your bucket list, then definitely go sooner rather than later! Unfortunately due to global warming and pollution the Reef has slowly been dying off; so book your trip soon!
The world is bursting with incredible places to experience and witness. The best thing is no matter what you’re into, animals, culture, history or food, you’re going to find a plethora of options that make your heart race. Once you start traveling, you begin to value exploring other cultures and communities. By creating a bucket list, you help focus your love and wanderlust tendencies towards exploring some incredible places. We hope this helps inspire you to check one of these bucket list locations off your list and to get out there and explore this world!