The Top 40 Travel Destinations Around the World

What destinations are on your trip wish list? If you’re like most people, the more you travel, the longer your bucket list becomes. So, when the editors of the website Big 7 Travel revealed a list of the world’s top 40 bucket list destinations, we paused and began ticking off the boxes.

The website polled its 1.5 million social media followers to choose the finest bucket-list destinations throughout the world. According to Sarah Clayton-Lea, Big 7 Travel’s head of content, this is the first time the place has compiled such a list. “When we asked our readers what kind of travel content, they most enjoyed consuming,” Clayton-Lea explains, “bucket list travel was a trend that cropped up again and again in earlier polls.” “So, our curiosity got the best of us, and we wanted to know what people’s ideal destinations for 2019/2020 were.”

Some of the most gorgeous sites on the planet are among the top 40 bucket list destinations in the globe. “White sandy beaches are still a must-see for many tourists, and dynamic cities are still on many people’s bucket lists,” Clayton-Lea says. The following countries ranked first in terms of natural beauty and world-famous landmarks: White sand beaches are found in 22% of the sites on the list, while iconic cities make up 52%.

Consumers were also more inclined to add a trip to their list if they saw it on social media, according to Big 7 Travel, and 33% of people explore holiday possibilities on their Instagram feed. “With over a third of our readers citing Instagram as a source of travel inspiration, it’s no surprise that places with vibrant neighborhoods (like Cape Town’s Bo Kaap) made the list,” Clayton-Lea explains.

Bali topped the list of the world’s 40 most popular bucket list destinations, but there were a few surprises. “While the top 10 list includes many of the usual fantasy places, there are a few surprises: “Take, for example, Bhutan’s Paro Valley or Congo’s Virunga National Park,” Clayton-Lea explains. “I believe this demonstrates a strong desire to disconnect from the grid, and I can only presume that social media (and, in the case of Virunga, Netflix!) are responsible for spreading the word about these incredible places.”

A fascinating statistic discovered in the study is that most people have a bucket list of only 11 places on their wish list, with the goal of seeing seven of them during their lifetime. This rating will make you dream of places close and distant, no matter how many places are on your bucket list. Continue reading to learn about the world’s top 40 bucket list destinations and what Big 7 Travel has to say about each one.

1. Bali, Indonesia: “You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons, and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans, and tigers in Bali, Indonesia.” In a nutshell, it’s bliss. Because Bali is such a popular bucket list destination for 2019, it’s likely you’ve seen an image of it on social media at least once in the last seven days.”

2. New Orleans: “The bustling city famed for its street music, celebratory attitude, and a mixing pot of French, African, and American cultures is well worth the trip.” NOLA is a city full of surprises around every corner and should be on everyone’s bucket list.”

3. Kerry, Ireland: “In Ireland’s west, one of the most gorgeous counties is Kerry. Kerry’s mountains, lakes, and coastlines are picture-perfect, even without Killarney National Park. Its attractiveness is enhanced by its peculiar tiny villages, such as Dingle.”

4. Marrakesh, Morocco: “Mosques, castles, and beautiful gardens abound in this historic walled city.” Because of the color of the brick walls that encircle the city, it is known as The Red City. The medina has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.”

5. Sydney: “Sydney is often regarded as one of the world’s greatest and most iconic cities. Amazing things to do abound in the city; wherever you look, you’ll find beautiful beaches, great cafes, and world-class entertainment.”

6. The Maldives: “More than 1,000 coral islands make up this tropical republic in the Indian Ocean.” With white-sand beaches, underwater villas and restaurants, and dazzling blue waters, it is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts.”

7. Paris, France: “One of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris is at the top of many people’s bucket lists.” There are so many iconic landmarks to visit here: the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral—the list goes on.”

8. Cape Town, South Africa: “Cape Town is a dream spot to visit: limitless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink suburbs, and blue waters,” says one traveler.

9. Dubai, United Arab Emirates: “Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ high-flying city, is one of the most glamorous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is especially popular with Big 7 Travel readers.”

10. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: “The most famous island in Tahiti is Bora Bora. How do you like the sound of overwater bungalows and undersea adventures? It’s all we could expect in a bucket-list destination in our opinion.”

11. New York: “New York is one of the most interesting states in the United States.” With stunning upland scenery, world-class cuisine and culture, and more things to do than you could ever do in a lifetime, Upstate New York is a must-visit destination. It’s nearly impossible to narrow it down because each of the city’s five boroughs has its own unique characteristics.”

12. Dubrovnik, Croatia: “Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik,” George Bernard Shaw famously stated. It’s no surprise that Dubrovnik is so popular, with its twisting lanes, cliffside beach bars, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town.”

13. Edinburgh, Scotland: “With the historic Edinburgh Castle soaring over the city, a plethora of culture, and delightfully friendly natives, this is one of the world’s best city vacations.”

14. Rome, Italy: “Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your 50th, the best thing about this city is that you’ll constantly discover something new each time you stroll the gorgeous streets.”

15. Paro Valley, Bhutan: Paro Valley is noted for its monasteries, fortifications (or dzongs), and stunning vistas. Bhutan is a mystery country nestled between China and India that prides itself on sustainable tourism. Paro Taktsang, a Himalayan Buddhist sacred shrine, can be found here.”

16. Jaipur, India: “Jaipur is renowned as the ‘Pink City’ because of its pastel terracotta architecture.” This was done at the Maharaja’s command to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 trip of India (Sawai Ram Singh). It is still unlawful to paint buildings in any other color today.”

15. Waikato, New Zealand: “Massive underground caves, beautiful rainforest, and the buzzy city of Hamilton may all be found in Waikato, a district in New Zealand’s North Island. But what is the area’s main draw? On the Lord of the Rings set, a Middle-earth adventure. The original Hobbit holes from the filming of the movie can still be found in the Hobbiton Movie Set.”

15. Havana, Cuba: “Cuba’s capital is a riot of color and about 500 years old.” Havana is a photographer’s paradise, with brightly painted buildings and vintage cars.”

19. Tokyo, Japan: “Entering Tokyo is like visiting the future—flashing neon lights, wonderful technology—yet there is also a rich feeling of culture and history,” says one traveler.

20. Antarctica: “Antarctica, the world’s southernmost continent, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Nothing compares to the great remoteness of this snowy location. It won’t be easy, but you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the white tundra, icy sea kayaking, and whale sightings.”

21. Vancouver, Canada: “Vancouver is surrounded by sea yet close to the mountains, and it boasts world-class art, restaurants, and a plethora of other things to keep you entertained.”

22. Los Angeles: “There are many fantastic activities to enjoy in Los Angeles, a city with year-round sunlight, glam bars, beaches, and hikes.” It’s no surprise that there are nearly 5 million ‘LA’ hashtags on Instagram.”

22. Kruger National Park, South Africa: “The Kruger National Park is a big space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of species.” 23. Kruger National Park, South Africa: “The Kruger National Park is a vast space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of wildlife.” The park offers a variety of safari experiences, allowing you to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.”

24. Santorini, Greece: “Santorini is truly a collection of islands; Thra, Thirassiá, Aspronssi, Palea, and Nea Kaméni.” 24. Santorini, Greece: “Santorini is actually a group of islands; Thra, Thirassiá, Aspronssi, Palea, and Nea Kaméni. This is a great vacation destination, with beaches of volcanic black or red sand and pure blue waters. It’s no surprise that Santorini is one of the most popular bucket list locations, with its famous sunsets.”

25. Moscow, Russia: “Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow, is a beautiful destination to visit in any season.” Over 600 churches in the city ring out colorful domes and bell chimes, and the sense of antiquity is palpable. The museums and ballet will enthrall culture vultures.”

26. Singapore: “Singapore is a small island city-state off the coast of southern Malaysia that punches well above its weight on a global scale.” It’s a modern city with brightly colored structures, futuristic bridges, and a cloud forest.”

27. London, England: “Pretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets, and magnificent skyline vistas are just a few of our favorite things about London,” says 27. London, England. All the classics, of course: Big Ben, red phone booths, and world-class museums and galleries.”

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: “With instantly recognizable landscapes and landmarks, Rio de Janeiro has always been one of the most iconic cities in the world.”

29. Petra, Jordan: “In southern Jordan, the ancient Nabatean city of Petra is surrounded by stunning red cliffs and steep valleys.” Without a question, Jordan’s most valuable treasure and most popular tourist attraction in the world wonder.”

30. Hong Kong: “While the city is known for its skylines and thriving food scene, most people are unaware that 70% of Hong Kong is made up of mountains and beautiful parks.” HK has an enviable edge with its colorful playgrounds and sci-fi apartment towers.”

31. Barbados: “Barbados is one of those magical vacation spots that everyone wishes to visit.” Who wouldn’t want to put something like this on their bucket list? It is the perfect spot to unwind, nestled in the south of the Caribbean and offering breathtaking landscape and amazing local culture.”

32. Amsterdam: “Forget about stereotypical ideas of smoke shops and gaudy red lights,” says 32. Amsterdam. This city has it all, from floating flower marketplaces to bohemian neighborhoods.”

33. Santiago, Chile: “Santiago is a cosmopolitan city with the best of Chilean culture; art galleries, design boutiques, and handicraft markets, as well as a vibrant Latino nightlife.” 33. Santiago, Chile: You’ll meander through old areas with charming pubs and cafes and pretty winding lanes.”

34. Cairo, Egypt: “Cairo is one of the world’s oldest cities.” It’s a beautiful holiday spot, right on the Nile River, with magnificent museums, active culture, and friendly residents.”

35. Copenhagen, Denmark: “Rustic fishing ports, modern graffiti, and winding red brick alleyways are just a few of the things that make Copenhagen such a gorgeous bucket list trip.” With top-notch food, trendy design, and an always hip ambiance, it oozes Scandi style from every corner.”

36. Seoul, Korea: “Seoul is a bustling metropolis where old and new collide, with pop culture (K-Pop!) coexisting with Buddhist temples.”

37. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji: “Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in ultimate paradise.” 37. Laucala Island Resort, Fiji: “Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in absolute paradise.” It’s one of three small islands off Fiji’s northeast coast, off the shore of Taveuni. Coconut trees, a sustainable farm, and miles of coastline are among the attractions, which also include coral reefs, postcard-perfect beaches, and lush rainforest.”

38. Providencia, Colombia: “The Colombian island of Providencia is the perfect blend of South America and the Caribbean,” says 38. Crab Cay is its most famous feature: an untouched tiny island where all you have to do is snorkel and relax on the beach.”

39. Machu Picchu, Peru: “The best method to get here?” says 39. Machu Picchu, Peru. Take the 360° Train to Machu Picchu and travel through the Peruvian countryside to the hidden city in grandeur. The panoramic windows are ideal for taking in the scenery, and they also serve Pisco Sours on board.”

40. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: “Virunga National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet and home to the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas.” 40. Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo: “Virunga National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas on the planet and home to the world’s critically endangered mountain gorillas.” It’s densely forested and has gotten much more attention with the release of the film Virunga.”

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