Americans need to get out more. Recent statistics show that only 37.78 million US Citizens traveled abroad last year. That’s just over 11% of the population.
If you’re on the wrong side of that statistic, you’re missing out. This is what you could be enjoying if you took the plunge and visited some of the world’s best bucket list travel destinations.
1. Italy
Italy features regularly in the number one spot when it comes to the world’s top bucket list places to visit. This charming country is awash with stunning architecture, fascinating historical sites, and fine food and wine.
The Italian countryside is alive with stunning scenery, quaint hamlets, coastal towns, and epic hiking opportunities. From the ocean to the mountains, Italy is a treat for everyone who arrives within its borders.
2. Mexico
South of the border is a good place to start for a blast of culture, history, and plenty of surprises.
The wine region of Mexico is attracting world-wide attention lately for its laid-back pastoral vibe and fine vintage, while Mexico’s beaches have long been the playground of fun-seeking partygoers.
Mexico is a whirlwind of non-stop activity, spicy food, and intoxicating landscapes. You can marvel at Mayan and Aztec ruins, scuba dive off the Yucatan Peninsula, or trek through the jungle to the blue lagoons near the Guatemala border.
If you prefer city pursuits, you’ll find no shortage of festive occasions, jovial watering holes and fascinating museums to keep you busy in Mexico.
3. Tasmania
Home of feisty Tasmanian devils, beautiful beaches and a thriving art scene, this tiny state in Australia has plenty to offer the adventurous traveler.
Foodies will find no shortage of things to keep them busy here either. Tasmania’s known for its exceptional cheeses, wines, and chocolate, as well as craft beers.
When you’ve had your fill of the local eats, try your hand at a wealth of watersports, visit the controversial MONA museum, or take a hike in the World-Heritage listed Freycinet National Park.
4. New Zealand
The home of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings is most famous for its action attractions at Queenstown and its out-of-this-world scenic charms.
Here you can try a little of everything, from mountain biking, to paragliding, to walking and hiking amongst the glorious views.
You can spend a night in a mountain hut, snorkel amongst the dolphins, munch on the biggest burgers you’ve ever seen, or visit a Maori village to see the original Haka.
New Zealand never fails to amaze all who venture there with its wide range of things to do and see.
5. Tanzania
The vast African continent is so diverse and varied that it has something for everyone. From the towering pyramids of Giza to the sunny shores of Cape Town, Africa’s countries enthrall and enchant even the most jaded traveler.
The one thing that stands out in everyone’s mind when they think of Africa is the classic safari. Most African countries offer their version of these animal-centered adventures, but Tanzania stands out as one of the best there is.
As the home of the Great Migration, this East African country showcases the best that the continent has to offer. It’s a popular destination for safari lovers from around the world, so you’re bound to find somewhere to stay in Tanzania that suits your needs.
Read more about some of the most luxurious accommodation options in this beautiful country and start planning the African safari of a lifetime.
6. Japan
Japan is hot property lately, as the venue for the 2020 Summer Olympics. It also recently played host to the Rugby World Cup of 2019 when Japan amazed visitors from all over with its exceptional hospitality.
Kyoto is the cultural heart of the nation, where you can admire an abundance of ancient and beautiful temples.
Take in Tokyo for a change of pace in an ultra-modern setting, where old meets new in a glorious mishmash of interesting things to see and do. Alternatively, you can escape to the foothills of the Alps to spend some quiet time in the hamlet of Takayama with its markets and glorious opportunities for hiking.
7. The Himalayas
You don’t need to be an expert mountain climber to say you’ve walked these hallowed slopes. The Himalayas are accessible form Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
You can venture onto the mountains on foot, by car, helicopter, airplane, or even onboard a yak. For the ultimate bragging rights, take a hike to Everest Base Campโit’s do-able if you’re reasonably fit.
The Himalayas are breathtaking and a magical bucket list trip for those in search of something different.
8. Romania
Romania is a new favorite on the list of destinations for those who’ve seen and done it all. It’s a startlingly picturesque destination where you can roam the stomping grounds of Count Dracula in Transylvania or follow the trail of the Pied Piper.
These beautiful landscapes are alive with legends and folklore, quaint forgotten places, fine wine, and less-beaten paths for exploring.
9. France
Everybody should visit France at least once during their lifetime. The country is rightfully famous for its stunning historical cities, amazing art, and fashion, outstanding cuisine, and the world’s best wines.
Perhaps it’s the luxurious stretch of French Riviera that captures your imagination when you think of France.
Yet, modern-day travelers are turning their attention to lesser-known French stops. One of these is the city of Arles with its rich art scene and more down-to-Earth ambiance.
10. Patagonia
Patagonia has the world’s longest hiking trail, the 1,700 mile Route of Parks, but it’s also attracting travelers that favor more sedentary pursuits.
Tranquil scenes await all who venture to this unspoiled area of South America, where vast empty deserts reach up into deep blue skies and the snow-capped Andes reflect in the bright waters of huge, deep lakes.
Patagonia’s unassuming landscapes are a real drawcard for those in need of a tranquil escape where the days pass in absolute tranquility and the heavens ignite with a billion stars at night.
More Bucket List Travel Destinations to Visit
Travel wish lists are as varied as the people who set them up. If none of these destinations tickle your fancy, or if you’ve been-there-done-that already, keep reading our site for more. The travel section of our website overflows with inspirational articles about more of the world’s best bucket list travel destinations.
