The 30 Best Places to Visit Before You Die

If a life-affirming adventure is calling your name, these destinations should be on your list. We’re seeing the ‘Big Trip’ travel trend steadily continue in 2025 – where getaways are shaped around bucket list destinations and experiences. For many, travel has become less about lazing by a pool, and more about the things you do and the places you see.

We asked our audience of over 1.3 million, and our well-travelled team, to tell us the places they’re desperate to visit in their lifetimes. While most of us couldn’t feasibly visit all 30 destinations, ticking off one or two is pretty special. Whether you’re shaping an impressive bucket list, or need inspiration for your next trip, refer back to these extraordinary destinations.

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30. Lapland – Finland

Lapland is much more than the home of Father Christmas, it’s an outdoor wonderland that promises an adventure no matter the time of year. Winter is particularly stunning, especially with the added magic of Christmastime, but the Northern Lights, wild arctic terrain, snowsports, and wildlife sightings are the real highlights. In summer, you can take advantage of around-the-clock sunlight with hikes, river rafting, fishing, and more. There’s never a bad time to explore the last wilderness of Europe.

29. Banff National Park – Canada

Banff National Park is all snow-capped peaks, impossibly blue lakes, and pine tree forests. Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Peyto Lake are particularly gorgeous, and the perfect spots for hiking, canoeing, and enjoying the views. However, their azure waters are fed from glaciers, so while you technically can swim in them, they’re freezing cold. For a warmer dip, Banff Upper Hot Springs is filled with naturally heated spring water. 

28. Pompeii – Italy

Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Pompeii, a city that was buried by ash and rocks following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. It was this thick layer of volcanic debris that preserved Pompeii from the elements (and kept it hidden). The official excavation began in the 18th century. It’s one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, providing a remarkable insight into day-to-day Roman life. See well-preserved frescoes, the amphitheatre, baths, and more.

27. Table Mountain – Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a bucket list destination unto itself, where travellers find the sweet spot between beach-and-city living. The active lifestyle, nearby vineyards, contemporary restaurants, surrounding nature, and irresistible beaches make Cape Town one of the world’s most loved cities. But the pièce de résistance – the all-knowing, all-seeing crown jewel of Cape Town – is Table Mountain. The distinctive flat-topped mountain follows you around the city, and the views from the summit are some of the most iconic in Africa. You can hike to the top or take a cable car. 

26. Khao Sok National Park – Thailand

Home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests – around 100 million years older than the Amazon rainforest – Khao Sok National Park is shrouded in ancient mystery. This lush, jungle paradise is breathtaking, with huge limestone mountains, lakes, rivers, caves, and diverse wildlife. It’s one of the best places in Thailand to see wild elephants, as well as Malaysian sun bears, gibbons, wild boar, monkeys and more. Stay in an overwater bungalow for an unforgettable experience. 

25. Acropolis – Athens, Greece

An iconic symbol of ancient Greece and the cradle of democracy, the Acropolis has been pivotal in history and culture. It has withstood earthquakes, time, attacks, and more, built to be a mythical home to the Greek Gods and later, a home to kings and royals. It’s also the heart of where Greek academics and philosophers laid the foundations for western civilisation. Its tremendous cultural and historical significance positions the Acropolis as an important bucket list destination, but it’s also the most impressive and stunning example of ancient Greek architecture. 

24. Grand Canyon – Arizona, USA

We firmly believe there are no clichés when it comes to bucket list destinations. The Grand Canyon tops wish lists for good reason – the limitless grandeur of red, pink, and orange-hued rock goes out for miles, 278 miles, to be exact. Explore caverns, hiking trails, and waterfalls, and marvel at the surreal scenery from observation decks. Adventure-seekers can go ziplining, river rafting, horseback riding, bike riding, and more. You can even camp here – wake up early for a sunrise to remember. 

23. Socotra – Yemen 

For a far-flung paradise in the Indian Ocean, Socotra is an untouched gem disconnected from the rest of the world. The island only sees around 3,000 visitors per year, so you could have the Maldives-rivalling beaches all to yourself. But its main calling card is its indigenous flora, such as dragon blood trees, cucumber trees, and bottle trees. The trees put an otherworldly spin on Socotra, along with its stark contrast of arid plains, sand dunes and turquoise sea. Nature runs the show here, but much of Socotra’s tourism is also centred around connecting with locals, who have their own culture, language, and lifestyle.

22. Erg Chebbi – Morocco

Rippling, deep orange sand dunes are the stuff out of Disney films, not real life, right? Erg Chebbi, a particularly mesmerising dune-y area of Morocco’s Sahara Desert, paints that picture. Run to the top of soaring hills of soft wind-blown sand, where your footprints are likely the only ones around, and take in the vista. You can stay in the nearby town of Merzouga or camp (more like glamp) in the desert. The sunset and sunrise here are unforgettable, when the colours shift between rose gold and fiery red.

21. Wulingyuan – China

Wulingyuan is a large area, encompassing several parks, including Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon – which is famous for the world’s longest and highest glass bridge – and Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The latter is where you’ll find Wulingyuan’s most famous – and truly out of this world – attraction, the soaring sandstone pillars. Avatar fans will recognise these pillars as the Hallelujah Mountains from the film. Engulfed in clouds and thick with mist, the scenery is almost hallucinatory. Take the (challenging) hike up Tianzi Mountain for the best views, or skip the hike and hop in a cable car. 

20. Sandwich Harbour – Namibia 

Sandwich Harbour is one of the world’s most surreal views, where the oldest desert meets the sea. It’s a portion of the Skeleton Coast, which gets its deadly reputation and name from the mist-shrouded shores, littered with whale skeletons and shipwrecks. It’s an interesting area to explore, but Sandwich Harbour has a much more light-hearted energy. It’s only accessible by an epic 4x4 expedition – an experienced local guide is required, and you can add sandboarding onto your trip, too. It’s near NamibRand Nature Reserve, a beguiling, harsh terrain of scorched earth and preserved wildlife. 

19. Pico do Arieiro – Madeira

Mind-blowing views typically come after a bit of work. But the main viewing platform on Pico do Arieiro is just a two-minute walk from the car park. This is the best spot on the island for sunrise, watching the sun lift above the surrounding craggy landscape is magic. Get there just before sunrise and watch the stars turn into a fiery, glowing sky. You can start the famous Pico to Pico hike here – Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo – to keep the captivating views going.

18. Salar de Uyuni – Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world, formed by a dried out prehistoric lake. Stretching over 4,000 square miles, it’s one of the most striking vistas on earth. At certain times of the year, a thin layer of water spills over from a lake to create a mirror-like effect, and the vast remoteness is reality-distorting. Learn how workers mine the salt to extract lithium, and stay in an incredible hotel made entirely of salt. Salar de Uyuni is a small part of the Altiplano region – extend your trip to explore volcanoes, piercing blue high-altitude lakes, hot springs, desert plains, and more.

17. Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

Leopards, lions, rhinos, elephants, zebras, buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, and more – the list of animals in the Serengeti National Park is long. It’s the vision of a classic African landscape: acacia tree silhouettes against fiery sunsets, vast plains where herds of wildebeest thunder by, and lions lazing in the long grass. The Ngorongoro Crater is around a 3-hour drive from the Serengeti, so you can tick off two incredible safari destinations in one trip. The crater is the world’s largest volcanic caldera and home to one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife. 

16. Hà Giang – Vietnam

Located in northern Vietnam, close to the Chinese border, Hà Giang province is a lush, mountainous haven. The best way to explore the region is by motorbike, slicing through the unique topography of cone-shaped hills. The winding roads provide some of the world’s most pinch-me scenery, but unless you’re an experienced, licensed motorbike rider, we recommend hiring a local driver. You can join a large group or curate your own small group tour, let the professional take the helm, and enjoy the views (and tip them, of course!)

15. Raja Ampat – Indonesia

Love snorkelling or diving? Raja Ampat is the place to go. Explore an underwater world of biodiversity, vibrant reefs, eye-popping colours, and more. The archipelago of 1,500 islands is a true paradise, but people don’t come here to relax on the beach – it’s all about reef sharks, turtles, manta rays, and more. But head inland to connect with Raja Ampat’s ancestral Papuan traditions.

14. Iguazú Falls – Argentina & Brazil

Despite being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Iguazú feels like a secret between those who have been. Only those who have felt the presence of 275 thundering waterfalls truly get it. And for us who haven’t (yet), we can only imagine the intensity of a 1.7-mile-wide waterfall system. The falls spread across Argentina and Brazil, and while we tried to choose one side, both sides of the border offer a different experience. And if it’s on your bucket list, why sell it short? 

13. Cappadocia – Turkey

Resembling a fantasy world, or a curious lunar landscape, Cappadocia is enchanting. Towering rocks pepper the skyline, shaped by erosion and volcanic activity, and are whimsically nicknamed fairy chimneys. Monks Valley, Rose Valley and Love Valley are just a few of the stunning spots in Cappadocia. Göreme is the most popular place to stay, where you’ll find many of the famous cave hotels. Splash out for a hot air balloon ride for 360° views of the geological and historic landscape.

12. Whitsundays – Australia

Australia is huge – 31 times larger than the UK – and it is full of bucket list destinations. But if we had to pick one, it would be the Whitsundays. You get a condensed snapshot of the best of Australia’s nature here – wildlife, beaches, diving, and stunning views. The most iconic scenery is from above or below. For a true bucket-list experience, tick off snorkelling/diving in the Great Barrier Reef, and take a helicopter ride above the swirly blend of bright blue ocean and pearly white sands.  

11. North Coast 500 – Scotland

Okay, this is technically not a destination, but driving the North Coast 500 is an outstanding way to explore Scotland. The wild northern coastline, eye-popping views, ancient castles, country pubs and traditional villages make this road trip an adventure to remember. Wind through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, basking in the desolation, save for sparsely located country house hotels. The jaw-dropping odyssey is the UK's best road trip, spanning 516 miles and taking an average of 7 days. The route generally starts and ends in Inverness, where there’s a wealth of car hire options. 

10. The Galápagos Islands – Ecuador

Kept a secret for millions of years, the Galápagos Islands are cloaked in mystery. It used to be that only a select few could see the indigenous plants and wildlife, found nowhere else in the world, and explore the volcanic islands. Today, while numbers are strictly limited and tourism is monitored, you can fly or take a boat to the island. Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos is one of the most remote places in the world, and visiting here feels like stepping into a far-flung time warp. 

9. Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

We’ve covered nature, history, culture, adventure, wildlife, and more, but the world’s biggest party is one of the most exciting places to visit before you die. Rio Carnival is colourful, vibrant, flamboyant, flirty, and extremely fun – a hedonistic celebration of life. The nine-day extravaganza is jam-packed with neighbourhood street parties (blocos), with live bands, dancing, and street vendors, as well as the main parade events in the Sambodrome – a stadium purpose-built for Carnival. The spectacular parade floats and samba dancers are something you’ll never forget. 

8. Mount Fuji – Japan

Mount Everest might be the most famous mountain in the world, but Mount Fuji is certainly the most recognisable. The sloping, snow-capped peak is a symbol of Japan, frequently depicted in art, literature and media. It’s also a spiritual, sacred place and helped shape Japan’s connection with nature worship. You can hike to the summit for a remarkable bucket list experience, or enjoy the scenery from the various viewpoints. Asagiri Kogen, Izu Panorama Park, Lake Kawaguchiko, and Akakurayama Sengen Park are just a few of the best viewing spots for Mount Fuji.

7. Pyramids of Giza – Egypt

Few landmarks have evoked more questions than the Pyramids of Giza. While we have some answers about how, why, and when they were built, much of the ‘how’ is still a mystery. We know that they were built over 26-ish years around 2600 BC to house the tombs of pharaohs and to honour and symbolise their power. Historically, some people have put the precise measurements, colossal size, and advanced construction down to… otherworldly interventions. Essentially, some people were – and still are – convinced that aliens built the pyramids. While it’s an out-there theory, it does amplify how incredible these structures are, as well as the mind-boggling achievements of ancient Egyptians. 

6. Great Wall of China – China

It’s almost inconceivable how big the Great Wall of China is. As the longest structure ever built and a monumental symbol of human strength and ambition, it deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket lists. The wall is divided into sections, all offering something different: the Mutianyu section is the most accessible as it’s the closest to Beijing, Jinshanling is considered the most beautiful section and best for hikes, the Huanghuacheng section takes you over serene lakes, and so on. For an extra dose of adventure, you can camp in certain sections on the wall – join a group tour to respect the preservation efforts of this historical site.

5. Okavango Delta – Botswana

If you want to get up close and personal with animals, the Okavango Delta should be high on your list. The lush wetlands teem with elephants, hippos, buffalo, lions, giraffes, leopards, and sometimes rhinos. It can be dangerous, sure, but gliding through the lilypad-laden waters on a wooden mokoro (a canoe-like boat), past the watchful eyes of hippos, is a heart-thumping, life-affirming experience. Join a camping trip for a true wilderness adventure. 

4. Geirangerfjord – Norway

This canyon-like fjord in Norway is as close to heaven on earth as you could get. The shimmering waters are flanked by snow-dusted mountains, where ethereal waterfalls tumble down the cliffs. Geirangerfjord is an adventure lover’s playground: strap up and climb across the rocky mountainside, zipline over the fjord, or go canyoneering to really set your heart racing. Or, opt for a more relaxed experience and take a boat down the fjord, or kayak yourself. If you’re lucky, playful whales will swim by, too.

3. Petra – Jordan

‘Unique’ is a bit of a buzzword, but Petra is like nowhere else on earth. An ancient city partially carved into rock and built with red sandstone, Petra shines in its uniqueness. This isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, built by Nabataeans in the 3rd century BC. It’s also much bigger than most visitors realise – Petra spreads over 100 square miles, so we recommend spending at least two days exploring the buildings, hikes, tombs, forts, and more. 

2. Song-Kul – Kyrgyzstan 

It’s not so much the beauty of Song-Kul that makes it a bucket list destination, but the feeling you get when you’re there. It’s a place where visitors can experience the nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan, catapulting you back into a time where survival is the primary objective. That’s not to say that the nomadic lifestyle is primitive, but there’s something about travelling by horse, sleeping in yurts, taking dips in the lake, watching nomadic shepherds at work, and soaking up the mountainous scenery that makes you yearn for the slow life. 

1. Sólheimajökull Glacier – Iceland

During the last Ice Age, glaciers covered a third of the Earth. That figure now stands at around 10% – and they are rapidly melting. Many glaciers have been around or were formed during the last Ice Age, like Sólheimajökull, which is an extension of the ancient Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Sólheimajökull is one of the fastest retreating glaciers, which makes it all the more interesting and poignant. It’s also beautifully unique, with jet black streaks of compacted volcanic ash through the piercing blue ice. 

The best way to see Sólheimajökull Glacier is to take an exhilarating hike. Glaciers are dynamic, shifting things, so going without a guide is not permitted unless you’ve had the proper training, but that doesn’t take away from the adventure. Learning more about the geology and history of the glacier from an experienced guide only adds to it.