100 Bucket list destinations & places to visit

Perched along Italy’s mesmerizing coastline, just south of Naples, this heart-stoppingly beautiful coastline is a unique tapestry of dramatic cliffs, colourful towns with tangled old streets, cascading bougainvillaea, and azure water. It’s quintessential la doce vita.

Picturesque Golden Age canals, premier league art, cosy cafés, and liberal urban living combine to make Amsterdam one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals.

Authentic Spain at its dazzling best, a region filled with fascinating cities, beautiful landscapes and beaches, colourful fiestas, sparkling white villages and flamboyant flamenco. Spend time in culture-rich Seville, Malaga, Granada and Cordoba, and wander the incomparable Alhambra.

Travel to the end of the Earth, to the last great wilderness, to a dazzling world of snow and ice under an unfiltered cobalt blue sky. Spot penguins, seals and whales, and gasp at vast, blue-white icebergs.

Antiquities galore, contemporary culture, scintillating nightlife and fantastic food: there’s something for everyone in Greece’s cosmopolitan capital that’s continuously reinventing itself. Home to the extraordinary Acropolis, the world’s greatest ancient site.

This tiny Indonesian island is a unique colourful tapestry of natural wonders, emerald rice terraces, Hindu temples and mystical traditions that never fail to capture the soul of anyone who visits. Many go to seek spiritual serenity; others for exceptional surfing and vibrant nightlife in the main towns.

To experience the magnificence of North America’s Rocky Mountains, there’s no better place than this wilderness of jaw-dropping beauty. It’s a symphony of emerald lakes, towering glaciers, and rugged peaks, best appreciated by driving the Icefields Parkway, riding the Rocky Mountaineer or hiking the many alpine trails.

From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions that beffudles the senses. One of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities, home to the glittering Grand Palace.

Spain’s cultural heart has unforgettable architecture, a pioneering arts scene, creative cuisine and nightlife that buzzes till dawn. Home to Gaudi’s extraordinary and greatest creation – La Sagrada Familia.

China’s vibrant capital captives with its unique melding of ancient wonders, bustling hutongs and modern architecture – the food ain’t bad either. Top of the bill are the Forbidden City, the marvellous palace of China’s greatest Emperors – and the extraordinary Great Wall of China.

This centuries-old fishing port, filled with beautifully restored, centuries-old wooden houses, has long bewitched visitors, from Vikings and Hanseatic merchants to modern-day travellers. It’s  also the main gateway to exploring Norway’s magnificent fjords.

Europe’s hippest capital boasts non-stop nightlife, cutting-edge fashion, cosmopolitan eats and museum treasures galore. At the centre of the World and Cold Wars, it also oozes history, much of it sobering.

Nestled among the Himalayas, this mountain kingdom beguiles with its untouched beauty and serene spirituality. A land where Gross National Happiness triumphs over GDP, it offers immersive cultural encounters, ethereal monasteries, happy monks and breathtaking landscapes.

Straddling the Danube River, Hungary’s capital is best known for its local custom of thermal bathing – notably at the Art Deco Szechnyi Baths – and its lively ‘ruins bars’ scene. The magnificent Hungarian Parliament is a show-stopper.

A vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art scene, golden beaches, world-renowned wine regions and outstanding gastronomy. All in the shadows of the mighty Table Mountain – great for hiking up, or abseiling down.

A surreal-shaped landscape rich in troglodytic ruins, walking trails and delightful cave hotels in the ancient heart of Turkey’s Anatolia. Home to the world’s best hot air balloon flight.

Compact, sexy, culture-rich and charismatic, this most stylish, progressive and tastiest of all the Nordic capitals never disappoints. Go for dinner at the world’s best restaurant, fascinating viking history and leading-edge design.

Rainforests, powdery beaches, white-water rivers and towering volcanoes: this relaxed Central American country offers exceptional wilderness adventures in stunning landscapes.

A desert city playground with a unique combination of Arabian culture, mega-malls and audacious architecture in a setting of year-round sun, sand and sea. Home to the world’s tallest building, the soaring Burj Khalifa.

Dazzling Dubrovnik, with its magnificent high stone walls, offers UNESCO-listed heritage set against the pure blue backdrop of the Adriatic. Just offshore, the unspoilt archipelago of the Dalmatian islands for idyllic sailing.

Journey back in time and immerse yourself in the mystical allure of Egypt, a captivating land that unfolds like a living museum. Marvel at awe-inspiring pyramids in Cairo, wander the evocative temples and tombs in Luxor and Aswan.

Tuscany’s capital offers a heady mix of the world’s greatest Renaissance art and architecture, gorgeous palazzos, Tuscan cuisine and home-grown haute couture. A veritable feast for culture vultures, and the Leaning Tower is also close by.

Money, glamour and bombshell looks: this beach-trimmed stretch of French coast offers decadent hotels, lounging in beach clubs, fine restaurants and world-class art.

A visit here is a life-changing experience. You’ll see wildlife that exists nowhere else, from prehistoric-looking iguanas to penguins, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises and sharks. Extraordinary wildlife encounters take place against a backdrop of ancient volcanoes, jagged lava rocks, cacti and beaches of powdery white.

One of the world’s great natural wonders and unsurpassed geological phenomenon – a 277-mile long, 1-mile-deep gorge carved into the Arizona bedrock over billions of years by the Colorado River.

Sparkling seas, sugar-cube villages, cliff-hanging hamlets, ancient temples, delicious Mediterranean food and mesmerising sunsets – the Greek Islands offer so much. Just ask Shirley Valentine. See our recommended top islands to visit.

Sensual and sultry communist Caribbean capital, home to captivating, crumbling architecture, and enlivened by dance, music, avant-garde art and cocktails. Impossible to describe, there’s nowhere else quite like it.

This idyllic archipelago is a lot more than a tropical paradise with azure waters and swaying palm trees. Dramatic scenery, volcanoes, seas filled with marine life make for an adventurer’s paradise; the aloha spirit and exuberant Polynesian culture make it uniquely unforgettable.

One of the world’s most extraordinary cities, where rippling mountains, a kaleidoscopic waterfront and futuristic architecture merge with fabulous food, sizzling nightlife and top shopping.

From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.

Two National Parks – one in Brazil, one in Argentina – created to protect an astonishing 3km-wide waterfalls in a vast area of protected rainforest. One of the world’s great natural wonders.

India’s cultural essence combined with its most iconic sights and greatest bucket list experiences, all distilled into one compact, diverse and vibrant region. Includes stops in Jaipur, Delhi & Agra.

Exotic, inexhaustible and dynamic – East meets West head-on in this mesmerising city metropolis, famed for its extraordinarily rich history, superb food and shopping, and mind-blowingly magnificent, over-sized mosques.

A magical Middle Eastern mix of ancient sites, sublime scenery, enchanting eco-lodges, spas and superb diving. It’s most famously home to the lost city of Petra, and the salty waters of the enigmatic Dead Sea.

Cambodia’s second-largest but most visited city is home to the spectacular Khmer temple city of Angkor Wat and dozens of other dazzling ruins buried deep within the jungle. But it’s no tourist honeypot – it’s charming and wonderfully atmospheric too.

Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.

An unspoilt wilderness and outdoor adventure paradise. Summer and winter bucket list experiences galore – husky dog sledding, igloos and the Northern Lights – plus the real home of Santa.

The over-the-top, irrepressible entertainment capital of the world fizzes with thrilling casinos, dazzling shows, and vibrant nightlife. With world-class dining, luxury resorts and endless entertainment options, it’s a true playground for adults.

One of Europe’s oldest capitals, Lisbon is also one of the most culturally charming, genuine and affordable. Go to wander its intimate winding lanes, listen to the fado, and ride the historic trams. Indulge on superb food, wine and shopping and exuberant nightlife.

Northern France’s beautiful UNESCO-listed valley, home to heart-stoppingly beautiful historic chateaux, authentic village life, world-class wines and fascinating troglodytes.

Centuries of compelling royal history, plus world-class culture, fashion, music and food, London stands head and shoulders above the rest for bucket list experiences. You’d need a month at least to do them all. If we had to pick out a few, don’t miss the Tower of London, Hampton Court, the Natural History Museum and the National Gallery. 

The bright lights of Tinseltown are home to surfer-filled beaches, glorious mountain hikes, glitz and glamour in spades, and year-round sunshine. And yes, dreams are still made in Hollywood.

This exotic island of curious creatures, vibrant cultures, and untamed landscapes offers an unforgettable journey off the beaten path. A biodiversity hotspot, it’s best known for its charismatic lemurs and soaring baobab trees, though sadly the magical rainforest is being cut down at an alarming rate.

Spain’s sunny capital offers up world-class art, super shopping, renowned tapas and late, late nights. Top of the bill are the three world-class art museums in the so-called ‘Art Triangle’.

A dreamscape of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, with a laid-back island culture. Peppered with luxurious resorts and indulgent spa retreats, it’s no wonder it’s a haven for romance – if you can’t afford the price tag.

An exotic time capsule of ancient streets and souks, blending Arab culture and French colonial heritage. Soak it all up in the wonderfully evocative atmosphere of the Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Take your pick from these two vast, adjoining reserves of reserve of game-filled savannah, home to the Big Five and of course the famous Great Wildebeest Migration.

Talc-white beaches, reefs teeming with life, ruined temples in misty rainforests – the Riviera Maya offers a family or romantic beach holiday with a dash of Indian Jones adventure.

A 25-mile sliver of land just offshore from Miami that’s home to golden beaches, superb food & drink, and a feast of stunning Art Deco architecture  – all infused with a beguiling Cuban-inspired vibe. It’s also a great base for thrilling air boating & alligator spotting in the wilds of the Everglades.

This jewel box of splendid architecture has it all, from fascinating history to haute couture and world-class art, and a beguiling, endearing culture enriched by cavernous beer halls, traditional Bavarian garb and incomparable oompah bands. In October it hosts the world-famous, irrepressible and irresistible Oktoberfest.

This enchanting country, with its endearing but outrageously superstitious people, is a land like no other. Filled with timeless landscapes, soaring temples, and saffron-robed monks, it has a unique and rich culture that permeates every aspect of life that you can’t help but fall in love with.

Thrilling desert adventure and wondrously desolate coastlines meet game-rich reserves and quirky towns in this unique and atmospheric country that remains readily accessible yet pristine and crowd-free. Don’t miss safaris in Etosha and a visit to the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei.

Vibrant, gritty Naples is a captivating mix of history, culture, and gastronomy – it’s where pizza was invented after all. Home to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as the stunning Royal Palace of Naples.

A sensory feast for the soul, incomparable New Orleans is a city of historic neighbourhoods adorned with colourful facades, culinary delights including the famous gumbo and beignets, and the intoxicating rhythms of jazz emanating from every street corner. The highlight is the annual Mardi Gras, held end of February – one for the bucket list.

The ‘city that never sleeps’ is a 24/7 thrill of soaring skyscrapers, jaw-dropping architecture, dynamic culture and world-class art, dining and performing arts scenes.

A primordial playground with truly spectacular scenery on the grandest scale, outdoor adventure activities galore, colourful and compelling Maori culture and terribly nice Kiwis.

There’s only one reason most people come to this Ontario city straddling the border of the United States and Canada, and that’s to see the remarkable, world-famous waterfall. Just outside the city is the Niagara Wine region, home to world-class vineyards – another compelling reason to visit.

The world’s largest inland delta, teeming with game, offers outstanding land and water-based mokoro safaris and world-class bird-watching. The place for a safari.

Crammed with iconic buildings, world-class art and a culinary scene steeped in history, Paris is one of the world’s great capitals, overflowing with style, romance, and art de vivre. Highlights include the Eiffel Tower, of course, the incomparable Louvre and the magnificent Palace of Versailles.

Covering the southern tip of South America, this is a land of untamed grandeur and awe-inspiring landscapes. Expect snow-capped peaks, shimmering glaciers, and windswept plains that stretch to the horizon. Hike through the legendary Torres del Paine, witness the thunderous Perito Moreno Glacier, or see it all on a cruise.

A land of spectacular deserts, high mountains and rainforests that teem with wildlife, Peru is also home to an array of dramatically situated pre-Colombian ruins, including Machu Picchu.

Swish, cosmopolitan and delightfully laid-back. Port Douglas is an ideal stepping-off point for snorkelling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, trips to the Daintree Rainforest, and connecting with authentic indigenous culture.

The Czech capital is a city bold innovation in cuisine, the arts and sport, yet its winding old streets host Gothic spires, Renaissance castle halls and baroque facades speak to an eternal quality of art pervading everyday life. It’s especially known for classical music; Dvorak was from here, Mozart a frequent visitor.

Gorgeous landscapes peppered with beautiful villages, sunflowers and lavender, art-filled towns, lively cultural festivals and exquisite food and wine. Provence is everything you imagined it would be.

Set around picturesque bays, surrounded by hills overflowing with rainforest, Rio is heaven for healthy hedonists. Hang glide, surf or hike by day, relax on the beach and party all night. Then, of course, there’s that carnival…

The Eternal City – 2,000 extraordinary years of glory, greatness and triumph – and decadence, murder and destruction – evidenced by some of the world’s most iconic, must-see monuments and museums. Home, of course, to the world-famous Colosseum.

A beautiful bayside city with home-grown authenticity, charmingly unique neighbourhoods and excellent locally-driven food. Home to the magnificent red-ochre Golden Gate Bridge and the world’s most infamous prison, Alcatraz.

A grand but charming beach resort in northern Spain famous for its glut of Michelin-recognised restaurants and superb pintxos. This foodie destination is also a short hop from the world-class wines of La Rioja.

Magnificent mountain scenery slashed by silvery lochs and peppered with brooding castles: all laden with rich Scottish heritage, history and tradition. Drive the NC500 road trip, or ride on the spectacular West Highland Line.

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily captivates visitors with its unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, picturesque beaches and traditional Italian culture. As you’d expect, the local cuisine is fresh and delicious, and the hospitality warm and welcoming.

This small island city-state in Southeast Asia is dynamic and cosmopolitan, yet known for its efficient infrastructure, diverse cultural heritage, and modern skyline. Home to the world’s best zoo and the astonishing man-made super trees.

This alluring, spiritual land of ancient temples, lush tea plantations, delicious aromatic cuisine and pristine beaches is tropical paradise meets cultural splendour – a delight for both cultural and adventure travellers. Highlights include the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and swimming with blue whales.

On the shores of the Baltic, Russia’s dazzling cultural capital – and former home of its lavish Tsars – is a treasure trove of art, music, literature, and history. Home to one of the world’s greatest museums, the State Hermitage.

Stockholm never fails to charm with its unique mix of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication; from the historic cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the thriving art scene and world-class museums. Highlights include the ABBA Museum and boat and kayaking around the archipelago of over 30,000 islands.

One of the world’s most dynamic and glamorous cities, with golden beaches, world-class eating and dining and effervescent, friendly people. Home to the eye-popping Opera House and the indescribable Sydney Bridge Climb.

This effusive, vibrant city, overflowing with incredible food & drink, and lined by golden beaches, is Israel’s pulsating heart. It’s also the gateway to some special, unique experiences – history-laden, tumultuous Jerusalem, the Dead Sea and Masaba.

Earth’s largest and most spectacular tropical wilderness is a landscape of huge waterfalls tumbling off table-top mountains, vast, coloured rivers, and fragrant cloud forests. All filled with astonishing, endemic wildlife.

A dizzying mixture of old ways and modern style, crowds and calm, and arguably the best food scene on the planet. Cross the Shibuya Crossing, and ride the Bullet Train.

Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast offers an unbeatable mix of mountain-backed beaches, classical ruins and adventure activities, with superb food and delightful owner-run hotels.

The astonishingly beautiful region of Tuscany has it all: art cities and ancient hill towns, high mountains and long sandy beaches, alongside luxurious hotels and some of Italy’s best food and wine.

The place to come for the Australian outback experience – jaw-dropping geological formations (including world-famous Uluru), sleeping out in swag bags, sampling bush tucker, and connecting with authentic Aborginal culture.

Crammed with picturesque canals, Renaissance palazzos and artistic masterpieces, this unique and alluring city is heaven-on-earth for art lovers and romantics.

The mesmerising Falls are the star attraction, but Africa’s adventure playground also offers a mind-boggling menu of safari experiences and adrenalin-packed adventure activities. Would you dare to raft the mighty Zambezi?

This uber-romantic city of former imperial splendour – headlined by the magnificent Schonbrunn Grand Palace – is an architectural marvel oozing a rich cultural heritage. It’s a mecca for fine arts, classical music and world-class opera.

From the emerald paddy fields of the Mekong Delta to the mystical limestone karsts of Halong Bay, this endlessly interesting, utterly enchanting country invites you to explore its breathtaking landscapes, savour the world’s tastiest street food, and immerse in its poignant history. A captivating blend of ancient traditions, warm hospitality, and rich culture.

The heartland of American democracy and political power is a city that echoes with historical significance and impresses with landmarks. The venerable White House, Capitol and National Archives Museum – home of The Constitution – are here, alongside the 21 world-class museums of the Smithsonian.

China’s ancient capital is a time capsule of imperial grandeur and cultural marvels, with vibrant markets, narrow alleys, majestic city walls, a vibrant Muslim Quarter, and the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Most visitors, however, land here for just one thing – the mighty Terracotta Warriors – one of the world’s all-time must-sees.

Nestled in the heart of America’s untamed wilderness lies this gasp-worthy landscape of geothermal wonders, thunderous cascades of waterfalls and pristine forests. The star attraction is Old Faithful, but the US’s top national park is a trove of natural treasures.

The exotic ‘Spice Island’ is home to a beguiling mix of Swahili, Persian, Omani and African cultures, in a setting of dreamy postcard-perfect white sand beaches. Oh, and there’s pristine, world-class diving and snorkelling too.