27 Good Vacation Spots to Add to Your Bucket List

good vacation spots

Want to know where you should go for your next getaway?

Finding the right spot can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Some people want beaches, while others crave mountains or cities.

The good news is that there are plenty of vacation spots around the globe. From tropical islands to historic cities, the world offers something for every type of traveler.

If you’re looking for places out of the countrythat will make your trip unforgettable, you’re in the right place.

In this blog, I’ll show you a list of the best vacation destinations that deserve a spot on your travel list.

27 Best Vacation Spots Around the World

From tropical beaches to ancient cities, these spots offer something special for every type of traveler seeking their next getaway.

1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

bora bora french polynesia

Source: Britannica

This island paradise features crystal-clear lagoons and overwater bungalows, creating the perfect romantic escape for couples seeking peace and luxury.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Clear blue waters make the underwater experience unforgettable.
✓ Overwater villas offer direct ocean access.
✓ Mount Otemanu creates remarkable natural scenery.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
May to October Honeymooners and couples Matira Beach, coral gardens $500-800 per day

2. Santorini, Greece

santorini greece island views

Source: Kimkim

White-washed buildings perch on cliff edges overlooking the Aegean Sea, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in the Mediterranean region.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Sunsets from Oia are absolutely breathtaking.
✓ Blue-domed churches form unforgettable scenic moments.
✓ Local wine feels richer when enjoyed seaside.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to November Couples and photographers Oia village, Red Beach $200-400 per day

3. Kyoto, Japan

kyoto japan temple gardens

Source: Never Ending Voyage

Ancient temples and traditional gardens preserve centuries of Japanese culture in this city, where past and present coexist.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Bamboo forests feel like another world.
✓ Traditional tea ceremonies teach cultural appreciation.
✓ Cherry blossoms transform streets each spring.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
March to May Culture lovers, history buffs Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama $150-300 per day

4. Banff, Canada

banff canada turquoise lake

Source: Mountain Travel Sobek

Towering mountain peaks surround turquoise lakes in this Canadian Rockies destination that attracts outdoor lovers throughout the year.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Lake Louise reflects mountains like mirrors.
✓ Wildlife sightings happen on most trails.
✓ Hot springs relax tired muscles naturally.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
June to August Nature lovers, hikers Lake Louise, Moraine Lake $200-350 per day

5. Queenstown, New Zealand

queenstown new zealand adventure

Source: Wikipedia

Adventure seekers flock to this lakeside town where bungee jumping was born, and outdoor thrills await around every corner.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Adrenaline activities satisfy thrill seekers completely.
✓ Mountain views create spectacular photo opportunities.
✓ Wine regions sit just minutes away.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
December to February Adventure seekers, thrill lovers Milford Sound, Shotover River $150-300 per day

6. Bali, Indonesia

bali indonesia rice terraces

Source: Outlook Travel Magazine

Rice terraces cascade down hillsides while temples dot the landscape of this Indonesian island that blends spirituality with natural beauty.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Beaches suit both surfers and swimmers.
✓ Temple visits inspire peaceful reflection time.
✓ Affordable prices stretch travel budgets further.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to October Budget travelers, spiritual seekers Ubud, Tanah Lot Temple $50-150 per day

7. Amalfi Coast, Italy

amalfi coast italy cliffs

Source: AFAR Media

Colorful villages cling to steep cliffs along this Italian coastline, where lemon groves scent the air and Mediterranean views stretch endlessly.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Coastal drives offer unforgettable scenic routes.
✓ Fresh seafood feels fresher when eaten seaside.
✓ Small towns maintain authentic Italian charm.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to June Food lovers, road trippers Positano, Ravello gardens $250-450 per day

8. Maui, United States

maui hawaii volcanic beaches

Source: Goway Travel

Volcanic landscapes meet tropical beaches on this Hawaiian island, where waterfalls cascade, and whales breach offshore during the winter months.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Road to Hana winds past waterfalls.
✓ Snorkeling often shows vibrant sea creatures.
✓ Luaus showcase traditional Hawaiian culture authentically.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to May Families, beach lovers Haleakala Crater, Road to Hana $300-500 per day

9. Paris, France

paris france eiffel city

Source: Artful Living Magazine

Historic monuments line the Seine River in this city where art museums hold masterpieces and cafes serve fresh croissants every morning.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Eiffel Tower sparkles beautifully at night.
✓ Museums house world-famous art collections permanently.
✓ Bakeries make pastries that melt perfectly.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to June Art lovers, romantics Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum $200-400 per day

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

reykjavik iceland northern lights

Source: Iceland Travel

Northern lights dance across winter skies while geothermal pools steam year-round in this Arctic capital that serves as a base for exploration.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Blue Lagoon soothes with mineral waters.
✓ Northern lights appear during dark months.
✓ Golden Circle covers major sites easily.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
June to August Nature photographers, adventure seekers Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle $250-450 per day

11. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

dubai uae desert city

Source: Hotels.com

Futuristic skyscrapers rise from desert sands in this Middle Eastern city, where luxury shopping meets traditional souks and indoor skiing is available.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Burj Khalifa towers above all buildings.
✓ Shopping malls offer endless retail therapy.
✓ Desert safaris provide thrilling dune experiences.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
November to March Luxury travelers, shoppers Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall $200-500 per day

12. Cape Town, South Africa

cape town south africa

Source: Micato Safaris

Table Mountain overlooks beaches and vineyards in this coastal city where penguins waddle on shores and cable cars ascend peaks.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Table Mountain presents impressive sweeping scenery.
✓ Penguins live on nearby Boulders Beach.
✓ Wine regions produce excellent local varieties.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
November to March Wildlife lovers, wine enthusiasts Table Mountain, Cape Point $100-250 per day

13. Phuket, Thailand

phuket thailand tropical beaches

Source: Travel + Leisure

Limestone cliffs rise from emerald waters around this Thai island, where beach clubs buzz and Buddhist temples offer quiet reflection.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Beaches range from quiet to lively.
✓ Thai food bursts with authentic flavors.
✓ Island hopping reveals hidden lagoons frequently.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
November to February Beach lovers, party seekers Phi Phi Islands, Patong Beach $75-200 per day

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

machu picchu peru ruins

Source: Live Science

Ancient Incan ruins sit high in the Andes Mountains, where stone terraces cling to steep slopes and clouds drift through valleys below.

Why travelers love it:

✓ The Inca Trail tests hiking abilities perfectly.
✓ Ancient ruins inspire historical wonder deeply.
✓ Mountain views offer memorable, dramatic moments always.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to October History buffs, hikers Sun Gate, Temple area $100-250 per day

15. Barcelona, Spain

barcelona spain gaudi views

Source: Go Real Travel

Gaudí’s architecture curves through this Catalan city, where Gothic quarters hide tapas bars and Mediterranean beaches border busy streets.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Sagrada Familia displays architectural genius clearly.
✓ Beach access sits within city limits.
✓ Tapas bars serve delicious small plates.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
May to June Architecture fans, foodies Sagrada Familia, Park Guell $150-300 per day

16. Petra, Jordan

petra jordan ancient treasury

Source: The Next Crossing

Rose-colored temples carved into cliff faces reveal an ancient Nabatean city that remained hidden from the world for centuries.

Why travelers love it:

✓ The Treasury building takes your breath away instantly.
✓ Ancient history comes alive through ruins.
✓ Desert landscapes create dramatic photo backdrops.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
March to May History enthusiasts, photographers The Treasury, Monastery $100-200 per day

17. Seychelles

seychelles white sand beaches

Source: Seychelles

Granite boulders rest on white sand beaches across these Indian Ocean islands where giant tortoises roam, and coral reefs teem with life.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Beaches rank among the world’s most beautiful.
✓ Rare wildlife exists nowhere else globally.
✓ Secluded coves offer complete privacy naturally.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
April to May Beach lovers, nature enthusiasts Anse Source d’Argent, Vallée de Mai $300-600 per day

18. Tahiti, French Polynesia

tahiti polynesia lagoon island

Source: Venture Tahiti

Black-sand beaches contrast with turquoise lagoons on this Polynesian island, where waterfalls plunge into tropical forests, and culture thrives.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Black sand beaches look uniquely beautiful.
✓ Polynesian culture remains strong and vibrant.
✓ Waterfalls hide within lush jungle settings.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
May to October Couples, culture seekers Teahupoo, Vaipahi Gardens $400-700 per day

19. Sydney, Australia

sydney australia opera harbor

Source: Goway Travel

The iconic Opera House crowns this harbor city, where beaches attract surfers and neighborhoods buzz with multicultural energy and life.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Opera House stands as an architectural icon.
✓ Bondi Beach draws surfers and swimmers.
✓ Harbor views impress from every angle.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
September to November City explorers, beach goers Opera House, Bondi Beach $200-400 per day

20. Marrakech, Morocco

marrakech morocco medina market

Source: Sway the way

Spice markets fill narrow alleys in this North African city where riads hide behind plain walls and snake charmers perform in main squares.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Souks overflow with colorful handmade goods.
✓ Riads provide peaceful courtyard escapes quietly.
✓ Moroccan cuisine tantalizes taste buds completely.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
March to May Culture seekers, market lovers Jemaa el-Fnaa, Majorelle Garden $75-175 per day

21. Zurich, Switzerland

zurich switzerland lake alps

Source: Winalist

Alpine peaks frame this lakeside city, where medieval old town meets modern banking, and chocolate shops line cobblestone streets.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Lake Zurich offers summer swimming spots.
✓ The Swiss Alps sit within easy reach.
✓ Chocolate tastes richer here than anywhere.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
June to August Nature lovers, foodies Old Town, Lake Zurich $300-500 per day

22. Singapore

singapore gardens marina bay

Source: Expedia

Futuristic gardens rise beside colonial buildings in this island city-state, where hawker centers serve cheap meals, and shopping never stops.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Gardens by the Bay look futuristic.
✓ Food courts serve incredible, cheap eats.
✓ Clean streets make walking pleasant always.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
February to April Foodies, city explorers Marina Bay Sands, Gardens $150-300 per day

23. Fiji Islands, Fiji

fiji islands palm beaches

Source: CN Traveller

Coral reefs surround these South Pacific islands, where traditional villages welcome visitors and palm trees sway over powdery white sand.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Coral reefs attract serious divers globally.
✓ Island culture remains warm and welcoming.
✓ Resort options suit every budget level.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
July to September Divers, families Yasawa Islands, coral reefs $150-400 per day

24. Buenos Aires, Argentina

buenos aires argentina city

Source: Park Royal Hotels & Resorts

Tango music drifts from cafes in this South American capital where steakhouses grill perfectly and European-style boulevards stretch wide.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Tango shows display passionate dance moves.
✓ Steak quality exceeds most other places.
✓ European architecture feels surprisingly familiar yet different.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
March to May Food lovers, culture seekers La Boca, Recoleta Cemetery $75-175 per day

25. Cairo, Egypt

cairo egypt pyramids nile

Source: World Atlas

Ancient pyramids stand at the edge of this sprawling city, where the Nile River flows, and museum halls display pharaonic treasures.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Pyramids of Giza inspire absolute awe.
✓ The Egyptian Museum holds priceless ancient artifacts.
✓ History spans thousands of years here.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
October to April History lovers, archaeologists Pyramids, Egyptian Museum $50-125 per day

26. Costa Rica

costa rica rainforest adventure

Source: Natucate

Rainforests teem with wildlife in this Central American country where volcanoes steam, and zip lines soar through jungle canopies overhead.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Biodiversity amazes nature lovers completely.
✓ Zip-lining provides serious adrenaline rushes.
✓ Beaches offer perfect post-adventure relaxation time.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
December to April Adventure seekers, eco-tourists Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Forest $100-250 per day

27. Maldives

maldives overwater villas island

Source: Tripadvisor

Private island resorts dot this Indian Ocean nation, where overwater villas perch above coral reefs, and turquoise waters stretch to the horizon.

Why travelers love it:

✓ Water villas provide ultimate luxury stays.
✓ Snorkeling reveals colorful underwater worlds daily.
✓ Privacy levels exceed most other destinations.

Best time to visit Who it’s perfect for Must-see spots Budget Estimate
November to April Honeymooners, luxury seekers Private island resorts, reefs $500-1000 per day

Wrapping It Up

To summarize, the world holds countless options for your next getaway.

Each location brings its own character, from peaceful island retreats to vibrant city centers. Your choice depends on what excites you most, your budget range, and the season you plan to travel.

Some destinations work better for families, while others suit couples or solo travelers.

The key is matching your interests with what each place offers. Remember that every traveler seeks something entirely different.

Take time to research visa requirements, local customs, and health precautions before booking. Start planning now and pick the spot that calls to you.

Which destination caught your attention? Share your thoughts or any questions in the comments below!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

About the Author​

David Chen writes destination guides that help travelers explore new places like locals. He studied Cultural Studies at New York University and has traveled for eight years. David finds hidden spots and shares local traditions in his guides. When not traveling, he learns new languages and bakes sourdough bread at home with friends and family.

Related Blogs

Get daily updates and be the first one to get notified.

Related Blogs