Travel Top 50 places in the world 1
1 Bali
Indonesia
«You’ll find beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. Basically, it’s paradise. It’s likely you’ve seen an image of Bali on social media at least once in the past seven days, as it’s such a popular bucket list destination for 2021.» 3
«The lively city known for its street music, festive vibe and a melting pot of French, African and American cultures is well worth the trip. NOLA is a city packed with adventures at every turn and should be on everyone’s must-visit list.»
2 New
The cradle of jazz music, New Orleans is a little out of step with the United States when it comes to dining, architecture and just day-to-day living. It’s a city of Creole cottages, palatial townhouses, elegant iron balconies and shaded courtyards. Out of the French Quarter vintage streetcars rattle past rows of southern live oaks that have been growing for hundreds of years. New Orleans is that rare place where you can order a 4
w Orleans
cocktail to-go, and turn a corner and be swept along in a street parade. The joie de vivre is impossible to resist and shines through in sublime food like jambalaya, gumbo, beignets, po’ boys and crawfish boils. A lot of the city is below the waterline and New Orleans’ darkest hour was broadcast to the world during Hurricane Katrina, but this irrepressible, charmingly dissolute city was soon on its feet once more. 5
3 Kerry
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Ireland «All the way west in Ireland is one of the country’s most scenic counties. Kerry’s mountains, lakes and coasts are postcardperfect, and that’s before you add in Killarney National Park. The unique small towns such as Dingle add to its charm.»
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4 Marrakesh
«This ancient walled city is home to mosques, palaces and lush gardens. It’s known as The Red City thanks to the color of the brick walls surrounding the city. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre.»
Morocco
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gainst the snowcapped High Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is a timeless city of red sandstone. Storytellers still regale the public on the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and an army of vendors sell their wares on haphazard interweaving alleys, packed tight to keep the sun at bay. Marrakesh went through two periods as an imperial capital, under the Almoravids and Almohads in Medieval times, and the Saadian Dynasty in the 16th century. These spells left the city with masterpieces of Hispano-Moorish art, like the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque, and the ruined palace and mausoleum of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur (15491603). Marrakesh has caught the imagination of many Europeans, not least the longterm resident Yves SaintLaurent (1936-2008), whose epoch-defining designs have found a stage at a new museum in his honour.
5 Sydney
«Sydney is known around the world as one of the greatest and most iconic cities on the planet. Amazing things to do aren’t hard to find; the city has gorgeous beaches, great cafes and world-class entertainment on offer wherever you look.»
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6 Maldives
«This tropical nation in the Indian Ocean is made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. It’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotel resorts, with white sandy beaches, underwater villas and restaurants and bright blue waters.»
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7 Paris
«One of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris tops many people’s bucket lists. You’ll see so many famous landmarks here: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame cathedral— the list is never-ending.»
France
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ven if you’ve never been to Paris you may feel like you already know the City of Light. And in most cities in the world you’d be scraping the barrel trying to find 75 genuinely worthwhile things to do. But that will never be the case in Paris. Such is the amount of world-beating museums and sights we all know and love, there will never be a shortage of ideas. We reckon you could make another 75 with the rejects and still have the time of your life in Paris. You can’t compose a list like this without having tried and trusted favourites like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower, but we also have a few recherché places and experiences that merit the extra minutes on the RER or Métro. 12
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8 Cape
ÂŤCape Town is a dream location to visit: endless natural beauty and clifftop views, pastel pink neighborhoods and turquoise waters.Âť
Africa 14
9 Dubai
«The high-flying city of the U.A.E, Dubai is one of the most glamorous destinations you’ll ever visit, and is particularly popular with Big 7 Travel readers.»
U.A.E. 15
10 Bora
«Bora Bora is Tahiti’s most famous island. How do overwater bungalows and underwater adventures sound to you? To us, it’s everything we could want from a bucket list destination.»
French 16
Bora
Polynesia 17
11 New York «New York is one of America’s most exciting states. With charming upstate scenery, worldclass cuisine and culture and more things to do than you could fit in one lifetime. The city’s five boroughs all have special features; it’s almost impossible to narrow it down»
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ne of the most famous cities in the world, New York City is without a doubt an experience of a lifetime.
There are iconic sites at every turn and barely enough time to see them all. From worldfamous attractions, like the Empire State Building, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty and Central Park, to more recent additions like the One World Observatory and High Line, the long list of famous attractions packed within a compact area makes The Big Apple unlike any other place on earth.
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12 Edinburgh «With the historic Edinburgh castle looming over the city, culture in spades and wonderfully friendly locals, this is one of the world’s greatest city breaks.»
Scotland
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13 Dubrovnik
«As George Bernard Shaw once said, ‘Those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.’ With its winding streets, cliffside beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town, it’s no wonder Dubrovnik is such a popular spot.»
Croatia
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14 Rome
«Whether it’s your first time in Rome or your 50th, the best thing about this city is that you’ll always discover something new each time you stroll the scenic streets.»
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Italy
ome stands as one of the finest and oldest cities in the world. The history of Rome spans over 2500 years and it has been a centre of power, politics, culture and development since its inception. Creation of the city is steeped in legend and mythology and there are various different accounts of how this majestic place was built. Various Roman emperors and Casers have ruled mighty Rome and this is the place where the colossal Roman Empire grew from. As time progressed, various monuments, palaces and religious buildings have been constructed in the city and these now stand as beautiful tourist attractions and a reminder of the cities glorious past. Rome is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in Europe and with sights such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, it is easy to see why. 23
Tokyo 15
«Visiting Tokyo is like visiting the future— flashing neon lights, incredible technology—yet there’s still a rich sense of culture and history.»
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Tokyo is known for its modern touches and Sc-Fi atmosphere, but you can also spend time here getting back to basics and enjoying the historical side of the city such as temples, parks and ancient buildings which are known for being some of the most beautiful spots in the world. As if that wasn’t enough, you can also eat and drink your way around the city which is known for its delicious food as well as its exciting nightlife scene.
Japan
Tokyo is a city that needs almost no introduction, having been featured in countless films, TV shows and music videos. An icon of popular culture, Tokyo is also a city that never sleeps, so you will never be short of things to do when you are in town.
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16 Paro Valley Paro Valley is known for its monasteries, fortresses and dramatic landscapes. Tucked between China and India, Bhutan is a mysterious country that prides itself on sustainable tourism. You’ll find Paro Taktsang here, a Himalayan Buddhist sacred site.
Bhutan
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17 Jaipur
«Jaipur is known as the ‘Pink City’ for its pale terracotta buildings. This was originally done to impress the visiting Prince Albert during his 1876 tour of India by order of the Maharaja. Even today, it’s illegal to paint buildings any other color.»
India 27
«Earth’s southernmost continent, Antarctica is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Nowhere else can compare with the extreme remoteness of this snowy place.»
18 The continent of Antarctica makes up most of the Antarctic region. The Antarctic is a cold, remote area in the Southern Hemisphere encompassed by the Antarctic Convergence. The Antarctic Convergence is an uneven line of latitude where cold, northward-flowing Antarctic waters meet the warmer waters of the world’s oceans. The Antarctic covers approximately 20 percent of the Southern Hemisphere. 28
Antarctica Antarctica is the fifth-largest continent in terms of total area. (It is larger than both Oceania and Europe.) Antarctica is a unique continent in that it does not have a native population. There are no countries in Antarctica, although seven nations claim different parts of it: New Zealand, Australia, France, Norway, the United Kingdom, Chile, and Argentina. 29
19 Havana
«Cuba’s capital is almost 500 years old and a riot of color. Brightly painted buildings and vintage cars make Havana a photogenic dream.»
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Cuba
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20 Waikato «Waikato, a region in New Zealand’s North Island, is home to massive underground caves, lush rainforest and the buzzy city of Hamilton.»
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New Zealand
21 Vancouver ÂŤVancouver is surrounded by water yet close to the mountains and has world-class art, restaurants and heaps of other attractions to keep you entertained.Âť
Canada 33
«In a city with yearround sunshine, glam bars, beaches and hikes, there are endless incredible experiences to enjoy in Los Angeles. It’s no wonder there are almost 5O million ‘LA’ hashtags on Insta.»
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ocated just a few kilometers east of downtown LA, East Los Angeles is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Though it can be a tad on the gritty side for some mainstream travelers, it’s full of artistic, cultural, and historical attractions that tend to highlight its Hispanic roots. There’s really no better place in the city to enjoy authentic Mexican food, traditional music, and vibrant street art. Plus, East LA’s abundant parks and live entertainment venues feature year-round performances that draw big crowds. 34
22 Los Angeles
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23 Santorini 36
Greece
«Santorini is actually a group of islands; Thíra, Thirassiá, Asproníssi, Palea and Nea Kaméni. Beaches with volcanic black or red sand and clear blue waters make this an ideal holiday spot. With its famous Santorini sunsets, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular bucket list destinations.»
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24 Singapore Singapore is a small island city-state off southern Malaysia which punches way above its weight on a global level. It’s a modern city with colorful buildings, futuristic bridges and a cloud forest. Though it is widely considered to be a playground for the wealthy with its high-end shopping malls, astoundingly luxurious hotels and Michelin star restaurants, Singapore also has a wealth of historical and cultural significance, with vibrant ethnic districts and gorgeous green spaces. While you should by all means indulge in the high-end temptations of the city-state, as well as the cultural ones, Singapore happens to be incredibly well situated when it comes to visiting other places for the day. You can reach the neighbouring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia in a matter of hours and all the glorious paradise beaches and islands that they offer. 38
Singapore itself also contains various outlying islands which offer everything from cosmopolitan to traditional, with a variety of gorgeous beaches and traditional villages in between. 39
25 Kruger National Park ÂŤThe Kruger National Park is a vast space in northeastern South Africa that is home to a huge array of wildlife.Âť
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South Africa
26 Petra ÂŤThe ancient Nabatean city of Petra in southern Jordan is surrounded by beautiful red rocks and steep gorges.Âť
Jordan
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27 London England
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ÂŤPretty pink restaurants, futuristic space-age toilets and jungle skyline views are just some of our favorite things about London. And of course, all the classics: Big Ben, red phone boxes and world-class museums and galleries.Âť
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Brazil
ÂŤRio de Janeiro has always been one of the most iconic cities in the world with instantly recognizable landscapes and landmarks.Âť 44
28 Rio de Janeiro
The marvelous city of Rio is located on the South Atlantic coast and is the second largest city in Brazil with several districts. Rio de Janeiro was founded in 1565 by Portuguese colonialists. This captivating city is famous for its laidback beach culture, its breathtaking landscapes, the mixed architecture, villages that have been transformed into hip towns, and most of all, its annual carnival. It is one of the most visited cities in the southern hemisphere. 45
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29 Barbabos
«Barbados is one of those magical holiday destinations that everybody dreams about visiting. Who wouldn’t put this on their bucket list? Nestled in the south of the Caribbean, it offers stunning beauty and wonderful local culture and is the perfect place to unwind.» 47
30 Hong Kong «Famous for its skylines and vibrant food scene, what most people don’t know is that 70% of Hong Kong is mountains and lush parks.»
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31 Moscow «Russia’s cosmopolitan capital, Moscow is a beautiful destination to visit in any season.»
Russia
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32 Cairo
ÂŤCairo is one of the most ancient cities in the world. Sitting on the Nile river with wonderful museums, vibrant culture and friendly locals, it makes for a great holiday.Âť
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Egypt
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n a land where the past sits overlooking the present, Egypt is a country that fills the senses. Despite experiencing a great deal of social and political upheaval in recent years, the country and her people are still as welcoming and enticing as ever. The desert in Egypt is its own character – making up about 95% of the country. Combine that with the Red Sea and the old world charm of empty beaches and gloriously undisturbed sunrises, and the beach scene here is a huge draw. Cruises down the Nile River to visit some of history’s most incredible monuments are also something that you really can’t miss. This is the land of the Valley of Kings, King Tut’s tomb, and the temples of the pharaohs. You’ll find the Egyptians proud of their heritage and ready to show you all the Egypt has to offer.
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33 Laucala
«Laucala Island Resort is a private island in Fiji, in absolute paradise. It is one of three small islands off the northeast coast of Taveuni in Fiji. There are coconut trees, a sustainable farm and miles of beach, as well as coral reefs, postcard-perfect beaches and lush rainforest.»
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eady for an island getaway that will leave you feeling both refreshed and enriched in the local culture, heritage and culinary experience you’ll find there? Officially known as the Republic of Fiji, but colloquially called just Fiji, is an island country in Melanesia located in the south Pacific Ocean. Fiji is what’s known as an archipelago, with more than 330 islands. 52
Island Resort
Fiji 53
34 Machu Picchu Peru
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«The best way to get here? Arrive at Machu Picchu in style on the 360° Train that will bring you through the Peruvian countryside to the lost city. The wide, panoramic windows are perfect for soaking up the view, plus they serve Pisco Sours on board.»
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35 Amsterdam
ÂŤForget about cliched images of smoke shops and gaudy red lights. From floating flower markets to bohemian neighborhoods, this city has it all.Âť
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Chile
36 Santiago
ÂŤSantiago is a cosmopolitan city with the very best of Chilean culture; art galleries, design shops, as well as lively Latino nightlife.Âť
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Denmark 58
Copenhagen
«Copenhagen’s rustic fishing ports, modern graffiti and winding red brick streets are just some of what makes it such a beautiful bucket list destination. It oozes Scandi cool from every corner, with top-notch food, stylish design and an always hip atmosphere.»
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openhagen is Denmark’s capital, and with a population of nearly 800,000, it’s also the Baltic country’s largest city. More than 1,000 years ago, the ground on which the metropolis now rests was little more than a fishing and trading village. Many years later, many of these original sites still attract visitors from all over the world. Ironically, Copenhagen is one of the region’s most modern cities and features an abundance of culinary, cultural, art, and historical attractions that have been known to keep visitors busy for days on end. 59
38 Lisbon 60
Portugal
ÂŤLisbon, the hilly capital of Portugal, is postcard-perfect with its cobbled streets, pristine waters and local Atlantic beaches.Âť
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39 Hawaii
ÂŤFrom the hustle and bustle of Oahu to the romance of Maui and off-the-beaten-path adventures on Lanai and Molokai. The Hawaiian Islands are pure paradise. Explore colorful canyons and waterfalls and eat your body weight in fresh poke.Âť 62
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merica’s 50th state, Hawaii is a very popular destination for tourists from America and across the world.
The tropical island chain is home to a wide variety of experiences – from the volcanic scenery and beautiful coastline to cultural experiences and historical attractions.
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40 Cinque Terre
Italy
ÂŤIs there anything prettier than this area of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline? The five towns (Manarola, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso al Mare) are made for bucket lists.Âť
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41 Providencia Colombia
«The Colombian island of Providencia is the perfect combination of South America and the Caribbean. It’s best known for Crab Cay: an unspoiled little island where all there is to do is snorkel and lie on the beach.»
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42 Ibiza
«While you’ll have your fair share of techno club experiences, Ibiza is also one of the most beautiful Spanish islands, with a pretty Old Town and scenic beaches. Spend the day on the beach and the nights in legendary clubs.»
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You can follow up wild nights out with therapeutic days at some jaw-dropping beaches. For older visitors and those with families Ibiza has just as much to recommend it: You can journey into the UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila in Ibiza Town or take a tour of the beautiful whitewashed villages in Ibiza’s quiet and rural interior. All the while the island’s 15 Blue Flag beaches will be just a short detour away.
Spain
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s a party getaway Ibiza needs little introduction. It has been at the forefront of Europe’s dance music and clubbing scene for at least 25 years now, and its super-clubs and bars are now legendary.
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43 Budapest Hungary
The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is a fairytale city in Eastern Europe. The city itself is separated by the 19th-century Chain Bridge that connects the hilly Buda district with flat Pest— hence the name Budapest.
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44 Virunga National Park
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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 full of lush rainforest and has received even more attention since the documentary Virunga.»
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45 Seoul
ÂŤSeoul is a vibrant metropolis where old-meetsnew, with pop culture (K-Pop!) alongside Buddhist temples.Âť
Korea
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46 Beijing
«Beijing is China’s political, economic, and cultural center, with six Unesco World Heritage Sites in this city alone. Discover Forbidden City, street food dishes of Peking duck and of course, the Great Wall of China.»
China
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47 Las Vegas 74
With the bright lights, party atmosphere and endless things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Las Vegas has become a glittering global tourism destination. Take a chance in the casinos until the early hours or see world-class entertainment. 75
48 Buenos Aires
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Argentina
ÂŤBookstores set in palatial theatres, tango dancing in the streets and brightly painted neighborhoods. These are just some of what makes Buenos Aires so beautiful.Âť
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49 Hanoi
«Hanoi—the capital of Vietnam—is known for its rich history, busy street life and centuries of French, Asian and Chinese influences all blended into one bustling city. It’s a wonderful base from which to explore the North of Vietnam, including Halong Bay and Sapa, while also enjoying the comforts of a modern vibrant city.»
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anoi is the ancient capital of Vietnam. It’s a city that can trace its long lineage back thousands of years; a city that has seen many different people and cultures come and go and leave their marks on the land through the ages. From the Chinese to the French, there are influences in the food, architecture, and language of Hanoi from across the world. In recent years, the northern Vietnamese city has slowly begun to open itself up to tourism, as the locals 78
Vietnam
shrug off repression and open their doors. It’s an interesting city to visit, and Hanoi’s prime location and position as the capital makes it an excellent place from which to explore the rest of the north of the country. The iconic Halong Bay, with its floating villages and towering limestone karst rocks, is found on the nearby coastline, while ancient temples and traditional villages can be found across the spectacular, verdant countryside. 79
50 Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most iconic peaks— the pyramid-shaped mountain, which is very difficult to climb, is said to be the mostphotographed mountain in the world.» 80
Switzerland
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