beginner travel bucket list

Welcome to Epic Travel Plans!

Epic Travel Plans

Destinations that will leave you Breathless. Plans to make it happen

TRAVEL BUCKET LIST Template + Guide (Free Fillable PDF)

Do you have SO many epic travel ideas swirling through your mind? Follow this guide to finally build your travel bucket list!  You’ll also find a free travel bucket list template that’s interactive, inspiring and USEFUL, too.

Finally build a travel bucket list you’ll love, filled with incredible trip ideas you’ll actually take!

ABOUT the Free Travel Bucket List Template

Step 1. brainstorm your travel bucket list ideas.

• WHAT To See and Do
• WHO To Go With
• Step 3. PRIORITIZE Your Favorite Travel Ideas … so They Happen
• NEXT STEPS: Planning Trips on Your Travel Bucket List

Disclosure: This post may include affiliate links to excellent travel-related products. This means that if you use the links below to make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

I love fillable PDF templates to easily save and update my brilliant thoughts. So, I thought you might, too! And they work as traditional printables too, of course.

Here’s how to use my free travel bucket list template to capture your epic travel ideas:

• Start at the back. My travel bucket list template actually works in reverse, with the brainstorming pages at the back. This puts your pretty, cleaned-up lists at the front. If you follow the steps in this post, it’ll guide you from the back of the template to the front.
• Brainstorm by map and list. You have options! If you like brainstorming with a simple list, use the large boxes to capture travel ideas and notes. Like visuals? As a travel bucket list printable, you can use your favorite markers to color-code the maps on the brainstorming pages.  
• Transfer priority trips to the front. Once you have your list of top travel ideas, move through pages 3 to 1 (yup, in reverse). List your “top 3 to see” by season, destination type, and travel companion. You can also add your own categories and plenty of notes. Then, decide on your top 6 to see first, and list those on page 1 to keep them front and center.

When you’re done, post your travel bucket list ideas somewhere you’ll see it often.

Priorities change over the years. Since this is a fillable PDF, it’s super easy to update your travel bucket list template as you actually GO to your bucket list destinations! 

Subscribe to Epic Travel Plans’ monthly newsletter and GET THE TRAVEL BUCKET LIST TEMPLATE ! A free, 6-page fillable PDF to capture your top travel ideas in one place. 

First Name:

Email address:

Introducing: The ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List Template EBOOK

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List Template ebook will help you understand WHY you travel, and why past trips worked or didn’t. You’ll consider WHERE in the world you all want to go, with suggestions to get you started. Then, explore travel ideas based on types of activities, your potential travel companions, and your timing options.

Each chapter starts with space to brainstorm all of your amazing ideas and ends with a summary form to capture your highlights, making it easier to prioritize your “best of the best.”

Finally build a travel bucket list you’ll love, filled with incredible trip ideas you’ll actually take.

How To Create a Travel Bucket List You’ll LOVE, With Trips You’ll TAKE

To create a travel bucket list you’ll actually use, you need to go a bit deeper than places on a napkin or pins on a map. Here are the three basic steps to building a useful travel bucket list:

• Brainstorm : Capture every trip idea you have, all in one place. Include any specific reasons for why you want to take each trip, like specific activities, sights or events that inspired the idea.
• Organize : Group your trip ideas in a way that makes sense to you. Geography is a typical way to organize trip ideas. But it’s also helpful to group them by who you’d want to go with, when you’d want to go, or types of things you’d want to do.
• Prioritize : Choose the top trips you want to take first. Include a variety of trip ideas you can take throughout the year, with different companions and trip lengths.

Let’s build that list!

Brainstorming for your travel bucket list template is about getting down in one place ALL the trips you might ever want to take. It’s the start of your travel bucket list. After brainstorming bucket list travel ideas, we’ll make that list digestible and actionable. So, don’t worry about that here. This is the time to just let your dreams wander!

Pinterest is a fun and easy way to discover and collect amazing images of inspiring places. Like the Walkways of Mount Tianmen in China, or “wow” waterfalls hidden throughout the United States. It’s also a helpful platform to save details about those destinations. If you’re looking for some inspiration, take a look at my Pinterest boards !

Here are posts specifically to inspire your travel bucket list:

• Virtual tours : These interactive 360-degree videos and images are absolutely incredible at making you feel like you’re right there . Explore epic cities, waterfalls, national parks, historic sites, crazy adventures and animal encounters around the world.
• Romantic getaways : These posts are packed with stunning hotels, resorts, spas and cabins perfect for romantic getaways. But most are also fantastic for solo getaways or getaways with friends, too.
• Trips with Mom and trips with Dad : As adults, we sometimes forget to prioritize travel with our aging parents. Find incredible experiences to enjoy both near and far, while you can both enjoy them. 

Now, I love my lists … hand-written (I know; I’m so old-school). So, I’ll print out my handy travel bucket list template, grab my favorite colored pens (I LOVE erasable pens !), and make my list while relaxing on the couch and sipping coffee. Then I’ll come back to my fillable PDF travel bucket list template to save a prettier version of my thoughts.

If you create beautiful bullet or junk journals, this is perfect content for that.

3 FUN Ways To Brainstorm for Your Travel Bucket List Template: 

• Make a list of every destination you can think of that you’d like to visit one day. Then group them by location (like by continent) so it becomes a little more digestible. Either move them around (like in my travel bucket list template PDF) or color-code them in your journal.
• Use the mind-mapping technique to create a web of travel ideas. This is more visual than a list, and pretty fun, too. First, write out the names of each continent you’d like to visit and circle them with different color pens. Then draw lines to connect those circles with names of places on that continent you want to visit. Add colorful doodles to pretty up your web.
• Get a map you can mark up. A marked-up map is the ultimate visual for brainstorming your travel bucket list. The best way is to get a beautiful map you can put up on a wall (check out this one on Etsy by HappyPlaceArt ). But, a small map that tucks into your journal works great, too. Mark up your destinations with a simple marker, a brilliant legend, or tacks (for the wall one, obviously!).

And remember to jot down a few notes on WHY that destination is important to you.

Also, include a variety of travel ideas. Don’t forget those smaller trips and nearby destinations you’ve been meaning to visit. Weekend getaways can be epic, too!

Once you have a decent amount of travel bucket list ideas, it’s time to organize and prioritize them. If you don’t organize them, your list will be overwhelming … and likely depressing by how many you’re not planning.

Step 2. ORGANIZE To Make Your Travel Bucket List Digestible

Once your travel bucket list template is PACKED with epic travel ideas, it’s time to make it DIGESTIBLE. I love organizing and grouping ideas; but if you don’t, don’t worry! This step is actually really fun – because it’s figuring out the BEST way to experience those awesome travel destinations.

As we go through this section, make notes in the brainstorming section of your travel bucket list template.  These are your contenders for your priority trip ideas.

WHAT To See and Do: “Top 3 To See” by Category

This is a fun way to start organizing that travel bucket list: Consider your “top 3 to see” by destination type. You’ll find this section on page 3 of the free travel bucket list template.

I actually prefer going through these categories without looking at my brainstorm. It’s a great way to see if you missed something. But, you can also pick from your list of travel ideas to see which ones rise to the top, or get you most excited.

Of the categories below, which places make your “top 3 to see”:

• Nature’s epic sights: Maybe Arizona’s mighty Grand Canyon, Ireland’s mystical coastlines, or an African safari. Or the Great Barrier Reef, Galapagos Islands or the Amazon Rainforest. Swimming in the Blue Lagoon?
• Brilliant feats of man: Like Jordan’s Petra, Peru’s Manchu Picchu, or Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Or maybe Paris’ Louvre, the Taj Mahal or Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world?
• Specific cities, sites or cultures: Is there a specific city or historic site you’ve always wanted to see? Maybe a cultural experience you want to discover for yourself? A Broadway play, or Washington D.C. A wine tour through Italy or a retreat in a Japanese monastery high up in the mountains. The ultimate walking tour of your favorite movie.
• Concerts, championship games, or adventurous sports: The Rolling Stones. Dallas Cowboys on a Super Bowl run, or BlizzCon in Anaheim. Sky-diving over Victoria Falls, heli-skiing in the Rocky Mountains, or caving in Italy. What excites you? 
• Road trips: One of the best ways to experience many travel destinations is by road trip. Along jaw-dropping coastlines. Through the Scottish Highlands or Swiss Alps. Stopping at many historic sites that only war history buffs like you know about. Some train rides fit here, too, like the one from Beijing to Moscow. Is there a cross-country trek you’ve been itching to take?

NEW!  The ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List EBOOK will help you create a bucket list you’ll love, filled with trips you’ll actually take!

WHO To Go With: Companions Worthy of Your Travel Bucket List

Some travel companions make (or break) a travel destination. 

While you might LOVE visiting an ultra-romantic destination with your partner, you might HATE touring historic sites with him or her. And while one travel destination might be awesome with your best friend, it might be kinda awful with your mom.

Think about who you’d love to travel with (or who you’d realistically travel with), and what would be EPIC to experience with that person. Your partner. Mom or dad. Sister or brother. Best friend or group of best friends. 

What about solo travel? Have you dreamed of going somewhere but haven’t found that perfect travel companion? Or maybe you’d just really love exploring on your own? If the thought of traveling solo terrifies you, consider an organized small-group tour. My sister and I toured SE Asia with Intrepid Travel and loved it.

Here are some examples of what I mean:

• Glamin’ it up in Los Angeles: I never really wanted to visit Los Angeles. Sure, Pretty Woman had me intrigued. But since I’m not really into Hollywood or fashion, it just never hit my mental travel bucket list. And then my sisters-in-law were going … who are definitely into Hollywood and fashion. THEY made this trip A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Plus, staying right on Rodeo Drive helped too, of course. 
• Hiking phenomenal canyons: Now that I’ve seen epic canyons in the United States , the person I’d most want to go back with is my brother. Staying right inside Zion Canyon or on the edge of Grand Canyon’s North Rim. Hiking among fantastical hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and in the narrows of Antelope Slot Canyon. Of everyone I know, he’d appreciate these destinations the most. 
• Gracing European palaces: Although I’m enthralled with European history and architecture, visiting Austria’s regal palaces and gardens with my mom is a forever-treasure. This was my sister’s dream mother-daughter trip and I got to tag along. Find some inspiration AND practical tips to finally take your dream mother-daughter trip . 

Check out page 2 of the travel bucket list template to record travel ideas specific to your favorite travel companions.

WHEN To Go: Ideal Timing for Those Bucket List Travel Ideas

Many people don’t think much about how seasons affect their travel bucket list. Other than when to avoid traveling, like in summer or at Christmas when prices quadruple. For many travel destinations, it’s enough to know that late spring and early fall will have decent weather, cheaper prices, and most touristy things open.

But certain travel experiences are BEST had at specific times of the year. Like Japan’s cherry blossoms and Holland’s tulips in mid April. Germany’s Oktoberfest that’s actually in late September to early October. 

And then, of course, are schedules for the specific concert, game or exhibit you want to see. Or the one and only Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or Times Square New Year’s Eve ball drop.

When you think about the places you want to see, what makes that place EPIC in your mind? Which season (or specific month, week, day) is best to experience it? Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter? 

Now take your favorite experiences that depend on season, and record them at the top of page 3 in the travel bucket list template.

Step 3. PRIORITIZE Your Travel Bucket List Template … So They Happen

Now the magic happens! We’ll take all of your amazing trip ideas and create a “best of the best” list of those you want to take first. Then we’ll post your list where you can see it. So you plan those trips, take those trips, and cross those trips off your list!

WHERE To Go FIRST: Your Top 6 in the Travel Bucket List Template

Of all the trip ideas you wrote down, which are you most excited to take?  Which ones make your top 6 to see first ?

Getting to the top 6 destinations on your travel bucket list should feel a bit like budgeting. You know … like how financial advisers tell you to save: a third for short-term; a third for medium-term; and a third for long-term. But too many people only plan for those retirement-type trips, and end up not taking any trips.

If you prioritize your top 6 trips based on small/medium/gigantic, you have a shot of actually getting to all of them sooner rather than later. (So you can redo your travel bucket list next year!) Just think about it. If you include that weekend house-boating trip you’ve been meaning to take with your best buds, it suddenly becomes a priority. And then you put in the effort to make it as epic as possible.

So when you’re filling in the first page of the free travel bucket list template, consider including your top 2 local, top 2 national, and top 2 international trips.

Now, I think it goes without saying, but … also let yourself go with the flow. When one of my best friends was going to Seattle for a wedding, she asked if I’d go, too. Seattle wasn’t on my travel bucket list, but we had an INCREDIBLE time. You might find a “wow” moment in a surprising destination.

So, just make sure your travel bucket list doesn’t prevent you from taking other epic trips. Even planners can be spontaneous!

NEXT STEPS: Plan Trips in Your Travel Bucket List

Now that you’ve worked through the travel bucket list template, check out my 3-step trip planning process.

What makes my trip planning process special is that it helps you define what’s most important to YOU … and then keeps it as the inspiration throughout the trip planning process.  And there’s another great fillable PDF template all ready for you.

The key first step of my trip planning process is defining the experience you’re looking for. That special something that’ll make you say, “Now THAT was a fantastic trip!” This experience becomes your compass in every decision you make.

Once you find your compass, so many trip planning decisions become clear. 

How To Plan a Trip You’ll LOVE: 

• Step 1: Define YOUR perfect experience
• Step 2: Build your itinerary and book
• Step 3: Count down with your ULTIMATE checklist

You might also like  How To Pick BETTER Accommodations and How To Plan a ROAD TRIP You’ll Love .

With all your momentum of working through the travel bucket list template, why not start planning one or two trips?! Then when you get the time or urge to go, you have one of your top travel bucket list ideas all ready and waiting for you.

Check out the ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List EBOOK! Create a bucket list you’ll love, filled with trips you’ll actually take!

You may also like:

• How to PLAN a ROMANTIC GETAWAY
• CABIN PACKING LIST for Romantic Getaways
• TIPS for Traveling with AGING PARENTS

Enjoyed this post? Please SHARE with your FRIENDS!

Featured photo credit (view from plane): Brannon Naito from Unsplash .

Add a Comment Cancel reply

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Plan your ROMANTIC getaway with our eBook, available in our TRAVEL PRINTABLES store Dismiss

Sign up now to receive your fillable PDF templates for building your travel bucket list and planning those epic trips! Plus, monthly inspiration and tips to make those "wow" trips happen.

Unsubscribe at any time. But we don't think you'll want to.

170 Bucket List Ideas for Travel Lovers to do before they Die

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 19/03/2024

You’ve probably heard of the term ‘kicking the bucket’? Pretty morbid, but it does make you think: what are some of the things you’d love to do before you kick the bucket.

Many bucket list travel ideas feature adventures that seem as though they’re just too good to be true. Sometimes people only think of bucket list ideas as a dream.

Life is filled with all kinds of marvellous things, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be seeking out adventure, no matter where you are in life. It’s just standard human behavior.

Finding inspiration is the easy part; you just need the courage to take the step. This ultimate bucket list ideas for travelers includes all kinds of adventures designed for those who simply want to add a little excitement to their familiar routines. As well as activities that take the meaning of a bucket list to new extremes.

Here are 170 bucket list ideas for those who love to travel.

170 Bucket List Ideas for Travelers

Instead of just putting a thought on hold, get your ideas on paper and make your dreams a reality. If you have the opportunity to do at least one of these activities, don’t think twice about it. Add it to your bucket list and get your adventure started! 

1.    Dive At the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

There are many fantastic reasons why you should dive into the world’s largest reef, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, starting with the superb opportunity to swim alongside tropical fish.

The coral reefs are home to 1,500 different fish species but don’t be surprised if you encounter green sea turtles, jellyfish, and the white-tipped reef shark along the way.

This Australian landmark boasts incredible diving and snorkelling opportunities, with various tour operators taking care of all your equipment needs. Choose how you explore the reef based on your personality and preferences.

If exploring underwater isn’t your kind of adventure, the coast of Australia is teeming with catamarans and yachts . See the views from above water and catch seabirds soaring above the ocean.

2.    Learn a Foreign Language

You probably haven’t had enough time to learn a new language while exploring a new country. Apps like Duolingo allow you to learn a new language from the comfort of your couch.

And while it’s never easy learning a new language, it can be so rewarding when travelling to a foreign destination.

3. Cycle Over the Golden Gate Bridge

Possibly one of the most iconic bridges in America, this spectacular red bridge is picture perfect and fittingly used as the backdrop for many San Francisco postcards.

It stretches over nearly 2 miles (3.2 km) over the narrow strait connecting San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. And once you’ve arrived, be sure to check out these restaurants in San Francisco .

The bridge was completed in 1937 and was considered an engineering marvel at the time. There are many interesting facts about the Golden Gate Bridge . One of the most fascinating is that the bridge can bend.

A bridge walk marked the 50th anniversary of the bridge, and the weight of 300 000 people caused the bridge to sag 7 feet under and flatten the arch.

⇒ Interested in heading to California? Check out my posts on Unique Restaurants in San Francisco , Things to do in Calistoga review of the great Solage Spa , visiting Yosemite in One Day , 10 Stunning Sunsets in California and in Yosemite in October and my guide to a Livermore Wine Tasting .

4. Go Skiing somewhere glamourous

For those of you living in Europe and Canada , skiing might seem like an everyday activity. But for those living in a warmer climate, the magic of snow is ever-present.

Whether it’s the idea of skiing along dreamy slopes or hiding away in a snowy cabin, a winter wonderland vacation is a must.

There’s no need to worry about being a beginner either. Almost all resorts offer ski lessons to teach you the ways of the trails.

Top ski resorts for an icy vacation:

• Whistler Blackcomb, North America
• Courchevel, France
• Zermatt, Switzerland
• Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
• Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy
• Niseko, Japan

5. Visit Lady Liberty

Arguably, the Statue of Liberty is the most iconic landmark in North America. Lady Liberty has her own island within New York City. This copper statue was originally a gift to the United States from France.

The statue’s metal framework was designed by Gustave Eiffel, also responsible for one of the most famous landmarks in France the Eiffel Tower.

The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886 but holds a tablet inscribed with the date of US independence, July 4 1776. A broken shackle and chains lie at her feet, a symbol of the recent abolition of slavery in the United States.

The statue became a symbol of freedom, particularly as it was often the first sight of the USA seen by incoming immigrants.

Today, at least 4 million people a year visit the Statue of Liberty. There is no charge for entrance to the monument but there is a cost to take the ferry from Manhattan to Liberty Island. The ferry also stops at Ellis Island.

If you wish to climb up to the crown, paid tickets must be booked in advance.

Book your Statue of Liberty tickets here – including Skip the Queue Options.

6. Experience the Northern Lights in Iceland

Instead of setting your mind on seeing the Northern Lights, think of the travelling experience as an Aurora hunt. For seeing the Northern Lights , you’ll need long nights and quite a bit of luck. But it’s all made fun with snowmobiles and minibuses trailing through snowy forests in search of the colourful lights.

One of the best ways to give yourself the best chance of seeing the lights is to choose your accommodation wisely. I spent one week in Iceland and saw the Northern Lights twice at my hotels so check out my post on the best hotels in Iceland to see the Northern Lights.

7. Drink at an Italian Wine Bar in Montepulciano

Montepulciano is quite frankly heaven for wine lovers. This stunning hilltop Tuscan town is ridiculously beautiful and it is just filled with wine. Wineries, red wine, white wine, wine cellars, oak casks, wine shops, wine bars – it really is just wine-tastic! There are so many wineries in Montepulciano.

In addition to all that wine, Montepulciano is also a beautiful hilltop town. It is pedestrianised and full of small steep streets oozing with atmosphere – and some amazing restaurants and wine bars.

The main square of Montepulciano sits right at the top of the town and has a beautiful church and tower.

Read more in my post on the best 12 Best Wineries in Montepulciano and 7 Romantic Tuscany Boutique Hotels .

8. Fly Over the Grand Canyon

Massive expanses of gorges, intricate rock formations, and all kinds of ridges leave even the grandest of travellers blown away by the Grand Canyon. Walk to the edges of the formations and experience otherworldly views.

The Grand Canyon is divided into two regions. Visitors can choose to visit the South or North Rim, with the journey between them lasting around 4.5 hours. The Trans Canyon Shuttle runs daily. As well as lookout points, the Grand Canyon is a beloved hiking destination, comprising some of the country’s top trails .

Top Tip: Camping trips, rapid rafting, or spending the night at Phantom Ranch require you to have the necessary permits. During the summer season, these permits can be hard to come by. Once you’ve added the Canyons to your bucket list, it’ll be time to get the plan rolling.

9. Go on an African Safari

Escaping into the wilderness is something you have to do at least once in your lifetime. It’s a chance to sleep under a blanket of stars while listening to the sounds of nature. Sunrise game drives set the scene for catching the wildlife’s morning ventures, while sunset drives reveal hunting lions and grazing rhinos.

But you’ll also come across tented camps that allow you to live off the grid. While these tents are simple, they’re as close to wildlife as it gets.

Whether you’ve set yourself up for seeing the Big 5, hot-air ballooning over the savannah, or witnessing the Great Migration, a safari never disappoints. I highly recommend starting your safari experiences in South Africa. It is perfect for honeymooners or those looking for a safari spa experience.

10. Swim with Pink Pigs in Exuma, Bahamas

Because how often do you get the chance to swim in crystal clear waters with adorable swimming pigs? No one knows how these pigs made their way to the island, but some think that sailors brought these animals on board decades ago.

There are now around 20 of them wandering along the shores and snacking on treats left by islanders. Embark on a boat trip through to the Exuma Cays, where the piggies greet you.

There’s so much more to Exuma than swimming pigs. Discover secret sand bars, feast on seafood at Eddie’s Edgewater Grill or dance the night away at Chat’n Chill.

11. Walk along the Great Wall of China

The ‘Seven Wonders’ were originally deemed the wonders of the ancient world. Today, a new and updated set of wonders have been created. More than 100 million votes have been cast to determine what should make it onto the list.

This ancient series of walls and fortifications were built around 500 years ago in Northern China. Estimates of its length vary greatly from 1,500 kilometres to more than 15,000 kilometres.

There is actually more than one Great Wall of China. The walls are often in bits and not necessarily as magnificent as the photos we often see. There is a huge variety in the state of sections of the wall from the well maintained to very wild portions which have been taken over by nature.

The sections of the wall around Bejing have ancient precedents, some of which are underneath the wall.

Spring and Fall are generally the best times to visit the Great Wall of China. The wall crosses nine provinces and the four most recommended sections to visit are around Bejing.

Do check the section that you are planning to visit as there can be large variations in fitness levels needed to visit and walk different sections of the Great Wall of China.

12. Look over Seattle from the top of the Space Needle

This Seattle icon was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair. The futuristic design was inspired by Space Age aspirations. The Seattle Space Needle is located at Seattle Centre and provides 360 degree views of some of Seattle’s most scenic sights such as Mount Rainier and Puget Sound.

Today the Seattle Space Needle offers an all-glass floor and an open-air deck. The floor to ceiling glass also offers an outdoor observation deck with open air glass walls and glass benches.

The Oculus is a steel, wood, and glass staircase that connects the all-glass upper deck with a rotating glass floor. This glass floor offers a unique downward view of the Seattle Space Needle.

There are several different options for tickets. The Seattle City Pass includes the Space Needle. Or pre-book a skip the line ticket.

14. Climb the UK’s Highest Mountain, Ben Nevis in Scotland

Sure Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK. But it’s up and back in the day. And I’ve done Kilimanjaro. I’d climbed Snowdon the year before and whilst it was a big day it was manageable.

I really didn’t think climbing Ben Nevis would be that big a deal. I was very wrong.

Fort William  is the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom. There is rock climbing, ice climbing in the winter, trekking, canoeing, kayaking – you name it and Fort William probably offers it.

The reason that Fort William has become the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom is that it is home to Britain’s tallest mountain,  Ben Nevis .

I have written a separate blog post on  climbing Ben Nevis  which I highly recommend you read if you’re interested in taking on the mountain.

The key things to remember are that the weather can change unbelievably fast, it is quite a challenging climb and I highly recommend you go with a guide or in a group.

15. Marvel at the Hoover Dam

This concrete dam is on the border between Nevada and Arizona. The Hoover Dam was constructed during the great depression in the early 1930s.

Named after then President Hebert Hoover, it was opened by President Franklin Roosevelt.

In the early 1930s an entire city was built to home the 5000 workers on the dam, Boulder City.

The Hoover Dam created the largest reservoir in the US, Lake Mead. Today, Lake Mead not only supplies water to 3 states and Mexico it is also a popular tourist site. Today, nearly one million people visit the Hoover Dam each year.

The Hoover Dam structure is very art deco and cool – even the toilets! The highlight of visiting the dam is heading down 600 feet and seeing the turbines and learning about how they used water to cool the concrete so it would set faster and a whole bunch of ingenious and amazing things that were done to make this dam work.

The Hoover Dam is a half-day trip from Las Vegas . It takes about one hour to get to Hoover Dam and the total trip is 4 ½ hours.

⇒ Book your Hoover Dam Tour

16. Visit Chichen Itza in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Chichén Itzá is a Mayan city that once thrived in the 9th and 10th centuries. Now visitors can marvel at the ruins and get a feel for the ancient city life. Within the same area, visit sinking cenotes, temples, and pyramids.

17. Visit the ancient city of Petra in Jordan

Visit the ancient city of Petra in Jordan , once populated by 3,000 civilians, that is nestled along mountains and cliffs. The first view of The Treasury in this pink hidden city is unforgettable as is the view from the top of The Monastery.

18. Machu Picchu in Cuzco Peru

Explore the mysterious Incan citadel and experience sensational views from atop the hill. As a UNESCO heritage site and one of the most awe-inspiring destinations globally, travelling to Machu Picchu isn’t cheap nor simple, but it’s more than worth it; after all, it is a bucket list destination.

19. Look over Rio from the Christ the Redeemer Statue in Brazil

This vast statue of Jesus stands atop Mount Corcovado, dating back to just after World War 1. With 6 million tiles making up the colossal statue, Christ the Redeemer has an aura of uniqueness. And as it’s in a city as popular as Rio, it’s not an activity that’ll require much planning.

20. See the Colosseum in Rome

Damaged by the natural elements, the Colosseum is the largest structure surviving from ancient Rome. A visit to the Colosseum is another item that must be ticked off your bucket list. You’ll also be in one of the most historically rich cities in the world and a foodies paradise.

21. Sit on the Diana bench at the Taj Mahal in India

Widely considered to be the most beautiful building every made, the Taj Mahal is located in Agra in India. Legend has it that Shah Jahan’s favourite wife made him promise on her death bed to create the most beautiful mausoleum ever imagined.

The Taj Mahal was built between 1631 and 1648. Stone masons and artists came from all over India and from as far as Iraq to create the marble building. In addition to the beauty of the white marble the Taj Mahal there are many semi precious stones, carvings and other beautiful details throughout the mausoleum.

The domes of the Taj Mahal are framed by four minarets. Two red sandstone buildings are also located on either side of the building.

All of these buildings are located in the lovely gardens of the Taj Mahal as well as the stunning reflecting pool.

It is possible to visit the Taj Mahal on a day trip from Delhi. It opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. It is closed on Fridays.

Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online . Choose your date on line and either a morning or afternoon entry.

22.   See Niagara Falls from either side

Famed for its grand allure, Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most visited landmarks. The land that encompasses the falls is split between Canada and the state of New York , in the United States. It features three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Horseshoe Falls is the only one of the three that resides in Canada. It’s also the largest.  It drops roughly 57 metres down and is an impressive 790 metres wide.

As you can imagine, this famous Canadian landmark is an incredible place to witness the true beauty and power of nature first hand.

⇒ Book a ticket for the observation deck of Niagara Falls .

23. Meet Someone You Love at the top of the Empire State Building

This 102 story Art Deco building in midtown Manhattan was built over 1930 and 1931. The name comes from the nickname for the state of New York – the Empire State.

The Empire State Building stands 443 metres tall including its antenna. For many years it was the world’s tallest building. Today it has slipped down the list to be the 48th tallest building in the world and is only the 7th tallest building in New York City.

Many of the landmarks in this post have had major Hollywood careers but perhaps none more so than the Empire State Building. From King Kong to An Affair to Remember to Sleepless in Seattle, this North America landmark is a true star.

It is possible to visit the Empire State Building and head up to its famous decks with amazing views over Manhattan and the outer boroughs. Choose whether to head to the 82nd floor or all the way to the 102nd floor.

24. The Amalfi Coast in Italy

The idyllic weather, charming streets and natural beauty have been drawing people from all parts of the globe to the Amalfi Coast. The mountainous coast is dotted with magical vacation homes, hotels and restaurants.

Travelling to the coast between May and October provides you with vibey streets, fantastic weather, cultural events and warm waters. Naturally, the streets and beaches are buzzing with tourists, which means that booking accommodation and transportation is absolutely essential.

The coast is the perfect place for spending an extended trip. The area is made up of 13 different municipalities, each deemed a UNESCO heritage site. Exploring each area reveals new towns with different traditions and aesthetics.

25. See the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The pyramids are one of the most recognizable structures in the world. As well as being a site worth seeing, the history behind them is just as important. They pay a huge tribute to Egypt’s Pharaonic rulers and symbolize how strong of a civilization Egypt must have been.

Iconic pyramids to visit are the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Menkaure, Pyramid of Khafre and the Sphinx. Surrounding these structures are cemeteries that hold the tombs of queens and a daughter of the Pharaoh.

Booking yourself a tour is crucial to visit the pyramids. You’ll need a tour guide to share Egypt’s history, the incredible facts, and the construction of the last of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’.

26. Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia

This enormous Buddhist temple is located in the north of Cambodia. As it is spread over 400 acres it is said to be the largest religious monument in the world. It was first built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple.

Over the coming centuries Angkor Wat became used less commonly as a place of worship and fell into disrepair. In the 18th century it was rediscovered by a French explorer, Henri Mouhot.

Angkor Wat was built from sandstones and its 15 foot walls protect over 200 acres within the temple. Plus it has a very photogenic moat.

Angkor Wat became a UNESCO listed site in 1992 and today receives more than 500,000 visitors a year. The nearest town is Siem Reap, which was pretty much built to support visitors to Angkor Wat.

The key time of day to visit Angkor Wat is sunrise. However, you will find that the site is extremely busy at this time of day. Most of the tourist buses will pull away as soon as the sun has risen so that visitors can return to breakfast at their hotels. This is the time to stay at Angkor Wat as it becomes quite still and rather magical.

27. Drive the A87 and B roads around the top east side of The Isle of Skye in Scotland

The scenery in this area of the Isle of Skye was absolutely majestic – although of course, it was constantly changing with the weather.

Depending on the weather your first stop can be  Quiraing   – a very scenic rock formation. There is a walk to the prison but the weather was not on my side so we didn’t risk it.

The  Old Man of Storr  is also great for photos and is perhaps the most famous walk on the Isle of Skye as well as its icon. The Isle of Skye is one of the highlights of this Scotland Itinerary 7 Days.

Driving along the coast and you’ll then hit the stunning and windy  Kilt Rock  – so named as it does resemble a tartan print. Then head inland to the picturesque  Fairy Glen.

Movies have been filmed here and it does have a genuinely magical feel – and a lot of sheep.

28. Discover an Underground Cenote in Tulum

Cenotes are sinkholes that have been naturally created when a cave collapses in on itself. While that may sound like a disaster, it leaves crystal clear waters and limestone formations exposed. You can hop into these cenotes and explore underwater caves that are soaked in beauty.

Tulum is well-renowned for its cenotes, some of which are open and can be seen above ground, while others are hidden underground.

Adventures to the caves allow travellers with all levels of experience to explore the waters, with expert divers able to travel deep into the caves. Those new to snorkelling can explore the cenotes with experienced guides .

Top tip: Your time in Tulum means you can tick two bucket list items off your list. From Tulum, Chichén Itzá is only a two-hour drive.

29. Plan a Great American Road Trip

If you’ve ever dreamed about exploring a country by car, there’s no better place to start than America. While it might sound like it’s an adventure for hippies, luxury RV rentals provide you with all the creature comforts for a trip around the states.

Diverse routes take you through National Parks, alongside the Mississippi River, the Florida Keys and funky towns. Each of these routes hold their own unique attractions and spots for sightseeing.

Apart from finding the perfect RV rental, you’ll need to be on the lookout for stopover spots. Various national parks, campsites and RV stopovers allow you to park overnight, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and a safe spot to spend the night.

30. Island Hop in Indonesia

Indonesia and the neighbouring islands attract water babies for all kinds of reasons. Surfers have the opportunity to surf in a world-class destination, while snorkelers couldn’t find a better location for a vacation spent exploring the waters.

With around 17,000 islands, you’re spoilt for choice when creating your island-inspired bucket list. Many islanders choose to rent houseboats and spend some time on the water. Others prefer the idea of chartering a boat to explore a number of islands.

Monkey Forest, rice paddy fields, swings in the forest, and volcano hiking trails await back on land. You’ll find that you’re not spending as much money as you would on other vacations. Indonesia can be an affordable destination if you plan on keeping it relatively simple. 

31. Watch Whales in Hermanus South Africa

Hermanus is a lovely coastal area of South Africa about a 90-minute drive from Cape Town. It is the home of the Southern Right Whales from June to December which is the best time for whale watching in Hermanus South Africa.

The whales migrate from the Antarctic around June for mating and breeding. The area has been recognised by the World Wildlife Fund and Whale Watching Hermanus is one of the 12 best places whale watching destinations in the world.

This region of South africa is also ridiculously beautiful! And there are more animals to see besides whales – African Penguins – and some jawdropping walks and drives.

32. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Cappadocia Turkey

Stunning Cappadocia is a national park in the middle of Turkey. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes and its fairy chimneys. Much of Cappadocia looks like another world.

The best way to experience Cappadocia is in a hot air balloon as the sun rises. Not only will you have stunning views of the valleys of Cappadocia, but you will also see the beautiful sight of many hot air balloons dotting the sky.

33. See the Garden of the Future in Singapore

Gardens by the Bay was my Singapore highlight and is perhaps my favourite landmark in Asia. Sure it is a massive tourist attraction but it is fantastic. I particularly loved the sci-fi trees.

Gardens by the Bay is such a mix of garden meets futuristic design. Most importantly it provides many photo opportunities.

First up at Gardens by the Bay was the Flower Dome . The domes are the same type of thing you find at the Eden Project in Cornwall. The Flower Dome Singapore is focused of course on flowers and plant life. It is pretty but this one is definitely more of a thrill if you have a green thumb.

One thing I didn’t do which would have been great was to visit Pollen . This is a Jason Atherton restaurant in the middle of the Flower Dome. I love his restaurants and it would have been great to have a meal in the middle of the Flower Dome – next time.

Singapore does a great job of putting fab restaurants in its major tourist sights (see the National Orchid Park).

I far preferred the Cloud Forest Dome at Gardens by the Bay. The Cloud Forest houses a mountain of sorts and features the highest indoor waterfall in the world.

The path essentially takes you to the top of the mountain and you then head down some fantastic stairways to “climb” down the mountain (not a good one if you have a fear of heights as it is very open).

Next up was a walk down to the Supertrees. The Gardens by the Bay Supertrees were my favourites in terms of photography. The key was trying to get the right angle and as always the right light.

The Supertrees look best with a very blue sky behind them. I paid the $8 to do the OCBC Skyway and this was well worth it. This is basically an outdoor bridge between the supertrees and was the best way to get some great shots.

Gardens by the Bay is one site that you definitely want to book ahead as the queues can be massive! This skip the queue ticket covers entry to the Sky Garden, the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest Dome, and the OCBC Skyway.

⇒ Skip the Queue tickets for Gardens by the Bay

⇒ If you’re planning a trip to Singapore check out my post on how to spend One Day in Singapore : Hidden Gems and Classics.

34. The Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy

Lovely Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 until 476. As such it has some stunning architecture which has been very well preserved and is home to several UNESCO sites.

But best of all Ravenna has mosaics. I had heard about the mosaics of Ravenna and in all honesty I had never been particularly excited about them. Until I visited Ravenna.

The Basilica di San Vitale, the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and the Galla Placidia Mausoleum all feature what can only be described as jaw droppingly beautiful mosaics over very large areas.

Plus Ravenna is a charming city with lots to explore and some wonderful restaurants.

35. Wonder how Stonehenge was created

Built over 5,000 years ago, the stone circle for which Stonehenge is best known was erected around 2,500 BC. Each stone is about 4 metres high, just over 2 metres wide and weighs about 25 tons.

Stonehenge is owned by the Crown but managed by English Heritage and became a UNESCO site in 1986. Today nearly 1 million visitors head to Stonehenge each year and crowds flock to see the Winter and Summer solstices set in each year.

It is possible to visit Stonehenge for free but alas you will struggle to capture a good photo from that distance. The standard tour of Stonehenge involves a 2.6 mile one way circular path with a handset filling you in on the history of Stonehenge.

The tour does bring visitors quite close to Stonehenge so it is possible to get some great photos. As always queues at Stonehenge can be lengthy so you may want to book a skip the line ticket for Stonehenge.

36. Look up at the ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

The Sistine Chapel is a chapel in Vatican City. The chapel was restored between 1473 and 1481. However, it was between 1508 and 1512 that Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the chapel in what is regarded as one of the most significant artistic accomplishments of all time.

Today the Sistine Chapel is where the papal enclave is held. This is the process by which a new pope is selected.

It is not possible to visit The Sistine Chapel on its own – you must have a ticket for the Vatican Museums. The Sistine Chapel is actually free to visit once you have a ticket for the Vatican.

⇒ Book your skip the line ticket for the Vatican.

37. Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain in Rome

The Trevi Fountain is located at a junction of three roads and was one of the original sources of water in Ancient Rome. A competition was held in the 1700s by Pope Clement XII for a new design for the fountain. Nicola Salvi was awarded the prize.

The Trevi Fountain was finished in 1762, 11 years after Salvi died. Work on the fountain was completed by four other sculptors. More recently restorations have been conducted in 1988, 1998 and 2013.

Legend has it that if you throw one coin into the Trevi Fountain you will return to Rome. Two coins mean that you will return to Rome and you will fall in love. Three coins mean you will return to Rome, find love and marry.

The coin is supposed to be thrown by the right hand over the left shoulder for maximum results. In 2016 about USD$1.5 million was thrown into the Trevi Fountain. The money goes to the needy of Rome.

The Trevi Fountain is free to visit and gets very busy. The hours between midday and 7 pm tend to be the busiest so do try to avoid them. The fountain lights up once the sun goes down which can make for some lovely photos.

38. Take the Southwest Coastal Drive 300 Route in Scotland

Any stories about driving around Scotland normally focus on the justifiably wonderful  North Coast 500  road which runs through the jaw-droppingly beautiful  Scottish Highlands

The Southwest Coast Drive 300 Scotland route is considerably less well known – but in many ways just as beautiful.

The route is just over 300 miles and is circular so you can start it in many different spots. A good place to start the South West Coast Drive 300 is Lockerbie.

The South West Scotland 300 can then be followed to Dumfries and then all along the coast to the Mull of Galloway and back up through Girvan.

Read more about Scotland’s least visited region in my post on 11 Things to do in Dumfries and Galloway.

39. Fly over the Grand Canyon

Both the largest and the longest canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 6,000 feet deep and 18 miles wide. Carved by the Colorado River, the canyon is located in Arizona.

The Grand Canyon has built up over nearly two billion years. Scientists believe that that the Colorado River established a path through the canyon about 5 to 6 million years ago (give or take a few hundred thousand years).

As the Grand Canyon is so large there are many ways to visit. It is located within a national park and a digital pass for entrance to the park can be purchased online.

The key regions of the park are the South Rim and the North Rim. There is both lodging and camping in the park and options for trekking as well as driving. The majority of the park’s 5.5 million visitors each year head to the South Rim. (The South Rim is open all year round but the North Rim is only open mid-May to Mid-October).

A car is quite important to get around such a large park. There are loads of different options and itineraries as well as different levels of difficulty for treks etc etc – the Grand Canyon park website is a great source of information.

Or do what I did and take a helicopter ride from Las Vegas for a day trip to the Grand Canyon including a visit to the Skywalk (not for those with a fear of heights) and a flight down the Las Vegas strip on the way back.

40. Take a boat trip in Iceland’s Iceberg Lagoon

Iceland’s glacier lagoon Jokulsarlon is jaw droppingly beautiful and quite unlike anything that I had ever seen before. It makes total sense that scenes from James Bond movies have been shot here.

Huge blocks of ice break off from the nearby glacier and end up floating in the lagoon. The lagoon isn’t very wide but it is the deepest lake in Iceland at 250 metres.

The best way to see Jokulsarlon is from one of the zodiac boat cruises which run regularly.

41. See the Sydney Opera House in Australia

One of the most famous buildings in the world, the iconic Sydney Opera House does not disappoint. One of the 20th century’s most iconic buildings it first opened in 1973 and is a must for any Sydney Itinerary .

This is a live, working building with performances day and night. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the Sydney Opera House to find out all the backstories and to be able to explore the building. 

A second great way to visit the Opera house is to attend an opera . Yet again, this is a ticket to book far in advance as tickets for actual opera at the Sydney Opera House tend to sell out fast. 

The third way to experience the Opera House is through food and wine. The Opera House is home to one of Australia’s top restaurants, Bennelong .

If you are looking for something more casual there is no better way to finish off any day exploring Sydney than with a glass of wine at the Opera Bar . Like the fish markets, the Opera Bar is loved by locals and tourists alike.

The views from the Opera Bar Sydney are fabulous and the outdoor seating area is massive so no matter how busy it is you should be able to get some kind of seat. The wine list is long and there are lots of food options.

⇒ Heading to Sydney? Check out my posts on the best Barangaroo Restaurants , the perfect Sydney Itinerary , a day trip to Watsons Bay Sydney and the best weekend getaways from Sydney .

42. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia

This famous steel bridge first opened in 1932. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is nicknamed the coathanger due to its distinctive shape. Today the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a busy day and night with cars and pedestrians and a critical link between central Sydney and the northern suburbs.

There are several ways to experience Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll see it from many view points in Sydney, you can easily drive over it or walk both over it or under it.

But the best way to experience Sydney Harbour Bridge is to climb it. Yes, it is expensive. And you can’t take your camera which really hurts. But The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is fantastic.

I wouldn’t recommend it if you are scared of heights though – it is extremely safe and you are clipped in the whole time but it would be tough if you suffered from any type of vertigo.

There are three different options for tickets. The standard is the summit ticket which involves going to the top of the bridge (134m) and then back down in 3 1/2 hours. This involves 1390 stairs.

The express ticket does the same in 2 1/2 hours and is 1000 steps. The sampler ticket is 1 1/2 hours and only includes climbing a small portion of the bridge. 

The cost may then vary depending on the time of day. Tickets are booked in one-hour slots. Twilight and night are more expensive. I would highly recommend taking the twilight option as the sunsets in Sydney can be amazing. 

43. Visit the World’s Oldest Republic, San Marino

San Marino is the oldest republic in the world and it has never been taken over by anyone. This small country of just 61 square kilometres sits on top of a hill and overlooks the Italian countryside.

San Marino is home to just 30,000 people but has its own police, its own schools and it doesn’t belong to the European Union. So it isn’t actually Italy strictly speaking but I decided it was okay to put it in this post as it is kind of in Italy.

A hilltop town in Italy is always going to be at least a base level of photogenic. San Marino then has multiple sculptures, is mostly pedestrianized with lovely paved streets, excellent use of flowers throughout the country and amazing views everywhere.

The highlight of San Marino is walking to the very top of the country and its famous three towers which date back to the 11th century.

Another way to get some fantastic views of the Italian countryside is to take the compact San Marino funicular. The funicular will bring you up into the main square of San Marino.

Find out more about San Marino in my post on things to do in Rimini and nearby.

44. Walk Around Uluru in Australia

Uluru or Ayers Rock is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. This large sandstone rock is located kind of in the middle of Australia in the southern end of the Northern Territory. It is 335kms south west of the nearest bit town, Alice Springs.

Uluru is one of the most important indigenous sites in Australia and is sacred to the Aboriginal people. It is also a World Heritage site.

The rock was christened Ayers Rock in 1873 by the surveyor William Gosse. In 2002 and the preferred name of the rock was changed to Uluru.

Uluru is 348 metres high and has a circumference of 9.4kms. Climbing of the rock is no longer permitted. However, there are still several ways to enjoy this famous Australian landmark.

One of the most common ways to experience Uluru is to walk around it on a tour – or if you’re a runner many like to run around it during their stay. It is possible to fly over the rock. Best of all is to plan your day around seeing the rock as different times. As the sun changes position in the sky Uluru appears to take on different colours.

Whilst Ayers Rock can be visited in a serious day trip from Alice Springs an icon of this magnitude deserves at least one sleep over. All types of accommodation is available near Uluru.

44. Climb up Gaudi’s Unfinished Masterpiece in Spain

La Sagrada Familia is probably one of the first Spanish landmarks you think of when you picture the country. This iconic basilica is truly one of a kind. Designed by the imaginative architect Antonio Gaudi, his signature creative style is on full display.

The construction for the church started in 1882 and still isn’t finished. It’s an ongoing process that isn’t expected to be completed until 2026. The building blends religious elements with natural symbols in an artistic way that will leave you completely mesmerised.

Sagrada Familia receives approximately 4.5 million visitors every year. The number of tickets for sale as well as the entry times is limited. This is definitely a European landmark you want to book a skip the line ticket ahead of your visit.

Tickets can be purchased up to 2 months in advance and are available in 15 minute slots. Once you have entered Sagrada Familia you may stay for as long as you like. Entrance to the towers costs extra.

45. Visit the World’s most famous palace – Buckingham Palace in England

Home to the Queen of England , Buckingham Palace is perhaps the most well-known palace in the world. The palace was originally known as Buckingham House and was purchased for the queen by King George III in 1761.

It became the London residence of the British monarchy when Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837. Today Buckingham Palace is home to Queen Elizabeth.

The highlight of many special occasions in the United Kingdom is seeing the Queen and the rest of the Royal Family gather on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to greet the crowds.

⇒ Buckingham Palace is only open to the public between July and October. Visitors can see the  State Rooms and the gardens . If you are visiting at other times of the year the closest you can get is outside the gates (which still allows for some good photos), seeing the free  changing of the guard , or visiting the  Royal Mews .

⇒ Heading to London? Check out my posts on 13 Unusual Experiences in London , the best London Food Tours , my virtual London Travel Blog , some great Earlsfield restaurants , 14 Things to do in Notting Hill , restaurants near Clapham Junction and Victoria Station restaurants , 16 Famous Landmarks in Europe , a mad hatter afternoon tea party and a day trip to Brighton , 18 Landmarks of London from a local, 15 Places to see Sunsets in London , 9 Places to watch the Sunrise in London , 10 Bridges in London Not to Miss and Cotswolds tour from London options.

46. Hold up the Leaning Tower of Pisa

This freestanding bell tower is not just a famous monument but possibly one of the most famous buildings in the world. The “lean” is nearly four degrees and is because the foundation of the building is unstable.

The tower began to lean during its construction in the 12th century and unfortunately got worse up to its official completion in the 14th century. By 1990 the lean was 5.5 degrees. Repairs work took place during 1993 and 2001 that corrected the lean-to just under 4 degrees.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is not particularly tall at just over 55 metres – I remember being quite surprised at how small it was when I visited. The tower is located in Pisa’s Cathedral Square and also includes Pisa Cathedral and Pisa Baptistry.

If you’d like to go inside the tower and climb up to the top paid entry is required. It is possible to book a skip the line ticket for the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Otherwise there is no charge to see the building from the exterior and to take the famous photo where it looks as if you are holding up the tower!

47. Go for a swim at Bondi Beach in Australia

Bondi Beach is synonymous with Australia. Australia has many beautiful beaches but this is the one that has become the most famous. It is a beautiful big white sand beach. However, it is also only a few kilometres away from the centre of Sydney making it easily accessible.

It is very easy to visit Bondi Beach. Put on your bathers or cossie (Australia has many words for swimsuits), grab your towel and sunscreen and just head on down. It is as simple as that!

But do promise me that you will swim between the lines and listen to the life guards. Yes this is a very popular beach but like most Australian beaches the tides are strong and there can be animal visitors.

Bondi Beach is as popular with locals as it is with tourists so you’ll be surrounded by both. It is also home to some of the most expensive real estate in Sydney so there are also quite a few good restaurants and bars. For the quintessential Australian brunch don’t miss Harry’s.

48. Look out over Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is undeniably the most iconic structure in France and the by far, the most photographed, the Eiffel Tower . Standing in sheer wonder, the incredible edifice nestled in Champ de Mars’s centre is the tallest structure in Paris. It stands 324 meters (1,063 ft) tall.

Kicking off the top French landmarks list is undeniably the most iconic structure in France and the by far, the most photographed, the Eiffel Tower . Standing in sheer wonder, the incredible edifice nestled in Champ de Mars’s centre is the tallest structure in Paris. It stands 324 meters (1,063 ft) tall.

Built between 1887 and 1889 by French engineer Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is made of iron rather than steel. It was built to be one of the main attractions at the Paris World’s Fair in 1889.

Parisians quickly fell in love with The Eiffel Tower and more than 2 million visited in the first year that it was open. The tower symbolised French know-how and industrial genius.

Today nearly seven million people visit The Eiffel Tower every year. The top of the Eiffel Tower which can be visited is at 276 metres. The other key viewpoint is on what is called the second floor which is at 116 metres.

I highly suggest you take an Eiffel Tower summit tour and climb to the very top; there, you’ll be welcomed with panoramic views of the capital. Though the tower is impressive at any time, it becomes magical at night as its lights twinkle and oozes with romance.

49. Hear Big Ben Chime

As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, Big Ben is to London. Big Ben is actually a nickname that stuck. The name refers to both the clock and the clock tower that sits at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London.

The tower was completed in 1859. At that time it was the largest and most accurate clock in the world. Big Ben became a UNESCO listed site in 1987.

In August of 2017 Big Ben was silenced. This market the beginning of a four year project to fully repair and restore bot the clock and the clocktower. They also plan to install a lift which should make life much easier for those charged with keeping Big Ben in good condition ongoing.

The exceptions to the silencing are New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Day. There are no public tours available during the restoration period. However, one clock face can still be seen through the scaffolding.

50. Eat in Bologna Italy

Bologna, Italy is popular as a holiday destination for a variety of reasons. The city has historical appeal, housing the oldest university in the western world.

It also features charming architecture, with over 20 towers dotted throughout the area. As well as numerous grand churches and cathedrals. And some of these historic buildings are home to the loveliest boutique hotels in Bologna.

Although Bologna has a well-preserved historical centre, it still exudes a trendy cosmopolitan character owing to its large student population. Its trendy atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its culinary reputation.

As the capital city of Emilia-Romagna, it forms part of a region with a food history just as old as its celebrated university.

Find out where to stay in my post on Bologna Boutique Hotels .

51. See the The Twelve Apostles in Australia

These 12 iconic limestone stacks rise from the Southern Ocean along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. They were originally formed by erosion (they were once cliffs) over 10 million years ago and now stand up to 50 metres high. Unfortunately in 2005, the 12 Apostles became 11 when one collapsed but the name has stuck.

It will take over 4 hours driving from Melbourne to reach the 12 Apostles. However, it is one of the most scenic drives in the world along the justifiably famous Great Ocean Road. The closest town to this Australian landmark is Port Campbell.

There are several ways to enjoy this beautiful natural phenomenon. Take a scenic helicopter flight. Or hike along the Great Ocean Walk which ends at the 12 Apostles. Climb down Gibson Steps (there are 86) to the beach to see them from underneath (check the tides timetable).

52. Sail through Halong Bay in Vietnam

Halong Bay includes 1600 islands islets which form a range of limestone pillars. Most of the islands are uninhabited and quite untouched by humans. The Bay covers over 43,000 hectares.

The name Halong means descending dragon. Legend has it that dragons where sent to the bay by the gods to protect the Vietnamese from invaders. It is estimated that the limestone in the bay has been forming in different conditions for 500 million years.

It is possible to visit Halong Bay as a day trip from Vietnam ‘s capital Hanoi. However, this can be a long and stressful day where you will spend most of your time on the busiest stretches of the Bay.

There are many options for cruises around Halong Bay including overnight cruises. It is also possible to take a kayak to explore Halong Bay although of course that isn’t an option for overnight.

⇒ If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam don’t miss my post on what to do in Vietnam’s tastiest city Hoi An .

53. Go to the Opera in Verona, Italy

Home of Opera and Romeo and Juliet lovely Verona also has bags of Italian charm. It is a very walkable city and easy to get around.

The Arena di Verona is a highlight of any trip to this beautiful city in Italy. Visit during the day to get some great photos. I highly encourage you to book opera tickets before you head to Verona.

I am not the biggest opera fan but attending the opera in Verona in this beautiful amphitheater was a very memorable experience.

Climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti for some fantastic views over Verona and enjoy the square where it is located, Piazza Delle Erbe.

Casa di Giulietta is Juliet’s house. The courtyard area is free to visit but you’ll need to pay if you want to step onto the balcony. Sure it’s a bit cheesy but seeing Juliet’s balcony is a must do in Verona.

54. See the end of the Pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

For centuries, thousands of pilgrims have travelled on St. James’ Way every year, finally reaching the capital of Galicia and entering the iconic Cathedral. According to tradition, this is the burial place of the relics of James the Apostle, discovered in the 9th century.

But Santiago de Compostela is very much a living city, with other attractions for travellers, pilgrim or not: countless restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the delicious seafood of Galicia, a UNESCO World Heritage old town centre, daring contemporary art… There’s plenty to do in this city which combines history with a younger modern side.

Enjoy the amazing local octopus and other seafood delights, head to the Sunday mass which pays special tribute to the pilgrims every week and you can even walk the last couple of kilometres of the Santiago de Compostela.

55. Get Naked in a Sap in Baden Baden, Germany

This gorgeous 2000-year-old town lies at the foothills of the wonderfully named Black Forest. Baden Baden Germany has a fantastic location for exploring the region as well as everything from, of course, spas to shopping to a palatial casino within Baden-Baden itself.

Before you head to Baden-Baden Germany do check what is on. The city is well known for the three international horse races it runs each year – as it is for its Christmas markets.

But this German town is most famous for its spas. Indeed, Baden Baden Germany has 12 hot springs and has been welcoming those seeking to relax and reconnect for centuries.

Today Baden Baden has managed to keep all of those wonderful historical elements but added in more modern spa facilities, fantastic food, modern art and much more.

Find out more about this beautiful German town in my Baden Baden Spa Guide and the best Baden Baden Tours .

56. See Mostar Bridge in Bosnia

Lovely Mostar is most famous for its beautiful old bridge, Stari Most, a UNESCO listed site. Mostar is located in Bosnia Herzegovina (it’s the largest city in Herzegovina) but can also be visited as a day trip from Croatia.

The city’s famous bridge was originally built in the 16th century and reaches over the Neretva River. However, the bridge was destroyed during the civil war in the area in 1993. It was rebuilt and declared a UNESCO site in 2005.

This town of light coloured stones is heavily Ottoman influenced and full of market stalls, shops and restaurants.

57. Visit all things Gaudi in Barcelona Spain

Casa Batlló is a big and beautiful building in the heart of Barcelona. Designed in 1904 by famed Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí , it’s considered one of his most famous works of art.

The unique layout of the building is truly mesmerising. It showcases Modern architecture, Expressionist architecture, and Modernisme.

It features unusual tracery, mismatched oval and rectangle windows, protruding balconies, and colourful ceramic tiles. The arched roof has a scaly appearance and has been compared to that of a dragon or a dinosaur. It’s one of the most bizarre and wonderful landmarks of Spain.

The interior is just as fascinating. It’s worth booking a tour to explore the full package.

58. Climb Mount Fuji in Japan

Standing at over 3,700 metres, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan . The mountain is located on Honshu Island and is the seventh-highest peak of a mountain on an island in the world.

Fuji is an active stratovolcano that last erupted from 1707 to 1708. It is about 100kms from Tokyo , where it can be seen on a clear day. However, clouds and poor visibility tend to block the view. Visitors are most likely to get a good view in the colder months of the year, early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

For five months of the year it has a picturesque snowed top. Mount Fuji is officially open for climbing from early July to mid September. It is not seen as a difficult mountain to climb but is still a strenuous exercise. Climbing the mountain is popular with both locals and tourists.

Mount Fuji has ten different stations. There are paved roads up to the 5th station. There are four different trails to the summit which vary by ascent and descent times. At a minimum most people will be looking at an 8 hour return climb. If possible it is recommended not to ascend and descend in one journey due to the altitude.

Many climbers try to match their summit time for sunrise. This is normally achieved by spending the night at the 7th or 8th station and then starting out very early. In the summer sunrise can take place as early as 430am.

However, an early start may be preferable to summiting in the middle of the day and finding the mountain covered with clouds and poor visibility.

It takes about one hour to explore the summit crater of Mount Fuji. However, the mountain has very little shelter so it can be both cold and mean a high risk of sunburn.

⇒ Beautiful Japan is one of my favourite countries to visit. Check out my posts on One Day in Tokyo , 2 Day Itinerary Kyoto , 10 Day Japan Itinerary , 9 Beautiful Japan Famous Landmarks , the best things to do in Kanazawa and what to expect on the Nakasendo Trail.

59. Watch the sunset over NYC from the Brooklyn Bridge

One simply cannot go to New York without visiting the Brooklyn Bridge. The suspension bridge that spans over the East River connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan is a stunning feature of the New York skyline.

Completed in 1833, the magnificent bridge has inspired poets, artists, directors, and songwriters since then. With Frank Sinatra producing the beautiful song, The Brooklyn Bridge, for the film – It Happened in Brooklyn.

The Brooklyn Bridge really is something to look at. Gothic towers with double arches and crisscross steel cables stretch across the bridge. The best way to experience this beauty is with a walking tour over the bridge and don’t forget to explore Lower Manhattan while you’re there.

Book a guided walking tour here

60. Watch the sunrise in Paris

We all know that Paris is the city of love and I can’t think of a more magical place to watch the sunrise. Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect sunrise photo, want to spend a romantic morning with a loved one, or you’re just up for an early morning adventure, Paris is the place.

The best part about sunrise in Paris is that it’s often the only time you will have the city (almost) all to yourself. Famous landmarks are generally buzzing with excited tourists during the day, which adds to the character of the city.

But during these glorious early morning sunrises, you’ll feel the stillness of the city just before it comes alive.

61. Watch Tower Bridge open up over the Thames River in London

Completed in 1894, Tower Bridge is perhaps the most iconic of all of London’s bridges. Let’s start with the fact that it is often confused with London Bridge, best known from children’s nursery rhymes.

Tower Bridge is quite beautiful whereas London Bridge is a bit more of a plain Jane. So London Bridge has the brand name fame but Tower Bridge is the supermodel in real life.

The bridge was originally painted in chocolate brown but in 1977 it was repainted in blue, white, and red for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. It looked so fantastic that those colours have remained.

Tower Bridge is also famous for the fact that it is both a suspension and a drawbridge – and that it continues to lift every day. The bridge is 244 metres long and is 42 metres above the Thames. It is both a road and a footbridge and 40,000 people cross it every day.

Unsurprisingly, the bridge takes its name its neighbour the Tower of London.

Take a look behind the scenes at the famous bridge and discover areas such as the machinery room, which houses the hydraulic system that allows the bridge to rise for river traffic.

Plan Your Visit to Tower Bridge to see if you can watch the bridge lift – check the website to find out the dates and times for scheduled bridge lifts. Entry to Tower Bridge gets you into the engine room, up to some amazing views, and best of all access to the glass floor if you don’t suffer from vertigo. I highly recommend visiting the bridge for the views and that glass floor. NB: It’s handy to combine visiting Tower Bridge with the nearby Tower of London.

62. Watch the sunset in Santorini, Greece

Santorini is one of those idyllic travel destinations people dream about for years. This Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea is a top contender for your travel bucket list, boasting clear blue waters, impeccable beaches, and dramatic views.

When it comes to watching the sun go down, Santorini sunsets are arguably the ones to beat. The lava pebbles scattered along the beach glisten under the Grecian sun, and you can bask in the warm sunlight from one of the many cliffside spots on the island.

I’ve written an entire post on the best spots to see Santorini Sunsets.

63. See the limestone cliffs of Kotor in Montenegro

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro that is situated between the majestic limestone cliffs of Mt Lovcen and the Adriatic coast. It is extremely scenic – from its location to its small streets to the wonderful views over the city as you hike up the cliff.

The old city is a UNESCO world heritage site and was built between the 12th and 14th centuries and its city walls have protected the 4 kms of Kotor since that time.

Wander through the old town, check out the many cats that call Kotor home, climb up to the castle of San Giovanni or take a tour of the bay of Kotor.

64. Experience Hopewell Rocks in Canada at low and high tide

The Hopewell Rocks are a series of rock formations that have been uniquely shaped by tidal erosion. Located in New Brunswicks’ stunning Bay of Fundy, they stand between 12 to 21 metres tall and visiting these iconic rocks is one of the best things to do in New Brunswick .

The bases of the rocks are submerged in water twice a day during high tide. The time span between low and high tide is just over 6 hours. For the full perspective, it’s recommended to visit during both high tide and low tide.

Hopewell Rocks are visited by millions each year and are one of the best places to visit in New Brunswick. The park is open from Mid May to the middle of October. There is a lot to do – and multiple visits required to really experience Hopewell Rocks.

I highly recommend visiting Hopewell Rocks New Brunswick at both high tides and at low tide for photos. Both will result in very different shots.

⇒   Hopewell Rocks Tides Table

The easiest way to experience Hopewell Rocks at low tide is to head to the park and walk down the staircase. Once the low tide has been reached it is possible to walk between the rocks and get some nice shots. The appearance of Hopewell Rocks is most dramatic when low tide is at its peak.

⇒  Beat the queue and Book your Hopewell Rocks ticket here

65. See the Mona Lisa smile at The Louvre in Paris

When you’re in Paris, you’ll certainly not want to miss attending the most visited museum in the world: The Louvre Museum. It first opened in 1793 with an exhibition of 537 paintings, and today, it houses around 38,000 historic objects.

This iconic structure is the world’s largest art museum and is famously known for housing Mona Lisa. The original of this famous painting hangs in the Louvre today and has been since 1804.

Apart from Leonardo Da Vinci’s jaw-dropping painting, you’ll find plenty of other interesting antiques in this mega museum and symbol of Paris.

From Oriental, Egyptian, Roman & Etruscan antiques to the Greek antique section. Aside from antiques and famous paintings, the museum also houses impressive sculptures like the ‘Venus de Milo’.

IM Pei’s iconic glass pyramid was completed in 1989, adding another element to this Parisian landmark.

The Louvre Museum receives over 15,000 visitors per day, so I highly suggest booking a skip the line tour to get your spot in this iconic space. Tickets purchased online ahead of time are slightly more expensive than those purchased at the museum. However, you will be given a timed entry ticket and will not have to queue which I think is worth the extra.

64. Visit the Rainbow River in Colombia

Cano Cristales is the name of a river located in a national park in the Meta province of Colombia . The area was off-limits to tourists for many years as it was controlled by Guerillas.

The army has managed to take back control of much of this region and it is now safe for tourists to travel in this region. What makes Cano Cristales Colombia special is its unique flora in the river.

The river appears to turn a rainbow colour during the months of July to November. This phenomenon is at its height in August and September and is absolutely stunning – and unlike anything else I have ever seen.

The Rainbow River can only be visited on a tour. Flights to La Macarena take about one hour from Bogota.

65. Stay in a Thai Spa

Thailand is famous for spas and massage. There are a huge variety of spa options in Thailand from day spas to simple spas to very decadent options.

My personal favourite spa in Thailand – and in the world – is the amazing Kamalaya on the Thai island of Koh Samui. I like it so much that I have been there three times and will be returning again (I have always covered all of the costs of my stay).

Kamalaya to me is a slice of heaven. From its stunning location to its delightful staff to the amazing food to the phenomenal spa to the private beach to the pools to the gorgeous rooms – I could go. Well, I did – I have written an entire post about how much I love Kamalaya.

66. Dress up in a kimono or as a warrior in Japan

Kanazawa in Japan is home to 3 tea houses or traditional districts and they are all top Kanazawa attractions. The largest is Higashi Chaya District or the Geisha Village.

Apparently, you can dress up in a kimono all over japan – and when I say dressing up this means hair, flowers, and the whole bit. I had my experience in lovely Kanazawa .

Once you have chosen your fabrics, sash, handbag, hair accessories and shoes an expert will dress you. Then it is time for hair to finish off the look.

Now that you’re dressed up it is time to find a photogenic traditional Japanese background for photos.

67. Look at the view over London from the top of St Paul’s Cathedral

For over 1400 years St Paul’s Cathedral has stood at the highest point of the City of London on Ludgate Hill. Do remember the actual City of London is a very small part – more like a suburb – of what the rest of the world thinks of as London so this still holds true.

St Paul’s has dominated the London skyline for over 300 years with its famous dome. It is 111 metres high and was the highest building in London until 1963. It is still the highest dome in the world.

St Paul’s has been home to some of the most historic religious events in English history from the funeral of Winston Churchill to the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.

The highlight of a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral London is climbing the 560 steps to the top of the Dome and the Whispering Gallery. This circular enclosure provides fantastic views of the inside of the Cathedral. The outdoor viewing platform offers fantastic views of London.

If you’re visiting on a weekday try to time your trip for 5pm when a choral evensong takes place. The church bell’s at St Pauls are rung on Sundays.

Book your ticket for St Paul’s Cathedral online before you go to save time spent in the queue and for a small discount.

68. Watch the sunset from Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

While there are numerous places to watch the sunset in LA, Griffith Observatory is by far one of the best sunsets in California. This is because this sunset spot won’t only give you a gorgeous view of the sunset over the pacific ocean, but also the Hollywood sign, the city of Los Angeles and the impressive Griffith Observatory .

This certainly makes for a romantic setting – so be sure to bring someone special along with you.

69. Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Japan

Around the world, Hiroshima is eponymous with World War II and atomic destruction. Today, the city strives to promote a message of peace. This is best seen in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.

The park is situated at the epicentre of the atomic bomb which was the world’s first nuclear attack. The area was once the heart of the city. You can learn more about what happened on that day in 1945 at the Peace Memorial Museum.

The skeletal remains of the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall serve as a Hiroshima Peace Memorial. It’s a poignant sight listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The park is a 15-minute tram drive from Hiroshima Station. It’s open year-round, except for the last two days of December, and has a small admission fee.

70. Visit Banff National Park in Canada

Banff National Park is a place where you’ll feel an instant connection to nature. Located in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, the region is characterized by mountainous terrain full of dense trees, turquoise lakes, glaciers and icefields. It’s a scene that will truly take your breath away.

Lake Louise is one of the most popular points of interest in the park. It features plenty of outdoor activities, like swimming, fishing, and nature strolls and hikes. In winter, the lake freezes over and the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. It becomes one of the country’s most visited ski destinations.

⇒ Book a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus tour of Banff National Park and explore the highlights.

71. Visit the World’s Oldest Buddhist Temple in Myanmar

This jaw droppingly beautiful Pagoda sits on top of Singuttara Hill in Myanmar’s capital Yangon. The Pagoda itself is 112 metres high and it stands 170 metres above sea level. Yangon building regulations cap building heights at 127 metres above sea level so Shwedagon Pagoda towers over Yangon.

I was genuinely blown away when I visited Shwedagon Pagoda. It is hard to describe the impact of seeing this massive golden pagoda. It is believed that the pagoda is more than 2500 years old and that it is the oldest Buddhist temple in the world.

Shwedagon Pagoda is also said to contain relics of four previous Buddhas. The stupa is covered with 8688 sheets of gold and is studded with more than 7000 precious gems. It genuinely glows in the sun during the day and is even more impressive at night.

The pagoda is open from 6am to 10pm. It can be enjoyed at all times of the day. One of the things that I enjoyed most about Shwedagon Pagoda is that it is clearly a living temple. In the couple of hours that I spent there, I saw numerous little ceremonies and events going on. It appeared that there were far more locals than tourists.

There are four entrances to the pagoda. These require visitors to head up the hill. Each of the climbs up the hill is flanked by many vendors. In hindsight, I wished that I had gone with a guide. There was so much to see and appreciate at the actual pagoda. It would have been fantastic to have someone on hand to explain more.

72. Visit Everest Base Camp from Nepal or China

Where to begin with the world’s highest mountain? Mount Everest can be approached either from Nepal or China. Most of us won’t climb to the actual summit of Mount Everest but it is very much possible to trek to Everest Base Camp.

I trekked to Everest Base Camp in 2016 and it was quite an experience. I realised a little too late that I was a bit too old to be sleeping in freezing cold tea houses and dealing with a travel low point in terms of shared drop toilets.

You can read all about my Everest Base Camp experiences in my day by day EBC trek guide , what Nepal Tea Houses are really like (big hint: they aren’t as cute as they sound), the EBC itinerary which I should have done as well as my Everest Base Camp packing list .

If you don’t want to trek all the way to Everest Base Camp there are quite a few high-cost options such as taking a helicopter to base camp (seriously bad headaches) or taking a helicopter to the Everest View Hotel .

Most travellers base themselves in Kathmandu if they’re interested in Mount Everest. So if you would like to get a feel for the world’s highest mountain without the risk of severe headaches then why not take a scenic helicopter flight of the Himalayas from Kathmandu?

For all my complaining, seeing the Himalayas from the air (as well as some of the extraordinary views I saw on the way to base camp) is definitely an experience that you will be delighted you had.

Finally, for a luxury experience in the Himalayas check out the beautiful Dhulikhel Resort where you can have breakfast above the clouds in the Himalayas and try singing bowl treatments and more. And don’t miss their brilliant sister hotel in Kathmandu, Dwarika’s , one of my favourite boutique hotels in the world.

⇒ Interested in Nepal? Check out my posts on the Nepal tea house , a full Everest Base Camp packing list , an Everest Base Camp trek itinerary and a day by day Everest base camp trek blog And for post-trek the fantastic boutique hotel Dwarika Hotel Kathmandu , the Dhulikhel Resort and the best places to visit in Kathman du .

73. See the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty at Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

This 19th-century castle sits above the village of Hohenschwangau in the southwest Bavarian area of Germany . This German castle is perhaps best known as being the inspiration for the castle in Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

King Ludwig II commissioned Neuschwanstein castle as a retreat and in honour of the German musician Richard Wagner. The King personally funded the castle and intended for it to be his home. The town of Hohenschwangau was his childhood home.

I am not sure exactly what it was that Wagner got out of the deal!

Ludwig commissioned a stage designer rather than an architect to bring to life his vision. Alas, Ludwig only spent 11 nights in the castle before he died and the castle was opened to the public just seven weeks after his death.

Today Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany receives over 1.3 million visitors per annum. It is open virtually every day of the year (exceptions are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve and New Years Day) with changes in opening hours depending on the season.

As always I highly recommend booking your ticket online before you go and receiving a confirmed time slot for your visit.

Would you get naked at a spa? Check out my posts on Naked or Clothed – Baden Baden Spa Guide, the best Baden Baden Tour options and One Day in Hamburg – all in Germany.

74. Visit Edinburgh Castle in Scotland

There can be few castles in the world as magnificent as Edinburgh castle! It perches literally on the top of Edinburgh on Castle Rock. Don’t leave Edinburgh without visiting  Edinburgh castle.  

Human occupation of Castle Rock in Edinburgh Scotland can be traced back to the Iron Age. A royal castle first appeared in the 12th century and by the 17th century, this Scottish castle had become a military barracks.

Today Edinburgh Castle is the most popular paid tourist attraction in Scotland and the second most popular paid attraction in the United Kingdom with over 2.2 million visitors.

Highlights of a trip to Edinburgh Castle are seeing the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Royal Apartments and the gorgeous little St Margaret’s Chapel. Edinburgh Castle also provides stunning views over Edinburgh.

And at 1pm every day Mons Meg, the cannon at Edinburgh Castle, takes fire.

⇒ Heading to Scotland? Check out my Scotland Itinerary 10 Days , Scotland Itinerary 7 Days , Glasgow Tours , Edinburgh vaults tour , things to do in Dumfries and Galloway , things to do in Ayrshire, my guide to Climbing Ben Nevis , 18 Beautiful Places in Scotland and 9 great Spa Breaks Scotland .

75. See where Dracula was imprisoned at Corvin Castle in Romania

Dracula was said to have been imprisoned in this beautiful castle in Romania. One of the largest European castles, Corvin Castle was built on a hill in the 15th century.

The current castle has been somewhat “updated” to what modern architects think of when it comes to 15th-century gothic castles. This Romanian castle has featured in several movies and tv shows and is associated with several legends, mostly concerning Dracula or Vlad the Impaler.

Corvin Castle is located in Transylvania which is a 6-hour drive from the Romanian capital of Bucharest. The castle is open most days of the year although on Mondays only in the afternoon. Tickets can be purchased on arrival.

76. See one of the best located castles in the world, Lake Bled Castle in Slovenia

There are few castles in Europe that can beat Bled Castle in Slovenia when it comes to both location and view. This medieval castle in Slovenia sits on a hill top above the town of Bled and the beautiful Lake Bled.

The first mention of the castle was 1011. The towers came in the Middle Ages and the chapel in the 16th century. It is the oldest castle in Slovenia.

Grab a skip the line ticket for Bled Castle to beat the queues. Your ticket will grant you access to the castle and the top tower and its stunning views.

77. Visit the Acropolis in Athens Greece

At the centre of this history and allure is the vibrant city of Athens. The Acropolis, one of the most famous landmarks in Europe , shines like a beacon atop a rocky outcrop above the city.

The Acropolis Greece was built in the second half of the 5th-century B.C as a home for Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Today, it is a reminder of a rich cultural heritage and is a major attraction.

If you want to avoid the crowds then it’s better to arrive at the Acropolis in Athens early (the site opens to the public at 8 am in both summer and winter).

The Meditteranean sun can also reach uncomfortable temperatures so make sure that you pack water, sunscreen and a hat.

⇒ Book your Acropolis skip-the-line entry ticket and explore the landmark of western civilization.

78. Smell the Lavender Fields of Provence France

Lavender fields are to France what cherry blossoms are to Japan – and they have become even more important in the age of social media. I think we have all seen photos of influencers like myself hanging out in lavender fields, often from behind and wearing a hat!

The most famous area of France for lavender is Provence. Lavender begins to bloom at the end of June and tends to be at its peak mid July. This is also when harvesting starts and the fields will be empty by the middle of August so time your visit carefully.

There are several lavender farms in Provence which offer tours during the peak season. Some of the best places to visit are the Valensole Plateau, Salut, Notre-Dame de Semanque and Drome.

79. Walk through the Gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Japan

Fushimi Inari is a Shito Shrine in Kyoto. It is best known for its instagram friendly torii gates – there are thousands of them on a network of trails behind its main buildings. These trails lead into the forest of Mount Inari.

Inari was the Shinto god of rice and Fushimi is the most important of the several thousand shrines dedicated to him. This shrine is said to have been in place even before Kyoto was capital in 794.

The Shrine itself has several structures to see from the Romon Gate to the main hall to the entrance to its famous hiking trail the Senbon Torii. All of the torii gates along the path have been donated by companies and individuals. The donor’s names and dates and inscribed on the gates.

In case you are tempted to purchase the ultimate souvenir, costs for a small sized gate start at 400,000 yen or USD$3,777.00 as I write this post.

It takes about 2-3 hours to walk to the summit of Mount Inari. Fushimi Inari-taisha is always open and there is no entry fee.

80. Stand under the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

The Arc de Triomphe sits at the western end of the Champs-Elysee in Place Charles de Gaulle and in the middle of one of the scariest roundabouts in the world.

This famous European landmark is a tribute to those who died fighting for France in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary Wars. The names of all French victories, as well as the generals, are inscribed on the arc. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War 1 lies underneath the Arc de Triomphe.

The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon. However, it was not completed until 1836. By this time Napoleon had been banished to Elba. He was never able to see the Arc de Triomphe but his remains passed through it on the way to Les Invalides.

Every year the Bastille Day parade on July 14 starts at this triumphal Arch and the Tour de France also finishes here.

81. Look out from the Highest Building in the world in Dubai

Burj Khalifa is Dubai ’s famous skyscraper. Standing 828 metres high, it’s currently the world’s tallest building. It opened in 2010 and has since become an iconic symbol of the city.

The two observation decks of the Burj Khalifa are a must-see. As you can imagine, they offer spectacular views. One is located on the 124th and 125th floors of the building. The second one sits on the 148th floor. With an altitude of 555 metres, it’s the world’s highest observation deck.

I visited both levels. As you may expect the cost is higher to visit the 148th floor. To be honest, I didn’t find much of a difference between the two floor choices – I guess it is more about having bragging rights to say that you have visited the top of the tallest building in the world!

Both the floors have indoor and outdoor areas. The viewing deck on 125 is enclosed so it is necessary to go down to the 124th floor to get outside. The 124th floor has a large open air area.

If you do choose to visit the highest point of Burj Khalifa you will also get coffee and snacks included in your visit. And on the 125th floor selfie wings have been painted on the wall for photos.

The whole area is done very well and there are lots of opportunities to purchase souvenirs, get a photo of yourself by a professional etc etc.

82. Visit the Korean Demilitarised Zone

Korea has a fascinating war history , and any visitor to the country should definitely look into it. Full or half day tours are offered from Seoul to explore the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) which lies on the border between North and South Korea.

Any visiting of this area outside a tour is not allowed. Visiting the DMZ is one of the most popular day trips in Korea.

Through this unique experience, you will get to learn all about Korean war history. You will also get to see some sites of major interest, such as the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, the Dora Observatory, and the Korean War Memorial. These day trips out of Seoul are completely safe and include transport.

It is essential to book your DMZ Korea tour ahead of your visit as they sell out. This one day trip from Seoul is normally an early start with quite a bit of paperwork.

For me, the highlight of the tour was being able to go to the actual border between North and South Korea. The tension in the air is almost visible at the border of the Demilitarized Zone Korea. Soldiers from each side guard the border and are only steps away from each other.

I actually thought the South Korean border guard was a statue as he was so still! Until I saw the perspiration coming down the side of his face.

There are small huts along the border between North and South Korea. These huts were assembled so that meetings could be held with both sides without either side leaving their country.

Inside the huts are standard meeting tables – and this is your one opportunity to stand in North Korea and have your photo taken!

There are some terrific names in Demilitarized Zone of Korea. The Bridge of No Return was named as such because once you chose which side of the bridge you were going to there was no option to return.

There are so many interesting things to see on this Seoul day trip. The stunning and modern Dorasan train station was created for a border opening and is now virtually never used.

The Freedom House was built for reunions of families from each side – which never took place. The Fake North Korean village with the doors and windows painted on.

⇒ Check out my posts on the best Seoul Day Trips , 8 fantastic Things to do in Incheon , 13 things to do in Myeongdong , my Seoul Itinerary 5 Days , 7 Fantastic Seoul Boutique Hotels and the best things to do in Gangnam .

This was the best thing that I did in Korea – Don’t miss it!

⇒ Do make sure you book the DMZ Tour ahead – this Korea tour sells out fast.

83. Visit the Parthenon in Athens, Greece

Anyone who visits the Acropolis will also have access to the adjacent Parthenon in Athens with a combination ticket. The archaeological site was originally at the heart of religion while Greece was a powerful empire.

Although the Parthenon is in ruins, it was a large and lavish building that told of Greek wealth.

The temple was built between 447 and 432 B.C when the Greek Empire was at its height of influence. Over the years, the bold structure stood against earthquakes, wars, looting and fire.

While it no longer stands complete, the Parthenon is a powerful symbol of ancient Greek culture.

⇒ Book your private Athens full-day sightseeing tour .

84. Travel Solo

I believe that everyone should travel on their own at least once. The notion of travelling solo can be intimidating, but I don’t know of anyone who has regretted it. There is the most wonderful pleasure that comes from only having to answer to your own needs when on the road.

Plus, I always find that when I travel on my own I meet far more people than I would have if I was with a partner or a group. I also have much longer conversations with waiters, tour guides etc and end up learning far more about a destination.

85. See the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles in France

What once was the official residence of France’s royals – before the French Revolution – is now a jewel of French Baroque architecture and is by far one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe . The Palace of Versailles contains 2,300 rooms of many kinds and is spread over 63,154 m2.

Feast your eyes on dazzling chandeliers and the painted ceiling in the Hall of Mirrors; it’s truly remarkable. The palace is surrounded by stunning French gardens designed by the famous landscape designer, André Le Notre. You’ll find sculptures, fountains, and water features dotted throughout the area.

With nearly 10 million visitors every year, I highly recommend you book a tour to discover Versailles Palace and Gardens to learn more about this incredible French landmark.

86. See the Monasteries of Meteora in Greece

There are six operating monasteries in Meteora, a place where time and culture seem frozen in time. Made up of a striking rock formation, Meteora is located in central Greece and is home to a beautifully located group of monasteries.

The sight of clustered religious homes on top of the steep rocks is spellbinding. Although the Monasteries of Meteora Greece look tricky to get to, it is surprisingly accessible. It requires visitors to drive to a parking lot and then hike the trail to the monastery that they wish to visit.

Take the time to soak up the incredible panoramic views from the top and bask in the ambient energy of the spiritual sites.

To enjoy this Greek tourist attraction at your own pace, try to plan your route in advance to avoid the crowds and reduce the amount of energy you expend.

⇒ Book a tour of the ancient Meteora Holy Monasteries .

87. Walk the streets of Venice in Italy

Canals, waterways and bridges are a bit like good bone structure when it comes to making a city beautiful. And Venice has a lot of all three of those. Venice is actually 117 different islands that are linked by 150 canals and about 400 bridges or pieces of pavement.

Venice is literally built on water. The base of its buildings go deep into the ground. As the soil is so water logged there is no oxygen in it and thus no decay.

Venice and its delights are best explored on foot or by water. The Piazza San Marco is the centre of Venice and home to the magnificent Basilica San Marco – which also has some fantastic views of Venice (it is where I took the photo below).

Don’t miss the Rialto Bridge, the many Venetian Palaces , the Accademia Gallery and the Bridge of Sighs. Or a trip to the home of beautiful coloured glass Murano.

My personal favourite way to experience Venice is on Vaporetto Line 1. This water bus allows anyone to see Venice from the water (where it is often at its most beautiful), mingle with the locals, and really experience one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

88. Spend the night at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City is a 5-star château-style hotel. The large, castle-like building dominates the skyline and towers over the Saint Lawrence River down below.

It was built in the late nineteenth century by the directors of the railway society. They wanted to encourage luxury tourism, or more specifically, influence wealthy travellers to frequent their trains.

This historic hotel still operates for its original purpose. If you’re feeling frivolous, book a room and enjoy the full scale of this lavish landmark. Guests have access to the fine dining restaurant, wine bar, bistro, spa, indoor pool, and more.

Having personally stayed at this hotel I highly recommend visiting. It literally does feel like you are sleeping in a Canada landmark. The hotel inside is beautiful and bustling and the rooms are excellent.

⇒ Book a guided visit of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

89. See where East Meets West in Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul in Turkey is literally where east meets west. This beautiful city is the perfect place to get your feet wet so to speak if you’re keen to explore the Middle East or Africa . This atmospheric city has all the magic of the Middle East and North Africa with a slightly more European feel.

The Blue Mosque is possibly Istanbul’s most famous attraction. The mosque has six minarets or towers and several domes. It isn’t actually blue – it was named the Blue Mosque because of its beautiful interior tiles – but it is absolutely stunning.

Two of top places to visit in Istanbul – The Blue Mosque and Hagia or Aya Sofya – are located on the same main square in the Istanbul neighborhood of Sultanahmet. Very convenient.

Hagia Sofya has had several lives. It began as an Orthodox Cathedral and was turned into a mosque. In 1935, Ataturk proclaimed it a museum – although it is still considered by many to be the second biggest cathedral in the world.

Topkapi Palace is one of my favourite Istanbul tourist attractions. This palace was used between the 15th and 19th centuries and apparently was a hot place to go during the Ottoman Empire.

The Grand Bazaar or Kapali Carsi is the largest covered market in Turkey with over 4,000 shops. This market contains everything you could ever imagine needing.

90. Go Ice Skating on The Rideau Canal in Ottawa

The Rideau Canal is a UNESCO world heritage site and North America’s oldest continuously operating canal. Most famously, in the winter the Rideau Canal freezes over sufficiently to allow for ice skating and it becomes the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink.

These plus beaver tail stands make ice skating on the Rideau Canal one of the top things to do in Ottawa winter. However, visiting the Rideau Canal is one of the must things to do in Ottawa all year round.

I visited Ottawa in the summer. The canal was filled with boats and the 202km canal is a favourite spot for runners and cyclists. The canal winds through downtown Ottawa before connecting with the Ottawa river.

I took a cruise on the Rideau Canal. Most Rideau Canal Cruises start at the lochs near Parliament Hill. It is a very pleasant trip and a guide will provide information about the history and use of the canal.

I found the canal to be most photogenic where it intersects with Ottawa River and there is a nice bridge with locks that works well as a shot with Chateau Fairmont Laurier in the background.

⇒ Book your Rideau Canal Cruise

The cycling path along the canal is fantastic. I went on a cycling/food tour and we cycled along the canal. It is very flat so nice and easy (Ottawa has over 800kms of cycling paths).

Where it is necessary to dismount those clever Canadians always have a ramp for your bike for the minimum hassle.

91. Visit St Petersburg in Russia

Like Venice, St Petersburg is spread across a mix of big and small islands, setting it up for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city itself also has several fairytale like ornate buildings and it is also considered the cultural capital of Russia.

Perhaps the attraction for which St Petersburg is best known is the Hermitage Museum. Not only does the Hermitage contain 3 million works of art, but it is also in a beautiful confection of a building and filled with stunning rooms, arches, staircases and more architectural features.

The beautiful cathedral at the Peter and Paul fortress would also look happily at home on the top of an elaborate cake. However, this cathedral almost looks plain next to the amazing onion-domed Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (also a great name – Alexander 11 was assassinated on this spot).

The lovely River Neva and a series of canals are at the heart of St Petersburg and some of its most beautiful features. Stroll along the waterfronts as the sun sets and see this beautiful city from the water on a cruise.

92. See the Alhambra in Spain

The Alhambra in Granada is one of the most famous landmarks in Europe . Its timeline traces back to 889 CE when it was constructed as a small fortress. Then in the 13th century, it was rebuilt to serve as the palace and fortress for the Nasrid dynasty.

The lavish Moorish architectural style is on full display throughout the complex. The interior is decorated head to toe with ceramic tiles, ancient calligraphy, ornamented windows, and other intricate detailing. It’s truly a marvel of Islamic architecture and culture.

The expansive grounds comprise numerous sites, including the Nasrid Palace, Charle V’s Palace, the Alcazaba, and the gorgeous Generalife Gardens.

The best way to explore the different areas is by booking a skip the line ticket for the Alhambra.

93. Spend at least a weekend in Las Vegas

When I first went to Las Vegas I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy it. I am not much of a gambler. However, I quickly found out that Las Vegas is tremendous fun even if you don’t gamble .

From amazing hotels at good prices to outstanding restaurants to world leading live entertainment, there is so much on the famous Las Vegas strip to keep you entertained. Then add in Old Las Vegas with Fremont Street, the Mob museum, the Neon Musuem and more and you can easily stay more than a weekend.

Plus it is easy to take day trips to the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam and the Valley of Fire.

94. Drink the US’s best Cabernet in Livermore California

When it comes to California wine, most people know the Napa Valley. However, many have not heard of the actual home of California chardonnay, and current home to some of the best Cabernet in the United States, Livermore .

Just 36 miles from San Francisco , Livermore has some outstanding wineries and very cute towns ready to be explored. Hop on the Livermore Wine Trolley to safely taste some of the best wines in the area and then head to the First Street Wine Company liquor store and tasting bar to enjoy some more.

95. Visit Yosemite National Park in California

Yosemite Park is located in Eastern california in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This national park in California is a 4-hour drive from San Francisco and a 6-hour drive from Los Angeles.

The beautiful Yosemite Valley is the heartland of Yosemite Park. It is essentially an 8-mile loop full of stunning deciduous trees (particularly beautiful in the autumn) and home to some of the key sights of Yosemite Park including the Half Dome and El Capitan rocks.

Depending on the time of year of your visit, Yosemite’s famous waterfalls may be in full flow or not. And don’t miss seeing the famous Mariposa trees.

96. Go on The Sound of Music Tour in Austria

Beautiful Salzburg and its surrounding areas in Austria is where the famous movie The Sound of Music was filmed – as well as where some of the real-life events took place.

The major scenes for the movie were shot in the city centre, just outside and then further afield. In the city centre is the Palace of Mirabell where the Do-Re-Mi scene was shot and St Peter’s Cemetery was where the tension-filled shots towards the end of the Sound of Music were filmed.

Nonnberg Abbey is not only the oldest female convent north of the Alps it was home to the real Maria AND where the movie was filmed.

There are then 3 more locations in the city centre, 3 close by and 4 locations further afield. The best way to see it all is definitely a tour.

This will also provide far more context with stories about the filming itself and insider gossip. Plus when you join the bus trips they tend to play the movie so time to sing.

As you might expect there are quite a few options when it comes to Sound of Music Salzburg tours .

97. Take the Golden Circle Tour in Iceland

The Golden Circle tour is Iceland’s most popular day trip. This is generally a full day tour that departs from Reykjavik around 8am and returns at 5pm. If your flight is arriving a bit later you can opt for an afternoon tour  around the Golden Circle.

The core of the Golden Circle tour is the following 3 activities. The first is Thingvellir Park. The park is a UNESCO world heritage site and holds historical significance – it’s the location where Iceland’s first parliament was held.

Thingvellir National Park is located 40-minutes from Reykjavik and has several attractions. It’s geologically unique, where you can see a continental divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

After exploring the park, it’ll be a 40-minute drive to the Geysir thermal area. “Geysir” is a geyser in the geothermal area along the Golden Circle. Get your cameras ready to snap pictures of bubbling mud pots, springs shooting up boiling water and steaming air from the earth.

Just a quick 10-minute drive from Geysir is one of Iceland’s most iconic falls found in the Hvítá glacial river. Gullfoss is a wide, two-tiered waterfall that cascades down a 32-meter drop. For me, this was the most stunning waterfall in Iceland.

98. Watch the sunset in Ibiza Spain

Ibiza is known as the party island of Europe and is famous for its beach clubs, night clubs and music scene. But it is also home to some amazing sunsets.

Whether you want to be larging it up on the famous Sunset Strip or sipping cocktails in a beach bar, watching sunsets in Ibiza is a serene moment. It’s the perfect time to wind down, just before the island gets pumped up and brims with partygoers.

99. See the Feria de las Flores in Medellin Colombia

Did you know that Colombia is one of the biggest producers of flowers in the world? They supply more than 60% of the flowers sold in the US.

The prime source of these Colombian flowers is the area around Medellin – a benefit that comes with a climate that has given Medellin the nickname of the City of Eternal Spring.

Colombia and Medellin’s passion for all things floral comes to a head for one magic week in August each year known as Feria de las Flores Medellin.

The main way the flowers are displayed during this flowers festival is on Silleteros. These wooden contraptions used to be strapped to the backs of the workers. Flower growers and workers often had to carry their masters up steep hills.

The Silleteros are now used to make jaw-dropping floral displays and floral arrangements that are judged in the competition that is the peak of this flower festival in Colombia.

100. Have a singing bowl treatment in the Himalayas

I had never heard of a singing bowl treatment before I went to Nepal but it was on the spa menu at the beautiful Dwarika’s Dhulikhel where I was staying and even had its own special hut. Plus, the singing bowl expert had to come from Kathmandu so surely it had to be good.

The singing bowl treatment started with a chat about blockage areas. He then moved the bowl around my body and then proceeded to use it to massage my back whilst it was ringing.

It was unusual to have these sound currents whizzing through my body but in an enjoyable way and it made sure I was very in the moment. He finished the singing bowl treatment by putting a large bowl upside down on my head and then banging it.

A unique and memorable experience.

101. Eat one of the world’s cheapest Michelin star meals in Hong Kong

Tim Ho Wan in Hong Kong holds a Michelin star for its amazing dim sum. There are several branches in Hong Kong but I personally visited the location at the Olympic Shopping Centre.

Make sure you arrive early as there will almost inevitably be a queue. Once seated you will receive a sheet of paper and a pencil – no dim sum trolleys here.

The food is fast, cheap, plentiful and absolutely delicious. The highlights for me were the BBQ pork buns and the vermicelli rolls.

102. Have a massage in Ubud, Bali

Ubud is an absolutely gorgeous town in Bali Indonesia. It’s known for its arts and crafts, and as an adventurous hub for those who want to see more than Bali’s beloved boutiques and massage parlours (though it has plenty of those too).

Ubud is made for yoga and there are loads of yoga studios in town. Combine your workout with some raw food, an area of expertise for Ubud.

Once you’re done with your yoga head to one of the many places in Ubud offering massages. You will struggle to find a bad massage in Ubud.

103. See the world’s second-biggest canyon in Namibia

Namibia is a country of jaw-dropping beauty – I was particularly blown away by its extraordinary colours and by its size. This African country reminded me very much of my home country, Australia.

Fish River Canyon in Namibia is the second biggest canyon in the world – second to the Grand Canyon of course. But its visitor numbers are a lot lower as it takes some effort to get there – and not many people have heard of this stunning canyon.

It is located in the south of Namibia. In addition to being the largest canyon in Africa, it also has a 100 mile long ravine that is up to 27 km wide in some places.

There are many hiking trails and walks through Fish River Canyon. It is possible to camp. Or take a small plane over the canyon to really get a sense of its size.

104. Climb Dune 45 in Sossusvlei Namibia

Sossusvlei Namibia is one of the most extraordinary places I have ever been to. It is like being on another planet. Sand dunes for as far as the eye can see.

The colours of Sossusvlei are extraordinary at any time of the day and out of control amazing at sunrise and sunset. This area is a salt and clay pan that is surrounded by high red dunes.

The most famous Dune in Sossusvlei is Dune 45 . Its name comes from the fact that it is at the 45km mark on the road that connects one of the gates and Sossusvlei.

Apparently, it contains 5 million-year-old sand blown in from the Kalahari. Dune 45 Sossusvlei is probably the most photographed of all the dunes as its star shape has one half disappearing at both sunrise and sun.

This is also the most popular Dune to climb. Try to get to Dune 45 Namibia early in the morning to take it on and avoid the crowds.

105. Drink wine in Stellenbosch South Africa

South African wine is world-renowned. The majority of its wine production and of its wine farms are near Cape Town.

There are four main wine areas in South Africa: Constantia , Paarl , Worcester , and lovely Stellenbosch . Stellenbosch is just 50km East of Cape Town. It is located at the bottom of the Stellenbosch mountains and has a Mediterranean climate – dry and warm summers and mild and wet winters.

This is a beautiful region with rolling gentle hills and big skies. The town of Stellenbosch South africa is full of character with its Dutch-style buildings and lots of cute boutiques and coffee shops/cafes. And Stellenbosch is the closest wine region to Cape Town.

But of course, it is all about the wine. And Stellenbosch wine is just fabulous. I am Australian so I love a big rich new world wine thus Stellenbosch wines suited me down to the ground.

106. Fly Business Class

Once you turn left, it is very hard to turn right. I am afraid that this saying is quite true, particularly when it comes to long-distance flights. Business-class turns the bus-like experience that is most flights these days into something to look forward to ahead of your trip.

Business Class doesn’t always cost a fortune. It is amazing how cheap some upgrades can be so do check out all the options when booking a flight. Also, most airlines now offer passengers a chance to use points as well as money.

For me, the best time to book a business class flight is when travelling long haul. It can turn a horrible experience into something lovely and as you are on the plane for a long time you’ll be able to get your money’s worth.

107. Stay in a resort in Samoa

A small Polynesian country in the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, Samoa has traditionally been the best-kept secret in the Pacific.

Though with ten islands all intensely packed with untamed natural beauty, the secret is definitely getting out about this beautiful archipelago nation.

You won’t find mega-resorts or theme parks here, what you’ll find instead are towering waterfalls, postcard-worthy beaches, lava fields, rainforest, lagoons where you can swim with turtles, and an ancient culture – Samoa remains one of the most authentic Pacific societies left in the world today.

108. Take a Melbourne Tram in Australia

Melbourne , Australia often tops the list when it comes to the world’s most liveable cities. And I should know as I was born there and lived in Melbourne for over 25 years.

One of the most iconic images of Melbourne is the green and yellow of the Melbourne Tram. The Melbourne tram system is the largest urban tram network in the world.

Trams have operated continuously in Melbourne since 1885. Trams run thoughout Melbourne’s city centre where they are the easiest way to get around. And the heart of the city is a free tram zone so you can hop on and off without charge.

109. Go on a Borough Market Food Tour in London

Borough Market is one of the oldest and largest food markets in the United Kingdom. Markets have been held on this location since the 12th century.

However, there is nothing old-fashioned about Borough Market today. Borough Market has a strict policy about the vendors it allows into the market, ensuring all suppliers are of the highest quality. Many of London’s top restaurants source their ingredients at Borough Market at places like the Ginger Pig.

The area is also home to some of London’s best restaurants like Roast, El Pastor and Padella. As Borough Market is so large, going on a food tour is a great way to experience the market in a short time frame – and to make sure that you get lots of good samples.

110. Get a selfie with a Quokka on Rottnest Island in Australia

Visiting Rottnest Island in Perth is the most popular day trip in Australia for good reason. It takes less than one hour to get to this beautiful island from Fremantle in Perth.

Once you arrive on this mostly car-free island head to the Rottnest Bakery and stock up on treats for the day. Then hire a bicycle and spend the day exploring some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

However, don’t leave without getting a selfie with Rottnest’s most famous inhabitants – the Quokkas. These little furry guys are like small kangaroos and are native to Rottnest Island. They have never known anything but friendly people with food so they will flock to tourists and allow a selfie to be captured.

111. Watch the Ads in Picadilly Circus England

Picadilly Circus is located in the heart of London and perhaps best known for its bright neon advertising display. The circus is also home to the Eros fountain. It is very easy to find as exiting Picadilly Circus tube station will bring visitors into the heart of Picadilly Circus.

Picadilly Circus is located very close to several well known parts of London. On one side is Regent Street, filled with some of the most prestigious shopping in London and famed for its beautiful architecture. Shaftesbury Avenue takes visitors into the heart of Soho and Chinatown. And Leicester Square is only a five minute walk away.

112. Marvel at Pompeii Italy

This ancient town near Naples is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, with around 2.5 million visitors annually. Pompeii was once a lively city until Mount Versuvius erupted – covering everything in larvae and turning the city into an archaeological site.

Top attractions to see in Pompeii include the Thermal Baths, Great Theater of Pompeii and Temples. You’ll also get to see preserved artworks and mosaics.

Taking a guided tour here is highly recommended, as you’ll not only learn about Pompeii’s history but also get to skip most of the queues. If you’d like to discover the ruins on your own, you can easily catch a train from Naples or Rome.

113. See The Angel of the North England

This sculpture which stands over the city of Newcastle is probably the most famous piece of art in England. Created by Anthony Gormley, the statue was erected in 1998 in Gateshead. The Angel of the North is 20 metres high and 54 metres wide and thought to be the largest sculpture of an angel of anywhere in the world.

114. Cross the Rialto Bridge Venice

The Rialto Bridge is the first one built along the canal in Venice. It began as a wooden drawbridge that permitted sailing ships to travel between St Marks basin and the Piazzale Roma area. In 1588 the Rialto Bridge was re-built in white marble and until 1854 it was the only bridge that crossed the Grand Canal.

This Venetian bridge is 48 metres long, 22 metres wide and 7.5 metres high. It has three parallel staircases and several small arcades. This area is also well known for the Rialto Market which is open every day apart from Sundays. The market runs from the San Polo area to Rialto Bridge.

115. Feel like an excited kid at Miniatur Wonderland Germany

Miniatur Wonderland isn’t really a landmark – well it is but it is enclosed and made up of tiny elements. Miniatur Wonderland is the second most popular paid attraction in all of Germany – after the famous Sleeping Beauty Castle Neuschwanstein . This is the largest model railway exhibition in the world.

I appreciate that this doesn’t sound terribly exciting – I thought the same thing. But trust me – you do not want to miss Miniatur Wonderland.

The model railway was started by twin brothers Gerrit and Frederik Braun in 2004. Even the local tourism board thought that they were both mad.

But they now run one of Germany’s most loved tourist attractions which receive over 18 million visitors every year.

There are more than 15kms of train tracks, 389,000 lights and 263,000 figures in the model railway. Day and night simulations run every 15 minutes.

The most extraordinary thing about this Hamburg museum is the level of detail. Check out the apartment buildings in Hamburg. Every little room will have a different person or person doing different everyday activities.

The entire thing is just extraordinary and so interesting – particularly the airport.

116. Walk the Glassdome at the Reichstag Berlin Germany

The Reichstag is the home of the German Parliament. The building was originally designed by Paul Wallot and was modelled after Memorial Hall in Philadelphia. It was completed in 1894. The building was badly damaged in 1933 by fire, an event that marked the end of the Weimar Republic.

After the war, West Germany’s parliament moved to Bonn and the building fell to ruin. Restorations began in 1961 and were completed in 1964. In 1990 the building was the site of the official reunification ceremony and in 1991 it was decided that German Parliament would return to the Reichstag.

Between 1995 and 1999 Norman Foster oversaw renovations to the building and construction of the stunning glass cupola. This mirrored cone directs light into the building. The dome itself can be visited via two large steel ramps that take the form of a double helix.

117. Walk up the Spanish Steps Italy

The Spanish Steps date back to 1723. This steep set of steps run between the Piazza di Spagna at the base to Piazza Trinita dei Monti at the top at the eastern end of the old city centre.

The staircase was designed by Francesco De Sanctis and was originally built to link the Bourbon Spanish Embassy and the Trinita dei Monti church to the Holy See and Spanish square. There are 138 steps and they are a mix of curves, straight flights and terraces. Azaleas adorn the Spanish steps from April through to the end of May each year.

As of 2019, tourists were no longer able to sit on the Spanish steps and there are major fines. This new law was brought in to protect the marble of the stairs.

118. Visit Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) Germany

The Cologne Cathedral, also known as Kölner Dom, is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and began construction in the 1200s. The Classical Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Mary is located on the banks of the Rhine and is an astonishing masterpiece of High Gothic architecture.

The cathedral took over six centuries to build and reaches an impressive height of 157 meters. It’s the tallest twin-helical church in the world and is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks.

To see some panoramic vistas over the city and river, climb the 533 steps to the viewing platform (in the south Tower). Alternatively, book a tour to discover more of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral is open every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

119. Look out through the lattice window at The Bridge of Sighs Italy

This iconic Venetian bridge was built in 1600 to connect the Doge’s Palace to the prison across the canal. The bridge was constructed to take prisoners who had been sentenced at Doge’s Palace to their cells in the prison. The Bridge of Sighs has a small window. Legend has it that prisoners would sigh deeply when they saw this last glimpse of the outside world and thus the Bridge of Sighs became the name of this bridge in Venice.

The bridge is made from white limestone and was designed by Antonio Contino, the nephew and apprentice of Antonio Da Ponte, designer of the Rialto Bridge. The bridge is virtually enclosed apart from the two small windows with lattice screens. A stone wall divides the interior of the Bridge of Sighs so that prisoners coming and going would never pass each other.

It is tradition to kiss your loved one on a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs.

120. Have an extremely expensive coffee on Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) Italy

St Mark’s Square is Venice’s main square and the only one with the title of Piazza (most of the rest are referred to as Campi or fields). Without question this is one of the most magnificent squares in the world. Yes, a coffee at St Mark’s Square will cost almost as much as your dinner in Venice but it is worth it to sit and sip in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

At the eastern end of the square is St Mark’s Basilica. On the north side of St Mark’s Basilica are two marble lion statues in a small area known as Piazzetta San Giovanni XXIII. Just past the lions is St Mark’s Clocktower which was was completed in 1499.

A long arcade runs along the north of St Mark’s Square with buildings known as the Procuratie Vecchie or the old procuracies. Today this arcade is filled with shops and restaurants. It is home to one of the two most well-known cafes on the square, Caffe Quadri.

The south side of Piazza San Marco is known as the Procuratie Nuove. This side is also home to shops and restaurants and the second most well known cafe, Caffe Florian.

121. Return to Ancient Times at The Roman Forum Italy

The Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill are located in the same archaeological area and it is possible to walk freely between the two. When visiting these Rome monuments you may well feel that you have returned to ancient Rome.

The Romans drained this area (it was marshland) to turn it into a city. The Forum was the marketplace of Rome and later a site for criminal trials, gladiator matches and processions.

Today the site is in ruins but at the time it was home to the most important buildings in the ancient city. The oldest monuments within the Roman Forum date back to the first kings of Rome in the sixth century BC.

The Forum was abandoned in the Middle Ages. It was not until 1898 that excavations began and this archaeological site was discovered.

122. Tell a lie with your hand in the Bocca Della Verita (Mouth of Truth) Italy

Have you seen the classic Audrey Hepburn movie Roman Holiday ? I adore it – and one of my favourite moments in the film is when Gregory Peck shows her character the Mouth of Truth. There are many theories about when the Bocca Della Verita was created. The Mouth of Truth dates back to the first century AD.

This statue is a tall stone disc with a human face carved into it with hollow holes for eyes and a gaping mouth. The belief around the statues is that if you were to stick your hand into the gaping mouth of the Bocca Della Verita and tell a lie it would bite off your hand.

123. Have a Big Night Out in New Orleans, Louisiana

There is nowhere else quite like New Orleans. Known for parties, jazz, creole, drinking in the streets, an atmospheric downtown, beautiful big houses and much more. I would also like to thank them for beignets.

The French Quarter is where most visitors start their stay in New Orleans. Some of the beautiful French style buildings date back 300 years. Bourbon Street is the most famous street in the French Quarter but also check out Royal Street and Frenchmen Street for jazz.

Jackson Square is in the centre of the French Quarter and flanked by the impressive St Louis Cathedral. The square is often frequented by artists and there are shops and restaurants nearby.

The lovely Garden District is home to some of the most stunning houses in New Orleans. Take a guided tour or explore the area on foot. Don’t miss First street, Camp street and Prytania street.

Then why not take a cruise on a paddle steamer on the Mississippi River? Cruises tend to run for two hours and are a great way to experience river life and offer some terrific views.

124. See Strasbourg Cathedral France

This magnificent Catholic Cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. It is over 1000 years old and sits on what was the site of a Roman temple.

The building of Strasbourg Cathedral took the entire 13th century – something to keep in mind if you are building or renovating yourself! Today it is the sixth tallest church in the world. This is quite incredible considering that the highest structure of the church was built in the Middle Ages.

One of this gothic church’s most famous elements is its astronomical clock. The mechanics of the clock date back to 1842. At half-past 12 every day the movements of the clock’s characters attract the crowds.

125. See the Magna Carta at the British Museum England

Founded in 1753, the British Museum was the first public museum in the world. The museum covers all fields of human knowledge and entry remains free of charge.

When it opened in 1759 it was intended by Parliament that it would open its doors for “all studious and curious persons”. Today, the British Museum receives over 6 million visitors a year.

The museum is located in the heart of Bloomsbury in London. It has four wings and 43 columns inspired by Greek temples. It was intended to emulate Greek architecture.

Highlights of any visit to the British Museum include visiting the Reading Room which was completed in 1857 and the considerably newer Great Court, which opened in 2000.

The Great Court is certainly my favourite area of the British Museum. It is a two-acre space enclosed by a beautiful glass room and the Reading Room sits in the middle.

The magnificent glass roof is made up of 3,312 individual panels, and no two panels are the same shape. The roof is just over 26 metres above floor level at its highest point, giving a fantastic feeling of space to the area.

The museum is divided into different galleries which are organised by periods of time or locations. As you would expect, the British Museum gets very busy.

Tickets must be booked online whether they are for the general free admission or for paid exhibitions.

126. Spend the night at the World’s Largest Log Cabin

Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello is the world’s largest log building. It is a star-shaped structure and was built in the depression of the 1930s in just 90 days. The reason for the urgency was that the developer wanted to open the hotel for Canada day, which is still July 1.

The chateau was once an exclusive private club but is now part of the wonderful Fairmont group of hotels. This is the third Fairmont Hotel in this post and I must admit I am a bit crazy about them.

The logs are red cedar and all 10,000 of them were brought in from British colombia by train. I learned that red cedar is also the wood used for totem poles. This is because it is soft and long-lasting – and because red cedars are huge.

There are 211 rooms at Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello. The hotel is halfway through renovating all the rooms – particularly the bathrooms. I was lucky enough to have a freshly renovated room and it was lovely.

There is so much to do at Montebello. Indoor and outdoor activities, a spa, a marina, a golf course – it is impossible to be bored. I used one of the free bikes available and cycled around the entire property which was lovely.

And as if all of that wasn’t enough I have saved my favourite element of Le Chateau Montebello for last. The lobby of the hotel features an amazing six-sided stone fireplace in reception – surrounded by multiple comfortable couches and seats.

⇒ Check Prices and Availability for Fairmont Le Chateau Montebell o

127. See the Piazza Navona Fountains Italy

The beautiful Piazza Navona in Rome is home to three stunning fountains. Fontana Dei Quattro Fiumini was constructed for the Pope in 1651. The fountain was designed by Bernini. The centrepiece of the fountain is a tall obelisk which is surrounded by four figures which represent the great rivers of the world: Nile, Ganges, Danube and Rio de la Plata. I was pleased to discover that Australia had been discovered at this time but not explored and thus was left out of the fountain.

A dove, olive branch and the Pope’s coat of arms can be found at the bottom of the fountain.

Fontana di Nettuno is the second of the three fountains in Piazza Navona. This fountain was built in 1576 by Giacomo della Porto. The Neptune statues were added in the 19th century. The main figure of the fountain is the God of the Water Neptune. Neptune is shown in battle with an octopus.

The third fountain is Fontana del Moro which is at the southern end of the Piazza.

128. Drive on Water on the Seven Mile Bridge in Florida

Ever wondered what it would be like to drive on water? Well, this is the closest you’ll get to experience it. As the name suggests, this bridge stretches 7 miles (11.2 km) over the ocean to Florida Keys.

The original structure was built in 1912 and was regarded as a harrowing drive with narrow lanes. With its upgrade in 1982, the longest bridge in the Florida Keys became a breeze to drive over, with enough space to stop and take in the views.

Book a day trip from Miami and experience the bridge

129. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Italy

This Renaissance-inspired church is the third-largest in Italy, standing 90 meters wide and 152 meters long. Arnolfo di Cambio was responsible for designing it in 1296, but it was the architect Filippo Brunelleschi who added the cathedral’s prominent dome during the 15th century.

The exterior of the Duomo di Firenze has been done with stunning, colourful marble work. Inside, you’ll find spectacular artworks adorning the ceilings.

The cathedral is located in the square Piazza del Duomo, and entrance is free. However, you’ll need to purchase tickets to see the other monuments in the square, such as Giotto’s Campanile. 

130. Visit the Berlin Wall Germany

Overnight on August 12, 1961 the East Germany Army began sealing off the streets and railway lines providing access to West Berlin. A wall was then erected along the sector border.

The 167 kilometre wall encircled West Berlin until 1989. The Berlin Wall fell on November 9, 1989. Germans from both the East and the West crossed the wall and then took hammers to it in an event which was watched all over the world.

The Berlin Wall didn’t fall cleanly, chunks were left. Local artists began using these to make street art in what has now become known as The East Side Gallery. In 1990, more than 100 artists from over 20 countries decorated what was the last stretch of the Berlin Wall. One of the best ways to see the Berlin Wall today is to hire a bike and ride the Berlin Wall Cycle Route.

131. Watch water go backward at Saint John’s Reversing Falls

The Reversing Falls are created by the collision of the Saint John River and the Bay of Fundy. At low tide, the river empties into the bay which causes a series of whirlpools and rapids.

In between the tides, the Reversing Falls rapids are peaceful and like a lake in appearance. When high tide comes the whirlpools and rapids start up again – but this time they go in reverse! This can generate large waves as well at the highest tides.

The tide cycle is roughly 12.5 hours. The moon has the largest effect on the rapids. A full moon can produce swings in the water level of 9 metres.

There are several ways to experience the Reversing Falls Rapids. It is very easy to get to the visitor area by car as it is just off the highway.

It is difficult to see the phenomenon clearly from the car park. The visitor center has a Skywalk. I got fantastic views here. And they show a video on the falls for more tide geekiness.

Or best of all, get up close with this amazing phenomenon of nature on a speed boat.

⇒ The See Sight Jet Boat will take you out to see the Reversing Rapid falls up close in a 45-minute tour. 

132. Ride The London Eye England

What better way to see a London than from the London Eye – nestled in the heart of the city. Choose from one of the 32 capsules to soar above the city, drinking in a 360-degree view of London and the ever-changing skies.

Rising before the South Bank, the iconic Ferris wheel allows its visitors to catch views of the River Thames, glimpse  Buckingham Palace , and Big Ben. And on a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as Windsor Castle in the distance.

Sunset rides on the London Eye are especially popular, so don’t forget to book your seat in advance if you want a guaranteed ride during sunset. 

If you don’t get a spot on the wheel, why not take a London Eye River Cruise on the River Thames to catch the stunning sunsets.

133. Have a beer at Eagle’s Nest Germany

Known in Germany as “Kehlsteinhaus” Eagle’s Nest was given to Hitler as a present for his 50th birthday. It is located in the Obersalzberg mountains and overlooks the small town of Berchtesgaden. This was a particularly impressive gift as it is located on Germany’s steepest road. Eagle’s Nest remains an engineering marvel.

In 1960 Eagle’s Nest was returned to the German government and they turned it into a beer garden and restaurant. There is no mention of its previous owner.

134. Take Vaporetto 1 along the Canalazzo (The Grand Canal) Italy

This 3800 metre long waterway splits the city of Venice into two sides. Seen from above, the Grand Canal takes the shape of an S. Ships of over 400 tons used to sail down the Grand Canal in Venice. Beautiful buildings line the canal (one of the first examples of expensive real estate for water views).

Four different bridges cross the Grand Canal: The Constitution Bridge (Ponte Della Costituzione), Ponte Degli Scalzi, the Rialto Bridge and the Accademia Bridge. Explore the Grand Canal by crossing these bridges or take a vaporetto through the Grand Canal to get some gorgeous views.

The Grand Canal ends in St Mark’s Square with a stunning view of Saint Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower, the church of Salute, and Custom Point. The houses along the Grand Canal continue to be the most desirable real estate in Venice (and possibly Italy, Europe, and the world)!.

135. See where the Normandy Landings happened in France

This beach in Normandy is best known for being where some of the most critical battles were fort during the famous Normandy Landings in 1944. The beach was in the American sector and sadly the number of Allied casualties was very high.

Today Omaha Beach has a war memorial monument and museum. Behind the beach is the American cemetery of Colleville Sur Mer. The nearest town is Bayeux which has further information on the battle including a war museum.

Buses run infrequently to Omaha Beach. It is best to visit via a tour or to have your own car. I can highly recommend visiting Normandy and Omaha Beach as well as the other sites in the region related to the famous Normandy Landings.

136. See The Hollywood Sign, The United States

The Hollywood sign is perhaps one of the most iconic landmarks in North America and a world wide symbol of the entertainment industry. The sign was originally developed as part of an advertising campaign for a suburban housing development called “Hollywoodland”. It was erected in 1923.

The sign is visible from all over Los Angeles. However, it is illegal to get close to the Hollywood sign and it is actually set behind gates and protected by security cameras and park rangers.

If you want to “see” the sign there are two ways to do so. The first is to take a hike in the area around the sign. The second is to see the sign from one of the best viewpoints such as Griffiths Observatory.

137. See Berlin from its TV Tower, Germany

Built during the years of the GDR (German Democratic Republic), Berlin Tower stands at 368 metres and is perhaps Berlin’s most visible landmark. Located on Alexanderplatz, it is also the highest building in Europe open to the general public.

The Berlin TV Tower was opened in 1969. At the time, it was an emblem of the superiority of the communist system. After German reunification, the TV Tower came to symbolise the city and its new cityscape.

The viewing tower of the platform is at 200 metres and offers 360 views of Berlin to more than one million visitors a year. The tower of course has a revolving restaurant called Sphere and the Panorama Bar.

138. See the Terracotta Army

During the 1970s, while digging wells on the outskirts of Xi’an, farmers stumbled across what was to be China’s most incredible archaeological find: the Terracotta warriors. Dating back over 2,200 years, this army was designed to guard the First Emperor of the Qin Dynasty’s tomb.

The Emperor (Quin Shi Huang) built a mausoleum with 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers, 600 horses and chariots, each meticulously designed to ‘guard’ him in the afterlife. Take a walking tour and learn about the history of this eighth wonder of the world.

The Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum is open every day from 8.30 am to 5 pm. ( Psst…it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds ).

139. Walk down Las Rambla, Spain

Barcelona’s very own Champs-Elysee, this 1.2 kilometre tree-lined boulevard runs through the centre of Barcelona. La Rambla is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants and filled with markets and street artists. The street runs from Port Vell up to Place Catalunya. Don’t miss exploring its many side streets.

La Rambla is divided into several sections, each of which has its own character. The top part of La Rambla begins at the Placa Catalunya, named after the Font de Canalates. The saying goes that those who drink from the fountain here always return to Barcelona.

Rambla dels Estudis is the next section and is named after the University which was demolished in 1843. This part of the street is known as Rambla del Ocells or bird Rambla as there are many bird sellers. There are also stores selling guinea pigs, dogs and turtles. This section also includes the Esglesia di Betlem and the Palau Moja.

Heading towards the sea, the bird stores are replaced by florists in the section known as Rambla de les Flors. In the 19th century, this was the only area in Barcelona that sold flowers. If you head off La Rambla you will see the biggest market in Barcelona Mercat de la Boqueria. The end of this section of La Rambla is marked by a Juan Miro-designed square Pla de la Boqueria.

The next section of the street is Rambla dels Catutxins, home to street actors, living statues and cafes. This section also includes the Opera de Gran Teatro Liceu.

The final section is known as Rambla de Santa Monica. This area is home to souvenir stands and art dealers as well as street artists and the contemporary Museum Centre d’Art de Monica.

If you’re looking to get a good view of La Rambla head to the iron statue of Colombus at the Maremagnum Complex.

140. See inside the Forbidden City, China

Located in Beijing, The Forbidden City is an ancient palace and architectural complex composed of over 90 palace compounds, making it the largest in the world. Built in 1406 and officially occupied in 1420, the enormous imperial palace saw through both the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The complex consists of many buildings and a near 1,000 rooms, each containing well-preserved artifacts and furniture. It paints a detailed picture of what life was like 500 years ago (during the dynastic rule).

The imperial palace covers some 720,000 square meters of property and is protected by a 10-meter high wall with watchtowers. While it could take hours to explore these grounds , some highlights include:

• The Hall of Supreme Harmony, a 35-meter-tall building housing the royal throne
• The marble Golden River Bridges
• The Palace Museum, hosting a collection of art and artefacts

The grounds’ opening times may vary, from 8.30 am to 5 pm in April to October, and 8.30 am to 4.30 pm in November to March, and it’s closed on Mondays.

141. Attend mass at St Peter’s Basilica, Italy

St Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest and most important sites in Christendom. It is believed that the church was built over the tomb of St Peter, the first-ever Pope. Its famous dome is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Rome. The church and dome are actually the work of several artists and architects. Michelangelo was known to have taken the work done previously and unified the vision and design.

St Peter’s Basilica is the tallest dome in the world and it measures just over 136 metres tall. It is possible to visit the top of the dome and enjoy amazing views over Rome.

The interior of the church is filled with Baroque and Renaissance artworks. There are literally amazing works of art in every corner.

St Peter’s Basilica is located in Vatican City which is just to the north of the city centre of Rome.

142. Take in the natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher

As one of Ireland’s most popular attractions and an undoubtedly famous landmark, the Cliffs of Moher is a must-see while visiting the Emerald Isle. Located in County Clare and hugging the Wild Atlantic Way, these sheer, cascading sea cliffs are over 320 million years old. They form part of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Stretching for 14 km and rising 214 meters at their highest point, these cliffs offer spectacular viewpoints. Head to the observation tower, the O’Brien’s Tower, to get the best-unobstructed panoramas of the areas. 

These cliffs, however, offer more than just beautiful vistas. A modern centre was built to improve the visitor experience and provide information about the area’s geology and geography. Here you’ll find many unique bird species that call this place home, such as razorbills, falcons, kittiwakes, and more. 

Join one of the fabulous day tours to the Cliffs of Moher and explore the area. Tour buses depart daily from major metros, including Galway, Dublin, and Cork.

143. Drink Guinness in Dublin

Who doesn’t love a good beer? Or even if you don’t, as one of the most famous exports from the Republic of Ireland, the storehouse certainly deserves a visit. The ‘black stuff’, as it’s fondly known, has been brewed in Dublin since 1759. It’s housed in the St. James Gate’s Brewery, the largest stout brewery in the world.

It’s a dedicated space to the 250-year-old art of brewing the world-famous beverage. A self-guided tour around the seven-floor brewery takes around 1.5 hours. Head to the Gravity Bar at the top to sample the iconic Irish beer while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

The Guinness Storehouse entrance tickets are around $17 (€15) to $28 (€24) per person. Opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 2 pm to 9 pm and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

144. See a Football Match at Wembley Stadium, England

The Wembley Arch stretches up 134 metres high and is a familiar landmark to all londoners. Wembley is the largest stadium in the United Kingdom, the second largest stadium in Europe and home to English football. However, it still hosts other sports as well as different kinds of entertainment.

145. Marvel at the Bungle Bungle Range, Australia

The uniquely named Bungle Bungles are a series of beehive shaped towers made from sandstone and rocks in Western Australia. They are located in Purnululu National Park which is in the Kimberley region in the north of the state.

It is believed that the origins of the Bungle Bungles date back 350 million years. They are distinguished by orange and dark grey banding on the towers. And they aren’t small – the Bungle Bungles cover an area of 450 square kilometres.

There are several ways to experience the Bungle Bungle Range. You’ll need a 4WD if you want to do your own driving around the range. There are quite a few walking paths and lots of options for guided walks and tours.

One of the most common ways to experience a landmark so large is to take a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungle Range. It is difficult to get your head around the magnitude of the range from the ground.

There are accommodation options in the park but nothing that fancy. There are some decent cabins at the Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge .

146. Go to a concert at The O2, England

The O2 started out as the Millenium Dome to celebrate the year 2000. Located in Greenwich in south east London, it was redeveloped in 2007 and is now the biggest entertainment district in London. The O2 arena can host up to 20,000 people and was the first site built purposely for music in London since the Royal Albert Hall. Today, playing at the O2 is a must for all major artists.

147. See the Giant’s Causeway, Ireland

Located in County Antrim, the Giant’s Causeway is one of Northern Ireland’s most impressive landmarks. It’s famous for its odd-looking hexagonal rock columns. There are approximately 40,000 of these basalt columns along 6 kilometres of the Antrim plateau, resulting from an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. There are typically five to seven irregular sides jutting out of the cliff faces.

Legend has it that this strange formation was built by the Irish warrior Finn McCool (Fionn mac Cumhaill) to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner. Finn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so the two giants could meet.

The Giant’s Causeway is an enjoyable place to visit, and there are plenty of day trips and tour options to choose from. Some highlights not to be missed here include the Giant’s Boot, the wishing chair (a natural throne), and of course, the largest of three rock outcrops, the Grand Causeway. And if you’re an avid hiker, there are some incredible cliff-top trails along the causeway.

Access to this landmark is free of charge. There is, however, an entrance fee to the visitor centre.

148. Kiss Blarney Stone, Ireland

The Blarney Castle is located in County Cork and is one of Ireland’s most revered historical landmarks. The medieval castle was constructed in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster.

The iconic attraction here is the Blarney Stone, which, according to the legend, can grant you the gift of eloquence if you kiss it. The 600-year-old castle looks like a mystic building from one side and a war-torn hero from the other.

Other highlights here are the stunning, well-manicured gardens of Blarney Castle. While you’re exploring this remarkable green space, be sure to check out the Poison Garden, The Seven Sisters, the Fern Garden, and more.

Tourists come from far and wide to give this stone a smooch in the hope of some Irish luck. So, I highly recommend booking a tour to learn about the grounds’ thrilling history and its legends.  

Admission to the Blarney Castle is $21 for adults and $10 for children. Opening times are from 9 am to 5 pm every day.

149. Take a road trip along the Ring of Kerry, Ireland

Situated in County Kerry and part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry has attracted visitors to its unspoilt scenery.

The 179-kilometre-long circular tourist route takes its visitors around the Iveragh Peninsula and through majestic valleys, rivers, mountains, towns, historic sites, and beaches. The landscape is varied, from the rocky bay of Rossbeigh Strand to the Killarney lakes and mountains.

Hop in your car and head on an unforgettable road trip, or find your seat on a tour to explore the heavenly scenic route. Along the way, stop by some of Ireland’s noteworthy sites including, Ross Castle, the Kerry Cliffs, and the Cahergall Stone Fort. And, don’t forget to visit some exquisite beaches and enjoy some of the stunning hiking trails along the way.

150. See where The Titantic was Built, Ireland

Situated in the heart of Belfast, the Titanic Quarter is home to where the notorious Titanic ship was first created. Today, it houses a state-of-the-art Titanic-themed museum to pay tribute to the world-famous cruise liner.

Visitors’ experience at this museum is second to none, with interactive exhibits and world-class art galleries enabling you to explore the world of the Titanic. Here you can uncover the building processes right through to the disastrous events and the underwater remains. Head to the slipway to find some unique souvenirs and to see where the Titanic, and her sister Olympic, were built and first launched.

I highly recommend you book entrance tickets to explore the fascinating history of the Titanic in this magnificent museum.

151. Visit The Great Mosque of Cordoba, Spain

Mezquita was once the principal mosque of Western Islam and is still one of the largest mosques in the world. Construction of this mosque began in 785. By 1000 it had reached its current size and had no fewer than 19 aisles. Later renovations resulted in a catholic cathedral being added to the building but it remains a stunning example of Moorish architecture in Spain.

152. Visit the Christ the Redeemer Statue, Brazil

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in the world. The colossal statue of Jesus Christ sits 30 metres tall (98 feet) at the top of Mount Corcovado, in southeastern Rio.

The foundation of the statue was laid in 1922 to commemorate Brazil’s centennial anniversary of independence from Portugal. It took nine years to complete and became one of the first landmarks in Brazil.

Today the statue looks down on the city, serving as a protector for all who call Rio home.

153. Take a Cable Car up Sugar Loaf Mountain, Brazil

The Sugar Loaf Mountain or Pao de Acucar in Portuguese is a peak that sits at the mouth of the Guanabara Bay that flows out into the Atlantic Ocean in Rio.

The peak rises 396 meters (1299 feet) above the bay, and can be seen from many corners of the city. It is said that Sugar Loaf Mountain got its name from the shape of a refined sugar loaf.

In 1912, a cable car system was installed on the mountain – which at the time was only the third cable car system in the world – taking visitors up to the summit of the mountain.

Once on top, visitors can enjoy the most gorgeous 360-degree views of the entire city. 

154. Sunbake on Copacabana Beach, Brazil

If you search for beaches in Brazil, the first thing that’s likely to pop up is a picture of Copacabana Beach with people spread across the beach sunbathing and sipping on drinks in coconuts.

Up until the late 19th century, Copacabana Beach was just a small fishing village covered with sand, dunes, and shrubs. Today it is a booming tourist attraction that lives up to its name of A Princesinha do Mar (Princess of the Sea).

Copa, as it is known by locals, stretches for 4 km (2.2 miles) and is lined with hotels, bars, restaurants, and street vendors. And the gorgeous Sugar Loaf Mountain looms in the background.

155. Fly Over Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia

On the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, you’ll find this exquisite Natural Wonder of the World, Victoria Falls. Locals fondly refer to the falls as Mosi-oa-Tunya which means ‘the smoke that thunders.’ Demonstrating its immensity and power.

The falls can be viewed from vantage points in either country. The waterfalls spray water which creates a mist that nourishes the rainforest-type terrain in the gorgeous surrounding mountains. You’ll be left in awe of this exquisite natural beauty in Africa.

I highly recommend doing both a helicopter ride and a microlight ride to really appreciate the stunning beauty of Victoria Falls. I did both and would do them both again.

156. Take a hot air balloon over Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Africa boasts abundant wildlife in many regions and a trip to the continent wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the many National Parks. The Serengeti in Tanzania is teeming with animals, including The Big 5, and is a great place to go on safari.

One of the most amazing times to visit is during the Wildebeest migration between April and May. Here you’ll see over a million Wildebeest and other antelope traverse the plains in search of pasture. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience so don’t forget your safari camera to capture it all.

157. See the Great Migration Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya (or the Serengeti, Tanzania)

Another ideal spot to see the great migration, add the Maasai Mara to your safari itinerary in Africa. The wildebeest that are migrating from the Serengeti head to the Maasai Mara and this is another perfect opportunity to witness the magnificent creatures travelling cross country in large groups.

With endless lush African bush and a vast variety of wildlife, this National Park will not disappoint nature enthusiasts. A luxury safari is a great way to experience the park in style. With your guides, you’ll also be able to discover the terrain from a different perspective – on a bushwalk.

158. See or Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

This mighty mountain is a must-see African landmark. Along the border of Kenya and Tanzania lies the often snow-capped Mt Kilimanjaro. Standing at 5895 meters (19,340 feet) above sea level, this is the highest mountain peak in Africa.

Many avid hikers attempt to summit the mountain every year, however, this is no easy feat and requires training and endurance. If you’d prefer to marvel at the mountain from the ground, the Kilimanjaro National Park is the best place to do so. Here, you’ll be able to spot wildlife with Mt Kilimanjaro as a backdrop – it doesn’t get much better than that.

159. Climb or Cable Car to the top of Table Mountain, South Africa

While we’re talking about mountains, South Africa’s Table Mountain deserves a mention. Standing majestically over the city of Cape Town, this iconic flat table-like mountain rises to a height of 1086 meters (3563 feet) above sea level.

This popular attraction can be visited and experienced in a number of ways. Either hike to the top (which is what I did) or opt for a ride in the cable car. Once at the top you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. If you don’t want to head to the top of the peak, find one of the many restaurants in Cape Town to have a drink while you admire the mountain. 

160. Walk The Avenue of Baobabs, Madagascar

An avenue like no other, the Avenue of Baobabs is something to behold. Found on the island of Madagascar you’ll find a collection of visually powerful baobab trees lining a street in Menabe. The trees have been growing for 2800 years and stand at 30 meters (98 feet) tall.

The avenue alone attracts thousands of tourists each year and has helped boost tourism in the area. A great time to visit the avenue is during sunrise or sunset where the orange-pink sky beyond the tall trees makes for a breathtaking scene (and photo).

161. Visit Tuttenkhaman’s Tomb at The Valley of the Kings, Egypt

If you want to visit Tuttenkhaman’s royal tomb, this is where you’ll find it. The Valley of the Kings is exactly what it sounds like, an area dedicated to Egyptian Pharaohs. And here you’ll find the beautifully and elaborately decorated tombs of 63 famous Pharaohs

162. Go on a camel trek in the Sahara Desert, North Africa

Covering an astonishing 8% of the earth’s land area, the Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world. It spans 11 countries in Northern Africa: Morocco, Egypt, Western Sahara, Mauritiana, Chad, Libya, Algeria, Mali, Niger, Sudan, and Tunisia. So plan your trip to the Sahara according to which African countries you’ll be visiting.

There are a host of activities to keep you busy on the dunes of the Sahara. From camel trekking, quad biking, and desert camping to stargazing under a vast and unpolluted sky. The beauty and tranquillity are endless and a visit to the desert is highly recommended.

163. Ride along the Nile River on a Feluca, Egypt

Stretching for 6852 km (4258 miles), the Nile River is not only the longest river in Africa but the whole world. Most well known for its presence and impact on Egypt, the Nile actually runs through 11 countries as it flows north towards the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to experience the river is with a Nile River Cruise , this way you’ll float down the river comfortably while passing other attractions like temples and pyramids. Other fun river activities include white river rafting, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

164. Take a boat trip in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

As you’ve probably noticed, Africa is not short of exquisite National Parks boasting unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Okavango Delta is no exception to these standards and is one of the most incredible parks to visit in Africa.

The Delta is a tranquil marshland that is home to some of Africa’s endangered species including the African wild dog and the white and black rhinoceros. The swampy green land is also an oasis for hippos and elephants as well as any animals trying to escape the surrounding dry and arid areas.

165. See the Big 5 in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Located in the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is an amazing geological feature. The caldera landmark was formed when a large volcano erupted and collapsed on itself over two million years ago. The crater itself is 19km (12 miles) wide and has a depth of 600 meters (1968 feet).

Along with the impressive variety of wildlife, including the endangered black-maned lion and black rhino, the area is also home to indigenous Maasai people. A culture with a rich heritage and one you’ll be able to learn about if you enjoy a safari in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area where the Crater can be found.

166. Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, gorilla trekking. The dense rainforest in the country makes the environment perfect for the gentle giants. Rwanda is home to 1000 mountain gorillas, accounting for half the world population.

This National Park protects 12 gorilla families in the forest and you’ll be able to see these beauties in their natural habitat during a trek in the forest with an expert gorilla tracker. This is a highly unique and memorable experience and shouldn’t be missed if you’re visiting Rwanda.

167. Visit Timbuktu, Mali

You’ve probably used the phrase “from here to Timbuktu” to describe a faraway, isolated place, but Timbuktu is an actual place in Mali that can be visited. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is hailed as the intellectual and spiritual centre of Islam in Africa during the 15th and 16th centuries.

You’ll find many fascinating historic and cultural sites to explore in the desert town of Timbuktu, including the Mosque of Sankore and Djinguereber Mosque. It’s only recently started to gain popularity as a tourist destination so you’ll still be able to explore without large crowds.

168. Go shopping in the Marrakech Medina, Morocco

Just another UNESCO World Heritage Site that Africa boasts is the Medina of Marrakech. A medina is a distinct historical city section found in a number of North African cities and this one in Marrakech won’t disappoint. The Medina is characterized by a marketplace, square riads and traditional houses.

The Medina revolves around the Djemaa El Fna, the largest mosque in the town. The surrounding colourful market is a treat for the senses, here you’ll find anything from dried fruit and spices to clothing and souvenirs. The market can get especially crowded and overwhelming, so it might be best to opt for a guided tour .

169. Do a Cognac Tasting in a Cognac House in, of course, Cognac

The creation of cognac is much more like making perfume rather than wine or beer. The entire process of making cognac as well as the source of the grapes themselves are all under an appellation. This is absolutely a craft rather than a manufacturing process.

I visited three different cognac houses whilst I was in the region and I would highly recommend doing the same as they were very different experiences. I visited one of the biggest and most well-known cognac houses, Maison Hennessy, one of the few houses that produce its own grapes, Maison Frapin, and own the entire supply chain process and one that is much closer to La Rochelle and whose key point of difference is their blending, Maison Normandin Mercier.

170. Drink Wine at the Cite Du Vin in Bordeaux, France

I’ve visited many museums in my time as a travel blogger so it takes quite a bit to get me excited about one. And I got very excited about the Cite du Vin. Yes, it is all about one of my favourite things in the world, wine, but it is also an extremely engaging museum housed in a jaw-dropping modern building.

Cite du Vin opened in 2016 so it is still relatively new. It is located in the new part of Bordeaux near Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas. The extraordinary building was created by architects Anouk Legendre and Nicolas Desmazières.

The building’s unusual shape was created by a desire to evoke the soul of wine between the river and the city. It is also meant to evoke gnarled vine stock, wine swirling in a glass and the eddies of the Garonne River.

The exhibits within Cite du Vin have been designed to please everyone from those who know little about wine to connoisseurs. I am probably somewhere in the middle and I learned a huge amount during my visit. In particular, it was able to close my knowledge gaps in several areas.

What Are You Waiting For when it comes to Bucket List Travel?

You don’t need to wait until you’ve found the perfect excuse for travelling, it’s always the right time to get exploring. Whether you’ve always dreamed of seeing the Seven Wonders, or snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef, you can add these travel bucket list ideas on to your list and tick them off as you go along.

Many of these bucket list experiences need planning, so put them on paper and get the ball rolling; there’s no way you can regret visiting any of the places above.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this bucket list ideas post. However, this post does include affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

David Nesselroad

Saturday 18th of September 2021

This is the most entertaining and informative two hours that I have ever spent in my life. I have been to several of these places and that makes it much more real.

The Boutique Adventurer

thanks David! So glad that you enjoyed reading my article!

Saturday 13th of March 2021

Missed a few, New Zealand, apes in Congo, balloons over bagon Myanmar, jars in Vientiane, robbin island South Africa, galapogos islands, penguins anywhere South Africa, Antarctica,Masai Mara, Jerusalem,Tibet potala palace.

These are the some good ones! They will go into the 2nd version - thanks for commenting

Like this post? Why Not Share It?

Thanks for Sharing!

Which is More Worthy? Go on Safari, Bungee Jump, or Find Your Soulmate?   Vote Here

Search our 1817 Bucket List Ideas

101 Bucket List Ideas You Must Try at Least Once (With 1700+ More to Choose From)

Designing your bucket list, but struggling for inspiration? Bucket lists create an opportunity to reflect on what you really want to achieve before you die, focusing you on what’s truly important. Whether you dream of traveling to Everest Base Camp, or you simply want to be able to bake that perfect loaf of bread, creating a bucket list can help you prioritize, focus, and achieve your goals.

Everyone’s bucket list is different, and by definition, is deeply personal. However, sometimes it can be useful to look further afield for a bit of inspiration. If you’re short of ideas, here’s our selection of the 101 best bucket list ideas.

Adventure Bucket List - Push Your Boundaries

1. go skydiving.

There’s no greater thrill than leaping from an airplane thousands of feet up in the air. Skydiving is one of the most popular adventure sports, and a perennial fixture on bucket lists all over the world. Although the idea of hurtling through the air towards the earth is a somewhat terrifying prospect, the natural high created by the subsequent adrenaline rush is an ample reward. What’s more, once your parachute has opened, you’ll enjoy a real bird’s eye view of the world as you float peacefully down to the ground.

2. Swim With Sharks

Sharks are some of the most fascinating creatures of the sea, but they are also perhaps the most terrifying. With their muscular, strong bodies and sharp teeth, sharks are often regarded as aggressive, wild and deadly: the ultimate underwater predator. However, swimming with these creatures might just change your perspective. Few shark species are aggressive towards humans, and seeing them up close in the water can be a fascinating experience. Either way, this bucket list idea is sure to give you a thrill.The b est places to swim with sharks (in the world)

3. Scale Half Dome in Yosemite National Park

The distinctive Half Dome, that famous rock in the heart of the Yosemite National Park, is a mecca for hikers and mountaineers. This iconic trail is a real challenge for walkers, spanning 16 miles and ascending 5500 feet, providing a real sense of achievement for those who make it all the way to the top. This is adventure hiking at its best: the steep scramble up the last 400 metres, clinging to the specially installed steel cables, is a little hair-raising, but the magnificent view from the summit makes it all worthwhile.

4. Mount Huashan Plank Walk, China

The Mount Huashan Plank Walk is certainly not a bucket list item for the faint of heart. This adrenaline-inducing trek has been called the world’s most dangerous hike, and it’s easy to see why. This sacred mountain contains a death-defying stretch along a narrow wooden plank, precariously positioned over a long, sheer drop down the mountain. Although you will be firmly strapped into a harness for the plank walk, the trail itself is known for the high number of accidents each year, usually caused by tourists focused on capturing the perfect photo of the magnificent surroundings. The danger is real, but the views are incredible.

5. Go Rafting on the Zambezi

The Zambezi River offers some of the best white-water rafting experiences you can find anywhere in the world. Commercial river-rafting has been going here since the early 1980s, making it an ideal place to try your hand at this exhilarating activity. Head to the Zambezi in the low water season when conditions are at their most exciting. Between July and February, the river boasts huge, crashing rapids and frothing waters, for the most thrilling white-water rafting experience possible.

6. Visit an Active Volcano in Guatemala

Hiking up a mountain that is ready to launch tonnes of molten lava down its slopes is not everyone’s idea of a relaxing stroll. However, visiting a volcano can be an incredible experience, allowing you to see mountains as you’ve never seen them before, and to reflect on the awesome power of the molten rock beneath the earth’s crust. Guatemala boasts a number of active volcanoes that are safe for hiking, with viewing points to allow you to look down upon bubbling lava and smoking craters. This is the mountain, as you’ve never seen it before.

7. Go Bungee-Jumping in New Zealand

Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world, and doing a bungee-jump here is considered to be a rite of passage for many travellers. The highest bungee-jump in the country is the Nevis Bungy in Queenstown, rising to a nail-biting 134 metre jump, with an impressive 8.5 second free fall. If you’re searching for the ultimate adrenaline rush, make sure you add this to your bucket list.

8. Zipline Over the Niagara Falls

Since 2016, there’s been a new way to experience the awesome power of the Niagara Falls. The 2200-foot MistRider is a zipline that spans all the way from the top of the Falls to close to the bottom of the gorge, at a jaw-rattling top speed of 40 miles per hour. You won’t find a better view of this epic natural phenomenon.

Culture - Experience the Cultures and People of the World

9. celebrate chinese new year in china.

Chinese New Year is a cultural highlight on any calendar, and today it’s celebrated all over the world. However, for the full authentic experience, head to China in February to see in the New Year and be immersed in the traditional rituals and festivities associated with this ancient festival. Listen to the drums pounding, watch the dragon process through the streets, and marvel at the dazzling fireworks that light up the skies: this is New Year like you’ve never seen it before.

10. Dance at Carnival in Rio de Janeiro

Rio Carnival is a must for anyone’s bucket list. This explosion of colour and music on the streets of Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro is legendary, and is widely considered to simply be the best party in the world. This is the place to completely let your hair down and be free. Throw your cares to the wind, shake your hips, and party!

11. Visit the Louvre, Paris

The Louvre Museum, once a palace and the residence of the French monarch, is now a temple for culture lovers. This epic museum houses an embarrassment of riches, including the Mona Lisa , the Venus de Milo and the Great Sphinx of Tanis. The collection covers art and artefacts spanning thousands of years and the entire world, so there’s sure to be something to suit all tastes and interests.

12. Spend the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the most enigmatic and tantalising monuments of Britain’s ancient past, and historians are still unsure of its precise use and purpose. One thing is clear, the alignment of the stones means it was likely used for rituals at both the summer and winter solstices, and this tradition continues to this day. Thousands of people gather at the stones on the shortest and longest days of the year, ready to mark the transformation of the seasons with an all-night ritual. A bucket list idea for all culture and history buffs.

13. Attend the Tomatina Festival in Valencia, Spain

The festival of tomatoes in the town of Buñol near Valencia, Spain is one of the country’s cultural highlights. This fantastic celebration of the humble yet delicious tomato fruit always ends in a food fight, accompanied by street parties, music and dancing. Whether you’re a tomato fan or not, the Tomatina Festival must be experienced at least once, if only for the vibrant colours and festive atmosphere of this joyful summer celebration.

14. Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Mardi Gras literally translates to ‘Fat Tuesday’, and is known as the day before the annual Lenten fast in the Christian calendar. Traditionally, this was a day to eat up all of the culinary items that would be forbidden during Lent, including meat, butter and eggs. Today Mardi Gras is celebrated all around the world, but the most epic festivities take place in New Orleans, Louisiana. Spanning several days, the city is taken over by parades, music and lavishly decorated floats. Wild, extravagant, and always messy, Mardi Gras in New Orleans should not be missed.

15. Visit Sapporo Snow Festival, Japan

The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the most iconic and spectacular winter cultural events in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. In February, thousands of artists gather in Sapporo to create incredible statues made out of snow and ice, displaying an incredible range of talent and dedication. In addition to the gallery of glistening sculptures, visitors can also get lost in a maze constructed entirely from snow, and sample a range of delicious local delicacies.  

16. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland

The feast of St. Patrick falls on the 17 th of March each year, and there’s no better place to celebrate it than in Ireland, where the famous saint made his name. St. Patrick may be known for Christianizing the pagan tribes of Ireland, but today we celebrate him with music, food and often, a lot of alcohol. There’s no better place to enjoy this wild night than in Ireland itself. It’s sure to be a bucket list experience you will never, ever forget.

Travel - See the Bucket List Sights of the World

17. visit the great barrier reef, australia.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of nature’s most spectacular marvels. Stretching over 3000 kilometres, this extraordinary habitat is home to an abundance of marine life and is the number one spot in the world for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The underwater coral gardens of the reefs provide a dazzling display of colours, textures and shapes, teeming with fish, reptiles, birds, dolphins, birds, molluscs and rays. This delicate eco-system is under threat from warming seas and climate change, so there’s never been a better time to fulfil this one-of-a-kind bucket list ambition.

18. Explore the Catacombs of Paris​

Paris is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Moulin Rouge justifiably feature on many bucket lists. However, few visitors to the city realise that there is an entire world to explore beneath their feet. The subterranean labyrinth of the catacombs of Paris is a marvel to behold, and it is home to the remains of over 6 million Parisians, removed from cemeteries and buried deep underground to stop the spread of disease in the early 19 th century. It’s estimated that there are around 320 kilometres of tunnels to explore below the chic streets of Paris. Just don’t get lost…

19. Visit Antarctica

The world’s only uninhabited continent is a wild, inhospitable place. The extremes of weather and temperature in Antarctica make a trip here a thrilling experience, unlike any other bucket list destination. Despite its remote location, it’s possible to hitch a ride on a boat and take a tour to Antarctica, with the promise of some incredible wildlife-spotting opportunities to go with it. This is the ultimate traveller’s dream.

20. Camp Out Under the Northern Lights

The Aurora, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of nature’s most impressive displays. In parts of the northern hemisphere, it’s possible to see this strange, ethereal phenomenon light up the sky, creating a perfect ballet of light and colour. There is no better way to experience this than by camping out in the wilderness with your loved ones, without the interference of man-made lights to disturb the show. This bucket list favourite is sure to please just about everyone.

21. Follow The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the Inca civilisation’s most epic legacies. This stunning ruined city, perched atop a hill bathed in lush, green vegetation, is one of the ultimate travel bucket list ideas. For the most satisfying experience, take the three/four day hike along the historic path through the jungle, arriving at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu at sunrise on the final morning. That is one sunrise you’re guaranteed never to forget.

22. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Petra, Jordan

Movie lovers will recognise Petra from epic big screen adventures such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade , among others. This ancient Nabataean city, carved into the rose-coloured sandstone cliff, is a wonder to behold, and certainly creates an atmosphere. For the best experience, visit during the day and then return at night for one of the candlelit tours that run three nights per week, when you can walk through these deep rocky chasms, guided by the soft light of more than 1500 flickering candles.

23. Walk the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago, literally the ‘Way of Saint James’, is a medieval pilgrimage route that traverses France, Spain and Portugal and finally converges at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Walk in the footsteps of countless medieval pilgrims, and stay in ancient hostels and monasteries along the way. On the camino , the old adage rings true – it’s all about the journey, not the destination, and the people and places you’ll see on this epic route will leave you transformed.

24. Cross the Bolivian Salt Flats

The Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia’s magnificent salt flats, extends over 4500 square miles, creating a shimmering, mirror effect that draws the eye until the horizon. This salt desert is actually the remains of a lake, which collects a thin film of water during the rainy season and produces a dazzling veneer that glistens in the sunlight. This is the ultimate bucket list destination for photographers, as the unusual, otherworldly landscape is ideal for creating epic images. A trip here will certainly not disappoint.

25. Hike to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Few people will ever be able to look at the world from its highest point, the peak of Mount Everest in the Himalayas. However, the next best thing is a Himalayan trek through the stunning Nepalese mountains, culminating at Everest Base Camp. This is a location brimming with mountaineering history, and is a fabulous spot in its own right. If you’re looking for a challenging, memorable trek on the roof of the world, this is the one for you.

26. Go Rafting in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of nature’s magnificent wonders, and a rafting trip offers an opportunity to see it from a whole new perspective. Getting a permit to go rafting down the Grand Canyon can be a lengthy process, but it’s definitely worth the wait. As you gently wind your way through the gorge, you’ll have a view of the cliffs like no other: truly the best way to admire this beautiful corner of the United States.

27. Hike the Appalachian Trail

Spanning 2180 miles across the Appalachian mountain range, this epic walking trail is a bucket list highlight. These mountains are some of the most beautiful in the world, offering glorious views, stunning wild flowers and fascinating geography. Hiking the entire trail in one go would take a long time, but luckily, you can tackle this challenging activity in instalments. Set a date for completion, and aim to cover the entire trail!

If you want to travel more often , or even travel internationally for the first time, you will want to have a look at our blog post:   How to Travel on a Budget: the Ultimate Resource on Getting More For Your Money. Bookmark it and share it with friends and family. This guide could save you a lot of money!

New Skills - Expand Your Life by Learning New Things

28. learn a new language.

Learning a new language is a popular bucket list item, as many of us wish that we could communicate in a tongue that isn’t our own. Research suggests that learning a new language can be good for your health, helping to stave off degenerative conditions such as dementia. Learning to speak a foreign language is a challenging, but immensely rewarding activity. If you’ve always wanted to brush up your French, try a little Japanese, or learn to order coffee in Italian, now is the time to start!

29. Learn to Juggle

Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? While you may not be cut out for the trapeze, learning to juggle is a skill within the reach of most people, and it’s a useful talent to have up your sleeve. Juggling is a great party trick and will keep younger family members entertained for hours. All it takes is a few balls, a little space, and plenty of patience. Remember, practice makes perfect!

30. Learn a Musical Instrument

Most of us love listening to music, but learning how to make it is another skill entirely. If you’ve always yearned to pick up a guitar, or to tinkle the ivories, now is the time to have a go. It’s never too late to try something new, and you might find that you have a hidden talent!

31. Go Back To School

Many of us didn’t get the chance to go to university first time, and instead have built careers and lives without ever having had the opportunity to do a degree. But, it’s never to late to get your notebooks out again, and return to school to acquire some new skills. Perhaps you’ve always been fascinated by history, but never had the chance to study it? Or you might be passionate about chemistry, or electronics, or graphic design. Going back to school can be the start of a new career, or simply a new way to indulge your passions.

32. Learn to Ballroom Dance

Traditional ballroom dancing is witnessing an explosion in popularity, thanks to shows like Dancing With the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing . This activity is fun, sociable, suitable for any level of fitness, and great exercise. It’s been proven that the combination of concentration, movement and music is an excellent way to get in shape, but beware – this bucket list item is addictive! Get your dancing shoes on and release your inner Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers.

33. Learn to Scuba Dive

Learning to scuba dive might seem like hard work, but the rewards offered are substantial. As a trained diver you’ll have the opportunity to explore coral reefs across the world, marvelling at the countless natural wonders found under the sea. Scuba diving is by far the best way to explore the reefs and abundant marine life in our oceans, and it’s no surprise that this is one of the most popular bucket list items going.

34. Learn Falconry

Birds of prey are some of the most beautiful and intimidating creatures on this earth. For centuries and across cultures, man and bird have formed a powerful partnership, hunting for food in tandem. The connection between falconer and bird is a special one, and you can experience it by taking a falconry course. This will get you up close and personal with some of nature’s fiercest hunters, and you’ll experience the thrill of releasing the bird off in flight. Although these beautiful birds may seem scary at first, this bucket list item is a very special experience indeed.

35. Learn to Raise Bees

Bees, nature’s workers, are under threat all around the world, and there are fears that their dwindling numbers could seriously affect delicate eco-systems. You can play your part in protecting this important species by learning how to raise bees, and keeping them on your own land. This is a deeply rewarding, meditative experience, and what’s more, you’ll reap a rich, delicious harvest of honey.

Creativity - Be a Creator, Not a Consumer

36. design and build your dream house.

Designing and building a house is no easy feat. But a few determined people spend years dreaming up their ideal home and then making that dream a reality. Whether you imagine an eco-friendly, off-grid haven set in stunning nature, or a modern urban pad with a sleek design, now’s the time to put those dreams into action. You have to spend your life living in your home – why not make it the one you’ve always wanted?

37. Start a Blog

The blogging revolution has created countless new ways for ordinary people to express their ideas and creativity online. If you have a particular skill, interest or area of knowledge, why not share your experiences and ideas with the world and build an online community around your content? Blogging doesn’t have to be a commercial or profitmaking venture – it’s easy to get started and this could be the creative outlet you’ve been searching for.

38. Write a Novel

According to a popular saying, everyone’s got one novel in them. Whether it’s your dream to pen a children’s book, become a crime writer, or throw yourself into fantasy and science fiction, there’s no better to time to get started. Writing takes discipline and hard work, but it’s a therapeutic process and one that could transform your life. Who knows? You might create the next Harry Potter…

39. Start to Paint

Painting is an activity we all do while we are children, but very few of us continue into adulthood, despite the fact that research suggests that those who paint or draw regularly are more happy, stable and fulfilled than those who do not. Painting offers a creative outlet and encompasses many different artistic styles and approaches. Take up a course, or simply set yourself the challenge of painting something every day.

40. Plant a Herb Garden​

Gardening is a seriously therapeutic activity – what could be more satisfying than nurturing plants as they grow from seed to full maturity? Although many of us don’t have the space to design and raise a full garden, anyone can grow herbs. All it takes is a windowsill, a balcony or a patio, and it’s amazing what you can do even with limited space. And at the end of your labours you’ll have a fine selection of fresh herbs whenever you want them. And it’s true – they do taste better if you grow them yourself.

41. Act in a Play

Have you always imagined yourself on the stage? Taking up acting is a popular bucket list activity, but many of us feel intimidated at the thought of performing in front of a large group of people. However, amateur dramatics can be an extremely rewarding activity, allowing you to meet new people, boost your confidence, and learn new skills.

42. Build a Treehouse

For many children, having a treehouse is a magical experience, creating space for a hideaway literally embedded in nature. Even as adults, many of us still love the idea of having a private space high up in the trees, where we can retreat from the world. The good news is, as adults, it’s possible to make this bucket list goal a reality. Design and build your ultimate treehouse, either for you or for your children. Whether you want a luxury treetop cabin or a rustic hideaway for reading and painting, the choice is yours.

43. Set Up A Darkroom

If photography is your passion then why not set up your own dark room? Despite advances in digital camera technology, many photographers continue to shoot film, and exposing your own film can be a creative and rewarding experience, allowing you to play with the results and create some seriously cool works of art. Setting up a darkroom needn’t take too much effort, and at the end you’ll have a quiet, peaceful retreat where you can experiment with photography to your heart’s content.

Food and Drink - Another Way to Get to Know a Country or Culture

44. try a deep fried mars bar.

This Scottish delicacy really is a heart attack on a plate. In principle, this strange culinary treat – an entire Mars bar, coated in battered and deep-fried – really shouldn’t work. However, miraculously, it’s delicious. Perhaps it’s the delectable combination of salty and sweet flavours, or perhaps it just hits the spot after a night of drinking and dancing the night away. Either way, this is one thing you mustn’t miss on a trip to Scotland. Here is a recipe if you want to try it at home.

45. Eat Peking Duck in Beijing

Peking duck was served up to Chinese emperors for centuries, and is the quintessential Chinese dish. Consisting of crispy skin, tender meat, and crunchy vegetables, all wrapped in a soft pancake, this certainly a meal fit for royalty. By far the best place to enjoy this Chinese national dish is in Beijing itself, where countless talented chefs compete for the accolade of best duck in town.

46. Try a New Food Every Month

We spend most of our lives eating the same thing, recycling familiar recipes and shopping at the same grocery stores. This bucket list item aims to widen your palate by seeking out a weird and wonderful new food product every month. Go crazy and try some things that you’ve never dared to before!

47. Eat Snails in France

Most of us turn our nose up at the idea of eating snails. These small, slimy, ugly creatures are not the most visually appetizing of treats! But this will change once you head to France and try escargots – the French speciality that everyone must sample once in a lifetime. These little creatures may be small but they pack a nutritious punch, and once smothered in butter a la francaise , they are simply delicious.

48. Learn to Mix Cocktails

49. go truffle hunting.

Truffles are some of the rarest delicacies found on the planet, and their distinctive taste will add a touch of luxury to any dish. Truffles are traditionally hunted by pigs, whose delicate sense of smell allows them to root them out in the damp, cool forests where they grow best. Foraging courses in France and Italy allow you to follow specialist truffle hunters and their pigs, and learn how to find these elusive gastronomic treats. There’s nothing more satisfying than a delicious dinner made from truffles that you’ve sniffed out all by yourself.

50. Make Your Own Pasta

With the ubiquity of different types of fresh and dried pasta in the supermarket, it can seem like a waste of time and energy to make your own. However, homemade fresh pasta always tastes better, and it’s well worth taking the time to learn more about this ancient Italian art. You only need three basic ingredients, but you’ll earn plenty in terms of flavour and texture. Once you’ve gotten the hang of making your own, you’ll never look back.

51. Tour a Vineyard

Touring a vineyard is one of the most popular culinary travel bucket list ideas. Whether you pick the south of France, California, Capetown or Auckland, the pattern is the same. On these tours you can learn about wine production, see the beautiful landscapes in which the grapes are grown, and of course, sample the products. Don’t be surprised if you come away with a few bottles for the cellar, and beware – you might have a headache in the morning.

52. Brew Your Own Beer

The craft beer industry has exploded in recent years, thanks to the newfound popularity of thousands of local, small-scale, micro breweries. However, these new beers can come at an increasingly steep price tag. A far better, if more lengthy process, is to make your own. Home brewing kits are widely available now online, and these simple installations don’t take up much room. Once you get the hang of it, you can start to be creative and brew concoctions that suit your own flavour preferences.

53. Learn to Make Latte Art

It’s not only the trained, professional baristas that can make beautiful patterns on top of your regular cup of morning Joe. Get creative with your own coffees by taking a course and learn how to make the perfect espresso, as well as dazzling your friends with some killer latte art. There are plenty of courses where you can learn from the best in the business, and you’ll be soon making creative designs that are guaranteed to impress!

54. Enter an Eating Competition

This bucket list item might not be for everyone, but if you have the stomach for it, an eating competition can be a real adventure. Competitive eating is more popular in the United States than anywhere else in the world, and you’re sure to find a contest that suits you. These competitions can encompass all kinds of eating activities, including the famous ‘chicken wing challenge’, or the world pie-eating competition. If you’ve got a talent for eating at speed, you could find yourself winning some impressive prizes.

55. Try Haggis on Burns’ Night

Robert ‘Rabbie’ Burns is Scotland’s national poet. Every year on the 25 th of January, the Scots celebrate Burns’ Night, during which they eat a traditional meal of ‘neeps’ (swede), ‘tatties’ (potatoes) and haggis, a sheep’s stomach stuffed with offal, onion and spices. The haggis is often piped into the room and then Burns’ poem, Address to a Haggis , is recited before the hungry guests tuck in. Haggis certainly isn’t for everyone, but it’s something everyone should try at least once in a lifetime.

alternatively :

56. Wade in a Cranberry Bog

If you’ve never seen the way in which cranberries are grown, you’ve got a surprise coming. These beautiful crimson fruits are grown in artificial ‘bogs’, flooded with water to allow the ripe fruit to float to the top for easy harvesting. This bucket list idea is unusual, but allows for some stunning photos as you wade through a sea of crimson in search of a delicious crop of juicy cranberries. This is fruit picking with a difference.

Spiritual - A Bucket List That Goes Beyond This World

57. go on a pilgrimage.

Pilgrimage is an age-old tradition that spans religions and cultures. Whether it’s the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain, the Hajj to Mecca, or the holy Buddhist mountain of Kailash in the Himalayas, we can find examples of pilgrimage all over the world and throughout history. A pilgrimage can be a deeply meditative experience, involving a combination of physical exertion and reflection. Wherever you choose to go, it’s sure that you won’t return unchanged.

58. Pray Once Every Day

In our busy modern lives, many of us forget to stop and pray, reflecting on our hopes, fears and gratitude. Whatever prayer means to you, whether it’s to a god, or gods, or simply a matter of meditation, make space at least once a day to do it. You won’t regret taking the time, and it will make you more mindful and grateful for all of the wonderful things in your life.

59. Join a Church Choir

Singing is a particularly spiritually fulfilling activity, and joining a church choir often features as a popular bucket list idea. Spiritual music has shaped and influenced much of our modern music, providing uplifting melodies with profound lyrics. The feeling of being part of a group of voices, surging in unison, is one of the most powerful musical experiences you can have.

60. Take Up Yoga

Yoga has been appropriated in our Western culture, and is largely marketed as a good way to get in shape and improve flexibility. However, yoga is also a deeply spiritual activity, embedded in Hindu doctrines, which focuses on the relationship between body and spirit. This form of meditation through movement is an ideal way to transform your outlook, promote relaxation and reflection, and understand your body. Find a good instructor and learn about the spiritual origins of this ancient practice.

61. Complete Vipassana

Vipassana is one of the latest trends to hit the spirituality and well-being market. This extreme form of meditation promises deep spiritual benefits, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Vipassana requires 10 days of complete silence, sitting or standing very still, in a monastic retreat. You will be guided by instructors during scheduled sessions during the day, and the aim is to push yourself through discomfort to achieve a deeper meditation. It’s a challenging process, but many adherents report a significant transformation at the end of the experience. Here is a quick guide by wikihow

62. Meet the Dalai Lama

The Tibetan spiritual leader, the 14 th Dalai Lama, is a widely loved figure. His wisdom, compassion and keen sense of humour have touched many people, even outside of the Tibetan Buddhist religion. He holds regular audiences at his residence in McLeod Ganj, in northern India, and often tours other parts of the world to give speeches. Hearing this important spiritual leader speak is a profoundly moving experience.

63. Read a Spiritual Text in Full

Although many of us are adherents of a particular faith, few of us have ever read the foundational texts of our own religion in full, let alone the texts of other religions. Perhaps your bucket list will include reading a religious text in full, whether it’s the Qur’an, Bible, Torah, Upanishads or any other foundational spiritual text. Take the time to immerse yourself in one of these complex, revelatory scriptures, and you might discover a whole range of new ideas and lessons that don’t usually feature in your daily worship.

64. Visit Jerusalem

The eternal city is the locus point for three major world religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. While it’s a site that has been significantly contested over time, this place remains a spiritually potent space. Visit the Wailing Wall, walk in the footsteps of Christ on his journey to Calvary, and see the incredible magnificence of the Dome of the Rock, site of Muhammad’s night journey. Always challenging, this ancient, sacred city is sure to move you deeply.

65. Take Part in a Spiritual Fast

All major religions incorporate some form of fasting. For example, Muslims fast during daylight hours during the month of Ramadan, and Christians give up meat, fish and other luxury foods for 40 days during Lent, mimicking the actions of Christ in the desert. Fasting has known health benefits, but it can also have spiritual ones too, focusing the mind, helping you prioritise what’s important, and reflect on what you have achieved. In essence, fasting offers the perfect way to strip back the comforts of the modern world and focus on what’s really important.

66. Give to Charity

While this is a somewhat unusual bucket list idea, giving to charity is often seen as an important spiritual activity. Giving to others mimics the actions of spiritual leaders such as Jesus or Muhammad, and connotes the idea of sacrifice for the greater good. Charitable giving also allows us to reflect on what we have and express our gratitude. Whether you want to do some fundraising for your favourite cause, or just give away a part of your own wealth or possessions, however small, this bucket list item can really make a difference to others.

Sports Bucket List

67. complete a triathlon, 68. run a marathon.

Marathon running has really taken off in recent years, and this activity remains an important test of endurance for many people looking to get in shape. Running 26 miles is no easy feat, but the good news is that organised marathons are usually joyful, shared experiences where the adrenaline, the goodwill of the crowd and the comradeship of your fellow runners will pull you across the finish line, even when you feel like you can’t make it yourself.

69. Coach a Kid’s Sports Team

If you’ve got a talent for football, rugby or any other team sport, why not put your skills to use and set up a kid’s sports team. Children’s sporting groups often rely on adult volunteers, especially in deprived communities where resources are scarce, so this is a great way to get fit, put something back into the community and have a lot of fun. You’ll also get to enjoy the satisfaction of seeing a young team flourish under your care.

70. Go to the Super Bowl

Attending the Super Bowl is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list opportunity, and a must for all American football fans. This annual extravaganza gets bigger and better every year, and offers an exhilarating experience for the crowd. Not only will you enjoy an intense game of football, the half time entertainments are the stuff of legend. This is a bucket list experience you’ll never forget.

71. Do An Ironman Challenge

For fitness fanatics looking for an extra challenge, this is a bucket list idea for you. Ironman is essentially a triathlon, but it’s widely regarded as the most challenging one-day fitness competition in the world. Participants complete a 2.4-mile swim, a gruelling 112-mile bicycle ride, and finish it all off by running a marathon. This challenge has become increasingly popular in recent years, and is the ultimate test of fitness and stamina.

72. Learn archery

For all those budding Robin Hood fans out there, one of the best bucket list items has to be an archery course. This sport requires skill, patience and a keen eye, but find a good teacher, and you’re sure to be hitting the target board in no time. For those who are particularly keen, it’s possible to learn to fashion your own bow and arrow too, making this a fantastic sport for developing creative as well as physical skills.

73. Go Cross Country Skiing

Downhill skiing is a popular sport for many of us, but fewer people try cross-country skiing. This requires rather more endurance, but will allow you to travel through snow-clad forests and fields, seeing the scenery at a more leisurely pace. It’s a great workout too, so get your skis on and cross this brilliant activity off your bucket list.

74. Enter a Body Building Competition​

If you’re a gym bunny, then a fun amateur body building competitions may be just the bucket list item for you. Body building has taken off in recent years, as men and women search for that perfectly ripped physique achieved through weightlifting. Find your peak physical condition and enter a body building competition today.

75. Learn to Abseil

Tackling steep, sheer mountain faces and buildings is no mean feat, and this bucket list item is certainly not for those with a fear of heights. Abseiling involves lowering yourself down the side of a tall building or cliff, using your feet to push off the wall and a rope around your waist. This is definitely a bucket list item for adrenaline junkies. If you can bear the heights, however, the views are likely to be fantastic.

76. Attend the Olympics

The Olympic Games happen every four years, and represent an extraordinary feat of international cooperation. This global sporting event brings together athletes in all sporting areas and from all over the world in order to compete and celebrate sporting greatness. Watching the Olympics in person is a bucket list must – attend this incredible event at least once in your lifetime and soak up the electric atmosphere created by so many talented sportsmen and women.

Money and Career - Financial Goals to Aim For

77. clear your debt.

Debt is a prominent feature of modern-day living, and for many of us, it feels like a heavy anchor, an inescapable weight that stands in the way of many other items on our bucket lists. However, clearing debt is possible. If you’re struggling to become debt free, seek advice, audit your spending and find ways to make savings, however small. With a long-term plan you’ll soon be on your way to losing that debt.

78. Go Freelance

The 21 st century economy is increasingly mobile, and the internet has created a wide variety of opportunities for people who want a more flexible approach to working. If the 9-to-5 office job isn’t your thing, perhaps now is the time to go freelance. The benefits include working for yourself, determining where and when you work, and using your own skills and creativity to make your way in the world. Freelance, and flexible working, is the future.

79. Find Your Dream Job

Are you stuck in a job that you don’t enjoy? Don’t hang around waiting for that dream offer to land on your lap. If you know the job you want, it’s time to make a plan to secure your dream position. Finding the perfect job is high on many people’s bucket lists, but realising this goal can be difficult. Nevertheless, don’t despair – set your sights on your professional goals and focus your efforts on attaining them.

80. Buy a House

An Englishman’s home is his castle, so the saying goes, and many of us are working towards that time where we can save up enough money to put towards our own little piece of paradise. Settling down into your very own home is a powerful feeling, and offers security and stability, especially for young families. For many of us, this is a big-ticket bucket list item, and one that can be truly life changing.

81. Create a Scholarship

For some people, a sign of real success in life is earning enough money to be able to give a little back. Occasionally, this involves donating funds in order to set up a scholarship endowment, thereby funding future students through their degrees. This is an altruistic and rewarding way to spend a little cash, and can make a profound difference to the lives of people who have not had a privileged start in life.

82. Take a Sabbatical

While many of us have plenty of ideas for things we’d like to do in our spare time, the reality is that a full time career leaves little space for ticking items off your bucket list. For this reason, it’s becoming increasingly popular to take a sabbatical, allowing a little break from the grind of the 9-to-5 to fulfil those long-standing ambitions, or simply have some time to reflect. Use your sabbatical to write a book, set up a blog or website, or to learn new skills. A change is as good as a rest, and you’re sure to come back to work feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.

Healthy Mind and Body Bucket list

83. achieve your ideal weight.

Losing weight is a regular feature on health and wellness bucket lists. With obesity levels rising, and many of us adopting an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, now is the perfect time to go on a health kick and watch the number on those scales come down. Nobody said losing weight was easy, but with the right plan and plenty of support this is an achievable bucket list goal. The ideal weight calculator

84. Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the most dangerous vices in our modern society, with cigarettes known to cause at least 15 different kinds of cancer. The good news is, however, even if you’re a life long smoker, it’s never too late to stop. The risks of cancer and heart disease drop with every month that you stop smoking, and you’ll soon notice a difference in your overall health and well being.

85. Go Vegan

Veganism may offer the key to saving the planet, according to a recent study commissioned by the United Nations. The biggest impact you can have on your carbon footprint as an individual is to go vegan, and its also been shown to have considerable health benefits. You don’t have to eschew meat and dairy entirely, but adopting a vegan lifestyle for a month or even longer could seriously reduce your risk of heart attack and also help you to shift a few pounds.

86. Go on a Spa Weekend

Staying healthy doesn’t have to mean constant diets and gruelling exercise plans. Sometimes it’s just as important to pamper yourself, so why not treat yourself to a luxury spa weekend, get a massage or another treatment to leave yourself feeling fresh and clean. Building in time for relaxation and rest is an important part of self-care too!

87. Build a Six Pack

The six pack is the ultimate abs challenge, and is a physical testimony to hours of work put in at the gym. Building a six pack doesn’t have to be about endless crunches, however, and many different forms of exercise are now geared towards targeting that middle section and producing defined abs. Try Pilates, weightlifting or body weight exercises to get the ultimate six pack and cross this item off your bucket list!

88. Quit Sugar

Sugar is one of the most addictive substances on the planet, and is so deeply integrated into our everyday diets that it can be extremely difficult to wean ourselves off it. However, an increasing number of studies indicate that sugar is responsible for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and the whole range of other health conditions. Cutting sugar out of your diet can have a dramatic effect, even leading to changes in taste and appetite, as well as reducing your risk of developing some of these deadly diseases.

89. Do 100 Push Ups

Some of us struggle to do one complete push up without shaking and crumbling to the floor. However, the good news is that this activity is one that anyone can do, with a little training, just by practising every day for a few months. Set a goal of 20, 50 or 100 push ups, depending on your level, and gradually work your way up to it. Before you realise you’ll be doing 100 push ups in one go and you’ll never look back!

90. Do a Juice Fast

Fasting has proven health benefits, providing it’s done under controlled conditions and not for long periods of time. Juice fasts have become increasingly common in recent years, and are thought by some to be effective ways to detox your body. Follow an approved plan, under medical supervision, and you could end your juice fast feeling healthier, lighter and more clear headed than you have for a long time.

91. Embrace a Minimalist Lifestyle

In this age of consumerism, our houses and lives are fast becoming more cluttered than ever before. It’s no surprise, therefore, that there’s a new trend for de-cluttering and dramatically stripping back our lives to embrace minimalism. This bucket list idea aims to help you identify what’s really important in your life, whittling all your possessions down to the last 300 objects in your home: the ones that truly bring you joy and meaning.

Animals - Interacting With the Creatures of the World

92. own chickens.

If you can’t cope with an entire menagerie, but still want to create a farmyard feel in your home, why not invest in some chickens? These feathered creatures will provide a ready supply of eggs, and help to keep your land bug-free and well fertilised. Owning chickens is a rewarding activity, and you’ll benefit from making sure that your eggs are from happy, healthy hens that have lived a full, peaceful life.

93. Rescue a Dog

94. visit a butterfly house.

This bucket list item is a joyful experience: who wouldn’t enjoy walking around a hothouse of tropical plants, looking at countless species of colourful, dancing butterflies? There are many dedicated butterfly houses around the world, and they often perform important conservation work, preserving rare species and educating the public about the lives, habitats and varieties of different butterflies.

95. Learn to Ride a Horse

Horses are one of man’s oldest companions, and for many of us, horse riding is a childhood dream. These noble animals are deeply empathetic and social, and they form deep bonds of trust with their riders. Learning to ride a horse is a challenging activity, requiring training, patience and practice, but it is definitely worth the effort.

96. Swim With Dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is a universally popular bucket list item. These intelligent, powerful, underwater creatures are known to be social and empathetic, and swimming among them can be a very special, even therapeutic, experience. There are many areas around the world that provide opportunities to swim with dolphins in safe, beautiful surroundings. For many of us, this is simply a dream come true.

97. See the Big Five in Tanzania

If big cats are on your bucket list, then look no further than the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. Here you can take part in an epic safari that could bring you into contact with lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo, in addition to many other impressive creatures of the savannah. This is a truly memorable, once-in-a-lifetime activity that will bring you close to some of Africa’s most impressive creatures in the wild.

98. See the Giant Panda

The Giant Panda is the least intimidating of bears, with its distinctive black and white fur and gentle countenance. Unfortunately, this stunning animal is particularly ill-adapted to its habitat, leaving it vulnerable to both predators and habitat loss. Luckily, conservation efforts have been successful, and it’s possible to visit pandas in the reserve near Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. Here, these famously shy creatures are thriving.

99. Visit the Giant Tortoise of the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are rich in all kinds of animal life, but most people come here for a close encounter with the record-breaking Giant Tortoise. These remarkable creatures can live up to 150 years, and in this time, they grow to an enormous size. Like many other rare and wonderful creatures, the species is under threat and some types are considered critically endangered. Visiting the Galapagos and seeing these ancient animals is an unforgettable experience.

100. See Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

The mountain gorillas of Central Africa are some of the world’s most fascinating creatures. These intelligent, sociable and gentle creatures are also under threat as their habitat is increasingly reduced as a result of human settlement. Seeing these wonderful animals in the wild is a true privilege, and is guaranteed to take your breath away, Visit the lush, dense jungle of Uganda’s Bwindi National Park to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, while supporting the important ongoing conservation efforts to keep them from extinction.

101. Whale Watching

Seeing the giants of the sea close up in the water is one of the most awe-inspiring things you can do. There are many places around the world where you can head out into the open water to swim with these magnificent, gentle creatures of the deep. Whether you plump for Australia, Canada or Sri Lanka, this is one bucket list adventure that should be high on your list.

Recent Posts

• What is Italy Known For?
• The Bucket List 10 -⏩ What are the Top 10 Bucket List Items?
• What is New York Famous For? 14 Things That Make New York the State it is
• What is Vietnam known for? 12 Things That Make Vietnam the Country it is
• Why is Route 66 Famous? 🚗15 Things to See Along the Way
• What is Lithuania Known For? 12 Things That Make Lithuania the Country it is
• What is Africa Known For? 7 Things That Make Africa the Continent it is
• 15 Best Places to Visit in February | USA, Europe and the World
• What Is Egypt Famous For? 7 Things That Make Egypt the Country it is
• What is Mexico Famous For? 11 Things That Make Mexico the Country it is

We need your HELP

What should be on the, bucket list 10.

This is a list of the top 10 bucket list life experiences given by thousands of people from all of the world

Keep All Your Bucket List Items in One Place

How to Create Your Ultimate Travel Bucket List + 115 Ideas

By Author Disha Smith

Posted on Published: April 12, 2020  - Last updated: December 15, 2020

Categories Travel Tips

Save this post for later!

Stay in an overwater villa in the Maldives, go on a hot air balloon ride in Capadoccia, or go on a safari in Africa — what’s on your travel bucket list? Have you taken a few minutes out of your busy life to stop and really think about what travel goals you want to accomplish?

Unfortunately, a lot of people wait until they’re ill, reach retirement, or have some sort of life-altering event to really think about all of the amazing destinations they want to see before they die. I even know some people who are simply waiting for the “right” moment to travel.

Let’s be real — there’s no such thing as the “right” moment. You have to create those moments and take advantage of them. Sadly, it becomes too late for many to achieve their travel goals. Life is unpredictable and you’ll get curveballs thrown at you. There’s no guarantee that you’ll be healthy enough to travel when you reach retirement age. Quite frankly, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get tomorrow.

When we were at Angkor Wat in Cambodia, we saw a lady in her 80s struggling to explore the temples. If you haven’t been, the stairs leading up to the temples are very narrow and thin. She could have severely injured herself if she fell. That moment made me realize that I’m not going to wait until I’m retired to start living my life. Since then, I’ve been on the road traveling for two years and counting.

With that being said, let’s create your ultimate travel bucket list today. I want you to be able to look back on your life with happiness and excitement because you went to every place your heart desired. How cool would that be? Since I desperately want to watch you achieve your travel goals, I’m going to walk you step by step on how to create your travel bucket list. Don’t forget to read the bottom of my post because I have a few bucket list ideas for you.

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust.   This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.   See full disclosure here.

Don’t Be Afraid to Dream Big

As Eleanor Roosevelt said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” Take a few hours to really think about what your travel dreams are. There is no such thing as a silly dream. It could be your dream to travel to every country in the world. Or, your dream could be to simply travel to Paris. It doesn’t matter what it is. Write it down.

Did you know that you’re 42% more likely to achieve your dreams if you write them down ? Isn’t that crazy? You’re more likely to accomplish your travel goals just by writing them down.

Pyramids of Giza in Egypt

I don’t know about you, but I have really big travel dreams. Even though I’ve been on the road for two years, I still have so much of this beautiful world to see. Therefore, I’m constantly adding new places and experiences to my travel bucket list.

Starting your travel bucket list is empowering. It shows you how many amazing things you’re capable of accomplishing. It also makes travel feel more attainable.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s move on to the fun part and start making travel happen for you.

Creating Your Travel Bucket List

Yay, we’re at the fun part now. Below, I’ve outlined the exact steps you need to follow to create your epic travel bucket list. Get your creative pants on and use your imagination.

Step 1: Buy a Travel Journal

I don’t know about you, but I feel more motivated to write when I’m writing in something cute that fits my style. Buy a travel journal that fits your style rather than writing your travel bucket list on a random piece of paper. Buy a journal that makes you want to pick it up and write in it consistently. Here are a few adorable ones that I found:

If you’re more tech-savvy, you can use a simple Word document or create an electronic journal using Canva . I’m a little more old school and I prefer writing my goals down. I don’t know why, but it feels more empowering to me.

Once you purchase your journal, be sure to store it in a place where you have easy access to it. I’m sure you’re going to want to keep adding more destinations to it as they come to mind.

Step 2: Write Down Places You’ve Already Traveled to

This step is crucial. Creating your travel bucket list can be challenging because there are so many wonderful places out there waiting to be explored by you. However, writing down places you’ve already visited will help combat the overload. Use the back few pages of your journal for this process.

This might unveil the kind of travel you prefer. You might realize that you’ve most only visited coastal towns or that you’ve mostly done adventure travel.

The Colosseum in Rome

This process will also encourage you to keep striving for more travel. This step will serve as a reminder that you’re totally able to live a life full of travel or it’ll make you realize that you haven’t explored nearly as many places as you think you have. Either way, this step will help you fuel your wanderlust and identify what kind of travel you prefer.

Step 3: Organize Your Journal

This is easier than it sounds. Simply organize your journal by continent. This will help keep your travel bucket list organized and you know exactly where to find a location you previously wrote down to cross it off.

You can buy Post-it Tabs if you want to get all fancy and divide your journal that way. If you want to keep it simple, just grab a pen and write a continent every few pages or so. Also, I know some of you are into bullet journaling and this is the perfect opportunity to let your creative juices flow.

Step 4: Write Down Destinations That Come to Mind

Once you’ve organized your journal, immediately start writing down destinations that come to mind under the corresponding continent.

Have you always wanted to marvel at the Colosseum in Rome? Do you want to see the Taj Mahal in India? Write down as many destinations as you can.

Step 5: Research Destinations

I know that this is the step you’ve been eagerly waiting for. Go ahead and get crazy with this step. Let your imagination fly. Think about all the amazing places you’ve heard about during your life that you’ve always wanted to visit. Write them down under the proper continent section.

I had to do a classic pose at the Taj Mahal.

If you need some extra travel inspiration, head over to Pinterest and Google and type in “bucket list destinations” in the search bar. You’ll find heaps of posts with bucket list destinations that you can add to your own list. You can also scroll down to the bottom of my post and get some ideas from there too. Warning — researching bucket list destinations will cause some serious wanderlust.

Here are some questions to ask yourself that will aid in this process:

• Where have I always wanted to go?
• Where would I go if money wasn’t an obstacle?
• What international foods am I dying to try?
• What are some specific sites I want to see?
• If you were 80 years old and looking back on life, where would I regret not going?

Step 6: Write Down Experiences

Let’s kick things up a notch and write down the experiences you want to have. It’s cool to write down destinations on your travel bucket list, but it’s equally important to think about the experiences that you want in life.

This can range from watching the wildebeest migration in Kenya and Tanzania, experience New Years Eve in Time Square, and go skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah.

This step will you find more destinations to add to your list. Plus, it gives you a better understanding of what you want to do there. Lastly, it helps you prioritize what places you want to visit over others. There’s more information on that below.

Step 7: Prioritize Your List & Create Deadlines

Grab a pen and circle which destinations you want to visit first. Keep in mind that there are some activities you want to do that are better suited to do when you’re younger. A good example of this is skydiving. I mean, you could do it when you’re 70. However, that doesn’t sound too pleasant.

I’m sure your list is lengthy right now so pick a few places you want to visit first under each continent and circle them. These are the destinations that you should start striving hard to visit.

New York City

Then, next to each destination, write a date by which you want to visit. I know you’re excited, but it’s important to be realistic. Spend some time and calculate what is practical for you. If you only have two vacation weeks per year, it’s unlikely that you’re visiting Bali, Hawaii, and Rome in one year.

Creating a deadline will make you work harder for your goals and help you realize what actions you need to take to turn your travel dreams into reality.

Guess what? You’ve now created your awesome travel bucket list.

Bucket List Ideas

As promised, here are some awesome bucket list ideas for you to add to your own. Like I said before, I’ve traveled to quite a few places but I still have so many great places to see. I’ve divided it by continent so it’s easier for you to browse through.

North America

1. Lake Tahoe, California 2. Glacier National Park, Montana 3. Seattle, Washington 4. San Diego, California 5. Vancouver, Canada 6. Banff National Park, Canada 7. Portland, Maine 8. Tulum, Mexico 9. Cayman Islands 10. Puerto Rico 11. New York City, New York 12. Charleston, South Carolina 13. Grand Canyon, Arizona 14. Niagara Falls 15. New Orleans, Louisiana 16. Pacific Coast Highway, California 17. Joshua Tree National Park, California 18. Chicago, Illinois 19. Boston, Massachusetts 20. Oahu, Hawaii 21. Denali National Park, Alaska 22. Antelope Canyon, Arizona 23. Big Sur, California 24. Napa Valley, California 25. Key West, Florida 26. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 27. La Fortuna, Costa Rica 28. Belize City, Belize 29. Tikal, Guatemala 30. Antigua, Guatemala 31. Panama City, Panama 32. St. Lucia 33. St. Vincent & the Grenadines 34. Anguilla 35. Barbados 36. Jamaica 37. Cuba 38. Aruba 39. Curacao 40. Trinidad and Tobago 41. Bermuda

South America

42. Machu Picchu, Peru 43. Buenos Aires, Argentina 44. Iguazu Falls 45. Galapagos Island, Ecuador 46. Cartagena, Colombia 47. Medellin, Colombia 48. Santiago, Chile 49. Easter Island, Chile 50. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia 51. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 52. Ushuaia, Argentina 53. Falkland Islands

54. Dublin, Ireland 55. Hallstatt, Austria 56. Bruges, Belgium 57. Brussels, Belgium 58. Split, Croatia 59. Dubrovnik, Croatia 60. Prague, Czech Republic 61. Paris, France 62. Nice, France 63. Munich, Germany 64. Mykonos, Greece 65. Santorini, Greece 66. Budapest, Hungary 67. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland 68. Venice, Italy 69. Rome, Italy 70. Amsterdam, Netherlands 71. Valletta, Malta 72. Barcelona, Spain 73. Madrid, Spain 74. Zermatt, Switzerland 75. Bergen, Norway 76. St. Petersburg, Russia

77. Cape Town, South Africa 78. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt 79. Alexandria, Egpyt 80. Tunis, Tunisia (currently the #1 item on my bucket list) 81. Chefchaouen, Morrocco 82. Marrakesh, Morrocco 83. Maasai Mara, Kenya 84. Mahe Island, Seychelles 85. Île aux Cerfs, Mauritius 86. Zanzibar, Tanzania 87. Victoria Falls, Zambia 88. Devils Pool, Zimbabwe

89. Dubai, United Arab Emirates 90. Angkor Wat, Cambodia 91. Maldives 92. Taj Mahal, India 93. Petra, Jordan 94. Beirut, Lebanon 95. Istanbul, Turkey 96. Cappadocia, Turkey 97. Doha, Qatar 98. Halong Bay, Vietnam 99. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 100. Bukhara, Uzbekistan 101. Gobi Desert, Mongolia 102. Bangkok, Thailand 103. Singapore 104. Seoul, South Korea 105. Hoi An, Vietnam 106. Hong Kong

107. Melbourne, Australia 108. Sydney, Australia 109. Cairns, Australia 110. Auckland, New Zealand 111. Wellington, New Zealand 112. Bay of Islands, New Zealand 113. American Samoa 114. Fiji 115. Tonga

I hope you’re excited to build your travel bucket list and that you have some great ideas on what to add to your list. Which destinations are you going to add to your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below.

Wait — don’t leave yet!

Are you looking for more travel inspiration?   You’ll love these posts too.

15 Unnecessary Expenses to Cut so You Can Afford to Travel

5 Ways to Achieve Financial Freedom so You Can Travel More

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling More with a Full-Time Job

How to Save Money for Travel

Home Travel: 12 Ways to Travel the World Without Leaving Home

Like this post about how to create your ultimate travel bucket list ?   Pin it and share it with others.

Disha Smith is the founder of Disha Discovers. She quit her job in 2017 to travel the world to explore new cultures and experience new adventures. She has since been to 95+ countries and counting and has lived in South Africa, Thailand, Croatia, and Australia. She has done all kinds of travel ranging from luxury to budget backpacking, and her mission is to inspire others to discover their own sense of adventure and to help them plan a life full of meaningful experiences through travel.

Sunday 29th of November 2020

So many good ideas! I'm based in the Bay Area and go up to Tahoe every year. I recommend the skiing there to anyone who's planning on visiting.

Disha Smith

Sunday 6th of December 2020

Thanks for reading, Vivian! :)

Sunday 19th of April 2020

Great post! My problem is my bucket list just keeps getting bigger and I constantly change my mind about where I want to go next. It's out of control haha.

Saturday 25th of April 2020

Haha! That's a good problem to have, Francesca. Thanks for reading!

Saturday 18th of April 2020

This is an amazing way to structure your travel and decide what experiences are important to you

Thanks for reading, Roshni!

What a fun list! Your first city for Europe is Dublin, and that is where I plan to go next! Had to cancel my trip for next month, but I hope someday to get there!

Awww I'm sorry to hear that, Sharon! I hope we can all get back to traveling soon.

What a great list. I have a bucket list and aim to cross at least one or two things of a year. Some are big, some are a little closer to home, but having travel goals is important

Thank you, Emma! Yes, having travel goals is necessary.

How to Create Your Travel Bucket List

Have you ever wondered how to create a travel bucket list? Most people think of a bucket list as a collection of things to accomplish before you die, but this couldn't be further from the truth!

Right now, you can create as many bucket lists as you want. In fact, creating a travel bucket list is a fun way to stay motivated to pursue your dreams, especially if traveling is something you want to do.

No doubt you've always dreamt of visiting a few places like taking tours in Iceland , but you've just never gotten around to it, or you think it's outside your reach. Creating a travel bucket list helps to set a plan in motion to complete your goals. When written down, goals are reinforced and more likely to be completed. So, by creating a physical travel bucket list, you are one step closer to your dream destination.

There's a right way to make a bucket list, and a wrong way. Well, maybe not wrong, but there are definitely things you can do to help your bucket list better drive you towards your goals.

Want to know the secret?

Put these easy tips for creating your travel bucket list into practice, and you'll be asking all the right questions to compile a practical yet inspiring list you can't wait to complete.

Brainstorming

What kind of adventures do you like.

Take a look at the places you've visited in the past and consider what kind of places you'd like to go to next. Do you enjoy hiking in the alpine mountains? Trekking through a tropical jungle? Relaxing on a quiet sandy beach? The destinations you want to visit revolve around the adventures you want to experience.

What's your reason to go somewhere?

This goes hand in hand with the previous point. Why do you want to visit the places on your list? Is there a certain food or experience you want to try? Do you want to volunteer? Are you trying to learn more about a hobby, or do you want to try something completely new? Thinking about your purpose in going to a destination may provide inspiration for more places to visit and things to do. For example, if you want to learn how to learn to scuba dive, you may consider visiting Vietnam, Thailand or Indonesia.

Where can you find inspiration?

If you're looking for once-in-a-lifetime places and activities to add to your bucket list, the resources available are limitless. The internet is full of ideas if you know the right places to look. Great places to find bucket list inspiration include:

• "Best of" Lists - Travel bloggers and tourism boards are always creating lists and articles full of the best of whatever you're looking for. These "best of" lists can be broad like "The Best Beaches in the World" or ultra specific like "The Best Underground Restaurants in New York City". Find a list of places or activities you're interested in and add your favorite items to your bucket list.
• Social Media - In recent years, this has become one of the best travel inspiration sources. Check out gorgeous travel images on Instagram , watch scenic videos on Tiktok and YouTube , or research new and beautiful places on Pinterest . These are only a few of the many social media platforms that have high quality, inspiring travel content.
• Ask Your Friends - Speaking of social media, use Facebook to ask your friends for recommendations of places to go and things to do. Or, if you know a friend who has traveled a lot, ask which places have been their favorite. If your friends know you well, they can make recommendations based on what they know you'll like or dislike.
• Learn from the Experts - Read travel blogs and travel magazines for helpful articles on places to visit, not to mention beautiful travel photos to inspire you. Movies and books set in foreign locations are also a good place to start.

Creating Your Travel Bucket List

Once you've finished brainstorming ideas, it's time to create your list. You'll need to decide what type of travel bucket list you want to make. Here are some examples:

• List for the year - It's common to make a bucket list for the new year the same way you make new year's resolutions. But you don't have to wait for 1 st January to start a bucket list! Make a list to complete in the next 365 days, or even for a certain month if you're feeling ambitious.
• List for your 20's, 30's, etc. - It's a great idea to create a list of all the places you want to travel before you turn 25, 30, or whatever age you're turning next. You can make one for each year of your life, or just before the "big numbers" like 30 or 40. See my example Before 30 Bucket List .
• List for different seasons - Make a bucket list for each season or for your favorite season of the year. For example, when you're looking up "Best of" lists, find one for best summer destinations in the USA or best winter activities in Canada.
• List for a certain destination - You could make a bucket list for places to travel all over the world, or you could narrow it down to destinations you want to visit in a certain region, country, state, or even city. So, a bucket list could be for Europe, Italy, Tuscany, or Florence.

• List of places in a certain category: Once you've figured out what kind of adventures you like, make a bucket list for one of the categories you're interested in. For example, make a list of the best hikes in national parks, or perhaps make a bucket list for visiting all 50 states in the USA.

How should you organize your bucket list?

When choosing destinations and activities, it's important to prioritize and organize destinations based on both your desire and realistic ability to go. You should dream big for your bucket list, but the reality is that some places will require you to save up a little more money.

Does that mean you should leave out the more expensive activities and destinations? Absolutely not!

Find clever ways you can save money and draft a timeline of how long you think it will take you to save enough funds. Then, you can work on the easier items on your travel bucket list while saving up for the harder ones.

So how do you actually create your bucket list?

When you are ready to physically create your travel bucket list, think about how you want to keep track of it. Most people would just grab a piece of paper and start writing things down, but a scrap of paper is easy to lose or forget about.

There are so many creative ways to keep a bucket list, but here are a few of my favorites:

• Paper List - The tried and true way of making a list: write it on paper. But like I said, a random piece of paper is easy to lose. Write it down on a nice list or printable to hang on your bulletin board, stick on your fridge, or keep securely with your travel documents.
• Maps - There are many different kinds of special maps for sale on the internet that will help you track your travels. Whether it's using push-pins, scratching off destinations, or pasting a photo from each country onto the map, there's never been a prettier way to display your bucket list.

• Journal - If you're passionate about travel, consider keeping a travel journal. Not only is this a way to remember details of your travels, it's the perfect place to keep your detailed plans for future trips and, of course, your bucket list.

Are you ready to start checking off items on your bucket list? There's no time like the present. Keep these tips handy while you create your ultimate travel bucket list.

Now go book that flight, take that trip, and start living your dreams!

Travel Planning

Travel Tips

Forever Break's soft launch took place on 20 February 2020. We are adding dozens of pages of new content at the moment so some bits may temporarily appear incomplete. If you pick up any problems - big or small - feel free to contact us . Please also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest announcements.

Top Destinations

Langkawi, Malaysia

15 Reasons Why You Should Travel Solo at Least Once

7 Compelling Reasons You Should Care About Sustainable Travel

15 Tips for Taking Tack Sharp Photos

How to Shoot Better Travel Videos With Your Drone

16 Most Important Benefits of Nature Travel

Inspiration

Photo Stream

• Help & FAQs
• VIP Members
• Privacy Policy , Cookie Policy , Terms of Use
• © 2022 Forever Break ® | All Rights Reserved

Follow us now on Telegram for the latest updates.

Want more stuff like this?

We've got you hooked, hey?

Get the goodies delivered into your inbox weekly plus enjoy all the perks of being a Forever Break VIP member - customized itineraries, earn points and unlock badges.

Joining only takes a minute and it's free!

Wait! Before you go...

There's more free goodies at Forever Break!

Simply register a free account to build itineraries, unlock badges, and earn points. It only takes a minute. And it will instantly make you better looking.

You up for it?

Plan, Ready, Go®

How to Make a Travel Bucket List: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a travel bucket list can be a really fun process. Making a list of the destinations you dream of exploring and experiences you want to enjoy is a wonderful exercise. There’s something to be said for writing down by hand the things you want to do that makes them more achievable. If you don’t know where to start, here’s my guide on how to make a travel bucket list .

Key takeaways

• Writing down your travel dreams can help turn them into achievable goals.
• Your bucket list should be personal and reflect your unique desires and interests, not just popular trends.
• Prioritize destinations and experiences based on factors like personal significance, time sensitivity, and financial impact.
• Create a budget plan and timeline for your travels to make your bucket list financially feasible and organized.
• Regularly track and update your progress, adapting your list as life changes and celebrating milestones along the way.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer .

Getting started with your travel bucket list

Understanding the concept.

I’m one of those people who get a great deal of pleasure from creating lists and checking off each item from the list. Creating a travel bucket list acts as a motivational guide. It helps you choose and rank destinations and plan trip s that truly reflect your travel style and goals.

Creating a bucket list is powerful, similar to journaling. Writing your thoughts on paper can reveal desires and goals you hadn’t realized you had. Similarly, when creating your travel bucket list, it’s not just about where you travel, but also about the experiences you have there.

Setting your travel goals

When you set your travel goals , you’re giving yourself a direction. Start by writing down destinations that spark your inspiration —think about a mix of immediate trips and those that might be more of a stretch financially. For example, you might want to take an around-the-world cruise, which will likely require significantly more advanced planning than a few days in an accessible destination like New York City .

Incorporating personal dreams and desires

Your bucket list should resonate with your personal dreams and desires. Whether it’s witnessing the Northern Lights, seeing Japan’s beautiful cherry blossoms, or tasting a dish made by a renowned chef, make it personal. Let your imagination turn your list into dreams you are excited to chase.

Planning your travel

Identifying bucket list destinations.

Begin by cataloging all the places you’ve dreamed of visiting. The sky’s the limit here. Don’t think about it too much, just write.

After listing all your dream destinations, sort them by country, activity, or another specific category you prefer. You could even create a sortable table:

Prioritizing destinations and experiences

Once you’ve created your list, it’s time to prioritize . Start by marking each destination as high, medium, or low priority, considering factors such as your travel goals, personal significance, time sensitivity, or budget impact. For example:

• High Priority : Witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland—increasing tourism means I may not want to wait much longer.
• Medium Priority : Polar plunge in Antarctica—significant financial investment.
• Low Priority : Lounging on the beaches of Hawaii—a classic vacation that can wait.

Budgeting for your bucket list

Create a travel budget plan to make your travel dreams financially possible. We usually save for two major trips at once and consider adding a few short weekend getaways during the year.

Divide your list of trips into ‘splurge’ or ‘budget-friendly’ categories to help you plan your savings. Then research average costs for each trip in each list and brainstorm ways to save, like:

• Splurge : A two-week safari in Tanzania. Ways to save: Setting aside tax refunds for the next several years.
• Budget-friendly : Road trip through Utah national parks . Ways to save: Redeem travel rewards credit card points for hotel stays.

Other ways to approach your bucket list

Sorting by type of experience.

Your bucket list should reflect your true interest in activities or places, not just what is popular on Instagram. Whether it’s hiking, enjoying a quiet beach resort , or exploring national parks , decide what excites you the most. And be honest. You’re traveling for you, not others.

You could compile lists like:

• Outdoor Adventures : hiking trails, national parks, wildlife safaris.
• Cultural Hotspots : museums, historic sites, festivals.
• Culinary Experiences : Michelin-star restaurants, street markets, cooking classes.
• Relaxation Retreats : beaches and spas

Think about season and climate

Think about the season or type of weather you enjoy most when traveling. Certain destinations are best visited at particular times of the year. Research typical weather to match up your destinations with the best time to travel. For example:

• Sandy beaches : find the sunny, dry months for the best beach weather.
• Mountains: up north, deep into summer will mean the best travel weather and road conditions
• Southeast U.S. : avoid the hottest months of July and August. Keep an eye on weather predictions to avoid hurricane-related storms.
• Northwest U.S. : summer comes late to the Pacific Northwest and late winter is the rainy season.

Creating a timeline for your travels

Establishing a timeline is key to making your dreams a reality. Start by estimating the ideal length of stay for each destination, then map out a trip itinerary , even just a preliminary one. Think about this:

• Short-term Goals : places you can visit within the next year.
• Mid-term Goals : experiences planned for the next 2-5 years.
• Long-term Dreams : ambitious trips that may require more time and planning.

A solid timeline will help you focus on making each trip happen. Revisit your list from time to time, as your interests, budget, and free time can change.

Tracking and updating your progress

As you work your way through your travel bucket list, keeping a record of your adventures and periodically revising your goals is a great idea. Keeping track of where you’ve been and what’s next helps in planning and brings a sense of accomplishment.

Reviewing and adapting the list

Periodically take time to review your list . Life changes, and so might your travel dreams, finances, available time to travel, or opportunities.

To organize your list, create a simple table with columns for the destination, the reason for choosing it, and a tentative travel date or even just the year. I love using Notion for personal lists and notes like this. It’s easy to make changes, move things around, etc. Digital lists are easier to change than those written with pen and paper.

Celebrating milestones

When you check a destination off your bucket list, celebrate it . Here are a few ways to make this fun.

• A fun and interactive way to track your progress is through a scratch-off map ; scratching off a country or state as you visit adds a visual reward to your accomplishments. You can find some great options on Amazon .
• You might also want to write about your experiences or include photos in a travel journal .
• Share your travel photos on social media, but not while traveling, to avoid showing off that your house is empty.

Tracking your travels is not about simply checking items off a list. Writing down or visually recording your travels will motivate you to explore and learn more. That’s really what it’s all about.

Inspirational resources and tools

Social media for inspiration.

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter offer a lot of travel inspiration. Follow accounts and hashtags related to travel and culture to discover new destinations and ideas.

Find Facebook groups about travel to ask your questions about specific destinations and help other travelers heading to the places you’ve been.

Follow me on Facebook here.

Follow me on Twitter here.

Travel blogs and Pinterest

Travel blogs are a great resource for getting detailed help with your potential bucket list destinations. I love gathering insights and tips from many different blogs as I research my trips.

On Pinterest , you can create boards for different categories of activities or destinations, pinning images and helpful articles from the travel bloggers that resonate with you the most.

You can follow me on Pinterest here.

Bucket list templates and journals

A bucket list template can help bring order or a little beauty to your travel wish list.  

A printable travel journal or digital travel planner makes a great travel companion where you can keep your itinerary, reflect on your goals, and record your adventures as you check each one off your list.

Final thoughts on building a travel bucket list

Creating your travel bucket list is a fun way to turn your wanderlust into real trips. Think of it as a living guide of experiences, not just a bunch of checkboxes. Keep tweaking it as you discover new places that spark your interest and set some rough timelines and savings goals to make those dreams happen.

Related articles

• Choosing your next travel destination
• How to decide where to stay on your next trip
• Create your travel budget
• Guide to creating your travel itinerary
• How to plan a trip in 5 easy steps
• Packing list for one week in a carry-on

Pin this post!

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Privacy Overview

How to Create Your Perfect Travel Bucket List

By Kateryna Kirian & Kate Chyzhykova

This year a lot of our travel plans have been put on hold. And yet the good news is that you can use this time for planning trips in the near (or a bit distant) future . While the world is going crazy, you can just make your coffee, grab a notebook, create your perfect tailor-made travel bucket list and start savoring future adventures.

“Sounds easy-peasy, but where to begin?” you may ask. What is the best way to write down a travel bucket list ? How to decide on what to put on it in the first place?! Well, keep reading, and you’ll find some useful tips on how to write an astonishing travel bucket list. The creative process of making a dream list of destinations you want to visit is a perfect solution.

📌 Do the brainstorming for your travel bucket list 📌 List the places you’ve already been to 📌 Choose your adventures & destinations 📌 Prioritize 📌 Decide on who’ll keep you company 📌 Research your chosen travel bucket list destinations 📌 Don’t forget to take the travel must-haves 📌 Dream big

#1 Do the brainstorming for your travel bucket list

So first things first, you should define your travel style and understand what kind of adventures you prefer . There are a lot of helpful techniques about how you can do that. Please, don’t rush to pass Facebook tests like “Find out what type of traveler you are.” We know a better way. You can start with a bunch of questions to ask yourself. Here are some of them.

✔️ What are your hobbies? Which activities do you enjoy?

Hobbies sometimes can lead you somewhere you’ve never even thought about before . For example, if you’re a danceaholic, you simply follow your heart wherever it guides you. In other words, wherever a dancing festival takes place. Occasionally, you can take a few days before the dancing event and explore a new point on your travel map.

✔️ How intense would you like your adventure to be?

It’s essential to decide to what extent you want to challenge yourself on a trip . There’s no need to go the extra mile and climb the highest mountain just because your friends did it. Unless you really want to, Likewise, there’s no pressure to join a diving expedition if you are scared of water. Remember, it’s up to you to choose the most attractive option which will give you the maximum pleasure.

✔️ What mix of culture, nature and adventure is best for you?

Nobody can answer that question better than you because it depends on what you are looking for in your trips. No matter whether these are natural wonders, or ancient architectural masterpieces, or meeting extraordinary people and parting all night long , you have to listen to your heart and plan a trip based on your intuition (and some good advice from Airwande r travel experts, if you must 😊).

✔️ What environment and weather do you enjoy the most?

Do you mind chillaxing on the beach with tropical views when it’s scorching hot? Or would you rather put some warm cloths on and go on a glacier adventure? Keep in mind that seasonality matters as well. Depending on when you visit a country, the days may be much longer or shorter, rain can be a blessing or a curse, and temperature can be just fine for the locals but virtually unbearable for you. Thus, consider what are the most appropriate weather conditions when you think about where to go next time. Your comfort on a trip is only in your hands, so do your best to plan it right.

✔️ How do you prefer to travel – solo, duo or in a company of friends/family/total strangers?

A story has it that people can be divided into two personality groups, introverts and extroverts. Hmm… not exactly, it’s more of a continuum ranging between the willingness to hide from the whole world on a desert island and a strong need to always be closely surrounded by your friends and acquaintances. It often depends on your current mood and personal life events. Thus, when planning a trip, consider whether to join a loud and joyful group from the beginning, enjoy a romantic city break, get a single room and relax in privacy, or get to know people on the go while staying in hostels or with Airbnb/Couchsurfing hosts.

✔️ Is there anything that’s a no-go for you – what would you prefer to avoid on your travel bucket list?

You maybe already know your personal dos and don’ts , but it never hurts to consider one more time the things which scare you away (such as extreme heat or heights) and are far from contributing to your overall happiness. Surely, we celebrate confronting your personal fears and liberation from stereotypes! But let’s just say, a stay in the downtown with busy nightlife wouldn’t be the right thing if you want to have a silent retreat 😄. So do your homework before you set out.

✔️ How long should your trip last?

Think if you need just a weekend trip to escape the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine. Or maybe you’re more of an adventurous spirit, and nothing would make you happier than enjoying your weeks off searching for jaw-dropping natural wonders in the U.S. Or maybe you’re experiencing this life-changing moment when you’d love to try out something you’ve never even dared to think of before, like a 2-month desert expedition . It’s all up to you, just give it a bit of thought.

✔️ What’s your reason to add a country to a travel bucket list?

Probably, this last one is one of the most important questions, closely related to the previous one. You need to figure out, where this travel spark comes from, what drives you to see more of the world .

➙ Why do you want to see as many places around the world as possible? ➙ Is there a particular food or experience you want to check out? ➙ Is it your dream to trot the globe for stunning destinations off the beaten path ? ➙ Have you thought of volunteering in a country you’ve never visited before? ➙ Are you thinking about immersing yourself in a culture that has always appealed to you? ➙ Are you trying to take your hobby (dancing, diving, cycling, skiing, to name but a few!) to a new level? ➙ Do you want to take the plunge and try something completely new – country, culture, cuisine, community?

Get inspired to create an unparalleled travel bucket list

Thinking about your purpose to visit a destination may provide inspiration for more places to see and things to do . For example, if you want to learn how to bake the best pizza and pasta, you may consider visiting Italy, Spain or France.

An excellent idea is to surround yourself with inspiration and information while brainstorming ideas for your bucket list. Don’t forget to read travel guides, ask friends and colleagues about their travel experiences and watch videos and travel blogs about countries you dream of visiting .

Here are some websites you can use as a source of inspiration:

▪️ Fodor’s Travel ▪️ TripAdvisor ▪️ Lonely Planet ▪️ National Geographic ▪️ Budget Travel

You shouldn’t worry about how realistic your plans may sound at first sight. You can always adjust them to reality later. If just thinking about location makes you excited, add it to the list! Write each and every idea down, no matter how far, no matter how crazy . After all, you have plenty of time to pull if off.

#2 List the places you’ve already been to

Remember that your own experience can work no worse in looking for inspiration than online resources . It can be really helpful to start with thinking about past getaways and trips in all the cities and countries you’ve already visited. While writing them down, you may re-discover what type of travel you enjoy most . Also, you may set eyes on destinations that you’d love to visit again.

So after a short analysis, you’ll be able to say whether you’d rather go for the mountains and off-the-beaten-path destinations , or if you’re more into architectural beauty and a plethora of cultures, or whether you are the bright-big-cities-team with local cuisine being the No 1 stop. Organizing your travel experiences will also remind you how many great places you’ve already seen and how many things to explore are still out there.

#3 Choose adventures & destinations for your tailor-made travel bucket list

While deciding on the list of destinations for your travel bucket list, focus on certain things you’d like to experience . Especially, if you’ve been dreaming about them for ages. That could be wandering in African deserts, exploring Niagara Falls or skiing in the Arctic. Keep in mind, though, that most activities can be experienced in more than one location. It means that you can, for example, amaze at the northern lights in Canada, Iceland, Norway and Finland.

Thus, there are usually more opportunities to pull off your dream trip, even if a country you were supposed to visit is unreachable at the moment . Surely, some places have no equals – there’s no second Petra in the whole world apart from the one in Jordan. And yet, if you are so into ancient civilizations, you’d be pretty satisfied when visiting Baalbek in Lebanon. So focus on what you can do with the resources you have at your disposal, be it time, budget, mobility, or just a strong wish to discover the world.

Create a list of countries for your travel bucket list and group them

When you know what you’d love to do, the next step is to decide where exactly you can do these things. To work this out, write down a list of countries and places you’ve always wanted to visit . Then, start thinking about which place would be perfect for your little (or big?) adventure. You can group the countries with various criteria .

➙ Activities to enjoy

Sightseeing, beach vacation, romantic getaway, scuba diving, safari, paragliding, (sand) skiing, extreme sports, delicious cuisine and so on.

➙ Accessibility

Countries that are visa-free with your passport, or those that offer visa on arrival or an easily acquired electronic visa are your best shot. But make an adjustment for the pandemic restrictions – most of the countries currently have certain measures – be it a mandatory negative test result, or a quarantine on arrival. So you better do your homework.

➙ Transportation

How easily can you reach your destination? Is it only reachable by air, or are there multiple alternatives? Do you need to rent a car /  a motorcycle, or is public transportation sufficient to see all the places you want? Some people go as far as buying an old car for a symbolic price and exploit to see numerous countries on their way (this works really well in Asia or Africa).

You can always make the best out of your trip, no matter how limited your resources are. And yet keep in mind that while the flight itself may cost you next to nothing, taking a shuttle from the airport to the city center, renting a car, visiting unique places of interest and the actual cost of living in a country varies a lot from country to country. And even city to city.

➙ Individual preferences

Maybe you’ve made some friends online, and you’d love to visit them? Or maybe there’s a fascinating festival you’ve dreamt about to take part in? Or just maybe you’d love to spend your winter holiday on a beach with lots of sunshine? Surprise yourself with some fresh thoughts on what actually matters to you, especially if it’s hard to choose between incredible destinations.

If grouping the countries according to criteria didn’t help, you can assign values to the categories, and then to the countries within each category. ➡  Tips from Airwander

#4 Prioritize

You must already have the list of countries grouped into different categories , such as activities to enjoy, accessibility, transportation, cost, and individual preferences. Keep in mind that these categories are just the ones that make sense to us, you can always come with your own.

Assign a value to countries within each category of your travel bucket list

One way to go about prioritizing categories is to assign them a value , as suggested above. Let’s say, you are based in the U.S. and you’re weighing up going to France, which you’ve always dreamt about visiting and Mexico, where there’s a dancing festival. Then the values can be assigned as follows.

▪️ Both countries get 5 for activities , as there’s a lot of amazing things to do. ▪️ Mexico gains 5 for accessibility , where’s France gets 1 as its borders are closed for the non-EU citizens who are traveling for pleasure due to the pandemic. ▪️ As for transportation , you can get to Mexico in a shorter amount of time and not just on a plane, so we’ll give it 4 out of 5, and France will get 2 points. ▪️ Well, according to the cost of living suggested by a few websites we scanned, food in Mexico will cost you half as much as you’d spent in France. And probably, so will other things. Thus, 4 to Mexico and 2 to France. ▪️ As France has been your dream for a long time, and there’s this really special festival in Mexico, both countries score a 5 in this individual case .

You may think now it’s time to count the points. Not yet.

Assign a value to the categories

Now, think of what criteria – in other words, categories, – are of utmost importance to you . For instance, if budget traveling is your thing, and it greatly influences the way you travel, assign it the highest value of 5, and if it plays no role, give it 1. So weigh up the significance of the categories, give each of them points f rom 1 to 5, or from 1 to 10, and then multiply the value assigned to each category by the individual score of the country within this category . Let’s say, if Mexico has got 5 in accessibility, and the ‘accessibility’ category has a value of 4, you’ll have 20 points. Do the simple math for each category and add up all the points – you’ll have your champion country and the following travel bucket list !

Create a timeline

Another idea to organize your travel bucket list is creating a timeline where you can place all the upcoming milestones and pinpoint where and when on this timeline you can go on vacations .

▪️ Maybe you have 3 weeks of vacation time coming up any time soon? ▪️ Do you plan on having a major and ambitious trip before starting your uni? ▪️ Are you going to move out of the house in 5 years?

Basically, it’s about identifying periods in your life where free time could be used for travelling . Don’t limit your imagination! You can always schedule a few shorter, feasible trips in the upcoming weekends and holidays. Then, you can plan more serious trips in a few years , based on big life changes or accomplishments, so that you’ll have plenty of time to come up with a budget and prepare.

#5 Decide on who’ll keep you company

After choosing the destination and creating an adventure plan, it is crucial to decide who you want to share your travel bucket list with . Your partner, friends, siblings, parents, kids, total strangers? Or maybe you want to take the trip on your own? If you don’t agree with your partner or friend about the travelling point, it’s all right. There’s no purpose in forcing someone to go somewhere they don’t want to, or letting yourself be caught up in a trip you’re not interested in at all. Travelling on your own can become one of the craziest and simultaneously the most inspiring adventures in your life . On the other hand, it can be a time for relaxing and meditation, when no one else will disturb you. Here you can find out how your life will change when you travel alone .

Still, if you’re going with someone, make sure that each person wants to visit the chosen destination and feels comfortable with all the preparation process and further activities you’re planning to do there.

#6 Research your chosen travel bucket list destinations

After you’ve narrowed down your options to the final travel bucket list, the next step is to do solid research about the place you plan to visit.

➙ What’s the country’s official policy for those who get a positive test on arrival? ➙ Would you rather stay in one place for the whole visit, or would you prefer to be more mobile? ➙ How do you want to get around the country? ➙ Which mountains you want to climb or which museums to attend? ➙ What are the best tours and hidden places to look for? ➙ Which concert is a must-visit? ➙ Is there free Wi-Fi or do you need to buy a local sim-card? ➙ Is it safe to drink tap water? ➙ Do you need a special vaccination to enter a country?

Travel planning is the key to a trip’s success

Researching in advance gives a variety of opportunities which you can miss when you plan everything the last minute. The more information you have about the country, the better your trip will be. Being aware of the most exciting events in a chosen place earlier, you can buy the tickets and book a high-standard hotel at a lower price. However, it some locations, especially in Africa and Asia, spontaneity and open-mindedness pay off – if you hand out with the locals, you can get access to all the vets places at the lowest cost possible.

Before going to any country, check carefully its current political, health and environmental situation . And dig deeper (forums, blogs, videos, discussions) to see the implications. For instance, in Lebanon, the official rates of currency exchange are manipulated by the government. Thus, when you think you are getting a good deal paying for your taxi from the airport in U.S. dollars using the official rates, you are actually losing a lot of money. At the same time, though, when you hear on the news that it’s not safe to go somewhere, check it out on your own. Even better, ask somebody who’s already been there. Even if a country is in turmoil, the tourists are often safe and very welcome nonetheless . ➡  Tips from Airwander

#7 Don’t forget to take the travel must-haves

Once the next destination is chosen, and you know everything you need about your future trip, it’s time for thoughtful preparation and packing the suitcase . If you feel that some advice on how to pack your bag smartly and take all essentials at the same time is necessary, take a look at the article about travel must-haves you should include on your next trip checklist .

It’s always good to add your flight numbers, hotel addresses, maps, scans of documents, etc. to your cloud storage for easy access. You’ll never know when you need them. ➡  Tips from Airwander

#8 Dream big and don’t make your travel bucket list small!

Last suggestion for you! Don’t let fears and potential travel barriers scare you away! You’ll have plenty of days to correct and modify the list, check it, add new ideas or throw away the irrelevant ones. Whenever feeling doubtful, simply ask your heart where in the world it wants to go…and write it down.

And if your inner voice doesn’t help, go to Airwander and explore the Anywhere feature . Just select your home city and in the destination box choose “ Let me go anywhere! ” You’ll be surprised at what amazing places you can visit with just a few clicks. So you better stop reading this article (you can always go back!) and start creating your unique travel bucket list. It’s all up to you, and the sky is no longer the limit .

Privacy Preference Center

Privacy preferences.

• New Zealand

My Ultimate Bucket List for Travel: 200+ Experiences

Due to the global pandemic, travel looks different right now depending on where you're going from/to. Please check for travel restrictions and adhere to all local guidelines before planning a trip to any destination you may read about on this site.  Please note: this post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something by clicking the links, I will get a small compensation, at no extra cost to you.

Sharing is caring!

I’ve always said that I’m not really a bucket list type person. I like to be open to whatever travel experiences come my way. You might not even know what your new favorite is! Plus, to me bucket lists have an air of finality about them…maybe it’s because of that movie The Bucket List .

Regardless, I’ve always had a mental bucket list full of places I want to go, foods I want to eat, and experiences to have when traveling. I’ve held off on writing it all down because I just knew it would be so dang long and always growing. Anyway, here we are! I’ll be crossing things off this list as I do them and linking to any blog posts where I share my experiences. If you want to use this to get some ideas of unforgettable travel experiences, feel free to Pin it for later! Let’s get into my ultimate bucket list for travel.

United States

• See fall foliage in New England
• Witness the first sunrise in the US at Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park in Maine
• Go to a Red Sox game in Fenway, the oldest baseball park in the US

• Visit NYC during Christmas
• Go inside the Vessel in NYC
• Eat at Katz’s Deli in NYC
• Have a drink at Sardi’s in NYC
• See a show on Broadway

• Visit the Museum of Science and Technology in Chicago
• Watch the Chicago River turn green for St. Patrick’s Day
• Explore the Smithsonian museums in Washington DC
• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in fall (Virginia and North Carolina)
• Tour Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina , the largest mansion in the US

• Visit Charleston, South Carolina
• Walk and drive Wormsloe Historic Site in Savannah, Georgia
• Take a ghost tour of Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia
• Photograph Driftwood Beach in Jekyll Island, Georgia
• Attend Oktoberfest in Helen, Georgia
• Explore Atlanta

• Go kayaking in bioluminescent water in Florida
• Visit Walt Disney World with my family
• Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando
• Travel to Miami
• Go snorkeling at Dry Tortugas and Biscayne National Parks
• Visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras
• Visit a Space Center (Houston and/or Florida)
• Road trip the Utah National Parks

• Hike the red rocks in Sedona, Arizona
• Stargaze in the first ever dark sky city (Flagstaff, Arizona)
• See the Wave in Page, Arizona
• Visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon in Arizona
• Explore Los Angeles (my hometown) to the fullest ( see my rediscovery trip to LA here )

• Take a California Pacific Coast Highway road trip
• Tour the Winchester Mystery House
• Witness the frazil ice in Yosemite National Park
• Be a tourist in San Francisco
• Celebrate my 21st birthday in Las Vegas (or go big at one of these international 21st birthday destinations )
• Marvel at Fly Ranch Geyser in Nevada
• Road trip the Pacific Northwest, specifically Oregon
• Eat well at Pike Place Market in Seattle
• Visit Glacier National Park
• Drive Hana Highway in Maui, Hawaii
• Scuba diving in Hawaii
• Take an Alaskan cruise
• Go dog sledding in Alaska

>> Related Read: 45+ Things to Do on the West Coast

Other North America

• Experience Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Take a chocolate tour in Costa Rica
• Scuba dive in the Caribbean
• Take an all-inclusive trip to Martinique
• Visit the Canadian Rockies
• Try poutine in Canada

South America

• See the Bolivian Salt Flats
• Take a small Amazon cruise
• See the world’s highest waterfall called Angel Falls in Venezuela
• Visit the Galapagos Islands
• See Iguazu Falls in Argentina and Brazil
• Hike the Inca Trail in Peru to see Machu Picchu
• Rainbow Mountain, Peru
• Photograph Las Lajas Sanctuary in Colombia
• See Easter Island statues
• Hike part of Patagonia
• Drive the Golden Circle in Iceland
• Drive Ring Road in Iceland
• Camp in a campervan in Iceland
• Scuba dive between tectonic plates in Iceland
• Marvel at architecture in Spain
• See the colorful coast in Portugal
• Changing of the guards in London
• Visit the British Museum
• Live out my wizard dreams at Harry Potter Studio Tour in London
• Go on a pub crawl in Dublin
• Walk along the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland

• Visit Edinburgh, Scotland
• Travel over the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland (again to live out my Hogwarts Express wizard dreams)
• Visit Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland
• Visit Mont St. Michel in France
• Beaches of Normandy, France
• Explore the French coast
• Go up the Eiffel Tower in Paris
• Tour the Catacombs in Paris
• Explore the Louvre in Paris

Related read >> Paris itinerary for 4 days

• Take a food tour in France
• Return to a French language institute to master French
• Ride a gondola in Venice, Italy
• See the Duomo at sunrise in Florence, Italy
• Go inside the Colosseum in Rome, Italy
• Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy
• Tour the Vatican
• Tour Pompeii, Italy

• Take a cooking class in Italy
• Visit an olive oil press in Tuscany, Italy
• Swim in the Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany, Italy
• Visit the Dolomites in Italy
• Literally just go to Monaco
• Visit the “top of Europe” at Jungfraujoch in Switzerland
• Go to the top of Mount Pilatus
• Visit the Matterhorn in Zermatt, Switzerland
• Eat Swiss chocolate
• Go paragliding in Switzerland

• Visit a palace in Austria…I’m not picky, Schonbrunn, Belvedere, or the Hofburg will do.
• See an opera in Vienna, Austria
• Trek through Eisriesenwelt ice cave in Austria
• Visit Admont Abbey Library in Austria
• See the real-life Disney castle Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
• Tour a concentration camp in memoriam
• Go to the Christmas Markets in Europe
• Visit my family’s old hometown in Poland
• Take a Baltic cruise in northern Europe
• Visit the Lofoten Islands in Norway in winter to see the Northern Lights
• Explore Amsterdam

• See the Japanese cherry blossoms
• Ride the bullet train (Shinkansen) in Japan
• Visit the Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, Japan
• Eat at the Robot Restaurant in Japan
• Attend a tea ceremony in Japan
• Hike Mount Fuji
• Take a stroll through a bamboo forest in Japan

• Walk on the Great Wall of China
• See the Terracotta Army in China
• Tour the Forbidden City in China
• Visit Potola Palace in China
• See Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China
• See Longmen Grottoes and/or Yungang Grottoes in China
• Visit Lijiang, China, an old and historic city
• See Detian Falls in Vietnam
• Go scuba diving in Thailand
• Tour the White Temple in Thailand
• Visit the floating markets in Thailand
• Ethically spend time with elephants in Thailand
• Visit Angor Wat and other temples in Cambodia
• Hang out in the Red Square in Russia
• Visit the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia
• See Winter and Catherine Palaces in Russia
• Eat chocolate while hiking the Chocolate Hills in the Philippines
• Visit Puerto Princessa Subterranean River National Park in the Philippines
• Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and not have anything stolen by monkeys in Ubud, Indonesia
• Take a boat to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple in Indonesia
• Stay in an eco-friendly treehouse at one of the many rice terraces in Indonesia
• Go on a stereotypical swing in Bali, Indonesia
• Scuba dive at Manta Point in Indonesia
• Hike to the epic Kanto Lampo Waterfall in Indonesia
• Visit the Taj Mahal in Agra, India
• See Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, India
• See one of the majestic forts in India
• Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives
• Snorkel or scuba dive in the Maldives
• See sting rays in the Maldives

Middle East

• Visit the Pink Mosque in Shiraz, Iran
• Visit the Golestan Museum in Tehran, Iran
• Tour the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Esfahan, Iran
• See Jame’a Mosque of Isfahan in Iran
• See Narikala Fortress in Georgia
• See the ancient cave city of Vardzia in Georgia
• See Gergeti Trinity Church in Oni, Georgia
• Visit the Egypt Museum in Cairo, Egypt
• Cruise the Nile River
• See the Great Pyramids of Giza
• Stroll the Khan el-Khalili market in Cairo, Egypt
• Explore the Abu Simbel Temples at the southern end of Egypt
• Wander the Luxor Temple in Egypt
• Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
• Tour the White Desert in Egypt
• Visit the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens in Egypt

• Go on my Birthright Israel trip
• Float in the Dead Sea
• Visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem, Israel
• Place a prayer in the Western Wall in Jerusalem, Israel

• Visit Petra in Jordan
• Spend a night or two in the Wadi Rum desert
• Tour Hagia Sofia in Istanbul, Turkey
• Visit the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey
• Stroll the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey
• Visit Cappadocia and ride a hot air balloon
• Bathe in the salt pools at Pamukkale in Turkey
• Stay in a riad in Morocco
• Visit the blue city of Chefchaouen, Morocco
• Visit Fes, Morocco for a less touristy experience
• Take a Sahara Desert tour
• Visit a tannery in Morocco
• See the tree-climbing goats in Morocco
• Visit Amboseli National Park in Kenya
• Go on safari
• Stay in Giraffe Manor for a night in Kenya
• See the Baobab trees in Africa
• Visit Sarengeti National Park in Tanzania
• Watch the penguins in South Africa
• Visit the Pink Lake in Senegal
• Trek with gorillas in Uganda
• Visit Hobbiton in New Zealand
• See the glowworm caves in New Zealand
• Trek part of Milford Sound in New Zealand
• Visit Fjordland National Park in New Zealand

• Go scuba diving or snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns, Australia
• Explore Sydney, Australia
• Visit Litchfield National Park in Australia
• See The Pinnacles Desert in Australia
• Watch a penguin parade in Australia

• Take a cruise in Antarctica

General Travel

• Take a solo trip abroad
• Take a hot air balloon ride
• See and photograph the Northern Lights
• Ride a camel in the desert
• Go on a group trip
• Visit Asia with my family

• Stay in an ice cave
• Have a meal underwater
• Have dinner in a cave
• Go spelunking

Like this post? Check out these other epic adventures:

• 100 things to do in Georgia
• Unforgettable 5 day itinerary for Los Angeles
• How to plan an awesome vacation
• Epic 7 day itinerary for New Zealand’s North Island
• How to find the best things to do on vacation
• Best places to visit in the US in summer
• How to travel alone for the first time (your guide to solo group trips)

Save to Pinterest

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
• Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

previous post

Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

Related Posts

How to Travel Alone For the First Time: Tips for Your First Solo Group Trip

Ultimate Guide to Your Maldives Seaplane Transfer

Everything You Need to Know Before Swimming with Manta Rays

Just added Iceland to my bucket list after reading about the stunning landscapes and Northern Lights experience. Your post has given me so much inspiration to start planning my next adventure!

post a comment cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

SUMMER GETAWAY IDEAS?

New! Find answers in a flash with Scout, our friendly AI chat otter.

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

How to Build the Perfect Adventure Bucket List

Start by figuring out the kinds of experiences you want to have, not where you want to go

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

It can be overwhelming to realize how much of the world there is to see and how limited one’s time and resources are to experience it all. While there is no shortage of inspiration, from hundreds of pre-made bucket lists (including from Outside ) and countless social media accounts , Sandy Cunningham, co-founder of Outside ’s adventure travel company Outside Go , says that in her more than 25 years of experience planning dream vacations, the key to traveling well is creating a list that focuses on the types of experiences that will fulfill, challenge, and transform you, rather than of pretty destinations. My bucket list will change over time as I do. But to get started, I talked to Cunningham to create a list of five buckets, or experiences I want to have, and filled them in.

1. The Bucket With a Twist

Start off with an experience you’ve thought about often, no matter how familiar or overdone it seems. But rather than going to Hawaii to surf or Nepal to trek, tailor it to you and your budget by picking an unusual location where the activity is offered. During the pandemic, Cunningham used this approach to safely navigate travel restrictions—and introduce her clients to places they would have never thought of if their go-to destinations had been available. For those who wanted, say, an African safari , she instead suggested Alaska for its fly-in wilderness lodges that could be linked together for a circuit, world-class guides, and abundance of wildlife.

I’ve always wanted to see wine country with my mom. Napa feels like an obvious choice, but we’ve both already spent a lot of time in California . After some research, I found—to my surprise—that Moldova, a small country in Eastern Europe, just north of the Balkans, has three historical wine regions and is home to the world’s largest wine cellar, the Milestii Mici , which has 120 miles of underground tunnels. We’ll base ourselves out of the capital of Chisinau for easy access to over a dozen wineries, plus densely forested mountains, winding rivers, and the  Tipova Cave Monastery , an ancient church built into the side of a cliff. 

2. The Trip that Scares the Sh*t Out of You 

Travel is about challenging yourself in all kinds of ways. So why not take it a step further and use it to confront your fears head-on? Step 1: Pick something that scares you or feels out of character. There’s no need to make it a sufferfest—if the entire trip fills you with dread, it’ll be a chore   instead of an experience you want to put time and money into. Go with an experience that holds as much fear as it does fascination. Step 2: Pair it with a place that you really want to see or someone you love traveling with.

As a child, I used to have recurring nightmares about tsunamis and deep water. So when I travel, I usually stick to the mountains. For years, my best friend, who loves the ocean and is a certified open water scuba diver, has been trying to convince me to go on a trip with her. She’s pitching me on Cairns, Australia , which she says is great for beginners: warm water, stunning biodiversity, and still-living coral reefs. She says it’s like “swimming through a children’s book.” I’d trust her with my life, and everything we do together ends up being fun. So bucket list item #2: get scuba certified down under with my best friend at my side.

3. The Re-Run  

I went to Costa Rica on a high school trip and have been thinking about returning ever since, but travel to new places always seem to take priority. During my first trip, we spent a week on a secluded turtle preserve on the country’s east coast, went on day hikes through the rainforest, and rafted on the legendary Pacuare River. 

Cunningham says that one of her favorite types of trips to plan is those that “give people reasons to go back to places they’ve already loved.” Pick one of your all-time favorite trips—the one that you always say you’d go back to in a heartbeat—and go deeper. You can never see all of a place in one go, so there are bound to be corners left to explore. But to make your next trip really special, Cunningham suggests seeking help from a local expert like a guide or agent who lives in the region.

When I go back to Costa Rica, I’d like to go on longer guided hikes in the rainforest to learn more about its unique flora and fauna. I’d like to see the country’s western coast, known for its beaches and incredible volcanoes, which I completely missed on the first go. And I also want to spend more time in cities like San Jose, so I can get a taste of the country’s culture and—my favorite part—its food.  

4. The White Whale

Not all bucket list travel has to be far-flung, once-in-a-lifetime endeavors. There are lots of ways to have big adventures that are closeby or on a budget. To pull these kinds of trips off, Cunningham recommends saving on accommodations and splurging on experiences. But if the trip of your dreams does require some saving, and you’re having trouble reconciling spending all that money on a one-off adventure, consider picking one that comes with a long term reward. 

During quarantine, I started putting some of the money I’d usually spend on going out, traveling, and events into a separate savings account as a way to make the most of my time stuck at home. It wasn’t until I figured out a way to combine two of my travel goals— buying a van and embarking a months-long cross-country road trip —that the account really started to grow. I realized that convincing myself that it’s worth spending so much of my hard-earned cash on a single trip is the hardest part. I got over that barrier by planning a trip that felt like an investment in myself, and one that, while expensive, would give me a lot of bang for my buck. 

In my case, the van and the time off will be costly, but having a long term and cost-effective way to see my loved ones who are scattered across the continent will be priceless. If #vanlife isn’t on your list, consider getting certified in an outdoor pursuit in a place you’ve always wanted to visit (you’ll often find more affordable courses abroad) or going somewhere that will help you advance your skill level in a short amount of time, like a sports camp or a beginner-friendly destination.

5. The Off-Map Excursion  

Cunningham says that the most memorable moments for her clients are often those that are unexpected. “There’s got to be some surprises when you’re on the ground,” she says. She often builds them into the trips she plans, like the time that she added time on an itinerary to hide a surprise sunrise hot air balloon flight in Namibia.

If you’re planning the trip yourself, build serendipity into your vacation by leaving some of it unplanned and going offline. Pick a place where you speak the language, don’t consult the guides, and leave your phone at home. You’ll be surprised by how small interactions with locals will deepen your experience and lead you to unexpected discoveries. I’ve found that the things I discover myself often give me the most joy when it comes to travel, because they feel more earned.

For this bucket list item, I want to make a trip all about the unexpected by heading to Barcelona for a week—no cell phone allowed. I speak enough Spanish to get by, and am familiar enough with the city from being there once before. During my short lived stay a few years ago, the best moments were the ones I didn’t plan, like the time I got swept up into a street festival filled with fireworks and costumed dancers and when I wandered into a hidden plaza adjacent to an incredible church.

• Bucket List

Popular on Outside Online

Enjoy coverage of racing, history, food, culture, travel, and tech with access to unlimited digital content from Outside Network's iconic brands.

Healthy Living

• Clean Eating
• Vegetarian Times
• Yoga Journal
• Fly Fishing Film Tour
• National Park Trips
• Warren Miller
• Fastest Known Time
• Trail Runner
• Women's Running
• Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• FinisherPix
• Outside Events Cycling Series
• Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

The Ultimate Travel & Life Bucket List – 35+ Adventures Everyone Should Live

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

Looking for the ultimate travel bucket list experiences? You just found them!

If I’m not travelling, I’m at home dreaming of travelling . The more experiences I tick off my travel bucket list, the more new adventures I add to it.

Whether you’re at home or on the road, if you’re looking for some travel inspiration, this is the bucket list for you!

I’ve listed some of the most awesome adventures and experiences that you can have around the world, which I believe everyone should live at least once in their lifetime.

So let’s start dreaming and expanding that travel bucket list!

• 1.1 Scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef
• 1.2 Learn to surf in Bali
• 1.3 Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica
• 1.4 Hike in the mountains of New Zealand
• 1.5 Go canyoneering in the Philippines
• 1.6 Trek to Machu Picchu
• 1.7 Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback
• 1.8 Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise
• 1.9 See whales in the wild
• 1.10 Drive around Havana in a vintage car
• 1.11 See the Northern Lights
• 1.12 Ride the Trans-Siberian Express
• 1.13 Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre
• 1.14 Hike & see the lakes in Canada
• 1.15 Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach
• 1.16 Watch the sunrise over Uluru
• 1.17 Explore the Great Wall of China
• 1.18 Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico
• 1.19 Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal
• 1.20 Go on a USA road trip
• 1.21 See the Egyptian pyramids
• 1.22 Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia
• 1.23 Cruise in the Norwegian fjords
• 1.24 Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam
• 1.25 Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia
• 1.26 Go skydiving!
• 1.27 Go on a safari in Africa
• 1.28 Snorkel with turtles
• 1.29 Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)
• 1.30 See the temples in Thailand
• 1.31 Fly over the Grand Canyon
• 1.32 Swim in a Wadi in Oman
• 1.33 Explore the Eternal City
• 1.34 Get lost in London
• 1.35 Discover the Lost City of Petra
• 1.36 Ski in the European Alps
• 1.37 Go island hopping in Sardinia
• 1.38 Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia
• 1.39 Do a zipline adventure!

Hiking to the base of the Catarata del Toro waterfall in Costa Rica

35+ adventures everyone should add to their bucket list

Scuba dive on the great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system, composed by over 900 islands and almost 3,000 individual reefs. It stretches over 2,300km and has an area of almost 350,000 square kilometres.

Need I say anything else? Exploring this beautiful underwater world is a once in a lifetime experience that should feature on everyone’s Australia itinerary .

If you don’t like scuba diving you can also snorkel (that’s what I did) and it was still magical. You will be able to see so many different fish and corals; it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

| READ MORE: SHOULD YOU SNORKEL OR SCUBA DIVE ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF? |

Some beautiful corals that you can see when scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Photo by Kristoffer Trondsen on Scopio

Learn to surf in Bali

I strongly believe that everyone should try surfing at least once in their life. Surfing isn’t just a sport.

It’s a way of life and a practice that connects you to nature and makes you more aware of those around you. There’s more to surfing than just standing on a board and looking cool.

Bali is one of the most popular surf destinations and one where many beginners start out. Whether it’s Bali , Costa Rica or the Canary Islands , make sure to add a surfing trip to your travel bucket list.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO GO SURFING IN BALI |

Me braving the waves and learning to surf in Bali

Explore the rainforest of Costa Rica

I left my heart in Costa Rica . It’s the last trip I’ve recently come back from and I fell in love with the huge variety of natural landscapes, things to do, the tasty food, friendly locals and fun backpacker vibe.

However one thing that stood out was the rainforest in Tortuguero National Park . If you’ve ever wanted to venture into the rainforest, searching for crocodiles and sloths, this is the place to do so.

A small crocodile we spotted during our rainforest canoe tour

Hike in the mountains of New Zealand

If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, then you have to visit New Zealand. Even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan, it’s still a must-see for anyone who loves being outdoors.

I only spent one week in New Zealand but, even in such a short period of time, I was able to go on some of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done.

When you pair a smooth hiking terrain with sweeping mountain views, it’s hard to go wrong. You will feel on top of the world, and at times also like you’re adventuring around Middle Earth.

| READ MORE: THE MOST EPIC HIKES IN NEW ZEALAND |

Enjoying the view from the peak of the Sugarloaf, New Zealand

Go canyoneering in the Philippines

I’ve seen my fair share of epic waterfalls in Iceland , Sri Lanka , Costa Rica and Canada . However none of them were as beautiful and fun as Kawasan Falls in the Philippines .

It might be a bit of a touristy attraction, but it’s also an epic spot where you can spend four hours hiking along the river, swimming in it, sliding down natural made water slides and cliff diving from the top of the waterfalls.

If you love being outdoors, admiring nature and enjoy a bit of adrenaline rush, then canyoneering is an experience you have to add to your bucket list.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES |

Enjoying Kawasan Falls in Cebu Island, Philippines, before the crowds

Trek to Machu Picchu

I haven’t had the pleasure to travel to Peru yet. If I had to say what’s at the top of my travel bucket list right now, I’d say Peru and Machu Picchu.

The thought of hiking along the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek and reaching this lost city fills me with adrenaline. Not only for the hike challenge and epic views, but also for the rich culture and history.

Machu Picchu is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it’s a must on anyone’s bucket list!

Exploring Machu Picchu – photo by Jake Cunningham on Scopio

Sleep under the stars in the Australian outback

The Australian outback had, without a doubt, the most incredible night sky I have ever seen. During my 3-day Uluru tour we spent two nights camping in the Australian outback, far from any towns or sources of light pollution.

You could clearly see the Milky Way, as well as a million other stars. I lost count of how many hours I spent just looking up at the stars.

There are many places around the world where it gets dark enough to see a beautiful starry sky. However if you want a really special one, the Aussie outback is the one for you.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE AUSTRALIA BUCKET LIST |

The Milky Way seen from the Australian outback

Hike Kawah Ijen at night to see the sunrise

I’ve done a lot of hikes in the dark with the aim of seeing the sunrise from the peak, but Kawah Ijen in Indonesia was probably the most incredible ( Little Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka is a close second).

Not only is the sunrise from the top absolutely incredible, but at Kawah Ijen you can also see the famous blue flames. A natural phenomenon visible only here, thanks to the high concentration of sulphur gases.

It’s one of those experiences that you won’t forget about.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HIKING KAWAH IJEN |

The sun breaks through and turns East Java pink

See whales in the wild

There’s something about seeing beautiful animals in the wild that always attracts humans. We usually see them in epic documentaries, and I think it’s only natural wanting to see them for ourselves in real life.

I’ve been lucky enough to see whales in Vancouver, the Azores  and Costa Rica . Whether it’s killer whales or humpback whales, watching these peaceful giants leap out of the water is guaranteed to amaze you.

| READ MORE: WHALE WATCHING IN VANCOUVER, CANADA |

One of the killer whales we saw during our whale watching tour in Vancouver

Drive around Havana in a vintage car

I absolutely loved Cuba . The combination of colourful architecture and beautiful natural landscapes, as well as friendly locals and tasty food, make it one of my favourites.

There are lots of epic places to see in Cuba, like Vinales and Trinidad , but there’s no denying that Havana is the place that will leave you with a lasting impression.

The colonial architecture and colourful vintage cars are simply something you don’t get anywhere else. Doing a vintage car tour of Havana is an experience you will be glad to have on your bucket list!

| READ MORE: ALL THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN CUBA |

Exploring Havana in our pink vintage Chevrolet

See the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis is a magical natural phenomenon. There is nothing like standing under the night sky, surrounded by snow at -20°C and all of a sudden seeing the sky light up with dancing coloured lights.

They’re a tough show to catch. We spent a week in Lapland and only saw them one night. But they made up for the whole trip and the wait during those cold night.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN LAPLAND IN WINTER |

Admiring the Northern Lights – photo by Photo by Oren Cohen on Scopio

Ride the Trans-Siberian Express

How does the longest train journey in the world sound for an ultimate travel bucket list? The Trans-Siberian Railway Network is over 9,000km and connects Moscow with Vladivostock, in the Russian Far East.

Depending on how many places you stop to see on the way, it can take anywhere between seven days and months, with incredible views all throughout the journey.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Hike the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre

The Sentiero Azzurro in Italy is one of my favourite hikes in the world. This 12km trail connects five coastal towns (known as the Cinque Terre) and has jaw dropping views all throughout.

As you hike along the trail you will have the bright turquoise sea on one side, and the lush green cliffs on the other.

If the natural beauty isn’t enough, as you hike you will also see the cute colourful towns perched on the cliff sides.

It’s a very distinctive view and one I’ve only experienced on this hike. There’s also the added bonus that you can take pizza and gelato breaks throughout the hike!

| READ MORE: HIKING THE SENTIERO AZZURRO IN CINQUE TERRE |

Admiring the colourful houses of Manarola, one of the five towns along the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre, Italy

Hike & see the lakes in Canada

You’ve probably figured out by now that I love a good hike.

It may not be for everyone, but I do believe being outdoors, surrounded by nature, physically challenging your body is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Canada is amongst the best places in the world to go hiking. The absolutely stunning mountain views and natural landscapes are second to none.

I’ve only been to Vancouver and did some awesome hikes around the city, as far as Whistler , but there are many epic spots I hope to go back to one day.

Hiking in Banff and looking down at that bright turquoise lake must be a breath taking experience.

| READ MORE: THE BEST HIKES IN & AROUND VANCOUVER |

The view from the First Peak of Stawamus Chief, along the Sea to Sky Highway

Watch the sunset from Ipanema Beach

I left my heart in Brazil. The beautiful landscapes, the epic beaches, the friendly locals and tasty food, Brazil has it all.

But if I had to say what was my favourite moment of my Brazil trip; I would say sitting on the rocks at the end of Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, capirinha in hand, watching the sun go down.

It’s a magical sunset over a unique and distinctive panorama. If you’re there during the Brasilian summer, the sun will dip exactly between two rocks, urging the waiting crowd to break into a spontaneous applause.

Watching the sun set in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Watch the sunrise over Uluru

If I had to rate the best sunrises of my life, the sunrise I saw at Uluru is definitely amongst them.

Watching the sky turn all shades of red and orange, with the huge outline of the Uluru monolith in sharp contrast with the sky was breath taking.

Most tourists go to Uluru for the sunset, whilst at sunrise there were considerably less people around. The sun rises behind or next to Uluru depending on the time of year you’re visiting.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. It’s not something you see every day.

| READ MORE: EXPLORE ULURU & THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK IN 3 DAYS |

Sunrise at Uluru, Australia

Explore the Great Wall of China

They say that the Great Wall of China is the only human construction visible from space. Do you need any other reason for wanting to visit it? How about that it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

As the name suggests the Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications and a huge wall that was built to protect the Chinese empire. It’s one of the most incredible sights you will see.

Sunrise at the Great Wall of China – Photo by Jeet Khagram on Scopio

Explore Chichen Itza & Mayan ruins in Mexico

Chichen Itza is one of the most well preserved Mayan pyramids, as well one of the Seven Wonders of the World. No trip to Mexico would be complete without a trip to Chichen Itza.

Here you can marvel at the skills of the Mayans, who built such an imposing structure thousands of years ago, which lasted through the ages. You can also learn more about this lost civilisation.

But a trip to Mexico isn’t just about Mayan ruins. You can also spend time relaxing on beautiful beaches, discovering some stunning islands like Isla Mujeres, exploring hidden gems in Mexico , or even discovering the best things to do in Cozumel, Mexico .

Chichen Itza in Mexico

Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal

Continuing on the Seven Wonders of the World trend, I couldn’t compile an ultimate travel bucket list without mentioning the Taj Mahal! I’ve been to India before, but only in the southern region of Kerala .

I would love to go back one day and see the beauty of the palaces and cities in the north, amongst which the Taj Mahal.

It gets incredibly busy during the day (understandably so) so if you can make it there for sunrise, you’ll be able to beat the crowds and enjoy this beauty all to yourself.

Exploring the Taj Mahal in Indian – Photo by Erika Calle on Scopio

Go on a USA road trip

Is there a more iconic road trip destination than the US? The long straight roads, the beautiful desert landscapes, the stunning national parks and the vibrant cities, a USA road trip has it all!

So get your friends together, jump in the car (or van) and set off on an adventure! For many people road tripping around the US is seen as a rite of passage, something everyone should have on their bucket list.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE USA WEST COAST ROAD TRIP |

Enjoying the sunshine in St Pete, Florida

See the Egyptian pyramids

I’ve been to Egypt multiple times as a child, but only to the Red Sea for snorkelling trips. I still haven’t been to Cairo to see the pyramids.

It’s one of those must-see bucket list experiences that I still have to live, and hope to do so soon.

Exploring the pyramids in Egypt – Photo by Magomed Shapiev on Scopio

Go for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadoccia

Hot air balloon rides are already pretty magical experiences. Now pair it with the surreal landscape of Cappadoccia , and the beautiful pink sunrise sky, and you have a once in a lifetime bucket list experience!

Cruise in the Norwegian fjords

If you’re looking for a spot of incredible natural wonder, then the Norwegian fjords are the place for you. No matter how big your boat is, when you’re cruising through the steep cliffs of the fjords, it will feel tiny.

Cruising through the narrow fjords, with the steep green cliffs towering on three sides, was one of the most awesome experiences of my life. The most famous and scenic fjord is without a doubt the Geirangerfjord.

| READ MORE: CRUISE THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS IN SUMMER |

Cruising into the Geirangerfjord

Cruise in Halong Bay in Vietnam

Keeping things in a cruising theme, another magical experience you have to have is cruising in Halong Bay in Vietnam.

I haven’t done this myself yet (hopefully soon!) but I’ve seen enough photos and videos of the dramatic cliffs and epic views of Halong Bay to know I want to explore it one day.

You can explore Halong Bay as a day trip or even with an overnight cruise. Waking up in the morning on a tiny boat, and looking out to see the towering mountains of Halong bay must be magical.

2023 Update : In March 2024 I finally got the opportunity to spend 10 days in Vietnam, so obviously doing a 3-day 2-night cruise in Halong Bay was at the top of my Vietnam bucket list.

The weather wasn’t on our side, but I still loved my Halong Bay cruise . Alongside Ninh Binh and Sapa , it was amongst my favourite experiences in Vietnam

Cruising through the limestone formations of Halong Bay in Vietnam

Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia

I’ve said before the sunrise over Uluru was one of the best I’ve ever seen. Probably because I still haven’t seen the sunrise at Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

This temple complex is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It was originally built as a Hindu temple and then got transformed into a Buddhist temple.

After watching the most magical sunrise, you can spend the day exploring the temple grounds and learning about the history and culture of Cambodia.

The beautiful silhouette and reflection of Ankgor Wat at sunrise – Photo by WOO WON JEUNG on Scopio

Go skydiving!

Ever wanted to feel the thrill of jumping out of an airplane and soaring through the sky? Skydiving is a terrifying experience, but one that will get your adrenaline levels pumping.

I personally haven’t done this yet but my best friends did it in Australia and New Zealand .

The thrill is going to be the same everywhere, but make sure to pick a skydiving location with epic views, so you can admire them as you fly!

People skydiving – Photo by Rainer Puster on Scopio

Go on a safari in Africa

Searching for the Big Five on a safari was a dream bucket list activity for me for years. Going on a safari in the Tsavo East National Park was a dream come true.

We woke up before sunrise, boarded our jeep and spent the day driving around the African bush. Seeing these beautiful animals in their natural habitat is thrilling to say the least.

| READ MORE: PLAN AN EPIC SAFARI IN KENYA |

Elephant crossing the road during our safari in the Tsavo East National Park.

Snorkel with turtles

I’ve had the opportunity to snorkel with turtles in Sri Lanka , in Bali and in the Philippines , and I have to say it’s just as magical every time. I marvel every time at their beauty, even if it’s something I’ve done before.

Even if they tell you it’s a famous turtle spot, there’s never any guarantee that you will actually see them.

Jumping in the sea with my snorkel, and eventually spotting one of these beautiful sea creatures swimming around undisturbed gives me a thrill every time.

Snorkelling with turtles in Moalboal in Cebu Island

Get up close to elephants (in an ethical way!)

Not only seeing elephants, but being able to get close to them, is a dream and bucket list experience for many people. Just make sure that the elephant encounter you plan is ethical, and the elephants are treated well!

In Thailand we had the opportunity to spend a whole day with three elephants. We started off by feeding the elephants, then walked in the forest with them and even bathed with them!

There are many ethical elephant sanctuaries around the world. We went to Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai , and found the elephants there to be treated well.

Seeing how happy the elephants were was a genuinely heart warming experience, as well as an incredibly fun day for us. Doing an ethical elephant encounter should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list.

In also did an elephant safari in Sri Lanka . You can’t get as close to them but here the elephants are completely free and in their natural environment.

| READ MORE: WHERE TO SEE ELEPHANTS IN THAILAND |

Getting close to the elephants at Elephant Green Hill in Chiang Mai, Thailand

See the temples in Thailand

I’m not much of a history and culture person. When I travel I prefer to be outdoors and do things in nature. However for the temples in Thailand I made an exception.

Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the world. With over 40,000 temples dotted all over the country, you are guaranteed to find at least one you will love.

Some of the most famous are in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai , Ayutthaya and Bangkok , but there are many more spread across Thailand.

A temple hopping trip in Thailand is guaranteed to have you marvelling at their architecture and beauty.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLES IN THAILAND |

The front of Wat Rong Suea Ten (the Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand

Fly over the Grand Canyon

They don’t call it the Grand Canyon for nothing! Located in Arizona in the US, the Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world.

The Grand Canyon is almost 1,900 metres deep. With its layered bands of red rock and steep canyon walls, it’s one of the most unique landscapes you will ever see.

There are lots of beautiful viewpoints that overlook it, but if you want to tick something truly unique from your bucket list, then you should definitely fly over it in a helicopter!

It will give you a unique perspective into this natural beauty.

Exploring the Grand Canyon in the USA – Photo by Kenedy Collins-Hanlon on Scopio

Swim in a Wadi in Oman

I spent a week in Oman and I was genuinely blown away. I didn’t expect Oman to be so beautiful and have such a variety of landscapes. My personal favourites were the wadis.

A wadi is an Arabic term that refers to a narrow channel, ravine or canyon. We visited Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid and if I had to choose one, I would struggle.

Both wadis are characterised by clear emerald water, surrounded by steep ravine cliffs. Swimming in the fresh water of the wadis, while looking up to the surrounding rocks is something I had never done before.

| READ MORE: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN OMAN |

Exploring the Wadi Bani Khalid in Oman

Explore the Eternal City

Visiting Rome , the Eternal City, is something everybody should do once in their life. Walking around the cobbled streets, admiring the architecture and marvelling at the Roman ruins, is something that will stay with you forever.

There are lots of beautiful spots in Rome , where you can get your fill of history and culture, as well as of tasty Italian food!

In Rome you can also visit the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World”.

| READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 2 EPIC WEEKS IN ITALY |

Enjoying the beauty of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy

Get lost in London

Samuel Johnson once said; “By seeing London, I have seen as much of life as the world can show” .

While I would say there are lots of other beautiful places and things to do in the world (36 according to this bucket list!) I do agree that London is awesome.

London is an incredibly cosmopolitan city. It’s a melting pot of people, cultures and traditions from all over the world. It’s also a beautiful city from an architectural point of view.

There is nothing quite like London. Which is why I think everyone should spend at least two days in London , exploring all that this epic city has to offer.

| READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE LONDON BUCKET LIST |

Chilling by More London Place and enjoying the view over Tower Bridge

Discover the Lost City of Petra

Petra is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen. It’s a huge archaeological site in Jordan , which used to be the capital city of the Nabataeans around 300BC.

It’s known as the “Lost City” as it only became known to the western world when a Swiss explorer re-discovered it.

Walking through the narrow path of the Siq Trail, until it finally opens up and you can admire the Treasury will make you feel like you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.

Don’t just stop at the Treasury though. Petra is a 60 square kilometres site, with incredibly detailed and well-preserved facades built into the rock dotted everywhere. There are also some incredible red desert landscapes.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING PETRA |

Enjoying the view over the Treasury of Petra in Jordan

Ski in the European Alps

I may be biased when I say this, but I wholeheartedly believe that the European Alps are the best place in the world to ski.

Whether you chose to ski on the Italian , French, Swiss or Austrian side of the mountains, you’re guaranteed an epic experience.

Nowhere else in the world will you find such a high concentration of slopes for all skiing levels, as well as epic views, great food and fun après ski.

Many of the ski resorts also have passes that allow you to ski from one resort to another, sometimes you can even ski across countries!

Whether you’re an experienced skier or you’re just starting out, skiing in the Alps is an incredible adventure and a must on any Europe bucket list .

Skiing in St Anton am Alberg, just look at that view!

Go island hopping in Sardinia

This is another adventure that I might be somewhat biased about, but I really believe everyone should visit Sardinia at least once in their life.

I’ve seen a lot of beaches around the world , but I still haven’t found water as clear as the one in Sardinia anywhere else.

In Sardinia you will find white soft sand beaches, rugged pink granite landscapes and incredibly clear turquoise water. You can spend your days island hopping from beach to beach, and swimming in the clear water.

It’s an experience that should feature on everyone’s travel bucket list. Trust me when I say, you won’t forget about it anytime soon.

| READ MORE: DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES IN SARDINIA |

Relaxing on the nets of the catamaran we cruised in Maddalena Archipelago with at the Cavaliere Beach

Explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia

The Salt Flats of Bolivia have been at the top of my travel bucket list for a very long time now. Driving around nothing but a white desert feels to me like a unique experience, which you can’t really have anywhere else.

I’m hoping to visit Salar de Uyuni during my big South America backpacking trip. I want to go during the rainy season, when you can’t tell where the ski ends and the desert begins.

Do a zipline adventure!

One of the most thrilling adventures you have to add to your travel bucket list is zip-lining. Zipline is an activity where through wires and a pulley system you travel from the top to the bottom of the wires, pulled by gravity.

I went ziplining across the Cetina Canyon in Croatia and around canopy trees in Costa Rica , and both times were extremely exciting, even if different. One was more scenic, whilst the other was close up to rainforest trees.

Soaring high over the ground, admiring the view is a thrilling experience, which every adventure fan will love.

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Final thoughts on my epic travel bucket list

Are there any experiences on your travel bucket list that I haven’t mentioned here? Let me know in the comments below!

I’m always searching for more travel inspiration, and would love to hear about your own travel dreams!

This travel bucket list is based on my own experiences. It’s a compilation of awesome adventures I’ve been lucky enough to live, as well as others I haven’t yet but hope to do so soon.

I hope you find it useful in building your own travel bucket list and keeping that wanderlust alive!

Enjoyed reading my ultimate travel bucket list? Pin it!

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things To Do Before You Die

The world is full of wonder and if you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore! Check out my ultimate travel bucket list – 100 unmissable places to visit before you die. How many can you tick off?

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

There are so many incredible places to see on this planet… but sometimes a bit of extra inspiration doesn’t hurt.

From incredible landscapes that make your eyes pop and your jaws drop, to incredible architecture – here is the ultimate travel bucket list. 100 places to see before you die.

After all, nothing says it better than this cool travel quote from Ray Bradbury.

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

They don’t call it Grand for nothing. The Grand Canyon is a huge, steep canyon, located in Arizona , carved by the Colorado River.

Let’s talk measurements for a second so you can get an idea of the scale of this natural wonder. 446km long and 29km wide.

I’m guessing that it’s already on your list of things to see before you die. If you’re up for the challenge, you can go and hike the whole thing … or simply see the scale of its beauty from one of the many lookouts.

These are especially beautiful to watch the sunrise and sunset from, so make sure you check the times before you go!

2. See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

A series of dancing lights that charge the night sky in pinks, greens, yellows and purples – seeing the Aurora Borealis is the ultimate travel bucket list item.

Cool northern lights-spotting destinations include Iceland , Norway , Alaska and northern Canada.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

he Giant’s Causeway is a stone formation made up of 40,000 basalt columns, located just off the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland.

While scientists say that the formations were the result of a volcanic eruption, legend has it that the columns were a causeway built by a giant so that Scottish and Irish giants could meet and fight. I’m going to go with the latter – much more believable.

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

One of the US’s best-known national parks, Bryce Canyon is a collection of giant natural amphitheatres in southern Utah and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. 

Designated a National Park in 1928, Bryce Canyon now receives nearly 2.5 million annual visitors to marvel at its red, orange and white rock formations.

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

Walking through the weird curved formations of Antelope Canyon , it’s difficult to believe that it’s not man made.

It’s not. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located in Page, Arizona. Formed by the erosion of sandstone from the flash floods that occur in the area, it’s a must for any avid traveller. 

Photographers come from far and wide to get a glimpse of this beautiful orange, red and yellow canyon and the magical light filtered through the canyon’s shaped walls.

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

The striking Reynisdrangar basalt columns on the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach are one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders (they have tough competition).

The columns were formed by volcanic activity – the same kind that created the Giant’s Causeway mentioned above.

Legend has it that they are three trolls, frozen in time by the sun’s rays. Sound familiar? That’s because Tolkien used the legend in his world-famous story The Hobbit.

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is just incredible. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the northeast of California it’s well-known as one of America’s most beautiful travel destinations.

Want to know where to travel before you die? Start with Yosemite.

Granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers – it’s no wonder that the famous photographer Ansel Adams loved it – and I bet you will too.

8. The Dead Sea, Israel / West Bank / Jordan

We all know that you can float on The Dead Sea. This curious natural wonder is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. It’s not actually a sea, despite its name, it’s a lake on the borders of Israel, the West Bank and Jordan .

The banks of the Dead Sea are over 400m below sea level, making them the lowest point in the world on dry land.

The easiest way to visit The Dead Sea is by taking a short-ish bus journey from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, alternatively you can rent a car and drive, though booking onto a tour makes things even easier.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is no secret. Another place that’s arguably being loved to death, it’s enduringly beautiful.

The bay, which is located in Northeast Vietnam, stretches over 1500 square kilometres and is scattered with over 1600 islands and islets.

Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and rainforest-topped islands and a favourite among beauty-seekers.

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

When it comes to bucket list places to visit, The Jeita Grotto is often forgotten about. It’s a set of two separate but interconnected limestone caves, located in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley in Lebanon. 

It can only be entered by boat as it channels an underground river, but once inside, visitors can see the incredible rock formations, and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

11. Acropolis, Greece

The Acropolis in Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a hill in Athens, which contains many ancient (and remains of) buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Acropolis is a greatly important symbol of Greek history, architecture and spirit and visiting it should have a prime spot on your travel bucket list.

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Take whatever you’ve heard about Angkor Wat, times it by 100 and yet it will still blow you away. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is just straight up incredible. 

Angkor Wat is a mystical complex of temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Angkor Wat also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world at 400 square kilometres – it’s made up of hundreds of incredible and awe inspiring temples and ruins.

If you need any more reason to believe you need to visit this special place, it even features on the country’s flag!

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sounds like something that deserves a place on your bucket list right? Right.

But what exactly is Chichen Itza? Well only the biggest archaeological city of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilisation, located in the Yucatán State, Mexico .

Its huge pyramid, El Castillo, is the centre of the ancient city. Both were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, everybody raves about it… but you know what? That’s because it is incredible. Machu Picchu is the old Inca City, located on top of a 2500m mountain in the Cusco region of Peru, just above the Sacred Valley.

Forgotten by the Western world for centuries, it was rediscovered by intrepid explorer Hiram Bingham. Machu Picchu was crowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (of course).

IMHO Machu Picchu is the best archaeological site in the South American continent, and definitely deserves to be at the top of your South America bucket list .

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Who hasn’t dreamt of jetting off to see the mysterious Pyramids of Giza ?

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the outskirts of Cairo Egypt. The complex contains 3 pyramids, a Great Sphinx Sculpture and several cemeteries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Egypt’s world-famous pyramids were built as a tomb for the pharaohs and their queens.

Now they’re one of the most recognisable (and photographed) structures in the world –  I fell head over heels for them after a recent visit to the country.

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument, located in Wiltshire, England. I’ll be completely honest, I’ve never really got why everyone goes so nuts about them… but I can never resist a cheeky detour when I’m on my way to Glastonbury Festival.

The 4 metre high collection of stones were constructed over time between 2500 and 5000 years ago, and are now one of the seven Wonders of the World. Druids and Pagans still use the site to celebrate important occasions such as the summer solstice.

17. The Colosseum, Italy

How about adding the largest amphitheatre ever built to your list of 100 places to see before you die? Yep, thought so.

The Colosseum is an old amphitheatre in the middle of Rome – it was built to hold up to 80,000 spectators.

Although over the years it has been partially ruined by earthquakes, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Rome, recognisable from around the world.

18. Bagan, Myanmar

Catapulted from a place very few people had heard of to one of the recent year’s travel hotspots, Bagan is a beautiful place. The ancient city in Myanmar is nicknamed the temple town, as it is home to 2,229 remaining temples and pagodas.

Most of these have been restored or preserved by UNESCO, and many contain incredible statues and carvings of Buddha – worth a visit in themselves. 

Head to the site early in the morning in the evening – you’ll see the most incredible Bagan sunrises and sunsets – preferably by hot air balloon.

19. Taj Mahal, India

Is it the most photographed building in the world? It’s certainly the best-known mausoleum.

The Taj Maha l is a white marble mausoleum, built in 1648 at the command of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, to remember his late wife.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the ornate Taj Mahal is a beautiful symbol of India and needs to be on any bucket list 100.

20. The Great Wall of China, China

China’s most famous landmark, The Great Wall of China is testament to the incredible building skills of civilisations past.

The “Great Wall” is actually a number of walls that run along the historical Northern borders of China, that were built to protect the Chinese against invasions from Eurasia.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it is the longest wall in the world – it’s even visible from space.

21. London, United Kingdom

London needs no introduction. This cosmopolitan capital is crammed with cool things to do and places to see and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Dating back to Roman times, London is now home to a whopping nearly 9 million people… including the Royal Family.

Head here to see some of the world’s most famed attractions – Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and so many other pretty places to see in London , not to mention some of the most striking street art in the world and a plethora of brilliant restaurants.

Aside from tourist hot spots, London is filled with cool neighbourhoods well worth taking the time to explore – take Hackney, Shoreditch, Croydon, and Clapham, for example.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love – there’s a lot more to Paris than snuggling up for a cosy tete a tete with your other half.

Famed for its culture, art, cuisine and fashion, Paris has something for everyone – which explains why it’s on pretty much every bucket list 100 out there.

Whizz around between beautiful spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Treat yourself to some fancy accommodation and enjoy one of Europe’s most opulent cities.

23. Florence, Italy

Another one of Europe’s cultural hotspots, Florence is well-known for being the birthplace of beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.

Art lovers will rejoice in Florence, with magnificent works by Michaelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci on display at the Uffizi Gallery. 

But that’s not all there is to this dreamy Italian spot – the food is impeccable, the city is filled with family-run trattorias and gelato hotspots. Prepare to spend half your time eating, and the other half snapping photos.

Planning a trip? Check out the many world-famous Italian landmarks Florence boasts, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the Palazzo Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens. Then hop in a car to discover the rest of Tuscany on a road trip.

24. Rome, Italy

Ahh Rome , what a city. Every time you think you have seen it all, Rome comes up with something else to surprise you.

Full of architecture, art and ancient ruins, it’s known worldwide for its fashion and designer boutiques. Head to the Colosseum for some history, the Vatican for some culture and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Don’t even get me started on the sheer number of brilliant eateries either…

25. Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a dream. This gorgeous city is known across Europe for its baroque art and architecture, and its musical and intellectual legacy. 

Some of Vienna’s most well known attractions are the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, a complex of palaces.

Viennese cafe culture is also one of the best in Europe, so much so that UNESCO popped it on their intangible cultural heritage list. Head into one of Vienna’s very many cafes for a Viennese coffee and a slice of schokotorte.

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford is one of the UK’s most famous cities, thanks to its prestigious university (I studied there and it was just as incredible as you would imagine).

With the university dating back to the 11th century, Oxford is full of so many things to do – old architecture, beautiful scenery and tasty cuisine.

Head to Oxford to see the Museum of Natural History, the Oxford Botanic Gardens, and of course its prestigious university and its colleges.

27. Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s evocative capital is an unforgettable experience – there’s no way I’d leave it out of my pick of top 100 bucket list destinations. It’s been a while since I’ve visited but the sights and sounds of the city will always stay with me.

Gorgeous 16th-century architecture and vintage American cars , music and dance – not forgetting the delicious cuisine and daiquiris!

When you’re here, head to the Revolution Museum, Morro Castle and Old Havana, to see the best bits. It’s no wonder that Hemingway loved it – pop into El Floridita , his favourite bar.

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may NOT be Brazil’s capital but it makes up for it with culture, looks and fun.

The first time I visited Rio, I was fresh-faced and 18 – several (and I mean several) years later, I’m just as in love with Rio as when I first clapped eyes on it.

This vibrant capital city is best known for its architecture, forest topped mountains and golden beaches. Some of Rio’s best sights are the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

29. Venice, Italy

Venice might be sinking but we still love it. In truth, it’s difficult to leave Venice out of any list of must-see travel spots, BUT it is suffering from serious overtourism, so you might want to skip it in favour of somewhere quieter.

Full of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, there are very few roads in Venice, mostly canals, with boats and gondolas to transport people. The best places to see are the Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge – just magical!

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is more than relaxed marijuana laws and chilled out coffee shops. Home to an impressive array of world-class museums, beautiful canals, gorgeous architecture and history.

Start by visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, walk along the canals and spend some time exploring the city by bike.

Dutch food might not be much to write home about, but they sure know a thing or two about sweet things – make it your mission to scoff as many poffertjes and stroopwafel as possible. A bucket list travel must.

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The Iguazu Falls are waterfalls on the Iguazu River that border Misiones, the Argentinian province, Paraná, the Brazilian state and Paraguay. At 82 metres high and the chain of falls nearly 3km long, they are the largest waterfalls system in the world.

Think the view can’t be better? Wait until you hear their astoundingly loud roar – sight and sound – it’s almost deafening, and an absolute thrill.

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, in southern Africa. 

Described by CNN as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the water at the Victoria Falls drops a staggering 108m, and is the largest curtain of water in the world.

The easiest way to visit is to fly to Livingstone, the nearest airport – from there it’s around 11km to the falls via a taxi.

Or, if you would really like to treat yourself (I approve), view the falls from above during a helicopter flight over the natural landmark. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

The Niagara Falls are a set of three impressive waterfalls that border Ontario, Canada, and New York State in the US. The three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, all fall at the southern end of the Niagara gorge, and have a total height of 51m.

As the most famous falls in the world, Niagara is something that you’ve got to see. If you’re feeling brave, jump on one of the boat tours which take you up close and personal to the falls.

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

The Ban Gioc–Detian Falls are a set of two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River, on the border of China and Vietnam.

The main waterfall is the Detian waterfall, and the other waterfall is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, with the cumulative drop being a whopping 60m.

You can hop on a boat, which will take you on a river tour close to the falls for an extra-special experience.

35. Palouse Falls, USA

The Palouse Falls is a waterfall on the Palouse River, 6km up from the meeting with the Snake River, in southeast Washington in the United States.

The falls consist of an upper falls and a lower falls, which are drops of 6.1m and 60m respectively. Bring your hiking boots and set off on one of the numerous trails around the top and the bottom of the falls.

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

Shoshone Falls is a waterfall on the Snake River in Southern Idaho. Known as the ‘Niagara of the West’, the falls are 65m high (which is actually higher than Niagara) and flow over a 300m wide rim.

Formed over 14,000 years ago, the Shoshone Falls attract up to 300,000 vehicles per year, and are definitely worth a spot on your ultimate bucket list. Bring a picnic and grab a spot in one of the designated areas for a fabulous day out.

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Blue Nile Falls is a waterfall on the Blue Nile River, located in the north of Ethiopia. Known as ’Tis Abay’ in Amharic, meaning ‘great smoke’, the Falls are approximately 40 metres high, consisting of four streams.

This beautiful waterfall is one of Ethiopia’s top tourist attractions – just get ready for a hike to get the best views of the falls.

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

It’s hard to pick one waterfall from Iceland for our list, but Gullfoss can’t be missed. Gullfoss, meaning ‘Golden Waterfall’ is a waterfall located in the Olfusa River canyon, in Southwest Iceland.

The name comes from the golden colour of the waterfall in certain light – the result of sediment in the water.

The total height of Gullfoss is 32 metres and the longest drop is 21 metres. The beautiful waterfall offers brilliant views and we recommend going to see it on a sunny day, as there’s a big chance of seeing a rainbow shimmering over the falls.

Otherwise it’s a spectacular place to see the Northern Lights in the winter.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

The McWay Falls are a waterfall that flows from McWay Creek in picture-perfect Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park onto a beach in Big Sur on the west coast of California.

The image of the 24m McWay Falls cascading onto the beach is one of Big Sur’s most iconic and something you can’t miss. The hike to the falls is rather easy and boasts some of Big Sur’s best views.

40. The Maldives

The Maldives are a set of South Asian islands, located in the Indian ocean. Made up of 26 atolls, ring shaped coral reefs together containing over 1000 coral islands.

People come from far and wide for The Maldives’ beautiful islands, luxury accommodation, azure waters, and colourful marine life.

If you love beaches, watersports or simply soaking up the views of one of the most beautiful places on this planet, the Maldives should be on your list.

41. Vava’u Islands

The Vava’u islands are a set of islands, one large and 40 small, located in Tonga in the South Pacific. Neiafu, the capital of these islands, is a gorgeous destination well worth exploring – make sure to visit the striking St Joseph’s Cathedral.

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

This tropical paradise has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and beautiful sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and Humpback whales – a wildlife lover’s paradise!

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

Known as the ‘supermodel’ of the Greek Islands, it is instantly recognisable by its whitewashed buildings with blue roofs, multicoloured cliffs, beautiful sunsets and dazzlingly sapphire coloured waters.

There’s so much to do in Santorini including exploring Akrotiri’s ruins and chilling on Kamari’s black sand beach. You might have to battle the crowds, but it’s totally worth it.

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific, Northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Being Tahiti’s most famous island, it is popular with the luxury crowd thanks to its fabulous hotels.

Bora Bora is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, which is fabulous for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

44. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia, popular among backpackers travelling Southeast Asia but also with a luxury side, full of beautiful beaches, incredible food , culture scenery and wildlife.

Known for its surfing, yoga , diving and great resorts, the ‘essence of Bali’, and its traditions have stolen the hearts of many visitors.

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

An archipelago in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is known as both a beach lover’s shangri-la and an eco-wonderland. Built on volcanic rock, the coastline is as ragged as it is beautiful.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this paradise is full of pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and stunning wildlife. Apparently, even the sharks are friendly.

46. Maui, USA

Maui is an island which is part of the state of Hawaii, known for its natural beauty. It is Hawaii’s second-largest island, at 1,883 square kilometres. 

Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, Maui is famed for its world-famous beaches, the Iao Valley, humpback whales, and the marvellous sunset and sunrise from Haleakala. 

There are so many things to do in Maui with kids , as there are for a couple travelling alone.

47. Big Sur, USA

Big Sur is a stretch of California’s central coast. Forever linked with beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Big Sur tops the list of many literary lovers’ travel bucket lists – but there’s more to its appeal than that.

Driving through Big Sur on a Highway 1 road trip is very popular, with beautiful places to stop and look out, such as Bixby Bridge and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the picturesque McWay Falls (see our pick of top 10 waterfalls for your bucket list) meets the sandy shore and drifts into the Ocean.

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, located off the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Ko Samui is home to lush rainforest, coconut palms and some of the most spectacular beaches in Thailand, such as Bang Por, Choeng Mon and Taling Nam, which is incredible for watching the sunset on.

49. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a province of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It is home to some of the best beaches and islands in Southeast Asia, such as Railay Beach , with incredible rock formations making it a climbers paradise, and the Phi Phi Islands, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that Krabi is at the top of most visitors’ lists of things to see when they’re in Thailand.

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is a desert located in Chile , South America and is one of the most surreal places on the planet.

The desert covers a 1000 square km area of land and is one of the driest places on Earth. Mars-like valleys, brightly coloured lakes, swarms of flamingos and the Southern hemisphere’s largest geyser field – if you’re heading to the Atacama desert, you’d better prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out my guide to road-tripping in the Atacama Desert.

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

The Bolivia Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) are located in the Potosí province in the southwest of Bolivia – not far from the Atacama Desert.

At 10,582 square km and placed 3,656m above sea level, they are the largest salt flats in the world. This incredible natural wonder was originally caused by the transformations of several prehistoric lakes, which are now covered by a few metres of salt crust.

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in Patagonia, Chile. It is known for its beautiful mountains, blue icebergs and glaciers, and lush vegetation.

If you’re fit enough to take on the challenge, hiking the five day W trail should be on your list of things to do before you die – feeling even more adventurous? The 8-day O trek is for you.

The stunning Torres, after which the park is named, is the main attraction of the park, and over 250,000 visitors come to marvel at them every year. It’s honestly one of the most incredible places I’ve visited and well worth the hype.

53. Lake District, UK

The Lake District i s a mountainous area in Cumbria, in the north west of England, whose mountains, lakes and forests stretch over a huge 2,362 square km.

Boasting plenty of hikes and ways to reconnect with nature, this is a popular holiday destination for British tourists. 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and also the deepest and longest bodies of water in England – most definitely worth a trip.

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chả is a rural district located at the bottom of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the northwest of Vietnam, in the Yên Bái Province.

It is home to incredible landscapes and perfectly-landscaped rice paddies – the Mù Cang Chả Rice Terrace has been recognised as one of the most unique landscapes in Vietnam, stretching across 22 square km of the mountainside.

Seeing the bright green paddies in real life is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Vietnam.

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in Namibia, and encompasses part of the Namib Desert.

The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest desert, and Namib-Naukluft is the fourth-largest game park in the world. Wonderful creatures such as snakes, hyenas and geckos reside in the stunning signature red and orange sand.

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

The Paro Valley is a lush valley located in western Bhutan. The historic town is full of culture, history and sacred sites, and the wide and richly vegetated Valley is one of Bhutan’s must-see sights. 

If you’re visiting the valley, you have to make a stop at Paro Taktsang which is tucked into the side of a cliff. It’s nicknamed the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist Temple and known one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.

57. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Full of beautiful old Italian villas, farms, wineries and lush vegetation, it’s a beautiful location to visit. As I’ve already mentioned, Florence, the capital of the region, is filled with so many things for art-lovers to do.

Though it’s the gently rolling hills and green vineyards that make up a stunning landscape worthy of a postcard and a spot on your bucket list. Other must-visit towns include Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti, Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

Uluru (previously known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone rock formation, located in the north central region of Australia, that rises 350 metres up away from its surrounding land.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Uluru is home to beautiful waterholes, springs and rock caves.

One of Australia’s indigenous tribes most sacred sites, you can no longer hike onto the rock itself, but can still soak up its spiritual presence from up close.

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, located in the region of Liguria in Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is full of colourful houses and vineyards and a beautiful blue harbour.

I’m betting it’s one of the most photographed places in Italy, but once you go, you can easily see why. Gorgeous views, even better wine, and a chilled-out pace of life – what’s not to love?

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the free-standing bell tower of Italy’s Pisa Cathedral. Built in 1372 at 56 metres tall, the tower is famed for its unintended tilt – the result of the soft ground on which it was built.

Head to the tower, take the obligatory selfie (or three – don’t miss the one where you pretend to push it over!) but don’t forget to explore the rest of this charming city, which is surprisingly quiet once you get away from the big sights.

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

The Golden Gate Bridge is a 1,280m suspension bridge that links San Francisco with Marin County in Western California. Built in 1937 for a huge $35 million, since opening it has become an icon of San Francisco and the most photographed bridge in the world.

Hike through the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge Park to the bottom of the bridge for a different view of this iconic bridge.

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower, located on the Champ de Mars, in Paris, France. The engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed the tower and then his company built it in 1889.

With a total height of 324m, the instantly recognisable Eiffel Tower is synonymous with the city of love. Head up to the top for amazing views out over the city.

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil . Built in 1931 by four men, Landowski, da Silva Costa, Caquor and Leonida, the 30 metre symbol of Rio sits atop of the Corcovado Mountain, looking over the city.

You can access the statue via a tough hike through the Tijuca rainforest, or via a tram or collectivo.

Whichever way you get there, the view of the city spread out below and of the statue itself is one of Rio’s real highlights.

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial group of islands in Dubai , United Arab Emirates, located on the Jumeirah coast. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do before you die, but it’s well worth the trip.

Taking 5 years to build from 2001 to 2006, the Palm is now full of luxury hotels, restaurants and residences. In keeping with Dubai’s reputation for glitz and glamour, a trip to The Palm Jumeirah is one for the luxury-lovers among you.

The island is also home to arguably the best water park in Dubai – spend a day cooling off and seeking thrills at the Atlantis Aquaventure.

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St Basil’s Cathedral is located in Red Square, Moscow, Russia. Built in 1561, this world-famous and colourful landmark was inspired by the flame from a bonfire rising into the sky.

Officially called ‘The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat’, this 48m high building is a totally bonkers but beautiful creation that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is an arts venue, located at Bennelong Point in the middle of the Sydney Harbour, Australia. Built in 1973, the Opera House became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The picturesque sail design of the house with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind it is the iconic image of Sydney and a must-do on your Australia bucket list.

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of ‘Lady Liberty’, located on Liberty Island in the harbour in New York City.

The statue shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and a book with roman numerals of the date of the US Declaration of Independence.

Designed by Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated to the US people from France in 1886.

The statue used to be the first sight of New York for those sailing into the city in days gone by, the boat trip to see  the statue is no less striking today.There is so much to enjoy in New York with various attractions, shopping and rooftop restaurants in New York .

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

Big Ben (a nickname for the clock on the Elizabeth Tower), is a tower at the end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.

Ever since it was built in 1859, it has been a British cultural icon, and is the most prominent symbol of London and the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is currently undergoing renovation works, but you can still take a peek at the Houses of Parliament below.

Want an extra-special view? Take one of the numerous boat cruises that float down the Thames for picture opps without the crowds.

70. Empire State Building, USA

The Empire State Building is a skyscraper, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City (between West 33rd and 34th streets to be precise).

The 102 storey building is not only a work office, but also has a viewing deck at the top where visitors can see the whole of the city.

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City, and was designated the status of a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Book your ticket and get whisked up to the top for spectacular views out over the city.

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, is the highest mountain on Earth at 8,848 m, with the border between China and Nepal running across its summit.

Since it was first climbed in 1953, Mount Everest has attracted keen climbers from all over, with two main climbing routes, one starting in southeast Nepal and the other in the north of Tibet in China – do you dare to rise to the challenge?

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

Mount Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain , is a mountain in the Andes in Cusco, Peru.  

With its highest peak at 5,200m, Vinicunca is full of desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks and lots of alpacas!

Though South America isn’t short on a hike or two, this one comes with close-up views of the multi-coloured mountains and its picturesque surroundings.

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Matterhorn is located in the Swiss Alps. At 4,478 m, it is one of the largest mountains in Europe and the Alps. Surrounded by glaciers, the Matterhorn is an incredibly beautiful site, with an almost symmetrical peak.

Skilled mountaineers can climb to the top of the mountain, but even if that’s not you, we pretty much guarantee you’ll be blown away by views of the mountain up close.

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a mountain in Patagonia, located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field near El Chaltén on the border of Argentina and Chile .

First climbed in 1952, today it still remains one of the most challenging climbs on Earth with its highest point at 3,405 m.

Not quite up to the challenge? You can hike to the base of the mountain from El Chalten without too much difficulty.

75. K2, China / Pakistan

K2, also known as Mount Godwin Austen, is the second highest mountain in the world, at 8611 metres high, located on the border between China and Pakistan.

Not many dare to climb K2 as it is so dangerous. K2 is sometimes called the ‘Savage Mountain’, with a terrifying one out of four climbers never making it back.

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town in South Africa . The mountain is just over 1,085 metres tall and 3km from either side.

Visitors either hike up to the top or get the cable-car up (hint: do the hike, it’s awesome). Once at the top, the sweeping views of the city are incredible.

Cape Town is often chosen as one of the most spectacular cities in the world, and the views from Table Mountain give you a good idea why.

77. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada’s national playground. Forming part of the Rockies National Park, Canada’s first national park, Banff’s highest peak is Bonnet Peak at 3,235 m.

The beautiful snow capped mountains surrounded by lush green forests and charming lakes are too tempting not to explore – doing so should be on your list of things to do before you die.

78. Mount Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan is a mountain range is the Anhui Province in Eastern China, with its top height reaching 1,864 metres. Mount Huangshan and its surrounding area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, lush vegetation and incredible views.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Mount Huangshan is known as ‘the loveliest mountain in China’. Even more reason to see it with your own eyes.

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in north west Africa. Their highest peak is Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres high and located in Morocco.

Its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks and traditional Berber villages make trekking in the Atlas Mountains a fantastic experience.

The Atlas Mountains are a relatively short trip from Marrakech and well deserving of a detour from the charming city.

80. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc (meaning ‘White Mountain) is located in the Graian Alps, which run between France and Italy.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and in Europe at 4,808m, and is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, snowboarding and skiing.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can hike up and ski or board down in the summer months – beware, the hike up is pretty tough.

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

Yellowstone Super Volcano is located in the ethereal Yellowstone National Park , in the northwest of Wyoming, US.

Known for its super-volcanoes, crazily coloured lakes and ever-faithful geysers, Yellowstone might well be the US national park highest on your list of things to do before you die (though maybe Yosemite beats it to the first spot).

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Popocatépetl Volcano is an active volcano located in the Mexico, Puebla and Morelos states in Central Mexico.

At 5,426m high, it is the second-tallest peak in Mexico. You can visit the park surrounding the volcano from Mexico City – bear in mind that it is an active volcano, so you should check before you set out.

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples, in Campania, Italy. The 1,280m volcano is best known for its eruption in 79AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and being the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

However, despite the risk, the sight of the beautiful volcano standing tall over the city of Naples is truly amazing. You can undertake the hike to the top independently, or go on a guided hike to take advantage of the local knowledge.

84. Mount Etna, Italy

Mount Etna is a volcano between Messina and Cantania, in Sicily, Italy. At 3,330m high, it is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and Italy’s highest peak south of the Alps. Although it is one of the world’s most active volcano sites, in 2013 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty.

It’s a tough trek to the top, but the views once you get there are worth the sweat.

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on Honshu Island, in the Southwest of Japan. At 3,770 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Japan.

The mountain is one of Japan’s sacred sites – it’s not unusual for people to make a pilgrimage trek to the top.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, UNESCO has also recognised 25 locations within the Mount Fuji locality to be sites of cultural interest – meaning there’s plenty for you to do when you tick this one off your bucket list.

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones, located in the Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania, Africa.

At 5,895 metres above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s best-known adventure spots and the hike to the top is a once in a lifetime experience.

87. Mauna Loa, USA

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located in Hawaii, United States. It’s considered to be the Earth’s largest volcano with an impressive 75,000 cubed km volume.

Although Mauna Loa has been erupting for at least 700,000 years and still erupts today, the eruptions are very fluid and tend to be non-explosive, so it is a very safe area to visit.

It’s a tough hike, even by Hawaiian standards, but when else will you get to climb the world’s largest volcano?

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia, and is part of the Tengger massif, a volcano complex.

Sitting in the middle of a plain of sand, the beautiful 2300m volcano provides visitors with unparalleled views, which can be reached by taking a 2 hour walk to the top. Head up at night to catch sunrise at the top – an unforgettable experience.

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a dormant volcano near Reykjavík, Iceland, that covers 3,270 square metres and is 213m deep.

Opening to tourists in 2012, it is the only volcano in the world where you can take a lift down into the magma chamber. Such an incredible sight is totally deserving of a spot on your bucket list.

90. Mount Helen, USA

Mount Helen is an active volcano located in Skamania County in Washington State, United States – less than 100 miles away from Seattle. Mount St Helens is well known for its ash explosions and flows of gas and volcanic matter, especially during the notorious 1980 eruption.

The huge volcano is located in the Cascade Range which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a group of 452 active volcanoes dotted around the rim of the Pacific, all prone to eruption.

There are more than 200 miles of trails in the surrounding area – allowing you to see a different side of the volcano on two feet.

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, Africa, that neighbours the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

It is famous for its wonderful animals and wildlife, including African leopards and Kenyan cheetahs, Masai lions, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and over 470 species of bird. It is perfect for the animal lover.

Heading on a safari into the Masai Mara is one of the most popular travel bucket list ideas – when are you going to tick it off yours?

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest is a rainforest that expands over Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, in South America.

The whole thing encompasses a huge 7 million square kilometres, and is home to 16,000 species of 390 billion trees, 2.5 million insect species and 2,000 mammal and bird species.

Eco-friendly luxury lodges, steamer boat cruises, incredible hikes – the only problem you’ll have when it comes to planning your trip to the Amazon is how much you can fit into the time you have.

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

The Serengeti is a region in Africa, expanding over northern Tanzania and in the south of Kenya, over 30,000 square kilometres.

The Serengeti is renowned for its large lion population, including 70 large mammal species, such as buffalos and gazelles, and 500 bird species, as well as a range of surroundings with everything from swamps to grasslands.

Book a safari for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of islands located in the Pacific Ocean over the Equator, such that the islands are in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.

The islands are well known for their wildlife that are unique to just them, including giant tortoises, Galapagos finches and penguins, Galapagos hawks, fur seals and blue-footed boobies.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the islands in their full glory on a several-day boat tour.

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast in Queensland, Australia.

The reef system, which stretches over a nearly 350,000 square kilometre area, comprises over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, this colourful place is home to millions of creatures, including dolphins, whales, fish, turtles and birds. 

On a sourer note, the Great Barrier Reef is being destroyed due to climate change, so who knows how much longer it will be around for? This beautiful place deserves a top spot on your list of things to do before you die.

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island is a 390 square kilometre island, located in the middle of the Flores Sea and part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this beautiful island is home to many species, including Javan deer, water buffalo and the 3km long Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth.

Komodo Dragons are notoriously dangerous but spying them in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park might not be South Africa’s best-known safari destination (that title has to go to Kruger), but it’s the one I loved the most.

Tucked away in the beautiful Addo region in the Eastern Cape, the Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Seven (the big five plus Southern Whales and Great White Sharks) thanks to its ocean territory.

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

The Danum Valley is located in Sabah Forest, Borneo, Malaysia . The 438 square kilometre Conservation Area is known for its Bornean orangutans, gibbons, 270 species of bird and the rare East Sumatran rhinos.

People come from all over to see these special creatures, and it is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list.

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia. The island is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo, the Tammar Wallaby and Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, which are all native to the island, as well as non-native creatures such as sea lions and koalas.

Visit the island to experience its wild and rugged beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities galore.

100. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a savanna in Southern Africa that extends for over 900,000 square kilometres over Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

The Kalahari Desert is home to hundreds of exotic species of animals including brown hyenas, meerkats, the Kalahari lion, and many species of reptiles and birds.

A trip to the Kalahari is like stepping into another universe – one that will provide you will snaps (and memories) you’ll never forget.

There we are, 100 places for your travel bucket list. How many have you ticked off?

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

• 100 Places to Visit in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss
• 100 Places to Visit in South America – The South America Bucket List
• UK Bucket List Ideas 

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest!

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

56 Incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites That Should Be on Your Bucket List

15 Best Girls Trip Ideas – Fabulous Girls Trip Locations for a Fun Getaway

The 10 Most Beautiful Valleys in the World

The Cheapest Travel Destinations for Your Luxury Trip

I alway love these kinds of lists. But “100” is an arbitrary number. Better to list the top things and get a list as long or short as it turns out to be. A few conspicuous omissions from the list: Antarctica; Madagascar’s Spiny Forest; slave forts of Ghana; underground stone-carved churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; the palace complex and surrounds in Bangkok; and maybe the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. List should include a section on tribal people and unique cultures such as the tribes of the Omo Valley in SE Ethiopia and the Inuit of Canada, etc.; famous scenic train trips; best rivers & fjords to navigate. Nevertheless, a fun list! Have seen 61 of these, plan to see 15 still on my list. 23 others are nice but I don’t plan to see. 4 of them I have no interest in. (Been to a number of the countries the items are in, but not to see the listed items.)

Thanks for the suggestions – some really interesting ones there – if we update the piece, we’ll be sure to take your additions on board.

Colosseum is in Italy, not Greece (number 19), though it does mention Rome.

Great spot – obviously a typo slipped in there. Clearly meant to say Italy as I reference Rome 4 times in the para.

Um. Yosemite, then out to Hwy 395 in the Eastern Sierra of CA.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Finding Alexx

| Bucket list adventures around the globe

Bucket list travel , Homepage popular · April 16, 2023

The ultimate travel bucket list: 50+ epic experiences around the world

Want some inspiration for your travel bucket list? I’ve compiled more than 50 epic things to see, do and experience around the globe that are worthy of being at the top of any travel bucket list.

I’ve always been a sucker for a good list, and a travel bucket list is no different. I find that getting your ideas onto paper (or computer haha) help to organise your thoughts, let you prioritise them, and then make decision-making way easier.

Orrrr on the other hand, having a list of 50 epic bucket list experiences around the world might send you into a state of constant analysis paralysis, not knowing where to go next 🙃

Regardless of which way you’re going to go, this incredible travel bucket list is sure to inspire you for your future travels. I’ve listed some of the iconic bucket list experiences, like seeing the Taj Mahal and diving on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, but I’ve also included slightly lnoesser-known experiences like the world’s fastest rollercoaster, seeing bioluminescence in the ocean, and seeing elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka.

So open up your bucket list journal or Google Doc and start taking notes of which of these epic experiences you want to add to your travel bucket list.

Experiences to add to your travel bucket list

Adventure bucket list ideas.

Bungy jump or skydive

I feel like there’s no other way to start an ‘ultimate travel bucket list’ post apart from throwing yourself either out of a plane of off a platform tied by the ankles. And even so, I can promise you that I will never do either.

The best place to bungy jump in the world is hands down New Zealand, the original home of the commercial bungy jump since the first one in 1988. These days New Zealand has six different bungy sites to choose from, so add a bungy jump to your New Zealand bucket list.

If jumping from thousands of feet in the sky is more up your alley then choose your preferred landscape and book your trip. Skydive over coral reefs in Australia, man-made islands in Dubai, mountains in Switzerland or tropical rainforests in Hawaii, to name a few.

Go paragliding

For a similar thrill of flying without the feeling of falling, try paragliding instead, where you run off a mountain or similar platform and start gliding straight away without any freefall.

Paragliding can be as calm or as adrenaline-inducing as you want it (weather-dependent of course), you can enjoy a gentle float through the sky if you want a chilled experience, or ask your paragliding pilot for the ‘rollercoaster version’ as my pilot called it, where you can experience spins, spirals and strong G-forces as the chute is manoeuvered in certain ways.

I first paraglided in Interlaken, Switzerland, and have since done it twice in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Read more: The perfect five day Switzerland

Hike to Everest Base Camp, Nepal

This arduous but rewarding journey tops hiking bucket lists for adventure travellers all over the globe. and for good reason. Trek past Sherpa villages through unforgiving terrain en route to the foot of the world’s tallest mountain, reaching your final destination at an altitude of more than 5000m above sea level.

Soak up the views and enjoy feeling mind-numbingly insignificant while standing at Base Camp, surrounded by rugged peaks and dramatic valleys as far as the eye can see.

Go hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

Seeing Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes from the dizzying heights of a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is one of the most magical travel experiences in the world.

The balloons go up at sunrise each day throughout the year (weather dependent), but I’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in Cappadocia to give yourself a plan b or c in case your first day is cancelled.

If a hot air balloon is out of your budget or your comfort zone, then you can still enjoy the beautiful display of balloons from one of Cappadocia’s many rooftop terraces.

Try a glacier heli-hike in New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island is home to more than 2900 glaciers, and you can do a heli-hike on three of the main ones, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on the West Coast and the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

The helicopter flight alone will have you feeling like you’re in a David Attenborough documentary, before landing on the ice and trekking through frozen crevasses and marvelling at bright blue ice formations.

Read more: The best things to do in Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Go diving at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia

One of the Natural Wonders of the World, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is certainly up there with the best places to scuba dive in the world. While much of the reef has fallen victim to coral bleaching from warming ocean temperatures as well as damage from weather events, there’s a huge focus on sustainability along the Queensland coast to try and protect and restore the reef.

Head to the outer reef for the most colourful coral and marine diversity, you can spot turtles, manta rays and plenty of vibrant tropical fish.

Read more: Sleeping in an underwater hotel room on the Great Barrier Reef

Ski in Whistler

Winter enthusiasts need to add the impressive Whistler ski resort to their travel bucket list, boasting more than 8000 acres of ski terrain just a few hours from Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada.

There’s a Whistler experience for everyone, from beginner slopes to expert off piste tours, as well as spa and wellness resorts, snowmobiling trips, snowshoeing trails, sightseeing gondolas and more.

Ride a motorbike over the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam

Known as one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic roads, the scenic Hai Van Pass runs parallel to the Vietnamese coastline on a 21km stretch of road between Hue and Danang, offering breathtaking views of the South China Sea.

Experiencing the winding roads and hairpin turns by motorbike is a rite of passage for visitors to Vietnam, and it’s a must do for any Vietnam itinerary.

If you prefer four wheels over two, there are also army jeep tours or private luxury transfers available.

Read more: An epic three week Vietnam itinerary

Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

The Formula Rossa is the rollercoaster version of an F1 car, reaching a top speed of 240km per hour (that’s 149mph) in just 4.9 seconds 🤯 riders have to wear protective goggles to shield their eyes from the sand while they race around the 2.2km track, all while trying to hold onto their stomach!

The rollercoaster can be found at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi which is home to some other record-breaking rides, including the world’s highest rollercoaster loop and an immersive coaster with the world’s first sideways rollercoaster drop.

I’m a bit of a theme park fiend myself, I’m trying to hit all the best theme parks in the world, and I could honestly spend days at Abu Dhabi doing those three epic rides over and over again.

Camp at the top of a mountain and wake up to watch the sunrise

An overnight hike to a viewpoint with a sunrise wake up is something for every hiker’s bucket list, and it is sure to make you feel connected to nature like nothing else.

Some of the best sunrise viewpoint hikes are in New Zealand’s South Island , the Dolomites in Italy , or British Columbia in Canada.

Soar like a bird on an epic zipline

I looove a good zipline, there’s nothing like feeling the wind in your hair while you marvel at panoramic views all around you! There are loads of bucket list ziplines around the world but some of my favourites are:

• Flåm Zipline in Flåm, Norway (the longest one in Scandinavia)
• The Ultimate Canopy Tour in Rotorua, New Zealand
• The First Flyer in Grindelwald, Switzerland
• Dubai’s XLine between skyscrapers
• Treetops Adventure in Far North Queensland, Australia
• Ziplining with a view in Queenstown, New Zealand
• SuperFly Ziplines in Whistler, Canada

Bucket list events around the world

Visit Japan during the cherry blossom season

Japan’s ‘sakura’ season brings literally millions of tourists to see the beautiful pink and white flower displays during their peak, typically from late March through to early April. It’s one of the busiest times of the year to visit Japan but the crowds are worth it, just expect to get up early and venture beyond the main photo spots to be able to get shots without loads of people in the background.

See the fireworks at the Eiffel Tower on Bastille Day

I’m a sucker for a good fireworks display, and the Bastille Day fireworks in Paris are one of the world’s best! There’s just something about seeing neon colours shoot into the sky, and they’re made even better when combined with a light show on one of the most famous landmarks on the globe, and an epic soundtrack that lines up with the bursts and booms of the pyrotechnics.

Bastille Day is France’s national holiday, held on July 14th every year with a variety of events like parades, concerts, military flyovers and more, but the fireworks alone make it worth visiting Paris at this time of the year. You can see the fireworks from river cruises, hotel terraces or viewpoints, but the best spot is from the Champs de Mar right in front of the Eiffel Tower. It’s totally free to enter but you’ll need to get there hours in advance to get a good spot, we got there at about 4pm and enjoyed a picnic afternoon tea/dinner before the fireworks started at 11pm.

Book your accommodation in advance to ensure you get a decent deal, places get booked up quickly and prices skyrocket closer to the date.

Do the Rickshaw Run

If you’re up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Rickshaw Run is an epic road trip not for the faint of heart.

The original Rickshaw Run is a 3500km journey across India in a three-wheeled rickshaw (or as the Rickshaw Run team calls it, a ‘glorified lawnmower’), with no set route, just a departure point and a finish line with a rough guideline of how to get between. Find two friends to join, submit your rickshaw design to have it painted before you arrive, and set off on a crazy adventure, with your fingers crossed for minimal breakdowns (both mechanical and emotional). The Rickshaw Run has recently expanded into Sri Lanka and the Himalayas too.

Visit a Christmas market in Europe

Europe’s Christmas markets help make up for the short days and cold temperatures as the continent creeps closer to mid-winter, and for anyone who loves celebrating the festive season, they’re absolutely something that needs to be on your Europe bucket list.

There are Christmas markets all over Europe but some of the most authentic ones can be found in Strasbourg and Colmar in France, Cologne and Nuremberg in Germany, and Innsbruck and Salzburg in Austria. I spent a month last year seeing the European Christmas markets by train , highly recommend!

Read more: Europe Christmas market train itinerary

Drink beer at Oktoberfest

The world’s largest beer festival is held annually in Munich, starting in mid-September (I know, false advertising) and ending in early October. Welcoming more than six million people each year, the festival is a celebration of Bavarian culture, with plenty of hearty meals, huge kegs of beer and traditional music on offer.

Read more: Oktoberfest on a budget with Stoke Travel

Spend a weekend at Coachella

Topping party-goers bucket lists from all over the globe, Coachella is held in Indio, California over two weekends in April each year with a total attendance of about 750,000 over the six days. The line up is often one of the most awaited announcements each year, with tickets selling out in minutes at each release.

I ticked Coachella off my personal travel bucket list way back in 2012 when I was studying in the USA, and I can honestly say it still stands as one of the best weekends of my life!

Go to India for Holi Festival

Holi Festival is a significant event on the Hindu calendar, marking the beginning of spring with a chaotic display of colourful powder being thrown amongst crowds of people, celebrating the victory of good over evil. It’s a bit of an assault on the senses, with vibrant paint sticking to your hair and skin, loud music pumping throughout the cities and towns, and deliciously sweet treats being offered from roadside stalls, but it’s an unforgettable experience nonetheless.

I visited India as a solo female traveller and had a fantastic time with no safety concerns whatsoever, however I have heard that Holi can be a hub for assaults and unwanted attention due to the sheer number of people roaming the streets. If you’re a woman travelling to Holi solo or travelling with other female friends and aren’t super confident about dealing with the risks of crowds, I’d highly recommend going with a group tour like G Adventures or Contiki to feel a bit safer.

Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans’ French Quarter is a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment at any time of the year, but during Mardi Gras it’s truly taken to the absolute next level. Weeks of parades, shows and street festivals turn this part of the city into a party paradise, where revellers can dress up in colourful costumes, dance the night away under street lights and catch beads and other ‘throws’ being chucked into the crowd from parade floats.

Mardi Gras’ date changes each year as it’s based on the Christian dates of Ash Wednesday, Lent and Easter, but it’s always in either February or March.

Go to Rio for Carnival

For a similar celebration with a South American twist, head down to Rio de Janeiro for Carnival, a massive street festival which boasts the title of biggest carnival in the world. With two million people partying on the streets per day , you can see why this buzzing event is worthy for travel bucket lists.

Attendants can soak up the incredible atmosphere, search for the most elaborate costumes, groove to samba music and join one of the blocos (block parties).

Go to Burning Man

Another desert festival to add to your wanderlist is Burning Man, an event dedicated to rejecting capitalism and instead encouraging self-reliance, inclusion and self-expression. Burning Man is a little bit like the ‘Fight Club’ of festivals, never talk about Burning Man, so what happens in the desert kind of stays in the desert!

The mysterious must-do hosts about 80,000 people each year at a temporary city built by its participants each year, with the entire thing packed up at the end leaving no trace behind.

Go to Mexico for Dia de los Muertos

The Mexican holiday ‘Dia de los Muertos’, or ‘Day of the Dead’, celebrates the lives of loved ones that have passed away with colourful parades and elaborate ‘ofrendas’ (tributes) welcoming the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living for a quick visit.

While the name sounds morbid, the festival is anything but, with bright flowers, intricate face painting, joyful music and delicious traditional meals all available to enjoy.

Spend St Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

Experiencing Dublin’s pub culture should be on your bucket list anyway, but visiting the city for St Patrick’s Day (March 17th) is truly something else. The day honours St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, and celebrates Irish culture and heritage with street parades, Irish music, traditional dances and, of course, a lot of pints of Guinness.

Nature & wildlife bucket list experiences

See a fjord from the water

A fjord is a narrow inlet of water that runs from the sea to far inland, with steep cliffs on each side. They’re different to rivers because they were carved by glaciers (a gazillion years ago), rather than being formed by the movement of water.

As landscapes go, fjords are one of the most dramatic scenes you can find around the world. The inland portion of a fjord is typically calm and still as it’s so far from the open ocean, which results in brilliant boating conditions and mind-blowing reflections.

You can find fjords in Norway, Chile, Canada, Greenland, Alaska and New Zealand (we spell it ‘fiords’ here, due to a historic typo haha) and the best way to see them by farrrr is from a boat trip. Some bucket list fjord experiences to add to your future travel plans:

• A thrilling Fjordsafari RIB tour through Nærøyfjord in Norway (pictured above)
• A silent cruise through Nærøyfjord (honestly do both, totally different experiences!)
• A day trip to see Hardangerfjord from Bergen, Norway
• A road trip through the Arctic fjords in Tromsø, Norway
• A cruise on Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound in New Zealand
• A kayak trip around Milford Sound

Swim with wild dolphins

Experience the ocean’s most playful residents with an up close and personal dolphin swim, where curious wild dolphins will zip and zoom all around you in the water. I’ve had two incredible wild dolphin swims in New Zealand, one in Picton (calmer ocean conditions as it’s in a sheltered area) and one in Kaikoura (rougher conditions but more dolphins), and you can also find ethical wild dolphin encounters in Australia, Hawaii and in some countries in Central America.

Read more: Swimming with dolphins in Kaikoura

See the Northern or Southern Lights

With bright rays of green, pink and purple dancing in the sky, the ethereal phenomenon of the aurora is absolutely mind-blowing to see with your own eyes. It’s actually caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field, and is easiest to see closest to the magnetic poles.

The Northern Lights (a.k.a. Aurora Borealis ) can typically be seen from places like Finland, Norway and Iceland in Europe as well as northern Canada, whereas the Southern Lights ( Aurora Australis ) are most likely to be seen from southern New Zealand and Australia, although they are rarer to see than their northern counterparts as there’s less land close to the south pole.

I’d highly recommend doing a Northern Lights tour (sometimes called an ‘aurora chase’ or ‘aurora hunt’) with a local guide, they’ll know how to read the forecast, how to navigate cloud cover and will also have all the gear needed to take magical photos.

My recommended Northern Lights tour operators are:

• Wonderlapland in Rovaniemi, Finland
• Lofoten Lights in Lofoten Islands, Norway
• Chasing Lights in Tromso, Norway

You can also book some incredible accommodation for aurora viewing, like a glass igloo in Rovaniemi where you can see the Northern Lights from your bed or your private hot tub 💚 how dreamy!

Read more: The perfect three week Scandinavia itinerary

Do a safari in Africa

Easily the most sought after animal experience in the world, an African safari is something all wildlife lovers should have on their bucket list. Search for the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards and rhinos – in their natural habitats, as well as spotting other majestic creatures like giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, monkeys and hippos.

There are plenty of safari options in Africa depending on what you’re looking for, from budget-friendly camping trips through to ultra-luxe lodge-hopping with scenic flights or hot air balloon trips.

See elephants on the beach in Sri Lanka

While I haven’t been fortunate enough to experience Africa’s wildlife yet, I was able to spend my 31st birthday at a stunning eco-friendly safari lodge in Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park , where wild elephants roam the beach right in front of the bar and restaurant.

Uga Chena Escapes is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever stayed (and I’ve stayed at lots of incredible places!) and it was an unforgettable trip, with luxurious cabins complete with free-standing bath tub and private pool, world-class all-inclusive food and drinks, and expert rangers taking you on daily safari drives to spot elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and the elusive leopard.

Read more: A detailed review of the stunning Uga Chena Huts in Sri Lanka

Set foot on Antarctica

One of the most remote destinations on the planet, visiting Antarctica is a top-of-the-bucket-list contender for travellers all over the globe. Antarctica obviously isn’t your classic tourist destination, with harsh weather conditions and vast expanses of nothingness, but the giant icebergs, thriving penguin colonies and unique ecosystem make it worth the trouble to get there.

The most common way to reach the southernmost continent on Earth is by cruise from the South American port of Ushuaia, Argentina, though there are also a limited number of cruises from New Zealand each season as well as a handful of flights from Chile or South Africa.

Visit the Gatorade Blue glacial lakes in Canada

The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most mesmerising landscapes of anywhere in the world, where unbelievably blue glacial lakes are bordered by jagged snow-capped peaks and thick pine forests.

I’d recommend getting a campervan and road tripping through Jasper National Park and Banff National Park to make the most of your time in this part of the world. Having your own transport, accommodation and self-catering facilities not only saves money but gives you much more flexibility to get to the main lakes like Louise, Moraine and Peyto outside of peak tour hours, which means smaller crowds and a better experience.

Watch stars in an International Dark Sky Reserve

For a truly humbling travel bucket list experience, head into an International Dark Sky Reserve to learn about astronomy, connect with nature, and see the night sky at its absolute best.

While there are many places around the globe where you can enjoy a fantastic display of twinkling stars, there are 21 certified International Dark Sky Reserves which have specific policies in place to minimise light pollution and preserve dark sky tourism.

Some of the most renowned IDSRs are Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand which includes stunning Lake Tekapo, Snowdonia National Park in Wales, Big Bend in the USA and Alpes Azur Mercantour in France.

Read more: The best things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Float in the Dead Sea

Located between Jordan and Israel, the Dead Sea is almost ten times saltier than the average ocean salt content, making it impossible to sink which is a very strange sensation! The water and mud is packed with minerals, providing therapeutic properties for tourists looking to rest their muscles and rehydrate their skin.

Before you go, make sure you don’t shave any part of your body within the two or three days prior, because if the salt gets into any micro-cuts you’ll be in serious pain.

Read more: The ideal 7 day Jordan itinerary

See bioluminescence in the ocean

Bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon where living organisms emit light, and one of the most common ways to witness it is bioluminescent micro-plankton which lights up when disturbed, like when waves crash on the beach. You can witness in many places around the world including Puerto Rico, the Maldives , Thailand, Mexico and Japan.

Read more: A Maldives solo travel guide

Relax in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

This geothermal pool complex in southwest Iceland is just a short drive from Reykjavik’s airport, making it an easy first stop or final destination of any Iceland road trip. The water is mineral-rich, with high concentrations of silica, algae and sulfur, great for a relaxing and rejuvenating break from Iceland’s typically harsh weather conditions.

There’s no denying that the Blue Lagoon is heavily commercialised, with expensive tickets and thousands of visitors each day, so for somewhere a bit lower key you could try the new Sky Lagoon which boasts an infinity-edge pool with ocean views. Dreamy!

Read more: Four day South Iceland road trip itinerary

Food & drink bucket list experiences

Eat croissants in a Parisian park or square

Paris has a bit of a reputation for not meeting travellers’ expectations, but after five visits to the City of Lights and Love, I stand by the fact that it’s in my list of all-time favourite cities. I adore French cuisine (and by that I mean pastries, bread and cheese), I know a little bit of the language, and I feel like everyone’s life would be happier if they had beautiful squares and parks to spend their lunch break at.

Search the local boulangeries (bakeries) to find the ultimate croissant or pain au chocolat, then head to Place des Vosges, Jardin du Luxembourg or Jardin des Tuileries to enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness.

Learn local recipes at a Vietnamese cooking class

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in local cuisine than by taking part in a cooking class, and Vietnam’s fresh ingredients, flavoursome herbs and spices, and budget-friendly prices, make it the perfect place to try your hand at cooking up local dishes.

Most cooking tours will take you through a bustling market before heading to the kitchen to make things like rice paper rolls, bánh mi and phở from scratch.

Read more: How to spend three weeks in Vietnam

Go winery-hopping in Napa Valley

Whether you’re a vino aficionado or a newbie to the wine world, a winery tour is always a brilliant way to get an understanding of a region’s culture. The Napa Valley in northern California is a wine country boasting more than 400 wineries, ranging from small, family-owned boutique suppliers through to commercial giants bottling some of the most popular wines in the USA.

Do a food tour in Bologna, Italy

As the gastronomic hub of Italy, and one of the stand-out culinary capitals in the world, Bologna is a must-visit destination for any foodie traveller. Easily visited with a day trip from Florence , Bologna is best explored by food tour with a passionate local guiding you around the city’s best eateries.

On my recent visit I did a food tour with local legend Mattia from Delicious Bologna , and it was genuinely one of the best food days of my life. We tried cheese, cured meats, aged balsamic vinegar, local wine, multiple varieties of pasta, fresh gelato and more! The Emilia-Romagna region, where Bologna is located, is famous for its top-notch ingredients and local artisans, so you’re eating the best food, in the best food region, in one of the best food countries. Divine!

Read more: 50+ epic things to see and do in Italy

Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant is the ultimate gastronomic experience, and it’s something you can tick off your bucket list in cities all over the world. To get a coveted star a restaurant has to be the crème de la crème in terms of food quality, service, presentation and atmosphere, and many are booked out weeks or months in advance by connoisseurs wanting to get a taste (literally) of their award-winning dishes.

Dress up for a fancy high tea in London

A trip to the UK wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the quintessential British of an afternoon tea of club sandwiches, scones and, of course, tea, in a fancy tea room.

London has plenty of iconic tea rooms to choose from, including the luxurious Ritz London, Claridges or Savoy, or go for a more modern and Instagrammable experience at Sketch London or Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley.

Landmarks to add to your travel bucket list

See the view from the Burj Khalifa

Standing at a staggering height of 828 metres, the tallest building in the world is Dubai’s Burh Khalifa. Head up to the observation deck on the 124th floor for panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline and the desert beyond.

The structure is equally, if not more impressive from ground level, and you’ll probably feel a little dizzy when looking up towards the building from right below. Don’t miss the free fountain shows that run in front of the Burj Khalifa each evening.

Read more: What to do with three days in Dubai

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings on Earth, Agra’s Taj Mahal is an Indian icon and somewhere you have to have on your travel bucket list. Sunrise is the best time to visit, when the fog lifts and soft sunlight illuminates the white marble mausoleum.

As you can imagine, the Taj is packed with visitors every second of the day, so your only chance of getting the main photo spots with no one in the background is to line up super early and boost to them as soon as you get through security.

I was travelling solo in India and you can’t take tripods into the Taj Mahal complex, so I decided to book a local photographer who was an expert at snapping the best photos. The Taj opens 30 minutes before sunrise and we got there 30 minutes before that to be close to the front of the line. Because I was with a local guide we got to go through the ‘locals’ line which is faster and we were the first ones through the security gates! We headed straight to the famous Diana’s Bench to get a few good shots with literally no one in the background before moving on quickly to other spots, and we were always finished before the next people caught up.

Wander around the Ancient City of Petra

Jordan’s ancient city of Petra is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site that was once the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom, between the 4th century BC and 2nd century AD. It’s home to an incredible network of ancient tombs, temples and houses, carved into orange sandstone cliffs, and is one of the top bucket list experiences for those travelling to the Middle East.

Walk 2km through the winding gorge known as the Siq to reach Petra’s main monument, the Treasury (locally known as Al-Khazneh ), a towering temple at 39 metres high. But the treasures don’t stop there, I’d recommend venturing further into the city and climbing the 850 steps to the Monastery, equally as impressive with less crowds. Just maybe don’t do it in the middle of the day in August like I did, or you might die from exhaustion!

Read more: Solo female travel in Jordan

Spend a day exploring Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a giant temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with more than 70 temples and other religious buildings set amongst 400 square kilometres of Angkor Archaeological Park.

It was built in the 12th century by a Khmer as a tribute to the Hindu god Vishnu, before being converted to a Buddhist temple in the 14th century. It was abandoned in the 15th century and unused until it was rediscovered in the late 19th century, these days hosting millions of visitors from all over the world each year.

Book a local guide to take you on a proper tour and teach you all about Khmer history and culture while you admire the temple ruins.

Hike up to Machu Picchu

The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most important archaeological sites, built into the steep mountains of Peru’s Andes in the 15th century. With sacred temples, stone houses and agricultural terraces still standing at 2430m above sea level, the UNESCO-listed site is an incredible example of the Inca civilisation’s impressive engineering skills that were well before their time.

Travellers can make the pilgrimage to Machu Picchu along the famous 42km Inca Trail hike, or there are taxi/bus/train combos available for those not so keen on the walk.

Other epic experiences for your travel bucket list

Explore Europe by train

Sure, flights between European hubs might be crazy cheap, but if you’re travelling for an extended period with lots of stops along the way, chances are a train journey will be more comfortable, scenic and probably cheaper overall, and it’s way better for the environment.

I recently spent two months in Europe visiting 23 cities in 11 different countries using a Eurail Pass , which saved me more than €1400 compared to point-to-point tickets and significantly more compared to buying last minute flights in the lead up to Christmas.

Some noteworthy trains in Europe are:

• The Glacier Express and Bernina Express in Switzerland (they’re both part of the country’s Grand Train Tour )
• The Flåmsbana and Bergen Railway in Norway
• The West Highland Line in Scotland
• The Cinque Terre train in Italy
• The Santa Claus Express in Finland

Read more: The most beautiful train journeys in Europe

Road trip around New Zealand and Australia

I might be biased because this is my corner of the world, but you’d be hard-pressed to find better road trip destinations than New Zealand and Australia.

New Zealand boasts a superb range of scenery within easy driving distance, from paradise beaches to magical fjords to glacial lakes flanked by snowy mountains. You could easily spend months here and never get bored, but a few weeks per island is enough to give you a taste of what Aotearoa has to offer.

Australia on the other hand is much, much bigger and would require the better part of a year to see all the main spots, but a shorter trip could still have you ticking off bucket list destinations like the tropical coast of Queensland, Tasmania’s unspoiled national parks, Western Australia’s dreamy beaches and the buzzing cities of Sydney or Melbourne.

• The ultimate New Zealand South Island road trip
• A detailed guide to travelling Australia
• Bucket list experiences in New Zealand
• Bucket list experiences in Australia

Go on a working holiday

Leisure trips are loads of fun, but nothing compares to actually moving abroad to work and live. Your options for working holidays will depend on your passport and visa requirements, but some popular options are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the USA, UK, France and Argentina.

Living abroad can be daunting, but it’s one of the best ways to meet new people, open your eyes to other ways of living, and hone your independence and problem solving skills.

Sing karaoke on an overnight ferry between Helsinki and Stockholm

This weird and wonderful bucket list journey is one that I didn’t even know about until I was planning my own no-fly three week Scandinavia itinerary !

The Silja ferry runs between Helsinki and Stockholm with a 17 hour overnight journey, but this is no normal ferry… it’s an actual cruise ship 😱

The ship can hold more than 2500 passengers and boasts comfy cabins (ranging from simple through to luxury), a casino, duty-free shopping, plenty of restaurants, a cocktail bar and entertainment lounge with shows throughout the night, a gorgeous viewing lounge and open top deck for archipelago views, and even a wellness area with hot tubs and sauna.

It’s a brilliant way to get between the two capitals and it’s a great example of ‘it’s about the journey, not the destination’. Make sure to get involved in karaoke at the cocktail lounge!

Watch a show on NYC’s Broadway or London’s West End

Witnessing a live performance of award-winning musicals like Wicked, Hamilton or the Book of Mormon is a must-do for any theatre geeks, and there’s a seemingly endless selection to choose from in entertainment hubs like Broadway, the West End or Las Vegas.

Sail a yacht around the Mediterranean

If spending your days swimming in crystal clear bays and your evenings sipping happy hour cocktails at beachfront bars sounds like an absolute dream for you, book your next trip to the Mediterranean for a spot of island hopping around Greece or Croatia.

I sailed through Croatia’s islands with the legends at Medsailors a few years back and loved it so much that I’m heading to Greece in a few months to do their tour there next!

Read more: Why you should sail Croatia with Medsailors

Visit the place where your parents/grandparents were born

If your parents or grandparents were born elsewhere to where you grew up, you should definitely have their home country on your travel bucket list for a future trip.

If they’re still around then consider taking them with you for an unforgettable family experience, if they can’t travel then be sure to bring home a memento of your trip, and if they’re no longer with us then consider doing some family research to find a particularly special place to visit or distant friends or relatives to meet when you’re there.

Drive Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California

The road trip of all road trips, driving Route 66 is an 3940km (2448 mile) drive from the Windy City (Chicago) through to the famous ocean pier of Santa Monica in coastal California. This historic highway passes through eight states, via vintage diners, iconic roadside motels and a number of National Parks you could stop at on the way.

Stay in an overwater bungalow

As far as bucket list accommodation goes, an overwater bungalow probably tops the list for millions of travellers around the world. Everyone wants to know what it’s like to get out of bed and jump straight into the ocean direct from your private bungalow’s deck.

The Maldives and French Polynesia are probably the most famous destinations for overwater bungalows, but you can find some more affordable options in Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Fiji.

I stayed in a basic but beautiful overwater bungalow in Vietnam for less than $65USD per night, including breakfast! I think it’s probably the cheapest overwater bungalow in the world, and it’s called Naomi Resort in Phu Quoc.

Read more: The best things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Fly first class

See how the 1% travel by booking yourself a seat in first class for an extra special treat. First class tickets are unsurprisingly super expensive, but if you’re smart with your loyalty points and travel plans, you might be able to get a crazy cheap first class experience.

I recently flew first class on Emirates (!!!) from Sri Lanka to the Maldives, spending less than $115USD on the flight. I paid for the rest with Emirates Skywards miles which I had accumulated from a few years of travel, but I was never super loyal to the airline and didn’t have a points credit card. This particular flight is just a very cost-effective way of flying first class, it’s only 1h 50m (in my case even shorter due to a pesky tailwind) but you get all the epic Emirates first class benefits of fancy champagne or port, Arabic coffee, a three course meal, lie flat seat, a privacy door and top-notch service.

Learn a new language through immersion

There’s no better way to learn a new language than to throw yourself in the deep end and just move to a non-English-speaking country, where you’re forced to communicate in a foreign tongue.

If you studied French or Spanish at high school, why not move to Europe or South America for six months and see how quickly you can pick it back up? Or if you’re brand new, I’d recommend booking in to some beginner classes in your new destination to help you hit the ground running with things like introductions, directions and basic conversation.

Backpack through Southeast Asia

It’s a backpacker rite of passage to head to the budget-friendly region of Southeast Asia and spend a few months exploring in elephant pants, eating banana pancakes, and considering never returning to an actual desk ever again.

Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam are an easy trifecta if you have at least a few weeks, and if you’re staying for longer you could add on unspoiled landscapes in Laos, hectic cities in Malaysia and the cultural melting pot of Singapore, or venture slightly further to the dreamy islands in Indonesia or paradise beaches in the Philippines.

Volunteer to support local community and environment

Give back while you’re out seeing the world with a trip that involves volunteering your time and skills. There are loads of volunteering options around the globe, as well as small group tours like Intrepid and G Adventures that often include an element of volunteering or some kind of community service in their trip itineraries.

Just be aware of the ethics around how to volunteer in the right way, like not doing anything you’re unqualified for (e.g. building houses when you have no idea what you’re doing), avoiding any multi-day volunteering programmes involving children unless you’re a trained educator or medical professional, and not participating in anything where wild animals are held captive or used for entertainment purposes.

Some good examples of ethical volunteering opportunities are marine conservation programmes, turtle hatching and protection, beach clean ups, shelters for dogs and cats, teaching English if you’re qualified, or helping NGOs with things like social media, marketing and admin if you’ve got the correct permits to work and are providing additional support rather than taking away a job that a local should be paid for.

Wowza, if you’ve made it to the end of this insanely long travel bucket list then I’m impressed! With all that in mind, what is at the top of your bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

• SEE ALL BLOGS
• GET INSPIRED
• DESTINATIONS
• SOLO TRAVEL
• TRAVEL PLANNING
• BLOGGING RESOURCES

Join my email list

Subscribe to be the first to know about new blog posts, travel hacks, giveaways and more.

Finding Alexx is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

• About Finding Alexx
• Work with me
• Privacy policy

Copyright © 2024 Finding Alexx

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

21 Life-changing Trips Everyone Should Experience at Least Once

From African safaris to must-visit cities, these once-in-a-lifetime trips will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

What's next on your travel list? With so many places worth traveling to, it can be hard to narrow down your top spots to visit.

Sometimes, it's the famous attractions, delicious food, and stunning hotels that draw us to a certain destination, and other times, it's the bragging rights that come with checking off every continent, country, or state. Whatever your motivation, we've rounded up 21 incredible trips, complete with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and iconic sights you won't find anywhere else in the world.

So, what makes a trip truly life-changing? That answer varies from traveler to traveler, but one thing is for sure: From African safaris to classic road trips, this list will make you want to plan your next great adventure.

Deciding between the historic cities of Rome, Venice, Naples, and Florence for the top destination to visit feels impossible, so the entire country of Italy deserves a spot on your list. Start in the Eternal City and head north through the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit Florence, followed by Milan or Venice, or go south to the beaches of the beautiful Amalfi Coast and Sicily.

New York, New York

Visiting the Statue of Liberty , standing at the top of the Empire State Building, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge: These are just a few of the things you can only do in New York City. Whether you dream of visiting all the places you've seen on screen, catching a Broadway show, or eating your way through the city's diverse neighborhoods, there's no doubt that NYC deserves a spot on your list.

Tokyo, Japan

Old and new come together in Japan's bustling capital city. Historic temples and shrines, busy shopping districts, delicious food, and some of the world's best theme parks and attractions — whatever your interests, there's something for you in Tokyo.

Paris, France

From watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and viewing famous works of art at world-renowned museums to eating delicious French pastries, there are innumerable reasons that Paris deserves a spot on your list. Of course, other dreamy French destinations like Mont-Saint-Michel, Chamonix, and the Riviera are well worth a visit, too.

Busy medinas, intricate architecture, and a unique combination of cultural influences make Morocco unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're traveling to bustling Marrakesh, pretty coastal cities, or remote desert towns (or hopefully, all three), a trip to Morocco is bound to be one to remember.

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

From the whitewashed homes of Santorini to the Ios party scene to the relaxing atmosphere of Milos, there's a perfect Greek Island for every type of traveler. Island hopping gives you the chance to experience more of what the country has to offer, but plan to spend a couple of days in Athens at the beginning and/or end of your trip.

T+L Backpack Quiz

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Machu Picchu

Seeing the historic ruins of the Incan Empire set among the breathtaking Andes at Machu Picchu is an undeniably life-changing experience. The stunning citadel ruins of Machu Picchu are worth the journey — and for some travelers, that trip, often taken by train or on foot as a multi-day trek , is a big part of the experience. Editor’s note: Machu Picchu is currently closed due to civil unrest in Peru. Visit the  official website  for the latest news and reopening details.

African Safari

Seeing majestic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos in the wild is a dream best accomplished with an African safari . South Africa, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya are among the most popular safari destinations — and in each of those countries, you'll find incredible lodges and tour operators who can help you spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you dream of cruising down the famed Nile River, seeing the Pyramids of Giza, or visiting the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt's historic wonders make the destination completely unique (and worthy of a spot on your travel list).

Unlike many of the action-packed trips on this list, the Maldives is synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and romance. A stay in an overwater bungalow set atop turquoise blue waters is the ultimate getaway that's worth the long-haul flight and oftentimes pricey accommodations.

Antarctica Cruise

Hoping to visit all seven continents? Cross Antarctica off your list with a cruise. Several major cruise lines have journeys to Antarctica, offering incredible views of the ice and wildlife from the comfort and safety of a ship. Travelers typically fly in and out of Buenos Aires en route to Ushuaia (where most cruises depart from); we recommend spending a few days in the fascinating Argentine city before your expedition.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Dubbed one of the natural wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is a can't-miss for many wildlife lovers. Of course, Australia's gorgeous coastline, the iconic Sydney Opera House, and fuzzy creatures like kangaroos and koalas are also reasons to head to the destination. Fly into Sydney and spend a few days there before heading out to explore more of this expansive country teeming with natural beauty.

Galapagos Islands

Incredible and diverse plant and animal species make the Galapagos Islands another must-visit for nature-loving travelers. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is best explored by cruise, so you can take in as many breathtaking landscapes and animals as possible during your trip.

Like the other countries on this list, India has countless destinations worth exploring, but one of the most famous attractions that travelers dream of seeing for themselves is the Taj Mahal. This 17th-century white marble mausoleum has drawn visitors to Agra for years. Luxury travelers might consider a train trip aboard the Maharajas' Express (with a stop at the Taj Mahal) as the ultimate experience. Travelers planning to visit the Taj Mahal or take the luxurious train ride will want to fly into Delhi, India's capital territory.

Petra, Jordan

The stunning ancient city of Petra is made up of several impressive structures carved into sandstone rock faces, including the famous Al-Khazneh. The city dates back thousands of years, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit for history buffs.

Passing through India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Bhutan, and Nepal, the Himalayas are home to some of the world's highest peaks — and that means breathtaking mountain views, too. For adventurous and active travelers, climbing Mount Everest (or at least trekking to Everest Base Camp) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

American National Park Road Trip

The classic American road trip is a mainstay on many travelers' lists — and for good reason. The country's incredible national parks , including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, are best explored on road trips with stops at charming small towns and kitschy roadside attractions.

Great Wall of China

Stretching across China for thousands of miles, with sections dating back nearly 2,000 years, the Great Wall is regarded as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can hike along parts of the wall — some areas are located within driving distance of Beijing, so it's a perfect day trip from the city.

Easter Island

The hundreds of monolithic moai statues have drawn curious visitors to Easter Island for years. This remote Polynesian island is worth the lengthy trip for travelers hoping to see these impressive human figures, while also soaking in some incredible coastal views.

Northern Lights Trip

Catching a glimpse of the elusive northern lights is possible in several destinations close to the Arctic Circle, including Alaska, Iceland, Canada, Greenland, Finland, Sweden, and Norway. All of these places have incredible viewpoints (and even hotels where you can see the phenomenon from your bed ), in addition to great, wintry scenery. (The lights are best viewed from late fall through early spring.)

Thailand and Vietnam

A trip through Southeast Asia is a must for any traveler, especially foodies who love street eats. While you could spend weeks in each of these countries, Thailand and Vietnam can easily be paired for an exciting trip packed with lush scenery, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Have a little extra time to spare? Add Cambodia to the mix and include a visit to expansive Angkor Wat.

Related Articles

Bucket List Seekers

Extraordinary Travel for Ordinary Couples

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

After years of reading just about every luxury travel blog and travel website out there, we’ve curated our own Top 150+ Ultimate Travel Bucket List experiences, and we’re slowly ticketing them off, one-by-one!

We’d love you to join us – learn how at the bottom of this page!

Click on the links below to READ about each of these bucket list experiences and start planning your own adventure!

• See the Great Barrier Reef from the air
• Cruise to Antarctica to see the penguins
• Hike the Great Wall of China
• Unwind in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• Enjoy Aprés in the Austrian Alps
• Road trip along the California Highway 1 through Big Sur
• Stand on the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
• Float in a hot air balloon over the temples of Bagan, Myanmar
• Chill out at a beach club in Mallorca
• See the Northern Lights in Iceland
• Jump off a sailboat into the crystal-clear waters in the Greek Islands
• Horse-ride along Cape Tribulation beach in Australia
• Wander along Nyhavn, Copenhagen
• See the Victoria Falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia sides
• Dine underwater in the Maldives
• Cruise down the Nile in style
• Sip Champagne in Champagne, France
• Go cliff jumping in Hawaii
• Hike up an active volcano
• …and Mt. Kilimanjaro!
• See the googly-eyed lemurs in Madagascar 
• Relax at a yoga retreat in Costa Rica
• Go shopping at the Christmas markets in Europe
• Learn how to Scuba Dive in Thailand
• Road Trip along the Great Ocean Road

• Dive into the Blue Lagoon in Malta
• Sail along the Adriatic Sea in Croatia
• Take in the views of NYC from Top of the Rock
• Stay at the Ice Hotel in Sweden
• Sip tea in the plantations of Sri Lanka
• Eat copious amounts of ramen in Japan
• Party Mardi Gras-style in New Orleans
• Admire the Blue Mosque of Uzbekistan
• Take a boat ride on Lake Louise, Canada
• Stay in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora, Tahiti
• Go island hopping in the Greek Islands
• Roll the dice at a casino in Monaco
• Climb the Eiffel Tower at sunset
• Hike the Cinque Terre
• Journey to Mada’in Saleh ruins in Saudi Arabia
• Get up close to Gorillas in Rwanda
• Take a walk behind Niagara Falls
• Soak in a Japanese Onsen
• Stay in a luxury camp on the Okavango Delta
• Photograph puffins in the Faroe Islands
• Stand on top of Iguazu Falls, Brazil
• See the pillar mountains at Zhangjiajie National Park, China
• Cruise through the Panama Canal
• Explore the Castles and Palaces of St. Petersburg
• Take a ride in a classic car in Cuba
• Climb the Stairway to Heaven on Oahu
• Live it up like the rich and famous in the Hamptons
• Journey to the lost city of Petra

• Visit an elephant sanctuary in Thailand
• Road trip along the Algarve Coast in Portugal
• Soak in the view of Wineglass Bay in Tasmania
• Sail around the Whitsundays
• Bike through the vineyards in France
• Frolic amongst the Cherry Blossoms in Japan
• Stay in a villa in Tuscany
• Swim with whale sharks in Bali
• Stand at the base of Mt. Everest in Nepal
• Become fluent in a another language
• Sip Mai Tais in the Marina Bay Sands Hotel pool with a view of Singapore
• Feast on paella and sangria in Madrid
• Go dune bashing in Dubai
• Ride a gondola through the canals of Venice
• Hike to Machu Picchu
• Go wine tasting in the Napa Valley
• Capture the sunset from Table Mountain in Cape Town
• Swim with pigs in the Bahamas
• Journey on The Indian Pacific from the east coast of Australia to the west coast 
• Eat gelato for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Italy
• Leave a note in the Wailing Wall, Jerusalem
• Take a helicopter ride up Mount Cook/Aoraki in New Zealand
• See elephants in the wild in Sri Lanka
• Sip champagne while watching the sunset over Ayers Rock
• Visit all 7 continents!
• Tour the Ring Road of Iceland in a Campervan
• Cruise the fjords of Norway
• Stay at Saffire Freycinet Lodge in Tasmania
• Get lost in a sea of blue in Chefchaouen, Morocco
• See a real life Geisha in Kyoto
• Spend a day drinking Malbec in Mendoza, Argentina
• Go glamping in the Omani desert
• Go dog sledding in Scandinavia
• Dive into the turquoise waters of Palawan
• See the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower at night
• Stay in a villa in the hills of Ubud
• Shop for homewares in Marrakech, Morocco
• Breath in the pristine air of Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
• Climb the walls of Dubrovnik
• Trek through the Moroccan desert on a camel
• See the Northern Lights from a glass igloo in Finland
• Experience an authentic Hawaiian “Luau”
• Hike the Dolomites
• Go on a river cruise down the Mekong
• Swim in Jellyfish Lake, Palau
• Eat breakfast with the giraffes at Giraffe Manor in Kenya
• Road trip along the Western Australian coastline
• Get up close to the wildlife in the Galapagos
• Swim with dolphins in Hawaii
• Get lost in the Louvre
• Take a helicopter ride over Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
• Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives

• See Killer Whales off the coast of Kaikoura, New Zealand
• Go sailing along the Mediterranean
• Ride a Vespa along the Amalfi Coast
• Stand over the top of Horseshoe Bend in Arizona
• Learn the Tango in Buenos Aires
• Frolic in the lavender fields of Provence
• Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat in Cambodia
• Get creative with photography on the salt flats in Bolivia
• Go island hopping in Thailand
• Chill on a beach in Tulum
• Ride the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps
• Climb the tallest sand dunes in the world in Namibia
• Stay in the Amazon Rainforest
• Visit the Colosseum in Rome
• Take a helicopter ride over the Nã Pali Coast of Kauai
• Live like a Maharaja in India
• Witness the Great Migration in Tanzania
• Cruise along the Alaskan coastline
• Journey through Australia’s Red Centre aboard The Ghan train
• Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey
• Stand on the border of North and South Korea
• See the Polar Bears in Svalbard
• Cruise Lake Como in a Riva boat
• Hike on a Glacier in Patagonia
• Sunset camel ride along Cable Beach, Australia
• Float in the Dead Sea
• Stand on the tiled courtyard of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
• Frolic in the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, Bali

• Frolic in tulip fields in the Netherlands
• Journey to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan
• Catch a Gondola up Mount Titlis
• Go skiing in the Swiss Alps
• Hike up Trolltunga in Norway
• Sip wine in the Douro Valley
• Road trip through the Cotswolds
• Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway
• Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial
• Feed a crocodile in the Northern Territory
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, New York
• Laze on or surf the beaches in Noosa Heads
• Swim in the Blue Grotto in Montenegro
• Take a helicopter ride into the Grand Canyon
• Sweat it out in a Finnish Sauna
• Relax on a secluded beach in the Cook Islands
• Stay in a Clifftop Villa in Uluwatu, Bali
• See the Taj Mahal at sunrise
• Take a cruise on Ha Long Bay
• See the Hong Kong skyline from Victoria Peak
• Eat Laksa in Penang
• Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
• Soak in the Budapest’s public baths
• Go glamping in the Sahara Desert

Create Your Own Travel Bucket List!

Enter your email to get a printable version of this bucket list emailed to you, so you can tick items off as you achieve them! Get exclusive access to our Bucket List Template , so you can start writing down your own travel bucket list ideas!

You’ll also receive an email notification when we release a new article about our bucket list experiences to inspire your travels!

Feeling Inspired? Read More Bucket List Experiences…

2024 Bucket List: 13 Hottest Destinations to Visit This Year!

Have you sorted your 2024 Bucket List yet? Nope. I’m guessing that’s why you’re here. No problem. We’ve listed 13 of the best places to travel in 2024 right here…

Continue Reading 2024 Bucket List: 13 Hottest Destinations to Visit This Year!

The Ultimate Japan Bucket List

Are you planning a trip to Japan and looking for the absolute best things to do? This Japan Bucket List features over 230 incredible experiences and must dos in Japan covering all…

Continue Reading The Ultimate Japan Bucket List

The Ultimate Spain Bucket List

Are you looking for an exciting destination to add to your travel bucket list? Look no further than Spain!  With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, rich history, and incredible food,…

Continue Reading The Ultimate Spain Bucket List

About Bucket List Seekers

Founded by Amanda Twine in 2018, Bucket List Seekers is a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.

Follow us on  Facebook  |  Pinterest  |  Instagram  |  Twitter . If you found this travel bucket list useful, please share it with your friends.

read more About Us

Did You Know?  We use ads to help pay the bills so we can continue to publish free travel advice. We also have affiliate partnerships, so when you click through and make a purchase or book your stay from one of our blog posts, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our  Disclosure Policy  for more details.

Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:

• Skyscanner  for the best flight deals
• Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
• HomeAway  for the best price on apartment and home rentals
• Rentalcars.com  for quick and easy car rentals
• Luxury Escapes  | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
• Get Your Guide  | Klook | Viator  for booking day tours and attraction tickets
• Tourradar  for a wide selection of multi-day tours
• Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance

Did You Know?  We use ads and affiliate links on this website. When you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that helps us pay the bills to keep running this blog as a free resource. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you’re planning to book a trip soon, please consider clicking through the links above, so that we can continue to provide free travel guides, just like this one! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.

liked this article? Pin it!

• Destinations
• Travel Guides
• Travel Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Accommodation

Join Our Newsletter

And get exclusive access to our FREE Travel Planning Resources!

• Work With Us
• Disclosure Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Bucket List Seekers

Privacy Overview

Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List: 125+ Best Places to Visit in USA

The United States is a large country so even those of us that live here have many bucket list places in the US that we have yet to visit.  Whether you live in the US and want to explore more of this amazing country or visiting the US for the first time and need help planning your trip, I’ve created this epic guide containing more than 125 incredible things to see and do in the United States which are perfect for any USA Travel Bucket List .

Some of these must see places I have already visited and recommend and the rest are places that look so beautiful or sound so interesting that I have added them to my personal America travel bucket list. So read on if you are looking for inspiration and ideas for your own US travel bucket list.

USA Travel Bucket List

Alaska Bucket List

• Explore Denali National Park .
• See Mendenhall Glacier , a 13-mile long glacier near Juneau.

Arizona Bucket List

• Take photos at Antelope Canyon. This sandstone slot canyon is made up of two sections (Upper and Lower) and is one of the most instagrammable places in the United States. Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo protected land and is only accessible via guided tours. Click here for more information about tours.

• See Horseshoe Bend , the beautiful natural horseshoe-shaped curve in the Colorado River.  This picture perfect view only requires an easy short 3/4 mile hike each way.

• Visit the Grand Canyon National Park . The famous Grand Canyon is at the top of most American bucket lists. There are many ways to visit the Grand Canyon including hiking, bike tours, mule rides, by helicopter or by small plane .
• Hike to the Wave. Getting a hiking permit is very difficult since only 20 people are allowed each day.  Find out more about how to get a permit and other logistics in this guide to Coyote Buttes North (home to the Wave) here .
• See White Pocket. This lesser known remote natural wonder is a great alternative if you cannot get a permit to the Wave. You need a 4 wheel drive high clearance vehicle or else it is best to book a tour.
• Visit the Arizona desert town of Sedona.
• Visit the city of Flagstaff, surrounded by mountains, desert and pine forests. It is a gateway to the San Francisco Peaks which is  home to Arizona’s tallest mountain (Humphreys Peak).
• Visit the Painted Desert , famous for its striking bands of colors.
• Visit the Petrified Forest National Park.

Arkansas Bucket List

• Hunt for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park . This state park is one of the only places in the world where the public can search for real diamonds – anything you find is yours to keep!

California Bucket List

• Explore San Francisco . Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and visiting Alcatraz are at the top of my San Francisco bucket list. Read: 2 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary (As Written By a Local!)

• Go wine tasting at Napa Valley and Sonoma in Northern California.
• Visit Los Angeles. There are a lot of bucket list things to do in and around LA including hiking to the Hollywood sign, shopping on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Boulevard, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Read: 3 Days in Los Angeles: The Perfect Itinerary
• Have fun at Disneyland.
• Explore Joshua Tree National Park.

• Visit Palm Springs.
• Enjoy sunny San Diego.
• Explore Solvang, a charming historic Danish village.
• Explore Yosemite National Park.
• Visit The Sequoia & Kings Canyon national parks. These adjacent parks are home to the world’s largest trees.
• See giant California redwoods at Redwood National Park .
• Visit Lake Tahoe. Read:   2 Days in Lake Tahoe Summer Itinerary
• Explore Death Valley National Park.
• Take a Pacific Coast Highway road trip along the coast of California which is without a doubt one of the best road trips in the USA . In addition to San Francisco and Los Angeles, some of the best stops along the way include Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, San Simeon, Malibu, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.

Read: California Bucket List: 30 Best Places to Visit in California for more bucket list worthy places to visit in California

Colorado Bucket List

• Visit Denver .
• Explore Rocky Mountain National Park. You can visit on a day trip from Denver .
• Visit the Garden of the Gods , a free park full of red rock formations with great hiking.
• Drive to the top of Pikes Peak .
• See Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . Several scenic drives in the park offer great views with relatively easy access.
• Visit the Maroon Bells, a reflective lake and two giant snow-striped mountaintops and most photographed place in Colorado.
• See the highest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park .
• See Pueblo cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park .

Connecticut Bucket List

• Visit the charming town of Mystic .

Florida Bucket List

• Visit Miami. Highlights include Miami Beach, Wynwood Walls and the Little Havana neighborhood. One of the busiest time to visit other than spring break is during Art Basel in December.
• See wildlife at Everglades National Park, the largest designated sub-tropical wilderness reserve on the North American continent.
• Drive from Miami to the Florida Keys on the scenic Overseas Highway (one of the best American road trips ). Read: Weekend in Key West: The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary
• Have fun at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando.
• Swim with manatees in Crystal River. You can visit on a day trip from Orlando .
• Visit St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States.  Read: Weekend in St. Augustine: Perfect 2 or 3 Day Itinerary

Read: Florida Bucket List

Georgia Bucket List

• Visit Atlanta.  Read: 48 Hours in Atlanta: The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary
• Visit the beautiful historic city of Savannah.

Hawaii Bucket List

• Seeing the beautiful Na Pali Coast in Kauai is a must on any Hawaii bucket list. You cannot visit by car. The entire Kalalau Trail is 11 miles long but you can hike the first couple of miles in a day or half a day. If hiking is not your thing, you can also view the Napali coast from helicopter tour or boat tour.

• See the Waimea Canyon in Kauai, a large canyon known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. There are hiking trails but you can enjoy great views from two lookout points.

• Hike to the top at Diamond Head State Monument in Oahu for great views of Honolulu. The 1.5-2 hours round trip hike is not too challenging but go as early as possible in the morning because it gets hot!
• Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu which marks the Japanese attack on the U.S. in World War II.
• Drive the Road to Hana in Maui.
• See a beautiful sunrise or sunset from the top of Haleakala Crater , a dormant volcano and the highest point in Maui. Unless you are visiting on a tour, you will need to make reservations in advance to access the park at sunset. Read: The Perfect Maui Itinerary: How to Spend 5 Days in Maui (As Written By a Local)

Idaho Bucket List

• See the beautiful Shoshone Falls (which are taller than Niagara Falls).
• Soak in one of the many Idaho hot springs .

Illinois Bucket List

• Explore Chicago . Maybe I’m biased because it is my hometown, but Chicago is one of the best cities to visit in the US. There are a lot of bucket list worthy things to do in Chicago : watch a baseball game at historic Wrigley Field, take a selfie in front of the Bean at Millennium Park, take in the amazing views from The Skydeck at Willis Tower and/or 360 CHICAGO, take an architecture cruise on the Chicago River and more! Read:  Best Things to Do in Chicago in the Summer and Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
• Visit Starved Rock State Park (one of the most popular attractions in Illinois) and the nearby Matthiessen State Park . Both parks have great hikes, stunning sandstone cliffs, canyons and beautiful waterfalls. You can even visit on a day trip from Chicago .

Read: Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Illinois for more bucket list worthy places to visit in Illinois

Indiana Bucket List

• Visit the the capital city of Indianapolis.

Iowa Bucket List

• See the covered bridges of Madison County .
• Visit the Iowa State Fair. The eleven day fair (August 12-22, 2021) has food, games, rides and competitions, livestock exhibitions, shows, concerts and more.
• Recreate the famous American Gothic painting in front of the original house in Eldon depicted in the painting. Visitors to the American Gothic House are provided with costumes to wear while the staff takes photos in front of the house.

Read :  Beautiful Sunflower Fields in Iowa That You Can Visit

Kansas Bucket List

• Eat BBQ at the famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que  in Kansas City.

Kentucky Bucket List

• Visit Louisville during the Kentucky Derby.
• Journey on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

Louisiana Bucket List

• Explore New Orleans.  Visit NOLA during Mardi Gras is a bucket list worthy experience.

Maine Bucket List

• Explore Acadia National Park, a great spot to see the fall foliage in New England.
• Visit Portland, a charming coastal city.

Maryland Bucket List

• Visit Baltimore. See the historic waterfront neighborhood of Fells Point and make sure to try Maryland’s famous crab cakes.

Massachusetts Bucket List

• Visit Boston. Some Boston must dos include walking the Freedom Trail, watching a game at Fenway Park and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.
• Relax at Cape Cod.
• Learn about the history of the witch trials at Salem.
• Visit Martha’s Vineyard , a tiny island which is a popular summer vacation destination for wealthy East Coast residents.

Michigan Bucket List

• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .
• Visit historic Mackinac Island. The entire Victorian-themed island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and is car-free so visitors can only explore by foot, bicycle or horse drawn carriage.

Read: Best Places to Visit in the Midwest

Minnesota Bucket List

• Visit Minneapolis-St Paul. Don’t miss the Minnehaha Regional Park (and the stunning Minnehaha Falls).
• Explore the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior .

Mississippi Bucket List

• Explore the Mississippi Blues Trail, nearly 200 trail markers throughout the state including cotton fields, train depots, cemeteries, clubs and churches that tell stories of famous blues artists and significant sites. You can even download an app to help you follow the trail.

Missouri Bucket List

• Enjoy the view from the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Eat some of the best BBQ in the country and explore the underrated Kansas City. Read : Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)

Montana Bucket List

• Explore the beautiful Glacier National Park. One of highlights of the park is driving the famous Going-To-The-Sun Road .

Nebraska Bucket List

• Witness the Annual Sandhill Crane Migration in the spring.
• See Carhedge . This quirky man made attraction built from 38 vintage American cars covered in gray spray paint is a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge.
• Visit Toadstool Geologic Park (referred to as the “badlands of Nebraska”) to see unusual rock formations and fossils.

Read: 7 Cool Things to do in Nebraska

Nevada Bucket List

• Gamble, party, eat and have fun in Las Vegas. Read : Weekend in Las Vegas: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)
• Visit Hoover Dam, a concrete arch-gravity dam on the border between Arizona and Nevada.
• Photograph the Seven Magic Mountains , a temporary art exhibition located in the desert outside of Las Vegas, featuring thirty to thirty-five-foot high day glow totems comprised of painted, locally-sourced boulders.
• Explore the Valley of Fire State Park, full of red rock formations just an hour outside of Vegas. It is also home to the Fire Wave, a smaller version of the famous Wave in Utah/Arizona.

• Admire colorful rock formations at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on several hiking trails or on a 13-mile scenic drive.

New Jersey Bucket List

• Go gambling in Atlantic City, one of the most popular cities in the Jersey Shore.
• Hang out at Liberty State Park and enjoy great views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

New Hampshire Bucket List

• Explore the stunning White Mountains, a mountain range with many hiking spots of all levels.
• Drive Kancamagus Highway , a 34.5 mile scenic drive along Route 112 and one of the best New England drives for fall foliage.

New Mexico Bucket List

• Visit Albuquerque during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , the largest balloon festival in the world.
• Explore Santa Fe.
• Visit Taos.
• Visit White Sands National Monument .

New York Bucket List

• Explore New York City. Read : Weekend In New York City Itinerary
• See Niagara Falls from the US side.

North Carolina Bucket List

• Visit Asheville. One of the highlights is a visit to the historic Biltmore Estate , the largest house in the United States.
• Explore the Outer Banks islands.

North Dakota Bucket List

• Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park .

Read: 7 Reasons North Dakota Should Be On Your Bucket List

Ohio Bucket List

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum in Cleveland.
• Explore Hocking Hills State Park and view the beautiful sandstone formations and waterfalls.

Oregon Bucket List

• Visit Portland, a city that likes to keep it weird.
• Explore the Columbia River Gorge.  Don’t miss the beautiful Multnomah Falls just a 30 minute drive outside of Portland.

• See Crater Lake National Park .  The highlight is the vivid blue Crater Lake (America’s deepest lake).

Read: Bucket List Places to Visit in the West Coast

Pennsylvania Bucket List

• Visit Philadelphia. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Eastern State Penitentiary and have a Philly cheesesteak.

Rhode Island Bucket List

• Explore Newport, a beach town known for its lavish mansions from the Gilded Age.

South Carolina Bucket List

• Visit the charming city of Charleston.

South Dakota Bucket List

• Explore Badlands National Park known for its spires and pinnacles.
• See Mount Rushmore National Memorial . This sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore features the heads of four U.S. presidents.

Tennessee Bucket List

• Visit Nashville.
• Visit Memphis. Highlights include Graceland (home of Elvis Presley), Beale Street and the Duck March at the Peabody Hotel .
• Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park and a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. The Appalachian Trail passes through the Great Smoky Mountains for more than 71 miles.
• Walk across Gatlinburg SkyBridge , the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the US for beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.

Texas Bucket List

• Visit Austin. It is especially popular during South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference & Festivals . Read : Best Things to Do in Austin in One Day
• Visit San Antonio.  The Alamo and the River Walk are the top attractions.
• See the bluebonnets in bloom every spring in Texas Hill Country .
• Explore Big Bend National Park.
• Visit the small quirky town of Marfa .
• Stop at Cadillac Ranch , a public art installation of half-buried Cadillacs on Route 66.

Utah Bucket List

• Visit Salt Lake City.
• Explore Bryce Canyon National Park , known for crimson-colored hoodoos (spire-shaped rock formations).

• Explore Zion National Park .
• Explore Arches National Park , home to the highest density of natural arches anywhere in the world.

• Explore Canyonlands National Park .
• Visit Monument Valley .
• Explore Goblin Valley State Park.
• Take fun perspective pictures at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Vermont Bucket List

• Do a fall road trip in Vermont to see the beautiful fall foliage.
• Visit the picturesque town of Stowe .

Virginia Bucket List

• Visit Virginia Beach.
• Drive through Shenandoah National Park. Read :  Complete Guide to Shenandoah National Park

Washington State Bucket List

• Visit Seattle.
• Explore Mount Rainier National Park.
• Explore Olympic National Park.
• Explore North Cascades National Park .

Washington, D.C. Bucket List

• Exploring the capital of the United States of America is a must on any USA bucket list. Points of interest include Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and National Mall. The city is especially beautiful (but crowded) during the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring.

Read: Best Places to Visit in the East Coast

West Virginia Bucket List

• See the New River Gorge Bridge. If you are feeling adventurous, you can sign up for bridge walk guided tour where you cross the catwalk under the bridge.

Wisconsin Bucket List

• Visit Milwaukee.
• Relax in Lake Geneva , a lakeside resort city popular with wealthy Chicagoans that built large historic mansions.
• Explore beautiful Door County .
• Explore the Apostle Islands and the sea caves on Lake Superior.

Wyoming Bucket List

• Explore Yellowstone National Park . Full of mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, geysers and wildlife, it is America’s first national park and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include Grand Prismatic Spring (a large hot spring is known for its rainbow effect) and Old Faithful.

• Explore the Grand Tetons .

• Visit Devils Tower National Monument , a 870-foot stone monument and the center of many Indian religious ceremonies.

So there you have it – the ultimate USA travel bucket list .  If there is an experience or place I should include let me know in the comments below!

Need more travel inspiration? Check out some of my other travel bucket lists below:

• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• Australian Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in Australia
• Africa Bucket List: 50 Things to Do and Places to Visit
• South America Bucket List: 50+ Things to Do and Places to Visit
• Southeast Asia Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do in SE Asia
• Travel Goals: 100 Things to Do Before You Die
• 10 Hotels That Should Be on Your Bucket List!

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

There are so many places in the USA that I have yet to visit. I love that you put together this list by state, it’s a very easy reference to have. It’s embarrassing that I have been to so many places around the world, but haven’t been to 2 of the 3 places in your Wisconsin list (it is the state I grew up in!).

I love ticking things off bucket lists. US is such a diverse country and going through the places you recommended I have realized I still have so much more to see in this amazing country. So far I checked some in California (L.A., Disneyland and a road trip along the Pacific Coast), Florida (Miami Beach, Florida Keys, Everglades), Louisiana (yes NOLA during Mardi Gras is madness, loved it!!), and New York City! You got me wanting to go again and check out so many other places!

This is a fabulous list! I don’t think we will be venturing too far out of North America and the Caribbean this year, so this post will be very helpful for planning some USA travels. Going to Chicago and Las Vegas later this year so will definitely refer back.

Absolutely shows how much there is in the US of A to explore. I love the national parks there and that all the states have something unique to offer. Love this list – and definitely will come back to it to check a few of those places.

This is such a great list! I don’t think you have missed out on anything at all. I didn’t even know many of these places and now I want to visit them.

Wow, this is an awesome list! So many great options and so fun to see the ones I’ve already seen, like Sedona and the Grand Canyon. There are so many more I want to visit, I’ll have to keep your list handy!

I love traveling and my life partner also loves traveling. Recently we got married and planning to visit all over USA. Your List will be more helpful for us and others also.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Bucket Lists

Updated On: February 14, 2024

We have put together the ultimate travel bucket list to spark your imagination. Dave and I made a dream list of our travel bucket list travels way back in 2006. And we fulfilled every travel adventure we ever dreamed of. Now we want to help your dreams come true and share the best bucket list travels that we’ve ever done.

These are 52 destinations that you need to do at least once in your lifetime. We’ve got one idea for every week of the year! You may also like The Best Adventure Destinations For The Ultimate Vacations

Table of Contents

Travel Bucket List Ideas

So, let’s look at the most mind-blowing beautiful places in the world. Oh, by the way, these are bucket list travels that we’ve done ourselves. It’s not a Google search like so many things on the internet these days.

1. Iguazu Falls

There was something magical about staying right in the heart of Iguazú National Park at the Belmont Hotel Das Cataratas. Having this natural wonder all to ourselves in the early morning was like a fairytale. We walked from our hotel to the long platform leading to the center of the massive cascade surrounded by thundering waters.

For a bucket list experience, this was spectacular. Be sure to take a helicopter tour over the falls and hop on a jet boat to get soaked. They seriously put the boat right underneath the waterfall. If there is one item on your travel bucket list. This should be it!

• Getting Soaked – The Ultimate Iguazu Falls Tour
• 11 Fun and Unexpected Things to do in Iguassu Falls

2. Amalfi Coast

We thought we had seen the beauty of Italy when visiting the Cinque Terre, but the Amalfi Coast is the Cinque Terre on steroids. The beautiful coastal towns along the Gulf of Salerno took our breath away at every turn. Rent a car and drive this famous highway that clings to the side of sea cliffs. There is nothing more romantic than driving the towns of Positano , Ravello, Amalfi, and Sorrento. Make sure to splurge on a room overlooking the terraced buildings of Positano and its beach.

• The Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast, Italy
• 10 Most Romantic Italian Coastal Towns for Couples
• Watch our Amalfi Coast Video
• Hiking Cinque Terre – The Beautiful Five Villages in Italy

3. Maldives

Staying in an over-the-water bungalow in Bora Bora or Tahiti is on everyone’s travel bucket list. But we did this in The Maldives and I cannot think of a place that is more beautiful in the world. The turquoise waters surrounded our bungalow complete with a glass floor so we could watch the fish swim by was superb. I don’t think I have seen such white sand beaches anywhere on earth.

• 15 of The Best Things to do in the Maldives
• Scuba Diving in Maldives – A Beginner’s Journey
• Best of the Maldives Video – On YouTube
• Snorkeling in the Maldives

4. Petra Jordan

By the time we made it to Petra Jordan, we had seen a lot of famous ancient cities with our own eyes. We expected to like it, but we didn’t expect to be wowed by it. Boy were we wrong! Petra is in a league unto itself. The hidden city of Petra is located within a 1.2 km rock passage reaching 80 meters into the air. Once you arrive at The Petra Treasury you are treated to an awe-inspiring scene. A massive building complete with columns is carved into the stone.

• Watch our visit to Petra on YouTube

5. African Safari

There is nothing more magical than an African Safari. We’ve been lucky to go on Safari in Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa , and Botswana. And trust me, it never gets old. Seeing the majestic lion stalk its prey and watching a herd of elephants walking through the African savanna is a scene that is forever etched into our brains. There is something special about visiting Africa. As the saying goes “I left my heart in Africa” and every time we leave the continent we feel the same way.

• African Safari Animals: 34 Photos to make you want to visit Tanzania
• What to Wear on Safari – Africa Travel Inside and Out
• Kenya Safari – The Masai Mara Experience

6. Churchill Polar Bears

Speaking of safaris, have you ever thought of a safari in Canada? I don’t think there was anything more awe-inspiring than seeing polar bears in the wild. It is even more of a bucket list ticket to be able to walk with polar bears. Going up to the arctic tundra in summer is not only unique, but it is also a chance to see polar bears in a different environment than in snow. We visited the Polar Bears twice with Churchill Wild . Once in the winter and once in the summer.

• Walking with Polar Bears – The Greatest Arctic Safari
• Kayaking with Beluga Whales – A Paddlers Dream
• The Ultimate Arctic Safari on YouTube

7. Santorini Greece

We had seen Santorini in the yogurt ads for years and dreamed of one day visiting. Once we arrived, we understood why it has been featured in so many commercials. When we looked over the cliffs of the caldera, the views didn’t seem real. Whitewashed buildings with blue domes lined the high cliffs of the caldera. Staying in a cave hotel overlooking the Aegean Sea was the ultimate dream.

• 25 of The Very Best Things to do in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Places to Visit in Santorini, Greece
• A Photography Guide to Santorini – Getting that Postcard Shot
• Iconic Santorini: A Cave Hotel Experience

8. Kayak and Camp in Antarctica

If you haven’t noticed on our blog, a lot of our bucket list adventures have been in cold regions. And Antarctica truly tops the list. We were lucky enough to visit Antarctica with Quark Expeditions where we fulfilled every travel dream. From camping on Antarctica to kayaking around icebergs, Antarctica was an adventure lover’s travel dream.

• 11 of the Best Things to do in Antarctica
• Sea Kayak Antarctica – The Adventure of a Lifetime
• Camping on Antarctica
• See our complete Antarctica Expedition on YouTube

9. Trek to Mount Everest Base Camp

Staying in the cold weather for a moment, the ultimate bucket list adventure is to trek to Everest Base Camp. When we can all travel again, this is something anyone can do regardless of climbing skills Follow the footsteps of Sir Edmond Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa to see the Khumbu Ice Fall, Everest Base Camp, The Tengboche Monastery, and Mighty Mount Everest herself. Secure the ultimate bragging rights among your friends and trek to Everest. Our friend Dipendra at SimRik Real Nepal Treks is waiting for you.

• Everest Base Camp Trek – All You Need to Know from Start to Finish
• Remarkable Everest Base Camp Trek in Photos
• Flight to Lukla – A Scary Thrill Ride to Everest
• See our Full Everest Playlist on YouTube

10. Cappadocia, Turkey

Nearly everyone is familiar with the famous scene of balloons soaring through the air above fairy chimneys. Turkey’s Cappadocia really does feel like a fairytale. This had been our bucket list since seeing dozens of balloons in the air on Instagram nearly a decade ago. A morning hot air balloon ride fulfills the ultimate travel dream list.

• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: How to Choose the Right Company
• A Tour of a Cave Hotel on YouTube
• The Incredible Landscape of Cappadocia on YouTube

11. Himalayas of Bhutan

Bhutan is the happiest country in the world and you can’t help but fall in love with the people and landscape when you visit this bucket list destination. Trekking through the Himalayas is an incredible journey but hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in the Paro Valley is what draws people to the country. This iconic scene doesn’t disappoint.

• 18 Things to do in Bhutan – A Comprehensive Guide of What Not to Miss
• Bhutan Trek to Laya – A Himalayan Adventure to the Remarkable and Remote
• Watch our trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery on YouTube
• And see what happened when we met the King of Bhutan

12. Great Wall of China

We have visited the Great Wall of China twice. And it lives up to everything we ever expected. Looking at this marvel of engineering truly did inspire wonder and awe. No wonder it is listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. We loved visiting both the Mutianyu and Badaling Great Wall, they were equally beautiful yet very different experiences.

• The Great Wall of China – Mutianyu vs. Badaling

13. Machu Picchu

Speaking of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is another beautiful destination to add to your bucket lists. Hiking the Inca Trail is on many people’s adventure bucket list, but even seeing this extraordinary Inca City will take your breath away. Literally. Located in the Andes Mountains at 2,430 meters/7,972 feet in elevations, it is a wonder to see.

• Machu Picchu Hike: All You Need To Know To Be Perfectly Prepared
• How to Plan a Trip to Machu Picchu

14. Great Barrier Reef

The UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Australia is the largest coral reef in the world. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list. Even if scuba diving or snorkeling isn’t your thing, it is a must-visit. There are many ways to see the Great Barrier Reef. You can take a helicopter ride over the reef or even take a boat out to a platform in the middle of the sea to let you swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in the middle of this beautiful piece of ocean.

• Diving the Great Barrier Reef – Australia’s Ultimate Adventure

15. Pyramids of Giza

We had always wanted to see the Great Pyramids of Giza with our own eyes. We didn’t know what to expect, but when we first spotted them they seemed surreal. They cut through the haze of Cairo standing the desert looking like a mirage. We have had the privilege of visiting them twice and can say that for a fun way to explore them, hire a camel to take you through the pyramid complex to feel like a true Bedouin.

• The Red Pyramid of Egypt – Experience it Inside and Out
• 10 Amazing Temples of Egypt – That We’ve Seen

16. Gobi Desert of Mongolia

We are always fascinated by deserts, but there was something truly unique and spectacular about Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. It is filled with life. From the herds of Bactrian camels (two-humped camels) to the nomadic people of Mongolia moving their Ghers from camp to camp that was always something to see. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Read more at Mongolia Pictures from the Russian Border to the Gobi Desert

17. Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a group of islands off the coast of Ecuador that have their very own ecosystem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most biodiverse of destinations on earth. AND 97% of the Galapagos is a national park. The top draw to the Galapagos is to see its endemic species that are unique to the islands. From the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguanas, and the Galapagos penguin, the wildlife experiences.

• 27 photos that will transport you to the Galápagos Islands
• Playing With Sea Lions on San Isabella in the Galapagos

18. Mount Kilimanjaro

If there is one mountain to climb in your lifetime it is Mount Kilimanjaro, The Roof of Africa. Kilimanjaro National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the highest point in Africa. The six to seven-day climb is part of the seven summits and is a spectacular bucket list vacation. So don’t wait to start planning your climb up the highest freestanding mountain on earth.

• Read more: Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

19. Bagan, Myanmar

A visit to Myanmar is a trip we’ll never forget. Bagan was the highlight of our travels through the country. Taking an early morning ferry along the Irrawaddy River from Mandalay, we emerged at the most extraordinary complex of temples we had ever seen. Built in 1057 and covering 16 square miles Bagan houses 2200 pagodas. It looks like a massive forest of temples that you must see with your own eyes.

• Read More – The Incredible Temples of Bagan, Myanmar

20. See the Northern Lights

Have you ever wanted to witness the dazzling display of the Aurora Borealis? Once you see the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky, it doesn’t seem real at first. Are your eyes playing tricks on you? Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. We didn’t have good luck there but have witnessed them several times in Canada and in Greenland.

• Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

21. Mexico Cenotes

For scuba divers’ the Cenotes of Mexico are a top bucket list diving adventure. But you can tour many cenotes without diving. The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico has several adventures where you can rappel, snorkel, and paddle through Cenotes. But it was the Rio Secreto Cenote that was truly extraordinary.

• Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves
• Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

22. Rome’s Colosseum

The city of Rome is like no other. It is packed with ancient ruins and none as famous as the Colosseum. We had the good fortune of staying directly across the street from the Colosseum with a view of the amphitheater from our room. You think that you know everything about the Colosseum, but nothing can prepare you for seeing it for the first time.

• 22 of the Best Things to do in Rome
• 20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome
• 3 Days in Rome – The Ultimate Rome Itinerary

23. Christ the Redeemer – Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and Christ the Redeemer stands proudly over the city keeping watch. Seeing “Christo Redentor” standing with arms outstretched at the top of Corcovado Mountain is on many bucket list travelers list. You can see it by hiking up the mountain, taking the train, or a scenic bus ride but nothing compares to flying around it by helicopter.

• The Top 18 Most Excellent Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

24. Ha Long Bay – Vietnam

Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that needs to be seen to truly be appreciated. 1600 towering limestone islands reach up from the emerald waters of Halong Bay. What makes the bay even more picturesque are the junk boats that take tourists to explore the many islands and caves.

• Halong Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay – How to Choose Your Cruise?
• The Very Best Things to do in Vietnam from North to South

25. Have Champagne at the Eiffel Tower – France

Paris is the city of love and we never tire of seeing the Eiffel Tower . Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the city of lights is such a romantic scene, but you must go up the Eiffel Tower. And did you know you can have a glass of champagne? Celebrate a milestone, get engaged or just enjoy a toast as you take in the Parisian skyline.

• Where To Stay In Paris – The Best Neighborhoods in Paris
• 3 Days in Paris: The Best Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit

26. Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls – Zambia

We happen to live one hour away from Niagara Falls in Canada and we do love that city and the iconic Canadian cascade. So when we had the chance to visit Victoria Falls in Zambia we were very excited. The Falls That Thunder is located in the center of Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and is the largest waterfall in the world. The setting is completely different than Niagara Falls as it is surrounded by jungle. At a Whopping 1.7 km wide (1 mile) it is massive, and the way to take in the scope of Victoria Falls is to get up in the air.

• Incredible Things to Do in Victoria Falls, Zambia

27. Soak in the Blue Lagoon – Iceland

Sure, the Blue Lagoon of Iceland is overcrowded these days, but no trip to “The Land of Fire and Ice” would be complete without stopping to soak in its healing waters. It tops many a traveler’s bucket list, especially after National Geographic named it one of the top 25 Natural Wonders of the World.

• How to Visit The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
• Best Places To Visit In Iceland

28. Explore the Canals of Venice – Italy

We truly fell in love with Venice. Staying in the city for four days allowed us to get off the beaten path to explore more of the quiet corners of the floating city. Not bucket-list travels would be complete without adding Venice to your list. While a gondola tops many bucket lists, it was the private taxi tour that we found to be far more romantic. Riding through the Grand Canal in style viewing scenery made us feel like movie stars.

• 3 Days in Venice – The Complete Venice Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Venice – The Best Neighborhoods and Hotels for Every Budget

29. Spy the Sun Stream at Antelope Canyon – USA

It is one of the most recognizable caves in the world. But where is it? Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona is located in the United States. Once a day a gorgeous waterfall of light seeps through tiny openings lighting up the layers of sandstone in this famous slot canyon. Read: The 17 Best Hikes in Arizona

• Antelope Canyon Photo Tours – How to Make the most of it

30. Hike Through Meteora – Greece

Santorini may be the luxury escape of Greece, but the Monasteries of Meteora are the wonders of Greece. Sitting at the top of massive rock monoliths reaching up to 500 meters (1500 feet) from the valley floor, ancient monasteries dot the landscape. Dating back to the 9th century, the Meteora Monasteries can be visited today by hiking to the top, walking across bridges, or simply taking in the view from one of the many lookouts.

• Meteora Monasteries of Greece – Magic Monoliths in Photos
• The Best Places to Visit in Greece

31. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

A visit to the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland will make you believe in giants. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Northern Ireland’s most famous attraction and tops many a travel bucket list. To see the perfectly arranged basalt pillars leading out to sea makes you believe that a giant built a causeway to Scotland rather than a volcanic eruption some 60 million years ago.

• The Legend of the Giant’s Causeway – Do You Believe?

32. Leaning Tower of Pisa – Italy

We didn’t know if we’d be in awe of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, but seeing it in person did indeed live up to the hype. Pisa alone is worth visiting. This picturesque city located on the Arno River is filled with history dating back to the 14th century.

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa – Is It Worth The Visit?

33. Stand in the Center of Times Square – New York

Standing in the center of Times Square in New York fills you with energy and excitement. New York is certainly one of the most exciting cities in the world, and while Times Square is filled with tourists, its with good reason. You feel as if you are in the center of the universe as massive LED screens surround the entire square.

• Best Things to Do in New York City
• Where to Stay in New York City – Top Places and Hotels For All Budgets
• Fun Facts About New York

34. Go to the Top of the Burj Khalifa – Dubai

It’s the tallest building in the world sitting amongst several other massive skyscrapers. Dubai is out of this world. With each impressive structure built, there are four more in the works. Going to the top of the Burj Khalifa to see the most impressive skyline on earth is the definitive bucket list item.

• 17 Fabulous and Fun Things to do in Dubai

35. Go Sandboarding in Huacachina – Peru

I never expected sand dunes in Peru to be so massive. When we booked a bus ticket to Huacachina in Peru, we thought we’d be sitting in a tiny oasis, but instead, we were surrounded by the largest sand dunes we’ve ever seen. The way to explore them is to take a dune buggy tour or to hop on a sandboard and glide down them. You’ll be covered in sand, but what a hoot and it is something you must try at least once in your life.

• 24 Best Things to do in Peru

36. Cross the Shibuya Scramble in Tokyo

Until you’ve seen Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo with your own eyes, it’s difficult to comprehend the number of people that take this crossing every few minutes each day. A quarter-million people cross this intersection each day. The best way to see this bucket list item is to go to the top of Magnet’s Mag 7 from the glassed-in viewing area.

• Awesome Things to do in Tokyo, Japan
• Best Day Trips from Tokyo

37. Golden Temple – India

The Taj Mahal may top everyone’s bucket list, but we found the Golden Temple of Amritsar to be a more authentic experience. Don’t get me wrong, the Taj Mahal is a wonder to see, but the Golden Temple is a beautiful display that is still a working temple. Join one hundred thousand pilgrims each day as they pay their respects to Sikkhism’s most holy site.

• Golden Temple of Amritsar – India’s Shining Star

38. Road trip to the Grand Canyon

I must admit I wasn’t expecting much from the Grand Canyon, but during our road trip through California and Arizona we popped into the Grand Canyon and I was taken aback by its beauty and sheer size. The Grand Canyon is on everyone’s American travel bucket list and it is spectacular. The Colorado River cuts through the 466 km long (277 mile) Colorado Plateau canyon of the Colorado Plateau and let me tell you, a pop in won’t do it justice. you must get out and explore the beauty of America’s natural wonder.

• 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon
• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon
• United States National Parks in Photos

39. Amazon River – Peru

The mighty Amazon River is the largest river by water volume in the world and it is the land of legends. It still feels as if much of the Amazon River Basin has yet to be explored. When you set out on a river cruise through the Amazon, you can almost feel what it was like to be an early exploring cutting their way through the largest jungle on earth.

• What to Expect on an Amazon River Cruise – Life on the River

40. Marvel at the Glaciers of Greenland

Glaciers are melting fast on this planet and nowhere on earth is it more prevalent than in Greenland. Visit the world’s most active calving glacier in Ilulissat and sail through a sea of floating skyscrapers of ice. Icebergs dwarfed our ship as we explored the west coast of Greenland on this truly magnificent bucket list adventure.

• Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

41.Swim with Whale Sharks

There is something truly magical about swimming with whale sharks. While it might be a frenzy of tourists beaming with excitement below is calm and quiet. To see these gentle giants glide effortlessly through the sea is the ultimate bucket list travel experience. There are many places to swim with whale sharks around the world, most notably off the coast of Cancun Mexico, and in the Philippines.

• Swimming with Whale Sharks Cancun – A Massive Adventure

42. Hornblower at Niagara Falls

Okay, we cannot forget to include going into the center of Horseshoe Falls in Niagara, Ontario. We have always taken this bucket list adventure for granted because we live so close to Niagara Falls, but when you go on the Hornblower, it truly is a spectacular scene. Feel the power of one of the world’s largest waterfalls as you sit at the bottom of the plunging waters. It is so powerful that everyone gets a rain poncho to wear on the boat. If you make your way to Canada, don’t miss seeing Niagara Falls.

There are so many things to do in Niagara Falls, the Hornblower is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out our full round-up of Our Favourite Things to do in Niagara Falls – Plus Where to Eat & Where to Stay

And these are our most amazing bucket list travels on earth. We’ve been lucky to be able to see and do all of these bucket list adventures in our lifetime. As I went through this list, I cannot believe that we have experienced each and every one of these. It all started by creating a dream list a decade ago, and now we have achieved travels beyond our wildest imagination. We can’t wait to add more when we can travel again.

• 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World to Visit – That We’ve Been
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 31 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
• 16 of the Best Cities in Spain – Beautiful Places to Visit Right Now
• How to Travel Around the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

16 Best Spring Break Destinations To Visit in 2024

30 Beautiful and Best Hikes in the World

18 Most Beautiful Mediterranean Islands to Visit in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

5 thoughts on “Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime”

wow such a wonderful list for everyone. I am from India and I was surprised when I saw the golden temple on your list because everyone includes the Taj mahal in their top list when anyone visits India. waiting for your next blog. ok, take care of each other Dave and Deb.

Chopta Chandrashila Deoria Tal Trek is a prestigious package for visitors to Chopta, which has mesmerizing panoramic Views of beautiful Himalayan peaks.It’s 5km and takes about 3 hours. We can organize a trip for you to this amazing destination. The hike up to Deoria Tal, amidst dense forests and filled with Rhododendrons (in summer) is part of the Chopta-Chandrashila trek. There is a famous Hindu story about it. When the 5 Pandavas were on their way to heaven, they stopped at the place and tasted the water.

I love these bucket list places to travel to!! Some of my favorites from the list were going to see the Churchill polar bears, kayaking in Antarctica, the Great Wall of China, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Northern Lights. This blog post reminds me of all the beautiful places I have yet to see and cannot wait to go to!

What an amazing compilation of great places. Cant wait to travel after this pandemic.

The Harmiandir Sahib (Golden Temple) of Amritsar has a unique distinction of offering free food at Langar Seva — The world’s largest community kitchen. People visiting the Golden temple must not miss the Langar food.

Thanks for curating a great list.

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List for 2023

by Kira | Aug 16, 2022 | Travel Bucket Lists , worldwide

The world is wide, and the possibilities are endless! We’re cleaning up your wishlists and will help you to design your picture-perfect Travel Bucket List for 2023! What should you put on your list? How are you going to start your list? What destinations shouldn’t be missed in 2023? Stay tuned for all of our answers!

How to create the perfect travel bucket list

Every traveler is different. Everyone wants to do and see different things. A personalized travel bucket list, which includes the things you want to see, is always a good idea. But how do you create the perfect Travel Bucket List? Here are our tips & tricks…

• Which places have you visited already? Where have you been before? How did you like it? If you like a destination you have already traveled to, it can be smart to pick similar destinations.
• What kind of traveler are you? How do you like to travel? Do you prefer active trips, or would you rather like to spend your day at a beach? Or maybe a mixture? Decide how you want to travel and how fast you want to do it.
• What do you want to see? Decide what you want to see and do when traveling. This can include whether you want to know more about a culture and its history or if you would want to explore nature.
• Have fun with it Traveling is fun, so have fun with it. Embrace the planning process and find people to travel with on JoinMyTrip .

The Ultimate 2023 Bucket List Destinations – Summary

Angkor wat, cambodia, bali, indonesia, the himalayas, seoul, south korea, hagia sofia, istanbul, turkey, paris, france, pompeii, italy, rome, italy, scotland, united kingdom, cape town, south africa, kruger national park, south africa, marrakesh, morocco, pyramids of giza, egypt.

4. North America

• Grand Canyon, Arizona
• Los Angeles, California
• Niagara Falls
• Yosemite National Park, California

5. South America

Salar de Uyuni

6. The Seven Wonders

Man-Made Wonders

Natural wonders, the best travel bucket list destination for 2023.

To help you build your perfect travel bucket list for 2023 we have gathered some of the best must-see destinations and sights all around the world.

Enjoy good food, friendly people, amazing architecture, and natural wonders all over Asia . Don’t miss these destinations and sights.

This Buddhist temple complex in Cambodia was built in the 12th century and is world-famous for its unique architecture. The temple was dedicated to Vishnu for the Khmer Empire. It lies deserted today but is still marvelous to look at.

The Island of the gods is famous for stunning sunsets, perfect surf spots, impressive waterfalls, and old temples. Many tourists come here to find themselves, do yoga, and discover wellness retreats. Bali is a paradise for every kind of traveler, whether you want to chill on the beach, trek up some mountains, or discover a unique culture Bali has something in store for you! For more Bali tips read our Ultimate Guide to Bali and the Gili Islands or follow us on Instagram .

The highest mountains in the world stretch over five countries: Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan . Everyone should once visit the Himalayas because of the unique views. We recommend going on a guided trek to either Annapurna or Everest Basecamp for some of the most breathtaking views of your life.

9.9 million people live in Seoul, yet it is one of the cleanest cities in the world. It is the 4th largest metropolitan area in the world with modern architecture, interesting culture, and amazing food. Don’t miss out on bibimbap or an authentic Korean Barbecue.

There are a lot of destinations in Europe that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list, including Europeans themselves! These destinations range from very popular to very off-the-beaten track, so don’t miss out.

The Hagia Sophia has quite an interesting history. Originally, it was built as a Christian Cathedral in the 6th century. After quite some shuffling between Christian and Orthodox churches, the Hagia Sophia was rebuilt as a mosque in the 15th century. From 1935 to 2020, the building housed a museum and was repurposed as Mosque in 2018. You can feel its vivid history on the European side of Istanbul and should stop there when visiting the city.

There are many reasons to add Iceland to your travel bucket list: Waterfalls, volcanos, the Aurora, beautiful landscapes, and delicious coffee. Discover more in our Ultimate Travel Guide for Iceland , or make the best of your trip to Iceland with our Travel Insider Tips .

The city of love, cafés, and fashion – c’est Paris! If you’re in Paris for the first time, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Discover more wonderful details in our Travel Guide to Paris , written by a true local. If you’ve had enough of Bucket List Paris, discover these Day Trips from Paris to discover more beautiful France – because France is more than just Paris!

In 79 AD, an eruption of Mount Vesuvius covered the town of Pompeii under a layer of hot ash and lava. Today you can visit the ruins of the town and the petrified remains of townees and animals. The view of Mount Vesuvius is stunning, and you will understand why the Romans built a town here.

When in Rome…you shouldn’t miss out on the fantastic food, the ancient architecture, and the vivid history! See the Colosseum, where gladiators fought each other (and animals like lions) for the people’s joy, or discover the plethora of churches and cathedrals. Spend at least one day visiting the Vatican, the city-state within Rome, and see Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sixtine Chapel or St. Peter’s Cathedral, where the pope preaches. You can find more tips and tricks for Italy in this La Dolce Vita Guide . Travel Tip: Avoid restaurants close to big sights like the Colosseum or Trevi Fountain and restaurants with pictures on the menu.

Scotland is a ruggedly beautiful place with many hidden gems that need to be discovered. The best way to discover this stunning part of the UK is on a road trip. Start in Edinburgh, head up to the highlands, look for Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, and spend some days in the wind-scourged landscapes of the Isle of Skye. Adventures are waiting on every corner, and if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll feel right at home here.

Africa is diverse with landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to bonedry deserts, many different and unique cultures, and incredible wildlife. There are many things you need to see when visiting this vast continent. Here are our picks for your travel bucket list in 2023!

Did you ever want to see Humboldt Penguins and Great White Sharks in the wild, learn more about South African history, and see beautiful, stunning nature? Head to Cape Town and discover one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. Before packing your bags, have a look at our Cape Town Guide.

With almost 20,000 km2 , Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and can be found in the North East of South Africa. Here you can go on the Safari adventure of a lifetime and see lions, elephants, different species of antelopes, and zebras in their natural habitat.

Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco and has a lot to offer. Visit many beautiful gardens, mosques, and souks all over town. Have some fresh peppermint tea in one of the many cafés and enjoy a different side of the African continent.

The pyramids of Giza are the only ancient world wonder still standing. On the outskirts of the Egyptian capital, Cairo, you can find these stunning ancient tombs. The pyramids were built between 2620 and 2500 BC and are part of an ancient cemetery. Visiting the pyramids will give you a bigger understanding of what humans are capable of!

North America

Especially the USA, the land of the free, entices my travelers every year. There is so much to see and discover. Here are our top picks to put on your travel bucket list.

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Your first view of the Grand Canyon will take your breath away. You will be humbled by the force of nature and will need a moment to recover. This naturally carved canyon is 446km long, 29km wide, and almost 2km deep. The view at sunrise and sunset is always impeccable, so get yourself to Arizona!

Los Angeles, California, USA

Glitz and Glamor await in the city of Hollywood movies! Visit unique museums, discover amazing food, and chill on the beach. In Los Angeles, you can touch the American Dream and dream of your own acting career.

Niagara Falls, USA & Canada

Niagara Falls lies on the border of the US and Canada. You can either view the falls from the US side or hop over the border to Canada for a day or two and have a better view of the falls. There’s also the possibility of going to the bottom of the falls in a boat (“Maid of the Mist”) to feel the power of the water.

Yosemite Nationalpark, California

Yosemite [pronounced: yoh-SEM-ih-tee] is one of the most famous national parks in the US. It is known for incredible views, amazing wildlife, and stunning waterfalls. Take one of the hikes or climb up one of the many mountains for those famous vistas.

• South America

The last continent of our virtual journey in South America. South America is known for its friendly people, zest for life, and unique landscapes. Here are our main reasons to add this continent to your travel bucket list in 2023.

The longest mountain range in the world enchants travelers with its rugged beauty. It stretches over seven South American countries, such as Colombia, Peru , Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. You will find the highest peak in Argentina – Mount Aconcagua, with an elevation of 6,961m. Discover some of the highest plateaus, lakes, cities, and villages traveling along the Andes.

Patagonia surprises travelers with its wide variety of landscapes ranging from rainforests and deserts to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world. Discover some of the hardest mountains ever climbed by mankind, the rough and wild waters at Cape Horn, and stunning landscapes shaped by volcanos.

The Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world. Here you can take stunning photos and see flamingos in the wild. Learn more about the Salar de Uyuni in our Perfect Guide to Bolivia .

The 7 World Wonders

Many beautiful places, especially the seven world wonders, deserve a spot or two on your travel bucket list. We have divided the wonders into man-made, buildings,, and natural wonders that will take your breath away.

• Chichén Itzá in Mexico
• Christo Redentor in Brazil
• Colosseum in Rome, Italy
• Great Wall of China
• Machu Picchu in peru
• Petra in Jordan
• Taj Mahal in Agra, India

• The Amazon in South America
• Halong Bay in Vietnam
• Iguazú Falls in Argentina
• Jeju Island in South Korea
• Komodo Island in Indonesia
• Table Mountain in South Africa
• Puerto Princessa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan, The Philippines

After all of our tips & tricks, it’s time to build your own travel bucket list for 2023, and as soon as you’re done, you can start planning your adventure with one of many trips on JoinMyTrip!

Welcome to JoinMyTrip

At JoinMyTrip, we bring together travelers from around the world.

Find your next small group travel adventure to unique destinations with JoinMyTrip.

Newest Blogs

• Places Like Bali: 10 Less-Touristy Alternatives
• Safest Places to Visit in Africa: Top 7 Picks (2024 Edition)
• The Ultimate Asia Trip Itinerary
• 15 Best Places to Visit in Thailand (2024 Edition)
• Bali or Thailand: Which One is For You?

Meet the Writers

• Central America
• Destinations
• Digital Nomads
• Group Travel
• Hidden Gems
• New Zealand
• Scandinavia
• Solo Travel
• Tips for Beginners
• Travel Bucket Lists
• Travel Buddies
• Travel Guides
• Travel Tips
• TripLeader Stories
• Uncategorized

Couple’s Bucket List Ideas: 125 Fun Activities & Things to Do

Though a couples relationship doesn’t always replicate the ideal duos in the popular rom-com movies, it can be quite an adventure filled with fun couple activities, romantic date nights out, meaningful bonding and unique things to do to help to bond your special relationship. That is, if you design it that way.

There are plenty of things to do as a couple and my fun Couple’s Bucket List can help! The items are good for boyfriends, girlfriends and any partner you want to have a great time with.

A rewarding relationship should be filled with experiences that create wonderful memories, bring you two closer together, make you laugh and nonverbally say “I love you”. From planning your future goals to doing a spaghetti kiss to cliff jumping while holding hands and more, these are the best ideas of things to do as a couple and to take your relationship and adventures to a whole new level!

Couples Bucket List: Fun Activities, Cute Date Ideas & Romantic Things to Do (for Girlfriends, Boyfriends & any Partner)

1. have a tech-free date day together.

Yup, you’ve read that right. Every once in a while, it’s good to take a break from all the tech stuff, especially if it means you get to spend more time with your loved one. Of course, having no technology does not mean that you can’t have fun. It’s quite the opposite! You can spend the day reading books by the fire with a drink or two at hand, have a candlelit dinner, play some card games, and more.

2. Plan Your Future

There comes a time where you need to talk about your future together, especially if you are married or have been together for a long time. You can discuss things like starting a family, getting married, ways to save money for a home and more.

3. Get a Couples Massage

A couples massage is one of the hottest treatments at luxury spas all over the world. What could be more romantic than lying side-by-side with your boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse other in the most relaxing environment?

If a full body massage is not your cup of tea, try a soothing foot massage , where you will get your tootsies rubbed by a professional. Or, for a even more intimate couples bucket list item, you can learn how to give each other a sexy tranquilizing massage.

For help on giving the best massage check out this article on how to give a romantic massage , or this one: how to give him a massage he won’t forget . Don’t forget the Kama Sutra Massage Oils !

4. Go on a Double Date

Want to turn your regular date nights into something a little more interesting? Then go on a double date with another fun couple. You’ll not only get to bond with your sweetheart, but also a couple of other friends.

5. Stargaze on a Rooftop

There’s nothing more romantic than lying on a blanket on the rooftop with your sweetheart under a starry night sky!

6. Write Each Other a Love Letter

About five years ago I wrote a love letter to my future self , but it got me to thinking that I had never written one to my husband of eighteen years.

Let’s bring it back to old school; the days where letters were handwritten, sealed with a kiss and mailed at the post office. Love letters are a physical memory that will last a lifetime.

Need Help? Read these 15 tips for writing an amazing love letter and this simple one on how to write a love letter . Don’t forget to add one of the 52 Incredibly Romantic Quotes .

7. Play a Sexy Game of Twister

If you’re still in the beginning stages of getting to know your date, playing twister can be an excellent way to get closer to one another.

And if you’re already committed to each other—or looking to have some fun—then throw your clothes in the corner and open a whole new dimension to your relationship by playing twister butt naked!

Ready to get started? Get your Twister game here !

8. Visit Each Others Hometowns

There is nothing like a peek into someone’s past than getting to explore their hometowns. From walking on their high school campus to visiting the spot where they had their first kiss, it’s a chance to get to know your partner deeper.

9. Binge Watch a New TV Series

One of the most perfect ways to enjoy a date night with your partner is to binge watch a new TV series. Cook up some popcorn, cozy up under a blanket and find the perfect TV series to watch. Me and my husband obsessively watched all the seasons of The Good Place , You and Schitt’s Creek . They were all fantastic! 

You can easily find something fun and entertaining on-demand or there’s plenty of options if you are an Amazon Prime member. If you are struggling to find a show , then my 100 Best TV Shows to Binge Watch will help you out.

10. Create a Couple Scrapbook

It’s easier nowadays to look back at memories and stuff through our mobile phones or social media. But, why not try your hand at making a couple’s scrapbook instead?

While you and your sweetheart are working on the scrapbook, both of you will also get to reminisce about the highlights of the past years together too. It could be quite romantic!

Couple’s Bucket List (Printable)

Want to instantly Download and print this Couple’s Bucket List ? You can! It’s perfect to frame for your favorite space or just put in a binder! Also includes a blank list if you prefer to handwrite your own ideas.

11. Take a Workout Class Together

This may not be the most romantic idea, but when it comes to fitness, having someone to do it with you like your loved one  is a great way to motivate and support each other through your fitness goals.

12. Have a Picnic

You will have to break out that dusty old picnic basket for this Couples Bucket List idea. Pack it with your favorite bottle of wine, pick a secluded outdoor getaway and create a memory.

Need a basket? Check out this cute hand woven picnic basket from Picnic Plus or get a modern 2-person picnic backpack .

13. Do a Movie Marathon

Another great way to spend the whole day together or as a follow-up after a romantic dinner is to have a movie marathon. You can grab some popcorn and a cuddly blanket then hit up Netflix or Hulu to find your favorites

14. Get Naughty in Every Room in Your House

If you think you can only have some sexy time with your partner inside the bedroom, think again! Not only is this an exciting way of spicing things up, but it will also help you explore and open up to new lovemaking experiences.

15. Stay Up All Night

Do you remember when the two of you just started your relationship and would spend the wee hours of the morning just talking on the phone? Try to replicate that special period of time by planning an all-nighter that may include chatting, laughing, dancing or taking a late night stroll.

Need some ideas for this all nighter date? You can ask each other these 365 thought provoking questions or the 125 Would You Rather Questions for Couples (including dirty ones!) Or check out the top 20 stay-at-home date nights .

16. Cook Dinner Together

Food and romance have been linked throughout history, mix in some intriguing conversation and you will have one of the best date nights ever. The best part is that the dishes that you create on this night may become a significant part of celebrating other events in your lifetime.

Here are some helpful resources to get your romantic dinner dinner on the right track:

• 17 Romantic Dinner Recipes
• The Complete Cooking for Two Cookbook

17. Come Up With Pet Names For Each Other

A visit to the Mob Museum in Las Vegas initiated me affectionately nicknaming my husband Peter Petey Chops after a famous mobster (though that has since been changed to Petey Pie ). Your idea of the perfect pet name may not be after a gambling felon (I totally understand!), so check out these 500 other cute nicknames for him or her .

18. Sing a Karaoke Duet

Many years ago at a dive bar in Northern California (when we were still just boyfriend and girlfriend), my husband and I belted out “Summer Nights” from the movie Grease. I’m surprised he still married me afterwards! It is an experience that we still talk about today.

Muster up the courage to take the stage and create a memory that will last a lifetime. You can steal our song from Grease or check out these top 10 karaoke song duets to pick your special one.

19. Take a Trip Somewhere New

Traveling is one of the most fulfilling things you can do as a couple, especially if it is in a place you’ve both never been before. You’ll come across new sights, food, and even culture, not to mention the memories you’ll be making together. 

Not sure where to go? See our Ultimate Travel Bucket List f or 50 great ideas.

20. Sext to Each Other

Sometimes there will be moments when you really want to connect intimately with your partner while they are not physically near. So how about you send them a flirty text?

Be sure to remember before sending anything naughty, whatever you text may be around for forever!

21. Create a Monogram & Leave Your Mark

Design a creative monogram using a combination of your initials and then place this design on something special. Monograms can be made into charms, stamped on t-shirts, printed on pretty stationary or even embroidered on your bathroom towels.

For help creating your personalized monogram read how to make a monogram in microsoft word and once you have it completed Shutterfly has a bunch of cute options of products you can stick it on!

22. Volunteer Together

There is nothing quite like bonding over selflessly helping out someone in need. Whether at a dog shelter or children’s hospital, an extra pair of hands is alway welcome!

Don’t know where to start? Visit VolunteerMatch who has opportunities in many major cities or check the United Way website.

23. Do a Spaghetti Kiss

If you’ve watched the movie Lady and the Tramp , you’ll surely remember its iconic scene: the spaghetti kiss! It might be a cliche when it comes to movies, but experiencing it in real life with your boyfriend or girlfriend will definitely draw out some laughs, especially if you both try recreating the scene without using your hands!

24. Dress Up in a Couples Costume For Halloween

Fairy tales can come true…at least on Halloween. But, so can nightmares. Whether you choose to dress up as Romeo and Juliet or Zombies, what could bring a couple closer together than looking completely ridiculous as a team?

To give you a few ideas, Cosmopolitan came up with the Cheesiest Couples’ Halloween Costumes . And here are a bunch of other fun ones ( you’re sure to find what suits you best! ):

• 100 Creative DIY Couples Costumes for Halloween
• 50 Crazy & Creative Couples Halloween Costumes
• 18 Awesome Halloween Costumes For Couples Who Don’t Suck

25. Start a New Tradition Together

Having a new tradition in your relationship helps keep it healthy and exciting. You can brainstorm ideas with your partner on what practices you would like to add. Even simple ones are great, like having a date night every Friday night or always going to the same restaurant on your anniversary.

26. Play Mini Golf

From putting balls into clowns mouths to miniature windmills, a round of mini golf is a fun low stress environment in which to have a perfect day with your partner. For any couple, really, a putt-putt is a good way to spend some time outside while playing a game where it doesn’t really matter who wins.

27. Kiss on Top of a Ferris Wheel

Some of the most romantic movies feature a smooch on the tippy-top of a ferris wheel. Many boyfriends and girlfriends have also claimed that this is where their very first kiss was had.

There’s something special about it no matter if its while taking a spin on the impressively large London Eye or a smaller one at your local carnival.

If you want to make it an extra special kiss go to one of the World’s 8 Best Ferris Wheels or on the 10 most famous ferris wheels in the world .

28. Sleep Under the Stars

Camping out and sleeping outdoors with your significant other either in the mountains or your own backyard, is a great bonding experience. You will also feel more connected with nature this way!

29. Go to the Theater

If you or your partner have not seen a live show at a theater before, you are in for a special treat! What separates a theater show from the movies is the beauty and magic of a live performance, like how your favorite band plays during a concert. 

For extra bucket list for couple’s points, maybe you can see a show off of our Broadway Musical Bucket List ?

30. Watch the Sunset and Sunrise in One Day

Watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset cuddled up with your partner is the epitome of romance. Why not make it a goal to do both in one day? Though there’s some stunning sunsets around the world, there’s no need to travel far, you can take advantage of what’s in your own backyard too.

31. Stay in Bed All Day (& Night)

Give up all the chores, take the day off and spend a lazy afternoon (and night!) in bed. Talk, cuddle, gossip, laugh and much more *wink wink*. You will notice the difference instantly.

32. Go Bowling

When you’re looking to have a fun but casual date, bowling works for any type of couple. You will both be wearing those oh-so-cute shoes and taking your best shot at getting a strike. Bonus bucket list points if you bowl a turkey—three strikes in a row!

33. Climb to the Top of a Mountain

They say that “couples that climb together, stay together.” To some, it couldn’t be any truer than that.

Mind you, climbing a mountain is not easy, and at times it brings out the worst in us. But working through each other’s strengths and weaknesses and sharing the hardships of the climb is a great way to reinforce your relationship, not to mention the reward waiting at the summit!

34. Cover the Bed in Rose Petals

Turn your bedroom into a romantic retreat by showering some rose petals all over the bed. You can spread them randomly, place them in the shape of a heart or even spell out ‘I love you’.

35. Play Bingo

Bingo is a fun and cheap bucket list activity for people of any age. You may even find that some local bars have special bingo nights.

36. Horseback Ride on the Beach

No doubt you have seen the millions of advertisements featuring a couples romantic horseback ride on a white sand beach or along a mountain peak. Why not recreate one of these ads for your own Couples Bucket List?

37. Take A Spontaneous Road Trip

Got some time to spare with a desire to spice up things with your relationship a little bit? Quickly pack up your overnight bags to go on a road trip totally spontaneously, leaving on the same day that you came up with the idea.

38. Host a Couples Game Night

Couples game nights are a fantastic way to get together and catch up with friends while having fun, and what better way to go about this than hosting one. Not only that, but this can also be a chance to show off your culinary skills by preparing some delicious Spanish pinchos as snacks!

These two articles will help with ideas on how to host one:

• Board Games Bucket List: 50 of the All Time Best Ones to Play
• Couple’s Game Night: Eight Ways to Rock A Couple’s Night In Group Date

39. Create a Music Playlist of Your Relationship

Compile all the songs that have meaning to your relationship and put them on a cd. What song was playing on your first date? Before you had the title of “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”? What was your wedding song? Is there a band that brings back wonderful memories? You can make it a ritual to listen to the tunes on each anniversary.

Having a hard time thinking of songs? Marie Claire has made it easy with the 50 Romantic Love Songs Guaranteed to Make You Melt .

40. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride (with Champagne!)

Jumping into a hot air balloon will take you on a thrilling and romantic ride in the sky. Even better if you can find a hot air balloon ride offered against some gorgeous and dramatic backdrops partnered with the best champagne you can order!

41. Attend the Concert of a Band You Both Love

If one of you is passionate about a band and they happen to be in town for a gig, it may turn out to be a meaningful day for the both of you. Or you might also go big and attend a music festival with several bands to jam to.

42. Make Love in an Exciting Location

Get out of the bedroom and take your lovemaking to a sexy location. Joining the mile high club, which is getting intimate in an airplane, seems to be a popular choice. But, there are many other creative ideas too. How about getting busy on top of the washer, on a porch swing, in a field of wildflowers or on a rooftop. Or possibly all of them?

If none of those ideas grab you, here are some others:

• 50 Places to Have Sex Before You Die
• 150 Best Places Ever to Have Sex
• 10 Most Exciting Public Places to Have Sex

43. Make Out at the Movies

While this may not be every couple’s cup of tea, the thrill and riskiness of making out at the movies will be quite the experience. It also gives both of you something to look forward to after the movie, once you are in a more intimate setting. 

If you and your partner decide to go for a hot make-out session, be sure you are in the back seats to avoid causing a scene and keep the smacking sounds to a minimum!

44. Go to the Beach

Why not head to the beach where you and your partner can relax with the cool ocean breeze brushing your skin, a drink in your hand and the sun setting on the horizon? PS: while your there, check a few things off our Beach Bucket List .

45. Take a Bubble Bath

Bubble baths are not just for the children with rubber duckies, they are also relaxing for the adults and a fabulous way to get a little closer to your partner. Arrange some candles, select some romantic music and put in a few drops of essential oil. Add a bottle of champagne and this is a must for your couples bucket List.

Want to make it the most memorable bath for the two of you? Get inspiration from Romantic Baths for Two and How to Set Up a Romantic Bath .

46. Feed Each Other

It may sound totally cheesy, but it can also be pretty dang intimate. From chocolate covered strawberries to saucy sandwiches, don’t hold back. Just be careful not to bite each other’s fingers, but maybe a little nibble would be okay.

47. Dine out at a Fancy Restaurant

Sometimes it will be ages since your girlfriend and you went out to have a decent dinner without looking at your clocks. Plan to have a night out having a lavish meal in a five-star restaurant without having to worry about the undone housework, children or work commitments.

48. Cliff Jump While Holding Hands

Grab your partners hand, plug your nose and take a leap of faith…together. There is a special bond that is formed in a relationship when you face and conquer a fear as a team.

There are places all around the world to go cliff jumping (check out The Seven Most Amazing Cliff Diving Locations and the World’s Most Thrilling Cliff Diving Spots ). Just make sure your jump is in a safe location!

49. Take a Horse Carriage Ride

Riding a horse and carriage is probably something you or your loved one dreamed of, more so if you grew up watching romantic fairy tales. Since we love making memories, now is our chance to make this dream a reality! 

50. Join the Mile High Club

The Mile-High Club is reserved for those who have gotten steamy and sexy on an airplane, typically in the airplane bathroom. This one is a bit more risqué and frowned upon, but there’s a reason why it’s such a famous sex bucket list item to try. Do you think you’ll dare to try?

51. Learn to Tango

The history of the Argentine tango originated in South America in the 1890s and has been called the sexiest dance in the world. It is said that this dance will make you feel sexier and increase testosterone levels. One thing is for certain, it will have you and your love against each other’s bodies so tight you will be able to hear each other’s heartbeat.

52. Go Camping

Camping requires a little more preparation than many other couple ideas on this list (our camping packing list will help!), but sitting by the bonfire and sleeping side by side in a tent surrounded by nothing but nature is crazy romantic. You could also check off some things from our camping bucket list while you are there!

It’d be a bonus if there was a National Park nearby and you can make a checkmark off the US National Parks Bucket List: 61 Beauties to Visit in America

53. Stay in a Hotel Room with a Hot Tub

Send your kids off to their dear old grandparents, cancel all the appointments, and book a cozy suite with a hot tub for just the two of you. Spend your time lazily snuggled up with each other in bed, watch a romantic movie on Netflix, order room service and enjoy zero interruptions or diaper explosions!

54. Go Skinny Dipping

Some say that there is no freer feeling than being in your birthday suit. Skinny dipping is a great way to be naked, yet discreet at the same time since your covered by a body of water. 

If you are a skinny dipping virgin then check out this article on How to Skinny Dip and The Do’s and Don’ts of Skinny Dipping: An Etiquette Guide (because apparently there are some rules!).

55. Cuddle by the Fire

Whether at home or during one of your camping trips, nothing spells ‘cozy’ then cuddling with your SO by the fire during a cold night.

56. Dance in the Kitchen

The kitchen is not only a place where you can prepare and cook your food, it can also turn it into an epic dance floor. Don’t worry about whether it be a slow, romantic dance or full-on party dancing, either way it will make for some sweet memorable moments.

57. Take a Tandem Bike Ride

A successful tandem bike ride will take communication, cooperation and teamwork—all things that are very important in many aspects of a relationship. Many locations will offer hourly bicycle rentals, so pick a beautiful afternoon to take a tandem bike ride along a peaceful path.

Tandem bike riding is more than just being together to get some exercise, it tests more than fitness and can change a marriage .

58. Go Wine Tasting

Wine tasting at a winery is one of those fun couples activities you should try at least once, especially if you both love savoring the taste of quality wine.

59. Make Thanksgiving Dinner

Whether you’re spending it with family, or even breaking tradition and spending a romantic Thanksgiving with just the two of you, making a memorable dinner can make Thanksgiving fun . 

You can check out these ideas for some inspiration on how to level up your Thanksgiving even more:

• 15 Thanksgiving Ideas for Couples for a Memorable Holiday

60. Recreate Your First Date

Think way back to your very first date with your current partner and try to recapture it. Duplicate everything from the clothing you were both wearing to the meal that you ate to the movie that you may have watched. Recreating a first date is also very popular for marriage proposals. Just saying.

Here is a helpful resource for checking this goal off the bucket list: Recreate Your First Date by Dating Divas

61. Slow Dance

Don’t we all have a song that reminds us of the time when we fell in love? Turn it on and grab your lover for a memorable slow dance.

62. Run a Race Together

Running is a great way to get you both physically active and breathing some fresh air. Training for and completing a challenge together is also a great way to bond. 

Check Active’s 5k Race Finder for runs near you and use this guide to start preparing: How to Train, Run & Finish Your First 5k Race

63. Kiss in the Rain

As a relationship progresses we can forget the importance of just kissing! There are many pros and cons of kissing in the rain, but next time you are caught in some showers, forget the umbrella and step outside to give your partner a romantic smooch.

Just in case it’s been awhile (or you’re looking for some new tricks) read the 365 Ways to Kiss .

64. Play a Game of 20 Questions

If you are looking for something other than Would You Rather?, you can play a game of 20 Questions instead!

As a couple, it is a fun and creative way to bond and put your deductive reasoning skills to the test by guessing what object your boyfriend or girlfriend or spouse has chosen within just 20 questions.

65. Complete a Jigsaw Puzzle Together

This is one of those fun things to do with your partner that most of us haven’t done since we were children! You don’t find too many opportunities where you can concentrate on one thing, so be present and let everything else in your mind go. That alone will be worth every minute.

Not sure what puzzle to complete? Check out the best 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles for adults (& tips for solving one) .

66. Spend the Night at a B&B

There are amazing bed & breakfasts all over the world , but it doesn’t even have to be far from home, B&B’s make a great overnight getaway too! And if you’ve never stayed at a Bed and Breakfast, here’s what you’re missing out on .

67. Read a Book To Each Other

If both of you are avid readers, then those couple evenings make for some of the best times to just sit on your porch and read to each other.

If you love the classics then check of the Classic Books Bucket List: 25 of the Best Must-Read Novels

68. Have Breakfast in Bed

Start your morning in a truly relaxing way, with a tasty breakfast in bed. The easiest way to complete this goal would be to order room service at a hotel, but don’t cancel out the opportunity to do it in your very own home too.

Hey husbands—the wife will love breakfast in bed! And if you’re worried about making it here’s some help:

• How to Make and Serve Breakfast in Bed (Without Being Cheesy)
• 20 Breakfast in Bed Favorites

69. Adopt an Adorable Pet

There are so many incredible benefits to adopting a pet . They’ll enrich your life in numerous ways, from helping you to destress to getting you both moving more. And in turn, you’ll give a loyal and innocent animal a loving home they absolutely deserve.

There are so many fur babies out there just waiting to be adopted by you and your partner. You can start your search at Petfinder .

70. Ask Each Other the “Would You Rather Questions for Couples”

Are you looking for some new adult date night ideas? Then these would you rather questions for couples are the answer. The best part is that these questions are not too hard, and there really is no right or wrong answers. Whether you’re doing this list with your boyfriend, girlfriend, partner or spouse, this is a sure-fire way to become closer.

You can even get our downloadable would you rather questions to print at home!

71. Create Your Signature “Couple Cocktail”

Not only can ordering cocktails in a bar be heavy for the wallet, but sometimes bars are so loud you’ll have to shout to be able to hear each other—that’s not romantic! So how about you instead get some spirits and mixers and create your own signature couple cocktails.

You can either think of an entirely whole new signature drink or base it off of one from my Classic Cocktail Bucket List .

72. Be Financially Stable

Becoming financially stable is probably something everyone is striving for, especially if you have or are starting to have a family. As with every relationship, open communication and understanding goes a long way. By being aligned with each other’s financial goals, you can take steps in working towards it together, like assessing spending habits or managing debt.

If you need a little help, see our article on 75+ Simple Ways to Save Money .

73. Buy a Home Together

Buying a house together is a bucket list goal for many couples. To get your hunt started, you can check out websites like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Trulia.

74. Create a Monogram & Leave Your Mark

75. do a couple’s photo session.

Even if one of you is a little bit apprehensive about getting their photo taken at first, a professional photo shoot is a brilliant way to get some wonderful memories of your relationship. You may even end up going crazy and having one done for each special occasion!

76. Try Something Adventurous

Do both of you share a fear that you’re hoping to conquer? It can be related to your relationship, but also something along the lines of skydiving or bungee jumping. By facing the fear together you both will come out of the experience as stronger people and a stronger couple.

Don’t know what to do? Check out our Adventure Bucket List: 50 Crazy Ideas & Things to Do

77. Get Drinks at a Rooftop Bar

Rooftop bars are enticing places to linger since they give additional ambiance. The city lights from above, the light chatter in the background, and on rare occasions, stars in the sky, drinking on a rooftop bar with your sweetheart is a romantic experience you should try at least once.

78. Fly First Class

Whether you are going on a romantic honeymoon or exploring the world, flying first class as a couple is a unique way to start the experience in style, especially if it’s a long flight.  Some perks include less stress and hassle from checking in and boarding, comfortable seats/bed, free drinks and food, even amenities like wifi and TV.

While it is by no means cheap, the luxury and comfort it offers will ensure that you are well-rested and looking forward to the journey ahead once you arrive at your destination!

79. Do an Escape Room

If you want to test your relationship and how effectively you can work together when met with an obstacle, take your partner to an escape room. The idea is to solve puzzles and riddles in order to find your way out of a locked room in a limited amount of time.  It may sound easy, but it’s not!

PS: Escape rooms also make for excellent double dates!

80. Get Married

Formally exchanging vows and making a lifelong commitment to each other in the form of marriage is probably one of the ultimate milestones in a relationship. Of course, be sure to take the time to communicate and understand each other’s views about marriage before making this big decision.

81. Get Matching Tattoos

You don’t have to tattoo each other’s names onto your body in huge letters, but go for a design that brings some joy and meaning for both of you.

Need cute couple tattoo ideas? Cosmopolitan has 74 great tattoo ideas! If you’re not committed to a forever tattoo, then check out Etsy’s temporary tattoos (I personally LOVE this simple one ) .

82. Picks Apple (or Berries) at a Farm

Picking berries (especially during spring to summer) is another great outdoor activity that you can do with your partner. There are pick-your-own farms across different states where you can, well, pick your own berries (and other produce)! Just make sure to check first which berries are in season if you are looking for a specific one. You can also forage for berries in the wild, but you would need a bit of knowledge to spot which ones are edible.

83. Hike a New Trail

If the two of you are interested in the outdoors, being active, or exploring something new, or the combination of all three, perhaps it’s time to take your romantic day on a hike?  Not to mention you get to enjoy the beautiful nature around you! 

If you’re looking for an epic place to hike, then see our Hiking Bucket List: 25 Best Hikes & Backpacking Treks in the World

84. Try Ice Skating

Whether it’s winter time and you find the perfect iced over lake or any other time of year at an indoor rink, ice skating can be a fun activity for both of you to try. Don’t forget to warm up with some hot chocolate afterwards!

85. Take a Kayak Tour

If you want to spend some time outdoors together on a budget and the weather is right, trying out kayaking may be the way to go. It’s a unique date idea that lets you admire some gorgeous views of nature while enjoying each other’s company in an active setting.

86. Go on a Dinner Cruise

Though a dinner cruise may feel a little touristy, it’s another romantic activity that works for both couples on a first date and couples that have been together forever. The menus are typically high quality and your dinner will be coupled with some excellent views from a perspective you may not typically experience a city from.

87. Make a Sex Bucket List

Have you already put together your own sex bucket list or have you shied away from creating it? The reality is that sex is an entirely normal part of most adult’s life, and we’re more than allowed to enjoy it! 

So whether you’re just getting started in finding extra fun in the bedroom, or a seasoned pro looking to get a little more freaky with your partner, these sexy things to try in bed (and beyond) will add a little more spice to life.

88. Jump Out of a Plane (Skydive!)

Since we are on a lifelong journey of making lasting memories with our partner, why not add something that goes above and beyond your comfort zone, like tandem skydiving? It can be a little frightening to some, but is definitely one for your adventure bucket list !

If jumping out of a plane is just too scary, then try indoor skydiving in a wind tunnel instead.

89. See a Movie at a Drive-In

If you want to go out on a movie date, but have the option to snuggle up a bit more intimately than you’d dare in a movie theater, then opt for a drive-in movie. 

90. Have Fun at an Amusement Park

Of course, riding all the rides at an amusement park is a must, but don’t skip out on playing the games too. Don’t give up until one of you has won that stuffed teddy bear or blow up a giraffe!

91. Grow a Beautiful Garden

Gardening is another one of those unique bucket list ideas for couples.  Aside from the bonding time together while getting your hands dirty in the garden, seeing it grow into something more beautiful as the days pass is just good!

92. Start a Couple’s Book Club

Reading a good book is always a pleasure, but being able to share your thoughts on it with someone who has also read it makes it that much better.

If you don’t know what to read, you can start with some of the NY Times Best Sellers or check out our Classic Books Bucket List of the best must-read novels.

93. Host an Epic Dinner Party

While hosting an epic dinner party can be difficult, it is a great way to spend the night and have fun with other people like friends or family. It can also be a chance to get to know each other’s friends, as well as your friends to your partner’s friends.

Need some ideas on how to host one? You can check out this guide below:

• How to Plan an Easy (but Epic) Dinner Party

94. Laugh at a Comedy Club

Another low effort date idea that’ll bring along laughs and conversation, even on a first date, is attending a comedy show. And, you know, laughter is not only the best medicine, it also is also known to be a very attractive quality in a partner.

95. Kiss Under the Mistletoe During The Holidays

The holiday season can also be the time for romance. Set up mistletoe in your home and lead your heart’s beloved under it to gain the great excuse of kissing them.

96. Learn Your Love Language

One of the things that you will learn as a couple is expressing your love to each other. Are you the type who hugs and kisses your sweetheart every chance you get or are you someone who spends quality time with them, giving your undivided attention? Or maybe you are someone who likes giving thoughtful gifts?

Whatever that may be, discovering your (and your partner’s) love language will help to understand how the two of you give and receive affection to each other and improve your relationship even more.

Here’s a couple places to learn your love language:

• The Love Language Quiz
• 5 Love Languages – Free Test for Couples!

97. Move In Together

Moving in together is another relationship milestone that you and your boyfriend or girlfriend might get into in the future.

While the idea of being together in the same place may sound exciting, it is equally important to talk with each other first on this next step in your relationship.

Here is a great article that lays out some tips and things you and your partner might want to consider before you move together.

• 10 Tips For Moving In Together, According to a Relationship Coach

98. Start a Couple’s Blog

If you or your SO have a knack for writing or telling stories, you might want to consider starting a couples blog. Not only is this a fantastic creative outlet, but working on a shared project and passion is a great way to bond and strengthen your relationship even further.

One of the perks of a couples blog is that both of you can put in different perspectives about a topic you are passionate about, like traveling or food. And did I mention that it can also be a potential source of income?

PS: If you decide to start a blog, then read my articles: Become a Blogger: How to Start a Successful Blog in 6 Easy Steps and How to Make Money Blogging: 7 Ways to Monetize . But, also make sure to know the top beginner blogging mistakes to avoid (& how to fix them) .

99. Sleep in a Castle

What little, or big, girl doesn’t dream of being a princess at some point in their life? Images of wearing a spectacular puffy pink gown, expertly dancing at a ball with the most handsome man and being the center of everyone’s attention. 

Even though you are not born into royalty, you can always spend the night in a castle with your prince. A perfect evening fit for our Couples Bucket List.

100. Surprise Your Partner

If you’re married or living with your sweetheart, you know how tough it can be to avoid falling into a routine. But surprising your partner opens up the chance to do something different, even if it is not your anniversary, like maybe making one of their bucket list wishes come true!

101. Take A Brewery Tour

You don’t need the sun to enjoy a cold local brew, it’s a fun thing to do on a rainy day too, especially with your partner! Most of them also provide behind-the-scenes tours, so you can spend an afternoon learning all about how they make beer while enjoying a pint or two of beer.

102. Say “I Love You”

Aside from expressing our love to our partner through actions, like say, holding their hand or giving them a million kisses, saying I love you to them reinforces those feelings and actions. If you want to get creative, you can even say I love you in a different language!

103. Find a New Hobby to Do Together

This way you can both get out of your comfort zones and bond over trying to learn something new together. Your new hobby can be as practical or as out there as you both seem fit. 

If you don’t know where to start in choosing one, then head over to our Hobbies Bucket List: 100+ Most Popular Types to Try .

104. Take Cooking Class

Much like cooking dinner together at home, taking a cooking class is a great bonding thing to do for couples, with a delicious reward waiting for you at its end. Pick a theme together for what type of food and cuisine you want to try, book your space in advance, and get ready for an evening of giggles.

105. Try New Food

A super easy way to add some spice into your relationship – quite possibly literally so – is by discovering a new restaurant or cuisine together. You may even want to make a thing out of finding a new place or type of food to eat each time you go out on a dinner date together. 

Or if your adventurous eaters check out our Weird Food Bucket List that has plenty of unique things to try!

106. Visit a Different Country

Traveling to a new place within the country is great, but traveling to a different country brings the whole experience up a notch. Plus, getting to experience new things with your sweetheart is a big plus in strengthening your relationship!

Being in a different country helps you become more open-minded about your cultural differences. It also opens you to unique adventures and attractions, like eating staying in a Bedouin camp in Jordan’s Wadi Rum desert or hiking the classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu .

107. Visit The Place You Had Your First Kiss

Do you still remember where you shared that first kiss together? Maybe it was in the park, in the movies, or even while hanging out. Regardless, there’s nothing more romantic than going back to that special place and reminiscing!

108. Take on a DIY Home Project

Whether its  decorating the living room or making a garden bed, a DIY home project is a popular couples activity that allows you to work together towards a common goal.

109. Have a Fondue Night

Fondue is a Swiss and French Savoyard dish that features melted cheese over a portable stove. If you want sweet rather than savory, you can go for chocolate fondue that has sweet tidbits of fruits and pastries. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?

This is a delicious recipe for fondue that I brought all the way back from Switzerland. And here’s the cutest red fondue pot or for something even easier, an electric one !

110. Share a Milkshake

Sharing a delicious milkshake with your sweetheart is probably something most (if not all) couples have done before.  To spice things up a bit, you can try hunting and sharing the best milkshake you can find in your state. Or, if you want to add a personal touch to it, you can also make one at home using the recipes below.

• 21 Killer Milkshakes That Will Rock Your World

111. Have a Fancy Night on the Town

Whether you’re partying at a trendy club or going to a 5-star  dinner, dressing up for a night on town is one way to get out of your comfy t-shirt and jeans!

112. Bake Together

Baking requires patience and the exact measurements of ingredients for the finished product to turn out perfectly—just like your relationship! The best part is that you get to eat your baked goods afterwards.

113. Watch Each Others Favorite Movie

Sure, you and your partner might have different tastes when it comes to movies, but that is what’s great about it: you’ll get to discover something new about each other through your favorite flicks! Whether you’ll love the movie or not, simple gestures and efforts like this are romantic in their own way. 

114. Create Your Couple’s Travel Bucket List

While you may already have your own couples bucket list, having one dedicated to traveling is a great way to keep track of new adventures, places, cuisine, or anything that you want to experience together that falls under this category!

115. Stay in a Cabin in the Woods

Whether you’re both the adventurous type or simply looking for a cozy and quiet getaway, staying at a cabin surrounded by nature is the perfect place to be.

From going on a river adventure to relaxing by the fire to enjoying the scenic views, you’ll never run out of things to do as a couple!

116. Catch a Sports Game

Watching a sports game together is a fun activity for couples because it can combine two things you love: quality time and sharing your passion for an action-packed game. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, or good old American football, you can catch a game live at a stadium or settle for shouting at your home television screen.

117. Head to a Museum

Going to a museum with your boyfriend, girlfriend or significant other can be a really fun time if you choose the right one. It’s great exploring the wonders of art, history, and culture, but, all museums don’t have to be historical or artsy. You can find some pretty unique ones out there too! For example, I’ve been to a quirky umbrella cover museum on Maine’s Peak Island , and also a 3-D one in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh where we got to take selfies in a dozen different vignettes. 

118. Meditate together

Meditating together can be a super peaceful and zen date night idea . Picture this: you and your partner sitting cross-legged, eyes closed, taking deep breaths and letting go of all the stress and worries. It’s a chance to escape the chaos of everyday life and find some inner peace together. Namaste, lovebirds!

119. Plan the Ultimate Staycation

Instead of dealing with the stress of traveling to a faraway location, opt to plan a staycation where you visit attractions and do cool activities close to home. You can try out new restaurants, visit local tourist spots, indulge in spa treatments, or simply take time to unwind and enjoy leisure activities at home . Try setting up a cozy movie night with tons of snacks and a blanket fort, or have a DIY spa day with face masks and massages. You can even whip up some delicious homemade meals together, trying out new recipes and laughing at kitchen mishaps. 

120. Reorganize a Room in Your House

Working together to transform a space allows you to unleash your creativity and showcase your shared vision. Picture this: you both put on your comfiest clothes, crank up the music, and dive headfirst into a decluttering and redesign adventure. It’s a chance to unleash your inner interior designers, brainstorming creative ways to maximize space and make the room feel like a cozy haven. 

121. Write Songs for Each Other

Writing songs for your partner can be a super romantic (and potentially hilarious) way to express your feelings in a totally unique way. Whether you’re a musical maestro or simply strumming a few chords on a guitar, you can create a heartfelt melody that will make their heart swoon. Remember when writing your tune, it is all about capturing those inside jokes, sweet moments, and quirks that make your relationship special. 

122. Design a Coffee Table Book

Designing a coffee table book filled with photos of your relationship is like creating a special visual love story that you can cherish forever. With platforms like Shutterfly , you can easily bring your vision to life by choosing layouts, adding captions, and customizing every detail. From that adorable first date selfie to the epic vacation snapshots, you can curate a collection of your favorite moments together.

123. Have a Pottery Night

Making pottery and trying out wheel throwing together as a couple can be an incredibly fun and romantic experience! Imagine channeling your inner Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze in that iconic pottery scene from the movie Ghost. You can both get your hands dirty, shaping and molding clay into beautiful works of art. It’s a chance to unleash your creativity, laugh at the inevitable clay mishaps, and create something unique together. 

124. Go Indoor Rock Climbing

If you and your partner are an adventurous duo, indoor rock climbing is an activity you’re bound to love! Scaling towering walls and cheering each other on as you conquer new heights is quite a bonding experience. Whether you’re newbies or seasoned climbers, indoor rock climbing offers a unique blend of excitement and teamwork.

125. Have a Deep Conversation About Life

Having a deep conversation about life with your significant other can be incredibly meaningful, and even transformative. It’s like diving into the depths of your souls, sharing your dreams, fears, and philosophies on the universe over a cozy cup of coffee or a late-night walk. You can explore topics like the meaning of life, your passions, what makes you truly happy, and your aspirations for the future. Dive into discussions about personal growth, relationships, and even the challenges you’ve faced. 

These conversations create a space for vulnerability, understanding, and connection that goes beyond the surface level. 

In reality, a romantic relationship may not always mirror the picture-perfect unions you see in popular movies. However, it possesses the potential to become a thrilling journey, enriched with enjoyable couple activities, intimate date nights, meaningful connections, and fun escapades that strengthen the bond between two individuals.

The key lies in deliberately creating these experiences. These things to do as a couple ideas are sure to elevate your relationship and take your shared adventures to a different level. So, grab hold of this list and see how many items you can check off.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

More relationship bucket list ideas.

Anniversary Bucket List: 50 Ideas & Things to Do for Celebrating Date Night Bucket List: 75 Cute Ideas for a Perfectly Fun Evening 125+ Would You Rather Questions for Couples (including dirty ones!) Sexy Bucket List: 25 Fun Things to Try in the Bedroom Dog Bucket List: 57 Fun Things to Do & Happy Activities Girlfriend Bucket List: 66 Fun Things to do With Your Gal

89 thoughts on “Couple’s Bucket List Ideas: 125 Fun Activities & Things to Do”

I love those ideas! We've done some already, but they're certainly worth repeating ;)

my potato muncher pookie wookie and i took inspiration from you we even showed our friends! they have decided to do it with us! cant wait to try 54 ;) My hubby and i love everything except the 112 because i cant bake! We do this on a weekly schedule babes, wanna join?

I love these ideas- esp. sing karaoke together!! My boyfriend is a musician so he is always singing- but I think that would be awesome.  Everyone should feel a little silly sometimes!!

Love this Love this Love this! Can I reblog this post PLEASE :) or can you guest blog on this topic on my blog :D

Hi! You can absolutely repost it, just give me & my blog a credit link. Thanks for the kudos!

I need you to post this one on my webpage. You're awesome!!! (I really need my boyfriend to read it, sounds better coming from someone else.)

Thanks! You are more than welcome to post this list on your site as a “guest post”. I would just need a teensy-weensy credit and link to my blog. I think it would be great, let me know.

These are great ideas. Everyone needs to break out of a relationship "rut" every now and then and these would be perfect! I've done 7 of these, if carving our names into wood at a bar (we were allowed) counts for carving our names into a tree!

Wow! Seven is really good! 10 more to go ;)

i love these ideas! if only he have enough time to do all of those romantic stuffs :’)

I'm surprised at how many things we've done already! Great list… *tweets

My husband and I haven’t completed everything on the list…yet!

I love this idea me and my boyfriend do some of them *wink wink* constantly!

You naughty girl you!

Thank you for the nice ideas😍. We now got something nice to spice our marriage just from the ordinary🥂

We have done 9 of them… Getting there. I need to print this teehee

I'm thinking of buying dancing lessons for Xmas for my hubby, because he's Argie and doesn't know how to tango! What a shame!! I'm liking #13! ;-)

I wish I could get my hubby to even contemplate dancing. He says that we have been married long enough, so he doesn’t have to dance anymore! Gotta love him :)

I love these couple lists. It is important to grow and experience new things as a couple. I completed a few of these in my last relationship, hoping to have more experiences such as these in future. I don’t have a choice with Number 18 because I am unable to see and therefore unable to bike any other way.

I have been married almost 17 years and have realized that having new experiences has really kept our relationship strong (& fun). But, there are still so many more things we can do together!

If you’re lucky enough to have a porch (a deck would suffice) this makes an incredible date. My hubby and I (38 years together, 33 married) go out onto the porch in the dark of night, play our favorite songs and slow dance. This is especially fun in the rain.Sure, we’ve been caught by the neighbors once or twice, they’ve never said anything but I bet it makes them wish they had the same experience.

I completely love this idea! It sounds like such a special way to spend a warm summer evening.

Seriously, who has not done all that????????

Fantastic ideas – can’t wait to get started!

The photo for the “Write a love letter” is actually a Chinese letter about a couple deciding to break up because they aren’t fit for each other. Perhaps choose another image :P

Ha! Thanks for the heads up!

You got a long great list of fun activities as a couple. The most important thing is that couple needs to find time to enjoy and have fun. Because it’s a lifelong relationship. Having time together helps build the relationship stronger.

I completely agree that quality time is so important!

Anytime my friend and her fiance try to do anything cute, it always ends in banging. They even did it in my house once?

A big and jolly Merry Christmas all the way from Sweden. I hope you have a blessed day without so many hours online!

Great Post :) Thank you …

I have got myself a boyfriend i am doing romanctic monmments couples thing thank you for your post i will do that one day .x

Just love these romantic couples list. All these ideas are amazing and i have done almost 6 from these. Nowadays, every couple need some time from their busy life for enjoy the world and do these type of things. I hope i would done all these ideas. Thanks Annette :)

y’all really stopped at 68

We have done 8 of them. :)

Wow! That’s impressive!

Seriously it nice

19 is a great start!

Do all respect you’re couples bucket list is real life me and my girlfriend have practically done every one of these not trying to do every one of these play Kiss in the rain we kiss in the shower same thing I’m going to make a ghetto version it’s going to be better no disrespect

Thanks for your ideas! Between the comments and the article, I have a few things to surprise the hubby with!

Well thanks for posting such an outstanding idea.

This is awesome, and so are you both!!! Stumbled up on this because I’m looking for things for couples to do for a couples date night event! thanks!!!

Happy to hear that it helped!

Great articles to read. Thank you for all the ideas.

Just came across this…done most certainly worth doing again and doing the ones we haven’t tried 😊

Actually surprised i found what I was looking for. It is a great website with nice ideas to do on your date date and so far it helped me a ton.

We, ve did cooking together, we also achieved our goal of getting a couples massage, now I find a lot of different bucket list ideas like I have added horse riding, but I’m a little bit afraid about horse riding but it’s my biggest dare, another great idea that you gave me is amazing I never thought of giving my fiance a pet name so that’s a little challenging, By the way, I’m looking for more cool bucket ideas in the future thankyou. Keep giving us these cool bucket ideas it really helps.

I am happy to hear you are enjoying this bucket list!

Trying to get my husband of over 31 years to be more adventurous. So far he has shown some interest in “bowling” in as many states as we can – we met in a bowling alley in 1985. Wish me luck!!!

Wishing you the best of luck. At least he’s willing go bowling still.

Waiting for this pandemic to go, so we can complete the bucket list#41 and 6 desperately waiting so we can travel, Thankyou very much for your ideas Annette, Love You.

I’m glad you liked the activities I added on the Couples Bucket List. Hope you can travel soon!

It is a great website with nice ideas to do on your date date and so far it helped me a ton. This is nice content

Thank you so much. I’m glad I helped you with this list.

Great Informational Article…Thanks for sharing

Well, thanks for posting such an outstanding idea.

we tried all 68 of these. we even started combining some. might I suggest feeding each other while playing bingo in a hot tub… very spicy!!!😃🤓😉

All 68? Hmm, that’s an interesting suggestion.

This is interesting. I am going to try some now.

The 19th is a great idea.

Pretty exhaustive and awesome tips as to what couples can do together. Thanks.

GREAT POST, Thanks a lot for sharing nice information.

I read your blog. Having very use full information help me a lot. I will read more articles on your blog.

Great articles to read and learn. Thank you for all the new ideas sharing.

It is a great website with nice ideas to do on your date date and so far it helped people.

Thanks for your Unique Informational Article Thanks for sharing so, I request you keep this work continued.

i was just kidding you guys

Quite a few fantastic suggestions for things that couples might do together. Thanks.

Great Informative article, thanks for the great information.

Thanks for sharing this information

Thank you for more informatioin about this blog.

46 completed

Wow. that’s a lot already.

thank you Annette

Very Much Informative and Helpful Blog. Very Well Written and Also Great Ideas Shared.

I reviewed your blog it’s really good. thank you for the information about this blog.I want more information

Very helpful for couples, specially for newly weds going on honemoon. I have been married for 7 years now. Yet, one destination is still in my bucket list – Rajasthan, India. Hopefully I get to travel soon with my hubby there. And I get to write about it on my travel blog soon.

Thanks for your Blog.

Gayatri Admit at mytravelguideblog.com

Thank you. I’m sure you can visit Rajasthan with your husband soon. Would love to hear from you more about your travels :)

a very nice and beautiful blog for Traveling

Aww. Thank you so much I really appreciate it

This is a very helpful blog for me.

wow. Thanks so much I really appreciate it.

Very helpful. thank you for the information about this blog

Great Informative article. Thank you for all the ideas.

I reviewed your blog it’s really good. thank you for the information about this blog. I want more information

very helpful. thank you for the information about this blog

this article was very helpfull for me

Wow, what a fantastic blog post! Your clear explanation of the importance of engaging content and its impact on audience connection really resonated with me.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Hey Bucket Listers! I'm Annette .

I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

GET MY 2,000 free bucket list ideas

Jump right in and you will get your printable ideas by email:

Whatcha Looking for?

Home About Blog The Shop Partnerships Contact

Bucket list ideas travel facing fear & anxiety.

The Ultimate Bucket List For Summer: 35 Summer Bucket List Ideas 2021

Are you looking for fun things to do this summer? Then check out my bucket list for summer that has everything you’d want to do this season.

Summer is here and I don’t know about you but I am beyond excited to hit the outdoors and enjoy the sun after some long cold months.

But with summer here, the need to be more active means looking for things to put on a summer bucket list.

And besides sunbathing all day, there are so many ideas for a summer bucket list that you probably didn’t even think of.

So if you’re looking for other things to do during this beautiful season, I’ve compiled a list of the best bucket list ideas for summer to help you enjoy the summer in full swing.

Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas To Help You Enjoy Your Summer

1. relax at the beach.

Kicking off my bucket list for summer is probably the most obvious and that’s spending a day or 2 at the beach.

With all the heat that comes with summer, you’ll need to cool off by chilling at the beach.

However, before you go, make sure that you know these beach tips and also make sure that you don’t leave this cute bikini , this beach cover-up , or any of these beach essentials behind for a perfect beach day.

Psst… Don’t know which beach to go to? Then check out these most beautiful beaches in the south of France for inspiration.

2. Go on a Road Trip

There is no better time to go on a road trip like during the summer! The weather is great, you won’t have to deal with the snow like in winter and you can easily dive in water holes/lakes you find along the way.

But if you’ve never gone on a road trip, check out this post to learn how to plan a road trip and all the mistakes to avoid while on the road .

Also, check out this post to exactly know which road trip essentials not to leave behind for an epic summer road trip.

And while driving, don’t bore yourself to death! Summer is all about being energetic, so make sure that you have some road trip games to play to kill boredom.

3. Connect With Nature Through Camping

I love camping! It’s usually on top of my summer to-do list and if you love the outdoors, add it to your crazy summer bucket list as well.

You can opt to go pitch tent camping or rooftop tended car camping! But whichever way you choose to camp, you’re bound to have an incredible time in the outdoors.

So whether you plan to go alone, with the family, or camping with your dog , make sure that you don’t forget to bring the necessary camping accessories .

And if this summer will be your first time, make sure that you know all the camping tips for beginners to avoid the most common camping mistakes made by rookies!

You can also check out my other posts on the best breakfast meals for camping or this kitchen camping cooking gear post to fully prepare for your summer camping trip.

Related post: Dog camping essentials you should pack for the outdoors

4. Take it to The Trail By Hiking

If you don’t go hiking during summer, then you’re missing out on one of the popular activities that is on almost everyone’s bucket list for the summer.

Don’t worry if you’re a beginner, you can check out my hiking tips for beginners to guide you through the entire process and also get an idea of the hiking gear you should pack before you hit the trail.

And while at it, be sure not to make these hiking mistakes that most beginner hikers usually make.

5. Make a Splash at The Swimming Pool

If you live in a city like Paris which has no beaches, the best way to cool off the summer hit is by hitting the swimming pool.

So prepare your swimsuit and tick this activity off your bucket list for summer.

6. Attend a Summer Festival

The fun thing about summer is that it comes with a number of festivals, be it music, art, movies, etc., whichever kind of festival and my guess is that it has everything to do with the good weather!

So check your local festival calendar and see which festival you can attend this summer for an incredible time.

7. Let Your Inner Child Out at a Theme Park

If you’ve always wanted to let your inner child out, going to a theme park is the best way to do it this summer!

So let loose and climb your favorite rollercoasters, eat all the pastries and sweets you can and laugh as hard as you can because you totally deserve it.

8. Go For a Picnic

Going for a picnic is one of my favorite summer activities and it comes high on my summer bucket list.

So get your picnic basket and picnic blanket ready, pack your favorite sandwiches and find some nice park/grass to sit in.

But if you don’t know how to plan one, you can check out my tips for planning a perfect picnic .

9. Be Mesmerized at an Aquarium

One of the other activities that should be on your bucket lists for summer is going to an aquarium.

It is a fun way to enjoy the aquatic life and on top of that, most aquariums usually organize festivals during summer which can be super fun to watch.

10. Shop all You Can During the Summer Sale

If you love shopping, this should be the first thing on your bucket list for summer. Thankfully, most countries organize official summer sales where you can grab something you’ve been wanting for so long but couldn’t afford!

So save up now as it can be interesting and the huge discounts will make you want to buy everything.

11. Visit a National park

There is no better time to visit a national park than in the summer! So grab your national park essentials and go connect with nature.

12. Discover The Underwater Species By Snorkeling

Another activity that should be on your bucket lists for the summer is snorkeling! With the heat of the summer, snorkeling is a good way to cool off while still admiring the beautiful underwater species.

13. Learn How to Surf

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf, this summer is the perfect time to resurrect your passion. Luckily, during the summer, there are so many places that teach how to surf!

It might be a bit intimidating but challenge yourself and tick it off your bucket list for the summer.

14. Watch a Beautiful Sunset

One of the best parts about this time of the year is that summer blesses us with beautiful sunsets!

So look out for good sunset spots in your neighborhood and take in the beauty that comes with watching the sun disappear as it creates magical colors.

15. Visit a Farm and Pick Your Own Strawberries

Who doesn’t love strawberries! Now imagine instead of just buying them from a grocery store, you get to go to a farm and pick them yourself!

It’s such a fun experience that you ought to enjoy during this summer.

16. Check Into an All-Inclusive Resort

After non-stop working, sometimes all you need is to relax and have everything done for you, and checking yourself into an all-inclusive resort will provide all that!

I mean we all deserve a break sometimes and just sit at the resort beach/pool while sipping on a margarita!

17. Get Tipsy on a Wine Tasting Tour

If you love wine, then going on a wine tasting tour is one of the perfect ideas for a summer bucket list.

18. Visit a Vine Yard

If wine tasting at a bar or a wine cellar doesn’t work for you, why not just head to a vineyard instead.

You’ll not only taste various wines but you’ll also learn about the entire wine making process which is really interesting.

19. Go Water Skiing

Nothing says summer than participating in various water sports and one fun summer activity you should try is water skiing.

20. Organise a BBQ and Invite People Over

Is it even summer without the smell of a grill? Certainly not! So invite some friends/family over and enjoy a good bbq.

21. Check into a Cozy Cabin in the Mountains

If you’re like me who sometimes just wants to get away from it all, then this activity is one of the fun summer ideas that should be on your travel bucket list .

You do not only get to enjoy the coziness of the cabin but you also get a chance of participating in various outdoor adventures.

22. Take it to the Road on a Biking Trip

A biking trip doesn’t have to be super long! You can choose to bike around your neighborhood. This is also a perfect way to stay fit while enjoying the good weather.

23. See Some Wild Animals at The Zoo

If your city doesn’t have any National parks with wild animals, it doesn’t mean that you miss out on the fun! You can still get up close to them by visiting the zoo!

I know it might not be the same but it’s still a great way to spend your summer.

24. Go Kayaking

Another water sport that should be on your bucket list for summer is kayaking. Kayaking is relaxing and being on the water, you’ll be able to enjoy the cool breeze.

25. Travel Beyond Your City And Visit a New Place

I am not sure about you but I am so ready to visit some new places this summer! It doesn’t have to be a new country but even just a city next to yours can be your summer destination.

If you don’t know where to go, start by listing down all the places you’ve always wanted to visit! Then bring in the factors of time and budget and these will help you narrow down where you can go.

You can also use my tips on how to plan a trip from scratch if you don’t know where to start.

Related post: What to pack for a summer trip Important things to know before any trip

26. Have Some Fun at a Water Park

I know I said to participate in water activities but if your city doesn’t have any lake/sea/ocean, it doesn’t mean that you completely miss out on the fun.

Head out to a water park and let your fun side blossom as you splash while cooling off at the same time.

27. Eat All The Ice Cream Your Stomach Can Handle

Oh, ice cream! Other than the beach, it’s my favorite way to cool off the heat of the summer and the best part is that you cool off while satisfying your mouth/stomach.

So don’t worry about the calories, just have some summer fun and you’ll think about that when winter comes.

28. Camp in Your Backyard

I know I earlier suggested going on a camping trip but unfortunately, for various reasons, not everyone can go into the outdoors.

If you’re among those people but still want to experience camping, why not try camping in your backyard. So get your camping tent and sleeping bag ready, make a campfire, and enjoy an adventure right in your backyard.

It might not be as adventurous as being in the wild but it’s still incredibly fun and it’s actually one of the romantic staycation ideas for couples .

29. Shop at a Flea Market

When summer comes, most people want to declutter and sell off everything they no longer need!

So why not take advantage of the season and snag some antiques at a flea market! With a quick google search, you’ll be able to find some flea markets near you.

30. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town/City

If you can’t travel to a new place this summer, it doesn’t mean that it’s the end of traveling! You can be a tourist in your own city!

A number of people usually ignore their home towns but you’ll be surprised by how many new places/things you’ll discover by just exploring your city.

Related post: Big mistakes to avoid while traveling

31. Light a Fire Pit and Make S’mores

It’s not officially summer if you don’t light a fire and make some s’mores!

Gather around a fire pit at night with your entire family and make s’mores while telling stories! It’s the perfect way to have some quality family time during the summer.

As they say, a family that makes s’mores together stays together! You’ve probably never heard of that saying because I’ve just made it up.

32. Go on a Cruise

I am dreaming of cruising the Caribbean right now but even if it’s not in the Caribbean, you can still take a local cruise and have some fun on the water.

Whether it is for a day or a week, cruising is one of the bucket list ideas for summer.

33. Watch a Sports Game

If you’re into sports, then one of the things to do this summer is to watch a sports game!

Luckily for you, there are usually so many games organized during the summer so you’ll be spoilt by choice.

34. Go Glamping

We have to agree that not everyone is into roughing it out during camping! If that’s not for you, you don’t have to do it.

Instead, why not try glamping! It’s the “luxury” way of camping that non-campers can also enjoy.

35. Watch a Drive-in Movie

Instead of always watching a movie from your couch, why not switch things up this summer by watching a drive-in movie.

On top of watching your favorite movie, the vibe of driving in and watch a movie from your car is incredibly fun and kinda romantic if you ask me!

Final Thoughts on The Ultimate Bucket List For Summer

If you were looking for summer activities, I hope that my summer bucket list inspired you to consider ideas you hadn’t thought of before.

Which summer activity can’t you wait to do or which activities are on your bucket list for the summer? Let me know in the comments below!

And if you have any ideas for the summer bucket list that are not included on my list, still leave them in the comments below to inspire others.

Check out these posts to help you travel better

• Important things to do before any trip
• Big mistakes to avoid while traveling
• Best tips for first-time flyers
• How to stay safe while traveling
• Useful tips for first-time travelers

Was this post on the best ideas for a summer bucket list helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

Similar Posts

25 Most romantic places in the world

Looking for where to go for a romantic holiday? This post will give you all the most romantic places in the world that you and your partner will enjoy. Planning to whisk away your loved one on a romantic weekend getaway or you’re just looking for holiday destinations for couples. This post details the most…

Top 10 Unesco world heritage sites to visit

This is the comprehensive list of the top 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites that every traveler should visit at one point in life. They are not just Unesco World heritage sites but also some of the most historical places in the world. If you’ve been wondering which famous landmarks in the world you should visit,…

127 Most adventurous and crazy Bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies

Want to put your adventurous side to the test? Here are the crazy bucket list ideas for adrenaline junkies that will inspire you. In my quest to travel the world and discover popular destinations, hidden gems, small towns, villages and participate in adventurous activities, it’s not surprising that my bucket list keeps growing every single…

Winter bucket list: 28 Fun Indoor & outdoor winter Activities To Participate in

Are you looking for fun things to do in winter? Then check out these winter bucket list ideas for inspiration on what to do in winter! While most people dislike winter or plan to stay indoors because of the cold, the snowy season presents a number of outdoor activities to do!  I mean just because…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

Hi Im Harrison and In this podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain to reveal how you can turn your everyday spending into your ticket to globetrotting luxury. Whether you're dreaming of sipping champagne in row 1 or turning your bucket list into your booking list, I've got the insider strategies that will make these dreams a reality. Welcome to the Austrlaian Travel Hacking Podcast—where every mile, point, and spending decision gets you closer to the destination of your dreams." Subscribe to the podcast and lets turn your bucketlist into a Checklist.

Australian Travel Hacking Harrison Duplex

• Society & Culture
• 5.0 • 1 Rating
• 29 APR 2024

Ep 4 - Travel Hacking Beginners Guide - Part 4 - Setting Expectations

Welcome to Episode 4 of the Australian Travel Hacking Podcast! Join Our Community: Click Here Take this opportunity to join our travel hacking community for free as a founding member! Gain access to exclusive resources, bonus courses, tools, and calculators designed to enhance your travel hacking capabilities. This offer is limited, so click the link in the show notes now to secure your spot and start your journey towards smarter travel. In this fourth part of our beginner's guide series, we delve into setting realistic expectations for travel hacking. This episode will help clarify what you can truly achieve through travel hacking and help set the stage for responsible and successful strategies. What You'll Learn: Debunking the myth of free travel and understanding the true costs and benefits of travel hacking.The effort and learning required to truly benefit from loyalty programs and how these systems are designed not just for the traveller but also for the profitability of the companies.Insight into the financial commitments involved, including managing annual fees and choosing the right credit cards that align with your travel and spending patterns.Realistic outcomes of travel hacking including luxury travel for less, the importance of patience and consistent strategy, and effective financial management.

• 28 APR 2024

Ep 3 - Travel Hacking Beginners Guide - Part 3 - Reverse Engineering your Goals

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Australian Travel Hacking Podcast! Join Our Community: https://www.skool.com/australiantravelhacking/about This is your chance to join our travel hacking community for free as a founding member! Gain access to an array of resources, including bonus courses, tools, and calculators designed to enhance your travel hacking capabilities. This offer won’t last forever, so click the link in the show notes now to secure your spot in this growing community. In this third part of our beginner's guide series, we focus on a crucial strategy for success: Reverse Engineering Your Travel Goals. This episode will help you tailor your travel hacking efforts to fit your specific aspirations and travel preferences, ensuring you make the most of every point and mile. What You'll Learn: How to begin with the end in mind by setting clear travel goals. Personalise your travel hacking strategy based on your travel style, whether it's luxury or economy, to optimise point usage.Effective methods for choosing the right credit cards and loyalty programs based on your desired travel destinations and the type of travel you enjoy.Tips for planning travel hacking strategies whether you're flying solo or with a group, ensuring you cater to the needs of all travellers involved.The importance of flexibility in travel planning to unlock the best opportunities for point redemption.

Ep 2 - Travel Hacking Beginners Guide - Part 2 - Understanding Miles and Points

Welcome to Episode 2 of the Australian Travel Hacking Podcast! Join Our Community: https://www.skool.com/australiantravelhacking/about Become a founding member of our travel hacking community for free and gain access to exclusive resources, bonus courses, tools, and detailed calculators. Everything you need to succeed at travel hacking is right here, and while it’s still in the early stages, access is completely free. In this second instalment of our beginner's guide series, we dive deep into the basics of miles and points, essential components of travel hacking. Whether you're new to the world of travel rewards or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode will provide you with a solid understanding of different types of miles and points, their uses, and strategic tips on earning and maximising them. What You'll Learn: The distinction between airline miles and credit card points.How to calculate the value of miles and points to ensure you're getting the best deal.Strategic insights on using points for maximum value, including the best redemption options.Tips on earning miles and points through everyday activities and strategic credit card usage. Join Qantas: https://www.qantas.com/au/en/frequent-flyer/discover-and-join/join.html Join Velocity: https://join.velocityfrequentflyer.com/?source=website&cmpid=ps:vf:brand:gads:AO_NM:lowf&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw57exBhAsEiwAaIxaZnJTQ6kOTIBe6axB7X4wxDCuaGHuZWjnHFHmbS-CYgLpeB3m7y_OChoCm2wQAvD_BwE Qantas Points Calculator: https://www.qantas.com/au/en/frequent-flyer/calculators.html Join Our Community: https://www.skool.com/australiantravelhacking/about

• 27 APR 2024

Ep 1 - Travel Hacking Beginners Guide - Part 1 - What is Travel Hacking

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Australian Travel Hacking Podcast! Join Our Community: https://www.skool.com/australiantravelhacking/about Don't miss the chance to become a founding member of our travel hacking community for free! Get access to exclusive resources, tools, and information designed to enhance your travel hacking skills. Click the link in the show notes to join now and start your journey toward smarter, more affordable travel adventure In this inaugural episode of our Beginner's Guide series, we dive into the basics of travel hacking, tailored specifically for Australians eager to explore the world more while spending less. Discover the art of strategically collecting and redeeming credit card rewards, airline miles, and hotel points to dramatically reduce your travel costs. What You'll Learn: The fundamentals of travel hacking and how it can transform your travel experiences.Essential strategies for selecting the right travel credit card with generous bonuses.Techniques for accumulating and maximizing the value of points for luxurious stays and flights.Realistic expectations about what travel hacking can (and cannot) do for you.

• 23 APR 2024

Trailer - Australian Travel Hacking Podcast

Welcome to the Australian Travel Hacking Podcast. Transform luxury travel, making first class cheaper than economy with points, miles and deals. Helping you turn your bucket list into a checklist! Follow to Learn how

• © Copyright 2024 Harrison Duplex

Customer Reviews

Top podcasts in society & culture.