Traveling the world one postcard-ready place at a time. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but some destinations leave us all in awe. From gorgeous landscapes to elegant city skylines, we’ve narrowed down a list in no particular order of the 10 most amazing places to visit in the world.
Of course, we haven’t explored every exquisite corner in the world yet. But life’s a journey and were always happening upon photo-ready coastlines, extraordinary architecture, and historic hideaways. Some of the world’s most beautiful places are small towns or wide open spaces, while others are busy urban centers filled with colorful and crowded street markets. Add some of these breathtaking destinations to your must-visit list.
From its peaceful waterfront parks and pineapple-shaped fountains to jaw-dropping manor houses, Charleston has charm to spare. Built in 1676, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is just one of Charlestons enchanting estates, where the white columns of the plantation house offer elegant contrast to Spanish moss growing wild in the trees. When the ocean calls your name, walk to the waterfront at Battery Park, named for the cannons lined up at attention looking out to sea.
Dream up your wildest outdoor adventures and Jackson, Wyoming, will come to mind. The downtown streets feature rustic architecture reminiscent of its early days along the Lewis & Clark Expedition, and nearby Grand Teton National Park will inspire your own inner explorer. If a birds-eye view of one of the most beautiful places in the world is on your bucket list, paragliding over Jackson will do the trick.
Cappadocia is home to cave dwellings carved in stone, but its beauty is simply buoyant. Wander through the ancient monasteries and churches carved in the mountainside at the Goreme Open Air Museum, and catch sight of hot air balloons floating into the bright blue sky.
Built above the banks of the Vltava River, the State Castle of Cesky Krumlov dates back to the 13th century. Like any work of art, the castle has been expanded throughout the centuries and you can explore the region’s history one exquisite room at a time.
You’ve heard of Seattle’s Space Needle. Well, Tennessee has a celestial spire, too. In Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you can take in an exquisite view of the Smokey Mountains from their 407-foot observation deck. Or climb to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can see a lot from 6,643 feet.
Everything is lovelier after a glass of wine. Take a tasting tour on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and treat your eyes and your palate to the beauty of the Finger Lakes.
Mitchell is surrounded by some of the most interesting landscapes in the world. You may confuse the Painted Hills with a modern work of art, but have no doubt: Those strokes of red and burgundy are au naturel.
For a getaway you’ll savor, travel to the world’s largest salt flat, located at the foot of the Andes Mountains. If you love the look of freshly fallen snow but can’t be bothered with freezing temperatures, then say œhola to Salar De Uyuni.
Aspen’s snow-covered slopes and lakeside trails are undeniably rugged, but don’t worry if you aren’t the outdoorsy type. You can admire the purple peaks of the Elk Mountains from a luxurious and cozy ski lodge, like The Little Nell, or on a hike through the wildflower fields of Maroon Bells (weather permitting, of course). Ah, Aspen.
If you’ve never taken up kayaking, a visit to Halong Bay is the perfect opportunity skim across peaceful emerald waters. Float out to nearby Ti Top Island for a misty beachfront picnic, or stay close to the delicious scents wafting from the Halong Night Market on Doan Station Street.
It’s your turn to name the nicest cities in the world. Journey to our favorite destinations or get swept up in spectacular scenery as you explore brand new destinations. What are the most breathtaking places you’ve ever seen?