Travel Bucket List: The Most Beautiful Countries & Places in the World

There are simply so many beautiful places and natural wonders in the world. You can find out which ones are on most people's wish lists here.

Everyone knows them, many have them: their very own bucket list with the most beautiful countries and places in the world that they want to see at least once in their lifetime. This list, of course, differs from person to person - however, our exclusive nationally representative Vacation Guru survey shows clear favorites among the destinations. Find out here which countries, cities, and attractions must not be missing from your travel bucket list!

A few destinations are sure to surprise you - but one thing they all have in common: They will definitely ignite your wanderlust.

Surprise! A trip to Norway is, according to our survey, the number one bucket list destination. With 28%, the Scandinavian country is leading the way.

We can understand why: Norway is one of the most fascinating countries ever. Roaring waterfalls, massive glaciers, breathtaking lake landscapes, and many spectacular natural wonders make it the perfect destination for a road trip. Especially in early summer, when the snow still lies on the mountain peaks and the apple trees are blooming in the valley below, it is breathtakingly beautiful here. Well-paved roads lead along the fjords, over imposing bridges, and with ferries further into this diverse and adventurous country.

Attractions in Norway that belong on your bucket list:

✔ Take a hike to the spectacular cliff ledge Trolltunga, which resembles a troll's tongue with a bit of imagination.

✔ Hike up to Preikestolen, the so-called cliff plateau, and let your gaze wander down into the fjord.

✔ Attempt the climb to Kjeragbolten, a boulder that seems to float above the ground.

27% of survey participants definitely want to visit the United States of America at least once. No wonder! Nowhere else will you find such a great variety of experiences and unique landscapes.

The USA has so much more to offer than New York and Los Angeles, because just when you drive out of the huge metropolises, you reach the most fascinating natural wonders. We can't stop raving about the Grand Canyon, which is simply magical at sunrise and sunset. However, there are many other highlights that you absolutely must see and experience on a vacation in the USA.

You must not miss in the USA:

✔ Make sure not to miss Bryce Canyon, because otherwise you'll miss out on an incredibly beautiful highlight.

✔ Take your time for Monument Valley, where legendary photos are made.

✔ Drive the Highway 1 on a California road trip.

Canada is a dream destination for many of us. In our survey, the country came in a strong third place with 25.1%.

Especially the national parks with their incredible nature have captivated us. Who doesn't dream of just getting in their car and driving to an incredibly beautiful lake with a picturesque mountain backdrop, spending the day there? With its vibrant cities and unique nature, the country offers something for everyone. With so many options, you should best gather some tips beforehand and plan your trip well.

Attractions in Canada that belong on your bucket list:

✔ Take a road trip through the country and discover many cities and even more lakes. Great suggestions for this can be found in our Canada Tips.

✔ Let the mist from the Niagara Falls blow in your face.

✔ Experience unique cities like Vancouver or explore the beautiful nature, like the Banff National Park.

Also tied with 25.1%, Japan ranks third.

The country attracts with a unique mix of traditional culture and modern technology. The splendid temples, shrines, and historic villages contrast with the futuristic metropolises. Additionally, you can expect breathtaking nature, exquisite food, and, above all, impressive cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, which everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.

Attractions you must not miss in Japan:

✔ Plan a trip to Mount Fuji - the volcano and also the highest mountain in Japan is a popular photo subject and perfect for some memorable pictures.

✔ Walk across the world-famous Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo - the city life pulses here.

✔ If you're in Japan during spring and are lucky, you can see the beautiful Sakura (cherry blossom) in full bloom.

In fourth place are the picturesque Maldives. With 24.4%, they are just behind the two countries in third place, and we are not surprised.

The Maldives are a dream destination for many, with their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows. The colorful underwater world with coral reefs and tropical fish makes them a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Additionally, the breathtaking sunsets and the calm, exotic atmosphere make the Maldives the perfect place for relaxation and romance.

Here are the best spots in the Maldives:

✔ Ari Atoll - here you'll find wide sandbanks that gently slope into the turquoise sea.

✔ North Male Atoll - known for luxury accommodations, great diving conditions, and truly dreamy beaches.

✔ Raa Atoll - perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts of all kinds and an underwater paradise.

That we are huge fans of Australia and have plenty of Australia tips for your trip is probably no secret anymore. Our survey shows that we are definitely not alone in this: A full 24.2% of participants state that they want to visit the country at least once.

No matter if in the cities or the outback - the Red Continent simply captivates us. On an Australia road trip, you can see the best of this diverse country and be completely free in planning your journey. We have, of course, summarized the most important points for Australia for you.

Bucket list for your trip through Australia:

✔ Drive the Great Ocean Road. Breathtaking views and the famous Twelve Apostles await you!

✔ Take a (sailing) tour to Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands and marvel at the white sand.

✔ Go snorkeling or diving at the unique Great Barrier Reef!

A trip to Iceland must not be missing from our bucket list. We can't wait to see the incredible nature, glaciers, geysers, and hot springs with our own eyes. Luckily, you can travel to Iceland cheaply and admire all the beauty of the island. However, the absolute highlight is the Northern Lights, which you can often see in the sky here. Grab your loved ones, get cozy under a warm blanket outside, and watch the dancing color displays. Unique and beautiful!

You must do this in Iceland:

✔ Watch the beautiful Northern Lights in Iceland. In our travel calendar, you'll find out when the best travel time for Iceland and the Aurora Borealis is.

✔ Soak in a hot spring, like the Blue Lagoon, as steam rises around you into the cold air.

✔ Take an Iceland road trip and discover the most beautiful places on the island.

What we believe must not be missing from your bucket list? A real jeep safari in South Africa, of course! In general, the country and its cities are very colorful and offer you a lively and diverse program. Discover the diverse culture of South Africa and keep an eye out for lions, elephants, zebras, and more!

What you must do in South Africa:

✔ Stay in a unique accommodation in South Africa and sleep under the open starry sky.

✔ Hike up Table Mountain and enjoy the view.

✔ Visit the Namaqualand Desert when it is in full bloom during the Green Season.

The Big Apple is the uncontested winner among the cities that respondents absolutely want to visit once, with 32.6%.

New York impresses with a plethora of iconic sights, a buzzing city life, and a truly unique culture. The metropolis embodies the essence of a big city that never sleeps, where there's something to discover on every corner.

You mustn't miss in New York:

✔ Be sure to take a New York sightseeing tour: From Times Square to Central Park to the Statue of Liberty, there's simply so much to discover.

✔ Admire the New York skyline: Whether from the observation deck of the Empire State Building or from the Brooklyn Bridge - the view is magical.

✔ Visit the filming locations of your favorite movies and series. New York is the perfect city for set jetting.

In second place is Sydney. The largest city in Australia is also a very popular dream destination with 24.9%.

Sydney dazzles with its stunning harbor location, the world-famous Sydney Opera House, and the impressive Harbour Bridge. The city combines a vibrant, open city life with dreamy beaches like Bondi Beach, which are perfect for surfing and relaxing. With its unique mix of culture, nature, and laid-back lifestyle, Sydney is an absolute bucket list destination.

What you must do in Sydney:

✔ Climb the Harbour Bridge - from here you have a unique view of the city.

✔ Visit Taronga Zoo and admire kangaroos, wombats, and koalas, plus you have a great view of the Opera House from the zoo.

✔ Spend a day at Bondi Beach. Here you can learn to surf or watch the pros ride the waves.

The number three most desired travel destination is the million-strong metropolis Dubai.

The futuristic architecture of the city, especially the world's tallest building - the Burj Khalifa - attracts a multitude of tourists every year. Those seeking a luxurious vacation and fascinated by the mix of tradition and modernity will definitely have a great holiday here.

You must not miss in Dubai:

✔ Admire the view from the Burj Khalifa - you can go up to the 148th floor.

✔ A visit to the Dubai Mall - the largest shopping mall in the world offers everything your heart desires.

✔ A beach day at The Palm Jumeirah. The artificially created island is a true highlight, boasting stunning hotels, restaurants, and numerous activities.

Also, when it comes to the attractions that our respondents absolutely want to see at least once, there is a clear winner with almost 33%: Niagara Falls.

This natural spectacle on the border between the USA and Canada undoubtedly ranks among the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. They rise up to 57 meters high and offer a truly unique sight, which you can admire from the free viewing platform or aboard a boat.

We recommend visiting the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. The horseshoe shape is simply something special!

Our second place also lies in the USA: the Grand Canyon.

It is one of the largest and most famous natural wonders in the world - it's no surprise that it's on many of your bucket lists. Hardly any place embodies the feeling of freedom and vastness as symbolically as this. The numerous hiking trails along the 450 km long gorge offer you picturesque views.

Make sure not to miss the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Here you have the chance to walk 1,200 meters above the impressive gorge.

The Golden Gate Bridge ranks third in our survey with 24.9%.

The famous orange-red bridge in San Francisco is one of the landmarks of the USA and a very popular subject for souvenir photos. It spans the strait between San Francisco and Sausalito and is part of the famous Pacific Coast Highway, which is perfect for a road trip in the USA.

Bucket List Travel Destination No. 1: Norway - Would you have guessed it?

Did your travel bucket list destinations overlap with ours, or did you add some new points?

We can't wait to board the plane again and start crossing off the first vacation destinations on our list.