Ready to embark on your next adventure?
As we head into 2023, it’s time to start planning your next travel destinations. Whether you’re looking to explore historic cities, relax on sandy beaches, or immerse yourself in a new culture, there’s a world of possibilities waiting for you.
To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled a list of 40 bucket list destinations for 2023. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these destinations are sure to inspire your wanderlust.
Machu Picchu, Peru:
Perched high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic landmarks in South America. This ancient Incan city was built in the 15th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In 2019, Machu Picchu received over 1.5 million visitors, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Santorini, Greece:
With its iconic blue and white buildings and stunning sea views, Santorini is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a romantic getaway. This Greek island is known for its black sand beaches, wineries, and stunning sunsets. In 2019, Santorini welcomed over 2 million visitors.
Tokyo, Japan:
As one of the most populous cities in the world, Tokyo offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern technology. From its bustling streets to its serene gardens, Tokyo is a city that never fails to impress. In 2019, Tokyo received over 14 million visitors, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia.
Bali, Indonesia:
Known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture, Bali is a paradise for travelers seeking a tropical escape. This Indonesian island is also home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts and spas. In 2019, Bali welcomed over 6 million visitors.
New York City, USA:
From the bright lights of Times Square to the historic landmarks of Central Park, New York City is a destination that never sleeps. This bustling metropolis is also home to some of the world’s most famous museums, restaurants, and theaters. In 2019, New York City received over 66 million visitors.
Venice, Italy:
With its winding canals and stunning architecture, Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. This Italian city is known for its historic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. In 2019, Venice welcomed over 25 million visitors.
Cape Town, South Africa:
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Cape Town is a city that offers both natural beauty and cultural richness. This South African city is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, as well as historic landmarks like Robben Island. In 2019, Cape Town received over 1.7 million visitors.
Petra, Jordan:
Carved into the sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan, Petra is a city that offers a glimpse into the ancient world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunning temples, tombs, and monuments. In 2019, Petra welcomed over 1 million visitors.
Marrakech, Morocco:
With its vibrant markets and stunning architecture, Marrakech is a city that is sure to awaken your senses. This Moroccan city is known for its colorful souks, historic palaces, and stunning mosques. In 2019, Marrakech received over 2 million visitors.
Sydney, Australia:
Sydney is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone, from its iconic Opera House and stunning beaches to its world-class museums and trendy neighborhoods. Visitors can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach, or explore the historic Rocks district. In 2019, Sydney received over 10 million visitors.
Grand Canyon National Park, USA:
The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, with its vast expanse of colorful rock formations and stunning vistas. It’s also one of the most popular national parks in the United States, attracting over 6 million visitors in 2019.
Florence, Italy:
Florence is a city that is rich in history and art, with its beautiful architecture and world-renowned museums. It’s also known for its beautiful Tuscan countryside, where visitors can enjoy scenic views and traditional Italian cuisine. In 2019, Florence received over 10 million visitors.
Baliem Valley, Indonesia:
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Baliem Valley in Papua, Indonesia. This remote region is home to the Dani people, who maintain their traditional way of life and have a deep connection to the land. Visitors can go trekking through the valley and witness the beautiful scenery and culture. In 2019, Baliem Valley received over 10,000 visitors.
Banff National Park, Canada:
Banff National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with its rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. It’s also a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking. In 2019, Banff National Park welcomed over 4 million visitors.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
Rio de Janeiro is a city that is famous for its stunning beaches, lively culture, and iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue. It’s also a popular destination for carnival celebrations, which attract millions of visitors every year. In 2019, Rio de Janeiro received over 7 million visitors.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia:
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, and it’s home to an incredible array of marine life. Visitors can go snorkeling, diving, or take a scenic flight to witness the beauty of the reef from above. In 2019, the Great Barrier Reef welcomed over 2 million visitors.
Marrakesh, Morocco:
With its colorful markets, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Marrakesh is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the old city, take in the beauty of the Bahia Palace, or experience a traditional hammam. In 2019, Marrakesh received over 2 million visitors.
Siem Reap, Cambodia:
Siem Reap is a gateway to the magnificent temples of Angkor, which are some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, or take a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake. In 2019, Siem Reap received over 3 million visitors.
San Francisco, USA:
San Francisco is a city that is known for its iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Visitors can also explore the vibrant neighborhoods, like Chinatown and the Mission, or take a ferry ride to the nearby island of Alameda. In 2019, San Francisco received over 26 million visitors.
Istanbul, Turkey:
Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, with a rich history that spans centuries. Visitors can explore the stunning Hagia Sophia, shop in the bustling markets, or take a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. In 2019, Istanbul received over 14 million visitors.
Barcelona, Spain:
Barcelona is a city that is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine. Visitors can explore the stunning works of Antoni Gaudi, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, or stroll along the lively Las Ramblas. In 2019, Barcelona received over 12 million visitors.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador:
The Galapagos Islands are a natural wonder, home to a diverse array of wildlife and some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Visitors can go snorkeling with sea lions, watch giant tortoises in their natural habitat, or hike through volcanic terrain. In 2019, the Galapagos Islands received over 270,000 visitors.
Seoul, South Korea:
Seoul is a city that is steeped in history and culture, with a mix of ancient landmarks and modern architecture. Visitors can explore the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace, shop in the trendy Gangnam district, or indulge in traditional Korean cuisine. In 2019, Seoul received over 15 million visitors.
Marrakech, Morocco:
With its colorful markets, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Marrakech is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the old city, take in the beauty of the Bahia Palace, or experience a traditional hammam. In 2019, Marrakech received over 2 million visitors.
Petra, Jordan:
Carved into the sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan, Petra is a city that offers a glimpse into the ancient world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunning temples, tombs, and monuments. In 2019, Petra welcomed over 1 million visitors.
New Orleans, USA:
New Orleans is a city that is known for its rich history, lively music scene, and unique culture. Visitors can explore the French Quarter, taste traditional Creole cuisine, or take a stroll through the colorful Garden District. In 2019, New Orleans received over 19 million visitors.
Sydney, Australia:
With its iconic Opera House and stunning beaches, Sydney is a top destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and culture. Visitors can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach, or explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Paddington and Surry Hills. In 2019, Sydney received over 10 million visitors.
Marrakech, Morocco:
With its colorful markets, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Marrakech is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the old city, take in the beauty of the Bahia Palace, or experience a traditional hammam. In 2019, Marrakech received over 2 million visitors.
Venice, Italy:
With its winding canals and stunning architecture, Venice is one of the most romantic cities in the world. This Italian city is known for its historic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge. In 2019, Venice welcomed over 25 million visitors.
Petra, Jordan:
Carved into the sandstone cliffs of southern Jordan, Petra is a city that offers a glimpse into the ancient world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to stunning temples, tombs, and monuments. In 2019, Petra welcomed over 1 million visitors.
Copenhagen, Denmark:
Copenhagen is a city that is known for its beautiful architecture, innovative cuisine, and green spaces. Visitors can explore the colorful Nyhavn harbor, ride bicycles along the waterfront, or visit the world-famous Tivoli Gardens amusement park. In 2019, Copenhagen received over 9 million visitors.
Yellowstone National Park, USA:
Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, and it’s home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. Visitors can see geysers, hot springs, and some of the most incredible natural wonders in the world. In 2019, Yellowstone National Park welcomed over 4 million visitors.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
Rio de Janeiro is a city that is famous for its stunning beaches, lively culture, and iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue. It’s also a popular destination for carnival celebrations, which attract millions of visitors every year. In 2019, Rio de Janeiro received over 7 million visitors.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia:
Angkor Wat is a temple complex that is considered one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, or take a boat ride on the Tonle Sap Lake. In 2019, Angkor Wat received over 2 million visitors.
Bali, Indonesia:
Known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture, Bali is a paradise for travelers seeking a tropical escape. This Indonesian island is also home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts and spas. In 2019, Bali welcomed over 6 million visitors.
San Francisco, USA:
San Francisco is a city that is known for its iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Visitors can also explore the vibrant neighborhoods, like Chinatown and the Mission, or take a ferry ride to the nearby island of Alameda. In 2019, San Francisco received over 26 million visitors.
Kyoto, Japan:
With its stunning temples and serene gardens, Kyoto is the perfect place to experience traditional Japanese culture. Visitors can explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji temple, take a walk through the bamboo forest of Arashiyama, or try their hand at a traditional tea ceremony. In 2019, Kyoto received over 55 million visitors.
In conclusion, these 40 bucket list destinations offer a wealth of experiences for travelers of all kinds. From ancient ruins to stunning natural wonders, from bustling cities to tranquil landscapes, there’s a destination out there for everyone. So start planning your 2023 travels today and get ready to create unforgettable memories!