By Dana Perkiss
To help narrow down the world’s wonders, our travel experts have compiled a list of the top bucket list experiences ranging from outdoor adventures, historic discoveries, and culinary delights.
Here is, in no particular order, the top 25 ultimate travel bucket list!
Drive the Ring of Kerry in Ireland
As one of the most popular drives in Ireland, cruising around the Ring of Kerry is a must for any Europe travel bucket list. This 111-mile-long circuit takes just about 3.5 hours, but you’ll want to take your time to visit its unique attractions and marvel at the drastic scenery.
See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Thanks to its location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is known as being one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. These beautiful natural wonders can be seen more than 100 nights every year, with September through March being the best times for viewing.
Visit Germany's Neuschwanstein Castle
Become transported into a fairytale realm straight from the pages of a storybook by visiting the astonishing Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Nestled amidst the Bavarian Alps, you can explore this enchanting castle's rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic vistas.
Visit The White Lotus filming locations in Sicily
As one of the most popular HBO shows in 2022, we’d be remiss not to add visiting The White Lotus filming locations to this list – especially if it’s an excuse to vacation in Sicily! You’ll want to explore Taormina, Palermo, and Noto to recognize some of the filming spots, like the Old Town where Portia and Jack hang around.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting in Tuscany
If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll most definitely want to visit the home of exquisite labels like Chianti. Treat yourself to a tour so you can indulge in different wine tastings, learn from vino experts, and enjoy dazzling vineyard views.
Stand on Kilt Rock on the Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Island of Skye is truly a magical place. The area looks more like something out of a fantasy movie than real life and is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Scotland – including the cliffside Kilt Rock. Stand at the edge looking out at the endless ocean, letting your breath be taken away by the unparalleled views.
Go surfing in Honolulu
Hawaii is a bucket list destination that almost everyone wants to visit, with Honolulu being one of the most popular places. With its year-round warm weather and surplus of beaches, it’s a fantastic tropical paradise for any time. Head to Waikiki Beach for some of the best surfing in Honolulu and book a lesson if it’s your first time!
Watch the sunset in Santorini, Greece
There’s a reason watching the sunset in Santorini is world-famous, especially in the scenic village of Oia. Marvel at the sun dipping below the endless horizon as shades of pink, orange, and yellow glimmer against the brilliant blue sea, and be sure to take pictures of the astonishing raw beauty of Greece. We promise it’ll be a sunset you’ll never forget!
Go on a Safari in South Africa
If you’ve ever wanted to see remarkable wild animals like elephants, leopards, and buffalos out in their natural habitat, then head to South Africa! Home to various endangered species and protected areas, South Africa is filled with places to experience a once-in-a-lifetime Safari adventure.
Ascend the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Ascending the Eiffel Tower in Paris is a breathtaking bucket list experience like no other. From the panoramic views of the iconic cityscape to the sheer awe of standing atop one of the world's most recognizable landmarks, every moment is filled with grandeur and thrill.
Take a Nile River Cruise in Cairo
Experience the heart of ancient Egypt while cruising to famous, historic destinations every day. You’ll get to enjoy the luxuries of a cruise, learn about Egyptian culture, and see some bucket list destinations all in one experience.
See the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt
As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it’s no real surprise that we would add the Pyramids of Giza to the ultimate travel bucket list. These three pyramids dominate the skyline and date back over 4,500 years, and seeing them in person is truly a humbling experience. They’re typically a highlight of an aforementioned Nile River Cruise!
Hike in the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA
Visiting the Grand Canyon should most definitely be on your USA travel bucket list. You can hike, bike, kayak, go horseback riding, and so much more in this incredible National Park. It’s filled with hidden gems to explore, places to relax, and National Historic Landmarks to view.
Explore the Andes in South America
Did you know that the Andes is one of the largest mountain ranges in the world? It spans from Venezuela to Chile and is home to tons of sacred places. Machu Picchu in Peru, the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia, and some of the best hiking trails in South America can be found in the Andes.
Marvel at Chichén Itzá in Mexico
As both a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico and one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” visiting Chichén Itzá is highly deserving of a spot on anyone’s travel bucket list. The ruins of this ancient Maya city cover about four square miles and feature the El Castillo pyramid, Sacred Cenote, and more historical sites.
Go snorkeling in The Maldives
The Maldives is one of the most bucket list places to travel for pretty much anyone. This collection of over 1,000 islands is famous for its spellbinding scenery, beautiful beaches, and dreamy overwater bungalows. Explore colorful coral reefs and swim through translucent emerald waters as you enjoy snorkeling in the Maldives.
Take Pictures at Iguazú Falls in Argentina
Though Iguazú Falls can be seen from both Argentina and Brazil, the views from the Argentinian side simply can’t be matched. Dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, there are 275 beautiful cascades that make Iguazú one of the most incredible waterfalls in the world. Keep your eyes peeled for the over 2,000 wildlife species that make the surrounding rainforest their home, like howler monkeys and ocelots.
Ride the Cable Car (or Hike) Up Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa
Since Cape Town is already amazing, and Table Mountain is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, riding the cable car or hiking up is definitely a bucket list travel experience. Views from the top are spectacular and provide a perfect backdrop for selfies.
See the Northern Lights in Canada
Since Canada is located in the Northern Hemisphere’s Auroral Oval, the aurora borealis make their appearances there often between late August and early April. Yukon is definitely the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada, with others being Banff National Park and Jasper National Park in Alberta.
Visit the Alhambra in Granada, Spain
Offering sweeping views of Granada, the Albaicin, and the Sierra Nevada, the Alhambra is an exceptional landmark with views to match. It’s one of the best-preserved Islamic palaces and was even inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1984. Get a ticket to visit the Alhambra to stroll around its magical gardens, breathtaking architecture, and scenic courtyards.
Soak up panoramic views of Bogota from Monserrate
The Colombian city of Bogota is filled with historic charm and friendly locals, with tons of things to do for any traveler. Taking in the panoramic views of the city from atop Monserrate, though, is by far a bucket list travel experience one shouldn’t miss. This mountain stands at 10,341 ft. tall right in the center of the city. There’s a magnificent church, street vendors, and more at the top that visitors can enjoy while soaking in the view.
Experience a live Fado Show in Lisbon, Portugal
They say that everything stops in Lisbon when Fado is on. Fado, meaning “fate,” is Portugal’s traditional folk music of a melancholic genre. Be sure to book a live Fado show in Lisbon to watch in awe as fadistas (fado musicians) mesmerize the crowd with their performance.
Enjoy a desert safari in Dubai
Experience a desert firsthand and learn more about what Bedouin life was like before tourism grew in Dubai by taking a desert safari! This one-of-a-kind activity typically provides fun camel rides, wildlife spotting, a delectable BBQ, and more. A desert safari is one of the most unique things to do in Dubai and is a great way to get away from the metropolitan city.
Relax on the beautiful beaches in Bali
The island of Bali boasts a myriad of natural beauty. From pristine beaches to towering volcanoes, lush rainforests to rice fields, holy temples, and rich culture, there’s something for everyone in Bali. You can lounge on beautiful Bali beaches, enjoy world-class diving, and mingle with friendly locals to learn more about the area.