Top 50 Places To Visit Before You Die
In this article, we will look at the top 50 places to visit before you die. We will also talk about the popular travel preferences of the majority of tourists. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the Top 10 Places To Visit Before You Die.
Our research identified two major trends of general preference for travelling. Most find joy in winter travels, drawn to the serene landscapes blanketed in snow and the festive spirit accompanying the season. The preference for winter extends beyond the thrill of cold-weather activities, encompassing the cosy warmth of holiday gatherings and the magic of winter wonderlands. Moreover, we also noticed a growing fascination with cruising, which has captivated many as people seek relaxation and thrill simultaneously. To read more about travelling, see our article about the top tourist attractions in the USA.
While snowy seasons are generally great for the travel season, some excellent places promise even better winter experiences. Even though global snowfall has gone down since 1973, there are cool ski spots to explore. Zermatt, Switzerland, with its famous Matterhorn, and Val Thorens in France, the highest ski resort in Europe, are great for snowy adventures. Alta Ski Area in Utah had a record 903 inches of snow last season in 2022-2023, and Kirkwood Mountain Resort in California offers a snowy escape in the Sierra Nevada. Wolf Creek Ski Area in Colorado might not be as famous, but it often gets the most snow in the state. Despite warmer trends, these places keep the magic of snowy travel alive for winter sports fans.
Speaking of ski areas, Vail Resorts, Inc (NYSE:MTN) has announced plans to acquire Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland from CPI Property Group for $136 million. The iconic Swiss Alps destination has 1,400 meters of skiable vertical terrain and 140 kilometres of trails that provide breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. The acquisition includes an 84% ownership stake in Remontées Mécaniques Crans Montana Aminona (CMA) SA, 80% ownership in SportLife AG, and full ownership of 11 mountain-side restaurants.
Moreover, Vail Resorts, Inc (NYSE:MTN) is revolutionizing ski travel with its upgraded Epic Pass for the 2023/2024 season. The company has introduced a Mobile Pass feature on the My Epic app, transforming smartphones into hands-free lift tickets via Bluetooth scanning. Early purchasers of the Epic Pass, starting at $909, enjoy added perks like 10 buddy tickets and six discounted ski-with-a-friend tickets.
The My Epic app goes beyond ticketing, providing interactive trail maps with GPS tracking, real-time lift line wait times, and personalized statistics. Vail Resorts, Inc (NYSE:MTN)’s integration of technological advancement aligns with its mission to streamline the skiing experience. The Epic Pass not only grants unlimited access to 42 mountain resorts but also limited access to over 80 resorts worldwide. With options like the Epic Local Pass starting at $676 and the Epic Day Pass as low as $41 per day, Vail Resorts, Inc (NYSE:MTN) continues to make skiing accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts globally.
On the other hand, the Cruise Lines International Association revealed that in 2023, the cruise industry anticipates a resurgence, with an expected cruise passenger volume reaching 106% of 2019 levels, totaling 31.5 million passengers. Several cruise lines are introducing new ships in 2024, including Cunard Line's Queen Anne, Disney Cruise Line's Disney Treasure, and Silversea Cruises' Silver Ray. These ships promise improved cruising experiences, as confirmed by the latest Queen Anne, which features 24 decks and 15 dining venues.
Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:LIND), an expedition cruise company, has extended its strategic partnership with National Geographic for an additional 17 years until 2040. This was done to broaden Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:LIND)’s global reach through three key opportunities: gaining global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruises, leveraging The Walt Disney Company as an affiliate to expand distribution channels, and enhancing onboard experiences with immersive storytelling. Positioned as a major milestone in Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:LIND)’s growth strategy, the extension offers potential for increased market share, expanded fleet capacity, and improved brand visibility, reinforcing its status as a leader in the expedition cruise sector.
Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:LIND) also achieved incredible financial success in Q3 2023, with total revenues increasing YoY by 22% to $176.0 million. The company's strategic investments in fleet expansion and diversified land experiences were key contributors to a 30% increase in Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:LIND) tour revenues, reaching $108.8 million. This growth was fueled by a 21% rise in available guest nights and a 9% boost in net yield per available guest night. The company’s net income significantly improved from a $9.8 million loss in Q3 2022 to a $4.5 million gain in Q3 2023.
A traveler walking along a white-sand beach, a luxury resort in the background.
Our Methodology
To list the top places to visit before you die, we shortlisted the 75 most popular tourist destinations based on our research consensus. Out of those 75, we shortlisted the 50 most frequently discussed and mentioned places by tourists. We used Reddit as our primary source.
50. Angels Landing, USA
Angels Landing in Zion National Park is a must-visit for its breathtaking 1,488-foot tall rock formation, challenging but totally worth-it 2.5-mile trail, and panoramic views of Zion Canyon, offering a unique and exhilarating hiking experience. It is definitely one of the top 50 places to visit before you die in the US.
49. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is known for its picturesque charm, historic palaces, castles, and lush landscapes. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a beautiful municipality to visit with 19th-century Romanticist architecture.
48. El Nido, Phillipines
Nestled in Palawan, Philippines, it has pristine white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and majestic limestone cliffs. The Bacuit archipelago, accessible from El Nido, adds to its attractions. As a managed resource-protected area, it offers a sustainable and well-preserved environment.
47. Korcula Town, Croatia
People love Korcula mostly because it is a beautiful Old Town with old buildings. The town is also known for its unique dance called Moreška. The Adriatic Sea nearby makes it even more special. If you like pretty old places and local traditions, you'll definitely enjoy visiting Korčula.
46. Pulpit Rock, Norway
In 2012, Pulpit Rock drew 150,000 to 200,000 visitors due to its stunning natural beauty and unique features. The steep 604-meter cliff offers breathtaking views above Lysefjorden which is a promise of a memorable experience.
45. Lapland, Finland
Many people visit Lapland due to its cold, wintry climate, coniferous landscapes, and the association with Christmas. The region's year-round tourism infrastructure, with destinations like Rovaniemi and Inari, attracts visitors worldwide. The place shares the legendary connection to Santa Claus, adding to visitors' interest.
44. Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey
People love Pamukkale because it's a stunning natural wonder in Turkey. The "cotton castle" has beautiful white terraces made of hot spring water over a long time. The pools and terraces create a unique and peaceful place that attracts visitors. The ancient city of Hierapolis on top makes it even more special.
43. Mount Fuji, Japan
As the country's tallest peak, it has a stunning, snow-covered symmetrical cone visible from Tokyo. Recognized as one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains," it holds special status and has inspired artists and poets throughout history. Whether you're a sightseer, hiker, or climber, Mount Fuji promises an awe-inspiring journey, making it a must-visit destination for a taste of Japan's rich cultural and natural heritage.
42. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled, nestled in Slovenia's Julian Alps near Bled town, captivates with its natural beauty and is a popular tourist spot, just 55 km from Ljubljana. Lake Bled is one of the places you need to visit before you die.
41. Iguaza Falls, Brazil
As the world's largest waterfall system, it has powerful cascades that divide the Iguazu River into upper and lower sections. The lush, tropical surroundings provide a mesmerizing backdrop. Accessible from both Argentina and Brazil, the falls provide panoramic views, which all tourists love.
40. Geiranger Fjord, Norway
Geiranger Fjord is a captivating place with stunning natural beauty—a 15-kilometer branch off Sunnylvsfjorden in Norway's Sunnmøre region. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has awe-inspiring landscapes, cascading waterfalls like Seven Sisters Falls, and historic farms along its sides.
39. Socotra, Yemen
As the largest island in the Socotra archipelago, it has a stunning and isolated environment with many endemic species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Socotra is one of the greatest places to go to.
38. Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
The park was made a National Park in 1959 to protect its special features. Visitors come from around the world to explore the remote and breathtaking End of the World Route. It's one of Chile's biggest and most popular parks, attracting over 252,000 visitors annually.
37. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Stretching for 14 kilometres along the Atlantic Ocean in County Clare, Ireland, they reach heights of up to 214 meters. Recognized by UNESCO and part of the Wild Atlantic Way, they hold cultural, geological, and natural significance. It is also one of the safest exotic places to travel in the world.
36. Marble Caves, Chile
The Marble Caves of Chile Chico, nestled on Lake General Carrera's marble peninsula, stand as a breathtaking testament to nature's artistic prowess. The best time to visit the caves is between September and February.
35. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle is a magical 19th-century palace perched on a hill in southern Germany. Commissioned by King Ludwig II as a personal retreat and homage to composer Richard Wagner, it was funded from the king's own money.
34. Niagara Falls, Canada
At Niagara Falls in Ontario, the tourist area has observation towers, tall hotels, souvenir shops, museums, casinos, and theatres, all lit up with colourful lights, making the place even more mesmerizing.
33. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge, in Wiltshire, England, is an ancient monument with big stones. Stonehenge has been protected since 1882, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage.
32. Arashiyam Bamboo Grove, Japan
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto, Japan is often featured in photographs on Instagram, is a popular but frequently crowded tourist destination. Approximately 4.94 million tourists visited Kyoto in November 2019. Owing to its surreal landscape, the place must be on your ultimate travel bucket list in 2024.
31. Victoria Falls, Zambia
Victoria Falls should be on your travel list for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and cultural significance. As one of the world's largest waterfalls, with a width of 1,708 meters and a height of 108 meters, it offers a breathtaking spectacle. The falls, known as Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke That Thunders") in the local language, provide a habitat for unique plant and animal species.
30. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia
Raja Ampat, with its magical archipelago of over 1,500 islands, is a must for any travel bucket list. Nestled in Indonesia's Southwest Papua province, it has unrivaled marine biodiversity within the Coral Triangle, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
29. Antelope Canyon, USA
Upper Antelope Canyon, part of Navajo land in Arizona, have breathtaking narrow canyons with stunning rock formations shaped by water. Antelope Canyon is one of the 40 places to visit before you die.
28. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, established in 1949, is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage site. Its popularity is evident in the hefty entrance fees, with charges reaching up to 300 kuna (around €39) per adult per day during the summer of 2022.
27. Blue Lagoon, Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is renowned for its geothermal spa set in a lava field. Its milky blue waters, heated by geothermal power, contain silica, salts, and algae. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world.
26. Cappadocia, Turkey
With a rich history, it played a big role in early Christian learning, seen in places like Göreme and Ihlara. The region also has underground cities made in the past for safety during persecution. It is one of the top global destinations to explore.
25. Bali, Indonesia
As Indonesia's premier tourist destination, its picturesque landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush terraced rice fields, draw millions. The province is a cultural hub, with traditional and contemporary arts, dance, sculpture, and music.
24. Jungfraujoch, Switzerland
Located at 3,463 meters above sea level, it serves as a glacier saddle connecting the majestic peaks of Jungfrau and Monch. Accessible since 1912 by the Jungfrau line, the journey to this alpine wonder involves a scenic railway passing through the Eiger and Mönch.
23. Edinburgh, Scotland
With a population of 506,520, it is the second-most populous city in Scotland. The city, entrenched since the 15th century as Scotland's capital, is a hub of governance, hosting the Scottish Parliament and serving as the British monarch's official residence in Scotland.
22. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Lauterbrunnen is a charming village in Switzerland surrounded by stunning mountains like Eiger and Jungfrau. Tourists love it for its beautiful scenery, especially the waterfalls like Staubbach Falls. The village is a starting point for exploring the Jungfrau Region, and visitors can easily reach it by train through the Bernese Oberland Railway.
21. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, renowned for its stunning Mediterranean scenery, is a coastal gem in southern Italy. With picturesque towns like Amalfi, it has captivated elite travelers since the 18th century.
20. Vinicunca, Peru
Vinicunca, also known as the Rainbow Mountain, is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the Peruvian Andes at an elevation of 5,200 meters. The mountain became populars in the 2010.
19. Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia, the southernmost autonomous community in Spain, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and geographical diversity. With eight provinces and the vibrant city of Seville as its capital, Andalusia is a historical nationality and a major economic player.
18. Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat in Bolivia, spans over 10,000 sq km. After rainfall, it transforms into the world's largest mirror. The site hosts unique hexagonal salt formations and serves as a prime breeding ground for flamingos. Notably, it's featured in films like Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
17. Sagrada Familia, Spain
The Sagrada Família in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is a unique and unfinished Catholic church, which combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Described as unparalleled in art history, it's an extraordinary interpretation of Gothic architecture.
16. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
The Phi Phi Islands in Thailand, particularly Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Le, are renowned for their stunning landscapes and beaches. Ko Phi Phi Le gained global fame as a filming location for "The Beach."
15. The Wave, USA
The Wave is a sandstone marvel in Arizona and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. It is one of the coolest places to see in the US.
14. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands, located west of South America, are renowned for their biodiversity and crucial role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Home to numerous endemic species, the islands are protected as part of Ecuador's Galápagos National Park.
Lindblad Expeditions Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:LIND) was one of the first companies to bring tourists to the Galápagos Islands starting in 1967.
13. Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park, established in 1885 in Canada, is a vast and beautiful area in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta. Covering 6,641 square kilometres, it has glaciers, forests, and stunning mountain views.
Viad Corp (NYSE:VVI) recently purchased the Golden Skybridge near Banff National Park. The Skybridge, with its high suspension bridges and stunning views, could become a must-visit spot, boosting tourism further and benefiting the local economy in the region.
12. Blackcomb Peak, Canada
Blackcomb Peak is part of the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort in British Columbia, Canada. Whistler Blackcomb, owned by Vail Resorts, Inc (NYSE:MTN) is known for being one of the most famous and popular ski resorts in the world.
11. Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan
Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki, Japan, is a 190-hectare public park renowned for its year-round floral displays. The park's highlight is the magical baby blue-eyes flowers, with 4.5 million blossoms creating a mesmerizing blue carpet each spring, attracting numerous visitors.
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Disclosure: None. Top 50 Places To Visit Before You Die is originally published on Insider Monkey.
