World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024
With a world full of fascinating travel destinations, choosing the perfect vacation spot can present a challenge. That's why U.S. News used expert opinions, reader votes and current trends – and evaluated sights, cultures, scenic beauty, food options and more – to compile this list of the world's best places to visit. Use these recommendations to craft your travel bucket list, and cast your vote below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: If you're booking a big-ticket trip, consider international travel insurance to protect your investment.)
Belongs on LiParis
#1 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024France's magnetic City of Light is a perennial tourist destination, drawing visitors with its iconic attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and its unmistakable je ne sais quoi. Quaint cafes, trendy shopping districts and Haussmann architecture give Paris its timeless beauty. But the city's best asset is that you're likely to discover something new with each trip or season (read: Paris is always a good idea). To best explore France's ever-changing capital, get lost wandering the charming cobblestone streets, learn its secrets on a walking tour, head to dynamic art exhibits like the Atelier des Lumières or gourmandize at the latest restaurants and pastry shops.
Belongs on LiBora Bora
#2 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024What this 12-square-mile French Polynesian island may lack in size it makes up for in sheer tropical beauty. Here, you'll find picturesque beaches, lush jungles and luxurious resorts set on surrounding islets. The island's extinct volcano, Mount Otemanu, makes for a great photo-op or challenging hike, and the friendly Bora Bora locals can help you catch a glimpse of the island's best sights during an off-road excursion. To relax, head to Matira Beach for crystal-clear water and postcard-worthy white sand. Although a trip to Bora Bora is very expensive, most travelers say it's worth every penny.
Belongs on LiGlacier National Park
#3 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024Snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and azure lakes are just a few reasons why Glacier National Park is one of America's most striking parks. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in this Montana crown jewel, plus 13 designated areas for camping. In the winter, travelers can enjoy snowshoeing and skiing, while during the summer vacationers can go swimming in Lake McDonald and whitewater rafting on Flathead River, among other popular activities. For those who'd rather admire their surroundings from their car, a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road can't be missed.
Belongs on LRome
#4 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024When you visit Italy's capital city, prepare to cross a few must-see landmarks – including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon – off of your bucket list. Travelers can also see some of Italy's greatest treasures, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, in Vatican City. Escape the tourist crowds by taking a twilight stroll along the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, or head to Mercato Centrale Roma to sample local delicacies like pistachio gelato. Before leaving, peruse some of Rome's lesser-known museums, art galleries and boutiques, or head to Janiculum Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Belongs on LSwiss Alps
#5 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024Snow-covered mountains, charming towns and flower-strewn meadows make the Swiss Alps a year-round fairy tale destination. Visit in the winter for world-class skiing (and après-ski fondue and drinks) in locales such as the exclusive St. Moritz and the picturesque Zermatt, home of the craggy Matterhorn. Opt for warmer months to hike through the verdant valleys of Swiss National Park or attend lively festivals in the foothill city of Montreux. Regardless of the time of year, no trip would be complete without a visit to the Jungfrau Region, where you can experience idyllic mountain villages like Grindelwald and Mürren or take the Jungfrau Railway to Europe's highest railway station.
Belongs on L#6 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024Whether you're driving along the Road to Hana, enjoying a bird's-eye view of Maui's lush coastline from a helicopter, snorkeling with sea turtles or simply relaxing on white or black sand beaches, you'll find that this Hawaiian island is unlike any other tropical destination. Don't miss a chance to visit Haleakala National Park, which is home to one of the world's largest dormant volcanic craters and boasts surreal sunrises. You should also attend a traditional luau for a dose of local culture and a taste of Hawaiian specialties like poi, poke and i'a fish.
Belongs on LLondon, England
#7 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024London is a world unto itself. The eclectic neighborhoods, which are home to a blend of historical landmarks and modern-day attractions, can keep you occupied for days. If it's your first time in London, join a tour that takes you past top spots like the Tate Modern art institution, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Borough Market and the British Museum, before sitting down to a classic afternoon tea or checking out a local pub for a Sunday roast. Once you've seen the major sights, stroll through the posh streets of Mayfair or Chelsea, or admire the gardens at one of London's 3,000 parks.
Belongs on LMaldives
#8 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024It is not cheap or easy to reach, but this isolated Indian Ocean vacation spot located southwest of India is the personification of a dreamy tropical retreat. In this remote destination, which is made up of more than 1,000 islands, thatched-roof overwater bungalows sit above the bright aquamarine sea, providing easy water access and a romantic atmosphere. On this once-in-a-lifetime vacation, fill your days with beach trips, spa treatments and snorkeling or scuba diving excursions. If cabin fever sets in, pay a visit to the capital, Malé, where you'll find historic mosques and open-air markets.
Belongs on LiTurks & Caicos
#9 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024Located north of the Dominican Republic, this collection of roughly 100 islands and cays is popular with honeymooners – and for good reason. With sparkling white sand, crystal-clear water and nearly 350 miles of colorful coral reef, the Turks and Caicos Islands are truly a sight to behold. While you'd be remiss to visit this quintessential Caribbean wonder and not spend a day or two lounging on Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales, those seeking a more active getaway will have plenty of opportunities to snorkel, scuba dive and ride horses along the coast.
Belongs on LTokyo
#10 in World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024Simply setting foot in Japan's frenetic capital city is an experience. Known for its bustling streets and flashing neon signs, Tokyo has an electric energy and ample top attractions to discover. Foodies won't be let down by Tokyo's fresh sushi and hearty ramen (not to mention more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world). Shopaholics will find plenty of must-have designer products in Ginza, while those seeking a respite in nature can visit Shinjuku Gyoen or Yoyogi Park. Meanwhile, history buffs will appreciate Tokyo's centuries-old temples and shrines.
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