10 Must-Visit Places Around the World

So you’re trying to pick your next travel spot and keep running into the same lists with the same glossy photos but not much actual help? Let’s fix that. Here’s a rundown of 10 incredible destinations people rave about for good reason—plus the stuff you actually want to know before you go.

No marketing fluff. No “must-have” tours pushed on you. Just the real reasons these places are amazing, and what you can do there.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is Japan’s old capital, famous for its peaceful gardens, old wooden townhouses, and narrow streets that seem frozen in time. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, stroll the Philosopher’s Path lined with cherry blossoms or fiery autumn leaves, and discover classic teahouses and hidden courtyards along the way. The city is known for its calm, timeless beauty—a welcome contrast to Tokyo’s neon energy.

Fun fact: Kyoto has preserved much of its traditional architecture, giving visitors countless scenic corners to explore.

Where to Stay:

If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly stay with a cozy, local feel, Piece Hostel Sanjo (mixed doromity) is a great pick. It’s centrally located near the Sanjo area, offering clean, minimalist dorms and private rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and easy access to public transport and popular spots around Kyoto.

Istanbul, Türkiye

Istanbul is a city where history breathes from every street corner. Straddling Europe and Asia with the Bosphorus flowing between, you can spot influences from Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras all in one stroll. Dive into bustling markets filled with colorful spices and crafts, soak up waterfront views as ferries glide past, and enjoy a cup of tea while watching the city’s vibrant daily rhythm unfold.

Fun fact: The Grand Bazaar has over 4,000 shops, making it one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.

Where to Stay:

Sirkeci Mansion is a cozy hotel located close to Sultanahmet’s main attractions. It features comfortable rooms with modern amenities, warm hospitality, and a lovely courtyard where guests can relax after a day of exploring the city. Its location also makes it easy to reach many historic sites on foot.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is the place people picture when they think of wild New Zealand scenery: dramatic mountains, a sparkling lake, and endless ways to enjoy it. Sure, it’s known for adventure sports, but even if you’re not bungee-jumping, you’ll find plenty to love—from scenic drives to lakefront strolls.

Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu has a unique tide-like “seiche” that rises and falls about 10 centimeters every 25 minutes.

Where to Stay:

Blue Peaks Lodge offers cozy rooms just a short walk from the lakefront and downtown. Kitchenettes help you save on meals, and it’s perfectly placed for exploring Queenstown on foot. 

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is colorful, lively, and endlessly fascinating. The old medina is a maze of narrow streets packed with shops selling everything from lanterns to spices, while beautiful riads and gardens offer peaceful retreats from the bustle. It’s a city of contrasts, where ancient walls hide tranquil courtyards.

Fun fact: Marrakech’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique red clay architecture.

Where to Stay:

If you’re looking for a simple, budget stay with local charm, Hotel Central Palace offers clean rooms and friendly service right in the medina. It’s basic but comfortable, close to the main squares, and a good choice for travelers who want to save without sacrificing location.

Banff National Park, Canada

Banff is what many imagine when they think of the Rockies: turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and wildlife sightings even from the roadside. It’s a park that’s easy to access but still feels wonderfully wild. Scenic drives like the Icefields Parkway make even getting around an experience.

Fun fact: Lake Louise’s stunning blue color comes from fine rock flour suspended in glacial meltwater.

Where to Stay:

Irwin’s Mountain Inn provides cozy, straightforward rooms right on Banff Avenue. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of shops and restaurants, with friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a comfortable spot to unwind after a day of exploring the mountains.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is all about dramatic cliffs, pastel-hued villages, and sea views that make you stop in your tracks. Days here are for slow meals, winding coastal walks, and hopping between towns by bus or boat.

Fun fact: The coastal road has over 1,000 bends, so be ready for a winding but scenic ride.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Floridiana in Amalfi is a solid choice. It offers basic, clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere just a short walk from the main beach and town center. Perfect for travelers who want location and comfort on a tighter budget.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is where natural beauty and city energy come together. Table Mountain looms over beaches and neighborhoods full of life, while day trips take you to dramatic coastal drives and penguin-filled shores.

Fun fact: Table Mountain is one of the oldest mountains in the world at around 600 million years old.

Where to Stay:

Mojo Hotel in Sea Point is budget-friendly with modern rooms, great public areas (including a rooftop), and easy access to the seaside promenade and transport into the city.

Petra, Jordan

Petra isn’t just one carved facade—it’s an entire ancient city hidden among rose-red cliffs. Walking through the narrow Siq to see the Treasury appear is one of travel’s most unforgettable moments, but the site stretches far beyond, with intricate rock-cut structures, winding paths, and sweeping viewpoints.

Fun fact: Petra was once a bustling trading hub linking Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean, leaving behind a maze of stunning archaeological wonders.

Where to Stay:

Esperanza Petra is an affordable hotel close to the entrance, with simple, clean rooms and friendly service that makes early-morning explorations easy. 

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is the perfect gateway to centuries of history carved into the landscape, with vast ancient ruins and intricate stonework that feel straight out of an adventure movie. But it’s also a laid-back town with bustling markets, local craft shops, and riverside cafes that make it easy to unwind.

Fun fact: The surrounding archaeological park covers over 160 hectares, making it one of the largest historic sites in the world to explore.

Where to Stay:

The Night Hotel offers well-rated, budget-friendly rooms with a pool for cooling off after hot temple days, all within walking distance of markets and eateries.

Iceland’s South Coast

Iceland’s south coast is all moody, epic scenery: black-sand beaches, roaring waterfalls, and massive glaciers. Even a few days here feel like another planet.

Fun fact: Reynisfjara Beach’s basalt columns were formed by cooling lava cracking into geometric shapes.

Where to Stay:

Hotel South Coast in Selfoss provides a cozy, modern stay with free Wi-Fi and breakfast included. It’s close to top sights like Gullfoss and Geysir

Final Thoughts

Choosing where to go is about finding what suits your style—whether that’s ancient cities, natural beauty, or laid-back towns. Hopefully this list gives you a solid starting point.