We’ve all got a travel bucket list; it’s the ultimate list of places to see before you die. While there are many great places to travel in the world, there are some that you have to witness with your own eyes to truly believe.
The world is a beautiful place, and there is so much to see and experience out there.
These are places that almost everyone has seen in the history books, and some places made more famous thanks to the internet, movies, and television shows.
While it may be morbid to think of death, I think we can all agree we don’t want to pass on without having fully lived and seen the truest wonders of the world.
So if you’re putting your list of places to visit before you die together and need some ideas, here are some places we have added to our list of places to see before we die.
1. The Grand Canyon, USA
While you might think this would be mostly for those in the United States, the Grand Canyon is truly a sight to behold. After all, it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World!
This steep canyon carved over the tens of thousands of years by the Colorado River is one of the largest and most impressive canyons in the world.
Pictures do not truly do justice to the sheer size of the Grand Canyon.
Being able to stand near the edge and see the huge rock walls, which span for well over 200 miles, is just incredible.
2. The Great Wall of China, China
The Great Wall of China is first structure ever constructed by man to be visible from space, so this is certainly a must see.
When you stand on the Great Wall, looking down towards the horizon and seeing that it stretches beyond, it can be hard to imagine that this was built by human hands.
Being over 5,000 miles long, this truly is a marvel to behold.
It is hard to imagine just how much labor went into the construction, and if you plan the proper tour, you will even see some of the many statues contained inside.
Each of these terracotta statues are life-sized, and individually numbered.
It is estimated that inside the Great Wall of China there are around 8,000 of these statues earning them the name Terracotta Army.
3. Easter Island, Chile
This small island in the Pacific part of Chile isn’t very interesting by itself, but people come here to gaze upon the moai statues which are world famous.
The ancient culture used up all the trees before vanishing, possibly to aid in the construction of the many 13 foot tall statues that line the island.
Not much is known about why or who created them, and while we have seen pictures they just don’t convey the sheer size of these 10-14 ton behemoths.
It has been speculated that the peoples responsible for these statues left when the island was running out of resources.
They have been a focus of study for quite a long time, and have inspired some truly unique stories.
4. Venice, Italy
The canal streets of Venice in Italy are truly unique in the world, and to see firsthand just how people go about their daily lives is an interesting experience.
The city was built on over 100 small islands, which made travel by boat a necessity. It’s also a well known fact that the city is sinking, and won’t be around forever.
With such easy access to sea trade routes, it is easy to see how this great city became known as an industrial center.
Taking a guided tour down the many canal streets is a truly unique experience, which cannot be replicated.
Every faucet of modern living as we know it will be different when your roads are canals.
5. The Taj Mahal, India
This huge mausoleum in Agra, India was built in the 1600’s at a time when most people would not have thought it possible to create such a magnificent place.
While many people might think that this is one huge building, it is actually made up of many smaller structures, which all add up to make the place truly beautiful when viewed by the naked eye.
The large white dome is a world renowned landmark and although people have tried to replicate the look, it just isn’t the same.
Even from afar this is truly a sight to behold, but what is even more spectacular are the decorations on the buildings themselves.
Calligraphy carved into the side and many small adornments that were painstakingly handcrafted have held up to the test of time, and even by today’s standards considered very impressive.
To this day much effort is put into maintaining, both the Taj Mahal itself, and the grounds surrounding the area so that you are surely to not be disappointed.
6. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The name Angkor Wat translates to “city temple” and this exactly what it is.
Located in Cambodia, Angkor Wat is an example of what truly marvelous structures can be created without the aid of technology.
The large statues carved inside the structure itself is what most people think of when hearing the name, but seeing the great temple from afar truly is impressive.
For anyone wanting to see great examples of architecture, Angkor Wat has to be high on their list.
As there is so much to take in, you would be wise to schedule a guided tour so that you are sure not to miss out on the more interesting aspects of the city temples design.
Read more: Things to do in Phnom Penh
7. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the largest living coral reef in the world is actually made up of many smaller reefs which span for over 1600 miles.
The large abundance of colorful sea life make this a real hotspot for divers worldwide.
If you are lucky enough to view this spectacle from the air you will see just how large this reef really is.
Reefs are composed of millions of tiny creatures, so one of this size would take untold ages to be able to form as it is a natural wonder of Australia not to be missed.
8. Petra, Jordan
No one really knows just who built this great city in the mountain walls in Jordan.
The very large entry ways which can be over 14 feet tall have inspired many tales of a city inhabited by giants.
It is estimated that the city itself is well over 3,000 years old, and served many purposes over it’s ancient history.
It has been reported to be a capital, caravan trading post, as well as a temple of sorts and has been ruled by several different cultures.
The hardness of the stone must have made construction of the ancient city a project that spanned over multiple generations.
Read More:
9. Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt has been chosen for number one as it is one of the most widely known ancient structures in existence.
It was built precisely to match the geographic directions of the compass, proving that mankind could indeed manipulate numbers back in ancient times to create great marvels of engineering.
While all of the other pyramids have a recorded history, and are proven to serve as a tomb, the Great Pyramids reason for being built is largely unknown.
The top of the pyramid is missing though many believe from ancient writings that it was a huge piece of gold that would shine from the horizon.
When looking at pictures, you have to envision that many centuries of erosion and vandalism have changed the way this site looks.
The outer walls were made of highly polished stone, which make some scientists believe that it would shine bright enough at parts of the day to have been visible from orbit around the Earth itself.
I must admit that the order of these great sites to behold is based on personal preference, but this does not mean that these are not must see places before you die.
The many photographs available truly do not let you behold and feel the presence of these unique places around the world.
Read More: What to do in Cairo, Egypt
10. Lapland, Finland
Lapland is a magical destination that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit before you die.
It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast forests, icy tundra, and of course, the chance to see the famous Northern Lights.
You can also learn about the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years, and if you have children, you can take dog sledding and snowmobiling or to visit Santa Claus Village.
There is more to see in Lapland than just the Northern Lights, the entire place is an experience.
If you just want to see the auras, you can visit Norway or Sweden instead which are a bit easier to get to.
Read More: Fun things to do in Lapland with Kids
11. Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is an otherworldly desert in the heart of Turkey. It’s famous for its rocky landscapes, with surreal rock formations known as fairy chimneys, and underground cities.
The most famous thing to do in Cappadocia though is to soar through the skies at sunrise in a hot air balloon.
You can stay in a luxurious ancient cave hotel, hike through the awe-inspiring scenery, or visit ancient settlements such as Goreme or Zelve Open Air Museum.
Don’t miss the Red Valley and Rose Valley trail for amazing views.
12. New York City
New York City is arguably the most exciting and electric city in the world. It’s a melting pot of cultures, and has so many world class attractions and monuments, you can tick off many bucket lists within a bucket list.
From feeling the buzz of Times Square, to watching a show on Broadway, to sailing past the Statue of Liberty, to admiring views from the Empire State Building, to bike riding through Central Park or across Brooklyn Bridge, New York City is unparalleled.
Read More:
- 19 NYC Travel Tips: Things To Know Before You Go!
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- New York Accommodation: 35 Best Hotels in NYC (From Budget To Luxury)
- 16 New York Travel Tips to Save Money and Maximize Time (epic guide)
- 3 Day NYC Itinerary to Experience Popular New York Attractions
13. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is another Wonder of the World that simply amazes anyone who goes there.
The ancient Incan citadel, nestled high in the Andes Mountains, has breathtaking views and enigmatic ruins that wow you with its architectural mastery.
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a place of immense cultural and historical importance.
As well as seeing Machu Picchu, the journey there by hiking the renowned Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience.
The scenic views of lush cloud forests and awe-inspiring mountain vistas make it well worth adding to your list of places to visit before you die.
Read more: The Ultimate 10 Day Peru Itinerary
14. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Everyone dreams of a tropical island getaway to Bora Bora, French Polynesia – the epitome of heaven if it was ever to exist on this planet.
Bora Bora’s stunning lagoon, surrounded by a barrier reef and lush green mountains, and thriving with vibrant marine life and coral gardens, make it the perfect place for ocean lovers to visit.
With unparalleled natural beauty made up of crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and appreciated from iconic overwater bungalows, it’s a picture-perfect paradise everyone should visit once in their life.
15. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Iguazu Falls, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, is another one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
The falls, made up of 275 individual cascades, showcase the breathtaking power of nature.
The sheer scale and grandeur of the falls, combined with the surrounding lush rainforest, are mesmerizing.
16. Masai Mara National Park, Kenya
Masai Mara National Park in Kenya is the place to go for an African safari – period.
It’s known for being a hot spot for the iconic “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), and has a high chance of giving visitors a chance to see majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss out on the annual Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals traverse the savannah in search of greener pastures in July to November.
You can also experience the land via hot air balloon safaris, and meet with the Maasai people, who have lived in harmony with the wildlife for generations.
17. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park
The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder and the largest hot spring in the United States, and the third-largest in the world.
It is known for its vibrant and otherworldly colors, created by thermophilic bacteria that thrive in the hot, mineral-rich waters.
The spring’s mesmerizing rainbow hues, ranging from deep blues to vivid oranges and reds, are unlike anything else in the world.
Yellowstone is the most unique national park in the USA and should be high on anyone’s list of places to go before they, well, go…
18. Bhutan, Himalayas
Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is a unique destination that not many people get to experience since you need to enter via a tour company to go.
However, those who do get to go, get an authentic experience.
Witness the country’s stunning landscapes made of soaring mountain peaks and lush valleys, as well as see how the small village tribes live.
Bhutan’s has preserved much of its heritage, which is deeply-rooted Buddhist traditions.
The country’s emphasis on Gross National Happiness, is something we can all be inspired by.
Bhutan’s policy of regulating tourism through a “high-value, low-impact” model makes it one of the most unique countries in the world to visit.
19. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa, and if you want to have one epic hike before you die, the sense of achievement you get when you conquer its summit is unmatched.
Not to mention you get to traverse through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts, to the glaciated summit.
The mountain’s majestic snow-capped peaks rise above the African plains, creating a stunning and awe-inspiring sight.
It really is a once in a life time experience.
20. South Beach, Miami
South Beach may not be high on everyone’s list, but we also know not everyone can fly to the far reaches of Africa, so we’ve decided to add a destination a little more accessible.
South Beach is known for its iconic Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy some sun, surf, and the vibrant energy of Miami.
How many of these places have you seen? What places do you want to see before you die? Let us know in the comments.
