There’s so much to explore all over the world, but there are destinations that are undeniably bucket list worthy. These places are filled with beauty, history, and distinct character that make them famous travel destinations for people from all around the world. For your next adventure, check out these ultimate bucket list destinations and where to recharge after immersing yourself in an adventure of a lifetime.
Machu Pichu, Peru
An ancient Incan city perched on the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Pichu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Built in the 15th century and abandoned a century later during the Spanish conquest of Peru, the now deserted city consists of more than 200 structures, including temples, palaces, and terraces.
When to go: Located in a subtropical climate zone, the weather is usually warm and humid with occasional rain, so the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. The peak season is from June to August, and visiting during the other months of the dry season might be something you’d want to consider to avoid crowds.
Where to stay: Our accommodation picks for your trip to Machu Pichu are Sanctuary Lodge and Inkaterra Machu Pichu Pueblo Hotel. Both set in lush forests, Sanctuary Lodge is a stone’s throw away from the ruins, giving you a chance to enter the lofty citadel at dawn way before the crowds come. Inkaterra Machu Pichu Pueblo Hotel on the other hand offers an authentic Incan retreat in each of the thoughtfully adorned villas and is a close bus ride away from the historic sanctuary.
The Great Wall of China
Stretching over 13,000 miles across China’s northern borders, the Great Wall of China was built over 2,000 years and remains one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Made of various materials including brick, tamped earth, and stone, the wall was designed to protect China from invading armies with some sections more than 20 feet high and 25 feet wide. Today, there are several sections of the wall that are open to visitors, including the most popular sections near Beijing, such as Badaling and Mutianyu.
When to go: The best time to visit the Great Wall of China is during the off-peak season (April to May and September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, if you prefer warmer weather, the summer months (June to August) are also an option, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher temperatures. We also recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Where to stay: Sansa Village takes you back in time with its seemingly ancient grounds but spoils you with all the comforts of a modern minimalist hotel in each of the calming rooms. On-site, there’s a garden, lounge, and restaurant. This boutique hotel is just a 10-minute stroll away from the Mutianyu Great Wall!
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Famous for being the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are a group of volcanic islands located off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The islands are home to a wide variety of species that are found nowhere else in the world, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. When visiting the islands, activities you can enjoy include hiking, snorkelling, and wildlife watching with personalised tours available depending on where you stay too.
When to go: It’s best to visit during the dry season (June to December) when the weather is mild, there is less rain, and the waters are clearer for snorkelling. However, the peak season for visitors is from December to January and June to August when the weather is warmer and the wildlife is more active. Note that visitors to the Galapagos Islands must be accompanied by a licensed Galapagos National Park guide, and there are strict rules to be followed to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Where to stay: Be minutes away from the amazing islands when you stay at Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel. Enjoy access to the on-site spa and chill out at the outdoor pool all while being within walking distance to the beach! The hotel also offers yacht day tours for an ultra-luxe Galapagos Islands island hopping experience.
Rapa Nui, Chile
Also known as Easter Island, Rapa Nui is located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean and is famous for its mysterious Moai statues. Built by the Rapa Nui people between 1100 and 1600, archaeologists have recorded a total of 887 Moai statues on the island but there could be as many as 1000! Carved from volcanic rock and transported across the island to their current locations, the largest statue is over 30 feet and weighs over 75 tons. While the reason for Moai’s creation and placement is still debated, it is believed to be related to ancestral worship, and today, you can experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When to go: The best time to go is during the island’s summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler temperatures, the off-peak season (September to November and March to May) may be a better option.
Where to stay: Close to the main town, explore Rapa Nui is an eco-friendly getaway which is within walking distance of some of the Moai statues on the island. It has only 30 rooms which lend it a more exclusive atmosphere and the rooms feature locally-inspired furnishings and textures. The on-site restaurant treats guests to local cuisine always paired with superb Chilean wine!
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Built in the 12th century by the Khmer King Suryavarman II and originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, Angkor Wat later on became a Buddhist temple and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world today. This temple complex covers an area of 402 acres and features several temples, galleries, and pools, with the main temple designed to represent Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu mythology. When visiting, make sure to pay attention to the intricate carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life in ancient Cambodia!
When to go: It’s most convenient to visit during the dry season (November to April) when the weather is mild and there is less rain, but this is also the busiest time of the year. The wet season (May to October) is also an option, but the weather can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rainfalls.
Where to stay: There’s much to explore and it’s best to leisurely tour the temple grounds for at least a full day! Stay within 15 minutes of Angkor Wat at Templation Hotel, or Sokkhak Boutique Resort. Sokkhak Boutique Resort has a range of spacious suites with modern Cambodian interiors while Templation Hotel has suites and pool villas that feel like a romantic tropical haven. A little further out but still just over 20 minutes by tuk tuk is Zannier Hotels’ Phum Baitang. Its villas and interiors are like traditional Khmer homes, and this “green village” has its own Spa Temple that embraces centuries-old Cambodian wellness practices.
Acropolis, Athens
Set on a rocky outcrop in Athens, Greece, The Acropolis is an ancient citadel which is home to several iconic structures, including the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. The Parthenon, in particular, is considered a masterpiece of ancient Greek architecture and is a symbol of Western civilization. When visiting, we suggest stopping by the Acropolis Museum located nearby. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Greece.
When to go: The best time to visit the Acropolis is during the less-crowded season from April to May and September to October when the weather is mild too. If you don’t mind warmer weather and the crowds, the summer months (June to August) are an option too.
Where to stay: Only a 5-minute walk away from the Acropolis, The Dolli at Acropolis is a beautiful contemporary boutique hotel with bright interiors and views of the ancient citadel. It exudes understated luxury in each of its 46 luxurious bedrooms and boasts a lavish rooftop dining experience with panoramic views of the Parthenon.
The Colosseum, Italy
When in Rome… it is imperative to visit the Colosseum. The ancient amphitheatre is located in the heart of Rome and was built between 70 and 72 C.E. Used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other events, it could seat up to 50,000 spectators and is considered a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering. One of the largest amphitheatres ever built, it is also famous for its elaborate system of underground passages and chambers which were used to transport gladiators, animals, and other items.
When to go: Avoid the crowds and long lines by visiting around April to May and September to October. Peak season is around summer—June to August—and whenever you choose to visit, it would be best to book tickets in advance so you can avoid long lines.
Where to stay: Sip on inspired drinks with front-row seats to the view of the Colosseum at Palazzo Manfredi which is just a 5-minute walk away, or retreat to the playful boutique suites at Palm Suite. Also just a few minutes away, Condominio Monti Boutique Hotel’s homey Italian vibe will win your heart over, and it places you in between the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum!
The Taj Mahal, India
Emperor Shah Jahan’s testament of love for his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a white marble tomb built between 1631 and 1648. Considered one of the greatest architectural achievements in the world, the building features intricate inlaid designs and calligraphy, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a large reflection pool in front of the entrance.
When to go: It is best to go during the cooler months of the year, from October to February—but this is also the peak season so expect crowds around this time. There are three points of entry, and all of them get crowded if you buy tickets on-site, so it’s best to buy your ticket online in advance.
Where to stay: A 2-minute drive away from the Taj Mahal, all of the rooms at The Oberoi Amarvilas have stunning views of the exquisite mausoleum and is a beautiful Mughal palace-inspired destination hotel by itself. Its terraced lawns, pools, pavilions, and suites will make you feel like you’ve stepped into ancient Agra while enjoying the finest accommodations in the city.
The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Shrouded in mystique and set on the dunes of the Sahara Desert in Cairo, Egypt, The Great Pyramids of Giza have long entranced visitors and locals alike. Built during the Old Kingdom period of ancient Egypt around 2500 BCE, the complex includes three main pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, but it has several smaller pyramids and tombs as well.
When to go: It is best to visit during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is mild and much more comfortable. The summer months (June to August) can be very hot, humid, and overwhelming because of the crowds, but if you must visit during the summer, it is best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat of high noon.
Where to stay: It’s a unique experience, relaxing with the Great Pyramids as your backdrop, and at Marriott Mena House Cairo, you’ll get to wake up with the pyramids within close view. This 5-star hotel is an oasis of luxury with upscale rooms, grand marble bathrooms, and private balconies with amazing views of the pyramids, gardens, or pool. After a hot day of exploration, indulge in pampering therapies at Marriott Mena House Saray Spa for a blissful whole-body experience.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of Queensland, Australia and is home to over 1,500 species of fish, 600 types of soft and hard coral, and many other marine creatures. It also spans over 2,300 kilometres along the northeast coast of Australia and is visible from space! Snorkelling, SCUBA diving, and going on glass-bottom boat rides are top activities to enjoy so you can experience close encounters with turtles, rays, dolphins, and other amazing animals.
When to best go: The water is clearer and the overall weather is milder between June and October, but this is also peak tourist season. There are fewer tourists around November to May, but the visibility for snorkelling might not be at its best.
Where to stay: Be in the heart of this natural marine playground with a stay at Lizard Island Resort. It is the only luxury resort right on the Great Barrier Reef and this all-inclusive stay will ensure you have a hassle-free holiday. Enjoy access to powdery white beaches and about 1,000 hectares of the unspoilt national park! You can also enjoy easy access to the Great Barrier Reef by staying in luxury hotels in the Whitsundays.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is a historical and archaeological city located in the southern part of Jordan built by the Nabataeans around 310 BC. It was a major trading hub for the region and is now known for its impressive Hellenistic architectural sites including the iconic Treasury with its façade half-carved into the rock, the Monastery, and the Royal Tombs. Set in a desert region, it has a dry climate with hot summers and cool winters.
When to go: The best time to visit Petra is during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and more comfortable for exploring the city.
Where to stay: Only around 100 metres away, Mövenpick Resort Petra is a luxury resort located directly at the entrance of the historic city. Dinner at Al Ghadeer Roof Garden will mesmerise you with the sunset over the Petra hills! Also close by, Petra Marriott Hotel is another luxurious hotel near the archaeological city. It’s set on a sloping site that overlooks Petra Valley, giving guests stunning views from a high vantage point. Want something more unique? Petra Bubble Luxotel will give you a glamping experience in the desert inside your private bubble while giving you a furnished deck and outdoor spa bath too!
Looking for more luxurious accommodation options for your bucket list travel destinations? You’ll love our full collection at viewretreats.com
