Those who love to travel and discover the wonders of the world are always looking for fascinating places and sensations that only some breathtaking landscapes can arouse. There are many destinations that have these characteristics, but which are the most beautiful?
From Bulgaria to Morocco, from Jordan to Montenegro, passing through Croatia, Israel and Mauritius. Countries that have special events planned, new openings of record-breaking hotels or state-of-the-art museums; destinations that have invested heavily in the promotion of their artistic and cultural beauties in the last two years. Traveling has many benefits and you need to take advantage of it.
Pure air and uncontaminated nature in which to immerse yourself to rediscover the well-being of body and mind and leave the stress of the daily routine behind. There are places that have the privilege of having crystallized time, and that offer those who visit them the opportunity to come into contact with the most authentic essence of the landscapes that frame them. If you are looking for truly unique mountain villages in Europe and all around the world, here are some that you shouldn’t miss.
The best countries to visit
Discover the most beautiful countries from all around the world which you can and should visit. These countries posses something special and each have something to give. Read below and find out what country you should visit next and what country to put on your list.
1. The Netherlands
The World Economic Forum (WEF) carried out a large study to assess the competitiveness of 140 countries in terms of tourism and travel, taking into account many criteria relating to safety, health, transport infrastructure, cultural resources or even environmental sustainability.
2. Egypt
Pyramids and deserts, history and nature… These are some of the elements that attract tourists to Egypt, visiting this country being “an almost mandatory experience for anyone interested in the history of civilizations.” In 2022, the country will notably celebrate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
3. Slovenia
Slovenia is the first European destination on this list. This Balkan country has been a popular destination for many tourists for several years now. They are particularly attracted by the mountain peaks and lakes that dot this country, which is also open to the Adriatic Sea.
4. Bulgaria
If there is an economic destination in strong growth among the trendy destinations to the point of ranking first, that is Bulgaria, a travel destination increasingly loved by young people in search of adventure, fun and culture, and ready to leave in alone or in a group, for an intense hit and run weekend It doesn’t take too many days to visit its capital Sofia, and in any case you can always return, given the numerous low cost flights that connect Vrazhdebna airport to the rest of Europe. With a minimum budget you can fly away, sleep in the city center and eat in the best restaurants. Among the most interesting initiatives, also the Free Sofia Tourwhich guarantees free daily tours of the Bulgarian capital. The appointment is every day in front of the Palace of Justice to discover wonders such as the Banya Bashi Mosque and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
5. Luxembourg
While waiting for the fantastic Christmas Markets and the Winterlights Festival, which brightly illuminate Place d’Armes and the rest of the historic center for Advent, we recommend that you visit Luxembourg for at least two other reasons. The first is undoubtedly the UNESCO World Heritage Site Casemates du Bock, the “Casemates”, a tunnel of about 17 km dug into the promontory of the capital to defend it from external attacks; the second, the fairytale Vianden Castle, an 11th century medieval fortress. In short, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, as small as it is full of attractions, is a country that attracts more and more travelers – searches have increased by over 40% in the last two years! – and deserves to be included at the top of the list of places to visit in 2018 for many reasons. Do you want another one? The Judd mat Gaardebounen, the delicious national dish of smoked pork in cream sauce with beans and potatoes.
6. Montenegro
This year you have one more reason to fly to Montenegro, because this sun-kissed country has just grabbed a new UNESCO site: ” The Venetian defense works between the 16th and 17th centuries: State from the ground, State from the West Sea”. Not only World Heritage Sites, but also large hotel openings in view of this crackling, such as that of the famous The Chedi, which opens its second European property in the most exclusive corner of the Montenegrin Adriatic: Luštica Bay, a place that is so reminiscent of luxurious Saint-Tropez.
7. Tanzania
Tanzania … beyond Zanzibar there is more! This is a good year to discover this incredible African country, which in addition to the wonders of the neighboring archipelago, a paradise for lovers of diving and sunbathing on talcum powder beaches, has much more to offer, including legendary safaris in its parks nature, tropical beaches along its 800 km of coastline and heroic trekking on the most googled mountain in the world: Mount Kilimanjaro. Climbing on foot accompanied by the brave Masai on one of the Seven Peaks of the Planet, 5,895 meters high, will prove to be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. Once at the top, you will admire the star-filled sky of a country that is growing for tourism.
8. Kenya
In Africa, not only Tanzania, but also Kenya seems to be attracting more and more travelers, with an increase of almost 28% in flight searches! The African state overlooking the tropical coasts of the Indian Ocean awaits you in its archaic and mysterious hinterland for the most beautiful safari of your life. In 2017, for the fourth time, Kenya was globally recognized as the best destination for safari in the world at the World Travel Awards, the most prestigious awards related to tourism, and awaits you again aboard the off-road vehicles that will take you to know in person all five of his Big Five(buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino). There are mainly three Kenyan national parks where you can go on safari, the Masai Mara, the Tsavo and the Amboseli, but the appointment with the wonder, the eighth wonder of the natural world, is only one: the great migration of wildebeest from the Serengeti in Tanzania, at the Masai Mara in Kenya, which involves about 2 million specimens and gives you an appointment every year from July to October.
9. Israel
Israel is one of the most fascinating countries that can be visited. The appointment to mark on the agenda is the one with the Giro d’Italia, which for the first time will start outside Europe, on May 4th, right from Jerusalem. And then the usual appointment with Easter, first the Jewish one, the feast of Pesach, from 10 to 18 April, and then the Catholic and Orthodox one, from 16 to 17 April. There will be many tourists who will arrive in Jerusalem, to visit the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher or to attend religious services at the Garden Tomb or the village of Emmaus, in the footsteps of the New Testament. And there will be even more turists, with many direct flights to Tel Aviv and from 7 April a new connection from Naples operated by the Israeli flag carrier EL AL. But Israel is not just tradition, on the contrary.
10. Madagascar
Would you like to discover a real masterpiece of nature? Off the coast of Mozambique, Madagascar will captivate you with its natural parks, white beaches and picturesque villages. This gigantic island of East Africa is a heavenly place where you will have the opportunity to be in the company of very nice lemurs, admire the transformations of incredible chameleons and … walk along the scenic via dei baobab, Route Nationale 8, for a “baobab experience ” unique in the world! Unique in the world is also the event that takes place every year in Nosy Be, between May and June, and which makes the island even more effervescent than usual. We are talking about the famousDonia Festival, which gathers groups from all over Madagascar and neighboring islands such as Réunion and Mauritius to perform in rock, reggae, pop and Creole concerts.
11. Jordan
Now you have no more excuses not to leave for Jordan. The bargain prices of the most famous low-cost airline in Europe will make you want to reach the spectacular Arab country even more: Ryanair has just announced new routes from Italy, Bologna and Milan to Ammam, Rome to Aqaba. Put on the shoes of Lawrence of Arabia and discover the wonders of this land made of deep canyons, unexplored forests, rugged mountains, boundless deserts, historic cities and villages, for a journey along the banks of the Jordan, between adventure and spirituality. In your tour you cannot miss a visit to the red city ofPetra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Wonders of the World, and the Wadi Rum desert, where you can sleep in the tented camps admiring the star-studded sky.
12. Mauritius
Again the Indian Ocean with the wonderful Mauritius, an island that according to data from the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority had a record 2017: 1,341,860 international arrivals were recorded. Italians love Mauritius, partly because it has always been seen as the favorite destination for honeymooners, partly because one of the last natural paradises still seen as super exclusive tourist destinations. Thus searches for flights from Italy to this wonderful island have grown by almost 23% in the last two years. What will you fall in love with in Mauritius? Of the florid nature, of the relaxed atmosphere, of thedream beaches (such as Pereybère, Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, Le Morne, Blue Bay and Ile aux Cerfs …), of culture, tradition and sunsets, among the most beautiful in the world. This is a romantic country, perfect for a break on Valentine’s Day, or for a long autumn holiday to recharge your batteries and regain energy.
13. Singapore
According to research by HSBC Singapore is the Asian city where people live best. Widespread wealth and top services make this city-state with a futuristic charm not only the temple of modernity, but also of liveability. A destination to visit in 2018 and waiting for you with a screaming skyline, where a dip in the Marina Bay Sands pool and a climb on the colorful Super Trees are no longer the only attractions. The new city is called the Long Rail Corridor Projectand it’s turning an old disused railway line into a glittering promenade, thanks to fluorescent asphalt that releases trapped light by day at night.
14. Maldives
Science says this heavenly location off the Indian Ocean could disappear in the not too distant future. So don’t waste time and plan your dream trip to the Maldives, avoiding sea rises and tropical storms. This archipelago of wonders awaits you for one of the most desired holidays by newlyweds on their honeymoon, but also by lovers of nature and the seabed, here more colorful than ever. The searches for flights from Italy have seen a growth of over 16% in the last two years, confirming the Maldives among the trendiest destinations. Recently, the situation of political instability in the country has generated warnings, mainly relating to the capital Malé, but as reported by the Safe Travel site of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the international airport is located on the island of Hulhule and transfers to the more touristy islands do not involve any stop in the capital Male.
15. Morocco
Among the 15 emerging countries to visit, Morocco could not be missing, one of the most popular countries in North Africa by travelers from all over the world. At least by all those who love magical atmospheres, sunsets of fire, animated markets, endless deserts and villages with authentic and wonderful atmospheres.
16. Albania
Those who have never set foot in Albania will not believe in its beauties. Close, cheap, heavenly, this country to visit set like a diamond between Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia, Greece, the Adriatic and the Ionian awaits you for a beautiful holiday off the beaten track. Albania, uncrowded and not inflated, will be the surprise of the year, thanks to the charm of its coast, its white beaches, national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Siteswho can boast. Year after year, Albania is shaking off its old image of a poor land, welcoming modern travelers, without stereotypes and prejudices.
17. Croatia
Croatia, with about 6,000 km of coastline, is the right place for a road trip among historic cities, UNESCO heritage sites, fairy-tale landscapes, natural parks and emerald-colored waterfalls and dream coves. A perfect destination for families with children, who can choose from over 1,200 islands, holiday villages and equipped beaches, but also for young people looking for adventure and fun. So what are you waiting for to take flight?
18. Norway
Second country on this list, Norway. A destination turned towards nature, where visitors can do many outdoor activities, such as hiking for example. The Norwegian tourist office insists on eco-responsible modes of travel that travelers can adopt, such as electric cars, very common here, but also trains or boats.
19. Dominican Republic
Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, Samaná … what do you think? The Dominican Republic is on our list of the best countries outside of Europe to travel safely this summer, thanks to the few requirements needed to enter. No test is required before leaving, nor is there any test on arrival. In addition, its vast beaches and large offer of outdoor activities are a great incentive to visit the locality.
20. Seychelles
The Seychelles were one of the first countries in the world to have vaccinated most of the population and now its borders are open to tourism. To enter the country, it will be necessary to present a negative molecular test carried out no later than 72 hours before departure.
21. Costa Rica
The Costa Rica is considered one of the favorite destinations for nature lovers. Did you know that the country is home to around 5% of the planet’s biodiversity? This is one of the main reasons why Costa Rica offers an unforgettable experience to all tourists who decide to visit it.
22. Georgia
The Georgia is a destination that has much to offer. Its geographical position between Europe and Asia, its nature, the Caucasus mountains and the beaches of the Black Sea, make this little known place, one of the best countries outside Europe to travel safely this summer.
23. Japan
Japan is the perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Lovers of new technologies will be delighted in Tokyo, the capital. In Kyoto, the old capital, you can take a step back in time. There, you can visit many Buddhist temples, its imperial palaces, its traditional houses, the geisha district. Without forgetting to taste the traditional cuisine! As for nature, we advise you to go for a swim in thermal springs or to contemplate the cherry blossoms in spring, and the famous Mount Fuji.
24. Peru
This Latin American country is world famous for Machu Picchu, famous Inca city. But Peru has other wonders to offer. For example, you can sail on Lake Titicaca, observe the Nazca lines, go on an adventure in the Amazon rainforest or take the famous Inca Trail. Also, don’t forget to take a look at Rainbow Mountain and make friends with the llamas and vicuñas!
25. France
France can boast of having landscapes that could not be more varied. The Camargue and the Verdon gorges in the south, Mont Blanc, Mont-Saint-Michel, the châteaux of the Loire, the Eiffel Tower, not to mention Corsica … with all these beautiful places and its charming villages, the ‘Hexagon is one of the most popular destinations for tourists.
26. Australia
If Mount Uluru is no longer accessible to tourists, Australia has many other interests. For example, you can stroll in big cities, such as Sydney, and go to its famous opera house. The country is also known for its impressive landscapes, such as the Great Barrier Reef, and the Outback, a large expanse of desert. The opportunity to observe kangaroos and koalas … but beware of snakes and spiders!
27. Bolivia
This country is reputed to be the most authentic in Latin America. It has very varied and spectacular landscapes. You will be able to marvel at the mountains of the Andes Cordillera, the Atacama Desert but also a tropical forest. Let’s not forget the Salar d’Uyni, the famous salt desert in the far south of Bolivia. What to take full eyes!
28. Cambodia
This country is one of the most beautiful destinations in Asia and the world. Among the things to do, there is of course the temple of Angkor. But Cambodia has other advantages. You can admire many other temples and archaeological sites, rice fields, the Mekong Delta. The population is very welcoming.
29. United States
Considering the size of the country, there is something for everyone! Cities to party, like Las Vegas, cities to learn, like Washington and New York, deserts in the southwest, snow-capped mountains in Alaska, majestic islands with Hawaii … and we won’t forget not also the many national parks, like Yellowstone and Yosemite.
30. Greece
In Greece, a beach with beautiful beaches and mythology, not to mention spectacular landscapes. You will be able to make a big comeback in history by visiting the Acropolis in Athens. To sunbathe, head for the islands, renowned for their magnificent beaches, white houses and their sweetness of life. Finally, discover the Meteora Monasteries, sublime Orthodox Christian monasteries perched on impressive rocky peaks.
31. Spain
The Spain is also popular with holidaymakers. We like to go there for its gastronomy, with tapas and paellas. We also appreciate the warmth there, its festive side, as well as its beautiful beaches. The cultural aspect is not left out either. Santiago de Compostela is thus one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the world. On the Granada side, its Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
32. England
If London is a very dynamic capital, the English countryside has preserved all its charm. There are many historic places, pretty villages and nature, such as Kent, Dorset, or Cornwall. The coasts of England also have a lot to offer, with beautiful walks to observe the cliffs or the marine life. In addition, the England Coast Path, the longest coastal path in the world, is expected to provide access to the entire coast of the country for the first time.
33. Russia
On the border between Europe and Asia, Russia has an immense territory. Besides Moscow, the capital, Saint Petersburg is simply awe-inspiring. Built around water and its river, the Neva, the city of the tsars has no less than 342 bridges! With the many cultural monuments such as museums, palaces, cathedrals and opera, art lovers will be delighted. In summer, you can enjoy the famous White Nights, and in winter, make way for magic with snowy landscapes.
34. Italy
Between its works of art, its ancient monuments and its gastronomy, Italy is a dream destination. So head to Florence to marvel at its Renaissance masterpieces, Rome and its famous Colosseum, Naples to admire Vesuvius and Pompeii, or even Venice, the city of lovers. We do not forget either its pretty beaches in Sardinia and Sicily for example.
35. Iceland
In Iceland, the landscapes are breathtaking, in a sometimes hostile nature. There, you can admire volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, hot springs, and landscapes that seem to come from another world. Among the must-see places on the island, Kirkujufell Mountain and Godafoss Falls.
36. Turkey
On the border between East and West, Turkey is a country that deserves a detour. Pamukkale in southwestern Turkey is best described as a cotton castle. Hot springs of hot water charged with calcite have built a tufa (site formed by a rock called limestone tuff) with the unreal appearance of petrified waterfalls and stepped basins. It is also quite possible to bathe in one of the large pools. In Istanbul, the Hagia Sophia is a true masterpiece.
37. New Zealand
Considered by many to be the most beautiful country in the world, New Zealand is an archipelago located in Oceania. The country is made up of two large islands and a multitude of islets. New Zealand has volcanoes and glaciers on its territory. Magnificent mountainous landscapes can be visited such as the Victoria Mountains or the famous Southern Alps. For your culture, you can go to the famous Te Papa Tongarewa museum which is located in the capital in Wellington. New Zealand also has endemic species such as the kiwi, the country’s emblematic bird.
38. Malta
Malta is the possibility of three islands: Malta proper, the largest, and its two little sisters, Gozo and Comino. Between Sicily and Tunisia, this archipelago is a crossroads of British, Italian and Eastern influences. Valletta, the capital, is an attractive city of art, where every monument bears the mark of the Order of Malta.
From Malta, a 25-minute ferry crossing is enough to reach Comino. More wild, Gozo captivates with its bucolic and intimate side (the island is only 14 km by 7 km), and its geological curiosity: the Blue Hole, a natural lagoon carved into the limestone and connected to the high seas by an arch. underground.
39. Romania
Romania has enormous tourist potential, which has not yet been highlighted. A good reason to think outside the box in Dracula’s stronghold. Among the nuggets, the fortified villages of the Saxon country. Swarmed between Sighisoara and Sibiu, in the center of the country, these romantic gems are bristling with churches, watchtowers and ramparts that date back to medieval times. For road trip fans, the Transfagarasan brings its share of sensations.
40. Andalusia
Granada the monumental, Málaga the bohemian, exuberant Seville, historic Cordoba… Andalusian cities are popular in Spain. But what if, we took a step aside, in the direction of the hinterland, to experience a slice of rural life far from the tumult of the coast? Along the circuit of the pueblos blancos (villages with whitewashed facades) lost in the arid zones of the Alpujarras massif , life hardly seems to have changed since the Bodas de Sangre(Blood Wedding) by playwright Federico García Lorca. We meet peasants with caps screwed on their heads, competing for a game of dominoes, we admire the remains of Moorish castles perched on the hillside, we inhale the fragrant scents of olive trees and lemon trees. The very essence of Andalusia.
41. Brazil
For those looking for nature in its raw state, Brazil is a real promised land, an empire of biodiversity as exceptional as it is fragile. A few experiences to focus on in 2021, away from the crowds and far from the concrete: walk on the sand of the golden dunes of Lençois Maranhenses, follow the meanders of the tributaries of the Amazon aboard a small cruise ship, attend nesting turtles on Praia do Forte beach (September to March), swimming with dolphins around Fernando do Noronha Island, immersing yourself in the symphony of colors in Jalapão Park or along the immense beaches of the Nordeste region aboard a buggy.
42. Uganda
The dream of a lifetime: to get close to a family of gorillas in their natural habitat. A dream to be realized in 2021. Three countries are vying for the award for the best observations of mountain gorillas in Africa: Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. Three countries with common borders, in the region of the Virunga volcanoes. Uganda skillfully pulls out the game by offering superb face-to-face with these great apes in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forestat reasonable rates; the Gorilla license, compulsory, is in fact twice cheaper than in Rwanda.
As for the security conditions, they are optimal (which is not the case in the DRC). The very supervised observations are part of an ecotourism approach and strict respect for the environment. The little extra: luxury lodges nearby, including the Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Combine with a safari in Murchison Falls National Park, home to herds of elephants and buffaloes.
43. Kazakhstan
Long eclipsed by its neighbors, in particular Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan could well create a surprise. The authorities of the country have undertaken to officially support the promotion of rural tourism and eco-responsible accommodation, by favoring rooms at the hotel. inhabitants (traditional yurts are popular) and stays in local communities. A good opportunity to immerse yourself in the Kazakh culture and to get acquainted with the local culinary, musical and festive traditions of this little-known destination. An intimate tourism, in a way, which should appeal to a good number of visitors in search of authenticity. Among the possible activities, horseback riding in the steppe and hiking in the Tien Shan, a very wild mountain range, dotted with glacial lakes.
44. Nepal
Trek, nothing but trek! Far from any urban hustle and bustle, in a sumptuous mountainous setting, we breathe deeply… This is the winning formula offered by Nepal. You don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy the joys of the outdoors and spectacular views. Some easy to intermediate level treks include the three-day loop around the village of Ghorepani, at 3,270 m above sea level, well below the fateful 4,000 m mark. The Annapurna sanctuary does not pose any great difficulties either (allow 8 days). It is possible to modulate the steps and use carriers, which makes the ascent easier. For experienced walkers, the great classic is the Everest base camp, which titillates the world of high mountains, with the crossing of 3 passes over 5,000 m. The reward: breathtaking views over the 8,000 m of the Himalayas, including the iconic Everest.
45. China
Are you looking for a change of scenery? The China is the perfect destination for your next vacation in Asia. The Pearl of Asia offers both sumptuous landscapes, but also a culture and a civilization which go back several millennia. Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Hangzhou, Luoyang, Qufu… you will have a wide choice of exceptional destinations. China is a huge nation that is definitely worth a visit.
46. Vietnam
The Vietnam, also called “Asian Dragon” is an exceptional destination in Asia and has a unique culture and rich. And that’s not all, its sublime landscapes, its spectacular natural sites, its rice terraces, its museums… it’s hard not to appreciate this unique destination. Here are some essentials not to be missed during your stay: Nha Trang, Halong Bay, Hoi An, the perfume pagoda in Hanoi, Phu Quoc Island.
47. Malaysia
A very charming and at the same time fascinating country, Malaysia is full of invaluable riches to discover without delay. Once there, you will quickly notice that places of worship are highly respected. During this trip, do not miss a visit to the capital ” Kuala Lumpur. ” The city conceals many tourist curiosities such as the Hindu site of Batu Caves. Do not also miss the limestone cave with its 272 steps. Inside the latter, you will find monkeys, chickens, cats, the famous large golden statue of Murugan … It would be a shame not to taste the gastronomic specialties of the country such as Nasi padang (steamed rice, served with fish or meat…) or Rendang (beef with curry).
48. Mexico
Mexico which, with 42 sites classified as World Heritage by UNESCO, attracts nearly 41 million tourists. Full of history, in particular, thanks to the many sites built by the Mayas such as the pre-Hispanic city of Chichen-Itza appearing on the list of the 7 new wonders of the world, Mexico is therefore one of the most touristic countries in the world.
49. Germany
Just like France, Germany has 38 listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Germany is therefore a very touristic country with more than 38 million tourists attracted, in particular, by its many cathedrals, such as that of Cologne or Aix-La-Chapelle. Berlin is also one of the most touristic cities in this country.
50. Argentina
The pampas, the steep mountains of the Andes on the western border with Chile, or the lights of Buenos Aires. Do you dream of Argentina? Note that you can stay there this summer for around 30 euros per day. In the peninsula of Valdés, on the east coast, stands a nature reserve listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where penguins, dolphins and whales roam free. Entrance ticket to visit this exceptional park: 13 euros. Even today, a non-stop direct round trip to Buenos Aires is available for around 1,000 euros. So why deprive yourself?