The 15 Most Beautiful Places in the World

There are so many incredible sites to visit around the world that we couldn't possibly fit them all on one list. However, whether you're wanting to relax on a beach, escape off the grid, or visit a metropolis, these breathtaking destinations are well worth adding to your travel bucket list.

Zhangye Danxia Geopark, China

The exotic hues of the "Rainbow Mountains" will entice geology buffs and Instagram addicts both. The colors were created over millions of years by the stacking of sedimentary mineral deposits, yet it's difficult not to feel as if you're witnessing magic when you see the flowing reds, yellows, and oranges.

Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the bluest water you've ever seen can be found in Canada's first national park's glacier lakes. Even if you're not a big fan of the outdoors, you can still enjoy the scenery from one of the park's snug and beautiful lakeside lodges, such as the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Take this coastal trip west from Melbourne to view the famed 12 Apostle rock formations, koalas in Great Otway National Park, and the picturesque seaside town of Lorne.

Venice, Italy

If riding a be-striped gondolier along the canals sounds too touristic, stick to the sidewalks and magnificent arched bridges to get your fill of this absolutely unique, wonderfully enchanting floating city.

Pamukkale, Turkey

These natural, snow-white hot springs overlooking the surrounding city of Denizli will put any infinity pool to shame. Pamukkale is also home to the well-preserved remnants of the ancient Roman spa city Hierapolis, where you can bathe like an emperor among the submerged centuries-old columns.

Japan in Cherry Blossom Season

While Japan is beautiful all year, the few weeks in spring when cherry trees across the country burst forth with blossoms are especially lovely.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh, which sits at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, hasn't changed much since the Middle Ages. You may spend days here exploring the city's colorful souks, palaces, and gardens through maze-like passageways.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

This small island in the South Pacific is virtually heaven on Earth, with azure lagoons, coral reefs, and overwater bungalows.

Oia, Santorini, Greece

Although all of the Greek islands are stunning, the hilltop village of Oia offers some of the best views of the vivid blue Aegean Sea.

Mù Cang Chải, Vietnam

Get off the usual road in this rural district, where rice paddy-terraced mountains and twisting streams will transport you to another world.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Fields of vibrant purple Russell Lupins bloom across New Zealand's South Island every year, beginning in late November and peaking in early December. Fiordland National Park, home to the similarly magnificent Milford Sound, is one of the most lovely places to go Lupin-spotting.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The silica-rich waters that feed Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon, located southwest of Reykjavik, give it its signature blue. The geothermal water isn't just beautiful; it's also beneficial to your skin.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

The Logoten Islands are a great place to visit if you're seeking for a perfect blend of winter and spring. It is technically in the Arctic, yet due to an elevation anomaly, it has some of the warmest temperatures. In the winter, it's also a fantastic site to see the Northern Lights.

Iguazú Falls, Argentina

The Iguaz Falls are the world's largest waterfall system. Legend has it that a mighty deity was rejected by his mortal lover and in a fit of wrath split the rivers, resulting in the waterfalls.

Giza, Egypt

This city, which is home to the Great Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza, served as Egypt's capital during the reign of the first pharaohs. It's also something that should be on everyone's bucket list.