I have visited 37 countries so far, spending extensive time in some and flying visits in others. My current travelling goal is to experience as many bucket list destinations as possible while travelling is easy for me to do (no children, no unavoidable financial commitments). As I have visited less than 20% of the world (going by number of countries), I am sure this list will grow but for now, enjoy these bucket list destinations you must visit in your lifetime.
1. Sahara Desert, Morocco
Starting off strong with the Sahara Desert in Morocco. Watching the sun set over the dunes of the Sahara will always go down as one of my favourite memories and a life highlight. It’s not hard to see why this is a must do bucket list destination.
2. Blue Lagoon, Iceland
A must do destination in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon is absolutely phenomenal European destination and a must to add to your bucket list. Located near the Keflavik International Airport, you can even visit the Blue Lagoon on an Iceland airport stopover.
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Catch the Dubrovnik Cable Car, one of the scenic cable cars in the world, to the top of Mount Srd and overlook Dubrovnik Old Town from above. One of the most beautiful places in Europe, my top tip is to catch the cable car in the late afternoon for sunset. But I recommend setting off well before sunset, to ensure you reach the top in time as this is a very popular sunset activity and queues will form.
4. Verdon Gorge, France
Situated in the South of Franch, Verden Gorge is a vibrant blue canyon and a natural French wonder. I highly recommend including this gorge when exploring the most beautiful places in Europe.
5. Gili T, Indonesia
When exploring Indonesia and Bali, be sure to include Gili Trawangan (also known as Gili T) to your list. Famous for the ocean swings, this island is one of the most relaxing places you can visit.
6. Dumbo, Brooklyn, New York City
A famous photography location in New York City, Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass is where the suburb acronym comes from) is a must visit while in New York City. A beautifully framed shot of Manhattan Bridge and iconic New York landmark. Also, if you are a fan of Gossip Girl, check out the Humphrey Loft, also located near the Manhattan Bridge.
7. Cairns, Australia
Located in North Queensland in Australia, Cairns has everything you might want, including World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest (the oldest tropical rainforest in the world). Plus an impressive outback, rolling hills, vibrant city centre and iconic Australian animals. What else do you need? For more Australian destinations read 10 Australian Destinations You Must Visit in 2020 and for helpful tips before your visit to Australia read: Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Australia.
8. Glencoe, Scotland
One of the most picturesque places in the world, Glencoe in Scotland is also a famous Harry Potter filming location (Hagrid’s hut and the grounds of Hogwarts in the Prisoner of Azkaban series).
9. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
One of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland (if not the most beautiful), Lauterbrunnen is a bucket list destination before you have even experienced anything in the village. My favourite memories of this European gem were just walking through the valley, home to 72 waterfalls.
10. Niagara Falls, Canada
Situated on the Canada/ USA border, Niagara Falls is a famous bucket list destination. While you can view the falls from either side of the border, the Canadian side has the best view (and is more popular). If you want to take in the falls by boat (which is amazing), then I actually recommend taking the boat from the American side, as there are no lines and no crowds on this side.
11. Kotor, Montenegro
Magnificent, is the best way to describe Montenegro. From the maze that is Kotor Old Town to the incredible view from the lookout high above the town, make sure you add the Kotor in Montenegro to the your bucket list.
12. Rottnest Island, Western Australia
One of the must do Perth places, Rottnest is a stunning Australian bucket list destination. Whether you are exploring the bright white sand beaches or hanging out with the friendly locals (quokkas), a visit to Rottnest Island will never go unwarranted.
13. London, England
One of the most important cities in the world (historically, economically, gap-yeary, bucket list destination-y) and full of so many things to experience, you have to visit London at least once in your life (to be honest, may as well live there at some point of your life as well). Even if you have visited London a few times already there is always something new to uncover (suggested read: London Gems: A 2 day itinerary for those who have seen it all)
14. Chefchaouen, Morocco
The Blue Pearl of Morocco, Chefchaouen is painted in various shades of blue. It feels like a fairy tale and is a great place to spend getting lost in the streets.
15. Singapore
Both an island and city, Singapore is a fantastic mix of modern and traditional. A bucket list destination in it’s own right, you can also explore Singapore for the day (or a few) on a stopover to break up larger distances. While you’re here make sure you visit Gardens by the Bay, Little India and Marina Bay Sands.
16. Barcelona, Spain
Whether you get Barcelona by Ed Sheeran or George Ezra stuck in your head, Barcelona is a bucket list destination for a good reason. Wander through the gothic quarter, admire the unfinished Sagrada Familia, and take in the wonder of Park Güell.
17. Great Ocean Road, Australia
One of Australia’s iconic road trips, driving along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria is an experience for everyone’s bucket list, and that’s before we add the 12 Apostles to the mix. Combine this road trip with a visit to the capital, Melbourne (read: 12 things you can’t miss in Melbourne) for an enjoyable adventure along Australia’s impressive coast.
18. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Situated along the picturesque coastline of Ireland, Cliffs of Moher was one of my favourite Irish destinations and one of the most beautiful places in Europe. I highly recommend Cliffs of Moher as it is a great place to tick off the bucket list – and that’s before we add in my being a fan of Harry Potter.
19. Ios, Greece
Ios, a small island in Greece, is easily one of my favourite places on Earth. Whether it’s exploring the island’s many phenomenal beaches and finding new places to cliff jump or it’s partying with friends from across the world, Ios is one of the best bucket list destinations for young travellers and a must to add to any Europe summer itinerary.
Suggested read: The best places to watch the sunset on Ios Island in Greece
20. Lagos, Portugal
And finally, we arrive at Lagos. Located in Southern Portugal in The Algarve, this destination is very popular with the English who often fly over for summer getaways. The coastline is impressive and stunningly beautiful and the town has a fantastic, relaxing atmosphere. Definitely recommend visiting this stunning European destination.
How many of these bucket list destinations have you experienced?
