Natural wonders, grandiose buildings, the most beautiful beaches: Finding very special travel destinations in the world is not that easy. Because what is special, you have to define for yourself. For example, I love Buddhist temples and can hardly avoid them on vacation. If you are looking for the most beautiful travel destinations and wondering which country and which sights you must see, the list gets quite long. What are the most special travel destinations in the world? Which ones do I really want to see? I have put together a lot of valuable inspiration for you that will help you plan your next trip to special travel destinations.

Finding the most extraordinary travel destinations in the world with breathtaking natural wonders, imposing buildings and paradisiacal beaches is a difficult task. After all, the concept of uniqueness is subjective and varies from person to person. For me, for example, Buddhist temples have a special fascination that I find difficult to escape when I travel.

But the question of which countries and sights you absolutely have to see leads to a seemingly endless list. To make your decision easier and plan your next unforgettable trip, I have put together a series of inspiring suggestions tailored to your needs bucket list and show you the beauty and uniqueness of our world.

Video – 50 special travel destinations worldwide

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The world is full of wonders - not just wonders of the world

When you set out to find amazing places, you'll find that the world is full of wonders just waiting to be discovered. Some of these wonders are man-made, others have been shaped by nature over thousands of years.

There are countless breathtaking destinations in every corner of the world, so deciding where to go next can become a difficult task. That's why I've put together a list of the most extraordinary travel destinations that offer unique and unforgettable experiences and are definitely worth a visit.

What is your motivation for discovery?

Maybe you are drawn to these extraordinary destinations for a variety of reasons. Be it your interest in history that leads you to the most famous and impressive buildings in the world, or your fascination with natural wonders that leave you speechless. My personal passion is Buddhist temples, which radiate an atmosphere of peace and reflection and have an almost magical effect on me.

Whatever your motivation, there is bound to be something special Destinationthat is tailored to your needs. So don't hesitate any longer and start planning your next unforgettable trip to one of these fascinating places. Be inspired by the travel destinations presented here, immerse yourself in the diversity of our world and collect valuable memories and experiences that will enrich your life. A world of wonder is waiting for you to discover it.

I want to inspire you to travel

I am a passionate traveler and love to discover new and extraordinary places. In this post I would like to share my enthusiasm and passion for special travel destinations with you and you at the travel planning help. I want to give you as many valuable ones as possible holiday tips and provide information on how to find, reach and enjoy these places. I would also like to tell you about my personal experiences, what fascinated, touched and surprised me about these places. I hope that my post will inspire you to visit these beautiful places as well. That is the purpose of this post.

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The 99 Most Spectacular and Extraordinary Travel Destinations in the World

Welcome to a fascinating journey around the globe that will take you to the 99 most spectacular, extraordinary and breathtaking destinations our planet has to offer. This unique compilation is based on personal preferences and general recommendations and is the result of careful selection to give you a comprehensive overview of the diverse beauty of our planet. Our list is not sorted in any particular order to give you the freedom to discover your own favorites and create your very own bucket list.

In this extensive list, you'll find an impressive mix of natural wonders, architectural masterpieces, cultural treasures and magical places that will enchant your senses. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the pristine beaches of the Maldives to the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu, this selection of destinations showcases the endless variety of ways to explore the world and create unforgettable memories.

List of the 99 Most Extraordinary and Breathtaking Travel Destinations in the World

1. Machu Picchu, Peru
2. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
3. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
4. Grand Canyon, United States
5. Santorini, Greece
6. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
7. Venice, Italy
8. Petra, Jordan
9. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
10. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
11. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
12. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
13. Fjords in Norway
14. Bagan, Myanmar
15. Antarctica
16. Amazon rainforest, South America
17. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
18. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
19. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
20. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
21. Colosseum, Rome, Italy
22. New Zealand – Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
23. Banff National Park, Canada
24. Aletsch Glacier, Switzerland
25. Kyoto, Japan
26. Dubrovnik, Croatia
27. Taj Mahal, India
28. Cappadocia, Turkey
29. Mont Saint Michel, France
30. Great Ocean Road, Australia
31. Okavango Delta, Botswana
32. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
33. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
34. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia
35. Pamukkale, Türkiye
36. Meteora monasteries, Greece
37. Palau – jellyfish lake
38. Yellowstone National Park, United States
39. Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy
40. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
41. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil
42. Fjords in Norway
43. Bagan, Myanmar
44. Antarctica
45. Amazon rainforest, South America
46. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China
47. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
48. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
49. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
50. Colosseum, Rome, Italy
51. New Zealand – Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park
52. Banff National Park, Canada
53. Aletsch Glacier, Switzerland
54. Kyoto, Japan
55. Dubrovnik, Croatia
56. Taj Mahal, India
57. Cappadocia, Turkey
58. Mont Saint Michel, France
59. Great Ocean Road, Australia
60. Okavango Delta, Botswana
61. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
62. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
63. Pamukkale, Türkiye
64. Meteora monasteries, Greece
65. Palau – jellyfish lake
66. Þingvellir National Park, Iceland
67. Sossusvlei, Namibia
68. Keukenhof, Netherlands
69. Acropolis, Athens, Greece
70. Chichen Itza, Mexico
71. Edinburgh, Scotland
72. Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal
73. Lanzarote Lava Fields, Canary Islands, Spain
74. Prague, Czech Republic
75. Amalfi Coast, Italy
76. Great Wall of China, China
77. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
78. Matterhorn, Switzerland/Italy
79. Easter Island, Chile
80. Cinque Terre, Italy
81. Great Blue Hole, Belize
82. Isfahan, Iran
83. Wadi Rum, Jordan
84. Palawan, Philippines
85. Namib Desert, Namibia
86. Northern Lights, Scandinavia, Iceland and Canada
87. Ise Shrine, Japan
88. Bryce Canyon National Park, United States
89. Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Iceland
90. Komodo National Park, Indonesia
91. Maldives
92. Sistine Chapel, Vatican City
93. Jeju Island, South Korea
94. Kauai, Hawaii, United States
95. Denali National Park, Alaska, USA
96. Ladakh, India
97. Socotra Island, Yemen
98. Bled Lake, Slovenia
99. Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Of course, this list cannot cover every great travel destination in the world, as choosing the perfect travel destination depends on your individual preferences. There are countless other breathtaking places just waiting for you to discover them. Perhaps you will find many more unforgettable places on your trip that are worth visiting. So let yourself be inspired and find the next travel destination that makes your heart beat faster!

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Special travel destinations worldwide - list, tips, experiences

In the following compilation of unforgettable travel destinations, I present a variety of fascinating places that our world has to offer - some of which I have not yet been able to explore myself. But what makes a “must see”? Such a destination is characterized by its popularity, which is reflected in numerous recommendations and flows of visitors. These special places can be tourist hotspots, impressive landmarks, famous museums or other unique attractions that captivate people.

This carefully curated list not only serves as inspiration for you, but also reminds me that there are still so many magical places like Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands that I still want to visit in my life. Be inspired by the following selection of extraordinary travel destinations and find ideas for your next vacation planning.

1. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is not only a stunning natural wonder, but also a vibrant and diverse habitat for countless sea creatures. It is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching 2.300 kilometers along the east coast of Australia. It's so big you can even see it from space! Those who visit the Great Barrier Reef will discover a fascinating underwater world with colorful corals, fish, turtles, dolphins, sharks and many other species. The reef not only provides a spectacular backdrop for snorkelers and divers, but also plays an important role in the ecological balance and climate of our planet.

Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef is under severe threat from the effects of climate change, overfishing, pollution and coastal development. Rising water temperatures lead to massive coral bleaching, in which the corals lose their symbiotic algal partners and die off. As a result, the animals that depend on the corals also lose their habitat and food source. The Great Barrier Reef is a unique natural heritage that needs to be protected and preserved. It is not only a source of beauty and inspiration but also a valuable economic asset for Australia. Each of us can contribute by taking action to protect the climate, promoting sustainable tourism and learning about the importance and threats to the reef.

2. Machu Picchu in Peru

If you're looking for a destination that will transport you to another world, then Machu Picchu in Peru is for you. This ancient Inca city is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering that blends harmoniously into the spectacular Andean landscape. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and was only rediscovered in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. Since then it has fascinated and inspired millions of visitors from all over the world. There are different ways to get to Machu Picchu.

The easiest way is to take the train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the foot of the mountain. From there you can take a bus or hike to the citadel entrance. Another option is a multi-day hike on one of the famous Inca Trails, which leads through breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. Whatever you choose, you'll be rewarded with unparalleled views of the ruins spread across terraces and temples.

3. The Northern Lights in Norway

If you are looking for a magical destination that will enchant you with its beauty, you should definitely visit Norway. The Scandinavian country not only offers breathtaking landscapes, but also the opportunity to experience one of the most fascinating natural phenomena in the world: the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a luminous spectacle in the sky caused by the interaction of charged particles from the Sun with the Earth's atmosphere. The colors and shapes of the aurora vary depending on the intensity and location of the solar wind, and can range from green to pink to purple. They usually appear as an arch or curtain moving and sometimes even dancing across the sky.

Norway is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights because it lies in the so-called aurora oval, a zone around the magnetic north pole where the chances of seeing the northern lights are highest. Norway also has a long coastline with many fjords and islands that provide a perfect backdrop for the Northern Lights. In addition, there are many places in Norway with low light pollution, which increases the visibility of the Northern Lights.

4. The Sahara in Morocco

Anyone traveling to Morocco should not miss a visit to the Sahara. The Sahara is not only the largest desert in the world, but also one of the most fascinating and diverse. Here you will get to know a completely different side of Morocco that will enchant you with its beauty and contrasts. The Sahara Desert stretches across several countries in North Africa, but Morocco offers some of the best places to experience it.

One of them is the Merzouga region, where the famous Erg Chebbi dunes are located. They are up to 150 meters high and glow in different colors depending on the time of day. Here you can go on a camel safari and feel like a real nomad as you ride through the sand and enjoy the silence. You can also spend the night in a traditional Berber tent and admire the breathtaking starry sky.

5. The Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

If you love nature, you should definitely visit the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. The archipelago lies around 1.000 kilometers west of the mainland in the Pacific Ocean and is a true paradise for animal lovers. The Galapagos Islands are of volcanic origin and have evolved over time into a unique ecosystem that is home to many endemic species. This means that these animals only occur here and nowhere else in the world.

One of the best-known residents of the Galapagos Islands are the giant tortoises, which can weigh up to 250 kilograms and live over 100 years. They live on different islands and have adapted to the respective conditions. The turtles on the island of Santa Cruz have a domed shell, while the turtles on the island of Isabela have a flat shell to make it easier to hide under the cacti.

6. The Great Wall of China in China

When you think of China, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the Great Wall of China. This monumental structure is not only a symbol of Chinese culture and history, but also a fascinating destination for adventurers and explorers. The Great Wall of China is the longest man-made structure in the world. It stretches over 21.000 kilometers from east to west and crosses nine provinces and autonomous regions of China. The wall was built, expanded and repaired by various dynasties over several centuries.

It served as a defensive line against invaders from the north, particularly Mongol and Manchurian horsemen. The wall was not only a military bulwark, but also a testament to China's cultural diversity and technical progress. The wall is made of various materials such as stone, brick, wood and earth. It is equipped with towers, gates, bridges and fortresses that served as guard posts, signal stations and camps. There are also numerous legends and stories associated with the Great Wall that tell of the courage, love and suffering of the people who took part in its construction or guarded it.

7. The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt

If you are fascinated by ancient civilizations, you should definitely visit the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. These monumental structures are not only a symbol of the power and wealth of the pharaohs, but also a testament to their wisdom and ingenuity. The Pyramids of Giza are more than just tombs - they are works of art that continue to puzzle and inspire admiration to this day.

The Pyramids of Giza were built more than 4.500 years ago during the Old Kingdom, when Egypt was experiencing its Golden Age. The pyramids served as the final resting place for kings and their families, who were worshiped as divine beings. The pyramids were supposed to protect their souls and make their way to the afterlife easier. To achieve this, the pyramids were built with great care and precision.

8. Grand Canyon in the United States

If you're looking for a breathtaking natural wonder that will take your breath away, put the Grand Canyon in the United States on your travel list. The Grand Canyon is one of the largest and deepest canyons in the world. It is 446 kilometers long and up to 29 kilometers wide. It is the result of millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River, which has eaten through the various layers of rock. The Grand Canyon offers you a variety of ways to explore and enjoy it.

You can admire it from various viewpoints, which offer you a spectacular view of the colors and shapes of the landscape. You can also take a boat trip on the Colorado River and experience the canyon from a different perspective. Or you can go on a hike and experience the beauty and challenge of the Grand Canyon up close. There are many hiking trails that lead to different locations in the Grand Canyon, such as the Bright Angel Trail, the South Kaibab Trail or the Rim-to-Rim Trail. But be careful: Hiking the Grand Canyon is not for beginners and requires good planning and preparation.

9. Colosseum in Rome, Italy

The Colosseum in Rome is more than just an ancient building. It is a testament to Roman culture, history and art that continues to fascinate and inspire people today. The Colosseum was built in the first century AD and was the largest amphitheater in the world. It was the scene of spectacular events designed to demonstrate the power and wealth of the Roman Empire. The Colosseum is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering.

It consists of four floors, each containing different rows of seats for different social classes. The Colosseum featured an elaborate system of underground passages, elevators, and trapdoors through which animals and fighters could be quickly transported into the arena. The arena itself was covered with a huge awning that protected the spectators from the heat.

10. Santorini in Greece

Santorini is more than just an island. It is a dream destination that enchants every visitor. The island lies in the Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades. It is the result of a massive volcanic eruption that destroyed the original island about 3600 years ago and left a caldera behind. The caldera is a circular depression surrounded by steep cliffs. The characteristic villages of Santorini rise on these cliffs, with their white houses and blue domes creating a picturesque contrast to the deep blue sea.

Santorini is a paradise for all senses. The island offers spectacular panoramas that can be admired from various viewpoints. One of the most popular is Oia, a village on the northern tip of the island known for its romantic sunsets. From here you can watch the colors of the sky and sea constantly changing, creating a magical atmosphere. Another great viewpoint is Fira, the island's capital, which is perched on a high rock. From here you have a breathtaking view of the caldera and the volcanic islands in the middle.

11. Lake Taupo in New Zealand

If you are looking for a place where you can enjoy nature and relax, then Lake Taupo in New Zealand is the place for you. Lake Taupo is not only the largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, but also one of the most beautiful and diverse lakes in the world. Lake Taupo lies in a volcanic landscape characterized by mountains, forests and thermal springs. The lake is the result of a massive volcanic eruption about 26.000 years ago, which created a huge caldera that later filled with water.

The lake is up to 186 meters deep and has a shoreline of 193 kilometers. Lake Taupo is an angler's paradise as it is home to some of the best trout in the world. The lake's rainbow and brown trout can weigh up to 10 kilograms and are an exciting challenge for beginners and professionals. You can fish from the shore or rent a boat and go out on the lake. There are also numerous fishing guides and tours for the perfect catch.

12. Halong Bay in Vietnam

If you are looking for a place that will enchant you with its beauty, Halong Bay in Vietnam is the place for you. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. It covers an area of ​​more than 1500 square kilometers and is home to around 2000 limestone islands rising from the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

The islands are covered with lush vegetation and provide a habitat for many rare animal and plant species. Halong Bay is not only a paradise for nature lovers, but also a place full of history and culture. Halong Bay has been inhabited and populated by various peoples for thousands of years, who have left their mark in the form of temples, villages and works of art. Halong Bay is also a place full of legends and myths that tell of dragons, fairies and heroes.

13. Taj Mahal at Agra in India

The Taj Mahal is more than just a mausoleum. It is a symbol of love, art and history. It is one of the most famous buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture, it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1648 to commemorate his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. You should see this place at least once in your life. But how can you visit the Taj Mahal? What do you need to know before you go? Here are some tips to help you plan your trip and get the most out of your experience.

The Taj Mahal is located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in the city of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra is about 200 kilometers from the capital New Delhi and can be reached by train, bus or car. The nearest airports are Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi and Kheria Airport in Agra. The Taj Mahal is open all year round except Fridays when it is only open to Muslims. Opening times are from sunrise to sunset.

14. Tulum Maya site in Mexico

Tulum is one of the most beautiful and impressive Mayan sites in Mexico. The ancient city sits on a 12-meter-high cliff directly on the turquoise Caribbean Sea and offers breathtaking views. Tulum was once an important port and trading center for the Mayan civilization, which lived here between the 13th and 16th centuries. The Maya built several temples, palaces and fortress walls here, which still bear witness to their cultural and architectural mastery.

Visitors can explore the Tulum ruins on their own or with a guided tour and learn more about Mayan history, religion and astronomy. Highlights include the Temple of Wind, Temple of the Descending God and the Temple of Frescoes, decorated with beautiful murals. The most famous structure, however, is the Castillo, a massive pyramid that served as a watchtower and lighthouse.

15. Alhambra Fortress in Granada, Spain

If you visit Granada, you cannot miss the Alhambra fortress. The Alhambra is one of the most impressive and important works of Islamic art and architecture in Europe. It was built between the 13th and 15th centuries by the Nasrid dynasty, which ruled over the last Muslim kingdom on the Iberian Peninsula. The Alhambra was not only the residence of the sultans, but also a center for culture, science and art. The Alhambra consists of several parts, each with its own charm and character.

The most famous is the Nasrid Palace, which enchants visitors with its magnificent halls, courtyards and decorations. Here you will find some of the most famous elements of the Alhambra, such as the Court of the Lions, the Hall of the Abencerrajes or the Hall of the Two Sisters. Each room is a masterpiece of geometric and floral patterns reflected in the plasterwork, tiles and wooden ceilings.

16. Iguazú Falls in Brazil and Argentina

The Iguazu Falls are a spectacular natural spectacle that you shouldn't miss when traveling to Brazil and Argentina. They are located on the border between the two countries and form the largest waterfalls in the world. In this blog post you will learn more about the history, geography and attractions of these impressive waterfalls. The name Iguazú means “big water” in the language of the Guaraní, an indigenous people who lived in this region.

Legend has it that a god fell in love with a woman named Naipí who was promised to a tribal chief. To escape with her, he turned her into a river and himself into a tree on the bank. The angry chief pursued them and split the river with his sword to separate them. This is how the waterfalls came into being, which plunged Naipí into the abyss and washed around the god's tree.

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FAQs Special Travel Destinations Worldwide - What you have to see?

Are you looking for inspiration for extraordinary travel destinations worldwide? Then you are exactly right here! In the following FAQs you will find answers to the most important and frequently asked questions about the most beautiful sights and hidden gems around the world. Find out what you should definitely see and let our tips inspire you for your next adventure!

Special travel destinations worldwide Tips and experiences – what do you have to see?

My conclusion

As a passionate globetrotter, it is particularly important to me to share my fascination and enthusiasm for extraordinary travel destinations with you and to support you in planning your next adventure. In this article I have tried to share with you not only valuable tips and information for discovering, reaching and enjoying these places, but also my personal experiences and insights about what fascinated, moved and surprised me about these magical places.

With this article I would like to inspire you to explore these breathtaking travel destinations yourself and thus express the core of this post. The world is full of spectacular destinations and awe-inspiring sights, so deciding which of these wonders belong on your personal travel list can be a real challenge. But no matter what you choose, I promise you will have unique and unforgettable experiences.

What special travel destinations have you visited around the world? Which ones are still on your bucket list? Share your experiences in the comments.