Looking to fill your travel bucket list with epic adventures around the world? This comprehensive list covers some of the best destinations and things to do globally.
Whether you are looking for adventure, beautiful destinations or unique experiences, this travel bucket list will keep you busy.
When you are planning your bucket list for travel, remember to add things you are only comfortable doing. This is merely a list of items you can add, not a guideline. If the ocean terrifies you, don’t feel compelled to have to swim with whale sharks. Know your limits and just have fun.
The great thing about bucket lists is that you can add new things as you discover them, so think of your own as a living document. Check things off when you finish them and add new ones as you discover them.
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Epic Travel Bucket List Experiences Around the World
1. Namib Desert in Namibia
One of the most epic road trips you will ever take is around the Namib Desert in Namibia. With the highest sand dunes in the world and the epic trees, Deadvlei.
Namibia is one of the most visually stunning world bucket list destinations.
2. Overwater bungalow in Bora Bora
Bora Bora is such an iconic destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Located in the South Pacific, this remote island is where over water bungalows originated and probably the most beautiful destination in the world.
While you are in the South Pacific, check out these items to add to your Bora Bora bucket list.
3. Swim with whale sharks
There are a few places you can do this around the world, Philippines is a popular spot. Fun fact: whale sharks are the biggest fish in the entire world.
4. Party in Ibiza
There ain’t no party like an all night in Ibiza! This island off the coast of Spain is the land of wealthy and fun. From superyachts and luxury stays, this is one of the most incredible European destinations to really let loose.
5. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the biggest reef system around the world with about 2,900 or so individual reefs. The sea life is spectacular. Just remember that if you do snorkel the reef, to wear reef safe sunscreen to not harm it.
This is one of the biggest bucket list travel destinations, so remember to plan in advance and take good care of the area when you are there.
6. Visit Antarctica
Not many people have been to Antarctica and it tends to have visitors of those joining the “7 Continents Club.” Since Antarctica is technically one of the seven continents, and the hardest to get to, a lot of people save this for last. It would be a surprise to not see Antarctica on travel bucket lists because it is so remote and stunning.
But don’t skip out on this incredible travel bucket list destination. You will see whales, shelves of ice, icebergs, seals, and have opportunities to do things you could have never imagined like polar plunging into the ocean, kayaking, and taking trips to land.
7. Drink beer at Oktoberfest
Grab your Lederhosen or Dirndl and book that flight to Munich! Plan to hit the beer tents and make sure you drink beer from a boot.
8. Hike to Havasu Falls
One of the most beautiful hikes and top USA bucket list destinations is Havasu Falls. You will need to get a permit and camp overnight. These permits are gone almost instantly when they open up, so if this is a top travel bucket list item, you will need to be prepared.
9. Cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C.
When the cherry blossoms bloom around the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., the whole city becomes beautifully fragrant of blooms and it’s a wonderful time to visit.
10. Monument Valley
Located on the Utah and Arizona borders, this epic destination is a must see. While you are there, make sure and get your own Forest Gump photo running on the road!
11. Stay in the only seven star resort: Burj Al Arab
Looking for some luxe? The worlds only seven star resort, that is shaped like a sailboat and on its own island, is located in Dubai. This over the top is one of the best things to do in Dubai, and if you got the coin, splurge for a night or two.
Editorial credit: Romrodphoto / Shutterstock.com
12. Christmas markets in Europe
If your European bucket list isn’t overlapping here, we have the perfect place! The Christmas market in Tallinn, Estonia is rated the best and it comes with small town charm, medieval architecture, fun gifts, and delicious food!
13. Take a safari in Kenya
One of the top most sought after bucket list experiences is a safari in Kenya. This adventure allows you to get out in the wild with animals in their natural habitat and see how they live.
14. Get wonderfully lost in the Medina in Marrakech
Your senses will be fully utilized exploring the medina in Marrakech. The sights, sounds, smells – all of it will capture your heart in a way you could never imagine. From stunning architecture, hidden paths and incredible food, this is a must visit.
15. Holi Festival in India
Also known as the ‘Festival of Colors,’ Holi marks the end of winter and opens up to accept spring. This colorful festival is such a happy experience that you can’t escape the vibrant photos online and the smiles it brings. This should be on your travel bucket list to go at least once!
16. See Machu Picchu
Located in Peru, this Incan citadel is a must see! You can either hike the Incan trail which takes about four to five days or you can take a bus or train to the area. Visiting this iconic location will depend on how adventurous you are, but there is no wrong way to see it.
17. Swim in Jellyfish Lake
You probably would not think swimming with millions of golden jellyfish is on your travel bucket list, but this jellyfish are harmless. That is what makes Jellyfish Lake in Palau special.
This is a unique opportunity to swim with jellyfish surrounding you, and not get stung.
18. Road to Hana in Maui
You don’t even have to jump from a plane anymore for a heart racing adventure, just drive the road to Hana. This is considered one of the top five most dangerous roads in the world. Just over 64 miles drive, this is will take about five to seven hours.
Over 50+ one way bridges driving up and down mountain landscape, often at 10 miles per hour coming around curves blindly. You have to pay attention on this drive to the road and not all the beauty around it, that is how accidents happen.
There are a lot of places you can stop or road side attractions. Just be sure to plan in advance. If you get car sick easily, skip this drive and take a flight up to Hana.
19. See the Great Pyramids of Giza
If Egypt is on your bucket list, the pyramids should be on the top of that list.
20. Yoga, Temple and food tour of Bali
Bali is such a magical place of healing and discovery. Your travel bucket list should absolutely include at least a week for yourself in Bali to explore, eat healthy and practice yoga and meditation.
Check out our Bali bucket list to add more things to elevate your trip.
21. Mardi Gras
One of the biggest parties in the United States is Mardi Gras. Each year in New Orleans, the floats, the parades, the balls, the costumes – they are all on display and incredible to see.
If you get the opportunity to ride on a parade float, take it. Such a different experience throwing beads and toys to the parade goers.
22. Swim in the worlds highest infinity edge pool in Singapore at Marina Bay Sands
Over 650 feet in the air, the infinity edge pool at Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore is the highest in the world, offering the best views of the city and one of the best places to see a city from the top! So add it to your world bucket list.
23. See the Moi on Easter Island
There is not an exact reason or rationale for how they got there, but it is quite magical to see in person. Seeing the Moi in person is the ultimate travel bucket list experience.
24. Take a sea plane to your hotel in Maldives
To see some of the bluest water in the world and the atolls below, opt for a hotel in the Maldives that requires a seaplane to transport you there. When looking for travel bucket list ideas, don’t miss this opportunity to see the bluest waters and atolls from the sky.
25. Walk the Great Wall of China
While you may not want to walk the entire wall since it is over 13,000+ miles in length, you can still walk a portion of it and go see it. This is a top travel bucket list destination for many and you will soon see why.
26. Sunset in Santorini
One of the most unmissable and iconic sunset destinations is in Santorini in Oia! If your Greece bucket list doesn’t have this, add it!
With the plaster white and blue domes, this is a must. You should add this to your best friend bucket list!
27. River cruise through Europe
If you want to easily see a lot of smaller towns on the rivers in Europe without the hassle, a river cruise is the best way. Viking is a fantastic cruise line that offers a plethora of options.
One of the best river cruise options is during the winter for the Christmas markets! If your Christmas bucket list has the markets on it, this is the best and easiest way to see a lot of them.
28. Yellowstone National Park
Seeing the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone is one of the most visually stunning things in the west! But don’t forget Old Faithful too!
If you visit during the winter, take a tour on one of the big monster wheeled trucks through the park for animal viewing and sites. It is unforgettable.
29. Sleep in an Igloo Hotel in Finland
When it comes to unique hotel stays, staying in a glass igloo with views of the Northern Lights tops the list.
30. See the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris would be complete without a vision of the Eiffel Tower. There are many ways to enjoy the tower. During the day, at night when it dazzles, from the bottom or the top, or there is even a restaurant at the top!
The choice is yours. Just make sure to add this stop to your Paris bucket list.
31. Swim with the pigs in the Bahamas
Feeling adventurous? Your bucket list should absolutely include a trip to Exuma, Bahamas where
32. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Looking to take on ne heights? Don’t miss the opportunity for advanced hikers to take on this peek.
33. Ride a gondola in Venice
Surely there is nothing more romantic than a moonlit stroll with your love on a gondola in Venice, Italy? When it comes to travel bucket list ideas, this activity is at the top of many lists.
Grab a wine and take in the architecture as you float through the canals. This is one of the best things to do in Venice.
34. Walk Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo
Would it be a travel bucket list if it did not include the busiest intersection in the world? Located in Tokyo, this intersection is crazy busy at all hours.
35. Burning Man
If you are up for the challenge of radical self reliance in the desert with scorching hot heat and no shower for a week, this is it.
People who have been to Burning Man tend to return year after year and love the week of being unplugged and spending time with people.
36. Northern Lights in Iceland
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a dream and should be on your travel bucket list.
To be able to see the dark sky dance with colors of greens, purples, yellows, and even pinks, is stunning.
37. Hike the Stairway to Heaven in Oahu
While this hike is technically illegal, it is on the Oahu bucket list for many. So if you do decide to do it, know that it is extremely strenuous and you could be fined.
Rest assured, there are plenty of things to do in Hawaii that are legal and just as beautiful!
38. Komodo Dragons in Indonesia
Have you ever wanted to see a dragon in real life? Sure they aren’t fire breathing, but dragons nonetheless. The most popular place to see them is on the island of Komodo.
39. Grand Canyon
One of the most iconic places to see in the United States, the Grand Canyon is located in Arizona but accessible from Utah and Nevada as well as a day trip or longer.
If you want to add a layer of excitement, visit Grand Canyon West and do the Skywalk! The platform is 70 feet out from the canyon and below the floor is glass and you can see 4,000 feet down.
40. Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey
One of the best places in the world to take a hot air balloon ride is Cappadocia, Turkey.
Taking flight over the fairy chimneys should be on your travel bucket list as a once in a lifetime experience.
41. Dog sled racing in Alaska
When it comes to incredible travel experiences to have, dog sled racing is a top excursion in Alaska.
42. Hike through Antelope Canyon
When you are checking off items on your Arizona bucket list, make sure and add Antelope Canyon! This travel bucket list destination will take some advanced planning and you should get a local guide.
There are two areas, upper and lower and the lower has stairs that you need to climb down. Upper Antelope Canyon is on the ground level and you can walk through.
43. See the salt flats in Bolivia – Salar de Uyuni
If seeing how ground meet the sky is on travel wish list, visiting Salar de Uyuni should be on your list.
44. See the White House
Every President in US history with the exception of George Washington, has lived in the White House. This iconic address in Washington, D.C. at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is a must see.
Looking for other things to do in the city, you can find more items on our Washington, D.C. bucket list for inspo!
45. Island hopping in El Nido, Palawan
If seeing the bluest waters and remote islands in one of the most beautiful places in the world is on your bucket list, head to El Nido in the Philippines for a few days of island hopping.
46. Whitsundays
One of the most iconic destinations in Australia is the Whitsundays! Make sure and take a flight over the reef to see the heart island, you won’t be disappointed.
47. Spend New Years Eve in Times Square
An American tradition, one of the top destinations that should be on your New Years Eve bucket list is Times Square in New York City.
Each year on December 31st thousands of people come to New York City for the biggest party of the year and to see the ball drop. This is one of the best December bucket list checks!
48. Hike up to the top of the Acropolis in Athens
From the ground it looks daunting, but it isn’t really. The hike is not straight up, it is a series of paths and stairs.
The view from the top is worth the walk up though!
49. Day of the Dead Festival in Mexico
There is no better place to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos than in Mexico.
One of the best places to celebrate is on the island of Janitzio!
50. Visit the worlds smallest zip code: The Vatican
If you find yourself in Rome, a visit to the Vatican is right in reach. Home to the Pope, Vatican City has a lot to offer its visitors.
Make sure and visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Saint Peter’s Square, and if you are lucky, the Pope! This is one of the best things to add to your Italy bucket list!
51. Prance through the lavender in France
One of the most beautiful places in the world to see fields of lavender is in Provence, France.
You can see rows upon rows of beautiful purple lavender and the scent is even better.
52. Patagonia
If outdoor adventure is your thing, don’t skip Patagonia. Located in both Argentina and Chile, you’ll find stunning glaciers, incredible hiking and national parks.
53. Explore the temple of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Just over two million tourists from foreign lands come to visit Angkor Wat each year, and with good reason. This temple is the largest religious monument in the world spanning just over 400 acres!
You could actually spend days exploring the grounds.
54. See the Baobab trees in Madagascar
For an off the beaten path travel experience, consider visiting Madagascar to see the Baobab trees. These trees look like nothing you have ever seen before.
Bonus: you can also see lemurs in Madagascar.
55. Float in the dead sea
Most people wonder why they rise to the top in the Dead Sea and that is because of the amount of mineral salt in the water. Now you won’t be able to walk on water but you can certainly float.
56. Night markets of Phu Quoc
When visiting the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam, make sure to visit the night market and try all the foods.
You will find all sorts of things, including novelty desserts, food on a stick, drinks, full meals, fish, clothing, and souvenirs.
57. Go to the top of the highest building: Burj Khalifa in Dubai
Standing a mile high in the sky, head to the 54th floor of the Burj Khalifa and walk outside and look down. This is the ultimate travel bucket list experience. If you visit when there is heavy cloud coverage, you will be above the clouds!
58. Explore Petra in Jordan
Day or night, exploring Petra in Jordan is a must. You will have to walk some to get in but it is absolute incredible once you get there.
59. Cruise Glacier Bay in Alaska
One of the easiest ways to explore Glacier Bay is by taking an Alaskan cruise that is dedicated to it. You will spend an entire day in Glacier Bay National Park and see multiple glaciers. This is one of the best things to do in Alaska!
60. Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Thailand
Celebrated in Northern Thailand, don’t miss this opportunity to send a lantern in the sky with the thousands of others. This is one of those “pinch me” moment experiences.
61. Drive Route 66
One of the most iconic drives in the USA is Route 66. Originally the route ran Illinois to California but no longer exists in its entirety. However, you can still do the trip and just drive around the areas that are no longer part.
This is an excellent opportunity to see small towns in America and fun road side attractions.
62. Hike The Wave
Arguably one of the hardest hikes in the USA to get a permit for, The Wave is located in Arizona and is one of the most visually stunning places.
The wave looks like another planet, with waves and white lines. While this lies within a lot of travelers bucket list quests, it will take a lot of planning and permit securing to make happen.
63. Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace
If you happen to be at Buckingham Palace while checking off items on your London bucket list, see if the changing of the guard is happening soon. It is a pretty neat experience to see how these guards who don’t move or speak on duty switch with each other.
64. El Arco in Cabo San Lucas
The furthest tip in Mexico, Cabo San Lucas, is where you will find the famous El Arco and Lovers Beach. You will need a boat to access the area.
65. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro
With over two million each day on the streets of Carnival in Rio, this event is the biggest in the world for this celebration. Get all your big colorful clothes and join this amazing experience.
66. Dive the Blue Hole in Belize
If you love diving below the surface, the Blue Hole in Belize is one of the best destinations.
67. Cliffs of Moher
While you are traveling through Ireland, a stop at the Cliffs of Moher is necessary! Seeing how dramatic they are and the crashing waves below is unlike anything else.
68. The London Eye
Want to see London from a different and uncrowded perspective? Ride the London Eye and see the city and her beauty from the top.
69. Niagara Falls
Located in both Canada and New York, Niagara Falls is must visit. If you have a passport you can cross the border and see if from both sides.
70. South Beach Miami
One of the best spring break destinations in all of the United States is South Beach. Endless shorelines of white sand and Azur waters, bars and clubs that run all night, beautiful people everywhere, and the party never stops here!
Hands down, one of the best places to visit in Miami.
71. Disney World/Disneyland
No matter your age, a visit to Disney World or Disneyland will make you feel 10 again! Spend a day running around the park riding the rides and eating all the fun Disney treats.
If you are out at Disneyland, make sure to add more things to your California bucket list for a trip packed with fun.
72. Visit the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town
For an epic view of Cape Town, go to the top of Table Top Mountain. You will be blown away by the insane beauty!
73. Red Square in Moscow
One of the most special travel bucket list destinations is the Red Square in Moscow at winter. All the colors with snow is like being inside a snow globe.
74. Havana, Cuba
If your travel bucket list doesn’t have Havana, Cuba on it, add it now. This island on arrival looks like it has been frozen in time. Classic cars line the streets with their tops down and colorful buildings and clothing take you away.
Make sure and get a mojito!
75. Visit the Mekong River
The Mekong, located in Vietnam, is considered to be the 12th longest river in the entire world! This well known river is where Cambodians and Laotians catch the most fresh water fish in the world (based on per capita) and it is necessary for survival.
76. See the Statue of Liberty
Located in New York City and a top bucket list place for visitors both within the USA and foreigners.
The Statue of Liberty is located on Ellis Island and there is a free ferry that runs 24 hours a day that you can take to access it.
77. Swim with whales in Mo’orea
For an incredible experience in the South Pacific, head to Mo’orea in Tahiti and swim with whales. You won’t be able to get up close to them in a boat, so you will need to know how to swim and dive to get a close look.
78. Diving in Raja Ampat
Located in Indonesia, Raja Ampat is one of the most visually stunning diving destinations in the world. People come from every corner of the earth to dive these waters.
79. Explore Cinque Terre
This coast city in Italy is well known for its stunning cliff side colorful buildings, beaches and limoncello! Be prepared to walk a lot of stairs and steeps but the trip is worth it.
80. Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
India’s most visited location, the Taj Mahal, is best seen during the sunrise. One, it is beautiful and two, it is right before the hoards of people come to visit.
81. Take a soak in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is abundant with lagoons, but the best one is the Blue Lagoon! Located about a half hour outside of Reykjavik, plan to spend 2-3+ hours in the giant lagoon soaking and you can get a massage and drinks if you want as well.
82. See the Black Sand Beach in Vik Iceland (Reynisfjara – these are the basalt sea stacks)
Black sand is one of the most incredible sand colors to see on a beach. In Vik, Iceland the water is raging and paired with the black sand, it is a vision!
83. Visit the Red Light District in Amsterdam
When you are working on your Amsterdam bucket list, head to the Red Light District for a quick visit and to see what it is al about. Be respectful of workers and other visitors.
84. Walk the strip in Las Vegas
One of the coolest cities in America is Las Vegas and also one of the easiest to walk. You can start at either end of the strip and work your way down.
Along the strip you will find attractions at a lot of hotels both indoor and outdoor the make the walk more fun.
85. Hike Rainbow Mountain
Hiking Rainbow Mountain in Peru is a top travel bucket list check for many. The mountain is truly a rainbow in colors. If you cannot handle high elevation, maybe pass on this one as the range is just above 17,000 feet.
86. See the tulips in the Netherlands
In the spring, the tulips all bloom and the Netherlands becomes a hot attraction for tourism. There are areas where you can see tulips as far as the eye can see. Rows and rows of beautiful colored tulips.
Check out tulips while visiting Amsterdam or head just outside the city for the fields.
87. Swim in Sand Harbor Beach in Lake Tahoe
One of the clearest and most beautiful lakes in the USA is Sand Harbor Beach in Lake Tahoe. The crystal clear water allows you to see the giant boulders.
88. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Located outside of Cleveland, Ohio and the states only National Park, this one is worth the visit. Most notable for its limestone cliffs. The Ritchie Ledges trail is about 1.8 miles around and will open up into what looks like another world. This amazing travel bucket list item should not be missed.
89. La Sagrada Familia
Located in Barcelona, Spain, this unfinished Roman Catholic Church is one of most sought after things to do in the city, often accompanied by long lines for entry. Before you even enter, you can see in such great detail what architect Antoni Gaudi built. A true masterpiece.
Editorial credit: TTstudio / Shutterstock.com
90. Get a photo with The Bean in Chicago
One of the most iconic photo stops in the windy city is The Bean. This Chicago bucket list item should not be missed when exploring the city or Midwest of America.
Editorial credit: f11photo / Shutterstock.com
91. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Your Colorado bucket list must have the Rocky Mountain National Park! This is one of the most visited parks in all the of the United States and with good reason, Its sweeping vistas and grandeur are amazing.
92. Bondi Icebergs
One of the most iconic spots in Australia and off the best beach in the country, is the Bondi Icebergs. An infinity edge pool that sticks right into the ocean. There is tons of stuff you could do in the city, so check out the Bondi bucket list for more to do.
93. See the blues of Potash Pond at Canyonlands National Park in Utah
Right in the midst of all the red hues lies a flat surface of blue hues in Potash Pond. This is not a swimming pond, but merely a beautiful place to see within the park. This is a must visit attraction in Utah!
94. Experience the fall foliage in New England
One of the best areas in the world to see the colors change on the leaves in the fall is in New England! From shades of yellow, reds and oranges – it is a sight to behold.
