Isn’t it amazing to know and visit some of the best places in the world? Of course, it is! Travelling is remarkably powerful and there is nothing more exhilarating than exploring new destinations across the globe. However, travelling means different things to different people. While some love taking wildlife safaris, some opt for surreal desert scapes. Some dream to relax on sandy beaches while for some, vibrant cities with blazing skyscrapers seal the deal.
So, to help you with your inspiration to do a round-the-world trip, we have curated a list of 30 places you need to visit before you turn 30. Please tag along!
1. Seoul, South Korea
The vibrant Seoul in South Korea is a melange of ancient history and modernity. With bustling skyscrapers and modern subways, Seoul is one of the most frequently visited tourist places in South Korea. The lush green parks and Seoul’s many museums make the city more interesting.
The city is filled with a wide range of major attractions. One can explore the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village or bask in the beauty of Cherry blossoms in front of N Seoul Tower. A trip to Seoul is incomplete without witnessing the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace built during the powerful Joseon dynasty. Taking long walks along Cheonggyecheon isn’t a bad idea either!
2. Kashmir, India
The enchanting Kashmir makes for one of the most beautiful places to visit in the World. With its picturesque vistas of chinar trees and criss-cross wooden bridges, Kashmir is every traveller’s dream. And you need to experience it at least once before you turn 30.
Nestled high in the Himalayas, Kashmir in India has a lot to offer. Its quaint hamlets, frozen rivers, native bazaars, Sufi shrines, alpine vales, and historic forts will keep you excited throughout your trip.
However, a Kashmir visit is incomplete without taking a Shikara ride in Dal lake and enjoying a Heritage Walk to Old Srinagar!
3. Sri Lanka
The ‘pearl of the Indian Ocean’, Sri Lanka, with its tropical jungles and mountain towns, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the World. So if you are someone who loves exploring ancient World Heritage sites and going on safaris, Sri Lanka is a perfect location to visit.
Places of interest in Sri Lanka include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home of Sigiriya Rock Palace known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Tourists also visit Wilpattu National Park, and Monkey Kingdom, and go for whale watching tours in Mirissa.
4. Maldives
The tropical paradise Maldives, with its clear waters, gorgeous palm trees, and white-sand beaches, houses almost 1200 of the world’s most scintillating islands. The island country is a perfect place to plan your idyllic beach getaway.
The Maldives is also one of the best places in the World for adventurous souls. Jet-skiing in the Arabian sea is a must here! Tourists can further visit places like Male city, Como Cocoa Island, Addu Atoll, and Maafushi in the Maldives.
5. Turkey
Turkey, located in Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia, is rich in cultural heritage. It is one of the places in the World which is replete with beautiful coastlines and charming villages. Imagine being able to witness the beauty of the numerous chimneys and Turkish landscapes. Truly, magical!
Among the most attractive interests of Turkey are Istanbul, Bosphorus, Cappadocia, Holden Horn, and Eyup Sultan Mosque. You can also visit the glorious Topkapi Palace, and the Anatolian plateau.
6. Paris, France
All you romantics at heart, how do you feel about travelling to one of the most romantic places in Europe? The French capital Paris is the perfect place for people who crave mornings with buttery croissants and dream of boating down the Seine. Also, let’s not forget the Insta-worthy pictures you will get with the idyllic Eiffel Tower backdrop.
Paris is also the cultural hub in Europe and a trip to the city lets tourists indulge in arts, music, and its many museums. The Louvre Museum In Paris, one of the most famous art museums in the world, is a must-visit here. There’s also the Palace of Versailles for all the history lovers! And all the Disney fans, don’t miss out on Disneyland!
7. Sardinia, Italy
It’s a dream for many to visit Sardinia, the Second-largest Island In The Mediterranean Sea. This Italian island spreads over nearly 2,000km of coastline. The calm beaches and hiking trails make Sardinia an attractive global tourist destination. It’s one of the most stunning places in Italy and deserves to be on every traveller’s bucket list.
Also read: Travel Destinations Visited By Priyanka Chopra That Deserve To Be On Your Bucket List
A trip to Sardinia offers Sella del Diavolo, dolphin sightings, and visits to the Costa Smeralda, Alghero, and Nuraghe Losa. Tourists can also explore the World famous Museo Archeologico Nazionale which displays Punic, Greek, and Roman artifacts.
8. London
If there is one word that can describe London the best, it’s ‘Charming’. With pretty stately parks, emerald grass vistas, and bustling towns, London has its own charm! They say when you leave London, a simple image or a random smell is enough to transport you back to the metropolis. And that it is a city you must visit before you turn 30!
London is full of attractive touristy places. One can sit and enjoy the views of Kensington Gardens or take lazy evening strolls in Hyde Park. The London countrysides and Rutland sunsets let you explore cozy chocolate-box villages and warm country houses. One can also bask in some pride and love in the World famous G-A-Y bar in Soho.
9. Birmingham, UK
Birmingham in the UK is a city that takes pride in its history and mystery! With pretty canal-side venues, museums, and bars, Birmingham is one of the most unique cities in the World. After the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the city is seeing a huge influx of tourists.
You can explore a lot of places in Birmingham, starting from Roundhouse Birmingham. The secret canal to the Jewellery Quarter, National Sea Life Birmingham, and the Lego 4D cinema in Birmingham are other major attractions of the city.
10. Aizawl, North East
Craving for a getaway amidst nature? Well, Aizawl in Mizoram is abundantly blessed with lush green hills and serene natural beauty. This stunning hill station lies at a height of 1132 above sea level and is one of the most beautiful places in the North East.
For tourists interested in exploring nature and Mizo culture, Aizawl has a lot to offer! Visit the main handicrafts market, Bara Bazar, buy local garments at Zion Street and indulge in history with the Mizoram State Museum in Zarkawt. You can also visit the famous family of Pu Ziona, the largest existing family in the World. Just head to the Baktawng Village in Aizawl.
11. Sarbal, Kashmir, India
Sarbal in Kashmir is a lesser-known tiny hamlet that boasts in its rich culture. Sarbal is full of scenic meadows, cozy huts, and adorable people. Sarbal is known as Kashmir’s last hamlet and is nestled in the foothills of the Great Himalayas.
A trip to Sarbal will offer you blooms of Canopies, glacial lakes, and alpine vales. Trekking trails start from Sarbal village. Adventurous souls can also visit Durinar and Barafsar. These peaks will give you the best views of Kashmir.
12. Busan, South Korea
If you thought South Korea was all about Seoul, then let us take you through the country’s second-largest city. Busan lures in travellers from across the globe with its majestic temples, scintillating beaches, and busy local markets. The street food in Busan will leave you speechless!
A few major attractions of Busan include Beomeosa temple, Lantern Festival at Samgwangsa, Seokbulsa, Haeundae Beach, Taejongdae Resort Park, and Oryukdo Skywalk.
13. Guwau Village, Taebaek, South Korea
Another place you must visit before you turn 30! Guwau village in Taebaek, South Korea, is that rare Instagram-worthy tourist spot that most travel enthusiasts crave to find! The village is home to a vast field of around 300 species of wildflowers. So, travel bloggers, this is your chance to make your ‘Gram’ game strong.
Gangwon Province is South Korea’s largest sunflower patch. So when you take your wanderlust to the country, make sure you don’t miss out on one of its most beautiful places! The best time to visit the vast spread of sunflowers is in August. You can also enjoy the annual Taebaek Sunflower Festival usually here and it’s usually held between July to August.
14. Arizona, United States
Arizona, known for its lively cities, sports warm weather all year around. With its famous red rocks, hiking trails, and natural wonders, Arizona totally deserves to be on your bucket list. The state is also home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon.
One of the most attractive places of interest in Arizona is the majestic natural wonder, the Grand Canyon. After exploring the pride of the state, tourists can go hiking in the North Rim. They can also raft the Colorado River and explore the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Nature lovers can visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. The museum spreads over an area of 98-acre and you might spot native animals like coyotes and prairie dogs while on an outing there.
15. Majuli, Assam, India
Majuli is the second largest freshwater river island in the world and the largest in Asia. This serene river island on the Brahmaputra River in Assam is around 352 sq km. Tourists from all over the globe flock to indulge in the sublime beauty of Majuli.
Majuli is one of the cultural hubs in Assam and has a lot of major attractions. One can explore the Shri Shri Dakhinpat Satra, witness the Water hyacinths ride on the wooden boats, take lazy strolls in the Mishing village, and relax in Sunset point.
16. Lapland, Finland
Ever dreamt of visiting Santa Claus at his home and singing jingles amidst the northern lights? If yes, then a trip to Finland’s Lapland is what you need to make your dream a reality. From the Northern Lights and the Nordic woodland to the midnight sun in summer, Lapland is where magic happens.
A trip to this fairytale land is incomplete without experiencing nature’s greatest spectacle, Aurora Borealis. A few other places of interest include Lapland’s main town, Rovaniemi, Inari village and Ranu Zoo. You can also visit Halti, the highest peak in Lapland. After all, walking uphill to discover hidden trails is never a bad idea!
Also read: 5 Underrated Destinations In Thailand Indians Must Visit
17. Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Indian Ocean archipelago Zanzibar is home to several islands lying off the coast of East Africa. This gem of Tanzania is nestled between Pemba and Mafia and is World famous for its white-sand beaches, fun nightlife and remarkable cultural history. Zanzibar is also one of the major administrative districts of Mjini Magharibi Region in Tanzania.
A list of places to experience the best of Zanzibar include the laid-back beach bar in Kendwa, Forodhani Market, Stone Town, Nungwi, Paje, Jozaniforest, Jambiani and Unesco World Heritage site, the House of Wonders.
18. Spain
A vacation in Spain is all about jaw-dropping museums and stunning natural features. With a sunny climate and vibrant culture, Spain is every traveller’s dream destination. So bookmark it right away! The gorgeous landscapes and world-famous mountain ranges are totally a treat to the eyes.
When in Spain, you can go swimming in the deep blues of Costa Brava, visit Pueblos Blancos – the white-washed villages of Andalucia, explore the famous Moco Museum and one of the masterpieces of Spain, Casa Battlo Gaudi in Barcelona, designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudi.
19. Chadar, Leh, India
Ever wondered about trekking on thin ice? Well, the most dangerous trekking trail in India, Chadar, takes you through a frozen River, and is an experience like no other!
The Chadar trail which starts at Leh at an altitude of 11,400 ft, is going to take you through the Zanskar River. This frozen river is the only link between the outside world and the Zanskar village. The trail’s unparalleled beauty is one of the reasons why trekkers from across the globe are tempted by Chadar.
20. Mumbai, India
Aamchi Mumbai also is a place you must visit before you turn 30! Mumbai, the Indian city of stars and dreams, is the 14th best city in the world according to the Time Out 2022 list. This capital city of Maharashtra is located on the west coast of the Indian peninsula.
From iconic landmarks to glorious nightlife, Mumbai has a lot to offer to tourists. The best way to identify with Mumbai is to visit the majestic tall arch, the Gateway of India. Tourists can also visit places like Nariman Point, the Manhattan of Mumbai, Flora Fountain, Jehangir Art Gallery, Marine Drive, and the very famous Dabbawalas.
21. Bangkok, Thailand
Want to enjoy a calming dawn by the riverside? Head to the ‘City of Angels’, Bangkok. The capital city of Thailand with its quiet klongs, hip clubs, and glorious temples will leave you speechless with its jaw-dropping beauty.
There’s a lot to explore in Bangkok. Take a tour of the Floating market, visit the Temple of Dawn, enjoy the Chao Phraya River Boat Cruise and maybe swim with Sharks at the Siam Ocean World!
22. Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Wouldn’t it be amazing to be able to take a walk amidst the clouds before you turn 30? Well, a visit to Pasighat will offer you that and so much more. It’s one of the oldest towns in Arunachal Pradesh and sits in the eastern Siang district bordering Assam in Northeast India.
There are numerous places of interest for backpackers in Pasighat. One can trek to the Sirki waterfall, visit Kekar Monying, explore Yagrung Village and enjoy the Bodak View Point. However, nothing can beat the feeling of witnessing the sunrise standing amidst cottony white clouds!
23. Iceland
Iceland is one of the world’s top travel destinations and is most popular amongst adventurer seekers and nature lovers. If you are all in to witness black sand beaches, active volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, ice fields, and fjords, Iceland is the perfect destination for you!
A trip to this Nordic island nation is incomplete without whale watching in Reykjavik, exploring the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík, and the Northern Lights in Aurora Borealis.
24. Hampi, Karnataka, India
Hippie Island, Hampi is one of the best places in India where you can relax and unwind. Hampi is all about meeting hippie backpackers, taking part in drum circles, exploring history, and relishing amazing food.
Tourist spots in Hampi that attract a lot of travellers include its many temples like the Vijaya Vittala temple and Lakshmi Narasimha temple, the Queen’s bath, Hampi Bazaar, Narasimha statue, and the serene Tungabhadra river.
25. Osaka, Japan
Osaka is one of the cities in Japan that lets tourists indulge in history and culture. The ‘Venice Of The East’ is popular because of its lit nightlife, history and culture, and delectable cuisine. Osaka is also a major financial center, and is recognized as one of the most multicultural and cosmopolitan cities in Japan.
Osaka is one of Japan’s largest cities and offers numerous tourist attractions such as Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, Tennoji, Bunraku Theatre, Osaka Aquarium, Museum Of History, Minoo Park, Umeda Sky Building, and the Bay Area among many others.
26. Dubai, UAE
Dubai in UAE is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The city, with its skyscrapers, nightlife and architectural marvels like the Jumeirah Palm, attracts huge numbers of tourists across the globe almost every year.
There’s always a lot to explore in Dubai. Visit the Burj Khalifa, take a Yacht tour in Dubai Marina, enjoy lazy strolls in Old Town, and gorge on yummy street food. Places like the Fountain at the Dubai Mall and the Dubai creek add to the greatness of the City. You absolutely should visit here before you turn 30!
27. Maui, Hawaii
The geographically diverse Hawaiian island Maui is all about hidden ocean coves and lofty mountain ridges. With an abundance of natural beauty to explore, Maui is a paradise for all nature lovers.
There are numerous places to experience the best of this Hawaiian island. One can visit the beautiful Wailea, explore the wilderness in Haleakala National Park and witness the rainforests in the West Maui Mountains. However, it’s the underwater submarine adventure in Kahana that attracts a lot of tourists to Maui.
28. New Zealand
Described by locals as Godsown, New Zealand is one of the most beautiful places in the world – one that you should totally visit before you turn 30! With rolling green hills, gorgeous mountains, and breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand is pure magic.
Tekapo is a must-visit in New Zealand. It’s one of the places that offer some of the world’s darkest skies and purest stargazing opportunities. A few other tourist attractions of New Zealand include the Bay of Islands, Castlepoint, The Coromandel, and Aoraki Mount Cook.
29. Zagreb, Croatia
The capital city of the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, is ‘made’ of 2 hills, Gradec and Kaptol. This beautiful city with a rich history and numerous places to explore is also the largest cultural hub of Croatia.
To savor the best of Zagreb, tourists can visit St. Mark’s Church, explore the Museum Of Broken Relationships, bask in the beauty of Stone Gate, and witness the fire-a-cannon ceremony in the Lotrscak Tower.
30. Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
Who wouldn’t want to visit the largest tropical rainforest on Earth before turning 30 right? Famed for its biodiversity, Amazon Rainforest in Brazil houses more than 40,000 species of plants, thousands of species of birds, more than 400 mammals, and millions of species of insects.
A trip to the Rainforest will allow you to explore Manaus and witness the glory of the Amazon River. Tourists also go for various nature and wildlife tours and water tours while in the Rainforest. The beauty of this ecosystem which spans eight countries is unparalleled.
So, now that you know enough travel destinations across the globe, we hope some of these stunning places make it to your travel bucket list sooner or later!
Feature Image Courtesy – Unsplash
First Published: November 11, 2022 11:09 AM