“I would rather own a little and see the world than own the world and see a little of it.”—Alexander Sattler

As you grow older, the responsibilities and duties will continue to pile up until you cannot seem to take a second to yourself and your family. Hence, sometimes you have to let the background noise fade out as you focus on yourself. What better way toward a journey of self-discovery and strengthening relationships than to travel? We have compiled a list of travel destinations so that you can spare yourself the planning stages and skip right to boarding a flight.

If you are looking to make travel plans, you have arrived at the right place. Take a look at the comprehensive list of places that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.

1. Zadar

Zadar in Croatia has shed its identity as a war-torn country and risen to claim the position of a cosmopolitan city. The waterfront promenade presents delightful sounds of the Sea Organ while innovative museums such as the Museum of Ancient Glass keep tourists occupied.

2. Tahiti

Combine seas, luxury resorts, and delectable French cuisine and you get Tahiti. The world comes to a standstill as you laze around on shores lined with vibrant green forests. The title of the largest French Polynesian island contributes to its unfettered beauty. Make a trip to Papeete, the island capital, for amazing trekking journeys.

3. Shenzhèn

Shenzhèn in China is a sprawling and happening hub of urbane cafes, craft breweries, former warehouses that have been transformed into art districts. It is also the city where most technological innovations originate. No wonder it is known as the “Silicon Valley of China” as well as China’s creative capital.

4. Copenhagen

Copenhagen—the capital of Denmark—is the IT place for food enthusiasts seeking to try out the famous local fare. For a unique gastronomic experience, visit Refshaleøen—here an abandoned ancient shipyard has been transformed into a craft and food market. Tivoli Gardens is a great amusement park that attracts families while adventure lovers flock to Amager Bakke for hiking trails and the rooftop ski slope.

5. Petra

Petra in Jordan has been immortalized in every travel lover’s hearts and mind through the eponymous Indiana Jones film franchise. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the authentic glory of the ruins of Nabataean. The stunning façade and the breath-taking grandeur will take you by surprise with each and every glance.

6. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the capital cities that you have to experience to love—no description justifies the quaint charm that it exudes. The fact that gastronomic delights abound here along with opportunities to engage in endless strolls around the canals makes it ideal for romantic getaways as well as solo trips. An insightful look at the Holocaust and Van Gogh’s artistic vision come to life here.

7. Mumbai

A starling paradox of glitter and squalor, the old-fashioned and the ultra-modern, destruction and hope, Mumbai is marked by its colonial heritage. It is a melting pot of diverse lifestyles and cultures where everyone’s individuality is championed. Marine Drive and Nariman Point present a spectacular view of the coastline at night.

8. Miami

Miami in North America, USA, is a tropical paradise that is also popular for being a center for arts, a technological design innovator and an epic food destination. Besides the beach days, the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Museum Garage are prime attractions for art lovers.

9. Florence

Nestled amidst the hills of Tuscany, Florence is historically lauded for sheltering artists such as Brunelleschi and Michelangelo. Those interested in Renaissance art will never wish to leave this city while those interested in sightseeing will be enraptured by its glorious sunsets and the best of Italian cuisine.

10. Kolkata

If there’s any city that celebrates the human spirit, it in Kolkata. Much like Mumbai, this city is both refined and ever-developing, glamorous and fetid. The City of Joy is the cultural hub of India, owing to its creative potential. The old-world colonial air still invades the core of this city with monuments such as the Indian Museum and Victoria Memorial.

11. Egypt

The dizzying heat of Egypt takes a backseat when you visit the Pyramids of Giza. The Pyramid of Khufu comprises an architecturally designed tomb chamber and sarcophagus. You can venture into the Solar Boat gallery to witness the barks regulated by Sun. It is almost like taking a trip back in time, especially when you explore the passage of the Pyramid of Khefre.

12. London

London, the capital city of England located on the Thames River, is a popular tourist hub, and not without reason! The heritage factor is huge here as two erstwhile ancient places, namely, the City of Westminster and the City of London were conjoined to form modern-day London. Big Ben, Westminster’s Abbey, London Eye and the Houses of Parliament are some among many of London’s landmarks.

13. Amalfi

Our street food and thrift shopping for your cup of tea? If so, you should pay a visit to Amalfi at least once in your lifetime. The handcrafted paper, intricately designed ceramic products, comfy sandals, and enticing perfumes guarantee that you’ll come home with your wallet significantly lighter. You should visit the top attractions such as Chiostro del Paradiso and Andrew’s Cathedral to see how the medieval architectural patterns are still preserved.

14. Hong Kong

Hong Kong was put on the tourism map after it secured a release from colonialism in 1997. The sight of Victoria Harbour from Victoria Peak at night offers a symphony of light shows that comprise a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Nan Lian Park and Chi Lin Nunnery give you an insight into the Chinese way of living.

15. Paris

Hailed as the City of Love by many, Paris stands for a confluence of fashion, culture, food, and architecture. The towering Notre Dame, the Champs Elysees, and Arc de Triomphe are some of the top attractions that Paris has to offer. Elegance and class, on the other hand, are displayed by vintage fares, couture establishments, and designer boutiques.

16. Kathmandu

Kathmandu in Nepal is a city of rejuvenation and reconstruction. The Fewa Lake and Poon Hill are ideal spots for a family outing while you need to exploit sightseeing opportunities at Boudhanath Stupa and Patan Museum.

17. Novi Sad

Novi Sad in Serbia boasts of an easy-going and effortlessly elegant vibe. It is the 2019 European Youth Capital as well as the site for the EXIT festival. The culture district of Chinatown is spellbinding and the Lower Town of Petrovaradin Citadel deserves a visit.

18. Pamukkale

Pamukkale in Turkey is popularly known as a natural spa. This is because the flowing water of the sea deposits minerals on the shores, which, in turn, tourists use for bathing. The scenic view is beautiful and inspires wonder. It is also a world heritage site worth visiting.

19. Costa Rica

The Catholic country of Costa Rica in Central America is known for its diverse flora and fauna, the bounty of adventure sports like horse riding and surfing and unique culture. If you manage to explore and experience all of the opportunities that Costa Rica presents, your trip will definitely be a memorable one.

20. Bora Bora

Fantastical and scenic beauty are terms that characterize Bora Bora. The host of underwater activities, luxurious beach resorts, and stunning sunset views make it a beach island like no other.

We hope you enjoyed our ultimate best list of places to visit in the world . . . No matter which of the aforementioned places you visit, you are likely to have a gala time. Which of these places do you feel most excited about and eager to visit? Let us know!