The Ultimate Travel Bucket List for 2023

The world is wide, and the possibilities are endless! We’re cleaning up your wishlists and will help you to design your picture-perfect Travel Bucket List for 2023! What should you put on your list? How are you going to start your list? What destinations shouldn’t be missed in 2023? Stay tuned for all of our answers!

How to create the perfect travel bucket list

Every traveler is different. Everyone wants to do and see different things. A personalized travel bucket list, which includes the things you want to see, is always a good idea. But how do you create the perfect Travel Bucket List? Here are our tips & tricks…

  • Which places have you visited already?
    Where have you been before? How did you like it? If you like a destination you have already traveled to, it can be smart to pick similar destinations.
  • What kind of traveler are you?
    How do you like to travel? Do you prefer active trips, or would you rather like to spend your day at a beach? Or maybe a mixture? Decide how you want to travel and how fast you want to do it.
  • What do you want to see?
    Decide what you want to see and do when traveling. This can include whether you want to know more about a culture and its history or if you would want to explore nature.
  • Have fun with it
    Traveling is fun, so have fun with it. Embrace the planning process and find people to travel with on JoinMyTrip.

The Ultimate 2023 Bucket List Destinations – Summary

  1. Asia
  • Angkor Wat, Cambodia
  • Bali, Indonesia
  • The Himalayas
  • Seoul, South Korea

2. Europe

  • Hagia Sofia, Istanbul, Turkey
  • Iceland
  • Paris, France
  • Pompeii, Italy
  • Rome, Italy
  • Scotland, United Kingdom

3. Africa

  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Kruger National Park, South Africa
  • Marrakesh, Morocco
  • Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

4. North America

  • Grand Canyon, Arizona
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Niagara Falls
  • Yosemite National Park, California

5. South America

  • Andes
  • Patagonia
  • Salar de Uyuni

6. The Seven Wonders

  • Man-Made Wonders
  • Natural Wonders

The Best Travel Bucket List Destination for 2023

To help you build your perfect travel bucket list for 2023 we have gathered some of the best must-see destinations and sights all around the world.

Asia

Enjoy good food, friendly people, amazing architecture, and natural wonders all over Asia. Don’t miss these destinations and sights.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

This Buddhist temple complex in Cambodia was built in the 12th century and is world-famous for its unique architecture. The temple was dedicated to Vishnu for the Khmer Empire. It lies deserted today but is still marvelous to look at.

Bali, Indonesia

The Island of the gods is famous for stunning sunsets, perfect surf spots, impressive waterfalls, and old temples. Many tourists come here to find themselves, do yoga, and discover wellness retreats. Bali is a paradise for every kind of traveler, whether you want to chill on the beach, trek up some mountains, or discover a unique culture Bali has something in store for you! For more Bali tips read our Ultimate Guide to Bali and the Gili Islands or follow us on Instagram.

The Himalayas

The highest mountains in the world stretch over five countries: Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Everyone should once visit the Himalayas because of the unique views. We recommend going on a guided trek to either Annapurna or Everest Basecamp for some of the most breathtaking views of your life.

Seoul, South Korea

9.9 million people live in Seoul, yet it is one of the cleanest cities in the world. It is the 4th largest metropolitan area in the world with modern architecture, interesting culture, and amazing food. Don’t miss out on bibimbap or an authentic Korean Barbecue.


Europe

There are a lot of destinations in Europe that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list, including Europeans themselves! These destinations range from very popular to very off-the-beaten track, so don’t miss out.

Hagia Sofia, Istanbul, Turkey

Beautiful Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

The Hagia Sophia has quite an interesting history. Originally, it was built as a Christian Cathedral in the 6th century. After quite some shuffling between Christian and Orthodox churches, the Hagia Sophia was rebuilt as a mosque in the 15th century. From 1935 to 2020, the building housed a museum and was repurposed as Mosque in 2018. You can feel its vivid history on the European side of Istanbul and should stop there when visiting the city.

Iceland

There are many reasons to add Iceland to your travel bucket list: Waterfalls, volcanos, the Aurora, beautiful landscapes, and delicious coffee. Discover more in our Ultimate Travel Guide for Iceland, or make the best of your trip to Iceland with our Travel Insider Tips.

Paris, France

City Views of Paris, France

The city of love, cafés, and fashion – c’est Paris! If you’re in Paris for the first time, you shouldn’t miss a visit to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Discover more wonderful details in our Travel Guide to Paris, written by a true local. If you’ve had enough of Bucket List Paris, discover these Day Trips from Paris to discover more beautiful France – because France is more than just Paris!

Pompeii, Italy

In 79 AD, an eruption of Mount Vesuvius covered the town of Pompeii under a layer of hot ash and lava. Today you can visit the ruins of the town and the petrified remains of townees and animals. The view of Mount Vesuvius is stunning, and you will understand why the Romans built a town here.

Rome, Italy

When in Rome…you shouldn’t miss out on the fantastic food, the ancient architecture, and the vivid history! See the Colosseum, where gladiators fought each other (and animals like lions) for the people’s joy, or discover the plethora of churches and cathedrals. Spend at least one day visiting the Vatican, the city-state within Rome, and see Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sixtine Chapel or St. Peter’s Cathedral, where the pope preaches. You can find more tips and tricks for Italy in this La Dolce Vita Guide.
Travel Tip: Avoid restaurants close to big sights like the Colosseum or Trevi Fountain and restaurants with pictures on the menu.

Scotland, United Kingdom

Scotland is a ruggedly beautiful place with many hidden gems that need to be discovered. The best way to discover this stunning part of the UK is on a road trip. Start in Edinburgh, head up to the highlands, look for Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, and spend some days in the wind-scourged landscapes of the Isle of Skye. Adventures are waiting on every corner, and if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll feel right at home here.


Africa

Africa is diverse with landscapes ranging from lush rainforests to bonedry deserts, many different and unique cultures, and incredible wildlife. There are many things you need to see when visiting this vast continent. Here are our picks for your travel bucket list in 2023!

Cape Town, South Africa

Did you ever want to see Humboldt Penguins and Great White Sharks in the wild, learn more about South African history, and see beautiful, stunning nature? Head to Cape Town and discover one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. Before packing your bags, have a look at our Cape Town Guide.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

With almost 20,000 km2, Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and can be found in the North East of South Africa. Here you can go on the Safari adventure of a lifetime and see lions, elephants, different species of antelopes, and zebras in their natural habitat.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco and has a lot to offer. Visit many beautiful gardens, mosques, and souks all over town. Have some fresh peppermint tea in one of the many cafés and enjoy a different side of the African continent.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The pyramids of Giza are the only ancient world wonder still standing. On the outskirts of the Egyptian capital, Cairo, you can find these stunning ancient tombs. The pyramids were built between 2620 and 2500 BC and are part of an ancient cemetery. Visiting the pyramids will give you a bigger understanding of what humans are capable of!


North America

Especially the USA, the land of the free, entices my travelers every year. There is so much to see and discover. Here are our top picks to put on your travel bucket list.

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Your first view of the Grand Canyon will take your breath away. You will be humbled by the force of nature and will need a moment to recover. This naturally carved canyon is 446km long, 29km wide, and almost 2km deep. The view at sunrise and sunset is always impeccable, so get yourself to Arizona!

Los Angeles, California, USA

Glitz and Glamor await in the city of Hollywood movies! Visit unique museums, discover amazing food, and chill on the beach. In Los Angeles, you can touch the American Dream and dream of your own acting career.

Niagara Falls, USA & Canada

Niagara Falls lies on the border of the US and Canada. You can either view the falls from the US side or hop over the border to Canada for a day or two and have a better view of the falls. There’s also the possibility of going to the bottom of the falls in a boat (“Maid of the Mist”) to feel the power of the water.

Yosemite Nationalpark, California

Yosemite [pronounced: yoh-SEM-ih-tee] is one of the most famous national parks in the US. It is known for incredible views, amazing wildlife, and stunning waterfalls. Take one of the hikes or climb up one of the many mountains for those famous vistas.


South America

The last continent of our virtual journey in South America. South America is known for its friendly people, zest for life, and unique landscapes. Here are our main reasons to add this continent to your travel bucket list in 2023.

Andes

The longest mountain range in the world enchants travelers with its rugged beauty. It stretches over seven South American countries, such as Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. You will find the highest peak in Argentina – Mount Aconcagua, with an elevation of 6,961m. Discover some of the highest plateaus, lakes, cities, and villages traveling along the Andes.

Patagonia

Patagonia surprises travelers with its wide variety of landscapes ranging from rainforests and deserts to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world. Discover some of the hardest mountains ever climbed by mankind, the rough and wild waters at Cape Horn, and stunning landscapes shaped by volcanos.

Salar de Uyuni

The Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world. Here you can take stunning photos and see flamingos in the wild. Learn more about the Salar de Uyuni in our Perfect Guide to Bolivia.


The 7 World Wonders

Many beautiful places, especially the seven world wonders, deserve a spot or two on your travel bucket list. We have divided the wonders into man-made, buildings,, and natural wonders that will take your breath away.

Man-Made Wonders

  1. Chichén Itzá in Mexico
  2. Christo Redentor in Brazil
  3. Colosseum in Rome, Italy
  4. Great Wall of China
  5. Machu Picchu in peru
  6. Petra in Jordan
  7. Taj Mahal in Agra, India

Natural Wonders

  1. The Amazon in South America
  2. Halong Bay in Vietnam
  3. Iguazú Falls in Argentina
  4. Jeju Island in South Korea
  5. Komodo Island in Indonesia
  6. Table Mountain in South Africa
  7. Puerto Princessa Subterranean River National Park in Palawan, The Philippines

After all of our tips & tricks, it’s time to build your own travel bucket list for 2023, and as soon as you’re done, you can start planning your adventure with one of many trips on JoinMyTrip!