The 10 Most Beautiful Places in the World
The World's Most Beautiful Places
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, is skin deep, and can be subjective. But it's hard to deny that there are some destinations in this world that are drop-dead gorgeous!
And who would we be to keep all this beauty to ourselves? Of course, we want to share it all with you, so whether you're looking for a little pick-me-up or some hearty travel inspiration, here's our list of the top 10 most beautiful places in the world.
1. The Norwegian Fjords
Is there anything more dramatic than a fjord? Sheer cliffs tumbling down to sea waters with cascading waterfalls on either side of a narrow channel of water. As valleys go, these are pretty impressive. The contrast of the green slopes and the deep blue of the waters below, with a dusting of white from the snow-capped tops, is breathtaking. The National Geographic Magazine awarded the Fjords "The Best Unspoiled Travel Destination in the World," something we wholeheartedly agree with.
2. Venice
Who doesn't want to visit Venice? Stunning architecture, canals instead of roads, some of the most iconic views in Europe, and gondolas! It's easy to see why so many people are charmed by Venice. In the words of Elizabeth Berkley, "It feels like you are transported to another time—the art, music, and pure romance in the air is like no other place." Over 15 million visitors flock to Venice every year, yet it's said to be sinking at a rate of 1-2 millimeters a year. A sad thought that global warming could eventually eradicate such an iconic part of Europe.
3. Ha Long Bay
Emerald waters, towering limestone islands topped with rainforests—of course, Ha Long Bay is a popular place for travelers flying in from all over the world. It even ranks top of the list as Vietnam's number one tourist spot. The UNESCO World Heritage Site looks like something straight from a film, having featured in movies like "Pan" (2015) and "Kong: Skull Island" (2017), and even "James Bond: Tomorrow Never Dies" (1997).
4. Banff National Park
Canada's oldest national park, nestled in the famous Rocky Mountains, is something that dreams are made of. Snow-capped peaks, stunning blue waters, and luscious green foliage make it a postcard-worthy destination. It's also the perfect place to attract some of Canada's most interesting wildlife, including moose, elk, and even grizzly and black bears. More than 4 million visitors travel to Banff National Park each year to visit the mountains that range from 45 to 120 million years old.
5. Oia
Oh Santorini, the "poster island" of Greece. Even if you didn't know, you've probably seen it. You can pick up postcards of its white-washed buildings clinging to a cliff edge in just about any Greek island. But seeing really is believing, and heading to the famous Cyclades Island is a must if you're looking for absolute heartwarming beauty. Oia, famous for its small village charm, offers one of the best sunsets in Europe.
6. Isle of Skye
The largest island of the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Skye shows us that we don't have to leave our shores to find one of the world's most beautiful spots. Its rugged landscapes and spectacular scenery make it one of Scotland's most popular tourist destinations. The island has a rich history from the Jacobite rebellion, Clan Warfare, and "Bonnie Prince Charlie." The wildlife on offer is just as impressive, with otters, seals, whales, dolphins, and red deer.
7. Milford Sound
Half a world away but always worth the miles covered to get there, Milford Sound is a stunning fjord on New Zealand's South Island. Mountain peaks reach as high as 1000 feet, and it's considered New Zealand's most stunning natural attraction. Famous for its ink-like waters and cascading forests, if this isn't on your bucket list, it should be. The best weather to view the sound in is actually rain, resulting in some pretty spectacular waterfalls.
8. Bryce Canyon
We've all heard of the Grand Canyon, but Bryce Canyon is more deserving of a place on this list. With the largest collection of hoodoos (oddly shaped pillars of rock left standing as a result of erosion) in the world, the canyon is a sight to behold. On a good day, when visibility is clear, views of the canyon can spread for over 100 miles, deep into Colorado. Interestingly, Bryce Canyon isn't actually a canyon—it's a natural amphitheater!
9. Lake Bled
Beauty lies within Lake Bled! Slovenia isn't one of the most famous tourist destinations in Europe, but this pretty little lake certainly makes visiting worthwhile. The lake is one of the warmest alpine lakes, sitting at a pleasantly warm 26°C, and its tiny, tear-shaped island is the only natural island in Slovenia. The church on the island dates back to the 17th century.
10. Angkor Wat
Last, but certainly not least, we have to mention Angkor Wat. The largest religious monument in the world, it's every bit as breathtaking as you'd imagine. The UNESCO World Heritage site's name translates to the "City of Temples," with new structures and ruins being discovered almost every year. Impressively, it was built without the aid of machinery, just the help of approximately 1000 elephants.
Would you add any other destinations to our list? Let us know in the comments where you think the world's most beautiful place lies.
