Top 12 Must-Visit Places Around the World – As Bookmarked by Real Travelers

With thousands of travel boards, inspiration pins, and saved itineraries circling the web, we decided to dig into the most consistently bookmarked destinations across real travelers’ digital footprints. These aren’t just popular—they’re the places travelers dream about, talk about, and return to time and time again.

Here are the Top 12 Must-Visit Places Around the World, as bookmarked by wanderlust-fueled explorers just like you.

1. Kyoto, Japan

Why it’s bookmarked: Timeless temples, cherry blossoms, peaceful zen gardens, and traditional tea ceremonies. Kyoto is the heart of Japanese culture—serene, spiritual, and endlessly photogenic.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Why it’s bookmarked: Terraced lemon groves, cliffside villages, and that perfect blend of luxury and la dolce vita. Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi offer some of the most picturesque scenes in Europe.
The best hotels in the Amalfi Coast

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Why it’s bookmarked: Iconic Table Mountain views, coastal drives, rich culture, and the gateway to unforgettable wildlife safaris. Cape Town blends nature and city life like nowhere else.

4. Reykjavik & the Golden Circle, Iceland

Why it’s bookmarked: Volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and the Northern Lights—yes, please. Iceland’s dramatic landscapes are straight out of a fantasy novel.

5. New York City, USA

Why it’s bookmarked: The city that never sleeps continues to top lists with Broadway lights, diverse food scenes, world-class museums, and that unmistakable urban buzz.

The best hotels in New York City

6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Why it’s bookmarked: Carnival vibes, Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and Copacabana Beach. Rio is energy, color, and rhythm all rolled into one.

The best hotels in Rio de Janeiro

7. The Maldives

Why it’s bookmarked: Overwater bungalows, surreal turquoise waters, and honeymoon-worthy sunsets. For pure escapism and luxury, the Maldives is always at the top of the dream list.

The best hotels in the Maldives

8. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why it’s bookmarked: Ancient temples, lush jungles, elephant sanctuaries, and a peaceful pace. Chiang Mai gives you Thailand’s spiritual side in a stunning setting.

The best hotels in Chiang Mai

9. Paris, France

Why it’s bookmarked: The Eiffel Tower. Croissants in Montmartre. Art in the Louvre. Romance on the Seine. Paris needs no explanation—it’s a global classic.

The best hotels in Paris

10. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Why it’s bookmarked: The largest coral reef system on the planet. Snorkeling and diving among vibrant marine life. An essential tick on every underwater explorer’s bucket list.

11. Marrakech, Morocco

Why it’s bookmarked: Spice markets, ancient medinas, stunning riads, and the gateway to Sahara adventures. Marrakech offers culture shock—in the best way.

12. Banff National Park, Canada

Why it’s bookmarked: Mirror-like lakes, snow-capped peaks, alpine hikes, and cozy mountain lodges. Banff is every nature-lover’s dream and an Instagram favorite.

Ready to Start Bookmarking?

These destinations are more than just travel goals—they’re travel realities waiting to happen. Whether you’re building your dream trip board or planning your next long-haul adventure, let this list be your wanderlust fuel.

Pro tip: Save this article to your travel bookmarks for future inspo, and start building your ultimate travel bucket list today.