ULTIMATE Travel Bucket List: 21 Unmissable Experiences

A person writing in a planner on a table with a map of Europe, a brown bag, a wristwatch, a smartphone, a green drink, and a straw hat.

Many people dream of traveling the world, seeing new places, exploring different cultures, and having life-changing experiences. But the world is so vast that deciding where to go first can be a tough decision. The best way around this problem is to create a travel bucket list with all the destinations you want to visit!

Well, if you’re having trouble deciding, you’re in luck! I compared all the travel-related bucket lists I could find and came up with a definite list of 21 top bucket list travel experiences. The list featured in this article is in no particular order, and it’s only supposed to serve as inspiration for your next trip.

And don’t worry, I know that travel preferences are completely subjective. So, at the end of this list, you’ll find a short guide on how to create your own bucket list of destinations and experiences.

Let’s start exploring!

21 Experiences to Add to Your Travel Bucket List

Below, you’ll find a list of the ultimate travel experiences, as well as the reasons why they earned their place on this list.

1. See the Northern Lights

Two people sitting on ice, watching the vibrant green Northern Lights in a snowy, mountainous landscape.

The Aurora Borealis, more commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon that has captivated people for centuries. These displays of light are visible in the night sky only from a few places on Earth during a certain time of year.

FUN FACT: The Northern Lights are the bucket list winner at Miss Tourist! We all created our personal travel bucket lists, and 3 people from the Miss Tourist team listed seeing the Northern Lights among their top 5!

The fact that they’re so elusive and ethereal is what puts them on the bucket list of many people! As I said, you can see the Northern Lights from a few places in the world; there are some amazing spots in Iceland, as well as Northern Lights tours from Tromso.

2. Watch the cherry blossoms bloom in Japan

Path lined with blooming cherry blossom trees in an urban park in Japan, with modern buildings in the background.

Japan is a stunning destination in and of itself, but what makes it even more special are the gorgeous cherry blossoms. The Japanese cherry blossoms (sakura) are world-famous for their pink blooms that appear in spring (late March to late May).

Now that you know when to travel to Japan to see cherry blossoms, you need to pick a destination! Maruyama Park in Kyoto and the Osaka Castle Area in Osaka are some of the ultimate spots to see the cherry blossoms in Japan.

3. Drive the Ring of Kerry in Ireland

Scenic coastal road on the Ring of Kerry, Ireland, with a winding path and dramatic cloudy skies over the ocean.

A fan of scenic drives? If so, driving the Ring of Kerry is one of the best travel bucket list ideas for you! This route begins and ends in Killarney, but it will take you along the Iveragh Peninsula and provide stunning views of rivers, lakes, waterfalls – all around breathtaking nature – and castles and historic houses.

The Ring of Kerry is a 179 km long (111-mile) circular route, and even though you can make the drive in 3 and a half hours, you should spend at least a couple of days on the road, stopping at all the scenic spots and exploring the picturesque villages.

4. Taste Pastel de Natas in Portugal

Portuguese custard tarts (Pastel de Nata) and a cup of coffee on a rustic blue tablecloth.

Food is one of the best parts of traveling! Every country has a distinct specialty that will likely stay in your memory forever – and Portugal is no exception! The ‘pastel de nata’ is a delicious tart pastry with egg custard, often dusted with cinnamon.

Enjoying the rich flavor of the pastel de nata is one of the best things to do in Lisbon, but you can find it anywhere in the country! And even though you can get this pastry in many countries around the world, nothing compares to the original Portuguese recipe!

TIP: The Pastéis de Belém (map) bakery is THE spot to try pastel de nata in Lisbon. If you plan on only eating one pastry, this is the place to go, but keep in mind that you’ll need to wait in line!

5. Go on a gondola ride in Venice

Gondolier steering a gondola with two passengers along the canals of Venice, with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background under a cloudy sky.

Gondolas are synonymous with Venice! Even though the city has plenty to offer in terms of culture and history, a gondola ride is definitely one of the top things to do in Venice! During your gondola ride, you’ll sail along the famous canals and get a unique perspective of the city from the water.

If Venice is on your list of bucket list destinations, make sure to check out our guide on gondola rides in Venice – it will tell you everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind activity.

6. Admire the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night in Paris

The Eiffel Tower in Paris, illuminated against a dark night sky with a beam of light shining from its top, viewed from a grassy park.

One of the top attractions on people’s bucket list for travel is the Eiffel Tower, the main landmark of France’s capital city. The tower is recognizable for its unique architecture and offers amazing views of the city, but what’s even more impressive is the tower’s appearance at night, so getting a hotel with an Eiffel Tower view is a great idea.

FUN FACT: The Eiffel Tower was built for the World Fair in 1889. At the time, it was the tallest building in the world and attracted over 2 million visitors in the first year of opening.

Every night, the Eiffel Tower comes alive with various illuminations—the golden lights, the sparkles (on the hour), and the beacon light. The experience is magical, and even though some deem Paris an overrated city, it’s definitely worth visiting just to see the Eiffel Tower at night!

While the tower itself is one of the most crowded spots in Paris, you can view the lights from various spots around the city, like Trocadero Gardens (map).

7. Experience the glamour of the French Riviera

Panoramic view of Nice, France, with the famous Promenade des Anglais along the Baie des Anges and a bustling beach scene

If the top priority on your vacation bucket list is glamour, there’s no better destination than the French Riviera. The Côte d’Azur, as the French call it, is situated in the Southeast part of France, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and home to famous cities like Cannes, St. Tropez, and Nice.

Besides the stunning landscapes and rich history, the French Riviera is known for its luxurious hotels and restaurants, as well as the constant presence of the rich and famous. A member of the Miss Tourist team recently visited the South of France, and she wrote a very detailed itinerary – you can find it here.

8. Eat your way through Italy

table with italian food with a group of people sitting at the tables in the background

Italy is famous for many things, but food might be the most beloved thing to come out of Italy. Tasting authentic Italian pizza and pasta and desserts like tiramisu is a common bucket list item.

Regardless of where you go in Italy, you can sample amazing dishes, but you should know that Rome is one of the best food cities in the world!

However, I’d also recommend checking out some of the amazing restaurants on the Amalfi Coast, as well as the top spots to eat in Florence!

9. Visit the Taj Mahal in India

The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, bathed in the soft light of sunrise with its reflection in the water of the front pool.

Who doesn’t love a monument to love? One of the most famous landmarks built in the name of love is the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. The 5th Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, built this marble mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

If you’re into architecture (and love stories!), I’m confident that you’ll love this impressive building. The building itself is considered the greatest achievement in Indo-Islamic architecture, so it definitely deserves to become one of your bucket list destinations.

10. Hike the Grand Canyon

Two hikers standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, admiring the vast, rugged landscape with a river winding through the canyon below.

The Grand Canyon is one of the oldest and greatest natural landmarks in the US. Known for its stunning rock formations and breathtaking vistas, it’s a must-visit for Americans and foreigners alike.

If you’re a hiker, you won’t be disappointed – the Canyon offers many amazing trails that allow you to immerse yourself in its beauty. However, if you’re not into hiking, you can take a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon and get a bird’s eye view of the rocks. For more detailed info on visiting the park, check out my guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon.

11. Explore the Isle of Skye

The writer of the post in a black jacket and hat walks near a grassy coastline overlooking a body of water with hills and cliffs in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Scotland’s scenery is stunning, and there’s no better place to experience it than the Isle of Skye. The landscapes of the Isle of Skye are unlike anything you’ve seen before, and you’ll also get to visit many quaint fishing villages and explore imposing castles.

One of our own recently visited the Isle of Skye and she wrote very helpful guides on where to stay and what to do on the Isle of Sky. If this sounds like one of your ideal bucket list vacations, be sure to check out her articles – they’ll prove very useful!

12. See the mystical statues on Easter Island

Row of ancient Moai statues standing on a platform on Easter Island under a partly cloudy sky.

When you want to embark on once-in-a-lifetime trips, one of your go-to destinations should be Easter Island. Situated off the West coast of Chile, this island is famous for the stone statues of human figures, known as ‘moai’.

The statues were built by the native people of the island, called Rapa Nui, between 1400 and 1650. The stone figures are unlike any other statues in the world, considering their size and unusual facial expressions. This is the ideal spot for you if you’re into history and unique monuments!

13. Dive into the Great Barrier Reef

Aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, showcasing its intricate coral formations and vibrant blue waters.

The Great Barrier Reef, located off Australia’s Northeast coast, is the world’s largest coral reef system. It’s home to more than 400 corals and over 1,500 fish species, making it the ultimate spot for diving and snorkeling.

Water sports enthusiasts will be particularly happy to add this to their travel bucket list, and there is really no better place to experience the wonders of the ocean. The most popular places to stay near the Great Barrier Reef are Cairns and Port Douglas – you won’t go wrong with either one!

14. Embark on a Kenyan Safari

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One of the top-ranking experiences on my personal bucket list is an African safari. Kenya is one of the best countries on the African continent for a safari experience. The Masai Mara (map) is one of the country’s best national reserves, home to a wide variety of animals, including the ‘big 5’ – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo.

The only way to embark to see the wildlife in their natural habitat is by going on a guided safari with an experienced guide who can explain more about the animals and keep you out of harm’s way. Whether you decide on Masai Mara or another destination for your Kenyan safari, I’m sure it will be just as spectacular as you imagine.

15. Swim with turtles on the Galapagos Islands

Snorkeler swimming underwater alongside a sea turtle over a coral reef in clear blue water.

The Galapagos turtles, or the Galapagos giant tortoises, are the world’s largest tortoises and some of the oldest land animals on the planet. These animals are native to the Galapagos Islands, and it’s the only place where you can see them and, yes, swim with them!

Swimming and snorkeling along the Galapagos turtles is a unique experience, so it warrants a place on the bucket list of trips of a lifetime. Our original Miss Tourist, Yulia, has swam with the turtles and says it is an amazing experience! She also has a very useful guide on the best spots to stay on the Galapagos Islands!

16. Relax on the picture-perfect beaches of the Maldives

The writer of the post relaxing in a hammock tied between two palm trees on a sandy beach with turquoise ocean water in the background.

The stunning white sand beaches, the crystal clear waters, the relaxing vibe…it’s no wonder that the Maldives are a bucket list item for many and one of the top honeymoon destinations. So, if you dream about an idyllic beach vacation, the Maldives are the perfect fit for you!

Besides the stunning natural surroundings, the Maldives offer a wide range of hotels, resorts, overwater bungalows, and more. We have plenty of posts on the topic – you can find all of them through this link!

17. Immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture

A majestic traditional Thai temple in Chiang Mai with intricate red and gold roofs, reflected in a tranquil pond amidst manicured green gardens under a vibrant sunset sky.

Asia is becoming increasingly popular among travelers, and Thailand is leading the way! Its rich culture, gorgeous temples, stunning beaches, and affordable prices are just some of the top things that attract visitors to come and explore the country.

Whether you want to immerse yourself in a bustling city like Bangkok, admire the temples of Chiang Mai, or relax on the beaches of Phuket, Thailand won’t disappoint you. You can see the country’s culture reflected everywhere, from the city streets to the ancient temples, and of course, in the delicious cuisine.

18. Attend the carnival in Rio de Janeiro

Festive parade during Rio Carnival with a large, elaborate dragon float and costumed dancers, surrounded by a cheering crowd in a stadium.

As far as carnivals go, nothing can top the one in Rio! Join the millions of visitors in one of the largest parties on the planet, admire the intricate costumes, and dance away to the cheerful Brazilian music.

If you decide on making to check off this item on your travel bucket list, read our full guide to the Rio de Janeiro carnival and consider the best neighborhoods to stay in Rio. It’s always best to come prepared!

19. Go on a helicopter ride over Niagara Falls

A person wearing a green beanie and pink rain poncho stands on a boat in front of a large waterfall.

The Niagara Falls are special – and I’m not just saying that! These waterfalls have the highest water flow in the world, so they look (and feel) extremely powerful. So, whether you’re approaching from the US or Canada, they are a must-visit.

There are plenty of ways to experience the falls; you can stay on the ground, pick one of the many Niagara Falls boat tours, or go for a helicopter ride – the absolute best way to enjoy the view of the falls. I recommend this helicopter tour, but if flying is not really your thing, you’ll find plenty of other cool things to do in Niagara Falls (on the ground).

20. Walk along the Great Wall of China

Stretch of the Great Wall of China winding through lush green mountains with a clear sky overhead.

One of the Eight Wonders of the World, the Great Wall of China, is worth at least one visit during your lifetime. Walking along these ancient walls will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another time and place, and the views are absolutely stunning, too.

If you’re planning to explore the wall, Beijing is the ideal base for your stay. There are plenty of connections from Beijing to the Great Wall, as well as many guided tours – I really like this tour that gives you plenty of time to explore the wall.

21. Roam the Amazon rainforest

Dense bamboo thicket in the Amazon rainforest with a hiker walking along a narrow, rocky path.

Finally, the wildest one for last! If you’re a nature lover and want to see unspoiled natural wonders, then you’d probably like to explore the Amazon rainforest. The forest is home to millions of different species of insects, birds, plants, and trees – it has the richest biodiversity on the planet!

The largest portion of the Amazon is located in Brazil, so that’s the best spot to start exploring! You can choose to stay in a jungle lodge or embark on a cruise on the Amazon River! This jungle tour is quite popular, but you can pick whatever works best for you!

Tips on how to create your own travel bucket list

A smiling man and woman stand in front of the Sydney Opera House, with people walking around and the city skyline visible in the background.

Before we wrap up this post, I wanted to give you a couple of helpful tips for creating your personal travel bucket list. I know it can be hard to decide which destinations to add to a (realistic) travel list, so here are a few things to consider:

Why you want to visit – is there a specific attraction/s or natural wonder/s you want to see
The length of the trip – think about how long it will take you to get to your desired destination and how long you need to see all the things on your list.
The cost of the trip – create a travel budget and see how much the trip will cost and whether you can actually afford it.
Specific requirements – look into any specific requirements for entering the country, such as a visa (are you eligible?) and vaccinations.

These are just some of the things that will help you create a realistic bucket list for travel, but you can add anything you like. We don’t know what the future holds – dream big!

FAQs about the perfect travel bucket list

The writer of the post posing in front of the Colosseum in Rome, with bustling traffic and tourists in the background.

🌟 What is bucket list travel?

A bucket list for travel includes all the places you want to visit in your lifetime. So, bucket list travel is visiting your personal top destinations and trying your most-wanted experiences.

🤔 How to prepare for a bucket list trip?

The preparations for a bucket list trip start with creating a budget and booking everything in advance – flights, hotels, tours, and tickets. Then, you’ll need to get travel insurance and possibly some special documents (visas, vaccination certificates), and finally, start packing!

Final thoughts on the ultimate travel bucket list

author of the post in a green robe stands at a colorful table, working with small papers. Decorative plates with intricate patterns are displayed on the wall behind her in a shop.

We’re at the end of the ultimate travel bucket list! I hope that this list has given you some good ideas for your next trip and, ideally, you’ve already started planning!

Whether you decide to watch the cherry blossoms in Japan or swim with the turtles in the Galapagos, it’s essential to start planning early! So be sure to book your flights and hotels early, get travel insurance, and find the best available tours!

Do you have any questions about the bucket list experiences featured in this post? Are you having difficulty curating your own bucket list? Let me know in the comments below – I’m eager to chat!

Happy travels,

Hristina

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