21+ Most Beautiful Places In The World – Prettiest Places In The World To Visit

The most beautiful places in the world are a testament to the wonder of Mother Nature. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the endless blue in the Maldives, the world has beauty of all kinds to be explored.

Choosing one, among various of them, to visit is a challenging task. Thus we have compiled a list of 22+ prettiest places in the world that everyone needs to travel to at least once. These destinations will leave a mark on the souls of those fortunate enough to witness them.

1. Santorini, Greece

The ancient island of Thira, now known as Santorini, is one of the best destinations for travellers expecting their most romantic holiday.

You’ll have the unique experience of staying on an active volcano island with beautiful beaches and an open caldera while still being able to experience the life of the locals. Feel free to indulge in delicious Greek foods and drinks at nearby restaurants.

And for those interested in historical sites, Akrotiri of Thira will provide remarkable insights into the past. These archaeological wonders let your glimpse into life from the Bronze Age civilisations to those of the late 17 century BC.

2. Milford Sound, New Zealand

Those who enjoy exploring natural beauties will find Milford Sound a must-see destination. Situated deep into the Fiordland National Park of New Zealand is the majestic system of incredible mountains, dramatic cliffs, beautiful waterfalls, and lush rainforest.

Here is also the home of abundant wildlife, which you can enjoy by taking many tours via boats, buses, or even planes. And at the same time, the adorable dolphins, penguins, and seals will make your journey so much more memorable. Have the beautiful nature and incredible wildlife that call its home in your adventure at Milford Sound.

3. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

The UNESCO World’s Natural Heritage site of Ha Long Bay will deliver above-and-beyond experiences for all its visitors. Upon arriving, you’ll be impressed by the thousands of islands and islets. They create an incredible collection of limestones in the middle of the ocean. The place is one of the must-see upon visiting Vietnam.

The unique shapes and placements result from a unique tropical climate and million years of impact. Along with cruising the bay for its sea of limestones, travellers can explore the Cua Van floating village with authentic local experiences.

Enjoy kayaking, cave exploring, rock climbing, and many other exciting activities at the massive cave system of Ha Long. And finally, the beautiful beaches with calming waves will make an excellent choice for those who enjoy a good sunbathing or swimming session.

4. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Explore the glittering white landscapes in Salar de Uyuni. Photo by san724 - stock.adobe.com

Located in the Daniel Campos Province in Potosí of southwest Bolivia is the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni. During the dry season, the 10,582 square kilometres (4,085 sq mi) salt flat transforms into an endless white landscape, which gives the illusion of walking on clouds.

And on a warm day, the entire surface turns into the world’s largest natural mirror, turning the whole landscape into a mesmerising reflection of the sky. Enjoy the stunning view of the earth and sky colliding at the horizon.

This can inspire many beautiful images and photography ideas. So, always bring your camera and a few accessories when arriving at the place.

5. Machu Picchu, Peru

The UNESCO world heritage site was believed to be overlooked by the Spanish during their conquest due to its remote location. It remained hidden from the outside world for centuries until it was “rediscovered” in 1911. Now, it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reasons.

The place sits at a staggering 7,972 feet (2.4 kilometres) above sea level. Upon reaching the top, you are greeted by the intricate stone structures and the surrounding lush green flora. 

If you love biodiversity, a hike through an Inca Trail is necessary. Speaking of which, there are various hiking routes, from the Quarry Trail to a Huayna Picchu climb. And don't forget to strike a pose with the local celebrities – the llamas.

6. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

The famous national forest and its towering stone pillar are said to inspire the movie "Avatar (2009)". And will certainly leave anyone breathless just by witnessing its stunning natural scenery.

This is the only place on Earth where you can witness the unique beauty of floating mountains that spiral skyward. And beneath the stone mountains are lush forests, deep valleys, winding rivers, and many wildlife species.

Here, you'll be able to explore the area using cable car rides and hiking trails. Feel free to study the diverse flora and fauna in the forest, take a thrilling ride on the glass bridge, and experience local culture in nearby villages.

7. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Covering more than 30,000 hectares, Plitvice Lakes is proud to be Croatia’s largest national park. Here, visitors are welcomed by the beautiful karst landscape and a series of interconnected lakes and waterfalls.

The area is home to many species of bears, wolves, and birds which you can observe while hiking and cycling. Also, you can travel the area by boat as you venture across the crystal-clear lakes and witness the cascading waterfalls. And on the banks, lush green forest creates stunning contrasts against the turquoise waters.

Feel free to take a break and picnic with your family and friends while absorbing the breathtaking views. Make sure to have your camera with you since there are a lot of amazing photos to take at Plitvice Lakes.

8. Maldives, Indian Ocean

This is probably one of the most popular destinations and is often featured in travellers' adventure books. The beautiful archipelagic state of South Asia is famous for its amazing beaches and relaxing waves. It’s hard to resist the warm water that is at a constant temperature of 25-30℃.

When you’ve had your fill of beaches and sand, one of the unique things to do in this paradise is spend a night at an underwater suite. Even if you lodge at a more traditional hotel, you will enjoy the finest luxury one could dream of.

9. The Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon, which is over 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, is 4,000 feet deep and can go up to 6,000 feet. And while it’s not the largest or biggest ravine on the planet, the cultural and geological value is beyond comparison.

It showcases a stunning array of colours, from deep reds to vibrant oranges, revealing layers of ancient rock that recount the Earth's geological history. The Grand Canyon stands as a testament to the power and majesty of nature, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness its grandeur.

10. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Stretching out across 2,300 kilometres (~1,500 miles) of Australia's northeastern coast, this living mosaic is Mother Nature’s masterpiece beneath the waves - colourful, vibrant, and teeming with life.

Boasting the world’s largest reef system, Australia's Great Barrier Reef is home to a diverse and colourful array of marine life. The complex natural ecosystem covers an area larger than the total land of the UK, Switzerland and Holland combined.

But the true beauty of it is best viewed in the air. Take scenic flights ranging from $77 to $800 to take in the best panoramic view this magnificent world wonder has to offer.

11. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Founded on March 1, 1872, this was the first national park that opened for all visitors to enjoy and explore. Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it's known for its famous geothermal features, along with diverse wildlife.

Old Faithful Geyser and the Norris Geyser Basin are among the must-do things once you get here. The former is what inspired the establishment of Yellowstone as the world’s first national park in the first place. While the latter is worth visiting for its surrounding area along.

The location is also dubbed “America's Serengeti” thanks to its rich tapestry of wildlife. Here you can find the bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolf, etc., gracefully roaming the lands, not to mention some 300 species of birds calling this place home.

12. Taj Mahal, India

The Indian Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his lovely Queen Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the Taj Mahal continues to captivate hearts and inspire souls from around the globe.

Trust us, viewing it in real life is even more mesmerising than seeing it in pictures and videos, even if you don’t know the backstory of how this structure came to be.

13. The Great Wall of China, China

Stretching over 13,000 miles (2,000 kilometres) across northern China, the Great Wall offers breathtaking views of its diverse landscapes. It’s one of the best ways to glimpse into the past of ancient Chinese history.

Here, visitors can travel to various sections of the walls, each having its own unique structures and sceneries. Witness the incredible architectural achievements that sit on top of beautiful mountains and hills while immersing yourself in historical narratives. Definitely one of the best places to visit in Asia.

14. The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Situated in the westernmost frontier of Europe and looking at the Atlantic Ocean, it’s known as “the place where the world ends”. Enjoy the sweeping views from 700 feet above the water as you take a stroll along the coastline of the Cliffs of Moher.

In any season, the cliffs appear like something from a fairytale or a world-ending cinema, which will capture the hearts of all visitors. It’s the backdrop for many blockbuster films, including Game of Thrones and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

15. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The famous Blue Lagoon of Iceland is more than just another prettiest place in the world. It’s where you can take a dip at your geothermal spa for relaxation and healing.

Here, visitors can relax in warm baths surrounded by mineral-rich water, which gives the lagoon its unique colours and many healing effects.

Spend your time in the spa as you adopt amazing skincare treatments, in-water massages, mud masks, and more. Enjoy eating delicious foods at the onsite restaurants. And always have the best accommodations at the five-star hotels in the area.

16. Panjin Red Beach, China

Come to the Panjin section of the Liaohe River Delta in Autumn, and you'll have the chance to witness some of the most spectacular scenery. With millions of Suaeda salsa plants featuring their signature red colour, the entire landscape is transformed into a sea of red.

Experience one of the most unique phenomena on the planet as you're engulfed by the vibrant colour of the Red Beach. This unforgettable experience attracts not only visitors and photographers but also many rare birds. All of which makes it one of the world’s most beautiful places.

17. Bali, Indonesia

Home to the Indonesian Hindustani minority, the beautiful beaches of Bali and its fantastic rice terraces have been attracting tourists from many parts of the world. From the famous Kuta Beach to the tranquil shores of Nusa Dua, Bali has it all; whenever you want to catch some waves or indulge in luxury beachfront resorts.

But let’s not forget about the waterfalls and volcanoes out of this world. Who can say no to dipping in the refreshing waters of Gitgit Waterfall or chasing the adrenaline rush of canyoning at Aling-Aling Waterfall? A sunrise hike up Mount Batur is an absolute must for adventurous souls.

18. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

If you’re looking for that perfect honeymoon or vacation spot, Bora Bora won’t disappoint any visitors. Here, you can wake up inside your overwater bungalows, surrounded by clear waters and fantastic coral reefs. At the same time, feel free to enjoy many outdoor recreations, including jet skiing, scuba diving, and snorkelling.

19. The Swiss Alps, Switzerland

The magic of the Swiss Alps, a gem of one of the most beautiful countries in the world, is one to experience for a lifetime. Imagine a postcard-perfect view of snow-capped mountains just outside your train window. When you’re off the train, the pristine beauty and unspoiled nature are all yours to take in.

Outdoor enthusiasts will have a field day hitting the slopes of world-renowned resorts like Zermatt or Verbier. For those who prefer relaxation, one of the many thermal spas scattered throughout the region will satisfy your craving.

20. The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands feature an overwhelming ecosystem that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution, along with an interesting volcanic structure. Beyond their rich biodiversity, the islands boast stunning landscapes, from sandy beaches to volcanic formations.

What makes the islands among the best in the world is their status as a living testament to the Earth's geological history. Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, they offer a glimpse into the raw power of nature. Explore the otherworldly landscapes and hike up volcanic peaks are among the must-do things here.

21. Petra, Jordan

Located in the Ma’an Governorate of Jordan is the beautiful ancient city of Petra. Established in the year 312BCE as the capital city of the Nabatean Kingdom, the place was a trading centre of the old world. Moreover, people believe it’s one of the oldest cities in the world.

The iconic rock-carved architecture surrounded by endless desert landscapes is a sight to behold. The journey there is equally impressive, which requires you to pass through the Siq - a 1km long narrow gorge that reaches up to 80 meters in height.

22. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

With massive coverage and incredible wildlife diversity, Serengeti National Park is an ideal location for any nature lovers. Home to many mammal and bird species of Africa, together with incredible landscapes, visitors will have a wonderful time exploring the wildlife.

Plus, the national park also hosts various activities, including safari walks, hot air balloon tours, jeep tours, and more. All of which will guarantee your satisfaction.

23. The Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

The breathtaking natural wonder of Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s largest waterfall systems. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the falls that stretch from Argentina to Brazil.

Enjoy the surrounding natures with beautiful animals and landscapes, which will make a perfect opportunity for hiking, birdwatching, and other activities. Certainly a unique experience between the border of two great nations.

Paradises On Earth: Most Beautiful Places In The World

If you have plans to travel around the world, the list above will certainly come in handy. Make sure to consider the options and your personal preferences to find the best destinations. These most beautiful places in the world will always be open for your visit.

If you find these recommendations helpful, don’t forget to click that share button so more people can learn about these wonderful places. While you are at it, please leave a comment below to let us know what you think. Did any of our picks leave an impression on you? We are all ears!

Kim Vuong