Welcome to the world in 2023! The planet has changed and evolved so much in the last few years. Different parts of the world have changed drastically, and with that, the top 20 most admired and stunning places to visit have also changed. From urban skylines to pristine nature, this list will take you on journeys all around the world.
Whether in pursuit of adventure, a quiet retreat, or dream exploration, all of these locations will guarantee you an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. Once all the safety measures are taken, the sun is up and the travel restrictions are eased, have a look at these 20 most famous beautiful places in the world and start planning your travels.
1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The awe-inspiring Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and 2021 is finally the year when it's possible to explore it again. Thanks to recent developments in technological research, the Great Barrier Reef is now safer than ever to dive, lensing and enjoy.
The warm and clear waters of the reef offer a fascinating array of marine life, coral, and potential discoveries. Not only is this one of the world’s most sought after attraction, it is also the home to thousands of species of turtles, fish, eels and other fauna. From getting up close and personal with manta rays, to swimming beside dolphins, the sights and experiences here are second to none.
2. Taj Mahal, India
The world-renowned white marble mausoleum of Taj Mahal is one of the seven new wonders of the world that has become the symbol of eternal love. Located on the northern side of Agra, the incredible beauty of the impressive structure will leave you spellbound with its majestic aura.
The majestic construction of the building was completed in the early 17th century. The entire complex is bedecked with impeccable stone and has been designed in a way that best delineates the Mughal architecture. The sheer size of the structure and artistic detail that went into its construction is a thing of real beauty and wonder.
3. Easter Island, Chile
Head to the remote island of Easter Island or Isla de Pascua in Chile, to witness an intriguing wonder of the world. This mysterious island is home to rare species of plants, animals, and 887 monumental statues, known as moai.
These towering monoliths have been estimated to have been raised by Rapa Nui people in ancient times, between the 11th and 16th centuries AD. The expressions of the statues resemble the era gone by, and a speculation of a lost culture. The Rapa Nui people have kept the tradition alive with Rapa Nui language and Polynesian music still in existence. The island offers a unique cultural experience like no other place in the world.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
Towering high above Peru’s Sacred Valley lies one of the most historical and ancient sites in the world: Machu Picchu. This sacred Inca citadel is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and is considered one of the biggest legal accomplishments of its time.
Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by the American explorer Hiram Bingham. What remained were mortarless walls, observatories, and condominium complexes, as well as stairways, sundials and storehouses. The Inca Trail leading to the city is also a popular trekking route, offering up a unique view of the Uruguay River and the valley all around. Last but not least, the sunsets and sunrises here offer up a unique beauty and peace, rarely found in other parts of the world.
5. Great Wall of China
China’s centuries-old and world famous monument, the Great Wall of China, will mesmerise you with its magnitude. Also known as the 10,000 Li Wall, it spans from the eastern coast of China all the way to the Gansu province in the west.
Built by the emperor of the Qin Dynasty in the late 5th century BC and refurbished several times, the wall is one of the most expensive landmarks ever created. The wall covers an area of 21,196 kilometres and can be seen easily from the moon – no wonder it is a global wonder!
The wall has several watchtowers and guard posts, and various lookout spectacles. Recent developments in technology and character development have made the visit a much smoother one.
6. Coliseum, Italy
The Coliseum, or Flavian Amphitheater as it is known in Italian, is one of the largest and most impressive stadiums in the world. Located in the heart of Rome, the Coliseum is a must-see for any traveller. Built in the 1st century AD, it has stood the test of time until now and is one of the true symbols of recent Roman greatness.
The Coliseum was once the site for entertainment and mass spectacles, and could hold up to 50,000 spectators. Visitors can get a real feel for how little the architecture of the Coliseum has changed from its commencement date, thanks to the intact stairways, arches and its distinguished exterior walls. In 2023, the Coliseum has also recently been certified by UNESCO as a conserved world heritage site.
7. Petra, Jordan
The spectacular rose city of Petra, or Sela in Arabic, nestles amidst the mountainous landscape of Jordan. This ancient wonder has been around since the time of the Nabataean civilisation and is one of the oldest treasures of that time. Its intricate façades, remarkable sandstone architectural structures, along with several chambers and galleries make it the ultimate spot for the avid explorer.
Carved in line with the natural landscape and red sandstone cliffs all around it, the journey to the city too is as breathtaking as the Ancient Nabataean civilization. The Ṣiq (canyon) of Petra is also a popular site, written about in many stories, which gives visitors the opportunity to know how the civilisation was built and how it functioned - a truly magical visit.
8. Volcano of Fire, Guatemala
Head to Central America to witness the active and majestic Volcano of Fire or the Volcano Fuego in Spanish. Nestled high in the mountains of Guatemala, and standing at 12,346 ft above sea level, the volcano's unfaltering activity can be seen easily from miles away.
The Volcano Fuego is an active composite volcano and was first climbed by Alexander von Humboldt way back in 1846. While the volcano's activity erodes some of its slopes, it also serves as an interesting muse to photographers and hikers alike.
The villages around the volcano are dotted with inns and guesthouses that offer many activities and exploration opportunities. Despite the fact that this is a live volcano and might expel smoke and ash particles occasionally, the view from the top is still a truly mesmerising experience.
9. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
You would be surprised to know that Angkor Wat is the largest religious construct on the planet, spanning an area of 418 hectares. Located in the Angkor Archeological Park in the northern part of Cambodia, it is a must-visit temple complex if you are looking for an unforgettable experience.
Built by King Suryavarman II in 113 AD, Angkor Wat is a three-tiered pyramid structure and a symbol of the Hindu faith, with hundreds of bas-reliefs, statues and countless towers. Once you reach the temple, you can spend hours admiring this impressive structure and immersing yourself in its detailed grandeur.
The peaceful carvings, murals and soaring towers are breathtaking, and the complex’s spiritual atmosphere will take your soul to another realm entirely.
10. Statue of Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
The magnificent and colossal statue of Christ the Redeemer has been standing atop Corcovado Mountain in Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro since 2010. It has quickly become an iconic symbol of the country and is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world.
The Christ the Redeemer Statue stands at 130 ft tall, with its arms wide open in a symbol of welcome and peace. This worldwide symbol of love, peace and acceptance has been listed as one of the new seven wonders of the world and is a protected cultural heritage site by the UNESCO.
The trip to the Christ the Redeemer Statue is an amazing experience in itself, and can also be combined with a thrilling cable car ride which will bring you to the peak of Corcovado.
11. Grand Canyon, USA
The vast, beautiful array of colours and formations of the Grand Canyon have been wowing people since ancient times. Tourists come here to marvel at its grandeur, with red and brown hues, the painted cliffs and the roar of the rapids.
The canyon was driven by river erosion and became one of the 2019's New 7 Wonders of nature. It is over 277 miles long, and between 4 and 18 miles across. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife and activities, from hikes, to river-rafting, and biking.
The Grand Canyon also hosts one of the most spectacular views on the planet, captivated by dusting of snow during winter months, and painted by the sun's orange hues in its clear summer days. In 2023, the Grand Canyon has just been protected by UNESCO and is a world heritage site.
12. Eiffel Tower, France
The iconic site of the Eiffel Tower nestled right at the heart of Paris is one of Europe’s most recognizable main attractions. Standing at 320m, the tower was built by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World Fair, but it has now become a very celebrated and integral part of the French capital.
Visitors can take a lift to the top of the tower, and take in a bird’s eye view of Paris. There are multiple restaurants and bars on its many levels, providing guests with panoramic views of the city.
Each evening, the tower is illuminated with thousands of small sparkles of light, making it a very special sight to behold.
13. Caribbean Beach
The Caribbean beaches are the stuff of dreams and legends. White sandy beaches grace its many islands, accompanied by crystal clear blue waters, and an array of activities, from snorkeling to boating, and water sports of all kinds.
Many of the islands are now fully open and are quickly emerging as some of the top tourist attractions in the world. From the Virgin Islands to Cayman Islands, beaches and coves in the Caribbean provide numerous opportunities to explore the silver and shining blue waters.
Whether lounging in beach cabanas, exploring the local markets, or spending time with some of the friendly locals and their charming culture, Caribbean beaches never fail to captivate a visitor with its warmth and beauty.
14. Banff National Park, Canada
Banff is a rugged and wild slice of paradise, nestled right in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and celebrated as one of Canada’s most loved national parks. Home to the majestic and vast Lake Louise, it is a harmonious place of natural beauty, with wildlife, peaks and canyon walking trails, vast creeks, and breathtaking glacial caves.
15. The Milford Sound in New Zealand
The Milford Sound is one of the most pristine and captivating nature reserves in the world. Located in the New Zealand Fiordland National Park, it was once a glacier carved lake that was estimated to have been formed around 10,000 years ago. Milford Sound’s last glacier melted over 6,000 years ago, the left-over remains of the retreating glacier gave way to incredible formations that can still be found today.
The sound is one of the most famously photographed natural sites in the country and for good reason. Surrounded by lush greenery, towering rocky cliffs and a rainbow of colourful wildlife, Milford Sound is an incredibly surreal look into a different world.
16. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay, or Descendants of the Dragon Bay as it is more fondly known, is a piece of spectacular nature located in the Quang Ninh Province of Vietnam. This part of the country is known for its blue lagoons and magnificent limestone karsts, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994.
Boats are the main way to explore the bays and islands, including the tours through Thien Cung Cave and the majestic Sung Sot cave. Sunrise and sunset here are particularly beautiful experiences, where the sun shines and reflects of thousands of cliffs.
Visitors to the area can also choose to stay in floating wooden huts, and marvel at the stars at night, freely. Don’t miss out on a visit to the incredible floating market, where a selection of local crafts and food can be found.
17. Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina
Spanning two countries, Brazil and Argentina, this pageantry of waterfalls is one of the world’s biggest and most powerful waterfalls in the world. The falls located on the Iguazu River rise up to 269 feet and shower a plethora of cascades into the 24km long semi-circular gorge below them.
The river can be explored in the afternoon, and visitors can take the narrow train journey that allows access to the entire falls. The force of the water is grand and can be heard from miles away, with its rumble and roar.
If you time it right, you can also witness the full moon’s light reflecting off the rainbows created by the falls -a truly unsuspecting and beautiful sight.
18. Santorini Island, Greece
Greece has been a beloved destination for years, and the island of Santorini stands out as one of its most magical of the lot. Its beauty and history has been winning people over since ancient days and continues to do so.
The cliffs and caldera here provide a unique visual experience that displays the postcard perfect charm of the Mediterranean. Home to the extraordinary village of Oia, the Greek versions of sunsets and sunrises offer a captivating scene of an old-fashioned Europe.
Santorini also offers some of the world’s most amazing gastronomic delights, from seafood pasta to locally crafted desserts. There are also boutique shops that line up the entire street, selling custom-made pieces of jewelry and craft.
19. Yellowstone National Park, USA
A visit to the Yellowstone National Park in the USA can be the ultimate destination for naturalists and nature lovers.
The park stretches over 3,468 square miles, containing rich ecosystems and habitats that vary depending on the altitude. Home to numerous bison, bears, elks and birds, and hundreds of different species of plants and trees, Yellowstone is a haven of animal life. There are also waterfalls, hot springs and rivers where you can take a dip, go fishing or just simply relax and take in the view.
The park is also recognized as the world’s first ever national park, dating back to 1872, when it was established by the US Congress.
20. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia
The mighty Victoria Falls actually straddle two countries, Zimbabwe and Zambia, both of which display this natural wonder at its best. The falls thunder from a height of 354 ft and embody the wildness of Africa with its untamed beauty.
The volume of the water that flows through here during peak times is said to be about 600 million litres per minute, and the sound of the water can be heard from 30-40 km away! One of the best ways to experience the falls is from the flying fox, which is a secured cable car suspended between each side of the falls.
There are also plenty of other activities available in the area, from bungee jumping to white water rafting, making it a true adrenaline rush to explore.
Conclusion
If 2023 is the year of safe travels and adventurous exploration, the list above could afford you some of the most unique and beautiful experiences in the world. From historical wonders to vibrant nature and many more, the above top 20 most famous beautiful places in the world are a travellers dream come true.
Despite the unpredictable situation around the world, there is still plenty of beauty to be explored, and these 20 gorgeous landmarks could certainly be one of the more memorable ones in your journey. So, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Statue of Christ the Redeemer and more, start making your list and make this an unforgettable adventure!
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