30 best places to go on holiday [2025 update]

Ready for your next adventure? In collaboration with our diverse team of writers, editors, and staff members, we have curated a list of the best places to go on holiday worldwide. This list covers both classic spots — like Croatia’s newly peaceful coastal towns — and up-and-coming gems to explore before they’re packed. Whether you’re interested in a Kenyan safari, Greek beaches, or Japan’s mountain villages, we’ve got tips on timing, stays, and avoiding the crowds.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Best time to visit: Spring (March through May) for garden blooms and pleasant weather, or autumn (September through November) when crowds thin and the Oasis Festival brings electronic music to the city.

In Marrakesh, traditional craftsmen work alongside contemporary artists in the city’s winding streets and is one of the best places to go on holiday. Staying in the Medina’s Kasbah district gives you close access to main attractions without the constant buzz of the souks. For quieter sunset views over the Koutoubia Mosque, head to the Sidi Mimoun neighborhood.

From here, it’s easy to reach Djemaa el-Fna square, where rooftop cafés are prime spots to watch street performances. Take the train from Casablanca city center for a smoother experience. Visit the souks early before tour groups arrive, and arrange Atlas Mountains day trips through your riad, where local guides are available.

Start planning your trip to Morocco with our Morocco itineraries:

• 5 days in Morocco
• 7 days in Morocco
• 10 days in Morocco
• Marrakesh itinerary

Zakynthos, Greece

Best time to visit: Peak season (July through August) brings vibrant nightlife and festivals, but visit in shoulder season (May through June or September) for quieter beaches and better hiking conditions.

In Zakynthos, Vassilikos is a peaceful base with more secluded beaches, well away from the bustling cruise crowds. To reach the famous Shipwreck Beach, book your boat tour from Porto Vromi port for the shortest ride. The Blue Caves are stunning at sunrise, when the waters are at their calmest. If you’re flying in, public buses connect the airport to Zakynthos Town.

The mountain villages of Volimes and Exo Hora are home to some of the most authentic Greek tavernas. For a chance to see turtles, join a conservation-approved tour from Keri Lake. When the summer winds pick up, the north-facing beaches around Agios Nikolaos are ideal for swimming.

Ready to start planning your trip to Greece? See our Greece itineraries:

• 7 days in Greece
• 10 days in Greece
• Crete itinerary
• Santorini itinerary

Yucatán, Mexico

Best time to visit: Dry season (November through April) for ideal exploration weather, with January featuring the region's biggest cultural event, Mérida Fest.

Most tourists rush straight to Chichén Itzá. Their loss. At Uxmal, iguanas outnumber visitors beneath equally stunning Maya pyramids. Mérida’s Santiago neighborhood, known for its colonial mansions, is a great base, with morning markets and courtyard cafés close by.

While the new Maya Train links major sites, the best places to go on holiday lie between them, like the cenotes near Valladolid, where bike paths connect to stunning, clear swimming spots like Suytun and Ik Kil. Follow the colonial route to Izamal, a “yellow city” famed for its sunset-colored buildings, and enjoy Yucatecan cuisine. For a nature break, explore Celestún’s mangrove-filled lagoons, or relax on Progreso’s breezy beaches, especially during the cultural festivities of Mérida Fest.

Plan your next Mexico itinerary with our expert:

• Mexico itinerary 7 days
• 10 days in Mexico
• Mexico 2-week itinerary
• 3 weeks in Mexico

Gold Coast, Australia

Best time to visit: Visit during whale watching season (June through October) or in shoulder season (March through May) when surf conditions are optimal and school holidays haven't begun.

Head to the Gold Coast this year for the wildlife, landscapes, and surfing — it’s a must for any Australia itinerary. Burleigh Heads National Park is where you’ll find the best coastal walking trails and surf spots. The G:link tram makes it easy to explore, connecting the coastline from Main Beach to Broadbeach.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is worth a visit for the koala conservation programs and guided walks, while the hinterland’s Lamington National Park brings you into ancient Gondwana rainforest with its canopy walks. Between June and October, whale-watching tours depart from Marina Mirage, where you’re likely to spot migrating whales. Miami and Burleigh food markets round out the experience, with regional produce and craft drinks from local vendors.

If Australia feels too far from home, discover the closer wonders of our 7 days in Mexico itinerary.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Best time to visit: Dry season (April through October) for easier travel conditions and clear skies, or rainy season (December through March) to witness the mirror effect on the salt flats.

The small town of Uyuni sits quietly at the edge of the world's largest salt flat. From here, or the smaller Colchani, multi-day tours venture across white crystalline expanses to high-altitude deserts and colored lagoons.

During rainy season, the salt flat transforms into a giant mirror of sky, though some areas become inaccessible. Salt hotels built from blocks carved from the flats themselves are unique overnight stays with perfect sunrise access. You’ll want to start your Bolivia itinerary in La Paz to adjust to the altitude before heading into these stunning highland plains.

If Bolivia's mountain roads and long journeys give you pause, consider our compact 7-day Costa Rica itinerary.

Havasupai Reservation, USA

Best time to visit: Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) for ideal hiking conditions and fewer crowds, while summer brings the warmest water for swimming.

To reach the famous Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon, you’ll embark on a ten-mile hike through Havasupai land, which requires advance permits managed by the tribe.

Add Havasu Falls to your USA itinerary for a trip that blends natural beauty with cultural depth. Along the way, multiple trails guide you to breathtaking waterfalls, each more impressive than the last. Most visitors choose to camp under the shade of cottonwood trees, but limited lodge accommodations are available in Supai Village. The Havasupai cultural center is truly worth visiting, sharing stories of their ancestral land.

Japanese Alps, Japan

Best time to visit: Visit during autumn leaf-viewing season (October through November) or in spring for cherry blossoms (April through May), while summer has ideal hiking conditions.

Centuries-old post towns and bullet trains create striking contrasts in Japan's most dramatic mountain range — a must-see for any Japan itinerary. The historic Nakasendo Way connects traditional villages like Tsumago and Magome. Base yourself in Matsumoto to explore its striking castle and access hiking trails that cater to all abilities.

The Kamikochi Valley reveals spectacular mountain views with minimal effort, while the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route crosses the range through a series of mountain tunnels and cable cars. In winter, visit the famous snow monkeys at Jigokudani Park, then warm up in traditional ryokans in Takayama, where regional cuisine and ancient customs create an immersive cultural experience.

Rajasthan and Kerala, India

Best time to visit: Visit Rajasthan during the cooler, drier months (October through March), and Kerala during November through February to avoid monsoon season and catch the Thrissur Pooram festival.

In India, Rajasthan and Kerala offer two wildly different experiences that each feel like a dream. Rajasthan is alive with ancient fortresses and contemporary life; you’ll find Jodhpur’s iconic blue streets, the floating palaces of Udaipur, and Jaipur’s famous pink architecture. Out in the desert, Jaisalmer rises from the sands, with its historic fort now housing luxurious hotels. Kerala, on the other hand, moves at a slower pace, with houseboats gliding through Alleppey’s peaceful backwaters and tea plantations stretching across Munnar’s cool mountains. Early mornings bring life to Kumarakom’s bird sanctuary, while Fort Kochi mixes Portuguese history with contemporary galleries.

To help start planning your next trip, see our Indian itineraries and tours:

• Rajasthan tours
• Kerala tours
• 10 days in India itinerary
• 14 days in India itinerary

Reykjavik and Golden Circle, Iceland

Best time to visit: Summer (June through August) for midnight sun and highland access, or winter (September through March) for northern lights viewing and ice cave exploration.

Local wisdom says the best hot springs are the ones you hike to. Skip the Blue Lagoon crowds for natural pools like Reykjadalur, reached by highland trails.

Reykjavik's compact downtown is an ideal base, with easy access to tours and whale-watching boats at the old harbor. If you’re exploring the Golden Circle, try driving counterclockwise to avoid the tour buses, with Thingvellir National Park as a highlight where you can even snorkel between continental plates.

Winter brings magical northern lights at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, while the Snaefellsnes Peninsula is where you’ll find Iceland’s best sights all in one day. Summer’s midnight sun is ideal for exploring, while winter reveals spectacular ice caves.

See our picks for the best area to stay in Reykjavik, or see our favorite Iceland itineraries:

• 5 days in Iceland
• 7 days in Iceland
• 10 days in Iceland
• 14 days in Iceland

Lisbon and Douro Valley, Portugal

Best time to visit: Spring (March through May) and fall (September through October) for wine harvest experiences and festivals, with milder temperatures for city exploration.

Early risers in Lisbon know the secret to tram 28 — catch its first run before the city stirs, gliding up steep, cobbled streets without the usual crowd.

Beyond Lisbon’s charm, the Douro Valley is known for terraced vineyards, where local quintas invite visitors to harvest and taste wines. In Sintra, avoid parking issues by taking a dedicated bus to reach fairytale-like palaces.

Lisbon’s historic funiculars make steep climbs easy, while the Belem district condenses UNESCO sites into a walkable neighborhood. In Porto, riverside port lodges open onto scenic boat rides deeper into wine country.

To help start planning your next trip, see our Portugal itineraries:

• 5 days in Portugal
• 7 days in Portugal
• 10 days in Portgal
• Portugal and Spain itinerary

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Best time to visit: February through May for festival season including Mardi Gras, or October-January for milder weather and jazz festivals.

Behind the Bourbon Street chaos, real New Orleans reveals itself on quiet French Quarter side streets. Follow locals to Frenchmen Street for authentic jazz clubs, or hop streetcars for a scenic roll past Garden District mansions to City Park's ancient oaks.

Walking food tours of are great for sampling gumbo, po’boys and more, while the Bywater district hums with gallery openings and café life. Venture beyond tourist zones for bayou tours launching from local docks. Magazine Street stretches six miles through neighborhoods filled with antique shops and only-in-NOLA characters.

Freycinet National Park, Australia

Best time to visit: December through April brings warmer waters for swimming, while September through November for wildflower blooms and whale watching.

Friendly Beaches is what many seek in Tasmania — pristine shores with vehicle-accessible camping and early morning wildlife sightings. The park's main attraction, Wineglass Bay, is best viewed from the lookout track in morning light.

Escape the crowds on the Hazards Beach circuit, or join kayaking tours to discover secluded coves unreachable on foot. Adventure seekers tackle Mount Amos for the most dramatic summit panorama, while Pelican Bay's protected waters create perfect snorkeling conditions. The small township of Coles Bay provides essential supplies and access to all trails.

Patagonia, Argentina

Best time to visit: December through February brings long daylight hours and stable weather for hiking, while March through April for fall colors and fewer crowds.

In Los Glaciares National Park, the crack of calving ice breaks the morning silence. El Calafate serves as the gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier, where multiple viewing platforms capture the massive ice wall.

Further north, El Chalten’s trails lead right from town to the foot of Mount Fitz Roy, ideal for both day hikes and longer treks. Scenic drives around Bariloche take you past pristine lakes, and Peninsula Valdes is known for unreal whale sightings.

Ride the End of the World Train near Ushuaia for mountain views, or cross into Chile to witness Torres del Paine’s rugged peaks. Each trail brings new glimpses of Patagonia’s raw, untamed beauty.

Start planning your Argentina itinerary:

• 7 days in Argentina
• 10 days in Argentina
• 14 days in Argentina
• Argentina and Uruguay itinerary

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Best time to visit: May through June or September-October for swimming conditions without peak crowds, while July through August brings lavender festivals and outdoor concerts.

The recent restrictions on large cruise ships has given Croatia's coastal towns their magic back. Split's Diocletian's Palace hosts evening concerts within its Roman walls, while ferries connect lavender-scented Hvar to quieter Vis and historic Korčula.

Zadar's innovative Sea Organ creates music from waves while the Sun Salutation lights up evenings. Cool off under Krka National Park's waterfalls, then take local boats to hidden coves or the luminescent Blue Cave near Komiža.

See our Croatia itineraries for more inspiration.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Best time to visit: August for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, or December for winter festivals and Hogmanay celebrations.

Every August, Edinburgh's population doubles as the world's largest arts festival transforms the city. Beyond festival season, the Royal Mile's network of closes (alleyways) reveals a hidden side of Old Town, leading to secret gardens and historic courtyards throughout the city.

Climb Arthur's Seat for panoramic views, then explore Leith's transformed waterfront, where old warehouses now house top restaurants and cafes. Weekend markets fill Stockbridge's Victorian railway tunnels with local produce, while the botanical gardens provide shelter on rainy days.

See our picks for the best area to stay in Edinburgh, or see our favorite Scotland itineraries:

• 3 days in Scotland
• 5 days in Scotland
• 7 days in Scotland
• 10 days in Scotland
• Scotland road trip itinerary

Adventure and nature, Costa Rica

Best time to visit: December through April for dry season activities, while May through November for better surfing conditions and fewer tourists.

Costa Rica is a dream for nature lovers and thanks to a new national park permit system, even popular destinations like Manuel Antonio now feel peaceful.

In Monteverde, you can stroll among the clouds on canopy walkways, often led by expert naturalists who share insights into Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. Tortuguero’s canals are ideal for spotting wildlife by boat or kayak, while the remote Osa Peninsula houses some of the country’s richest wildlife habitats. In the Arenal Volcano area you’ll find hot springs and lake activities. Surf enthusiasts tend to flock to the Nicoya Peninsula for its steady waves.

Ready to plan your trip? See our Costa Rica itineraries:

• 5 days in Costa Rica
• 7 days in Costa Rica
• 10 days in Costa Rica
• 14 days in Costa Rica
• 3 weeks in Costa Rica

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Best time to visit: July through October for the Great Migration, while January through February for excellent bird watching and newborn wildlife.

In the Maasai Mara, you’ll find incredible landscapes and rich wildlife, especially during the Great Migration. Explore the area with Maasai guides who share stories, traditions, and insights into the land’s ecology.

Many private conservancies here focus on sustainable tourism, keeping vehicle numbers low for a more intimate wildlife experience while supporting the Maasai community directly through tourism. Try a walking safari to get up close with nature and see local conservation efforts in action. Through community visits, you can experience Maasai culture firsthand — enjoy traditional dances, crafts, and gain a real appreciation for their heritage and the challenges in preserving it.

Ready to plan your trip? See our Kenya itineraries:

• 7 days in Kenya
• 10 days in Kenya
• 14 days in Kenya

Barcelona, Spain

Best time to visit: April through June or September through October for ideal sightseeing weather and local festivals, while March hosts the Barcelona Marathon and food festivals.

The scaffolding is finally coming down. After 144 years, Gaudí's Sagrada Familia nears completion, yet Barcelona's true spirit thrives in its neighborhoods.

The Gothic Quarter conceals Roman ruins beneath medieval churches, while the Born district's traditional bodegas share narrow streets with avant-garde galleries.

Time your Park Güell visit for sunset when crowds thin and trencadís mosaics catch golden light. L'Eixample's modernist mansions hide garden courtyards, the Boqueria Market's back stalls serve the city's best tapas, and the boardwalk links Barceloneta to quieter Nova Icària beach. Montjuïc's museums is a great stop for both culture and panoramic views.

If you're ready to plan your trip, see our Spanish itineraries:

• 7 days  in Spain itineraries
• 10 days in Spain itineraries
• 14 days in Spain itineraries
• Northern Spain itineraries
• Southern Spain itineraries
• Spain and Portugal itineraries

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Best time to visit: March through May or September through October for mild weather and fewer crowds, while February brings Carnival celebrations.

3,300 feet up, Christ the Redeemer's base feels more like a neighborhood spot than a tourist site. Locals chat over coffee while pointing out their favorite beaches far below.  

Rio’s true essence is felt in neighborhoods like Santa Teresa, filled with artist studios in colonial mansions, and Lapa, where weekend street parties gather around the historic white aqueduct arches. Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking city views. Rio’s Tijuca National Park invites you into lush Atlantic rainforest trails, and the Botanical Gardens showcase rare plants shaded by soaring imperial palms.

Discover more in Brazil with our 10-day Brazil itineraries.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Best time to visit: April through June or September through October for swimming weather without summer crowds, while May brings colorful wisteria blooms.

Between the bustling town of Amalfi and cruise ship crowds, tiny Atrani captures daily Italian life tucked into lemon groves.

Local buses wind up mountain roads to hidden villages above Positano, while the Path of the Gods hiking trail rewards early risers with quiet, stunning coastal views. Ravello’s villa gardens host summer concerts high above the Mediterranean, and Amalfi town offers ferry access to nearby, quieter beaches. Cetara, a fishing village, has retained its authenticity, with family-run restaurants serving up local dishes, and the Ferriere Valley provides shaded hikes through forests to scenic waterfalls.

If you're ready to plan your trip, see our Amalfi Coast itineraries or discover more in Italy:

• 7 days in Italy
• 10 days in Italy
• 14 days in Italy
• Southern Italy itineraries
• Northern Italy itineraries
• Tuscany itineraries

Berlin, Germany

Best time to visit: May through September for outdoor festivals and beer gardens, while November and December are great for traditional Christmas markets.

A skateboarder rolls down the runway of Tempelhof, Berlin's abandoned airport turned city park. This constant reinvention defines the city - where else do people swim in converted breweries or dance in WWII bunkers?

The East Side Gallery preserves Berlin Wall artwork while RAW-Gelände's converted factories host cultural events. Museum Island is worth multiple visits, especially on rainy days. Tiergarten's paths lead cyclists past beer gardens and secret Soviet memorials. In Kreuzberg, Markthalle Neun transforms into a street food festival with everything from traditional currywurst meets Korean fusion. Just outside the city, Potsdam's palaces provide a touch of elegance in contrast to Berlin's creative energy.

Ready to see for yourself? See our guide to where to stay in Berlin.

Petra, Jordan

Best time to visit: March through May or September through November for comfortable hiking conditions, while nights can be spent with candlelit tours of the Treasury.

The first glimpse through the Siq stops most visitors in their tracks. After almost a mile of walking through the narrow passage, the rose-red façade seems to appear like a mirage, especially stunning at dawn. Yet, Petra’s magic extends far beyond this initial view.

For spectacular scenery, hike the back route to the Monastery for panoramic views, or wander Little Petra, where few tourists go. In Wadi Rum, Bedouin camps link visitors to ancient trade routes, while the High Place of Sacrifice trail reveals hidden tombs and overlooks scenic valleys. Cooking workshops teach centuries-old recipes, and candlelit nights at the Treasury add to the city’s mysterious allure.

Cape Town & Stellenbosch, South Africa

Best time to visit: March through May for wine harvest festivals and autumn colors, or September through November for whale watching and spring flowers.

Cape Town is a lively city with a mix of cultures and histories. In the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, vibrant, colorful houses reflect Cape Malay heritage, and guided tours offer insight into the area’s history, including the resilience of its community. The Neighbourgoods Market is a great spot to enjoy Cape Town’s diverse flavors while supporting local vendors.

In Stellenbosch, known for its scenic vineyards, wine tastings showcase both the region’s winemaking traditions and modern innovations. Community-focused and sustainable initiatives in the area let visitors see how their tourism impacts local people. As you explore the landscapes, you’ll find a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, along with an ongoing journey toward inclusivity and reconciliation.

If you're ready to plan your trip, see our South Africa itineraries:

• 7 days in South Africa
• 10 days in South Africa
• 14 days in South Africa

Queenstown, New Zealand

Best time to visit: December through February for long summer days and outdoor festivals, or June through August for winter sports and winter festivals.

Skip the bungee crowds and head straight to Glenorchy, where day walks on the Routeburn Track will show what makes New Zealand's South Island special.

Lake Wanaka is a quieter escape from Queenstown’s buzz, while Arrowtown takes you back to the gold rush era with its preserved buildings and charming museums. In winter, the Remarkables range opens up with multiple ski fields, while Gibbston Valley’s cave cellars host wine tastings all year. If the weather’s clear, flights to Milford Sound are great for unforgettable views of dramatic fiords, and the Queenstown Trail connects wineries, perfect for scenic cycling tours.

Palm Springs, California, USA

Best time to visit: January through March for perfect hiking weather and film festivals, or October through December for harvest events and art shows.

Beyond the poolside cocktails and retro motels, Palm Springs’ desert landscape reveals fascinating sights. The Aerial Tramway whisks you up from palm trees to a pine forest in just ten minutes, and Joshua Tree National Park, known for its starry night skies, is close by.

Architecture enthusiasts can explore mid-century modern gems in tucked-away neighborhoods, while Indian Canyons are hidden palm oases with year-round streams

Weekend art fairs take over Palm Canyon Drive, and Salvation Mountain's painted hills draw desert pilgrims. Pioneer Town, built as a Wild West movie set, now hosts indie bands in its saloon among the ancient Joshua trees.

Medellín, Colombia

Best time to visit: December through March for minimal rain and flower festivals, while July brings the Feria de las Flores.

In Medellín, the world's largest urban escalator climbs through Comuna 13, where street art tells stories of transformation. Once infamous, Medellín now stands out for its urban transformation, with the MetroCable connecting hillside neighborhoods to the city center and Parque Arví’s lush hiking trails.

El Poblado’s Provenza district brims with local designers and coffee houses, while the Botanical Garden are a a peaceful spot to enjoy tropical orchids. Santa Elena’s flower farms support the city’s Feria de las Flores, a highlight of the year, and Guatapé's rainbow-colored pueblo sits just a day trip away. Its mammoth rock is great for views across man-made lakes and green mountains.

If you're ready to plan your trip, see our Colombia itineraries:

• 10 days in Colombia
• 14 days in Colombia
• 3 weeks in Colombia

The Maldives

Best time to visit: December through April for minimal rain and clear waters, while May through November brings better surf conditions and lower rates.

A manta ray glides beneath your water villa - just another breakfast view in the Maldives. But these islands offer more than overwater luxury.  Beyond its iconic overwater villas, these islands are rich with cultural experiences. On local islands, guesthouses offer a peek into everyday Maldivian life as an alternative to the high-end resorts. You’ll find lively house reefs only steps from beach villas, and even the seaplane rides to different atolls feel like mini aerial safaris.

In Male, the fish market bustles with daily catches, and the artificial beach hosts community events that bring tourists and locals together. South Ari Atoll is known for year-round whale shark sightings, and public ferries between inhabited islands are a budget-friendly way to explore.

Banff National Park, Canada

Best time to visit: June through September for hiking and lake access, while January through March brings ice festivals and northern lights viewing opportunities.

The day unfolds in layers here. At dawn, the mountains around Lake Louise glow with alpenglow from nearby glaciers, and by afternoon, hikers traverse trails beneath towering limestone peaks. As midnight approaches, northern lights often dance over the park’s quiet lakes.

The Icefields Parkway strings together lakes and viewpoints, while Johnston Canyon's winter walkways lead to frozen waterfalls. The Banff Gondola elevates dining above the clouds, and Lake Minnewanka's shores switch from summer boat tours to winter ice walks. The Bow Valley Parkway, a quieter route, is perfect for spotting elk, moose, and mountain goats.

The Dominican Republic

Best time to visit: Mid-December to March for dry weather and carnival celebrations, while July through October for fewer crowds and whale shark encounters.

Step outside the all-inclusive resorts of Punta Cana, and you’ll discover the authentic charm of the Dominican Republic. In Las Terrenas, the beaches on the Samaná Peninsula remain largely undeveloped.

Adventure seekers tackle the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, a natural water park in the jungle perfect for hiking and sliding down limestone cascades. Reachable only by boat, Los Haitises National Park reveals ancient Taíno cave art hidden in lush mangroves. Mountain towns like Jarabacoa welcome adventurers to whitewater rafting and pine forest trails, while nearby coffee plantations offer a taste of the region’s rich heritage.

Planning your holiday

Ready to take your dream holiday? Our tailor-made trip service makes traveling easy by taking care of the details. Our trips are planned by local travel experts and are completely customizable. We take care of the planning and booking and offer support during your trip. See our trip ideas gallery for further inspiration.