Choosing a place to go to has now become increasingly difficult as there are a number of top vacation destinations in the world waiting to be visited. With technology now, travelling has increased so much over the past few years as one can immediately book a flight to a country in just seconds. The continuing efforts of numerous travel companies in providing potential travellers with the cheapest deals also greatly affect this phenomenon. Nevertheless, the decision always lies on the explorers themselves – whether they want to have a swim on the loveliest beach, bond with their family in a fun-filled, child-friendly trip, or just spend time with their loved ones trying out a country’s famous dish – the world has everything to offer.

Searching the internet would probably be the very first thing you’d do to help you come up with a decision. To make it easier for you, I have done the job (see, that’s how I love my readers!) and researched extensively about the best places around the globe. With hundreds of countries, thousands of islands, and a huge amount of perspiration, I came up with a list that enumerates the world’s top vacation destinations. Brace yourself.

Ultimate Top Vacation Destinations In The World

#10

Top Vacation Destinations

Forbidden City, Shanghai, China

China

The only Asian country to be included on this list, China sure has a lot to show off in terms of tourist attractions. With cities as big as Shanghai and Beijing, one can never be sure of how long would it take to have a clear glimpse of enchanting China.

Begin spending the day touring Beijing’s imperial monuments. Go to the Imperial Gardens to have a look at the collection of royal treasures. Learn about feng shui and have a taste of Peking duck in one of the city’s leading restaurants. Explore the Great Wall, enjoy the sight of the countryside, and wander around the wall your way.  Progress to Xi’an, China’s capital for more than 1,000 years where you can find one of the best archaeological finds of the 20th century: the life-size terra-cotta army that stands guard at the tomb of China’s First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Indulge in a dumpling feast and experience what it’s like to be on the most populous city on earth – the Chongqing. Fly to Shanghai’s Forbidden City and later fill your evening with a treat to your palate in one of its great restaurants. Look around glittering collections of bronze, jade, and ceramics at the Shanghai Museum. Enjoy a nice evening walk along the winding paths of Yu Yuan, a 16th-century garden located in the heart of the Old Shanghai city and take a boat ride entering Xitang, a water village built on a web of canals linked by 100 bridges.

#9

Top Vacation Destinations

London, United Kingdom

United Kingdom

Separated from all other European countries, United Kingdom stands proudly between the North Sea and the English Channel waiting to be visited as it is host to the 2012 Summer Olympics. The country is comprised of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Start your journey in England, where bustling London is located. Make sure to walk around Millennium Bridge and have a look at its modern City Hall. Ride on famous London tubes from Tottenham Court Road Tube Station to get around the city. Keep your loved ones updated about your trip inside the iconic red public telephone box that is first designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott and don’t forget to take a snapshot. Take a ride on the London Eye over River Thames to have a magnificent view of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. Visit the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Pose with the serious-looking guards outside Buckingham Palace and be sure to check out the original Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum which opened over 200 years ago. Take a break on the lawn at Hyde Park or learn how to fly the Eurofighter in Royal Air Force Museum using the simulator. Dine at the city’s exemplary restaurants and on the following morning, never take for granted the famous authentic English breakfast. Fly to Scotland and have your photographed taken at Scotland’s most photographed site, the Eilean Donan Castle. Do not leave Scotland without warming yourself with its national pride – the original Scotch whisky. Similar to American barn dances, merry your way through the night by participating in a Scottish ceilidh (pronounced KAY-lee) and learn some new moves from the locals. If you are adventurous enough, drive your way to Wales, where you can learn a thing or two on how to write and speak Welsh – one of the oldest living languages in Europe which was brought into life by the society’s pride of Celtic history.

#8

Mexico

Mexico, divided by three major cities and a handful of coastal destination options, is visited not only because of its inherent richness in ecology, but also their unique cuisine and out-of-the ordinary customs and traditions. A spot for everyone, Mexico continues up to this day, to be a booming island of the Pacific.

Top Vacation Destinations

Chichen Itza, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Include Baja California as a first stop in your itinerary and start exploring its rich underwater treasures and visit the pre-Columbian civilization remnants of cave paintings. Continue your journey by sportfishing in Los Cabos and check in to one of its luxury hotels. Witness Baja’s colonial beginnings in La Paz or get in touch with your artistic side in Baja’s bohemian capital, Todos Santos where art galleries and quaint restaurants are located. Then go on a hiking tour at the largest canyon in North America, the Copper Canyon. Mexico’s Pacific Coast brags some of the country’s most high end resorts. Choose to have your beach vacation at Sayulita, a small coastal village with bohemian touch or explore Puerto Vallarta’s streets lined with classic adobe houses nestled on ancient cobblestones. Surf in Costalegre and go bird watching in Mexico’s “little apple” or Manzanillo. Unwind in Zihuatanejo and never miss the outstanding seafood dishes. Ever legendary Acapulco is also a great choice if you are looking for a night full of extraordinary partying. Day of the Dead on November 1 and 2 are highly celebrated by the Mexicans and Pátzcuaro has a more unique way of celebrating it compared to other Mexican towns. You can also have the most unforgettable experience in Gaudalajara where the biggest lake in Mexico lies or have a drink in the town of Tequila. And if you are lucky, you can witness the amazing journey of about100 million Monarch butterflies to the tree clad mountains of Michoacan – they must be really tired because they just came from Canada.

If have gone to the Pacific Coast, head on to Mexico’s Gulf Coast and unravel ancient ruins or get in contact with the spectacular flora and fauna. Find out why the Port of Veracruz is known as “Four Times Heroic”, discover where Benito Juarez was once held captive, or just take a plunge at the remote Montepío located south of Veracruz. Never miss dining in a world-class restaurant and try authentic Mexican cooking and go on a day trip to one of its guided city tour. If you haven’t gone to the Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, worry no more as Mexico’s Teotihuacan is home to ancient Aztec pyramids that enclose the Sun and Moon temples. A coffee fan? Fincas (farms) throughout Oaxaca’s hillsides produce some of the finest beans in Latin America. Head on to Valles Centrales to see one of the world’s oldest and largest trees or lazily sleep on a hammock under a palapa (thatched roof) on a fine day in Puerto Escondido. Have a bite of the freshest fruits in Chiapas and catch a glimpse into the ancient world of the Maya people in Palenque. Swim in one of the many waterholes or have your back massaged by the waterfalls of Agua Azul. Proceed to Yucatan Peninsula where you can find the richness of the Mayan ties and experience what it is to sleep in one of Henequen Haciendas. Ride on a horse in Merida, see how preserved the colonial buildings are in Campeche, and get up close and personal with the Mayan ruins. Do not go home from your trip without visiting Mexico’s Caribbean region. Enjoy the most pleasant weather in Cancun and go bar hopping at night. If you want a more peaceful stay, jump on a boat and spend your time in the tiny fishing island of Isla Mujeres. Snorkel in Cozumel, dine in a fine restaurant in Playa del Carmen, and take a lot of good quality photos in Tulum’s most visited archaeological sites.

#7

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Switzerland

Mention Switzerland and all you can think of are wonderful panoramic view of the Swiss Alps covered in thick white snow or its famous international renowned Swiss chocolates. In fact, this small country has something more interesting to boast than alpine summers or sweet goodies – like that of a rich culture, a number of unique transports, and a set of beautiful landscapes carved by nature. You’ll never know until you see them all for yourself.

Visit the Benedictine Library where delicately restored literary treasures and hand-written papers from the 4th century are found.  Discover how Swiss chocolate is made by taking a short trip to Flawil for a tour of the Maestrani chocolate factory. Continue through the quaint Switzerland countryside and visit Rapperswil, the city of roses; Brunnen, the fascinating honeymoon resort village of Winston Churchill; Altdorf, where tales tell us William Tell shot an apple from his sons head; and Andermatt, a crossroad town separating North, South, East and West Switzerland.

Guide your way up to the French village of Switzerland and enjoy a boat ride to Europe’s largest underground lake at St. Leonard, Lake Souterrain. Spend your night in Montreux, a place where the historical valleys of vineyards and castles are found. Another famous world-export product by the country is cheese, so make sure to stop at Gruyere to sample and learn how it is made. Embark on a short trip to Grindelwald where the famous scenic Eiger Mountain can be observed. Include a fun dinner serenaded with lively Swiss music and entertainment in one of their great restaurants.

#6

 Canada

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Known for its good-natured citizens, Canada can be as marvellous as the Niagara Falls or as humble as its charming bohemian cafes. It is just right if the country offers a lot of distractions, as it is one of the largest in the world. Make sure you have all the energy and drive as days can be short when you are having so much fun.

Wander around the Distillery Historic District, a pedestrian-only village lined with Victorian industrial architecture, brick-built streets and restaurants or eat like a king through Kensington Market where different must-eat cuisines are easily available. Have an afternoon walk through Queen Street West or go to one of the city’s hippest spots, the Toronto Islands. This spot provides tourists with a lot of space to stroll or bike around. Also, avail of a cruise to the majestic Niagara Falls. Release the adventure monster in you by walking through the swaying Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver. Pig out at North America’s third largest Chinatown where steaming wontons and egg rolls are ready to be eaten. Spend a serene moment at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Garden or buy souvenirs for your loved ones back home in Gastown- just don’t forget to take a snapshot of the Steam Clock. You can also visit Canada’s largest aquarium, the Vancouver Aquarium where numerous seawater animal shows are held or you can also choose to go to Vancouver Art Gallery where Emily Carr paintings are presented. Proceed to Quebec City, the oldest established city of Canada. Bike around Quebec City’s own Central Park called the Plains of Abraham. If you brought your kids along, let them experience the costume workshop at Musée de la Civilisation. Have a lovely dinner watching the fish swimming below the glass floor at Cosmos Café.

#5

Sagrada Famila Church, Barcelona, Spain

Spain

Ready your Spanish words and fly to the birthplace of Hollywood’s best actresses such as Penelope Cruz and Paz Vega. Exquisite meals, picturesque buildings, and world-class museums – all come together tied in a strong, colonizing culture that is only Spain.

Visit Madrid’s La Latina where medieval streets are jammed with upscale tapas (snacks) and wine bars or soak in the soothing pools of Medina Mayrit Arabic Baths. Don’t miss the tapestries by Rubens in Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales. Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s main square since the 16th century is a must-go as it is where bullfights and royal events are held. See a home game between September-June at Futbol Club de Barcelona’s 98,772-seat soccer stadium, visit Hospital de Sant Pau, a masterpiece considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore Mercat de la Boqueria, Barcelona’s biggest, oldest, and best market while munching on an edible flower. Don’t fail to see Templo de la Sagrada Família, the city’s iconic building or the most elegant of all Barcelona’s churches, Santa Maria del Mar. For the sports enthusiast, the 1992 Olympics are held in Montjuïc – just make sure to book your reservations early.

#4

Paris, France

France

Be enthralled with the hills of Normandy where battles once caused havoc; the heart of Paris, overflowing with architectural and artistic riches; and the delightful towns of Provence. Buckle up as France has a lot of places and things to do in store for you.

Start your day in Caen, Normandy a city that held battle following the D-Day landings in 1944. Pilgrims are held in Mont-Saint-Michel, considered one of the greatest religious sites in Europe where the archangel Michael was believed to appear. See the market square, Place du Vieux Marché, where Joan of Arc was burned alive at the stake in 1431. Plunge in one of the world’s greatest art collections at the famous Louvre in Paris and in the afternoon; discover the monuments that line the Seine River namely Notre Dame, Jardins des Tuileries, and the Ile St. Louis. Explore Paris on your own and never miss photographing the Eiffel Tower. Take a quick ride on the TGV (high-speed train) and arrive in Avignon, the main place for Christendom in the 14th century. Be inspired by enchanting Aix, a tranquil town of sparkling fountains and walking streets. If you are lucky you can take pleasure in walking through a Saturday outdoor market in Aix and then toast your French adventure over a sumptuous dinner entertained by a live music at a ranch.

#3

Germany

Top Vacation Destinations

Reichstag Glass Dome, Berlin, Germany

Germany is known to the world as a nation that has been through a lot; tattered, but never dominated. Despite of its long and complicated history, it has reconstructed itself into what is now considered one of the globe’s top vacation destinations. Germany caught the world’s attention in the past because of its fierceness, but now, all that is offers is a tranquil place for tourists to faultlessly unwind and enjoy.

Consider Rothenburg as your first stop. Explore this walled city that houses St. James Cathedral, where the world-famous altar carved by Master Tilman Riemenschneider is located. Observe animals in their artificial habitat in Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany’s oldest zoo and known to be the birthplace of Knut, polar bear cub. See the murals by artists from all over the world in East Side Gallery or find out more about Berlin’s Jewish history in the Jewish Museum. Catch a breathtaking view of the cityscape in Reichstag dome atop 1894 German parliament building. Have a romantic stroll at Schloss Charlottenburg, a royal palace landscaped with carp pond, smaller palaces, and a mausoleum that houses precious art and artefacts. Then have a glass of wine at the new urban district of Berlin, the Potsdamer Platz. The place is equipped with theaters, hotels, bars, and shops. Glimpse on Berlin night lights by riding the Europe’s fastest elevator to Panorama Punkt.

#2

Italy

Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy

Explore the less explored in Italy. Famous not only for its delectable cuisine, Italy has attracted so much attention when it comes to the most romantic places in the world. Have a chance to immerse yourself in the unforgettable journey through Italy’s little villages, castles, and discover what lies behind the religious city of Rome.

Cinque Terre, a perfect place for a stroll as it has terraced vineyards and pretty seaside villages. Have lunch in Vernazza—pedestrian-only village. Drive to Carrara, where Michelangelo chose the marble blocks that he turned into masterpieces. Enjoy an evening in Florence; walk through the streets of Piazza della Signoria, the political center of the city since the Middle Ages. Come face to face with Michelangelo’s unequalled “David” at the Accademia. Sample a wine at Badia a Coltibuono and drive to the Tuscan jewel of Siena. Eat lunch in one of Siena’s many trattorias and then course into the Tuscan countryside early morning. Steer your way through splendid scenery on the way to Pienza and sample local specialties like pici (hand-rolled pasta) with pecorino cheese for dinner. Then arrive in Rome, and directly head to the Vatican City’s huge St. Peter’s Basilica. Tour the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and toss a coin at the Trevi Fountain. Stroll through the historic Forum and the Colosseum. Do not miss a grad Roman dinner and make sure to try the bestsellers of one of Rome’s restaurants.

#1

United States of America

Empire State Building, New York, USA

Composed of 50 states, this massive country has been a melting pot of many of the world’s interesting sites. No wonder people around the world flock around USA’s major international airports any time of the year. With a multiple amount of activities to do, the United States sure has a way to keep the visitors come back for more.

Get an access to the Supreme Court sessions in Washington, D.C. or book a reservation on NASA’s “out of this world” tour in California. Drink your way up to America’s oldest brewery in Pennsylvania and see how the Yuengling beers are made. Tour the Denver Mint in Colorado to watch how countless coins are struck or see skilled workers build the machinery that has powered American farming for 175 years by touring a John Deere factory in Illinois. Tour the chocolate factory and taste free samples when you participate in Hershey’s Great American Chocolate Tour in Pennsylvania. For the buff in you, go on a road-trip to one of four factories where the legendary Harley-Davidson bikes are built. Tired of your trip? Join the free yoga class by Miami’s waterfront. Learn to surf in sunny Deerfield Beach in Florida. Go on a mountain biking trip in Moab in the month of March as the desert trails are dry and snow-free. If you arrive in winter, hit the Millennium Park Illinois’ ice rink or avail of Idaho’s annual Free Ski and Snowshoe Day which is a great way to be taught about Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Also, shop all you want in a wide array of luxury stores in Times Square, New York or spend your afternoon in Manhattan’s Central Park. Never miss the lights and laughs of Las Vegas. Who knows, you might be wedded for the first time there.

And there you have it. I hope you have already made up your mind after reading the post. I still believe that whatever destination you choose from, the outcome of the experience will always be up to you. So choose wisely, have fun, make the most out of your break, and most of all, do not forget to take a lot of pictures!

Plan Your Next Trip In One Of the Top Vacation Destinations Listed

With a variety of travel agencies offering the best deals in town, surely going to one of the countries listed above would not be that much of a problem. Just spend some time thinking about what kind of  retreat you want to have and search the internet. I’m sure that the perfect getaway place is waiting for you.

Top Vacation Destinations References: