The world remains an unpredictable and complicated place in many ways. Yet, being reminded that travel is the greatest of luxuries, we are forced to ask: Where should we go in 2024?
There are so many compelling reasons to travel far and wide in the year ahead. Emerging boutique hotels, wellness resorts, and expedition cruises, as they vie for travelers’ bookings with new offerings, are being forced to carefully consider what it means to be relevant and exciting, yes, but also sustainable. Destinations are setting their sights on everything from pioneering eco-tourism initiatives to restorative land stewardship efforts, handing back narratives to Native communities that thread their past with their future.
As for us travelers? We get to take our pick.
To help you find the trip worth your vacation days, we’ve curated a travel bucket list of 24 destinations to visit in 2024. This complete list, while an immense challenge to narrow down, mirrors how big, beautiful, diverse, and ever—changing our world is.
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Tallinn, Estonia
For first-timers to the Baltics, there’s no better place to get schooled than the country’s capital, Tallinn: its walled Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s best-preserved examples of Medieval architecture.
PoCo Art Museum, which opened in May with pop art by Andy Warhol, Banksy, David Hockney, and Jeff Koons, is now one of nearly 50 art institutions in the city, joining Fotografiska (world-renowned photography), Kumu Art Museum (contemporary Estonian art), and Kadriorg Art Museum (early European and Russian art).
After soaking in the culture, head for the Noblessner district, an industrial shipyard area turned seafront hot spot that’s now bursting with stylish cafes, shops, and Estonia’s first restaurants with Michelin stars, 180° by Matthias Diethe and Noa Chef’s Hall.
As for where to stay, the Radisson Collection Hotel is in the heart of the city and features fantastic amenities.
The Austrian Countryside
If you journey south of Vienna, you’ll find two regions that give Austria’s countryside its fairy-tale quality.
Styria has rolling hills and hiking trails, with the medieval city of Graz at its heart.
Mellow, rural Burgenland is home to Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Both regions have a long, rich history of winemaking and, in recent years, have become the site of a burgeoning natural wine scene.
Cult producers such as Winery Maria and Sepp Muster and Alice & Roland Tauss should be at the top of your list, as should Burgenland’s beloved vintners Gut Oggau and Meinklang. Then, round out a visit to the country with a stay at Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, a meticulously restored 15th-century castle opening on the shores of a small lake near Salzburg in spring 2024.
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Budapest, Hungary
Renowned for its architecture, the Hungarian capital is home to everything from art nouveau and neoclassical to gothic and baroque, with the Blue Danube connecting it like a ribbon.
And then there are the mineral-rich thermal baths featuring ornate design flourishes.
The city also buzzes with creativity, which spills over into the vibrant nightlife; the ruin bars district is a tangible example of crafting opportunity from the ashes of adversity following the brutality of Communist rule.
November 2023 marked 150 years since the previously divided cities of Buda, Pest, and Obuda were unified and a series of cultural events.
The Chain Bridge—the city’s oldest and a “symbol of togetherness,” has fully reopened after a two-year restoration, granting excellent views of Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
The art deco W Budapest—formerly a palace on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera.
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The Cyclades, Greece
Is there anywhere more popular than the Greek islands right now? Island hopping in Greece should be on everyone’s travel bucket list in 2024.
This past summer, the Cyclades—an island group that includes Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Milos, and Ios—dominated social media feeds with beautiful blue and white backdrops, thrilling beach clubs and nightclubs, and unparalleled shopping.
With more smart stays unveiled in 2024 and new flights, next summer is the time to make a Cyclades trip happen.
Etihad, British Airways, and Saudia added new routes to various Greek islands in 2023, plus the 2022 launch of Cycladic, the first inter-island airline, means it’s easier than ever to get there.
The hotel business is booming. Santo Pure in Oia on Santorini has just added 20 new suites and next year, it will be joined by sister hotel Santo Mine, a 37-suite luxury resort.
Slick boutique hotel Kalesma on Mykonos will launch its spa for the 2024 season, including a hammam and cryotherapy area. Five-star, 80-acre Gundari Resort will open on Folegandros in May, while a new One&Only property will come to Kea in April. Such plush hotels are rare on these islands, expanding the options for luxury stays in the Cyclades.
Lisbon, Portugal
Built atop seven hills that slope into the Tagus River, Lisbon is a magnet for families and solo explorers who love the city’s rich cultural heritage, relaxed pace of life, and fantastic cuisine.
As the capital of a nation of explorers, the cultural life of Lisbon is steeped in influences from all around the world, from Brazilian food to Angolan music.
Explore the iconic district of Belém, take a surf lesson on the beaches of Caparica, and treat yourself to a traditional cable car ride up the city’s famously steep hills before dancing the night away in the bars and clubs of the lively Bairro Alto district.
Istanbul, Turkey
Turkey’s style capital is seeing a resurgence of life along the Bosphorus, thanks partly to the Galataport, the world’s first underground cruise ship terminal with a pedestrian promenade, and the Renzo Piano–designed Istanbul Museum of Modern Art just above.
Another neighborhood anchor is the 177-room Peninsula Hotel, spread over four buildings, three of which date to the early 1900s. Highlights include a glittering pool facing the Hagia Sophia, a sprawling, subterranean spa, and Gallada, a rooftop restaurant from whiz kid chef Fatih Tutak, whose eponymous restaurant is Turkey’s first to earn two Michelin stars.
Also on the waterfront, in Beşiktaş, the lavish Çırağan Palace Kempinski has been reimagined by local interior designer Serdar Gülgün, with rooms that lean into Ottoman-era grandeur (think tulip-pattern motifs and mother-of-pearl furniture).
Finally, don’t miss The Basilica Cistern, which opened again after a five-year closure and now hosts contemporary art exhibits amid the ancient columns.
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Coastal Campania, Italy
It’s no wonder Campania — the southern Italian region home to Amalfi, Capri, Positano, and Sorrento — is having a bit of a hotel boom: visitors have been flocking to this splashy coastal destination over the past few years.
The Renaissance started with Il Capri Hotel, which opened on the island last spring, offering travelers a boutique option inside a neo-Gothic villa reminiscent of a Venetian palazzo.
Next, Oetker Collection, the luxury hotel brand behind the celeb-loved Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, debuted its first Italian hotel in June: the glamorous, 50-room Hotel La Palma is a fresh take on a property that originally opened in 1822.
Then there’s the new Convento di Amalfi, a 52-room Anantara with a cliffside pool set in a 13th-century Capuchin convent. Airlines have also taken note of the increased demand: American Airlines and Delta are launching new routes to Naples next year, the former from Philadelphia, the latter from New York City.
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Mallorca, Spain
The sparkling waters, delicious food, and laid-back atmosphere are all still here — and Americans love United’s summertime nonstop service from Newark Liberty International.
In the year ahead, though, they’ll be visiting for the booming luxury hotel scene, poised to help this island steal the spotlight from its western neighbor, Ibiza.
One must-see is Son Bunyola, a Virgin Limited Edition retreat on Mallorca’s northwest coast, with three miles of beautiful coastline backed by olive groves.
Nearby is The Lodge Mallorca, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World retreat with wood-fired dining and extensive wellness programming. Then there’s the first hotel from Rafael Nadal, Zel Mallorca, an approachable, beachy hotel in partnership with Meliá, the Spanish operator.
Paris, France
A world-class city, Paris is, for many, the global capital of style and sophistication—an unmissable destination.
A few must-do activities in the City of Light include visiting the Mona Lisa at the Louvre art gallery, climbing the Eiffel Tower for stunning city skyline views, and exploring cultural riches at the Palace of Versailles. Check out hip Montmartre for Parisian food, fashion, and flair. Don’t miss a tour of the Opera Garnier, too.
Looking for family-friendly options? Paris offers many. Disneyland, every child’s dream destination, is here, as well as other theme parks and leisure parks, not to mention multiple zoos and aquariums.
There are many creative ways to tour the city, as Paris embraces public transport and pedestrian options: You can travel on everything from bus to bike to scooter to Tuktuk to pedicab to Segway.
When Paris hosts 329 distinct sporting events next summer, the whole city will be on display: the first-ever Olympic Games breakdancing competition will be at Place de la Concorde; beach volleyball courts will skirt the Eiffel Tower; and the opening ceremony’s Parade of Nations will sail down the Seine River.
Las Vegas, California
Just when you think Sin City can’t get any bigger, louder, or glitzier, Las Vegas turned it up another notch when U2 kicked off their inaugural stint at the long-anticipated Sphere.
Formula 1 and Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive captured a growing American audience for the international racing circuit, and the Las Vegas Grand Prix will hit The Strip Nov. 21-23, 2024.
It won’t be the only megaevent on the sports calendar: Las Vegas will host Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium, marking the first time the game will take place in Nevada.
Still need more?
The 67-story Fontainebleau Las Vegas opened in December with 3,700 rooms and many buzzy restaurants, including a Casa Dragones Tasting Room and a Chinese noodle den from the restaurateur behind Wagamama and Hakkasan.
Sonoma County, California
Nestled in Northern California, Sonoma County is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life: exquisite wines, breathtaking landscapes, and a serene, laid-back lifestyle. Renowned as the heart of wine country, Sonoma offers over 400 wineries ranging from rustic family-run estates to world-class vineyards.
More than double the size of Napa, Sonoma might offer twice as much to do. There’s also a long coastline to explore, from Bodega Bay up to Sea Ranch, where the dreamy, cliff-top Sea Ranch Lodge is newly renovated.
The changes coming to Sonoma County in 2024 are largely shaped by the area’s most famous chefs: in Healdsburg, California, Noma alum Stu Stalker debuted the plant-based restaurant Second Story, above Little Saint and down the street from Michelin three-starred SingleThread and chef Dustin Valette’s The Matheson.
Vancouver, Canada
For a once-in-a-lifetime city break in a place where urban living meets the great outdoors, it’s time to tick Vancouver off your travel bucket list.
This bustling seaport is one of Canada’s most culturally diverse cities and has lots to offer fans of city living and the natural world alike. Mountains surround this coastal region, and the breathtaking scenery has played host to the filming of many famous movies.
Notable destinations include the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Museum of Anthropology, the Seawall in Stanley Park, and artsy Granville Island.
Opportunities to soak up the great outdoors abound in Vancouver. Check out the leafy VanDusen Botanical Garden, take a ride on the Aquabus, and visit Queen Elizabeth Park.
Vancouver is also known for its remarkable coastline—check out Lighthouse Park and Horseshoe Bay and plan to embark on a hugely entertaining boat tour.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The resort town of Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant spot halfway down Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Travelers from far and wide are drawn to its beautiful beaches, warm waters, and fantastic weather all year round.
The thrilling, fun, and striking views rarely stop, from scuba diving to zipline adventures in the jungle to boat excursions to hidden beaches.
As soon as the sun sets, the old town springs into life with Cirque du Soleil-inspired shows, street-food stalls selling delicious seafood tacos and other local specialties, and throngs of bars where you can taste some of the best local tequilas.
Tanzania
If spotting wild animals is high on your bucket list, Tanzania will answer your call.
The country has 22 national parks where animal-loving travelers can spot native species such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs. From July to September, experience the thrill of the great wildebeest migration as gigantic herds make their way across the vast expanses of the Serengeti.
Prefer to turn up the adventure dial? Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the largest free-standing mountain in the world. After that, enjoy a relaxing break on the pristine beaches of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
Reykjavik, Iceland
From the natural hot springs of the Blue Lagoon to world-class music performances in the Harpan concert hall, Reykjavik is a wonderfully compact city where culture, fun, and adventure intertwine.
The capital of Iceland is the gateway to the fabled land of fire and ice, where ancient glaciers, frozen waterfalls, and bubbling geysers have coexisted for millennia.
The otherworldly experience of the Northern Lights draws travelers from the world over and is a genuine bucket list item. To enjoy the magnificent spectacle of this natural light display, book your trip between September and March when the nights are at their longest.
Los Angeles, California
LA is one of America’s most iconic cities—synonymous with Hollywood glamor, the California sun, and the West Coast’s decadence, drama, and optimism.
Home to major film and TV studios, world-class theme parks, shows, and sporting events, this place is genuinely sprinkled with stardust. Rent a car and head to famous LA destinations like Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Rodeo Drive, and the Sunset Strip.
Los Angeles has incredible natural landscapes on its doorstep. You can hike through the Angeles National Forest, do some stargazing at Griffith Observatory, bike The Strand, take a surf lesson with Kapowui, and plan a spectacular walk through Huntington Botanical Gardens.
No matter when you decide to visit, the Southern California weather is known to be pleasant year-round.
Tokyo, Japan
Travelers love Tokyo, one of the busiest, most buzzing cities in the world, with an eclectic culture.
There’s a reason why this city is at the top of so many people’s travel bucket lists for 2024. From Buddhist temples over a thousand years old to ultramodern neon-lit skyscrapers, this is a place where revered tradition meets the cutting edge.
A few spots worth adding to your Tokyo travel itinerary include the Tsukiji Fish Market, a tour with a view of majestic Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, and the lush Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. A visit to peaceful Senso-ji offers a moment of reflection. Foodies must take in a local sushi bar or try a kaiseki dinner experience.
Sicily, Italy
With fantastic beaches, grand old buildings, and incredible food, Sicily is a quintessentially Italian experience.
Wander the picturesque streets of Palermo’s old town, marvel at the baroque architecture of beautiful Noto, indulge in some of the best arancini and cannoli you’ll ever taste in Syracuse, or enjoy a relaxing break in the sun and rub shoulders with VIPs in Taormina.
Adventure seekers will love planning an expedition up Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. History buffs will enjoy exploring the many Greek and Roman ruins dotted across the island.
Transylvania, Romania
In the heart of Romania, Transylvania is a land steeped in myths, legends, and Gothic architecture.
Start your journey in Brasov, where the Black Church looms large, and the charming Council Square bustles with activity.
A short drive away, Bran Castle awaits. It is often linked to the Dracula legend, though its history is much richer than just that of the famed vampire.
As you navigate the winding roads, stop at Sighișoara, a UNESCO-listed medieval town known for its clock tower and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.
Beyond its historical and culinary offerings, Transylvania’s natural landscapes are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Carpathian Mountains provide hiking, skiing, and wildlife-watching opportunities, including the chance to see Europe’s largest population of brown bears.
Malta
Malta, a small archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Despite its size, Malta has remarkable diversity in its landscapes and experiences, making it a must-visit destination.
Historically, Malta is a treasure trove. Its strategic location has seen a succession of powers, from the Phoenicians to the Knights of St. John, each leaving an indelible mark on its culture and architecture. The capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living museum.
Its 16th-century buildings, including the impressive St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace, tell the story of the island’s storied past.
Malta’s prehistoric sites are equally impressive. The Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra temples, dating back over 5000 years, are among the world’s oldest free-standing structures, as noted by UNESCO.
The natural beauty of Malta is another draw. The Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, with its crystal-clear waters, is perfect for snorkeling and diving, while the rugged coastline of Gozo offers scenic hikes and unspoiled beaches.
The islands remain a top destination for water sports enthusiasts, with some of the Mediterranean’s best dive sites.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany, Italy’s heartland of art, history, and gastronomy, is an enchanting destination that beckons travelers with its timeless beauty and rustic charm. This picturesque region, renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, is not just a place but a vibrant tapestry of Italian life.
It was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, home to some of history’s greatest artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa are art and architecture treasure troves. Florence, the region’s crown jewel, boasts masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s David and the Uffizi Gallery.
The region is famous for its wine. Tuscany produces some of Italy’s most prestigious wines, making it a haven for oenophiles. The region’s cuisine, known for its simplicity and use of high-quality ingredients, includes specialties like ribollita soup and Florentine steak, providing an authentic taste of Italian culinary traditions.
The Tuscan countryside, with its iconic cypress-lined roads and picturesque villages, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life. Activities like hiking in the Apennine Mountains, exploring the vine-covered hills of Chianti or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the Val d’Orcia add to the region’s allure.
New York City
There is something magical about New York City. From the hustle and bustle of Times Square to the iconic skyline, NYC is a city like no other.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the hundredth time, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.
Classic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building remain timeless, offering historical experiences and stunning city views. The city’s renowned museums, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Museum of Modern Art, continue to curate groundbreaking exhibitions. Broadway, the heart of American theater, is buzzing with new shows and timeless classics, providing unmatched entertainment.
The recently developed Hudson Yards is a marvel of modern architecture and urban planning, boasting unique shopping, dining, and the Vessel, an interactive sculpture. The High Line’s expansion offers more green urban spaces for leisurely strolls. Culinary adventures abound with a burgeoning scene of innovative restaurants blending global cuisines.
Shopping in New York is an adventure in itself. Fifth Avenue’s luxury boutiques, SoHo’s chic stores, and the artisanal markets in Williamsburg provide endless opportunities for retail therapy.
Singapore
Singapore is a shining example of modernity and cultural fusion, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an experience that marries urban sophistication with a rich cultural tapestry.
Though small, this island city-state packs an extraordinary punch with its futuristic architecture, lush green spaces, diverse cultural districts, and vibrant culinary scene.
The iconic Marina Bay Sands, with its unique ship-like structure atop three towering skyscrapers, offers stunning city views and is home to a luxury hotel, a high-end shopping mall, and the famous infinity pool.
The nearby Gardens by the Bay, with its Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest, showcases Singapore’s commitment to combining urban development with sustainability and greenery.
Singapore’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population. The city is a food lover’s paradise, from hawker centers serving affordable local fare like Chicken Rice and Laksa to Michelin-starred restaurants offering gourmet dining. The Singapore Food Festival, an annual event, celebrates the city’s culinary heritage and innovation.
Luxury shopping is another highlight, with areas like Orchard Road offering many high-end brands and retail experiences.
The city’s safety, cleanliness, and efficient public transport make it an accessible and comfortable destination for travelers.
Lapland
Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is a magical destination where the ethereal beauty of nature meets the rich traditions of the Sami culture. Lapland captivates visitors with its pristine wilderness, unique Arctic experiences, and the chance to witness the majestic Northern Lights. This enchanting winter wonderland is not just a place to visit but a realm to experience something extraordinary.
The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, are undoubtedly one of Lapland’s most awe-inspiring attractions. According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute, Lapland offers some of the best chances to view this natural phenomenon, particularly between September and March when the nights are darkest.
2024 promises to bring the most spectacular northern lights the world has seen in two decades. So, if you haven’t made a plan to see them, start thinking about it. Lapland should be on everyone’s travel bucket list for 2024.
Hopefully, our travel bucket list for 2024 has inspired you to visit some of these beautiful destinations.
