It is time to start traveling with intent. There are so many places to see, but what are the best places for a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list trip? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, different cultures, refresh and relax, or just visit an iconic destination, these travel destinations will be a vacation you remember forever. We will help to make planning a life-changing trip seem easy with recommendations on where to stay, what to try, and even the best time of year to visit.
If you are seeking a broader experience where you can do a bit of everything, these destinations are ideal. Known as the spots to see, these are sure to get a check off your bucket list.
SANTORINI, GREECE
Santorini is one of those places that looks exactly like the photos — only better in person. The iconic white-washed buildings, deep blue domes, and cliff-side sunsets make this island a bucket-list destination that earns its hype.
We recommend staying in Oia for the best views, and visiting in May or early June before the summer crowds fully arrive. While there, take a catamaran tour around the caldera, visit the ancient ruins at Akrotiri, and spend a morning wine tasting at one of the volcanic-soil vineyards. It is the kind of trip you will be planning your return visit on the flight home.
ICELAND'S GOLDEN CIRCLE & NORTHERN LIGHTS
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a breathtaking experience, not only for the amazing views, but also for the number of like-minded explorers you will be surrounded by. The best times to go are March, September, and October, as it's darker and the weather is better.
While in Iceland, you can also check out Pingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall, as they are all beautiful nature spots and important local and cultural areas. A popular place to stay is Hotel Rangá, which has telescopes and an on-site observatory for viewing the northern lights.
MACHU PICCHU, PERU
Machu Picchu is a great mix of culture, history, nature, and adventure. An iconic travel spot to learn more about Ican history, and what better way to check off a bucket-list travel spot than visiting one of the seven wonders of the world?
This trip can be hiking-focused if you want to connect further with nature by hiking the Inca Trail, or more relaxed, with buses taking you to the historical site. May to September are the drier months, making it an easier travel experience, but keep in mind it will also be busier. We recommend staying in Aguas Calientes, as it offers the best access to the ruins and has nice natural and culinary options to explore.
Some of the best trips are those that help you learn and connect more with the world around you and different cultures. There are so many places in the world with deep culture and history that it may be hard to pin down a spot for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. We found spots that use food to connect to their community and showcase it to visitors. Here are our recommendations:
KYOTO, JAPAN
Kyoto, Japan, is known for its rich history, including ancient temples, tea ceremonies, and many traditional markets. There is so much to see and do in Kyoto that you will be sure to learn and experience so many new things.
We recommend visiting Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” a 400-year-old food market that showcases the city's deep culinary roots. Also, attending a traditional tea ceremony is a must. Gion is a great area of Kyoto to stay in if you are seeking that traditional, cultural trip. If possible, visit in the spring to catch the cherry blossoms!
MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
If you are looking for a trip that completely immerses your senses, Marrakech delivers. The medina is a maze of color, spice markets, and century-old architecture that feels like stepping into another world entirely.
Spend time wandering the souks, visit the stunning Bahia Palace, and do not leave without eating at Djemaa el-Fna square, where the street food scene is legendary at night. The best time to visit is October through April, when the weather is comfortable for exploring on foot. Try staying in a traditional riad in the medina because it's one of those experiences that completely changes how you think about travel.
OAXACA, MEXICO
Oaxaca, Mexico, is seen by many as the food capital of Mexico, a country deeply connected to food as a social and cultural phenomenon. While there, visit the Monte Albán Ruins, eat at the Mercado 20 Noviembre street food market, and do a walking tour of the vibrant Jalatlaco neighborhood.
The best times to visit, based on weather, are October to April. If you want to focus on attending festivals that can immerse you further in the culture, visit in July for Guelaguetza and from late October to early November for Day of the Dead. Stay in the Centro Histórico to be within walking distance of all the action.
A life-changing trip does not have to focus on seeing everything or exerting yourself to the max, sometimes the best trips are about relaxing and getting in touch with yourself and your body. These destinations are intended to help you relax while still seeing a new place and experiencing their wellness practices.
RISHIKESH, INDIA
Rishikesh, India, known for its deep connection to yoga, meditation, and clean living, is a great place to travel to connect more deeply with yourself while experiencing its culture. There are many ways to experience Rishikesh, from staying at a luxury spa to attending various yoga retreats.
You can also visit numerous waterfalls, bungee jump, and explore temples if you need a break from the meditation. This is an alcohol-free and vegetarian city, so keep that in mind while planning your travels. The best time to visit is from October to February, when the weather is calmest for yoga.
GRAND RESORT BAD RAGAZ, SWITZERLAND
This resort is a wellness travel spot you should start saving up for now, but it is definitely bucket-list material. Located in the midst of so much natural beauty, they offer many spa and wellness services that will make the entire trip beyond healing. With Michelin-starred food options on-site, this resort is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their trip without moving around much. We recommend visiting in the Fall to avoid the larger crowds.
For our thrill-seeking readers, we didn’t forget about you! There are many travel destinations that seem like a must-visit for those seeking adventure. Whether it is a safari ride or a snowy skiing adventure, we have travel destinations you will not regret.
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, AFRICA
Serengeti National Park in Tanzania feels like something straight out of The Lion King. Known for its heavy migration and animals frolicking, this is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Great Migration takes place from June to October, which makes it the best time to visit the park.
When there, you could stay in a lodge along the migration trail, which ranges from more affordable to luxury. You could also ride in a hot air balloon to get great aerial views of nature that you won’t forget.
PATAGONIA, CHILE & ARGENTINA
Patagonia is the kind of place that makes you feel genuinely small in the best possible way. Stretching across both Chile and Argentina, this remote region is home to dramatic glaciers, granite peaks, and landscapes so untouched they feel almost cinematic.
Torres del Paine National Park is the crown jewel — you can hike the famous W Trek over several days or take a more relaxed approach with day hikes and scenic drives. November through early March is the best window for visiting. Stay in one of the lodges inside or near the park for easy access to the trails, and budget extra time because leaving will be harder than you expect.
SWISS ALPS, SWITZERLAND
It can’t get much better for adventure and nature seekers than the Swiss Alps. Featuring pristine views and mountains, with a wide range of thrilling activities, there is so much to be excited about. While there, choose from numerous activities such as snowboarding, skiing, parasailing, and skydiving.
You could also have unparalleled views from cable cars, mountain peaks, and scenic trains. The best time to visit depends on your chosen adventure. Winter is the best season for winter sports, while other times may be better for those looking to hike or run to avoid larger crowds. We recommend staying in Grindelwald, as it offers easy access to skiing and beautiful views.
