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How to book a bucket list adventure
The first thing to know when planning this type of vacation is that it’s not like your annual beach getaway. For most people, a bucket list adventure is something they might save for, spending several years planning and prepping for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. While some of these trips can be made more affordable by choosing budget-friendly accommodation or cheaper airlines, you don’t want to miss out on opportunities and experiences because they fall outside of your budget.
Research is crucial before you book a bucket list trip. You can use our travel guides or search for content on Instagram (check out ZenHotel’s account), TikTok (we also have one!), and YouTube to curate your ideal itinerary, including how many days you need and your daily budget. Make sure to include at least one rest day in your itinerary and leave wiggle room for potential flight delays and unexpected hiccups.
Treat your itinerary as a blueprint for your vacation and use a booking platform like ZenHotels to choose the right accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences, whether you want to splash out on 5-star accommodation or even have the privacy of an apartment. Be proactive with the rest of your itinerary and make sure to book any attraction tickets as early as possible, especially if you’re visiting during a peak season. Signing up to our newsletter also guarantees you’ll be the first to hear about exclusive discounts and promo codes as soon as they’re released.
The first thing to know when planning this type of vacation is that it’s not like your annual beach getaway.
Photo by Paul Pastourmatzis on Unsplash
14 of the world’s best bucket list destinations to tisit
Some vacations are worth waiting for – and these destinations offer a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers. We’re spotlighting 14 of the world’s best bucket list destinations, including where to stay, our top itinerary recommendations, and the best time to visit.
1. Enjoy the beauty of nature at Yosemite National Park
- Where to stay: AutoCamp Yosemite
- Budget-friendly: Miners Inn
Yosemite is one of the most famous national parks in the world, making it the perfect vacation for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite is known for its stunning views, glacier valleys, and the natural beauty of Yosemite Falls.
This national park stretches across almost 1,200 square miles.
Photo by UVL on Shutterstock
This national park stretches across almost 1,200 square miles, offering both low-impact activities and more adventurous hiking routes to suit the abilities of all visitors. Yosemite is home to Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, and Mariposa Grove, where you’ll find ancient trees, including the Grizzly Giant. Over 400 species of animals live throughout the national park, including the Peregrine Falcon, Black Bears, and Northern Pacific Rattlesnake.
2. Discover history and culture in Rome
- Best for families: Augusta Lucilla Palace
- Ideal for couples: TH Roma – Carpegna Palace
Whether you want to attend mass with the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica or marvel at the wonder of the Colosseum, Rome is a bucket list destination for anyone who has dreamt of going to Italy.
There’s no shortage of attractions to add to your itinerary, from walking through the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum to making a wish and tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Make sure to book tickets for the Colosseum early and look out for enhanced ticket options that include a tour of the basement and attic of the Colosseum.
There’s no shortage of attractions to add to your itinerary, from walking through the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum to making a wish and tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain.
Photo by Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash
While other spots like the Spanish Steps and Pantheon appear in almost every travel guide for Rome, you’ll want to immerse yourself in the culture and history of Rome with a visit to the Borghese Gallery and an afternoon at Campo de’Fiori to sample the local cuisine. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can even explore the city in a vintage Fiat 500 with a local tour guide, which gives you the perfect backdrop for your vacation photos.
3. See the Northern Lights in Iceland
- Close to Blue Lagoon: The Retreat
- Near Reykjavik: Apotek Hotel by Keahotels
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon we all dream of seeing in the wild. If this experience is on your bucket list, you’ll want to plan a trip to Iceland. Famous for being known as the land of ice and fire, Iceland is located just south of the Arctic Circle, making it popular with tourists from Europe and North America. This country is full of natural wonders, from its black beaches to its geothermal spa and volcanoes.
A road trip is the perfect way to discover the beauty of Iceland.
Photo by Mumemories on Shutterstock
A road trip is the perfect way to discover the beauty of Iceland, whether you’re attracted to the country by its Viking history or if you’re looking to explore its national parks. Make sure to pack layers for your trip to Iceland as you’re likely to spend most of your time outdoors, from the lavascapes of Snæfellsjökull to the deep blue icebergs in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You’ll also want to add Pingvellier to your itinerary, famous for being settled along the country’s tectonic fault line and historically significant for its connection to the ancient Viking parliament.
4. Discover paradise on Earth in the Maldives
- Suitable for families: Fiyavalhu Resort
- Honeymoon approved: Milaidhoo
Some bucket list destinations feel like stepping onto another planet. The Maldives are considered paradise on Earth. You’ll arrive at this tropical destination by seaplane or boat. Although often portrayed as a luxury destination, thanks to its exclusive island resorts, the Maldives have started to become more affordable as guesthouses continue opening across the islands. While the Maldives is made up of almost 1,200 islands, only 200 are inhabited, making it ideal for island hopping.
It’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts with its vibrant marine life and conservation programs, offering everything from snorkeling to whale spotting and swimming with turtles.
Photo by Daniel Lamborn on Shutterstock
The Maldives are a popular honeymoon destination, but it’s ideal for any vacation with its overwater bungalows and water sports. It’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts with its vibrant marine life and conservation programs, offering everything from snorkeling to whale spotting and swimming with turtles.
5. Relax on the Black Sand Beaches of Santorini
- In Fira: Astro Palace Hotel & Spa
- In Oia: Fanari Villas
If island hopping in the Maldives has caught your interest, you might want to consider Santorini as well. This stunning Greek island was formed from millions of years of volcanic activity, dividing the original landmass into several islands. You’ll probably recognize Santorini as being the stunning island with white and blue buildings that’s probably been all over your Instagram and Pinterest since 2010.
Best hiking route is the “Caldera Trail”, which takes you from Fira and Oia, and takes around 3 to 5 hours.
Photo by Martin Besenyi on Shutterstock
While there are several Greek islands you can choose from, Santorini is unique as each of its towns offers something different. Oia is known for its volcanic beaches, from Koloumbos with its dramatic cliffs and Baxedes with its dark sand. If you’re looking for ancient ruins, you’ll want to head to Akrotiri, while the best hiking route is the “Caldera Trail”, which takes you from Fira and Oia, and takes around 3 to 5 hours.
It’s best to plan at least a few days in Santorini before you start island hopping, and you’ll get the best deals on accommodations and tours if you visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. If you’re heading to Santorini in summer, prepare for the crowds and be proactive by making dinner reservations and bringing comfortable travel shoes. Travelers who want to get a photo with the iconic blue domes of Oia will want to head into town at sunrise to beat the tourist crowds.
6. Hike through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu
- Splurge worthy: Sanctuary Lodge
- Ideal for groups: Casa Del Sol
When it comes to hiking trails, few are as famous as Machu Picchu. It’s an outdoor nature adventure, history lesson, and hike all in one, taking you through the Sacred Valley in the Andes in Peru. Machu Picchu is considered the greatest urban creation of the Inca Empire, and while its original use is still a mystery to archeologists, it’s captured our imagination for generations.
It’s an outdoor nature adventure, history lesson, and hike all in one, taking you through the Sacred Valley in the Andes in Peru.
Photo by Diana Guevara on Shutterstock
Most tourists will arrive here by flying into Cusco, usually from Lima. There are several types of hiking routes you can choose, taking anywhere up to six days to complete. If you don’t want to commit to a major hike, it’s best to take the train directly to Agus Calientes before hiking what’s known as the “Inca Trail”, which most visitors do as a three-night route. If you’re short on time – or aren’t a fan of hiking – you can also take the train the whole way through the valleys, taking you directly to Machu Picchu.
7. Step back in time in Cairo at the Grand Egyptian Museum
- Pyramid views: Royal Grand Pyramid Inn Hotel
- Budget-friendly: Cairo Paradise Hotel
If you’ve ever been interested in ancient Egypt, then Cairo is guaranteed to be on your bucket list. This city feels like walking through the pages of your favorite history book, from exploring the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in the city’s historic center to visiting the ancient churches. Most international visitors will choose to have a private tour guide to help them avoid common scams and to streamline their itinerary.
One of the biggest attractions in Cairo is the nearly opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
Photo by hemro on Shutterstock
One of the biggest attractions in Cairo is the nearly opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest archaeological museum, which is home to over 100,000 artefacts covering seven millennia of Egyptian history. This museum deserves a full day on your itinerary, as it’s located right next to the Great Pyramid of Khufu of Giza. One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the contents of Tutankhamun’s tomb, including his gold mask and chariots, which are on display for the first time since the tomb’s discovery by Howard Carter over a century ago.
If you’ve got a few extra days to extend your vacation, it’s worth considering taking a Nile cruise. These small boats are luxurious, offering an elevated service as you travel along the world’s largest river, while getting a chance to explore ancient temples, bustling bazaars, and the Valley of the Kings. October is one of the best times to visit Cairo, as the weather is pleasantly mild, whereas winter is seen as peak tourist season for Egypt, but offers ideal weather for exploring the temples and pyramids.
8. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra, Jordan
- Luxury accommodation: Petra Marriott
- Close to Petra: Mövenpick Resort
Another bucket list destination for history enthusiasts is Petra in Jordan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning rock-cut architecture and is the ruins of a Nabataean city, located on a key trading route between Arabia, Egypt, and Syria-Phoenicia, while also being nestled between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea. Visiting Petra is an awe-inspiring experience, and it’s easy to think that you’re dreaming while walking through this historic ancient city.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning rock-cut architecture and is the ruins of a Nabataean city.
Photo by kasakphoto on Shutterstock
In 2007, Petra was named as one of the “New 7 Wonders of the World,” alongside Machu Picchu, Chichén Itzá, the Great Wall of China, Christ the Redeemer, the Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal.
9. Immerse yourself in the romance of Paris, France
- Ideal for couples: Hotel Mademoiselle
- Close to the Louvre: Grand Hotel du Palais Royal
Everyone needs to visit Paris at least once. The French capital is known by several nicknames, including the “City of Lights” and the “City of Lovers.” Paris is a cultural metropolis and the beating heart of Europe’s cultural scene, from its vibrant theatre scene to the luxury fashion houses that call the city home and some of the most famous works of art anywhere in the world.
The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and home to the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Napoleon III Apartments. While you’ll want to dedicate a few hours to visiting the Louvre (the recent scene of a Hollywood-worthy jewelry heist), there are plenty of other attractions to visit as well, from Versailles to the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower.
There are plenty of other attractions to visit as well, from Versailles to the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower.
Photo by Mo Wu on Shutterstock
You can complete your itinerary with a trip to Moulin Rouge and by taking a Seine River cruise at sunset to see the Eiffel Tower as it lights up. If you’re a kid at heart or dream of visiting every Disney theme park around the world, you’ll want to spend at least two days at Disneyland Paris, which is accessible by direct train from the Paris city center.
10. Discover the Middle East with Abu Dhabi
- Close to the beach: Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan
- Family-friendly: Royal M Hotel & Resort
Abu Dhabi is a newer bucket list destination with the UAE gaining popularity amongst international tourists, including those from Europe and the UK. When it comes to discovering the Middle East, Abu Dhabi is a gateway to the region and Emirati culture. The city is a capital of luxury, serving everything from a vibrant culinary scene to 5-star resorts and designer boutiques.
When it comes to discovering the Middle East, Abu Dhabi is a gateway to the region and Emirati culture.
Photo by frantic00 on Shutterstock
The local government has invested heavily in tourism with the launch of the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and recent investment from American theme parks with the opening of Warner Bros World in Yas Island and the announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi in early 2025, which is expected to open at the start of the next decade.
Abu Dhabi is a great option for winter sun and ideal for travelers who consider the Middle East as one of their bucket list destinations. Other popular tourist attractions to add to your itinerary include the Louvre Abu Dhabi (a must-visit if you’ve been to its Parisian sister), Ferrari World, Corniche Beach, and Mangrove National Park.
11. Walk along the Great Wall of China
- Close to the wall: Hyatt Regency Beijing Shiyuan
- Near Beijing: Pan Pacific Beijing
There are some places that feel like they exist only within the pages of history books until you see them with your eyes. The Great Wall of China is just like the pyramids, a relic of a bygone era and a structure that’s fascinated us for generations.
It’s estimated that over 10 million people visit the Great Wall of China every year, and there are different routes along the wall that are suitable for those of different abilities, whether you want a more challenging hike or a leisurely stroll. Only part of the wall is open to the public due to ongoing conservation and restoration work, as the oldest sections of the Great Wall date back two millennia. Winter is considered an off-peak season, as it’s usually harder to access the Great Wall, while the shoulder months of spring and autumn offer the best conditions for exploring the sections of the wall that have not yet been restored.
You can incorporate the Great Wall of China as part of a visit to China or plan your trip entirely around experiencing different parts of the wall. The easiest way to experience the Great Wall is by staying in Beijing and focusing on the Badaling and Mutianyu sections. Badaling is just an hour from the city by public transport, although Mutinayu is a little further away, but it will reward you with smaller crowds. These sections are also more accessible as they offer cable cars, making it ideal for tourists who want a more leisurely walk.
The Great Wall of China is just like the pyramids, a relic of a bygone era and a structure that’s fascinated us for generations.
Photo by xamnesiacx84 on Shutterstock
By comparison, Simatai and Jiankou are great options if you’re looking for a more advanced hiking route. However, it’s worth noting that these sections of the wall are less stable and best suited for those with hiking experience.
It’s also recommended that you only explore these sections of the wall as part of a tour group, although there are plenty of options available to suit every budget. Head to Inner Mongolia or the Gansu region if you want to immerse yourself in the culture and history of the area and work with a local guide to enhance your experience.
12. Visit the Taj Mahal in India
- In Agra: Grand Mercure Agra
- Suitable for kids: Mansion Grand
Many bucket list destinations are UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Taj Mahal in India. It’s another one of the new “7 Wonders of the World” and has become a pilgrimage for lovers. This stunning building was created by Emperor Shah Jahan to memorialize his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died from complications relating to childbirth in 1631. This architectural masterpiece took over 20 years to complete, from the marble mausoleum to the outer complex.
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in northern India, and has become known around the world as one of the most recognizable structures. This unique building blends Persian, Indian, and Islamic designs and was crafted by over 20,000 workers over the course of 22 years.
It’s another one of the new “7 Wonders of the World” and has become a pilgrimage for lovers.
Photo by Skreidzeleu on Shutterstock
This bucket list destination sees an estimated 8 million visitors enter through its gates annually. It’s become a popular place for couples, especially those on a honeymoon or anniversary trip, as it’s seen as a symbol of eternal love.
If you’re planning a trip to India to visit the Taj Mahal, you’ll want to buy your tickets online in advance and bring your passport on the day to take advantage of the skip-the-queue routes that are available to international guests. Beyond the mausoleum itself, you’ll want to explore Agra itself, including its vibrant bazaars, rooftop cafes, and the Agra Fort, an UNESCO site famous for its red sandstone architecture and the views it offers of the Taj Mahal. If you have a little flexibility in your schedule, it’s worth planning your trip to the Taj Mahal as close to a full moon as possible.
13. See Niagara Falls from Canada or the United States
- Canadian side: The Scotsman Hotel
- American side: The Giacomo, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be in two countries at once? Niagara Falls is the closest way of experiencing this, as the three waterfalls that make up this stunning natural wonder bridge the gap between Canada and the United States. Niagara Falls is the oldest state park in America and offers something for everyone, from adventure seekers who want to get as close to the water as possible to couples looking for a dramatic engagement photo backdrop.
Niagara Falls is the closest way of experiencing this, as the three waterfalls that make up this stunning natural wonder bridge the gap between Canada and the United States.
Photo by Sergii Figurnyi on Shutterstock
Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls, with Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three and the most powerful waterfall in North America, cascading along the divide between the two countries. American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are two of the other most popular viewing spots for tourists.
Most visitors to Niagara Falls choose to visit either the American or Canadian side, while some will cross the border to see the waterfalls from both countries (although you’ll need to bring your passport along to cross the border!). If you’re visiting from the American side, you’ll probably arrive via Niagara Falls International Airport in New York, while visitors to Canada will travel through Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Niagara Falls was a popular honeymoon destination in the 1950s and 1960s and is a great option if you want a family-friendly bucket list trip. It’s also the perfect choice for a long weekend getaway with plenty to do on both sides of the border, from visiting Clifton Hill, a classic amusement park, to exploring the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
14. Plan a safari in Nairobi, Kenya
- Splurge-worthy: Fairmont The Norfolk
- Close to the national park: Massai Lodge
We all have an animal that has a special meaning to us, whether it’s from the lion plushie you had as a child or a fascination with a species like elephants. If you’re an animal lover, you’ve probably dreamt of going on safari. The safari industry is seeing major change and is leading the way with its focus on eco-conscious tourism as many African states are prioritizing high-quality, low-level tourist strategists to minimize the environmental impact of tourism, while supporting the work of conservation groups and national parks.
Nairobi National Park is just 4 miles from the city’s business district and considers itself to be the “world’s only wildlife capital”. There is a range of safari options you can choose from, starting from as little as $200 per person per day. However, if you’re planning a bucket list trip, it’s worth saving up to splurge on an all-inclusive safari experience, including an on-site stay in the national park. This experience will usually set you back between $500 and $600 per person per day, while luxury safaris can cost up to $1,000 per person per day.
If you’re an animal lover, you’ve probably dreamt of going on safari.
Photo by Nick N A on Shutterstock
Nairobi National Park is also famous for being the home of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, known for its elephant orphanage near the Magadi Gate section of the park. The elephant orphanage is open daily to visitors with a confirmed booking from 11 am to noon. During this visit, you’ll be able to watch the elephants getting fed and even taking a mud bath. You’ll get introduced to each orphan elephant and get to learn a little about their personality from one of the senior keepers.
Book your bucket list trip with ZenHotels in 2026
We all have a bucket list destination, the one place we’d save for years to visit. Whether you’ve always dreamed of visiting the pyramids in Egypt, or if you want to challenge yourself to walk through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu. At ZenHotels, we’re here to help plan your bucket list vacation, wherever your heart takes you.
Not every vacation has to be a bucket list experience, and whatever your travel plans are, we’re here to streamline your booking process by putting the best accommodation options right at your fingertips. Explore top destinations on ZenHotels and get more expert-curated travel tips by visiting our blog.
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