No matter your age, it’s never too late to start crossing items off your travel bucket list. Whether you dream of visiting the Great Pyramid of Giza or want to take a 10-day tour of Italy and explore the colorful village of Cinque Terre, now’s the time for you. If you’re ready for traveling, here are 15 bucket list ideas to get you started:
New Zealand
From Hobbiton to Mordor, New Zealand is the place to be if you enjoy the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Visit the movie set and imagine yourself walking alongside Gandalf and the elves, or take a 14-day tour and meet the makers of the “One Ring.”
Cinque Terre, Italy
Once just five fishing villages along the northwestern coast of Italy, Cinque Terre is now a picturesque spot full of vibrant colors. Hike the nearby trails and catch a view of the breathtaking villages, rugged coastline and nearby fishing boats.
Great Barrier Reef in Australia
Although Australia is known for kangaroos and “the Outback,” it’s also famous for one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Barrier Reef. As the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef is a popular scuba diving destination where you can immerse yourself in the underwater world and swim with the reef fish. If you’re new to scuba diving, don’t worry—lessons are available.
Pompeii
Centuries ago, Vesuvius erupted and covered the city of Pompeii with volcanic ash. Although the threat of the volcano has long passed, you’re now free to explore the ruins of the city and imagine what life was like in the ancient city.
Black Forest in Germany
Located in the southwest corner of Germany, the Black Forest offers a mysterious destination away from city life. The trickling water and deep colors of the evergreens create a serene place for enjoying nature and getting some exercise.
Salar de Uyuni
If you want something unusual on your bucket list, the salt flats at Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia are just what you need. The salt and minerals that cover the ground along these flats create breathtaking patterns and endless photo opportunities.
Amsterdam
Whether you enjoy traveling on land or by water, Amsterdam is a must for your bucket list. Travel through the quiet waters by boat and take in the architecture along the long stretches of canals, or hop on a bike and pedal through the city streets alongside the locals.
Forbidden City in Beijing
The Forbidden City in Beijing gives you a peek into Chinese history. Although it was previously given its name because visitors weren’t allowed inside without the emperor’s permission, you’re now free to explore the grounds of this enchanting palace complex on your own.
Egypt
If you enjoy ancient history, put Egypt on your travel bucket list. Visit the Great Pyramid of Giza, the last surviving Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, then make your way over to the colossal Great Sphinx and get a peek into the mysterious world of the pharaohs.
Buckingham Palace
No trip to London is complete without visiting Buckingham Palace and watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a renowned event that attracts hundreds of spectators. If you’re lucky, you may even see British royalty.
Petra
Tucked away in the mountains of Jordan hides Petra, an ancient city carved directly into the sandstone. From tombs to temples, explore this famous archaeological attraction and inspect the fine craftsmanship and hard work that was put into these sites.
New Orleans
If live music, beignets and busy streets sound appealing, New Orleans is a must for your bucket list. Check out the French Quarter and Bourbon Street for Cajun restaurants, live jazz and colorful nightlife.
Blue Lagoon in Iceland
As one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, the Blue Lagoon is just what you need for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. The milky waters nourish skin while the black lava fields provide you with a tranquil backdrop on your vacation.
Machu Picchu
Almost 2,500 above sea level sits Machu Picchu, an ancient Inca citadel in Peru. You may reach the city by hiking up the mountains or by hopping on a train and traveling through the Urubamba River valley. Once you finish the climb, you’re offered breathtaking views of the mountains and the famous citadel.
Rome
Centuries ago, gladiators gathered and battled in bloody contests inside the largest amphitheater in the world. Although these gruesome battles ended long ago, the Colosseum still stands and provides you with a view inside one of Rome’s most famous architectural structures.
