France is the world's number one destination for international tourists, according to the latest UNWTO figures. Spain is not far behind, with more than 82 million visitors. If you're like most people, the more you travel, the more places you add to your wishlist. So when the editors of the Big 7 Travel website announced their list of the world's top 50 bucket list destinations, it was time to start ticking off the boxes.
In their study, Big 7 Travel found that people were more likely to add a destination to their list if they had seen it on social media, with 33% of people researching vacation spots on Instagram. With this in mind, it makes sense for cities with vibrant neighborhoods (like Bo Kaap in Cape Town) to make the cut, according to Clayton-Lea. France is renowned for its romantic towns and cities, its culture showcased in both iconic places and ordinary environments. Few countries can boast such a wealth of history and grandeur as France, with its noble castles, villas and cathedrals decorated with a carelessness attributed to their long centuries of existence.
The United Kingdom is another popular destination for travelers, thanks to its afternoon tea, elegant accents and of course, the Queen. It's no surprise that it's one of the 10 most visited countries in the world. From Scotland and Wales to Northern Ireland, there's something for everyone in this country. The city of romance, Paris, is one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
It's not hard to see why - with its iconic Eiffel Tower and other attractions, it's a must-see for many travelers. Australia is another popular destination for tourists. Located off the east coast in Queensland, Australia extends 1250 miles into the Pacific Ocean from North Cape York to South Bundaberg. Sydney Harbour is one of Australia's most beautiful natural harbours, stretching for 150 miles and housing iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens.
The White House is one of Washington DC's most popular attractions and a neoclassical monument that defines the city. It has been home to US presidents since the 18th century. San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge is another iconic landmark that attracts millions of visitors every day. The bridge opened in 1937 and connects San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean - it's believed to be one of the most photographed bridges in the world.
A walk across this 1.6 mile bridge offers incredible views and a memorable experience. Tuscany in Italy is another popular destination for travelers looking for a romantic getaway. With its 14th century environment and infrastructure, it has a unique atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else - not to mention its delicious Italian food! Visit between May and September to enjoy the views and excellent Tuscan weather. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in Japan is also worth visiting - with more than 100 acres of beautiful scenery and green trees, it's worth parting with a few coins to enjoy this National Garden - especially during Japanese Cherry Blossom season! Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is another must-see destination - located at the mouth of a bay, it's famous for its white sand beaches, rainforests and mountains - not forgetting its iconic 125-foot tall statue of Christ the Redeemer! The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park is often confused with Grand Canyon National Park but it offers an equally impressive experience - stretching for 39 kilometers and reaching depths of 1200 feet in some parts! Athens' Acropolis takes visitors back 2,500 years - follow in the footsteps of ancient Greeks as you climb up these same steps that have been walked since 438 BC! The Taj Mahal in India is another must-see attraction - it's one of those places that makes you reflect on what happened here more than 4500 years ago! The Great Wall of China is another impressive structure that all visitors should see - built between 14th and 17th centuries, this wall extends an astonishing 21196 kilometers through some remote areas! A walk along its top offers incredible views of this structure that snakes into the distance. Stonehenge is another ancient site that captures people's imaginations - built more than 4500 years ago, tourists have been visiting this place for thousands of years! And finally, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania - Africa's highest peak at 5985 meters (19340 feet) - offers majestic views from its snow-capped peak.
