The 18 most beautiful countries in the world to visit in your lifetime (2023)

With 193 very different countries, it seems almost impossible to narrow down a list of the most beautiful places in the world. Each country has something unique and downright impressive to offer.fascinating architectureYcolorful landscapesto complex histories and centuries-old traditions. And, of course, there are the people at the heart of each nation who make their home countries stand out from the rest.

To create our list of the world's most beautiful countries, we've focused on places that offer an impressive array of natural wonders, as well as man-made creations and cities that are as vibrant as their surroundings. All of them also strive to preserve their historic structures and artistic practices while making room for new technologies to improve their nation. Of thetowering mountainsfrom Oman to Thailandwhite sand coastThese are the most beautiful countries in the world that you must visit in your life.

With its white sandy beaches, the Maldives redefines what a secluded vacation should be.world class resorts, and palm forests. The traditions of the Indian Ocean archipelago are influenced by many neighboring countries, creating a diverse culture like nowhere else in the world. Furthermore, below the surface of the aquamarine waters lies a thriving ecosystem of colorful coral reefs and unique marine life only found around the islands.

Costa Rica is home to approximately half a million species in its misty river valleys, idyllic beaches, and rare grasslands. Nearly a quarter of the country is under conservation, allowing indigenous flora and fauna to thrive and creating a naturally stunning place. In addition to its landscape, the Central American country is also home to numerousFive star spasand restaurants to help visitors unwind at the end of their day of adventures.

Tanzania's natural wealth is almost indescribable. More than a million wildebeest make the Great Migration across the Serengeti, a protected plain in the north of the country, an annual phenomenon. Rhino and zebra mingle on the short-grass plains of the Ngorongoro Crater. And the coast of Tanzania, facing the Indian Ocean, offers sparkling white sand beaches and serene vistas.

The geographic and cultural diversity of the United States is unique in the world. From the snow-capped mountains of Mount Rainer National Park to Hawaii's lush Napali Coast, natural beauty can be found in almost every corner of the country. Even cities large and small are home to some of the best examples of modern and historic architecture in the world.

Many have heard of the monumental Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, but keep in mind that these are only a small part of the wonders that Peru has to offer. In the heart of the Ica desert lies the picturesque oasis of Huacachina, where guests can explore the neighboring dunes behind the small town at night. Not far from the green peak of Machu Picchu is the Vinicunca mountain with the colors of the rainbow. And a trip to Peru isn't complete without a trip to Lima, the country's capital, replete with colonial-era architecture and much pre-Columbian art.

No country balances the excitement of the city with the tranquility of nature as perfectly as Japan. Arashiyama's fragrant cherry blossoms and bamboo forest provide refuge in Kyoto, while the city comes alive at night as people flock to restaurants to sample culinary masterpieces. Centuries-old shrines and temples scattered across the country offer lessons from the nation's past. Meanwhile, Tokyo continues to prove its worth as a leader in innovation.

Underground ice caves, towering volcanoes and black sand beaches – Iceland has some of the most unique landscapes in the world. Reykjavik serves as an idyllic landing spot with its panoramic views of the Blue Lagoon, a stunningart Museumdedicated to creative Icelanders and a thriving food scene. Luxurious hot springs and glacial valleys are located just 30 minutes from the city. For a full taste of what Iceland has to offer, take a road trip along the Ring Road, which stretches 828 miles around the island's coastline.

The East African nation has earned a worldwide reputation for its vast savannahs and diverse wildlife. However, Kenya's natural beauty does not end there. You'll find glacial lakes at the foot of Mount Kenya, lush native forests in the Mau Forest Complex, and brilliant blue waters off the coast. The country's most populous city, Nairobi is the outpost of countless artisans, from carpenters and weavers at the Maasai market to expert glassmakers.Kitengela hot glasson the global design stage.

With nearly 1,430 islands, Thailand offers a wide range of attractions, from the bustling city of Bangkok to the mangrove shores and lush forest of Koh Kood. Chiang Mai's golden temples, bustling markets and thriving culinary scene combine the excitement of a modern city with historical charm and significance, perfect for city dwellers. These dreamy white-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters and geometric rock formations can be found along the curvaceous coastline of Krabi province. The country's thriving capital offers authentic Thai cuisine and experimental creations through its award-winning restaurants and vendors.

With amber sand dunes, endless golden grasslands and emerald blue lagoons, Namibia's vast natural beauty is second to none. The Namib desert (the world's oldest) stretches for more than 1,200 miles with distinctive valleys dotted with dead treesSossusvleiand sand dunes leading to Sandwich Harbour. An abundance of wildlife thrives in the savannahs and wetlands of Namibia's Caprivi Strip. In the Khomas Highlands Plateau, the N/a'an ku sê Zannier Reserve serves as a natural habitat for hundreds of injured animals and invites guests to learn about conservation while staying at the reserve lodge.it belongs to me.

whim and wonder sing through thepicturesque islands and islets of Greece. The ancient temples and ruins of Athens and the iconic blue domes and whitewashed facades of Oia are must-see attractions for many travelers. However, the true magic of Greece lies in the quirky sights of the lesser-known islands, such as the Euboean thermal baths and the art exhibitions of Nisyros. No trip to the Mediterranean country is complete without a stop in Naxos for fresh seafood.

From its 9,000 miles of windswept coastlines to its mountain-cutting turquoise lakes, New Zealand offers some of the most mesmerizing scenery in the world. Lake Tekapo is perhaps one of the most colorful places on earth, with brilliant blue glacial water and endless fields of pink and purple lupins. New Zealand is also full of galleries and museums that contribute to the country's cultural and artistic identity. HeMuseum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewahighlights the rich history of the Maori people and their importance to New Zealand's national identity.

Due to its long and narrow shape, Chile encompasses an incredibly diverse array of terrains and climates, such as the glacial fjords of Patagonia and the rolling vineyards of the country's Elqui Valley.Lauca National ParkIt serves as a biosphere reserve for alpacas, pumas, flamingos and foxes, which roam freely on 303,342 hectares in the Andes. It is also home to Chungará Lake, which is said to be home to approximately 130 species of animals along with rare flora. While bustling Santiago is the country's best-known city, the coastal gem of Valparaíso bursts with bohemian bliss and creativity you won't find anywhere else.

Praised for its delectable cuisine, quaint pastel towns, and enduring appreciation for the arts, it's hard to know where to begin when it comes to Italy and its beauty. For city dwellers and history buffs alike, Rome is the birthplace of Western civilization with plenty of ancient sites to explore. The Cinque Terre town of Vernazza invites romantics to stroll through the caramel-colored streets before settling in at the port. And no Italian vacation is complete without a day trip to the Tuscany wine region, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.

Vietnam's ever-evolving cities, mountains of seemingly endless greenery, and idyllic coastlines have put it at the top of every traveler's wish list in recent years. Its impressive temples and historical sites, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, the Hué Monument Complex and many more, shed light on the complex history and cultural importance of this Asian country. The growing cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City show how the country is fast becoming a capital of style and design. One of the natural jewels of Vietnam is Halong Bay, made up of 1,600 islands and islets with spectacular limestone pillars and caves eroded by the waves.

Often considered a winter wonderland, Switzerland has drawn visitors for its dusty mountains and clean, fresh air for centuries. Ski enthusiasts often flock to picturesque towns, like hidden Zermatt in the Swiss Alps, to hit the slopes and take in the views. However, Switzerland is just as stunning in the warmer months, with lush valley forges and emerald lakes. The country also has some of the most impressive examples of medieval and renaissance architecture to be found in the old town of Bern.

As the second largest country in the world, Canada is one of the most diverse places in the world, both culturally and ecologically. The green shoreline and cliffs of the Bay of Fundy make it a unique natural attraction in the eastern part of the country. Head to the French-speaking province of Quebec, where cities like Montreal and Quebec City embody European charm. On the west side of the country, the sleepy Alberta town of Banff offers unparalleled views of the Canadian Rockies and the emerald waters of Lake Louise.

At first glance, one might think that Oman only has desert terrain due to its location on the Arabian Peninsula. Yet this seafaring nation has a little bit of everything, from towering mountains and sandy coastlines to impressive urban centers. The mix of tradition and modernity in the coastal city of Muscat, home to one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Islamic architecture,Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Here, in the country's capital, you'll also find a thriving food scene that is reinventing traditional Omani cuisine. Head out of the city towards the Jabal Akhdar mountains and discover fragrant trails lined with verdant olive and apricot trees.