Travel Destinations You Need to Visit in 2024

The new year is here, which means new travel destinations and dreamy places to visit await you. But what are the best travel destinations in 2024? With so many popular countries and cities to explore, it’s hard to decide without having the best options laid out yet. This guide outlines upcoming travel trends to follow, gives insight into the best destinations, and answers the question of where to travel in 2024 – once and for all. Buckle up and get ready to finalize this year’s vacation bookings and be ahead of everyone else…

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Intro

Relaxing at white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, gazing at glimmering city lights, or finding yourself at a breathtaking viewpoint – traveling can be different and unique in so many ways. No matter if you like laid-back vacations or exciting adventures, finding the right place to travel to can be rather challenging with all the endless options out there. As soon as the new year rolls around, most people find themselves thinking about their upcoming vacations; no wonder you’re one of them! And believe me, finding the right travel destination is a riddle if you don’t have a starting point to go off of.

Luckily, you ended up on the right page for this. Here you’ll find a comprehensive summary of the absolute best destinations and travel trends in 2024. Who knew finding out where to travel could be this easy?

All jokes aside, this guide highlights some of the best countries/cities & gives inspiration for what to look out for in 2024 (+ BONUS: Travel Essentials in 2024). Scroll on for a bucket list of travel destinations to save for later.

Travel Trends in 2024

Before diving into the top travel destinations for this year, it’s important to take a look at the current and predicted travel trends for 2024. What’s trending and what destinations will be booming this year?
Basing your own travel decisions on these predictions will not only enhance your experience while exploring the world but also save you money if done right. Since most of these trends are new, major tourism hasn’t had time to catch up on them just yet. This gives you the benefit of booking your vacation at better prices. As soon as the trends pick up, prices will do the same. Additionally, staying open to these travel trends will introduce you to new experiences you maybe wouldn’t have considered otherwise. It’s a great way to try something different!

Without further ado, here are the most popular travel trends for 2024…

Trending Travel Habits

Click on the trends to learn more & to find out what to look out for in 2024!

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

This trend has been picking up for the past years, and it’s continuing to do so in 2024. Travelers find the thought of being mindful and giving back to the environment an increasingly important value. Following this behavior, many sustainable hotels and retreats have opened up and are scheduled to open this year. Whether it’s buildings powered by sustainable energy or restaurants offering plant-based options, the sustainability factor is definitely something to consider on your next vacation. Find out more about vegan travel destinations here…

CAFÉ HOPPING

A trend that is not necessarily tied to traveling but makes exploring new cities so much fun! Trendy cafés have increasingly grown more popular with hundreds of aesthetically pleasing stores opening up. You can find coffee shops and brunch locations with beautifully modern interiors in almost every city nowadays. Regardless of where you travel next, keep an eye out for these hotspots!

WEEKEND GETAWAYS & MICRO-CATIONS

As the name already says, “micro-cations” are short vacations or weekend getaways. Due to the nature of only having a limited amount of vacation days available throughout the year, heading somewhere else during the weekend is the new way to go. Especially since traveling is picking up again after COVID, people want to get out of the house more than ever in 2024. Consider nearby destinations or cities for this and explore your surroundings!

SHOULDER-SEASON TRAVELING

The best way to save money and avoid crowds is traveling during the off-season. Since the weather isn’t always the greatest off-season, many people are resorting to vacationing during the shoulder seasons. Less tourists, great weather, and better prices. This is the best of both worlds! Since this trend is growing, it will lead to an increased amount of tourists at any time during the year. A benefit this brings though, is that the overcrowded summer season will possibly get a tiny bit less busy.

Travel Essentials for 2024

Knowing about this year’s newest travel trends, here are some of the best travel essentials regardless of your destination. These are non-negotiable, whether you’re heading to a beach getaway or an Arctic adventure.

Where to Travel in 2024

Seoul, South Korea

One of the first places to put on your bucket list in 2024 is Seoul. South Korea’s capital offers a charming blend of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, including unique UNESCO buildings. Whether you like visiting ancient temples, learning about 5,000 years of culture, becoming part of the glittering nightlife, or hiking in picture-perfect landscapes around Bukhansan National Park. Undoubtedly, Seoul will captivate you.

Turks and Caicos

Considered a true paradise, this string of Caribbean islands offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant local cuisine, and preserved landscapes and wildlife. Turks and Caicos has some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches due to the protection of its land and sea, making it the perfect place for a tropical getaway. Aside from relaxing at the beach, great activities include sunset cruises, exploring local nightlife in small bars, or horseback riding on Long Bay Beach. For the Caribbean’s legendary sunset views, consider heading to either Boaby Rock Point, Pillory Beach, or the Grand Turk Lighthouse.

Antigua, Guatemala

Another intriguing destination rising in popularity is Guatemala. Not only does it promise alluring nature, but also unmatched vibes and hospitality. The city of Antigua is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site where cobblestone streets, colorful Spanish architecture, and vibrant markets create a culturally rich atmosphere. The nearby volcanoes make for breathtaking views from the city and can be further explored during day hikes. One of the best things to do in Guatemala is see the Acatenango volcano up close, visit expansive coffee farms, and shop from locals.

Singapore

Singapore is the perfect place to find futuristic skyscrapers, lush green spaces, and diverse culinary delights. For travelers, Singapore already captivates at the airport after being greeted by an awesome waterfall surrounded by a tropical jungle. The top reasons for visiting Singapore are to see world heritage sites like the Botanic Garden, find luxurious malls, indulge in fun activities like Universal Studios, and explore Lazarus Island for its beaches. Overall, it’s also the ideal destination for solo travelers due to being known as one of the safest places to travel.

The Cyclades, Greece

A must-visit travel destination in Europe is the Cyclades in Greece. This archipelago of islands is home to the famous white and blue architecture within narrow alleys, stunning beaches, and the allure of the Aegean Sea. Popular islands in the Cyclades are Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. The charm of visiting this part of Greece is that traveling between islands is very easy – making it perfect for island hopping. Considering that each island has its own charm with unique nature and architecture, the Cyclades is a must-visit destination.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, though often overlooked, is a truly memorable place when it comes to tropical destinations. The capital Colombo draws you in with its busy streets, skyscrapers, and cultural heritage. In combination with sandy beaches and traditional food, Sri Lanka has plenty of fun activities for everyone and is the perfect vacation spot.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Popular for its surreal natural landscapes, Northern lights, and the Blue Lagoon, Iceland is one of the best countries to visit in 2024. In the city of Reykjavik, you can have unique experiences and truly indulge in the Nordic charm. As the northernmost capital of a sovereign state, it’s among the cleanest, greenest, and safest cities worldwide. Furthermore, taking the Golden Circle trip lets you experience once-in-a-lifetime views of waterfalls, geothermal wonders, and breathtaking cliffs – all while circling the country. Even if you’re not the biggest fan of hikes, heading onto the sea and watching whales is a lovely way of spending your time here. (Fun fact: 23 different types of whales can be seen in Iceland!)

Taipei City, Taiwan

Heading back to Asia for this one: Taiwan is the place to put on your bucket list this year. The rugged coastlines, majestic mountains, and beaches make the country a must-visit place. Moreover, the capital Taipei City is another destination where you get the best of both worlds: ancient temples and futuristic skyscrapers. The numerous activities like exploring night markets or experiencing the landscape on a hike create a truly memorable experience. And if you’re into seeing the world’s tallest buildings, prepare to tick off Taipei 101 of your list here.

Mauritius

If there’s one destination on the list that screams tropical paradise, it’s Mauritius. Also referred to as Paradise Island, the pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and lush landscapes make an idyllic escape in the Indian Ocean. Whether it’s cultural experiences you’re seeking or pure relaxation at photogenic resorts, Mauritius offers endless possibilities. Some of the best things to see here wild waterfalls, mountain ranges, and perfect beaches.

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

This small village in Chile is known for its surreal and otherworldly landscape. As one of the driest places on earth, San Pedro de Atacama is home to vast salt flats, volcanoes, lagoons, and geysers. The Mars-like landscape creates a unique high-altitude desert experience you won’t forget. Heading to Valle de la Luna (aka Moon Valley) for stunning views, observing the rare Andean flamingos, and hiking the mountain range of the Andes are some of the best things to do here. Additionally, this village is considered to be the best location for stargazing.

Madeira, Portugal

Have you ever heard of Europe’s Hawaii? Madeira island in Portugal reinvented itself a few years ago and has been on peoples’ bucket lists ever since. Displaying the Atlantic island charm, Madeira comes with lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and lovely villages – e.g. Ponta do Sol with its pastel houses and pebble beach. It’s the perfect destination to combine beach activities, hiking, and wine tasting in a tropical yet European atmosphere.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Last but certainly not least, you need to put the island of Koh Samui on your bucket list. Though often overshadowed by more popular Thai destinations like Phuket, Samui invites you to a tropical getaway with palm-fringed beaches, colorful temples, and vibrant nightlife. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island offers perfect summer temperatures and amazing things to do. It’s also home to some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches, e.g. Chaweng or Lamai Beach. Koh Samui is also the ideal starting point for a day trip to Ang Thong National Park.

Read more about Koh Samui & get inspired in my full travel guide…

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And this completes the best destinations you need to travel in 2024…
Aside from currently hot travel trends and the listed destinations, there are so many more beautiful places to visit. Yet, when it comes to the question “Where to travel in 2024?” these spots are the perfect starting point to get inspired and plan your trip.

With this travel bucket list, you should be all set for your next journey abroad!

Let me know which destinations surprised you and you can’t wait to see! 🙂

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