Guide to the Top 20 Must-See Travel Destinations in 2023

2023 is shaping up to be a year of adventure, and as travel restrictions begin to ease around the world, travelers are eager to explore new destinations. In this guide, we will be showcasing the top 20 must-see travel destinations for 2023. Whether you are a history buff, a beach bum, or an adrenaline junkie, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your passport and get ready to pack your bags!

Top 5 Must-See Destinations in Africa

Ready to experience the vibrant cultures, stunning wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes of Africa? Look no further! From the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar to the vibrant city of Marrakech, here are the top 5 must-see destinations in Africa that will leave you spellbound.

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis that is steeped in history and culture. Visitors can explore ancient temples and tombs, including the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. For those interested in more modern history, a visit to Cairo’s Museum of Egyptian Antiquities is a must. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll through the Khan el-Khalili market, where they can shop for souvenirs but remember to secure your Egypt visa first!

The skyline of Cairo at sunset with birds over domes and satellite dishes with distant pyramids at Giza

Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi, the capital city, is a great starting point for visitors to Kenya, with a range of activities and attractions to explore. The city is home to the Nairobi National Park, where you can see lions, rhinos, and other wildlife just a few minutes drive from the city center. Other must-see attractions in Nairobi include the Giraffe Center, Karen Blixen Museum, and the Maasai Market, where visitors can purchase traditional Kenyan souvenirs.

Giant Elephant grazing at Amboseli National Park with Kilimanjaro in the background, Kenya.

Tanzania

Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, is a must-visit destination known for its idyllic beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The capital city, Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow streets and alleyways that lead to bustling markets and historic landmarks, such as the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. Visitors can also take a spice tour to learn about the island’s rich history of spice trading or relax on the pristine beaches of Nungwi or Kendwa. 

Aerial view of a small sandy island (sand bank) with tourist boats in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar, Tanzania. 

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, located at the southern tip of Africa, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, with a range of activities and attractions to suit all tastes. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for stunning views of the city, explore the vibrant waterfront, or take a ferry to Robben Island to learn about the country’s history. Other must-visit attractions in Cape Town include the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, and the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood.

Sunset over Camps Bay, a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a bustling city in central Morocco that has been attracting tourists for centuries. The city’s famous medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys that lead to bustling souks selling everything from spices to carpets. Visitors can explore the stunning Bahia Palace, take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes, or relax in a hammam (traditional bathhouse). The city’s vibrant nightlife, with live music and street performers, makes for a perfect end to a day of exploring.

Typical souk market in the Medina of Marrakech, Morocco

Top 5 Must-See Travel Destinations in Europe

Making travel plans to Europe in 2023? Look no further! From the romantic canals of Venice to the stunning beaches of Santorini, here are the top 5 must-see travel destinations in Europe that will leave you spellbound.

London, UK

London is one of the world’s most popular cities, and for a good reason. The city is a melting pot of cultures and has a rich history dating back centuries. Must-see travel destinations include the Tower of London, the British Museum, and Buckingham Palace. Plus, the city has a vibrant food and music scene that is sure to delight any traveler.

London – Big ben and houses of parliament, UK

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a picture-perfect destination that has been on many travelers’ bucket lists for years. The island is known for its stunning sunsets, beautiful beaches, and iconic blue-domed churches. Be sure to explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, take a dip in the hot springs, and try some of the local wine.

Santorini island, Greece. Oia town has traditional white houses and churches with blue domes over the Caldera, Aegean sea.

Venice, Italy

Venice is a unique city that is built on water and is famous for its romantic gondola rides through the canals. The city is also home to world-renowned museums, such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and famous landmarks, such as St. Mark’s Basilica. The food in Venice is also a highlight, with dishes like seafood risotto and tiramisu that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Grand Canal and Basilica Santa Maria della Salute in Venice

Paris, France

Paris is the city of love and is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and gourmet cuisine. The city is home to famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Paris is also famous for its fashion and shopping, so make sure to save some space in your luggage for some Parisian souvenirs.

The main attraction of Paris and all of Europe is the Eiffel tower in the rays of the setting sun on the bank of Seine river with cruise tourist ships

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a charming city that is famous for its canals, colorful houses, and beautiful parks. The city is home to world-class museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, and is known for its vibrant nightlife. Be sure to explore the city’s famous Red Light District and try some traditional Dutch cuisine, such as stroopwafels and bitterballen.

Beautiful sunrise over Amsterdam, The Netherlands, with flowers and bicycles on the bridge in spring

Top 5 Must-See Destinations in Asia

Are you ready to embark on a journey of discovery through the diverse and captivating continent of Asia? From the bustling streets of Kyoto to the stunning temples of Angkor Wat, here are the top 5 must-see destinations in Asia that will take your breath away.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a tropical paradise that is famous for its beautiful beaches, stunning temples, and lush greenery. The island is also home to world-class spas and wellness retreats, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Be sure to try some of the local cuisines, such as nasi goreng and satay, and explore the rice terraces in Ubud.

pura ulun danu bratan temple in Bali, Indonesia.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a city that is steeped in history and is famous for its traditional Japanese architecture, such as the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. The city is also home to world-class gardens, such as the Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as matcha tea and sushi, and explore the city’s many temples and shrines.

Woman wearing traditional Japanese kimono walking at Historic Higashiyama district in spring, Kyoto in Japan.

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is a tropical paradise that is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The island is also home to world-class resorts and spas, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as Tom Yum soup and Pad Thai, and explore the Big Buddha statue and Phang Nga Bay.

Beautiful sunset at tropical sea with a long tail boat in south Thailand

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is a city that is famous for its stunning temples, such as Angkor Wat, which is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The city is also home to world-class museums, such as the Cambodia Landmine Museum, and is known for its vibrant nightlife. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as fish amok and Khmer noodles.

Angkor Wat Temple before sunrice, Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Dubai, UAE

Dubai is a city that is known for its luxury shopping, stunning architecture, and world-class attractions. The city is home to famous landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Palm Jumeirah. Be sure to explore the indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai, and take a desert safari to see the stunning sand dunes.

A panoramic view of the Dubai city skyline with the Burj Khalifa shown in the center. The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world.

Top 5 Must-See Destinations in The Americas

From the beautiful city skylines to the tropical beaches of the South, the Americas offer a wealth of diverse and captivating travel destinations. Get ready to explore the top 5 must-see destinations in the North and South Americas that will leave you in awe.

New York City, USA

New York City is a city that never sleeps and is famous for its world-class museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. The city is also known for its iconic food, such as pizza and bagels, and is a shopping mecca, with famous department stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s.

New York City Skyline on the East River with Brooklyn Bridge at sunset.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is a vibrant city that is known for its multiculturalism and world-class attractions. The city is home to famous landmarks such as the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Hockey Hall of Fame. Be sure to try some of the local cuisines, such as poutine and butter tarts, and explore the city’s many neighborhoods, such as Chinatown and Kensington Market.

City skyline view of CN Tower in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from the marina along Lake Ontario

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a tropical paradise that is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The city is also home to world-class resorts and spas, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Be sure to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and try some of the local cuisine, such as ceviche and tacos al pastor.

Sunset at Cancun beach during summer

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a city that is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and world-class attractions. The city is home to famous landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain and is famous for its Carnival celebrations. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as feijoada and caipirinha, and explore the city’s many neighborhoods, such as Copacabana and Ipanema.

Photo of Botafogo Beach at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This photo was taken above a building, with sugarloaf in the background.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is a city that is known for its vibrant culture, world-class museums, and beautiful architecture. The city is home to famous landmarks such as the Obelisk and the Recoleta Cemetery and is famous for its tango dancing. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, such as empanadas and asado, and explore the city’s many neighborhoods, such as San Telmo and Palermo.

Outstanding view from a vantage aerial viewpoint of Buenos Aires’ downtown cityscape with the sun setting on the background of the buildings.

Ready For Your 2023 Travel Plans?

There you have it, our guide to the top 20 must-see dream travel destinations in 2023. Whether you’re looking to explore the ancient temples of Asia, the historical landmarks of Europe, the breathtaking landscapes of Africa, or the vibrant cities of the Americas, there is something to add to your bucket list of travel destinations.

To make the most of your travels, it’s important to be prepared and stay safe. So:

• Get your visa with Atlys and get your passports ready.  
• Do your research ahead of time to plan your trip.
• Ensure you have all the necessary travel vaccinations.
• Pack light and bring only what you need.
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and important documents.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Try new foods and explore local markets to get a taste of the culture.
• Be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately.
• Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to help you navigate and connect with the locals.

Remember to be open to new experiences, embrace the culture, and have fun. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to embark on your next trips in 2023 and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Happy travels!