Bucket List Cities Around the World You Have to Visit
There are some cities that leave their mark long after you’ve left. The ones you dream about before you go, and reminisce about for years afterwards. They’re more than just destinations — they’re cultural icons, living postcards, and in many ways, the heartbeat of entire countries.
From the romance of Paris and the energy of New York, to the colours of Marrakech and the coastal beauty of Sydney, these are the cities that every traveller should experience at least once in their lifetime. Each offers something unforgettable: a mix of history, architecture, food, and atmosphere that makes them truly bucket list worthy.
Whether you’re a first-time traveller or a seasoned explorer ticking off the greats, this guide will take you through 15 of the world’s most iconic cities — and why they deserve a spot on your list.
Paris, France
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Paris has a way of living up to its reputation. Known as the City of Light, it’s a place that blends romance, art, and history like nowhere else. From café terraces to grand boulevards, it’s the kind of city that defines what it means to travel. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Paris never loses its magic.
Top Experiences
Stand beneath the glittering Eiffel Tower at night — cliché, yes, but unforgettable.
Wander through the Louvre and see the Mona Lisa, along with countless masterpieces.
Stroll the banks of the Seine or cross Pont Neuf at sunset for postcard views.
Explore Montmartre, with its cobbled streets, street artists, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur.
Indulge in Parisian food culture, from buttery croissants at a corner boulangerie to Michelin-star dining.
Insider Tip
Skip the long queues at the Eiffel Tower by heading to Montparnasse Tower instead. From its 56th floor observation deck, you get panoramic views of Paris — including the Eiffel Tower itself — with fewer crowds and just as much wow factor.
London, United Kingdom
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Few cities pack in as much history, culture, and energy as London. It’s a capital that feels both timeless and constantly evolving — where medieval landmarks stand beside glass skyscrapers, and centuries-old pubs sit just around the corner from world-class galleries. London isn’t just the UK’s beating heart, it’s a city that has shaped global culture for centuries.
Top Experiences
See Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament — icons that define the skyline.
Spend a day at the British Museum, where treasures from every corner of the globe are on display.
Walk along the South Bank for views of the Thames, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
Catch a show in the West End, or dive into the live music scene in Camden.
Explore the markets — from Borough Market’s food stalls to Portobello Road’s antiques.
Insider Tip
For a quieter (and free) alternative to the London Eye, head to the Sky Garden in the City. It offers sweeping views of the capital from a lush, glass-domed space — and if you time it right, sunset here is pure magic.
New York City, USA
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
New York isn’t just a city — it’s an experience. Known as the city that never sleeps, it’s a place where every street corner feels like a movie set and every neighbourhood has its own rhythm. From towering skyscrapers to hidden speakeasies, New York is a city that embodies ambition, creativity, and the sheer thrill of being alive.
Top Experiences
Stand at the top of the Empire State Building or One World Observatory for breathtaking views of Manhattan.
Wander through Central Park — a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city.
Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island to connect with the city’s immigrant roots.
Catch a Broadway show in Times Square or explore the galleries of MoMA and the Met.
Stroll through neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village, Harlem, and Williamsburg for local character and culture.
Insider Tip
Instead of queueing for the Staten Island Ferry, take the NYC Ferry across the East River at sunset. It’s cheap, uncrowded, and gives you unbeatable skyline views — with the added bonus of passing under the Brooklyn Bridge.
Tokyo, Japan
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Tokyo is a city of contrasts — where centuries-old shrines stand in the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers, and quiet gardens sit just a train ride away from neon-lit districts. It’s endlessly fascinating, blending tradition with innovation in a way that few other places on earth can match. For travellers, Tokyo is both exhilarating and immersive — a city that challenges and delights at every turn.
Top Experiences
Explore the historic Asakusa district and visit Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple.
Cross the world-famous Shibuya Crossing — an organised chaos that’s pure Tokyo.
Dive into Japanese pop culture in Akihabara, from manga to gaming arcades.
Spend a peaceful afternoon in the gardens of the Imperial Palace or Shinjuku Gyoen.
Savour sushi at Tsukiji’s outer market or in a tiny, tucked-away omakase bar.
Insider Tip
For a stunning skyline view without the hefty price tag, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. The observation decks are free, and on a clear day you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.
Istanbul, Turkey
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Straddling two continents, Istanbul is where East meets West — and you feel that blend everywhere, from the skyline of domes and minarets to the bustling bazaars. It’s a city steeped in history, with layers of Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Turkish culture woven together, making it one of the most unique destinations on the planet.
Top Experiences
Step inside Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece of architecture and history.
Wander the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
Cruise along the Bosphorus to see the city’s European and Asian shores in one trip.
Explore the Blue Mosque and its intricate tilework.
Sample Turkish delights and mezes, best enjoyed in a traditional meyhane (tavern).
Insider Tip
Head to the rooftops around Sultanahmet or Galata for panoramic views of the city’s skyline — far less crowded than the big-name observation points, and often with a café where you can linger over Turkish tea.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Few cities can match the drama of Rio de Janeiro’s setting — mountains, rainforest, and golden beaches all wrapped around a vibrant, music-filled city. Rio is pure energy, from the samba rhythms to the dazzling spectacle of Carnival. It’s a city that feels alive in every sense, and one that leaves travellers with memories as bright as its sunsets.
Top Experiences
Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of the bay.
Stand beneath the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado.
Relax on the famous sands of Copacabana or Ipanema Beach.
Experience the nightlife of Lapa, with its samba clubs and street parties.
Explore Santa Teresa’s bohemian charm, with winding streets and colourful murals.
Insider Tip
For a quieter beach day away from the crowds, head to Praia do Secreto or Joatinga. These hidden gems are loved by locals and offer a more relaxed side of Rio.
Cape Town, South Africa
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Cape Town is one of the most visually stunning cities in the world, framed by the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. It’s a city where cultures mix, history runs deep, and nature is always close at hand. Few destinations combine city life, beaches, and outdoor adventure quite like Cape Town.
Top Experiences
Ride the cable car up Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, for a moving insight into South Africa’s history.
Wander through the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood.
Relax on the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay.
Take a day trip to Cape Point or drive along Chapman’s Peak for one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads.
Insider Tip
Skip the crowded Table Mountain queues and hike up Lion’s Head instead. It’s a shorter climb, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views — especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Marrakech, Morocco
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Marrakech is a feast for the senses — a city of colours, scents, and sounds that immerses you from the moment you arrive. The medina is a maze of souks and narrow alleys, while the palaces, gardens, and riads showcase Morocco’s rich heritage. It’s a place where ancient traditions and modern life intertwine, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Top Experiences
Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa square at night, with its food stalls, musicians, and storytellers.
Wander through the souks for spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
Visit the stunning Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs.
Relax in the serene Jardin Majorelle, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Stay in a traditional riad to experience Moroccan hospitality first-hand.
Insider Tip
For a calmer experience away from the medina’s bustle, head to Le Jardin Secret. This hidden garden in the heart of Marrakech offers peaceful courtyards and striking Islamic architecture, perfect for a quiet pause.
Sydney, Australia
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Sydney blends laid-back coastal living with the buzz of a world-class city. Its harbour is one of the most recognisable in the world, framed by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, while its beaches and food scene keep locals and travellers equally smitten. Sydney is vibrant, outdoorsy, and effortlessly beautiful — a city that feels like it was made for bucket lists.
Top Experiences
See a performance or take a guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views of the harbour.
Spend the day at Bondi Beach, then walk the scenic coastal path to Coogee.
Explore The Rocks, the historic heart of the city, with its cobbled laneways and weekend markets.
Take a ferry to Manly for a classic Sydney harbour experience.
Insider Tip
For the best free harbour views, head to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair at sunset. It’s a local favourite for photography, with the Opera House and Harbour Bridge perfectly framed together.
Venice, Italy
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Venice is like nowhere else on earth — a floating city of canals, bridges, and centuries-old palaces. Its beauty is timeless, from gondolas gliding along the Grand Canal to the splendour of Piazza San Marco. Venice is equal parts romantic, historic, and surreal, making it a city that every traveller should experience at least once.
Top Experiences
Take a vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal for the best views of Venetian architecture.
Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and climb the Campanile for sweeping city views.
Wander through the maze-like alleys and discover hidden piazzas and quiet canals.
Explore the art treasures of the Doge’s Palace and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
Take a day trip to Murano and Burano to see glassmaking and colourful island life.
Insider Tip
Venice is busiest during the day, especially around St. Mark’s Square. For a magical experience, explore early in the morning or late at night when the crowds thin — you’ll have the city’s quiet beauty almost to yourself.
Cairo, Egypt
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Cairo is a city where ancient history and modern life collide in the most captivating way. Bustling, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating, it’s the gateway to the Pyramids of Giza — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — and home to a rich cultural heritage that stretches back millennia. Cairo is a living link between past and present, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Top Experiences
Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, just outside the city.
Visit the Egyptian Museum to see treasures including Tutankhamun’s golden mask.
Wander the Khan el-Khalili bazaar for spices, jewellery, and traditional crafts.
Explore Islamic Cairo, with its mosques, madrasas, and medieval architecture.
Take a felucca boat ride along the Nile at sunset.
Insider Tip
For the best pyramid views away from the crowds, head to the panoramic viewpoint on the Giza Plateau (near the Sphinx car park). From here, you’ll see all three pyramids lined up — perfect for photos and a quieter perspective.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Buenos Aires is a city that dances to its own rhythm. Known as the “Paris of South America,” it combines European elegance with Latin passion. From grand boulevards and ornate theatres to colourful neighbourhoods filled with tango and street art, Buenos Aires is as dynamic as it is soulful.
Top Experiences
Watch or join a tango performance in San Telmo or La Boca.
Stroll through Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried, and admire its elaborate mausoleums.
Explore Palermo’s trendy cafés, boutiques, and leafy parks.
Visit Teatro Colón, one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses.
Enjoy an asado (Argentine barbecue) paired with a glass of Malbec.
Insider Tip
Sunday is the best day to visit San Telmo Market. Alongside antiques and crafts, the cobbled streets come alive with live music, tango dancers, and an unbeatable local vibe.
Prague, Czech Republic
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Prague feels like stepping into a fairytale. With its Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, and a skyline dotted with red rooftops, it’s one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. The “City of a Hundred Spires” is rich in history and culture, yet compact enough to explore on foot, making it a dream destination for first-time and seasoned travellers alike.
Top Experiences
Walk across the Charles Bridge at sunrise for magical views of the Vltava River.
Explore Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world.
Watch the Astronomical Clock chime in the Old Town Square.
Sip a locally brewed pilsner in a traditional Czech beer hall.
Stroll through the winding lanes of Mala Strana and discover hidden courtyards.
Insider Tip
For one of the best panoramic views of the city, climb Petřín Hill. It’s a peaceful escape from the centre, and the view from the observation tower rivals that of more crowded spots like Prague Castle.
Kyoto, Japan
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan — a city of temples, gardens, and traditions that have been preserved for centuries. Once the imperial capital, it’s a place where history feels alive, whether you’re walking through bamboo groves or spotting a geisha in Gion. Kyoto offers a quieter, more traditional counterpoint to Tokyo’s buzz, and it’s here that many travellers find the soul of Japan.
Top Experiences
Visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, with its shimmering reflection in the surrounding pond.
Walk through the thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Explore Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed spots in Japan.
Take part in a traditional tea ceremony.
Wander the historic streets of Gion, where geisha culture still thrives.
Insider Tip
Kyoto’s temples can get very busy, especially Fushimi Inari. Visit early in the morning or in the evening for a more serene experience — the lantern-lit paths at dusk are particularly atmospheric.
Barcelona, Spain
Why It’s Once in a Lifetime
Barcelona is a city that thrives on creativity. From Antoni Gaudí’s surreal architecture to the buzz of La Rambla and the golden Mediterranean coastline, it’s a place that blends art, energy, and sunshine in equal measure. With its unique Catalan identity, vibrant food scene, and year-round charm, Barcelona is one of Europe’s most unforgettable destinations.
Top Experiences
Marvel at Gaudí’s masterpieces, especially the still-unfinished Sagrada Família and colourful Park Güell.
Wander the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinth of medieval streets and hidden squares.
Stroll along La Rambla and dive into the chaos of La Boqueria market.
Relax on Barceloneta Beach and soak up the coastal vibe.
Feast on tapas and sip vermouth in the city’s countless bars.
Insider Tip
Head to Bunkers del Carmel for one of the best panoramic views of the city. It’s a favourite hangout for locals at sunset, with sweeping vistas across Barcelona and the Mediterranean.
“From Parisian boulevards to the colours of Marrakech, the rhythm of Buenos Aires to the tranquillity of Kyoto, each of these cities offers something you’ll carry with you long after you leave. They’re not just places to visit — they’re experiences that shape how we see the world.
Of course, no bucket list is ever truly complete. Travel is about discovering places that resonate with you, whether that’s ticking off the icons or stumbling across a hidden corner that feels just as unforgettable. But if you’re looking for cities that define the spirit of travel — the ones that live up to their legends — these 15 destinations are the perfect place to start.”
