There are so many magical places to visit around the world that it’s hard to narrow down! From fairytale castles to the wonders of the world, there’s a lot of magic right here on Earth.
Whether you want a romantic getaway or an adventure with your family, there’s enchanting something for everyone on the list below. So pack your bags, and let’s find some magic.
41. The Trulli, Alberobello, Italy
One extremely magical place on earth is The Trulli of Alberobello. This architectural site was built in the 15th century and has been around ever since! The homes are made of limestone with thatched roofs, so you get the true fairytale vibe.
With a total of 350,000-plus annual visitors, this historical wonderland offers something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to impressive stone walls and buildings such as churches, there are wine tasting experiences, museums to visit, and even cooking classes.
You can easily spend hours exploring all that this site has to offer! You will definitely feel like you’ve traveled back in time when visiting here.
40. The Enchanted City, Cuenca, Spain
One more magical place on earth is The Enchanted City in Cuenca, Spain. This city was designed to look like a chessboard and has been around since 1993! With a total of 300-plus annual visitors, this architectural wonderland offers something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to impressive stone walls and buildings such as churches, there are museums to visit, friendly locals that will welcome you with open arms, and amazing food experiences.
39. Antelope Canyon, Arizona, United States
Another one of the most magical places on earth is Antelope Canyon. This breathtaking wonderland was designed naturally, and has been around since 1997! With a total of 500-plus annual visitors, this natural marvel offers something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to canyons that are filled with beautiful colors by Mother Nature herself, there is wildlife you might encounter during your visit such as deer or lizards.
This place really gives you an opportunity to appreciate nature in all its glory! While it’s not always easy getting here due to its remote location (the nearest big city is Flagstaff), it certainly makes the experience more memorable once you arrive.
And if hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry – they also have a shuttle bus that goes straight to the canyon!
38. The Isle of Skye, Scotland
If you’re looking for fairy magic, then you should definitely take a trip to the Isle of Sky. It’s known for rugged landscapes, medieval castles, picturesque fishing villages, and truly gorgeous natural scenery, as well as a ton of fairy legends and folklore.
In addition to gorgeous views from the shoreline such as ocean waves crashing by the cliffside history, there are museums you can visit if interests you. There are also local shops where you can purchase gifts or mementos of your trip here.
If all that walking sounds tiring (it won’t be easy getting up those steep hills), don’t worry – they even offer horseback riding tours through their winding trails!
You will feel like royalty when visiting this enchanted land with its deep history and magical stories. It’s definitely a place fitting for any queen or king of the land!
37. Jiufen, Taiwan
Jiufen was formerly a a gold mining mountain town in Taiwan, but today it’s popular because the architecture looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale story.
In addition to impressive stone walls and buildings such as tea houses (although they do also have some modern structures), there are local shops where you can purchase gifts or mementos of your trip here. There are even options for dining if you’re hungry after all that exploring.
The locals will definitely welcome you with open arms when visiting here – it feels like stepping back into time! You’ll feel completely at ease while marveling over its medieval architecture and lush forests surrounding the area.
You will definitely feel like a kid again when experiencing all that this place has to offer! It’s truly one of the most magical places on earth with its enchanting history and culture.
36. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
There is truly no such thing as perfection, but this castle comes pretty close. It was built in the 19th century and made into a monument at that time – it’s definitely one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions!
In addition to elegant castles you can explore (including some ruins), there are options for dining if your stomach starts growling after walking around all day long. There are also shops where you can purchase gifts or mementos of your trip here.
35. Cappadocia, Turkey
You’ve probably seen photos of Cappadocia on Instagram. This is the area in Turkey that’s famous for its hundreds of hot air balloons, as well as its fairytale scenery, cave dwellings, remarkable rock formations, and gorgeous architecture.
It doesn’t get much more magical than this – it’s been a hot spot for those seeking magic on Earth.
In addition to impressive rock formations that have been formed over thousands of years, there is wildlife you might encounter during your visit such as deer or lizards.
34. Alsace Region, France
This is a gorgeous area of France that’s known for its medieval castles, picturesque villages, rolling green hills in the distance, and lush forests. It also has some pretty impressive architecture.
It feels like stepping back into time when you visit this place – it truly transcends through centuries to give you an authentic experience! If all that walking sounds tiring (it won’t be easy getting up those steep hills), don’t worry – they even offer horseback riding tours through their winding trails!
While visiting here your breath will literally be taken away with everything surrounding you including the breathtaking natural scenery. You’ll feel completely at ease while marveling over its beautiful culture and history full of fairy tales from long ago.
33. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a picture-perfect lake in the Slovenian Alps where you can rent a rowboat, or take part in other activities. You’ll feel like royalty when visiting here with its charming stone buildings and lush forests surrounding it – not to mention all that gorgeous scenery!
It’s definitely one of Europe’s most beautiful places on Earth. There are also local shops where you can purchase gifts or mementos of your trip here if interested. If this place looks familiar, it might be because lots of movies have been filmed there!
There are plenty of magical spots around the world waiting for us to discover them (and maybe even conjure up some magic). From historical castles and ruins to dreamy destinations filled with culture and history, the options are endless.
32. The Taj Mahal – Agra, India
Another one of the most magical places on earth is The Taj Mahal in Agra, India. This mausoleum has been around since 1632, and it’s still going strong! With a total of 12 million-plus annual visitors, this historical place offers something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to some beautiful architecture which will leave you speechless upon your arrival (seriously, even I can’t describe how gorgeous this building is), there are also several other smaller buildings nearby that may give you goosebumps while standing before them, such as Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb or Mehtab Bagh which houses over 125 trees representing each religious group in India at the time when construction began.
Be sure to take your time when viewing all the monuments here because you don’t want to miss out on any of them.
Additionally, suppose you require some rest or a quick bite before starting back up again. In that case, there are plenty of shops nearby where you can find everything from traditional Indian clothing to delicious local cuisine.
31. Disneyland – Anaheim, California
The most magical place on earth is Disneyland in Anaheim, California. This park has been around since 1955, and it’s still going strong! With a total of 25 million-plus annual visitors, this family-friendly theme park offers something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the classic rides like Dumbo, the Flying Elephant, and It’s A Small World, there are newer options such as Soarin’ Around The World.
There is also a family-friendly water park located close by at Disney’s California Adventure. In addition to the rides, there are shows for everyone to enjoy.
Including world-class shopping and dining experiences, this is a must-visit place during your trip!
30. Vatican City – Vatican City
This is the smallest country by both population and land area in the world. It has a single city called Vatican City, which is home to around 900 people. However, millions of others visit every year. The Vatican City is a city-state in Europe along with the likes of San Marino and Monaco.
It was established back in 1929 to serve as a sovereign state for Catholic Church. The Vatican has its own post office, radio station, newspaper, television center, and treasury that holds millions of dollars worth of assets from worldwide. The Vatican City has a rich history of art, architecture, culture, and influence as it is home to some great works of Michelangelo. The Vatican is a must-visit for all art lovers and history buffs.
The best time to visit Vatican City would be between May – September when it’s not too cold or hot out. It gets quite crowded during this time, though, so you’ll have to plan accordingly if you want to avoid long lines of sightseers outside museums, churches, monuments, etc.
The city closes at around 18:00-19:00, depending on which month of the year it is, so try visiting before then or after 19:30 to catch some sights while they’re still open. One great spot that opens late is St Peter Basilica, where you can admire Michelangelo’s famous Pieta statue, among many other treasures inside even after hours. If possible, visit Vatican City during Easter since it’s one of the best times to see Michelangelo’s Pieta.
29. Universal Studios Orlando – Orlando, Florida
Including world-class shopping and dining experiences, this is a must-visit place during your trip!
Another one of the most magical places on earth is Universal Studios Orlando. This park has been operating since 1990, and it’s still going strong! With a total of 13 million-plus annual visitors, this family-friendly theme park offers something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to rides like King Kong and Jurassic Park River Adventure, there are shows such as Animal Actors On Location where you can watch little critters perform their tricks before your very eyes!
There is also an adjacent water park called Volcano Bay which opened in 2017. It was voted The Best Water Park in America by Amusement Today Magazine (2016). There are even options for shopping and dining here if you need a break from all the excitement.
28. Hollywood Walk of Fame – Los Angeles, California
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a world-famous tourist attraction in Los Angeles, California. The walk features more than 2400 stars dedicated to famous actors, musicians, and others who have contributed significantly to the entertainment industry.
You can stroll along this boulevard which stretches for 15 blocks from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, while checking out all the names you know so well! You’ll also find plenty of street performers here if that’s your thing, plus numerous souvenir shops where you can purchase everything from movie posters to handmade items made by local artisans. Or perhaps even a star yourself? Be sure not to trip over them, though, as it might cost you a pretty penny.
27. The Louvre – Paris, France
Another one of the most magical places on earth is The Louvre in Paris, France. This museum has been operating since 1793, and it’s still going strong! With a total of 13 million-plus annual visitors, this historical place offers something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to world-famous artwork such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa or Raphael Sanzio’s Portrait Of A Young Man with Red Cap, there are also plenty of art pieces that will shock you right down to your bones.
That being said, be sure not to wander off too far because, just like at Hogwarts School Of Witchcraft And Wizardry (the Harry Potter series), muggles may get lost here very easily without some help from their guide, which unfortunately is not us.
26. Ryoanji Temple Garden- Kyoto, Japan
Ryoanji, or the Temple of the Peaceful Dragon, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in northwest Kyoto. Imperial residences and gardens originally occupied the area surrounding Ryoanji during Japan’s Heian period (794-1185). It became part of an important stately home throughout the Edo Period (1603-1867) before becoming its monastery around 1450.
While it does not contain any religious objects inside, this makes for some pretty awesome photo ops! However, if you are looking for more than just beautiful landscapes, then be sure to check out their website, which contains information about special exhibitions that they host on occasion.
If you happen to visit them when one isn’t taking place, I would recommend checking out their Garden of Five Hundred Bamboo, also known as the zen garden. The garden was created during Japan’s Muromachi Period and is composed of just 15 stones, 14 moss-covered boulders, and a little pond. It is so simple yet so beautiful. It truly captures the essence of what it means to be peaceful with yourself in this world we live in today.
25. Palace of Versailles- Versailles, France
The Palace of Versailles is a palace outside Paris, which was built in 1623. It became the official residence for Louis XIV and remained so until 1793 when France’s monarchy ended after it had been stormed during the French Revolution. The Palace went through many renovations to become what we see today- which includes beautiful gardens designed by Andrรฉ Le Notre that are over 100 acres long.
24. Kremlin- Moscow, Russia
Kremlin is a fortress that was built to protect Russia’s political and religious leaders. The Kremlin has been destroyed, conquered, and rebuilt many times throughout history.
Today it serves as the Russian president’s official residence. Visitors can tour the cathedral’s interior, where all of Russia’s tsars have been crowned since 1613.
In addition to its beauty on the inside, Kremlin boasts beautiful architecture on its exterior, including several colorful towers decorated with golden spires, blue domes shaped like onion-shaped caps known as “kokoshniks,” slender minarets poking up from red brick walls encircling tranquil gardens filled with statuesque fountains and towering bronze sculptures amidst green lawns dotted by centuries-old oak trees.
23. The Great Barrier Reef (Cairns)- Cairns, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, also known as the Great Coral Reef, is a huge coral reef system off the coast of Australia. The reef was built over thousands and thousands of years by tiny creatures called coral polyps. It stretches for more than 2000 km (1242 miles) along the northeast Australian coastline near Papua New Guinea to just north of Bundaberg in Queensland.
To give you an idea of how long this is โ it would take about six hours to fly non-stop from one end to another! That’s pretty impressive considering that most people can only swim 100 meters or so without needing a break anyway.
22. Stonehenge- Salisbury Plain; England; United Kingdom
This prehistoric site is most famous for the stone circle built in several stages between 3000 BC and 1600 BC. This is the only example of a circle where stones are still standing in their original position.
21. Yellowstone National Park- Wyoming; United States
Visiting Yellowstone National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are so many things to do and see when you visit this gorgeous national park.
The views of the Grand Tetons Mountains, hot springs, waterfalls, wildlife such as bears and wolves will astound visitors from all walks of life. This magical place deserves more than just one trip- it’s that amazing.
20. The Forbidden City- Beijing, China
The Forbidden City was the home of Chinese emperors for almost five hundred years. Today, it is a museum and World Heritage Site that welcomes tourists from all over the world. The Forbidden City remains one of China’s most iconic structures and features beautifully detailed halls, pagodas, gardens, and walks to explore.
19. Ancient Rome- Rome, Italy
If you are interested in exploring the remnants of an ancient civilization, then Ancient Rome is a must-see destination. The city was home to some of the world’s most famous leaders and political figures who left their mark on history with monuments that serve as reminders today.
Visitors can admire what remains of this great empire at sites like Palatine Hill, Arch of Titus, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trajan’s Column & Market Gate Of Trajan, And Markets Of Trajan.
18. Edinburgh Castle- Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland. It sits on an ancient volcano, which makes it even more interesting. The castle has been standing for over 800 years, and you can see ruins from all different eras throughout its history.
Inside the main tower are some amazing museums that show how people lived there long ago and modern-day items like cannons and old suits of armor! This is a great place to visit with friends or family since so many generations have grown up visiting this historic site. If you love castles, then this must be on your list of places to go before you die.
17. New York City- New York, United States
The Big Apple is a magical place to visit. From the hustle and bustle of Times Square to Central Park’s beautiful trails and waterways, New York City has it all. The food in this city is also amazing! Whether you’re looking for fine dining or quick street eats, there are plenty of options available here. You can even find some great vegan spots scattered around town- if that’s your thing.
There are shows like no other, including Broadway plays such as Hamilton and Tours such as Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, which take you on an unforgettable journey throughout the island while learning about its history. No matter what time of year you travel here, there will always be something special.
However, if you want to avoid the cold and snow- which I know some of us are prone to do, then Spring is your best bet! With beautiful cherry blossom trees lining streets everywhere, this city becomes even more magical at that time of year.
16. Brasรญlia- Brasรญlia; Brazil
It is the capital of Brazil. The city is extremely modern, with many high-rises and skyscrapers in Brasรญlia; there are also many green spaces throughout this great city. Some fantastic museums, including the National Museum, which has a vast collection that includes items from Ancient Egypt to Modern Art.
15. Bali- Indonesia
Bali is a tropical island located in the Indonesian archipelago. There are many attractions to explore, including Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, dedicated to Dewi Danu, who Hindus and Buddhists believe is the goddess of water; this temple has an incredible view overlooking Lake Beratan. Visit Ubud for some cultural experiences, such as learning about their dance performances or visiting one of the local art galleries.
Be sure to visit Tirta Empul Temple, where you can watch locals perform holy spring rituals on behalf of all Balinese people around the country – these ceremonies take place every day at dawn and dusk.
14. Machu Picchu- Peru
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city located in Peru. This excellent site was constructed over 700 years ago and then abandoned during the Spanish conquest of South America, which began in 1532. This makes Machu Picchu one of the most important archaeological sites in all of South America.
There are lots to see, such as temples, terraces for farming, ceremonial baths, and more – it feels like you’re stepping back into time when visiting here.
13. Petra- Jordan
Petra is a historical and archaeological city that UNESCO has designated as a World Heritage Site; what’s fascinating about its history is how there aren’t any written records describing exactly who built Petra or why they did so.
What we do know, though, is that this city was constructed by carving into the side of a cliff, and it is now considered one of the ‘New Seven Wonders.’ There are many incredible temples to explore as well as tombs, which were carved out from rocks.
12. Giza- Egypt
Giza is located in central Egypt near Cairo and consists mainly of three large pyramids that have been built for three pharaohs who ruled during ancient times: Khufu (2589โ2566 BC), his son Khafre (2558โ 2532 BC); and Menkaure(2490 โ 2472BC).
All these men wanted their final resting place to reflect how great they had been while alive, so each of their pyramids is the largest in Giza. The Pyramids at Giza are one of Egypt’s most popular tourist attractions, which brings thousands of visitors every year.
11. Easter Island- Chile/Polynesia
Easter Island lies near Chile and belongs to Polynesia; it also happens to be world-famous for its very large Moai statues carved out from volcanic rock by the Rapa Nui people who once lived here.
It can take around 50 days or more to make a single statue so imagine carving over 900 (80 percent of all existing moais)! Many mysteries surround how these huge figures got here, but they remain incredible pieces of art today – you won’t find anything else like them in the world.
10. Dubai- United Arab Emirates
Dubai is one of seven emirates that make up the country known as the UAE. It’s well-known for its extravagant skyline. It also happens to be home to some amazing hotels such as The Burj Al Arab; this hotel has become a symbol of modern design throughout Dubai, which was built on an island off Jumeirah Beach.
Another hotel worth visiting here is Atlantis, The Palm – this luxury resort contains waterpark attractions and aquariums containing over 65,000 animals, from marine life to tropical birds. There are many great places to visit when going out, including Wild Wadi Water Park, which features several high-speed rides and slides.
9. Niagara Falls
It is located between the United States and Canada. The waterfalls are massive, but they only take up about half a mile of land space. They can be seen from both sides and on an aerial view via helicopter or plane ride.
8. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Four presidents of the United States have their faces carved into the rock on this mountain: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
Each president’s face is 60 feet high and 90 feet wide! This sculpture was created between 1927-1941 using dynamite to carve out these massive rocks at Mt. Rushmore.
7. The Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
This is a very famous landmark built in 1889 and has been visited by over 200 million people since then! It is named after its designer, Mr. Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, who also worked on the Statue of Liberty with his company called ‘Compagnie des Establishments Levassor.’
Today you can visit this building and take an elevator ride to the top for some amazing views! That’s not even the best part, though. There are lights installed all around it at night, so when they turn them off, you get to see a beautiful view of just how many lights surround this tower! Maybe try going up during Christmas time because the entire thing is covered in lights, and it’s just absolutely magical.
6. The Grand Canyon – Arizona, United States
This national park spans over 800 thousand acres across three states: Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. You can hike on many trails to see the views of this natural wonder, but they range from easy to difficult, so make sure you pick one carefully, depending on your skill level!
Truly breathtaking I couldn’t even imagine how old these rocks must be for people to carve out a space like this. Did you know there were fossils found here as well?
Ancient trees used to grow along the canyon floor before erosion occurred over time, leaving behind what we now call; ‘The Grand Canyon. It lives up to its name, though, because it’s truly amazing.
5. The Statue of Liberty – New York, United States
This is another one that I have been able to visit in person. It was built with copper and steel back in 1886-1886 by Frederic Bartholdi, who also designed the ‘Statue of Arab Unity,’ which stands 210 feet tall! This statue faces Europe as a gift from America. How crazy, right?
There are 305 steps inside this structure leading up to an observation deck, but when you get there, don’t worry about being out of breath because the view makes it worth your while!
You’ll see all five boroughs, including Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Manhattan, and yes, Bronx county, too, if you’re looking closely enough. The statue is located on Liberty Island, and it can be seen from Battery Park, Jersey City, Hoboken, Weehawken Cove.
4. The Grand Canal – Venice/Italy
The grand canal runs through the city of Venice. Oh, wait, that’s not right! It starts in Padua and then continues into Venice, where around 150 different bridges span its waterways.
This waterway system spans 405 kilometers, making it the biggest artificial one ever created by any civilization throughout history!
The reason I put this under “magical” places is that it feels like something straight out of a fairytale book or movie with gondolas gliding across its waters while people are at their windows admiring the view below them.
The Grand Canal is not only the biggest waterway in Venice, but it’s also considered to be one of Italy’s greatest architectural marvels alongside Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, Gondola Museum, and much more.
3. Chichen Itza – Mexico
If you are looking for a place where Mayan/Aztec culture meets today, then this is the location! If you’re familiar with these two ancient civilizations, I’m sure you will know what I mean by this. If not, let me explain!
This structure was built back in 600-900 AD, which isn’t too far from both cultures combined. These pyramids were built mainly as housing structures, while some believed they were used as burial chambers. Chichen Itza is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, making it one of the most visited places throughout Mexico.
2. The Blue Grotto – Capri/Italy
This sounds like something out of a fairytale book because even though it’s artificial, waterfalls are pretty magical to me since I love being submerged under them every chance I get.
This fall was created by light filtering through an underwater cave entrance, reflecting off the blue waters inside, causing this amazing illuminated view for all who want to experience it.
There are only three different ways tourists can reach this location: via boat, swimming, or diving into the depths below with scuba gear on hand to explore hidden caverns and passageways.
If you choose to swim through the entrance (which I don’t recommend), make sure you do so with caution and only if you are a strong enough swimmer because this current can take you towards other areas in Capri that aren’t safe; for swimming.
1. The Colosseum – Rome/Italy
This ancient structure was built back in 72 AD by Emperor Vespasian, who wanted it made as a gift for his son Titus… how sweet of him, right?!
It was initially used mainly as a theater where people would watch gladiator battles, wild animal fights, and much more. This building has been damaged many times over the years, including fires and earthquakes, which is why there are two different structures today compared to what it once was.
Recently, in 2017 several restoration efforts were made to improve the site and make it look how it did back then but just bigger! The Colosseum is located on Palatine Hill, making this one of Rome’s most visited sites/attractions for locals and tourists alike.
Not to mention it’s part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1980 along with Baths Of Caracalla & Circus Maximus, making them a must-see while visiting there too!
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