10 Best Countries to Travel in 2027: The Ultimate Bucket-List Guide

Whether you dream of ancient temples, turquoise beaches, snow-capped mountains or world-class food, there is a country on this list of the best countries to travel for you. For each destination, you will find why it is worth visiting, the top places to see, the best time to go, and practical tips to help you plan a smoother, smarter trip.

How We Chose the Best Countries to Travel

A great travel destination is more than a pretty photo on social media. When building this list, we looked at a combination of factors that matter to real travellers: the variety of things to see and do, the quality of the local food, how easy it is to get around, overall safety, how welcoming the locals are to visitors, and whether the country offers good value for different budgets. We also considered how well each country works for different travel styles, from backpackers and couples to families and digital nomads.

The result is a list of the best countries to travel that mixes destinations across Asia, Europe, Oceania, South America and Africa. Some are classic favourites that never go out of style, while others are rising stars that more travellers are discovering every year.

1. Japan: Where Ancient Tradition Meets the Future

Few countries manage to surprise and delight visitors quite like Japan. In a single day you can visit a peaceful centuries-old shrine, ride a bullet train at nearly 300 km/h, eat the freshest sushi of your life at a tiny counter bar, and end the night in the neon glow of Tokyo’s busiest streets. Japan is famous for its spotless cities, incredible public transport and a culture of politeness that makes travellers feel safe and welcome.

What makes Japan one of the best countries to travel is its depth. Every region has its own food, festivals and character. Kyoto is home to more than a thousand temples and the famous wooden geisha district of Gion. Osaka is a street-food paradise. Hokkaido offers powder snow in winter and lavender fields in summer, while the islands of Okinawa feel almost tropical.

Top places to visit in Japan

• Tokyo: Shibuya Crossing, the historic Asakusa district, and endless food halls.
• Kyoto: Fushimi Inari’s thousands of red torii gates and the Arashiyama bamboo grove.
• Hiroshima and Miyajima: A moving history lesson and the “floating” torii gate.
• Hakone: Hot springs (onsen) with views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
• Nara: Friendly bowing deer and the giant bronze Buddha of Todai-ji.

2. Italy: Art, History and the World’s Favourite Food

Italy is the kind of country that people return to again and again, and still feel like they have barely scratched the surface. It has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than almost any other nation, from the ruins of ancient Rome to the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence. Add in rolling vineyards, dramatic coastlines and some of the most loved food on the planet, and it is easy to see why Italy is always near the top of every list of the best countries to visit.

Each Italian region feels like a different country. Tuscany is all about cypress-lined hills, medieval hill towns and slow dinners with local wine. The Amalfi Coast clings to cliffs above the sparkling Mediterranean. Venice floats on its canals like nowhere else on Earth, while the Dolomites in the north offer some of Europe’s most spectacular hiking.

Top places to visit in Italy

• Rome: The Colosseum, the Vatican Museums and the Trevi Fountain.
• Florence: The Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David.
• Venice: Gondola rides, St Mark’s Square and quiet back-street canals.
• Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre: Colourful villages perched above the sea.
• Sicily: Greek temples, Mount Etna and incredible street food.

3. Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

Sri Lanka packs an astonishing amount of variety into one compact island. Within a few hours you can move from golden beaches to misty tea plantations, from ancient royal cities to national parks where elephants and leopards roam free. That is why Sri Lanka has become one of the best countries to travel for anyone who wants adventure, culture and relaxation in a single trip.

The island’s history stretches back more than 2,000 years, and its Cultural Triangle is packed with remarkable sites such as the rock fortress of Sigiriya, the cave temples of Dambulla and the sacred city of Anuradhapura. In the hill country, the train journey from Kandy to Ella is often called one of the most beautiful rail rides in the world, winding past waterfalls and endless green tea estates. Down south, the coast offers surfing, whale watching and laid-back beach towns.

Sri Lankan food is another highlight. Fragrant rice and curry, crispy hoppers, kottu roti sizzling on a hot plate and fresh tropical fruit make every meal an adventure. Best of all, the warm hospitality of Sri Lankan people is something visitors talk about long after they return home.

Top places to visit in Sri Lanka

• Sigiriya: Climb the iconic Lion Rock for breathtaking views.
• Kandy: The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a beautiful lakeside city.
• Ella and Nuwara Eliya: Tea country, Nine Arch Bridge and cool mountain air.
• Galle: A UNESCO-listed Dutch fort full of cafés and boutiques.
• Yala and Udawalawe National Parks: Safaris for leopards and elephants.
• Mirissa and Arugam Bay: Whale watching, surfing and palm-lined beaches.

4. Portugal: Europe’s Sunny, Affordable Gem

Portugal has grown into one of the best countries to travel in Europe, and for good reason. It offers sunshine for much of the year, a dramatic Atlantic coastline, charming historic cities and some of the friendliest locals on the continent. Compared with many of its Western European neighbours, Portugal also tends to offer better value for food, accommodation and transport.

Lisbon, the hilly capital, is famous for its vintage yellow trams, tiled facades and soulful fado music drifting out of small taverns. Porto, in the north, sits on the Douro River and is the home of port wine. The Algarve in the south is known for its golden cliffs, sea caves and beautiful beaches, while the islands of Madeira and the Azores offer lush green landscapes perfect for hiking.

Top places to visit in Portugal

• Lisbon: The Alfama district, Belém Tower and sunset viewpoints (miradouros).
• Sintra: Fairy-tale palaces hidden in forested hills.
• Porto and the Douro Valley: Riverside streets, wine cellars and terraced vineyards.
• The Algarve: Benagil Cave, Lagos and stunning coastal walks.
• Madeira and the Azores: Volcanic islands with world-class hiking.

5. New Zealand: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure

If you love nature, New Zealand is easily one of the best countries to travel on Earth. This island nation is a land of glaciers, fjords, volcanoes, geothermal springs, rainforests and endless beaches, all within surprisingly short driving distances. It is no wonder that so many films have used its landscapes as the backdrop for imaginary worlds.

New Zealand is also the adventure capital of the world. Queenstown is where commercial bungee jumping was born, and today you can try everything from skydiving and jet boating to white-water rafting. For something calmer, the country’s famous multi-day “Great Walks” take you through some of the most pristine wilderness on the planet. Maori culture adds a rich and meaningful dimension to any visit.

Top places to visit in New Zealand

• Milford Sound: Towering cliffs and waterfalls in Fiordland National Park.
• Queenstown: Adventure sports, lakes and mountain views.
• Rotorua: Geysers, mud pools and Maori cultural experiences.
• Tongariro Alpine Crossing: One of the world’s best one-day hikes.
• Abel Tasman National Park: Golden beaches and coastal kayaking.

6. Greece: Island Hopping and Ancient Wonders

Greece is the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and the Olympic Games, but for many travellers it is simply the definition of a perfect summer holiday. Picture whitewashed houses with blue doors, crystal-clear water, long lunches of grilled fish and fresh salads, and sunsets that seem to last forever. With thousands of islands, there is a corner of Greece for every kind of traveller, which makes it an easy pick among the best countries to travel.

Athens is the natural starting point, where the Acropolis and the Parthenon rise above a lively modern city. From there, ferries connect you to famous islands like Santorini and Mykonos, as well as quieter gems such as Naxos, Milos and Paros. On the mainland, the monasteries of Meteora sit on top of giant rock pillars, creating one of Europe’s most unforgettable sights.

Top places to visit in Greece

• Athens: The Acropolis, Plaka neighbourhood and excellent museums.
• Santorini: Caldera views and the famous sunsets of Oia.
• Crete: Greece’s largest island, with gorges, beaches and the Palace of Knossos.
• Meteora: Monasteries perched high on sandstone cliffs.
• Milos and Naxos: Beautiful beaches with fewer crowds.

7. Thailand: The Land of Smiles

Thailand has been one of the best countries to travel for decades, and it still delivers on every level. It is affordable, easy to travel around, and offers an incredible mix of bustling cities, golden temples, tropical islands and jungle-covered mountains. Thai hospitality is legendary, which is why the country is often called the “Land of Smiles.”

Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where glittering royal palaces sit next to busy markets and rooftop bars. In the north, Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains, ethical elephant sanctuaries and hundreds of temples. In the south, islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Samui offer white-sand beaches, snorkelling and unforgettable sunsets. And of course, Thai food, from spicy green curry to pad thai and mango sticky rice, is reason enough to visit.

Top places to visit in Thailand

• Bangkok: The Grand Palace, Wat Arun and floating markets.
• Chiang Mai: Old City temples, night bazaars and cooking classes.
• Krabi and Railay Beach: Limestone cliffs and turquoise water.
• Koh Lanta and Koh Tao: Relaxed islands with great diving.
• Ayutthaya: The ruins of an ancient Siamese capital.

8. Peru: Machu Picchu and Beyond

Peru is one of the best countries to travel for history lovers and adventurers alike. It is home to Machu Picchu, the legendary Inca citadel hidden high in the Andes and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. But Peru offers far more than one famous site. The country stretches from the Pacific coast to the Andes mountains and deep into the Amazon rainforest, giving you three completely different worlds to explore.

Lima has become one of South America’s top food cities, famous for fresh ceviche and innovative restaurants. Cusco, the old Inca capital, is a beautiful colonial city and the gateway to the Sacred Valley. Further afield you can float on Lake Titicaca, gaze into the Colca Canyon, or fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines.

Top places to visit in Peru

• Machu Picchu: Reach it by train or on the classic Inca Trail trek.
• Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Inca ruins, markets and mountain villages.
• Rainbow Mountain: Striking striped peaks at high altitude.
• Lake Titicaca: The floating reed islands of the Uros people.
• The Amazon: Jungle lodges near Puerto Maldonado or Iquitos.

9. Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland feels like another planet, which is exactly why it belongs among the best countries to travel. Volcanoes, glaciers, black-sand beaches, roaring waterfalls and steaming hot springs are packed into one small island in the North Atlantic. Whether you visit during the endless daylight of summer or the dark winter months when the northern lights dance across the sky, Iceland is guaranteed to leave you in awe.

Most visitors start with the Golden Circle, a popular route that includes Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall. The South Coast offers dramatic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, as well as the glacier lagoon at Jökulsárlón, where icebergs float out towards the sea. For the full experience, drive the Ring Road that circles the entire island.

Top places to visit in Iceland

• Reykjavik: A colourful, compact capital with great cafés.
• The Golden Circle: Geysers, waterfalls and tectonic plates.
• Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach: Icebergs glittering on black sand.
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often called “Iceland in miniature.”
• Geothermal lagoons: Relax in naturally heated outdoor pools.

10. Morocco: A Feast for the Senses

Morocco is just a short flight from Europe, yet it feels like a completely different world, making it one of the best countries to travel for culture lovers. Its ancient medinas are mazes of narrow lanes filled with spice stalls, colourful carpets and the call to prayer echoing from minarets. Beyond the cities, you will find the snowy Atlas Mountains, peaceful coastal towns and the vast golden dunes of the Sahara Desert.

Marrakech is the most famous starting point, with its lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, beautiful gardens and traditional riads (guesthouses built around an inner courtyard). Fes is home to one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, while the blue-washed town of Chefchaouen is one of the most photogenic places in North Africa. A night under the stars in a Sahara desert camp is an experience you will never forget.

Top places to visit in Morocco

• Marrakech: Souks, palaces and the Majorelle Garden.
• Fes: A medieval medina and traditional leather tanneries.
• Chefchaouen: The famous “Blue Pearl” in the Rif Mountains.
• Merzouga and the Sahara: Camel treks and desert camps.
• Essaouira: A relaxed, windy seaside town with a historic port.

Quick Comparison: Best Countries to Travel at a Glance

Still undecided? This table gives you a quick side-by-side look at all ten of the best countries to travel so you can match a country to your travel style, timing and budget.

How to Choose the Right Country for Your Next Trip

Every one of these best countries to travel is amazing, but the best destination for you depends on what you want from your trip. Here are a few simple questions to help you decide.

1. What is your budget?

If you want your money to go further, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Morocco and Peru offer excellent value, with affordable guesthouses, cheap and delicious local food, and low-cost public transport. If you are planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip and have more to spend, New Zealand, Iceland and Japan will reward you with experiences that are worth every cent.

2. What kind of experience do you want?

Culture and history lovers will be happiest in Italy, Japan, Greece or Peru. Nature and adventure seekers should look at New Zealand, Iceland or Sri Lanka. If your idea of a perfect holiday is lying on a beach with a good book, consider the Greek islands, southern Thailand or Sri Lanka’s south coast.

3. When are you travelling?

Timing matters more than many people realise. Visiting a country during its best season can be the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Check the “best time to visit” for each destination above, and try to travel during shoulder seasons when the weather is pleasant, prices are lower and crowds are smaller.

4. How much time do you have?

If you only have a week, choose a compact country like Portugal or Iceland, or focus on one region of a bigger country. With two weeks or more, you can comfortably explore Japan, Sri Lanka or Thailand. For far-reaching destinations like New Zealand and Peru, try to give yourself at least two to three weeks so you are not spending your whole trip in transit.

5. Who are you travelling with?

Families often love Japan and Portugal for their safety and convenience. Couples looking for romance can’t go wrong with Italy or Santorini. Solo travellers and backpackers will find friendly, well-established traveller routes in Thailand, Sri Lanka and Peru.

Essential Travel Tips for Any Destination

No matter which of the best countries to travel you choose, a little preparation goes a long way. Keep these practical tips in mind before you go:

• Check visa requirements early. Entry rules vary by passport and can change, so always confirm with the official government website of your destination.
• Get travel insurance. It protects you against medical emergencies, cancellations and lost luggage.
• Book flights in advance. Prices for long-haul flights are usually best a few months before departure.
• Learn a few local phrases. A simple “hello” and “thank you” in the local language goes a long way.
• Respect local customs. Dress codes, tipping habits and etiquette differ between cultures.
• Travel responsibly. Support local businesses, avoid unethical animal attractions and leave places as clean as you found them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best countries to travel in 2027?

The best countries to travel in 2027 are Japan, Italy, Sri Lanka, Portugal, New Zealand, Greece, Thailand, Peru, Iceland and Morocco. Together they offer a great mix of culture, nature, beaches, food and value for money.

Which are the best countries to travel on a budget?

If you want your money to go further, the best countries to travel on a budget from this list are Sri Lanka, Thailand, Morocco and Peru. Guesthouses, local food and public transport are affordable, so you can travel comfortably on a modest daily budget.

What is the best country to travel to for first-time international travellers?

Japan, Portugal and Thailand are excellent choices for first-time travellers. They are safe, have good public transport, are used to welcoming tourists and offer a wide range of experiences for different budgets.

How many days do I need to explore one country properly?

For most countries on this list, 10 to 14 days is enough to see the main highlights without rushing. Larger or more spread-out countries like New Zealand and Peru are best enjoyed over two to three weeks.

Do I need a visa to visit these countries?

Visa rules depend on your passport. Many of these countries offer visa-free entry, visas on arrival or online e-visas for a large number of nationalities. Always check the official government immigration website of your destination before booking.

What is the best time of year to travel?

Shoulder seasons, usually spring and autumn, are often the best time to travel. You get pleasant weather, fewer crowds and lower prices compared with peak summer or holiday periods.

Final Thoughts: Start Planning Your Next Adventure

The world is full of incredible places, but these ten stand out as the best countries to travel because of the unforgettable experiences they offer. From the cherry blossoms of Japan and the ancient ruins of Italy, to the tea-covered hills of Sri Lanka and the glaciers of Iceland, each one has the power to change the way you see the world.

The best part? You don’t have to visit them all at once. Pick the destination that excites you the most, match it to your budget and the right season, and start planning. Whether it is your first trip abroad or your fiftieth, these are the best countries to travel in 2027 and beyond.

Which country is at the top of your bucket list? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to bookmark this guide for your next trip! For more travel ideas and guides, explore the latest posts on Daily Leaflet.