After several years of being cooped up, many of us are ready to get out again and satisfy our wanderlust. So it’s time to plan that once-in-a-lifetime bucket list trip you’ve been putting off.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, or just a chance to unwind, these bucket list trips will add unforgettable experiences to your 2023 travel plans.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture, food, and landscapes of Japan
Japan is the first destination on our bucket list because it was one of the last countries to open up. Whether it’s the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka, or the serene temples of Kyoto, few places can match Japan’s blend of ancient tradition and modern cityscapes. Whether it’s your first trip to Japan, or you’ve been before, there’s plenty to inspire you in this ancient land.
Bucket list trip experiences in Japan
Visit one of the country’s world-famous onsen — or hot springs — for a relaxing soak after a long day of exploration. Even better, book a stay at a traditional ryokan (a Japanese inn) with your own private onsen. For a true taste (literally) of Japanese culture, enjoy the delicate flavors of matcha tea as part of a traditional tea ceremony and visit Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market for the freshest sushi you’ll probably ever have. For a more active day, set your alarm clock early and climb Mount Fuji to reach the summit in time for sunrise. If you’d rather appreciate it from afar, book a hot spring resort next to Lake Kawaguchiko, like Fuji Kawaguchiko Resort Hotel, which gets rave reviews for its breakfast and dinner buffets and offers spectacular views of the mountain.
Explore the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ in New Zealand
This gorgeous island country, with its breathtaking scenery and endless outdoor activities, is perfect for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. There’s something for everyone in New Zealand, with stunning glaciers, fjords, and beaches, as well as bungee jumping, skydiving, and hiking.
Bucket list trip experiences in New Zealand
Adventurous types can ski the Southern Alps, bungee jump off the world-famous Nevis platform in Queenstown, or rent a campervan to explore the countryside. Or head to Rotorua to enjoy a spa day, explore geothermal wonders, and learn about the traditions of the Maori. Also, try the country’s finest wines at one of the many vineyards on Waiheke Island. Finally, be sure to visit Mt. Cook, the tallest mountain in the country and a popular destination for mountain climbers.
Island-hop across the Aegean Sea in Greece
From the white-washed villages of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Delos, the Greek islands have no shortage of adventure and history. Each island has its own personality, so you can find just the right fit to soak up the sun and admire the emerald waters of the Aegean Sea.
Bucket list trip experiences in Greece
Don’t just island hop — take a full sailing trip from one island to the next. If a long-term expedition isn’t in the cards, at least book on a volcano cruise to explore Santorini’s caldera islands. There you can walk around moonscapes and craters and swim in thermal hot springs. Or, take an expedition off the beaten path to hidden-gems islands like Anafi, Kimolos, and Skopelos. Be sure to aim for the shoulder seasons to increase your chances of having the beaches to yourself. And don’t forget to balance your beach and club time with some culture. Visit ancient Delos, the mythical birthplace of the Greek twin gods Apollo and Artemis.
Experience the majestic wildlife of the Serengeti in Tanzania
Get up close and personal with the magnificent wildlife of the Serengeti on an unforgettable safari adventure in Tanzania. You’ll have the thrill of a lifetime as you witness lions, elephants, giraffes, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat.
Bucket list trip experiences in Tanzania
Plan your trip during the Great Migration when millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. Also, be sure to combine your safari with a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and home to approximately 30,000 animals, including the endangered black rhino. For an even bigger challenge, climb Africa’s highest peak and the world’s highest free-standing volcano, Mount Kilimanjaro. The muddy and slippery climb is a small price to pay for the thrill of standing on top of Africa.
Reach new Himalayan heights trekking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal
Take on one of the greatest challenges of your life and trek the Himalayas in Nepal. From the majestic peaks of towering mountains to the lush forests of the Annapurna, this bucket list trip will push your limits. But the reward is worth it: stunning views and memories to last a lifetime.
Bucket list trip experiences in Nepal
For an extra thrill and a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, try paragliding over the mountains. If you prefer a more tranquil escape, check out the Garden of Dreams, an elegant neoclassical garden in the middle of Kathmandu. Finally, visit the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama — better known as the Buddha — at the Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini.
Discover folktales, myths, and legends from the edge of the world in Iceland
This rugged and beautiful country near the Arctic Circle lures adventurous souls from all over the world. Even more, there’s quirky folklore embedded in every stunning natural feature of the landscape. From the famous Northern Lights to glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls, Iceland boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Whether you visit in the darkness of winter or during the endless days of summer, there’s always something to see and do.
Bucket list trip experiences in Iceland
Bundle up and plan your trip in the winter months for the best chance to see the Northern Lights. You’ll also want to rent a car to travel the famed 820-mile-long Ring Road that follows the coastline around the country so you can go at your own pace exploring a variety of natural wonders, iconic cultural sites, and towns and villages. If you love the sea, pull on a full-body thermal drysuit and dive into some of the most frigid water on Earth at Silfra fissure. It’s the only place in the world where you’ll be able to touch two continental plates — those of Europe and North America — at once.
Ready to book your bucket list trip?
This is just a taste of the incredible bucket list trips you can take advantage of in 2023. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, there’s an unforgettable journey waiting for you. Start planning your next big adventure today and get back to living your travel dreams to the fullest. You’ll always find amazing deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals on Skyscanner. Begin your search now.
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