World's Best Places to Visit
Even after you've conducted plenty of research, choosing the perfect vacation spot can present a challenge. That's why U.S. News compiled
a list of destinations using opinions and recommendations from travel
experts and users to help you narrow down your options. The top spots
range from big cities, such as Paris and New York, to coastal getaways,
like Maui and Puerto Rico. We hope these recommendations can help point
you toward your next vacation destination. Cast your vote below to help
us determine next year's list. See photos of the World's Best Places to Visit in 2015-16 »
#1
London
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Why go: London
is a world unto itself. The eclectic neighborhoods — which house a
blend of historical landmarks and modern-day attractions — can keep you
occupied for days. Visit the Tower of London and the British
Museum or explore Portobello Road and Borough Market. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in London
#2
Bora Bora
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Why go: It's hard not to be enchanted by this paradisiacal destination:
Lush jungles extend into sky high volcanoes and sands stretch into
upscale resorts. When you're not relaxing on the beach, carve out some
time for hiking Mount Otemanu or observing aquatic life at the Bora Bora
Lagoonarium. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Bora Bora
#3
Barcelona
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Why go: Though known for its fútbol team,
Barcelona boasts much more than athletic talent. The city is a feast
for the eyes: Visitors walk past medieval architecture in the Barri
Gòtic and Gaudi's innovative creations at Parc Güell. Meanwhile, Las
Ramblas buzzes at all hours. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Barcelona
#4
Paris
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Why go: Year
after year, the magnetic City of Light draws travelers looking to cross
the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame off their bucket lists. But what
visitors really fall in love with are Paris' quaint cafes, vibrant
markets, trendy shopping districts and unmistakable je ne sais quoi charm. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Paris
#5
Sydney
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Why go: This metropolis offers more than just a dizzying array of landmarks (e.g., the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge). Sydney boasts a warm, sunny climate ideal for enjoying the city's beaches. The sands at Coogee and Bondi draw locals and tourists alike. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Sydney
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Why go: New
York City hosts infinite urban adventures: Wander through Central Park,
tour the exhibits at the Met, catch a Broadway show or peruse SoHo's
stylish boutiques. And at night, admire Manhattan's glittering
skyscrapers from the top of the Empire State Building. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in New York City
#7
Maui
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Why go:
Maui — one of the most beloved of all the Hawaiian Islands — lives up
to its superlatives with exotic beaches (like Kaihalulu), palatial
resorts (like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea) and lush terrain
(as seen in the Iao Valley State Park). Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Maui
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Why go: As the upcoming host of the 2016 Olympic Games, Rio is arguably South America's hottest destination — and not just for its warm weather. The famous Christ the Redeemer statue presides over Copacabana Beach. And you'll be hard-pressed to find a livelier event than Rio's Carnival. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro
#9
Cape Town
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Why go: This
South African city appeals to adventure seekers and mellow travelers
alike. Kick-start your day by climbing Table Mountain. Afterward,
sunbathe along Clifton Beach's khaki-colored sands or tour the vineyards
of the Constantia Valley. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Cape Town
#10
San Francisco
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Why go: Gourmet
restaurants, funky boutiques and laid-back vibes are just some of San
Fran's charms. A ride on the cable cars and a visit to Alcatraz are
musts. And, of course, don't forget to visit the city's crowning
architectural achievement — the Golden Gate Bridge. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in San Francisco
#11
Maldives
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Why go: The
simple mention of the Maldives conjures images of blue waters and soft
sands. This collection of more than 1,000 islands boasts
unparalleled resorts and pristine beaches. Visitors say the islands'
allures are difficult to comprehend unless you see them for yourself. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Maldives
#12
Prague
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Why go: Prague
has transitioned from a backpacker secret to a flourishing Eastern
European capital. The narrow streets lead to iconic landmarks such as
the Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral. Save some time for enjoying
local pilsners on a bar crawl. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Prague
#13
Yellowstone
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Why go: More
than 3,000 square miles of nature's finest canyons, geysers and rocky
cliffs are an easy sell for outdoors enthusiasts. Geothermic wonders
like the Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake are not
to be missed at this national park. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Yellowstone
#14
Bahamas
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Why go: The
Bahamas comprises so many islands that it's hard to mash them all into
one recommendation. But that's also part of their appeal. Airfare and
hotel rates are reasonable throughout the year, but you'll get the best
deals if you visit in the summer or early fall. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Bahamas
#15
Vancouver
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Why go: Vancouver
may not be as grand as Toronto or as historic as Montreal, but it's no
mystery why this Canadian city regularly hosts international sporting
events. The city bursts with parks, galleries and outdoor activities. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Vancouver
#16
Washington D.C.
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Why go: One
of the most-visited cities in the U.S., our nation's capital houses a
trove of iconic monuments. Exploring the White House, the Lincoln
Memorial and the Smithsonian Museums can fill several days. And the best part is: Everything's free to visit. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Washington D.C.
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Why go: A
visit to the USVI will feel like an international vacation (Carnival
and reggae music) with a taste of home (U.S. dollars and no language
barrier). But you won't find beaches like this on the mainland. For the
best rates and weather, visit in late spring. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in U.S. Virgin Islands
#18
Zurich
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Why go: From
swimming in Lake Zurich in the summer to skiing the Alps in the winter,
Zurich attracts visitors year-round. Delectable pastry shops abound, as
do museums, churches and shops in Bahnhofstrasse. At night, check out
the bars in edgy Zurich West. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Zurich
#19
Budapest
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Why go: Budapest
is a sure standout for any trip to Eastern Europe. The city caters to a
wide range of traveler types and budgets with its variety of hotels and
restaurants. The city will keep you occupied with its thermal baths
and world-class museums. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Budapest
#20
Las Vegas
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Why Go: America's Playground offers plenty of entertainment day or night. Neon-lit casinos, like the Bellagio and Caesar's Palace,
beckon to travelers with fascinating shows and sprawling game floors.
Plus, these mega-resorts boast spas, pools, upscale rooms and diverse
restaurants. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Las Vegas
#21
Hong Kong
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Why go:
Hong Kong is worth visiting for its one-of-a-kind cultural fusion. Only
here will you find a Disney theme park rubbing elbows with ancient
temples. Peruse a street market, ride the Star Ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui pier or check out the views from atop Victoria Peak. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Hong Kong
#22
Crete
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Why go: Crete's
diverse landscape is speckled with ancient ruins, fragrant olive groves
and gorgeous beaches. Visitors can spend their days doing anything from
shopping in Agios Nikolaos to hiking the Samaria Gorge before noshing
on fresh fish at one of the island's lively tavernas. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Crete
#23
Playa del Carmen
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Why go: People flock to this town along the Yucatán Peninsula
to unwind along white-sand beaches and azure waters. With the lively La
Quinta Avenida parallel to the beach, travelers don't have to venture
far to find entertainment. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
#24
Puerto Rico
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Why go: Meander
along cobbled streets and admire historic sites like El Morro in Old
San Juan. Prefer miles of sand? Consider the bioluminescent bays of
Culebra and Vieques. For a vibrant night scene, visit the Isla Verde or
Santurce neighborhoods of San Juan. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico
#25
Jerusalem
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Why go:
Many travelers seek out Jerusalem for its ancient ties to Judaism,
Christianity and Islam. Pack your visit to the city with stops at religious and historic sites, such as the Western Wall, Temple Mount and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Jerusalem
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