Looking for some travel inspiration for the year ahead? These are the best trending bucket list destinations for 2024!

All 4 of these countries experienced a record-breaking increase in tourism in 2023, proving that they are the most popular and sought-after destinations right now.

From Europe to Asia to the Middle East, here are the top destinations for 2024:

Greece

It’s long been at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists, but Greece is one of the most popular destinations in the world right now after setting a new tourism record last year.

Greece is set to be one of the hottest destinations of the year for many reasons.

Naturally, travelers flock to Greece to explore the ancient wonders of Athens, see the breathtaking sunsets of Santorini, and experience the island nightlife on Mykonos.

Famous Athens landmark Acropolis and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Herodeion, just after the sunrise Athens Greece

If you’re willing to skip the five-star resorts and travel less glamorously, Greece can be a surprisingly affordable destination. This is even more applicable if you travel during the “shoulder season” (think April, May, and October) rather than the hot, crowded, and expensive summer season.

Egypt

Another once-in-a-lifetime trip to take in 2024 is Egypt. There are so many incredible destinations to visit in this Middle Eastern country, from the pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor.

Egypt is one of the top destinations in the world for ancient history and culture, which is why it has exploded in popularity with tourists recently.

Pyramids of Giza

Is it safe to visit Egypt right now?

You might be concerned based on what’s been going on in the Middle East in the past few months. The good news is that Egypt is still safe for tourists (although it is a destination where you’ll always want to exercise increased caution.)

Even with the recent turmoil in the Middle East, Egypt finished out 2023 by setting a new tourism record, and that trend is expected to continue in 2024.

The best time to visit Egypt is in the winter for better weather, specifically November through March.

woman walking in egyptian ruins

Spain

Spain has quickly become one of the top countries in Europe for tourism, second only to France.

If Spain isn’t already on your travel bucket list, here are just a few reasons why it should be: this is where you’ll find the fun and beautiful cities of Barcelona and Madrid, where you can explore some of the most stunning beaches and islands in the world, where dinner doesn’t start until 10 p.m., and the nightlife goes on until the early hours of the morning, and where the tapas and sangria flow freely.

Moro Beach In Mallorca, Spain

From partying it up on the island of Ibiza to watching a flamenco show in Sevilla to exploring the quirky and colorful architectural works of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, there’s something for everyone in Spain.

It also helps that Spain is more affordable than other popular destinations in Western Europe, including France, the UK, and Italy.

The best time to go is spring or fall, for amazing weather and fewer crowds than the summer season.

Gaudi mosaic bench detail and skyline of Barcelona from park Guell at sunset, Catalonia Spain at fall copy

Japan

Finally, Japan is one of the most epic destinations in the world that is highly sought-after by many travelers. It’s at the top of many bucket lists now that the country is finally open without restrictions again after remaining closed for several years.

Japan is one of the top cultural destinations in the world. From the bright lights of Tokyo to the historic and traditional city of Kyoto, there is so much to explore in this East Asian country. It’s also one of the best foodie destinations for lovers of sushi, sashimi, ramen, and more.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple and cherry blossom season (Sakura) spring time in Kyoto, Japan

Although it’s an expensive destination, Japan is well worth it for a bucket list trip.

The best time to go is in the fall (October and November) or the spring (March through May) when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

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