The end of 2021 is upon us which gives you all the excuses and arguments you need to start planning your 2021 holidays to one of your next dream destinations.
Did you know that January is the cheapest month to book a trip? Plane tickets are often the cheapest the first month of the year and car rental companies regularly offer shopping discounts up to 40%. As the moment to book is now, I will give you some inspiration for your travel bucket list of 2022!
If you are still looking for either a romantic city trip, an unforgettable road trip, a cultural expedition, an active hiking experience or simply looking for a relaxing getaway to the sun. These are the top 32 dream destinations to add to your travel bucket list in 2022, from popular travel spots to off-the-beaten-path destinations.
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32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (AFRICA)
GO ON SAFARI IN KENYA
Best time to visit: June to October, January to February
Highlights: Masai Mara & Lake Naivasha
Kenya is a magical place. I’ve visited the country twice so far, and I cannot wait to go back. One of the main things that put Kenya right at the top of any travel bucket list is the Masai Mara.
Venture out on safari in the Masai Mara and encounter the elusive Big Five – seeing African elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros in person is a breathtaking once-in-a-lifetime experience.
During the months of July and August, you’ve got the best chance of seeing wildebeest herds crossing the Mara River. If you’re an animal lover, make sure you also pay a visit to Lake Naivasha to take a dreamy boat trip among the hippos. Kenya is absolutely a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, as a family or as a couple.
There’s also much more to Kenya than the incredible wildlife. Gain fascinating insights into the lives of the wonderful Masai tribes, and enjoy the stunning view of Kilimanjaro from the comfort of your tented camp.
Read more about Kenya here.
GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA
Best time to visit: June to August and from December to February
Highlights: Gorilla trekking, wildlife, nature
Uganda is known all over the world as being one of the best places on earth for gorilla trekking. It’s definitely one of those bucket list destinations that many people have visited at least once in their lifetime.
The country has some fantastic wildlife attractions outside national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park (home to the tree-climbing lions), Murchison Falls National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where you can go on gorilla trekking.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Africa, with half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas living here. A trek to find these gentle giants can be an arduous but rewarding experience, and one that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Uganda is also a great destination if you’re looking for an active holiday – go white-water rafting on the Nile, take a canoe safari or go volcano climbing.
Read about our 14 day Uganda road trip itinerary and get Uganda travel tips.
RELAX IN MARRAKESH
Best time to visit: Any time between the months of October and May
Highlights: Shopping in the souks, the Saadian tombs, and relaxing in an authentic hammam
No travel bucket list would be complete without a bustling Moroccan city. Marrakech is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for a combination of rich culture and relaxation. It’s an extremely lively city, and you’ll be warmly welcomed by its charming inhabitants.
Get lost in the lively souks and buy some local spices, teas, and locally-made tagine pots, then unwind in an authentic hammam with a body scrub and body massage.
Tip: Book a Riad with an outdoor swimming pool – you’ll definitely need somewhere to relax and catch some sun after a long day exploring! Marrakech is a dream destination for a romantic weekend away, but it’s energetic atmosphere is also great for a trip with children.
Read more about a suitable three-day route in Marrakech here.
32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (ASIA)
EXPLORE SRI LANKA
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Kandy train ride, elephant safari, Nine Arch Bridge, Lion Rock
Seeking a trip with a bit of variety? A road trip in Sri Lanka is an unforgettable experience and should be high on your dream destinations bucket list. Explore the intricate architecture of the many temples, go on safari to spot the elephants in their natural habitat, swim with turtles in crystal clear seas, or hike to the top of Adam’s Peak.
Sri Lanka is also known for one of the most beautiful train rides in the world – the scenic journey from Kandy to Ella. You can choose to stop en route to break up your journey and explore local tea plantations.
In short, Sri Lanka is a dream destination if you want to combine exploring nature with relaxing on a beautiful beach.
Read more about a trip to Sri Lanka here
DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING IN BALI
Best time to visit: Any time between the months of April and October
Highlights: Simply relax and enjoy
Bali is a must-visit destination if you just want to do absolutely nothing. No matter where you go you’ll stumble across the most beautiful resorts, and you’ll undoubtedly be pampered by the charming staff and eat plenty of delicious fresh food.
It’s also a dream destination for sea-lovers, as there are plenty of opportunities to go snorkeling and diving. After a long day of relaxing, eating, drinking, and swimming, you’ll be treated to one of the most stunning beach sunsets.
Bali is an incredibly romantic destination for couples, but it’s also an ideal holiday destination with children.
You can find more about Bali here.
GO TO FOOD HEAVEN IN SINGAPORE
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Gardens by the Bay, China Town, Little India
If you haven’t had the chance to visit, Singapore is a city that should just be at the very top of your travel bucket list. It’s a city that will definitely leave an impression. The most state-of-the-art airport, the excess of electric cars, their social housing system… It’s definitely a city with a futuristic vision.
You won’t be bored for a second – and most importantly, you can indulge in mouth-watering food from all around the globe! Be awe-struck by Gardens by the Bay, pay a visit to the ArtScience Museum, immerse yourself in culture in the Chinese city, and eat the tastiest Pho at the Telok Ayer Market.
Read more tips about Singapore here.
32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (Europe)
DISCOVER ANTWERP
Best time to visit: any time between the months of April and October
Highlights: MAS Museum, the many beer breweries, Port House
A chic and culture-rich city, Antwerp is famous for fashion, and students from all over the world come to study at the fashion academy. Needless to say, it’s a shopping paradise for Northern Western Europe – so if you love a bit of retail therapy, Antwerp is absolutely a must-visit destination for 2021.
Antwerp Station has been chosen multiple times as the most beautiful historical station in Europe – and it’s certainly not hard to see why. Antwerp is a bustling city that offers a quality mixture of history, culture, cuisine, and nightlife.
In this blog you will find some of the top spots and things to do in Antwerp (coming from a proud citizen!)
ENJOY VALENCIA
Best time to visit: any time between the months of April and October
Highlights: Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciéncies, Mercado Central Valencia, Cathedral of Valencia
Valencia definitely belongs on your Spanish bucket list. It’s known for being the City of the Arts and Sciences – and just like other Spanish cities, you’ll find one astonishing building next to another. In Valencia, you can easily combine buzzing nightlife with long chill days at the beach. And most importantly of all, paella was invented here!
Here you can read more about Valencia and why this city should be your next dream destination!
BUZZING BILBAO
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Guggenheim Museum, Mount Artxanda
Although it’s not one of the typical Spanish tourist hotspots, Bilbao is a buzzing city. Once you begin strolling through the streets, you won’t want to stop exploring. Compared to other Spanish cities, Bilbao’s surroundings are lush and green – but accordingly, the climate is a bit chillier.
Bilbao is only twenty minutes away from the coast, and it’s also near numerous ski areas – so whether you’re a water baby or a snow-lover, there’s something for everyone. The city is super versatile and wonderfully charming, with its colorful facades and architectural highlights.
Read more tips about Bilbao here.
ADVENTURE AND HIKING IN INNSBRUCK
Best time to visit: Anytime between the months of April and October
Highlights: The house with the golden roof, Bergiselschanze, hiking
Another dream destination if you like the outdoors and hiking is Innsbruck! This city amazed us in so many ways. With countless things to do and rich history, you will not be bored for a second. Innsbruck is also the perfect base for those who like skiing, hiking, and all kinds of other adventurous sports.
Read more about our adventures in Innsbruck here or the Inntaler Höhenweg hike here.
SIP SOME WINE IN PORTO
Best time to visit: Anytime between the months of April and October
Highlights: Ribeira, Livraria Lello, Sé Do Porto Cathedral
Porto is a small, charming city and is perfect for a quick getaway. The city is world-famous for its delicious fortified wines (that have been made here ever since the 17th century!) – so it’s a must-visit for any wine-lover.
Almost every facade is decorated with beautiful tiles, and you can eat delicious food for really reasonable prices everywhere, especially in the old town. You’ll love losing yourself in Porto’s picturesque streets and beautiful squares, and you’ll feel completely comfortable there due to the warm hospitality of its inhabitants.
Read all about the perfect city trip to Porto here.
STAY IN CLASSIC BARCELONA
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Collserola Park
Barcelona is a classic must-visit destination in Europe – and for good reason! Over the years, I’ve visited the city countless times and it has a special place in my heart. No matter how many times I visit, it continues to amaze me time and time again.
Make sure you take your camera and enjoy the many architectural delights like the world-famous Gaudi designs, the Sagrada Familia, and Park Güell. Spend the day wandering around Collserola Park, and then make the most of the vibrant nightlife throughout the evening.
It’s a dream destination as it seamlessly combines culture, good food, and beach relaxation.
Read everything you need to know about Barcelona here.
DISCOVER COPENHAGEN
Best time to visit: Anytime between March and October
Highlights: The many beautiful parks, Nyhavn, Christiania
Copenhagen is a tremendous city that needs to be on your 2020 travel bucket list. When it comes to transport, Copenhagen is definitely cycle-friendly, but it also has an excellent pedestrian network which makes a gentle ambiance around the city super pleasant.
Pay a visit to one of the beautiful parks, go kayaking down one of the many channels, and admire the authentic colorful houses in Nyhavn.
Read more about Copenhagen here.
ENJOY ZAKYNTHOS TO THE FULLEST
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Swimming among turtles, relaxing on one of the small islands, enjoying the delicious food
Zakynthos is a wonderful dream destination if you want to take a week off to recharge your batteries. It is the ideal place to unwind and calmly enjoy the sea and sun. All around the island you’ll find the most beautiful beaches where you can swim among the turtles. It’s also the perfect place to spoil yourself with some delicious seafood, so make sure you visit some of Zakynthos’ beautiful restaurants.
This part of Greece is known for its pleasant climate, and it’s a dream destination for both couples as families that simply want to relax. Make sure to visit Navagio viewpoint, for a beautiful view of the shipwreck and the bay. Or discover Cameo Island for a day.
You can read more tips about Zakynthos here.
BERLIN CALLING
Best time to visit: Anytime between March and October
Highlights: The Berlin Wall, Berliner Dom, Holocaust monument, The East Side Gallery
The trendy German capital truly has something for everyone, from historical places and museums to cutting-edge nightlife and hip coffee culture. To make the most of your experience, preferably visit the city during the spring or summer months.
During the winter Berlin can look cold and hostile (although this is far from true!). Give yourself enough time to explore the city, as it is expansive and impossible to get everything done on foot.
Berlin is perfect for a weekend break. While there’s plenty to see and do in the city center, I’d also recommend exploring by bike.
Berlin’s many cycle paths make getting around easy and enjoyable, and you can cover a lot of ground quickly this way. Highlights include the Reichstag building, the Berlin Wall Memorial, Alexanderplatz, and the iconic Brandenburg Gate.
Don’t miss out on trying some of Berlin’s colorful street art while you’re there either.
More info about Berlin can be found here.
LOVELY MADRID
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Plaza Mayor, Parque del Buen Retiro, Patrimonio Nacional
No list of dream destinations for 2020 would be complete without Madrid. You’re sure to fall in love with the Spanish capital’s countless squares, beautiful buildings, and delicious tapas. You can visit the city all year round, and hotels aren’t as expensive as you might expect.
Madrid is absolutely ideal for a girl’s trip, a romantic getaway, or a family trip. Be sure to stroll around the Salamanca area, and discover one of the countless quirky bars and local shops.
You can read more about Madrid here.
VISIT STOCKHOLM
Best time to visit: All year-round, but especially between March and October
Highlights: Stortorget, Hötorget & Södermalm
If you’ve only got a couple of days to spare, Stockholm is the perfect city trip for a short getaway. It’s a compact city so you can discover everything easily on foot or by bike, and you can refuel yourself at one of the cute coffee bars on the corner of every street.
We visited the city during New Year and enjoyed a romantic setting thanks to all the beautiful festive decorations, but it’s also a green city with picturesque parks so I can only imagine how gorgeous it must be during the summer! Tip: see the city from a different perspective by taking a boat trip.
Read more about Stockholm here.
STUNNING ROME
Best time to visit: All year-round, but especially between March and October
Highlights: Fontana Di Trevi, Spanish Steps, Old Roman Empire, Pantheon, The Vatican Museums
Rome is the ultimate dream destination if you are a culture lover! Stroll along the historical streets and visit all the famous landmarks!
You will need at least four full days to discover all the highlights like the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, the old Roman Empire, The Vatican Museums… You can discover most of the city on foot or grab yourself a Roma pass if you want to use public transport in Rome. Keep in mind that the summer months (July and August) can be extremely hot with temperatures around 40 degrees.
Food is an important part of Italian life, you won’t struggle to eat well during your European city break!
Read more about Rome here.
FLAMENCO DANCING IN SEVILLE
Best time to visit: All year-round, except during the hot summer months of June, July, and August
Highlights: Plaza De España, Real Alcázar de Sevilla, Casa De Pilatos, Metropol Parasol
Seville is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain you absolutely need to visit! Are you seeking a romantic getaway or looking for some time away with the kids?
Seville is one of the most perfect dream destinations to enjoy a little break! With annual temperatures averaging around 25 degrees, a city trip in Seville is perfect all year round! Visit the most famous square in town, Plaza de Espagña, and enjoy some typical Flamenco dancing along the way. Casa de Pilatos is home to one of the largest tile collections in the world and definitely worth a visit as well!
Enjoy some delicious Spanish tapas on every corner of the street. Seville is a great spot to explore more of southern Spain with a plethora of day trip options.
Read more about Seville here.
ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL AMALFI COAST ROAD TRIP
Best time to visit: All year-round, but especially between March and October
Highlights: Naples, Positano, Salerno, Amalfi, Sorrento
This coastal region is one of the most gorgeous and unique beach destinations in the world, the perfect dream destination for every occasion! Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno are the most visited places on the coast with the most beautiful beaches, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Explore Pompeii, the UNESCO world heritage site and archaeological park. If you prefer more of a city vibe with all things that Italy is known for – art, history, cathedrals, and shopping – head to Naples. Naples is also the largest city on the southern coast and is the perfect airport to land into to start your beautiful road trip!
Read more about Amalfi Coast here.
EXPLORE THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE ICELAND
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
Highlights: Geysers, waterfalls & glaciers
Iceland is not only one of the most beautiful places, but also one of the unique dream travel destinations. The landscape here is surreal and every turn on the Ring Road presents you with a new photo opportunity.
Plus there are tons of waterfalls, active volcanoes, and glaciers where you can enjoy ice walk tours. Black sand beaches on the southern coast of Iceland with basalt formations is one the dream places for photography!
So, when is the best time to visit Iceland? Well, this really depends on what you’re planning to do while you’re here. For example, if you want to see the northern lights then September and October are your best chances for clear skies.
But if you’re mainly interested in seeing Icelandic culture and natural landmarks, then March to May and September to November are your best bet.
32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (MIDDLE EAST)
SWIMMING IN THE DEAD SEA IN ISRAËL
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Swimming in the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv
Israël is one of our favorite trips we’ve ever taken as a couple – you can have a lot of fun during a short one-week stay. Visit the hip capital of Tel Aviv, where you can lie on the beach with a cocktail in hand all year long.
If you’re interested in history, culture, and religion, Jerusalem should certainly not be left out of your schedule. Also ensure you make time to go swimming in the Dead Sea, as it’s such a unique experience and is sure to be one you’ll never forget.
You can read more tips about Israël here.
VISIT THE DEAD SEA IN JORDAN
Best time to visit: February to June, September to October
Highlights: The ancient city of Petra, Mount Nebo & Madaba
Jordan is another one of those amazing dream destinations that many people have visited, but not nearly enough of us have actually seen. So this is one country that definitely makes it on to my travel bucket list for 2022.
Jordan’s ancient city of Petra is one of the seven wonders of the world, and certainly a highlight for anyone visiting Jordan. Together with other stunning attractions such as Mount Nebo, Madaba, and Wadi Rum, Jordan is a country that has something for everyone.
The Dead Sea is also located in Jordan and it’s the lowest point on earth. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the therapeutic properties of the saltwater. The area is also known for its therapeutic mud, which is said to have healing properties.
Read our guide on how to spend 7 days in Jordan
32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (NORTH AMERICA)
FALL IN LOVE WITH MIAMI
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Wynwood, The Everglades, kayaking with manatees
Miami is a dream destination to enjoy beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets and some scenic hiking trails. If Miami is on your travel bucket list, make sure you embark on an adventure between alligators in The Everglades, and kayak among the beautiful manatees.
Discover the hip Wynwood area, shoot some unique photos, and indulge in some retail therapy, then spend the evening enjoying the nightlife and variety of restaurants. To get the true American experience, you absolutely must attend a basketball game at The American Airlines Arena.
Finally, if you have the time, definitely make a trip to The Keys and enjoy one of the most beautiful car rides you can imagine.
You can read more about Miami here.
SAN FRANCISCO AKA THE ‘CITY BY THE BAY’
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Pier 39
San Francisco is a liberal city with a vibrant atmosphere and a mix of different cultures. It has countless good restaurants in all different international cuisines and it’s also home to several enjoyable shopping districts.
My main recommendations are to cycle over The Golden Gate Bridge, discover the second-largest Chinatown area in the US, enjoy a picnic in one of the beautiful parks, and visit the sea lions at Pier 39.
More info about San Francisco can be found here.
TAKE A BREATHTAKING ROAD TRIP ALONG THE WEST COAST OF AMERICA
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Yosemite National Park, Death Valley, Gambling in Las Vegas, Angel’s Landing hike in Zion National Park
A road trip along the west coast of America is an unforgettable experience. The journey will blow you away – make sure you’ve got a camera and lots of playlists to sing along to while you drive.
Each National Park has its own charms and character. Hike in Yosemite National Park, try to spot some bears in Sequoia National Park, or attempt one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park (or just admire the view instead!).
Walk to the world-famous Hollywood sign, enjoy doing nothing at Venice Beach in Los Angeles, explore Joshua Tree or have a gamble in Las Vegas – the to-do list is endless for this wonderful journey. You will not be bored for a second, guaranteed.
Read all about the perfect USA West Coast Road trip itinerary here.
EXPLORE LAS VEGAS
Best time to visit: March to May and from September to November
Highlights: Famous hotels & casinos, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon West Rim & Red Rock Canyon
If you’re looking to enjoy the bright lights of Las Vegas, the best time to visit is during fall when temperatures are very pleasant. However, it can get pretty chilly in winter so if this isn’t your thing then stick with the spring or autumn months.
Las Vegas is known for its casinos, hotels, and themed resorts. You can also visit the Hoover Dam or go on a tour at the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Read about our dream wedding in Las Vegas here.
GO ON A HIKE IN THE GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Best time to visit: May to September, February to March (avoid summer)
Highlights: The geologically rich landscape, Mather Point & Yavapai Point
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth and it’s not hard to see why. This vast, geologically rich landscape is a sight to behold and definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list.
There are numerous ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon – by foot, car, or raft. If you’re feeling fit, I recommend going on a hike along with one of the rim trails. Yavapai Point is closest to the South Rim of Grand Canyon Village and it offers a spectacular panoramic view of this world wonder.
VISIT NEW YORK CITY
Best time to visit: Between April to early June, or around September to early November
Highlights: Statue of Liberty, Manhattan, Times Square, Empire State Building, hiking trails nearby
New York City is the world’s most-visited city. There are so many amazing things to love about NYC from visiting Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, to taking in the panoramic view from The Empire State Building.
But this is one city where it’s not all about “the sights” – I think New York City should be high up on anyone’s travel bucket list because it has so much to offer. The best food you can ever eat, plenty of culture and entertainment, great shopping… the list goes on.
The best time to visit New York City is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant. Of course, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds. But I think it’s worth it to experience everything that this amazing city has to offer.
Discover the most beautiful state in the USA here
SEE LAKE LOUISE IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Best time to visit: June to August and December to March
Highlights: Lake Louise, Columbia Icefields & Banff town
Lake Louise is probably one of the most photographed areas in Canada. It’s also a great place for skiing during winter. Although it can get pretty cold here, winters are still so much fun as it gets fewer crowds than summer months.
Lake Louise is located inside the Banff National Park, which is one of Canada’s oldest national parks and it’s located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. This area is popular for skiing, hiking, camping, and fishing. You can also explore the Columbia Icefields, which is the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains.
Visiting Banff National Park in winter also gives you an opportunity to chase northern lights in places like the Vermillion Lakes, close to the townsite.
32 DREAM DESTINATIONS FOR 2022 (South America)
MAKE AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY THROUGH PERU
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado, Arequipa, Ballestas Islands
Peru is a travel bucket list item that you simply have to tick off. Traveling around this beautiful country takes you from icy mountain peaks to one of the seven wonders of the world, the Machu Picchu.
The variety of this must-visit destination is breathtaking – you go from dry desert plains one day to green jungle settings the next.
On your way, you will be accompanied by parrots, butterflies, macaws, sloths, porcupines, crocodiles, tarantulas, snakes, anacondas, and jaguars. In short, it’s certainly a trip that you will remember for the rest of your life.
You can read more about Peru here.
BECOME ONE WITH NATURE IN CHILE
Best time to visit: All year round
Highlights: Conguillío National Park, Curiñanco reserve, Santiago
Are you a nature lover? If so, Chile is a country that you absolutely need to visit. It is an easy country to travel through, and one of the safest in South America – its warm, friendly people make you feel welcome everywhere.
Hike the Sierra Nevada Trail in Conguillío National Park and make your way through China Muerta. Visit the fairytale village of Huilo Huilo and enjoy a wonderfully scenic wander through Nahuelbuta National Park.
Read more about Chile here.
So there you have it – 32 dream places for 2022 that I think everyone should add to their travel bucket list. I hope you get to visit at least one of these amazing places in the next year!
Got a question about some of the recommendations in the blog? Feel free to leave a comment below.
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Super mooi 👍 proficiat👌👌👌
Knap !!!
Zo lief! Dank je!