Top 15 dream vacation destinations to wish list for 2027

Visiting Kenya makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a nature documentary. On a nature and wildlife tour, watch elephants roam beneath Mount Kenya, spot big cats across the Maasai Mara, and take in endless savanna landscapes where every turn brings the possibility of something unforgettable. It’s wildlife, wilderness, and wonder in one spectacular trip.

Even the thought of Greece brings a smile to travel lovers’ faces—and no, that’s not just because of “Mamma Mia.” It’s one of those destinations that truly has something for everyone. Wander among ancient ruins in Athens, get on island time in whitewashed villages, and watch the Aegean shimmer beneath brilliant blue skies. Add in legendary food, storied history (both real and mythological), and sunsets worth traveling for, and it’s easy to see why Greece belongs toward the top of any dream-trip list.

Japan is a bucket list destination for travelers who want a little bit of everything. One moment you’re surrounded by neon-lit city streets; the next, you’re standing before a centuries-old temple. Add unforgettable cuisine, meticulous traditions, peaceful gardens, and a fascinating blend of old and new, and Japan becomes the kind of destination you’ll want to experience more than once.

The scale of Egypt’s history is hard to wrap your head around until you’re standing in front of it. The pyramids rise from the desert, ancient temples line the Nile, and stories of pharaohs and mythology are woven into the places you visit. For anyone with a fascination for the ancient world, Egypt is one of those dream destinations that deserves a spot near the top of the travel wish list.

Scandinavia feels like a place designed for slow travel and spectacular scenery. Think: sparkling waterways, dramatic fjords, colorful waterfronts, elegant capitals, and crisp Nordic air. From cosmopolitan city streets to landscapes that seem almost otherworldly, this corner of Europe offers a dream trip with plenty of room to breathe.

Peru is one of those rare bucket list travel destinations where ancient civilizations, extraordinary wildlife, and surreal landscapes collide. Hike through the Andes, explore cities shaped by Inca and Spanish history, and marvel at archaeological wonders surrounded by misty mountains. And if you’re going all this way, why stop at Peru? The nearby Galapagos Islands make the ultimate addition to an already unforgettable adventure.

Scotland feels tailor-made for travelers who love a good story. Wander through atmospheric cities, gaze across rolling Highland hills, follow rugged coastlines, and discover castles seemingly plucked from a legend. Add centuries of history, Celtic traditions, cozy pubs, and adorably furry Highland cows, and you have a destination that feels both timeless and thrilling.

Getting to Australia requires quite the journey for North American travelers, but the payoff is out of this world. Dive into the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, explore vibrant cities, encounter extraordinary wildlife, and make your way between urban skylines and sweeping coastal and natural landscapes. It’s the kind of far-flung destination that rewards travelers with new thrills around every corner.

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast has pretty much everything you want from a Mediterranean getaway: clear blue water, medieval towns, beautiful islands, fresh seafood, and plenty of history. The scenery is a big part of the draw, but so is the pace. This is a place where an afternoon swim or a long dinner by the water can easily become the highlight of the day, making it one of the best dream vacation spots for travelers seeking a relaxing escape.

Sardinia offers a quieter take on the Italian getaway. There are turquoise waters, rugged coastlines, charming villages, and traditions that remain an important part of island life. It’s beautiful without feeling overdone, making it especially appealing for travelers looking for somewhere that feels a little less expected.

Brazil is a destination you experience with all your senses. There’s samba in the streets, golden beaches, colorful cities, lush landscapes, and a culture that knows how to celebrate life. From the energy of Rio to the colonial charm of Paraty and the creative pulse of Sao Paulo, Brazil brings color, rhythm, nature, and culture together.

Morocco makes a lasting impression. The colors of its souks, the street performers at its night markets, the tranquil energy of its hammam spas, and the vast Sahara all feel worlds away from home. From bustling cities to Atlas Mountain landscapes and desert dunes, Morocco offers a world of contrasts to discover.

Switzerland looks almost too perfect to be real. Snow-dusted Alpine peaks rise above crystal-clear lakes, storybook villages nestle into green valleys, and scenic trains turn getting from one place to another into a jaw-dropping experience. Add chocolate, charming towns, and three distinct cultural regions, and you have a dream destination in every season.

Think all dream destinations require a passport? Think again! U.S. citizens can easily visit America’s national parks. These bucket list travel destinations showcase some of the most dramatic scenery on the planet, from towering canyons and red rock formations to alpine peaks, forests, and geothermal wonders. For travelers craving the ultimate road trip, these legendary landscapes never fail to stun.

Iceland is a true feast for the senses. Waterfalls tumble over black-rock landscapes, beaches are dotted with glacial ice that sparkles like diamonds, and the northern lights dance across the sky in need-to-see-it-to-believe-it splendor. Add volcanic scenery, rugged coastlines, and long stretches of open wilderness, and it’s easy to see why Iceland earned its spot as one of the best vacation destinations of 2026 and 2027.