How Many Of The 20 Most Beautiful Countries Have You Visited?

News | Trending

How Many Of The 20 Most Beautiful Countries Have You Visited?

Wallup / Love This Pic

If you're looking for a holiday destination that's great for taking stunning travel photos, you're in luck.

Travel planning company Rough Guides have unveiled their annual list of the 20 most beautiful countries, and each entry is more gorgeous than the last. Bear in mind that Rough Guides is a British company, which might explain America's ranking...

How many entries on this list have you visited?

20. Vietnam

Most Americans only learn about this country through history books, but there's so much more to discover. From bustling cities to gorgeous rural vistas, Vietnam has something to excite every kind of traveler.

19. Croatia

Formerly a part of Yugoslavia, today Croatia is one of Europe's best-kept-secret travel destinations. One of the biggest reasons to visit is Game of Thrones, which films at lots of the country's most famous landmarks.

18. Ireland

Tourist spots like Blarney Castle and the Guinness Storehouse draw big crowds, but there's lots to do in Ireland that won't cost a dime. Everywhere you look there are cliffs, hills, and quaint little villages.

17. Norway

Most people overlook this country tucked way up north, but if you bring a camera along you'll run out of space for photos before you stop seeing breathtaking landmarks, including waterfalls and glaciers.

16. Peru

If you're itching for a trip south of the border, you can't go wrong with Peru. This country's ancient Inca civilization left lots of ruins to explore, including the Temple of the Sun in Machu Picchu.

Not into ruins? There are another 15 great locations to visit...

15. Switzerland

If skiing the Alps isn't your cup of tea, touring this country's other natural wonders will keep you entertained. Follow the Swiss Riviera to see the sights at lake Geneva, and sneak in a trip to the Rhine Falls.

14. Finland

The best way to tour Finland is on foot, whether you're touring the market stalls in Helsinki or following the country's many walking trails. Keep an eye open at night, because Finland is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

13. India

Wherever you point your camera in India you're sure to snap a memorable photo. There are historic forts, palaces and monuments to tour, and lucky tourists have even captured dolphins swimming through the Ganges River.

12. Mexico

Most Americans have visited our southern neighbor once or twice, but there's lots of sights you're sure to miss if you only go to the tourist hotspots. Try visiting the beautifully preserved Xcaret ecopark, or the Mayan ruins at Coba.

11. Slovenia

Another former Yugoslavian country, Slovenia's cities draw inspiration from a unique mix of sources, and the country's landscape is also one-of-a-kind. Make sure to stop by the Postojna caves, an old underground railway network that stretches for over 3 miles.

10. Wales

Part of the United Kingdom, Wales has its own rich history and culture, which you can see preserved in its many castles and fortresses. Stop by the waterside Caernarfon Castle for the best photos.

9. America

Of course we know how beautiful our country is, but it's nice to know travelers from around the world feel the same way. If you want a road trip destination that's off the beaten path, try one of America's most beautiful small towns.

8. Iceland

No other country in the world looks like Iceland. From volcanoes to glaciers and even beaches covered in black sand, there are tons of must-see landscapes on this tiny island.

7. England

Whether you like touring the big city or the remote countryside, you'll find fine examples of both in England. Ancient sites like Stonehenge and Hadrian's Wall draw crowds, but hiking along the Jurassic Coast offers just as many great photo opportunities.

6. Indonesia

The rainforests on this chain of islands are home to orangutans, monkeys and colorful birds, but also ancient temples full of incredible artwork and sculptures.

So which countries cracked the top 5?

5. South Africa

There's no better place to see Africa's big game animals up close than Kruger National Park, but South Africa's lesser-known nature preserves are also full of beautiful sights. Try hiking Table Mountain, or visiting the elephants at Addo.

4. Italy

Even if you've been to Italy before, this country's sheet beauty is always surprising. You'll have to fight for a spot in front of the Trevi Fountain or the Tower of Pisa to snap a photo, but it's worth the hassle.

3.  New Zealand

It's easy to see why the epic Lord of the Rings movies were filmed in this country. New Zealand's huge vistas look like they belong in a fantasy world, and even if you're not a fan of the films there's lots to see.

2. Canada

With snowy peaks, clear lakes and wide, sunny prairies, there's a little bit of everything to see north of the 49th parallel.

1. Scotland

Modern cities, ancient ruins and a timeless landscape combine to make Scotland the world's most beautiful destination. Of course you have to stop by Loch Ness and search for the famous monster, but also plan a trip to Arthur's Seat, and a hike through the beautiful sights around the Ben Nevis mountain.

How many of these countries have you visited?  

[H/T: Rough Guides]

I write about all sorts of things for Shared, especially weird facts, celebrity news, and viral stories.