8 Great Cities Everyone Should Visit Before They Die

Not to worry.

Listed below are 8 great destinations you must visit before you die. (Seriously, I’m not taking no for an answer!) We’ll also take a look at some of the most popular attractions you should visit while you’re there.

So, what do you say? Let’s get started!

1. London

There is nowhere in the world like London. From the architecture to the Royals – as a tourist, it’s hard to get bored in the rich history of this city.

Although London is a magnificent place to visit, it can get expensive very quickly. So, you’ll need to save up some dough if you p lan on visiting and enjoying all the city has to offer.

But, don’t let the price tag scare you off. One easy way to reduce costs and stretch your budget is to grab a sightseeing card like the London Pass. This particular pass provides free entry to more than 80 of the top places to visit in London. I’m talking about places you need to see anyway, like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Hampton Court Palace, Windsor Castle, and more.

Personally, I love London. I think it makes a great introduction for first-time travelers to Western Europe – especially if you’re a native English speaker.

2. Paris

If you’re looking to visit the heart of European culture, look no further than Paris. Home to some of the world’s best art, architecture, and food, the City of Lights is one spot that definitely needs to be on your list.

Give yourself permission to be cheesy because grabbing a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower is a must. The Louvre, the Palace of Versailles, and Notre Dame Cathedral are also “can’t miss” attractions.

In addition to sightseeing, Paris is also known as the “Culinary Capital of the World.” Along with popular French standbys, Paris also has a host of restaurants experimenting with new ways to cook. So, if you’re adventurous, check out some experimental food while you’re there!

3. Rome

You’ve heard of the Ancient Romans, right? Why not take a trip to Rome to transport yourself 2,000 years back in time by visiting some of history’s most well-preserved ancient monuments?

Rome is actually my favorite city in the world. Every time I go, I stand in awe of places like the Roman Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Trajan’s Market.

But, ancient ruins aren’t the only thing Rome has going for it. The city is also home to a treasure trove of exceptional art and architecture. It feels like everywhere you turn, one street is more incredible than the next.

As you wander around the city, you’ll also notice dozens of fountains lining Rome’s buildings and public piazzas. Thanks to some magnificent ancient engineering, aqueducts still provide the city (and the fountains) with an abundance of water even today.

Other reasons to visit Rome include:

• The Pantheon
• Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums
• Dozens of piazzas and churches built during the Renaissance and Baroque periods
• The Papal Basilicas
• The magnificent paintings, sculptures, and artwork you find everywhere you go

4. Bangkok

Europe certainly doesn’t have a monopoly on spectacular cities. Asia has a lot of awesome places to visit too.

And once you’re there, traveling through Asia can be pretty darn cheap. In fact, we recently did a survey and found that the top 16 cheapest places to travel were all in Asia. How’s that for affordable?

When it comes to Southeast Asia, Bangkok is the place to be. As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is known for its ornate shrines and vibrant nightlife. Of course, I also find that Thai food is to die for!

Some of the top things you should do in Bangkok include:

• Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
• The Floating Markets
• Chinatown

5. New York City

We can’t leave the Big Apple off the list, can we?

New York City is a place you need to experience at least once in your life. There really is nowhere else like it.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and – of course -Times Square is a must in terms of top things to do in NYC. If you get the chance, catching a musical on Broadway is also a blast.

As you’re wandering through NYC’s unique neighborhoods, be sure to check out the amazing food the city has to offer. People from around the globe call New York home, and this fact alone makes the city’s food scene one of the best you’ll find.

To get a true taste of New York, be sure to grab a bite from a food truck or street vendor. Your adventurous palate won’t regret it…probably 😊

6. Budapest

As the capital city of Hungary, Budapest is one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in all of Europe. Split in half by the Danube River, the cities of Buda and Pest were first founded as fortresses during the Middle Ages. In 1849, the Chain Bridge was completed, linking the cities together. Finally, in 1873, they officially merged to form Budapest.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Szechenyi Baths – one of the largest thermal bath complexes on the continent. Its 21 pools make it a great spot to relax and unwind.

Other attractions to see while you’re in Budapest include:

• A Danube River cruise
• St. Stephen’s Basilica
• The Parliament Building
• Castle Hill and Buda Castle

7. Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a popular beach city in Brazil that is known for its beautiful views, iconic structures, and exciting nightlife. The gigantic Christ the Redeemer Statue towers over the city while the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches make a great place to relax.

If you get a chance, take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain. Even better, visit the city during its Carnival festival and enjoy the flamboyant costumes, floats, and parades all on display.

Don’t like mountains, statues, or parties? You can book an open-air Jeep ride to explore the Tijuca Tropical Rainforest instead, and enjoy one of the world’s largest urban forests.

8. Cairo

Are you itching to explore Ancient Egypt? Cairo is the perfect spot for you.

Built on the Nile River, Cairo (and its surrounding area) is packed with some of the world’s oldest and richest history. Honestly, this place is a history lover’s dream come true.

Some of the top things to see and do in Cairo include:

• Great Pyramid of Giza
• Great Sphinx of Giza
• Luxor
• Nile River Cruise on a Dahabiya
• Old Cairo

Where Will You Go?

The world is packed with amazing places, and these are just a few spots you should visit at least once during your life.

So, where will you go? Have you visited any of these cities before? Which places would you add to the list?

Thanks so much for reading, and please leave your suggestions in the comments below!

Greg Johnson is a personal finance and frugal travel expert who leveraged his online business to quit his 9-5 job, spend more time with his family, and travel the world. He is the co-owner of the popular blog Club Thrifty, where he teaches others how to spend less and travel more.

Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Airbnb is the market leader but you’d be surprised how you can find cheaper deals on the lesser-known VRBO.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.