Do you have a spot on your bucket list to tour every continent? If so, then good for your wanderlustful soul.
But here’s a better question for you – do you know the most visited attractions on every continent? After all, if checking off that bucket list is on your travel to-dos, you should probably get the scoop on where to go and what to do when you’re visiting, right?
So without further adieu, here are the most visited attractions/popular destinations on every continent.
Johannesburg, South Africa – AFRICA
Johannesburg is the biggest city in South Africa and the most visited in all the safari land of the continent. Boosting 40+ art galleries and studios, Johannesburg is a great place for travelers looking to immerse themselves in culture. In addition to its art scene, Johannesburg is popular for its UNESCO-listed archeological area that displays the birth of humankind and the Johannesburg Zoo and Lion Park for all those exotic wildlife lovers.
Times Square, New York City – NORTH AMERICA
It shouldn’t come as a shock that New York is the most visited spot in North America, with Times Square being the most visited attraction. In fact, Times Square is not only the most visited destination in the U.S. and North America … it’s the most visited place in the whole world. With nearly 42 million annual visitors, the bright flashing lights of NYTS is a commercial junction and brilliant sight to behold. Offering among the best places in entertainment thanks to the famous Broadway Theater District and shopping and dining districts, the hustle and bustle is one of a kind.
Machu Picchu, Peru – SOUTH AMERICA
Nestled high in the beautiful Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is South America’s most iconic archeological site sprawling with ancient Inca ruins that draw millions of visitors every year. Jam packed with temples, towers, terraces, walls and more – most of which defy laws of architecture thanks to their mortar-free construction – Machu Picchu isn’t just a cultural hotspot, it’s one of the most breathtaking places in the world.
Winter Paradise – ANTARCTICA
It may not be the first place you think of traveling on your quest to tour all 7 continents, but in order to put a checkmark on that bucket list, you need to tackle the South Pole. Luckily, Antarctica is incredibly beautiful, albeit freezing. And there’s no better place to visit in Antarctica than Winter Paradise. With its still waters and jaw-dropping icebergs. It’s nothing short of magical, and on a typical summer day you can take in an albatross gliding through the sky or leopard seals basking in the sun as you go on an iceberg tour.
Thailand – ASIA
China and Japan used to be the most sought after Asian tourist destinations, but recently Thailand has been the go-to Asian escape. Whether you’re searching for the more hustle and bustle of Bangkok or looking for the more pleasant and peaceful northern capital, Chiang Mai, Thailand has plenty to offer travelers. From beautiful temples and mountains to cultural festivals and more, Thailand is as stunning as it is affordable.
Dublin, Ireland – EUROPE
Finding the most desired European destination is a tough one because there are so many places to consider, each offering their own unique charm, culture and attractions. But every year, Ireland seems to be around the top of the crop. It could be due to the large Irish immigration of people wanting to see where their ancestors lived. It could be the excellent drinking selection, thanks to Guinness’ brewery being a staple among visitors. Or, it could be the friendly hospitality and culture that sweeps the rolling hillsides and quaint towns. Whatever it may be, it brings nearly 6 million visitors to the country every year – that’s more tourists than the approximate 5 million locals who actually live on the island.
Sydney, Australia – AUSTRALIA (OCEANIA)
It’s hard to imagine, but Australia is actually as big as the United States. And while it may not be as overall inhabitable as the U.S., that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most sought after (but unfortunately expensive) tourist destinations. And among all those down under cities, Sydney is the most visited. It’s not only the continent’s largest city, it’s also home to some of the coolest architecture in the world – looking at you, Sydney Opera House – and boasts a lively entertainment scene with some of the best eats in the world. Also, who doesn’t love a good Australian accent?
Have you been to any of these “world’s most sought after destinations?” Maybe you’ve snapped some pics of the Sydney Opera House or New York Times Square while on vacation years ago. If so, we can help you preserve those photos so you don’t have to worry about losing your memory of wanderlust. Send them to us and we’ll digitize them, so you can add them to the new collection of photos you’re going to take on your next continent adventure.
