Whether you’re an avid world traveler or a homebody at heart, there are certain places that can evoke feelings of awe and wonder. With breathtaking views, impressive landmarks, mouthwatering cuisine, and nonstop entertainment, these cities deliver a small piece of paradise to natives and visitors alike.
Here are four iconic cities to etch onto your imaginary bucket list and visit at least once in your lifetime!
Paris, France
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Paris is the ideal getaway spot for a romantic rendezvous. Even if you don’t have a partner to accompany you on the journey, however, you can still take advantage of all that Paris has to offer.
Kick off your day with brunch at Café Kitsuné, where you’ll enjoy coffee, croissants, baguettes, and authentic French pastries with a modern atmosphere.
While Paris is virtually synonymous with the legendary Eiffel Tower, keep in mind that there are dozens of world-famous landmarks to explore in the City of Light. For example, the Louvre is the world’s largest museum and home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Afterwards, stop by Notre-Dame de Paris and feast your eyes on its 14th-century gothic architecture.
If you’re feeling adventurous at dinnertime, give escargot a try. Then, cleanse your palette with an authentic éclair or a couple of macaroons!
New York, USA
When visiting the Big Apple, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its gargantuan buildings and crowded streets. However, breaking up your NYC trip over a few days can make the experience less daunting.
If you’re a shopaholic, New York offers several hundred retail options to fulfill your cravings. Of course, the city is also known for its bevy of dining options. After getting your fix of the city’s iconic street food items, make sure you treat yourself to a slice of authentic New York-style pizza and a piece of New York-style cheesecake for dessert.
No New York City trip is complete without witnessing Central Park—an oasis tucked away in a concrete jungle. Break up your afternoon with a peaceful stroll through its lush gardens.
At sunset, visit one of the city’s most famous monuments—including the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and last but certainly not least, Ellis Island’s Statue of Liberty. Soak up every moment of the world’s most recognizable skyline!
Finally, don’t pack your bags until you’ve seen a live Broadway show! Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked are just a few of the legendary titles that are often in rotation.
Tokyo, Japan
Whether you prefer bustling streets with entertainment options galore or calmer environments with stunning views, Japan’s capital city manages to blend the best of both worlds.
There are countless ways to experience Tokyo at its most bombastic. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of Japanese baseball by seeing a Yomiuri Giants game at Tokyo Dome. If visiting in the summer, catch the annual Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival. Prepare to splurge in Akihabara, one of Toyko’s largest districts and shopping hubs.
Behind the high-octane environment and flashing neon lights, however, there are relaxing activities to enjoy in Tokyo as well.
If visiting in springtime, take advantage of the cherry blossoms being in full bloom with a casual stroll through Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park, or Shinjuku Gyoen. You can also soak up Nagasaki’s natural beauty with a sightseeing cruise, or bask in the Aichi natural hot springs at Toyokawa’s Korona Onsen!
Rome, Italy
Rome is one of the world’s most ancient cities, and to this day, it is littered with all kinds of historic landmarks and venues.
Start your sightseeing journey with a trip to Trevi Fountion. This attraction measures an impressive 85 feet high and 160 feet wide, and features several statues of Roman gods against the backdrop of the Palazzo Poli palace. Next, stop by the Pantheon, a chapel where multiple Italian icons—such as Raphael and Baldassare Tommaso Peruzzi—are buried beneath your feet.
Make sure you witness the Colosseum in all its glory, the amphitheater where hundreds of thousands of Roman gladiators once fought to the death. Today, it is considered one of the seven wonders of the world!
Get a taste of authentic Italian cuisine at Lido 84, Life Ristorante, or Italy’s most famous restaurant, Osteria Francescana. You can even embark on a food tour to ensure you experience all of the area’s top establishments. After dinner, it’s time to head over to Teatro dell’Opera or I Virtuosi dell-opera di Roma for a night at the opera. No one does it better than the “Eternal City!”
