most popular tourist cities in asia

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

25 Best Cities to Visit in Asia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on October 6, 2023

Not only the largest continent on Earth but the most populous too, Asia is home to some of the most astounding and alluring cities in the world. The sheer variety and diversity means that each city has its own unique look, feel, and identity, with something new to discover wherever you go.

While some are renowned for their fantastic culinary scenes and pounding nightlife, others boast breathtaking historical sights and cultural landmarks. Their settings vary too: some are set on beautiful bays while others are perched amongst the mountains or nestled away in arid deserts.

Home to millions of people who speak unique languages and showcase rich cultures and religious beliefs, Asia’s many cities are delightfully different from one other. As such, there really is somewhere for every type of traveler to enjoy.

25. Luang Prabang [SEE MAP]

Lying in the north of Laos at the point where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers join, Luang Prabang is certainly set in a scenic spot. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest, and waterfalls, it has lots of incredible kayak trips, river cruises, and treks for you to enjoy.

While its natural wonders are a treat to explore, the small city also boasts a rich cultural, and religious heritage. Home to a number of important Buddhist temples and monasteries, its name in Lao actually means ‘Royal Buddha Image.’ Long ruled by France, the city also has some lovely old villas that date back to colonial times.

Offering up an enchanting mix of history, nature, and culture, Luang Prabang is well worth checking out if you have the chance.

24. Bukhara [SEE MAP]

Steeped in history, Bukhara is a magical place to visit, with mausoleums, madrassas, mosques, and minarets wherever you look. Located on the old Silk Road, the city has long welcomed travelers and traders, scholars, and scientists to its ancient streets.

Set amid the dry and arid confines of the Kyzyl Kum desert, the ‘City of Museums’ is home to an astounding array of historic buildings that date back centuries. The architecture is magnificent, and losing yourself in the atmospheric old town is the best way to see its many sights.

The ancient city still hums with life, however, and while wandering around town, you’ll come across lots of market stalls selling amazing local handicrafts. With so much for you to see and do, Bukhara really is the highlight of any trip to Uzbekistan.

23. Mumbai [SEE MAP]

The commercial capital of India, the port city of Mumbai is one of the most populous metropolises in the world. As such, everyone and everything can be found within its sprawling confines.

Located on the west coast, Bombay, as it was once known, is a fast, frenetic, yet fun place to explore. In many ways, the city defies definition: it is not only home to the glitzy world of Bollywood but pervasive poverty in its endless slums.

While its crowded streets can be somewhat suffocating, Mumbai boasts some absolutely stunning colonial-era architecture, centuries-old temples, and marvelous monuments. With a fantastic culinary scene and pounding nightlife for you to delve into, Mumbai is well worth persevering with.

22. Manila [SEE MAP]

One of the most densely populated cities in the world, the Philippines’ chaotic capital can be a bit hard to fall in love with at first sight. It is well worth persevering, however, as its towering skyscrapers and traffic-filled streets hide away lots of wonderful and unique places.

Founded by the Spanish back in 1571, the city is set on the shores of Manila Bay, with Pasig River running through it. Old and new seamlessly mix together in Manila as modern shopping malls lie alongside colonial-era churches and cathedrals.

Full of trendy bars, artisan markets, and avant-garde art galleries with some great nightlife also on offer, the ‘Pearl of the Orient’ is certainly one of Asia’s greatest megacities.

21. Taipei [SEE MAP]

Located in the north of Taiwan, the island nation’s capital of Taipei is a fascinating place to visit. This is because the city boasts a rich and unique cultural heritage, with American, Japanese, and Southeast Asian influences all on show.


As such, you’ll find Taoist temples lying next to Japanese-era mansions, bustling markets, and immense skyscrapers. Of its many museums, the National Palace Museum is particularly worth visiting for the insight it offers up on the island’s history and culture.

Besides its many sites of interest and thriving arts and culture scene, Taipei also has lots of fabulous shops, restaurants, and bars for you to try out. With lots of entertainment options also on offer, Taiwan’s capital really does have it all.

20. Xi'an [SEE MAP]

Although it is famous for being home to the world-renowned Army of Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an in the north of China actually has much, much more to it. Boasting more than 3,000 years of history, the city has a staggering array of archaeological and cultural sights for you to delve into.

Not only the capital of 13 different Chinese dynasties, it was also once the terminus of the Silk Road. As such, trade, wealth, and people from all different walks of life poured into the city, with each epoch and generation leaving its mark on Xi’an.

With incredible tombs and pagodas alongside Ming-era city walls and the magical Muslim Quarter, this marvelous city is a delight explore.

19. Kathmandu [SEE MAP]

Stretching as far as the eye can see, Kathmandu fills the valley in which it lies with its colorful and chaotic sprawl. Known as the ‘City of Temples,’ Nepal’s capital certainly has a wide array of centuries-old historical sights and cultural landmarks for you to check out.

Durbar Square, for instance, has over 50 beautiful temples, while Hanuman Dhoka has lots of magnificent palaces and courtyards for you to enjoy. While history is all around you, the country’s rich cultural heritage lives on in the vibrant religious festivals that regularly take place.

The largest city in Nepal, Kathmandu is an exhilarating but equally exhausting place. Visiting is a must, however, before heading on to the majestic mountains and towering peaks of the Himalayas.

18. Phnom Penh [SEE MAP]

Once known as the ‘Paris of the East,’ Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh is slowly re-emerging and reawakening after decades of colonialism, war, and revolution.

Lying on the banks of the Bassac, Mekong, and Tonle Sap rivers, the bustling city boasts the breathtaking Royal Palace, as well as a number of grand boulevards and French colonial buildings. Many of its historic sights, however, are sadly related to the tragic events that took place in the country in the ‘70s.

With lots of cozy cafes, atmospheric bars, and fantastic restaurants, Phnom Penh is slowly putting its past behind it and once again turning into a popular tourist destination.

17. Chiang Mai [SEE MAP]

Located in the north of Thailand on the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai has long attracted traders and travelers to its shores.

See also: Where to Stay in Chiang Mai

Once the capital of the Lan Na Kingdom, its historic center is protected and surrounded by ancient city walls. Enclosed within them, you can find amazing temples, pagodas, stupas, and museums, with Wat Phra Singh being its most famous attraction. While the city has a lovely laidback feel to it, its marvelous night bazaar bustles with life and is not to be missed out on.

Surrounded by lush rainforests and picturesque countryside, with pretty mountains not too far away, Chiang Mai is a great alternative or addition to Bangkok’s busy streets.

16. Jerusalem [SEE MAP]

Fought over, destroyed, and rebuilt numerous times over the millennia, Jerusalem really is unlike anywhere else on Earth. This is because it is home to some of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism’s holiest sites.

Within the Old City walls, you can find not only the Western Wall but the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. History really is on show wherever you look, and its ancient streets teem with pilgrims who have come to pay their respects. Each of its quarters has its own unique identity, and getting lost in their warren-like streets is all part of what makes Jerusalem so magical.

While its many archaeological sites are captivating to visit, the city also has some brilliant art galleries and museums for you to enjoy. Divided between Israel and Palestine, Jerusalem certainly has lots of different and equally delightful sides to it.

15. Hanoi [SEE MAP]

The second-largest city in the country, Vietnam’s capital Hanoi exhibits a fascinating mix of Chinese, French, and Vietnamese influences. As such, splendid colonial-era buildings can be spied alongside ancient temples and pagodas, some of which date back a thousand years or more.

See also: Where to Stay in Hanoi

Impressive historical sights are never far away in Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One-Pillar Pagoda count among its most popular attractions. The city also hosts a number of excellent museums that offer interesting looks at the country’s history, heritage, and culture.

While Hanoi’s scooter-filled streets can be quite loud and chaotic, peace and tranquillity can be found in any one of its cute and charming cafes and restaurants. With lots of lively street markets, Vietnam’s capital is a great place to pick up some local handicrafts and souvenirs.

14. Kyoto [SEE MAP]

Widely reputed to be the most beautiful city in Japan, Kyoto is a treat to visit. The nation’s capital for over a thousand years, it sports lots of incredible historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Dotted about its ancient streets, you’ll find wonderful palaces and idyllic gardens, with 2,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to check out. Of these, the Imperial Palace, Kinkakuji Temple, and Ryoanji Temple are the most impressive.

In addition to this, its historic district of Gion is also well worth exploring. It is here that you can find lots of geishas and traditional inns. While Kyoto is lovely to visit at any time of year, it is particularly magical when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

13. Jaipur [SEE MAP]

Lying in the northeast of the country, ‘the Pink City’ – as it is known – is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, and with good reason.

Although it is primarily known for the massive and majestic Amber Fort, the city boasts a whole host of beautiful palaces, temples, and monuments. Of these, Jantar Mantar and the City Palace are the undoubted highlights on show.

The capital of Rajasthan state, Jaipur is colorful and chaotic in equal measure; this is what makes it so fun to explore. With rickshaws whizzing past you and gorgeous rose-colored buildings wherever you look, Jaipur serves as a wonderful introduction to India’s many riches.

12. Shanghai [SEE MAP]

One of the largest, most populous, and most important cities in not just China but the world, Shanghai has something for everyone to enjoy.

Lying at the point where the Yangtze Estuary joins the East China Sea, the city’s skyline is dominated by a myriad of skyscrapers. Hidden away among them though are an astounding array of architectural styles, with Buddhist temples on display alongside Art Deco edifices.

See also: Where to Stay in Shanghai

Renowned for its fabulous culinary scene and pulsating nightlife, it is also one of the best places to go shopping in the world. With a thriving arts and culture scene, Shanghai, with its infinite possibilities, is one of Asia’s must-visit cities.

11. Ho Chi Minh City [SEE MAP]

The cultural and commercial capital of the country, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city. Formerly known as Saigon, it is very different from Hanoi in terms of identity and outlook.

Buzzing with life, the city is a fun yet frenetic place to explore, with something going on at every hour of the day. With so many different sides to it, Ho Chi Minh City caters to all budgets and preferences, whether that’s in terms of dining and accommodation, shopping, or entertainment.

Historical and religious sites also abound, as colonial-era buildings lie beside magnificent museums, age-old pagodas, and modern malls.

10. Agra [SEE MAP]

Located in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra is known for one thing and one thing only – the Taj Mahal.

Built by the Mughal emperor in 1658, the mausoleum certainly makes for a majestic sight and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in India.

Besides its gorgeous white marble features, Agra is also home to lots of pretty temples, gardens, and tombs, with its fantastic fort being its other main highlight. In addition to this, many people combine their visit to Agra with a stop at Fatehpur Sikri – a walled city and imperial palace that lies nearby.

9. Seoul [SEE MAP]

A sprawling metropolis, Seoul is home to almost half of South Korea’s population. As such, it bustles with life as people throng about its massive shopping malls and lively night markets.

While it appears to be very modern at first sight, pockets of historic sights remain here and there. Chandeok-gung Palace, for instance, is definitely worth visiting, as are its numerous temples and brilliant museums. Nature, too, is never far away, as many magnificent mountains lie nearby in Namsan and Bukhansan national parks.

Renowned for its cuisine, Seoul also boasts lots of excellent restaurants and street markets for you to try out. With culture, cuisine, history, and nature all on offer, South Korea’s capital has it all.

8. Delhi [SEE MAP]

Home to an endless array of different sights, sounds, and smells, India’s bustling capital of Delhi threatens at times to overwhelm the senses.

Exploring its hectic streets is an infuriating but intoxicating experience as you pass colorful markets and tantalizing street food stalls. With impressive shrines, temples, tombs, and mosques wherever you look, history, culture, and tradition are all around you. Of its many sights, the imposing Red Fort is the highlight.

Despite being a noisy, chaotic, and polluted place, Delhi is one of the country’s undisputed gems. Visiting is simply a must when in India.

7. Kuala Lumpur [SEE MAP]

Very multicultural in nature, Malaysia’s capital of Kuala Lumpur is a mesmerizing melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. It is these diverse communities that have so profoundly impacted the city’s look, feel, and identity.

See also: Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Consequently, visitors will find majestic minarets and mosques, alongside ancient temples and the massive Petronas Towers – the city’s defining feature. Gigantic shopping malls are also on offer, as well as a thriving arts and culture scene.

Its multicultural make-up has also blessed Kuala Lumpur with lots of delicious cuisines, so no visit can be complete without sampling some of its brilliant street food.

6. Beijing [SEE MAP]

One of the largest and oldest cities on Earth, Beijing teems with astounding historic sights and cultural landmarks that date back centuries – if not millennia. While the Forbidden City and Summer Palace count among its most famous sites, the city has much, much more going for it.

As it was the capital of three imperial dynasties, the city is dotted with splendid temples and parks. Theaters, museums, and art galleries also abound, while the Great Wall of China – one of the nation’s must-see sights – lies nearby.

The capital of present-day China, Beijing is a fascinating place with lots of exquisite art, culture, and cuisine for you to delve into.

5. Tokyo [SEE MAP]

Lying at the center of the world’s most populous metropolitan area, Japan’s futuristic capital is an exhilarating place to explore.

Renowned for its skyscraper-filled skyline and embracing cutting-edge technology, the neon-lit city stretches away endlessly before you. Interspersed among its towering blocks are awe-inspiring temples and museums that proudly showcase Japan’s rich heritage and history.

See also: Where to Stay in Tokyo

Whether you’re into cuisine and calligraphy or cherry blossoms and consumer products, Tokyo certainly has something for everyone to enjoy. Creative, innovative, and quirky in equal measure, the massive metropolis is not to be missed out on when in Japan.

4. Dubai [SEE MAP]

Rising from amid the desert, Dubai’s epic skyline is a testament to humankind’s creativity and engineering prowess. Transformed by oil money, the once-sleepy seaside settlement is not only one of the commercial and cultural capitals of the United Arab Emirates, but the Middle East as well.

Very cosmopolitan, Dubai constantly pushes the boundaries of what is possible. As such, it is home to the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building) and the human-made Palm Islands.

In addition to this, it is also a shopper’s dream, while its culinary and nightlife scenes are just as fun and fresh in terms of what they offer. History and heritage are also never far away, and the endless sands of the Arabian Desert are just begging to be explored.

3. Singapore [SEE MAP]

Lying at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, the city-state of Singapore is a very compact, convenient, and cool place to visit.

One of the most densely populated cities in the world, it is home to lots of skyscrapers, modern shopping malls, and bustling neighborhoods. There is a surprising amount of nature however, with the beautiful Botanic Gardens being particularly delightful to relax in.

See also: Where to Stay in Singapore

As it is very multicultural, the city’s Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences can be seen wherever you go. Singaporeans are obsessed with food, and the many eateries, restaurants, and street food stands all serve up lots of local delicacies.

2. Hong Kong [SEE MAP]

Proudly proclaiming itself to be ‘Asia’s World City,’ Hong Kong is certainly very different and distinct from the mainland. This is because the harbor city was formerly a British colony and was only returned to China in 1997.

See also: Where to Stay in Hong Kong

Attractive to both businesses and tourists alike, it sports many excellent restaurants, bars, and shops, with historic and cultural sights also on offer. In addition to this, the city is home to Disneyland and Ocean Park, both of which are very popular with families.

Remarkably, much of Hong Kong is actually made up of mountains and parks, with Victoria Park boasting incredible views of both the city’s iconic skyline and Victoria Harbor. The perfect mix of culture, nature, and entertainment, Hong Kong is one of the world’s greatest cities.

1. Bangkok [SEE MAP]

Colorful and chaotic, Bangkok is the cultural, commercial, and spiritual heart of Thailand. The nation’s capital is also home to some of the friendliest and most welcoming people in the world; this is, in part, what makes it so alluring.

See also: Where to Stay in Bangkok

Lying on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the vast city has lots of different sides to it. You can find ancient temples and palaces sitting alongside lively street markets and a pulsating nightlife scene. On top of all of this, it also boasts one of the best culinary scenes on the planet.

Rapidly modernizing yet still full of age-old traditions and customs, Bangkok is the best of what the ‘Land of Smiles’ has to offer up.

Map of the Best Cities to Visit in Asia

Share this post:

6 Best Day Trips from Singapore

Where to Stay in Singapore: 8 Best Neighborhoods

18 Top Tourist Attractions in Singapore

10 Most Amazing Destinations in South China

Where to Stay in Hong Kong: 8 Best Neighborhoods

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

7 Best Day Trips From Hong Kong

17 Top Things to Do in Jerusalem

15 Best Things to Do in the Seychelles

Visit Meroë: The Mysterious Pyramids of Sudan

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Asia bucket list: 20 best cities in Asia you should visit

Want to travel to Asia but don’t know where to go? Here are the best cities to add to your Asia bucket list .

With amazing natural landmarks, stunning landscapes, beautiful cities, breathtaking temples, and friendly people, Asia is a continent full of diversity and beauty that every traveler would like to experience.

And the fact that it’s one of the cheapest continents to travel in makes it a perfect destination for many travelers especially those on a budget.

Traveling to Asia especially in South East Asia means that you get to see immense amazing beauty, beautiful temples and incredible Unesco World Heritage sites for a low budget.

In fact, here are some of the cheapest countries in Asia you can visit to enjoy what Asia has to offer even on a shoestring budget.

But with all the breathtaking beauty and beautiful cities in Asia, it can be hard to choose what to add to your Asia Bucket list.

So in this post, I’ll be showing you all the best cities in Asia that you need to visit at least once.

Best cities to add to your Asia bucket list

1. bali, indonesia.

Known for its forested mountains and beautiful long beaches, Bali is like the capital of Asia for tourists who want to unwind, relax and soak in all the amazing beauty.

Filled with a number of activities to do, Bali is a popular tourist destination for all kinds of travelers.

Whether it’s laying on the beach all day, awakening your spiritual side by participating in yoga and other spiritual lessons, going island hopping, exploring rice terraces, immersing yourself in the culture and history by visiting major temples, soaking in the hot springs, or visiting Bali’s beautiful waterfalls, there are a lot of things to do add to your Bali itinerary .

Some of the best places to visit while in Bali include the Besakih Temple which is one of the most important temples in the area and probably the most photographed, Nusa Dua to enjoy a relaxed moment at the beach, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces to be blown away by the amazing beauty, Ulun Danu Bratan Temple and Mount Batur for outdoor lovers and hikers.

2. Cappadocia, Turkey

Located in Eastern Turkey approximately 9 hours away from Istanbul , Cappadocia is easily referred to as one of the most magical places in Asia.

If you hang around Instagram, you’ve probably seen pictures of hot air balloons flying over the beautiful distinctive fairy chimneys creating a magical sight that can only be appreciated in full when physically seen.

And it’s not only the cluster of tall cone-shaped rock formations that make Cappadocia one of the best places in Turkey but also the impressive cave hotels that you can only find in this Asian city.

Whether it’s going for a hot air balloon flight over the fairy chimneys in Monks Valley, exploring the numerous caves or becoming Instagram famous by taking incredible photos at the Sultan Caves suites, there are a number of things to enjoy in Cappadocia.

Some of the places to visit in Cappadocia include the rock castle at Uchisar to get the best views over the area since its the highest point in Cappadocia, Gerome Open Air Museum to see the catholic churches that are carved inside a mountain, Cavusin to explore more caves, and Derinkuyu to see the largest underground city in the Cappadocia.

Cappadocia is truly one of the best cities in Asia to watch amazing sunsets and take incredible hikes while learning more about Turkey’s culture and history. It’s definitely worth adding to your Asia bucket list.

Read more: Best things to do in Istanbul, Turkey Things to know before visiting Istanbul, Turkey

3. Phuket Island, Thailand

Located in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand .

If you want to explore some of the top-notch beaches in the country, then head to Phuket and you’ll be welcomed by almost 30 beaches to choose from.

It’s not just laying on beaches and surfing all day long, Phuket also has a number of vibrant towns that the young and old will enjoy alike.

Want to treat yourself to amazing seafood, Phuket offers a variety of cheap and freshly cooked seafood that will bring a foodie out of any kind of traveler.

Whether it is hopping from one beach to another, participating in all kinds of water sports, signing up for a cooking class, going for a Thai massage, or chasing waterfalls, there are a number of things to do that make Phuket a bucket list destination in Asia.

On top of that, there are some other places you shouldn’t miss visiting like the Big Buddha which is a popular landmark in Thailand, Wat Chalong which is the most popular Buddist temple on the island and the Phuket elephant sanctuary .

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Dotted with skyscrapers that occupy the skyline, Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital and one of the best cities to visit in Asia.

Forget the small cities of Asia, this bustling and industrial city of Malaysia is full of life that can be seen in the number of possible things to do there.

Though it’s the Petronas Twin Tower that makes Kuala Lumpur famous, this under-rated city of Asia has more to offer to all types of travelers.

Whether it is spending a sunny afternoon at the Sunway Lagoon, have your mind blown away by visiting the Museum of Illusions or climb the Menara Kuala Lumpur Tv Tower for the most spectacular views over the city, you’ll be glad you visited this city.

Some of the other places to visit in Kuala Lumpur include the China town to see the Sri Mahamariamman Temple , the National Mosque , the Sultan Abdul Samad Building , and the impressive Thean Hou Temple .

Read more : Cheapest countries to visit in Asia

5. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Want to see some of the popular temples in Asia, then head to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

Siem Reap might not be one of the most beautiful cities per se, but the immense concentration of temples, with Angkor Wat being the main one has made it a really popular destination.

It is actually one of the most visited places in Cambodia and it’s not surprising at all!

Though vising Angkor Wat is the highlight of a trip to Siem Reap, there are other things to do in this city.

These range from touring the Lotus farm to get an in-depth understanding of how luxurious fabrics from lotus flowers are made, spending an evening of fun at the Angkor Night Market to having an amazing time at Cambodia’s lauded circus at Phare Ponleu Selpak.

While you explore Siem Reap, some other places you shouldn’t miss include the entire Angkor Wat complex , the Angkor National Museum , Land mine Museum and Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre if you love butterflies – it’s actually the largest Butterfly Centre in the whole of South-East Asia.

6. Tokyo, Japan

If you want to escape to a big city in Asia, Tokyo which is Japan’s capital is the ultimate city Asia bucket list.

Though it’s a big megapolis city with millions of people, you can still find your way in this capital.

What even makes Tokyo a bit different from other Asian cities is that you can expect to have a little bit of everything.

From strolling around skyscraper buildings, immersing yourself in the traditions of Japan by visiting temples to indulging yourself in the local Japanese cuisine.

Yes, you can still learn about the culture and traditions even in the busiest city in Japan.

There is definitely a number of things to do in Tokyo but the ones you shouldn’t miss include visiting temples like Meiji Shrine , Kanda-Miojin Shrine , Senso-Ji Buddist Temple , visiting the Tokyo Tower for panoramic views over the city and exploring Asakusa area for the greatest shopping experience in Tokyo.

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

Located in central Vietnam in Quang Nam province, Hoi An is Unesco world Heritage center that is commonly known for its well preserved ancient town.

A stroll in the Ancient town will take you back in time as you discover the history and culture of Vietnam that lies in this little fishing place.

From the yellow-painted buildings to the lanterns that are dotted around the town, this little town has not changed much since the old days and that’s what makes it charming.

While in the ancient town, make sure to visit the museums of Hoi An, explore the ancient tombs of Japanese traders which have increasingly become a popular tourist attraction.

On top of visiting the ancient town, there are a number of things to do in Hoi An which include exploring the riverside at dusk – which is arguably the most beautiful place in Hoi An, visiting Ba Mu Temple , exploring the Japanese bridge or joining the Lantern festival if you visit at the right time – the festival happens on the 14th day of each Lunar month.

8. Cebu, Philippines

Receiving over 2 million foreign travelers a year, Cebu has increasingly become a popular destination over the years.

From gorgeous sand beaches, hidden waterfalls, swirling mountains and hills to untouched nature, Cebu is the perfect bucket list destination in Asia.

One of the things that makes Cebu a popular destination in the Philippines is the Kawasan Falls in Badian which is a three-tiered cascade that is blessed with turquoise water.

If you want to escape the crowds while still enjoying top-notch beaches, then head to Bantayan Island. This small fishing village is not yet overrun by tourists but it’s beautiful beaches and lagoons are perfect for singles and couples alike.

Other than escaping to beaches and participating in water sports, other things to do in Cebu include; visiting Grandeur of the Temple of Leah which is regarded as the Taj Mahal of Cebu, hiking the Osmena Peak which is the highest point in Cebu treating you to breathtaking views, climbing the 81 steps of the Cebu Taoist Temple , and indulging yourself in Cebu’s history by visiting the Spanish Artifacts at Fort San Pedro .

9. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is the Capital of South Korea and the largest metropolitan city in the country.

It is a diverse Asian city that boasts itself with modern and insanely sky-high buildings for city lovers, big palaces and temples for spiritual and history lovers and also beautiful mountains for hikers.

The diversity of the city makes it a perfect Asia bucket list destination for all kinds of travelers.

One of the best things to do in Seoul is to go up the N Seoul Tower where you’re guaranteed to get the best views over the city.

To immerse yourself in South Korea’s history and traditions, you can visit palaces and temples like Jogyesa Temple , Changdeokgung Palace , Gyeongbukgung Palace , and the Gwanghwamun square.

Since it’s a city for all types of travelers, hikers can also satisfy their wanderlust by hiking the old city walls for amazing views over Seoul or even embark on a more serious trail by hiking Bukhansan mountain .

10. Agra, India

Home to the famous Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the best cities in Asia that you should add to your bucket list.

Since the mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is the top tourist attraction, travelers are able to have an up-close look at one of the New wonders of the world and get to know the history of this white marble masterpiece.

However, traveling to Agra is not just about visiting the majestic Taj Mahal, there are a number of things to do and see in this Indian city of Agra.

One of those things is to visit the Red fort also known as the Agra fort. It is the second famous building in the city after the Taj Mahal.

Other places to visit in Agra include the Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, Yamuna River to fully understand the way of life of the locals, The Tomb of Itimad Ud Daulah. You can also explore the bazaars of the Old City for a more local feel.

And while exploring Agra, you can check out some of these best places North India that are worth visiting.

11. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and the biggest city in the country that is full of vibrant life and at the same time popular for its ornate shrines.

Whether it’s the noisy sound of hooking tuk-tuks during the rush hour, the many street food stalls, the never-ending chaos, Bangkok may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but when you get past all that, you’ll enjoy this Thailand’s capital.

Bangkok is literally the capital of street food, so while you’re there, make sure that you don’t miss out on the street food tasting spree.

If you’ve seen floating food markets in photos before, you’ll be able to see them while in Bangkok.

Some of the other places to visit to get the best of your Bangkok trip include the Grand Palace , Reclining Buddha , Wat Traimit temple , and the Golden Mount Temple.

And if you want to take a break from the busy life of Bangkok, you can go for a boat ride in Chao Phraya River or even relax from a Thai massage.

12. Bagan, Myanmar

Enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site, Bagan is an ancient city in Myanmar that is mostly famous for Pagodas and impressive temples.

Even though Myanmar had been closed off from tourists in the past years, it has now become a popular destination in Asia receiving over 3.5 million foreign travelers per year and Bagan is the ultimate stop.

Aside from exploring the immense number of temples and Pagodas in Bagan, there are a number of things to.

From watching a magical sunrise/sunset over Bagan to taking a hot air balloon ride over the same, there is nothing more magical than that!

And if you’re interested in learning more about Buddism in Myanmar, you can visit a monk Monastery and they will give you all the information about the belief.

I agree, exploring Bagan can be exhausting, hopping from one temple to another. So when that happens, relax your mind by taking a sunset boat cruise on the Irrawaddy River.

13. Beijing, China

Beijing might be the world’s populous city with skyline buildings and immense technology, but this bustling Chinese capital is also full of ancient palaces and sites that attract tourists when coupled together.

The city is also home to the country’s major tourist attraction, the Great wall of china which also one of the major landmarks in China .

From diving into Chinese history & culture to appreciating the incredible city life, there is so much to do in Beijing.

Some of the things to do include; visiting Tiananmen Square where the modern-day People’s republic of china was formed, exploring the Imperial Palace and the Forbidden City complex , visiting the Summer Place which is regarded as the most beautiful place in the country.

Other places to visit in Beijing include; The Temple of Heaven , Beijing capital Museum , National Museum of China , Beihai Park and so many others.

14. Luang Prabang, Laos

Consisting of over 33 temples, Luang Prabang is a charming city in northern Laos that was enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site because of its interesting culture and traditions.

Just like many of the Asian cities, Luang Prabang is blessed with a number of temples but the prominent ones not to miss include; the Buddha’s Footprint Temple , Wat Xieng Thong , Wat Hua Xiang , and Wat Mahathat.

And to cool off from exploring all the temples, head to Kuang Si Waterfall which is the most visited attraction in Luang Prabang. It is a three-tier turquoise waterfall that is perfect for a dip and it’s absolutely possible to swim in all the spots.

Whilst exploring Luang Prabang, other attractions to visit include the Royal Palace Museum , Pak Ou Caves , a hike to the top of Mount Phousi and if you visit in the dry season, you can walk across the Bamboo bridge .

15. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei may not be one of those Asian cities that immediately come to mind when you think of traveling to Asia, but this Taiwan capital has proved to be a great gem that is worthing adding to your Asia bucket list.

From skyscrapers, nature, history to everything in between, Taipei has a lot to offer to all kinds of travelers.

The first thing you should do while in Taipei is to take in the city views from Taipei 101 which is one of the tallest buildings in the world and the most iconic structure in the country. And what’s even more exciting is riding the world’s fastest elevator as you go up.

In addition to taking in a bird’s view over Taipei from Taipei 101, some of the incredible things to do include; exploring the Chinese history and culture by visiting the National Palace Museum , hiking up the Elephant mountain for amazing city views, relaxing your mind from the Thermal waters at Beitou Hot Springs or spending some time exploring the many temples in the city.

16. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the most popular and most culturally significant city in this part of the country.

With a mix of culture, amazing nature, great food, incredible landscapes, it’s not hard to see why Chiang Mai is one of the best cities to visit in Asia.

One of its unique features is the Sticky waterfalls which draws a lot of adventure travelers. Unlike other waterfalls, this one is actually “sticky” like the name suggests which means that you can easily climb it with slipping.

It’s not just waterfalls in Chiang Mai, you can paddle across the river with a Bamboo raft , explore the numerous temples (like Wat Phra Sing, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man or Wat Saen Fang ), visit Doi Inthanon National Park , and if you visit in November, be sure to celebrate Loy Krathong with the locals.

Chiang Mai is also a hub of museums, so if you’re a traveler that is on a cultural journey, you can explore a number of them. The most common ones are The National Museum of Chiang Mai, Lanna Folk Art Museum, Chiang Mai Cultural and Artistic Center , and the Museum of World Insects and Natural Wonders to see a unique collection of insects.

17. Bohol, Philippines

Commonly known for the Chocolate Hills, Bohol is one of the popular destinations in the Philippines that is worth visiting on your Asian trip.

From incredibly beautiful waterfalls, cave pools, to island hopping, Bohol is filled with so much adventure that travelers will enjoy.

Some of the incredible things to do in Bohol include; diving in one of the many waterfalls with the most beautiful being Dimiao “Twin Falls”, Can-Umantad Falls, Pangas waterfall, and Camugao Falls , gazing at the beautiful Cadapdapan Rice Terraces , visiting the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary to see the famous Tarsier, or lazying it out on Bohol’s beautiful beaches like Panglao Beach , and Alona Beach .

And to crown your Bohol trip style, make sure that you walk on the Hanging Bamboo bridges that cross Sipatan River.

18. Mumbai, India

Mumbai is one of those Asian cities you’d love to hate. Being the largest and most populous in the country, some travelers are always wary about visiting it due to its chaotic nature.

But if you’re able to look beyond the chaos and noise, you’ll end up loving this cosmopolitan city of India.

From visiting the famous building of Mumbai Taj , catching an amazing sunset at the Gateway of India , delving into India’s history by visiting the Elephanta Island to visiting the Prince of Wales Museum , there is so much to in Mumbai.

Some of the other places to visit in Mumbai include; Haji Ali Dargah Mosque, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and Global Vipassana Pagoda . On top of these, don’t forget to try out India’s famous street food.

Related post: 10 best ways to survive in India as a tourist

19. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is not different from other Asian cities.

Great food, interesting history, immense culture, and busy streets are some of the things you can expect to experience in the city of Hanoi.

Some of the things that make Hanoi worth traveling to include; visiting the Old Quarter to experience the city like a local, exploring the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minch , wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake , and visiting the Hanoi Opera House which is the most beautiful building in the city

If you’re traveling on a budget , (even if you’re not actually), join a free walking tour of the city to get to know everything about this Vietnamese capital.

20. Kandy, Sri Lanka

Enlisted as a Unesco World Heritage site, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s capital of culture.

It is a popular city in Sri Lanka especially since it’s a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and also home to the beautiful Tooth Relic Temple.

Some of the best things to add to your Sri Lanka itinerary include strolling the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, visiting the Historic Three-Temple loop of Kandy, and visiting the Embekke Devalaya Temple which has carved wooden pillars.

Other points of interest not to miss in Kandy are the Big Buddha, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Gadaladeniya Temple and Lankathilake Vihara.

There you have it, folks. If you were looking for cities to add to your Asia bucket list, I hope that this post gave you a number of options to consider.

Have you been to any other cities in Asia that are worth being on this list, you can drop your recommendations in the comment section.

More bucket list posts to inspire your wanderlust

• Most Romantic Places to visit in the world
• Bucket list places to visit in Paris
• Bucket list places to visit in Europe
• Best places to visit in North India
• Most Romantic Places to visit in Europe

L iked this post? Please Pin it

Similar Posts

10 Best things to do in Dubai for all kinds of travelers

Wondering what to do in Dubai? Here are the 10 best things to do in Dubai plus some of the major Dubai tourist attractions. Dubai is a fun, vibrant city with many attractions and delightful activities in store for visitors. It’s not easy to cull out the 10 best things to do in Dubai, but…

Chinese Landmarks: 20 Most Famous Landmarks in China Worth Visiting

Traveling to China and looking for places to visit? Here are the most famous landmarks in China that you shouldn’t miss. From Chinese monuments to the natural wonders of China, these are the must-see places. Officially the People’s Republic of China, it is the most populated country in the world, with around 1.3 billion citizens….

What is China Famous for? 23 Things Associated with China That You Probably Didn’t Know

What is China famous for? If you’re curious about this, then I am here to nurse your curiosity by sharing some of the things that make China stand out! As an ever-growing economy with a mix of traditional temples and grandeur skyscrapers, China is a country you’ll love and hate at the same time due…

23 Cheapest Asian Countries to Visit This Year

Want to travel to Asia on a budget? Here is the list of the cheapest Asian countries to visit plus the daily budget of each country. Despite being the largest continent in the world and hosting some of the most expensive countries like Japan and Singapore, Asia is still one of the favorite destinations for…

12 Best Places to Visit in North India

Planning to travel to India? Here are the best places to visit in North India from Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Agra to Jodhpur. A land of outstanding cultural and historical treasures, northern India offers palaces and religious temples with an extraordinary range of architectural wonders. In terms of landscapes, you will not be disappointed between the…

India travel tips: 10 Things to know before traveling to India

India is an incredible country to travel to but can also be challenging. So here are the practical tips on how to survive in India as a first-time visitor. If you can survive in India you can survive anywhere in the world India, the simple evocation of this country is enough to boil the blood…

Hi Esther! Found you via Pinterest.. NIce bucket list!

Bali is wonderful (I’m from Indonesia!). Phuket and KL are also both great for different reasons. Bohol, Philippines is new to me…adding to my list! No Hong Kong?

Hey, where is that first picture at the top, with the low waterfall, from? Keep up the great work!

Hi AJ, I am glad you found the bucket list helpful! Yes, Bali is truly beautiful as other destinations on this Asia Bucket list! And I agree, Hong Kong is also beautiful so it deserves to be on the list.

The photo is from Badian, Cebu in the Philippines!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 15 Favorite Cities in Asia of 2023

India and Japan won big with three reader-favorite cities each in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Lila Harron Battis is a freelance writer and editor. She was previously a senior editor at Travel + Leisure .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

When your vacation kicks off with at least 11 hours on a plane, expectations are understandably high. But for T+L readers, a skip-hop across the Pacific (or even taking the, shall we say, scenic route with a layover in Turkey) is well worth it for a chance to experience some of Asia’s most thrilling urban destinations. Whether you’re honeymooning in a dreamy Indian capital or eating your way through an awe-inspiring Japanese megalopolis, this year’s reader picks for the 15 best cities in Asia all share a wealth of options for fantastic food, layers of history, and a glimpse at the magic that happens when ancient history and modernity intersect.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

toonman/Getty Images

This year’s picks stretch from coastal Japan (Osaka, at No. 11) to western India (Mumbai, at No. 6) and as far south as the Balinese city of Ubud (No. 3). Several readers cited incredible experiences in second-place finisher Kyoto, highlighting both its innate beauty and a cultural richness “that combines the old and new,” as one voter put it. “The scenery is breathtaking; the gardens make you want to meditate and embrace the moment,” according to one traveler. “The friendliness of the local people can’t be beat,” said another. 

Impeccable, welcoming service was a throughline across several of these cities. On a trip that crossed through both Siem Reap (No. 9) and Luang Prabang (No. 8), one reader “felt like royalty,” thanks to the exceptional hospitality they encountered at every turn. Perhaps the experience of visiting any of these cities can perhaps best be summed up by one reader’s glowing review of Tokyo: “worth every penny and every jet lag hour you can experience in your life.” 

Read on to find out this year’s first-place winner and see the full list of the best cities in Asia, according to T+L readers.

Udaipur, India

MR.ANUJAK JAIMOOK/Getty Images

Udaipur is no stranger to the top spot on this list: in the last five years alone, it’s nabbed first place twice. Nicknamed the City of Lakes for the seven bodies of water in the vicinity, this Rajasthani destination sits on the banks of Lake Pichola, nestled within the heart of the Aravalli Range. Among travelers, its most famous sight is the labyrinthine City Palace complex, an ornate granite-and-marble waterfront fortress that’s practically a town unto itself. The lake and mountain vistas alone would make for striking scenery, but fold in romantic architecture like that of City Palace and you’ll understand why multiple readers called out Udaipur’s striking beauty. 

1. Udaipur, India

Reader Score: 93.33

2. Kyoto, Japan

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 92.06

3. Ubud, Indonesia

Reader Score: 91.73

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 90.30

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 89.99

Reader Score: 89.79

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Reader Score: 89.49

8. Luang Prabang, Laos

Reader Score: 89.44

9. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Reader Score: 88.80

10. Singapore

Reader Score: 88.78

11. Osaka, Japan

Reader Score: 88.05

12. Jaipur, India

Reader Score: 87.95

13. Hoi An, Vietnam

Reader Score: 87.86

14. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Reader Score: 87.64

Reader Score: 86.73

Related Articles

• The Best Asian Countries to Visit
• Asian Countries with Beautiful Landscapes
• Top Countries to Visit in Southeast Asia
• The Best Cities to Visit in Asia
• Ranking the Most Beautiful Cities in Asia
• The Tallest Buildings in All of Asia
• Amusement Parks in Asia

The Best Asian Cities to Visit

List of top Asian cities to visit. What are the most visited Asian cities? This list ranks the most popular Asian cities to see. From China to India, Thailand and Japan, Asia is the world's largest and most populous continent with many important cultural and financial centers in the world. There are many places of attraction in Asia, but what are the best destinations in Asia? 

Asia has much to offer, from beaches and villages off the beaten path to spiraling cities and bustling tourist attractions. The complexity and expansive size of the continent makes Asia one of the most fascinating places on Earth. Though the larger cities often see the most tourism, there are also many budget-friendly cities to visit in Asia. Hanoi, Vietnam's capital city, offers some of the most affordable -- and delicious -- dining in Asia. Thailand is also gaining popularity among Westerners looking for an affordable adventure. Backpackers flock to Chiang Mai's night markets and low key bars, while tourists delight in the shopping mecca that is Bangkok. 

While aggressive city life is part of the fabric of many major Asian cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo and Seoul, other visitors flock to the tranquil beaches and sleepy towns that dot the entire continent. In the countryside, tourists can find quiet villages with rice farms stretching for miles. 

Kuala Lumpur

Ulaanbataar

Vladivostok

Quezon City

• Cities / Towns
• Places/Travel

14 Best Places to Visit in Asia

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Sep 24, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Asia is the largest continent by both size and population-a diverse, multicultural melting pot of some of the oldest civilizations on earth. There's so much to see and do in Asia, it's hard to narrow it down to a shortlist-it could take you months to truly explore just one country.

For those on a tighter schedule or budget, the secret to discovering the best places to travel in Asia is to see a bit of everything-from the skyscrapers of Hong Kong to the majestic slopes of Mount Fuji and the architectural marvel of places like Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Regardless of what you truly want to experience in your travels through Asia, there's surely a spot somewhere to fill that need. To help you plan the trip of a lifetime, take a look at our list of the best places to visit in Asia.

1. Mount Fuji, Japan

2. dead sea, israel, 3. phuket, thailand, 4. beijing, china, 5. hoi an, vietnam, 6. hong kong, 7. angkor wat and siem reap, cambodia, 8. singapore, 9. kingdom of bhutan, 10. kathmandu, nepal, 11. jaipur, india, 12. luang prabang, laos, 13. bagan, myanmar, 14. bali, indonesia, map of places to visit in asia.

Although Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano, it hasn't erupted since 1708. The stunning snowcapped mountain is one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains," which are traditionally considered to hold a particular power-Mount Fuji has volcanic power.

If this doesn't sound ominous enough, the base of the mountain is also home to Aokigahara. Also known as "The Suicide Forest," this dense forest growing on hardened lava is home to ice caves, a combination that absorbs sound and creates an eerie feeling of solitude.

While many visitors come here to just photograph this World Heritage List Cultural Site and well-known symbol of Japan, others arrive for the climbing opportunities. Until the late 19 th century, women were not allowed to make their way to the summit (which is still considered a sacred site), so visitors of all ethnicities, genders, and ages now arrive to make up for lost time.

There are four possible routes to reach the top of the mountain , and all offer a number of stops along the way in the form of shrines, historical monuments, and even teahouses.

You may also want to plan your visit to Japan around the spring cherry blossoms, another popular tourist attraction.

• Read More: Exploring Mount Fuji: A Visitor's Guide

The dark blue waters of the Dead Sea touch the borders of both Jordan and Israel. Actually a lake despite its name, the Dead Sea sits at the lowest land elevation on Earth -over 430 meters below sea level. With a salt concentration of around 31 percent-almost 10 times saltier than the ocean -the Dead Sea is so thick, nothing can sink into it, and everyone who walks into it will naturally float.

While the coastline around the lake has become a flourishing spa and resort destination, there is also a large influx of religious tourism in the area. Jericho, the city where Jesus is said to have healed blind beggars, is located just minutes northwest of the Dead Sea-and a number of other cities, including the legendary Sodom and Gomorra, as well as Zoar and Admah, are also located in this area. The area boasts some of the oldest inhabited cities in the world.

While the lake is too salty to support aquatic life, there are plenty of animals that call the surrounding desert home-and hikers will run into anything from hares to foxes and leopards when exploring the nature reserves around the Dead Sea.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dead Sea Region

Thailand's biggest island is also a magnet for visitors-and for good reason. Phuket boasts some of the best beaches in the country , with clean, soft, rolling sands and turquoise waters as far as the eye can see.

Kata , Hat Karon , and Kamala beaches see a lot of tourists during the high season (November to February) but remain sleepy little villages once the rains arrive. Beautiful coral reefs line up the coastline, offering amazing opportunities for snorkeling and diving but also sea kayaking and island hopping.

In between hours of lying under the sun, visitors can head to the white and gold Wat Chalong , the largest and most important Buddhist temple on the island, or climb up a hill to reach the Big Buddha-a 45-meter-tall statue covered with Burmese marble.

The island is also home to a number of unique festivals. The Ghost Festival during the 7th Chinese lunar month is dedicated to ancestor worship, and it entails releasing lanterns into the ocean to help guide lost souls-a sight to behold.

The Vegetarian Festival during the 9th Chinese lunar month is another stunning celebration-which, despite the name, is not so much about food but about purification and putting the body through extreme tests, such as fire walking and hanging from hooks.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Phuket Island

One of the most populous cities in the world, Beijing is also one of the oldest. You can get a peek into that history by walking the hutongs of Beijing, the narrow alleyways lined up with traditional homes and courtyards.

China's capital is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the Imperial Summer Palace and its gardens, the oldest canal in the world, and the Forbidden City -a palace complex that served as the home of China's emperors for 500 years starting in the 1420s. The Forbidden City-made up of almost 1,000 different buildings-is one of Beijing's most impressive tourist attractions.

The city also offers visitors many unique-looking pagodas and temples, including the 12 th -century, eight-sided Tianning Temple, as well as almost 150 museums and galleries.

The Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution and the National Art Museum of China have massive collections and are well worth a visit.

Several sections of the Great Wall can also be found within Beijing, including the wall's most visited site, the 80-kilometer-long Badaling section.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Most visitors arriving in Vietnam land in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City , or head straight to Halong Bay and the beach-but Vietnam's best place to visit is actually a well-guarded secret.

The ancient city of Hoi An is home to one of Asia's oldest trading ports and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . A major commercial stop for trading ships as far back as the 15 th century, Hoi An still maintains much of its original architecture in the form of timber frame buildings, colorful French-colonial shutters, and Chinese tiled roofs. Religious buildings, courtyards, and shophouses sit side by side on narrow alleyways all across Ancient Town, Hoi An's historical center.

Every full moon cycle, Hoi An celebrates the Lantern Festival , which honors ancestors through light. On the night before the full moon, all the lights in the Ancient Town are turned off, and colorful lanterns and candles are placed on windows, inside houses, and on boats lazily floating down the river.

Visitors at other times of the month can walk Hoi An to discover the Museum of History and Culture (originally a pagoda dedicated to the Goddess of Compassion, Guan Yin); the 17 th -century covered Japanese bridge ; and the Old House of Tan Ky , a preserved 18th-century merchant's house.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hoi An

Over 7.4 million people from all over the world occupy the small 1,104-square-kilometer island of Hong Kong, making it the third most densely populated place in the world. Despite having one of the world's highest per capita incomes, income inequality has become one of Hong Kong's main issues, and lower-income families often live in crowded tenement buildings. The buildings themselves have become tourist attractions, as many are historic structures dating back over a century.

Hong Kong also has the largest number of skyscrapers in the world at 355-an impressive 75 more than the city in second place, New York . A good number of these are located around Victoria Harbor , a popular tourist area with one of the most stunning coastal skylines in Asia.

For the best views , visitors can climb to the top of Victoria Peak, HK's highest hill and home to a leisure and shopping complex with an enclosed viewing terrace looking over the city below.

Hong Kong is home to a Disneyland park , as well as Ocean Park, an amusement park with rollercoasters, thrill, and water rides.

The cobble-stoned streets that make up the Lan Kwai Fong district have a considerable large number of upmarket restaurants and clubs, while Lantau Island attracts tourists looking for the more spiritual side of Hong Kong. Lantau is home to the 34-meter-tall Tian Tan Buddha statue (one of the largest sitting Buddha statues in the world), waiting at the top of a steep hill.

Other popular things to do include shopping at the street markets and hiking or walking , either in the city or on Hong Kong's Outer Islands .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

The resort town of Siem Reap is better known as being the gateway to the Angkor region and the magnificent temples left behind by the Khmer civilization. The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was built in the early 12th century and stretches over an area of over 160 hectares.

Siem Reap itself is an exciting mix of Chinese and French colonial architecture-a place where traditional Apsara dance performance spaces mix in with French bakeries, galleries, and rice paddies.

In between visiting great cafés and taking day trips out to the temples, take some time to explore The Cambodia Landmine Museum and Relief Center , which chronicles the ongoing threat of landmines and what's being done to completely eliminate them.

If you have a couple of hours before your visit to Angkor Wat, the Angkor National Museum is an excellent way to learn more about the archeological ruins and the stunning civilization behind them.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Siem Reap

Singapore only gained full independence from the UK and became a sovereign state in 1965, but this brand-new country is now a financial powerhouse and one of the most fun countries to visit in Southeast Asia.

Because of its size and location, Singapore doesn't have a lot of beaches-unless you count the three beaches on Sentosa Island resort, small but with soft white sands and protected lagoons with clean blue waters-but it makes up for it with themed attractions, lush rain forests, and lively coastal fun.

From its own Universal Studios park and a 50-meter bungee jump from a tower over the beach to the Marina Bay Sands resort and its rooftop, which includes an infinity pool and a skybridge, Singapore has quickly established itself as a thrilling destination.

But this island-state also has plenty to offer in the form of greener entertainment, starting with the magical Gardens by the Bay , a 100-hectare nature park with the largest glass greenhouse in the world, two cooled conservatories, and plenty of artistically designed trees and flower areas.

Singapore's nature-themed Jewel Changi Airport has been recognized as one of the best in the world-it features not only the world's tallest indoor waterfall , but also an indoor suspension bridge 23 meters up in the air, four slides, and a butterfly garden.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Singapore

Bhutan is a landlocked country surrounded by the Himalayas, Tibet, and parts of India. A nation of steep mountains, green valleys, and swift rivers, Bhutan is home to 7,570-meter-tall Gangkhar Puensum , the world's highest unclimbed mountain.

Some of the most beautiful sights in the country are high up, perched on cliffs- Tiger's Nest Monastery is a good example, set over 3,000 meters up in the mountains and only reachable after a grueling hike.

In an effort to protect the biodiversity and historical heritage of the country, free travel throughout the country isn't allowed. This means all foreign visitors arriving in Bhutan must travel on a pre-paid package tour organized through an approved operator. While some agencies will offer pre-arranged stops, others will work with you to help you see what you're really interested in-places worth a visit include the fortress and Buddhist monastery ruins of Drukgyal Dzong , the Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary (home to the rare black-necked cranes), and a number of dzongs or religious fortresses.

Nepal's capital and largest city is also known as the "City of Temples." A melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist religious influences, Kathmandu is full of stupas-including Nepal's holiest Buddhist site, Boudhanath , a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and Swayambhu , home to holy monkeys and one of the oldest temples in Nepal. Both those looking for a religious experience and camera-toting tourists can find much to appreciate in a city where spirituality touches almost everything.

Sitting at an elevation of over 1,400 meters above sea level, Kathmandu is a popular gateway to the Himalayas and to nearby destinations like the Ancient City of Patan.

Climbers from all over the world arrive here to set off on their 15-day-long Everest Base Camp trek , but overnight trips around the city are also popular to catch sight of the Himalayas in all their splendor. Even those without a love for adventure can find much to see and do in the capital-from impressive markets to historic monuments to plenty of colorful festivals throughout the year.

It's even possible to get an up-close look at the splendor of the Himalayas from above, as many tour companies offer short flights over the snowcapped mountains.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nepal

New Delhi and Mumbai might be India's best-known cities, but Jaipur takes home the "most beautiful" prize. Known as the "pink city" because of the unique color of the stone used to build many of the structures around, Jaipur is also home to a community of artisans. Here, craftsmen produce everything from block printing and blue pottery to shellac work; stone carvings; and Bandhani, the unique art of decorating tie-dye textile by plucking sections of it with the fingernails.

Many of the most breathtaking attractions in Jaipur are architectural marvels, including the stunning Jal Mahal palace , which sits in the center of the Man Sagar Lake.

Many other monuments and pink structures are located within 10 kilometers of the city, including the ancient temple complex Galtaji , built right into narrow hills and surrounded by sacred kunds (small water pools). The world's largest stone sundial at Jantar Mantar and the 10th-century red sandstone and marble Amer Fort are also just outside the city and attract many visitors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Jaipur

Luang Prabang and 33 of the villages surrounding it are part of the UNESCO Town of Luang Prabang World Heritage Site . Together, these sites are home to an incredible mix of cultural and architectural heritage that has shaped Laos through the centuries.

The Wat Xieng Thong or " Temple of the Golden City " is a good example of this-a 16th-century structure showcasing stunning examples of Laos arts and crafts but also a historically significant place where all Laos kings were once crowned. Right in the center of town, Mount Phou Si is home to Wat Chom Si and offers one of the best views over the town once you get to the top.

Luang Prabang is best explored on foot or on a bike, getting lost in the narrow alleyways where temples, houses, and colonial buildings all mix in a harmonious atmosphere.

Just outside the city and reached by driving through sloping, lush hills and rice paddies, there are a number of natural sites worth a visit. The Pak Ou Caves , which sit over the Mekong River and are home to hundreds of miniature wooden Buddha statues, and the three-level Kuang Si Falls are popular day trips from Luang Prabang.

An ancient city and one of the top heritage sites in the world , Bagan was once the capital of a powerful kingdom. Today, Bagan and Angkor are the two most important ancient religious sites in Asia, receiving hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The Bagan Archeological Zone extends over a 41-square-kilometer area and is home to more than 3,000 pagodas, stupas, and other religious structures tucked away amid dense forests.

Exploring the temples and ruins is a big endeavor and can be done on foot (small sections at a time) or on a rented bike. Shwe Gu Gyi is one of the few temples that can be climbed and offers some of the best views-perfect for photo backgrounds. Otherwise, Nyaung Laphat hill and Sulamani hill are a must-visit to watch the sunrise and sunset over the temples.

To see Bagan in all its glory, however, you can't beat taking a hot air balloon ride over the temples.

Outside the Archeological Zone, Bagan is famous for its lacquer and sand paintings, both of which you can find at local markets in most villages. Bagan town also has a busy night market and a traditional Burmese market (Mani-Sithu Market), and you can catch a boat tour or a cruise from the town's central jetty.

Thatbyinnyu Pahto temple-the tallest in Bagan at over 200 feet-is another must-visit, and so is Gubyaukgyi or the Great Painted Cave Temple with its 12th-century frescoes.

Bali is best known for its stunning golden beaches lined with swaying palm trees and blue-green waters, but this Indonesian island has a lot more attractions to offer visitors. Not that the beaches shouldn't top your must-visit list-the glorious stretches of sand at laid-back Crystal Bay, the undeveloped White Sands Beach, or the serene Sanur with its untouched village-feel are some of Bali's best destinations.

In addition to sun, sand, and sea, Bali also offers a unique cultural and historical landscape filled with temples, including ancient pilgrimage temple Tanah Lot (famous for its sunsets); Gunung Lebah and its scenic jungle surroundings; and Pura Goa Lawah, considered one of the six holiest places of worship in Bali.

For more active pursuits, consider a hike up the 5,633-foot tall active volcano on Mount Batur, especially at sunrise. Or visit the many terraced rice paddies that line up the Bali countryside. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are particularly scenic.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Runners-Up for Best Places to Visit in Asia: The number of places to visit in Thailand is almost too extensive to list, but Koh Samui and Chiang Mai are two standouts. To see some of the most incredibly scenery in China, head to Guilin and Yanghuo for a cruise down the Li River and drift along beneath the limestone mountains lining the river's edge. Or simply relax at a lodge in Yangshuo.

More on Japan

Top 20 Most Visited Cities in Asia

When you picture an Asian city, what evocative scenes waft through your mind? Camels nonchalantly striding alongside honking traffic… Hawkers competing with one another's shouts in smoky bazaars… Grand, crumbling fortresses from another age and many-tiered pagodas stacking up towards the sky…? Asia has so much to offer and its popular cities are as varied as its peoples and cultures. Many cities are today melting pots after centuries of tribal, imperial and colonial conquest. The layers of time are evident throughout most cities and are interwoven with the ever-shifting incoming cultural influences. The world is a smaller place since commercial aviation brought these distant melting pots of exoticism within a day's travel. Today we can all visit most of these places with relative ease.

Here we present a league table of the best cities in Asia , and the top 3 titleholders are as follows:

With over 25 million visitors annually, this tiny harbour city is a world financial capital with a unique history. It is hands down one of the most exciting and alive cities in Asia . The friendliness of the Cantonese, the harbour so familiar from countless films, the glitzy modern skyscrapers and the frantic but enchanting Hong Kong island all contribute to the overpowering atmosphere. Whether you go to eat at one of the thousands of top restaurants, lose yourself in the markets, party early into the morning, take in the view from the top of Victoria Peak, learn the fascinating history or go shopping in the giant malls, you will leave Hong Kong invigorated and wanting more and more.

The gateway to Asia where east meets west – an exciting fusion of cultures and accessible sights. Indulge yourself in some of the finest hotels in Southeast Asia whilst admiring the outlandish modern architecture and cavernous shopping malls. The last few years has seen an increase in the already heady rate of development and its eating, drinking and arts and culture scenes are thriving. This busy port city has really got some serious wind in her sails!

Founded in 1782, Bangkok's recent explosion of modernisation has captured the mood and spirit of 21st century Asia . Towering skyscrapers press up against traditional Chinese shop fronts while brand-new Mercedes squeeze past vendors with pushcarts - this is a city of sharp contrasts. Culture fiends will delight in the dazzling Royal Palace and the city's countless pagodas, while shoppers could spend weeks sifting through Bangkok 's malls and open-air markets. Entertainment ranges from highbrow to the notorious with everything in between. A food lover's paradise, the city caters for all tastes from French fine dining with tranquil river views to sampling fried crickets on the roadside. Prepare to have all your senses engaged.

• City breaks ,
• Travel news ,

All Categories

• Southern Africa
• Amandayan (2)
• Luxury hotels (39)
• Amanfayun (1)
• Ballyfin (2)
• British Airways (1)
• Amanbagh (2)
• Architecture (7)
• Bangalore (1)
• When to go (24)
• Andaman Islands (1)
• In the know (20)
• Festivals (18)
• History (26)
• Beijing (1)
• Aman Summer Palace (1)
• Calcutta (1)
• Culture (50)
• Aman Tokyo (1)
• Alila Purnama (2)
• Angkor Wat (3)
• Bhutan (12)
• Blakes London (1)
• Heritage (34)
• Backwaters (1)
• Aurangabad (1)
• Botswana (5)
• Wildlife (16)
• Art Deco hotels (2)
• Sri Lanka (20)
• Bagan Temples (2)
• Amritsar (4)
• Aman Resorts (6)
• Afternoon Tea (1)
• Amantaka (1)
• Indonesia (16)
• Beach Holidays (9)
• Ayurveda (2)
• Food Tours (17)
• Balloons Over Bagan (1)
• Artisans (13)
• Amankora (3)
• Bird watching (2)

Latest posts

• 5 Reasons Why Bhutan Should Be On Your Travel List - Jun 5, 2024 12:25
• 9 Unmissable Festivals in Asia - May 24, 2024 12:25
• Six Senses Vana Q&A with Ampersand Founder James - May 8, 2024 12:25
• 8 Eco Hotels in Asia Doing Things Differently - Apr 22, 2024 12:25
• A Two Week Gourmet South Africa Itinerary - Apr 15, 2024 12:25

Client Testimonials

Let us keep you up to date.

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences

Top 20 BEST Cities to Visit in Asia in 2023

• Pinterest 2.9K

Have you ever been to a continent that offers such diverse cultures, traditions, and fascinating history?

Asia is known for many amazing things, and you’ll see many travelers spawning around the continent to see some of the best places to visit in this marvelous place.

However, the question is, where to go to this beautiful place? It is the biggest continent in the world; after all, there must be tons of amazing destinations!

Starting from gorgeous landscapes, to the mysterious islands, lovely beaches, majestic mountains, pristine lakes, eye-feasting waterfalls , world heritage historical monuments, breathtaking royal palaces, lush green manicured gardens, stunning rainforests to the golden sand dunes of Middle East, wildlife attractions, and most importantly a vivid variety of mouth-watering cuisines, you get everything in Asia.

Indeed, Asia is massive, and choosing where to go is a tough call. This is why we compiled this Asian travel bucket list , where we compiled a collection of the best cities to visit in Asia where you can choose to start your amazing trip!

Looking for an exotic destination? Check out these top places to visit in Myanmar and learn about some of the best and exciting things to do in Asia.

Table of Contents

Top 20 BEST Cities to Visit in Asia in 2020

Cebu, the Philippines

It is a province of the Philippines lying in the Central Visayas region. It comprises of 167 stunning islands and islets along with its central island. The long pristine sugar-white sand beaches accompanied by crystal clear blue ocean water and the gorgeous coral reefs covering the entire Cebu Island gives a perfect holiday trip look.

You can explore the best of mangrove forests, beaches, fishing villages, waterfalls, rugged mountain ranges, and taste mouth-watering Lechon (pig) and street food.

Some of the most beautiful destinations to visit here are – Kawasan falls, Osmena Peak, Basilica Del Santo Nino, Colon Street, 10,000 Roses of Cebu , Pescador Island, Tumalong Fall, Cebu Taoist Temple and many more.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

It is the prominent destination in northern Thailand and one of the famous cities in Asia. The Old Chiang Mai is an architectural wonder here housing 300+ beautiful temples, museums, ancient city walls, and plenty of other heritage sites.

Some of its best destinations are – Wat Phra Singh Buddhist Temple, Chiang Mai temple tour, Bo Sang Umbrella Village, Old city Wiang Kum Kam, Kat Kin Kham Night Bazaar, Doi Inthanon National Park, and so on. Adventure lovers can have a great time doing trekking and white water rafting here in Mae Tang River trail.

Bali, Indonesia

Located in the western part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia , Bali is among the most visited cities in Asia by the tourists. The beautiful Indonesia archipelago is home to some of the stunning beaches , towering Volcano peaks, gorgeous temples, breathtaking scenic beauty, and dreamy beach stays to engage in water adventure activities like diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. On top of this, there are also tons of holiday villas in Bali at affordable prices for those who want to experience the island life at its best!

Some of its famous attractions are – Mount Batur, Pura Tanah Lot temple, Uluwatu Temple, Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegallalang, and Jatiluwih Rice terrace, Nusa Islands, Kuta beach, Sekumpul Waterfall, Sideman valley and many more.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

It is the capital city of Malaysia and ranks among the top cities in Asia . It is the most significant economic and industrial hub of Malaysia filled with dazzling skyscrapers, colonial architectures, headquarters of the world recognized corporations, luxury hotels, fine-dine restaurants , bars, nightclubs, food streets, and exciting shopping destinations.

The Petronas Twin Towers, Petaling Street Flea market , and 400 years old Batu Caves are what make Kuala Lumpur famous among tourists. Some of the other famous tourist attractions here are – Menara KL Tower, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Chinatown, Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Aquaria KLCC, Perdana Botanical Gardens, National Museum and many more.

Hoi An, Vietnam

It is famous as the historic World Heritage site of Vietnam . The old city preserves the historical architecture of the 15th to 19th century through its streets, buildings, and Southeast Asian trading ports.

Some of the most beautiful attractions in Hoi An are – Hoi An city tour, An Bang Beach, Hoi An handicraft workshop, Tra Que Vegetable Village, Fukien Assembly Hall, Japanese Covered Bridge, Kim Bong Carpentry village, Cam An Beach, Hoi An Night market, Hoi An Ancient Town and many more.

Luang Prabang, Laos

It is a beautiful city situated in the north-central part of Laos. The old town of Luang Prabang is the heritage location consists of breathtaking French Colonial structures, 33 beautiful monasteries, and a panoramic scenic view of Mekong River following through the city. It houses the world-famous 83 cm golden statue of Lord Buddha, who is believed to be the protector of the town.

Some of the best tourist attractions here are – Long Khoun Monastery, Mount Phousi, Wat Mai Suwannapumaram, Luang Prabang night market, Tad Thong Waterfall, Tad Sae Waterfall, Nong Khiaw, Luang Prabang, Kuang Sii Waterfalls and many more stunning attractions.

Kyoto, Japan

It is a famous city in Japan in the Kansai region and also the capital of Kyoto Prefecture. It is referred to as the most beautiful city in Asia as well as Japan. The city has a mesmerizing mountainous scenic backdrop and houses more than 4,000 historical structures, shrines, temples, with gorgeous ancient landscapes and street patterns.

Some of the famous locations are – Kinkaku-Ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, eye feasting Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-Dera temple, Nanzen-Ji hidden waterfall, ancient streets of Gion, heavenly Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Ryoanji Temple and many more.

Tokyo, Japan

It is the capital city of Japan and also features among the best cities to visit in Asia . Not just that, Tokyo is also famous as the biggest city in Asia. The city is a hub of beautiful temples, attractive shopping destinations, dazzling skyscrapers, cultural centers, economic joints, plenty of museums, and envious green gardens.

Some of the best attractions here are – Tsukiji market, Harajuku market, National Museum, Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, Odaiba, Tokyo Government building, Ginza, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and many more. Being the biggest city in Asia, it offers endless tourist attractions for all visitors.

Udaipur, India

Famous as the city of Lakes, it is one of the best Asian cities to visit in India in the state of Rajasthan. From mesmerizing tranquil lakes to breathtaking palaces, Havelis, royal gardens, and museums, you get to experience Indian history at its best in Udaipur amidst the painted backdrop of Aravalli Mountains.

Some of the best attractions in Udaipur are – Kumbhalgarh Fort, Lake Pichola, Fatehsagar Lake, Chittorgarh Fort, City Palace, Monsoon Palace, Haldighati, Ahar Museum, Shilpgram Village, Lake Palace, Bagore ki Haveli, Solar Observatory and the list goes on.

Kochi, India

It is a beautiful port city of India in the state of Kerala , having its borders on the Lakshadweep Sea. It is a popular tourist hub for the past 600 years. Here you can spot many houses from the Dutch era, ancient mosques, and numerous small beautiful islands on the shores of the Arabian Sea.

Some of the major attractions here are – Fort Cochin which is a hub of European building, medieval architectures and narrow lanes bordered with colorful flowers; Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, St.Francis Church, Kerela Folklore Theatre and Museum, Princess Street, Santa Cruz Basilica, Hill Palace of Tripunithara, Marine Drive, Cherai beach and many more.

Remember that before you enter India, you need to apply for a visa beforehand – read our online India e-tourist guide!

It is the administrative center of China and is widely known as the most significant economic center across the world with the highest per capita income. It tops in the list of best cities to travel in Asia due to its beautiful tourist attractions, luxurious shopping destinations, and lip-smacking Chinese and Cantonese food.

Some of its famous attractions include – Amazing skyscrapers on the shores of hong kong Island, Ocean Park, Star ferry rides in Victoria Harbour, Victoria Peak, Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Repulse Bay, Disneyland, Hiking at Dragon’s Back, Tai O Fishing Village and many more.

Note before you decide to visit, you can apply the online visa for Hong Kong if you require one!

Siem Reap, Cambodia

It is the capital of the northwestern part of Cambodia in the Siem Reap Province. The city is famous for its majestic temples of Angkor Wat that draw the maximum tourist crowds.

Some of its best attractions in Siem Reap apart from the famous Angkor Wat include – Srah Stang Royal Bath reservoir, Angkor Archaeological Park, Neak Pean artificial island, Banteay Kdei Buddhist temple, Krol Ko 12th century temple, Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, and many other exciting destinations .

Kandy, Sri Lanka

It is a significant tourist attraction in Sri Lanka and one of its prominent cities. It is also a major religious destination for the Buddhist community people, as it is believed to house the sacred tooth of Buddha, which is popularly known as Kandy.

Some of its biggest attractions are – Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, Hulu river waterfall, Knuckles Mountain, Bahirawakanda temple, Ranweli Spice garden, Royal Botanical Garden, Riverton Gap, and many more!

From Kandy, you can also head a bit more south and take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya and Ella, where you can also book some nice holiday villas in Sri Lanka to soak in the marvelous mountain views!

Abu Dhabi, UAE

It is the capital city of UAE that is built on a small triangular peninsula off the Persian Gulf Coast. Abu Dhabi has a cosmopolitan environment of the city with a cultural touch having mesmerizing Islamic architectures and pristine coastlines are what draws the tourist crowd to this location.

It is among the best Asian cities to visit with plenty of tourist attractions. Some of them are – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Global Village, Heritage Village, going on a desert safari, and many others!

Taipei, Taiwan

It is the capital city of Taiwan , having a perfect blend of Chinese, Japanese, American, and Southeast Asian cultures. The city has got a powerful combination of traditional and modern architecture, having age-old ancient temples, 5000-year-old museums to modern fine dine classy restaurants, bars, and shopping malls.

Some of its best sightseeing attractions are – Scenic views of Taipei from Elephant Mountain, 83rd Floor Taipei Observatory, Day trip to Jiufen, Visit Baishawan Beach, hot springs of Wulai Valley, Train ride to Shifen Waterfall, hiking at Mount Keelung and too many other attractive locations.

Seoul, South Korea

It is the largest metropolitan and capital city of South Korea. Seoul is known for its best tourist hospitality and decorum. The city has got everything from modern skyscrapers to pagodas and beautiful palaces. It is the most significant cultural and financial center of South Korea .

From Seoul, you can travel to numerous beautiful locations nearby. Some of the famous attractions in Seoul are – Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Square, Changdeokgung Palace, Bukcheon Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower, and Myeongdong shopping district.

Bangkok, Thailand

The cosmopolitan capital of Thailand , where party, culture, and tradition meet in one. If you’re into a buzzing city where you can still find some of the marvelous temples to visit, stalls after stalls of street food where you can snack, and hip pubs where you can enjoy a good party – Bangkok is for you!

Not only you’ll find some of the best deals in shopping and experience some of the best things Thailand can offer, but Bangkok is also your typical city fix where you’ll find everything and anything you can imagine.

Some of the top attractions are – The Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun Ratchawaram, Khaosan Road, Weekend Markets, and The Golden Buddha, to name a few. Come for a short visit to see this beautiful city in Asia.

It is one of the top cities to visit in Asia, which lies in the southeastern part of the continent and is both an island city-come-state. The city is home to green skyscrapers, treetop jungle bridges, forest areas, and the famous Botanical garden.

The city is constantly thriving to a green environment having plenty of high-end shopping malls, fashion stores, art galleries, and incredible food destinations.

Some of its famous attractions are – Gardens by the Bay, Little India, and Arab Street, Singapore Flyer, Universal Studios, Botanic Garden, Chinatown, Changi Museum, Changi Beach, Sentosa Island, Punggol Waterway Park, Clarke Quay and lots of picture-perfect locations.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

It is the most prominent city located in the southeastern part of Vietnam. It is the most significant economic center of Vietnam and a famous tourist attraction . From classic French architectures to beautiful Pagodas, temples, and glamorous skyscrapers, the city has it all to entertain the tourists.

It is very rich in terms of history and culture and has the most budget-friendly delicious cuisines. It can be regarded as the most budget-friendly city to travel in Asia.

Some of its biggest attractions include – the War Museum, Giac Lam Pagoda, Reunification Palace, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Fine Arts Museum, and the History Museum.

Hanoi, Vietnam

It is the capital of Vietnam and ranks second in Vietnam in terms of population. The city lies on the banks of Red River and serves as a visual treat to travelers with plenty of colonial architectures, age-old pagodas, and ancient museums. The city is also famous for handicrafts, vibrant nightlife, beautiful hilly destinations, lush green greeneries, picturesque traditional villages.

The 1,000 years old quarter of Hanoi is its prime attraction where you can explore the best of its history with a local guide and stroll around in its charming surroundings.

Other flawless attractions include – Citadel of Thang Long, Water Puppet Theatre, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Perfume Pagoda, Koan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, Ba VI national park, and Hanoi Opera house.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best city in asia.

This is debatable depending on who you ask. However, the most visited city in Asia is Hong Kong while the cities that are the most popular amongst tourists are the following:

• Kuala Lumpur
• Ho Chi Minh City

What is the best country in Asia to visit?

Each country in Asia is vastly different from each other so the best country highly depends on your interest as a traveler. However, some of the notable countries that are worth the visit are Japan, Korea, Taiwan, India, Thailand, and Sri Lanka (in our opinion).

What is the best country to visit in Southeast Asia?

There are so many amazing countries in Southeast Asia making it hard to narrow it to just one. But the most popular ones amongst tourists are Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these for later read!

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe on her holidays or exploring different home decor ideas for her future house in the lush Finnish forest.

This blog curates the best of travel, interior design, minimalist fashion, DIY wedding hacks, and a bit of beauty. Its a safe space for everyone who have various interests!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

Asia Travel Guide

Asia is our homeland. We'll show you Asia, better than anyone else!

• Philippines
• Culture & Highlights
• Food & Local Life
• Active & Nature
• Beach & Relaxation
• Couple & Honeymoon
• Family Holiday
• Luxury Hotels & Resorts
• Boutique Hotels
• Standard Hotels

The Top Cities to Visit in Asia in 2024/2025

Our Asia Tours experts have compiled a collection of some of the top best cities to visit in Asia where you can choose to start your unforgettable holiday - From the bustling and vibrant nightlife - Hanoi city to the skyscrapers city - Kuala Lumpur, or from the city with countless ancient temples - Mandalay to the mountainous region Chiang Mai and more, Asia continent always has something to offer your wishes.

1. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi , surrounded by two banks of the Red and Duong River, is one of the most historic capitals in Asia with many well-preserved French buildings (e.g., Hanoi Opera House, Presidential Palace and Hoa Lo Prison), traditional houses (ancient house at Ma May Street), age-old pagodas (Ngoc Son and Tran Quoc temples) and vibrant nightlife. Furthermore, Hanoi in  Vietnam  is also famous for its delicious street food such as Pho , Bun Cha or Dried Beef Salad. A special drink that you shouldn’t miss a chance to try is Egg Coffee which made from condensed milk, egg yolks and coffee.

• Best things to do : Street Food Tour, Hanoi City Tour (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison to name a few), Water Puppet Show, Cyclo Tour
• Best time to visit : August to November and February to mid-May – the weather is relatively pleasant with fewer rainfalls
• Insider’s tip : There are plenty of street food restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter but you should always choose a restaurant that looks clean and hygiene. Since the roads inside Hanoi Old Quarter is rather complicated, you should carry a map with you
• Recommended duration : 2 - 3 days

2. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is the financial & business hub of Vietnam. This city is also one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its charming culture, vibrant nightlife, French architecture (e.g., Notre Dame Cathedral Saigon, Saigon Central Post Office and Reunification Palace), impressive skyscrapers (e.g, Landmark 81 and Bitexco Financial Tower) and ornate pagodas (e.g., Jade Emperor Pagoda, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda and Thien Hau Temple). Similar to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh city is considered the paradise for foodie lovers. 

• Best things to do : Motorbike City Tour, Foodie Tour, Explore Cu Chi Tunnels and day trip in Mekong Delta
• Best time to visit : December to February when the city is full of enchanting festivals and the weather is relatively comfortable
• Insider’s tip :  It takes nearly 2 hours 30 minutes to explore Mekong Delta Regions. If you are a fan of culture, this place is worth a visit 
• Recommended duration : 3 - 4 days

3. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The capital of Malaysia – Kuala Lumpur (also known as KL) is well-known for its gleaming skyscrapers (Petronas Twin Towers, Menara KL Tower), plenty of great sights and famous attractions (e.g., Chinatown, Batu Caves, Aquaria KLCC, Central Market and Perdana Botanical Gardens), modern shopping malls (e.g., Utama, BB Plaza and Pavilion KL), colonial architecture and various dining options. This is one of the best cities for a short trip or stopover to gain an insight into the culture of this amazing country.

• Best things to do : Shopping, Markets, Explore historic buildings and attractions
• Best time to visit : December to February and May to July when the weather is drier than the other months
• Insider’s tip :  Malaysian locals are very welcoming, so feel free to have a chat with those you meet and learn about the culture this country

4. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the capital of  Thailand  – a large city with a population of nearly 10.35 million people in a total area of 1,568 square kilometres. This city itself is a paradise for tourists with numerous interesting attractions (e.g., Wat Pho, Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihan and Wat Saket) and activities (e.g., visit colourful markets like Ban Mai Market, Khlong Suan Market and Nakhon Nuang Khet Market). Don’t forget to enjoy the delicious and traditional Thai food if you visit this destination.

• Best things to do : Explore colourful markets, Shopping and Enjoy the tasty Thai food
• Best time to visit : November to early April when the weather is dry and clear
• Insider’s tip :  Remember to carry a hotel card whenever you are out of your hotel for travelling. When you want to get back to your hotel, show this card to your driver and he will know where it is

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is a mountainous region which is located in northern Thailand in a verdant valley along the banks of the Ping River. Firstly, coming to Chiang Mai, you do not need to worry about the weather since the average temperature of this place is just around 25 degree Celsius throughout the year. Besides, either you are food lovers or nature enthusiasts, Chiang Mai has something to offer every taste.

• Best things to do : Visit Doi Suthep, Explore Old City Temples and Chiang Mai Night Safari, Learn how to take care of Elephant, Visit Bo Sang Handicraft village and Discover Doi Inthanon National Park
• Best time to visit : October to February when the weather is comfortable
• Insider’s tip :  If you are in Chiang Mai over a weekend, spending time at the local Walking Street market on Sunday night is highly recommended

6. Mandalay, Myanmar

Mandalay is the 2nd largest city in  Myanmar  which was established in 1857 and situated on the east bank of the Irrawaddy River. This city is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Myanmar due to its charming culture with amazing landscapes and incredible pagodas (e.g., Kuthodaw Pagoda, Sanda Muni Pagoda and Su Taung Pyae Pagoda). Some travellers just simply included this destination in their itinerary for a stopover before heading to Bagan but soon regretted it since they were all surprised by the most unique and unforgettable experience they got in Mandalay.

• Best things to do : Explore Mandalay Palace, Visit ancient temples and pagodas, Witness the outstanding sunset and sunrise at the longest and oldest teak footbridge U Bein Bridge
• Best time to visit : November to February when the weather has little rainfall and cool temperatures
• Insider’s tip :  You can take direct flights from either Bangkok or Chiang Mai to Mandalay. If you have a short time to discover Myanmar, the recommended advice is spending 2 days in Mandalay and another 2 days in Bagan

Which cities do you consider the best destinations to visit in Asia?

Ho Chi Minh

Kuala Lumpur

Explore more Asia Travel Guide

Asia Family-Friendly Summer Destinations You Should Not Miss

Honeymoon in Asia: What to expect?

Asia Tours Has Been Proudly Nominated For World Travel Awards 2024 - Vote For Us!

Top favorite summer destinations in Southeast Asia you should not miss

10 Interesting Facts about Asia to Surprise You

20 Best Asia Destinations For The Family Vacation & Holiday

• Vietnam(32)
• Cambodia(17)
• Myanmar(17)
• Thailand(20)
• Indonesia(10)
• Malaysia(13)
• Singapore(4)
• Philippines(9)
• Sri Lanka(5)
• Pre-departures
• Unique Experiences

We are here to take the stress out of the holiday planning process. Let us help you plan an unforgettable journey of lifetime with High Quality & Affordable Price. Surely, you will feel satisfactory!

• $1000 - $2000
• $2000 - $3000
• $3000 - $5000

Being the locals, we know the true value of our land. We always listen and arrange everything as your desire.

(+84) 916 952 668

[email protected]

Create Own Tour

We always listen to your wishes and desires to offer the best private tours to be your exact needs& tastes

• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025

• Visit Oyster on Facebook!
• Visit Oyster on Pinterest!
• Visit Oyster on Instagram!
• Visit Oyster on Twitter!
• Subscribe to stay up to date!

Yes, send me expert tips and deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• Subtract one room 1 Rooms Add one room
• Subtract one adult 2 Adults Add one adult
• Travel Inspiration

50 Places to See in Asia When It's Safe to Travel

See recent posts by Margot Bigg

With its vibrant big cities, abundant historic and cultural attractions, and diverse natural landscapes, Asia offers more to see and do than most travelers can experience in an entire lifetime. We tried to narrow things down, and pulled together a list of the 50 best places to visit in Asia before you die.

Note that we’ve chosen these destinations and attractions for their cultural significance, beauty, and fun, one-of-a-kind activities. However, be aware that a few are located in regions or countries that are currently the subject of boycotts or ethical concerns. It’s always wise to research each destination, its safety, and potential human rights issues before booking travel.

1. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand’s second-largest city and its de facto cultural capital, Chiang Mai offers beautiful old temples, great street food, and arguably the country’s best night market. While you can easily spend your day hopping from temple to temple, it’s equally easy to just slow down and relax in this northern city.

Our Top Pick for a Chiang Mai Hotel: The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai

Pricing for The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai

2. Bali, Indonesia

With its emerald-hued rice paddies, thick tropical jungles, and Instagram-worthy architecture, Bali has a reputation as a mystical island paradise. While it’s easy to spend most of your time just gawking at the beauty all around, there’s also plenty to do here, particularly if you’re a fan of surfing, rafting, yoga, or daily massages.

Our Top Pick for a Bali Hotel: Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

Pricing for Samabe Bali Suites & Villas

3. Andaman Islands, India

Although the Andaman Islands are part of India, they’re physically closer to Thailand, with the landscapes to show for it. Here, you’ll find lots of powdery white sand and crystalline waters. While most of the archipelago is off-limits to visitors, beautiful Havelock is open to travelers looking for a peaceful eco-tourism experience.

4. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo has a reverence for tradition alongside its high-tech modernity, so you’re as likely to stumble upon an ancient shrine as a futuristic skyscraper during a visit. The Japanese capital also offers some of the best shopping around, plus you’ll never be far from a tasty ramen shop or sushi restaurant.

Our Top Pick for a Tokyo Hotel: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

Pricing for Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

With its mix of gorgeous old temples and traditional and Gallic architecture, Luang Prabang has long been heralded as Laos’ cultural capital. Get up at sunrise and you’re sure to see hundreds of local monks wandering through the city streets, collecting alms from the devout.

Our Top Pick for a Luang Prabang Hotel: Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel

Pricing for Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel

6. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

Cambodia’s most famous attraction, the incredibly preserved Angkor Archaeological Park offers a glimpse into life under the Khmer Empire. The best-known temple here, Angkor Wat, is the largest religious monument on earth.

Our Top Pick for a Siem Reap Hotel: Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor

Pricing for Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor

7. Kandy, Sri Lanka

In the heart of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Kandy is best-known for the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The UNESCO World Heritage site got its name because it houses a tooth collected from the funeral pyre of Gautama Buddha. While the temple and its adjacent Royal Palace are reason enough to visit Kandy, there’s also plenty to do in the surrounding area, like hiking, visiting tea plantations, and hitting up spice farms.

Our Top Pick for a Kandy Hotel: Kandy Samadhi Centre

Pricing for Kandy Samadhi Centre

8. Maldives

Spread across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives archipelago is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundance of gorgeous resorts , most of which have romantic overwater bungalows. In addition to swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, visitors can enjoy plenty of educational experiences (many resorts offer marine biology lectures) and rides on traditional Maldivian dhoni boats.

Our Top Pick for a Maldives Hotel: Constance Moofushi

Pricing for Constance Moofushi

9. Railay Beach, Thailand

With its white-sand beaches and imposing limestone cliffs, Railay Beach near Krabi is one of the most photogenic parts of Thailand — and that’s saying a lot. It’s also a popular rock-climbing destination, with ample routes for beginner and experienced climbers alike.

Our Top Pick for a Railay Beach Hotel: Railay Village Resort

Pricing for Railay Village Resort

10. Rishikesh, India

Touted as the yoga capital of the world, Rishikesh is the ultimate place to find your zen. This holy town is home to dozens of ashrams, many of which offer residential programs. It also hosts an international yoga festival every year. Even if asanas aren’t your thing, Rishikesh is still worth hitting up for the chance to go on a rafting excursion along the Ganges River, which runs right through town.

Our Top Pick for a Rishikesh Hotel: GANGA KINARE by Holywater Hotels

Pricing for GANGA KINARE by Holywater Hotels

11. Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur

Although Kuala Lumpur ‘s landmark towers are no longer the tallest buildings in the world (a title they held for a brief stint around the turn of this century), they’re still the largest twin towers. Head up to the observation deck in Tower 2 to take in fantastic city views.

Our Top Pick for a Kuala Lumpur Hotel: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

Pricing for The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur

12. Great Wall of China

Although the Great Wall of China refers to a series of different walls that collectively span thousands of miles, this ancient fortification is nevertheless one of the most important attractions in the country. Three of the more touristy sections can be found within day tripping distance of Beijing . Visit the Mutianyu section, if you want to take a toboggan ride from the wall down to the parking lot below it.

Our Top Pick for a Beijing Hotel: Fairmont Beijing

Pricing for Fairmont Beijing

13. Taj Mahal, India

India’s most iconic attraction, the Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz. Come early in the morning to see the marble structure perfectly mirrored in the long reflecting pools that stretch out before it. Or, plan a trip during the days around the full moon when you can arrange a visit to the Taj at night.

Our Top Pick for an Agra Hotel: ITC Mughal, Agra — a Luxury Collection Hotel

Pricing for ITC Mughal, Agra- a Luxury Collection Hotel

14. Ko Lipe, Thailand

If you’re looking for a quiet, laid-back alternative to some of Thailand’s more popular (read: crowded) island destinations , this walkable Andaman Sea islet might just be your ticket to paradise. The shallow waters and white sand make it ideal for families. Plus, it’s just a quick longboat ride away from the nearby Tarutao National Marine Park, where you’ll find some fantastic snorkeling opportunities.

Our Top Pick for a Ko Lipe Hotel: Serendipity Beach Resort

Pricing for Serendipity Beach Resort

15. Huanglong, China

Officially known as the Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area, this gorgeous section of the Minshan Mountains is known for its forested landscapes interspersed with colorful ponds and lakes and beautiful waterfalls. This area is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including giant pandas.

16. Goa, India

India’s tiniest state, Goa has long been known as a party hot spot, famous for its all-night psychedelic trance parties and a bohemian culture that’s heavily influenced by 1960s culture. While all that’s certainly true, this seaside destination is also worth visiting for its beautiful old Portuguese churches and miles of palm-dotted beaches.

Our Top Pick for a Goa Hotel: The Leela Goa

Pricing for The Leela Goa

17. Petra, Jordan

Jordan’s most famous attraction, this ancient archeological site is known for its rock-cut structures that date back to the Nabatean era. It’s worth giving yourself a couple of days to explore this massive complex of temples, tombs, and civic buildings. For a particularly enchanting experience, candlelit visits to the Treasury — at the entrance of the site — are run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

18. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

The inspiration for the conical landscapes found in the animated film “Avatar” came from Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in the Hunan Province. This park is known for its pillar formations that were created over millennia of erosion. It’s also home to the tallest outdoor elevator on earth, which holds three glassed-in elevator cars that take visitors up approximately 326 meters (or 1,070 feet).

19. Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s city of Bukhara has been inhabited for over 5,000 years, resulting in a wealth of historic attractions, many of which are beautifully preserved. Don’t miss the Po-i-Kalyan complex, considered among the finest examples of Islamic architecture on earth.

20. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Iran

Dating back to the late 1800s, the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque in Shiraz certainly isn’t the oldest attraction in Iran , but it’s one of the prettiest. Sometimes referred to as the Pink Mosque, this structure is celebrated for its beautiful colored glass that shoots multicolored hues of light through its intricately embellished interiors.

21. Bethlehem, West Bank

As the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem attracts religious pilgrims from around the world, who come to worship at the Church of the Nativity and the Milk Grotto. It’s also a hit with Banksy fans, who visit to see the elusive artist’s Walled Off Hotel, named for its position facing the border wall with Israel.

22. Halong Bay, Vietnam

This UNESCO World Heritage site lures visitors with its limestone karsts and caves, tropical islands, dense mangroves, and aquamarine waters. Most travelers visit Halong Bay by boat, often hopping on overnight cruises that take them deep into the bay.

23. Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

Although Bali is Indonesia’s only practicing Hindu island, the granddaddy of all temples, Prambanan, is actually on Java , just outside Yogyakarta . This complex dedicated to Shiva is home to hundreds of beautifully preserved stoned temples, some dating back as far as the eighth century.

24. Dead Sea, Jordan, West Bank, and Israel

Approximately 430 meters (or 1,410 feet) below sea level, the Dead Sea is located at the earth’s lowest point on land. It’s also one of the saltiest bodies of water on the planet, making it a great place for a relaxing buoyant float. Fun fact: Despite its name, the Dead Sea is technically a lake — its water sourced entirely from the River Jordan.

Our Top Pick for a Dead Sea Hotel: Herods Hotel Dead Sea

Pricing for Herods Hotel Dead Sea

25. Boracay, Philippines

A star attraction of the Philippines beach scene, Boracay draws hordes of tourists with its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The White Beach part of the island boasts calm waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the windier Bulabog Beach on the opposite side of Boracay attracts travelers wanting to windsurf and kiteboard.

Our Top Pick for a Boracay Hotel: Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa

Pricing for Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa

26. Kerala Backwaters, India

A large portion of the South Indian state of Kerala is dominated by the backwaters, a series of brackish waterways flanked by beautiful tropical foliage. The best way to experience the area is by taking an overnight or multi-day cruise through the waters aboard a traditional houseboat.

Our Top Pick for a Kerala Hotel: Le Colonial

Pricing for Le Colonial

27. Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Defying the popular notion that deserts are always hot, the Gobi Desert is Mongolia’s best-known natural area. This vast, desolate expanse is home to a number of historic Silk Road trading sites. Don’t miss the chance to sleep in a traditional Mongolian yurt, known as a ger.

28. Fanjingshan, China

The tallest peak in the Wuling mountain range, Fanjingshan has long been considered to be sacred by Chinese Buddhists, who believe that the Maitreya Buddha attained enlightenment here. The area surrounding the mountain is one of the most biodiverse in all of China, with thousands of different types of flora and fauna, including the endangered Guizhou snub-nosed monkeys.

29. Singapore

Arguably the most cosmopolitan spot in Southeast Asia, Singapore has four official languages and a foreign resident population of nearly 40 percent. In true big-city fashion, the shopping, dining, and entertainment options are a huge draw, as are the city’s numerous public gardens and green spaces.

Our Top Pick for a Singapore Hotel: Raffles Hotel Singapore

Pricing for Raffles Hotel Singapore

30. Dal Lake, Srinagar

Touted as the “crown jewel of Srinagar,” Dal Lake is among Kashmir’s most enchanting natural attractions. Set against a backdrop of the Pir Panjal mountains, this lake is known for its beautiful houseboats (many of which have been converted into homestays for travelers) and floating markets and gardens, which are easily visited from traditional boats known as shikaras.

31. Kathmandu, Nepal

Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu is celebrated for its historic Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas, many of which date back centuries. At the heart of the city, the Durbar Square (a UNESCO World Heritage site) provides a fascinating glimpse into what life was like prior to the unification of Nepal.

32. Lhasa, Tibet

The capital city of Tibet, Lhasa is known for its architecture, particularly the Potala Palace, which was the residence of the Dalai Lama until he fled to McLeod Ganj in India during the 1959 Tibetan uprising. It’s also one of the highest cities on earth, with an altitude of 3,656 meters (or 11,994 feet).

33. Kumano Kodō, Japan

The collective name for a number of ancient Buddhist pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodō leads across the Kii Peninsula, through beautiful forests and past ancient shrines. While many who embark on the route today are pilgrims, it’s also an excellent place for hikers and seekers of all stripes looking to deepen their understanding of Japan’s ancient Shinto beliefs.

34. Gyeongju, South Korea

With numerous archaeological sites, this coastal city is a must-visit for history buffs. The arguably most noteworthy spot is Bulguksa, a Silla temple complex featuring beautifully preserved halls and pagodas, and the nearby Seokguram grotto, which houses a beautiful Buddha sculpture within its walls.

35. Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

Built on a cliff overlooking the Paro Valley, Paro Taktsang (or Tiger’s Nest Monastery) in Bhutan is the tiny Himalayan kingdom’s most recognizable attraction. Seeing the monastery precariously perched on granite cliffs is reason enough to visit, but most visitors make the hike up to explore its colorful interiors.

36. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Also known by its previous name, Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is characterized by its beautiful architecture that integrates French, Cantonese, and homegrown influences. And although it’s the largest city in Vietnam, it feels surprisingly compact, with plenty of walkable districts and a thriving coffeeshop culture that encourages people-watching.

Our Top Pick for a Ho Chi Minh Hotel: Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

Pricing for Liberty Central Saigon Riverside Hotel

37. Beijing, China

China’s massive capital city provides an excellent glimpse into the country’s past and present. Here, you’ll find a mix of modern architecture and international fast-food joints juxtaposed against some of the world’s most beautifully preserved historic attractions, including the 15 th -century Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, right next door.

Our Top Pick for a Beijing Hotel: The Opposite House

Pricing for The Opposite House

38. Old City of Jerusalem, Israel

This tiny, walled-off section of Jerusalem is home to many of the city’s most important historic and religious attractions. Here, you’ll find the Temple Mount, the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock — all within an area that’s less than one square kilometer.

Our Top Pick for a Jerusalem Hotel: Mamilla Hotel

Pricing for Mamilla Hotel

39. Cappadocia, Turkey

In Turkey’s central Anatolia region, Cappadocia ‘s biggest draw is its landscape, with a large expanse of hoodoos (or fairy chimneys). Although many people come to check out the natural scenery — either on foot or by hot air balloon — it’s also worth stopping by the Churches of Göreme, celebrated for their beautifully preserved frescoed walls.

Our Top Pick for a Cappadocia Hotel: Kayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia

Pricing for Kayakapi Premium Caves – Cappadocia

40. Mount Everest, Nepal and China

On the border of Nepal and China, Mount Everest is not only the highest mountain in the Himalayas, but it’s also the highest mountain in the world. Although few people have the time or training to ascend it on foot, visitors willing to splash out can take a sightseeing flight that gets within 20 or so miles of the famous peak.

41. Mumbai, India

On the west coast of India, Mumbai may not be India’s capital city, or its largest (both of those honors go to Delhi), but it’s certainly the most cosmopolitan. Formerly known as Bombay, the city is home to gorgeous Raj-era architecture and historic temples, mosques, and churches plus a variety of festivals and celebrations throughout the year, from the annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival to Ganesh Chaturthi, which honors the birth of Lord Ganesha.

Our Top Pick for a Mumbai Hotel: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Pricing for The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

42. Bangkok, Thailand

With great nightlife, incredible (and affordable) shopping, and arguably the best street-food scene in the world, Bangkok is a must-visit for anyone who loves the vibrancy of big-city life. It’s also home to some of Thailand’s most important cultural treasures, including the holy Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and the royal Grand Palace.

Our Top Pick for a Bangkok Hotel: SO Sofitel Bangkok

Pricing for SO Sofitel Bangkok

43. Sumatra, Indonesia

One of the best things about Sumatra is that it offers beautiful jungle landscapes without the crowds of better-known destinations such as Bali. If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing orangutans in their natural habitat, the village of Bukit Lawang in the northern part of the island is one of your best bets.

44. Golden Temple, Amritsar

Officially known as Harmandir Sahib, the Golden Temple is among the most important pilgrimage sites for people of the Sikh faith. It gets its nickname thanks to its gold-plated exteriors. In addition to marveling at its beauty, it’s worth spending some time at this welcoming gurudwara to learn about the Sikh faith and history.

45. Bagan, Myanmar

Home to the largest archaeological site on earth, Bagan was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, which flourished from the 11th to 13th centuries. You could easily spend days exploring the temples on foot, though many visitors opt to take in an alternative view — by hot air balloon.

46. Lahore, Pakistan

Considered by many to be the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore is home to numerous historic and religious attractions as well as some of the country’s greatest museums. Don’t miss a visit to the enormous 17 th -century mosque, Badshahi Masjid.

47. Hong Kong

With great museums, restaurants, and shopping, Hong Kong is best-known for its urban vitality. However, this global financial hub also has a more sylvan side. You won’t have to travel far from the dense city center to get out into nature, thanks to spots like Lantau Peak and Dragon’s Back.

Our Top Pick for a Hong Kong Hotel: Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

Pricing for Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

48. Ayutthaya, Thailand

Within day tripping distance of Bangkok, the former Siamese capital of Ayutthaya is one of Thailand’s most important archaeological sites. Founded in 1350, this city flourished for centuries, until it was ultimately destroyed by Burmese forces in the 1900s. Today, it features beautiful old monasteries and temples, some with beautiful murals.

49. Beirut, Lebanon

Once dubbed the Paris of the Middle East, the capital city of Lebanon has been inhabited for over five millennia. Although parts of Beirut were destroyed during the Lebanese Civil War, much of it has since been reconstructed. Today, this dynamic, fashionable city is home to some fantastic museums, great nightlife, and top-notch shopping. Editor’s Note: At the time of publishing, there were active protests in Beirut. We recommend checking travel advisories prior to booking a trip.

Our Top Pick for a Beirut Hotel: Staybridge Suites Beirut

Pricing for Staybridge Suites Beirut

50. Rajasthan, India

This northern Indian state is characterized by its stark desert landscapes as well as ornate, fanciful architecture and plenty of color in the local art and clothing. Even the camels, which are used for transportation and agriculture, are often adorned with bright hues. Here, you’ll also find India’s biggest forts and most whimsical palaces, many of which have been converted into heritage hotels for those who want to spend a night (or a week) like a royal.

Our Top Pick for a Rajasthan Hotel: Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

Pricing for Taj Lake Palace Udaipur

You’ll Also Like:

• The Best Bucket List Getaways for Couples
• 7 Bucket List Trips You Can Do on a Budget
• The Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

Top Stories

• Travel Tips

Top 11 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

By Christina Vercelletto

• Majorca (Mallorca)

9 Places Where You Don’t Have to Choose Between the Beach and Mountains

By Leon Beckenham

• Tips & News

Escape to an Adults-Only Paradise: Win a Luxurious Trip to Hotel Three Sixty in Costa Rica

By Caroline Morse Teel

12 Best LGBTQ-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts Around the World

By Lauren Dana

Which Bahamas Island Is Right for You?

By Kyle Valenta

20 Best Places in Asia you Must Visit

So you’re planning a trip to Asia? How exciting! I still get butterflies whenever I think about my adventures throughout the continent. It has more life, vibrance and chaos than any other region in my eyes. From the kind hearts of Thailand to the island way of life in Bali, these are the best places in Asia you must visit.

Whether you’re soul searching or just looking for a place to unwind and ditch reality, Bali is a spiritual oasis. Bali is the kind of place you don’t just visit once. I have been a handful of times thanks to Bali’s proximity to Australia. You can read our full guide to Bali here .

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and as such has a great amount of history and culture to discover. You’ll need at least a few days to discover all this city has to offer. From the Bamboo Forrest to the famous Fushimi Inari shrine which features a seemingly endless line of torii gates.

The capital of Japan, Tokyo , has built a name for itself as one of the quirkiest capital cities in the world. From cat cafes to robot dance parties, there really isn’t anything that hasn’t been thought of. What’s more, the crazier the idea, the more popular it becomes!

There is no other city in Asia that blends the East and West quite as seamlessly as Hong Kong. You will only need 48 hours in Hong Kong to get a taste of what the city has to offer. More time is of course recommended, but I have still had a fun time in fleeting visits.

First time visitors could easily pass a week in this vibrant city. Indeed, the first time I visited Hong Kong I stayed for nine days. There are endless Buddhist temples to explore, Mongkok’s famous street markets, Hong Kong’s island impeccable views from the Peak! And you can even add a short day trip to China (Shenzhen) for some retail therapy.

Phuket, Thailand

The mountainous island of Phuket has quickly become one of Asia’s most sought after travel destinations and for good reason. Crystal blue waters, epic day hikes and incredible Thai cuisine make Phuket a dream destination for many. Phuket is full of luxury villas with epic views over the Andaman sea. All of them are within arms reach of the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife of Phuket.

This once sleepy resort town in Cambodia became a tourist hot spot with thanks to the Tomb Raider film. You may remember the scene where Lara Croft runs through these very temples. Angkor Wat is the most famous of the temples, however there are a handful to explore. You can easily spend a day wandering through all of them.

I still think the Maldives is the most romantic destination I have been in my life. It is everything you would expect and more. With crystal clear waters and some of the best snorkelling I have seen the world over! There are endless hotels to choose from and many of them are floating on private islands.

In recent years Bhutan has been building a name for itself as one of the world’s bucket list destinations and one look at this epic scenery will leave little to the imagination as to why this is a photographer’s dream destination. This is one of the few remaining countries with no Western influence (i.e. no McDonalds or Starbucks) and is known as the last of the Himalayan Buddhist kingdoms.

One of Asia’s most popular small towns that has somehow managed to retain its culture and charm despite the influx of tourism, Hoi An is hands down one of the prettiest destinations in Asia to visit.

Situated in the North of Thailand, Chiang Mai has become a traveller’s favourite destination for visitors to Thailand. Known for its incredible cultural sights and thriving coffee shop scene, Chiang Mai has become a quick favourite for young travellers backpacking Asia looking for a cultural experience beyond the beautiful beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui.

Tourism in Sri Lanka is undergoing a major revival as travellers make their way to the small island country to experience what has been dubbed “India lite”. Here you can enjoy an Asian safari, board a train to the beautiful tea plantations in Kandy or spend your days on a beach learning to surf at one of the many recently emerged surf and yoga schools.

The capital of South Korea, Seoul has become a hot spot for young travellers looking to experience a thriving city of skyscrapers, subways, K-pop culture and incredible food.

Dubai has become on of Asia’s most popular stopover cities for travellers heading across the globe from one side to the other, thanks to its unique location in the centre of travel paths. The city itself is a thriving metropolis but a short drive out of the city you will find tranquility in the sand dunes.

Renowned for its authenticity, mountainous terrain and friendly locals, Laos has quickly become a must visit destination on traveller’s itineraries throughout Southeast Asia. The location of Laos makes it a great combination to visit with neighbouring Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Pangkor Laut, Malaysia

If you’re looking for an Asian honeymoon destination that is a little more budget friendly (over say the Maldives), then look no further than the idyllic Pangkor Laut in Malaysia. Here you can score an overwater bungalow for a fraction of the price you would pay in the Maldives or where the phenomenon began in Bora Bora, Tahiti.

India is a dream destination for many and if you were to travel all that way, you absolutely could not visit without stepping foot in Jaipur and marvelling at the incredible architecture.

Another must visit on any traveller’s India itinerary would be to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra – an ivory-white mausoleum commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Known most famously for the mesmerising Grand Mosque , Abu Dhabi is another of Asia’s most popular stopover cities. Located on the Persian Gulf, the city is also a popular spot for expats, making it a lively city to explore over a few days and nights.

Boracay, Philippines

If white sandy beaches and endless shades of blue are what you have in mind for your romantic getaway then look no further than Boracay in the Philippines. This area is renowned for its resorts and water activities, making it one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Southeast Asia.

Ha Long Bay, Hanoi

Known for its limestone islands topped by wild rainforests, Ha Long Bay is a must visit in Asia for those seeking the surreal. The area is populated by many junk boats each day touring around the epic scenery, but if you want something a little more adventurous you can also consider a kayak tour, rock climbing or hiking in the area.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

You may also enjoy:

What to do in taipei for your …, checking in to the lalu sun moon …, how to visit jiufen from taipei (day ….

I live in Asia and have not been to most of these places! Thank you for sharing these fantastic places we can visit. I will save it for future!

I only went to seven of the places listed above. I hope to visit more places in the near future.

Hunza valley is worth visiting as well.

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

10 Most Visited Cities in Asia In 2024: Must-Visit Cities!

Asia is full of diverse, exciting cities, from Tokyo’s skyscrapers to Istanbul’s historic streets. These places are not just popular; they’re some of Asia’s top tourist spots, thanks to their unique mix of sights, food, and culture.

No matter if you love history, food, or adventure, there’s a city in Asia perfect for you. Want to know the best places to visit? Keep reading to find your next dream destination and help boost tourism.

Let’s begin with our list of the most visited cities in Asia in 2024. Keep reading till the end!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Discover the Diversity of Asia : By visiting cities like Hanoi , Kuala Lumpur , and Tokyo, you get to experience the rich cultural diversity of Asia through travel and tourism, including vibrant markets in each mega city. Each tourist city offers unique tourism experiences, from vibrant markets and street food in Bangkok to high-tech culture and travel in Seoul .
• Plan Your Trip with Insight: Knowing which cities are most visited by international overnight visitors can help you plan your travels better, enhancing your tourism experience with tourist arrivals statistics. For instance, understanding that Dubai, one of the top tourist cities, attracts millions of tourism arrivals might encourage you to book flights and accommodations early for your travel.
• Embrace Local Experiences: Cities like Mandalay and Taipei offer deep dives into local culture, history, and museums, enriching your travel and tourism experience in the country. Make sure to step off the beaten path in tourist cities during your travel and discover what makes these places special to locals, enhancing your tourism experience in the country.
• Sustainability Matters: As you visit these popular tourist cities, remember the importance of traveling responsibly, ensuring tourism sustains world destinations for future arrivals. Supporting local businesses in Singapore or choosing eco-friendly tours in Hong Kong can make a big difference.
• Food is a Highlight : Don’t miss out on the incredible culinary experiences. From the street markets of Hanoi to the sophisticated dining scenes in Tokyo, there’s something for every palate.
• Connect with People : Beyond the sights and sounds, it’s the people you meet that truly enrich your travel experience. Whether it’s chatting with a shop owner in Seoul or making friends at a hostel in Bangkok, these interactions add memorable layers to your journey.

Most Visited Cities in Asia

Here is the list of the most visited cities in each country in Asia, according to statistics, that every traveler must visit:

1. Hanoi, Vietnam – 24 Million Visitors in 2023

Hanoi stands out as a city where history comes alive, making it a top travel destination on many country lists. Its streets tell tales of the past through well-preserved French colonial buildings alongside traditional Vietnamese architecture, reflecting the travel history of the country.

This blend creates a visual feast that transports travelers back in time. The city’s cultural heritage is not just in its buildings but also in its vibrant street life, attracting travel enthusiasts from across the country.

Travel food lovers find a paradise in Hanoi, the country’s capital, especially with its street food scene. Pho, a fragrant beef or chicken noodle soup, and Egg Coffee, a unique Hanoian creation, offer unforgettable culinary experiences for travelers in the country. These dishes are more than just meals; they’re an introduction to Vietnamese culture, traditions, and the country’s travel experiences.

For those planning a travel visit, the best times to explore the country’s Hanoi are during the spring (March and April) or fall (October and November). During these months, the weather in the country is pleasant—neither too hot nor too cold—making it ideal for travel and exploring the city.

A 2-3 day travel itinerary in Hanoi allows enough time to soak in the essence of the country. Day one of travel could focus on exploring the Old Quarter’s narrow lanes and historic charm.

The next day might include travel visits to religious sites and museums, offering deeper insights into Vietnam’s rich history and spiritual life. Finally, dedicate some travel time to relax by Hoan Kiem Lake or take a short trip to nearby islands for breathtaking views.

Source: ( https://hanoitimes.vn/tourists-to-hanoi-hit-24-million-in-2023-325708.html )

2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 26 Million Visitors in 2023

Kuala Lumpur stands out as a metropolitan marvel in Asia, blending the old with the new in an impressive skyline dominated by the Petronas Twin Towers. These towers, once the tallest buildings in the world, symbolize Malaysia’s leap into modernity while surrounded by British colonial-era landmarks that tell tales of a rich history.

The city offers a culinary journey unlike any other. From bustling street food markets in Jalan Alor to high-end dining experiences atop skyscrapers, visitors taste their way through diverse cultures and traditions. The variety of food reflects Malaysia’s melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.

Shopping enthusiasts find their paradise in Kuala Lumpur. Mega malls like Pavilion KL and Suria KLCC provide endless entertainment and retail options, while traditional markets such as Central Market present unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

For those planning a visit, the months from May to July or December to February offer comfortable weather for exploring. A stay of 2-3 days allows enough time to visit major attractions like the Batu Caves, take a walk in the lush KLCC Park right at the heart of the city, and of course, snap that essential photo with the Petronas Towers in the background.

Source: ( https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/12/03/malaysia-records-26-million-tourist-arrivals-from-jan-1-to-nov-15-says-ministry )

3. Bangkok, Thailand – 22.78 million visitors in 2023

Bangkok, Thailand , stands out as a city where ancient culture and modern life blend seamlessly. From the sacred walls of ancient temples to the high-rise buildings housing contemporary shopping malls, this city offers an experience like no other. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of Wat Arun and Wat Pho one moment and shop for the latest fashion trends at Siam Paragon the next.

The city’s vibrant street food scene invites travelers to taste their way through delicious local dishes such as Pad Thai and Mango Sticky Rice. Colorful markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market provide not only shopping opportunities but also a chance to immerse oneself in the bustling atmosphere unique to Bangkok.

For those planning a visit, the best time to explore Bangkok is between November and February when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. A 3-4 day itinerary allows for a deep dive into both the historical and modern aspects of Bangkok.

Day one could be dedicated to exploring iconic temples, followed by a day of shopping and cultural experiences in some of Bangkok’s renowned malls. The remaining time could be spent discovering hidden gems within the city’s myriad alleyways or taking part in cooking classes to learn about Thai cuisine firsthand.

Source: ( https://copenhagen.thaiembassy.org/en/content/bangkok-ranks-number-one-as-the-world-s-most-visit?cate=5d81e20015e39c1614002150 )

4. Mandalay, Myanmar – 2.4 million in 2023

Mandalay stands as a beacon of cultural richness in Asia, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its deep historical roots and breathtaking landscapes. This city is not just a place; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of ancient traditions, scenic beauty, and architectural marvels.

The heart of Mandalay’s allure lies in its significant pagodas, each telling a story of devotion and history. The Mahamuni Pagoda, for instance, houses one of the most revered Buddha images in Myanmar, drawing pilgrims from all corners of the globe. These sacred sites are not only places of worship but also offer a glimpse into the soul of Myanmar.

For those seeking to truly connect with Mandalay’s essence, visiting during the cooler months from November to February provides an ideal climate for exploration. The milder weather accentuates the natural beauty of the area, making outdoor adventures more enjoyable.

To fully absorb the charm that Mandalay has to offer, allocating at least three days is advisable. This duration allows visitors to wander through ancient palaces, climb up Mandalay Hill for sweeping views at sunset, and even take a boat ride on the Irrawaddy River for a different perspective of this mesmerizing city.

Source: ( https://www.gnlm.com.mm/mandalay-region-welcomes-2-4-million-tourists-in-2023/ )

5. Hong Kong – 34 Million Visitors in 2023

Hong Kong stands out with its impressive skyline , bustling harbor, and vibrant street markets. This city is a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures, offering a unique blend of its food, festivals, and architecture. The fusion cuisine here tells stories of colonial history mixed with local traditions, making every meal an adventure.

The best times to visit are from October to early December when the weather is pleasant, and the city buzzes with energy. For those planning a trip, a 3-4 day itinerary can ensure you soak in both the urban vibes and natural beauty Hong Kong has to offer.

Day 1 : Start with Victoria Peak for breathtaking views of the skyline. Then, dive into the street markets in Mong Kok.

Day 2 : Explore the cultural side by visiting Man Mo Temple and taking a traditional junk boat ride across Victoria Harbour.

Day 3 : Dedicate this day to Lantau Island to see the Tian Tan Buddha and enjoy serene moments at Tai O fishing village.

Day 4 : Wrap up your visit with a leisurely day at one of Hong Kong’s beautiful beaches or hike Dragon’s Back for scenic coastal views.

Source: ( https://www.statista.com/statistics/317143/hong-kong-visitor-arrivals/ )

6. Singapore – 13.6 Million Visitors in 2023

Singapore shines as a garden city , blending urban life with lush greenery in a way that’s both refreshing and inspiring. Attractions like Gardens by the Bay, with its futuristic Supertree structures, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer serene escapes within the bustling city. These spots not only showcase the city’s commitment to nature but also provide unique photo opportunities and tranquil spaces for visitors.

The culinary scene in Singapore is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting its multicultural heritage. From bustling hawker centers serving up affordable local dishes to high-end restaurants offering gourmet experiences, food lovers will find themselves on an endless gastronomic journey. The variety of options ensures that every palate is catered to, making dining out one of the top activities in the city.

For those planning a visit, timing it during festive seasons adds an extra layer of excitement. Experiencing cultural celebrations such as Chinese New Year or Deepavali in Singapore brings you closer to understanding the diverse fabric of this society. These festivals fill the streets with color, music, and traditional festivities, offering a deeper glimpse into the local way of life.

A stay of 3-4 days is recommended to fully immerse yourself in what Singapore has to offer. This allows enough time to explore major attractions, indulge in the culinary delights, and perhaps even discover some hidden gems.

Source: ( https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/media-centre/media-releases/Singapores-tourism-sector-posts-strong-recovery-in-2023-exceeds-forecasts-for-tourism-receipts.html.html )

7. Tokyo, Japan – 25 Million Visitors in 2023

Tokyo stands as a vibrant blend of the old and new, offering visitors a journey through time from the serene beauty of ancient temples to the dazzling heights of its modern skyscrapers. This mega city doesn’t just impress with its size but with a culture that seamlessly integrates centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge technology.

For food enthusiasts, Tokyo is nothing short of paradise. The city’s dining scene is a treasure trove of unique experiences, from high-end sushi bars where master chefs craft perfect bites to quirky-themed cafes that transport you into different worlds. Each meal in Tokyo tells a story, making every dining experience memorable.

The cherry blossom season casts a magical spell over Tokyo, transforming it into a picturesque landscape of soft pink hues. This period is not only stunning but also symbolizes new beginnings and fleeting beauty, embodying the Japanese philosophy of appreciating the moment. Planning your trip around this season offers an unforgettable experience as the city blooms into life.

To truly immerse yourself in what Tokyo has to offer, a 4-5 day itinerary is ideal. Start by exploring historic neighborhoods like Asakusa to witness traditional temples then shift gears towards Shinjuku or Shibuya for a taste of Tokyo’s lively nightlife and futuristic charm. Don’t forget to wander through tranquil gardens and visit world-class museums to round off your journey.

Source: ( https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Travel-Leisure/Japan-received-25m-tourists-in-2023-reaching-79-of-pre-COVID-level )

8. Seoul, South Korea – 11 Million Visitors in 2023

Seoul stands as a vibrant blend of the old and new, where historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace meet the modern cultural wave of K-pop. This city is not just South Korea’s capital but also a hub for youthful energy and fashion-forward districts such as Hongdae. Here, the streets are alive with music, art, and the latest trends, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the pulse of Korean youth culture.

For those interested in history, Gyeongbokgung Palace offers a glimpse into Korea’s royal past with its stunning architecture and grandeur. Meanwhile, K-pop fans can immerse themselves in the genre’s birthplace, possibly catching live performances or visiting themed cafes dedicated to their favorite idols.

Seoul truly shines in autumn when the city is draped in beautiful foliage. The weather during this season is perfect for exploring both the bustling cityscape and serene natural spots within the city. A stay of 3-4 days is ideal for soaking in Seoul’s dynamic culture, allowing visitors enough time to wander through its historic alleys, indulge in delicious Korean cuisine, and perhaps even learn a few K-pop dance moves.

Source: ( https://www.kedglobal.com/travel-leisure/newsView/ked202312280008 )

9. Taipei, Taiwan – 4 Million Visitors in 2023

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, offers a unique blend of modern urban life and natural beauty. The city is famous for its night markets , where visitors can indulge in a variety of local street foods, from bubble tea to stinky tofu. These bustling markets provide a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Taipei’s culture.

Another highlight is the iconic Taipei 101 building. Once the tallest building in the world, it now offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck. The structure’s design, inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, adds a cultural touch to its modern appeal.

For those seeking relaxation, Taipei’s hot springs are a must-visit. Located in Beitou District, these natural hot springs offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy soaking in mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery.

The city is also a gateway to beautiful hiking trails nearby. Trails like Elephant Mountain offer panoramic views of Taipei and are easily accessible for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Visiting during lantern festivals adds another layer of enchantment to the trip. These festivals light up the night sky with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.

To fully experience both urban delights and natural wonders, a 3-4 day itinerary is recommended. This allows ample time to explore night markets, marvel at Taipei 101, unwind in hot springs, hike scenic trails, and enjoy the lantern festivals.

Source: ( https://focustaiwan.tw/society/202309130009 )

10. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 17.15 Million Visitors in 2023

Dubai stands out as a jewel in the desert , offering a blend of luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture, and lively nightlife that attracts millions each year. This city is not just about its towering skyscrapers but also about the unique experiences it offers.

From wandering through the vast Dubai Mall to admiring the cityscape from the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, visitors find themselves immersed in an environment where luxury and innovation meet.

What sets Dubai apart are its desert safaris and cultural experiences that offer a glimpse into the region’s history and lifestyle outside the urban glitz. Venturing into the desert on a safari brings you face-to-face with endless dunes, traditional Bedouin camps, and unforgettable sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and orange.

For those planning a visit, timing is everything. The cooler months between November and March provide pleasant weather for exploring both the city’s architectural marvels and its desert landscapes. A stay of 4-5 days is ideal, allowing enough time to experience Dubai’s top attractions while also soaking in its vibrant culture and hospitality.

Source: ( https://mediaoffice.ae/en/news/2024/February/07-02/Dubai-achieves-its-best-ever-annual-tourism )

You’ve just taken a whirlwind tour of Asia’s most visited cities, each with its unique charm, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the futuristic skyline of Dubai. These destinations have earned their spots on your travel bucket list not just for their beauty or history, but because they offer experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Whether it’s the vibrant street food scene in Hanoi, the breathtaking views from the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, or the serene temples of Kyoto, these cities promise adventures that are as diverse as Asia itself.

Now it’s your turn to step out and discover what makes each of these cities a magnet for travelers worldwide. Pack your bags, set your sights on new horizons, and let the stories of these places inspire your next journey. Remember, every trip you take is a chance to create memories that last a lifetime. So why wait? Start planning your Asian adventure today!

What are the most visited cities in Asia?

The top visited cities in Asia include Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Mandalay, Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, and Dubai. These destinations offer rich cultural experiences and breathtaking sights.

Why is Bangkok a popular destination in Asia?

Bangkok is renowned for its vibrant street life, opulent royal palaces, ancient temples, and bustling markets. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity attracts millions of tourists annually.

How does Tokyo stand out among Asian cities?

Tokyo stands out due to its cutting-edge technology, fashion, food scene, and mix of modern and traditional architecture. It’s a city where you can experience the future alongside a rich historical culture.

Can I find historical sites in Hanoi?

Yes, Hanoi is filled with historical sites including the centuries-old Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and numerous ancient temples. It’s a city where history is palpably alive in its streets.

Is Singapore suitable for family vacations?

Absolutely. Singapore offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions such as the Singapore Zoo, Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios Singapore, and Sentosa Island. It’s known for its cleanliness and safety.

What makes Dubai unique among these Asian cities?

Dubai stands out for its futuristic skyline dominated by the Burj Khalifa, luxury shopping experiences, desert safaris, and innovative large-scale projects. It’s a city that epitomizes modern luxury.

Are there natural landscapes to explore near Taipei?

Yes. Beyond Taipei’s urban landscape lie breathtaking natural wonders like Yangmingshan National Park and Beitou Hot Springs. The city serves as a gateway to Taiwan’s stunning natural beauty.

Hi There! This is Taseen Alam. I am the founder of Nomad Footsteps and a full time online entrepreneur living my laptop lifestyle. I am a nomad myself as well as a traveler. On this blog, I share travel destinations, guides and itineraries etc. Join me on my journey of a nomad.

Similar Posts

How To Get To Andros Bahamas? Travel Tips & Advice!

Dreaming of a getaway to Andros Bahamas? The largest island in the Bahamas, Andros is a nature lover’s paradise…

Worst Time to Visit Maldives In 2024: Avoid This Mistake!

If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives in 2024, there’s one mistake you absolutely must avoid – going…

How to Get to Sacred Valley from Cusco? Best Routes & Tips!

The Sacred Valley, located in the Andes Mountains of Peru, is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into…

31 Best Places to Visit in The USA Everyone Should Visit

Oh, the United States of America! A land of boundless beauty and diverse landscapes, boasting some of the most…

How To Get To Lake Titicaca From Cusco? Best Routes & Tips!

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Picture this: the largest lake in South America, nestled between Peru and…

Can You Wear Shorts in Argentina?

When you visit Argentina, it’s important to dress appropriately for the different places you’ll go. In Buenos Aires, wearing…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Asia

There are so many exciting top destinations in Asia , deciding where to go can be difficult; but that's a good problem to have.

Don't despair! With cheap budget flights between major hubs in Asia , you could easily catch a couple or more of these tempting top-spots on a single trip. Regardless of where you begin, you'll have access to culture, UNESCO sites , nature, and exciting culinary treats.

If planning your first big trip to Asia, consider a soft landing in one of these top destinations for first-time travelers.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Many travelers prefer Thailand's pleasant northern capital over the hectic pace of life in Bangkok. Most of the tourist action happens within Chiang Mai's Old City, where orange-robed monks from the many temples smile as they pass.

From numerous cultural festivals and sprawling night markets to mountain trekking and scores of beautiful temples, Chiang Mai attracts over a million visitors a year who just can't wait to come back. Chiang Mai is certainly the most popular among the top 10 places to visit in Thailand .

Pai, a riverside village only four hours north of Chiang Mai, is a bonus; you can visit both of them together as a "package."

Although inflation is on the rise due to popularity (Bangkok is consistently one of the most visited cities in the world), a vacation in Thailand is still relatively inexpensive .

Penang, Malaysia

Known as the "Pearl of the Orient," Penang is a place to relax, eat delicious food to the brink of misery, and appreciate Malaysia in a new way. Malaysians are quite proud of their large island — and they should be!

A legacy of immigration and colonization in Penang has produced what is arguably some of the best cuisines in all of Southeast Asia. Penang hawker food combines the best of Malay with influences from Chinese and Indian immigrants to produce mouthwatering creations.

Superb food is not the only indulgence on the island. You'll find ​hip museums and art galleries along with plenty of other things to do in Penang. Georgetown may have some grubby edges, but it's not only charming, it's groovy .

Penang is easy to reach and is certainly among the top destinations in Malaysia .

Notoriously expensive and often unfairly shunned by budget travelers afraid of getting fined , tiny Singapore is a modern-yet-green city/island/country well worth a visit for the food, mega-mall shopping, and unique blend of cultures.

Don't assume that Singapore is all about concrete shopping blocks! You'll find ample green space and an impressive system of elevated biking and walking trails that interconnect city parks.

Yes, Singapore costs far more than neighboring Malaysia or the rest of Southeast Asia, however, the city has a pleasant vibe, lively Indian and Chinese cultures, speaks good English, and is pleasant enough just to stroll. You could spend months living in Singapore and still discover hidden places and eateries the guidebooks have missed! Even the museums in Singapore will remain in memory forever.

Malaysian Borneo

Borneo in Southeast Asia is the third-largest island in the world, shared between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei.

Hands down, Malaysian Borneo is a natural paradise. And with plentiful rainforests, endangered orangutans, and indigenous cultures, it's certainly worth grabbing a cheap flight from Kuala Lumpur . You'll often see deals to Borneo for US $20 or less!

Malaysian Borneo has two states: Sarawak and Sabah . Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a happening tourist city in the shadow of towering Mount Kinabalu. Kuching , the capital of Sarawak, has a pleasant waterfront that helped earned the city "cleanest in Asia" for many years.

When you've had enough shopping and cheap seafood, trade the concrete for the undeveloped beaches and nearby national parks where there are plenty of opportunities to experience Southeast Asia at its wildest.

Islands in Thailand

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

From islands large enough for busy airports to tiny, generator-powered paradises, the islands in Thailand are among the world's most beautiful.

Imagine​ white sand and blue water, cheap diving, and your choice of isolated tranquility or savage nightlife — all for far less than the cost of a trip to Hawaii. Even better, you won't need to bring that much stuff along .

The diversity of the Thai islands is amazing. Phuket and Koh Samui are developed, tourist hot spots with vibrant nightlife, while tiny Koh Lipe once barely maintained electricity. Beautiful Koh Lanta is the perfect island compromise.

The great news is that you don't have to choose just one. Island hopping is a thing in Thailand.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is the gateway to exploring one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Angkor Wat . Over 900 years old, the temples of Angkor are scattered across 600 square miles of jungle. The jungle is slowly reclaiming the ancient temples as vines strangle ruins and break apart bricks.

The picturesque Angkor temples frequently serve as movie sets and bring to life the inner-archaeologist in over one million visitors each year. While not at the temples, Siem Reap is a tourist destination all on its own.

If visiting during the shoulder seasons at Angkor Wat , you could have some of the jungle temples all to yourself!

Beijing, China

Crowded, polluted, dreadfully appealing — love it or hate it , Beijing is the pounding heart of China. Amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City make navigating Beijing's urban sprawl well worth the effort.

Give Beijing a chance; rather than fleeing from the madness, stick around long enough to become a part of it. Wandering the busy streets can actually become quite addictive!

Bali, Indonesia

Ana Alarcon / TripSavvy

Bali, with its miles of beaches and volcanic landscapes, is nothing short of magic. Once mainly a destination for honeymooners and surfers, Bali is now one of the top destinations in Asia.

Most of the action culminates in South Bali at hedonistic Kuta Beach. Travelers in search of more than surf or a hangover go for Ubud , the peaceful cultural center of Bali. Some even opt to climb a volcano in the verdant Kintamani Region in the center of the island.

Excellent beaches, a welcoming Hindu culture, and beautiful scenery make Bali the busiest of places to visit in Indonesia . Plus, flights to Bali are really cheap from Bangkok.

Tokyo, Japan

Perhaps not the cheapest of places to visit in Asia, bustling Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan economy, even exceeding New York City. Urban marvels, talking toilets, and an aloof culture begging to be understood await as soon as you exit the airport.

Learning a few Japanese travel tips will help you save money while traveling in Japan. If you don't mind a lot of company, go during the spring to appreciate cherry blossoms  with the locals.

Rajasthan, India

While Goa gets a lot of attention because of the beaches, intrepid travelers head west into India's desert state of Rajasthan . Rich with history, stories of romance, camels, and impressive forts, Rajasthan is an unforgettable destination.

If the sun and tourists become too much, consider heading north to the Himalayas with a visit to Manali or the home of the Dalai Lama .

What $100 Can Get You in Southeast Asia

Top Ten Reasons to Visit Singapore

Southeast Asia Countries to Travel

Singapore Guide: Planning Your Trip

Vital Information for the First-Time Visitor to Thailand

July in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Bali and Thailand Plan on Fully Reopening to Tourists by July

January in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Malaysia's Top 10 Destinations

Honeymoon Destinations in Asia

The Banana Pancake Trail

May in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

June in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

8 Southeast Asian Destinations You Shouldn't Miss

February in Asia: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

6 Great Places to Visit From Thailand

The 50 Most Beautiful Places in Asia

By Caitlin Morton

Asia is the largest continent both in terms of sheer size (17,139,445 square miles) and population (more than four billion), which means there's literally no shortage of things to see: think rice paddies in Bali , monasteries in Bhutan, bridges in Malaysia, and water palaces in India—and we're only just getting started. Here, a look at 50 of the most breathtaking sites across Asia.

Bunaken Marine Park, Indonesia

Jaipur, India

Ajanta Caves, India

Taj Mahal, India

Borobudur, Java, Indonesia

Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Tanah Lot, Bali, Indonesia

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Masada, Israel

Isfahan, Iran

Nara Park, Japan

Palawan, The Philippines

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kyoto, Japan

Philosopher's Walk, Kyoto, Japan

Himeji Castle, Japan

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan

Singapore Skyline

Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Gyeongju National Park, South Korea

Mount Fuji, Japan

Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul, South Korea

Luang Prabang, Laos

Baekdu Mountains, North Korea

Jeju Island, South Korea

Langkawi, Malaysia

Paro Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan

Kerala Backwaters, India

The Temples of Angkor, Cambodia

Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Great Wall of China

Leh, Ladakh, India

Hong Kong Skyline

Jal Mahal, India

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Ko Tao, Thailand

Lhasa, Tibet

Sa Pa, Vietnam

Hoi An, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Taroko National Park, Taiwan

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Gobi Desert, Mongolia

Central Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Arkhangai, Mongolia

Museum of Islamic Art, Doha, Qatar

Bagan, Myanmar

Petra, Jordan

Socotra, Yemen

Jiufen, Taiwan

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Reed Flute Cave, Guilin, China

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Home > Top 10 > Cities in Asia

Top 10 Must-See Cities in Asia

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is one of the world's most exciting cities , and should be the city you visit in Asia if you can only see one. It's composed of different vibrant (and some chaotic) neighborhoods, tempting shopping at some of the world's biggest markets, and modern buildings next to some of the world's most impressive temples. The best experience is to see it on a boat , passing by floating markets, the modern skyline, and the old temples. End your visit at the Grand Palace, home to the Emerald Buddha, and don't miss the world's largest golden statue, the Golden Buddha, and the Reclining Buddha at the Wat Pho temple, the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Tokyo, Japan

One of the world's top food cities and also a fashion capital, Tokyo is a city more to experience than to sightsee . It's a huge world city, but anywhere you want to go is within walking distance from a train. It has a very efficient transport service, and you will never be bored if you enjoy big fast-paced cities with big crowds -- you'll see what we mean as you step off Shibuya Station and walk around the Shibuya district. For a trip back in time, visit the Sensoji Temple.

Beijing, China

The Chinese capital has the country's most stunning imperial palaces (at the Forbidden City), and although getting around may not be easy (locals do not speak English or any other language), it's a city no one should miss (go on guided tours ). It's home to one of the world's greatest man-made wonders (the Great Wall), as well as to several cultural sites, including a number of magnificent temples.

Shanghai, China

They've called it the "Paris of the East," and this waterfront city has gone from seaside fishing village to one of the world's most industrialized and multicultural metropolises. It's also a major shopping destination, and that Parisien feel is reflected in old palatial buildings and tree-lined avenues. For tourists, one of the most memorable experiences is a scenic boat tour to admire the modern skyline (to photograph the landmark Oriental Pearl Tower), and dining at some of the finest international restaurants in Asia.

Hong Kong, China

This former British colony is a dynamic city that's as East as it is West. It offers the exotic and the familiar, the cutting-edge and the traditional. It's a big, vibrant place, something of an Asian New York, and it's not exactly cheap. In between its towering buildings are sophisticated restaurants and shops, meant for those looking to spend some big bucks, but also stalls of Chinese food and lively street markets. It's surprisingly easy to get around, with streets marked in English, good public transportation, pedestrianized streets, and organized tours .

Kyoto, Japan

You won't find the best and most traditional Japanese culture in the country's capital. You'll have to leave Tokyo and head to Kyoto, home to imperial palaces and monumental temples. This is a city of cultural treasures, with over a dozen World Heritage Sites. It's a trip back to ancient Japan, a destination for history and culture, to see elegant geishas performing the tea ceremony, and gardens of cherry blossoms. But it's also a modern city, although you'll likely want to spend more time walking through the cobbled lanes and wooden townhouses of the Higashiyama district, with its large concentration of sights .

Mumbai, India

For many travelers, visiting India is stepping into another world, and this city is the best introduction. Also still known as Bombay, it has been ruled by the Portuguese and the British throughout the centuries, but maintains a very strong Indian identity. Yes, it's chaotic, home to the very rich and the incredibly poor, to modern skyscrapers and to slums, and to the Bollywood film industry. It's a frantic place that may not be for everyone, but that no one ever forgets. After the initial shock, there's an alluring city with markets, colonial buildings, and some of the finest restaurants in this part of the world.

Macau, China

This is the second "Special Administrative Region" of China (the other is neighboring Hong Kong), a territory that was a Portuguese colony until 1999. Usually visited together with Hong Kong (just a ferry ride away), this is the "Las Vegas of the East" that is making Las Vegas become the "Macau of the West." It's now the world's gambling capital in terms of profits, but there is much more than casinos at this slice of Europe in Asia. There's European-style architecture, Mediterranean-style cuisine left behind by the former colonial masters, and an increasing number of skyscrapers and luxury accommodation .

Some find it too sanitized and soulless, others think it should serve as a model for all world cities. Singapore is one of the world's major modern cities and is also an independent state. It's known as a great food destination and as a cosmopolitan city with a population from all over the world. It's a prosperous place with modern architecture, countless malls and great hotels , not to mention the world's greatest rooftop pool .

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This city was placed on many travel lists thanks to the Petronas Twin Towers, which were the world's tallest buildings for several years. But this is also a city of great restaurants due to a mix of cultures, of historic temples and markets, and even several parks outside the bustling center.

More Travel Inspiration:

Top 10 Most Beautiful Cities in the World

Top 10 Most Beautiful Countries

Top 10 Ugliest Cities in the World

Top 10 Cities in Europe

Top 10 Cities in the U.S.

Top 10 Cities in Latin America

Top 10 Cities in the Middle East

Top 10 Cities in Asia

Top 10 Cities in Spain

Top 10 City Breaks

10 Overrated Tourist Destinations

Top 10 Most Exciting Cities

Top 10 Most Romantic Cities

Top 10 Shopping Streets in the World

Top 10 Greatest Boulevards in the World

Top 10 Food Cities

Top 10 Most Beautiful Cafés in the World

Top 10 Rooftop Pools

Top 10 Most Beautiful Town Squares

Top 10 Museums of the World

Top 10 Must-See Art Masterpieces

Top 10 Countries with the Most Beautiful Women

Top 10 Gay Cities

Top 10 Gay Beaches

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in japan.

Known as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan's civilization dates as far back as 30,000 years. Today, the archipelago seamlessly blends its rich history with its ultra-modern present. And while its capital, Tokyo, is a must-visit for first timers, Japan has so much more to offer travelers of all types, from cherry blossoms to white sand beaches to soothing onsen (hot spring spas). U.S. News took into account cultural attractions, culinary options and accessibility (among other factors) to bring you the best places to visit in Japan. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's ranking.

Izu Peninsula

This metropolis is a feast for the senses. Neighborhoods like Ginza and Akihabara buzz with flashing lights and larger-than-life shopping, while Meiji Shrine and the Tokyo Imperial Palace give you a look into Japan's storied past. There are also a number of green spaces like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which acts as a place to escape from the chaotic, concrete jungle. What's more, Tokyo is regularly regarded as a top foodie city thanks in part to its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants (the most you'll find in any city in the world), so come hungry.

Travelers most interested in Japan's history and traditions should head to Kyoto. Centrally located on the archipelago, Kyoto has long been considered the cultural capital of Japan. Here, you'll find more than 1,000 Buddhist temples and 400-plus Shinto shrines (you can't miss the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha), including a whopping 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also stroll through geisha districts like Gion and Miyagawacho, admire classic wooden architecture and visit traditional teahouses before checking out more modern attractions, such as the Kyoto Aquarium.

Nikko is the place to go to see lavish architecture surrounded by nature. Head to Nikko National Park, one of Japan's oldest national parks, to enjoy an up-close look at traditional structures situated alongside mountains, lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. The park is especially beautiful in fall when its trees display vivid shades of yellow, red and orange. The 103 Edo-era (1603–1868) temples and shrines in Nikko include world-renowned sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.

Situated about 35 miles southwest of Kyoto, this port city is worth a visit for its food alone. One of the city's most famous dishes, the tasty pancake-like okonomiyaki (which means "grilled as you like it" in Japanese), is made with batter, cabbage and your choice of meat and other toppings. After you've gotten your fill of the delectable local cuisine, explore the flashy Dotonbori neighborhood, check out the reconstructed 16th-century Osaka Castle or head to contemporary sights like Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

As Japan's second most populous city, Yokohama is often touted as a more approachable and more affordable alternative to Tokyo (located 22 miles northeast). As one of the country's first ports to open to international trade, Yokohama features unique culture fusions, including a sizable expat population, Western-style buildings in the Yamate area and the largest Chinatown in Japan (it has more businesses than residents). While here, visitors can explore Minato Mirai 21, the city's modern central district teeming with skyscrapers and shopping malls, and visit museums ranging from the Cup Noodles Museum to the Mitsubishi Minatomirai Industrial Museum.

More than 160 islands comprise Okinawa, a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The Japanese prefecture boasts proximity to multiple coral reefs teeming with fish, manta rays and hammerhead sharks that you can access from beautiful beaches like those found on Okinawa's Kerama Islands. These 20-plus islands are also ideal places to see migrating whales between January and March. Back on the main island, visitors will find one of the world's largest aquariums, several castle ruins and a museum that focuses on Okinawa's unique history and culture. And on the less developed Iriomote Island, adventurous travelers can hike to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Spared from World War II air raids and the major natural disasters that have affected other Japanese cities, Kanazawa on the western coast is home to some of the country's best-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Sites like Kanazawa Castle, Seisonkaku Villa and Myoryuji temple are popular among visitors, as are the Higashi Chaya geisha district and Nagamachi Samurai District. Plus, no trip to Kanazawa would be complete without a visit to the resplendent Kenrokuen Garden. With its water features, bridges and a variety of flowering trees that add beauty to any season, Kenrokuen is often described as the perfect garden.

Nestled in the mountains of the Gifu prefecture, Takayama is ideal for visitors looking for a rural retreat with a dose of history. Start your visit with a rickshaw ride through the well-preserved old town, which features sake breweries, traditional residences and shops that date back to the feudal ages. Then, head to the Hida Folk Village, a former farming village with 30 gassho-style houses. When you've worked up an appetite, indulge in must-try local specialties including Hida beef and Takayama ramen. To further immerse yourself in Takayama culture, visit during the Takayama Festival, held for two days every spring and fall.

The country's tallest mountain and one of its most iconic landmarks is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. For centuries, Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by Mount Fuji's almost perfectly round form. The Fuji Five Lakes region at the foot of this UNESCO World Heritage Site makes a great base for the thousands of climbers who visit each year. Enjoy the area's museums and amusement park during the warmer months. Or, arrive in winter to soak in the onsen and ski Mount Fuji's slopes.

Located on Kyushu (Japan's third-largest island), Fukuoka offers travelers a mix of urban sprawl, sandy coastlines and ancient temples and shrines. Can't-miss sights include Tochoji Temple – home of the largest sitting wooden Buddha in Japan – and Nokonoshima Island, which features colorful flower fields and beautiful views of the surrounding bay. Fukuoka is also known for its incredible Hakata ramen, so be sure to try this tasty dish at one of the city's many food stalls. Plan your visit around one of Fukuoka's lively festivals, such as the Hakata Gion Yamakasa, which takes place throughout the first half of July.

Head to the smallest of Japan's four main islands if you're looking to get off the beaten path. Shikoku is best known for its 88 Temple Pilgrimage – a nearly 750-mile loop that covers sacred sites around the island. Whether you're trekking this path or creating your own, you'll encounter Shikoku's natural beauty (think: forest-covered mountains and an unspoiled coastline). Meanwhile, the city of Kochi features cheap eats and a well-preserved castle. If you're visiting in mid-August, add Shikoku's cultural pinnacle, Awa Odori, to your itinerary. One of the most famous festivals in Japan, this dance celebration in the city of Takushima is a must-do.

Mountainous Hakone is one of Japan's most popular hot spring destinations. Nestled within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town features 17 different hot springs, plus a hot spring theme park with unique baths like one with coffee and another with mulled wine. After you've dried off, visit one of Hakone's art museums, such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, the Okada Museum of Art or the Hakone Museum of Art. No Hakone vacation would be complete without enjoying spectacular views of Mount Fuji from Lake Ashinoko and the Komagatake Ropeway.

After an earthquake caused significant damage to the city in 1995, Kobe rebuilt itself into a thriving cosmopolitan city. You'll want to remember to bring your appetite when you visit. Kobe is famous for its namesake beef, as well as its sake. It's also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities, with sleek architecture and beautiful green spaces like Sorakuen Garden. For some of the city's best views – especially at sunset – go to the top of Mount Rokko or ride the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway. End your evening exploring Nankinmachi (Kobe's compact Chinatown) or dining at one of Kobe Harborland's waterfront restaurants.

For many, Hiroshima brings up memories of war, as the city is where the world's first atomic bomb attack occurred in 1945. But today, Hiroshima is a city of peace, with the vast Peace Memorial Park as the center for monuments and memorials like the  the Children's Peace Monument and the UNESCO-certified Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Atomic Bomb Dome). It is also a city of great beauty. Travelers can take a scenic stroll through Shukkeien Garden, peruse the exhibits at the Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art or visit Sandankyo Gorge to hike or boat past its beautiful waterfalls, caves and coves.

Tourists flock to the island of Miyajima (formally named Itsukushima) for its prime attraction: Itsukushima Shrine and its postcard-worthy torii gate. To see the shrine at its most picturesque, try to visit during high tide, when the gate appears to float on the water. Since the island is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima, it makes for a great day trip. However, visitors may want to stay the night at a charming ryokan (Japanese-style inn) to experience Miyajima at its most serene and walk by the illuminated shrine at night.

An outdoor-lover's delight, Matsumoto is just 22 miles east of Kamikochi, an awe-inspiring valley in the Hotaka mountain range. But though it serves as a gateway to the Japanese Alps, this city in central Japan should not be skipped over. As the birthplace of contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, known for polka dots and pumpkins, Matsumoto pays her tribute at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art. Meanwhile, those who prefer more ancient masterpieces can visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the oldest and grandest castles in the country.  

Japan's first permanent capital is famous for housing the Great Buddha, a nearly 50-foot-tall bronze statue of Buddha. You'll find this jaw-dropping national treasure in Nara's Todaiji temple, which is the one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. While on the temple grounds, explore the deer-filled Nara Park and the ornate Kasuga Taisha shrine. Also save time for visiting Yakushiji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples that dates back to A.D. 730.

This peninsula situated 62 miles southwest of Tokyo makes a great getaway from the busy city. It is popular among locals and tourists alike thanks to its relaxing hot springs and stunning beaches. These, along with various museums and ryokans, can be found in cities like Atami and Shimoda on the Izu Peninsula's eastern coast. During spring visits, travelers will also want to check out Kawazu's vibrant pink blooms at the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival. Meanwhile, on the southern and western coasts, vacationers will find more rugged yet equally scenic coastlines, such as Cape Irozaki and Dogashima.

12 Day Tour of Japan

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

Osaka to Tokyo, via historic cities and natural wonders, on Japan’s high-tech train network.

Starts at: Osaka

Ends at: Tokyo

Duration: 12 days

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Chubu Sangaku National Park

Shirakawa-go and Gokayama

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Asia

Best Places to Visit in Thailand

World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

Africa & The Middle East

Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2023

Best Places to Visit in October 2024

Australia & The Pacific

Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

My detailed 350+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel around Thailand. You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The 12 best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Polonnaruwa is famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage © leodaphne / Getty Images

With rugged mountains, untouched beaches and fertile soil that grows coconuts, tea and spices, Sri Lanka offers travelers a wondrous mix of experiences unmatched for an island of its size.

Today the country’s rich heritage, delectable cuisine and astonishing wildlife are more accessible than ever, thanks to an ever-improving public transport system. Trains, buses, coaches and tuk-tuks carry visitors to all parts of the island at various price points. But with so many charming places to choose from, where does one start?

Depending on what you’re looking for – art, culture, history – what you put down on your Sri Lanka itinerary is bound to change. Still, here’s our selection of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka to get you started. 

Best for exploring on foot

No Sri Lanka itinerary is complete without Colombo , the country’s culturally diverse hub. (But not its capital – that’s actually Sri Jayawardenepura-Kotte!) An ideal first taste of Sri Lanka, with tuk-tuks, cars and buses rushing through busy lanes, Colombo is renowned for its landmark buildings around the cosmopolitan Fort district, including the terracotta-roofed Dutch Hospital . 

Be sure to spend some time at Galle Face Green , a seaside promenade where hundreds of families gather to dip their toes in the sea at sunset and children fly kites overhead. Order yourself isso wade , deep-fried prawn and lentil cakes, topped with spicy sambol , and people-watch. 

Planning tip: While Colombo is a safe and walkable city, tuk-tuks are inexpensive and convenient for getting around. Always check that your tuk-tuk has a working meter before you get in to ensure you pay the correct fare for your ride. 

2. Sigiriya

Best for history buffs and art aficionados 

With ornate ponds, royal sleeping chambers and majestic lion paws carved into the base of the rock, the colossal granite fortress of Sigiriya  is easily Sri Lanka’s most recognizable site, peeking out of a thick jungle canopy for a glimpse of the ancient kingdom of Kassapa.

Although its frescoes – images of bare-breasted women adorned in jewelry with flowers in their hair – are famous, the view from the top of the rock is unparalleled. A hush of calm echoes over the terraced summit, which covers 1.6 hectares (4 acres). 

Planning tip: Get here around 7am – the cooler morning air makes for a pleasant walk up the 1200 steps to the top. Aim to head back down before noon (before the rock surface gets too hot), stay hydrated and wear soft shoes with tread.

3. Anuradhapura

Best for experiencing Buddhist culture

Anuradhapura looks misleadingly like any other Sri Lankan town when you arrive: an unremarkable clock tower, a single train station and small shops lining a busy main road. But the town's simple facade gives nothing away regarding the enormous scale of its heritage as the heartland of Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.

The main feature of this area remains the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to have been planted from a cutting from the tree Buddha attained enlightenment under in Bodhgaya, India. Beyond this, Anuradhapura is bursting with archaeological wonders: colossal dagobas (stupas), temples, palaces and venerable Buddhist sites scattered among the jungles and villages of the area. 

Planning tip: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking between sites. Buddhist temples, even as ruins, are still places of worship, and footwear must be removed before entering. Carrying a scarf to cover legs and shoulders is always a good idea.

4. Polonnaruwa

Best for ancient archaeological wonders

Often twinned with a visit to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is also famed for its ancient ruins, rock temples and Buddhist heritage. 

As you gaze upon the 14m (46ft) reclining Buddha in Gal Viharaya and its surrounding carvings, you can’t help but imagine what went into creating these figures. The white, grey and black granite softens the details of these intricate carvings, and the scent of fresh flowers and incense, offered to the statues by devotees, floats through the temple's air. 

Don’t skip the remaining archaeological sites in the area, including the Royal Ruins , which can be visited in a day and contain closely grouped temples and stupas. 

Planning tip: If traveling toward Jaffna in the north of Sri Lanka, both Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are great places to stay and break up the journey.

Best for a taste of Tamil culture

From the Jaffna Fort  to the architecturally marvelous Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil , a Hindu temple adorned with brasswork and staggering murals, Jaffna is a relaxed change from the rest of the country. Here you can immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka’s largest ethnic minority: the Tamil people.

Once under Portuguese and Dutch occupation, today’s Jaffna is revitalized with up-and-coming restaurants. Of the several islands off the coast of Jaffna accessible by roads and ferries, Kayts – a hauntingly beautiful, quiet island of fishing communities – and Delft, with its wild ponies descended from horses abandoned by Dutch colonists, are worth a visit.

Planning tip: The Tamil-centric culture in Jaffna differs from the rest of the island. Be mindful of local customs, such as removing footwear when entering certain sites. This includes the Jaffna Public Librar y, where footwear is removed as a means of respecting the knowledge within the building.

6. Trincomalee

Best for an unspoiled beach vacation

Stretches of powdery soft beaches and calm waters meld with dramatic cliffside Hindu temples – among them the famous Kandasamy Kovil , with unmistakable ornamental architecture and a monumental statue of Shiva looking out to sea – for a touch of Sri Lanka that remains off most tourists’ radars. 

The coastline here is only disturbed by the occasional bit of driftwood or coconut husk washing ashore in the shallow waters, ripe for snorkeling, where miles of coral reefs and marine life thrive.

Planning tip: Public beaches here do not have lifeguards, and swimming and snorkeling should only be undertaken with a guide.

7. Dambulla

Best for pilgrim trails 

An important part of the country’s pilgrim trail, set within a quiet jungle that's home to the native toque macaque (aka toque monkey), Rangiri Cave Temple in Dambulla is the most visited place in Sri Lanka.

Expect troops of monkeys to accompany you on the walk up to the temple, inside which you'll find a series of five caves containing 150 well-preserved statues of Buddha alongside religious art, sculpted and painted into the rock.

Planning tip: Wear white or soft colors as a mark of respect, and expect crowds on full-moon days, which are holy days in the Buddhist calendar. While toque macaques are delightful to watch, they are wild and should never be approached.

8. Minneriya National Park

Best for witnessing the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world

Herds of wild elephants – around 300 in number – graze nearly 9000 hectares (22,240 acres) of Minneriya National Park, where life centers around Minneriya Lake. Watch in awe (cameras at the ready, naturally!) as long trunks draw water and calves roll around on the banks in wet mud.  

Once a year, during the dry season, all 300 elephants gather around the banks of the lake to graze in a marvelous natural event known as "the Gathering." This also happens to be the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world.

Planning tip: April to October is the best time to see the Gathering. Prebooking your safari and sharing jeeps helps to reduce the number of vehicles entering the park during this busy period.

Best for experiencing Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

An ideal day trip from Colombo, the train departs the city’s Fort Railway Station and pulls into the heritage town of Kandy in under four hours. As the train curves and winds around mountains to connect rural towns, wide windows frame the view of deep ravines and hillsides densely covered in emerald-green tea bushes. 

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy Lake , both must-do attractions for anyone visiting Sri Lanka, are easily reached via tuk-tuk from the station. 

Planning tip: Visitors are required to cover their arms, legs and shoulders when visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The Kandy-to-Colombo train is an alternative way to experience Sri Lanka’s railway journeys, as popular towns such as Ella are 10 hours away from Colombo.

10. Kalpitiya 

Best for surfing enthusiasts

Despite attracting thrill-seekers from around the world, Kalpitiya retains most of its quaint coastal charm, with the exception of a Dutch-era fort that is occupied by the Sri Lankan navy. Cows, goats and donkeys stroll across the villages. Thatched-roof beach huts with outdoor showers offer that stereotypically pleasing surf-shack vibe, and most mornings you’ll wake to a crowing rooster. Most important, just 30km (19 miles) north of here at Vella Island, a narrow sandbar, you’re surrounded by tall, clear waves – kitesurfing heaven. 

Planning tip: The weather for kitesurfing is ideal between October to May, and there are several kitesurfing schools around Kalpitiya.

11. Kumana National Park

Best for spotting birds 

Known for its 200-hectare (494-acre) bird reserve, Kumana National Park is a birder’s dream, home to throngs of vibrant kingfishers and jungle fowl alongside 255 recorded species of endemic and migrating birds, all of which find sanctuary in the park's mangrove swamps and lagoons.

Expect to spot falcons and eagles as they soar above or peacocks shimmying on the ground. Also frequently spotted here: cleverly camouflaged crocodiles lying in wait on the sandy banks of the lake for a chance encounter with buffalo.

Cap off your trip here with a visit to the coastal village of Panama, which many visitors bypass in favor of bigger towns, such as Pottuvil and Arugam Bay . Between the tiny monastery under a rock, thatched-roof homes and dirt tracks through paddy fields, Panama is one of the most remote places to see.

Planning tip: Entrance to Kumana National Park is through the village of Okanda. Prearranging a guided jeep safari is best for enjoying the park. 

12. Adam’s Peak

Best for experiencing a night hike

Adam’s Peak (the footprint of Prophet Adam, in Islam), Sri Pada (the sacred foot of Buddha) and Samanala Kanda (the mountain of the butterflies and a reference to the local deity Saman) are multiple names given to Sri Lanka’s holiest peak, considered sacred by all religions on the island. 

Join thousands of pilgrims, dressed in white, in the early hours of the morning to hike slowly and quietly to the little temple at the top . Humble teahouses, resting places and shrines dot the landscape as you ascend. Pilgrims greet each other through blessings for a good climb. The hike to the top takes three to four hours, depending on the trail you choose. Aim to summit at dawn to catch the first rays of the sun wrapping around the mountain.

Planning tip: Adam’s Peak is 2243m (7359ft) high and a moderate climb. Ascending via Hatton and descending via Ratnapura is the shortest route, although steeper.

The full-moon days in December and May mark the beginning and end of the climbing season. During this period, set off earlier to sidestep the crowds, or expect slow and packed trails. Climbing in the offseason is not recommended, as it coincides with the southeastern monsoon.

This article was first published Apr 9, 2021 and updated Nov 9, 2023.

Explore related stories

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Nov 7, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read

May 26, 2022 • 18 min read

Jan 20, 2021 • 6 min read

Nov 3, 2019 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink
• Personal Care
• Health & Wellness
• Amazon Sales
• Why Trust Us
• StackCommerce

trending now in Shopping

Save up to 60% off last-minute gifts for your handy dad during...

Hot sleeper? You need these very best cooling sheets we reviewed

Out of the 55 eye creams we reviewed, these are the 29 best for...

Beat the heat this week with a sweet $50 off the Ninja CREAMi Ice...

We tried 23+ shampoos for 4 years, and these are the *ultimate...

95 men's luxury gift ideas all dads will appreciate this Father's...

Shopping for a luxurious Father's Day gift? Consider Aesop for...

Father's Day gift ideas for every type of dad — even ones that...

Best places to travel solo: 14 top destinations, per an expert.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Why wait? The world is calling you now!

When it comes to traveling, one of the most stressful parts can be the planning, making sure each member of your family or friend group is in agreement on the itinerary, hotel, spending and more. Want to avoid all of that?

We recommend a solo trip!

Traveling on your own can seem scary, but with the proper preparation and a good head on your shoulders, the world is ready for you to explore it right now. Going it solo, there are a few less things to worry about like a hotel room size (you just need one bed!) and group flights, but there also some nuances to make note of.

That’s why we interviewed a professional solo traveler, who now helps others get outside of their comfort zone and off into the great unknown.

We chatted with Jen Tenzer, founder of The Soloist , a luxury solo travel advisory site with all the tips and tricks you could need when going it alone. She let us in on some insider tips, plus mapped out where the best places to venture solo are, from the Americas to Asia, Europe and beyond.

The best places to solo travel in America

The best places to solo travel in south and central america, the best places to solo travel in europe, the best places to solo travel in asia, the best places to solo travel in the rest of the world.

Plus, read on for tips and tricks for who should travel solo

• Solo travel FAQ

What our experts say: “Sedona, Austin, and New York City — These cities are very concentrated and accessible, with tons of activities to keep solo travelers busy. Consider a wellness hotel in Sedona, a foodie walking tour in Austin, or a solo museum visit in NYC,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: What can I say — since New York City is on the expert list and I totally agree. As cliché as it may be, the Big Apple has endless options for solo travelers, from watching a Broadway show to seeing landmarks or just exploring the many museums and parks the five boroughs have to offer.

Sedona, Arizona: If you’re in need of a wellness moment, go it solo to the southwest and head to Sedona, Arizona. For an actual retreat, check out the Sedona Mago Center for a SunTao spa. If you prefer solo excursions, head here for hikes and tours to do solo.

Austin, Texas: For a true blue Texas trip, consider going alone to Austin. This is the best place to catch a live show and vibe with likeminded people, or, as our expert recommended, join a food tour and leave full of BBQ and great memories.

New York City, New York: What can’t you do in New York? Our expert first recommended a Broadway show, and we couldn’t agree more. Find tickets here and then plan the rest of your trip, with tours designed for solo travelers like you.

What our experts say: “Costa Rica and Peru — Same as above! These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English,” said Tenzer. “I love the idea of a wellness-focused surf and yoga retreat in Costa Rica or joining a group trek to Machu Picchu!”

What our editors say: I need to add Brazil to this list, since I did take a trip there myself. For a more friendly and party atmosphere where you are bound to meet other backpackers and solo travelers, Rio de Janeiro would be a great home base. I also took a solo trip into the Amazon Rainforest, which was a crazy adventure, but when done right, was a life-changing and introspective trip to do on my own.

Costa Rica: Per our expert, unwind and relax with a yoga retreat, staying at the Pura Vida Retreat & Spa . You can also book surf lessons to stay active or book a multi-day tour here so you don’t have to make your own itinerary.

Peru: Machu Picchu is a top bucket list destination for many, so why wait for a group to go? Instead, join an EF tour that also takes you to Lima and Cuzco, and even the Amazon Rainforest should you opt to extend. If you’d rather explore on your own, book a highly-rated hostel for budget lodging, sorted by city.

Brazil: Brazil is a huge country, so we advise you to pick a few places or spend a long time exploring. For a true cultural explosion, Rio is the place to be and you can take daily tours of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and more. For the more adventurous, take a flight to Manaus and enter the Amazon Rainforest. We did it in spring 2022 and took our tour here.

What our experts say: “England, Portugal, Italy… I could go on and on! European cities in general make for perfect for solo trips because everything is walkable, there’s tons of activities to keep you busy, and the expansive European train network makes it easy to transfer between cities,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I added two countries to our expert list: Spain and Switzerland. Spain is a great one to tack on to the end of any European adventure, as it is super closely connected to Portugal and Italy from the list. You can go from the northern Basque country to the south of Valencia and see a huge range of culture, food and architecture in just one country.

England: To start, flights from the US to England aren’t too hard to find, and savvy travelers can use Skyscanner to find the best deals. Once you’ve arrived, rent a cottage for a relaxing stay in a town of your choice or head into the thick of it and go to London for a full itinerary of solo things to see and do.

Portugal: Portugal is a great country to explore solo, with Lisbon and Porto as standouts for a great combo of nature and city life. If you like to be solo but also experience a place as the locals do, consider a tour or activity with a local guide , like a cooking class or a walking tour.

Italy: Italy may seem like a place of romance, but it can also be a place of self-love for the solo traveler. Use the railroads to book trains throughout the country so you can see it all, from Rome to Florence to Venice and beyond to see the country for yourself. You can also book a solo tour through EF and not worry about making your own itinerary.

Spain: Architecture, food and culture blend seamlessly together in Spain. See it for yourself, with a trip through the country. We personally started in Barcelona and then headed to Madrid and Valencia, all via train or bus. Then load your days with museums, walking tours or even dance classes to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle.

What our experts say: “Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam — These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English. There’s so much to see and explore here,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I have to agree 100% with Thailand, as I lived there on my own for six months. The country is easy to explore via public transit, cabs and even short flights, inexpensive to travel in and has some of the best food, nature and culture I have been exposed to.

Thailand: What can I say about Thailand? I personally lived there for six months and still never ran out of things to do alone, and also ran into plenty of other solo travelers and backpackers throughout the country. If you want some guidance, consider a tour with an itinerary. If not, be sure to keep your wits about you and make sure to visit Bangkok , with a trip north to Chiang Mai and a trip south to the islands of Krabi or Phuket for the full Thailand picture.

Bali, Indonesia: Once you’ve booked your ticket to Bali, the rest of the trip is all about relaxing, unwinding and taking in the incredible nature. It is also a surfing hot spot, should you like to take a lesson from just $14. Bali is also famous for yoga, so why not stay at a spa and yoga retreat to charge up for your next adventure?

Vietnam: There are plenty of things to do in Vietnam, making it another hot spot for backpackers and solo travelers who want to explore Asia . Built on the water, be sure to take some tours down Halong Bay and the Mekong River, or take an island day trip to get all the sun and sand you need.

What our expert says: “Another less-obvious way to travel solo is by joining a group retreat or cruise ! You’re still traveling alone to a new destination and surrounding yourself with strangers, but there’s a comfort in knowing that you’re not  truly  alone in an emergency. It also takes some of the stress out of things when everything is pre-planned for you. Group travel experiences are a great way to tiptoe into solo travel,” said Tenzer.

• Search Expedia for multiple destinations
• Plan a Princess cruise
• Shop for cruise deals and discounts at MSC Cruises
• Get a single stateroom for the Celebrity Cruises solo traveler

Solo travel FAQ with an expert:

What is the appeal of traveling alone? “Solo travel offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with your core wants and needs,” said Tenzer. Solo travel enables you to explore wherever and whenever you want, stick to a tight budget or truly treat yourself and fill your days with whatever activities light you up! It’s a newfound freedom that allows you to return from vacation actually refreshed.  You’ll return re-motivated to show up for everyone in your life as your best self!”

What are some benefits of solo travel? “Solo travel is incredibly empowering,” said Tenzer. “You don’t know how capable you truly are until you’ve pushed yourself beyond your comfort zone. Solo trips always come with the added benefit of a self-confidence boost. Solo travel is also a fantastic way to meet like-minded new friends. I know it sounds counter-intuitive, but I’ve met infinitely more people traveling solo than when traveling with a companion.”

Who should solo travel? “There’s a bit of cliché around solo travel; that it’s best suited for 20-something single backpackers on a gap year,” said Tenzer. “In reality, there are all sorts of reasons why someone may choose to travel alone: A major life transition like a breakup, career change or the loss of a loved one. Maybe they’re feeling burnt out and craving a personal recharge, or maybe they’re just sick of waiting for other people’s travel schedules and budgets to perfectly align. I’ve had solo travel clients in their 20s and in their 70s. The common tie amongst solo travelers isn’t a certain demographic, it’s a certain state of mind — ready to shake things up and have an adventure.”

How long do I need to solo travel for? “Solo travel doesn’t have to mean an intimidating 2-week trip to some far flung destination. The same solo travel benefits can be obtained from a weekend away to a nearby city you’ve always wanted to explore,” said Tenzer. “I always recommend starting small in your own city. Try visiting a museum on your own or dining out alone. Or, if you’re traveling with family, maybe you spend some time alone during the day and meet up with everyone else at dinner.”

When choosing lodging, what are some tips and tricks for solo travelers? “It’s important to pick a hotel that’s centrally-located in the heart of your destination,” suggested Tenzer. “This is not the time to pick a budget hotel located outside the city in a remote area. Ideally, your hotel is walkable to all of the major sights and attractions, so that you have the freedom to come and go as you please without being reliant on taxis. I also don’t recommend Airbnb’s for a first big solo trip, and prefer the support and safety that comes from a front desk staff who can help in a pinch. 

Check out  New York Post Shopping  for more content.

Share this article: