Cities, natural wonders and tropical paradises are among the destinations in U.S. News and World Report’s latest list of the world's best places to visit.
The cities and sights that came out on top are an eclectic mix of natural and man-made locations, each of them making the list based on the input of travel experts and user opinions.
Taking these excursions will cost more than the average of $1,800 that Allianz says Americans spent on a vacation last summer, but most of them promise that they will deliver a trip of a lifetime. Americans in the summer of 2016 shelled out $90 billion to see the sights of the world.
Following in ascending order are the places U.S. News says are the best travel destinations, including a few reasons each was selected:
10. Maui
One of the most beloved of all the Hawaiian Islands, Maui lives up to its superlatives with exotic beaches like Kaanapali Beach, palatial resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and lush terrain in Iao Valley State Park. The mid-sized island offers a taste of just about everything the Aloha State has to offer, from impressive wildlife to intriguing history and culture. Activities include hula dancing, golfing along coastal fairways, snorkeling alongside five different types of sea turtles or simply lounging along some of Hawaii's most notable beaches.
9. New York City
The Big Apple hosts infinite urban adventures. A tourist can wander through Central Park, tour the exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, catch a Broadway show or peruse SoHo's stylish boutiques. At night, Manhattan's glittering skyscrapers are on display from the top of the Empire State Building. Each of the city’s distinct neighborhoods has a specific feel and culture.
8. Rome
The Eternal City enables a tourist to visit several of the must-see attractions in the world—the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, to name just a few. Additional treasures like St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel can be found in nearby Vatican City. Italy's mystical capital city also is known for a history that dates back to the eras of Julius Caesar, Augustus and Hadrian. Left behind are structures like the Roman Forum and dozens of churches.
7. London
London is a world unto itself. The eclectic neighborhoods that house a blend of historic landmarks and modern-day attractions can keep a visitor occupied for days. The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the British Museum are starting points that lead to other historic and avant-garde adventures.
6. Cusco, Peru
Known as the heart of the Inca Empire and the archaeological capital of the Americas, Cusco offers plenty for history and architecture buffs to enjoy. Trekkers love the challenging yet life-changing experience of hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Remnants of both the Inca Empire and the invasion of the Spanish conquistadors can still be seen.
5. Tokyo
Temples, markets and museums are just some of the offerings to be found in the bustling, tech-centric city of Tokyo. Attractions like Tsukiji Market and the Imperial Palace are among the most visited sights. The city feeds on motion and progress. One of the prettiest times to visit is when the cherry blossoms transform the parks and green spaces in March and April.
4. Florence
The historic city of Florence offers world-famous attractions, including the Duomo, the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Piazza della Signoria. The city was the wellspring of the Renaissance and home to the powerful Medici family. After viewing the architecture and art, tourists can sample some of the region's celebrated Tuscan food and wine.
3. Bora Bora
It's hard not to be enchanted by this paradisiacal destination. Lush jungles extend into sky-high volcanoes and sands stretch into upscale resorts. James Michener, who wrote “Tales of the South Pacific,” called Bora Bora “the most beautiful island in the world.” The 18th-century British explorer James Cook even coined it as the “pearl of the Pacific.” The very definition of a tropical getaway, this tiny French Polynesian island abounds with luxurious resorts, sunny skies, warm waters and friendly locals.
2. Paris
Year after year, the magnetic City of Light draws travelers looking to cross the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame off their bucket lists. But what visitors really fall in love with are the city's quaint cafes, vibrant markets, trendy shopping districts and unmistakable je ne sais quoi charm. This major European city is a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine.
1. Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, is the largest living thing on Earth, and even visible from outer space. However, it is under threat from global warming. The more than 1,400-mile long ecosystem comprises thousands of reefs and hundreds of islands made of over 600 types of hard and soft coral. It is home to countless species of colorful fish, mollusks and starfish, plus turtles, dolphins and sharks. The reef boasts incredible scenery, whether you view it underwater, from the air or by boat. Though plenty of diving and snorkeling spots can be found along Queensland's coast, to escape the crowds, take an excursion to Hamilton Island.
