25 Top Travel Destinations in the World

TripAdvisor travelers from across the globe have selected their all-time favorite travel destinations.

25 Top Travel Destinations in the World

There are, incredibly, more than 156,000 travel destinations listed on TripAdvisor. Of this list, which places rise to the top?

According to the recently released TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards — based on reviews of destinations and their attractions, restaurants and hotels — the best-of-the-best places to visit include historic European cities, quiet islands and Asian hot spots, plus one bustling metropolis in the U.S.

Some of the top travel destinations are historic favorites; others are genuinely surprising. All are world-class and beloved by tourists across the globe.

Did your favorite place make the cut?

25. Tel Aviv, Israel

Neve Tzedek, Top Travel Destination — Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv

When many travelers think of Israel, they picture its historic capital of Jerusalem. But for cosmopolitan charm, the Mediterranean-facing city of Tel Aviv is the place to go. TripAdvisor calls Tel Aviv a "youthful and modern metropolis" and highlights the city’s thriving arts community, beaches, clubs and bars. While you can certainly find history in Israel’s second-largest city (visit Jaffa, the oldest part of the metropolis), Tel Aviv is indeed thoroughly modern.

The city’s top sights can be found in the neighborhood of Neve Tzedek, where a maze of winding streets house the city's hottest theaters and museums. TripAdvisor user JorgeJar of the United Kingdom called it “a little gem at the heart of Tel Aviv.”

Stay: Royal Beach Tel Aviv

Royal Beach Tel Aviv, Top Travel Destination

Overlooking “The Med,” this five-star resort is a true beauty located right on Tel Aviv’s promenade, making it easy to enjoy Neve Tzedek, Carmel Market and the Port, all of which feature amazing restaurants, art galleries, shopping and museums.

The No. 1 hotel in Tel Aviv, according to TripAdvisor reviews, the Royal Beach Tel Aviv has 4.5 stars, with travelers regularly using superlatives like "excellent," "amazing" and "wonderful!"

24. Sydney, Australia

From cobblestone streets and contemporary art museums to epic views and "the marvelous Sydney Opera House [which] looks like a great origami sailboat, floating peacefully in a harbor," Sydney has so much charm it had to make the list.

Travelers single out the appeal of Cockatoo Island in the Sydney Harbor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the home of a prison, and today combines history with exemplary views and places to stay and eat.

Said alanbuz of Montreal, "I love this city because of its cosmo atmosphere, greenery, shopping, the restos, the sea! What is not to love?"

Stay: Ovolo Woolloomooloo

Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Top Travel Destination — Ovolo Woolloomooloo, Syndey

The No. 1 hotel in Sydney, with 5 stars from travelers, is the Ovolo Woolloomooloo, The property overlooks Sydney Harbour and is within walking distance to many of the city's most popular sites. Its wharf location and artwork-filled interior make it a hip and modern place to stay in a city that is just as hip and modern.

Reviews tout the hotel's freebies and value and exclaim it is "the coolest place on earth."

23. Cusco, Peru

The entryway into Machu Picchu, Cusco amazes visitors with its combination of "Incan majesty and Andean baroque [existing] side by side." Those wanting to visit the sacred Incan mountains must first spend a night in this city to adjust to the high altitudes, giving them a chance to explore Cusco's charming village before discovering the breathtaking Sacred Valley.

Said Phally K of Denver, "This place is magical! Beautiful architectural buildings, restaurants, stores, cafe with WiFi... the people there are so friendly and helpful. I love it!!!"

Stay: Belmond Palacio Nazarenas

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Top Travel Destination — Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Cusco

Visiting Sacred Valley, many take to the Incan Trail for hiking and camping. For those wanting to be pampered as they explore the sites, Belmond Palacio Nazarenas knows how to do it right. The highly rated property's onsite spa is world-class, and accommodations boast Inca stonework and mountain views.

Traveler ferelizondo49 of Seattle noted of this former 17th-century convent, "The perfectionism in the attention to every detail is really notorious."

22. Hong Kong

Hong Kong's amazing skyline has starred in many Hollywood films and is a truly thrilling site. As han000ka of Mexico City put it: "I never thought watching some ultra modern set of buildings could be considered an attraction but after being there, for me [it] is simply a must go."

Besides its impressive skyline, you'll find historical Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping village and enjoy serenity at the Buddhist Chi Lin Nunnery. Of course, shopping and Chinese food are also highlights of TripAdvisor's No. 22 city in the world.

Stay: The Upper House

The Upper House, Top Travel Destination — The Upper House, Hong Kong

Catch the impressive skyline from your very own windows in the city's top hotel, as rated by travelers. The intimate and luxurious Upper House offers some of the city's largest rooms and provides views of Hong Kong Harbour or the island.

The property is given 5 stars by guests, who say the rooms offer "amazing views" and the hotel "blew them away."

21. Hurghada, Egypt

With turquoise blue waters and powder-soft sand, Egypt's Red Sea coastal resort town of Hurghada should be on your radar if you have been there and done that in Hawaii and the Caribbean. A renowned beach escape for Europeans, Americans have yet to discover this stunning town with some of the clearest snorkeling sites on earth.

In fact, Hurghada's Careless Reef is one of the top attractions here, with divers highlighting its "amazing" views, fish and colors.

Stay: The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh

The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh, Top Travel Destination — The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh, Hurghada, Egypt

To best enjoy Hurghada's beaches, stay at the No. 1 resort in the area, situated on 48 acres along the Red Sea. Suites provide sea views, and you can enjoy water sports and PADI-certified dives.

Many have made this resort a honeymoon or anniversary getaway. Andy_0288 of London said it's "absolute luxury at its finest. The property is beautiful but the staff just take it to the next level. I would definitely recommend the Grand Suites, which have a private pool."

20. Jaipur, India

Nicknamed the "Pink City" because of its pink-hued buildings, Jaipur makes the top 20 thanks to exquisite sites like Jaigarh Fort, City Palace, Amber Fort and the grand, red-and-pink Hawa Mahal palace, which was built in 1799.

Travelers find the city's attractions to be not only culturally significant, but stunning. HotelLover2009 of the United Kingdom called Amber Fort in particular "amazing. It is HUGE. There is so much to see and it has some breathtaking views over the valley and the city wall."

Stay: The Oberoi Rajvilas

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Top Travel Destination — The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

The same glamorous hotel company that brings five-star service and accommodations to Egypt also takes the top spot for hotels in Jaipur, thanks in large part to its dedication to pampering guests. Reviewers rave about this hotel's "service beyond belief" and "service that other hotels can only dream of."

Made with the same sandstone that gives the city its pink hue, this 32-acre resort provides ordinary travelers the same luxuries enjoyed by Indian princes.

19. Kathmandu, Nepal

Mount Everest may be out of reach (Nepal recently shut down admittance to Base Camp to help restore and clean the mountain), but visitors can still enjoy the ancient sites of its closest major city, Kathmandu. From climbing the smaller mountains of Nepal (or just getting a taste of the trails) to visiting Nepalese temples and shrines, Kathmandu offers a memorable vacation experience rooted in history and natural wonders.

Considered a "must -see," make your way to the Bouudhanath Stupa, a Buddhist holy place and Nepal heritage site.

Stay: Kumari Boutique Hotel

Kathmandu isn't filled with five-star resorts, but you can find five-star service in the clean and comfortable Kumari Boutique Hotel, in the heart of the city. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi, not always standard in Nepal properties, are available in this popular hotel.

JSidBoston_MA wrote, "Within 5 minutes you are in the heart of the neighborhood, but very nicely the hotel is more quiet and private."

18. Lisbon, Portugal

One of the hottest up-and-comers in tourism is Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. Situated on a beautiful river with plenty of sunshine, palm trees, delicious food and attractions, it's no wonder TripAdvisor has the glamorous city on its top 20 list. You'll find museums, parks, fortresses and palaces, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Belem Tower.

Explore the cobbled streets of the Alfama neighborhood, home to a combination of gothic and Arabic architecture, plus plenty of cultural sites.

Edward_C said said of this hilly neighborhood that requires some steep climbs to maneuver, "Just lose yourself in this maze of little streets. It's old Lisbon. [It has] a plethora of bars and eateries, decaying and beautiful buildings, and sudden delights."

Stay: Corpo Santo Lisbon

Within walking distance to many of Lisbon's biggest sites and attractions, the Corpo Santo Lisbon is a five-star property offering a free walking tour to help newcomers acclimate to the city. For a taste of nature, it also fronts the lovely River Tagus.

Lina772014 of Stamford, Connecticut, loved the hotel's guided city tour, writing, "We enjoyed our walk from the hotel along the boardwalk and Commerce Square up through the Alfama district and more."

17. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Outside of Cancun, in the Riviera Maya, awaits the bustling city of Playa del Carmen. While you can enjoy the Riviera's fantastic beaches and dazzling blue water, there's much more to recommend this destination, including shopping on 5th Avenue and nearby outdoor attractions like Mayan ruins, cenotes and rainforest adventures.

You'll find all of that at Xcaret Park, an outdoor-lover's paradise with snorkeling and swimming holes, dolphin experiences, underground cave rivers, and Mayan temples and cultural experiences. Reviews of the park highlight its expansive size and all the things you can do there. The only consistent complaint? That there's so much to do, it's impossible to fit it all into one day.

Stay: Rosewood Mayakoba

Rosewood properties are some of the highest-end resorts, and the Rosewood Mayakoba is no different. A serene property, the Rosewood is tucked into its Yucatan surroundings, with infinity pools, fine international dining, an ultra-pampering spa, and, of course, a beachfront setting.

"I cannot say enough about the Rosewood Mayakoba," said Airmcnair of Birmingham, Alabama. "From the moment you get there, it is unparalleled luxury. Your host takes you by boat to your room. From there, you are introduced to your butler who fixes you drinks and shows you your facilities."

16. Tokyo, Japan

Japan's capital city makes the list with its wonderful combination of the old and new. See ancient palaces and temples, sample delicious Japanese food (the city is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world!) and shop till you drop on the city's bustling streets. Visit in springtime as the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, particularly at one of the city's top attractions, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

"We were traveling purposely throughout cherry blossom season so the Gyoen was a must-do to see the Sakura trees in full bloom," said rachaeldavis21 of Melbourne, Australia. "What a stunning garden full of different areas such as lakes, tea houses, ponds and even a greenhouse which really shouldn’t be missed."

Stay: Mimaru Tokyo Ueno Inaricho

Located in Old Tokyo within steps of the train station, you'll find apartment-style hotel rooms at the top-reviewed Mimaru. A dining and kitchen space makes the property especially popular with families traveling to the city.

"Japanese style," "family-friendly" and "friendly staff" are common phrases used to describe the simple, but sublime, Mimaru Tokyo Uneno Inaricho.

15. Hanoi, Vietnam

The "it" destination of the year is Vietnam, with TripAdvisor travelers ranking its charming city of Hanoi as one of the top 15 places to visit in the world. More than 600 temples and pagodas can be found across the city, which boasts a combination of ancient history and modern developments.

Hanoi's Old Quarter, bustling with as many motorcycles as people, contains historic architecture, idyllic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake and urban centers like Ta Hien Street, where the street food might just change your life.

The Old Quarter is a place reviewers can't say enough good things about. "Can't go to Hanoi without exploring here," said Stephen M. Jayson009, who called it a "quaint area with lots of boutique shops. It’s quite densely packed but worthwhile to look."

Stay: Hanoi La Siesta Central Hotel

Take in city views from the five-star La Siesta Central Hotel, tucked right into Hanoi's Old Quarter. An intimate Colonial-style hotel with just 27 rooms, the property features a rooftop restaurant and ahh-inducing spa.

Wrote expatIstanbul, "Having stayed in top 5-star hotels around the globe nowhere have we encountered such level of individual customer service as at La Siesta Central Hanoi. And what is nice is that they don’t pretend, they mean it."

14. Jamaica

Of all the Caribbean islands, travelers pick Jamaica as their favorite. You know you're going to find white-sand beaches, aquamarine waters and reggae music here, but don't miss out on island shopping, rainforest excursions and historical sites for a well-rounded vacation to remember.

One of the island's coolest outings is climbing Dunn's River Falls — a unique activity not offered on any other Caribbean island. "Have you ever climbed a waterfall? What an amazing experience!" said rcrkelly of Calgary.

Stay: Geejam

It's not a sprawling all-inclusive resort that travelers rave about. Instead, the honor of best Jamaican property goes to the Geejam, "an insider escape." There are just seven rooms here, as well as a secluded beach and a recording studio (plenty of musicians have stayed at this posh property).

How do travelers describe this hidden boutique with private villas? "Epic," "amazing" and "once in a lifetime."

13. New York, New York

The only U.S. destination on the list shouldn't come as a surprise. The city so nice they named it twice, New York has such an incredible array of attractions, you can turn a trip there into anything you want it to be. High-end hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and Broadway shows, or dive bars, historical sites and open-all-night clubs? Take your pick.

Of all of the sites to be seen, people from around the world consider the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum a must-visit. The UK's maybe-home-or-away called it a "very moving" museum, a sentiment echoed by many.

Stay: Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel

The Library Collection of properties in New York rank as the top hotels for families, including the Casablanca. Within steps of Times Square, this property features a lovely — and complimentary — daily wine and hors d'oeuvres hour to bring fellow guests together in between their explorative pursuits.

12. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Step back in time when you visit Siem Reap, the gateway to the 12th century temples and ruins of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. MyWorldDestinations of Phoenix "absolutely recommend[s] everyone experience [Angkor Wat] once in their lifetime. This is beyond amazing and words cannot describe."

But there's no need to get stuck in the past; by night, Siem Reap flashes you forward back into modern day with its lively mix of bars and restaurants.

Stay: Jaya House River Park

After a day in the crowds, you'll find peace in the Jaya House, resting along the city's river. You'll be just six minutes from Angor Wat but enjoy a sense of serenity amid Cambodia's lush foliage at this boutique property with only 36 rooms.

Reviewers call the Jaya House the best hotel they have ever stayed in. Carol Dean of Palm Desert, California, said, "It exceeded our expectations. The staff were outstanding... We could go on and on about the wonderful hospitality and making our stay such a pleasant one. We really didn't want to leave!"

11. Prague, Czech Republic

Just missing the top 10, Prague truly is a fairy-tale city, filled with castles and a romantic vibe along the Vltava river. TripAdvisor calls the city "a perfect destination for beach-weary vacationers who want to immerse themselves in culture."

Explore Staromestské námestî's cobblestoned streets, taking in Old Town's charm, then cross over the Charles Bridge, being sure to touch its many statues for luck and prayers. Germany's gulyuzr called it the "beautiful, authentic, prettiest part of Prague! You go through it and feel the atmosphere of old city."

Stay: Hotel Residence Agnes

Located in the heart of Old Town is the pretty pink Residence Agnes. The building dates back to the 1300s and provides visitors with a historical backdrop within the city.

Fantastic reviews earned this hotel the top spot on TripAdvisor's list, with travelers proclaiming, "No other hotel will ever live up to this amazing hotel"; calling it "an absolute gem in Prague; one of the best hotels I've ever stayed at"; and singling out its "hospitality beyond compare."

10. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is an oasis in the desert that boggles the mind. Man-made islands in the shape of palm trees, the world's tallest skyscrapers, the biggest malls and dancing fountains larger than those in Vegas converge along the Persian Gulf in this metropolis like no other.

Explore Old Dubai to get a glimpse of what the city was like before it struck oil, and take a safari into the desert for bellydancing and camel rides.

Visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. "Truly one of the top sights in the world, you can stand and take it in for hours," said CalireU220 from the UK. "Combined with the fountain shows it was brilliant. A must-see if you're visiting Dubai."

Stay: Raffles Dubai

While there are plenty of resorts to choose from in Dubai, the landmark Egyptian-styled Raffles near Old Dubai is a standout mere steps from the amazing souks (markets) of the city. The expansive hotel offers more than 250 rooms, fantastic restaurants and bars, a relaxing spa and international couture shopping.

One reviewer called the hotel "a glistening gem in the Raffles family."

9. Marrakesh, Morocco

The 12th century Moroccan city of Marrakesh, also known as the "Red City" due to its buildings of sandstone, is a juxtaposition of sights and sounds. Traverse cobbled and narrow alleys housing outdoor markets, then encounter majestic palaces and mosques.

Many of the city's historic sights can be found in its walled medina, where snake charmers, acrobats and dancers entertain the masses, and souks sell exotic goods.

Make sure also to stroll the massive gardens of Majorelle, which was created under the direction of fashion designer Yves St Laurent. "While the medina and souk is part of the appeal of Marrakech, it was so nice to escape to a beautiful and peaceful garden," said eileenf641 of New York City.

Stay: Riad Kheirredine

Just as unique as the city of Marrakech are the 14 rooms of the Riad Kheirredine, a boutique hotel offering personalized service and decor featuring international and Moroccan elements.

Exclaiming "Wow! Just wow!" Sarah_L of Guildford, UK, called the Riad "the place to stay in the medina of Marrakech. It's amazing." She added the hotel is so wonderful, visitors should build in enough time to actually enjoy the Riad itself when visiting the city.

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Although travelers are advised to exercise caution in Turkey, Istanbul is a city that warrants a visit. The stunning metropolis is filled with bazaars, opulent mosques and "breathtaking architecture." The only city to rest within both European and Asian borders, it's a place where you can take in history while smelling the scent of spices perfuming the air.

A visit to Istanbul would be pointless without a visit to the Hagia Sophia mosque and museum. Built as a token of love, this structure dating back to 537 AD features more than 30 million gold tiles. "There are literally layers of history, all exposed for your view," said Jonathan_Z.

Stay: White House Hotel Istanbul

Take in superb views of Hagia Sophia from the rooftop of the White House Hotel, which is located in Istanbul's historic district. You can walk to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Archeology Museum, the Basilica Cistern, Grand Bazaar, Spice Bazaar, the Millennium Stone and Byzantine Hippodrome from this hotel that holds the top spot in reviewers' hearts from among thousands of properties in the city.

LJW of Potomac, Maryland, agreed that the "White House Hotel [is] deserving of [the] top ranking. A few minutes walk from major sites, but on quiet street. We have travelled the world and this is a delightful hotel."

7. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is so incredibly popular, officials are considering curbing the number of tourists who can visit it every year. The ever-bustling city fronts the glimmering Mediterranean Sea, touts intricate and awe-inspiring architecture, and offers a lively culture that stays awake well into the night.

Plus, artists like Antoni Gaudi and Salvador Dali have left their indelible and surreal imprint on its cultural landscape. What else could you want?

Nothing encapsulates the city as much as its signature Gaudi-designed Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, the monumental church that has remained under construction since 1882. As Gaudi said: "The Expiatory Church of the Sagrada Familia is made by the people and is mirrored in them. It is a work that is in the hands of God and the will of the people."

Stay: Hotel The Serras

Enjoy sea breezes, a glass of Spanish wine or cava, and tapas at this waterfront property that offers a reprieve from the bustle of Barcelona. The Hotel The Serras' rooftop terrace with a pool, Michelin-starred restaurant and 28 trendy rooms have made it the No. 1 hotel based on TripAdvisor reviews.

Sian of Bournemouth, England, called the hotel "the BEST!" "Everything about this hotel was perfect," they continued. "This is by far the best hotel we have ever stayed in. It definitely deserves the excellent reviews."

6. Phuket, Thailand

It's been years since the Leonardo DiCaprio film "The Beach" introduced hordes of travelers to the beauty of Phuket's Maya Beach; the beach became so popular, in fact, that Thailand has since closed it due to overcrowding.

But Phuket is so much more than its once-hidden paradise. The largest of Thailand's islands is surrounded by the nearly clear Andaman Sea, and TripAdvisor notes its "blue lagoons and salmon sunsets make for a dream-like atmosphere, and indeed, a vacation here can feel a bit surreal."

From walking beneath the neon lights of Bangla Road as you shop, dine and drink, to partying it up at the island's club-lined beaches, Phuket is known for good times.

On the flipside, visiting secluded beaches and climbing to see the island's Big Buddha can be incredibly serene. "Well worth a visit, and the remembrance garden is a very poignant place to sit and contemplate," said Newport, UK's Michthomas of the statue. "The views are spectacular, and even better it's free to visit."

Stay: Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa

Set along Millionaire's Mile, you can see from the picture just what visitors love so much about this 42-room property: its amazing views. The hotel, tucked into the hills overlooking the sea, provides a more authentic Thai feel than more expansive waterfront resorts.

Reviews of the property call Ayara Kamala "a real gem," a "great place for relaxation" and, simply, "wonderful."

5. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is on many travelers' bucket lists, and those who have been confirm that it's a must-visit. As TripAdvisor puts it, "Bali is a living postcard, an Indonesian paradise that feels like a fantasy."

From soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, to cutting through smooth-as-glass blue water, to delving deep into the rainforest to uncover centuries-old temples, Bali is a place where you can awaken your senses.

You can even get to know Indonesia's friendly monkeys at Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. "A wonderful place to visit and get to see these creatures in a place set aside to ensure their survival. Seeing them up to their antics was a highlight," said myamgm65 of Newark, New Jersey. "Also, having an opportunity to see some of the sacred ceremonies in progress at the different temple sites was absolutely worth the visit. Amazing experience."

Stay: The Kayon Resort

Bali resorts are renowned for epitomizing luxury, and the Kayon Resort is perhaps the most posh choice of all.

Perched on the Ubud hillside and surrounded by the jungle and its holy river, the five-star resort is just 10 minutes away from the city center, yet so far removed from it in spirit. An adults-only resort, this is a place designed for relaxation and romance.

4. Crete, Greece

Why visit more crowded Greek isles like Santorini and Mykonos when you can take in the similar, less-traveled and just-as-beautiful island of Crete? TripAdvisor notes that this small Mediterranean jewel is "rich with archaeological and mythological history that’s reflected in its ancient ruins and cultural attractions."

No surprise here: The beaches of Crete are the real draw for visitors, particularly the pink-sand shores of Elafonissi Beach. "The most beautiful beach in Crete according to my travel guide and my knowledge," Salvador_C of Lisbon said of Elafonissi. "A wonderful beach. ... The waters are so transparent and in impressive shades of blue."

Stay: Melidoni X Village

Continue to enjoy a secluded getaway by staying at the Melidoni X Village, a resort made up of five independent villas. Each villa has its own private swimming pool; book one and you'll feel as if you are renting a home in the middle of the island, while enjoying outstanding service and gourmet food.

Traveler millenaire1228 of Geneva called this "a magical and quiet place" and "a perfect place to stay away from the bustle of the seaside."

3. Rome, Italy

As TripAdvisor correctly points out, "Rome wasn't built in a day — and you'll need much more than a day to take in this timeless city." Rome is a massive and amazing metropolis, especially for travelers who relish learning about the past. History can be found at every turn here, from the Colosseum and the Pantheon to churches and museums.

If that weren't enough, the private city-state of Vatican City, which houses a museum amassing thousands of works of arts and treasures from around the world, is surrounded by Rome.

The towering remains of the city's Colosseum is an impressive testament to Rome's strength and remains one of the best-preserved monuments here. Visitors rave that it's the "highlight of the trip."

Stay: Appia Antica Resort

Of more than 1,200 hotels across the city of Rome, the one with the top honors is the Appia Antica Resort, which is found within the world's largest archaeological park. Featuring three apartments within one small villa, the property offers a sense of seclusion within the buzzing city.

Past guests have felt like part of the family staying at the Appia Antica Resort, calling the property a "home away from home in Rome."

2. Paris, France

Arguably the world's most romantic city, Paris comes in as runner-up on the list of the world's greatest destinations.

The City of Lights is filled with so many romantic sites: the iconic Eiffel Tower, the powerful Arc de Triomphe, the grand art museums of the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay...the list goes on (and on).

Take a walk through the city's many parks and gardens, and stroll along the Siene, which cuts through the city center.

TripAdvisor says "the perfect Paris experience combines leisure and liveliness with enough time to savor both an exquisite meal and exhibits at the Louvre." One reviewer advises travelers do some research before visiting that museum, though, as it's the most popular on the planet and can become stiflingly crowded.

"Pick 15-20 things you want to see," said srb7181 of Ballwin, Missouri. "Their website lists which room each thing is in. Make a list of rooms and mark them on a map when you arrive. I promise it will be so much more enjoyable than wondering around for a few hours seeing things you won't remember or aren't interested in."

Stay: Maison Souquet

In a city as large as Paris, finding a hotel isn't the problem. It's finding which of the nearly 2,000 hotels is the best.

The top honor goes to the Maison Souquet, according to travelers. "Only those in the know will experience the luxury of the Maison Souquet, hidden behind an understated facade signaled by two red lanterns," says TripAdvisor.

The hotel contains just 20 rooms, all opulently styled, as well as a reading room, a hidden bar and a spa with a Turkish-style hamman.

1. London, UK

It makes sense that the world's visitors are enthralled by this capital city: Its history connects to countries around the globe.

Explore the city's free museums, including the Tate Modern and the British Museum; shop in high-end boutiques from fashionable Oxford Street to Covent Garden; and visit the crown jewels at the Tower of London before checking out the royal family's residences of Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace.

When not taking in the sights, relax in Hyde Park or grab a pint at a local.

Cheers to the world's top city!

Stay: Hotel 41

There are more than 1,000 hotels in which to choose from in Londontown, but the favorite of travelers is the Hotel 41. Within steps of Buckingham Palace, you'll feel like royalty yourself at this high-end property in the heart of Westminster. Only 28 rooms are found in this hotel, decked out in black-and-white decor, so a stay here is intimate.

“There’s a reason Hotel 41 is rated #1 in the UK. From its location, to amenities, staffing quality and decor, it’s simply the finest hotel I’ve patronized in Britain," said Amy _B of Seattle. "Upon arrival, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how the staff are extremely courteous, attentive and knowledgeable. It only gets better from that point. Fabulous food and decor make every pound spent absolutely worth the expense!”