National Geographic’s top 30 travel destinations in 2024

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Whether you're looking to set your vacation in wildlife havens or urban escapes, National Geographic Traveler is the perfect companion in helping you decide. The magazine publisher curated a list of the most exciting destinations to visit in 2024, all with the purpose of showcasing a wide variety of worldly interests: culinary excellence, national parks, and even cultural landmarks.

And the best thing? These are not only summer destinations! If you want to travel anytime this year and are unsure where to go, this list just might inspire you!

 

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Albanian Alps, Albania -

Starting in Europe, National Geographic has placed Albania’s Alps on the list. The country has attracted many tourists due to its proximity to the beautiful Adriatic Sea, but these mountains offer challenging trails that will make any hiker giddy with excitement!

 

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Belfast, Northern Ireland -

Northern Ireland’s capital city arrives on this list and is accompanied by a yearlong program of culture and creativity, dubbed Belfast 2024. The city has invested much time and money into becoming a European Capital of Culture, and the rewards will certainly be reaped this year.

 

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Emilia-Romagna, Italy -

This is considered one of Italy’s greatest cycling destinations. The clandestine villages and rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna are set as the first stage of the Tour de France in June. Not to mention that it is also known as a culinary haven.

 

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Europe by train -

If you wish to find yourself dipping into the nostalgia from the golden age of rail travel, then boarding a sleeper train in Europe is just the trip for you. European nighttime rails are coming alive across the continent, and many countries are releasing stylish trains that take you across lavishly beautiful routes.

 

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Galloway and Southern Ayrshire, Scotland -

The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire region of Scotland became the country’s first UNESCO biosphere reserve for a reason. This area—which covers almost 3,790 sq mi (9,800 sq km)—includes forests, coasts, and historic villages.

 

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Nordland, Norway -

Nestled in the northern region of Norway is the county of Nordland, which boasts some of the most impressive landscapes in the world. In summer, mountain biking and fishing are the go-to attractions, while winter offers dogsledding.

 

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North Yorkshire, England -

If you visit the Yorkshire countryside, you'll find a 1,000-acre (400-hectare) area of Broughton Sanctuary estate that has been returned to nature, all so that visitors can reconnect with the wild environment.

 

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Pompeii, Italy -

The ruined city of Pompeii that famously fell victim to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius is also an idyllic travel destination, especially now that there is a new direct train from Rome.

 

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Saimaa, Finland -

The region of Saimaa has recently gained an extra draw by becoming a European Region of Gastronomy. Along with its culinary mastery, this corner of Europe is also full of hiking trails and historic towns.