These are the best luxury destinations worldwide that we think deserve a place on your bucket list, from private island villas to polar expedition yachts.
Best Luxury Destinations Worldwide
Are you looking for the best luxury travel destinations worldwide? Whether you’re an experienced explorer searching for new thrills, or a seasoned globetrotter seeking out exotic experiences, there are a myriad of amazing luxury travel locations around the world just waiting for your arrival.
From exquisite beach escapes to iconic urban hideaways and breathtaking mountain retreats – no matter what kind of experience you crave – we will uncover all that life has to offer with our picks for the top 19 luxury destinations on Earth.
1. Maldives
There are concerns that The Maldives may be sinking due to climate change and that many of the islands will vanish within a number of years. Many of the islands are less than 1 or 2 meters above sea level and the soft soil is another contributing factor to the erosion of the land.
The area of Baa Atoll has UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status and other atolls have applied for it. The world’s largest all-glass underwater restaurant, Hurawalhi, is an excellent place to admire the sealife and hotels such as The Four Seasons have established marine conservation projects.
2. Belize
This country in Central America has an interesting mix of cultures. Although English is the official language, Creole and Spanish are both spoken in certain regions.
There’s a wealth of natural attractions including dense jungle and the Great Blue Hole, named by Jacques Cousteau as one of the top 10 diving sites in the world. The ancient Mayan temples of Belize are well worth a visit and there are daily flights from many cities in Latin America, Canada and the States.
Ecotourism is popular here and there are some luxurious hotels and private villas dotted around the island. Here’s a handy Belize packing list to help you to take the right clothing and equipment for your trip.
3. Mexico
For white sand beaches, impressive ruins and friendly locals, Mexico is hard to beat. The Caribbean eco resort area, Mayakoba, has been designed in close collaboration with biologists and geologists to integrate into the environment.
Luxurious hotels including the Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Rosewood Mayakoba Suites, Fairmont Mayakoba and Hyatt Andaz Mayakoba where we stayed. They lie next to stunning beaches and mangroves. There’s a world-class golf course created by Greg Norman and El Pueblito, a charming market square inspired by a traditional Mexican village.
You can also find some great overwater villas in Mexico. It’s an easy transfer from Cancun to Riviera Maya yet the resort’s eco charm is an oasis of calm. Don’t miss the temple and street art in Tulum, a 30 minute drive away.
4. Canada
Canada is famous for its national parks, the Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls. Canada Day is on 1 July and celebrations take place in Ottawa, with a fireworks display on Parliament Hill and a street party, as well as Vancouver, Charlottetown and many other cities.
Moreover, the exchange rate is favourable for many travellers.
5. Illinois, USA
Have you ever dreamt of travelling along Route 66? The iconic route starts in Chicago and continues through the state of Illinois before crossing 7 other states. There’s lots to see on the Illinois section of the route, from vintage diners to historic landmarks like the former home of Abraham Lincoln in Springfield.
6. Bermuda
This island in the Sargasso Sea is well known for the famous shorts and also for its world-class golfing and stunning pink sand beaches. Although you might think that it’s in the Caribbean, it’s actually a British Overseas Territory.
If you’re lucky, you might spot the rare Cahow, Bermuda’s national bird that was thought to be extinct for nearly 300 years until it was rediscovered in 1951. The island is zika-free and there’s an abundance of luxury accommodation. In the words of Mark Twain, “You can go to heaven if you want. I’d rather stay in Bermuda.”
7. Andalucia, Spain
This beautiful region of Spain has always been a favourite with visitors. It’s now even easier to reach Andalucia from the UK thanks to regular flights from London Gatwick and London City, along with many flights to Malaga and Seville.
Whether you choose to visit the Alhambra by day or by night, this Moorish masterpiece won’t disappoint. Granada is also well known for its tapas and is a good gateway to the rest of Andalucia including Seville and lesser known gems like Carmona, Jaen and Ubeda.
There are lots of fun things to do in Marbella and nearby Puerto Banus too.
8. Phuket, Thailand
Thailand’s largest island has never been easier to reach from the UK. Virgin Atlantic now flies seasonally to Phuket three times a week from 18 October 2026, on a Boeing 787-9, and the aircraft offers Upper Class with an onboard bar, alongside Premium and Economy cabins. Norse Atlantic is also launching a Gatwick to Phuket service three times a week from 4 December.
The west coast is lined with some of Asia’s most celebrated resorts, including Amanpuri, the very first Aman, plus Trisara and Rosewood Phuket. Spend a day exploring the colourful Sino-Portuguese shophouses of Old Phuket Town, then take a boat trip through the limestone islands of Phang Nga Bay. We highly recommend a trip to the Big Buddha too, we were impressed with its colossal size and the tranquil ambiance on the mountainside.
The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the Andaman Sea is calm.
9. Great Britain
A holiday in Great Britain is increasingly popular thanks to the rich cultural heritage and wide variety of landscapes. The UK is one of the best luxury holiday destinations with lots of fun activities for solo travellers, couples or families. Take a Northern Ireland road trip, visit Bournemouth in Dorset or Cornwall.
There are some great accommodation options too. Holidaycottages.co.uk is a leading provider of luxury holiday cottages across the UK. From coastal retreats to thatched cottages and shepherd huts to yurts, there are over 4000 places to stay.
Their luxury cottages are a cut above the rest, stylishly decorated and impeccably furnished, offering you the ultimate experience. With cottages throughout the UK, you can relax and unwind in a luxury cottage in the most beautiful of destinations.
10. Hamburg, Germany
We spent a weekend in Hamburg and were won over by its canals and food scene. This elegant German city has many attractions for the visitor interested in the arts, including the Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
Hamburg is a perfect place for a weekend break, with a huge lake for boating and a thriving food scene. Take a look around the UNESCO World Heritage listed Warehouse District, and if you have time, the picturesque riverside suburb of Blankenese is well worth a visit.
11. Japan
With ANA’sdirect flights from Chicago and New York to Haneda, it’s easy to reach Tokyo. There’s also a new bullet train from Tokyo to Hokkaido, making the North of Japan much more accessible.
Many luxurious hotels such as Aman’s pared down Amanemu have opened up. Japan prides itself on its sanitary control and good hygiene practices.
We explored Oita Prefecture and were amazed by the number of hot springs and spectacular scenery. If you’re visiting Tokyo, Japan Greeters is a great way to meet the locals on a complimentary guided tour of the city’s attractions.
12. Iceland
Fans of Game of Thrones are not the only ones flocking to Iceland in their droves. Famous for its dramatic landscape, it’s also a real foodie destination and the people are among the friendliest that you’ll ever meet.
An Air Iceland flight now connects Keflavik International Airport to Akureyri. This northern area of Iceland is known as the Diamond Circle.
It includes many spectacular attractions such as Dettifoss waterfall and Lake Mývatn. Of course, the famous Golden Circle in the south is not to be missed for its waterfalls and geysers.
The capital, Reykjavik, is also worthy of your time – don’t miss the view from the top of Hallgrímskirkja, the striking Lutheran church.
13. South Africa
South Africa has always been popular for its superb wildlife and vibrant restaurant scene but exchange rates make it particularly favourable to visit right now. If you’re looking to see the Big Five – buffalos, elephants, leopards, lions and rhino, then you stand a good chance on a safari here.
Many of the game reserves are malaria-free, as an added advantage. Yet South Africa is also a mecca for its whale watching in Hermanus and cheeky baboons at Cape Point. The Garden Route takes you past unspoiled beaches at Plettenberg Bay as well as world-class wineries.
14. Ireland
Another one for Game of Thrones afficionados, Northern Ireland combines spectacular scenery with charming locals. West Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way is the setting for Star Wars Episodes VII and VIII.
Both regions are known for their outdoor pursuits so whether you’re into walking, cycling, fishing or clay pigeon shooting you’ll love it here. As for Dublin, the city is compact yet has the largest city park in the world, Phoenix Park.
Make time to visit Farmleigh, the official Irish state guest house, before heading back into town for a Guinness and a boxty, an Irish potato pancake in the lively Temple Bar area. There are lots of great Dublin hidden gems, such as Peruke & Periwig bar and the Oscar Wilde statue.
15. Italy
Visitors to Italy will be spoilt for choice as to which places to visit, from the hidden gems of Rome to picturesque Amalfi Coast towns and off the beaten path Venice attractions. One of the top Italian destinations is Trieste, the capital city of Friuli Venezia Giulia in Northeast Italy.
It has a beautiful medieval quarter as well as some striking Austro-Hungarian architecture. Try to visit for Barcolana, one of the largest sailing regattas in the world, sponsored by illycaffè.
This popular sailing event is held every year in October. There is a fly-by at the start line from the Italian Air Force aerobatics team. Not only that, but there are over 350 cultural, educational and sporting events on land and at sea.
16. Oman
Oman is an intriguing mix of tradition and modernity. Explore the picturesque capital of Muscat and its Grand Bazaar or take a desert safari by camel or 4×4.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try quad biking or sand-boarding. There are many upscale hotels such as Alila, Anantara and Six Senses as well as a theme park, Majarat Oman.
A drive along Wadi Ghul, Oman’s Grand Canyon, will lead to Jebel Shams, a 3000 meter mountain peak with superb views over the surrounding area.
17. Antarctica
For a true bucket list experience, why not take a cruise to Antarctica. The continent is known for its striking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
King penguins and orca whales are just two of the species that you can spot in their natural habitat. Travel in style aboard Scenic Eclipse, the Worlds First 6 Star Discovery Yacht.
Each suite has a private terrace and there is butler service for all guests. On these luxury Antarctica cruises, you can kayak around icebergs and visit a working Antarctic scientific base accompanied by expert Discovery Leaders.
A pre-departure hotel stay, return flights from the UK, transfers, excursions, tips, dining, beverages and Wi-Fi are all included. There’s a wide choice of daily activities and a spa and gym with a yoga and Pilates studio to relax in afterwards.
18. St Lucia
We spent time in St Lucia in early 2026, and it has fast become one of our favourite Caribbean islands. The twin peaks of the Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rise dramatically from the sea on the island’s southwest coast.
Don’t miss the Sulphur Springs near Soufrière, often called the world’s only drive-in volcano, where you can soak in warm mineral mud baths. The island is a wonderful winter sun escape, with boutique hotels and wellness retreats tucked into the rainforest.
19. The Cayman Islands
One of the safest places in the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands is a great Winter sun destination. The largest of the islands is Grand Cayman, at 76 square miles.
There are lots of interesting excursions in Grand Cayman, such as visiting the Cayman Crystal Caves. We swam with stingrays at Stingray City, an experience we’d recommend to anyone visiting Grand Cayman.
Just around the corner you’ll find Starfish Point, a great place for spotting these beautiful marine creatures. Another highlight is Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, home to the native blue iguana that is only found in the Cayman Islands.
In Conclusion: Best Luxury Destinations Worldwide
Traveling is one of the best ways to explore different cultures and lifestyles. If you’re looking for luxury, there are plenty of destinations around the world that offer incredible experiences.
From Africa to Asia, there are luxury vacations to suit everyone. Thanks for reading these suggestions of the best luxury destinations! Be sure to check out our other travel articles for more inspiration.
Best Luxury Destinations Worldwide FAQs
What is the most luxurious destination in the world?
The Maldives is hard to beat for pure indulgence. Many resorts occupy their own private island, with overwater villas and underwater dining. For something rarer, a small expedition yacht to Antarctica pairs butler service with some of the most remote scenery on Earth.
Which luxury destinations are best for winter sun?
The Caribbean is ideal from December to April, with the Cayman Islands and St Lucia among our favourites. We visited St Lucia in early 2026. The Maldives and Oman are also at their best during the European winter, with warm, dry weather.
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
The driest months are usually December to April, which is also peak season. May to November brings more rain and humidity, but resort rates are often lower and the diving can still be excellent.
What is the best luxury destination in Europe?
It depends on your style of trip. Andalucia combines Moorish palaces with boutique hotels. The Amalfi Coast is perfect for a glamorous summer escape. Iceland offers dramatic landscapes and remote lodges, and Suze still remembers soaking in the hot tub at Hotel Ranga.
Is Antarctica worth it for a luxury trip?
For many travellers, it is the ultimate bucket list journey. The season runs roughly from November to March. A luxury expedition ship gives you spacious suites and fine dining between landings, kayaking and wildlife spotting.
How far in advance should you book a luxury holiday?
For peak season stays, aim for six to twelve months ahead, especially for overwater villas or small boutique hotels. Polar expedition cruises often sell out a year or more in advance.
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