National Geographic's 2024 Fascinating Destinations List

National Geographic Traveller has released its 2024 cool list, featuring 30 captivating places and experiences.

With approximately half of the destinations located in Europe, the list spans a diverse range of locations, from the historic ruins of Pompeii to the awe-inspiring mountains of Albania, which the magazine refers to as "Europe's emerging gem."

City breaks

Whether you have a preference for immersing yourself in a bustling metropolis, embarking on a journey to attend a thrilling athletic competition, or seeking solace in a secluded island paradise, this collection offers a delightful blend of destinations to cater to all types of adventurers.

For an exceptional gastronomic experience, cultural immersion, and vibrant nightlife, explore the cities highlighted on National Geographic's prestigious list.

Highlighted destinations include Xian, China, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-designated Terracotta Warriors, and Lima, Peru, acclaimed worldwide as an unrivaled culinary haven.

In 2024, Tainan, the original capital of Taiwan, will be celebrating its 400th anniversary. This milestone offers a great opportunity to savor Tainan's famous delicacies such as eel noodles, turkey rice, tofu pudding, and other iconic street food. Lonely Planet has included Tainan in its list of top places to visit in 2024.

States of being

In several cases, National Geographic highlighted entire states. There were two in the US, Texas and New York - each of which is about the size of an entire country in Europe.

National Geographic suggests exploring not just New York City, but also discovering the natural beauty of Lake Placid and Niagara Falls in the Empire State. Texas, on the other hand, offers several remarkable locations to witness the total solar eclipse in 2024. In Victoria, the Australian state that is home to Melbourne, the newly introduced "Great Victorian Bathing Trail" has successfully brought attention to the lesser-known thermal springs in the area.

Meanwhile, National Geographic praised the northern Indian state of Sikkim, located in the Himalayas near the country's borders with Bhutan and Nepal. Its most prominent attraction is Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on Earth.

Nova Scotia, Canada, a province rather than a state, was acknowledged for its Acadian culture. This community consists of descendants of the original French settlers in Canada, and their rich cultural heritage is evident in Nova Scotia's delectable seafood cuisine.

Time Out reveals the worlds coolest neighborhoods for 2023

Natural wonders

The National Geographic list primarily features stunning natural destinations, encompassing renowned locations such as the Atacama Desert in Chile, recognized as the driest place on Earth, the breathtaking Caribbean island of Dominica, and the world-famous Andrefana Dry Forests of Madagascar, renowned for their magnificent baobab trees.

Scotland has recently expanded its biosphere reserve in Galloway and Southern Ayrshire, which have been designated as UNESCO sites. These sites are now connected to a nationwide circuit that includes all 13 of Scotland's UNESCO sites. Please find the complete list below.

The cool list 2024

• Albania: Explore the stunning Albanian Alps

• Northern Ireland: Discover the beauty of Belfast

• Italy: Experience the charm of Emilia-Romagna

• Europe: Embark on a memorable journey by train

• Scotland: Explore Galloway and Southern Ayrshire

• Norway: Witness the breathtaking landscapes of Nordland

• England: Visit the picturesque North Yorkshire

• Italy: Step back in time in Pompeii

• Finland: Relax and unwind in the serene Saimaa region

• Estonia: Explore the cultural hub of Tartu

• Germany: Immerse yourself in the excitement of The Euros

• Malta: Discover the treasures of Valletta

• Wales: Indulge in the world of whisky in Wales

• Ireland: Drive along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way

• Chile: Marvel at the natural wonders of the Atacama Desert

• Peru: Experience the vibrant city of Lima

• New York State: Explore the diverse attractions of New York State

• Florida: Enjoy the sun and beaches of Miami

• Dominica: Discover the untouched beauty of Dominica

• Canada: Explore the wonders of Nova Scotia

• Texas: Experience the charm and hospitality of Texas

• Mexico: Explore the enchanting Yucatan Peninsula

• Argentina: Discover the rich biodiversity of the Ibera Wetlands

• Rwanda: Experience the wildlife wonders of Akagera

• Madagascar: Explore the unique Andrefana Dry Forests

• Sierra Leone: Discover the untouched beauty and warm hospitality of Sierra Leone

• India: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sikkim

• Taiwan: Discover the cultural treasures of Tainan

• China: Step back in time in the historic city of Xian

• Australia: Experience the beauty of Victoria.