10 Beautiful Places to See Around the World

Last Updated: July 24, 2026

The world is filled with breathtaking destinations, from volcanic islands and crystal-clear lakes to dramatic mountains and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you're planning your next holiday or building your travel bucket list, these remarkable places offer unforgettable landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Exploring these destinations by car gives you the freedom to discover scenic routes, hidden villages, panoramic viewpoints, and local attractions at your own pace.

The Pitons: Soufrière, St. Lucia

One of St. Lucia's most iconic natural landmarks is the spectacular twin volcanic peaks known as The Pitons, rising dramatically from the Caribbean Sea. Recognised as part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons Management Area, these volcanic spires are surrounded by lush rainforests, hot springs, sulphur springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Standing at over 2,600 feet (798 metres), Gros Piton is the taller and more accessible peak, attracting hikers from around the world, while Petit Piton offers a more challenging climb for experienced adventurers. The surrounding waters are equally impressive, making the area popular for snorkelling, scuba diving, and boat tours.

The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is warm and dry. Renting a car allows travellers to explore Soufrière, nearby beaches, botanical gardens, and scenic coastal viewpoints without relying on public transport.

Planning to explore the island? Browse our St. Lucia car rental options to enjoy the flexibility of discovering the island's beautiful coastline, mountain roads, and hidden attractions on your own schedule.

Santorini Caldera: Greece

Santorini is one of Greece's most famous islands, recognised worldwide for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and spectacular sunsets overlooking the Aegean Sea. The island's most remarkable feature is the Santorini Caldera, a massive volcanic crater created by one of history's largest volcanic eruptions around 1600 BC.

Visitors gather in the village of Oia each evening to watch the sun disappear behind the caldera, while nearby Fira, Imerovigli, and Akrotiri offer breathtaking viewpoints, traditional architecture, archaeological sites, and charming cafés.

Beyond the famous viewpoints, Santorini also features black-sand beaches, local wineries, volcanic hot springs, and quiet villages that are easiest to reach by car.

Planning to explore more of the country? Choosing a Greece car rental makes it easy to discover mainland Greece, historic landmarks, scenic coastlines, and picturesque villages beyond Santorini.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: Croatia

Croatia's largest and most visited national park is famous for its extraordinary network of 16 interconnected lakes, stunning waterfalls, emerald-green waters, and unique travertine formations. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Europe's most spectacular natural attractions.

Wooden boardwalks allow visitors to walk directly above crystal-clear lakes while waterfalls cascade between limestone cliffs surrounded by ancient forests. Wildlife enthusiasts may even spot deer, wolves, bears, and numerous bird species throughout the protected landscape.

Although organised tours are available from Zagreb, many travellers choose to explore independently.

A Croatia car rental provides the flexibility to visit Plitvice Lakes while also discovering Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and the Adriatic coastline during an unforgettable road trip.

Wadi Rum Protected Area: Jordan

Often called the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum Protected Area is one of Jordan's most extraordinary desert landscapes. Covering more than 740 square kilometres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features towering sandstone mountains, dramatic rock arches, deep canyons, vast red sand dunes, and thousands of ancient petroglyphs dating back over 12,000 years.

Visitors can experience the desert through guided jeep safaris, camel rides, hiking trails, hot-air balloon flights, and overnight stays in traditional Bedouin camps beneath spectacular star-filled skies.

Exploring Jordan by road allows visitors to combine Wadi Rum with Petra, Aqaba, the Dead Sea, and Amman in a single itinerary. Booking a Jordan car rental offers complete flexibility for discovering the country's natural and historical wonders.

Mount Toubkal: Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Standing at 4,167 metres, Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa and one of Morocco's most rewarding hiking destinations. Located within Toubkal National Park, the mountain attracts adventure travellers seeking panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and surrounding Berber villages.

Most treks begin in Imlil, where visitors can experience authentic Berber hospitality before starting their ascent. The best hiking season is between May and October.

A Morocco car rental allows travellers to combine Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains, traditional kasbahs, desert landscapes, and coastal cities in one memorable journey.

Banff National Park: Canada

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is famous for its turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and incredible wildlife. Visitors can enjoy iconic attractions including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway, and hundreds of hiking trails.

Driving is by far the best way to experience Banff, allowing travellers to stop at scenic viewpoints and hidden lakes along the route.

A Canada car rental makes it easy to explore Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Calgary, and the spectacular Canadian Rockies at your own pace.

Cappadocia: Turkey

Known for its fairy chimneys, cave hotels, underground cities, and unforgettable hot-air balloon rides, Cappadocia is one of Turkey's most remarkable destinations.

Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, hike through scenic valleys, visit ancient underground cities, and experience authentic Turkish culture throughout the region.

Hiring a Turkey car rental gives you the freedom to combine Cappadocia with Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir, Pamukkale, and the Turkish Riviera on an unforgettable road trip.

Milford Sound: New Zealand

Located within Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most breathtaking natural attractions. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, rainforests, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

The drive along Milford Road (State Highway 94) is considered one of the world's greatest scenic drives.

Choosing a New Zealand car rental allows visitors to experience Queenstown, Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, and the South Island's spectacular scenery with complete freedom.

Blue Lagoon: Iceland

Surrounded by dramatic lava fields, Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon offers one of the world's most relaxing geothermal spa experiences. Visitors often combine the Blue Lagoon with Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches.

An Iceland car rental provides the flexibility to explore Iceland's incredible Ring Road, geothermal attractions, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes beyond the capital.

Lake Bled: Slovenia

With its emerald-green lake, medieval castle, and charming island church, Lake Bled is one of Europe's most picturesque destinations. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, hiking trails, cycling routes, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Julian Alps.

Its central location also makes Lake Bled an excellent base for exploring Slovenia's alpine scenery and nearby national parks.

Tips for Visiting Beautiful Places Around the World

• Travel during the shoulder season for fewer crowds and better prices.
• Book accommodation and attractions in advance during peak travel months.
• Download offline maps before visiting remote destinations.
• Respect local customs and protected natural areas.
• Carry travel insurance for additional peace of mind.
• Choose the right rental vehicle for your itinerary, especially when exploring mountainous or rural regions.

Why Renting a Car Makes Exploring Easier

Many of the world's most beautiful destinations are located outside major cities, where public transport can be limited. Renting a car gives you the freedom to discover hidden viewpoints, charming villages, scenic drives, and natural attractions at your own pace, creating a more flexible and memorable travel experience.

Explore More Destinations with Final Rentals

Whether you're planning a mountain adventure, a coastal escape, or an unforgettable road trip, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel on your schedule. Explore our car rental locations worldwide and find the perfect vehicle for your next journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the world?

Some of the world's most breathtaking destinations include The Pitons in St. Lucia, Santorini Caldera in Greece, Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, Wadi Rum in Jordan, Mount Toubkal in Morocco, Banff National Park in Canada, Cappadocia in Türkiye, Milford Sound in New Zealand, Blue Lagoon in Iceland, and Lake Bled in Slovenia.

Which UNESCO World Heritage Sites are worth visiting?

Popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites include The Pitons, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Wadi Rum Protected Area, Cappadocia, and many historic cities and national parks worldwide, each offering unique natural beauty and cultural significance.

Is renting a car a good way to explore these destinations?

Yes. Renting a car gives travellers greater flexibility to explore scenic routes, national parks, mountain villages, coastal roads, and attractions that may not be easily accessible by public transport.

When is the best time to visit scenic destinations?

The ideal time depends on the destination. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation costs, while summer is best for mountain hiking and coastal adventures.

How do I choose the right rental car for my trip?

Economy and compact cars are ideal for cities and coastal routes, while SUVs or 4x4 vehicles are recommended for mountainous regions, national parks, and destinations with rougher road conditions.

About the Author

Final Rentals Editorial Team

The Final Rentals Editorial Team is a group of travel researchers and mobility experts dedicated to creating accurate, practical, and up-to-date travel content for drivers worldwide. Our articles are based on official tourism resources, local driving regulations, and destination research to help travellers plan safer and more enjoyable journeys. From car rental advice to road trip guides and local travel tips, we provide reliable information to help you explore with confidence.