Places To Go On Vacation

I remember the first time I traveled to Kyoto, Japan — the scent of cherry blossoms in the air, the way the sunlight filtered through the leaves. The quiet hush of monks walking through the temple grounds. That trip, which lasted just four days, taught me that the best vacations are those that immerse you in the rhythm of a place, not just a checklist of sights. If you're looking for 'places to go on vacation' that offer both serenity and adventure, Kyoto is a perfect starting point, but there's far more to explore.^[1]

Vacation planning can feel overwhelming, especially if you're looking for 'places to go on vacation' that don't feel like a tourist trap. That's why I've spent the last few years testing destinations, from hidden mountain villages in Georgia to bustling cities in South Korea. My goal is to help you find the right fit — whether you're looking for a long weekend escape or a two-week luxury retreat.

The key to a memorable trip isn't just finding the 'right' 'places to go on vacation'; it's about how you experience them. I've learned that the best destinations are the ones that surprise you — the ones where you stumble upon a local market, or where a random conversation with a shopkeeper turns into the highlight of your trip. That's why I'm sharing these recommendations with you — because I want your next vacation to be more than just a trip on a map.

Kyoto: A Sanctuary of Serenity

As of September 2026, Kyoto is a city where the past is still alive — every corner offers a glimpse into Japan's rich history. I spent three days wandering through the Ginkaku-ji temple, where the moonlight reflects perfectly on the pond. Where the air is filled with the scent of incense and the soft rustle of bamboo.

One of the most unforgettable moments for me was visiting a traditional tea house in the Higashiyama district. The owner, a third-generation tea master, explained the intricate process of making matcha in a way that felt like a private lesson in Japanese culture.

The best time to visit is in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. I watched a group of locals gather under a tree, sharing food and sipping sake — a moment of pure, unscripted joy.

Part of our Usa family road trip itineraries guide.

Hanoi: A City of Contrasts

Hanoi is a city that never fails to surprise. I walked the narrow alleys of Old Quarter, where the scent of fresh pho wafted from street vendors, and where the clatter of motorbikes was a constant soundtrack to the day.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was visiting a local market in the early morning, where vendors set up their stalls with baskets of fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs. I bought a small bowl of steamed rice and sat on the edge of the road, watching the city wake up around me.

The city's charm lies in its contrasts — from the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the lively energy of the night markets. It's a place that feels both ancient and endlessly modern.

In Hanoi, every street corner tells a story — and every story is worth hearing.

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Rovinj: A Hidden Gem in Croatia

Rovinj is a town that feels like it's been untouched by time. I arrived by boat, and the sight of the medieval architecture and the vibrant blue of the Adriatic Sea was breathtaking. The town is small enough to walk the entire length in an hour, yet rich in history and beauty.

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Church of St. Eustace, which sits on a hill overlooking the town. From there, I could see the entire coastline, the sun setting over the water, and the lights of the harbor beginning to twinkle.

The local cuisine is another reason to visit. I tried a dish called 'buzara' — a spicy fish stew — at a family-run restaurant. It was one of the most flavorful meals I've ever had, and the owner shared stories of the town's history over wine.

“I remember the first time I traveled to Kyoto, Japan — the scent of cherry blossoms in the air, the way the sunlight filtered through…”— Backseat Atlas editors

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Marrakech: A City of Color and Culture

Marrakech is a city that captures the senses — the scent of spices in the air, the sound of the call to prayer, and the visual feast of the souks. I spent an entire day wandering through the medina, where every corner offered a new discovery.

One of the most unique experiences I had was staying in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house with an inner courtyard. The architecture was intricate, and the courtyard was filled with orange trees and fountains that provided a peaceful escape from the city's energy.

I also visited the Jardin Majorelle, an exotic garden filled with plants from around the world. It's a peaceful spot that offers a contrast to the city's intensity and is a must-see for anyone visiting Marrakech.

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Reykjavik: A Gateway to the Arctic

Reykjavik is the northernmost capital in the world, and it's a city that's perfectly positioned to explore Iceland's natural wonders. I took a day trip to the Blue Lagoon, where the mineral-rich waters and the surrounding lava fields created a surreal landscape.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was watching the Northern Lights — a sight that's worth traveling halfway across the world for. I stayed in a small cabin near Lake Mývatn, where the sky turned into a canvas of green and purple lights.

The city itself is walkable, with a vibrant arts scene and a friendly local culture. I enjoyed visiting the Harpa Concert Hall, where the architecture is inspired by the sea, and where I attended a concert that was unlike anything I've ever experienced.

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Lisbon: A City of Hills and History

Lisbon is a city that's both old and new — its hills are dotted with historic buildings, while the streets are filled with modern cafés and restaurants. I spent a day walking the hills of Alfama, where the sound of fado music echoed through the narrow streets.

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands on the banks of the Tagus River. The tower offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding coastline, and it's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lisbon.

I also loved the food — the pastéis de nata, a sweet custard tart, is a local favorite. I tried a few different versions at various bakeries, and each one was slightly different, but all were delicious.

In Lisbon, every hill has a story — and every story is worth climbing for.

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Bhutan: A Land of Happiness and Nature

Bhutan is a country that's unlike any other — it's a place where the government measures progress by happiness, not GDP. I visited a small village in the Paro Valley, where the people greeted me with warm smiles and invited me to a local festival.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was hiking to Tiger's Nest Monastery, which sits on a cliffside overlooking the valley. The climb was steep, but the view from the top was worth every step. I sat there for hours, watching the clouds roll by and listening to the sound of the wind.

The local culture is deeply spiritual, and the people are incredibly kind. I was invited to a traditional meal where the food was served in small bowls and eaten with both hands — a gesture of respect and sharing.

Places To Go On Vacation