What’s the most beautiful country in the world? A contentious topic that’s guaranteed to provoke thought and possibly heated debate. Read on to discover the most beautiful countries in the world, as voted by you.
A stirring blend of ancient and modern, Japan kicks off our countdown. Japans bullet train makes it easy to see a wide variety of sights during your visit - from historic Shinto temples and the serenity of Mount Fuji, to the neon-lit cities of Tokyo and Osaka, to its stunning islands. Indeed, many of you highlighted your love of Japan’s “diversity of scenery”.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Shikoku, home to the famous 88-temple pilgrimage route, dramatic coastal scenery, and charming traditional towns like Matsuyama and Tokushima.
To start planning your own trip to Japan, check out our Japan itineraries and our practical tips on how to plan a trip to Japan.
Seigantoji Pagoda, Japan © Shutterstock
Slovenia certainly sparked your soul big style. “It has everything – mountains, lakes, plains, caves, cities, and culture”. One of you summed up Slovenia’s unique blend of culture and cuisine as feeling like a “mini Europe”.
Another gushed: “No other country compares. It's a box of jewels”. And that certainly rings true when you consider Slovenia’s “spectacular scenery”. This is land of fairy tale forests and gorgeous Slovenian lakes, alluring Adriatic coastline, and charming historic cities. With so many things to do in Slovenia, it is a once-visited, must-return kind of destination.
Top tip: be prepared and read all about how to get to Slovenia.
The fairy tale fabulousness of Lake Bled, Slovenia © Alberto Loyo/Shutterstock
Another new entry, this. In your words, Portugal’s appeal derives from it being a “small country with lots of diverse regions” with its “very friendly people” mentioned several times, too.
From lively Lisbon and picturesque Porto to the beautiful Algarve (though Portugal’s best beaches extend beyond this stunning stretch), the country exudes charm. Although Portugal isn't that big and getting around in Portugal is straight forward (renting a car is your best option) it might be handy to read all about how to plan a trip to Portugal to not face any challenges.
Portugal's restaurants are a magnet for foodie travelers, and there are plenty of opportunities to escape well-trodden trails, even when visiting tourist hotspots.
Palácio da Pena in Sintra, Portugal © Shutterstock
Indonesia impressed Rough Guides’ readers with its range of natural landscapes and varied cultures. No surprise really, given that this nation is spread across a mind-blowing 17,508 Indonesian islands, hence the country’s incredible diversity of flora, fauna, food and customs.
Bali is known for its temples, world-class surfing – the beaches in Bali are incredible – while Lombok also boasts incredible beaches, and Sulawesi offers incredible culture - how’s that for a diversity of experiences? Many of you also highlighted the “welcoming attitude of Indonesian people”.
Planning a trip? Make sure to read up on how to plan a trip to Indonesia and our Indonesia itinerary.
Pura Lempuyan Temple in Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia © Shutterstock/Nikita Shchavelev
India sure ticked your boxes when it came to delivering diverse, exhilarating travel experiences. As one respondent told us, “the different areas of India offer different things – lush rainforest in the south and the beautiful Himalayas in the north”.
While it’s true to say that India can be on the overwhelming side for the first-time visitor, it’s also true that once it gets under your skin, it's very hard to let go. From the floating palaces of Jaipur and the bustle of Mumbai, to beautiful beaches, there's to keep you coming back for years.
A classic introduction to India is the Golden Triangle, a route that takes you through Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, showcasing stunning Mughal architecture, vibrant markets, and the iconic Taj Mahal. For a unique and leisurely way to explore the country, consider a train tour in India, which allow you to take in India’s breathtaking landscapes while traveling in comfort.
For more inspiration, check out our guide on how to plan a trip to India and our India itinerary.
Jaipur, City Palace © Shutterstock
Agree, that is reason enough to be mentioned. When it comes to nature, there are few countries that can compete with Costa Rica. Towering volcanoes, idyllic beaches, rainforest, wild rivers and an abundance of wildlife. For nature lovers, there is hardly a better destination.
And the big advantage of Costa Rica is that it is incredibly easy to travel. An organized tour, rental car or travel by public transport. It is easily arranged.
The fact that Costa Rica is not gigantic, it compensates with enormous diversity. As one traveler put it, Costa Rica offers "a piece of paradise for every type of explorer."
Hiking around the majestic Arenal Volcano, surfing the waves in Tamarindo, relaxing in hot springs or enjoying the best beaches around San Jose.
Top tip: make sure to enjoy Costa Rica to the fullest and read how to create the best Costa Rica itinerary.
Arenal volcano in Costa Rica © Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock
Boy, has Croatia captured your hearts. This country had one respondent praising its “islands, mountains, wine, olive oil, history, culture, and THE SEA!”. Another stated: “Croatia is the most beautiful country I have visited”. A quick look at the beautiful islands in Croatia makes that point perfectly.
Recently, the emerald wildernesses and mighty mountains of Croatia’s National Parks have seen it emerge as a major adventure destination, while its heritage-rich cities (Dubrovnik, we’re looking at you) offer world-class wining and dining in out-of-this-world surroundings. Croatia has plenty to please culture vultures, too, not least in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital of cool.
Top tip: many of you mentioned how much you love Croatia, but the weather is a critical part of that. So make sure to read about the best time to visit Croatia.
Croatia's Dubrovnik at dusk © Shutterstock
The eighth-largest country in the world, Argentina stretches from the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls in the north, to the wilds of the southern Tierra del Fuego.
As one reader told us, when it comes to landscapes, you’ll find "anything your heart desires" here, with a corresponding broad range of experiences to enjoy. Soak up Buenos Aires’ cosmopolitan atmosphere, learn to ride in the expanse of the Pampas, explore Mendoza’s vineyards or watch ice calving from Patagonia’s Perito Moreno Glacier.
You’ll be spoiled for choice for spectacular things to do in Argentina in this “wonderful country of glaciers, waterfalls, deserts and gaucho's”, as one of our readers shared.
To start planning your Argentinian trip, take a look at our Argentina itineraries, all of which can be tailor-made to meet your needs.
Argentina's epic Iguazu-Falls © Shutterstock
The raw and rugged majesty of Iceland sparked an elemental, poetic response in many respondents. It’s a country you loved for its “unspoilt natural beauty”, “empty and challenging landscapes”, and “tremendous waterfalls”.
With a wealth of hot springs with health-giving properties, the chance to witness the northern lights, and a thriving foodie scene in Reykjavík, Iceland is the perfect place to get back to nature and enjoy a range of experiences in one short trip. What’s more, “the people are kind and fun”, as one of you shared.
Top tip: Iceland is known to be expensive. Make sure you know what to expect and check out our article on how expensive Iceland really is.
Planning a trip to Iceland? Take a look at our suggested Iceland itinerary and read all about how to plan a trip to Iceland.
The awe-inspiring northern lights in Iceland © Shutterstock
From its "great wine and food”, to the “range of terrain and variety of landscapes”, many of you feel that Chile “has it all”.
Stretching down the Pacific coast of South America, Chile certainly packs a lot of variety into a relatively small landmass. That’s thanks to the enormous change in latitude from north to south, from 17° below the equator to 56°S in Patagonia, well on the way to the South Pole.
Chile’s untouched aspect led to the creation of the world’s first dark sky sanctuary in the Elqui Valley. Throw in the country's world-class wines, vibrant Valparaiso, and the centuries-old moai on Easter Island, and you’ll be sure to come back to experience all the best things to do in Chile.
Top tip: if you want to get the best out of your trip, read all about our Iceland itinerary and how to plan a trip.
Atmosphere abounds on Easter Island, Chile © Shutterstock
For Western visitors, Morocco holds an immediate and enduring fascination. Though just an hour’s ride on the ferry from Spain, it seems very far from Europe, with a culture that is almost wholly unfamiliar. Travel to Morocco and you will uncover a country of arid deserts, spice-laden souks, and a melting pot of Berber and Arabian cultures.
From the vast Sahara dunes to the bustling streets of Marrakech, and the breezy coastal charm of Essaouira, Morocco is a feast for the senses.
"Essaouira was my favorite! The salty breeze, the blue-and-white streets made it feel like Morocco’s best-kept secret" is what one of you mentioned.
Throughout the country, despite the years of French and Spanish colonial rule and the presence of modern, cosmopolitan cities like Rabat and Casablanca, a more distant past constantly makes its presence felt. Fez, perhaps the most beautiful of all Arab cities, maintains a way of life still rooted in medieval times, when a Moroccan kingdom stretched from Senegal to northern Spain. It's a city that often features in classic Morocco itineraries for its rich cultural heritage.
Make sure to start your trip well and read all about how to plan a trip to Morocco.
Sand boarding in the Moroccan desert © Shutterstock
Surprisingly the only African country to make the top 20 (though Namibia received a fair few nominations), South Africa is undeniably stunning, as revealed in our guide to its scenic beauty.
Many of you praised the country’s “sheer diversity of scenery”, and the “endless options for road trips in South Africa”. And with the iconic Table Mountain and penguin-packed beaches just a stone's throw from Cape Town, you don't have to visit all of South Africa at once.
The wine-growing valleys of the Western Cape enchant with their verdant hills and vintages. And let’s not forget that South Africa also offers some of the world’s best safari experiences.
Start planning your trip to South Africa today! Check our South African itinerary and if you're going on a family trip, also find out all the information you need from our guide to South Africa with kids.
Namaqualand, South Africa © Marie-Anne AbersonM/Shutterstock
The words of one passionate respondent reveal everything you need to know about one of Greece’s greatest lures: "the islands are truly special - the white buildings, blue domes, traditional villages, beautiful islands (hello Crete!), and the high cliffs looking down on the incredibly blue Mediterranean Sea." Throw in the history, gracious people and you just never want to leave.
High praise, indeed. But there’s more to Greece than its impossibly idyllic islands. Many of our Greece-voting respondents mentioned the "wonderful locally-produced food”, and the fact that it boasts one of the richest collections of historic monuments in the world.
Top tip: read our Greek travel tips to make the most of your Greece itinerary.
Greece's glorious Shipwreck Bay, Zakynthos © Shutterstock
Moving up four places, you praised Madagascar for its incredible biodiversity and warm, welcoming people.
Madagascar’s world-famous natural wonders were frequently highlighted, among them Avenue of the Baobabs, the otherworldly Tsingy de Bemaraha, and the pristine beaches of Nosy Be. The island’s lush rainforests, home to its famous lemurs, also drew high praise.
Then there’s Madagascar’s vibrant culture, fantastic seafood, and endless opportunities for adventure – from trekking in Andringitra National Park to exploring remote coastal villages. Before you go, be sure to read up on the best time to visit Madagascar and maybe learn a little Malagasy to connect with locals.
Top tip: Since Madagascar is not a well-known country, it might be worth reading up on some Madagascar travel tips and how to get there.
Uluru, Ayers Rock, Australia © Uwe Aranas/Shutterstock
From the ethereal fjords mentioned by tonnes of readers to the compact capital Oslo, and “Lapland with its magical atmosphere”, there are so many things to do in Norway. As one of you said, Norway's “landscape is fantastic".
There are mountains, fjords, waterfalls, and breathtaking views, and everything is so clean and beautiful! Tromsø in the Arctic Circle is emerging as one of the country's top cultural hubs, and also a great place to start your northern lights excursion in the winter months.
Leave some space in your Norway itinerary for Trondheim, the country’s former capital and third-largest city, with Scandinavia's largest medieval building, rocking nightlife, and museums.
Come summer, the glow of the midnight sun bathes everything in golden red. Norwegians have you under their spell, too. In the words of one of our readers, “people are caring and rich in culture”.
Ready to explore Norway? Start preparing by finding out how to get there.
Lofoten islands in the Summertime, Norway © Whatafoto/Shutterstock
To cover Mexico, we’ll hand you over to one of our readers: "The ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá and Palenque, the colorful streets of Guanajuato, the bustling energy of Mexico City, the pristine beaches of Tulum, and the magic of Oaxaca’s Day of the Dead celebrations". That basically covers it!
Take a scenic train ride through the awe-inspiring Copper Canyon or soak in the pink-hued waters of Las Coloradas. Stroll through the charming colonial streets of Mérida or cool off with a refreshing dip in a cenote in the Yucatán. Go whale-watching in Baja or taste the best street tacos in Puebla. There are enough places to visit in Mexico.
Going to Mexico with kids? Families will love swimming in natural pools, spotting wildlife, and exploring ancient ruins like Chichén Itzá.
Of course, before leaving, read all about how to plan a trip to Mexico and the best Mexico itinerary.
The picturesque Pembrokeshire coast in Wales © Shutterstock
Jumping an impressive nine places, you adored Switzerland for its “spectacular scenery”, with many readers waxing lyrical about its lakes and mountains. Read our guide to the best Switzerland itineraries to discover excellent ways to appreciate the country’s beauty.
While adventurers will want to hike the Eiger in the spectacular Jungfrau region, you might prefer to soak up the scenery from a quaint mountain train. Then there's the iconic area of Zermatt and the Matterhorn.
Switzerland's “lovely towns” and “beautiful spotless cities” were also mentioned by many of you, including lakeside Lausanne, Vevey and Montreux, well-heeled Geneva, and cosmopolitan Zurich.
Rough Guides tip: discover how to plan a Switzerland trip.
The jaw-dropping beauy of Switzerland's Jungfrau region © Shutterstock
Firmly in your top five most beautiful countries in the world for two consecutive polls, Canada sure offers a wide range of unmissable things to do in Canada.
Many of you remarked on its epic landscapes and the vastness of its “wide-open spaces”. If you think Canada’s “mountain scenery is amazing”, as one respondent enthused.
B.C. mountains draw skiers and snowboarders in their thousands, while the East Coast cities of Toronto and Montreal charm with their world-class restaurants and cosmopolitan vibe.
Then there’s the otherworldly Bay of Fundy, hailed as one of the most remarkable places on earth.
To enjoy Canada in all its exhilarating wonder, take a look at our Canada itineraries - curated by local travel guides.
An elk in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada © Weekend Warrior Photos/Shutterstock
Italy, winner of our previous survey, just missed out on bagging first place this time round. Many of you applauded the fact that it “has something for everyone”, from the marvelous Dolomite mountains, the tranquil Italian Lakes, the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the sparkling Amalfi coast and the islands Sicily and Sardinia.
Cities like Rome, Florence and Venice throb with romance, while Italy’s beaches and food aren't half bad either. In fact, many of you believe it has “the best food in the world”. Given that Italy has so much to offer, it might be worth reading our guide to the most beautiful places in Italy and how to plan a trip to Italy.
Want to experience Italy with fresh, authentic eyes? Our Italy itineraries are curated by a local expert, and cover the entire country.
Sunlit cypress trees - a typically soul-stirring Tuscan scene, one of many that holds Italy in a top position as the most beautiful country in the world © Shutterstock
Nudging Italy from the top spot, New Zealand’s “amazing scenery” had big impact on big numbers of you. The same goes for the “diversity of things to do in New Zealand" and the “contrast in scenery between the mountains and beaches”.
We could go on forever about why New Zealand is the most beautiful country in the world. It has an insane variety of natural beauty packed into a relatively small country. Places like Fiordland National Park and Tongariro National Park look straight out of a fairytale. And from the glow-in-the-dark sands of Waitomo Caves to the golden shores of Abel Tasman, New Zealand has beaches that make the Maldives jealous
Adventures will love hiking on a glacier (Fox & Franz Josef) in the morning and exploring a geothermal wonderland (Rotorua) in the afternoon. Not many places in the world can claim that.
But what would probably stand out the most is the friendliness of the New Zealanders.
Check out our New Zealand itineraries to discover why it’s captured the hearts of so many Rough Guides’ readers.
Milford Sound, South Island, New Zealand © Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
written by
Joanne Owen
updated 25.03.2025
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