7 Popular Tourist Attractions You Need to See This Year

Studies show that taking time to explore new areas and give yourself a mental break can improve your mental health.

Planning a vacation should be at the top of your to-do list. Depending on your preferences, you can find places to visit that will replenish and nourish your well-being. Whether you find peace at the beach or climb a mountain, you’ll feel more alive than ever.

Continue reading to learn about some of the most popular tourist attractions for 2023!

1. Sicily

One of the hottest tourist attractions for this year is Palermo, Italy.

Palermo is located in Sicily, which is a beautiful section of southern Italy. There are mountains in the distance, plenty of waterfront views, and delicious food to try. The cities host many events and festivals in the summer months, but the scenery and weather are just as nice in the spring and fall.

If you’re looking for a romantic or independent escape, this is a wonderful choice. You can tour the wineries and relax and the most luxurious resorts around. If you’re bringing your children, there are still activities to participate in, but it’s not the best place for keeping them busy.

2. Traverse City

You don’t have to go overseas for a calming, yet fun-filled getaway.

Whether you’re traveling with your partner, family, or friends, Traverse City is an excellent location. Traverse City, MI is located near Lake Michigan, its beautiful bays with endless beach space for the kids to play on.

In the downtown area, you can choose from a variety of restaurants and the breweries are on almost every corner. There is plenty of shopping and kid-friendly activities nearby. Some people recommend renting a kayak to get a closer look at the clear water.

Traverse City is known as the Cherry City, they even host a festival in the summer. This is a fun stop that won’t cost much!

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

If you’re interested in visiting Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro is a perfect spot to tour.

There are 3 volcanic cones on the site and more than 7 routes. What makes this site so popular is that it’s the highest free-standing mountain. You can watch the giraffes roaming the safari with the mountain in the background.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, you can find trails that are accommodating. These Kilimanjaro guides can help you plan your hiking routes and start planning your trip.

4. Svalbard

Traveling north to Svalbard could put you right under the Northern Lights.

Svalbard is a small Norwegian island in the Arctic Ocean. Most people on the island speak Norwegian, but English is a second language. This is a great place to travel to if you’re looking for a quiet getaway.

You can connect with nature and appreciate the natural beauties on Earth during your stay. Don’t forget to pack plenty of warm clothing and lights if you visit during the dark parts of the year.

While exploring the winter wonderland, you’ll have to watch out for polar bears. You can get protective equipment, or watch them from a distance.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re looking for popular destinations in the south, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should be considered.

This national park, location in western North Carolina, is the most visited attraction in the state. You can go camping, or glamping, or book a room at a local hotel and take in the beauty of the mountains. There are waterfalls, wildlife, and fun activities to enjoy in the park, and many people stay for days.

North Carolina is known for having gemstones in the mountains, so keep an eye out for anything that glitters. Although you’ll need to be cautious of black bears, you’ll find peace and serenity in the trees.

6. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most beautiful destinations.

You can see the layers of Earth reveal themselves while exploring the Grand Canyon, and depending on the tours, you can even get inside! There are many attractions surrounding the Grand Canyon, making it a worthwhile trip to Arizona.

It’s best to avoid Arizona in the summer since it experiences extreme heat. Plan your trip during the more mild months so you are comfortable enough to enjoy the views and relax. If you show up around dawn or dusk, watch for the groups of bats that flutter above.

7. Victoria Falls

The Niagra Falls are impressive, but if you head to Zimbabwe or Zambia, you can see something just as beautiful.

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it lies on two borders. The roaring waters come crashing down in a serene location and most of the time you can see a rainbow. You can take helicopter tours to get a unique perspective or join a safari game and discover the area on foot.

White-water rafting is a popular activity if you’re looking for a thrill.

Explore Your Adventurous Side at These Tourist Attractions

With concerns about the pandemic coming to an end, people are packing their bags and traveling again.

If you’re hoping to explore some new areas and catch up on missed time, you should consider the tourist attractions mentioned above. You can take on a new challenge and climb Mount Kilimanjaro or head somewhere north to see the Northern Lights.

Don’t be afraid to try something new and discover a different way of life.

Be sure you read our blog for more info about the best travel destinations and how to plan for your upcoming trip!