An old adage says to travel while you're young [1], and while I firmly believe that world travel is fulfilling at any age, there's a certain wonder that you'll really only have in your 20s. This decade is postmarked with adventures and learning experiences, and travelling will only fuel your growth. From lands of adventure to architectural wonders [2] and rocking underground music scenes, here is the ultimate bucket list for the wanderlusting 20-something. Some places will teach and inspire you, some will entertain you, and others will challenge you – but all will shape you [3].
Ibiza, Spain
This Spanish island is easily one of Europe's most famous nightlife playgrounds, spanning more than 100 miles of coastline and filled with clubs and restaurants. But if partying until sunrise isn't your thing, the beautiful island is also home to quaint villages and yoga retreats.
Florence, Italy
Home to the world's most expansive collection of Renaissance art, this upscale Italian city is the perfect destination to enrich your life with history, culture, and really good (and inexpensive) aperitivi.
Thailand
This vibrant country is teeming with experiences from trekking through millennia-old rainforests to visiting incredible temples and wats to exploring some of the world's most enchanting beaches. The Thai people also have a reputation for being warm and welcoming, and the pound goes a very long way.
Costa Rica
The land of Pura Vida ("pure life"), Costa Rica is filled with rainforests, volcanoes, lush jungle, diverse wildlife, beautiful beaches, and the list goes on.
India
India is a vast and vibrant sub-continent, and there are so many reasons to explore this cultural hub. Stand in awe of the Taj Mahal, take a train ride across the country, enjoy a smorgasbord of flavors and cuisines, hike the Himalayas, and more. From the bustle of Delhi to the colours of Jaipur, India is full of wonder.
Nepal
Often called a trekker's paradise, this mountainous Asian country is a place to escape and challenge yourself both mentally and physically. Take in the wonder of the world's tallest mountain with the Mount Everest Base Camp Trek, explore the small hill villages and ancient monasteries, rid yourself of distraction and truly connect with nature.
Machu Picchu, Peru
There are different ways to journey high in the Andes Mountains to these world famous Incan ruins, but by far the most memorable way is to trek it. If you're up for the challenge, it's a four day/three night journey with some of the most incredible vistas in the world.
Barcelona, Spain
This laid back beach city is radiating with colour and culture. Go for the bustling nightlife, fabulous shopping, seriously tasty tapas, fascinating architecture, and the best sangria you'll ever drink.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Driving up the PCH is the ultimate Summer road trip. Pick the perfect playlist [5] and set out on the winding road through jagged coastlines, staggering sequoias, and lovely rolling hills. From camping in Trinidad to sipping Cabernet in Napa, so many lifelong memories await.
Glasgow, Scotland
An anchor for culture and creativity, Glasgow is thriving with musical prowess, bustling nightlife, and a burgeoning food scene. You can also find inexpensive day tours that will transport you to the stunning Scottish countryside and a distillery (or two).
Budapest, Hungary
Historic, inexpensive, and a foodie's dream, this Hungarian city is a fascinating mosaic of Roman, Gothic, and Turkish influence.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Every young traveller needs to tick Amsterdam off their list (although you'll probably want to return time and time again). From the bicycle culture to the award-winning culinary scene and the art museums to the infamous nightlife, there's no other city quite like it in the world.
The Great Wall of China
Touted as the largest man-made structure ever built, the Great Wall is so vast, it can even be seen from space. Conquering the steep steps of some stretches of the wall can be quite the feat, but the view and grandeur of the structure make it well worth the exertion.
Havana, Cuba
This bright and sunny city is awash with culture. Stroll through the colourful streets, catch a ball game in Old Havana, and give in to your cravings with authentic Cuban cuisine.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Adrenaline junkies, rejoice! Queenstown was built for moments that will take your breath away. Stunning landscape aside (and it is STUNNING), this New Zealand village was the birthplace of bungee jumping, and also offers jet-boating, ziplining, and more. Relax after a day's adventure with local wine from the many nearby vineyards.
Azores, Portugal
Europe's best kept secret, the Azores are an archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic that offer dramatic landscapes and stunning views. The islands are an idyllic place to escape, sans crowds, and reconnect with nature.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark's capital is a bustling creative metropolis famous for its colourful buildings, Michelin starred restaurants, thriving fashion scene, and craft cocktail culture. Hang out with locals in the Meatpacking District in the Summer, visit one of the newly opened breweries or cocktail bars, and explore the sights by bike.
Vancouver, Canada
This coastal metropolis is one of Canada's most diverse cities and is famous for its culinary prowess and eclectic theatre, music, and art scenes. Outside the bustle, it's a spectacular playground for adventure seekers, with numerous parks, slopes, and waterways.
Rio de Janeiro
This coastal city is a vacation destination of epic proportions. From art deco vibes to a lively beach and nightlife scene, it's a party from the moment you arrive. The Carnaval festival – the largest in the world – beckons two million people every year and is truly a sight to behold.
Munich, Germany
One word: Oktoberfest. But also centuries-old architecture, museums, castles, and other awe-inducing sights.