For many people over the past two years, travelling internationally has only been real in our dreams. However, the great news is that the world is opening up once again and in 2022, we are looking ahead with great excitement and pressing play on real travel!
It’s time to cross new and exciting destinations off of our bucket lists while returning to old favourites with a renewed sense of wonder. To celebrate our love of travel and help you plan the ultimate escapes for 2022, Expat Explore has put together a list of our top 10 places to visit in 2022!
There are destinations to suit all kinds of travellers. From culture-filled city breaks and family-friendly holidays, to eco-friendly retreats and outdoor adventures overflowing with open spaces and fresh air! The old saying goes that you always want what you can’t have, and while travel was paused, that saying proved true for many of us! The world is waiting and we are ready and eager to appreciate every moment we experience!
Wondering where to travel in 2022? This list is the perfect inspiration!
Take a look at the top 10 destinations to add to your travel 2022 bucket list:
1. Norway
With its magnificent fjords, towering mountains and spell-binding wilderness areas, Norway is a nature and adventure-lovers paradise. Combine the inspiring outdoors with modern cities that are the essence of cool Scandinavian culture! Add in fascinating Viking history and the chance to see the Northern Lights and you’ve got an unbeatable bucket list destination!
Travel Norway in 2022 to experience one of the world’s most eco-friendly destinations; make the most of the fresh air, open spaces and great outdoors. Enjoy an array of activities including fjord cruises, hiking, skiing and more. Norway is a leader in sustainability. In fact, the focus on sustainability is best enjoyed in the capital city, Oslo, which is one of Europe’s most eco-friendly cities. While in Oslo, be sure to experience unique Nordic cuisine, design and culture. In 2022, art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the recently opened Edvard Munch Museum as well as the National Museum will reopen following a major refurbishment.
Related: See why Oslo ranks as one of Europe’s most eco-friendly cities!
2. Japan
Japan… It’s a place that’s an intoxicating mix of old and new. It’s a place where history meets modernity; where ancient shrines share the streets with neon skyscrapers. It’s a place that should definitely be on your bucket list! Japan attracts tourists from all over the world who visit to experience the country’s unique culture, cuisine and architecture.
In September 2022, Expat Explore will be launching its exciting discovery tour to Japan, joined by co-founders Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz! The new Highlights of Japan tour showcases unmissable Japanese destinations and experiences over 11 days; including Tokyo, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Hiroshima and more.
Related: Learn all about the best 24 things to do in Japan!
3. Egypt
Egypt is all about ancient history, epic scenery and authentic culture. The country is a classic bucket list destination for a reason! It offers travellers the chance to “travel back in time” when exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza, wandering through ancient temples and cruising down the world-famous Nile River. In 2022, it’s set to be just as popular as ever! This year marks 100 years since the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb and what better way to celebrate this milestone than by delving into the country’s history and cultural riches!
There is an exciting new addition coming to Egypt’s capital city, Cairo. While there is no set launch date just yet, the highly-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum is said to be opening later in 2022. This will be the largest archaeological museum in the world and will house over 100,000 priceless historical artefacts including thousands of items unearthed from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Related: Enjoy an Egypt adventure on one of Expat Explore’s Egypt holiday packages.
4. Lithuania
Lithuania is probably one of the lesser-known entries on this list. However, this Baltic country is a must-visit for travellers! It offers history, rich culture and beautiful scenery. In fact, .Lithuania is an exciting mix of attractions; from scenic beaches and idyllic lakes to historic old towns, medieval castles and vibrant cities. Lithuania is home to the famously eerie Hill of Crosses pilgrimage site and the capital city Vilnius is a buzzing destination that is a great mix of cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture and lively local culture! Take a look at our guide to spending 24 hours in the city.
This year, Lithuania’s cultural heritage is under the spotlight! Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city is one of the three European Capitals of Culture for 2022 (alongside Novi Sad in Serbia and Esch-sur-Alzette in Luxembourg). Kaunas is well-known for its fascinating Old Town, museums, street art and Gothic architecture that strikingly contrasts the New Town’s Modernism. As a Capital of Culture, the city will host around 1,000 cultural events including performances, festivals, concerts and exhibitions!
Related: Explore Lithuania on a tour that visits the Baltic States and Scandinavia.
5. South Africa
South Africa is a destination that truly offers something for everyone! Whether you are looking for a safari adventure, a beach getaway, a scenic road trip or a cosmopolitan city break, you can do it all and more in South Africa. Visitors from around the world have travelled to the “Rainbow Nation” for many years. After there was a pause in international travellers due to Covid-19 restrictions, South Africa is open and ready to welcome people with open arms!
Enjoy a bucket list-worthy trip to South Africa in 2022 and experience the highlights of this incredibly diverse country. Discover the breathtaking landscapes and mind-blowing wildlife on a Kruger National Park safari and Panorama Route tour. Or explore Cape Town and the Garden Route on a tour that showcases the “Mother City”, the world-famous Cape Winelands and features a scenic road trip along the Garden Route. Alternatively, do it all on the ultimate South African Escape tour!
6. Scotland
Bonnie Scotland! It’s the land of tartan, whisky, sprawling highland scenery and so much more! The UK’s most northern country is perfect for travellers seeking beautiful outdoor spaces, captivating history and proud local culture. It’s also a great option for families!
2022 is Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee year and the UK will celebrate 70 years of her majesty’s reign. While the large events will take place in London, communities across the UK will enjoy the festivities! Why not celebrate in Scotland? This destination is beloved by the Queen who has spent many summers at Balmoral Castle, the royal residence in Scotland.
For bucket list experiences, travel through the Scottish Highlands, cruise Loch Ness while keeping an eye out for Nessie and admire the views of Glen Coe, the Isle of Skye and more! Enjoy an authentic whisky tasting and try a taste of Haggis! Head to Edinburgh to discover “Auld Reekie”. The capital city is popular with all kinds of travellers! Here, you can discover Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile and climb Arthur’s Seat. Be sure to include a visit to the National Museum, National Gallery and some shopping along Princes Street, too!
Related: Visit Scotland on our Great Britain tours or an unmissable rail tour through Scotland!
7. Slovenia
Seeking outdoor adventure, fresh air and breathtaking natural scenery? Add Slovenia to your travel bucket list! From the impressive Julain Alps to the picturesque sliver of coastline with caves, rolling hills and sprawling vineyards dotted throughout, Slovenia is sure to impress. This small central European country is one of the most eco-conscious on the continent and is an outdoor haven! Over half of the country is covered in greenery and popular outdoor activities include mountain walks, hiking, skiing and cycling.
Lonely Planet has ranked Slovenia on its Best in Travel list for 2022 ensuring it will be a popular choice with travellers this year! Don’t miss the chance to visit the scenic Lake Bled and experience the magic of the capital, Ljubljana. Explore the castle, historic streets and the river winding through the heart of the city. Ljubljana is another one of Europe’s most eco-friendly cities, making it a great option for eco-conscious travellers.
When in Slovenia, sampling the local food and wine is a must! Slovenian cuisine is a mix of influences including Italy, the Balkans, Hungary and Austria. There is an emphasis on fresh locally-sourced, sustainable products all resulting in divine Slovene dishes!
Related: Discover Ljubljana on one of our Europe multi-country tours that visit Slovenia.
8. Burgundy Region, France
France is a long-time favourite with travellers worldwide. Many have visited the bright lights of Paris before and in 2022 it’s time to venture south and explore the beautiful Burgundy region! Burgundy is a famous wine-producing region in France with Beaune and Dijon being two of its most famous destinations. The region is home to picturesque vineyards, quaint villages and world-class wine!
The Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie et du Vin is launching in the historic city of Dijon in May this year. The huge centre will showcase the best of French food and wine. Dijon (home of the famous French mustard) is sure to cement itself as a hub for foodies! Here, local and foreign visitors can experience French cuisine at various exhibitions, restaurants and cafes. Top chefs and culinary schools will also be involved.
Related: Travel through France on an exciting European Expat Explore tour!
9. Crete, Greece
With its combination of idyllic coastline, ancient history and Greek culture and cuisine, Crete definitely deserves a spot on travel bucket lists! Greece’s largest island is the mythological birthplace of Zeus, king of the gods, and boasts ancient Minoan palaces, Venetian-style port towns and gorgeous beaches, lakes and gorges just waiting to be explored.
Greek island getaways are ever-popular with travellers, thanks to the picture-perfect beaches, stunning scenery, ancient Greek relics, mouthwatering cuisine and allure of traditional Greek village life. Crete is no different! While its neighbours Mykonos and Santorini may be Greece’s more popular island getaways, they do get incredibly busy! Crete offers a more relaxed atmosphere and destinations that are not overrun with tourists in the high season.
Related: Discover the Best of Greece on a fun-filled group tour!
10. Turkey
After travel was paused for the majority of the past two years, Turkey is ready to welcome travellers once again in 2022! As tourism around the world continues to recover, Turkey’s tourism is sure to enjoy a boost this year as people book international travel once again. Currently, Turkey is an incredibly affordable destination to visit. It boasts a number of bucket list destinations including Istanbul and Cappadocia and is rich with history, beautiful scenery and captivating culture.
Visit the place where east meets west and see the Highlights of Turkey including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, the hot springs of Pamukkale as well as the ancient cities of Troy and Ephesus!
You can never have too many items on your bucket list! For this reason, we have added two bonus items to the list. Take a look at our bonus travel styles we believe deserve a spot on your 2022 Bucket List travel plans.:
Bonus #1 Europe, Multi-country Travel – see multiple countries, hassle-free
Europe is home to countless incredible destinations and what better way to see them than in an expertly designed multi-country trip? Travel has been quite complicated due to rules and restrictions over the last two years. However, on a group tour with Expat Explore, we make travel as hassle-free as possible! Book with us and the accommodation, transport across borders and travel planning are taken care of! Our Customer Service team is able to answer your questions and help you plan your dream trip, without the stress!
For something different, why not discover Europe’s top destinations by train? Our new rail tours offer a unique perspective on popular destinations as well as a fun, exciting and new way to travel! Take a look at our selection of rail tours and join the first tours which will embark in 2022!
Bonus #2 Domestic Travel – see your home country in a whole new way
While many people are looking forward to travelling internationally again, we understand that many of us might feel more comfortable exploring our home turf in 2022. That’s why domestic travel is set to be a big trend in 2022. Travellers will experience the joy of travel while discovering the delights of their own countries!
Two top destinations for domestic travel in 2022 are the USA and Great Britain. Both are home to various must-see destinations and unmissable experiences! Head to the east coast of the USA and Canada to enjoy history and bucket list destinations including New York City, Washington D.C, Quebec and Niagara Falls. Discover Great Britain’s unique British charm on a trip through England, Scotland and Wales or see the Best of the UK & Ireland.
The world is filled with incredible destinations and it’s never too early to start planning your next trip! Take a look at Expat Explore’s variety of group tours departing in 2022 and book hassle-free travel with us!