30 Best Places To Travel in Asia
Asia is a beautiful continent with many diverse destinations to explore. From ancient palaces to modern marvels, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.
Written by Marijim Dy Timkang | Edited by Bianca Versoza
As someone who hails from the continent, I’ve always loved Asia’s rich cultural heritage and how traditions and natural landscapes coexist with urban centers. With so much to discover, let’s take a look at the 30 best places to travel in Asia and discover the iconic destinations that make this continent so captivating.
1. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a city where history and culture come alive, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. Unlike many modern cities in Japan, it managed to preserve its ancient charm. As the once capital of Japan for over a thousand years, visiting Kyoto today still feels like stepping back in time.
One of the best places to visit in Kyoto is Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Its name comes from the top two floors, which are covered in gold leaf, making it shine radiantly under the sun.
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is another cultural go-to destination. It’s famous for its bright red torii gates that form a tunnel-like path up the mountain. The hike to the top is lined with smaller shrines, cafes, and beautiful views of Kyoto.
2. Beijing, China
Beijing is full of historical landmarks that tell the stories of ancient dynasties. One of the top places to visit is The Forbidden City, which served as the home of emperors for nearly 500 years. With nearly 1,000 buildings, it’s a treasure trove of ancient Chinese architecture.
After the Forbidden City, you should visit the Summer Palace and its Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill. The palace was used by emperors as a retreat from the hot summer in the city.
3. Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is a charming city long branded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the heart of it is “Ancient Town,” which showcases a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and French influences through colorful lanterns, ancient houses, and vibrant markets.
Tourists can explore narrow streets filled with unique shops, enjoy delicious street food, and even take a lantern-making class. You can also ride a boat along the river at night to see the lanterns reflecting on the water.
Just a short ride from the ancient town is An Bang Beach, which is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the seaside. You can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the restaurants by the beachside.
4. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is a gateway to the stunning temples of Angkor, which is the most famous and largest temple complex in Cambodia. Built in the early 12th century, it’s known for its grand architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful bas-reliefs that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
There’s also Bayon Temple, which is located in the northern part of Siem Reap, another ancient city within the Angkor Archaeological Park. This temple is famous for its smiling stone faces carved into its towers. There are over 200 faces in total, believed to represent the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara.
5. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan, Myanmar, is famous for its thousands of ancient temples and pagodas, which were built by kings and nobles between the 9th and 13th centuries as acts of devotion to Buddhism. The sheer number of pagodas creates a breathtaking landscape, making Bagan one of the best places to travel in Asia.
Shwesandaw Pagoda is one of the most popular spots in Bagan for watching the sunrise or sunset. This pagoda has five terraces that you can climb, offering panoramic views of the surrounding temples. The steps are steep, so be careful as you make your way up.
Additionally, Ananda Temple is one of the best-preserved and most beautiful temples in Bagan. Built in 1105 AD, it features stunning architecture with four large standing Buddha statues facing North, South, East, and West.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Nestled in northern Laos, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage city that’s surrounded by lush mountains and the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
One of its highlights is the Royal Palace Museum, also known as Haw Kham. Built in 1904, it was once the royal residence and now contains a collection of artifacts, including the sacred Phra Bang Buddha statue. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a great place to learn about the country’s royal heritage.
7. Tokyo, Japan
Aside from its mix of traditional and modern attractions, what I love about Tokyo is its buzzing energy, which you can feel in Shibuya Crossing. For the best view, you can visit one of the surrounding buildings, like the Shibuya Sky observation deck or the Starbucks in the Shibuya Tsutaya building.
Tokyo Tower is also an iconic symbol of the city. Standing at 333 meters, it offers stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline. You can visit the main observatory at 150 meters or the top deck at 250 meters for even more spectacular views.
8. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is a vibrant city in South Korea that offers a blend of historical sites and modern attractions. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Bukchon Hanok Village are three of Seoul’s most famous landmarks that offer a glimpse into South Korea’s royal past. They’re located relatively close to each other, so you can visit them all in one day.
There’s also the N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, that offers panoramic views of the city. You can take a cable car or hike up to the tower. At the top, you’ll find observation decks, restaurants, and shops.
9. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is known for its delicious street food, bustling nightlife, and beautiful temples. The Grand Palace, built in 1782, is a stunning complex with golden buildings and intricate decorations. It’s where the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most sacred sites, is located.
For a different kind of adventure, a trip to Chatuchak Market, also known as JJ Market, during the weekend is a must for finding unique souvenirs and tasting various street foods. Be prepared to spend several hours exploring the many sections of this vast market.
10. Singapore
Singapore seamlessly blends modern architecture with lush green spaces, making it a top destination in Asia. One of its most iconic landmarks is Marina Bay Sands, where the highlight is the SkyPark, an observation deck on top of three hotel towers. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and Marina Bay area.
Another must-visit in the city is Gardens by the Bay, which is a beautiful nature park that features the famous Supertree Grove. It has tree-like structures that light up at night, creating a magical atmosphere.
You can also explore the Cloud Forest, which houses a large indoor waterfall and lush green vegetation, and the Flower Dome, showcasing plants from different parts of the world. It’s a perfect place to enjoy nature and relax.
11. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a city of skyscrapers, vibrant culture, and stunning views. Start your visit with a trip to Victoria Peak, also known as “The Peak.” You can take the Peak Tram to the top, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the city, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands. The Peak also has great hiking trails and shopping areas.
Then, you should head off to Lantau Island to see the TIan Tan Buddha, or Big Buddha, which is a major site for Buddhist pilgrims and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and Po Lin Monastery.
12. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is an island paradise in Thailand, with Patong Beach at the front and center. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and restaurants.
Additionally, the Phi Phi Islands are a must-see when visiting Phuket. These islands are famous for their crystal-clear waters, stunning limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life.
You can take a boat tour to explore these beautiful islands, snorkel in the clear waters, or relax on the pristine beaches.
13. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia that’s perfect for anyone who loves stunning views and rich culture. One of the best places to visit is Uluwatu Temple, a famous sea temple perched on top of a steep cliff about 70 meters above the ocean.
The views from here are amazing, especially at sunset. You can also watch traditional Kecak dance performances in the evening, where dancers tell the story of the Ramayana with fire and chanting.
For nature lovers, you’ll want to head to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and Mount Batur. You can take a leisurely hike through the fields of Tegallalang or hike the summit of Mount Batur. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the volcano, the surrounding mountains, and Lake Batur.
14. Palawan, Philippines
There’s no denying that Palawan is a must-visit destination because of its stunning lagoons and white sandy beaches. You can visit El Nido, Puerto Princesa, or Coron to see some of the most beautiful spots.
For something unique, take a guided boat tour through the underground river in Puerto Princesa and marvel at the cave system with impressive rock formations.
15. Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi is an island paradise in Malaysia that’s perfect for nature lovers because of its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. It features the Langkawi Sky Bridge, which is a 125-meter-long curved bridge at the top of Mount Mat Cincang. The installment is suspended at a height of 660 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Andaman Sea.
Langkawi also has its fair share of stunning limestone rock formations, dense mangrove forests, and rich wildlife found at the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. It also features the famous Bat Cave, where visitors can observe bats in their natural habitat, and the Crocodile Cave, accessible only during low tide.
16. Jeju Island, South Korea
If you’re a K-drama fan like me, you’re defininetly familiar with Jeju Island, which is famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique volcanic landscapes. The Hallasan National Park, for instance, is home to Hallasan Mountain.
This dormant volcano stands at 1,947 meters tall and offers incredible hiking opportunities. There are several trails you can take, but the most popular ones are Seongpanak Trail and Gwaneumsa Trail. These trails lead you to the summit, where you can see the beautiful crater lake and panoramic views of the island.
There’s also Manjanggul Cave—one of the longest lava tubes in the world, stretching over 13 kilometers. Visitors can explore a 1-kilometer section of the cave, which is filled with fascinating rock formations like lava stalactites and stalagmites.
The cave remains cool year-round, making it a refreshing escape on hot days. Walking through Manjanggul Cave is like stepping into another world, where you can learn about the island’s volcanic history.
17. Nusa Penida, Bali
Nusa Penida is an island off the coast of Bali, known for Kelingking Beach, which is famous for its T-Rex-shaped cliff that offers a breathtaking view from the top. The beach itself is a secluded paradise with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
Another must-visit spot is Angel’s Billabong, a natural infinity pool perched on the edge of the island. This unique rock formation creates a beautiful pool of clear, blue water where you can take a refreshing dip.
The pool opens directly to the ocean, and the surrounding cliffs add to its dramatic beauty. Be cautious, though, as the waves can be strong. It’s best to visit during low tide to enjoy the pool without worries.
18. Paro, Bhutan
Paro, a charming town in Bhutan, is famous for its beautiful scenery and ancient monasteries, such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Taktsang Monastery. Perched on a cliff 3,120 meters high, it looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, which I suspect is the reason for the many myths surrounding its history.
Legend says that Guru Rinpoche, a revered Buddhist figure, flew to this spot on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave there. Another version suggests that the tigress was actually a former wife of an emperor who became a disciple of Guru Rinpoche.
The hike to the monastery, although challenging, is a spiritual journey that provides a sense of peace and connection to Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. The combination of natural beauty and deep historical significance makes Paro and its famous monastery a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and spiritual enlightenment.
19. Leh-Ladakh, India
Leh-Ladakh, nestled in the northernmost region of India, is framed by the towering peaks of the Himalayas and the Karakoram Range, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Pangong Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Leh-Ladakh. It stretches from India to China and is famous for its changing colors.
The lake’s water shifts from blue to green and even to red. Depending on the time of day and the weather. You can sit by the lake and enjoy the peaceful environment or take a walk along its shore.
Visit Nubra Valley as well, which is known for its unique landscape that includes sand dunes, orchards, and colorful mountains. To get to Nubra Valley, you must cross Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
In Nubra Valley, you can visit the Diskit Monastery, which has a huge statue of Maitreya Buddha. Another exciting activity is riding the double-humped Bactrian camels at Hunder sand dunes. The valley also has charming villages like Turtuk, where you can experience the local culture and lifestyle.
20. South Gobi and Khovsgol, Mongolia
When I think of Mongolia, my mind automatically associates it with the Gobi Desert, thanks to The Wild Thornberrys. It’s a must-visit spot in Asia because of its incredible natural beauty and fascinating history. At Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National Park, visitors can ride camels, explore ancient fossils, and visit the famous Flaming Cliffs, where dinosaur eggs were first discovered.
Another top spot in the country is Khövsgöl Lake, also known as “the Blue Pearl of Mongolia.” Located in the northern part of the country, this lake is famous for its clear, blue waters. It’s surrounded by mountains and forests, making it perfect for camping, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can also meet the local Tsaatan people, who are known for their reindeer herding and unique cultural traditions.
21. The Maldives
The Maldives is a must-visit island nation that offers you a chance to relax in some of the most luxurious settings in the world. Book an overwater bungalow with direct access to the ocean, where you can swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the view from your private deck. Many overwater bungalows also have glass floors, allowing you to watch the marine life below without even leaving your room.
Aside from the beaches, you can also head to the Maldives National Museum. It has many interesting artifacts, including ancient weapons, royal costumes, and old coins. There are also exhibits about the country’s Buddhist history and Islamic heritage.
22. Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is a cultural hub in Indonesia known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and magnificent temples. It’s where you can find Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built in the 9th century, it consists of nine stacked platforms topped by a central dome. The temple is decorated with over 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.
Prambanan is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Built in the 10th century, Prambanan is dedicated to the Trimurti: Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Shiva the Destroyer.
The complex consists of several towering temples with intricate carvings. Watching the Ramayana Ballet performance here in the evening is a magical experience that brings ancient stories to life.
23. Boracay, Philippines
If you love the feel of fine white sand, Boracay is the place for you. Enjoy over four kilometers of powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. The last time I visited was in 2016, and I can still remember the luxurious feeling of the sand between my toes.
You can relax on the beach, swim, or try exciting water activities like snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. The beach is also lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars, making it a perfect spot to enjoy both day and night.
24. Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui is another must-visit in Thailand, which is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and lush greenery. Chaweng Beach is the most famous and lively beach on Koh Samui. It stretches over seven kilometers and offers soft white sand and clear blue waters.
The Big Buddha is another iconic landmark on Koh Samui. This 12-meter-tall golden statue is located on a small island connected to the main island by a causeway. You can climb the stairs to get a closer look at the statue and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area.
25. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
Phu Quoc is a beautiful island in Vietnam known for the fresh seafood served by many beachside restaurants. Sao Beach, one of the island’s most popular spots, is also famous for its powdery white sand and beautiful beaches. Here, you can relax under the sun, swim in the gentle waves, or take part in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.
Aside from dipping your toes into clear waters, you can visit Vinpearl Safari, a large wildlife conservation park on Phu Quoc Island. It’s home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and giraffes, and you can learn about wildlife conservation while enjoying exciting shows and activities suitable for all ages.
26. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, the vibrant capital city of Malaysia, is a bustling metropolis that blends modern skyscrapers with rich cultural heritage. One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the Petronas Twin Towers.
These twin skyscrapers were once the tallest buildings in the world and remain a symbol of the country capital. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking views of the city skyline from the Skybridge and the observation deck on the 86th floor. The towers are surrounded by a beautifully landscaped park, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Going north, you can visit Batu Caves, a limestone hill with a series of caves and cave temples. It’s one of the most popular Hindu shrines outside India and is dedicated to Lord Murugan. Visitors must climb 272 colorful steps to reach the main cave, where they can see stunning statues and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
27. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is one of my favorite destinations to frequent because of how it’s able to progress while still keeping its heritage alive. Taipei 101, one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, is a must-visit. With 101 floors and offering breathtaking views of the city, the building is an architectural marvel in itself. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it features high-end shops and restaurants.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Shilin Night Market as well, which is the largest and most famous night market in Taipei. From stinky tofu to bubble tea, the market is a sensory overload of flavors and aromas. Another popular night market is Raohe Street Night Market, known for its delicious pepper buns and vibrant atmosphere.
28. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi’s charm lies in its ability to transport visitors into the heart of Vietnamese culture. The Old Quarter, which is at the heart of the capital, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the country. This historic area has narrow streets named after the goods that were traditionally sold there, such as Silk Street and Silver Street.
Meanwhile, Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful oasis in the middle of Hanoi. It’s a great place to take a walk, watch locals practice tai chi, or simply relax by the water.
In the middle of the lake, you’ll see Turtle Tower, which is linked to a local legend about a magical sword. Nearby, you can visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island connected to the shore by a beautiful red bridge.
29. Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is known for its beautiful temples and close proximity to the Himalayas. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a stunning ancient religious site located atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple complex includes a large white stupa with the all-seeing eyes of Buddha painted on it.
Boudhanath Stupa is also one of the largest and most important Buddhist monuments in Nepal. This massive white stupa is surrounded by colorful prayer flags and a bustling square with shops and restaurants.
Pilgrims and tourists alike walk around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and enjoy some local Tibetan food.
30. Jaipur, India
Known as the “Pink City” for its distinct architecture, Jaipur is a city full of history and culture. Amer Fort, also known as Amber Fort, is a stunning palace built with red sandstone and marble. It sits atop a hill and offers beautiful views of the Maota Lake.
There’s also Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds. It’s an iconic pink sandstone building with a unique five-story façade. Built in 1799, Hawa Mahal has 953 small windows (jharokhas) decorated with intricate latticework. The palace was designed to allow royal ladies to observe street festivals while remaining unseen from the outside.
Climb to the top for a fantastic view of the bustling city below!
Explore Enchanting Asia
Whether you’re wandering through the historic temples of Kyoto, marveling at the modern skyline of Kuala Lumpur, or enjoying the rich cultural heritage in other parts of the continent, every destination has something special to offer.
As you delight in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Asia, remember to be respectful of the local culture and traditions for a truly memorable and enriching experience.