14 dream travel destinations our editors want to cross off their bucket lists in 2024 | CNN Underscored (2024)

We’re over a month into 2024, and our staff is hard at work planning their summer and winter travels. And since you’ve seen where we went in 2023, let’s turn to the destinations our editors are excited to visit this year.

Use this list to inspire your next vacation. Because whether you want to lounge on the beach, visit a new city or explore the great outdoors this year, there’s a good chance something on this list will interest you too.

Calabria, Italy

Belvedere Piazza del Cannone

We are visiting friends in the northern region of Liguria this summer and would like to spend a week in [southern Italy] beforehand. Calabria seems like a perfect place to visit because it’s known as much for its mountains as for its spectacular beaches. Dotted with Greek-Byzantine ruins and hilltop castles, and surrounded by turquoise water, it’s also got a lot fewer tourists than other nearby destinations (looking at you, Sicily). — Tobey Grumet, reviews editor

Where to stay: Popilia Country Resort or Hotel Rocca Della Sena.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city’s skyline

Sydney has been at the top of my list for years now. I’ve heard great things about its food and beverage scene — namely, excellent coffee — and I’ve always wanted to see the iconic Sydney Opera House in person. — Andrew Kunesh, senior travel and money editor

Where to stay: Shangri-La Sydney or Hyatt Regency Sydney.

Seattle, Washington, and the Pacific Northwest

Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington

As an unapologetic Twilight fan and an avid appreciator of the great outdoors, you might not be surprised to learn that a trip to the Pacific Northwest has been on my travel list for quite a while. I’m hoping to revel in the majesty of Olympic National Park, try fresh coffee in Seattle and maybe even explore the rainy town of Forks (the beach at La Push, anyone?) — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

Where to stay: Inn at The Market in Seattle and Kalaloch Lodge in Olympic National Park.

New Caledonia

Tadine Bay

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New Caledonia is known for its stunning coral reefs and turquoise lagoons, offering some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving experiences. Travelers are welcomed with a unique blend of French and Melanesian cultures, enjoying delicious cuisine and exploring diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to dramatic cliffs. — Kyle Olsen, travel products editor

Where to stay: Le Meridien Noumea Resort & Spa or Le Meridien Ile des Pins.

Madeira, Portugal

Câmara de Lobos in Madeira

Madeira is relatively easy to get to from the East Coast, and I’ve heard it’s like the Hawaii of Europe. There are tropical landscapes, mountains and beaches to explore while soaking in the Mediterranean culture. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

Where to stay: Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club or Quinta Jardins do Lago.

Medellin, Colombia

A street in Guatape, Antioquia, near Medellin

From the food to culture and breathtaking scenery, Medellin has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. From the rich history and the vibrant scene, I’ve heard Medellin is perfect for all types of travelers. —Kevin Martinez, associate programming editor

Where to stay: Landmark Hotel or Hotel York Luxury Suites.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The Nyhavn district in Copenhagen

Last year, I had a seven-hour layover in Copenhagen, during which I ate the best street vendor hot dog of my life. I’ve been thinking about that hot dog (and the great few hours I spent in the city) ever since, so it’s time I go back for a true vacation. —Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Where to stay: citizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen or Comfort Hotel Vesterbro.

Stockholm, Sweden

Buildings in Stockholm’s Sodermalm district

Yup, I’m one of those girlies who’s going to Europe to see Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. A friend of mine got tickets and invited me to join — it’s a good excuse to visit a city I’ve never been to, if nothing else! —Chelsea Stone, editorial director

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel or Hôtel Reisen.

Paris and Southern France

Breakfast at a Paris café

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Like a lot of people, I’ve always wondered what the magic is that keeps people gushing about their trips to France year after year. While Paris is an epicenter for art, fashion and food, I’m equally excited to see what exists outside of France’s big cities and take my first dip into the waters of the Mediterranean along the Southern coast near Nice (and maybe even venture into the small nation of Monaco). — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

Where to stay: Hyatt Paris Madeleine in Paris and Le Méridien Nice in Nice.

Cairo, Egypt

The Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza

A forever destination on my bucket list, Egypt offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring ancient wonders, from the towering Pyramids of Giza to the majestic Great Sphinx. The country offers countless markets, the ability to savor the flavors of traditional cuisine and the chance to experience a country that seamlessly blends ancient mystique with modern charm. — Kyle Olsen, travel products editor

Where to stay: InterContinental Cairo Semiramis or The Nile Ritz-Carlton.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana

I have a friend that went to Ljubljana in 2018 and says it’s her favorite place she’s ever traveled to. I think it’s still an under-the-radar destination that will soon be quite popular. Like many European capitals, it has beautiful architecture and lots of history to learn about. It also has an entirely pedestrian city center and is known for its cultural scene with music, theater and art. — Sophie Shaw, associate beauty editor

Where to stay: Hotel Cubo or InterContinental Ljubljana.

Lake Como, Italy

Varenna on Lake Como

I’ve never been, but I would love to see the Swiss and French influence in Italy. — Elena Matarazzo, associate editor

Where to stay: Hilton Lake Como or Suites & Atelier Lake Como.

Doha, Qatar

The Doha skyline

Doha, the capital of Qatar, is all about blending modernity and tradition, showcasing stunning futuristic architecture alongside historic souks and cultural sites. Visitors can experience luxury shopping, world-class dining and immerse themselves in the rich Qatari culture against the backdrop of the vibrant Arabian Peninsula. — Kyle Olsen, travel products editor

Where to stay: Park Hyatt Doha or The St. Regis Doha.

Hawaii

A beach in Kona, Hawaii

Thanks to charging — and paying off — many of our wedding expenses on a Hilton credit card last year, coupled with bonus offers, a free night certificate and six figures’worth of Hilton Honors points, my husband and I are looking to redeem it all for a first anniversary trip to Hawaii.

Neither of us has been to this US state, and there are plenty of gorgeous Hilton properties in Honolulu and the Big Island that we’re eager to enjoy, along with the extraordinary history, food, culture and beaches Hawaii has to offer. — Katelyn Gendron, senior SEO manager

Where to stay: Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island or the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort in Oahu.

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