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Lonely Planet's Top 20 Most Beautiful Places in the World

Ever wondered what tops the list as the world's most beautiful place? Renowned travel experts at Lonely Planet drew from their comprehensive guides to create a must-see shortlist, then invited their global community to vote for the top 20 favorites. The full rankings appear in their upcoming 'Where to Go? The Lonely Planet Top 500'—328 pages, €25—releasing October 13. Each entry highlights key attractions that earned its spot, blending iconic wonders with lesser-known gems. It's the perfect travel blueprint and gift for avid explorers.

Here are the top 20 most beautiful destinations:

1. Temples of Angkor, Cambodia

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

4. Great Wall of China, China

5. Taj Mahal, India

6. Grand Canyon National Park, USA

7. Colosseum, Italy

8. Iguazú Falls, Brazil-Argentina

9. The Alhambra, Spain

10. Hagia Sophia, Turkey

11. Medina of Fez, Morocco

12. Twelve Apostles, Australia

13. Petra, Jordan

14. Tikal, Guatemala

15. British Museum, England

16. La Sagrada Familia, Spain

17. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

18. Santorini, Greece

19. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

20. Museum of Old & New Art, Australia