20 Travel Destinations That Start with A
Have you ever wondered what fascinating destinations await you at the beginning of the alphabet?
From the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea to the awe-inspiring architecture of Angkor Wat, the world is full of alluring places that start with the letter ‘A.’
In this article, we’ll take you on a captivating journey through a carefully curated list of destinations that showcase the diversity and beauty of our planet.
We’ve scoured the globe to bring you the most intriguing and lesser-known locations, often overshadowed by their more famous counterparts.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, our travel guide has something for every type of traveler.
We’ll explore the unique attractions, hidden gems, and must-try experiences that make each of these ‘A’ destinations special.
So, join us as we embark on an alphabetical adventure, uncovering the allure of places that start with ‘A’ and inspiring your next unforgettable travel experience.
20 Best Places to Travel Around the World that Starts with ‘A’
1. Agra, India
Agra, a city in northern India, is home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built this stunning white marble mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and is a testament to their enduring love story.
The Taj Mahal’s intricate carvings, inlaid semi-precious stones, and perfect symmetry showcase the grandeur and ingenuity of Mughal architecture.
Agra also boasts other impressive Mughal-era structures, such as the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
2. Almaty, Kazakhstan
Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, is a vibrant and modern city surrounded by the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountains.
This unique destination offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for city explorers and outdoor adventurers.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from strolling through the bustling Green Bazaar to hiking in the nearby mountains or relaxing by the stunning Big Almaty Lake.
The city also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries showcasing Kazakhstan’s rich history and contemporary art.
3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, a picturesque coastal region in southern Italy, is renowned for its colorful hillside villages, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a quintessential Mediterranean getaway, immersing visitors in the region’s stunning natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back lifestyle.
From the charming town of Positano with its pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffside to the historic city of Amalfi with its impressive cathedral, the Amalfi Coast is a feast for the senses.
Visitors can explore the region’s many beaches, hike along scenic trails, sample delicious local cuisine, and soak up the warm Italian sun.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the charming Dutch capital, is famous for its extensive canal network, world-class museums, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.
This city is a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and those seeking a lively atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, including the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House, or take a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque canals.
Amsterdam’s narrow, cobblestoned streets have charming cafes, unique boutiques, and historic buildings, such as the 17th-century Rembrandt House.
The city is also known for its thriving music and arts scene, as well as its tolerant and progressive attitude, making it a welcoming destination for all types of travelers.
5. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is an ancient temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Cambodia.
This architectural marvel showcases the grandeur and ingenuity of the Khmer Empire, which ruled the region between the 9th and 15th centuries.
The temple complex covers an area of over 400 acres and features intricate carvings, towering spires, and stunning bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
Visitors can explore the many temples within the complex, including the iconic Angkor Wat temple, which is known for its perfect symmetry and stunning sunrise views.
The site also offers insight into the region’s rich history and the incredible architectural and engineering skills of the Khmer people.
6. Antelope Canyon, USA
Antelope Canyon, located in Arizona, is a stunning slot canyon known for its mesmerizing light beams and smooth, swirling walls.
Years of water and wind erosion have carved this natural wonder, creating a photographer’s paradise.
The canyon is divided into two sections, Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon, each offering a unique and breathtaking experience.
Visitors can take guided tours through the canyon, witnessing the play of light and shadow on the colorful sandstone walls and learning about the canyon’s formation and the Native American Navajo tribe’s connection to the land.
The best time to visit is during the summer when the light beams are most prominent, creating an otherworldly, truly unforgettable atmosphere.
7. Athens, Greece
Athens, the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, is a city steeped in history and culture.
Home to ancient monuments like the Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the foundations of modern society.
The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient citadel perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the city and is home to several significant ancient Greek buildings, including the iconic Parthenon temple.
Visitors can also explore other fascinating archaeological sites, such as the Ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
In addition to its rich history, Athens boasts a vibrant modern culture, with lively neighborhoods, delectable cuisine, and a thriving arts scene.
8. Ayers Rock (Uluru), Australia
Ayers Rock, also known as Uluru, is a massive sandstone monolith located in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre.
This natural wonder is a sacred site for the indigenous Anangu people and attracts visitors from around the globe.
Standing at 348 meters tall and with a circumference of 9.4 kilometers, Uluru is an awe-inspiring sight, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the rock appears to change colors, glowing red, orange, and purple.
Visitors can take guided tours around the base of the rock, learning about the Anangu people’s connection to the land and the spiritual significance of Uluru.
The area around Uluru also features other natural wonders, such as the nearby Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) rock formations and the stunning desert landscapes of the Outback.
9. Aspen, USA
Aspen, a chic ski resort town nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, is a winter sports enthusiast’s dream destination.
Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Aspen boasts four distinct ski areas – Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass – each offering a unique and challenging terrain for skiers and riders of all levels.
In addition to its excellent winter sports facilities, Aspen is also renowned for its thriving cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and performance venues.
The town also offers a wide range of luxurious amenities, from high-end shopping and dining to indulgent spa treatments and upscale accommodations.
10. Asheville, USA
Asheville, a charming city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is known for its thriving art scene, historic architecture, craft breweries, and stunning natural surroundings.
The city’s downtown area is filled with vibrant art galleries, independent shops, and eclectic restaurants, showcasing the creative spirit of the community.
Asheville is also home to the historic Biltmore Estate, a magnificent Gilded Age mansion set on 8,000 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds.
The estate offers tours of the house, as well as outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
The city’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from scenic drives and hikes to whitewater rafting and zip-lining.
11. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit, a renowned trekking route in the Himalayas of Nepal, offers breathtaking mountain vistas, diverse landscapes, and a chance to immerse oneself in the unique culture of the Nepalese people.
This challenging trek takes visitors through various landscapes, from lush subtropical forests to arid high-altitude deserts, passing through traditional villages and ancient temples.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the Thorong La Pass, which, at 5,416 meters above sea level, is one of the highest navigable passes in the world.
The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.
Along the way, trekkers can interact with the friendly local people, learn about their customs and traditions, and experience the warm hospitality of the mountain communities.
12. Arches National Park, USA
Arches National Park, located in the desert landscape of Utah, is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch.
This unique geological wonderland has been shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the globe.
In addition to the arches, the park features a variety of other geological formations, such as towering spires, massive fins, and balanced rocks, each with its unique character and charm.
The park is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset when the red rock landscape is bathed in a warm, golden light, creating a truly magical and unforgettable experience.
13. Arusha, Tanzania
Arusha, a vibrant city in northern Tanzania, serves as the gateway to the country’s north renowned safari circuit.
Surrounded by natural beauty, including nearby national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is the perfect base for exploring Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
The city offers a unique blend of African and European influences, with a lively market, delicious local cuisine, and friendly people.
Visitors can take a stroll through the Arusha National Park, which offers the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and colobus monkeys, as well as the chance to hike to the summit of Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest mountain.
14. Ashikaga Flower Park, Japan
Ashikaga Flower Park, located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is a stunning park famous for its massive wisteria gardens.
During the blooming season in spring, the park transforms into a magical and fragrant wonderland, with over 350 wisteria trees in full bloom, creating a sea of purple, pink, and white flowers.
The park features a variety of wisteria displays, including a stunning 80-meter tunnel of white wisteria flowers, a massive wisteria tree that is over 100 years old, and a wisteria dome that visitors can walk inside.
In addition to the wisteria, the park also features a variety of other beautiful flowers and plants, including azaleas, roses, and irises, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts.
15. Alhambra, Spain
The Alhambra, a magnificent palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of Moorish architecture.
Built in the 14th century by the Nasrid Dynasty, the Alhambra features intricate carvings, stunning tilework, serene courtyards, and lush gardens that showcase the skill and artistry of the Moorish craftsmen.
Visitors can explore the various palaces and structures within the complex, including the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba Fortress, and the Generalife Gardens, each offering a unique and breathtaking experience.
The Nasrid Palaces are renowned for their intricate stucco work, colorful tiles, and serene courtyards, such as the Court of the Lions and the Hall of the Abencerrages.
16. Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is the driest non-polar desert in the world and offers visitors a surreal and otherworldly landscape.
This unique destination features a variety of stunning natural wonders, including vast salt flats, geysers, and hot springs, as well as some of the clearest night skies for stargazing.
One of the most popular attractions in the Atacama Desert is the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a bizarre and beautiful landscape of dunes, rock formations, and salt caves resembling the moon’s surface.
Visitors can also explore the El Tatio geyser field, the largest geyser field in the southern hemisphere, which offers a stunning display of steam and boiling water at sunrise.
17. Alberobello, Italy
Alberobello, a charming town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, is famous for its unique and picturesque trulli houses.
These whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs symbolize the region’s history and architecture and create a fairy-tale atmosphere that enchants visitors worldwide.
The Trulli were originally built in the 18th century as temporary shelters for agricultural workers, but over time, they became permanent homes and a distinctive feature of the town.
Today, visitors can wander through the narrow streets of Alberobello, admiring the hundreds of trulli houses, many of which have been converted into shops, restaurants, and vacation rentals.
The town is also home to the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in the world, which now serves as a museum showcasing the history and architecture of these unique buildings.
18. Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Abel Tasman National Park, located on the northern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
This stunning coastal park features golden sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush native forests, and a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect destination for hiking, kayaking, and exploring.
Visitors can also take a scenic boat tour or kayak trip to explore the park’s hidden coves, beaches, and islands and spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and native birds.
The park is also home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the stunning Wainui Falls, which can be reached via a short hike through the lush forest.
19. Aix-en-Provence, France
Aix-en-Provence, a charming and elegant city in southern France, is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant markets, thermal springs, and association with famous artists such as Paul Cézanne.
This picturesque city is filled with winding streets, colorful buildings, and lovely squares, making it the perfect destination for a stroll or a relaxing café break.
Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the Musée Granet, which features works by Cézanne and other famous artists, and the Atelier Cézanne, the artist’s former studio and home.
20. Assisi, Italy
Assisi, a picturesque hilltop town in the Umbria region of central Italy, is steeped in religious significance and history.
The town is most famous as the birthplace of St. Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order, and is home to the magnificent Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The basilica is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and features beautiful frescoes by famous artists such as Giotto and Cimabue.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many other churches and religious sites, including the Basilica of St. Clare and the Church of San Damiano.
Wrapping Up: Planning Your Adventure
As we conclude our journey through these alluring destinations that start with the letter ‘A,’ it’s clear that each offers travelers a unique and captivating experience.
From the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat to the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert, these places showcase our world’s incredible diversity and beauty.
To make the most of your adventure, research the local customs, weather conditions, and any necessary travel documents or vaccinations before you go.
We hope this guide has inspired you to add some of these incredible ‘A’ destinations to your travel bucket list.
Remember to share your experiences with others as you embark on your journey.
Your stories and recommendations may inspire them to explore the world’s many wonders for themselves.
Happy travels!
