Worldly Wonders: 35 Places That Start with W

Want to know what makes the letter ‘W’ special in world travel?

Most people stick to the same popular spots, missing out on hidden gems that start with this fascinating letter.

From white-sand beaches in Waikiki to the winding streets of Warsaw, there’s a whole collection of ‘W’ destinations waiting to be explored.

Many travelers skip these spots because they don’t know what makes them unique.

But here’s the good news – we’ve done the hard work for you. Our list of 35 places that start with ‘W’ will show you spots that few tourists visit.

And the best part? You’ll find both well-known cities and secret locations that’ll make your next trip truly special.

Let’s look at these wonderful ‘W’ destinations together.

35 Wonderful Places That Start with W

Famous Cities That Start with W

1. Washington, D.C., USA

The U.S. capital welcomes visitors with free museums and stunning monuments. Take a stroll past the White House, spend hours in the Smithsonian museums, or enjoy cherry blossoms in spring. The city combines political energy with neighborhood charm, offering both history and modern experiences.

• Major Attractions: White House, National Mall, Smithsonian Museums.
• Famous Dishes: Half-Smoke Sausage, Chesapeake Crab Cakes.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall.
• Popular Activities: Museum Tours, Sightseeing, Walking Tours.

2. Warsaw, Poland

The Old Town’s colorful buildings tell stories of rebirth after WWII. Local cafes serve traditional pierogi while modern art fills the streets. Markets buzz with activity, and music flows through parks. The Royal Castle and Palace of Culture add to the city’s unique character.

• Major Attractions: Old Town, Royal Castle, Palace of Culture.
• Famous Dishes: Pierogi, Żurek Soup.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Old Town Walks, Museum Visits.

3. Wellington, New Zealand

New Zealand’s capital is surrounded by green hills and blue waters. The streets are lined with coffee shops and craft beer spots. The Te Papa museum shares Maori culture, while local studios create movie magic. Cable cars offer perfect views of the busy harbor.

• Major Attractions: Te Papa Museum, Cable Car, Mount Victoria.
• Famous Dishes: Lamb, Pavlova, Fish & Chips.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-Round.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, Coffee Tasting.

4. Winnipeg, Canada

Winnipeg’s spirit is evident in every season, with winter festivals and summer markets. The city celebrates its First Nations roots at The Forks market. The Exchange District is filled with art galleries, theaters, and music venues, and local food spots serve tasty prairie dishes.

• Major Attractions: The Forks, Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
• Famous Dishes: Bison Burgers, Bannock.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Museum Visits, Food Tours.

5. Wuhan, China

Three ancient districts meet at the joining of two rivers. Food lovers enjoy the city’s famous hot, dry noodles. The Yellow Crane Tower stands tall above modern streets. Parks, lakes, and temples offer quiet spots away from busy markets.

• Major Attractions: Yellow Crane Tower, East Lake, Hubu Alley.
• Famous Dishes: Hot Dry Noodles, Duck Neck.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Food Tasting, River Cruises.

Natural Wonders & Scenic Places

6. Waimea Canyon, Hawaii, USA

Red and brown cliffs drop 3,000 feet deep into lush green valleys. Waterfalls peek through the rocks as clouds cast moving shadows below. Hiking trails offer views that stretch for 14 miles. Morning visits reward you with rainbows dancing across the canyon walls.

• Major Attractions: Waimea Falls, Puu Ka Pele Lookout.
• Famous Dishes: Poke Bowls, Loco Moco.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, Photography.

7. Wulingyuan, China

Over 3,000 tall stone pillars rise from misty forests in Hunan Province. Small streams flow between these natural towers. Cable cars float above the trees, showing views of peaks touching clouds. Walking paths wind through caves and valleys below.

• Major Attractions: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianzi Mountain.
• Famous Dishes: Hunan Spicy Tofu, Rice Noodles.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall.
• Popular Activities: Cable Car Rides, Nature Walks.

8. Westfjords, Iceland

Cliffs meet the sea in Iceland’s oldest region. Puffins nest on rocky ledges while seals swim in clear waters. Small fishing villages dot the coastline. Summer brings endless daylight, while winter nights glow with northern lights above quiet fjords.

• Major Attractions: Dynjandi Waterfall, Latrabjarg Cliffs.
• Famous Dishes: Plokkfiskur, Harðfiskur.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, Wildlife Watching.

9. Wilsons Promontory, Australia

Giant granite boulders rest on white sand beaches. Clear waters show colorful fish swimming near the shore. Wombats and kangaroos hop through bush trails. Squeaky Beach makes music under your feet as you walk on its special sand.

• Major Attractions: Squeaky Beach, Norman Beach, Wilsons Prom Lookout.
• Famous Dishes: Barramundi, Meat Pies.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, Beach Strolling.

10. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

Crystal waters wash over pure white sands at 74 tropical islands. Snorkelers float above bright coral gardens. Sea turtles glide past boats in turquoise bays. Hill trails lead to lookouts where you can spot whales playing in the winter months.

• Major Attractions: Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, Hamilton Island.
• Famous Dishes: Barramundi, King Prawns.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-Round.
• Popular Activities: Snorkeling, Diving.

Historical & Cultural Landmarks

11. Westminster Abbey, London, England

Since 1066, this Gothic church has seen kings and queens crowned beneath its high arches. Scientists, writers, and royalty rest here in peace. The walls hold stories of royal weddings, while stone cloisters whisper tales from centuries past. Every corner honors British history.

• Major Attractions: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Poets’ Corner.
• Famous Dishes: Full English Breakfast, Afternoon Tea.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-Round.
• Popular Activities: History Tours, Photography.

12. Windsor Castle, England

For 900 years, this royal home has stood proud on its hill. Kings and queens have walked these halls through good times and bad. The State Rooms display fine art, while St. George’s Chapel houses royal tombs. The guards still march in their red uniforms.

• Major Attractions: St. George’s Chapel, State Apartments.
• Famous Dishes: Sunday Roast, Eton Mess.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Castle Tours, Changing of Guard.

13. Wall of China (Great Wall at Jinshanling), China

Stone steps climb mountains like a dragon’s back. Watchtowers stand guard every hundred steps, just as they did centuries ago. This quiet section keeps its old charm, with fewer visitors than other parts. Morning mists make the views feel magical.

• Major Attractions: Watchtowers, Great Wall Trekking.
• Famous Dishes: Peking Duck, Hand-Pulled Noodles.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, History Exploration.

14. Wailing Wall (Western Wall), Israel

These ancient stones have heard millions of prayers. As people touch the warm rocks, notes with wishes fill every crack. The wall is the last piece of the Second Temple. Birds nest in high spaces while faithful visitors pray below.

• Major Attractions: Prayer Plaza, Western Wall Tunnels.
• Famous Dishes: Falafel, Shakshuka.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-Round.
• Popular Activities: Prayer, Cultural Tours.

15. Winchester Cathedral, England

One thousand years of prayers echo under these vaulted ceilings. Jane Austen rests here among medieval kings. The longest Gothic cathedral in Europe tells its stories through stained glass windows, and ancient wall paintings share tales from centuries past.

• Major Attractions: Norman Crypt, Winchester Bible.
• Famous Dishes: Fish & Chips, Black Pudding.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Cathedral Tours, Music Events.

Lesser-Known Hidden Gems

16. Wuyuan, China

Yellow flowers blanket the hills each spring, creating a sea of gold around old stone villages. Local homes show off black tiles and white walls from Ming times. Small bridges cross clear streams, while farmers tend tea gardens on gentle slopes.

• Major Attractions: Jiangling Terraced Fields, Likeng Village.
• Famous Dishes: Steamed Fish, Rice Wine.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring.
• Popular Activities: Photography, Hiking.

17. Wismar, Germany

Red brick churches touch the sky in this quiet Baltic port. Market squares hold weekly fish sales just like 800 years ago. Small breweries serve local beer in cellars. The old harbor still works, while Swedish-style buildings tell stories of past trade.

• Major Attractions: Market Square, St. Nicholas’ Church, Old Harbour.
• Famous Dishes: Rote Grütze, Marzipan.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Heritage Walks, Market Strolls.

18. Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Just 40 minutes from Auckland, this small island feels worlds away. Sunny hills are covered with olive groves and grape vines, and small bays hide perfect swimming spots. Local wineries offer tastings with sea views, and artists open their studios to visitors.

• Major Attractions: Mudbrick Vineyard, Oneroa Beach.
• Famous Dishes: Fresh Oysters, New Zealand Lamb.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Wine Tasting, Beach Relaxing.

19. Whitby, England

Sea mists roll past the abbey ruins on the cliff. Fishing boats bring their catch to the harbor below. Bram Stoker wrote ‘Dracula’ here, inspired by the moody weather. Small shops sell jet jewelry while seagulls watch from rooftops.

• Major Attractions: Whitby Abbey, 199 Steps, Captain Cook Museum.
• Famous Dishes: Whitby Scampi, Lemon Sole.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Seaside Walks, Ghost Tours.

20. Wadi Rum, Jordan

In this quiet desert, red sand stretches between tall cliffs. Bedouin camps welcome visitors with sweet tea and stories. Rock bridges form natural arches against blue skies. At night, stars fill the dark sky like scattered diamonds.

• Major Attractions: Lawrence Spring, Khazali Canyon.
• Famous Dishes: Mansaf, Zarb.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn & Spring.
• Popular Activities: Camel Rides, Star Gazing.

Islands, Beaches, and Coastal Wonders

21. Whale Beach, Australia

Tucked between palm trees and sandstone cliffs, this quiet beach offers perfect waves for surfers. Local cafes serve breakfast with ocean views. At low tide, rock pools hold tiny sea treasures. Less crowded than nearby beaches, it’s a spot for peaceful swims.

• Major Attractions: Surfing Spots, Palm Beach Walks.
• Famous Dishes: Fish Tacos, Avocado Toast.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Surfing, Sunbathing.

22. Wakatobi, Indonesia

Four small islands sit in waters teeming with fish of every color. Coral gardens spread like underwater parks. Local fishermen guide visitors to hidden spots. Small villages welcome guests with fresh coconuts while divers explore more than 50 reef sites.

• Major Attractions: Hoga Island, Tomia Island, Wakatobi National Park.
• Famous Dishes: Grilled Fish, Coconut Rice.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Diving, Snorkeling.

23. West Bay, Cayman Islands

Soft white sand meets water so clear you can count fish from shore. Palm trees provide natural shade for afternoon naps. Small beach bars serve fresh fish dishes. Morning walks often include spotting stingrays gliding through shallow waters.

• Major Attractions: Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City.
• Famous Dishes: Jerk Chicken, Rum Cake.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter & Spring.
• Popular Activities: Beach Walks, Diving.

24. Wando Island, South Korea

Fresh seafood markets start the day as boats return with their catch. Green tea fields cover rolling hills above quiet fishing villages. Locals dry seaweed on bamboo racks by the shore. Small restaurants serve just-caught fish with island-grown vegetables.

• Major Attractions: Seaweed Farms, Cheongsando Island.
• Famous Dishes: Seaweed Soup, Grilled Mackerel.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Fall.
• Popular Activities: Fishing, Hiking.

25. Weligama, Sri Lanka

Gentle waves make this bay perfect for learning to surf. Fish markets buzz with morning activity as coconut palms sway above. Small fishing boats paint dots of color on the bay. Local teachers help new surfers catch their first waves.

• Major Attractions: Surfing Beaches, Coconut Plantations.
• Famous Dishes: Rice & Curry, Kottu Roti.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter & Spring.
• Popular Activities: Surfing, Local Market Visits.

National Parks and Outdoor Adventure Destinations

26. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, USA

Four mountain ranges meet in America’s biggest park. Glaciers larger than some states flow between peaks. Bears fish in wild streams while moose walk through meadows. Old copper mines tell stories of early settlers. Small planes land on glaciers for mountain views.

• Major Attractions: Kennicott Mines, Nabesna Glacier.
• Famous Dishes: Salmon, Reindeer Meat.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer.
• Popular Activities: Glacier Walks, Hiking.

27. White Sands National Park, USA

Pure white dunes roll like waves frozen in time. Kids slide down sandy slopes on plastic disks. Plants and animals show special tricks for desert life. Sunset turns the sand pink and purple. Above the white landscape, night skies fill with stars.

• Major Attractions: White Dunes, Playa Trail, Sunset Strolls.
• Famous Dishes: Tamales, Blue Corn Pancakes.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Sandboarding, Hiking.

28. Whistler, Canada

Two mountains offer slopes for every skill level. Summer trails wind through fields of wildflowers, and bears hunt berries in green valleys. The Peak 2 Peak lift connects mountain tops with valley views. Small lakes reflect snow-capped peaks in clear waters.

• Major Attractions: Peak 2 Peak Gondola, Blackcomb Mountain.
• Famous Dishes: Poutine, Nanaimo Bars.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Skiing, Snowboarding.

29. Wadi Bani Khalid, Oman

Blue-green pools shine like jewels in the desert rocks. Date palms give shade for picnics by clear waters. Fish swim around your feet in cool streams. Stone paths lead to hidden caves. Local families gather at weekends to enjoy the cool water.

• Major Attractions: Emerald Pools, Desert Oasis.
• Famous Dishes: Dates, Kebabs.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter & Spring.
• Popular Activities: Swimming, Hiking.

30. Wicklow Mountains, Ireland

Sheep dot green hillsides crossed by ancient paths. Lakes fill valleys carved by ice ages past. Old monasteries rest in quiet glens. In late summer, purple heather covers the hills. Small streams lead to hidden waterfalls between mossy rocks.

• Major Attractions: Glendalough, Sally Gap, Lough Tay.
• Famous Dishes: Irish Stew, Boxty.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Summer.
• Popular Activities: Hiking, Photography.

Deserts & Unique Geological Formations

31. White Desert, Egypt

Bright chalk shapes rise from golden sand like snow in the Sahara. Wind-carved rocks form shapes of mushrooms and birds. The full moon makes the white stones glow at night. Small camps let visitors sleep under the stars between these natural sculptures.

• Major Attractions: Crystal Formations, Mushroom Rock.
• Famous Dishes: Stuffed Pigeon, Falafel.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter.
• Popular Activities: Desert Camping, Stargazing.

32. Wave Rock, Australia

A 50-foot stone wall curves like a frozen ocean wave. Red and gray stripes show minerals left by ancient rains. Small holes in the rock catch rainwater, just as they did for native peoples. Morning light plays across the smooth stone surface.

• Major Attractions: Wave-shaped Rock, Salt Lake Nearby.
• Famous Dishes: Kangaroo Meat, Bush Tomato Chutney.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Photography, Hiking.

33. Windjana Gorge, Australia

Limestone cliffs tell stories from an ancient reef. Freshwater pools attract birds and bats in the dry season. Aboriginal rock art shares old tales on cave walls. Freshwater crocodiles sun themselves on sandy banks between towering walls.

• Major Attractions: Crocodile Pools, Gorge Walks.
• Famous Dishes: BBQ Barramundi, Bush Berries.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn & Spring.
• Popular Activities: Cave Exploration, Wildlife Spotting.

34. Wadi El Rayan, Egypt

Two lakes shine blue in the desert sand. A waterfall connects them, rare in Egypt’s dry lands. Birds rest in these waters during long flights. Fish swim in the salty lower lake while sand dunes roll toward the horizon.

• Major Attractions: Lakes, Waterfalls, Dunes.
• Famous Dishes: Grilled Tilapia, Falafel.
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Boat Rides, Hiking.

35. Wuling Mountains, China

Stone forests rise between green valleys, and streams cut paths through limestone caves. Small villages nestle in mountain folds where rice grows on steep steps. Fog fills valleys at dawn, while peaks catch the early sun.

• Major Attractions: Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, Baofeng Lake.
• Famous Dishes: Hot Pot, Handmade Tofu.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring & Autumn.
• Popular Activities: Glass Bridge Walking, Boating.

Conclusion

The letter ‘W’ opens doors to some of Earth’s finest places. From the white chalk shapes in Egypt’s desert to the calm waters of Waterton Lake, these spots show nature’s range.

Cities like Warsaw and Washington D.C. hold centuries of stories, while hidden spots like Wuyuan and Wismar wait quietly for visitors.

Each place brings its own gift: Wadi Rum’s starlit nights, Waimea Canyon’s morning rainbows, or Wulingyuan’s misty peaks.

These destinations prove that sometimes, the first letter of a place can lead us to special corners of our world.

Let these ‘W’ places remind us that beauty and history come in many forms, each worth seeing in its own time.