The 15 Best Places to Travel from USA: Your Ultimate Global Itinerary Guide

If you’re anything like me, the moment you return from one trip, you’re already scrolling through maps, dreaming up the next one. We live in a massive, beautiful country, but the urge to see what lies beyond our borders—to truly step outside our comfort zone—is powerful. The big question, the one that sparks countless hours of research, is always: “Where should I go next?”

Choosing the best places to travel from USA is subjective, of course. Are you looking for a quick, cheap getaway? A deep dive into ancient history? Or maybe a full-throttle adventure that tests your limits?

In this comprehensive guide, I’m going to share my top recommendations, structured not just by region, but by the type of experience you’re craving. We’ll dive deep into logistical details, cultural highlights, and why these destinations consistently rank among the most rewarding for American travelers. Get ready, because your ultimate international itinerary starts here!

Why Now Is the Time to Explore Beyond the Borders

Before we unpack the suitcases of the world, let’s talk about the mindset. For US travelers, international travel has never been more accessible. With competitive airfares, increasing direct routes, and technologies that dissolve language barriers, the excuses are getting thin.

When deciding on the absolute best places to travel from USA, I look for a few key factors:

1. Ease of Entry and Logistics: How simple is the visa process? How safe and reliable is the infrastructure?
2. Cultural Reward: Does the destination offer a truly unique experience that contrasts sharply with life back home?
3. Value Proposition: Does the cost of living and experience justify the time and expense of the journey?

Whether you have two weeks of PTO or are planning a six-month sabbatical, I promise there is a perfect location waiting for you. Let’s start close to home before we tackle the long-haul flights.

The Best Places for Quick, Easy Getaways (North and Central America)

Sometimes, you only have a long weekend or a standard seven-day vacation, and you don’t want to waste half of it battling jet lag. These destinations are geographically convenient, often have direct flights from major US hubs, and offer maximum reward for minimal travel effort. These are truly good places to go when time is tight.

Mexico: Culture, Coast, and Culinary Excellence

Mexico is often overlooked as an “easy” trip, but it is one of the most diverse and satisfying destinations you can choose right now. It offers everything from ancient ruins to world-class dining, all just a short flight away.

Coastal Bliss: The Riviera Maya and Tulum

If you’re seeking pristine beaches, guaranteed sun, and high-quality resort experiences, the Riviera Maya (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) is unbeatable. For US travelers, the infrastructure is robust, and many people speak English, making logistics effortless.

• Why it Ranks Highly: Beyond the resorts, Tulum offers stunning cenotes (natural swimming holes) and proximity to the incredible Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Coba. It’s perfect for a four-day reset.
• The Practical Side: You can often find round-trip flights for under $400, and accommodation ranges from budget hostels to ultra-luxury villas. The time zone is often the same or very close to Central Time, eliminating jet lag.

Cultural Immersion: Mexico City and Oaxaca

If you want the real Mexico—the one rich in history, art, and arguably the world’s best street food—head inland. Mexico City (CDMX) is a global metropolis, offering museums rivaling Paris, sophisticated neighborhoods like Roma Norte, and historical sites like Teotihuacan. Oaxaca is the culinary heartland, known for its mole, mezcal, and indigenous Zapotec culture.

• Tip from Experience: Don’t just stick to the tourist zones. Taking a cooking class in Oaxaca or exploring the Frida Kahlo museum in Coyoacán (CDMX) provides a much deeper understanding of this vibrant culture.

Canada: Urban Sophistication and Untamed Wilderness

Our neighbor to the north is vast, offering wildly different experiences depending on the coast you choose. For a quick trip, Canada offers familiarity combined with distinct European flavors.

West Coast Wonder: Vancouver and the Rockies

If you’re based on the West Coast, Vancouver is an incredibly easy hop. It’s a beautiful, cosmopolitan city surrounded by mountains and sea.

• The Experience: You can spend the morning cycling through Stanley Park and the afternoon skiing or hiking in the nearby Coast Mountains. If you have a few extra days, the train journey through the Canadian Rockies to Banff is considered one of the most scenic in the world.

European Charm: Montreal and Quebec City

For East Coast travelers, Montreal and Quebec City feel like stepping into France without the transatlantic flight. Quebec City, in particular, with its historic ramparts and cobblestone streets, is utterly charming.

• Logistics: The entry process is seamless for US citizens. The currency conversion is generally favorable, meaning your dollar stretches further than in Western Europe.

Costa Rica: Pura Vida and Adventure Travel

If your ideal getaway involves zip lines, sloths, volcanoes, and coffee plantations, look no further. Costa Rica is consistently named among the best places to travel from USA for nature lovers and soft adventurers.

• Why We Love It: The country is incredibly stable and prioritizes eco-tourism. Whether you’re surfing in Santa Teresa, hiking around the Arenal Volcano, or spotting toucans in the cloud forests of Monteverde, the focus is always on biodiversity.
• Best Time to Go: The dry season (December to April) is peak season, but the “green season” (May to November) offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and often better prices, with rain typically confined to the afternoons.

European Gems: Cultural Immersion and History

Europe remains the quintessential international destination. It offers unparalleled historical depth, incredible accessibility via trains, and distinct cultures packed into a relatively small area. While the flights are longer, the reward—walking where gladiators, emperors, and Renaissance masters once trod—is immeasurable.

Italy: The Cradle of Civilization and La Dolce Vita

I’ve met very few people who didn’t put Italy high on their bucket list. It’s a destination that perfectly balances world-changing history, breathtaking art, and a culinary tradition that is, frankly, unbeatable.

The Classics: Rome, Florence, and Venice

If this is your first time, the “big three” are mandatory. In Rome, you can stand in the Colosseum, marvel at the Vatican, and throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain. Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, home to Michelangelo’s David and incredible museums. Venice offers a unique, car-free labyrinth of canals and bridges.

Beyond the Cities: Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast

To truly slow down and savor la dolce vita, you must venture into the countryside. Tuscany offers rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and farmhouse stays (agriturismos). The Amalfi Coast provides stunning cliffside towns like Positano and Ravello, perfect for a luxurious, scenic break.

• Travel Tip: Utilize the high-speed rail system (Trenitalia or Italo). It’s efficient, comfortable, and often faster than flying between major cities. This makes seeing multiple regions in a single trip straightforward.

Portugal: Affordable Charm and Atlantic Beauty

Portugal has exploded in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It offers the history and charm of Western Europe but often at a fraction of the cost of France or Switzerland. It’s definitely one of the best places to travel from USA if you prioritize affordability without sacrificing quality.

Lisbon and Porto: Fado, Tiles, and Wine

Lisbon, the capital, is a city of seven hills, characterized by colorful tiled buildings, iconic yellow trams, and the melancholic music of Fado. Porto, in the north, is famous for its fortified wine (Port) and the stunning Douro River Valley, where the grapes are grown.

• The Practical Side: Portugal is safe, modern, and incredibly friendly to tourists. English is widely spoken, and transportation (especially the metro in Lisbon) is easy to navigate.

Greece: Mythology, Beaches, and Island Hopping

For history buffs and sun-worshippers alike, Greece is a dream. The combination of ancient ruins in Athens and the incomparable beauty of the Aegean islands creates a perfect two-part itinerary.

• Athens: Dedicate at least two full days to exploring the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the ancient Agora.
• The Islands: Santorini (famous for sunsets and caldera views) and Mykonos (known for nightlife and beaches) are the most famous, but don’t overlook Naxos or Crete for a more authentic, less crowded experience.
• Logistics: The best way to island-hop is via the high-speed ferry system. Booking your ferries in advance, especially during the peak summer months (June-August), is essential.

Venturing East: Exotic Adventures and Deep Culture (Asia & Oceania)

If your goal is total cultural immersion—a place where the sights, sounds, smells, and routines are completely different from home—Asia offers the deepest contrast. While the flights are long, the incredible value and profound experiences make these regions absolutely worth the journey.

Japan: The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Futurism

Japan is an experience unlike any other. It is impeccably clean, hyper-modern, and yet deeply rooted in millennia of tradition. It is consistently ranked among the safest and best places to travel from USA for first-time Asian travelers.

Tokyo and Kyoto: The Yin and Yang

Tokyo is a sprawling, electric metropolis—the future realized. You can experience everything from robot cafes to serene Shinto shrines hidden between skyscrapers. Kyoto, on the other hand, is the spiritual heart, filled with stunning temples, traditional geisha districts (Gion), and bamboo forests.

• Must-Do: Buy the Japan Rail Pass before you leave the US. This allows you unlimited travel on the Shinkansen (bullet train) network, which is the most efficient and spectacular way to cover the distance between cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
• Cultural Note: Punctuality and politeness are paramount. Always be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples or using public transit.

Thailand: Affordability and Tropical Paradise

Thailand offers an unbeatable combination: ancient Buddhist culture, some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands, and a cost of living that makes extended travel highly accessible. It’s one of the most exciting and good places to go for travelers seeking value.

Northern Culture: Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai

The North is the cultural and historical heart. Chiang Mai is famous for its temples (Wats), elephant sanctuaries (ethical ones, please!), and bustling night markets. Chiang Rai is home to the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun).

Southern Beaches: Phuket and the Islands

The South is all about the ocean. Whether you choose the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi) or the Gulf Coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan), you’ll find white sand, turquoise water, and incredible diving/snorkeling opportunities.

• Budget Advantage: Thailand is a phenomenal choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can easily find excellent street food meals for $2-$3 and comfortable guesthouses for $20-$40 per night.

Australia: The Land Down Under

For a truly epic trip, Australia offers incredible biodiversity, world-class cities, and a unique, laid-back culture. Due to the distance, most US travelers need at least two weeks to justify the flight time.

• The Cities: Start in Sydney (Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Bondi Beach) and perhaps fly to Melbourne, the cultural and culinary capital.
• The Nature: You must experience the Great Barrier Reef (from Cairns or Port Douglas) and the unique indigenous culture and geology of the Outback (Ayers Rock/Uluru).
• Visa Requirement: US citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before arriving, which is usually a quick online process.

South American Rhythms: Adventure and Natural Wonders

South America is a continent defined by extremes—the highest mountains, the deepest rainforests, and vibrant, passionate cultures. For US travelers seeking high-impact adventure and profound historical connections, these destinations are hard to beat.

Peru: Incan History and Andean Majesty

Peru is synonymous with Machu Picchu, and rightly so. But this country offers so much more than just the famous lost city; it’s a journey through history, food, and the breathtaking Andes mountains.

The Inca Trail and Cusco

Most trips center on Cusco, the former capital of the Incan Empire. From here, you can explore the Sacred Valley, the salt terraces of Maras, and, of course, embark on the journey to Machu Picchu. Whether you hike the multi-day Inca Trail or take the scenic train, the moment you see the citadel is unforgettable.

• Altitude Consideration: Cusco sits at 11,152 feet. Take it easy your first day, drink coca tea, and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
• Culinary Delight: Lima is quietly becoming one of the world’s great culinary capitals. Don’t skip the opportunity to try world-renowned Peruvian cuisine (think ceviche and lomo saltado).

Argentina: Passion, Patagonia, and Cosmopolitan Style

Argentina offers a distinct blend of European elegance (thanks to heavy Italian and Spanish immigration) and rugged Patagonian wilderness.

Buenos Aires: The Paris of South America

Buenos Aires is a city of passion. Attend a world-class opera at the Teatro Colón, learn the tango in the streets of San Telmo, and enjoy exceptional, affordable wine and steak in Palermo. The city has an electric, European feel that is immediately captivating.

The End of the World: Patagonia

For serious nature lovers, Patagonia is a must. The southern region, shared with Chile, offers glaciers (Perito Moreno), stunning hiking trails (Mount Fitz Roy in El Calafate), and a stark, beautiful landscape.

• Best Time to Visit: Due to the reversed seasons, the good places to go in Patagonia are best visited during the Austral Summer (November to March).

Luxury and Exotic Experiences: Africa and the Middle East

If you’ve covered the classics and are looking for something truly extraordinary—a bucket-list adventure that changes your perspective—these regions offer unparalleled depth and luxury experiences.

South Africa: Safari, City, and Wine

South Africa is often called “A World in One Country” because of its spectacular diversity, making it one of the most rewarding and best places to travel from USA.

Cape Town and the Garden Route

Cape Town is consistently named one of the most beautiful cities globally, dominated by the majestic Table Mountain. Spend time exploring the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, visiting Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), and enjoying the beaches.

• Wine Country: The Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch and Franschhoek) offer stunning scenery and world-class wine tasting that is incredibly affordable compared to Napa or Bordeaux.
• The Wildlife: No trip is complete without a safari. Kruger National Park is the largest and most famous, offering the chance to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo).

Jordan: Ancient Wonders and Desert Landscapes

For travelers interested in history and biblical archaeology, Jordan offers ancient sites that feel truly untouched by time, combined with genuinely warm hospitality.

• Petra: The centerpiece is Petra, the Rose City carved into sandstone cliffs. Walking through the Siq (the narrow canyon entrance) to see the Treasury revealed before you is a profound travel moment.
• Wadi Rum: Often called the Valley of the Moon, this stunning desert landscape is best experienced by staying in a Bedouin camp and exploring the dunes via 4×4.
• Safety Note: Jordan is generally an extremely safe and welcoming country for tourists, despite its location in the Middle East.

Morocco: Sensory Overload and Vibrant Markets

Morocco is a quick jump from Europe and offers an immediate, intoxicating sensory shift. It’s chaotic, beautiful, and deeply historical, making it an excellent destination for adventurous US travelers.

• Marrakech: Explore the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that comes alive at night with storytellers, food stalls, and musicians. Get lost in the labyrinthine souks (markets).
• Fez and Chefchaouen: Fez is Morocco’s cultural capital, home to the world’s oldest university and medieval tanneries. Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City, is an Instagrammer’s dream.

Practical Planning: Making Your International Trip Seamless

Deciding on the best places to travel from USA is just the first step. The difference between a great trip and a stressful one often comes down to preparation. As an authority on international travel, I can’t stress enough the importance of these logistical steps.

Essential Pre-Trip Checklist for US Travelers

Before you lock in those flights and hotels, review these crucial administrative details.

Passports and Visas

1. Passport Validity: This is the number one mistake travelers make. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least SIX MONTHS BEYOND your planned date of departure from their country. Check this immediately!
2. Visa Requirements: While many of the destinations listed (like the EU Schengen Zone, Canada, Mexico) don’t require pre-arranged visas for short tourist stays, others do.
   • Example: Countries like Vietnam, India, and Australia require an e-visa or pre-approved entry document (ETA). Always check the official government website for the most accurate information.

Health and Insurance

• Travel Insurance: Never leave the USA without comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip interruption/cancellation. Healthcare abroad, especially evacuation costs, can be astronomical. I always consider this a non-negotiable expense.
• Vaccinations: Check the CDC website for required or recommended vaccinations for your destination (especially when traveling to parts of Southeast Asia, Africa, or remote areas of South America).

Currency and Banking Strategies

• Avoid Airport Exchange Booths: Their rates are notoriously poor. The best way to get local currency is almost always using your debit card at an ATM affiliated with a major bank (like HSBC or BNP Paribas) upon arrival.
• Notify Your Banks: Tell your credit card companies and bank the dates and countries you will be visiting. This prevents them from freezing your cards due to suspicious activity.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees (typically 3-5%). This saves you hundreds of dollars over a multi-week trip.

Mastering the Art of Long-Haul Travel

If you are flying to one of the further-flung good places to go, like Japan or South Africa, your flight strategy is key to minimizing jet lag and maximizing enjoyment upon arrival.

The Jet Lag Formula

1. Hydrate: Drink water constantly and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine during the flight.
2. Adjust Immediately: As soon as you board the plane, set your watch to the destination time zone. Try to sleep when it is nighttime at your destination.
3. Sunlight is Key: Upon arrival, seek out natural sunlight. This is the single most effective way to reset your circadian rhythm. Avoid napping unless absolutely necessary, and try to make it to local bedtime.

Packing for International Travel

When seeking the best places to travel from USA, remember that mobility is freedom.

• Pack Light: Try to stick to a carry-on and a personal item for trips under two weeks. Dealing with checked luggage dramatically slows down transitions, especially when using trains or smaller regional airports.
• Adaptors and Converters: Research the plug type for your destination. Most US electronics (laptops, phone chargers) are dual-voltage and only need a plug adapter, not a voltage converter.

Safety and Communication Abroad

While the best places to travel from USA are generally safe, situational awareness is vital.

Communication Strategy

• E-SIM Card: Purchase an international E-SIM (like Airalo or Holafly) before you leave. This allows you to have data access the moment you land, avoiding expensive roaming charges and ensuring you have GPS and communication access for taxis or emergencies.
• Local Language: Learn at least “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “Excuse me.” Even in places where English is common, making an effort is appreciated and opens doors.

Staying Secure

• Digital Copies: Keep digital copies of your passport, visa, and insurance cards stored securely in the cloud or on your phone.
• Use Reputable Transport: Stick to official taxi queues, ride-sharing apps (Uber, Grab, Bolt), or pre-booked airport transfers, especially late at night. Never accept unsolicited rides from strangers at the airport.

Conclusion: Booking Your Next Global Adventure

Choosing the best places to travel from USA is an exciting challenge because the world offers so much. Whether you crave the ancient history of Italy, the high-tech energy of Japan, or the untamed beauty of Costa Rica, every trip you take expands your perspective and enriches your life.

Remember, the ideal destination isn’t just about the sights; it’s about the ease of travel, the local connections you make, and how the experience changes you when you return home.

I encourage you to use this guide to narrow down your options, tackle the logistics early, and book that flight. The world is waiting, and there’s no better time than now to step out and explore the incredible good places to go awaiting you beyond your borders. Happy travels!