New Zealand Claims the Crown as Earth’s Most Beautiful Country
Picture this: a place where snow-capped mountains touch crystalline fjords while golden beaches stretch into endless horizons. New Zealand has claimed the number one spot as the most beautiful country in the world according to a comprehensive survey by Rough Guides, with its ranking being well-deserved. The island nation is particularly loved for ‘the contrast in scenery and beauty to be found in the people and culture’.
The country is made up of over 700 islands, and boasts a huge variety when it comes to scenery, from knockout beaches like Maitai Bay in Northland to majestic peaks such as Mount Taranaki. From the towering peaks of the Southern Alps to the beaches and fjords of the South Island, New Zealand offers a wide range of natural attractions for visitors to check out, with readers praising its “amazing scenery” and appreciating the country’s ability to offer everything from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines.
Italy Secures Second Place with Timeless Elegance
In second place was Italy, which has everything from picturesque mountain ranges and pretty islands to lovely beaches and absolutely glorious cities. Italy, winner of our previous survey, just missed out on bagging first place this time round, with many applauding the fact that it “has something for everyone”, from the marvelous Dolomite mountains, the tranquil Italian Lakes, the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the sparkling Amalfi coast and the islands Sicily and Sardinia.
Cities like Rome, Florence and Venice throb with romance, while Italy’s beaches and food aren’t half bad either, with many believing it has “the best food in the world”. Italy welcomed approximately 57 million international visitors drawn to its perfect combination of art, history, food, and natural beauty, with few countries packing so many world-famous sites into such a compact area.
Canada Takes Third with Vast Wilderness and Urban Sophistication
Canada secured third place, celebrated for its dramatic scenery and wildlife. Firmly in the top five most beautiful countries in the world for two consecutive polls, Canada sure offers a wide range of unmissable things to do, with many remarking on its epic landscapes and the vastness of its “wide-open spaces”, with one respondent enthusing that Canada’s “mountain scenery is amazing”.
B.C. mountains draw skiers and snowboarders in their thousands, while the East Coast cities of Toronto and Montreal charm with their world-class restaurants and cosmopolitan vibe, with the otherworldly Bay of Fundy being hailed as one of the most remarkable places on earth. The contrast between untouched wilderness and vibrant metropolitan areas creates an irresistible combination that captivates travelers seeking both adventure and culture.
Switzerland Earns Fourth Place for Alpine Perfection
Switzerland secured fourth place in the rankings, though travelers consistently praise its breathtaking Alpine landscapes that seem almost too perfect to be real. The country’s pristine mountains, mirror-like lakes, and charming villages create postcard-perfect scenes at every turn. From the Matterhorn’s iconic peak to the turquoise waters of Lake Geneva, Switzerland offers a masterclass in natural beauty.
The Swiss have mastered the art of preserving their environment while making it accessible to visitors through an impressive network of trains, cable cars, and hiking trails. Whether you’re witnessing the sunrise over the Jungfrau region or sipping coffee in a cozy mountain village, Switzerland delivers experiences that feel almost surreal in their perfection. The country’s commitment to environmental preservation ensures these stunning landscapes remain untouched for future generations to discover.
France Completes the Top Five with Romantic Charm
France came in at number 5 on the list, securing its spot as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. For over 30 years, France has been the top destination for tourism, with the United Nations World Tourism Organization reporting that in 2023, the country welcomed 100 million tourists from around the world.
Whether it’s the Gothic architecture of Paris (such as the newly reconstructed Notre Dame Cathedral) or the lavender fields of Provence, there is no shortage of sights that will leave even the most jaded of travelers speechless, with a venture to the country’s Mediterranean coast being a summertime must, as beaches along the French Riviera attract mega-yachts as beautiful as the ocean they sail on. Paris, its iconic capital, is known for its romantic charm and timeless landmarks like the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower, while beyond this popular city, the French countryside offers rolling vineyards, cozy villages, and historic castles.
