Moving overseas advice
Most beautiful country in the world 2025
Key takeaways
- The most beautiful country in the world in 2025 is New Zealand, according to Rough Guide's poll.
- The most beautiful city in the world is Chicago (the USA), according to Time Out Magazine, followed by Cape Town (South Africa), Sydney (Australia), Porto (Portugal), and Edinburgh (Scotland).
- The most beautiful states in the US are California, Alaska, Hawaii, Colorado, and Utah, according to Thrillist.com.
- The most beautiful countries in the world are Greece, New Zealand, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Thailand, according to a US News & World Report study.
What is the most beautiful country in the world?
The most beautiful country in the world in 2025 is New Zealand, according to Rough Guide's poll. The respected travel publisher based its results on readers' votes. Respondents were asked to rate countries on multiple factors, including their landscapes, architecture, culture, and people.
Readers praised Kiwiland's "amazing scenery", variety of activities, and the striking contrast of rugged, snow-capped mountains and pristine, golden beaches. It's no wonder moving to New Zealand is so popular, or why director Peter Jackson chose the country as the backdrop to his immensely successful Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies!
New Zealand's varied terrain includes dense native forests, glacial valleys, and wild, unspoilt coastlines. Among many remarkable locations, Fiordland National Park stands out for its dramatic fjords, such as Milford Sound, where waterfalls cascade into deep, mirror-like waters. On the South Island's east coast, Kaikōura's coastal beauty includes whale watching against soaring mountains and picturesque, rocky shorelines.
In New Zealand, over
80% of fauna
is unique to the country!
Source: newzealand.com
Most beautiful city in the world
The most beautiful city in the world is Chicago (the USA), according to Time Out Magazine, followed by Cape Town (South Africa), Sydney (Australia), Porto (Portugal), and Edinburgh (Scotland).
Time Out asked 18,500 people in 118 worldwide cities whether they would describe their hometown as beautiful. A whopping 83% of respondents said their love for Chicago goes beyond its famous pizza and blues music!
The Windy City's beauty includes a striking skyline, where gleaming skyscrapers and early-20th-century brick buildings rise along the edge of Lake Michigan. Sweeping beaches, harbours, and tree-lined promenades frame the city's waterfront, while the streets boast broad avenues, riverside walkways, steel bridges, and landscaped parks.
Below is the result of Time Out's poll and the percentage of people who considered their city "beautiful":
California takes the crown as the most attractive US state, thanks to its dramatic Pacific coastline, towering redwood forests, sun-drenched beaches, and diverse natural landscapes.
Most beautiful states in the US
The most beautiful states in the US are California, Alaska, Hawaii, Colorado, and Utah, according to Thrillist.com. The digital lifestyle brand asked its seasoned travel writers to determine the most scenic state for visitors and residents.
California takes the crown as the most attractive US state, thanks to its dramatic Pacific coastline, towering redwood forests, sun-drenched beaches, and diverse natural landscapes. From deserts and snow-capped mountains to bustling, dynamic cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Sunshine State has something for everyone.
In second place sits Alaska, renowned for its vast wilderness, expansive glaciers, towering mountain ranges, and abundant wildlife. From the breathtaking coastline of the Inside Passage to the remote tundra of the Arctic, the Last Frontier attracts those seeking a move to the US for solitude and raw natural beauty.
Sitting two thousand four hundred miles off the west coast of mainland USA, Hawaii ranks third thanks to lush tropical rainforests, palm tree-lined streets, volcanic peaks, and crystal-clear waters. Each of its one hundred and thirty-seven tropical islands showcases unique features, from vibrant coral reefs to dramatic cliffs. Hawaii's year-round warm climate enriches its vivid colours and diverse landscapes.
Colorado comes in fourth, mainly due to the famous Rocky Mountains — over four hundred square miles of sweeping vistas, alpine lakes, and dense forests. Alongside stunning scenery, cities such as Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder boast historic landmarks and eye-catching modern amenities, attracting adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Utah takes fifth spot. The Beehive State boasts striking red rock formations, vast deserts, and iconic national parks such as Zion and Bryce Canyon. Its varied terrain provides both challenging hikes and serene resting spots. Despite one-third of the state being desert, it's also home to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, the Great Salt Lake.
6 most beautiful countries in the world for 2025*
The most beautiful countries in the world are Greece, New Zealand, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Thailand, according to a US News & World Report study. Using perception-based attributes, including scenery, climate, and several geographic attractions, the long-established media company evaluated eighty-nine countries by surveying nearly 17,000 people.
Here's some more information about each nation's enduring natural beauty:
1. Greece
Greece's rugged mountains, serene lakes, and winding rivers appeal to lovers of nature and peaceful retreats. The Mediterranean climate includes very little rain, up to 22°C (72 °F) average temperatures, and abundant yearly sunshine. Protected natural areas and heritage sites showcase Greece's commitment to conserving its unique environment.
Mountainous terrain: 80%
Number of lakes: 56
Longest river: Haliacmon (297 km/185 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 2
Yearly sunshine hours: 3,000
National parks: 15
2. New Zealand
New Zealand's dramatic, varied landscapes attract outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe. The temperate climate nourishes its rich ecosystems, bringing mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and steady rainfall. The country's extensive national parks and Natural World UNESCO sites reflect its long-standing focus on sustainable tourism.
Mountainous terrain: 70%
Number of lakes: 3,820
Longest river: Waikato River (425 km/264 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 3
Yearly sunshine hours: 2,000
National parks: 13
3. Italy
Italy's scenic beauty tells stories of long-gone civilisations through its towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and enduring ancient architecture. The Mediterranean climate delivers warm, dry summers and mild winters — ideal for year-round visits. With 2,500 hours of sunshine a year, the climate encourages outdoor exploration.
Mountainous terrain: 40%
Number of lakes: 1,500
Longest river: Po (652 km/405 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 6
Yearly sunshine hours: 2,500
National parks: 25
4. Switzerland
Switzerland's iconic alpine scenery boasts abundant, pristine lakes, deep valleys, and dramatic skies. Its diverse climate shapes a landscape that appeals to adventure seekers! Despite receiving one thousand and seven hundred hours of sunshine each year, the summers remain relatively cool, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.
Mountainous terrain: 60%
Number of lakes: 1,500
Longest river: Rhine (375.5 km/233.4 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 4
Yearly sunshine hours: 1,700
National parks: 1
5. Spain
Spain's varied landscapes include jagged mountain ranges, sunlit plains and endless, scattered lakes. The Mediterranean climate provides hot, dry summers and mild winters, with average yearly temperatures reaching 18°C (64 °F). The Iberian Peninsula nation buzzes with warmth and vitality, shaped by arid, fertile landscapes.
Mountainous terrain: 50%
Number of lakes: 2,474
Longest river: Tagus (1,007 km/626 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 6
Yearly sunshine hours: 3,000
National parks: 16
6. Thailand
Thailand's landscapes move gently between low mountains and vast, shimmering lakes. Two thousand six hundred eighty-four hours of yearly sunshine and heavy seasonal rains support a rich biodiversity, including tropical greenery, colourful birdlife, and rare freshwater species. Dense jungles, quiet rivers, and wide open waters create a sense of depth.
Mountainous terrain: 20%
Number of lakes: 8,000
Longest river: Nan–Chao Phraya (1,112 km/691 mi)
UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites: 3
Yearly sunshine hours: 2,684
National parks: 156
Sources: whc.unesco.org, study.com, climate.top, factsanddetails.com
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