The Top 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Asia

Want to be awe-struck on your next adventure? Discover the most beautiful places to visit in Asia — places that capture the unique wonders, diversity, and sheer scale of this extraordinary part of the world.

From bustling Indian cities brimming with culture to serene Balinese rice terraces, each spot on this list is a must-see place in Asia you need to know about if you're planning a journey across the continent.

Stroll through the futuristic Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, sail the turquoise waters of El Nido in the Philippines, or hike the dramatic slopes of Mount Kinabalu in Borneo.

Read on to discover our experts' top picks for the most beautiful holiday destinations in Asia.

Getting there with Etihad

Travelling to Asia has never been more luxurious with Etihad's launch of a brand new aircraft, the A321LR.

This single-aisle aircraft features two private First Suites with privacy screens, plus Business class with lie-flat seats and plenty of space to stretch out and relax as you make your way to Asia's most beautiful places.

With seven new routes, including Phnom Penh, Krabi, Chiang Mai and Hanoi, you'll arrive to see the beauty of this cultural continent in style. 

1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Rising from the depths of the Cambodian jungle, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a timeless emblem of Southeast Asia’s beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site near Siem Reap combines 12 centuries of history with breathtaking architecture, where intricate bas-reliefs and towering spires tell stories of kings, gods, and an ancient civilisation.

Sunrise over the temple sees golden light spilling across moats and sandstone walls, while wandering the surrounding complex reveals hidden corners, reflecting pools, and quiet pathways. A visit here is not just sightseeing — it’s stepping into a living masterpiece that captures the spirit and ingenuity of Cambodia's past.

"At Angkor Wat, we like to do things a little differently at Inspiring Travel. Rather than the usual route, our guides take you through the quieter, lesser-known ruins as well as the main temples, offering a more personal, peaceful experience away from the crowds." — Nicola, Travel Specialist

2. Mount Fuji, Japan

Snow-capped and perfectly symmetrical, Mount Fuji is the kind of sight that makes you stop in your tracks. Rising above lakes and forests, it’s no wonder this peak has inspired artists and poets for centuries — and it’s still a must-visit on any journey through Japan. Around its base, you’ll find serene temples and shrines, with the five-tiered Chureito Pagoda stealing the show as it rises triumphantly against Fuji’s backdrop.

Time your visit for late March to mid-April, when cherry blossom season cloaks the foothills in clouds of pink. And for a luxury stay to match the scenery, retreat to Hakone Kowakien Tenyu — an authentic Japanese inn — where open-air onsen baths let you soak beneath the stars with Fuji’s timeless silhouette on the horizon.

"Climbing Mount Fuji is no easy task, but the panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, parks and towns are well worth the challenge. Not only that, but you can visit the soothing hot springs around Mount Fuji and enjoy a much-needed soak after walking through the winding trails and paths." — Nick, Travel Specialist

3. Halong Bay, Vietnam

A UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of more than 1,600 islands, Halong Bay’s turquoise waters shimmer beneath towering limestone karsts, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. One of the best ways to explore this striking bay in northern Vietnam is on a boat cruise, drifting past hidden caves, floating fishing villages, and emerald islets emerging like sculptures from the sea.

For a truly immersive experience of Halong Bay, step aboard an overnight luxury cruise. As evening falls, sip a cocktail on the deck while the sun sets behind the karsts, giving them an ethereal glow, and enjoy candlelit dining in a secluded cove. Cruising after dark offers a different perspective on this iconic Asian landscape — it's quiet, serene, and utterly mesmerising.

"We rose at 4.30 am to catch the sunrise over Halong Bay, and I have to say, if God had a place on Earth, this would be it." — Nicola, Travel Specialist

4. Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam truly comes alive in Hanoi.

The beauty here lies in the evocative historic sites and shrines, set among the unstoppable buzz of everyday modern life.

Walking through the 13^th century Old Quarter, you’ll see French colonial remnants interspersed with steaming street food stalls, while Bach Ma Temple offers a more serene glimpse inside one of Vietnam’s ornate places of worship. For an immersive way to admire it all, take a cyclo ride through the streets, stopping to visit an authentic longhouse.

From the impressive Opera House to the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake and the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s sights are sure to be a highlight when exploring Vietnam.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known as the 'Rose of the North'. Unlike the fast pace of Bangkok, this former Lanna capital feels laid-back and tranquil, surrounded by lush rice paddies and misty mountains.

The city is crowned by the 14th-century mountaintop temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep — arguably one of the most beautiful monuments in all of Southeast Asia (which is no mean feat in a land teeming with exquisite temples). Climb up the 300 or so naga-flanked steps to admire its glistening golden chedi and soak in sweeping views of the valley below.

Beyond this showstopping landmark, travellers also come to Chiang Mai for colourful night bazaars, exclusive wellness retreats, and to savour incredible Thai cuisine — from street food to fine dining.

6. Krabi, Thailand

Easily accessible from Chiang Mai is Krabi, another beautiful spot in Asia is Krabi .

Set on the southwest coast of Thailand, alongside Phuket and Phang Nga, Krabi dazzles with its pristine white-sand beaches, gravity-defying limestone karsts and spectacular sunset displays over sparkling waters. With such an impressive backdrop, it will likely come as no surprise to you that Krabi has hosted numerous filming locations, most famously ‘The Beach’ which was shot on the nearby Phi Phi Islands.

From your choice of stylish retreat set along Krabi’s sands – including Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve – you can head into the former fishing town to browse local handicrafts, or explore the scenery with kayaking, diving or speedboat tours.

7. Jaipur, India

Jaipur’s appeal lies in its intoxicating fusion of colour, history, and culture. Every corner of this lively city feels like a living postcard: vibrant pink façades earned it the nickname 'Pink City', while the intricate architecture of its palaces, forts, and temples reflects centuries of royal artistry in India.

Buzzing street markets add life and texture to the city's man-made wonders, while quiet courtyards and hidden gardens offer moments of calm amid the bustle. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur’s combination of rich culture, historical sites, and vibrant street life makes it one of the most visually and culturally inspiring destinations to visit in Asia.

Discover more of the most beautiful places to visit in India.

8. Ubud, Bali

If you want to get to the soul of Southeast Asia, Ubud in Bali should be at the top of your travel bucket list. The town has long been a hub for artists, healers, and spiritual seekers, offering a glimpse into the island’s Balinese Hindu heritage through its sacred temples, centuries-old rituals, and traditional markets.

Surrounding Ubud, terraced rice paddies ripple across the hillsides, creating picture-perfect views that are mesmerising at dawn. Rise early for a yoga session surrounded by soul-soothing greenery, and stay in open-plan, Balinese-style suites at luxury retreats like Amandari, to feel fully immersed in Ubud's vivid scenery.

9. Langkawi, Malaysia

Langkawi is a real feast for the eyes, where jungle-clad peaks cascade towards untouched bays of white-gold sand and crystal-clear waters. Located off the northwest coast of Malaysia, this island archipelago is famed for its ancient rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and sweeping bays, offering the perfect backdrop for a seriously special getaway.

Here, you can check into one of the world’s most exclusive hotels: The Datai Langkawi. Nestled within a 10-million-year-old rainforest on the pristine shores of Datai Bay — named one of the 10 best beaches in the world by National Geographic — this exceptional hotel is known for its nature-integrated design and flawless service.

“Make it the holiday of a lifetime with a stay at the prestigious Datai Langkawi in Malaysia. This exceptional jungle hideaway recently featured on BBC’s Amazing Hotels: Life beyond the lobby." – Nick, Travel Specialist

10. Mount Kinabalu, Borneo

Rising majestically above the clouds, Mount Kinabalu is one of Asia’s most striking natural wonders. Set within Sabah, a spectacular region of Malaysian Borneo, this UNESCO-listed national park is a true bucket-list stop for nature lovers, who come to explore lush rainforests, encounter rare wildlife and marvel at the sheer natural beauty of its granite peaks.

Whether you’re an avid hiker tackling the summit trail or a casual explorer enjoying the botanical gardens below, the area offers unmissable experiences. It’s home to the world’s largest flower, the rafflesia, while the surrounding Sabah region is one of the few places on Earth where you can see orangutans in the wild — and, if you’re extremely lucky, the elusive clouded leopard.

11. El Nido, Philippines

El Nido is as close to paradise on earth as it gets, where crystal-clear shallows kiss white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs shimmer beneath the surface. This Philippine island is practically made for honeymooners: secluded lagoons, hidden coves, and dramatic limestone cliffs create the perfect backdrop for a wild and romantic escape.

One of the region's most exclusive retreats, Amanpulo, offers personalised island-hopping excursions, traditional Filipino spa treatments, and even the chance to witness sea turtles nesting on the beach between June and November, adding more magic to your experience. Kayak through turquoise lagoons, snorkel among kaleidoscopic marine life, or simply unwind together in 'Palawan's Paradise'.

12. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

Famous for its futuristic Supertrees and shimmering biodomes, Gardens by the Bay is an otherworldly oasis, set in the heart of buzzing Singapore. It attracts visitors from all over the world who are keen to wander beneath its towering vertical gardens, take in the colourful displays in the Flower Dome, or lose themselves in the misty wonder of the Cloud Forest, all framed by the city’s spectacular skyline.

Stay at the legendary Raffles Singapore, birthplace of the Singapore Sling, or the central Mandarin Oriental in Marina Bay for a luxurious base in the city. Visit early morning or late afternoon, when the gardens are at their most tranquil, then head to the vibrant neighbourhood of Little India for a contrasting sensory adventure in Singapore.

Ready to be awe-struck by Asia?

Discover some of the most beautiful places to visit in Asia with Inspiring Travel.

Whether you’re uncovering the incredible architecture of Cambodia, sailing past limestone karsts in Vietnam, or diving among vibrant coral reefs in the Philippines, each destination on this list offers extraordinary experiences beyond its breathtaking scenery.

Speak to our dedicated Travel Specialists to find out more and start planning your tailor-made journey across Asia.