17 Fairytale-Like Places You Won’t Believe Are Real

Every traveler has their favorite spot that feels like a little piece of heaven on Earth. But while we’ve mostly chalked it up to being smitten by the natural landscapes of a particular place, a few destinations on earth genuinely mimic divine imagination. Here are some of the most beautiful locations in the world that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into paradise. These destinations look surreal in pictures and even more when you experience them in real. Get ready to add these magical places to your travel bucket list—they’re truly unforgettable!

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Milford Sound is home to towering cliffs and lush rainforests surrounding the waters. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife, a boat ride here feels like sailing through a living postcard. This one- to two- to three-hour cruise trip will take you through picturesque scenery that will literally feel out of this world.

The Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are a perfect escape for those who love the outdoors. With its snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes such as Morain Lake, Peyto Lake, and Emerald Lake, and abundant wildlife, this region offers endless hiking trails and picturesque landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real.

The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are a breathtaking natural wonder of Ecuador. The islands are home to unique wildlife that you won’t find anywhere else. From swimming with sea lions to walking among giant tortoises, visiting here is like stepping into a live documentary; it will almost feel unreal.

Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Glacier National Park is a vast wilderness of rugged peaks and lush forests. With over 700 lakes and numerous trails to explore, it offers adventures amidst some of the most spectacular scenery in North America. The park is accessible throughout the year, no matter the season.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a true paradise with its beautiful turquoise lagoon and luxurious overwater bungalows. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, with snorkeling, paddle boarding, and beach lounging right at your doorstep. Traveling to Bora Bora can be expensive, but it’s worth every penny.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre features colorful villages stacked on steep cliffs overlooking the Italian Riviera. It’s a place to enjoy leisurely hikes, savor fresh seafood, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere as the sun sets. Spare a few days for Cinque Terre as you would not want to leave this paradisical village.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes is a network of waterfalls set among lakes colored in beautiful greens and blues. Walk through the wooden pathways of Plitvice Lakes Park and enjoy a peaceful retreat in this beautifully preserved part of the world. Though it is ideal to visit the park in summer, the winter season makes it equally breathtaking, when the frozen falls evoke scenes from the famous Game of Thrones.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Words are not enough to describe the beauty of the Lofoten Islands. Their dramatic peaks and cozy fishing villages tucked away in coves offer picturesque scenery like nowhere else in the world. If you want to witness the most beautiful sight of the Northern Lights, there is no better place to do so than the Lofoten Islands.

Valle de Cocora, Colombia

Valle de Cocora is home to towering wax palm trees set against a backdrop of lush, rolling hills. It’s a great place for hikes, offering paths that wind through cloud forests and open grasslands. Another interesting fact about Cocora is that its name was taken after a Quimbayan princess, the daughter of the local chief Acaime, and it means “star of water.”

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is an underwater paradise featuring colorful coral and exotic marine life. Diving here reveals a heavenly world full of natural beauty, making it a top destination for snorkelers and divers alike. Even if you are not into diving, you can simply enjoy the views from your boat.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

If there is one place that beats many in terms of beauty, it would be the Faroe Islands. Here, you can experience the raw beauty of nature that has not been touched by many humans. Hiking is one of the top activities to enjoy in the Faroe Islands. You can also opt for guided tours and learn about Nordic history while you walk past the gushing waterfalls and colorful houses.

Grindelwald, Switzerland

Grindelwald, Switzerland, is a picture-perfect village that looks straight out of a storybook. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Grindelwald is home to dramatic mountains and numerous glaciers. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Grindelwald is an ideal destination for skiing, hiking, and exploring.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

Sossusvlei in Namibia is like stepping onto another planet with its massive red sand dunes and stark white salt pans. The striking contrasts between the colors make it a photographer’s dream. Climbing the dunes offers incredible views. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable desert experience.

Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, the Garden Isle of Hawaii, is a breathtaking place filled with stunning cliffs, valleys, and waterfalls. The island’s trails are perfect for hikers and lead to some beautiful spots. With pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, it’s also great for snorkeling and relaxing. Kauai is the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.

Hvar, Croatia

Hvar is one of the most beautiful islands of Croatia, boasting historic towns, crystal-clear waters, and bustling nightlife. You can explore the old streets of Hvar Town, visit the local shops, and eat delicious food. The Fortica or City Fortress is also a must-visit if you’re a history lover. You can also take a boat trip to the Pakleni islands to see the hidden coves.

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is a slice of paradise with its clear blue waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and colorful coral reefs. Attractions like El Nido and Coron are so beautiful they almost don’t feel real. Whether you’re into lounging on the beach or exploring the great outdoors, Palawan has something for everyone.

Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Torres del Paine in Patagonia is home to jaw-dropping mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. The W Trek offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Torres del Paine peaks you’ll ever see. You can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and spot wildlife like guanacos and condors. Its surreal beauty and remote setting make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.