Asia: The Ultimate Travel Guide

If you want to see the largest continent on earth properly, you’ll need patience – and time! Russia alone takes up 44,614,500 km² of space. Will you visit the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg or the Red Square in Moscow in Russia? Or take Southeast Asia with its tropical beaches; Japan with its Buddhist temples and the largest city in the world, Tokyo. Or the Arabian Peninsula, where you can immerse yourself in incredible culture. Or maybe India – always good for a spiritual trip.

You can be certain of one thing: There are 49 countries in (or partly in) Asia and not one of them is remotely boring.

Table of Contents:

Country Travel Guides

Top 10 Tourist Attractions

P.S. Check out these seven top cities to visit in Asia.

#1 Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is probably the most impressive architectural monument to love on earth. The gigantic white marble mausoleum was built in 1631 by a Grand Mogul Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

#2 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The temples of Angkor Wat represent one impressive architectural achievement of the Khmer culture. They’re one of the most iconic constructs of the ancient world. Angkor Wat is so significant in Cambodian identity that it is even depicted on the flag and the banknotes.

#3 Bali, Indonsesia

Anyone looking for paradise on earth will come pretty close in Bali. There are plenty of other islands in the world that also have beautiful beaches and lush vegetation – but it is the Balinese way of life that immediately puts you in a tropical mood.

#4 Hong Kong, China

In Hong Kong, the modern world meets ancient tradition. Its world-famous skyscraper cityscape forms an almost unreal contrast to the traditional food stalls that you will find scattered throughout the city.

#5 Gardens by the Bay, Singapur

The seemingly surreal “Supertrees” in Supertree Grove are a popular postcard motif and are connected by a treetop path. You should definitely plan a few hours in for a visit here. Don’t miss the light show in the evening!

#6 Tokyo, Japan

Let the colorful neon flair of the Japanese mega-metropolis sink in. The best way to do this is to go to the famous Shibuya Crossing, which has been a symbol of Tokyo in many films.

#7 Saint Petersburg, Russia

The historic downtown of Saint Petersburg is magical. There are 2,300 palaces, magnificent buildings and castles here, which are hard to beat in terms of size and splendour. A ride in a horse-drawn carriage will transport you back to the age of tsars.

#8 Phuket, Thailand

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island. Over 9 million visitors a year come to enjoy the dramatic beaches and delicious Thai cuisine. You can learn how to prepare Pad Thai and Tom Yam at an on-site cooking class.

#9 9 Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

At 828 m, this is (currently) the tallest building ever: – the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The highest restaurant in the world is on the 123rd floor and the highest viewing platform is on the 148th floor at 555 m.

#10 The Great Wall of China, China

It’s the magnificent length that makes the Great Wall of China so significant. Stretching a total of 21,196 km, it is the longest wall in the world and also a UNESCO world heritage shite. A must if you’re visiting China, is a walk along the wall.

Top 5 Underrated Attractions

#1 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Modern skyscrapers, lush parks, historic temples and multicultural flair: Kuala Lumpur is a feast for all the senses (especially the palate). The hippest neighborhoods with street food stalls are best explored on foot.

#2 Da Lat, Vietnam

Da Lat is a place that locals often choose for their honeymoon. It’s no wonder – the the place is charming, sometimes to the point of cheesy. Because of its mild climate, the park-like environment and its French colonial history, Da Lat is also called “Little Paris”.

#3 Tbilisi, Georgia

The up and coming “place to be” is currently Tbilisi in Georgia, at the place where Europe and Asia meet. The city is hip and is characterized by a unique mix of Soviet charm and modern architecture. A cable car leads to some gorgeous sights and allows great views.

#4 Busan, South Korea

South Korea is not a particularly popular vacation destination. But that’s exactly why now is the time to explore places like Busan. Busan is home to fresh seafood, beaches, majestic mountain backdrops, and vibrant neighborhoods such as cosmopolitan Nampo-dong.

#5 Rua da Tercena, Macau, China

Rua da Tercena in the Macau Special Administrative Region is located 50 km to the west of Hong Kong. Because of the many gambling establishments, it is also known as the “Monte Carlo of the East”. The city is also steeped in colonial history, and Rua da Tercena is one of the original, centuries-old streets here.

TOP 5 Instagrammable Spots

Check out the top ten destinations in Asia.

Fun Facts about Asia – Did you know…?

… that translated literally, Hong Kong means ‘Fragrant Habour’ in English.

… that Asia is home to the highest point (Mount Everest) and the lowest point (the Dead Sea) on earth?

… that Chinese people celebrate New Year for a full 15 days?

… that 70% of all spices come from India?

… that you can turn money into gold in Dubai? There are machines where you can “withdraw” gold bars.