From Taiwan to Argentina, Nova Scotia to Norway, experts at National Geographic have revealed which destinations are topping their hot list right now.
One Irish city was named the ‘Coolest Place On The Planet’ by travel experts at National Geographic.
Revealing their annual ‘Cool List’, writers highlighted the 30 most exciting destinations to visit in 2024. As a thriving tourist destination, one Irish city even featured high on the list.
Featuring some of the most hyped global destinations, with spots in Europe, Australasia, and Africa, they’ve come up with the ultimate travel bucket list.
History, culture, and friendly Irish hospitality – a thriving Irish city
Belfast is the Irish city that was named the coolest place on the planet by National Geographic.
Ranking the city among their top European destinations, Nat Geo writers explained, “If city pride in Belfast is like a flower that’s managed to grow in difficult soil, then 2024 should see a super-bloom thanks to the Northern Irish capital’s year of culture.”
As a city that has gone from strength to strength in recent years, Belfast has plenty to offer tourists. The birthplace of the Titanic, tourists are drawn by Belfast’s fascinating maritime history, not to mention the award-winning Titanic Experience.
Tourists gained a new interest in the city after it was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. Rich in art and culture, Nat Geo also highlighted the city’s listing as a UNESCO City of Music in 2021.
Not the only Irish destination to rank – head out west for more magic
The historic Irish city isn’t the only place on the island to be named the coolest place on the planet by National Geographic.
Heading out west, they also highlighted the iconic Wild Atlantic Way. The stunning 2,600 km (1,600 miles) coastal route runs from Cork to Donegal. It encompasses some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery on this side of the Atlantic.
National Geographic named it “one of Europe’s most exciting road trips”. They mentioned highlights like Fanad Head, the Burren, and the quaint Cork town of Kinsale.
They also highlighted the opening of the new National Surf Centre in Sligo as a fantastic addition to the northwest county’s attraction.
View National Geographic’s full ‘Cool List’ on their website here.
