Destination Guides

Ranking of The 20 Most Beautiful Sunsets in The World

As the day comes to a close, there’s something special about watching the sunset. It’s as if the sky itself is putting on a show, painting the horizon with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, a sunset destination can be the perfect addition to your travel plans.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to 20 of the most breathtaking sunset destinations around the world. From the picturesque streets of Paris to the rugged landscapes of New Zealand, these places are sure to leave you in awe of Mother Nature’s beauty.

1. The Sun-Kissed City of Light: Paris, France

Paris, the City of Love, is also a city that knows how to put on a show at sunset. With its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is a must-visit destination for any traveler. And when the sun sets over the Seine River, it’s truly magical.

Parisians know that the best way to enjoy the sunset is by taking a river cruise along the Seine. You can sit back, relax, and watch the city lights come on as the sun dips below the horizon. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try watching the sunset from the top of the Eiffel Tower.

2. A Nature Lover’s Paradise: Stanley Park, Vancouver, Canada

Located on the edge of Vancouver’s historic center, Stanley Park is a 400-hectare green space that’s home to an estimated half-million trees. The park is almost entirely surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and features many rivers and lakes, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Stanley Park is also home to several stunning viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the sunset. Try watching from the top of Grouse Mountain or from the park’s scenic lookout points.

3. A Timeless Hollywood Scene: Santa Monica, California, USA

Santa Monica is a city that’s synonymous with classic Hollywood glamour. And when the sun sets over its iconic pier, it’s like stepping into a movie set. With its picturesque beaches and lively boardwalk, Santa Monica is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling starstruck.

Try watching the sunset at the Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to Venice Beach for a relaxing sunset stroll along the beach.

4. A Wavy Wave of Beauty: Ailsa Craig, UK

Located off the coast of Scotland, Ailsa Craig is an uninhabited island that’s known for its stunning sunsets. The waves crash against the shore, creating a mesmerizing display of light and sound that’s sure to leave you breathless.

Ailsa Craig is a remote destination that’s best accessed by boat. Try taking a guided tour to explore the island’s rugged coastline and watch the sunset from one of its many scenic viewpoints.

5. A Magical Panorama: Svalbard Islands, Norway

Located in the Arctic Circle, the Svalbard archipelago is one of the most northerly inhabited lands on Earth. With its stunning sunsets and midnight sun phenomenon, Svalbard is a destination that’s truly out of this world.

Try watching the sunset at Longyearbyen, the island’s capital city, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try heading to the outskirts of town for an even more secluded viewing experience.

6. A Skyscraper’s View: Willis Tower, Chicago, USA

Located in the heart of Chicago, the Willis Tower is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. And when the sun sets over its glass cube windows, it’s like experiencing a work of art. Take a trip to the 110th floor for a truly unforgettable view.

Try watching the sunset from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor, where you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding cityscape. Or, if you’re feeling brave, try taking a walk along the Willis Tower’s Skydeck’s glass balcony.

7. A City of Gold: Ventimiglia, Italy

Located on the French border, Ventimiglia is a city that’s steeped in history and beauty. With its stunning sunsets and picturesque streets, Ventimiglia is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling like royalty.

Try watching the sunset from the top of Ventimiglia’s medieval castle, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the city’s historic center for a relaxing sunset stroll along the streets.

8. A Desert Oasis: Sahara Desert, North Africa

Located in the heart of North Africa, the Sahara Desert is one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. And when the sun sets over its vast expanse of sand dunes, it’s truly awe-inspiring.

Try watching the sunset from a desert campsite, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding dunes. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try taking a guided tour to explore the Sahara’s rugged terrain and watch the sunset from one of its many scenic viewpoints.

9. A Mystery of the Ancients: Stonehenge, Salisbury Plain, UK

Located in Wiltshire County, Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s steeped in mystery and intrigue. With its stunning sunsets and ancient stones, Stonehenge is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling like an archaeologist.

Try watching the sunset from one of the many scenic viewpoints surrounding Stonehenge, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the ancient monument. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby village of Amesbury for a relaxing sunset stroll along the streets.

10. A Caribbean Getaway: Key West, Florida, USA

Located at the southernmost tip of Florida, Key West is a city that’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets. With its picturesque streets and lively boardwalk, Key West is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling like you’re in paradise.

Try watching the sunset from Mallory Square, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding ocean. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby beach for a relaxing sunset stroll along the shore.

11. A Tropical Paradise: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Located off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is an archipelago that’s known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. And when the sun sets over its turquoise waters, it’s truly magical.

Try watching the sunset from one of Zanzibar’s many scenic viewpoints, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby beach for a relaxing sunset stroll along the shore.

12. The Eternal City: Rome, Italy

Rome, the Eternal City, is a destination that’s steeped in history and beauty. With its stunning sunsets and ancient landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, Rome is a city that’s sure to leave you feeling like you’re walking through time.

Try watching the sunset from the top of the Colosseum, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby Piazza Navona for a relaxing sunset stroll along the streets.

DEAL 1

Journeys of a Lifetime, Second Edition: 500 of the World's Greatest Trips

Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...

13. A European Gem: Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium

Located in the heart of Brussels, the Grand Place is one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. With its golden palaces and Gothic town hall, it’s a destination that’s truly fit for royalty.

Try watching the sunset from the top of the town hall, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby streets for a relaxing sunset stroll along the cobblestones.

14. The Red Rock: Ayers Rock, Australia

Located in Kata Tjuta National Park, Ayers Rock is one of the world’s most famous rocks. And when the sun sets over its rust-red landscape, it’s truly breathtaking.

Try watching the sunset from the top of Uluru (Ayers Rock), where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby campsite for a relaxing sunset stroll along the dunes.

15. A City of Canals: Venice, Italy

Venice, the City of Water, is a destination that’s steeped in history and beauty. With its stunning sunsets and picturesque canals, Venice is a city that’s sure to leave you feeling like you’re floating on air.

Try watching the sunset from a scenic viewpoint along the Grand Canal, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby streets for a relaxing sunset stroll along the waterways.

16. A Thai Gem: Phang Nga Bay, Phuket, Thailand

Located off the coast of Phuket, Phang Nga Bay is one of Thailand’s most beautiful destinations. With its stunning sunsets and turquoise waters, Phang Nga Bay is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling like you’re in paradise.

Try watching the sunset from a scenic viewpoint along the bay, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby beach for a relaxing sunset stroll along the shore.

17. The Maasai Mara: Kenya

Located in the heart of Africa, the Maasai Mara is a nature reserve that’s known for its stunning sunsets. And when the sun sets over its savannah landscape, it’s truly breathtaking.

Try watching the sunset from one of the many scenic viewpoints surrounding the Maasai Mara, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding wildlife. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby campsite for a relaxing sunset stroll along the grasslands.

18. A Caribbean Jewel: Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda

Located in the eastern Caribbean, Antigua is an island nation that’s steeped in history and beauty. With its stunning sunsets and picturesque beaches, Antigua is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling like you’re in paradise.

Try watching the sunset from one of Antigua’s many scenic viewpoints, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby beach for a relaxing sunset stroll along the shore.

19. The City of Love: Paris, France (again!)

We couldn’t resist including Paris again on this list. After all, the city of love is also one of the most romantic destinations in the world. And when the sun sets over its iconic landmarks, it’s truly magical.

Try watching the sunset from a scenic viewpoint along the Seine River, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape. Or, if you’re looking for something more low-key, try heading to the nearby streets for a relaxing sunset stroll along the cobblestones.

20. A Sunset to Remember: Your Next Destination?

So there you have it – 20 unforgettable sunset destinations around the world that are sure to leave you feeling like you’re walking on air. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, these places are sure to provide you with the perfect setting for your next sunset.

Conclusion:

Sunsets are truly one of nature’s most breathtaking displays. And when combined with a beautiful destination, they can create an experience that’s truly unforgettable. So why not start planning your next sunset getaway today?

With so many incredible destinations around the world, there’s never been a better time to experience the magic of the sunset. Whether you’re looking for adventure, romance, or just a chance to relax and unwind, these 20 sunset destinations are sure to provide you with the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next sunset getaway today!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the best time of year to watch the sunset?
- The best time to watch the sunset varies depending on the destination, but generally, it’s best to plan your trip during the late afternoon or early evening when the sun begins to set.
How do I find a good spot to watch the sunset?
- There are many ways to find a great spot to watch the sunset, including asking locals for recommendations, checking online reviews, and exploring scenic viewpoints.
Can I watch the sunset from a high place?
- Yes, watching the sunset from a high place can provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Try heading to a mountain top, a scenic viewpoint, or a rooftop bar to experience the best sunsets.

Tips for Watching the Sunset:

Be prepared for changing weather conditions, including wind, rain, and cold temperatures.
Bring binoculars or a camera to capture the moment.
Consider booking a guided tour or seeking local advice to ensure you find the best spot to watch the sunset.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes.

Final Thoughts:

Watching the sunset is an experience that’s sure to leave you feeling inspired, relaxed, and in awe of nature’s beauty. Whether you’re looking for adventure, romance, or just a chance to unwind, these 20 sunset destinations are sure to provide you with the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next sunset getaway today!

Donation Box

National Traveller: Free for All, Thanks to You

In a world where information often comes with a price tag, we’ve chosen a different path: to stay free, forever. Because we believe in accessible, independent, and trustworthy content for everyone—no barriers, no subscriptions, just great stories, guides, and insights.

But we can’t do it alone. Advertising doesn’t cover our costs anymore, and yet we remain committed to delivering the quality you deserve. Every guide we create, every destination we explore, every piece of advice we share—it’s all made possible by readers like you.

If you value what we do, consider making a voluntary donation. Together, we can keep National Traveller free and thriving for everyone, everywhere. Let’s build a better-informed, better-connected world—starting right here, today. Donate Now

Up Next

Nightlife in Madrid: Clubs And Nightlife Districts

Don't Miss

Low Cost Living: The Lowest Rents in The World