Revealed: the 50 best experiences in Asia

Stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, Asia is the world’s largest, most populous and most diverse continent – home to spice trails, bustling night markets, ancient temples and breathtaking natural wonders. From the Himalayas to coral reefs, vibrant creative hubs to storied villages: it’s all here, it’s all beautiful and it’s all waiting to be explored.  

To help inspire your wanderlust for years ahead, we present a carefully curated list of the best Asian experiences to add to the bucket list. Looking for inspiration in Hong Kong? We've put together a separate guide on the 50 best things to do in our home city here. 

SOUTHEAST ASIA  

1. Craft keepsakes in Hoi An 

Delve into Vietnam’s rich heritage with your own hands at this relaxed riverside town, where you can try wood carving, crafting paper lanterns or whipping up a bowl of cao lau. Stop at a local tailor, where thousands of fabrics, colours and patterns await your next bespoke outfit.

2. Cruise Halong and Bai Tu Long Bays

From Hanoi, head east to Vietnam’s breathtaking Halong Bay, and the quieter Bai Tu Long Bay. Glide past hidden caves and towering limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, or soak in natural beauty and cultural charm on a kayak through tranquil lagoons and vibrant floating villages.

3. Chase skylines and craft cocktails in Ho Chi Minh City 

Vietnam’s southern metropolis is brimming with momentum and creative energy, evident in its vibrant bar scene. Enjoy local ingredients, Vietnamese hospitality and stunning skyline views from rooftop bars such as Lost Birds , Twilight Sky Bar  and Chill Skybar .

4. Rev it up along the Ha Giang Loop 

For an adrenaline-fired road trip, rent a motorcycle or join a guided tour from Hanoi along the legendary Ha Giang Loop, an unforgettable 384km journey through northern Vietnam’s rugged mountains, cascading rice terraces and winding roads.

5. Manifest yourself in Ubud 

Unplug and immerse yourself in the soul-soothing jungles of Bali’s spiritual epicentre, Ubud, where wellness retreats and farm-to-table dining await. Reconnect with your inner self and nourish your mind, body and spirit with traditional therapies designed to leave you feeling renewed.

6. Eat your way through Penang’s George Town 

If Penang is Malaysia’s ultimate food paradise, then George Town is its culinary capital. From bustling streetside stalls and hidden gems to fine dining, taste the island’s vibrant gastronomic mix of Malaysian, Chinese, Peranakan and Indian flavours.

7. Admire the pink mosque at Putrajaya 

Just a short trip from Kuala Lumpur is the botanical city Putrajaya, famously known for its majestic Masjid Putra. Fondly nicknamed the Pink Mosque, thanks to its striking rose‑tinted granite dome, it remains a central symbol of Malaysia’s Islamic heritage.

8. Wander Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown 

Beneath glitzy Merdeka Square lies a cultural enclave alive with history, street food and architectural charm. The Chinatown market offers travellers a glimpse of the city’s past while soaking its vibrant present. Explore Petaling Street and Kwai Chai Hong, then head to Jalan Alor for delicious street eats.

9. Trace the spice trade route in Malacca 

A breezy day trip from Kuala Lumpur brings you to Malacca, once a thriving port on the spice trade route. Wander its quaint riverside streets to experience a mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British legacies. As dusk falls, cruise along the Malacca River and dine waterside, or graze through Jonker Street Night Market.

10. Discover Sri Lanka’s wild side

While Colombo’s cocktail scene buzzes, a more serene side of Sri Lanka is waiting to be discovered via wildlife safaris. Encounter leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and more than 200 bird species at Yala  and Kumana  national parks, then unwind at a beach club along Arugam Bay.

11. Swim with millions of sardines in Moalboal 

Dive into the deep blue off Cebu’s coast and join the shimmering schools of sardines in the Moalboal sardine run – a year‑round spectacle offering an unforgettable blend of awe, adrenaline and the natural beauty of the Philippines’ marine life.

12. Take a deep dive in Coron

Punctuated by turquoise lagoons, mysterious World War Two-shipwrecks and the tranquil beauty of Kayangan Lake, the Philippine island of Coron is a sanctuary for history buffs and adventurous souls. It’s an easy gateway to the idyllic Palawan province from Manila.

13. Chase the swell in Siargao  

Trade the Maldives for Siargao, a hidden gem off the coast of Mindanao, and just a short hop from Cebu. Sometimes called the “Hawaii of the Philippines”, this humble island offers world-class surfing, lush natural landscapes, beginner-friendly waves and lively bars and restaurants.  

14.  Savour Singapore’s diverse hawker culture 

A melting pot of cultures and cuisines, hawker centres embody the Lion City’s cosmopolitan heritage and deep community ties. Standouts include Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre, Hill Street Fried Kway Teow in Bedok South Road, and the legendary 328 Katong Laksa on East Coast Road.

15. Plan a family day out at Singapore’s Sentosa

Few places scream fun like Sentosa – home to family favourites like Universal Studios and newcomers such as the Singapore Oceanarium. From the thrills of the Skyline Luge, to beachside shopping and dazzling evening light shows, there’s fun for all ages at this multi-generational island escape. 

16. Wander Bangkok’s hippest neighbourhood 

In the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown, the historic Talad Noi brims with hidden gems, from cosy eateries and antique galleries. Stroll through the Thai capital’s oldest neighbourhood to discover vibrant street art, hidden alleys and riverside cafés. Then, set out on a food crawl through Yaowarat Chinatown.

17. Eat, shop and sip your way through Bangkok after dark 

As the sun sets in Bangkok, the city bursts with energy. Chase skyline views and rooftop bars through Sukhumvit, Khao San Road and Thonglor, or dive right into buzzing night markets. Where there’s a honk of a tuk tuk and a neon light, you’ll find street food, live music and late-night shopping nearby. 

18. Celebrate Songkran in Chiang Mai  

Water fights, youthful cheers and enduring tradition – Songkran is a celebration like no other. Although it’s celebrated across Thailand, Chiang Mai is arguably the most memorable place to experience it. While temples offer blessings and rituals, the city’s ancient moat sets the stage for five unforgettable days where locals and visitors alike unite in laughter, gratitude, and an expression of Thai heart and hospitality.

19. Island hop in Phuket  

One of Thailand’s national treasures, Phang Nga Bay is a picture‑perfect stop on any island‑hopping adventure from Phuket. Think turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, white‑sand beaches and lush jungles – all crowned by the world‑famous Khao Phing Kan, or James Bond Island. 

20. Dive into Koh Samui’s vibrant marine life

Escape the party-going throngs of Phuket and head to tranquil Koh Samui. Stay amid nature in boutique hotels and snorkel around nearby Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao and the Ang Thong National Marine Park – renowned for its coral reefs, beautiful islands and turquoise lagoons.

21. Discover Jakarta’s hidden archipelago 

The Indonesian capital isn’t just an urban hub of culture, art and cuisine – it’s also a launchpad to island escapes along the Java coast. Cruise to the Thousand Islands, home to hundreds of tropical gems scattered across the Java Sea, where snorkelling, beachside relaxation and fresh seafood beckon. 

22. Hike Mount Bromo at sunrise 

Travel from Surabaya to the mountain village of Cemoro Lawan – a gateway to one of the region’s most active, but accessible, volcanoes. Start with a sunrise hike up King Kong Hill to see the light spill over Mount Bromo’s sweeping plains. Then, cross the Sea of Sand to trek to the crater rim, where ash and steam mix amid a surreal alien landscape. 

23. Capture the magic of golden hour at Angkor Wat 

Pack a camera and tick Cambodia’s national treasure off your bucket list: Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. Visit at dusk, when its blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture glows with sunset warmth. Stay longer and spend days exploring its stunning neighbours including Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei.

24. Be inspired by Phnom Penh’s spirit of rebirth 

Cambodia’s capital hums with creative energy and a spirit of reinvention. Along its leafy boulevards, ornate temples stand beside chic cafés, while vintage boutiques and contemporary art galleries showcase the city’s evolving character.

SOUTH ASIA 

25. Conquer the trail to Annapurna Base Camp 

Discover Nepal’s jaw-dropping landscapes on the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Unlike the formidable Everest ascent, this gentler journey wanders through lush forests, terraced rice fields and alpine meadows. You’ll also pass through the Gurung and Magar villages, where warm hospitality, traditional momos and hearty thakali meals make every stop unforgettable.

26. Awaken a better you in a Buddhist retreat 

Colombo could be the gateway to a wellness escape you never knew you needed. Here, ancient mindfulness practices, meditation and healing are set against mesmerising landscapes. Whether you’re seeking inner peace or a spiritual reset, discover Sri Lanka’s rich culture and age-old philosophies.

27. Discover over 1,000 years of design in Delhi 

Delhi is a living museum– historic ruins, Mughal domes, European grandeur and modern design converge across more than a thousand years of artistic evolution. From the Unesco‑listed Humayun's Tomb to Kartavya Path’s verdant imperial gardens and the soaring 72‑metre Qutub Minar tower, the city invites curious travellers to unravel its layered history.

28. Marvel at the Taj Mahal 

Inarguably India’s most famous monument, the Taj Mahal is a timeless symbol of enduring love. This palatial mausoleum reveals exquisite Mughal artistry: Islamic‑inspired domes, symmetrical gardens and marble façades inlaid with semi‑precious stones. Time your visit for sunrise, sunset or even a full‑moon night to witness all its striking forms.

29. Shop at India’s “Pink City” bazaars 

Jaipur, the dazzling jewel of India’s Golden Triangle, is a salmon-hued fairy-tale sight steeped in history. Its vibrant bazaars and majestic palaces, including the City Palace and Hawa Mahal, stand as timeless symbols of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. 

30. Taste your way through Bengaluru’s bold bites 

Bengaluru is a city where bold, modern flavours meet timeless South Indian traditions. From creative twists on classics to comforting staples, and bustling markets overflowing with aromas that define the region’s cuisine, every bite pulls you deeper into the city’s culinary culture.

31. Unveil ancient secrets in Hampi 

A short hop from Bengaluru or Hyderabad, Hampi is the spellbinding home to a confluence of architectural styles and epic tales of conquest. Explore grand Unesco monuments and sacred temples, framed by boulder‑strewn landscapes, where every stone seems to whisper stories of a glorious past. 

32. Embark on a Tamil heritage trail 

Step into religious sites alive with Carnatic music, wander jasmine‑scented markets, and temple feasts rooted in centuries of tradition in India’s historic hub of Chennai. Discover the 3,000-year-old heart of Tamil culture, where food, art and devotion intertwine to express the vivid soul of South India.

33. Indulge in regional flavours in Mumbai  

Historically assembled across seven islands, modern Mumbai is the beating business heart of India’s global ascent. Yet the past is never far away. Stretching out from the historic Gateway to India, and unfolding along the 30km Coastal Road, the city’s vibrant markets and food stalls offer glimpses of the country’s layered heritage. 

34. Slow down in Goa  

Phuket isn’t the only coastal city that knows how to party. Just a short flight from Mumbai, Goa offers a laid‑back coastal vibe, informed by the Portuguese heritage which still shapes its vibrant culture. Expect Unesco‑listed landmarks, distinctive Goan flavours, imaginative cocktails and lively beats as you dance from one sun‑kissed beach to the next. 

35. Uncover Dhaka’s hidden heritage  

Venture beyond the bustle of South Asia’s megacities and discover the quieter treasures of Bangladesh’s capital city. Join street food tours savouring biryani and hilsa fish curries, wander bazaars brimming with textiles and spices, and explore Mughal‑era monuments.  

MIDDLE EAST  

36. Step ahead at the Museum of the Future 

Amid Dubai’s glitz and glamour, innovation shines across the metropolis, epitomised by the Museum of the Future , an architectural icon where imagination takes flight through a thrilling multi-sensory journey for all ages. From groundbreaking technologies to bold visions of tomorrow, every exhibit is designed to spark curiosity, creativity and wonder.

37. Explore golden sands and Arabian nights

The UAE is as much a playground for thrill‑seekers as it is for lovers of luxury. Beyond Dubai’s glittering skyline, the desert enchants with unforgettable experiences: buggy race across golden dunes, test your sandboarding skills, then ride a camel to an Arabian picnic beneath the night sky.

38. Master the art of bargaining in Riyadh’s spice markets 

Saudi Arabia’s traditional souk marketplaces are alive with colour, fragrance and historical charm. Amid stalls scented with cardamom, saffron and incense, test your haggling skills for take-home textiles and trinkets. Here, shopping isn’t just about the price – it’s a spirited exchange that connects you to the rhythm of everyday Saudi life. 

39. Appreciate art in the desert  

Saudi Arabia is far more than skyscrapers and luxury malls. Stories of days gone have been etched into sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans across AlUla’s vast desert landscapes. By contrast, the world’s largest mirrored building Maraya rises as a beacon of creativity.

EAST ASIA  

40. Pamper yourself round the clock in Hongdae  

From personalised colour analysis and rejuvenating spa treatments to expert skincare consultations, Seoul’s buzziest neighbourhood offers the chance to indulge in beauty, shopping and wellness. Naturally, the perfect “me day” wouldn’t be complete without a little retail therapy, and perhaps a stop at a cool café to refresh your socials and share your latest look.

41. Live out K-drama fantasies in a hanok

Explore time-worn lanes dressed in a flowing hanbok, then return to rest in a traditional hanok: soaking in the charm of tiled rooftops and wooden courtyards. In Seoul, one can simultaneously combine cultural heritage and connect with history, while creating memories straight out of your favourite TV drama.

42. Photograph Gamcheon’s colour-bomb landscape

Perched on Busan’s hillsides, Gamcheon Culture Village has evolved from a Korean War refuge into a kaleidoscope of art and culture. Nicknamed the “Machu Picchu of Busan” and “Korea’s Santorini”, this quaint hillside village unfolds as a picturesque canvas of pastel‑painted terraces, winding alleys and a vibrant mosaic of murals, galleries and cafés – offering a whimsical blend of history, creativity and charm. 

43. Explore the Forbidden City, Beijing 

Venture into Beijing’s majestic imperial palace – home to 24 Ming and Qing emperors. This complex was the reclusive heart of Chinese power for more than 500 years. Marvel at its red walls, grand halls, vast gardens and intricate courtyards, and immerse yourself in the opulent visions of historic rulers.

44. Spend the night in a yurt, Urumqi 

Soak in the vast, untouched beauty of the Urumqi region’s grasslands with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt. After a night of clear skies, you’ll wake up to crisp mountain air and panoramic views – a truly intimate way to connect to the landscape and the local nomadic life. 

45. Browse the Muslim Quarter, Xi’an 

At the heart of Xi’an’s Islamic heritage lies the Muslim Quarter. Wander through vibrant, historic streets filled with distinctive architecture and the aromas of halal street food. From the Great Mosque of Xi’an to the festive night market, the ancient city comes alive after sundown.

46. Turn back time in the former French Concession, Shanghai 

This historic district features elegant, tree-lined streets and well-preserved architecture. Discover countless independent boutiques, stylish cafés and restaurants nestled within old villas. Away from the city’s bustle, take a leisurely stroll along Anfu Road, Changle Road and Wukang Road.

47. Drift through the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan 

Known for its dramatic, towering sandstone pillars, this park offers panoramic natural vistas. Wander through an ethereal landscape that inspired the film Avatar, and ride a cable car to breathtaking observation points – including the famous glass skywalk. You can also hike several quieter trails. 

48. Savour Peking Duck, Beijing 

Feast on in the crispy skin and succulent meat of this iconic roasted duck, served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. The reasonably-priced Siji Minfu remains the most popular option in Beijing – just be prepared for long queues, especially during busy evening service.

49. Explore a gravity-defying skyline, Chongqing 

Nicknamed the “Mountain City”, Chongqing’s towering skyscrapers cling to steep hillsides, creating a multi-layered urban landscape that defies gravity. Witness this surreal panorama from the Yangtze River Cableway , or from illuminated high-rises like the Raffles City complex. 

50. Get close to the giant pandas, Chengdu 

Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding , a world-leading conservation facility 10km from the city centre. This spacious park allows for close observation of pandas of all ages. Pandas tend to be most playful in the mornings, so arrive early for the best experience. 

That’s just a taste. Check out our list of the 50 best experiences in the Chinese Mainland to discover even more amazing things to see, eat and explore. 

First video credit: Egar Anugrah/Getty Images