Every Country I Visited In 2023 RANKED
Hey there! 2023 was a wild ride filled with unexpected stops, a sprinkle of familiar places, and a whole lot of wanderlust.
As I waved goodbye to 2022, my country count was a solid 19. Fast forward to the end of 2023, and bam, we’re looking at a whopping 32! Yup, I did some serious globe-trotting, leaving footprints all over planet Earth.
Just to clarify, I don’t count countries where I’ve only set foot in the airport. I need to actually explore the place to make it onto my list. And, of course, the UK gets the VIP treatment – I break it down into Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, and Wales. Because, let’s face it, they’re their own little countries.
Shoutout to my two-month Interrail adventure across Europe – a major contributor to my travel stats. While 2024 might not be as crazy numbers-wise, you can bet I’m grabbing every chance to soak in the beauty of this planet whenever the opportunity arises.
However, let’s reflect for a moment before 2023’s adventures are merely a distant memory. The framework of my ranking system is shaped by the profound impact each country had on my life. Those that illuminated my journey with novel and transformative experiences, hold higher positions in my ranking. Conversely, a lower rank doesn’t signify disdain for the country – far from it actually. Every destination I explored last year fueled my unwavering passion for travel. It’s merely a matter of varying emotional connections; certain places resonated with me more deeply than others.
So, with that being said, let’s begin the ranking:
15. Monaco
Monaco, the world’s second smallest country after the Vatican City, holds the title of being the most densely populated. It’s a petite 0.78 square miles, making it a pint-sized powerhouse.
Now, I must admit, it feels a bit awkward slotting Monaco as my least favourite. After all, size isn’t everything, and judging it purely on that parameter doesn’t seem fair. On the bright side, its compact size is a traveller’s dream, and I navigated its sights effortlessly during a brief stopover from France to Italy during my Interrailing heyday.
Monaco exudes the charm of the French Riviera with its stunning ocean views and vibrant architecture, but there’s a catch – it comes with a price tag. This principality stands as one of the wealthiest in the world and hosts the prestigious F1 Grand Prix. Picture this: locals casually cruising in their Ferraris for their weekly grocery run. Witnessing such extravagance was a unique experience that added a touch of glamour to my journey.
Despite its allure, Monaco landed at the bottom of my list. It’s an epic destination that I wouldn’t mind revisiting, but the brief visit and the escalating prices earned it the 15th spot. Who knows, maybe a return trip could see it climbing the ranks?
14. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is the 6th smallest country globally, and no, before you comment “Lewis has a problem with small countries”, I don’t. I seem to have a problem with time spent per country though when it comes to ranking my favourites.
My journey through Liechtenstein was a spontaneous decision. After wrapping up my ride on the Bernina Express in Chur, Switzerland, I figured, “Why not take a short train journey to the border town of Sargans and hop on a bus to Vaduz?” Little did I know that I’d end up extending my stay until the last bus – talk about cutting it close.
Liechtenstein’s landscape boasts those extravagant rolling alpine hills, reminiscent of the scenic beauty found in Switzerland and Austria. The country, with its unique culture and monarchy, offered a captivating glimpse into its heritage.
Now, here’s the lowdown on why it didn’t rank higher on my list. Vaduz, the capital, didn’t quite leave a lasting impression. Its charming old town, or should I say street (it was that small), left me wanting for more. To add to that, Vaduz Castle, the country’s landmark, was draped in construction – a recurring theme during my European trip. While construction is part and parcel of travel, it stings a bit when it overshadows the few key sights around. However, Liechtenstein’s countryside views managed to salvage its ranking and secure the 14th position.
Turning away from Vaduz, I sought solace in the nearby town of Balzers, where I caught a breathtaking sunset at Gutenberg Castle. Sometimes, it’s the quieter, less-known towns that resonate the most with us.
13. The Netherlands
The Netherlands, a country of stunning beauty with its charming architecture, tranquil canals, and the iconic windmills that paint the towns with a picturesque touch. I fell head over heels for both Amsterdam and its sister city, Rotterdam. Despite being a mere hour apart, they exuded distinct vibes – Rotterdam with its hipster design and Amsterdam sticking true to its roots. It’s like going from the touristy allure of Edinburgh to the industrial charm of Glasgow; both appealing but in vastly different ways.
However, you might be wondering why The Netherlands finds itself on the lower end of my ranking. It’s essential to clarify; it has nothing to do with this delightful country but everything to do with the others on this list. The other 12 countries I ventured into in 2023 either left me in awe or simply granted me more time to delve into a more immersive experience.
Fortunately, The Netherlands is just a short flight away from Scotland, ensuring that I’ll soon find myself amidst the tulip fields once again. Sometimes, it’s not about the destination; it’s about the unique adventures each place brings.
12. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is the smallest country that isn’t a European microstate or an island. Despite its size, it boasts lush landscapes and vibrant greenery that pack quite a punch.
The capital, Luxembourg, may be compact, but it offers a delightful stroll. Its unique split infrastructure into a top and bottom half adds to the charm, reflecting the blend of cultures influenced by its neighbours – France, Belgium, and Germany.
A significant plus for Luxembourg is its commitment to sustainable travel – all public transport is entirely free. They didn’t have to twist my arm; I hopped on buses and trains to discover the hidden gem, Chateau de Turellbaach. Luxembourg proudly holds the title of the most castle-covered country globally, and I opted for one of its underrated castles, granting me a day immersed in nature and sunshine.
My qualms about Luxembourg stem from a timing issue yet again. If only I had explored more of this petite country, it might have clinched a higher spot on my list. While there, I found myself yearning to slow down, hop around every landmark, castle, and hidden gem. It’s just a matter of time before I return for a more leisurely exploration!
11. Germany
Germany, with its blend of beautiful countryside, delectable cuisine, bustling cities, friendly locals, and rich history, truly offers a bit of everything. Last year, I crisscrossed the country, making stops in towns like Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Cologne, Hamburg, and Berlin. I found myself captivated by the enchanting Hohenzollern Castle and wandered through old towns straight out of a Brothers Grimm novel – it was like stepping into a fairytale.
While Germany checks off many boxes and is undeniably praiseworthy, I have to admit that the towns I visited didn’t quite leave me in awe compared to some others from my 2023 travels. They were all lovely in their own right, but none had me contemplating cancelling my train ticket to set up permanent residence. Hamburg came close; its charm made me wish for a lengthier stay.
Now, it’s essential to note that my lukewarm response could be attributed to Germany entering my Interrailing adventures relatively late in the game. By that point, I had explored many cities with similar vibes, and Germany just didn’t offer a fresh perspective at that moment. Perhaps on a trip solely dedicated to Deutschland, I might fall head over heels.
The story continues as I’m set to return to Germany in two weeks, this time venturing to Munich for the first time. Additionally, a single rainy day in Berlin wasn’t enough to truly savour the capital, making it the first place I’ve rebooked to visit this year. Could these upcoming experiences lead to Germany climbing the ranks by the end of 2024? Only time will tell.
10. France
This time last year, France was uncharted territory for me. Fast forward, and I’ve travelled across 10 towns, crafting a tapestry of memories that now define my French escapade.
France, with its architectural grandeur, culinary excellence, and the unmistakable pride exuded by its people, is a spectacle of majesty. However, unlike Germany, I found that France exhibits a more diverse regional variation, shaped by its proximity to neighbouring cultures and nationalities. The French Riviera, with its Mediterranean allure, shares roots with Spain and Italy. The Brittany region, on the other hand, feels homely, and in Strasbourg, a taste of Bavarian architecture peeks through, a testament to the historical ebb and flow in that part of France. And then there’s Paris – a country in its own right, with a unique culture and architectural style.
Mont St. Michel stands out as a singular marvel, leaving an indelible mark on my journey. Pair that with other landmarks like the Palace of Versailles and Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg, and you get a glimpse into France’s unyielding passion for elegance.
However, the reason France secures the 10th spot is that, despite the cool sights and lovely cities, it didn’t leave me yearning for more. While the countries ranking above it beckon me back eagerly, France needs a bit of a resting period before I dive into another round of “Bonjour.” The adventure doesn’t end here, and France, with all its charm, will always hold a special place in my travel tale.
9. Belgium
Belgium, a country that seems to shift in ambience on either side of the border, left an indelible mark on my travels. From the vibrant streets of Brussels to the enchanting cities of Ghent and Bruges, each corner held its own allure.
Brussels, while boasting a town square to die for with buildings that seemed to bleed gold, presented a bit of a rough side, especially in comparison to other cities. A word of advice: keep your guard up here. The stark contrast between the opulence and the less affluent areas may be why Belgium finds itself in the 9th spot on my list.
Bruges and Ghent, however, felt like authentic Belgium. Speaking in Flanders rather than French, these cities unfolded their beautiful culture through winding canals and charming cobbled streets. Each stroll through these picturesque locales felt like a step back in time, especially in the warm June weather.
And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance—waffles. If I were ranking Belgium based solely on this delectable dessert, it would undoubtedly claim the top spot. I’m pretty sure I indulged in one every single day!
8. The United States of America
2023 marked my third trip to the States, shifting from the Florida visits in 2016 and 2018. This time, I aimed to see more, starting with the iconic New York City and the historically rich Philadelphia.
NYC felt like a live movie set. The familiar landmarks from countless films and TV shows came to life as I wandered through the Concrete Jungle. Even though I had virtually toured this city through media, standing on the skyscrapers scattered across Manhattan was a surreal “pinch me” moment. Catching ‘Some Like It Hot’ on Broadway added an extra layer of delight, especially for a former theatre student like myself.
Then came Philly, bringing the unexpected charm of an American town. It might sound odd, but I had always dreamt of strolling around a random American town, away from the bustling metropolitans. Experiencing the wholesome day out, visiting landmarks like the Liberty Bell, allowed me to truly encapsulate the essence of old America.
However, every journey has its challenges. Unfortunately, I fell unexpectedly ill during this trip, casting a shadow on my experience. Whether it was the food, a passing sickness, or altitude-related, remains a mystery. Nevertheless, it underscores the notion that personal experiences and moments shape our perception of a place. Even the most mundane location can become a cherished memory with the right company and a bit of fun.
Despite the unexpected turn, I’m already planning to return to the USA soon, eager to rewrite those less-than-ideal moments and hopefully elevate its ranking in my future lists.
7. Austria
This grand destination in Europe is a must for any aspiring interrailer, offering unreal train views that keep you glued to the window throughout the journey.
During my short stay in Austria, I delved into the glory of Vienna for a few days and made a brief stop in the alpine town of Villach. Vienna lived up to its reputation, with bold and larger-than-life structures turning every street corner into a “wow” moment.
However, perhaps my expectations were set sky-high, especially since I had placed Vienna at the pinnacle of places I was most excited to visit. While Vienna didn’t disappoint, other cities like Prague left a more lasting impression.
It’s essential to note that this isn’t a fault of Vienna; it’s just that the tales of its marvels had built up such a dream in my mind that reality, though impressive, couldn’t quite surpass it. Nevertheless, Vienna holds a special place, and I eagerly anticipate returning at any opportune moment.
Villach, on the other hand, was a delightful surprise—a cute town on the Slovenian border, boasting an adorable pink cathedral. It’s a perfect example of how interrailing adventures lead you to unexpected gems that may not have been on your radar otherwise.
Much like Germany, I’m set to return to Austria this year. After Munich, my journey takes me to the enchanting cities of Salzburg and Hallstatt. These places have captivated me through the lens of Instagram’s explore page for a while, and I can hardly wait to experience their beauty firsthand.
6. Denmark
Last October, I embarked on a fitting 5-day exploration of Copenhagen and bits and pieces of Zealand, solidifying Denmark’s perfect spot at number six.
Firstly, Copenhagen is a joy to explore. It is easily walkable and the streets are so varied and colourful leaving every new street a mystery. Plus, the lively atmosphere, with bars and restaurants, kept the hygge spirit alive—a true embodiment of comfort and cosiness.
Venturing into the countryside, I found a landscape steeped in greenery and sustainability. Yes, it’s flat, but coming from a country renowned for its mountains, the ability to see from one side of the island to the other was oddly satisfying.
While exploring Zealand, I delved into Hamlet’s home at Kronborg Castle and the marvel that is Frederiksborg Castle. Both destinations crafted an epic day out, enriched by the warmth of Danish friendliness.
The only hiccup in Denmark’s charm was the steep prices, making it a bit challenging to travel freely compared to other European countries. Nevertheless, the love for Denmark prevails, and the experience has sparked a desire to explore more Scandinavian countries at the earliest opportunity.
5. Italy
Italy ticks off my top 5 and this is because I fall in love with this country more and more as each year passes.
In 2017, my first European city break to Milan and Venice ignited my passion for travel. The enchanting Amalfi Coast later that year only deepened my connection. Over the following years, I revisited Milan, explored Lake Como, ventured to Sicily, and wandered through Naples, ensuring that Italy was a constant on my travel checklist.
Fast forward to 2023, and a new set of Italian cities beckoned me – Turin, Tirano, Venice, Padua, Florence, and Pisa. Surprisingly, I am yet to set foot in Rome…
My first journey to the Tuscany region, especially Florence, was a captivating experience. Italy, with its historic streets, scenic landscapes, and rich culture, has woven itself into the fabric of my travel memories. Our strange and beautiful relationship means that it won’t be long before I find myself back on Skyscanner, planning the next adventure to the boot of Europe. Italy, with its timeless charm, has truly become a perennial love in my travel story.
4. Czech Republic
Remember earlier when I mentioned how much Prague left a lasting impression on me? It was clearly one of the most remarkable places I have visited, I had to place the Czech Republic at #4 on the beauty that this treasured city holds alone.
As I journeyed into Czechia, the glamour of the countryside unfolded alongside the River Elbe, tracing our route from Berlin to the capital city of Prague.
Prague itself was like opening a pop-up book, but in this case, the pop-up book was the size of a full-scale city. Stunning cathedrals, an incredible river embracing the city, and medieval stories woven into the cobbled streets made it a fairytale destination. The fact that it was fairly affordable only added to the delightful impression.
There’s not much more to say except that I’m eager to return and explore this enchanting city even further. The charm of Prague has inspired me to discover more of Czechia, including the absolutely photogenic town of Cesky Krumlov. Just Google it, and you’ll find yourself tempted to book a trip to the Czech Republic immediately!
3. Slovenia
Slovenia was the most underrated country I visited last year and that is why it holds the title of 3rd place in my ranking.
I didn’t expect much going into Slovenia apart from there was an instagrammable Lake that I was desperate to visit and as much as Lake Bled is so elusive, Slovenia is much more than “just a lake”.
My entry into Slovenia began with the capital city, Ljubljana, surprising me with its quaint streets and lively atmosphere. The joyous sight of people dancing on the streets to traditional music marked my initial impression. The views from Ljubljana Castle, showcasing the Alps, were unexpectedly captivating – overlooking this minuscule country, a hidden gem among its larger Swiss, Austrian, and French counterparts.
And then there’s Lake Bled, a wonder in all its glory. A day by the lake unfolds with various water activities, scenic walks, and moments of relaxation. Renting a rowing boat to reach the monastery in the middle of the lake was a magical experience, offering a unique perspective of this picturesque location. Lake Bled lived up to all expectations, proving as enchanting as portrayed on social media.
Slovenia, with its unspoiled beauty, is poised to become a big deal in the coming years as more people take notice of its allure. However, with recognition comes an influx of tourists and rising prices. My advice: seize the opportunity to enjoy this hidden gem now, while it remains off the beaten path from the regularly explored European destinations. Slovenia, with its scenic landscapes and vibrant culture, truly deserves its place among the top travel experiences
2. India
My last trip of 2023 was an unforgettable one.
India wasn’t just a country to check off; it was an immersive experience etched into the fabric of my memories. Even as I write this, my mind takes flight to the vibrant tuk-tuks darting past, the spices that tingled my sinuses, and the awe that enveloped me during my time in this incredible nation.
My exploration of the Golden Triangle unveiled the overwhelming capital, Delhi, the undeniably epic Agra, and the illustrious Jaipur. I also got to see my first freakin’ wonder of the world in the Taj Mahal. A very fitting description for somewhere so magnificent. Although, not every sight was conventionally pretty, but that’s the essence of travel – every experience, whether visually stunning or not, contributes to shaping one’s perspective on the world.
Travelling through a country with a population of 1.4 billion presented its challenges and fears, and navigating foreign ground was bound to be an adventure in itself. Opting for a tour group, I joined the Flying The Nest Expeditions, making over 20 new friends for life. This experience was a traveller’s dream, earning its place as the 2nd favourite country of my 2023 adventures.
And now, the suspense builds as we’re just one spot away from the top spot, revealing my favourite country of the year. Any guesses?
1. Switzerland
A huge thank you to everyone for reading this far, did you expect Switzerland to be my favourite country I visited in 2023? If not, then you should’ve because this tiny alpine country is a magical place to see on your next adventure.
Switzerland did come with a steep price tag, I was there for 2 weeks and often wonder how I managed to get around without going bust, but that is because there are lots of nature spots that keep you away from spending money. You can even be a cheapskate like me and hike the mountains instead of paying the hefty price for some funicular railways.
Beyond the financial aspect, Switzerland’s landscapes emerged as some of the most impressive I’ve ever witnessed. The rolling green hills, reminiscent of the first level of Sonic the Hedgehog, stretched for miles with a majestic mountain backdrop in every direction. The powerful waterfalls cascading down from the mountains added an element of awe and surrealism to the experience.
It wasn’t just the countryside that captivated me; the towns of Geneva, Zurich, Chur, Bern, and Interlaken each had their unique charm. The perfect blend of city and nature in these urban centres, with lakes and forests galore, showcased Switzerland’s ability to seamlessly integrate nature into its cityscapes.
Switzerland lived up to my expectations and some and as a result, it sits at the top of the mountain (pun very much intended) of this ranking.
Have you been to any of these countries? What would you rank your favourite? Let me know in the comments and follow me on Instagram to see photos of past and new adventures around this glorious planet!
Lost in Travel 