Indonesia has been recognized as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, landing at number 8 on CN Traveler prestigious list of the 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World 2025. Known as one of the crown jewels of Southeast Asia, Indonesia is celebrated for its incredible natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
The famous island of Bali is a key highlight, often seen as a spiritual haven with its sun-kissed beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant temples. While Bali is a popular tourist destination and can be crowded, there are still peaceful retreats to discover, particularly in the central region of Tabanan. This area offers UNESCO-protected waterfalls, butterfly gardens, and sprawling rice terraces, perfect for those seeking tranquillity.
Indonesia’s beauty extends far beyond Bali. The Raja Ampat Islands, located off the coast of West Papua, are a diver’s dream. The islands boast crystal-clear blue waters and some of the most diverse coral reefs in the world, making it a top destination for underwater enthusiasts.
The 40 Most Beautiful Countries in the World
CN Traveler annual list highlights destinations based on their unique beauty, catering to all types of travellers—whether you’re drawn to culinary adventures, architectural wonders, or natural landscapes. As they put it:
“As the old saying goes, there’s a lot to be fascinated by, depending on your point of view. That’s why we revisit this list every year to highlight some new favourites and blow the dust off timeless classics.”
Here are the CN Traveler 40 most beautiful countries in the world for 2025:
- Australia
- Mexico
- Brazil
- United States
- China
- India
- Canada
- Indonesia
- France
- Colombia
- Spain
- Japan
- South Africa
- Thailand
- Italy
- Tanzania
- Peru
- Argentina
- Venezuela
- Ecuador
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Costa Rica
- Vietnam
- Panama
- Kenya
- New Zealand
- Bolivia
- United Kingdom
- Croatia
- Iceland
- Portugal
- Chile
- Namibia
- Greece
- Sri Lanka
- Norway
- Turkey
- Nepal
- Switzerland
Whether you’re admiring man-made wonders, exploring diverse ecosystems, or relaxing by crystal-clear waters, there’s something special about each of these breathtaking countries.
Top Tourist Destinations in Indonesia to Visit at Least Once in a Lifetime
According to National Geographic, Indonesia is home to some of the most incredible tourist destinations in the world. Here are five places you should experience at least once in your lifetime:
1. Bali
Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is a favourite among international tourists. Its unique beaches, temples, and cultural arts make it an endlessly fascinating destination, offering stunning natural landscapes and a vibrant nightlife.
2. Raja Ampat
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Located in West Papua, Raja Ampat is a true underwater paradise, celebrated for its rich biodiversity. Its stunning coral reefs make it one of the world’s top diving spots. In addition to snorkelling and diving, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the small, scattered islands that make this area both unique and exotic.
3. Yogyakarta
A cultural city steeped in history, Yogyakarta is home to UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan temples. The city is a hub of Javanese arts and traditions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking educational and cultural experiences.
4. Komodo
Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara is the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard species in the world. Visitors can witness these extraordinary creatures up close and enjoy the stunning beaches, including the rare pink sand beach, found in the area.
5. Lake Toba
As the world’s largest volcanic lake, Lake Toba in North Sumatra offers breathtaking natural beauty. In the centre of the lake lies Samosir Island, which is rich in Batak culture, making it a perfect spot for both nature lovers and those interested in local traditions.
Cover: Photo by Lalu Fatoni/Pexels
