Sponsored content
Our world is big, beautiful, and exciting – largely because it’s made up of a fascinating tapestry of cultures. Culture is intrinsic to human existence and describes the shared beliefs, values, and
traditions each community lives by.
Travelling to places with cultures vastly different from our own can be hugely beneficial. Not only can it increase gratitude and offer new perspectives on the world, but it can also help us create rich, meaningful connections with a range of people.
With that said, if you’re a curious traveller who’s looking to unlock more of our incredible world, you might be wondering where to head next. To get you inspired, we’ve partnered with Exoticca – an affordable online tour operator with a passion for helping travellers worldwide achieve their dreams.
Exoticca’s in-house experts carefully craft extraordinary tour packages at never-before-seen prices, and thanks to their innovative technology and simple booking process, you can visit the farthest corners of the earth at the click of a button.
So, whether you want to enjoy mariachi music in Mexico, explore the dramatic peaks of Albania, or take a poignant excursion to Cambodia’s Killing Fields, here are 12 amazing countries for cultural discovery.
1. Cambodia
Known for its unbreakable spirit and infectious optimism, Cambodia’s tragic history is outshone by the warmth of its people. A trip to this beautiful country isn’t complete without a visit to the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh – where Marxist dictator Pol Pot executed over 1.5 million people under The Khmer Rouge regime. Though sobering, the fields are a testament to Cambodia’s strength and resilience.
The northern province of Siem Reap is also home to Angkor Wat, which, spread over 400 acres, is the largest religious monument on the planet. It symbolises the country’s shift from Hinduism to Buddhism in the 14th century, and its intricate carvings and sculptures narrate myths, epics, and daily life, offering insight into ancient Khmer culture.
-
Exoticca Southeast Asian Odyssey*
Halong Bay - Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - Bangkok - Angkor Wat - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
60% off | Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia | 19 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - Bangkok - Phuket - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
40% off | Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia | 23 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Hong Kong - Halong Bay - Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh - Angkor Wat - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap
30% off | Vietnam, Cambodia & Hong Kong | 20 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
2. Peru
The South American country of Peru has been home to several ancient civilizations, including the Incas, who are still deeply rooted in its culture today. Set high in the Andes Mountains, the mysterious and imposing Incan citadel, Machu Picchu, is visited by millions every year, but there’s so much more to uncover too.
For example, indigenous communities can be found here, such as the Uros people who live on floating grass islands on the western side of Lake Titicaca. Plus, over 70% of the world’s alpacas live in Peru and you can interact with them on the strikingly beautiful Rainbow Mountain – and learn about the lives of the mountain’s native people.
-
Galapagos Islands - Guayaquil - Quito - San Cristobal Island - Buenos Aires - Iguazu Falls - Rio de Janeiro - Cusco - Lima - Machu Picchu
30% off | Argentina, Brazil, Peru & 1 more | 23 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Aguas Calientes - Cusco - Lima - Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley
45% off | Peru | 12 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Family: Lima, Machu Picchu & Cuzco*
Aguas Calientes - Cusco - Lima - Machu Picchu - Sacred Valley
30% off | Peru | 10 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
3. Albania
While Albania has seen an influx of tourism in recent years, its rural culture remains strong, with many locals living off agricultural work. Albania is also a land of amazing beaches, idyllic villages, jaw-dropping views of the Alps, and incredible historical sites, such as remains from the Ottoman Empire.
This Southern European country has plenty of hidden gems too. For example, the mysterious ‘Blue Eye’ is a dazzling blue water spring with an unknown depth – while, in the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokaster, stone houses resemble small fortresses and cobblestone streets will lead you to the bazaar.
-
Lezhe - Shkodra - Tirana - Mostar - Sarajevo - Budva - Kotor - Podgorica - Ulcinj - Dubrovnik
60% off | Croatia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina & 1 more | 10 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Berat - Butrint - Durres - Elbasan - Gjirokastër - Korca - Kruja - Shkodra - Tirana - Vlora and 1 more
45% off | Albania | 10 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
4. China
With a history of over 3,000 years, China is one of the world’s four oldest civilisations, offering a huge range of fascinating sights and experiences. It’s the home of Kung Fu and Tai Chi, legendary food, giant pandas, traditional teahouses, and fine silk. And that’s without mentioning the country’s iconic architectural wonders.
In the capital, Beijing, you can visit the Great Wall of China, which is so unimaginably long that it can be seen from space. Meanwhile, the northwestern city of Xi’an is known for its Terracotta Warriors Museum where Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, was buried alongside 8,000 sculpted figures, and you can see this haunting, once-in-a-lifetime sight for yourself.
-
Exoticca Cultural treasures & Yangtze cruise*
Beijing - Chongqing - Shanghai - Three Gorges Dam - Xi'an - Yangtze river
35% off | China | 17 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Hong Kong and Continental China*
Hong Kong - Beijing - Shanghai - Xi'an
30% off | China & Hong Kong | 14 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Great Wall, Warriors & Shanghai*
Beijing - Shanghai - Xi'an
45% off | China | 11 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
5. Portugal
As the oldest country in Europe, Portugal is packed with history and culture, and can be reached in as little as two hours and 40 minutes from the UK. From the lively neighbourhoods of Lisbon to the fairy tale castles of Sintra, and the holy city of Fatmina, Portugal is brimming with artistic beauty and heartfelt traditions, many of which are tied to religious festivals and events.
Art, culture, and history lovers will be in their element as there’s no shortage of outstanding Catholic churches, art galleries, museums, palaces, and monuments to explore here. This includes Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Quinta da Regaleira Gardens and Palace. And you can look forward to enjoying spicy piri piri chicken, gooey Portuguese tarts, and rich port wine!
-
Albufeira - Algarve - Lisbon
30% off | Portugal | 9 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Lisbon - Tavira - Córdoba - Madrid - Seville
30% off | Spain & Portugal | 8 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Douro Valley - Lisbon - Nazarè - Pinhão - Porto - Régua - Tomar
30% off | Portugal | 8 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
6. Guatemala
Guatemala, nestled in Central America, is a land of Mayan ruins, vibrant festivals, majestic volcanoes, and the glistening waters of Lake Atitlán. So, it’s the ideal destination for those looking to combine dramatic landscapes with vibrant culture and rich history.
Strong Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean influences are seen in the languages and lifestyles of its people. Enjoy reggae music and tasty coconut bread in the ramshackle town of Livingstone in the east; and explore quaint Mayan villages, colourful colonial streets, and quirky street markets in the southern city of Antigua. Here, you can also pop into a language school to practise your Spanish!
-
Roatán - Antigua Guatemala - Chichicastenango - Panajachel
30% off | Honduras & Guatemala | 11 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca From Tikal to the real Isla Bonita*
Belize city - Antigua Guatemala - Chichicastenango - Flores - Panajachel - Tikal
55% off | Belize & Guatemala | 13 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Antigua Guatemala - Chichicastenango - Flores - Panajachel - Tikal
35% off | Guatemala | 11 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
7. Japan
Striking, magical, and awe-inspiring, Japan is a place where roots and tradition meet modern innovation. From its captivating Geisha performances, beautiful cherry blossoms, and intricate calligraphy to its quirky anime, futuristic robots, and video game culture, this is a land of fascinating contrasts.
Tokyo, the capital, is famous for its fast-paced lifestyle and cutting-edge fashion and technology; and Kyoto’s serene temples and tea ceremonies embody Japan’s traditional essence. Meanwhile, Osaka is known as the ‘Nation’s Kitchen’ because of its great food – and for something really special, you can spend a night dining with monks in a Buddhist temple!
-
Kanazawa - Kyoto - Osaka - Shirakawa-go - Tokyo
30% off | Japan | 11 days | Accommodation & Flights Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
30% off | Japan & South Korea | 16 days | Accommodation & Flights Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Kyoto - Osaka - Tokyo
30% off | Japan | 13 days | Accommodation & Flights Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
8. Nepal
With over 140 ethnic groups, each with its own unique language, beliefs, art, and festivals, Nepal (which lies between China and India) is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. It’s also thought to be where Lord Buddha was born in 623 BC, so Nepal has many spectacular Buddhist monasteries which house hundreds of monks.
In Kathmandu – the medieval capital – you can explore bustling bazaars and visit ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples, like Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath. You can also mix with the Newar people who occupy more than 50% of Kathmandu Valley’s population and are the creators of this captivating region’s historic heritage.
-
Kathmandu - Patan - Paro - Punakha - Thimphu - Tiger's Nest
30% off | Bhutan & Nepal | 12 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca From the Taj Mahal to the Himalayas*
Chitwan - Kathmandu - Patan - Pokhara - Agra - Delhi - Jaipur
30% off | India & Nepal | 17 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Chitwan - Everest - Kathmandu - Patan - Pokhara
30% off | Nepal | 12 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
9. Turkey
Because Turkey sits between East and West, it has a unique blend of cultures and traditions. In Istanbul – the former capital – you can enjoy exotic aromas at the Spice Bazaar, admire old Sultan palaces, and visit the iconic Blue Mosque. And, in historic Cappadocia, you can marvel at honeycombed hills and ‘fairy chimneys’ as you drift across the sky in a hot air balloon!
Antalya, perched prettily on the south coast, may be home to powdery white sands and glittering turquoise seas – but it also boasts a fascinating culture influenced by its history as a Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman city. You can stroll through Hadrian’s Gate, a monumental ancient wonder; tuck into popular piyaz (bean salad with tahini); and witness the enchanting beauty of traditional music and dance performances.
-
Ankara - Çanakkale - Cappadocia - Istanbul - Pamukkale - Troy - Chamarel - Curepipe - Grand Bassin Crater - Plaine Champagne
30% off | Turkey & Mauritius | 16 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Anatolia, Ankara & Greek Odyssey*
Acropolis of Athens - Meteora - Paros - Santorini - Ankara - Cappadocia - Istanbul
30% off | Greece & Turkey | 17 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Treasures of Anatolia*
Ankara - Çanakkale - Cappadocia - Ephesus - Istanbul - Izmir - Pamukkale - Troy
60% off | Turkey | 11 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
10. Morocco
At the crossroads of Africa and Europe, Morocco offers a mesmerising blend of cultures. Its markets – or souks – are an explosion of colour, showcasing unique, handmade crafts. And its diverse landscapes include bustling cities, like Marrakech, and breathtaking natural landscapes, like the Sahara Desert.
Morocco is also known for its rich Islamic heritage, aromatic cuisine, warm hospitality, and its Berber people, whose culture dates back 4,000 years. In Midelt, between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas mountain ranges, you can stay in a typical Berber Jaima Camp and learn more about nomadic Berber life.
-
Ait Ben Haddou - Casablanca - Chefchaouen - Dadès Gorges - Essaouira - Fes - Marrakech - Merzouga - Ouarzazate - Rabat
30% off | Morocco | 11 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Medinas, Souks & Imperial Cities *
Casablanca - Fes - Marrakech - Rabat
35% off | Morocco | 8 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Ait Ben Haddou - Casablanca - Dadès Gorges - Dadès Valley - Fes - Marrakech - Ouarzazate - Rabat - Barcelona - Madrid
30% off | Spain & Morocco | 15 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
11. Ethiopia
Ethiopia is nicknamed the ‘land of 13 months of sunshine’ and is one of the oldest countries in the world. From its unique alphabet, delicious injera flatbreads, and iconic rock-hewn churches, to its ekista shoulder dance and colourful festivals – culture is around every corner.
In the small town of Konso, you can meet the indigenous people known for their complex agricultural systems and carved wooden totems (waga), built to honour the dead. And in Mago National Park, you’ll find the remarkable Mursi tribe who are famous for their distinctive lip plates, piercings, and face paintings.
-
Addis Ababa - Arba Minch - Bahir Dar - Gondar - Jinka - Lalibela - Turmi
30% off | Ethiopia | 13 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
12. Mexico
Mexico is a colourful, passionate country, influenced by Spanish customs and ancient civilisations, such as the Aztecs and Mayans. It’s celebrated for its mariachi bands, intricate folk art, strong community ties, and tantalising cuisine. A must-try is the street food, elote, which is grilled corn on the cob smothered in creamy mayo, topped with chilli, cheese, and lime!
Mexico is also home to the world-famous town of Tequila where one of the world’s most popular spirits was born. A trip to the distillery will show you how the blue agave plant is used to produce it. And, if you’re into history, check out the legendary Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City or admire the stunning colonial-era architecture in Guadalajara.
-
Agua Azul Waterfalls - Campeche - Chichen Itza - Merida - Palenque - Riviera Maya - San Cristóbal de las Casas - Sumidero Canyon
30% off | Mexico | 12 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Chichen Itza - Merida - Mexico City - Riviera Maya
30% off | Mexico | 10 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
-
Exoticca Family: Mexico City & beach relax *
Mexico City - Riviera Maya - Xel-Há - Xochimilco
30% off | Mexico | 10 days | Accommodation, Flights & Transfers Included
Christmas Outlet Sale: Get up to 60% off
Final thoughts…
The diverse cultures of our world are what makes it so interesting – and learning about them can help us to celebrate our differences, understand others better, and see life in a completely different light.
We hope that you’ve been inspired by some of the places in this article. You might also want to check out our list of 10 of the most colourful travel destinations in the world. And to browse holiday deals and find your next getaway, head over to the Exoticca website.
Are you thinking about heading to any of the destinations on this list? Or have you been to one or more of these places before? We’d love to hear about your travel experiences in the comments below.