When it comes to new trends, social networks like Instagram, TikTok and Co. clearly hold the reins. And in Generation Z, travel has to look good above all else. That's why globetrotters have been swearing by "Travel Aesthetic" lately. Here we reveal what's behind it and which 10 destinations are absolutely Instagram-approved.

What's behind the new "Travel Aesthetic" trend

If you want to dream of faraway destinations and picturesque vacation backdrops, it's not unusual for you to start by browsing platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Accounts of travel influencers are, after all, predestined to expand one's own bucket list. The attempt to present the most beautiful corners of the world in a breathtaking way and to reflect the special vibe and look of a destination has given rise to the new trend "Travel Aesthetic". It is understood as a kind of online mood board that determines the latest Instagram hotspots. The following 10 destinations are the most common on social media.

10. spain

The massive cathedral in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia, is probably a familiar sight to everyone, but other regions in Spain can also score points according to social media. The Alhambra Palace in the picturesque city of Granada, the historical and cultural monuments in Seville, such as the Real Alcázar (known from Game of Thrones) and the huge entertainment complex "The City of Arts and Sciences" in Valencia.

The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona © Shutterstock

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9. england

The Kingdom of England also has a lot going for it, according to travel influencers. In particular, the capital London with the monumental London Bridge and the neoclassical palaces reflect the special royal vibe. The Royal Pavilion in Brighton, which you would hardly expect to find in England due to its oriental architecture, also fits this bill. Particularly popular are also the white cliffs of Dover, which seem mysterious and formidable.

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton © Shutterstock

8. china

For a trip to China you definitely need time. Because in the highest populated country in East Asia, there are endless must-see spots for explorers. The Great Wall of China, which winds its way through the countryside for some 5,000 kilometers, offers a number of photo spots where you can capture sweeping views. And the 50-square-mile Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with its expansive nature, tall quartz sandstone columns, mighty waterfalls and hidden caves, also invites visitors to marvel and take photos. By the way, the incredible force of nature of the park served as a template for the science fiction blockbuster Avatar.

The quartz sandstone columns in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park ©Shutterstock

7. mexico

Crystal-clear water, palm-fringed beaches, a spectacular variety of animals and ancient ruins - Mexico offers everything a traveler's heart desires. No. 1 on the Mexico bucket list should be the Yucatan Peninsula, which boasts magnificent waterfalls, the ruin site of Chichén Itzá and a paradise flair. The bright pink lakes of Las Coloradas could also be a highlight on your Instagram feed. If you're daring, you should visit the Punta Molas lighthouse. The deserted spot at the northernmost point of Cozumel is difficult to reach, but pays off with an incredible view.

Cenote on the Yucatan Peninsula © Shutterstock

6. brazil

If you like color, you should pay a visit to Brazil. Especially the Escadaria Selarón, a colorful staircase in Rio de Janeiro with 2000 colorful tiles, is considered the secret and most colorful landmark of the capital. Bookworms will be amazed by the "Biblioteca Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, a gigantic library. If you are more into nature, you will find the right environment in the low mountain range Chapada Diamantina. A popular motif is also legendary carnival, which begins annually on the Friday before Ash Wednesday - the perfect travel time for those into samba and all the hustle and bustle.

The Escadaria Selarón © Shutterstock

5. india

One of the most coveted jewels in India is without question the seventh wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal, which sparkles magnificently, especially in the sunlight. The City Palace, the Amber Palace and the Patrika Gate in Jaipur are similarly pompous and magical. These monuments are perfect for exotic Instagram snapshots. But India can also be maritime: The picturesque beaches in South Goa offer paradisiacal lagoons and trendy beach bars.

The majestic Taj Mahal © Shutterstock

4. italy

Pizza, pasta and palazsi! The advantages of the vacation staple Italy should be obvious. Charming coastal towns with small streets and Italian hospitality, historic cities like Rome and Venice with magnificent buildings and white sandy beaches with turquoise blue water invite you to relax and linger - and to take snapshots for the travel mood board.

Gelato is a must in Italy. © Shutterstock

3. france

The Eiffel Tower in Paris, the typical French landscapes with olive trees and cypresses, small cafés serving baguettes - these are just a few highlights that come to mind when you think of France. But the country in Europe also captivates with its sense of fashion, great art galleries and surfer beaches with meter-high waves and a vastness that is rarely seen. By the way, the beret as a fashion piece in the streets of the vibrant cities looks perfect on Instagram photos.

The picturesque landscape of Provence © Shutterstock

2. greece

The Greek island of Santorini, with its white, cube-shaped houses nestled up the slopes of the steep coast, is probably one of the most famous "Travel Aesthetic" motifs. But Greece can do even more: millennium-old cities with ancient remains, lush cliffs, crystal-clear waters and the country's typical cuisine are perfect for a diverse explorer's vacation. Don't forget your camera, there are many beautiful photo spots here.

The famous scenery of Santorini © Shutterstock

1. Japan

Pink blossoming cherry trees, snow-capped mountains, magnificent temples, vibrant cities - no other country is as diverse as Japan. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove with its meter-high bamboo columns can be found on many travel routes, and visitors compete for the perfect green photo. Things are completely different in Shibuya. Huge billboards adorn the city's skyscrapers, crowds of people stream across the intersections, and flashing lights are everywhere. Some respite from this hustle and bustle can be found on a trip to one of the many temples in the countryside.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove © Shutterstock