Travel photography 2019: Journey our world through pictures | CNN

Our favorite travel photos of 2019

By CNN staff
1 minute read
Updated 11:50 AM EDT, Mon October 28, 2019
<strong>Moscow, Russia:</strong> The Patriarch's Bridge, by the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, has been festooned with Christmas decorations.
Moscow, Russia: The Patriarch's Bridge, by the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, has been festooned with Christmas decorations.
Alexander Zemlianichenko/AP
<strong>Tokyo, Japan: </strong>Avant-garde artist Hiroaki Umeda's interactive art installation, "Kinesis #3 -- Dissolving Field," is on display at the NTT Intercommunication Center.
Tokyo, Japan: Avant-garde artist Hiroaki Umeda's interactive art installation, "Kinesis #3 -- Dissolving Field," is on display at the NTT Intercommunication Center.
Jae C. Hong/AP
<strong>Bolu, Turkey:</strong> The nature park around Lake Golcuk is dusted with snow in winter.
Bolu, Turkey: The nature park around Lake Golcuk is dusted with snow in winter.
Zafer Goder/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Shehhat, Lybia:</strong> The ancient Greek city of Cyrene was an outpost of Thira (also called Santorini) which was founded in 630 BC.
Shehhat, Lybia: The ancient Greek city of Cyrene was an outpost of Thira (also called Santorini) which was founded in 630 BC.
Abdullah Doma/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Pinto Bandeira, Brazil:</strong> The Família Geisse vineyard is increasingly known for its sparkling wine.
Pinto Bandeira, Brazil: The Família Geisse vineyard is increasingly known for its sparkling wine.
Florian Plaucheur/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Siem Reap, Cambodia:</strong> Angkor Wat is the most famous temple at <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwhc.unesco.org%2Fen%2Flist%2F668%2F" target="_blank" target="_blank">Angkor archaeological site</a>, the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries.
Siem Reap, Cambodia: Angkor Wat is the most famous temple at Angkor archaeological site, the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries.
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Antarctica:</strong> It's still a bucket list destination for travelers hoping to see wildlife -- like this leopard seal taking a breather in the Lemaire Channel.
Antarctica: It's still a bucket list destination for travelers hoping to see wildlife -- like this leopard seal taking a breather in the Lemaire Channel.
Ozge Elif Kizil/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>North Queensferry, Scotland: </strong>The Forth Bridge, seen here glinting in the winter sunlight, connects South and North Queensferry, nine miles west of Edinburgh.
North Queensferry, Scotland: The Forth Bridge, seen here glinting in the winter sunlight, connects South and North Queensferry, nine miles west of Edinburgh.
Ken Jack/Getty Images
<strong>Ji'an, China:</strong> A farmer spreads his crop of gardenias to dry.
Ji'an, China: A farmer spreads his crop of gardenias to dry.
Deng Heping/VCG/Getty Images
<strong>Aceh, Indonesia:</strong> A spectacular sunset ends the day at Lhoknga, a white-sand beach in Aceh province, on the northern end of Sumatra.
Aceh, Indonesia: A spectacular sunset ends the day at Lhoknga, a white-sand beach in Aceh province, on the northern end of Sumatra.
Chaideer Mahyuddin/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Lisbon:</strong> In operation for close to 150 years, Lisbon's network of yellow and white trams is one of the Portuguese capital's most recognizable sights.
Lisbon: In operation for close to 150 years, Lisbon's network of yellow and white trams is one of the Portuguese capital's most recognizable sights.
Jose Sarmento Matos/Bloomberg/Getty Images
<strong>Ang Thong, Thailand:</strong> Ang Thong province is home to the Great Buddha of Thailand, which -- at 92 meters -- is the country's tallest statue.
Ang Thong, Thailand: Ang Thong province is home to the Great Buddha of Thailand, which -- at 92 meters -- is the country's tallest statue.
Chaiwat Subprasom/SOPA Images/ZUMA Press
<strong>Athens:</strong> In the Greek capital, the ancient Acropolis citadel was lit blue to celebrate the UN's World Children's Day on November 20, 2019. <br />
Athens: In the Greek capital, the ancient Acropolis citadel was lit blue to celebrate the UN's World Children's Day on November 20, 2019.
Petros Giannakouris/AP
<strong>Carnoët, France:</strong> In Brittany's Valley of the Saints, dozens of granite statues of Breton saints dot the landscape, with more being added each year.
Carnoët, France: In Brittany's Valley of the Saints, dozens of granite statues of Breton saints dot the landscape, with more being added each year.
Loic Venance/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Xuyi County, China:</strong> in China's eastern Jiangsu province, a boat moves through the November fog on Tianqin Lake. <br />
Xuyi County, China: in China's eastern Jiangsu province, a boat moves through the November fog on Tianqin Lake.
STR/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Leon, Mexico:</strong> Every November, in Leon, Guanajuato, an International Balloon Festival is held in Metropolitan Park with hundreds of participants from around the world. <br />
Leon, Mexico: Every November, in Leon, Guanajuato, an International Balloon Festival is held in Metropolitan Park with hundreds of participants from around the world.
Mario Armas/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Vientiane:</strong> In the Laos capital, the Patuxai -- or Victory Gate -- was completed in the late 1960s and is dedicated to those who fought for the country's independence from France.
Vientiane: In the Laos capital, the Patuxai -- or Victory Gate -- was completed in the late 1960s and is dedicated to those who fought for the country's independence from France.
Zhang Jianhua/Xinhua/Getty Images
<strong>Haltern am See, Germany:</strong> Some 80 kilometers north of Düsseldorf, the tree-lined banks of the Stever River offer an autumnal backdrop on a November day. <br />
Haltern am See, Germany: Some 80 kilometers north of Düsseldorf, the tree-lined banks of the Stever River offer an autumnal backdrop on a November day.
Marcel Kusch/DPA/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Gateshead, UK: </strong>Completed in 1998, Anthony Gormley's 20-meter-tall sculpture Angel of the North is one of northern England's most celebrated landmarks. <br />
Gateshead, UK: Completed in 1998, Anthony Gormley's 20-meter-tall sculpture Angel of the North is one of northern England's most celebrated landmarks.
Ian Horrocks/Getty Images
<strong>Marseille, France: </strong>This shot taken from a cherry picker offers a splendid view of Marseille's Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, which opened in 2013. <br /><br />
Marseille, France: This shot taken from a cherry picker offers a splendid view of Marseille's Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, which opened in 2013.

Clement Mahoudeau/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: </strong>One of the world's great natural wonders, Victoria Falls was affected by severe drought in 2019. Average flow was reportedly down by almost 50% in November. <br />
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: One of the world's great natural wonders, Victoria Falls was affected by severe drought in 2019. Average flow was reportedly down by almost 50% in November.
Zinyange Auntony/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Catania, Italy: </strong>The snow-capped peak of active volcano Mount Etna is seen from the port of Riposto in Catania, Sicily. <br />
Catania, Italy: The snow-capped peak of active volcano Mount Etna is seen from the port of Riposto in Catania, Sicily.
Fabrizio Villa/Getty Images
<strong>Bastei, Germany: </strong>In the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, the stunning Bastei rock formation was formed by water erosion more than a million years ago. Bastei Bridge was built in 1851.
Bastei, Germany: In the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, the stunning Bastei rock formation was formed by water erosion more than a million years ago. Bastei Bridge was built in 1851.
Robert Michael//dpa/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Dhaka:</strong> In the capital of Bangladesh, a laborer climbs a ladder in order to get on board a ferry at a dockyard beside the Buriganga River.
Dhaka: In the capital of Bangladesh, a laborer climbs a ladder in order to get on board a ferry at a dockyard beside the Buriganga River.
Munir Uz Zaman/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Chifeng, China: </strong>A dramatic October night sky over Dalinor Lake, on of the largest lakes in Inner Mongolia.
Chifeng, China: A dramatic October night sky over Dalinor Lake, on of the largest lakes in Inner Mongolia.
Costfoto/Barcroft Media/Getty Images
<strong>Phi Phi Islands, Thailand:</strong> Pileh Lagoon on Phi Phi Leh Island in the Andaman Sea has shallow waters that make it a fine spot for swimming.
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand: Pileh Lagoon on Phi Phi Leh Island in the Andaman Sea has shallow waters that make it a fine spot for swimming.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>El Alto, Bolivia: </strong>A cable car in El Alto, Bolivia's second-largest city, offers views of the capital, La Paz, and Illimani Mountain in the distance. <br />
El Alto, Bolivia: A cable car in El Alto, Bolivia's second-largest city, offers views of the capital, La Paz, and Illimani Mountain in the distance.
Pedro Ugarte/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Cairo: </strong>This view from the Egyptian capital's Cairo Tower looks toward the Giza Pyramids. <br />
Cairo: This view from the Egyptian capital's Cairo Tower looks toward the Giza Pyramids.
Mohamed El-Shahed/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Delhi: </strong>An illuminated view of Safdarjung Tomb in New Delhi. An example of late Mughal Empire architecture, it was built in 1754. <br />
Delhi: An illuminated view of Safdarjung Tomb in New Delhi. An example of late Mughal Empire architecture, it was built in 1754.
Amal KS/Hindustan Times/Getty Images
<strong>Prague:</strong> An October scene in the Czech capital. This is when the city hosts its International Jazz Festival and Designblok Festival.
Prague: An October scene in the Czech capital. This is when the city hosts its International Jazz Festival and Designblok Festival.
Michal Cizek/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Laveaux-Sainte-Anne, Belgium: </strong>Arc Majeur, by French artist Bernar Venet, is Europe's tallest public art sculpture, rising nearly 200 feet above the E411 motorway. <br />
Laveaux-Sainte-Anne, Belgium: Arc Majeur, by French artist Bernar Venet, is Europe's tallest public art sculpture, rising nearly 200 feet above the E411 motorway.
Eric Lalmand/Belga Mag/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Assomada, Cape Verde: </strong>The city of Assomado lies in the center of Santiago, Cape Verde's largest island and its agricultural heart.
Assomada, Cape Verde: The city of Assomado lies in the center of Santiago, Cape Verde's largest island and its agricultural heart.
John Wessels/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Qingdao, China: </strong>Cyclists pass through a gaily colored footbridge in east China's Shandong province.
Qingdao, China: Cyclists pass through a gaily colored footbridge in east China's Shandong province.
Yu Fangping/Barcroft Media/Getty Images
<strong>Lake Bled, Slovenia:</strong> The Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary sits on an island in the middle of Lake Bled, around 55 kilometers from Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital.
Lake Bled, Slovenia: The Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary sits on an island in the middle of Lake Bled, around 55 kilometers from Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital.
Faith Aktas/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Moscow: </strong>A child plays in fountains in Gorky Park on a warm September day.
Moscow: A child plays in fountains in Gorky Park on a warm September day.
Dimitar Dilkoff/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Geneva, Switzerland</strong>: At the southern tip of Lake Geneva, the city of Geneva enjoys dramatic views of the French Alps. <br />
Geneva, Switzerland: At the southern tip of Lake Geneva, the city of Geneva enjoys dramatic views of the French Alps.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Budapest: </strong>The Hungarian Parliament Building is a neo-Gothic monolith behemoth sitting on the banks of the River Danube. It was designed by Imre Steindl and opened in 1902. <br />
Budapest: The Hungarian Parliament Building is a neo-Gothic monolith behemoth sitting on the banks of the River Danube. It was designed by Imre Steindl and opened in 1902.
Oscar Gonzalez/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Geiranger, Norway:</strong> Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway's most popular tourist destinations.
Geiranger, Norway: Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway's most popular tourist destinations.
Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Kars, Turkey:</strong> Ani Ruins, in northeast Turkey, is the site of an ancient metropolis. In the 11th century, there were around 100,000 residents in this walled city. <br />
Kars, Turkey: Ani Ruins, in northeast Turkey, is the site of an ancient metropolis. In the 11th century, there were around 100,000 residents in this walled city.
Ozkan Bilgin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Ignalina, Lithuania: </strong>The small town of Ignalina might be most famous for its nuclear power plant, but it's also in Lithuania's lake region.
Ignalina, Lithuania: The small town of Ignalina might be most famous for its nuclear power plant, but it's also in Lithuania's lake region.
Mindaugas Kulbis/AP
<strong>Bangkok</strong>: The Thailand capital glitters on an August night.
Bangkok: The Thailand capital glitters on an August night.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Yungcheng, China:</strong> The inland salt lake in Yungcheng, Shanxi province, is known as the "Dead Sea of China."
Yungcheng, China: The inland salt lake in Yungcheng, Shanxi province, is known as the "Dead Sea of China."
Xue jun/Imaginechina/AP
<strong>Ölüdeniz, Turkey:</strong> It's hard to fault the natural delights of Ölüdeniz: White sands, blue lagoon, the lushly covered Babadağ mountain. The trouble is, a lot of other people have discovered it too. <br />
Ölüdeniz, Turkey: It's hard to fault the natural delights of Ölüdeniz: White sands, blue lagoon, the lushly covered Babadağ mountain. The trouble is, a lot of other people have discovered it too.
Burak Kara/Getty Images
<strong>Gouville-sur-Mer, France</strong>: Pretty beach houses dot the landscape in the little town of Gouville-sur-Mer on France's northwest coast.
Gouville-sur-Mer, France: Pretty beach houses dot the landscape in the little town of Gouville-sur-Mer on France's northwest coast.
Joel Saget/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Dinant, Belgium:</strong> The Walloon town of Dinant sits on the banks of Belgium's River Meuse, around 90 kilometers southeast of Brussels. It's the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone.
Dinant, Belgium: The Walloon town of Dinant sits on the banks of Belgium's River Meuse, around 90 kilometers southeast of Brussels. It's the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone.
Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Cornwall, UK</strong>: In August 2019, a new footbridge opened connecting the two halves of the 13th-century Tintagel Castle. Legend has it that the castle was the site of King Arthur's Camelot. <br />
Cornwall, UK: In August 2019, a new footbridge opened connecting the two halves of the 13th-century Tintagel Castle. Legend has it that the castle was the site of King Arthur's Camelot.
Keith Mayhew/SOPA Images/Sipa USA
<strong>Kalyazin, Moscow</strong>: Kalyazin Bell Tower is part of the submerged monastery of St. Nicholas. It lies in the Uglich Reservoir, created in 1939. <br />
Kalyazin, Moscow: Kalyazin Bell Tower is part of the submerged monastery of St. Nicholas. It lies in the Uglich Reservoir, created in 1939.
Dmitri Lovetsky/AP
<strong>Bogota:</strong> Golden light streams down on the Colombian capital in this shot taken from top of Monserrate hill.
Bogota: Golden light streams down on the Colombian capital in this shot taken from top of Monserrate hill.
Juan Barreto/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Yangzhou, China: </strong>Tourists sail past redwood trees in Yangzhou's Water Forest in eastern China's Jiangsu province.
Yangzhou, China: Tourists sail past redwood trees in Yangzhou's Water Forest in eastern China's Jiangsu province.
Costfoto/Barcroft Media/Getty Images
<strong>Yosemite National Park, California</strong>: A little after sunset, Yosemite Valley is bathed in pink light on an August evening.
Yosemite National Park, California: A little after sunset, Yosemite Valley is bathed in pink light on an August evening.
George Rose/Getty Images
<strong>Ilulissat, Greenland:</strong> In the month that <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2Ftravel%2Farticle%2Fgreenland-americans-booking-vacations-trnd%2Findex.html" target="_blank">Donald Trump expressed interest in buying Greenland</a>, a tourist boat travels through Ilulissat Icefjord on August 4.
Ilulissat, Greenland: In the month that Donald Trump expressed interest in buying Greenland, a tourist boat travels through Ilulissat Icefjord on August 4.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images
<strong>Prague</strong>: Dramatic shadows are captured as a man with an umbrella passes through a tram tunnel. Trams have been operating in the Czech capital since 1891.
Prague: Dramatic shadows are captured as a man with an umbrella passes through a tram tunnel. Trams have been operating in the Czech capital since 1891.
Martin Divisek/EPA
<strong>Zhangye National Geopark:</strong> Zhangye National Geopark in Gansu, China, is famous for its Danxia landform. It's a stunning landscape of red-colored sandstone formed in the Cretaceous age.
Zhangye National Geopark: Zhangye National Geopark in Gansu, China, is famous for its Danxia landform. It's a stunning landscape of red-colored sandstone formed in the Cretaceous age.
Yang Yanmin/China News Service/VCG/Getty Images
<strong>High Tatras, Slovakia: </strong>Štrbské Pleso lake lies on the Slovak side of the High Tatras mountains, at a surface elevation of 1,346 meters.
High Tatras, Slovakia: Štrbské Pleso lake lies on the Slovak side of the High Tatras mountains, at a surface elevation of 1,346 meters.
Vladimir Simicek/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Bagan, Myanmar: </strong>Tourists riding bull carts pass a Buddhist temple in the ancient city of Bagan.
Bagan, Myanmar: Tourists riding bull carts pass a Buddhist temple in the ancient city of Bagan.
Ye Aung/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Scandola Nature Reserve, Corsica:</strong> On the French island of Corsica, the 16th-century Genoese Girolata Fort sits on a rocky outcrop above the seaside village of Girolata. <br /><br />
Scandola Nature Reserve, Corsica: On the French island of Corsica, the 16th-century Genoese Girolata Fort sits on a rocky outcrop above the seaside village of Girolata.

Pascal Pochard-Casabianca/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Alexandria, Egypt:</strong> The 15th-century Citadel of Qaitbay sits on the Mediterranean coastline and was built to defend Alexandria from Ottoman forces. <br />
Alexandria, Egypt: The 15th-century Citadel of Qaitbay sits on the Mediterranean coastline and was built to defend Alexandria from Ottoman forces.
Giuseppe Cacace/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Xiaya Town, China: </strong>Husband-and-wife team Tang Linglong and Shao Zhulian work as "fishing models," demonstrating traditional fishing methods in picturesque surroundings for the benefit of photography enthusiasts.
Xiaya Town, China: Husband-and-wife team Tang Linglong and Shao Zhulian work as "fishing models," demonstrating traditional fishing methods in picturesque surroundings for the benefit of photography enthusiasts.
Weng Xinyang/Xinhua/Getty Images
<strong>Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina:</strong> An Ottoman frontier town, Mostar developed in the 15th and 16th centuries in a deep valley of the Neretva River.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: An Ottoman frontier town, Mostar developed in the 15th and 16th centuries in a deep valley of the Neretva River.
Hristo Rusev/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Yalta, Crimean Mountains: </strong>Brave souls cross a hanging bridge linking the two peaks of Ai-Petri Mountain, famously one of the windiest places in the region.
Yalta, Crimean Mountains: Brave souls cross a hanging bridge linking the two peaks of Ai-Petri Mountain, famously one of the windiest places in the region.
Sergei Malgavko/TASS/Getty Images
<strong>Bornholm, Denmark: </strong>Northern Europe's largest castle ruin, the medieval fortress of Hammershus sits on the northern tip of the island of Bornholm.
Bornholm, Denmark: Northern Europe's largest castle ruin, the medieval fortress of Hammershus sits on the northern tip of the island of Bornholm.
Patrick Pleul/dpa/AP
<strong>Samsun, Turkey:</strong> A 320-meter-long gondola brings visitors to the Amisos Hill archaeological site, home to tombs dating back to 300 BCE. <br />
Samsun, Turkey: A 320-meter-long gondola brings visitors to the Amisos Hill archaeological site, home to tombs dating back to 300 BCE.
Veysel Altun/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Derveni, Greece: </strong>A boy paddles his boat in the clear waters off Derveni, a coastal town some 120 kilometers southwest of Athens.
Derveni, Greece: A boy paddles his boat in the clear waters off Derveni, a coastal town some 120 kilometers southwest of Athens.
Aris Messinis/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>New York City, New York:</strong> In June, the steps of Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park became <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2F2019%2F06%2F12%2Fus%2Fnyc-largest-pride-flag-trnd%2Findex.html" target="_blank">New York's largest LGBT Pride flag</a>.
New York City, New York: In June, the steps of Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park became New York's largest LGBT Pride flag.
Johannes Eisele/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Tokyo: </strong>An aerial view of the Ginza Crossing, at the intersection of Harumi and Chuo streets. Ginza is a busy shopping district.
Tokyo: An aerial view of the Ginza Crossing, at the intersection of Harumi and Chuo streets. Ginza is a busy shopping district.
Charly Triballeau/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>London: </strong>Hot air balloons fly over the River Thames as part of the Lord Mayor's Hot Air Balloon Regatta on June 9.
London: Hot air balloons fly over the River Thames as part of the Lord Mayor's Hot Air Balloon Regatta on June 9.
Harry Roth/Reuters
<strong>Iguazu Falls: </strong>Iguazu Falls is one of the world's largest waterfalls. It lies on the border of Argentina and Brazil (this photo was taken from the Brazilian side).
Iguazu Falls: Iguazu Falls is one of the world's largest waterfalls. It lies on the border of Argentina and Brazil (this photo was taken from the Brazilian side).
Christian Rizzi/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Hajnacka, Slovakia: </strong>The Milky Way and Jupiter, right, are seen on a clear June night in southern Slovakia.
Hajnacka, Slovakia: The Milky Way and Jupiter, right, are seen on a clear June night in southern Slovakia.
Peter Komka/MTI/AP
<strong>Paris:</strong> In June, "Beyond Walls" -- a biodegradable artwork by French street artist Saype -- was unveiled on the lawns of the Champs de Mars in Paris. The lawns lead up to the Eiffel Tower, which offered the best views of the work.
Paris: In June, "Beyond Walls" -- a biodegradable artwork by French street artist Saype -- was unveiled on the lawns of the Champs de Mars in Paris. The lawns lead up to the Eiffel Tower, which offered the best views of the work.
Philippe Wojazer/Reuters
<strong>Cape Town: </strong>There was a public outcry in 2014 when artist Michael Ellion's tribute to Nelson Mandela was unveiled. "Perceiving Freedom" is a giant sculpture of a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, partially sponsored by Ray-Ban.
Cape Town: There was a public outcry in 2014 when artist Michael Ellion's tribute to Nelson Mandela was unveiled. "Perceiving Freedom" is a giant sculpture of a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses, partially sponsored by Ray-Ban.
Kim Ludbrook/EPA
<strong>Mondevideo:</strong> Dawn breaks over Pocitos Beach in the upmarket Pocito neighborhood of the Uruguayan capital.
Mondevideo: Dawn breaks over Pocitos Beach in the upmarket Pocito neighborhood of the Uruguayan capital.
Pedro Ugarte/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Venice, Italy: </strong>On June 9, the MSC Magnifica is seen in the Venice Lagoon the day after thousands of people took to the streets of Venice calling for a ban on large cruise ships in the city.
Venice, Italy: On June 9, the MSC Magnifica is seen in the Venice Lagoon the day after thousands of people took to the streets of Venice calling for a ban on large cruise ships in the city.
Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Dresden, Germany: </strong>A dramatic thunderstorm struck the German city of Dresden on the night of June 10.
Dresden, Germany: A dramatic thunderstorm struck the German city of Dresden on the night of June 10.
Robert Michael/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Phnom Penh:</strong> In the Cambodian capital, a fishing boat travels at sunrise along the Mekong River. <br />
Phnom Penh: In the Cambodian capital, a fishing boat travels at sunrise along the Mekong River.
Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Agra, India:</strong> One of the world's most recognizable sights, the Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1632 to house the tomb of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Agra, India: One of the world's most recognizable sights, the Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1632 to house the tomb of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Diego Cupolo/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Tokyo:</strong> A shopping mall decorated with mirrors in Tokyo's Harajuku district, famous for its quirky fashion and street art scene.
Tokyo: A shopping mall decorated with mirrors in Tokyo's Harajuku district, famous for its quirky fashion and street art scene.
Jae C. Hong/AP
<strong>Polditz, Germany: </strong>This drone image from May 2019 shows a Saxony landscape brightened by rape flowers.
Polditz, Germany: This drone image from May 2019 shows a Saxony landscape brightened by rape flowers.
Jan Woitas/picture alliance/Getty Image
<strong>Magelang, Indonesia: </strong>On May 18, sky lanterns are released during Vesak Day celebrations. Vesak Day commemorates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. <br />
Magelang, Indonesia: On May 18, sky lanterns are released during Vesak Day celebrations. Vesak Day commemorates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death.
Xinhua/Supriyanto/Getty Images
<strong>Queens, New York:</strong> The much-anticipated <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2Ftravel%2Farticle%2Finside-twa-hotel-jfk-airport%2Findex.html" target="_blank">TWA Hotel</a> opened at New York's JFK Airport on May 15. It's inside the former TWA air terminal designed by Eero Saarinen.
Queens, New York: The much-anticipated TWA Hotel opened at New York's JFK Airport on May 15. It's inside the former TWA air terminal designed by Eero Saarinen.
Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Lake Geneva, Switzerland:</strong> A paddle steamer sails by a giant fork sculpture designed by Swiss artist Jean-Pierre Zaugg.
Lake Geneva, Switzerland: A paddle steamer sails by a giant fork sculpture designed by Swiss artist Jean-Pierre Zaugg.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Jeju Island, South Korea:</strong> Seongsan Ichulbong, or Sunrise Peak, is a 182-meter high volcanic rock formation, some 5,000 years old. <br />
Jeju Island, South Korea: Seongsan Ichulbong, or Sunrise Peak, is a 182-meter high volcanic rock formation, some 5,000 years old.
Ed Jones/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Singapore: </strong>Following four years of construction and nonstop media coverage, Singapore's long-awaited Jewel Changi Airport opened in April. <br />
Singapore: Following four years of construction and nonstop media coverage, Singapore's long-awaited Jewel Changi Airport opened in April.
Roslan Rahman/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Lancaster, California:</strong> A particularly wet winter season led to a "superbloom" of orange poppies and other wildflowers across California hills in April.
Lancaster, California: A particularly wet winter season led to a "superbloom" of orange poppies and other wildflowers across California hills in April.
Frederic J. Brown/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Dubrovnik, Croatia: </strong>The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has been given a boost by its role as the main filming location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms in HBO series "Game of Thrones."
Dubrovnik, Croatia: The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has been given a boost by its role as the main filming location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms in HBO series "Game of Thrones."
Zheng Huansong/Xinhua/Sipa USA
<strong>Lisbon:</strong> Praça do Comércio -- or Commerce Square -- is beside Lisbon's Tagus river. It's been a National Monument of Portugal for more than 100 years.
Lisbon: Praça do Comércio -- or Commerce Square -- is beside Lisbon's Tagus river. It's been a National Monument of Portugal for more than 100 years.
Rafael Marchante/Reuters
<strong>Paris:</strong> Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a Roman Catholic church, stands on Montmartre hill, the highest point in the French capital.
Paris: Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a Roman Catholic church, stands on Montmartre hill, the highest point in the French capital.
Philippe Lopez/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Nouakchott: </strong>The Palais des Congrès convention center in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania.
Nouakchott: The Palais des Congrès convention center in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania.
Carmen Abd Ali/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Moscow:</strong> VDNKh is a trade show and amusement park in Moscow. It was built during the Soviet era and opened in August 1939, just a month before the outbreak of World War II.
Moscow: VDNKh is a trade show and amusement park in Moscow. It was built during the Soviet era and opened in August 1939, just a month before the outbreak of World War II.
Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Abydos, Egypt:</strong> The ancient city of Abydos is one of the oldest in Egypt. The Memorial Temple of Seti I (pictured) was built in the 16th to 11th centuries BCE. <br /><br />
Abydos, Egypt: The ancient city of Abydos is one of the oldest in Egypt. The Memorial Temple of Seti I (pictured) was built in the 16th to 11th centuries BCE.

Khaled Desouki/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Prague: </strong>Tightrope artists are silhouetted on the skyline in front of the 14th-century Emmaus Monastery. The monastery is administrated by the Benedictine order.
Prague: Tightrope artists are silhouetted on the skyline in front of the 14th-century Emmaus Monastery. The monastery is administrated by the Benedictine order.
Michal Cizek/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Sottens, Switzerland: </strong>Winter has taken a while to loosen its grip in western Switzerland. Here a car makes its way through a snow-covered landscape in early April.
Sottens, Switzerland: Winter has taken a while to loosen its grip in western Switzerland. Here a car makes its way through a snow-covered landscape in early April.
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Daxin County, China: </strong>China's Detian Waterfall crosses the border between China and Vietnam and joins with the Ban Gioc Waterfall in Vietnam.
Daxin County, China: China's Detian Waterfall crosses the border between China and Vietnam and joins with the Ban Gioc Waterfall in Vietnam.
Lu Boan/Xinhua/Sipa USA
<strong>Vatican City:</strong> A spiral staircase inside the Vatican Museums, which were founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century.
Vatican City: A spiral staircase inside the Vatican Museums, which were founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century.
Nir Alon/ZUMA Press
<strong>New York City</strong><strong>: </strong>Brooklyn Bridge, completed 1883, was the world's first steel-wire suspension bridge, as well as the first fixed crossing across New York's East River.
New York City: Brooklyn Bridge, completed 1883, was the world's first steel-wire suspension bridge, as well as the first fixed crossing across New York's East River.
Johannes Eisele/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Palawan Philippines:</strong> On Miniloc Island, Briton Blake Aldridge dives from a precipice during the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series held in April.
Palawan Philippines: On Miniloc Island, Briton Blake Aldridge dives from a precipice during the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series held in April.
Romina Amato/Red Bull/Getty Images
<strong>Mathura, India: </strong>Revelers<strong> </strong>cover each other in colorful powders during the ancient Hindu festival of Holi, a two-day event held across India and Nepal which celebrates the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Click through <a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2Ftravel" target="_blank">CNN Travel</a>'s gallery for more of the world's best travel photos that we'll collect and display in 2019:
Mathura, India: Revelers cover each other in colorful powders during the ancient Hindu festival of Holi, a two-day event held across India and Nepal which celebrates the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Click through CNN Travel's gallery for more of the world's best travel photos that we'll collect and display in 2019:
Avishek Das/Sipa USA
<strong>Siem Reap, Cambodia:</strong> Crowds of tourists shield themselves from the sun on a warm day at the sprawling Angkor Wat temple, believed to be the largest religious monument in the world.
Siem Reap, Cambodia: Crowds of tourists shield themselves from the sun on a warm day at the sprawling Angkor Wat temple, believed to be the largest religious monument in the world.
Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Chicago, Illinois: </strong>An aerial view of the Chicago River before St. Patrick's Day festivities in the Windy City on March 17. The river has been dyed green each year since 1962 to kick off the celebrations in honor of the patron saint of Ireland.
Chicago, Illinois: An aerial view of the Chicago River before St. Patrick's Day festivities in the Windy City on March 17. The river has been dyed green each year since 1962 to kick off the celebrations in honor of the patron saint of Ireland.
Scott Olson/Getty Images
<strong>Da Nang, Vietnam:</strong> Lady Buddha, the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam, towers over the coastal city on a bright March day.
Da Nang, Vietnam: Lady Buddha, the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam, towers over the coastal city on a bright March day.
Manan Vatsyayana/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Baku: </strong>One of the Azerbaijani capital's Flame Towers, three huge buildings shaped like tongues of fire, stands tall over the Old Town, the most ancient section of Baku.
Baku: One of the Azerbaijani capital's Flame Towers, three huge buildings shaped like tongues of fire, stands tall over the Old Town, the most ancient section of Baku.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Hudson Yards, New York:</strong> Visitors take park in the "inaugural walk" up New York's newest landmark, a 150-foot structure, temporarily known as Vessel, designed by Thomas Heatherwick.
Hudson Yards, New York: Visitors take park in the "inaugural walk" up New York's newest landmark, a 150-foot structure, temporarily known as Vessel, designed by Thomas Heatherwick.
Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Dresden, Germany:</strong> A twilight view of Dresden's famous Theater Square, home to some of the city's most renowned landmarks.
Dresden, Germany: A twilight view of Dresden's famous Theater Square, home to some of the city's most renowned landmarks.
Robert Michael/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Stara Planina Mountain, Bulgaria: </strong>A tourist stands atop the 32-meter-high Freedom Monument, built in honor of those who died in the Battle of Shipka Pass during the Russo-Turkish War, in Bulgaria's Balkan Mountains.
Stara Planina Mountain, Bulgaria: A tourist stands atop the 32-meter-high Freedom Monument, built in honor of those who died in the Battle of Shipka Pass during the Russo-Turkish War, in Bulgaria's Balkan Mountains.
Dimitar Dilkoff/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Naples, Italy: </strong>Boats gather at the port on volcanic island of Ischia, known for its mineral-rich thermal waters, in the Bay of Naples off Italy's western coast.
Naples, Italy: Boats gather at the port on volcanic island of Ischia, known for its mineral-rich thermal waters, in the Bay of Naples off Italy's western coast.
Laurent Emmanuel/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Farafra, Egypt:</strong> Gigantic white chalk rock formations jut out of the White Desert, located around 500 kilometers southwest of Cairo.
Farafra, Egypt: Gigantic white chalk rock formations jut out of the White Desert, located around 500 kilometers southwest of Cairo.
Khaled Desouki/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Moscow, Russia: </strong>Locals head for home at the end of the working day in a mini business district in the historical center of Moscow.
Moscow, Russia: Locals head for home at the end of the working day in a mini business district in the historical center of Moscow.
Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Wilcannia, Australia: </strong>An aerial view of the Darling-Barka river, which locals say has been hugely impacted by floodplain harvesting, a process in which water that flows during a flood is intercepted and used elsewhere before it enters the river.
Wilcannia, Australia: An aerial view of the Darling-Barka river, which locals say has been hugely impacted by floodplain harvesting, a process in which water that flows during a flood is intercepted and used elsewhere before it enters the river.
Jenny Evans/Getty Images
<strong>Tangshan, China: </strong>Lanterns illuminate the sky over Nanhu Park during a fair to celebrate the Chinese Lantern Festival, which takes place on February 19.
Tangshan, China: Lanterns illuminate the sky over Nanhu Park during a fair to celebrate the Chinese Lantern Festival, which takes place on February 19.
Xinhua/Zuma Wire
<strong>Bern, Switzerland: </strong>A sunset view of the Federal Palace of Switzerland, the headquarters of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council.
Bern, Switzerland: A sunset view of the Federal Palace of Switzerland, the headquarters of the Swiss Federal Assembly and Federal Council.
Anthony Anex/EPA
<strong>Erzurum, Turkey: </strong>The reflection of snowcapped mountains in the scenic Tortum Lake, formed as the result of a landslide.
Erzurum, Turkey: The reflection of snowcapped mountains in the scenic Tortum Lake, formed as the result of a landslide.
Alibey Aydin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Zell am See, Austria: </strong>Skiers hit the slopes during a sunny day in the tiny Austrian town that has an estimated population of around 10,000.
Zell am See, Austria: Skiers hit the slopes during a sunny day in the tiny Austrian town that has an estimated population of around 10,000.
Matthias Schrader/AP
<strong>Otero County, New Mexico: </strong>Visitors walk across the dunes at the White Sands National Monument, which has reopened after being closed for 35 days due to the US government shutdown.
Otero County, New Mexico: Visitors walk across the dunes at the White Sands National Monument, which has reopened after being closed for 35 days due to the US government shutdown.
Eric Gay/AP
<strong>Abu Dhabi: </strong>Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, Louvre Abu Dhabi began its 2019 season with an exhibition featuring works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Abu Dhabi: Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, Louvre Abu Dhabi began its 2019 season with an exhibition featuring works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Karim Sahib/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Frankfurt, Germany:</strong> The sun sets over the bustling Germany city and major financial hub positioned along the River Main.
Frankfurt, Germany: The sun sets over the bustling Germany city and major financial hub positioned along the River Main.
Michael Probst/AP
<strong>Petra, Jordan:</strong> Visitors congregate at Siq, a one-kilometer-long gorge that serves as the main entrance to the ancient Nabatean city of Petra.
Petra, Jordan: Visitors congregate at Siq, a one-kilometer-long gorge that serves as the main entrance to the ancient Nabatean city of Petra.
Artur Widak/NurPhoto/Getty Images
<strong>Chongqing, China:</strong> Adorned with mirrored ceilings and symmetrical staircases, the Zhongshuge bookstore captivates its customers.
Chongqing, China: Adorned with mirrored ceilings and symmetrical staircases, the Zhongshuge bookstore captivates its customers.
Liu Chan/Xinhua/Getty Images
<strong>Brighton, England: </strong>A murmuration of starlings gather before roosting underneath the Palace Pier in this popular UK seaside town.
Brighton, England: A murmuration of starlings gather before roosting underneath the Palace Pier in this popular UK seaside town.
Andrew Hasson/Getty Images
<strong>The Pitons, St. Lucia:</strong> Twin volcanic spires Gros Piton and Petit Piton inhabit part of a World Heritage site near Soufrière, the island's former capital.
The Pitons, St. Lucia: Twin volcanic spires Gros Piton and Petit Piton inhabit part of a World Heritage site near Soufrière, the island's former capital.
Daniel Slim/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Quảng Phú Cầu, Vietnam: </strong>A woman collects incense sticks in a courtyard in the village of Quảng Phú Cầu on the outskirts of Hanoi.
Quảng Phú Cầu, Vietnam: A woman collects incense sticks in a courtyard in the village of Quảng Phú Cầu on the outskirts of Hanoi.
MANAN VATSYAYANA/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Copenhagen:</strong> The colorful canalside district of Nyhavn in the Danish capital was once the home of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen. <br />
Copenhagen: The colorful canalside district of Nyhavn in the Danish capital was once the home of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen.
Luke MacGregor/Bloomberg/Getty Images
<strong>Buenos Aires: </strong>Widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful bookshops, El Ateneo Grand Splendid will celebrate its 100th anniversary in May 2019.
Buenos Aires: Widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful bookshops, El Ateneo Grand Splendid will celebrate its 100th anniversary in May 2019.
RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Venice, Italy: </strong>With the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge shaded in fog, a gondola sails through the Venice waters.
Venice, Italy: With the Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge shaded in fog, a gondola sails through the Venice waters.
Simone Padovani/Awakening/Getty Images
<strong>Ipiales, Colombia: </strong>Las Lajas Sanctuary, one of the world's most stunning churches, sits upon a bridge over the Guáitara River, a few miles from the border with Ecuador.
Ipiales, Colombia: Las Lajas Sanctuary, one of the world's most stunning churches, sits upon a bridge over the Guáitara River, a few miles from the border with Ecuador.
JUAN BARRETO/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Beijing:</strong> Set to open late 2019, Beijing's Daxing International Airport has ambitions to become the largest and busiest in the world.
Beijing: Set to open late 2019, Beijing's Daxing International Airport has ambitions to become the largest and busiest in the world.
Wang Zirui/Barcroft Media/Getty Images
<strong>Abu Dhabi: </strong><a href="index.php?page=&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnn.com%2Ftravel%2Farticle%2Fsheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-abu-dhabi%2Findex.html" target="_blank">Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque</a> is the UAE's largest and most ornate place of worship, attracting more than three million tourists a year.
Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the UAE's largest and most ornate place of worship, attracting more than three million tourists a year.
ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Davos, Switzerland:</strong> The ski resort of Davos, in eastern Switzerland, is the location for the annual World Economic Forum, which takes place in January.
Davos, Switzerland: The ski resort of Davos, in eastern Switzerland, is the location for the annual World Economic Forum, which takes place in January.
FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Al-`Ula, Saudi Arabia: </strong>The stunning new Maraya concert hall (Arabic for "mirror") has been built amongst the ruins of the city of Al-`Ula, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northwest Saudi Arabia. <br />
Al-`Ula, Saudi Arabia: The stunning new Maraya concert hall (Arabic for "mirror") has been built amongst the ruins of the city of Al-`Ula, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northwest Saudi Arabia.
FAYEZ NURELDINE/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Athens: </strong>In early January, snow covers part of the ancient Acropolis hill and Athens' Plaka district, also known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods."
Athens: In early January, snow covers part of the ancient Acropolis hill and Athens' Plaka district, also known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods."
Eurokinissi/AP
<strong>Cologne, Germany: </strong>Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge and the Musical Dome (pictured right) are reflected in the Rhine river. <br />
Cologne, Germany: Cologne Cathedral, Hohenzollern Bridge and the Musical Dome (pictured right) are reflected in the Rhine river.
MARCEL KUSCH/DPA/Getty Images
<strong>Lima: </strong>The third-largest city in the Americas, Lima is the capital of Peru and home to more than nine million people.
Lima: The third-largest city in the Americas, Lima is the capital of Peru and home to more than nine million people.
FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images
<strong>Kütahya, Turkey:</strong> The Byzantine castle of Kütahya stands out above the snow-covered rooftops and winter street lights of the Turkish city. <br />
Kütahya, Turkey: The Byzantine castle of Kütahya stands out above the snow-covered rooftops and winter street lights of the Turkish city.
Muharrem Cin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
<strong>Sydney:</strong> On January 1, the new year gets underway in Australia with a fireworks display over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. <br />
Sydney: On January 1, the new year gets underway in Australia with a fireworks display over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Brett Hemmings/Getty Images
The world's best travel photos of 2019
CNN  — 

An ancient city in Libya. An avant-garde art installation in Tokyo. Winter snow on a lake in Turkey.

It’s a big and amazing world out there, full of spectacular destinations. And with the ongoing revolution in camera technology, there’s never been a better time to soak it all in than right now.

At its best, travel photography inspires, intrigues and informs. It sets us on armchair adventures. It can spur us to actually plan a dream trip we’ve long sought to take. Or pictures can reveal a possible new journey that captures our imagination.

Related article Germany's 30 most beautiful places

These photos not only show the natural and human-made beauty of our world, but they can also give us a glimpse of other people and cultures and the beauty within the human race.

Thousands of amazing images cross our computer screens each year, and in this space we share our favorites from 2019.

So when you’re ready to see another gorgeous part of the world – England’s Angel of the North, Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, Italy’s Mount Etna – return here for inspiration.